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Bombay HC rejects stay on Saat Samundar Paar in TMMTMTTM

The Bombay High Court refused to grant urgent ad-interim relief to Trimurti Films on Tuesday in a high-stakes copyright battle. The production house had sued Dharma Productions, Saregama India, and rapper Badshah over the alleged unauthorised use of the iconic 1992 song Saat Samundar Paar in the upcoming film Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri. The film starring Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday is scheduled for release on December 25. Plea against use of Saat Samundar Paar in TMMTMTTM In the case involving ownership and synchronisation rights, Trimurti Films, the original producer of the 1992 film Vishwatma, had filed a lawsuit claiming it is the first owner of the copyright for the song, including its lyrics, tune, and musical composition. Trimurti argued in court that a 1990 agreement with Saregama's predecessor only granted limited "mechanical rights" for making records and cassettes. Trimurti alleged that this agreement did not include rights to synchronise the song with new cinematograph films, adapt, remix, or modify the original recording. It claimed that the right to include the works in new independent copyrighted material without explicit authorisation was also not included in the agreement. On the contrary, Dharma Productions argued that the song was used in the film as per the existing licensing terms. They also highlighted past instances where the song was licensed to third parties for movies like Kick in 2014, as well as various advertisements. Bombay HC dismisses stay plea After hearing both sides, Justice Sharmila U Deshmukh rejected the plea to stop the song from being used or to halt the promotions of the film. The court noted that the film involved heavy financial investment and also acknowledged that there was no clear evidence that removing the song would not affect the story. In addition to this, the court also highlighted that a teaser featuring the tune had been released as early as December 2024, while questioning the urgency of Trimurti's claim. The court is scheduled for a further hearing on the issue on January 9, 2026. Trimurti Films is seeking Rs 10 crore in damages and a permanent stop to the track's exploitation through the lawsuit.

23 December,2025 07:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ahaan Panday

Ahaan Panday gives a glimpse of his room on his birthday, check out

It's a special birthday for actor Ahaan Panday. Not only did he mark his acting debut this year, but his film Saiyaara, directed by Mohit Suri, created history at the box office. Headlined by newcomers Ahaan and Aneet, the romantic musical received immense love from the audience, making them two of the most loved actors of the country especially among the younger generation. As Ahaan celebrated his birthday on December 23, he was flooded with gifts from well wishers.  Ahaan Panday thanks fans on birthday On Tuesday evening, Ahaan dropped a picture of himself surrounded by the love he received from his admirers. He posted a picture of himself sitting in the center if  a room filled with gifts, balloons and flowers. Sharing the picture, Ahaan wrote, "  Thank you for all the wishes, (And thank you to all the people who made this year what it was) All love here always".           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Ahaan Panday (@ahaanpandayy) Ananya Panday's birthday wish for Ahaan Wishing her younger brother on his special day, actress Ananya Panday compiled an adorable birthday wish on social media. The Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri actress took to the Stories section of her Instagram handle and dropped a sweet video with Ahaan from their childhood. Calling Ahaan the light of her life, Ananya wrote on the photo-sharing app, "Happy birthday the light of my life my heart literally bursts with how proud I am of you... you deserve the world I love you forever my star ahaanpandayy." Aneet Padda showers birthday love on Ahaan  Aneet starred opposite Ahaan in Saiyaara and was among the first to pen a heartfelt note for him on his birthday. She wrote, "I’ve seen the future. I’ve seen passersby smile when you laugh out loud, they can’t help it. I’ve seen colours change in the world around, when your eyes are lost in thought admiring an old woman, watering her plants, unaware. I’ve seen the scribbles in your notepad, holding the musings of an unusual mind, rare and magical. The change of your camera lens, stubborn in its search for beauty in the mundane. I’ve seen you be so selfless (sic)." Aneet also shared how her parents, Ahaan's mother Deanne Pandey, and all his other close ones are extremely proud of the person he has turned out to be. "Happy birthday ahaana, i will always be proud of the person you are. Thank you for giving the world the gift of you", her special birthday wish concluded. Overwhelmed by these lovely words from Aneet, Ahaan commented, "No words do justice to what I felt after reading this".            View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Aneet Padda (@aneetpadda_)

