Shoot days ahead In October 2025, mid-day had reported how Aneet Padda replaced Kiara Advani in ‘Shakti Shalini’, the latest offering from Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, following her success in ‘Saiyaara’ (2025). The film, announced in the end credits of ‘Thamma’ (2025), is set to begin shooting this March. Now an interesting casting update has emerged. ‘Homebound’ (2025) star Vishal Jethwa is reportedly onboard as Aneet’s onscreen love interest. According to reports, his role “will go beyond a conventional romantic arc” and act as “both a catalyst and counterpoint to the protagonist’s journey”. The project reunites Aneet and Vishal after their earlier collaboration in ‘Salaam Venky’ (2022). ‘Shakti Shalini’ is slated for a December 24 theatrical release. Celestial casting coup Vijay Sethupathi Actor Vijay Sethupathi is reportedly in talks to join Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana as Vibhishana, Ravana’s brother who chooses the path of truth and justice. According to reports, the role is said to be “important and integral” to the two-part epic, slated for Diwali releases this year, and in 2027. However, the makers have not issued any official confirmation yet. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Yash as Ravana. Paapi pet ka sawaal hai Ruby Bhatia VJ Ruby Bhatia has addressed the speculation about her finances after reports claimed she charges just '1,000 for Instagram videos. In an interview, the former 1990s TV star said the decision reflects practicality, not distress. “I used to charge about '1,00,000 per show in the 1990s,” she recalled, adding that home renovation costs drained her savings. Clarifying her situation, Ruby said, “By God’s grace, I have everything,” explaining that affordable fees help rebuild liquidity while keeping her work accessible rather than celebrity-focused.
07 February,2026 09:16 AM IST | Mumbai | The Hitlist TeamSaiyami Kher is preparing for the final schedule of Vikram Phadnis’s debut film alongside Tahir Raj Bhasin and Viineet Kumar Siingh. She praised the director’s empathy and faith in actors, saying the project challenged her creatively while also fostering personal growth. Vikram Phadnis Gearing up for the movie’s last leg, Kher said that the first-time director’s sensitivity seeps not only into the material but also on the set. She shared, “There is something fulfilling in knowing that the director, who has lived with the story, feels content with what you’ve brought to it. Vikram sir leads with honesty, empathy, and complete faith in his actors. His sensitivity shows in the smallest details. He understands actors and that makes all the difference.” Like some of her past offerings, Phadnis’s movie challenged the artiste in her. But it did something more, she said. “It gave me space to grow, not just as an actor, but also as a person. Few films do that.”
07 February,2026 09:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuTwenty years is a long time to be away from a franchise you love. Naturally then, Sharman Joshi — who was part of Golmaal: Fun Unlimited (2006), which kicked off filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s comedy franchise — is itching to return to the world of Golmaal 5. “I’m likely to start working on it soon,” the actor told mid-day. A lot has happened in the interim. Golmaal, led by Ajay Devgn, has had three instalments. Joshi wasn’t a part of them, with reports claiming that he had hiked his fees, which didn’t go down well with the producers. In several interviews, he claimed it was a miscommunication from his team that led to his ouster and he didn’t know until later. Even as he has joined Golmaal 5 that will star Devgn, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Arshad Warsi, Kunal Kemmu, Tusshar Kapoor, and Shreyas Talpade, he wished he hadn’t lost the years. “I missed Rohit’s energy on sets, Ajay sir’s intensity and calmness. I missed Tusshar too. Rohit’s entire team is warm and inclusive.” The comic caper will go on floors in late February. While rumours are rife that Akshay Kumar will play the antagonist, Joshi is keen to explore his on-screen dynamics with Talpade and Kemmu. “I [had seen] Shreyas’s work during intercollegiate competitions as our colleges were next to each other. I’ve been his fan since Iqbal [2005]. Kunal and I will reunite after Dhol [2007].” The Good old days ‘Rang De Basanti’ (2006) completed 20 years of release last month. Remembering it, the actor said, “Last week, I was listening to the album, and all the fond memories came rushing back. Working on it was a fabulous journey.” On ‘4 Idiots’ Sharman Joshi denied being approached for the ‘3 Idiots’ sequel. “I’ve not been informed about it so far, but I hope it happens,” he said.
