Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao, who was last seen in Maalik, has flagged off the shooting for his upcoming film Dada: The Sourav Ganguly Story. On Wednesday, the actor took to his Instagram, and shared BTS pictures from the sets of the film. The first picture is of the clapperboard from the sets. The second picture is of the Sourav Ganguly stand at the Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata. Sourav Ganguly biopic goes on floors The actor wrote in the caption, “And it begins … The one and only DADA. souravganguly motwayne #LuvRanjan gargankur82 luv_films”. Backed by Vikramaditya Motwane and Luv Ranjan, the film will be shot at Lord’s Cricket Ground in the UK, and Eden Gardens in Kolkata. According to sources, the makers have identified Lord’s and Eden Gardens as key locations to authentically recreate defining chapters from Ganguly’s cricket career. Director-choreographer Farah Khan took to the comments section, and wrote, “All the best raaajjjjj”. View this post on Instagram A post shared by RajKummar Rao (@rajkummar_rao) More about Sourav Ganguly Sourav Ganguly is one of India’s greatest skippers, and the architect of the modern Indian cricket team. He scored 7,212 runs in 113 Tests and 11,363 runs in 311 ODIs, including 38 international centuries. He made his Test debut at Lord's Cricket Ground in 1996, scoring 131, followed by 136 at Trent Bridge. His 183 against Sri Lanka in the 1999 World Cup remains one of his highest ODI scores. Another key innings was 144 at Brisbane in 2003, helping India compete overseas. As captain, he led India in 49 Tests and 147 ODIs, with notable success in building a competitive overseas team. He backed players like Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, and Harbhajan Singh, strengthening the squad’s depth. His tenure marked a shift toward aggression and self-belief in Indian cricket, highlighted by India reaching the 2003 World Cup final and winning the NatWest Series Final 2002 at Lord’s. His leadership influenced a more assertive approach that carried into later eras under captains like MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli. ‘Dada: The Sourav Ganguly Story’ is expected to cover his cricketing career, captaincy era, and role in shaping modern Indian cricket.
01 April,2026 07:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA two-episode travel series featuring Ridhi Dogra explores the city’s hidden landscapes, cultural depth, and iconic energy. The show is now streaming on National Geographic India. Postcards from Hong Kong Told through the eyes of an Indian traveller, Postcards from Hong Kong, produced by National Geographic Creative Works, offers a refreshing perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic destinations. While the series captures Hong Kong’s celebrated skyline, glittering harbour, and high-energy urban life, it also ventures beyond the familiar to reveal a quieter, more unexpected side of the city. From serene beaches and scenic hiking trails to immersive adventure experiences, the show uncovers hidden gems that challenge conventional perceptions of Hong Kong. It also delves into the richness of Cantonese culture, highlighting traditional practices and local rituals. Along the way, Ridhi Dogra connects with local influencers and guides, offering viewers a first-hand look at the city and its people. In the first episode, Ridhi steps away from the fast-paced, glamorous world, embarking on a quieter journey of self-discovery. As she explores destinations such as Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery, and the Tian Tan Buddha, she discovers a more grounded and contemplative side of Hong Kong. The city reveals a different personality- calm, reflective, and deeply connected to nature and tradition. The episode becomes a story of two parallel journeys: discovering a new side of Hong Kong and rediscovering herself. With just 72 hours to go in the second episode, Ridhi immerses herself in the Hong Kong of popular imagination, fast, vibrant, and full of life. From the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to the excitement of Happy Valley Racecourse, and from Michelin-recognised culinary spots to luxury shopping at Landmark, the episode captures the city at its dynamic best. Ridhi Dogra on being a part of the show Speaking about the series, Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners. From hiking through misty trails to understanding local traditions, I found myself connecting with Hong Kong in a way that felt real, immersive, and meaningful.” A National Geographic India spokesperson added that the series aims to explore the city through an intimate, human lens, highlighting its layered culture and unexpected experiences. Hong Kong Tourism Board’s Director for South Asia, Puneet Kumar, also noted that the show presents a fresh and nuanced portrayal of the city’s diversity and spirit. Blending travel, culture, and personal storytelling, Postcards from Hong Kong offers an immersive look at a city of contrasts, where modern life meets tradition. The series is currently streaming on National Geographic Channel and JioHotstar.
