Have you heard? Anushka Sharma in talks to join Allu Arjun's A22xA6; Arjun Rampal signs Rishab Shetty's film on Shivaji Maharaj

Actor Anushka Sharma is reportedly in talks to star opposite Allu Arjun in his upcoming film, whose working title is ‘AA22xA6’. While no official confirmation has been issued, the collaboration is already generating buzz, as it could mark her debut in Telugu cinema. Reports suggest that the makers plan to unveil the film’s title on April 8, on the occasion of Arjun’s birthday. The film also stars Deepika Padukone, Janhvi Kapoor, and Rashmika Mandanna. The movie went on floors in 2025 and is expected to be a sci-fi film, where he will play four roles.

Maratha pride

Rishab Shetty and Arjun Rampal

Actor Arjun Rampal has signed Rishab Shetty’s upcoming historical epic The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Directed by Sandeep Singh, the film will see Arjun play a key antagonist alongside Shefali Shah, who essays Rajmata Jijabai. The large-scale project, centred on the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is expected to go on floors later this year. Details about his role in the epic film are kept under wraps.

24x7 actor

Mohit Suri and Emraan Hashmi

Director Mohit Suri has weighed in on the ongoing debate around fixed working hours in the film industry. Reflecting on past shoots, Mohit said actors have previously worked extended schedules, recalling that Emraan Hashmi once filmed for 24 hours straight during Awarapan (2007). He argued the issue is being framed as an “ego battle”, adding that decisions on shifts should prioritise the overall quality of work. The filmmaker also stressed that conversations around working hours must include the entire crew, highlighting the long, often unpaid hours technicians and assistants endure beyond standard shifts. The actor is now shooting for Awarapan 2. However, Mohit is not helming the project.

The eight-hour shift debate

The debate began when Deepika Padukone reportedly exited ‘Spirit’, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and starring Prabhas, amid disagreements that included an eight-hour workday request. Her departure, followed by Triptii Dimri stepping in, sparked industry-wide discussions on professionalism, pay parity, and work-life balance. 

Return flight to Dubai

Ram Kapoor

Amid escalating tensions in Dubai linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, actor Ram Kapoor plans to leave for Dubai next week to complete pending work at his residence in the Burj Khalifa. Ram said that he had to cut short his Dubai trip with wife Gautami, because of the current situation in the region. He said he “cannot delay any further” despite the uncertainty, noting that the situation “could continue for months.”