Akshay Kumar's multi-starrer comedy film Housefull 5 was released in theatres on June 5. The makers have silently dropped the film on Amazon Prime Video on July 18. The film, if you remember, made headlines for its dual climax. At the time of release, the makers released two versions of the film, each with a different ending that revealed a different killer. The versions were titled Housefull 5A and Housefull 5B. So how can you watch the film on OTT? Housefull 5 OTT details The film, which stars Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Nana Patekar, Sanjay Dutt, and more, is a comic murder mystery. Both versions have now been released on Prime Video. Directed by Tarun Mansukhani, the movie is available for rent at a price of Rs 349 on the platform. If you're curious to watch both versions, you will have to pay Rs 349 each, bringing the total to Rs 698. It is currently unknown when the film will be available to stream for free with a Prime subscription. About Housefull 5 Housefull 5 is a perfect family entertainer filled with comedy, music, suspense, and drama. The official OTT synopsis reads, “When three young impostors masquerade as the long-lost heir to a billionaire's empire, they unwittingly tumble into a deadly game of cat and mouse as they become the prime targets in a string of grisly murders.” Boasting an ensemble cast of 19 stars, Housefull 5 is the most glam-packed killer comedy yet. Leading the charge is the king of comedy himself, Akshay Kumar, joined by returning favourites and some exciting new faces including Riteish Deshmukh, Abhishek A. Bachchan, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, Nana Patekar, Chitrangada Singh, Fardeen Khan, Chunky Pandey, Johnny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Dino Morea, Ranjeet, Soundarya Sharma, Nikitin Dheer, and Akashdeep Sabir. The film is directed by Tarun Mansukhani. The film was produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under the banner of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment. Housefull 5 is the fifth installment of the Housefull franchise, which began in 2010. Following, the films released in 2012, 2016, and 2019 respectively.The total domestic box office collection of the film has crossed Rs 200 crore with worldwide gross box office collection reaching over Rs 300 crore, according to a press note.
18 July,2025 07:04 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPriyanka Chopra’s ascent to fame was not easy. Hailing from a small town, the diva made her space in Bollywood and is now dominating global cinema with her stint in Hollywood series. She is celebrating her birthday today, and wishes are pouring in from all corners. However, she received the sweetest message from Kareena Kapoor, who lauded her accolades. Kareena Kapoor’s Birthday Wish for Priyanka Chopra The Singham Again actress shared a monochrome picture in which she is seen chatting on stage with PeeCee, seemingly unaware of the camera. Alongside the image, Kareena wrote, “You were always meant for global domination. Keep soaring PCJ, no one like you. Happy birthday.” Ahead of her 43rd birthday, Priyanka Chopra headed out on a relaxing vacation with her family. On the eve of her birthday, the actress shared a slew of photos from their family-cum-birthday vacation, and it was all about spending time with loved ones, enjoying good food, and making memories. Talking about Kareena and Priyanka, they starred together in films like Aitraaz and Don, and even appeared jointly on an episode of Koffee with Karan, hosted by Karan Johar. Reflecting on Priyanka’s career in Hollywood, Kareena once said, “What Priyanka has done is something not everyone has the courage or dedication for. I don’t. I’m passionate about acting and about Hindi films, but she’s taken it to another level.” Priyanka and Kareena’s Upcoming Movies Priyanka was last seen in Heads of State, an Amazon Prime Video film where she starred alongside Idris Elba and John Cena. She is also set to return to Bollywood with filmmaker SS Rajamouli’s mega project, which also stars Mahesh Babu. While the actress has not talked much about it, her visit to India and shoot glimpses went viral. Next, she will be taking on the role of a 19th-century Caribbean pirate in the upcoming film The Bluff. Kareena Kapoor is working with Raazi director Meghna Gulzar for her next film. The project, titled Daayra, stars Prithviraj Sukumaran alongside her. As per the latest buzz, she will also do a horror movie in which she will play a ghost and romance a younger actor.
