Category: Entertainment

Actress Catherine Zeta-Jones has shared her deep sorrow over the tragic shooting incident at Bondi Beach, Australia, which occurred on Sunday.

With a heavy heart, the ‘Wednesday’ actress posed some significant questions in the wake of the tragedy. She wondered why people are not allowed to celebrate their festivals peacefully and why students face rampant gun violence.

Highlighting the escalating toxicity in society, Catherine posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, stating, “After a weekend of profound sadness my heart is heavy. Why can’t Jews celebrate their holiday on a beach in Australia, without being massacred? Why can’t young students study in a classroom without being gunned down? Why do our friends need to be killed in their homes? Hate, violence and abusive rhetoric has permeated to levels of unimaginable toxicity.”

She emphasized that while disagreements are natural, resorting to violence is unacceptable.

“Across the board. Everywhere. Over 8 billion of us on this planet. We can’t expect to be liked or to like everyone. We can’t expect to agree with everyone or for everyone to agree with us. But why does one have to be killed for it? There is room for us all here on a heavenly earth. Hell is filling up pretty quick,” she added.

On December 14, a mass shooting involving two gunmen took place at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah event called “Chanukah by the Sea,” attended by around 1,000 people. At least 15 individuals lost their lives, and numerous others were injured in this incident, which has been classified as a terrorist attack by authorities.

Although “Bigg Boss 19” has concluded, fans are still deeply engaged with the reality show. Recently, a user on X shared a video of contestant Amaal Mallik tapping his foot with former housemate Tanya Mittal in the Bigg Boss house, emphasizing that this task was the catalyst for their chemistry.

However, Amaal has urged fans not to associate him with Tanya. He clarified that their interaction was merely part of a task and should not be overanalyzed.

He expressed on social media, “Bhai yeh ek ‘TASK’ tha and it’s not right if I act all egoistic and don’t do what the host or guests come and ask of us. If the show needs some people to pair up for a task, do a dance skit or whatever it is… We have to. That’s the channel creative and you guys are constantly making this into some nonsensical romance. (sic).”

Amaal also issued an apology for any hurtful remarks he made towards Tanya during the show. He thanked her for her care and concern, adding, “I am grateful to @itanyamittal for the care & concern she has had for me in this season. I know I’ve said things which must’ve hurt her and her fandom as well, but I am truly sorry for whatever I did in anger and to poke her. Just know such things happen and that’s how one realizes his or her shortcomings and works on them.”

Furthermore, Amaal requested that fans refrain from linking them together, as doing so could damage Tanya’s reputation.

He stated, “So I request you all to please stop linking us & expecting us to be interacting in a certain way. Linking her constantly with me is going to tarnish her image & It is not something she or any girl deserves to be put through. I understand you liked our friendship/camaraderie, but the fans on either side must learn to respect people and their space… My #Amaaldigihunt I request you to stop mudslinging & I request #TaniaFans to also respectfully start doing the same!”

“Hichki,” “We Are Family,” and “Maharaj” director Siddharth P. Malhotra has announced the completion of the shoot for his fourth project, “Ikka,” featuring Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna.

In a heartfelt social media update, the director expressed gratitude towards the cast of this upcoming action thriller.

A Unique Journey

“It’s a wrap on Ikka – my 4th film as a director. Honestly, I’m still taking it all in. This film has been a journey like no other — one that’s tested me, taught me, and changed me in ways I’ll never forget,” Siddharth shared.

He praised his talented collaborators, saying, “To have worked with such incredible artists — @iamsunnydeol love u beyond words sir #akshayekhanna you’re magical in each frame @tillotamashome your brilliance shines @diamirzaofficial love love and more love @iamsanjeeda @akansharanjankapoor gratitude and @jyotimukerji my lucky charm — thank u all it has been an absolute honour. You’ve each brought depth, truth, and soul to this story and lifted every moment beyond what I imagined.”

Facing Challenges Head-On

Calling “Ikka” his toughest movie yet, Siddharth expressed deep appreciation for his writers. “My deepest gratitude to @kaushalalthea and Mayank, our brilliant writers — you’ve crafted something that pushed me as a filmmaker and as a person. Every day came with its challenges, but it’s those very days that shaped this story into what it is. I hope everyone watching feels even a fraction of the heart we’ve poured into it.”

