Malayalam actor Dileep was acquitted of all charges relating to a 2017 assault case on Monday. Along with Dileep, three others were also pronounced not guilty, while six others were found guilty of assaulting a South Indian actress. Following the verdict, the Kerala government has expressed that it will appeal against it. Kerala government to appeal against Dileep's verdict in 2017 assault case State Law Minister P Rajeev stated that the survivor didn't get complete justice through the present verdict. As per PTI, he said, "Though those who were directly involved in the crime were found guilty by the court, it was not the verdict everyone expected. The state government has always stood strongly with the survivor, and that will be continued." Highlighting the strong stand taken by the prosecution, Dileep said it had even submitted a five-volume argument note to the court regarding the case. "The government has decided to go on appeal against the verdict. I have already spoken to the Chief Minister and the DGP regarding this matter. The prosecution has been directed to initiate further proceedings in this regard," the law minister added. Meanwhile, Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee President Sunny Joseph also condemned the verdict, calling it "unsatisfactory," while stating that the failure to prove the conspiracy was a lapse of both the police investigation and the prosecution. About the case For the unversed, the case dates back to February 17, 2017, when a prominent Malayalam actress was reportedly abducted and sexually assaulted in a moving vehicle while travelling to Kochi. The incident shocked Kerala and sparked an intense debate on women's safety. It also pointed fingers at the abuse of power in the film industry. Earlier in the day, the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court acquitted Dileep and three others, holding that the prosecution had failed to establish the charge of criminal conspiracy beyond a reasonable doubt. The first six accused were found guilty in the case. All 10 accused were present in the court as directed during the pronouncement of the judgment. Dileep, escorted out of the courtroom by a large team of lawyers, waved and smiled at supporters. He launched a sharp attack on the investigation, alleging he had been framed, launching a sharp attack on the investigation. "In the court, the cooked-up story of the police failed," he said, adding, "The police took the prime accused and a few others into confidence and created a story to destroy my future." He alleged that the conspiracy was hatched by his former wife and was aided by a senior police official and a section of the media. He also expressed deep gratitude to his counsel, Raman Pillai, and the legal team. (With inputs from IANS)
08 December,2025 07:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBaloch representative Mir Yar Baloch recently voiced his disappointment after watching Ranveer Singh's latest film, Dhurandhar. The leader stated that the 'patriotic' people of Balochistan were misrepresented in the film. He went on to criticise how Dhurandhar portrayed the relations between Balochistan and India negatively and added that it focused more on gangsters than on the patriotic Baloch people. Balochistan leader criticises Dhurandhar On Sunday, December 7, Mir Yar shared a video clip from the film showing the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. In the scene, Arjun Rampal and Akshaye Khanna's characters are seen celebrating after watching the attacks on television. Mir Yar said that Balochistan was never represented by gangsters. He added that the Baloch people, who are fighting for freedom, never celebrated the 26/11 attacks, since they too are victims of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. In the caption, Mir Yar wrote, "Baloch are not religiously motivated, and they never chant Islamic slogan of 'Allah O Akbar' and never ever collaborated with ISI to harm Indian interests. The movie also did not do justice to Balochistan freedom fighters by showing them as if they had sold their weapons to anti-India elements." (sic) Dhurandar movie, disappointed Balochistan's patriotic people.Unfortunately the movie portrayed the BALOCHISTAN and INDIA relations in a negative way, focused more on gangsters than the patriotic Baloch masses and their cause.