Author: Ankita Singh

Veteran actress Hema Malini has welcomed the festive season by sending her warm wishes for Navratri.

The ‘Sholay’ actress took to Instagram to share her heartfelt greetings, celebrating the devotion, energy, and positivity that this nine-day festival embodies. She posted a collage that featured a goddess on one side and herself dressed as Goddess Durga on the other. Along with the image, she wrote, “May the nine days of Navratri bring you and your family nine times more happiness, prosperity and good health. Happy Navratri to you all #navratri #festival #festiveseason.”

Many Bollywood celebrities have also shared their greetings as Navratri commenced, spreading wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity. Bhumi Pednekar was among those celebrating, seeking the blessings of Maa Kali at the Bawe Wali Mata Mahakali Darbar in Jammu on the first day of the auspicious festival. She shared her images with the caption, “On the first day of Navratri, from the sacred Bawe Wali Mata Mahakali Darbar in Jammu, may the divine blessings of Maa Kali bring strength, energy, and new successes into your life.”

Shardiya Navratri 2025 began on September 22, marking the start of this nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. The first day, known as Pratipada, honors Maa Shailputri, the daughter of the Himalayas.

Observed with profound devotion throughout India, Navratri symbolizes the victory of good over evil and showcases the nation’s rich cultural traditions. This year, the celebrations will continue until October 1, culminating in Dussehra on October 2.

On the professional front, Hema Malini began her acting career in 1963 with the Tamil film “Idhu Sathiyam” and made her Hindi film debut with “Sapno Ka Saudagar” in 1968. Over the years, she has become known for her roles in some of Bollywood’s most iconic films, including “Sholay,” “Satte Pe Satta,” “Seeta Aur Geeta,” “Kasauti,” “Trishul,” and “Mehbooba.”

Her latest film appearance was in the 2020 romantic drama “Shimla Mirchi,” co-starring Rajkummar Rao and Rakul Preet Singh, and directed by Ramesh Sippy.

The Bigg Boss 19 house was rocked by yet another explosive confrontation, this time involving Zeishan Quadri and Kunickaa Sadanand. What began as a simple call for a house meeting swiftly escalated into a heated war of words, leaving the entire house shaken.

The Incident Unfolds

The drama kicked off when Abhishek Bajaj attempted to wake up Zeishan, who was comfortably tucked in his blanket while all the contestants had gathered in the living room for a meeting regarding their weekly responsibilities.

Zeishan, however, refused to budge, bluntly stating that he was sleeping and wouldn’t join them immediately. This attitude did not sit well with Kunickaa, who angrily confronted him, asserting that he was not the king of the house to do as he pleased. Provoked by her comment, Zeishan stormed out of the bedroom, ready to confront Kunickaa.

A War of Words Begins

In an intense exchange, he warned her that if she continued to cross boundaries and provoke him, he would no longer extend the basic respect he had still been maintaining. This was a clear indication that his patience was wearing thin.

The tension escalated as Kunickaa retaliated, telling Zeishan to go back to his Wasseypur. She mockingly dubbed him the “Gunda” of Wasseypur while proclaiming herself the maharani of Mumbai. With both strong personalities clashing, the atmosphere in the house became palpable with tension.

Past Grudges Resurface

Earlier in the season, Zeishan had firmly defended Taniya Mittal when Kunickaa targeted her with unacceptable remarks about her mother, causing Taniya to break down in tears. Zeishan had fiercely condemned Kunickaa for her insensitivity.

The duo is known for their frequent confrontations, sharing a dynamic reminiscent of a Tom and Jerry relationship within the Bigg Boss 19 house.

Actress Madhoo is currently on a deeply spiritual journey in Spain, choosing to walk the Camino de Santiago with her childhood friend. This decision adds a layer of meaning and joy to her experience.

Pilgrimage Journey

The actress has been undertaking the pilgrimage on foot and recently completed an impressive 110 km in nearly a week. She was awarded the traditional certificate of completion, a mark of devotion granted to those who successfully finish the pilgrimage.

This certificate signifies not just the physical endurance required to cover hundreds of kilometers but also the spiritual purpose driving the journey. An elated Madhoo shared her excitement on social media, posting a picture of the certificate.

Memorable Moments with Friends

The 56-year-old actress has also been documenting her adventure with numerous pictures and videos from the pilgrimage. Traveling with her childhood friends, she shared a delightful carousel post filled with images of their joyful moments together.

She captioned it, “The most beautiful thing in life is to be able to be together with people who keep you safe and smiling, and reunions are the best. Childhood friendships are the bestest, and here we are together monkeying around on our way to the Camino.”

For those unfamiliar, the Camino de Santiago, or the Way of Saint James, is among the world’s most renowned pilgrimages, leading to the shrine of the Apostle Saint James in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, located in Galicia, northwestern Spain.