23 December,2025 06:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Jacqueline Fernandez

Jacqueline Fernandez secretely recorded at Delhi restaurant

A video of actress Jacqueline Fernandez is going viral on social media. An Instagram user, Rishabh Sethia, recently shared a clip in which she is seen enjoying lunch at a Delhi restaurant. The actress noticed the video and reacted to it, leaving everyone impressed. Jacqueline Fernandez reacts to her secretly recorded video On Monday evening, the Rishab shared the video, with the text "I think she is Jacqueline Fernandez" on it. In the caption, he asked his followers, "What do you think?" He also added her hit song Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan from her 2015 film Roy. Interestingly, the actress was spotted with a mystery man in the video as the two were seen engaged in a deep conversation.           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Rishabh (@ca.rishabh.sethia) The video soon went viral on the internet and caught Jacqueline's attention. She gracefully reacted to it, by commenting, "Yup that's me," adding a laughing emoji. Jacqueline Fernandez work front On the work front, Jacqueline was most recently seen in Housefull 5, directed by Tarun Mansukhani. The film includes a star-studded cast of Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, Shreyas Talpade, Nana Patekar, Jackie Shroff, Dino Morea, Nargis Fakhri, Chitrangada Singh, Sonam Bajwa, Soundarya Sharma, Chunky Pandey, Nikitin Dheer, and Johnny Lever, among others. She was expected to star in Kick 2, a sequel to her 2014 movie with Salman Khan. However, reports recently stated that Kriti Sanon will be seen replacing Jacqueline Fernandez in the second instalment. However, a report in Pinkvilla refuted such rumors s a source told them, "All reports doing the rounds about Kick 2, including speculation around casting changes, are completely false and baseless. No official details have been planned, and the makers will share information only when the time is right." Meanwhile, the actress will also be seen in Welcome to the Jungle, which also stars an ensemble cast of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Paresh Rawal, Arshad Warsi, Jacqueline Fernandez, Disha Patani, Raveena Tandon, and Lara Dutta. Also touted as Welcome 3, the action comedy is directed by Ahmed Khan and is scheduled for release in mid-2026. It features a massive cast of over 30 actors.

23 December,2025 05:38 PM IST | Mumbai
Janhvi Kapoor and Khushi Kapoor

Orry gives a close look at Janhvi Kapoor, Khushi Kapoor's Christmas tree

With Christmas around the corner, people are gearing up for the festive season. Actor siblings Janhvi and Khushi Kapoor put up a massive Christmas tree at their Mumbai home and decorated it with the help of their friends. The towering tree stood tall in their living room and featured a mix of traditional and quirky decorative elements. Their friend and socialite Orry shared a video on Instagram, giving a closer look at the Christmas tree and its unique ornaments. Janhvi Kapoor’s Christmas tree The large tree featured glittery decorations ranging from caricature statues of family members to ornaments shaped like food items. It also included decor pieces featuring trendy words and phrases such as “Happy Pill,” “Chill Pill,” “Botox,” “Matcha,” and more. The tree had a miniature decoration of their late mother, actress Sridevi, alongside a statue of their father, Boney Kapoor. It also featured a miniature of Janhvi Kapoor’s boyfriend, Shikhar Pahariya, dressed in a mundu. Sharing the video, Orry wrote, “And the best Christmas tree winner is”. Janhvi and Khushi were seen wearing comfortable clothes as they decorated the tree along with a few friends. Janhvi reacted to the post by commenting, “I’m so proud of my tree,” to which Orry replied, “us all :’)”.           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Orhan Awatramani (@orry) When Janhvi opened up on plastic surgery Janhvi and her sister Khushi have never shied away from admitting to undergoing cosmetic procedures, as they often face comments about Botox on social media. During her appearance on Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle, Janhvi said, “I don’t believe in gatekeeping. I was one of the young girls who was very impressionable with the onset of social media and seeing everyone being judged and looking a certain way. And I don’t want to perpetuate to young girls this idea of perfection. I’m a big believer of ‘you do you,’ do whatever makes you happy. I would be very happy to be a completely open book about things.” She added, “I think I have been very intelligent, conservative, and proper about what I have done. Of course, I had the guidance of my mom, and I’d like to share that. Also, as a cautionary tale, because if a young girl sees a video like this and decides mujhe bhi ye buffalo-plasty karna hai, and if something goes wrong, that would be the worst thing ever. I think transparency is important.”

