In an exclusive conversation with Ali Hassan about his recent show Dil Dhokha and Desire, the actor opened up to midday about what drew him to the project, his approach to choosing roles, and what “relevance” truly means to him as an artiste. Ali Hassan talks about his character For Ali, the foundation of any decision begins with the character. “I think one of the major things that drove me to doing a particular character is the character itself.” He explained that what initially appears simple often reveals greater complexity with time. “If the character is good, initially it looks like a very single dimension person. But when you start digging deep, this person has so many layers to him. Nice. And that is what got my attention.” Speaking about staying “relevant” in a constantly evolving industry, Ali reflected thoughtfully. “I don't know what does relevant mean. Because relevant to many people means different things.” He elaborated, “Like some people, relevancy is just about making ends meet. Right. Some people's relevancy is about creative satisfaction. Some people's relevancy is to be seen everywhere. Some people's relevancy is just keep working.” On staying relevant For him, the definition is far more personal. “So for me, relevancy is being able to hone your craft and store all the options.” Addressing the rising popularity of short format dramas, he admitted, “I'm not a great fan of the short dramas. I'm not a great fan, but I do it because I haven't done it. But I don't mind doing it one or two because I want to experience the frenzy of shooting in that environment, Because as an actor, you have to have the experience of everything.” Listing his diverse body of work, he said, “I've done movies, I've done theater, I've done shows, I've done mythos, I've done historicals, I've done socials. So I've been a part of so many different genres and things, dailies and readings and everything. And so this is a new trend which is coming up. You cannot unnotice that you have to, because it's here. I don't know how long is it here to stay, but it's here right now. And it's ruling the room. So I wouldn't mind doing something on the articles, experiencing them and just experiencing them. That's it for the experience.”
21 February,2026 09:37 PM IST | Mumbai | Shruti SampatTelevision actress Sargun Mehta has hit back at recent rumours claiming that she and her husband Ravi Dubey are expecting their first child, calling the gossip unfounded and urging people to “just calm down” rather than spread false information. The speculation, which gained traction on social media, suggested that the popular actor couple might be preparing to embrace parenthood after more than a decade of marriage, but Sargun has firmly dismissed those claims. Sargun Mehta calls out the rumours The rumours started circulating when a viral post on social platforms claimed that Sargun was pregnant and that the couple was ready to welcome their first child twelve years into their marriage. Fans reacted with excitement, but when Sargun saw the speculation, she took to Instagram to set the record straight. In her response, she used sarcasm to highlight how unfounded the claims were, joking that news outlets seemed to think she had been pregnant for nearly two years. She questioned the logic behind such stories and asked why no one bothered to verify the information with her or her team before publishing it. Shuts the trolls In an Instagram story Sargun wrote that according to these reports, she had been “pregnant” for an unusually long period and mocked the assumptions about how fast she could be delivering children under such a scenario. She further emphasized that neither she nor Ravi Dubey has any knowledge of the supposed pregnancy, underscoring that the speculation was entirely baseless. Sargun pointed out that things like a visit to a café or salon were being misinterpreted as signs of pregnancy, illustrating how quickly and inaccurately such gossip can spread on social media. Sargun Mehta and Ravi Dubey are one of Indian television’s most beloved couples. They began their relationship after meeting on the sets of the show 12/24 Karol Bagh, dated for several years, and eventually married in 2013. Over the years the couple has cultivated a strong fan following due to their on-screen chemistry and off-screen partnership. Despite this, they have remained largely private about their personal life, only sharing what they choose with their audience. This latest round of rumours shows how quickly unverified reports can gain momentum online and how public figures at times have to address speculation directly to correct the narrative. Sargun’s blunt response serves as a reminder that celebrity gossip should be treated cautiously unless confirmed by credible sources.