07 February,2026 08:57 AM IST | Mumbai | Letty Mariam AbrahamCertain movies aren’t to be valued on the basis of their box-office collections. Border 2 is one such film for Varun Dhawan. Even as the Sunny Deol, Diljit Dosanjh, Dhawan, and Ahan Shetty-led war drama has crossed the Rs 300 crore mark at the domestic box office, it is far more than a commercial milestone for the actor. “I gave everything I had to Border 2 — physically, emotionally, and mentally,” started the actor, who played war veteran Hoshiar Singh Dahiya. Varun Dhawan (C) with Ahan Shetty (L) and Diljit Dosanjh Dhawan joined the cast of Anurag Singh’s directorial venture knowing the responsibility it came with. “I wanted to earn my place in this film every day on set. It’s a film that made my father [David Dhawan] proud,” he smiled. Over his 13 years in the industry, the actor has built a varied filmography — if there are comedies like Judwaa 2 (2017) and Jug Jugg Jeeyo (2022), there are also thoughtful movies like Badlapur (2015) and Bhediya (2022). To him, his theatrical track record indicates something bigger. “What matters to me is that people trust my name when they buy a ticket. That trust doesn’t come from one film. It comes from showing up consistently, respecting the audience, and making sure every film gives them value for their money.” Varun Dhawan with Medha Rana A similar approach is applied to Border 2. Even as the film marks his first Rs 300 crore earner, Dhawan views it through a larger lens. “It proves that big-screen cinema still matters to the audience. People will come to theatres when the story connects. A Rs 300 crore film isn’t just about personal success; it’s about what it does for the industry. Steady commerce is essential for its health. When films regularly cross Rs 100 crore, it allows producers to invest, technicians to work continuously, and theatres to survive. It allows for more experimental cinema. People are willing to take a punt on [new] ideas because money is being generated by big-ticket ventures. My responsibility doesn’t end with acting well. I want my films to work, and sustain business.” What’s next? Varun Dhawan will soon be seen in ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’ with Pooja Hegde (L) and Mrunal Thakur
07 February,2026 08:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuDirector: Jaspal Singh SandhuActors: Sanjay Mishra, Neena GuptaRating: 3 stars First off, this film, in parts, could be a master-class in onscreen acting. Those parts being quite linearly divided between its top four leads who, individually, get almost equal, exclusive screen time, to draw the audiences in, with their quietly understated performances, throughout the film’s two-hours-plus, tight duration. Each is worthy of central roles at the movies, anyway. Namely, actors Sanjay Mishra, Neena Gupta, Kumud Mishra, Amitt K Singh. The latter is a young, confident detective investigating disappearance and possible murder, of a high-profile inmate at a prison, where Kumud plays a casteist, calm jailer. The centre of attention is Neena Gupta’s character, who’s been behind bars for decades, having supposedly befriended a lowly jail employee, that is, Sanjay Mishra, along the way! Between these top-notch performances, the set-up is stellar. What about the pay-off? Have to admit, there are multiple passages, you might find yourself ignoring what’s going on, on the big screen, and switch to your second screen, instead. Precious little happens by way of plot. That said, a pic like this works/excels not so much for the story, per se, as for its storytelling, as it were. As this does. Vadh 2 is obviously a sequel. In the sense that merely the two main actors return. Chiefly, Sanjay, as the quietly genial Shambhu Nath Mishra — looking equally lost, unkempt, as is, and being so himself, that you can hear audiences respond to his every move/line, even when he isn’t saying anything particularly funny, or of much import, anyway. The way Mishra Ji (Ankhon Dekhi, Kaamyaab) is, in general, in life. He’s such an Old Monk, isn’t it? Which is also his choice of drink. Equally for the other rum-drinkers in this ensemble cast. There’s a portion, where Sanjay’s character tells Neena about how his wife, that’s actually her, had passed away; his son had moved on, leaving his parents behind, with a huge debt they’d taken, in order to settle him abroad. That’s the story of the OG Vadh (2022), also directed by Jaspal Singh Sandhu (along with Rajeev Barnwal), which felt vastly over-the-top, on occasion, for a realistic, small-town suspense-thriller. You needn’t watch that, in order to enjoy this. The writer-director, Sandhu, has taken a fresh stab at the characters, and the script, let alone the world-building. It starts with the logo of Madhya Pradesh (MP) tourism, which makes it an odd film for a tourism board to endorse. It’s set entirely within a zila/district jail, supposedly in a small-town called Shivpuri, with all the crooks, criminals that no one should visit MP for. I’m guessing the film’s been shot in Bhopal jail. Which was also the location for the Netflix series, Black Warrant (2025), similarly set within the premises of a prison. The bone of connection is the brash, uncouth son of an MLA (Akshay Dogra), whose reign within is supreme. Nobody can rein this villain in. He’s the guy gone missing from jail, or possibly dead. Here’s the obvious rub, though. This is a whodunnit, where you feel good-riddance towards the fellow for whatever’s been done to him. Surely, murder is illegal. Hence, the detective investigating the case. The viewer is always two steps ahead of this cop. Audience privilege is complete. The word vadh itself implies vanquishing evil, in the context of a good cause. The question is simply how/when/why. You consume this genre in the mould of, say, Drishyam, which is effectively a writer/viewer’s obsession with an unsolvable crime, or perfect murder, as it were. Speaking of Drishyam, that’s on to its threequel, of course, Malayalam movies inevitably do this slow-burn better. Among so many examples, take the more recent, Kishkindha Kaandam (2024). We’ve inhaled such movies regularly on OTTs, assuming that’s where such content belongs. It’s actually mildly therapeutic to be in a quieter hall, muted background score, heightened performances, when the point of a scene is to lead to another, and for movie itself to hold your attention with a simple story. That’s the virtue of Vadh 2. I walked in, having lowered my expectations. It remains a rare instance, when the sequel’s way better.