23 December,2025 05:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
L- Surinder Kapoor; R- Anil Kapoor, Sridevi on Mr India sets

Anil Kapoor celebrates 100 years of his father, credits him for Mr India

Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor marked 100 years of his father Surinder Kapoor on Tuesday. Celebrating the milestone birth anniversary of his father, Kapoor also revealed how he shaped films like Woh 7 Din and Mr India. He said that these films would not have seen the light of day without his father's guidance.  Anil Kapoor pays tribute to father Surinder Kapoor The actor paid a heartfelt tribute to the man who played a pivotal role in shaping his iconic films Mr. India and Woh 7 din. Reflecting on his father’s guidance and influence, Anil credited him for the success and vision behind one of Bollywood’s most beloved movies. The Welcome actor also highlighted the lasting impact of his father’s support on his career. Taking to his Instagram handle, Anil Kapoor posted a series of unseen black-and-white images, celebrating his father’s legacy. For the caption, he wrote, “Celebrating 100 years of my father today. He was the reason I first dreamed of becoming a leading man, simply hoping he would one day see me as a star, a successful actor making films under his banner.” “Woh 7 din and MR India wouldn’t have seen the light of the day without his good will and guidance, His simplicity, honesty, and quiet belief shaped every step of my journey. I feel his absense deeply, but his dreams and lessons live on with me every day... Happy Birthday Papa! You were, are and always will be my guiding star...” (sic)           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by anilskapoor (@anilskapoor) The throwback images capture cherished moments of Anil Kapoor’s father, Surinder Kapoor, in the film industry. The late producer could be seen posing with his son, as well as with iconic stars like Sridevi, Parveen Babi, Shashi Kapoor, Lata Mangeshkar, and several other legends of Bollywood. When Anil Kapoor spoke about father not helping him in early days of career In an earlier interview with mid-day, Anil Kapoor remembered his late father, saying, "He was very honest, decent, and kind of an introvert. He was a good man, not pushy, filmy, or aggressive – a gentleman." The actor recalled, “He clearly told me, ‘I cannot do anything for you,’ and I never expected him to. So, I instinctively felt, 'It’s time for me to get out, go to the battlefield, and fight it out.’ Anil Kapoor elaborated on how this struggle affected his work, expressing, “It was exhausting, tiring, and frustrating. I looked worse, felt worse. I used to sit with my friends and have rum. I was a bitter person,” revealing, “I channeled it into my work - Awaragi, Mashaal. You see that anger, that bitterness. Awaragi came much later, but Mashaal, yes.” Who is Surinder Kapoor?  Father to Anil, Boney and Sanjay Kapoor, Surinder Kapoor was a renowned Indian film producer known for his contributions to the Hindi film industry. In addition to producing numerous films, he also served as the President of the Film & Television Producers Guild of India from 1995 to 2001. He passed away on 24 September 2011 due to a heart attack. (with inputs from IANS)