21 February,2026 06:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVeteran television actor Ram Kapoor has candidly reflected on a deeply personal phase of his life, admitting that he was largely an absent father for nearly 10 years while focusing intensely on his career. In a heartfelt conversation alongside his wife Gautami Kapoor, Ram spoke about the sacrifices and imbalances that marked their early years of parenthood. Ram Kapoor talks about parenthood The couple first met on the sets of the television show Ghar Ek Mandir and tied the knot in 2003. They welcomed their daughter Sia in 2006 and later their son. However, as Ram’s career began soaring with back to back projects, his professional commitments left him with little time at home. Ram admitted that during those crucial years, work consumed him entirely. He shared that he would often leave for shoots on Sundays and return only midweek, sometimes practically living out of his vanity van. His schedule was relentless, and building his career remained his top priority. Looking back, he acknowledged that his children barely knew him during that period because he was constantly away. On Gautami Kapoor taking charge as a parent Gautami, meanwhile, took on the responsibility of managing the household and raising their children almost single handedly. She revealed that when she first became pregnant, she felt unprepared and anxious about motherhood. At the same time, Ram’s career was experiencing a major upswing, making his absence even more pronounced. She described that phase as overwhelming, as she navigated early motherhood largely on her own while her husband worked tirelessly. Ram openly credited Gautami for being the backbone of their family. He praised her resilience and strength, acknowledging that her unwavering support allowed him to focus fully on his professional ambitions without worrying about things at home. In fact, he described her as “Mother India,” emphasizing that whatever success he achieved was possible because she managed everything on the domestic front. Today, Ram reflects on that decade with honesty and perspective. While he does not shy away from admitting his shortcomings as a father during those years, he also recognizes the partnership that helped them build a stable family. The couple’s candid conversation offered a glimpse into the realities of balancing fame, ambition, and parenthood, highlighting both sacrifice and gratitude in equal measure.
21 February,2026 06:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTelevision actress Devoleena Bhattacharjee shared that this year’s Ramadan feels extra special, filled with deeper gratitude, love, and togetherness. Devoleena took to Instagram, where she shared two pictures featuring her alongside her gym trainer husband Shanwaz Shaikh, and her adorable baby son, Joy. They were seen seated on the floor in front of a coffee table that was filled with fruits and other food items, smiling for the camera as they prepared to break their fast. “This Ramadan feels different…more gratitude, more love, more togetherness Blessed RamadanVibes FamilyTime devoleena,” Devoleena wrote as the caption. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Devoleena Bhattacharjee (@devoleena) Devoleena married Shanwaz in 2022. The couple welcomed their first child, a baby boy, in December 2024 and announced the name on Instagram in January 2025, describing their son as their "bundle of happiness". Devoleena initially worked as a jewellery designer in Mumbai and was first noticed when she auditioned for the dance reality series Dance India Dance 2. She made her acting debut with Sawaare Sabke Sapne Preeto in 2011. She replaced Giaa Manek as the female lead Gopi Ahem Modi, in Saath Nibhaana Saathiya which turned out to be her breakthrough. The actress next joined as a celebrity contestant in the 13th season of Bigg Boss. However, two months later, in November 2019, she exited the show citing medical issues. In August 2020, it was announced that she would reprise the role of Gopi Modi in the sequel to Saath Nibhaana Saathiya, titled Saath Nibhaana Saathiya 2. In July 2024, she signed on to portray the role of Goddess Chhathi Maiyya in Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, but in October 2024, she quit the show due to her pregnancy. In December, Devoleena celebrated three years of marital bliss with her husband. She called her anniversary a day dedicated to her loving, caring, and supportive husband. Devoleena wrote, "I didn’t get a moment to post today… and I think that’s exactly what familyhood, parenthood, and motherhood feel like. Life happens, love continues quietly in the background." "Today is our anniversary — a day dedicated to the most loving, caring, and endlessly supportive husband I could have asked for. I thank my stars and Mahadev every single day for Shan being in my life." "From my postpartum days to every phase that followed, he has stood by me with patience, strength, and unconditional support. Words will never be enough. But with him, living the life I once imagined — as a wife, a mother, and a woman — feels possible, real, and beautiful." "Three years and counting… and my heart is still full. I love you more than words can ever say", her special anniversary post concluded.