18 July,2025 06:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSalman Khan-hosted Bigg Boss 19 is all set to hit television screens, and we just can’t keep calm. While several reports around the show’s format and host are circulating, we are equally excited to know the contestants who are going to bring the drama this season. As per reports, Salman’s co-star Daisy Shah was approached for the show. She has now shared a post reacting to her participation. Daisy Shah in Bigg Boss 19? The actress took to her Instagram and posted, “Putting an end to all the rumours. I am not doing Bigg Boss. Probably never will. Dhanyawad,” and added a folded hands emoji. Talking about Daisy, she has been approached several times for the show but never reacted. Previously, she was part of the stunt-based reality show Khatron Ke Khiladi. Speaking about her journey in the industry, she started her career as a background dancer but soon went on to become the leading lady in Salman’s movies including Jai Ho and Race 3. However, the films failed to perform at the box office, and the actress has been struggling with her career since. About Bigg Boss 19 The preparation and buzz for this season have kickstarted, and we definitely can’t keep calm. Speculation suggests it might become one of the longest seasons ever, spanning up to six months, and it is expected to begin towards the end of August. Rumours were also rife that the Sikandar actor won’t be the only host. He will reportedly be joined by Farah Khan and Karan Johar as co-hosts. Talking about contestants, earlier reports suggested that well-known television names like Ram Kapoor, Munmun Dutta, and Anita Hassanandani would be part of the show. However, all three actors have since denied their participation. A new list of celebrities has reportedly been approached for the latest season. According to Bigg Boss Khabri, the list includes names like Gaurav Khanna, Chitranshi Dhyani, Karan Singh Grover, Bhavika Sharma, Sriram Chandra, Dhanashree Verma, Reem Shaikh, Shraddha Arya, Lakshay Chaudhary, Hunar Hali, Khushi Mukherjee, Arshifa Khan, and Madalsa Sharma. Talking about the previous season, known names like Avinash Mishra, Eisha Singh, Vivian Dsena, Karanveer Mehra, and Shilpa Shirodkar, among others, were part of the show.
18 July,2025 05:42 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAnanya Panday’s cousin Ahaan has finally made his debut with YRF’s film Saiyaara. The film, directed by Mohit Suri, saw humongous advance bookings, and the stakes for the film are already high. However, so far, the Half Girlfriend director has been promoting the film and giving interviews. Recently, he revealed the reason behind not getting Aneet Pada and Ahaan Panday to do interviews. He also recalled practising the same tactic with Aditya Roy Kapur and Shraddha Kapoor. Mohit Suri on Ahaan-Aneet not promoting Saiyaara In an interview with Just Too Filmy, the director shared, “It was an idea that collectively came forward. My producer Akshaye Widhani and, of course, Aditya Chopra, who has mentored us through this thing, suggested that until the two actors don’t have anything behind them to talk about, the conversation will be filled with questions like ‘Who is the prankster on the set?’ or ‘How is it to work with Mohit Suri?’ It’s all redundant stuff, and I don’t think anyone has any interest in listening to all that.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yash Raj Films (@yrf) Mohit Suri on Aditya-Shraddha He also added how the same thing happened with Aditya Roy Kapur and Shraddha Kapoor when they were newcomers. He shared, “I remember when I was doing Aashiqui 2, and while we were shooting in Goa, people were recognising me but had no idea about Shraddha or Aditya. Later, near the release of the film, we had to catch a flight back from Chandigarh, and while we were in the air, the first show of the movie broke out. Upon landing, I saw Shraddha and Aditya getting mobbed by the flight crew, fans, and everyone around them, and the way they treated them after was way different. They weren’t being praised for their looks, not how we pushed them, but what the audience saw and connected with.” Talking about Saiyaara, it narrates the tale of two passionate lovers whose story takes a heartbreaking turn. Ahead of the film, the lead stars were seen visiting the Siddhivinayak temple to seek blessings. Ahaan got showered with love from his family, including sister Ananya Panday and uncle Chunky Panday, who shared adorable childhood pics of him.