Madhoo remains widely recognized for her iconic role in the film Roja, which was released in 1994.

Malayalam cinema legend Mohanlal, who has recently been honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, has begun working on one of the most anticipated films in Indian cinema—the third installment of the blockbuster ‘Drishyam’ franchise.

Traditional Puja Ceremony Marks Start of Filming

The film, directed by Jeethu Joseph, officially commenced with a traditional puja ceremony at a law college near Kochi. Following this ceremony, Mohanlal is set to travel to New Delhi, where the President of India will present him with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious four-decade career.

Exploring Georgekutty’s Next Chapter

Director Jeethu Joseph spoke to the media prior to the launch, revealing that ‘Drishyam 3’ will delve into the next chapter of Georgekutty’s life, a character made iconic by Mohanlal.

“The film focuses on what happens in Georgekutty’s life after four and a half years. That is the crux of the story,” Joseph explained.

Producer on the Decision for a Third Installment

Producer Antony Perumbavoor, a long-time collaborator with Mohanlal and instrumental in the success of the ‘Drishyam’ series, shared that the decision for the third installment was reached after extensive discussions.

“The phenomenal response to the first two parts convinced us that Georgekutty’s journey had more to tell. Only after detailed talks with Jeethu did we finalize this new version,” Perumbavoor stated.

Cult Status of ‘Drishyam’

The ‘Drishyam’ films have garnered a cult following in Indian cinema, known for their gripping narratives, intricate suspense, and Mohanlal’s acclaimed performances. The first film, released in 2013, raised the benchmarks in Malayalam cinema, while its sequel, released in 2021, achieved record-breaking viewership both in theatres and on streaming platforms.

Release Date and High Expectations

According to producers, ‘Drishyam 3’ is expected to hit the screens in March 2026, with excitement already building among audiences across India and internationally.

With Mohanlal simultaneously receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the launch of ‘Drishyam 3’ has added to the celebrations surrounding one of Malayalam cinema’s most beloved stars.

Mother-daughter duo Alia Bhatt and Soni Razdan’s project “Difficult Daughters” is being showcased at Busan’s Asian Project Market. They have shared their vision for this adaptation of Manju Kapur’s acclaimed novel.

Storyline Overview

“Difficult Daughters” unfolds across two timelines, centering on Virmati, the eldest of ten children in a traditional Punjabi household in 1940s Lahore. With a strong desire to pursue education and love, she defies societal expectations, ultimately facing unexpected consequences when she becomes the second wife of a married professor.

In 2022, Virmati’s granddaughter Simar confronts her own challenges, including a failing marriage and a secret affair. Discovering Virmati’s hidden past compels her to reconnect with her estranged mother, Ila.

Vision for the Film

Razdan expressed to variety.com that the novel immediately sparked a visual inspiration. “When I read the book many years ago, it struck me as being very cinematically written. It is descriptive in a way that evokes both the inner landscape of the characters and the outer, actual canvas,” she shared. She found herself envisioning the story long before considering its adaptation into a film.

Razdan remarked, “While a nation was on the verge of attaining its independence, we have a young girl fighting for the same rights. However, at its core, this film is a personal story, or rather – stories – that unfold across two different time periods.”

Directorial Insights

Having previously acted in “Yours Truly,” which screened at Busan in 2018, Razdan returns this year to direct “Difficult Daughters.” She emphasized the importance of authenticity in recreating the past. “Recreating 1940s small-town Amritsar in Punjab is essential, but equally crucial is the casting. So, actors, costumes, and set design are the most important elements, particularly for ‘Difficult Daughters.’ And last but not least, the music… there is a huge opportunity here to creatively blend past and present.”

Personal Connection to the Project

Alia, one of India’s biggest stars and head of Eternal Sunshine Productions, considers the project both personal and aligned with her company’s ethos, as reported by variety.com. “At Eternal Sunshine, we are always on the lookout for stories that strike a deep chord and stay with the audience long after the film ends. ‘Difficult Daughters’ is undoubtedly one of those,” Alia stated.

“It’s extra special to have my mom direct it, but what truly makes it stand out for me is the shared belief we all have in this story. Busan is a beautiful first step in its journey, and we hope the film continues to spark conversations and connections wherever it goes—because stories like this don’t just belong to one place; they belong to everyone,” she added.

As her daughter Valentina Paloma Pinault celebrated her 18th birthday, Hollywood star Salma Hayek expressed her love and admiration through a heartfelt Instagram post, reflecting on the journey of her daughter’s life.

Salma shared a childhood photograph of Valentina, along with a touching message: “My beautiful dancing queen. Today you turned 18 !!!!! So many things have changed in your life, but you are always soooo you. A kind passionate heart, a wise soul full of magic, a unique unstoppable force of nature with a witty sense of humor and stubborn tenacity.”