21 February,2026 02:52 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSAfter carving a successful career in television with hit shows and reality TV wins, Tejasswi Prakash has added another milestone to her journey. The popular actress has purchased a lavish apartment in Mumbai’s upscale Bandra West for Rs 7.63 crore, marking a significant real estate investment in one of the city’s most premium neighbourhoods. About Tejasswi Prakash’s new property The actress has purchased a luxurious flat in Mumbai’s Bandra West for Rs 7.63 crore. The transaction was finalised and registered on February 16, 2026, according to CRE Matrix documentation. The building is currently under construction, and the possession date is November 2030, as per reports. The newly acquired property is located in Bay Heights, a residential complex on Krishna Chandra Marg in the Bandra Reclamation area, one of the city’s most prestigious upmarket localities. It is a prime real estate micro-market popular with celebrities, corporate leaders, and high-net-worth buyers due to its upscale residential towers, sea views, and proximity to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. The apartment measures 121.14 square metres (about 1,304 square feet) and includes two reserved parking spaces. Registration records also show that a stamp duty payment of Rs 38.15 lakh was made as part of the transaction. According to the documents, Tejasswi paid a 10 per cent booking amount of over Rs 76 lakh to the developer, with the balance to be paid in 12 instalments by the time the building receives the occupation certificate (OC). More about Tejasswi Prakash Tejasswi Prakash is primarily a Hindi television actress who rose to prominence with shows like Swaragini, Pehredaar Piya Ki, Karn Sangini, and Naagin 6, among others. More recently, she participated in the first season of Celebrity MasterChef India and finished as the second runner-up. Currently, she is seen in Laughter Chefs Fun Unlimited Season 3. The actress will next be seen in the web show Psycho Saiyaan. Touted to be a twisted romantic thriller starring Ravi Kishan, Tejasswi Prakash, and Anud Singh Dhaka, it will stream for free from February 25. Apart from this, Tejasswi has also collaborated with Karan Kundrra for Dubai Bling. The show will feature her alongside affluent Dubai personalities and will unfold chaos, glam, and romance. Apart from her professional endeavours, she has been in the news for her relationship with Karan Kundrra.
21 February,2026 12:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe pious month of Ramadan is here, and people fast from dawn to dusk, abstaining from food and drink to offer prayers to the Almighty. Popular television actress Hina Khan urged everyone to maintain a “healthy and balanced” diet during Ramadan and avoid overeating. She stressed that eating heavy, fried, and sugary food after hours of fasting can cause weight gain, along with digestive issues and fatigue. Hina Khan on healthy diet during Ramadan Taking to her official Instagram Stories, the Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai actress wrote, “It is a very common practice to overeat during iftar. I know after hours of fasting, the body often craves quick energy, leading to high consumption of particularly heavy, fried, and sugary khaana, which eventually leads to weight gain, digestive issues, fatigue..(sic).” Hina advised everyone to eat wisely during this holy month by breaking the fast gradually and taking breaks in between meals. She further asked everyone to focus on their fibre and protein intake. “Let’s just not indulge in these cultural habits and eat wisely. Break the fast gradually, chew slowly, take breaks, and hydrate smartly. Prioritise fibre and protein in your diet. Once in a while is ok, but don't make it a habit..,” added Hina. At the end of the post, she requested everyone to “Keep it healthy and balanced. Don’t shock your body.” Hina Khan shares tips to work out during Ramadan Earlier, Hina shared a helpful tip for all those who wish to continue their workout regimen while fasting during Ramadan. Uploading a snap from her time at the gym on her Insta Stories, she pointed out that while fasting, one should go easy on exercises to avoid feeling thirsty. The post read, “Workouts during Ramadan: Go slow and easy so that you don’t feel thirsty. But keep moving,” along with an evil eye, folded hands, and a pink flower emoji. More about Hina Khan Hina Khan is noted for her versatility across genres, from family dramas and reality shows to psychological thrillers. In 2024, she revealed that she is suffering from Stage 3 breast cancer and confirmed that she is undergoing chemotherapy for treatment. However, that has not deterred her spirit, and she continues to work. She was last seen in the series Grihalaxmi and the reality show Pati Patni Aur Panga.
