All Ranbir Kapoor films aside, if there's one film that the fans keep asking for an update on, it's the sequel to his 2023 blockbuster Animal. Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga finally has good news for them. During a virtual press meet to mark the Japan premiere of Animal, Vanga shared that the second part titled, Animal Park, will go on floors next year. Not just that, the director also revealed why he called the sequel Animal Park. "Animal Park will start soon once I finish the current film. There will be more animals in the film because Aziz is another animal. So, keeping that in mind it's a war between the two brothers now to look alike so I thought Animal Park would be the right title. We'll start in the mid-2027 to shoot," he said. Kapoor, who was also present on the Zoom call, expressed his excitement over not only reprising his character of Rannvijay Singh but also essaying the antagonist, Aziz. "I can't wait to get back on set with Sandeep and to play this character and now another character. Because it's a continuing story, he had the story of part two very clear in his mind while filming part one itself. So, it's very inspiring for me as an actor. Sandeep and I keep chatting with each other through the week or month and keep discussing different ideas. I really can't wait to get back to playing Ranvijay and Aziz," he said.
04 February,2026 07:45 PM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka SharmaActor and businessman Vivek Oberoi has approached the Delhi High Court seeking protection of his publicity and personality rights, alleging large-scale misuse of his identity through fake social media accounts, unauthorised merchandise, and AI-generated content, including deepfake imagery. This comes amid an uptick in celebrities, from Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan to NTR Jr, seeking judicial intervention. Vivek Oberoi moves Delhi HC for personality rights The civil suit, filed against Collector Bazar, ZoomMantra, Indiacontent, and others, including unidentified parties named as John Doe defendants, seeks a permanent injunction restraining infringement of Oberoi’s personality and publicity rights. The suit has been filed through advocates Sana Raees Khan and Pranay Chitale. According to the petition, Oberoi has asserted that his name, image, voice, likeness, and other distinctive attributes exclusively associated with him are being unlawfully exploited for commercial and other gains without his consent or authorisation. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vivek Oberoi (@vivekoberoi) The plea states that the defendants are engaged in impersonating Oberoi on social media platforms such as Instagram by creating fake accounts using his name and images. It further alleges that unauthorised merchandise bearing his name and likeness, including posters, T-shirts, and postcards, is being sold across various e-commerce platforms. Importantly, the suit flags the creation and dissemination of AI-generated content that allegedly misrepresents facts and falsely depicts the actor in a derogatory, insulting, and demeaning manner. The petition also highlights the use of artificial intelligence and deepfake technology to morph and superimpose Oberoi’s face onto objectionable and distasteful imagery. In view of this, Oberoi has sought an omnibus “John Doe” injunction against unknown persons found violating his rights. Claiming that he has already suffered and is likely to suffer irreparable harm to his goodwill, reputation, and business interests, the actor has urged the court to pass urgent directions. The reliefs sought include the removal of unauthorised postcards, posters, videos, and social media posts, along with restraining further misuse of his identity in any form. Vivek Oberoi upcoming movies The actor is now gearing up for several high-profile ventures, including Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit alongside Prabhas and Triptii Dimri. He is also a part of Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, co-starring Ranbir Kapoor. Marking another significant milestone in his comeback, reports suggest that Vivek Oberoi has also joined Rishab Shetty’s ambitious historical epic, The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
