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 03:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor 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 01:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEven 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 correspondentFor 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 | MumbaiActress and politician Kangana Ranaut offered prayers at the Baba Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar on Monday. The Baidyanath Dham is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in the country and is considered to be the most sacred abode of Lord Shiva. Devotees from various places travelled to this sacred temple of Lord Shiva to offer prayers. Kangana Ranaut followed the necessary rituals of the puja ceremony while offering prayers to Lord Shiva. She took to Instagram to share photos of herself performing rituals inside the temple, and wrote about her intention to visit all 12 jyotirlingas this year. One photo shows her holding an aarti thali, while another shows her pouring water over the Shivalingam. She is also seen greeting a crowd of devotees. The caption read: "Aaj Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga aur Vasuki Dham ke darshan kiye, this is my 9th jyotirlinga darshan 3 more to go, determined to complete all 12 before December ends." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kangana Ranaut (@kanganaranaut) The chanting of Shiva mantras, singing bhajans (devotional songs), and performing Rudrabhishek (ceremonial bathing of Shiva Lingam with holy substances) are common practices observed at Baba Baidyanath Dham. Recently, Ranaut was the latest to share her reaction to the film. The Tanu Weds Manu actor took to Instagram Story to heap praise on director Aditya Dhar and called him the real "Dhurandhar" of the Ranveer Singh-starrer. Kangana also added that she enjoyed watching the film so much that it had her clapping and whistling. "I watched dhurandhar and had a great time. Totally inspired by the art and craft of this masterpiece, but honestly, huge admiration for the intent of the filmmaker." "Dear Aaditya Dhar ji border pe hamare defence forces, sarkar mein hamare Modi ji aur Bollywood cinema mein aap, khoob kambal kutayi karo in pakistani terrorists ki, maza aa gaya, whistled and clapped all the way!! Superb work by everyone Lekin Dhurandhar of this show is the filmmaker himself adityadharfilms. Congratulations yamigautam," she added. Aditya Dhar's Dhurandhar was released on December 5 and is running successfully in theatres, breaking multiple records amid heavy praise from fans and celebrities alike. Ranveer Singh plays the lead role alongside Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, and R Madhavan. 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
23 December,2025 01:01 PM IST | Mumbai | ANIAt the moment, actress Rashmika Mandanna is busy with Cocktail 2, alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. It seems like the Animal actress has found her second passion after acting on the set of her next film. Rashmika took to the Stories section of her Instagram handle and posted a photo of herself working behind the camera. She was seen giving a goofy expression as she looked into the camera for the still captioned "Shots without actors". Taking a hilarious jibe at her DoP, Rashmika wrote, "My 2nd job is secure..No? santha_dop (sic)." Rashmika has been treating her InstaFam with various sneak peeks from her shoot diaries for Cocktail 2. In September, Rashmika posted a few photos from the Italy schedule of the movie. From getting some shut-eye to making goofy faces using her hands, to enjoying the clear Italian sky during a run, to relishing ice cream, Rashmika's time in Italy seemed like all things fun. "Italy - you beauty!!! (Red heart emojis) You have me for a couple of days and I hope amazing memories are created (Red heart emojis) Cocktail2," Rashmika wrote in the caption. Backed by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films and penned by Luv Ranjan, the details for the plot of the much-anticipated drama have been kept under wraps for now. The director of the movie, Homi Adajania, and Kriti also keep on providing a peek into the behind-the-scenes fun from the shoot of Cocktail 2. The first instalment in the franchise, Cocktail, featuring Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Diana Penty, which was also helmed by Homi Adajania, reached the audience back in 2012. Cocktail 2 is expected to get a theatrical release in 2026. Over and above this, Rashmika also has Rawindra Pulle's Mysaa waiting to be released. Touted to be an emotional action thriller, the film will show Rashmika as a woman from the Gond community. 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
23 December,2025 12:00 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSActress Aishwarya Rai treated the netizens with an adorable unseen picture of her daughter Aaradhya Bachchan as she wished her parents on their anniversary. The photo had little Aaradhya flaunting her sweet smile for the camera while in her mom Aishwarya's arm as she posed with her grandparents. Wishing her parents on their wedding anniversary, Aishwarya wrote, "Dearest Darling Mommy-Doddaaa and Daddy-Ajjaaa Prayers and Anniversary Love God Bless Always LOVE YOU ETERNALLY (sic)." View this post on Instagram A post shared by AishwaryaRaiBachchan (@aishwaryaraibachchan_arb) The post further included another photo of the Taal actress's parents facing the camera with a smile. On November 21, Aishwarya decided to pay a heartfelt tribute to her late father, Krishnaraj Rai, on his birth anniversary