21 February,2026 10:11 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe drama inside The 50 continues to intensify with every eviction, and in an exclusive chat with Midday, Jahnavi Killekar opened up about her turbulent journey, broken bonds, and explosive confrontations on the show. Janhavi Killekar on her experience in The 50 Calling it an “amazing” experience, Jahnavi said the reality series marked a major milestone in her career. “This was my first Hindi reality show. Before this, I had never worked in Hindi. I had done a lot of Marathi reality shows. But this was my first time in Hindi and my first experience. So, I really liked it,” she shared. However, she admitted feeling like an outsider at times. “Because everyone is from Hindi and I am from Marathi. I am not popular in pan-India. I am popular in Maharashtra. Everyone knows me in Maharashtra. I played all the tasks. I did friendship. I had fun. I enjoyed a lot. I gave 100 percent from my side.” Addressing her first major fight with Arya, Jahnavi clarified, “Actually, at that time I was neither on Aarya's side nor on Nikki's side.” She explained that Aarya repeatedly boasted about hitting someone in a previous show. “I wanted to tell him that this is not something to be proud of. That you hit someone and left the show. You have broken a very big rule of the show. It means that you don't have self-control. So, don't say proudly that you hit someone and left.” Reacts to Shiv Thakare, Karan Patel and others She also expressed disappointment over her bond with Shiv Thakare. “I don't have a fight with Shiv, but he is like a brother to me, we had that Marathi connection. And I did a lot for him, however he only lied. I had even told him that I will go against my team and prioritise you but he didn't do that for me… I felt hurt.” Jahnavi did not mince words about the abusive clash between Siddharth Bhardwaj and Karan Patel. “On the first day when Siddharth and Karanji had a fight, I was like, what are they talking about? It's so bad… We should learn from the elders. They are all my seniors… I feel that there is no one whom I can learn something from.” She also criticised Prince Narula’s gameplay. “He controls people very well… He came out and said, ‘Jahnvi ko nikalo.’ I said, he is such a liar… I think that is something that you will have to learn. But I don't want to learn this.” For Jahnavi, the show was as much about emotional lessons as competition, and not all of them were pleasant.
20 February,2026 08:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSony SAB is set to present its upcoming show Yaadein, the Indian adaptation of the globally acclaimed Italian series DOC - Nelle Tue Mani, which has been successfully adapted across multiple countries. Built around the theme of second chances in life, love, and identity, the show follows the extraordinary journey of a brilliant Dr. Dev (Iqbal Khan), who reconstructs his world after losing eight years of his memory in an accident. Iqbal Khan on second chances being deeply personal For Iqbal Khan, the idea of second chances is deeply personal. Speaking about the theme, he shared the story of a close friend whose life changed completely after she was given a second chance. What moved him was not the turning point itself, but what came after. He shared that his friend, instead of trying to go back to her old life, chose to move ahead differently. Her outlook changed. She began to slow down and live more consciously. From the way she ate to how she spent her time and who she surrounded herself with, her choices became more thoughtful. She slowly let go of old habits and negativity that no longer added value to her life and started living with greater presence and awareness. Sharing his thoughts Iqbal Khan shared, “The idea of second chances is deeply personal. We often think a second chance means going back and fixing the past. But a second chance gives you an opportunity in life to live with more understanding of what truly matters. It gives you an opportunity to become better and more responsible and that’s what I learnt not just from my friend’s experience but also from what my character Dr. Dev goes through in Yaadein. After losing eight years of his memory, he has to rebuild his life and become a better person and a more compassionate doctor.” Iqbal Khan on his character Dev Iqbal also got candid about his character, “When you’re playing a fictional character, you have creative liberty. But when the story is inspired by a real person’s life, there is a certain responsibility that comes with it. You’re not just performing; you’re representing someone’s lived truth. What moved me most was Dr. Pierdante Piccioni journey of rediscovering himself after his memory loss. Imagine waking up and realising that the world has moved ahead by twelve years relationships have evolved, your child has grown up, your work has changed and you’re meeting your own life like a stranger. As an actor, I had to constantly remind myself that for him, this wasn’t drama, it was reality.”