* Balochistan is not represented by a gangster and… pic.twitter.com/NyOtngzp6T — Mir Yar Baloch (@miryar_baloch) December 7, 2025 "Baloch Freedom fighters are always in shortage of weapons otherwise they would have defeated the occupational forces of Pakistan long ago. Baloch gangsters of had enough money to print fake currency there would have not been any poverty in Balochistan. It is the ISI who do all evil job of smuggling drugs, fake currency and weapons," added Mir. Mir also criticised Dhurandhar for its poor research about Baloch history, the Balochistan freedom movement, and Baloch culture and traditions. He noted, "We don't agree with the sentence by police SP Chaudhary Aslam 'MagarMach Pe Bhrosa Kar Sakte Hain Baloch Pe Nahi' is totally against our code of conduct, ethics, culture because it is famous in Baloch culture that 'Ek Glass Paani Ki Qeemat 100 Saal Wafa'. Baloch if given 1 glass of water or helped, they never betray their friends/well wishers." (sic) Aslam Chaudhary’s wife slams Dhurandhar Meanwhile, Aslam Chaudhary’s wife also slammed the film for her husband's portrayal, threatening legal action. During her appearance on a podcast by Dialogue Pakistan, Aslam’s wife, Noreen, said that her husband had been a fan of Sanjay Dutt ever since he watched Khalnayak in the 90s. Thus, she was sure the actor would do justice to her husband’s personality. However, she is upset that the trailer of the film described Aslam as the offspring of the devil and a djinn. She said, “We are Muslims, and such words are disrespectful not only to Aslam but his mother, who was a simple, honest woman. If I see my husband being portrayed wrongly or any propaganda against him in the film, I will definitely take all the legal steps I can. It is strange that Indian filmmakers find no other subjects but to malign Pakistan.”
08 December,2025 07:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIf recent reports are to be believed, another cult classic is on its way to be revived for a sequel, adding to the nostalgia and excitement among fans. This time, it's the superhit film 3 Idiots. The film is all set to return for 3 Idiots 2 after about 15 years, reuniting its iconic cast, including Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, R Madhavan and Sharman Joshi. 3 Idiots 2 is happening According to a Pinkvilla report, a source close to the development told them that the sequel will go on floors in the second half of 2026. The source revealed, “The script has been locked, and the team is extremely excited for it. They feel the magic of the first film has returned, and is as funny, as emotional, and as meaningful as the first part." Talking about the story, the source added, “The story will be a continuation, picking up nearly 15 years after the characters went their separate ways in the climax scene and reunite for a new adventure." According to reports, Rajkumar Hirani had been thinking about a sequel for a long time. After his Dadasaheb Phalke biopic went on hold recently, the filmmaker found the right moment to revive the classic film. Sources claim, "He dedicated time to expand the 3 Idiots sequel into a full-fledged screenplay. Hirani always had a seed of an idea for 3 Idiots 2, but he wanted it to be perfect and something that would stand up to the legacy of the original." About 3 Idiots 3 Idiots became a cult classic when it was released in 2009 and started a serious discussion on India’s education system. It went on to make history, becoming the first Indian film to enter the Rs 200 crore club, setting new milestones for Bollywood. The film revolves around three friends, Farhan, Rancho and Raju, who form a great bond. Years later, an old bet gives Farhan and Raju a chance to search for their long-lost friend, who is brilliant and intelligent. Meanwhile, Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani have reportedly put their Dadasaheb Phalke biopic on hold since they are not happy with the script.