01 April,2026 07:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Akshay Kumar began the month of April on a spiritual note. The actor visited the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain early morning to offer prayers ahead of the release of his upcoming film Bhooth Bangla. He was accompanied by his mother-in-law and veteran actress Dimple Kapadia during the visit. Akshay Kumar prays in Ujjain Soon after offering prayers, Akshay spoke to ANI about his visit and shared that he prayed not just for himself but for the entire country and his loved ones. "It was really good... I prayed for the entire country and my family. I prayed that our country may always excel and progress," he told ANI. The Mahakaleshwar Temple, situated on the banks of the Shipra River in Ujjain, holds immense religious significance as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The Bhasma Aarti is one of the most revered rituals at the Mahakaleshwar Temple, performed during the auspicious Brahma Muhurta, between 3:30 and 5:30 AM. According to temple traditions, the ritual begins with the opening of Baba Mahakal's doors in the early hours, followed by a holy bath with Panchamrit, a sacred mixture of milk, curd, ghee, sugar, and honey. #WATCH | Madhya Pradesh: Actor Akshay Kumar, along with his mother-in-law and veteran actor Dimple Kapadia, visited Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain and offered prayers today. pic.twitter.com/Q21mMHWmZy — ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2026 Akshay Kumar's work front Meanwhile, on the work front, Akshay Kumar is preparing for the release of 'Bhooth Bangla', directed by Priyadarshan. The film marks their reunion after nearly 14 years. The project also features Tabu, Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Jisshu Sengupta, Asrani, and Wamiqa Gabbi in key roles. Earlier, talking about the film, Akshay Kumar called it a "real horror comedy" and clarified that it is completely different from his earlier hit Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Speaking about the film, Akshay said that while many are comparing the two, Bhooth Bangla belongs to a different space altogether. "Nahi ye bilkul alag hai (No, this is completely different). Bhool Bhulaiyaa..usme psychological thriller, horror..horror bhi nahi tha psychological comedy thi ( That was more of a psychological comedy). This is a fantasy. Iske andar vakai mein koi bhoot hai ya nahi dekhna hai ( In this, whether there is a ghost or not, you have to see.) Yeh actually kahunga to asli mein horror comedy hai (So if I say, this is a real horror comedy)," he shared.' Bhool Bhulaiyaa is a psychological horror comedy film directed by Priyadarshan starring Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan, Shiney Ahuja, and Ameesha Patel, alongside Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Manoj Joshi, Asrani, and Vikram Gokhale.
01 April,2026 06:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Delhi High Court has strongly criticised actor Richa Chadha and several media platforms for what it termed “digital vigilantism” in connection with a sexual harassment allegation on an IndiGo flight. The case stems from a March 11 Delhi Mumbai flight incident, where a female journalist accused a co-passenger of inappropriate conduct. Soon after landing, she shared the allegations on social media, revealing the man’s identity, photograph, and workplace details. The post quickly went viral and was amplified by multiple media outlets and public figures, including Chadha. Delhi HC slams Richa Chadha The court took serious note of how the allegations were circulated without verification. Pulling up Chadha for reposting the claim with the remark “Make him famous,” the bench observed, “The endorsement and amplification of an unverified allegation… acts as a catalyst for public shaming and digital vigilantism.” The court emphasised that public figures carry responsibility when sharing sensitive claims. It stated that such actions go beyond free speech and can damage an individual’s reputation without due process. “A public figure bears a legal and moral responsibility to verify the veracity of facts,” the court added. Justice Vikas Mahajan also criticised media coverage of the incident, noting that several reports went beyond the contents of the FIR and effectively declared the accused guilty. The court remarked that such reporting “prematurely adjudicate[s] the matter,” crossing the line between journalism and trial by media. In particularly strong observations, the court flagged posts that labelled the man a “molester” alongside his photograph, stating that such content could amount to defamation and expose him to “public ridicule and loss of reputation.” All about the case The accused man has denied all allegations, claiming he remained seated throughout the flight and was asleep before landing. He subsequently filed a defamation suit against the journalist, Chadha, and several digital platforms and media organisations. The court also criticised the initial act of publicly disclosing the man’s identity before any formal investigation had begun, calling it a violation of his right to dignity and a fair trial. It directed the removal of defamatory content and noted that Chadha has since deleted her post. The case has sparked a broader debate around responsible social media use, media ethics, and the risks of online outrage. The court’s remarks underline the growing concern over how quickly unverified allegations can escalate into widespread public condemnation in the digital age.