20 February,2026 07:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentKaran Patel recently faced social media backlash over his performance on The 50, with many viewers calling his stint “not up to the mark” and accusing him of lacking effort in tasks. However, his team has now clarified that the actor was dealing with a serious injury during the shoot. According to them, Karan suffered a proper rib fracture while performing one of the physically demanding challenges on the show. The revelation has shifted the narrative, highlighting that his performance may have been affected by pain rather than lack of commitment. Karan Patel's team issues a statement In response to criticism, Karan Patel's team has now released a formal statement outlining the circumstances. The statement claims that what spectators perceived as indolence was actually the result of a medical issue that Karan was facing in silence throughout the show, but he was doing his best to put on a fair show so as not to disappoint his followers. The statement read, "From day one, Karan entered the show with complete commitment and professionalism. During the very first major task, co-contestant Sidharth Bhardwaj charged into him with significant force during a competitive round. The impact resulted in what was initially suspected to be a hairline rib fracture." Further the statement also clarified that Karan was under physical trauma, "Despite the severe pain and physical trauma, Karan continued performing the task to the best of his ability, refusing to step back midway. However, due to increasing discomfort, he was later taken for medical consultation and X-rays. Medical reports confirmed that the injury was not merely a minor hairline fracture but a proper rib fracture. Following medical evaluation, he was temporarily advised rest and taken out of the competition for consultation. However, feeling responsible toward his fans and deeply disappointed about missing out on performing for them, Karan chose to re-enter the show, even as a wildcard. Despite ongoing pain and medical risk." On his rib injury The team mentioned how the upcoming episodes of the show shall reveal Karan's full potential despite the setback, "The upcoming episodes will clearly show his strong performance and full participation in tasks. It is important to clarify that the circulating images and clips of Karan resting or lying down are being taken completely out of context. Those moments were not indicative of laziness or avoidance of tasks. They were moments of recovery. Karan was on prescribed oral painkillers and had to undergo intramuscular injections to manage the pain caused by a fractured rib. After completing physically demanding and high-intensity tasks, he would rest as medically advised to prepare himself for the next challenge." "Choosing dignity over drama, Karan did not indulge in shouting matches, unnecessary aggression, or name-calling to seek screen time. His focus remained on performance and professionalism, not theatrics. Unfortunately, continuous physical strain from the intense tasks aggravated the injury further. Upon strict medical advice, he was left with no choice but to take a voluntary exit from the show. This was not a strategic decision, it was a health necessity." The statement concluded by asking viewers not believe speculations, "We request media houses and digital platforms to refrain from spreading misleading narratives suggesting that he was “sleeping through tasks” or “underperforming.” The truth is that he pushed through a serious rib fracture to honour his commitment to the show and his audience. Karan Patel’s journey in The 50 ended not due to lack of effort, but due to medical compulsion. We appreciate the continued love and support from fans and urge everyone to allow facts, not speculation to shape the narrative."