08 December,2025 07:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood actor Celina Jaitly has been making headlines for some time now. First, due to her struggles to rescue her brother, Major (Retd.) Vikrant Kumar Jaitly, who has been held in the UAE since September 2024, and later, her divorce. Just days after the Delhi High Court ordered the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to facilitate communication between Celina and her brother, the situation has now taken an unexpected turn after her sister-in-law, Charul Jaitly, is now challenging her version of events. Celina Jaitly's sister-in-law questions her behaviour Speaking through her lawyer, advocate Sudhanshu Pandey, Charul Jaitly spoke out against Celina’s statements, while questioning both the timing and intent behind the actor’s legal action. Her advocate stated that Charul has been deeply involved in her husband’s case right from the beginning. Likewise, she had already taken formal steps with the MEA long before Celina, who filed her petition recently. Speaking about Vikrant’s professional background, Sudhanshu shared, “Vikrant was an ex-army officer… In 2016–17, due to family circumstances, he took premature retirement and since then he has been settled in Dubai, running his own work." He further shared how Charul had been informed by authorities that the case involved “national security issues and cyber issues" related to the companies Vikrant may have dealt with. The advocate added that an investigation formally began around September 6, 2023, following which Charul had adhered to protocol while awaiting clearer information from UAE officials. He went on to claim that Charul had reached out to Celina initially when Vikrant was detained, but the actress offered “no visible help" at the time. He added, “While Charul was never informed by Celina that she had decided to take any legal recourse, it would have been better if she had consulted Charul. If this was something motivated by genuine concern for her brother, she should have consulted us." He also rejected Celina’s claims that the family was withholding information, saying, “We strongly rebut this. There has been absolutely no reason for withholding anything." Celina Jaitly granted permission to talk to her brother On Thursday, the Delhi High Court directed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to inform Retired Major Vikrant in the next consular access that his sister Celina, wants to talk to him. The High Court also directed the Ministry to facilitate her communication with him through the TAMM App or by any other mode. Justice Sachin Datta, after giving the direction, called for a fresh status report from the Central Government. The bench also perused the status report filed by the MEA. It was informed that pursuant to the previous directions, a nodal officer has been appointed by the Central Government. During the hearing, Jaitly broke down, and she was consoled by her counsel. It was also submitted that she is not able to talk to her brother through the TAMM (UAE government App) as she is not a citizen. Only UAE citizens can use the app. The matter has now been listed for December 23. On November 3, the Delhi High Court issued notice to the Ministry of External Affairs on a plea moved by Celina Jaitly. Her brother Maj. (Rtd.) Vikrant Kumar Jaitly has been in detention in Abu Dhabi, UAE, since 2024. She approached the Delhi High Court seeking a direction to the Indian authorities to provide legal and medical assistance to her brother. (With inputs from ANI)
08 December,2025 06:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEveryone was devastated when veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra died on November 24. The actor died just weeks before his 90th birthday. Today, on his birth anniversary, his wife, actor-politician Hema Malini, has written a touching tribute to him and their shared memories. Hema Malini penned an emotional note remembering Dharmendra Hema Malini took to her social media handles, sharing some adorable pictures with Dharmendra on his birth anniversary. In the caption, she penned a heartfelt note, “Dharam ji, happy birthday, my dear heart. More than two weeks have passed since you left me heartbroken, slowly gathering up the pieces and trying to reconstruct my life, knowing that you will always be with me in spirit. The joyful memories of our life together can never be erased, and just reliving those moments brings me great solace and happiness.” Dharam jiHappy birthday my dear heart❤️More than two weeks have passed since you left me heartbroken, slowly gathering up the pieces and trying to reconstruct my life, knowing that you will always be with me in spirit. The joyful memories of our life together can never be… pic.twitter.com/zY3QBJN0YE — Hema Malini (@dreamgirlhema) December 8, 2025 She further added, “I thank God for our lovely years together, for our two beautiful girls, who reaffirm our love for each other, and for all the beautiful, happy memories that will remain with me in my heart. On your birthday, my prayers for God grant you the wealth of peace and happiness that you richly deserve for your humility, goodness of heart, and your love for humanity. Happy birthday, dear love. Our happy ‘together’ moments.” Hema Malini and Dharmendra's love story Hema Malini and Dharmendra became one of the most popular on-screen couples of the 1970s, appearing together in films such as Sharafat, Tum Haseen Main Jawan, Naya Zamana, Seeta Aur Geeta, Raja Jani, Sholay, and others. Rumours circulated that they were also in a romance offscreen. Hema's mother did not approve of their marriage because Dharmendra was already married to Prakash Kaur. However, after seven years of love, they married in 1980 and had two daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol. The pair remained together until Dharmendra died at the age of 89 on November 24, this year. The actor had been suffering from health problems and was brought to the hospital two weeks before his death. He died at his family home in Juhu and was cremated at Pawan Hans Crematorium in front of family members. Bollywood stars such as Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Govinda, and others expressed their grief over the iconic actor's death.