18 July,2025 04:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAanand L Rai's romantic drama Raanjhanaa was released in theatres in 2013. Even after all these years, it is remembered fondly for its performances, plot, and music. The film, starring Dhanush, Sonam Kapoor, and Abhay Deol, has a tragic ending with Dhanush’s character, Kundan, dying after being shot. The team recently reunited to celebrate 12 years since the film’s release. Now, Raanjhanaa is set to re-release in theatres on August 1. However, Rai is not on board with this decision. Raanjhanaa re-release with AI twist It turns out the re-release by Eros International will feature an Artificial Intelligence-driven climax. The marketing posters claim the re-release will have “a new ending powered by Artificial Intelligence.” Rai, who directed and produced the film under his banner Color Yellow Productions, was not consulted by the studio. Talking to Indian Express about the new ending, Rai said, “I got to know about it through a social media announcement a couple of days ago. People have already been messaging me, asking why the ending is being changed. I just can’t wrap my head around this". The filmmaker expressed his objection to the studio but they did not agree with him. He then asked the studio not to associate his name with the AI-altered ending version. He further said, “I don’t get it. How can they do this? It’s an ending people have loved! If not the filmmaker, at least listen to the audience". AI-ending to have happy ending Reportedly, the alternate AI-created ending will see Kundan survive. “What is a happy ending? It’s a tragedy, that’s an emotion. How can you meddle with emotions? The voice of the film lies in that ending,” Rai adds. “The only good thing that’s come out of this is I’ve learnt my lesson. I need to be very careful while signing on the dotted line. I’m dealing with this now, but other filmmakers should learn from it. A studio doesn’t care about the story. Just to earn a few crores, they’re tampering with a writer’s, director’s, and actor’s creation,” said Rai. Reportedly, Eros has sold the new print to Upswing Entertainment, a distributor in Tamil Nadu. Rai feels the studio may have earned some money through the distribution but believes there will be a long-term impact of this business move. He said, “They’ll realize it soon when the actors and the audience get back to them. No actor would want to work with them now. Maybe they don’t want to work with actors anymore. They plan to make films with AI only,” concluded Rai.
18 July,2025 04:04 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a powerful and proactive move that underscores his longstanding respect for the action community, Akshay Kumar has personally insured the lives of 650 stuntmen and stuntwomen across India, shining a much-needed spotlight on this overlooked community of the film industry. His initiative comes at a time when safety concerns in the entertainment world are once again in focus, following the unfortunate death of stuntman Raju on the set of Pa Ranjith and actor Arya’s upcoming Tamil film. Details on insurance provided by Akshay Kumar For years, stunt performers have put their lives on the line to create high-risk action scenes, often without proper safety equipment or medical support. Most of them have little to no insurance, which means even a minor injury can lead to huge medical bills and loss of income. Their families live in constant worry, knowing that one accident could change their lives forever. Akshay Kumar is giving them more than just insurance; he’s making them feel seen, valued, and a little more secure about their future. Vikram Singh Dahiya, a seasoned stunt professional who has worked on films like Dhadak 2, Jigra, Gunjan Saxena, Antim, and OMG 2, expressed his gratitude towards Akshay Kumar for the initiative. “Thanks to Akshay sir, around 650 to 700 stuntmen and action crew members in Bollywood are now covered under insurance,” he shared. “The policy includes both health and accident coverage. If a stunt performer is injured, whether on or off set, they can avail of cashless medical treatment up to Rs 5 to Rs 5.5 lakh.” Reportedly, he has been paying a premium of Rs 6 crore since 2017 when he launched this initiative. His efforts have not only been deeply appreciated by the stunt community but are also being viewed as a benchmark for how individuals in positions of power can bring about real, lasting change. SM Raju's death The safety of stunt artists was once again highlighted fter the tragic demise of stuntman S M Raju on the sets of Pa Ranjith's film. The 52-year-old stuntman, whose real name was Mohan Raj, was driving an SUV in a high-octane stunt scene for the film in Nagapattinam on July 13 when he suddenly collapsed. His colleagues pulled him out of the vehicle and rushed him to a hospital where he was declared brought dead.
18 July,2025 03:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentI don't get the cancel and boycott culture, says actor Vaani Kapoor, who believes that censorship in any form restricts an artist's freedom to take creative risks and explore new ideas. In May, Vaani's romance drama movie "Abir Gulaal", also starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, was set for release in Indian theatres but found itself in a controversy in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, an incident that renewed calls for a boycott on Pakistani artists from politicians and trade organisations. The movie was not allowed to be released. When asked how the recent events affected her, the actor spoke about the impact of censorship in the field of arts. "I'm not so into censorship, I believe you can give a certificate... Sometimes what happens is there's no limit, there are