04 February,2026 06:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Jackie Shroff paid tribute to legendary dancer-actor Bhagwan Dada as he revisited the iconic song Shola Jo Bhadke, remembering the cinema icon on his 24th death anniversary. Jackie took to his Instagram Stories, where he shared a monochrome picture of Bhagwan Dada and a video of the late star performing on the evergreen number from the 1951 classic Albela. “Remembering Bhagwan Dada on his death anniversary,” Jackie wrote. Bhagwan Dada is best known for his social film Albela. Several songs from the film, such as Shola Jo Bhadke, Shaam Dhale Khidki Tale, Bholi Surat Dil Ke Khote and Qismat Ki Hawa Kabhi Naram went on to become chartbusters. Moreover, Bhagwan Dada's signature dance step in Bholi Surat Dil Ke Khote became an instant hit and influenced several actors' dancing styles, including Amitabh Bachchan. He mainly made his debut in the silent era with the film Criminal. He co-directed his first film, Bahadur Kisan with Chandrarao Kadam in 1938. From 1938 to 1949, he directed a string of low-budget stunt and action films that were popular with the working classes. One of the notable films that he made during this period was the Tamil film Vana Mohini He turned producer in 1942 with Jagruti Pictures, purchased some land and set up Jagriti Studios in Chembur in 1947. Because of advice from Raj Kapoor, he turned to making a social film called Albela, starring himself and Geeta Bali in the lead, and featuring music by his friend Chitalkar Ramchandra. Albela was a superhit, becoming the highest grossing Hindi film of 1951. However, he received major career setbacks from the mid-1950s as his films kept flopping. He had to resort to becoming a character actor or playing the comic relief. Though brief, his appearance in Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baje (1955), Chori Chori (1956), Gateway of India (1957) was greatly appreciated by the audience. He directed and acted in Bhagam Bhag in 1956. Bhagwan Dada passed away in 2002 from a massive heart attack, after facing financial hardships later in his career. Jackie also went on to wish Urmila Matondkar on her 52nd birthday on Wednesday. He added the song Tanha Tanha Yahan Pe Jeena from their 1995 blockbuster Rangeela in a video montage featuring a string of actress’ pictures. For the caption, he wrote: “Happiness Always.” Rangeela was re-released on the big screen recently as it completed three decades in the Hindi film industry. Rangeela, directed by Ram Gopal Varma, revolved around Mili's ambition to become a famous actor, but she faced several hurdles when Raj Kamal, a noted actor, and Munna, her childhood friend, both fell in love with her. The film also stars Aamir Khan and Jackie Shroff. 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
04 February,2026 06:23 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSRajpal Yadav has been in the news as he has been given a deadline to clear his amount in the cheque bounce case. The counsel for Yadav, who was on February 2 directed to surrender by 4 pm on Wednesday, submitted that the actor had arranged a sum of Rs 50 lakh and therefore sought one more week’s time so that he could make the payment. The Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to extend the deadline and asked Rajpal Yadav to surrender. Delhi HC refuses to extend Rajpal Yadav’s deadline The Delhi High Court on Wednesday rejected Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav’s plea seeking an extension of time to surrender before jail authorities in connection with multiple cheque bounce cases. Holding that there was no ground left to show any further leniency, a single-judge Bench of Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma observed that the order directing Yadav to surrender was passed only after he repeatedly failed to comply with assurances and undertakings given earlier to the Delhi High Court. “You were granted two days’ time to surrender, as you said you were in Bombay. I don’t think there is any ground. There is no ground to show leniency anymore. Today you have to surrender at 4 p.m.,” Justice Sharma observed. The counsel said he was only making a “mercy plea” and urged the court to give at least a day’s time to enable Yadav to make the payment of Rs 50 lakh. Rajpal Yadav asked to surrender In the order passed on February 2, while directing him to surrender by 4 pm on Wednesday, the court observed that Yadav’s conduct deserved to be deprecated, as he repeatedly breached his undertakings to the court to repay the amount to the complainant, M/s Murali Projects Pvt Ltd. The court had noted that Yadav was required to make payments of Rs 1.35 crore in each of the seven cases against him and directed that the amount already deposited with the registrar general of the high court be released in favour of the complainant. Details about the case Rajpal Yadav was convicted and sentenced in 2024 in cheque bounce cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act. His sentence had been suspended earlier after he expressed willingness to amicably settle the dispute with the complainant company, and the matter was even referred to mediation. The magisterial court had sentenced him to undergo six months’ imprisonment. At that time, Yadav’s counsel had said it was a genuine transaction to finance the production of a movie, which bombed at the box office, resulting in huge financial losses. However, the Delhi High Court had noted that no payment was made for nearly a year despite specific timelines and assurances given from time to time. Observing that “considerable leniency” had already been shown, Justice Sharma had said there was no justification to continue the indulgence granted to the actor.