through an emotional post. Taking to her Instagram, the Devdas actress posted a couple of pictures of her late father with her and her daughter, Aaradhya. “Happy Birthday dearest Daddy-Ajjaaa, our Guardian Angel, Love you eternally. Thanking you for ALL your infinite love and blessings as our Aaradhya turned 14 (sic)," Aishwarya wrote the caption. For those who do not know, Krishnaraj Rai was a Marine biologist. He passed away in 2017 in Mumbai after a prolonged illness. Aishwarya never misses an opportunity to remember him, which is illustrative of their close bond. In a recent update, Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan were seen together after a very long time at their daughter Aaradhya's annual day. The couple was accompanied by Aishwarya's mother, Vrinda Rai, and Abhishek's father, and legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan. On the professional front, Aishwarya was last seen in Mani Ratnam's Ponniyin Selvan: Part 2, where she essayed the role of Oomai Rani. The project reached the audience in 2023. She even bagged the 'Best Actress in a Leading Role' (Critics) award for her performance at the South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) in Dubai. 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
23 December,2025 11:29 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSActress Soha Ali Khan used social media to share a glimpse of the Christmas celebration in the Pataudi family. The photo posted by the Rang De Basanti actress had her posing next to the Christmas tree, along with brother Saif Ali Khan, sister-in-law Kareena Kapoor Khan, and their two little munchkins- Taimur and Jeh. In the next photo, Soha was seen with her mother, Sharmila Tagore. We could also see Saif sitting next to little Inaaya, who is busy placing an ornament on the Christmas tree. This was followed by a photo of Soha and Inaaya having a fun time while decorating the Christmas tree. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Soha (@sakpataudi) "And Christmas week has officially begun! christmas décor christmasdecoration christmastree (sic)," Soha captioned the post. The post also had some other glimpses from the festivities, like Inaaya telling the Santa what she would like for Christmas this year. Soha keeps her InstFam updated by sharing such lovely glimpses from her daily life on social media. On December 8, she provided a peek into mom Sharmila Tagore's birthday celebration in the presence of her loved ones. The photos had Sharmila enjoying her special day with daughter Soha, son Saif Ali Khan, granddaughter Sara Ali Khan and her friends. Soha captioned the post, “My amma on her birthday – missed you, Apa sabapataudi." As Soha mentioned that she missed her elder sister Saba during the celebration, Saba penned in the comment section, "Missed being there sohe bia...But surgery had to happen n missed ma here too. She got stuck but im happy you guys made it and she enjoyed her birthday! Love u all. See u soon inshallah." Sara also penned a lovely birthday wish for her grandmother that read, "Happiest birthday to the Chanda and Suraj of our family (two hearts, love hands, and full moon face emojis). Love you beyond words, Badi Amma (red heart emoji)." 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
23 December,2025 11:23 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSIn her three-decade-long career, Madhuri Dixit has delivered classic hits, carving a niche for herself. However, things changed for her when Tezaab was released. While she is regarded as one of the most beautiful actresses of her generation, there was a time she was judged for her looks. In a recent interview, the diva recalled how, like every new actress, she was told to fix her nose and was even criticised for being skinny. Madhuri Dixit on being told to fix her nose Speaking to Nayandeep Rakshit on his YouTube channel, Madhuri recalled, “A lot of people told me when I had just started—do this, how is your nose, your this, your that. I used to go and say, ‘Mom, they’re saying this.’ And my mom would say, ‘Don’t worry about it. Once you have a successful movie, that’s the very thing they’ll love about you.’” At the time, Madhuri admitted she struggled to believe her mother’s confidence. However, everything changed when Tezaab was released. “After Tezaab, nobody said anything about being skinny or being this or that. People just accepted me for who I am. Even today, I tell the new girls—don’t try to be in a mould. Don’t say this is how a heroine should look. If you’re different, that’s a uniqueness you have. Play on that.” Madhuri Dixit’s upcoming projects Madhuri is once again in the spotlight, this time for her latest OTT series, Mrs Deshpande. Directed by Nagesh Kukunoor, the show is officially adapted from the French series La Mante and stars Dixit as a serial killer. The show is currently streaming on JioHotstar. When asked if the headline-grabbing idea of her playing a serial killer in Mrs Deshpande was what drew her to the show, Madhuri told mid-day, “No, I mean, that was not the reason why.” Laughing at the thought of sensational headlines, she added, “It could have been. It’s exciting enough, right? She’s a killer, and she has a killer smile, and she kills with a smile.” Madhuri also highlighted how rare such roles are for women. “I don’t think anybody has ever played a woman like a serial killer on the screen,” she said, adding that it wasn’t just the label that intrigued her. “There’s the multilayered character. She’s so calm, so composed, and yet she can make people feel very uncomfortable with the silences. Those things were very attractive about the character.”