06 February,2026 10:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentManoj Bajpayee's upcoming project, Ghooskhor Pandat, was recently announced at a grand event in Mumbai. However, ever since, things haven't been going great as the upcoming film has raked up a huge controversy over its name. After an FIR was filed against the show and its makers, now, members of the Brahmin community have staged protests against the film and demanded a change in the title. Protest in Bhopal over Ghoooskhor Pandat In Bhopal, Akhil Bhartiya Brahman Samaj protestors were seen holding placards which read, 'Iss film ka nirmata Neeraj Pandey murdabad', 'Digital platform Netflix ko bandh karo, FIR karo', 'Iss film ka kalakaar Manoj Bajpayee murdabad', among others, as they took to the streets to express their anger. Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh: Members of the Brahmin community in Bhopal protested against the film Ghooskhor Pandat, demanding immediate removal of the title and registration of an FIR against the film’s directors. pic.twitter.com/f2dgQnVin9 — IANS (@ians_india) February 6, 2026 Similarly, in Prayagraj, the Rashtriya Parshuram Sena (Brahma Vahini) protested by openly showcasing its anger against the film. They accused it of hurting the honour of the Brahmin community. During the protests, effigies of Neeraj Pandey and Manoj Bajpayee were beaten with slippers, kicked and thrown onto the ground. The effigies were also set on fire at Subhash Chowk in Civil Lines, with hundreds of people in attendance. About Ghoooskhor Pandat controversy On the directions of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Lucknow's Hazratganj Police has registered an FIR against the forthcoming movie Ghoooskhor Pandat. According to Lucknow Police, strict action has been taken following allegations that the content attempts to disturb social harmony and hurt religious and caste sentiments. Due to the name and content of the film, there is intense anger and outrage among the Brahmin community and various social organisations. These organisations have even warned of aggressive protests against the drama. Legal action and investigation are underway in view of the seriousness of the matter. Strictest action is expected to be taken against those who intend to hurt the sentiments of any community or disturb peace under the zero-tolerance policy. Meanwhile, the lead of the project, Manoj Bajpayee, claimed through a recent social media post that Ghooskhor Pandat is 'not about any community. "I respect the emotions and concerns people have shared, and I take them seriously. When something you are part of causes hurt to some people, it makes you pause and listen. As an actor, I come to a film through the character and the story I am playing. For me, this was about portraying a flawed individual and his journey of self realisation. This was not meant to be a statement about any community," he shared. Bajpayee also said that the decision by the makers to take down the promotional material of the drama goes to show how seriously they are taking these concerns.Additionally, Neeraj Pandey also clarified in an official statement issued through Netflix's publicity team that the term 'Pandat' is used as a colloquial name for a fictional character, and it does not represent any particular caste, religion, or community. (With inputs from IANS)
06 February,2026 07:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe much-anticipated crime thriller, Vadh 2, headlined by Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta, has finally hit the screens on February 6. The film has already sparked buzz, especially due to the suspense and unexpected turns of its predecessor. Amid the release, the lead actors have urged the audiences to help preserve the film's essence by steering clear of spoilers. Neena Gupta and Sanjay Mishra urge fans to not give spoilers Neena Gupta and Sanjay Mishra shared a note on their respective Instagram stories, wherein they directly addressed fans and moviegoers regarding the importance of maintaining the thrill for future audiences. Gupta, in her story, wrote, "We request you to please not give away the spoilers or climax of Vadh 2. The film has been made as a thriller mystery, and we hope the experience remains intact for everyone watching it in theatres (sic)." Sanjay shared a similar note in Hindi. About Vadh 2 Vadh 2 is produced by Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg under the Luv Films banner. It is helmed by Jaspal Singh Sandhu, who has also written the film. The recently released thriller serves as a sequel to the 2022 film Vadh, taking on the thematic exploration of complex moral choices. The film centres on the relationship between a prison guard and an inmate, which unfolds against the backdrop of a hidden truth that continues to challenge their values and decisions. The sequel introduces new characters portrayed by Kumud Mishra, Shilpa Shukla, Amitt K Singh, Akshay Dogra, and Yogita Bihani, thus expanding the narrative beyond the original cast. Vadh 2 premiered at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on November 23, 2025, where it drew a lot of attention and acclaim from critics and audiences prior to its public release. Mid-day's review of the film read, "Vadh 2 is produced by Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg under the Luv Films banner and is directed by Jaspal Singh Sandhu. It serves as a sequel to the 2022 film Vadh, continuing the thematic exploration of complex moral choices. Early reviews highlighted the film's gripping story and commended the performances of the lead actors, especially in delivering the intense climax."