04 February,2026 06:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe stadium witnessed a moment that went beyond entertainment as Sanya Malhotra delivered a power-packed mid-innings performance at the Women’s Premier League Eliminator between Gujarat Giants and Delhi Capitals, leaving audiences energized and fans cheering for more. Sanya Malhotra's performance Electrifying in every sense, the performance stood out not just for its high-voltage choreography and stage command, but for the purpose it carried, celebrating women and standing firmly in support of women’s cricket. Taking over the stage at a time when the stakes of the match were at their highest, Sanya brought an infectious energy that seamlessly matched the intensity on the field. The crowd responded instantly, with cheers, applause, and social media buzz pouring in, turning her act into one of the standout moments of the night. It was a performance powered by conviction, confidence, and a clear message of solidarity. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanya Malhotra (@sanyamalhotra_) The eliminator clash already had fans on the edge of their seats, and Sanya’s mid-innings act added a fresh surge of excitement to the evening. As the players fought it out for a spot in the next stage of the tournament, the performance served as a celebration of the women who continue to redefine the sport with grit and excellence. As the Women’s Premier League continues to evolve as a cultural movement, moments like these highlight its growing significance beyond the sport. With an electrifying performance driven by purpose, Sanya Malhotra turned the spotlight firmly on women in power, underscoring how support, sisterhood, and shared ambition create an energy that resonates far beyond the stadium. Delhi Capitals secures win Delhi Capitals emerged victorious by seven wickets at the Vadodara International Cricket Stadium in Kotambi. The win also helped the Jemimah Rodrigues-led women seal their berth in the WPL 2026 final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). While chasing a target of 169 runs, Delhi Capitals posted 169 runs for the loss of three wickets in 15.4 overs. Opening the innings, Lizelle Lee scored 43 runs off just 24 balls, with the help of eight boundaries and a maximum. Shouldering her was Shafali Verma, who smashed 31 runs in 21 deliveries, including seven boundaries. Skipper Jemimah Rodrigues accumulated 41 runs off 23 deliveries, which was laced with four boundaries and a maximum. Laura Wolvaardt and Marizanne Kapp stayed unbeaten. Facing 24 balls, Wolvaardt garnered 32 runs, with the help of two boundaries and a maximum, whereas Kapp scored four runs in three balls, including a boundary. Chinelle Henry was the most successful bowler for the Delhi Capitals. Having bowled four overs, she returned with the figures of three wickets by conceding 35 runs. Nandni Sharma also claimed two wickets for 44 runs in four overs. Minnu Mani chipped in with one wicket and gave away 23 runs in four overs.
04 February,2026 05:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSince Dhurandhar began streaming on Netflix, fans have been closely watching every detail, even the end credits. A small but intriguing discovery there has now sparked online buzz around Ranveer Singh’s much-discussed on-set entourage. Fans notice 3 vans for Hamza Viewers noticed something unusual in the vendor transportation section of the credits: three separate vehicles listed as “Hamza Van,” “Hamza Staff Van,” and “Hamza Normal Van.” All three were associated with Ranveer’s character, Hamza Ali Mazari, leading fans to speculate about the actor’s elaborate vanity van arrangements. Social media reactions followed almost instantly. One user joked, “Hamza van, Hamza’s staff van, Hamza’s normal van, Ranveer Singh, what exactly do you do with so many vans?” Another wrote, “Three vans for one character? That’s some serious star power.” The humorous tone quickly turned into a wider discussion about celebrity privileges and on-set luxuries. What further caught attention was the fact that the vans were named after the character rather than the actor. Fans pointed out that other cast members had vehicles listed under their real names, making Ranveer’s credit entries stand out even more. One observer noted, “Everyone else has vans under their own names, but Ranveer’s are credited to Hamza. That’s interesting.” Here's how the netizens reacted Some supporters came to the actor’s defence, suggesting the arrangement might reflect his intense dedication to his craft. A fan commented, “Every actor has their own process. If having separate spaces helps him stay in character, what’s the problem?” Others speculated that one van could be for personal use, another for his staff, and a third possibly converted into a gym or workspace. While Ranveer has never publicly confirmed travelling with multiple customised vans, the end credits of Dhurandhar have added fuel to long-standing rumours about his meticulous and larger-than-life working style. Meanwhile, excitement around the franchise continues to build, especially with the announcement of Dhurandhar 2, ensuring that both the film, and Ranveer’s Hamza, remain firmly in the spotlight.