23 December,2025 05:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Kiara Advani

Kiara Advani reveals what she thought after watching War 2 bikini scene

Actress Kiara Advani welcomed her baby girl in July 2025 with her husband, actor Sidharth Malhotra. In her first interview after becoming a mother to her daughter, Saraayaah, Kiara spoke about how motherhood has changed her perspective on life and her body. Kiara Advani on War 2 bikini scene Despite her pregnancy, Kiara had two theatrical releases this year and remained actively involved in films. In a conversation with Vogue India, the actress revealed that she continued shooting until the seventh month of her pregnancy, during which she also made a sparkling debut at the Met Gala. She shared that only her producer and director were aware of her pregnancy at the time. Recalling emotional scenes during shoots, Kiara revealed that she would retreat to her vanity van bathroom and speak to her baby, reassuring them that everything was fine. She would caress her belly and say, “Mama is only acting, okay? This isn’t real.” During the same conversation, Kiara also spoke about the “immense discipline” it took to get in shape for her viral bikini scene in War 2. The actress rocked a golden-yellow bikini in the film, which released after she had given birth. Watching herself on screen, she admitted that her body at the time was very different from what audiences saw. “After delivery, a part of me thought, ‘I’ve done this before, I’ll do it again.’ Then I realised it’s not about having the best body.” She added that motherhood has taught her to honour her body and that losing a kilo now feels irrelevant compared to creating a life. “When I look at my body, I think, ‘Wow, you created a human.’ Nothing compares. Now, whatever shape or size I am in, I will always respect my body. You have to respect what your body can do for you.” Kiara's work front  The actress is now gearing up for the release of her film Toxic directed by Geetu Mohandas. Her first look as Nadia was released a few days back through social media. While the poster initially places her in a glamorous spotlight against a vibrant circus backdrop, a closer inspection reveals a character defined by profound emotional layers. Beneath the spectacle lies a sense of grief and melancholy, signaling a shift toward a performance-driven narrative. This complex depiction hints that Nadia is far more than a conventional role, suggesting a transformative turn that could be a career-defining milestone for the actress.

23 December,2025 04:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday in TMMTMTTM

Here's how much cast of Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday's TMMTMTTM earned

Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday are set to end the year with their romantic comedy Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri. The film, directed by Sameer Vidwans, will be released in theatres on December 25, marking the final Hindi release of the year. Ahead of the release, reports about the cast fees have surfaced online. According to a report by FilmiBeat, the film has been made on a budget of Rs 150 crore. Kartik Aaryan reportedly charged Rs 50 crore for the film, while Ananya Panday, who stars opposite him, received Rs 5 crore , nearly ten times less than her co-star. Veteran actor Jackie Shroff, who plays Ananya Panday’s father in the film, has reportedly been paid Rs 1.7 crore, while Neena Gupta charged Rs 1 crore. Tiku Talsania also features in a supporting role. CBFC suggested changes for TMMTMTTM As per reports in Bollywood Hungama, the film was granted a U/A 16 plus certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The Examining Committee suggested three changes. The makers were asked to reduce a sexually suggestive scene in the first half, leading to 15 seconds being censored. Additionally, the CBFC instructed the team to mute and remove obscene words from both the dialogue and subtitles. Lastly, abbreviations of obscene expressions in a scene in the second half were also muted and removed. The final runtime of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 145.41 minutes. About Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri The film is produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, Shareen Mantri Kedia, Kishor Arora, and Bhumika Tewari, and is set to release on December 25, coinciding with Christmas. The trailer introduces Kartik Aaryan as Ray and Ananya Panday as Rumi.  The trailer opens with Kartik introducing himself as Ray and Ananya as Rumi. Ray does not believe in wallowing in the past or worrying about the future. He is all about living in the moment. Money does not seem to be much of a concern for either of the protagonists. While Ananya plays a published author, Kartik’s profession is not quite clear. The trailer shows the two landing at the same vacation spot and ending up sharing the same yacht for their stay. Ray comes across as a carefree man and keeps expressing his love for Rumi, who does not reciprocate the same feelings.