Acknowledging the Team

Siddharth also recognized the rest of his team. “@jishnudop my DOP and brother — my rock, my backbone, my constant — words will never be enough. You and your team have painted this film with light and love. My associate @iamk_shitij and my amazing AD crew — Vikas, Mohit, Inaara, Rahi, Omkar, Aviral, and Aryan — you’ve held me steady, step after step, ensuring every shot was bang on.”

He concluded with a heartfelt sentiment, stating that “Ikka” is not just a film for him, but a piece of his heart, built on the strength and spirit of this incredible team. “Without you all, there is no me,” he emphasized.

Veteran actor Anupam Kher recently took to social media to commemorate his 50 glorious years in Mumbai, the city of dreams.

A dear friend of his reminded him of this special milestone. “MY GOLDEN JUBILEE IN MUMBAI,” Anupam expressed. “My friend and classmate #SuhasKhandke from the #NationalSchoolOfDrama sent me a beautiful message this morning about my first ever visit to Mumbai (then Bombay) on December 15, 1975!”

He shared memories of that day, stating, “Exactly FIFTY years ago, I was in the first year of Drama School. I stayed with Suhas for 10 days! As a 20-year-old young boy, I was completely mesmerised by the energy and the magnanimity of #Bombay! Suhas lived on #WalkeshwerRoad, so I saw the vastness of the ocean for the first time! I felt the people of this city were very different from other parts of the country! Today, I have a word for them – CHILLED!”

Reflecting on his journey, Anupam continued, “When I look back, I realise that this city has given me EVERYTHING! It provided me with DREAMS and helped me make them COME TRUE!”

With 41 years in cinema and nearly 550 films under his belt, he highlighted the blend of friends, success that humbled him, and failures that taught him important lessons. “Thank you, MUMBAI, for your blessings and kindness! The ordinary person on the streets of Mumbai is actually extraordinary! They are the heartbeats of this city. I salute them,” he said.

Anupam also expressed gratitude to Suhas for bringing back this meaningful memory. “Thanks Suhas, my friend, for this joyous memory! The first pic is from a play we did, #EkAurDronacharya, directed by my jigri dost, #SatishKaushik! Miss him! Jai Ho MUMBAI! #MumbaiMeriJaan #Mumbaikar.”

He shared several pictures, including one from his first theater play and a screenshot of their conversation. Suhas Khandke’s message read, “Hey brother, today marks 50 years since you first stepped into Mumbai. For our winter vacation in the 1st year, we boarded the train on December 14, 1975, arriving on the 15th. It proved to be an extremely auspicious day for you. Congratulations, dear Anupam, on your successful Golden Jubilee in the city of dreams.”

In recent news, Anupam Kher was honored by two distinguished educational institutions in India for his significant contributions on and off the screen. Recognized for both his illustrious acting career and societal efforts, Kher expressed heartfelt gratitude for the prestigious accolades.

He shared his joy in a post, stating, “AWARDS AND HONOURS: I am deeply humbled, happy, and delighted to receive two Awards/Honours from two very distinguished educational institutions of India for my work in professional and personal capacities! Thank you, Hon. Governor of #Maharashtra and #Gujarat, Sh. #AcharyaDevvrat ji, a DAVian himself, President DAV Schools Sh. Poonam Suri ji, CEO Smt. Nisha Pashi ji, and all the DAVdigihunt for this great Honour!”

He further mentioned, “Also, THANKS to St. Xavier’s College Calcutta Alumni Association for the wonderful recognition! I consider these honours are also for whatever little contribution I try to make to our society! Not just as an ACTOR but also as an INDIVIDUAL! Jai Ho! Jai Hindi!”

On the cinematic front, Anupam Kher’s recent directorial venture, ‘Tanvi The Great,’ has returned to theatres. The film, featuring Jackie Shroff, Arvind Swami, Boman Irani, Pallavi Joshi, Karan Tacker, Nasser, and Anupam himself, tells the story of a 21-year-old woman on the autism spectrum who lives with her mother and grandfather. Inspired by her late father, Captain Samar Raina, an Indian Army officer, she dreams of saluting the national flag at Siachen Glacier.

Looking ahead, Anupam announced his collaboration with filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya for his 549th project. On the first day of the shoot, he presented Barjatya with an auspicious shawl from Ayodhya. “ANNOUNCING MY 549th FILM: Delighted to share that my 549th untitled film started today with the one and only SOORAJ BARJATYA! Presented him the auspicious shawl I got from #Ayodhya!” he posted.