01 April,2026 05:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhat was supposed to be a celebratory evening for Sunil Pal quickly took an awkward turn. The comedian faced an embarrassing and insulting moment on stage at an event in Mumbai, where he was first felicitated with a bouquet but then denied a mic and asked to sit down. The video has gone viral on the internet, generating mixed views from netizens. Sunil Pal opens up about the insulting moment Opening up about the incident, Sunil Pal told CNN-News18 Showsha that the poetry event had begun on a positive note. “Ye ek shayari ka program tha jisme main gaya tha. Many good shayars had come to this Urdu-Adab event. One of my closest friends had invited me to this event, so I went and was having a good time," he said. The comedian saw being invited on stage as a mark of respect, and he wanted to take a moment to appreciate the other poets present. “Then they invited me to the stage and handed me a bouquet. Since it was a very good event with amazing shayars, I wanted to say something. All I wanted to say was ‘thank you’ and appreciate the poets there. Unka samman karna tha mujhe kyunki woh deserve karte hai." However, he was caught off guard by what happened next. “But the man standing there just refused to give the mic to me. I don’t know who he was but I asked so many times but he didn’t want me to speak at all," Pal went on to say, calling the moment extremely confusing. He said that the situation was made more uncomfortable because of the audience’s reaction. “Everyone there was watching and recording the video of me on stage because they thought I was being honoured but look what happened. I felt insulted." To understand what went wrong, Pal later reached out to the friend who had invited him. “Later, I even asked my friend, who had invited me, what was the issue but he asked me to forget and move on. Even he didn’t know why I wasn’t allowed to say a simple thank you on stage." Sunil Pal faces insulting behaviour on stage After Pal stepped on the stage and accepted his bouquet, he turned towards the mic to say a few words. However, the organiser on stage did not hand over the microphone and instead took the mic away from him. Not only that, but the organiser is also seen asking Pal to return to his seat. The exchange was caught on camera, showing the comedian trying to make sense of the situation. He is seen requesting the organiser for a chance to speak, saying, "At least let me say thank you". Despite his gentle request, the organiser is seen continuing to gesture for Sunil to step away, while not allowing him to address the audience. Although the real reason behind the organiser's behaviour towards Pal is still unclear, some users on the internet speculate it could be linked to controversial remarks made by Pal in the past. Nevertheless, there has been no official clarification so far on the matter by Pal or the organisers. Sunil Pal rose to fame after winning The Great Indian Laughter Challenge back in 2005 and went on to become a known face in TV and live come.