08 December,2025 05:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood singer Kanika Kapoor was recently grabbed by an unknown man on stage during her performance at the MeGong Festival in Meghalaya on Sunday night. The incident took place when a fan suddenly rushed towards her while she was performing on stage and tried to lift her in the middle of her performance. The shocking incident of a breach of security left the crowd stunned. Despite the frightening incident, Kapoor maintained her composure. Kanika Kapoor grabbed by man on stage The videos from the event are now going viral, which show the singer delivering her performance when an unidentified man jumped onto the stage and grabbed her. Startled by the encounter, Kanika instinctively stepped back, looking visibly shaken. Yet she continued to sing while still trying to process the situation. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kanika4Kapoor (@kanika_kapoor_fc) Within seconds, her security team intervened and dragged the intruder off the stage. So far, there are no updates on any legal action taken against the intruder. Nevertheless, the incident has sparked widespread outrage online, with many demanding stricter safety protocols for artists performing at large public events. Netizens react Many users online called out such trespassers. One such user wrote, “In India, women are not safe even on stage in front of several people with such a limelight.” Another one added, “WTF was he trying to do, lift her/ molest her/ hug her, no respect, such people should be sent to jail.” Notably, this is not the first time an artist has faced such behaviour. Earlier, actor Ariana Grande was charged by a man, who is a serial intruder who rushed and hugged her at the premiere of Totally Wicked. Co-star Cynthia Erivo quickly jumped in to push the man away. Similarly, at the Cherry Blossom Festival 2025, an intruder was seen pushing and making his way towards the stage during rapper Tyga’s performance, which led to the security being alerted while a guard tripped and collided with the rapper. In another incident, during his recent Rolling Loud India concert in Mumbai, a fan threw a T-shirt at singer Karan Aujla. However, he handled the situation with grace, picking the t-shirt up, wiping his sweat, and tossing it back to the crowd.
08 December,2025 03:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentOne of Bollywood's most legendary actors, Dharmendra, would have turned 90 years old on Monday. Marking the special day, his nephew, and actor, Abhay Deol, recalled a fond memory with his uncle. The 'Dev D' actor took to his official Instagram handle and uploaded a throwback photo with the 'He-Man' of Bollywood, where a little Abhay and Dharmendra were seen gazing into the distance. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Abhay Deol (@abhaydeol) Revealing the story behind the image, Abhay captioned the post, "Must’ve been 1985 or ‘86. I had just been scolded so I was upset. He called me to him, sat me down by his side and said, “look at the light”, and had the photographer click this pic. (sic)." The 'Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!' actor added, "I look forward to the moment I hear him say those words to me again, when my time comes. Today was his birthday." For the unaware, Dharmendra’s younger brother Ajit Singh Deol is Abhay's father. Marking her father's birthday, Esha Deol promised to continue Dharmendra's legacy with 'pride & respect' in a heartfelt post. Reflecting on her equation with her late father, who passed away on November 24, she wrote on her IG, "To my darling Papa...Our pact, the strongest bond . “ us “ through all our lifetimes, all the realms and beyond ….. We are always together papa . Be it heaven or earth . We are one (sic)." "For now I have very tenderly, carefully & preciously tucked you in my heart … deep deep inside to carry on with me for the rest of this lifetime. The magical precious memories….. life lessons , the teachings, the guidance , the warmth, the unconditional love , the dignity and the strength you have given me as your daughter cannot be replaced or matched by any other," Esha added. Dharmendra was admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital after reportedly complaining of breathlessness. However, after getting the necessary treatment, he was discharged from the hospital on November 12, continuing his recovery at home. 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