23 December,2025 10:51 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRising star and Bollywood’s newest heartthrob Ahaan Panday is celebrating his 28th birthday today. Ahaan Panday became a household name after the massive success of Saiyaara, which went on to emerge as a blockbuster at the box office. As the actor celebrates his birthday, he received the sweetest wish from co-star Aneet Padda, who showered him with love and admiration in an adorable birthday message on social media. Aneet Padda’s birthday wish for Ahaan Sharing some unseen photos and videos of Ahaan, who has turned 28, Aneet narrated a blessed future for the birthday boy, which fans are gushing over. 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." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aneet Padda (@aneetpadda_) 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. "I’ve seen my mom and dad trusting you deeply, beaming with love when they ask, 'Ahaan kiven ae? Theek hai na?' on every video call. I’ve seen Deanne aunty cry every time she sees your face on that poster—pride mixed with disbelief at her son’s kindness, his soul, the man she raised. I’ve seen a stranger having a better day after talking to you. I’ve seen the security guard waiting for his daily chat with you at 2 pm sharp. I’ve seen the world stop and stare at you before it knew why. Before it met its Saiyaara on a movie screen. You were always a star; dadi was always proud. I saw the future then, and I see it now. It’s all set to come true," she added. "Happy birthday, Ahaan. 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." Deanne Panday’s birthday wish Ahaan’s mom, Deanne, also shared adorable throwback pics of the actor and penned a heartfelt note that read, “Happy birthday to our love and life. You make us so happy, so proud. From the child that you were to the man that you are today, there is no one like you; you are just different. You are love; you wear your heart on your sleeve.” She continued, “Stay real no matter what the world throws at you, son. Be you, as you are, so beautiful inside and out. Love you so much. Happy birthday to our sunshine, everyone’s sunshine.”
23 December,2025 10:01 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSomething’s brewing Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Gurinder Chadha. Pics/PTI, AFP Filmmaker Gurinder Chadha has expressed her admiration for Priyanka Chopra Jonas, highlighting her desire to collaborate again in the future. Speaking to PTI, the director said, “I would love to find the right thing for her” for a project. Gurinder, known for Bend It Like Beckham (2002) and Viceroy’s House (2017), praised Priyanka for her support of non-resident Indians, especially Punjabi women, adding, “Priyanka supported me for so long and has been such a great supporter of all NRIs, particularly Punjabi women.” Their recent collaboration on the Hindi version of George Michael’s Last Christmas saw Priyanka initially hesitant to sing, but she agreed “to support” Gurinder. The filmmaker called her “an incredible actress.” ‘My last chance’ Agastya Nanda in the poster of ‘Ikkis’ The upcoming war biopic, Ikkis, is Agastya Nanda’s second film. But the young actor, who made his debut with Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies (2023), has approached Ikkis as his “last chance”. “I am very well aware of my privilege. Do I think my first film was good? No. How was I in the film? Terrible. So, I view Ikkis as my last chance to prove myself,” Agastya said in a press meet. The Archies, which also starred Shah Rukh Khan’s daughter Suhana and late Sridevi’s daughter Khushi Kapoor, was largely panned upon release and the performances by the star kids were trolled. Agastya, grandson of megastar Amitabh Bachchan, said he used all the trolling as a driving force to do better. “Even if I don’t succeed, I will not stop acting. I will pick my camera, go back to Delhi and start shooting with a bunch of friends. Acting is for myself and business is for the audience,” said the actor, who plays late war hero Arun Khetarpal in Ikkis. Need to look 21 for ‘Ikkis’ Sriram Raghavan and Varun Dhawan. Pic/Yogen Shah Much before Agastya became the protagonist of Ikkis, filmmaker Sriram Raghavan had his Badlapur (2015) star, Varun Dhawan, locked for the war drama. So, why did the director opt for a change in Ikkis’s leading man? “Varun didn’t look 21 anymore,” Sriram said at a press meet. The director shared that work on the film had begun in 2018 itself, with Varun locked to play the late war hero, Arun Khetarpal. But Covid-19 delayed the film, and by the time Sriram resumed work on Ikkis, he felt he needed a younger hero. “I told Dino [Dinesh Vijan, producer] that I couldn’t make it with Varun as he didn’t look that young anymore. I needed a new actor,” he shared. Mera ‘heera ladka’ forever Fardeen Khan Veteran actor Mumtaz recently spoke about her daughter Natasha’s separation from actor Fardeen Khan, describing it as a difficult phase for the family, while also addressing her bond with her ex son-in-law. In an interaction with Vicky Lalwani, Mumtaz said the separation was painful but added that such situations must be handled with maturity. “These things happen in life, and one has to face them,” she said. Mumtaz was all praise for Fardeen, calling him a “heera ladka” and appreciating the dignity with which he has dealt with personal and professional challenges. She added that she continues to hold him in high regard despite his separation from her daughter in 2023. Start dreaming Prabhas. Pic/AFP Telugu star Prabhas recently unveiled The Script Craft International Short Film Festival with a special announcement video on social media, encouraging aspiring filmmakers to take their first step in cinema. Calling it a space where dreams can begin, the actor said, “The Script Craft isn’t just a festival — it’s where stories become careers. Every voice deserves a beginning. Every dream story deserves a chance.” On the work front, Prabhas is prepping for the release of his next film, The Raja Saab. He also has Spirit, Salaar: Part 2, and the sequel of Kalki 2898 AD.
23 December,2025 07:44 AM IST | Mumbai | The Hitlist TeamADVERTISEMENT