01 April,2026 04:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVedang Raina has been making rounds all over the internet for becoming acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali’s next hero in Main Vaapas Aaunga. Recently, the actor opened up about joining forces with the filmmaker and shared his experience working with veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah. Vedang Raina talks about working with Naseerudin Shah The actor didn’t reveal much about his character in the upcoming film, but described it as an “experience of a lifetime.” He added, “I’m actually spoiled as an actor after this experience. He’s a director (Imtiaz Ali) that brings the best out of you without you even realising. And Naseer sir is just a legend. I tried to observe him as much as I could and learned things I’ll remember for life.” Further, Raina even shared that he’s open to working across genres and is not boxing himself into a particular type. “I’m not limiting myself to a genre. If a script resonates with me and my heart is in it, I’ll do it. I’m learning along the way, but maybe I’d be more in control. I think I usually go with the flow and let things happen. But I take charge slightly more.” In the past recent years, Vedang has established himself as a promising outsider. And now, the actor reveals he does not think much about being an “outsider”. “It’s now been a couple of years, I really don’t think about it that often. I’m lucky to be doing what I’m doing. There’s only a handful in the entire country getting these opportunities. I will make the most of it,” he shared. About Main Vaapas Aaunga The teaser suggests that the story unfolds across two timelines and hints at a love story set during the Partition of India. Diljit appears to serve as the narrator who bridges the past and the present. Meanwhile, Naseeruddin Shah is seen lying on a hospital bed, dealing with an age-related illness, suggesting that Vedang may be portraying the younger version of his character. Vedang Raina will be seen playing a turbaned Sardarji in Applause Entertainment’s Main Vaapas Aaunga. Helmed by Imtiaz Ali, the film also stars Diljit Dosanjh, Sharvari Wagh and Naseeruddin Shah in key roles. The film opens in cinemas on June 12.
01 April,2026 03:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Prakash Raj's mother, Swarnalatha Raj, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026, and her funeral took place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The videos and pictures of the same were circulated widely on social media, and netizens expressed their condolences. Prakash Raj slams fake tweet Amid all this, an X user shared a screenshot of a tweet in which Prakash Raj mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his mother Hiraben. The user pointed out the irony in condoling the actor's mother's demise when the actor had disrespected the PM's mother. The fake tweet read, "Rest in peace Hiraben Modi. ... But you had given birth to a rascala who is spoiling India Just_Asking (sic)." However, the Singham actor took to X (Twitter) to slam the netizen and revealed that it was actually a fake tweet. Raj tweeted, "Bigots creating a FAKE tweet in my name and abusing their own leader on AprilFoolsDay .. the joke is on you Fools πππ justasking (sic)." Bigots creating a FAKE tweet in my name and abusing their own leader on #AprilFoolsDay .. the joke is on you Fools πππ #justasking https://t.co/7ZC2ygmrFN — Prakash Raj (@prakashraaj) April 1, 2026 Prakash Raj is known for always giving it back to trolls on social media. His tweets often go viral, and sometimes also result in controversies. Prakash Raj's mother passes away After his mother's funeral on Tuesday, Raj posted on X (Twitter), "Thank you each n everyone for your kindness and thoughtful words . It meant a lot to me and my family in these moments of grief. Thank you Amma for everything.. love you .. will miss you (sic)." ππΏππΏππΏ Thank you each n everyone for your kindness and thoughtful words . It meant a lot to me and my family in these moments of grief. Thank you Amma for everything.. love you .. will miss you π pic.twitter.com/IJHs4k4Ob1 — Prakash Raj (@prakashraaj) March 31, 2026 Swarnalatha reportedly breathed her last on Sunday morning at her residence after battling health issues associated with old age. She had been unwell for some time, and her condition had gradually deteriorated. Family members confirmed that her last rites will be held in Bengaluru later in the day, with close relatives, friends, and members of the film industry expected to attend. Known for being a strong pillar in Prakash Raj's life, Swarnalatha played a significant role in shaping the actor's journey. Over the years, the acclaimed performer has often spoken fondly of his mother, crediting her for her unwavering support, sacrifices, and encouragement that helped him navigate the highs and lows of his career. Her influence remained deeply rooted in both his personal and professional life.