times when I hear censorship, (I feel) they can remove this or that," Vaani told PTI in an interview. "I don't know that as an artist, as a filmmaker or as a performer, how much are you willing to then explore a new territory because then you're controlled and there's a boundary set for you. Then you have to work and bring something new, refreshing, exciting, and never been seen before within that frame of that line that's been drawn for you," she added. The actor, known for her work in films like "War", "Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui", and "Raid 2", said "cancel and boycott" culture often leads to a toxic atmosphere. "This whole cancel culture, 'ek cheez galat bol di', cancel karo, boycott karo (Say one thing wrong, and there are calls for cancel and boycott). I don't get that volatile behaviour. We're being so harsh to one another. "I feel there's so much toxicity and hate that I keep hearing... 'aaj isko boycott kar do, aaj isko cancel kar do' (Let's boycott this today or let's cancel this'.) 'Mat karo yaar' (Don't Do this), have room and let people be." The 36-year-old actor is set to make her series debut with "Mandela Murders", a psychological thriller show from Netflix. At the show's trailer launch event, Vaani had expressed concerns over social media increasingly becoming a space filled with negativity. She also shared her observations about a growing culture of hate. Vaani said hatred can have "psychological" ramifications on people, and it can often lead to anxiety and self-doubt, especially for those who are still discovering their identity. "If you look at kids in school or college, not just in the industry, outside the industry, we are all affected by it. It leaves a psychological impact, you are making people doubt before they've even understood who they are, they've not fully bloomed yet, they've not figured out who they are. We're humans, we're bound to make errors, we're not saints, and you learn from your mistakes." The "Khel Khel Mein" actor urged people to be compassionate with each other. "I might have a difference in opinion, but just because we've a difference in opinion doesn't mean you're a bad human being and I should cancel you, or that there's no room for existence for you. Don't be that harsh, be happy, kind and give love a chance," Vaani said. "Mandala Murders" is produced by YRF Entertainment, with Aditya Chopra, Uday Chopra, Yogendra Mogre and Akshaye Widhani serving as executive producers. The show will premiere on July 25 on Netflix. 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
18 July,2025 03:21 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIActor Karan Tacker has opened up about a significant moment in his career, as two of his projects are set to release on the same day. The actor shared that while he is excited, he is also feeling anxious about how both projects will be received. Speaking about this exciting career milestone, Karan shared, “So it’s the first time that it is happening in my career that I have two releases on the same day and I don’t know how to receive this but I’m extremely nervous and anxious because they are such two contrasting roles, they are two contrasting platforms, one is a film, one is on OTT (Hotstar) while I’m excited that the audience has not seen me in a year and half so they get to see a lot more of me but at the same time the reaction of everyone is just keeping thinking on toes and giving me a lot of sleepless nights so here’s to feeling a lot of gratitude and yeah can’t wait.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Karan Tacker (@karantacker) Karan Tacker’s OTT project, Special Ops Season 2 and his film Tanvi The Great release today, July 18. In Special Ops, the actor reprises his role as the sharp and relentless Intelligence Officer Farooq Ali. The show also stars Kay Kay Menon as RAW officer Himmat Singh. Directed by Neeraj Pandey and Shivam Nair, the new season, which was initially slated for July 11, premiered on July 18 on JioHotstar. On the other hand, Tanvi The Great sees Karan in a never-seen-before avatar as Captain Samar Raina, an Indian Army officer. Directed by Anupam Kher, the movie also features Kher as Col. Pratap Raina, Shubhangi Dutt as Tanvi, Iain Glen, Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff, Arvind Swami, Pallavi Joshi, and Nassar. On July 17, a special premiere of ‘Tanvi The Great’ was held in Mumbai, and it was attended by Kirron Kher, her son Sikandar Kher, Mahesh Bhatt, comedians Krushan Abhishek and Tiku Shardra, Mahima Chaudhry, Gulshan Grover, and Sunidhi Chauhan, among others. 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
18 July,2025 02:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentProducer Nidhi Dutta, who is currently busy with her production ‘Border 2’, has embraced parenthood. Nidhi and her husband Binoy Gandhi have welcomed a baby girl, whom they have named Sitara Dutta Gandhi. For Nidhi, the experience of becoming a mother has been both transformative and deeply grounding. The days leading up to Sitara’s birth were filled with anticipation, and her arrival has brought with it an overwhelming sense of love and peace. As they begin this new journey as parents. Meanwhile, the work on ‘Border 2’ has been going on in full-swing. Earlier, this week, Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan wrapped up his Pune schedule for the film. The actor took to his Instagram, and shared a video announcing the wrap up of his NDA schedule in Pune. In the video, Varun could be seen sharing tea and biscuits with his co-actor Ahan Shetty. He wrote in the caption, “#Border2 Chai aur bizkoot it’s a wrap for me at NDA Aur humna celebrate kiya bizkoot ke saath”. The film aims to celebrate unsung stories from the Indian armed forces. It boasts of scale, emotion, and authenticity at its core, and promises to be a tribute to the spirit of the Indian soldiers. As filming continues across key locations, the team remains focused on crafting a cinematic experience that honors the legacy of the original while presenting a fresh and powerful narrative for a new generation. The film is backed by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, J.P. Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta. It is presented by Gulshan Kumar & T-Series, in association with J.P. Dutta’s J.P. Films. This sequel continues the legacy of honouring the heroism and indomitable spirit of Indian soldiers, taking audiences on a spectacular journey of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice. 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