08 December,2025 02:05 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSRanveer Singh’s Dhurandhar has managed to create an uproar and recorded a good opening weekend at the Indian box office. From storyline to acting and action sequences, the film is receiving praise for all the right reasons and garnering footfalls due to positive word of mouth. The opening weekend collection of Ranveer Singh's film is now out and it has earned over Rs 106 crores. Dhurandhar's opening weekend collection On its first day, the film collected Rs 28.60 cr. It was followed by Rs 3.10 cr on Day and Rs 44.80 cr on Day 3 (Sunday). With this the total opening weekend collection stands at Rs 106.50 crores. Talking about the worldwide collection, the film minted Rs 160.15 crore. With this, Dhurandhar has emerged as third third-highest opening weekend grosser of 2025. Top weekend grossers of 2025 include’ War 2 (Rs 130 crore), Chhaava (Rs 121.43 crore), Dhurandhar (106.50 cr**), Thamma (86.89 cr) and Saiyaara (84.50 cr). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jio Studios (@officialjiostudios) Currently, Tere Ishk Mein is running in theatres, which has recorded an impressive run. However, with Dhurandhar, the film is seeing dip in collection. In upcoming days, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2, TMMTMTTM, will be released in theatres. With midnight and early morning shows running in theatres of the actioner, how will these film perform? Only time will tell. About Dhurandhar Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar is inspired by real events from Pakistan’s Lyari, and the Indian intelligence’s role in dismantling the terror network there. The film also stars Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, and R Madhavan. Part 2 of the film will release on March 19, 2026, concluding the story. While the film is enjoying monstrous run, director Sidharth Anand praised it. Recently, director Siddharth Anand took to X to commend the team for their outstanding work. He wrote, “Dhurandhar is nasha. It stays for long with you. It is a prime example of EVERY department performing to their peak! How! How? Because the director, Aditya Dhar, propelled all of them with his conviction. And his passion. Which shows in every scene." He continued, “There are some scenes that are executed like a seasoned maestro. Each performance, all of them, have just submitted and allowed their best to be extracted." He also mentioned in his tweet that he will watch the film again. “And, I don’t remember wanting to see a film again in the theatres for years…so happy!! Kudos team DHURANDHAR."
08 December,2025 01:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVeteran actress Rekha enjoys a massive fan following. While the actress last appeared on screen in 2014, fans still go gaga over her appearances at events. The diva was recently spotted at the airport with her manager Farzana. However, she found herself at the receiving end of criticism after she pushed a fan who came close to her for a selfie. Rekha pushes fan asking for selfie The incident took place during Rekha's recent public appearance at the airport. The actress was seen wearing a beige top with a long black overcoat and loose pants. What caught our attention was that she was also seen sporting sindoor. Apart from this, she donned shades and opted for a messy bun. She generously smiled and waved to the paps stationed there. While she was making her way inside, a fan came close to the actress and immediately took out her phone to capture the moment. However, the actor did not seem to be in a good mood and instead of obliging, she pushed the fan. Her manager Farzana was also seen pushing the fan. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani) As soon as the clip went viral, netizens started bashing Rekha and even compared her to Jaya Bachchan. A user wrote, “I feel bad for the woman… what was so difficult about spending a few seconds for someone who considers you their fan?” Another commented, “OMG, started acting like Jaya Bachchan,” while one wrote, “Isme bhi apni sautan ki aatma aa gayi kya.” Many also called her rude and disrespectful. This is not the first time the actress has disrespected a fan. Even in August, her manager came under scrutiny after she pushed a fan. About Rekha The diva recently celebrated her 81st birthday, and celebs from all corners wished her. Rekha was honoured at the 2025 Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, where her enduring legacy as one of Indian cinema’s most iconic stars was celebrated. She made a rare public appearance at the screening of the newly restored 4K version of Umrao Jaan. For the uninitiated, Rekha has starred in more than 200 films and is the recipient of several accolades, including one National Film Award. She has often played strong and complex female characters, from fictional to literary, in both mainstream and independent films. Beyond films, Rekha also served in the Rajya Sabha. Her last big-screen appearance was in the 2014 film Super Nani.