06 February,2026 05:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRap music is no longer a niche, it’s a cultural wave. From film soundtracks to independent drops, rap tracks today are shaping pop culture, dominating reels, and becoming everyday anthems for a generation that values raw emotion and unfiltered storytelling. Be it swag, ambition, or street style, these songs have cracked the code of virality and here’s a look at the top trending rap tracks that have audiences hooked - Dhurandhar – Title Track Hard-hitting and unapologetically intense, the Dhurandhar title track sets the tone with its aggressive beats and commanding presence. Designed to match the film’s gritty energy, the track, composed by Shashwat Sachdev and sung by Hanumankind, Jasmine Sandlas and others, quickly caught attention for its scale and powerful delivery, making it a favourite among fans who like their rap bold and dramatic. Naam Karu Bada – Tu Yaa Main Sung by Adarsh Gourav, Naam Karu Bada stands out for its confident, street-style energy and fresh underground pulse. Blending attitude with ambition, the track perfectly taps into the youth mindset, chasing dreams, claiming space, and saying it loud. Composed by Sez On The Beat with lyrics by 7Bantaiz, its catchy hook and intent are helping it find a strong fan base beyond the film. Ez Ez – Dhurandhar Cool, effortless, and dripping with swag, Ez Ez lives up to its name. The track brings an explosive energy matched with intense visuals, making it instantly replay-worthy. Performed by Diljit Dosanjh, Shashwat Sachdev and Hanumankind, it’s the kind of song that slips easily into party playlists and late-night listening sessions alike. Walking On Water – DIVINE DIVINE continues to prove why he remains one of the most influential voices in Indian hip-hop. Walking On Water is reflective yet powerful, blending personal growth with lyrical depth. The track resonated widely for its honesty and maturity, striking a chord with listeners who’ve followed his journey from the streets to the spotlight. 10/20 – Emiway Bantai Raw, fearless, and unmistakably Emiway, 10/20 delivers punchlines with attitude and precision. Known for his independent and unfiltered style, Emiway keeps it real in this track, which quickly received love for its energy and vibe. These tracks prove that rap is not just trending, it’s shaping the sound of now. With artists constantly pushing boundaries and audiences hungry for authenticity, this wave shows no signs of slowing down.
06 February,2026 05:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe film industry is known for its unpredictability. From overnight success to projects being shelved without warning, actors often find themselves at the mercy of uncertain circumstances. What truly sustains an artist through these highs and lows is resilience—and Gurfateh Pirzada’s journey stands as a testament to that perseverance. Gurfateh recalls projects getting shelved after debut Gurfateh made his debut with Netflix’s Guilty, following which he signed several promising projects. Unfortunately, many of them were shelved before release. Just when uncertainty loomed large, the actor found his breakthrough with Class. The show earned widespread acclaim and popularity, creating strong anticipation for a second season. He wrote, "The year was 2020 and I had my first outing in the movies with GUILTY. I thought this was it…and man I’d arrived (LOL) the pandemic happened and we all know how that story went….Then came a bunch of projects that were announced and signed but eventually never saw the light of day…but there was a dark horse that I was working on all along that came to be known as CLASS exactly three years later in 2023 and a lot of you and I absolutely loved that show…but unfortunately we could not give you another season because life usually has other plans." The news deeply affected the actor. He later revealed that upon learning about Class being shelved in late 2024, he fell ill with a high fever, overwhelmed by disappointment. He added, "If I remember correctly it was probably the 7th one (in 3 years) and it completely broke whatever faith and confidence I had within…" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gurfateh Singh Pirzada (@gurfatehpirzada) When the tides turned for Gurfateh In 2025, the actor turned a new page, landing interesting roles and performances in Call Me Bae, with more projects lined up including Revolutionaries, Dynasty, Call Me Bae 2, and Lust Stories 3. Reflecting on his journey, Gurfateh penned an emotional note recalling the setbacks, lessons, and gratitude for the teams that stood by him during difficult times. He concluded the note with gratitude. "Fast forward to 2025… I don’t know what changed and how it all transpired and came to fruition… I decided to leave it all behind and start afresh with a renewed sense of self…and thank the lord…I think there was a point when I didn’t have enough hours in the day to do it all…but we somehow managed. All credit to the team at @dcatalent for pulling through and fighting tooth and nail for this one and to raodyness for giving me an honest shot!!!" With his talent, sincerity, and persistence, Gurfateh Pirzada continues to carve his space in the industry, winning hearts and building anticipation for his upcoming projects.