01 April,2026 03:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCan’t keep calm on playing Ram Actor Ranbir Kapoor, along with director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra, unveiled the first visuals of Ramayana to an exclusive audience in Los Angeles, on March 31. Speaking about portraying Lord Ram, Ranbir said, “He has been the conscience keeper of billions, and will continue to be so. He stands for compassion, courage, righteousness, and forgiveness, the ideal man.” The film stars Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Yash as Ravana. More about Ramayana . The film’s music is by Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman.. Part One will release this Diwali; Part Two in 2027.. Character looks will be unveiled on April 2, on the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti. ‘That jawline isn’t gifted’ Kareena Kapoor Khan. Pic/Yogen Shah Actor Kareena Kapoor Khan continues to set fitness goals, with her trainer Mahesh Ghanekar lauding her discipline and consistency. Sharing a glimpse from her home workout, he wrote, “That jawline isn’t gifted. It’s earned. Built through discipline, forged by consistency, and defined by the lifestyle you refuse to compromise on. Kareena Kapoor Khan looks effortless on the outside, relentless on the inside.” In the video, the actor, 45, was seen performing a mix of bodyweight and strength training exercises, and yoga, along with stretching. Driving into production (L-R) Revathy and Daria Bedi in a still from ‘Aasmani’. Pic/Instagram Actor Sayani Gupta has announced the launch of her production house, Sayani Gupta Movies (SGM) and her directorial debut with short film Aasmani. Known for her films Margarita With a Straw (2014), Article 15 (2019), and the web show Four More Shots Please, Sayani has worked across films and streaming for over a decade. “It [production] has been a long dream. I’ve been wanting to tell a certain kind of stories and the idea is to be able to create an enabling space for collaboration. We will go slowly but steadily, concentrating on one film at a time. For us the quality of writing, craft, storytelling will always take precedence,” she said in a statement. Sayani Gupta Taking risks Bhumi Pednekkar. Pic/Nimesh Dave Actor Bhumi Pednekkar has said women are “more courageous” in choosing risky scripts, crediting streaming platforms for strengthening female-led narratives in India. Speaking at the International Film Festival Delhi 2026, she noted, “With OTT, especially for women, the narrative has become a lot stronger. OTT gives them the right platform.” Reflecting on her journey since Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015), Bhumi advised aspiring actors, “If you have a dream, many will say ‘no’, but you have to listen to that ‘yes’. Stay safe and trust your instincts.”
01 April,2026 01:11 PM IST | Mumbai | The Hitlist TeamAny takers for a sequel to Queen (2014)? Countless, we imagine. After all, Kangana Ranaut’s coming-of-age film, which saw her character Rani take off on a solo honeymoon after being dumped by her fiancé, became a roaring success. Well, we’ll meet Rani again soon! mid-day has found out that leading lady Ranaut and filmmaker Vikas Bahl are set to take Queen 2 on floors by April-end. ‘Queen’ earned Kangana Ranaut her second National Film Award, this one for Best Actress So, where will Rani take us this time around? From what we’ve heard, the sequel won’t be a continuation of the 2014 hit, but will carry forward the themes of self-discovery and self-reliance. A source revealed, “In Queen 2, Kangana’s Rani will be a city girl unlike the small-town girl in the original. She will be smart, strong, and quirky, but a plot point will send her on the road of self-discovery. It will show how she conquers life through her individuality, self-realisation, and courage. While the first one saw her travelling to Paris and Amsterdam alone, this journey will take her across cities in India.” Vikas Bahl Besides Ranaut, we won’t see any familiar faces from the original. The director has apparently zeroed in on several theatre actors for supporting roles in the second instalment. The source added, “The unit will kick off the project in a Mumbai studio, where a set reflecting a North Indian city and another depicting the protagonist’s home will be built. After the Mumbai leg, they will move to other metro cities. The film will be completed in a start-to-finish schedule of three months.” ‘Queen’ (2014) was produced by Phantom Films and Viacom18 Motion Pictures. With Phantom Films — founded by Vikramaditya Motwane, Anurag Kashyap, Madhu Mantena, and Vikas Bahl — having been dissolved in 2018, the sequel is being backed by Bahl under his banner. He also serves as the film’s writer. After ‘Queen 2’, Kangana Ranaut will begin filming ‘Tanu Weds Manu 3’, directed by Aanand L Rai