04 February,2026 04:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBased on harrowing everyday news, Anubhav Sinha’s Assi is a film that makes us confront the uncomfortable truth we often run away from. The film is set to hit the big screen on 20th February 2026. After creating intrigue with its compelling motion poster, the makers of Assi, T-Series and Benaras Media Works have now unveiled the film’s gripping trailer. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Anubhav Sinha, the investigative courtroom drama is headlined by Taapsee Pannu, supported by a power-packed ensemble cast. Assi trailer Alongside Taapsee, the film features Kani Kusruti, Revathy, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, with special appearances by Naseeruddin Shah, Supriya Pathak, and Seema Pahwa, further elevating the film’s thrilling depth. The trailer opens on a gripping, unsettling note, introducing Taapsee Pannu as a relentless lawyer who refuses to bow down in her pursuit of justice, while Kani Kusruti stands at the emotional core of the narrative, her character becoming the beating heart of the case. What follows is a fast-paced investigative journey that tears through the dark, deeply disturbing layers of society. More than just a courtroom clash, the drama challenges the conscience raising uncomfortable questions about morality, accountability, and the future we are shaping for the next generation. 'The story draws from everyday news': Anubhav Sinha Talking about the trailer, producer Bhushan Kumar shared, “At T-Series, we believe in backing meaningful, hard-hitting stories that need to be told. Assi is a story that stayed with me from the moment I heard it, it reflects realities we see around us every day but often choose to look past. Anubhav has approached this film with immense honesty, and Taapsee has brought a rare sincerity and strength to her performance. For me, this isn’t just about making a film; it’s about starting a conversation. I’m proud that T-Series is backing a story that dares to ask uncomfortable questions.” Reflecting on the trailer, director Anubhav Sinha added, “For me, my film has to hit the core of the story. With Assi, it felt like a loud thud exactly where it should. That impact compelled me to make this film. The story draws from everyday news, realities we often choose to ignore. To tell a story like this, Taapsee is a natural you just take her there and she delivers her best. And with Bhushan Kumar backing a film like Assi, we know we’re striking the nail in the right corner.” Sharing her thoughts Taapsee says, “I felt it was time to bring these stories together and put them in front of people to remind ourselves that what we read as everyday crime news should never be normalised. These incidents are alarming, they’re happening around us, and they seem to be growing. Sometimes it’s not just about the crime itself, but also about how little we do to stop it in our own capacity. When we shaped this into a two-hour narrative, it became deeply moving for me as a performer, because it forces you to confront a reality we often look away from.” Hard-hitting and thought-provoking, the trailer leaves viewers questioning whether justice is truly served or merely declared. With justice itself placed on trial, Taapsee Pannu’s performance promises to leave a lasting impact, challenging audiences to reflect long after the verdict is delivered. The film is set to release exclusively in theatres worldwide on 20th February 2026.