She continued, “Some things will never change, we love you forever and although you were always ahead of your years you will always be in my heart, my dream daughter. Feliz cumpleaños Valentina Paloma.”

Salma Hayek and French billionaire François-Henri Pinault became engaged in 2007, a period that also brought the news of her pregnancy. Valentina was born on September 21, 2007. The couple married on Valentine’s Day 2009 in Paris and renewed their vows on April 25, 2009, in Venice, Italy.

Beginning her career in Mexico, Hayek gained recognition for starring roles in telenovela Teresa and the romantic drama Midaq Alley. She quickly made her mark in Hollywood with films like Desperado, From Dusk till Dawn, Wild Wild West, and Dogma.

Her portrayal of painter Frida Kahlo in the biopic Frida earned her the distinction of being the first Mexican actress nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress.

On August 20, Hayek remembered the late actor Matthew Perry, sharing a photo and video from their film Fools Rush In, which was released in 1997. She captioned the post with a simple yet poignant message: “Thinking of you today Matthew.”

Fools Rush In, a romantic comedy directed by Andy Tennant, featured Perry alongside Hayek in leading roles.

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan and Kajol added a dash of Ajay Devgn’s signature dance style to their classic song “Odh Li Chunariya” from the 1998 film Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya.

On September 21, Kajol appeared alongside actor Jisshu Sengupta on the controversial reality show Bigg Boss to promote their latest project, The Trial Season 2. During the episode, Jisshu, a fan of their chemistry from the 1998 film, prompted the two stars to recreate the iconic number.

Kajol and Salman admitted they couldn’t recall the choreography, originally sung by Alka Yagnik and Kumar Sanu. Salman playfully suggested a 2025 version of the dance steps, saying, “Let’s do something that Ajay does.” He humorously compared his dancing skills to those of Shahid Kapoor, Tiger Shroff, and Hrithik Roshan, joking that only “point something” of people in the country dance like them. “But me, Ajay Sanjay… We are great dancers. We know we will take this talent to the grave,” he quipped. Kajol added, “You are intelligent dancers.”

The stars then started dancing, performing the “Singham” hook step before moving on to the steps from “Pehla Tu Duja Tu” from Ajay’s latest release, Son Of Sardaar 2.

Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, directed by Sohail Khan, is a romantic comedy featuring Salman Khan and Arbaaz Khan, with Kajol as the leading lady, alongside Dharmendra in a crucial role. The film tells the story of Suraj, a young man who falls for Muskan, the sister of a possessive brother who immediately disapproves of him. To win her love, he first has to gain the approval of her brother and uncle.

Currently, the Bigg Boss house hosts contestants such as Gaurav Khanna, Amaal Mallik, Awez Darbar, Ashnoor Kaur, Mridul Tiwari, Kunickaa Sadanand, Baseer Ali, Abhishek Bajaj, Tanya Mittal, Zeishan Quadri, Nehal Chudasama, Pranit More, Farhana Bhatt, and Neelam Giri.

Bigg Boss is based on the Dutch format of Big Brother. Since its debut on November 3, 2006, the show has completed eighteen seasons and three OTT seasons. The first season was hosted by Arshad Warsi, followed by Shilpa Shetty in the second and Amitabh Bachchan in the third. Farah Khan led the Halla Bol season, while Sanjay Dutt co-hosted the fifth season with Salman Khan. Since season 4, Salman Khan has been the primary host of the show.

Bigg Boss airs on JioHotstar and Colors.

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan recently shared his thoughts on contestant Pranit More’s standup jokes during the latest Weekend Ka Vaar episode of Bigg Boss, while actress Kajol watched.

Kajol and actor Jisshu Sengupta made an appearance on the popular reality show to promote their latest project, “The Trial” Season 2. During the episode, Kajol inquired if they could watch the contestants without their knowledge.

The first footage featured contestant Tanya Mittal, where Salman mentioned her saree business. Kajol humorously requested her tailor’s number.

Next, the camera shifted to Pranit More. Salman stated about Pranit, “This guy is Pranit. He’s a standup comedian. He’s bajaoed me left right and center. Inke saare jokes mere pe hote hai (all his jokes are about me). Inka ghar mere pe chal raha hai (His home is running because of me). That’s why I said ‘karne do’.”

In the previous week, nominees for eviction included Abhishek Bajaj, Ashnoor Kaur, Nehal Chudasama, Baseer Ali, and Pranit More. During the Weekend Ka Vaar episode, Nehal Chudasama was announced to be ousted. However, she was not evicted but sent to the secret room to observe her fellow contestants.

No nominated contestant exited during the Weekend Ka Vaar episode.