20 February,2026 07:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVikas Khanna has been one of the most enduring faces of MasterChef India, and in a candid conversation with Midday, the celebrated chef opened up about the show’s evolving concept and what keeps drawing him back year after year. Vikas Khanna talks about his joy on being a part of MasterChef India for 16 years Expressing his joy over the platform, he said, “I love it. I feel it's a beautiful moment for Indian food to be celebrated like this.” Reflecting on his long association with the show, he added, “I feel that being a part of a show for 16 years consistently and trying to tell the story of India and be the pollinator between East and West. I think it's a very big advantage, opportunity and also responsibility.” Despite his popularity on television, Khanna admitted that fame was never his goal. “I never aspire to come on TV. I am not that guy, but it's okay. Life got me this opportunity, so I am just honoring it. But I am not that guy. I just love being in my kitchen spaces and my restaurant and to be behind the camera. I prefer that. That's why you see so much less of me and whatever has been put is very much not on your face.” For him, influence comes with purpose. “I feel that you need to have something of value. I just feel to be a person of such high influence, you don't have to be an influencer, you have to be somebody who fights on the battlefield every day and that's what I love doing myself.” He also shared how the show serves as creative fuel. “It's good that I get a break. I spend time with Ranveer Brar. And for me, new aspirations happen from during my masterchef. Could be books, movies, documentaries, different products. For me, it's a training ground. Mom comes to stay with me. I don't have a bigger motivation than that. And then it also helps me to connect with millions of people back home.” Vikas Khanna on the new concept of MasterChef India Khanna believes the platform carries global responsibility. “But also this gives me a lot of thought of how and what communication I want to take of India to the world and having such a majestic platform which God has blessed me with. It's only possible that, you know, very few roads are two ways and God gave me this two way road.” Speaking about conversations with Priyanka Chopra, he revealed, “Every time we discuss this with Priyanka also, she says that, you know, we are so fortunate, both of us, that we are in both the countries equally present and equally working, hustling and telling the story of India. I think this is a very great moment for Indian culture and cuisine and arts.” Talking about the latest jodi concept, he reflected on India’s unique emotional fabric. “I do feel that, you know, having spent most of my life in the West, I feel that the jodis concert of MasterChef can only happen in India. There is no connection in the outside world that somebody would sacrifice their time and energy to support somebody's dream like this. Here, mother, father, father in law, all those, so much, so much happens in India. So much gets invested into others. So for me, seeing this, I really enjoy it and I love it. And spending these six weeks around in a country that I was born and raised in, which gave me everything I have, I feel that this jodi season has made me reflect to the relationships that we hold so dear in this country.”
20 February,2026 07:27 PM IST | Mumbai | Shruti SampatIf you thought the kitchen chaos had peaked, think again. This weekend on COLORS’ Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment, all eyes are on Aly Goni as his birthday becomes the reason and the excuse for absolute hungama. And obviously, what’s a birthday without cake? But here’s the twist, this isn’t your regular cake-cutting scene. Each contestant has to bake a cake that screams Aly energy. The flavour? Should match his vibe. The topping? A hashtag that sums him up perfectly. It’s sweet, it’s chaotic, and knowing this kitchen, it’s definitely not going to be subtle. Aly Goni makes a grand entry Aly makes a full-on hero entry with a chef’s hat on, apron tied, and all his stars shining bright. And just when everyone thinks it’s going to be all about cooking, the show throws in a surprise with a magician on set. Prince Jadugar steps in and begins performing for the contestants, leaving them wide-eyed and astonished! What follows is a complete flavour showdown, frosting flying, layers wobbling, and every cake trying to capture “Peak Aly.” Some are loud and dramatic like his on-screen energy, others a little more warm and comforting. And as if the day wasn’t big enough already, the celebration comes right after the kitchen was graced by Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, making the moment feel even more special. Between the teasing, the laughter and a few sweet surprises, the episode serves up exactly what fans tune in for: fun, food and full-on entertainment. Aly Goni shares his emotions on birthday Sharing his emotions, Aly says, “I think this is genuinely one of the most special birthdays I’ve ever had. To have the entire Laughter Chefs team theme their cakes around my personality was incredibly touching; watching everyone interpret who I am through flavours, designs and even the hashtags on the cakes was such a treat. The thought, love and creativity they put into every detail really moved me, and I thank each one of them from the bottom of my heart. What made it even more unforgettable was that the day revolved around one of my biggest passions - cooking. And to be cooking on my birthday, in front of Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, is something I’ll never forget. He’s the legend who taught an entire generation how to cook and appreciate this craft, so sharing that moment with him felt surreal. This celebration is something I’ll truly cherish.” Aly Goni had a grand celebration on the show, calling it a happy memory that he shall always cherish.
20 February,2026 06:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