04 February,2026 04:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe U.S. Department of Justice recently released a major batch of investigative material linked to late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, making public more than three million pages of records, along with over 2,000 videos and around 180,000 images. Several Indian celebs’ names have surfaced as accused in the case. Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut has now reacted strongly to the newly released Jeffrey Epstein files, saying the details left her shaken and deeply “disturbed.” Kangana Ranaut disturbed after Epstein files news Taking to her Instagram Story on Tuesday evening, Kangana shared her thoughts about how “disturbing” the details felt to her and how they changed the way she looks at power, fame, and society. “So disturbing to see and read about Epstein Files. Crimes happen everywhere, but what they are indulging in seems as if it is some high-society fashion/cultural practice, seems more like some evil/satanic monstrous religion. All these rockstars, singers, movie stars, politicians, models, movie directors we grew up reading about—how come all of them were okay harming and killing helpless young women and really, really tiny kids?” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kangana Ranaut (@kanganaranaut) Kangana also spoke about how the reports made her feel “hopeless” and worried about the future of humanity. She linked her thoughts to Indian culture and spiritual values, saying she believes they offer answers the world is searching for. “It makes me deeply sad and hopelessly pessimistic about the future and the true essence of humanity. It makes me even more certain that Bharat’s culture, values, and beyond the body, what is everlasting, what is Sanatan, is the answer that the world is seeking. All those ancient stories about demons/gods, sur/asur are relevant even today. Demons will prevail and gods will rise. Which side are you on? #harekrishna,” she added. Bollywood guy Anurag Kashyap mentioned in Epstein files According to reports, in the Epstein files, Anurag Kashyap is mentioned as the “Bollywood guy” in email exchanges between Epstein and individuals such as Giuseppe Bersani, Gino Yu, and Ornella Corazza. Kashyap is listed alongside other notable personalities, including Ben Goertzel, Bruce Damer, and DJ Spooky, often referred to as “cool people” invited to events in locations such as Shanghai. Anurag Kashyap is not the only Indian film personality named in the files. Actress Nandita Das also appears in the documents. Kangana Ranaut's work front On the work front, Kangana was last seen in the film Emergency, where she played former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The film was also directed, written, and produced by her, and it released in theatres on January 17, 2025.
04 February,2026 04:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe trailer of the much awaited film presented by Zee Studios and Bhansali Productions, Do Deewane Seher Mein is finally out. After striking an emotional chord with its lived-in teaser, Do Deewane Seher Mein starring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal Thakur now takes the romance a step further and it feels achingly real. The trailer deepens the promise of a modern love story that doesn’t chase perfection, but embraces emotional truth. Do Deewane Seher Mein trailer Set against the chaos of a bustling city, the trailer introduces two imperfect individuals, played by Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal Thakur, who don’t seek to complete each other, but slowly learn to understand one another. Their bond grows through silences, stolen glances, unresolved conversations, and the weight of choices that linger long after they are made. The trailer opens with Mrunal declaring, "I don't know how to cook," and Siddhant simply replies, "I do. Thai. Chinese. Italian, You name it." She then says, "For me, rain means dealing with wet clothes," and he jumps in saying, "For me, it's a cup of ginger tea, and Rimjhim Gire Saawan," which prompts her to quip, "Wow. You clearly have a lot of free time." This banter sets the tone for the rest of the movie, establishing that the two characters are opposites. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zee Studios (@zeestudiosofficial) Sharing the trailer on their social media handle, the makers wrote, "Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal Thakur’s magical chemistry looks absolutely endearing. They play characters who are still figuring themselves out, and that’s rare to see in love stories. With genuine romance and emotional depth, they come together as one of the most heart-warming on-screen pairings of the year." About Do Deewane Seher Mein Do Deewane Sheher Mein is a love story that feels timeless yet new, and is also touted as one of the cutest and most heartfelt love stories of the coming year, bringing back the kind of romance we haven’t seen in cinemas for a very long time. It explores love not as a fairytale, but as an experience, layered, confusing, tender, and quietly transformative. Zee Studios and Bhansali Productions present Do Deewane Seher Mein, starring Mrunal Thakur and Siddhant Chaturvedi, directed by Ravi Udyawar. The film is produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Prerna Singh, Umesh Kumar Bansal and Bharat Kumar Ranga in association with Ravi Udyawar Films. Do Deewane Seher Mein which releases around Valentine's week is slated for a theatrical release on 20th February 2026.