08 December,2025 11:57 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRanveer Singh’s Dhurandhar is definitely roaring at the box office. The film, featuring an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, draws inspiration from a real-life incident. Dutt essays the role of SP Chaudhary Aslam, a notorious police officer. Aslam’s widow, Noreen, has now commented on her husband’s portrayal in the Ranveer Singh-starrer and expressed disappointment. Aslam Chaudhary’s wife on legal action against the makers Appearing on a podcast by Dialogue Pakistan, Aslam’s wife Noreen said that her husband had been a fan of Sanjay Dutt ever since he watched Khalnayak in the 90s. She was sure the actor would do justice to her husband’s personality. However, she did have one complaint. The trailer of the film has a character describe Aslam as the offspring of the devil and a djinn. Objecting to this, Noreen said, “We are Muslims, and such words are disrespectful not only to Aslam but his mother, who was a simple, honest woman. If I see my husband being portrayed wrongly or any propaganda against him in the film, I will definitely take all the legal steps I can. It is strange that Indian filmmakers find no other subjects but to malign Pakistan.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jio Studios (@officialjiostudios) For those unversed, Chaudhary Aslam joined the Sind Police in the 80s as an ASI and worked in several towns across the Pakistani province. In the 2000s, he was appointed to lead the Lyari Task Force in the government’s crackdown on the gangs in the Karachi township. He played a major role in assassinating Rehman Dakait. About Dhurandhar Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film was initially touted to be based on the life of Major Mohit Sharma. The film also stars Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, and Sara Arjun. The real story that inspired the Bollywood film Dhurandhar is Operation Lyari. Operation Lyari was the longest-running covert operation conducted in Karachi’s notorious Lyari area. Ahead of release, the film was mired in controversy after the parents of Ashoka Chakra and Sena Medal awardee Major Mohit Sharma sought a stay on the release, claiming the film took inspiration from the life of their son without permission. However, the Delhi High Court on December 1, 2025, led the CBFC to quash the family's objections.
08 December,2025 11:13 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentKaran Johar has often been disarmingly candid about his personal life. From opening up about anxiety and mental health to a turbulent love life, he has bared it all. In his recent post, the filmmaker shares his struggle with travel anxiety. On the risk of getting trolled, KJo opened up about what might be considered a champagne problem by some, hoping many others will be able to resonate with him. Karan Johar on travel anxiety He started the post by giving a disclaimer and continued: “So disclaimer: not that it matters, you are free to troll me… What I am about to write may be considered a champagne problem… but I do feel many will resonate… Raise your hands if you have travel anxiety! First, I have a desperate need to reach the airport early (sometimes even before the ground staff have arrived). Then, in the lounge, I check my passport and my boarding card 50 times.” He continued, “And once I am seated… I wait for the pilot to announce the duration of the flight… as if my life depends on it… then I wait for him or her to tell us about the weather en route… if we are told it’s ‘a smooth ride,’ I can breathe… but some pilots say ‘few bumps on the way’… Then, right through the duration, I wait at the edge of the seat for those expected bumps… then I check the map every 10 minutes on a short-haul flight….” Karan concluded, “On a long-haul flight, I pop a pill and pray for sleep (subconscious mind is always turbulence aware)… Then I feel the desperate urge to be hugely polite to the cabin crew (in case of an emergency, they will be kind to the kind), so I smile like a Colgate ad! And say thank you at every given point of time… Then, an hour before we land, I am all ready (not at all ready for any circling or air traffic)… then I rush out and want to overtake every passenger like it’s a limbo race… (no particular reason at all)… Ok, that’s all… (there are some packing idiosyncrasies, but that’s for another post).” Karan Johar’s work front He was recently seen making an appearance in The Ba***ds of Bollywood and Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari. Apart from this, he is bankrolling Chand Mera Dil. He has two projects with Kartik Aaryan: Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri and Naagzilla.
08 December,2025 09:35 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1765200190203_d.png "Dhurandha")
-1765191608024_d.png "Celina Jaitly")