06 February,2026 05:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Prakash Raj recently made sharp remarks against Kangana Ranaut over the actress's comments on AR Rahman. Prakash was seenn as a speaker at the Kerala Literature Festival, where he elaborated on the topic of ‘Criminalising Dissent! Who Gets Locked Up for Speaking Out?’ During the conversation, he cited the music composer AR Rahman’s recent controversy and mentioned how Kangana Ranaut had slammed Rahman. Prakash Raj on Kangana Ranaut's comments During the event, Prakash was seen talking about the controversy surrounding Rahman as an example and said, “What is happening with AR Rahman? What is the public discourse? Maa Tujhe Salaam. Jai Ho. Two Oscars. You rejoiced. He just said…he is not begging for work for your kind information, he’s beyond that. He said, this is the truth.” He further spoke about how Kangana slammed Rahman over her film Emergency, which he went on to call ‘propaganda’, saying, “Look at the euphoria which has started. Look at the barking which has started. A lady director and actress suddenly just because he did not work for her calls him an anti-national. Kangana Ranaut is calling her film Emergency, a propaganda film, as a classic. And that he denied to work. Look at what is happening around you.” What did Kangana Ranaut say? Last month, Rahman raked up a controversy for calling Chhaava a ‘divisive’ film and suggested that he wasn't getting enough work in Bollywood due to ‘communal’ reasons. Following the controversy, actor-politician Kangana shared her take on the incident. Taking to Instagram stories, she wrote, “Dear arrahman ji, I face so much prejudice and partiality in the film industry because I support a saffron party yet I must say I have not come across a man more prejudiced and hateful than you.” She went on to claim that he even turned down the offer to compose for her film Emergency, based on Indira Gandhi, adding, “I desperately wanted to narrate my directorial Emergency to you. Forget narration, you even refused to meet me. I was told you don't want to be part of a propaganda film. Ironically, Emergency was called a masterpiece by all critics. Even opposition party leaders sent me fan leaders appreciating the film for its balanced and compassionate approach but you are blinded by your hate. I feel sorry for you.”
06 February,2026 05:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Indian Motion Picture Producers' Association (IMPPA) has addressed its concerns to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over the recent firing incident outside the residence of filmmaker Rohit Shetty. The president of the association, Abhay Sinha wrote a letter to the CM, and spoke about the air of panic and anxiety that has shrouded the film fraternity in the light of multiple shooting incidents across the entertainment capital of the country. Abhay Sinha wrote, “Rohit Shetty has not only made immense contributions to Indian cinema but has also consistently stood by the nation whenever called upon, extending his support to social causes and national initiatives in times of need in the larger interest of society. It is therefore deeply concerning that such an incident should occur at his residence. This alarming incident has understandably caused anxiety and apprehension within our film fraternity and we are concerned that events of this nature may create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among artists, producers, technicians and the many individuals who dedicate themselves to contributing to the cultural and economic strength of our state”. “We respectfully request your immediate intervention to ensure a swift, thorough, and transparent investigation into the matter. We also urge that appropriate security measures be reinforced to reassure Shri Rohit Shetty and his family, as well as the entire entertainment fraternity. We are confident that under your leadership, firm steps will be taken to uphold law and order and to prevent any recurrence of such disturbing incidents”, he added. The firing incident at Rohit Shetty’s Juhu bungalow in Mumbai took place last Sunday. Police investigating the case said they have received intelligence inputs suggesting that several celebrities are hesitant to approach the police. Investigators believe the main objective of the firing was to create fear across the film industry. A senior police officer said they have received inputs that many people received threatening calls, but no one is coming forward to record statements or lodge complaints. If facts are concealed, it becomes extremely difficult for the police to take suo moto action. In one of Lonkar’s social media posts, warnings have come to light. However, Rohit Shetty himself has denied receiving any threatening calls. Several police teams have been dispatched to different parts of the country in search of the shooters.
06 February,2026 04:21 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
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