01 April,2026 01:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBRDays after Sonam Kapoor and her husband Anand Ahuja welcomed their second child, a baby boy, on March 29, 2026, Sonam's sister Rhea Kapoor treated fans to the first glimpse of the newborn. The maasi was seen visiting her sister and nephew in the hospital, where she held the newborn in her arms. The picture has instantly set social media buzzing with fans and well-wishers gushing over the sweet moment. Rhea Kapoor shares first glimpse of Sonam Kapoor's baby boy On Tuesday, Rhea took to Instagram to introduce the newborn to the world by sharing a heartwarming photo of her holding the baby boy. In her post, Rhea also applauded Sonam, saying she has “superhuman mom strength”. In the image, Rhea is seen holding and cradling Sonam’s newborn baby boy in her arms, while seated comfortably. She sported a relaxed grey athleisure with a face mask as she looks lovingly at the little one wrapped in a blue blanket. Sharing the picture, Rhea wrote, “All you need is (heart hands and face holding back tears emojis)... and in sonamkapoor’s case some super human mom strength. masilife.” (sic) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rhea Kapoor (@rheakapoor) As soon as Rhea shared the post, the comment section was flooded with congratulatory messages. Kareena Kapoor dropped multiple smiling face with hearts emojis in the comment section, while Karisma Kapoor shared multiple blue heart emojis. Farah Khan wrote, “Best gift ever:, while Kriti Sanon commented, “Congrats Rhea masi!!! and the whole fam!” Sonam Kapoor welcomes second baby Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja, welcomed their second child on March 29, 2026. Sonam and Anand took to Instagram on Sunday to share the good news via a note, which read, “With immense gratitude and hearts full of love, we are delighted to announce the arrival of our baby boy on the 29th of March 2026. Our family has grown, and with his arrival, our hearts have expanded in the most beautiful way." "Vayu is overjoyed to welcome his little brother, and we feel deeply blessed by this precious new life who has filled our home with happiness and grace. Sonam and Anand are grateful to begin this beautiful new chapter as a family of four,” the note further added.
01 April,2026 01:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSuperstar Salman Khan recently attended an event in Mumbai, stepping away from his acting duties. The actor was joined by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde for the grand opening ceremony of the President Cup 2026. Several videos from the event have now surfaced online, of which one clip in particular is catching attention Salman Khan joins Eknath Shinde for President Cup 2026 opening On Tuesday, Salman was seen at the President Cup 2026 event at the Dadoji Konddev Stadium located in Thane. For the appearance, Salman kept his look simple. He wore a brown shirt paired with black pants. He was joined by Eknath Shinde, with whom he unveiled the tournament trophy. The two were seen holding the trophy together and posing for the cameras. They also announced the prize money, revealing Rs 1 crore for the winners and Rs 50 lakh for the finalists. Salman Khan gets mobbed In one of the videos from the event, Salman Khan is seen getting mobbed by an excited crowd of fans as he struggles to make his way through the chaos. The clips circulating online show the actor being surrounded by a sea of fans, many attempting to get close and take photographs with him as he walks down from the stage. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bollywood Society (@bollywoodsocietyy) The clip also shows that his security personnel were present with him, but they too struggled to hold the crowd back and create space for Salman Khan to move. His team is seen pushing people aside as excited fans try to reach out to the Maatrubhumi actor. Amid the chaotic scene, Salman is seen keeping his calm and maintaining his smile while trying to find some space to move out. Some of the videos also capture the actor leaving the venue in a convoy of police vehicles. Despite that, the security team seemed to visibly struggle to keep the crowd at bay. Several fans in the crowd were seen holding their phones out, trying to photograph Salman as he made his exit. Meanwhile, many others tried getting close and even leaning against his car window for a better shot.
01 April,2026 01:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