Current contestants inside the Bigg Boss house comprise Gaurav Khanna, Amaal Mallik, Awez Darbar, Ashnoor Kaur, Mridul Tiwari, Kunickaa Sadanand, Baseer Ali, Abhishek Bajaj, Tanya Mittal, Zeishan Quadri, Nehal Chudasama, Pranit More, Farhana Bhatt, and Neelam Giri.

Bigg Boss draws its format from the Dutch series Big Brother. Since its debut on November 3, 2006, the show has run for eighteen seasons and three OTT seasons. The first season was hosted by Arshad Warsi, followed by Shilpa Shetty in the second season and Amitabh Bachchan in the third. Farah Khan led the Halla Bol season, with Sanjay Dutt co-hosting the fifth season alongside Salman Khan. Since season 4, Salman Khan has been the primary host of the show.

Bigg Boss is available for streaming on JioHotstar and airs on Colors.

Well-known lyricist and poet Manoj Muntashir has curated a musical stage show titled “Mera Desh Pahle: The Untold Story Of Shri Narendra Modi,” which is based on the life of our Prime Minister. A special screening of the show took place in Mumbai recently.

Star-Studded Attendance

The event attracted numerous celebrities from Bollywood, including Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff, Janhvi Kapoor, Raveena Tandon, Vikrant Massey, and Arjun Kapoor. Notable filmmakers like Rajkumar Hirani, Sajid Nadiadwala, and Ashutosh Gowarikar were also present.

Artists Share Their Thoughts

Janhvi Kapoor expressed her excitement about the show, stating, “Although the entire nation is familiar with PM Modi’s life story, to see it being represented in such an artistic form makes me extremely happy and excited as an artist.”

When asked about what inspires her the most, the ‘Mili’ actress mentioned, “Whatever PM Modi is doing for the country inspires me.”

Actress Shefali Shah added her perspective, saying, “The biggest quality of PM Modi is that there is a lot of transparency, but there remains an intrigue about how this incredible human being thinks in his life, so I am extremely excited.”

Show’s Concept and Features

Conceptualized by Manoj Muntashir, “Mera Desh Pahle” chronicles the Prime Minister’s journey from childhood through his inspiring political career and extraordinary leadership. Directed by Deepak Gattani, the show has the backing of Vipul Amrutlal Shah.

The musical features powerful performances by B Praak, Sneha Shankar, Rishi Singh, Ashish Kulkarni, and Ujwal Gajbhar.

Prominent Attendees

The screening received support from the Delhi government’s Art and Culture department and was attended by BJP chief JP Nadda, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, state BJP president Virendra Sachdeva, and Delhi Culture Minister Kapil Mishra, among others.

Several Olympic medalists, Padma awardees, notable figures from literature and art, dignitaries from the judiciary, and prominent personalities from the sports world were also in attendance.

Three legends of the Indian film industry—Megastar Chiranjeevi, Kannada star Kichcha Sudeep, and ace cinematographer P C Sreeram—have extended their heartfelt congratulations to Malayalam superstar Mohanlal on receiving the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

Telugu Megastar Chiranjeevi shared a picture with Mohanlal on his X timeline, stating, “My dear Lalettan @Mohanlal, heartfelt congratulations on being honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Your remarkable journey and iconic performances have enriched Indian cinema. Truly a well-deserved recognition.”

Kannada superstar Kichcha Sudeep also took to X to wish Mohanlal, writing, “Legends like @Mohanlal Sir turn every frame into magic. Heartfelt congratulations on the Dadasaheb Phalke Award—a well-earned salute to decades of unmatched cinema. #Mohanlal #DadasahebPhalkeAward.”

Cinematographer P C Sreeram, renowned for his work with director Mani Ratnam, congratulated Mohanlal as well: “In each of your films, you mesmerised the world. Indian cinema is always proud of you. Heartiest congratulations to the one and only @Mohanlal. Congrats on winning the most prestigious #Dadasaheb Phalke award. May the force be with you always. #Mohanlal.”

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced that Mohanlal would receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023 for his exemplary contributions to Indian cinema.

On its X timeline, the ministry stated, “On the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee, the Government of India is pleased to announce that Shri Mohanlal will be conferred the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023.”

Discussing Mohanlal’s illustrious cinematic journey, the ministry added, “Mohanlal’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations! The legendary actor, director, and producer is being honoured for his iconic contribution to Indian cinema. His unmatched talent, versatility, and relentless hard work have set a golden standard in Indian film history.”

The award presentation is scheduled for September 23 during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony.

Previously, the Government of India has recognised Mohanlal with the Padma Shri in 2001 and the Padma Bhushan in 2019 for his significant contributions to Indian cinema.

In 2009, Mohanlal became the first actor in the Indian film industry to receive the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel in the Territorial Army.