23 December,2025 03:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Gulshan Devaiah

Gulshan Devaiah says Ranveer Singh's Kantara imitation does not affect him

Actor Gulshan Devaiah stepped into the Kannada film industry with the blockbuster Kantara Chapter 1, where he played the role of King Kulashekhara and was widely lauded for his performance in the film led by Rishab Shetty. A few weeks ago, Ranveer Singh landed in controversy after he imitated the Daiva scene in the presence of Rishab Shetty. While Singh’s intention was to laud Shetty and his film, the act was interpreted by a section of fans as insulting and disrespectful. Following the backlash, the actor issued a public apology. Gulshan Devaiah on Ranveer Singh's controversy Now, Gulshan Devaiah has reacted to the controversy surrounding Ranveer Singh and Kantara. Speaking to NDTV, Devaiah said, “My personal views are not popular views. I really don’t get affected by such things so much.” He further acknowledged that some people’s sentiments were hurt. “If somebody feels disrespected, I understand. Ranveer apologised as well. Let’s take it at that. I don’t know what his intent was — only he knows. We all make mistakes when we get excited,” he added. Highlighting the cultural importance of the ritual, Devaiah said, “I think it is part of certain people’s identity — those who belong to the Tulu community and live in that land. From their perspective, it is correct. Since he apologised, we should just accept it and move on.” Rishab Shetty on Daiva mimicry Rishab Shetty also addressed the tendency of people to imitate cinematic portrayals of sacred traditions. “That makes me uncomfortable,” he said. “While much of the film is cinema and performance, the Daiva element is sensitive and sacred. Wherever I go, I request people not to perform it on stage or mock it. It is emotionally deeply connected to us.” He further explained the efforts made during the making of Kantara to ensure authenticity and respect for local practices, stressing the emotional depth and significance attached to such rituals. While he did not name anyone, the statement came days after the Dhurandhar actor faced backlash. Ranveer Singh’s apology Following the backlash, Ranveer Singh took to social media to issue an apology. “My intention was to highlight Rishab’s incredible performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it would take to perform that particular scene in the way that he did, for which he has my utmost admiration.” He further added, “I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition, and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise.”

23 December,2025 03:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ayushman Khurrana

Ayushmann Khurrana is excited to continue 100 crore box-office streak in 2026

Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana has lived up to expectations as one of the industry’s most dependable names in 2025. The first festive release of his career, Thamma, eased into the 100-crore club, making it Ayushmann’s fifth 100-crore hit and also his biggest opener. While Ayushmann doesn’t mince words about his affinity for content-driven stories, where the common man is the hero, he’s clearly redefining his game in the new year with a massive slate of four films positioned as wholesome family entertainers. Overjoyed at the milestone, he says, "The texture of the theatricals has changed post-pandemic, and in such a scenario, this success feels hugely affirming. My heart is full of gratitude that both Dream Girl 2 and Thamma were successful. I'm thrilled to be entering into 2026 with two consecutive 100 crore hits!" Ayushmann Khurrana's upcoming films Excited about his upcoming projects, he shares, "In the new year. To begin with, I'm excited about Pati Patni Aur Woh Do; it's a clean family comedy, and there is always a space for clean family comedies." He adds, "And then I have Sooraj Barjatya sir's next!" Ayushmann will then be seen in the untitled and hugely anticipated YRF–Posham Pa project, which he starts filming in early 2026. He will also see the release of his Dharma Sikhya film, a one-of-its-kind spy comedy touted as a genre breaker in Hindi cinema. The actor is happy that he always makes his producers feel safe with his box office returns, given the cost of the films he chooses to star in. No wonder he is called Mr. ROI of Bollywood. He says, "I'm a producer-friendly actor. When I commit to a project and step onto a shoot, I make it a point to keep things simple, even with my entourage. For me, it’s not only about the scripts I choose but also about the kind of professional I am. I take pride in being a collaborator first, rather than someone who is focused solely on being seen as the leading hero."  About Ayushmann's film with Sooraj Barjatiya Ayushmann says, "What excites me most about his film (Yeh Prem Mol Liya) is that the hero isn't just one character, the entire family takes centre stage in his family entertainers. That's what makes it truly special. In a Sooraj Barjatya film, the leading man is a quintessential green flag, which feels like a refreshing break from the clutter we see today. I usually enjoy playing characters who are flawed and evolve over time, but this film is different - it celebrates a wholesome, ideal family as the hero. I think watching such a family onscreen will be inspiring and deeply endearing." Talking about the ace director, he adds, "For his stature, he's a very simple man, very humble and hardworking at the same time. What inspires me most about him is that he's a true student of cinema and works like a nerd. I'm a true fan boy of his kind of family entertainers, he's a master of this genre, and there is true dearth of this genre. No one does it better than Sooraj sir." Ayushmann on why he chooses franchise films Ayushmann is known to be a franchise starter, having launched successful franchises with Dream Girl, Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, Badhaai Ho, Thamma. He says, "The credibility of its predecessor is a plus that a franchise film has - be it Badhaai Ho, Dream Girl, or I would love to explore Andhadhun 2 in the future." "The audience's choices have become selective when it comes to venturing out and watching a new film. So, the priority is always to make a top-notch product, and it really helps when you have a successful franchise to back it.  Pati Patni aur Woh Do takes me back to the 1978 hit of Sanjeev Kumar, and it's a great IP with BR Chopra Films now headed by Juno Chopra, and it's an exciting film, I must say!"