04 February,2026 03:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAlia Bhatt is on a roll with some impressive and massive projects in her kitty. As she gears up for Alpha and Love and War this year, details of her new collaboration are now out. The actress is all set to team up with Drishyam 2 director Abhishek Pathak for a high-concept relationship drama. If reports are to be believed, Rajkummar Rao will star alongside her, marking their first collaboration. Alia Bhatt teams up with Abhishek Pathak? As per a report in Variety India, “Alia is teaming up with Drishyam 2 director Abhishek Pathak for a high-concept relationship drama, titled Housewife. The actress will essay the role of a housewife in what’s being described as a topical narrative centered around a married couple.” Talking about the male lead alongside her, the source added, “Rajkummar Rao is in negotiations to play the male lead, and although he has shown his interest, he is yet to be formally signed. If he comes on board, this will mark Alia and Rajkummar’s first on-screen collaboration together. Apart from playing the lead, Alia will also co-produce this film under her Eternal Sunshine Productions. The film is scheduled to go on floors around August–September 2026, after Pathak completes shooting for Drishyam 3.” Alia Bhatt and Rajkummar Rao’s upcoming movies Apart from this project, Alia, as mentioned, is gearing up for Alpha. The film marks YRF’s first woman-led espionage thriller in its Spyverse. It also stars Sharvari Wagh and Bobby Deol. The film is expected to hit the screens by this year-end. She is also collaborating with Sanjay Leela Bhansali on Love & War. The movie also stars Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal in lead roles. Additionally, Alia is also discussing several other projects to line up in 2027, including Maddock Films’ horror-comedy Chamunda. Meanwhile, Rajkummar Rao is set to star in Toaster, a quirky comedy on Netflix produced by his own banner, KAMPA Films, with Sanya Malhotra. He also has a biopic on Ujjwal Nikam lined up this year. The actor is also said to be doing a film with Manoj Bajpayee, which is touted to be a courtroom drama and is directed by Shoojit Sircar.
04 February,2026 03:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has reportedly been named in the infamous Epstein Files. The filmmaker’s name surfaced in a recently released set of documents linked to late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. On January 30, the US Department of Justice released over three million documents, revealing emails and correspondence involving a wide range of prominent figures worldwide. Bollywood guy Anurag Kashyap mentioned in Epstein Files According to reports, in the Epstein Files, Anurag Kashyap is mentioned as the “Bollywood guy” in email exchanges between Epstein and individuals such as Giuseppe Bersani, Gino Yu, and Ornella Corazza. The emails reportedly discuss Epstein’s planned trips to Cuba and other locations, and mention Kashyap as one of the expected guests at workshops on Buddhism, technology, and medicine. In one of the messages, Kashyap was described as “a famous Bollywood director.” While Kashyap’s name appears in the files, this does not indicate that the filmmaker attended any of the events or was involved in Epstein’s criminal activities. There is currently no evidence to suggest that Kashyap and Epstein were present at the same place at the same time. In the correspondence, Kashyap is listed alongside other notable personalities, including Ben Goertzel, Bruce Damer, and DJ Spooky, often referred to as “cool people” invited to events in locations such as Shanghai. Anurag Kashyap is not the only Indian film personality named in the files. Actress Nandita Das also appears in the documents, listed as a speaker at the 2015 Lake District Festival in the UK, organised by Jem Bendell. The festival reportedly featured activities such as music, kayaking, nature walks, yoga, tai chi, dance lessons, and storytelling workshops held at Brathay Hall. Anurag Kashyap’s work front Kashyap’s last release was his two-part directorial Nishaanchi. While the film did not perform well at the box office, it received critical appreciation and found a wider audience following its OTT release. The filmmaker, who is also an actor, will next be seen playing the antagonist in Adivi Sesh’s Dacoit. The film, which also stars Mrunal Thakur and Prakash Raj, is set to release in Telugu and Hindi on April 10.
04 February,2026 01:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