18 July,2025 02:30 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSRiddhima Kapoor Sahni paid an ode to her late father Rishi Kapoor with her new tattoo. She got "Mushk" inked on her wrist. For the unversed, late Rishi Kapoor affectionately used to call Riddhima "mushk". Last year, Riddhima got her first tattoo. She got 'Kuks' inked on her hand and dedicated it to her mother who calls her 'Kuks'. Flaunting both tattoos, Riddhima penned a sweet note on Instagram. "Inked with the deepest link (red heart emoji) Har Janam main same parents. A prayer in writing #kuksmushkforvever," she captioned the post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Riddhima Kapoor Sahni (RKS) (@riddhimakapoorsahniofficial) Meanwhile, on the work front, Riddhima recently finished shooting for her debut film with Kapil Sharma. In the film, Neetu Kapoor will also be seen playing a pivotal role. After wrapping up the shoot, Riddhima took to Instagram and expressed her happiness over the bond she created with over 200 people on the sets. "Firsts are always special. Because it's those very 'firsts' that form the blue print of learnings we will carry for the rest of our lives. For 52 days, over 200 people came together to tell this heart warming, funny, and beautiful film. We plotted, we danced, we laugh-cried and cried-laughed, and I cannot wait for you to join in the celebrations when this film hits your screens," she wrote. Sadia Khateeb, Sarath Kumar and Aditi Mittal are also a part of the movie.The film's title and release date have not been disclosed by the makers yet. 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
18 July,2025 02:11 PM IST | Mumbai | ANIMohit Suri’s Saiyaara hits the screens today. In a time dominated by formula-driven films, Suri remains one of the few filmmakers who continues to stay true to the stories he wants to tell. Known for films like Aashiqui 2, Murder 2, Awarapan, and Woh Lamhe, the director is deeply rooted in the romantic drama genre. He’s also aware that Saiyaara might evoke comparisons to his earlier works—or to others in a similar emotional space. “For the sake of being different, you can't ignore the story you truly want to tell,” he says in a conversation with Mid-day, just days ahead of the film’s release. “When I was making Aashiqui 2, people said it was similar to Rockstar.” The story behind Saiyaara The inspiration for Saiyaara came from a place of deep personal emotion, triggered during a trip to Dubai with his wife Udita Goswami and a few singer friends. “My wife was playing some of my older songs,” he recalls. “There were 18-year-olds dancing to tracks that are over 20 years old. I was surprised, how do they even know these songs? But every time I heard one, it took me back to a specific memory. It wasn’t the actor I remembered, it was the personal moment I had while listening to that song.” He adds, “Music, memory, and love have such a powerful connection. That’s when the idea for Saiyaara started forming. I called Sankalp, who was my assistant at the time, and asked him to help me write the film.” On casting Ahaan Panday Saiyaara introduces two fresh faces to the industry- Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda. While Ahaan comes from a film family, Suri insists that it did not serve him or his film as an advantage. “You can’t negate someone just because they’re related to someone in the industry,” Suri says about his casting choice. “But yes, did Ahaan have an edge? Maybe. He’s been struggling for seven years, grooming himself, and even after that, he had to convince me that he was right for this part. I didn’t cast him because of his family background, but I also don’t want to use that against him.” Suri adds, “I’m just as close to Aneet as I am to Ahaan, as I am to Shraddha [Kapoor], Aditya [Roy Kapur], Kangana [Ranaut], and Emraan [Hashmi]. For me, they’re all newcomers at the time I made those films. They just felt right for the roles.” On modern relationships in cinema Suri is critical of how modern relationships are often portrayed in today’s films. “Most people making films about Gen Z aren’t even from that generation. They assume what Gen Z is like, and often end up underestimating them,” he says. “This is a country where Bhagat Singh was writing revolutionary poetry at 21. Why do we look down on the intelligence or emotional depth of young people of that age group? They’re not into only frivolous things. They have emotional maturity and depth. If you give them honest stories, they will respond to them.” Suri believes that heartbreak feels the same across generations, regardless of how it happens. “It doesn’t matter whether you break up over a phone call, a letter, or a DM- it still hurts in the same part of your chest, slightly to the center-left,” he says. “We’ve always had complicated relationships. We just didn’t have fancy names for them before.”
18 July,2025 01:53 PM IST | Mumbai | Athulya NambiarADVERTISEMENT