23 December,2025 03:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Priyanka Chopra, Nick Jonas and Malti Marie

Here's how Priyanka Chopra ensures daughter Malti Marie embraces Indian roots

Even as she navigates life across continents, Global Icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas remains desi at heart and deeply committed to ensuring her daughter Malti Marie Jonas grows up connected to her Indian heritage. During her recent appearance on The Great Indian Kapil Show, the global icon opened up about how she keeps her daughter rooted in Indian culture despite living abroad. When veteran actor Archana Puran Singh asked what aspects of growing up in India Malti Marie might miss, Priyanka's response was both heartwarming and reassuring.  Priyanka Chopra on how she introduces Malti Marie to her heritage "She travels to India often. She accompanied me to Hyderabad, she's been to Mumbai, she's been to Delhi and even came with me to Ayodhya. I've always tried my best to make sure that she is familiarized with Indian culture and traditions, as much as possible," she shared. Clearly, ensuring that her daughter grows up with the best of both cultures and traditions is important for PC.  But perhaps the most endearing revelation came when Priyanka described her young daughter's relationship with traditional Indian attire. "Whenever she puts on her ghagra-choli, she calls herself an 'Indian princess'. She loves her ghagras and bindis and bangles, which I always take for her," the actress revealed with visible 'Mommy' pride. This sweet anecdote offered us a glimpse into how Priyanka is successfully cultivating a love for Indian traditions in her daughter through the kind of joy and wonder that only a child's imagination can create.  Priyanka's approach comes across as noteworthy because of how organic and joyful it appears. She has often shared glimpses of Indian festivals that she celebrates in LA with her family on social media. She's not preserving tradition for tradition's sake but making it come alive for her daughter in ways that feel magical and empowering. Priyanka and Nick Jonas groove to Aap Jaisa Koi Priyanka Chopra joined her husband Nick Jonas and the Jonas brothers for their oh-so-famous pre-show ritual.  Nick posted a fun video on his Instagram, where he, PeeCee, and brother Kevin Jonas, Joe Jonas, were seen grooving to the old Bollywood banger, Aap Jaisa Koi from the 1980 film Qurbani. Nick has been expressing his love for Bollywood numbers with these pre-show hype songs. Prior to this, Nick posted a clip of himself and his team members on social media tapping a foot on the Shararat song from Aditya Dhar's directorial Dhurandhar. He disclosed that he has turned the peppy number into his new pre-show hype song. The video uploaded by him on his IG showed Nick and his buddies dancing on the track with full energy. Before that, the American singer and actor chose Hrithik Roshan and Kiara Advani's Aavan Jaavan song from War 2 as his pre-show hype track. He shared another fun clip of himself dancing to the peppy Bollywood number. By taking Malti to different Indian cities and introducing her to customs and celebrations, as well as Bollywood songs, Priyanka seems to be building a bridge between Malti's American upbringing and her Indian heritage, a balancing act that only the global icon can nail to perfection.

23 December,2025 01:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Lauren Gottlieb

Lauren Gottlieb: I have every intention of completely crushing 2026

For Lauren Gottlieb, Christmas has always been more than just a date on the calendar, it’s a feeling, a pause, and a reminder of what truly matters. This year, the dancer-actor has another reason to celebrate: a brand-new home in Mumbai, a city that has become central to her life and career. Lauren shares her Christmas plans While she’s still in the process of decorating the space and making it her own, Lauren won’t be ringing in Christmas at her new address just yet. “I’ve always loved using the holidays as a time to travel,” she says, explaining her fondness for cold destinations, snow-filled landscapes, and the kind of stillness that allows her to step away from the city’s constant buzz. For her, that quiet escape is where the magic of Christmas truly comes alive. Ask Lauren about her most cherished Christmas memory, and she admits it’s impossible to choose just one. Family has always been at the heart of the celebrations, with the arrival of her nephews adding a whole new layer of joy over the years. But one moment stands out deeply: the year she was able to gift her parents iPhones. “It wasn’t about the gift,” she reflects. “It was about saying thank you for everything they’ve given me my entire life.” That sense of gratitude, she says, is what made the moment unforgettable. Giving back has increasingly become central to how Lauren marks the festive season. This Christmas in Mumbai, she plans to visit an orphanage and spend time gifting children. “For me, the spirit of Christmas is about giving, spreading love, kindness, and joy wherever you can,” she says, adding that those moments mean far more than any personal celebration. Among the traditions closest to her heart is a Christmas Eve ritual that never fails to make her smile: visiting Santa and taking a family photograph. Over the years, the pictures have become unintentionally hilarious. “We’ve all grown so much that you can barely see Santa anymore, we’re basically squishing him in the picture,” she laughs. Looking back at those photos, she says, feels like watching her family’s story unfold while still holding on to that sense of childhood wonder. Don't want attention on me: Lauren Despite a life that often places her in the spotlight on stage, on screen, and on red carpets Christmas offers Lauren a rare opportunity to turn inward. “So much of my life is outward-facing, and I genuinely enjoy that,” she says. “But during this time of year, I actually crave the opposite. I don’t want the attention to be on me.” Instead, she focuses on being present for family, supporting friends, and extending kindness even to strangers. Christmas, she admits, has evolved over the years. Growing up, it felt like an entire season, trees going up early, holiday music playing constantly, and festive films running in the background all month long. As her career took her to Los Angeles and later to India, the celebrations became shorter and more fragmented. But Lauren has learned to embrace that change. “Every phase has brought its own version of joy,” she says, grateful for the memories each chapter has offered. Lauren's resolution for 2026 As the year draws to a close, Lauren has a clear message for her fans: move forward with love and light. “Give generously, be kind to others and to yourself,” she says. She encourages everyone to enjoy the season fully, good food, laughter, celebration, and to use this time to reset and realign before the New Year begins. And when it comes to 2026, Lauren isn’t holding back. She speaks with unmistakable confidence about what lies ahead. “I have every intention of completely crushing 2026,” she declares. With big creative projects in motion and a renewed sense of clarity, she describes the coming year as one of bold moves, fearless choices, and fully stepping into her power. “It’s not about playing small anymore,” she says. “It’s about owning my vision and enjoying the ride.” If this holiday season is about reflection and gratitude, then the year ahead, for Lauren Gottlieb, promises to be nothing short of unforgettable.

23 December,2025 01:13 PM IST | Mumbai
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