Anupam Kher has consistently proven himself as an exceptional actor, known for his compelling character portrayals and the selection of impactful projects. His memorable works include Saaraansh, Hum Aapke Hain Koun, Chandni, Beta, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Veer-Zaara, The Kashmir Files, Dabangg, Special 26, M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, among many others, making him a part of numerous blockbusters and cult classics.

Singer-songwriter The Weeknd has achieved a remarkable milestone with his recent music catalogue deal. This significant business venture marks one of the most notable catalogue transactions ever made by a contemporary artist.

Representatives for the 35-year-old artist, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, confirm that he has sold his music catalogue, which encompasses work from the beginning of his career through 2025. Lyric Capital Group has taken an investment stake in this catalogue. Importantly, Tesfaye and his team will maintain control over the creative direction and hold ownership positions in the newly formed company.

Sources close to the negotiations indicate that the agreement was structured to avoid the conventional framework of catalogue sales. Instead, Tesfaye favored a model that ensures his authority over both his master recordings and publishing rights. Notably, this arrangement includes only the body of work released up to 2025, leaving all future material outside the deal’s scope.

According to reports, Tesfaye’s existing relationships with XO, Republic Records, and Universal Music Group remain intact, with Universal Music Publishing Group continuing to manage his publishing rights.

Valuations for this deal reportedly exceed $1 billion, positioning it among the largest single-artist catalogue transactions ever recorded. The only publicly confirmed deal surpassing it is Sony Music’s acquisition of Queen’s catalogue, valued at approximately $1.27 billion.

The Weeknd’s commercial power is unmistakable, boasting over 120 million monthly listeners on Spotify. His global touring presence recently pushed his “After Hours ‘Til Dawn” tour past the $1 billion revenue mark.

Ross Cameron, the founder and co-managing partner of Lyric, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I couldn’t be more excited about what Lyric, Abel and team have created together. From our first meeting, it was clear to me that we were sitting around the table with individuals that were going to change the way an artist thinks about his assets, music and legacy.”

He added, “The collaboration resulted in a first-of-its-kind partnership between an artist and Lyric, and we are beyond thrilled about this new venture.”

Hollywood director Ryan Coogler has shared insights on the challenging experience of shooting ‘Sinners’, in which Michael B. Jordan stars as one of the Smokestack Twins.

Challenging Shoot with Michael B. Jordan

Coogler revealed that he “almost lost (his) mind” while filming alongside Jordan, as reported by ‘Female First UK’. The 39-year-old director recounted the complexities he faced while working with Jordan, 38, and his double Percy Bell in a demanding driving scene for the upcoming vampire blockbuster, set to release in 2025. This particular scene required intricate planning and precise timing.

During his appearance on Entertainment Weekly’s Awardist podcast, Coogler explained, “Every day was different. Every scene was different. Watching the movie, there are certain scenes you wouldn’t think were difficult. You remember the day I almost lost my mind, where you guys had to drive the car and get into the bushes? Pulling off that shot was f** crazy because Mike’s driving, and we had to do a repeated pass of the car driving up and landing, them getting out of the car with the correct timing, and then interacting with the bush with the correct timing.”

Distinct Movements for Smoke and Stack

The director emphasized that Smoke and Stack had their own unique ways of moving, necessitating precise recreation with each take. He noted, “You can see the difference in performance, but also, because of the timing, they have to enter the bushes in a certain way.”

Jordan also highlighted the importance of synchronizing with his double. He remarked, “I would have to work with my twin double, Percy Bell, and direct him on what I was going to do, so I could have that performance to react off of when I was playing the first brother.”

Each sequence’s initial brother set “the rules of blocking and coverage” since they couldn’t occupy the same space. Jordan added, “That was the thing that we found out in real time.” Despite the challenges, Coogler affirmed that the final scene “looks good” in the completed film.

Plot Overview of ‘Sinners’

In ‘Sinners’, the twin gangster brothers Smoke and Stack (Jordan) return to their Mississippi hometown in 1932 to establish a Black-owned juke joint, aiming to leave their criminal pasts behind. However, when a charismatic vampire (Jack O’Connell) brings about a supernatural nightmare in the town, the twins, along with their musician cousin Sammie (Miles Caton) and their tight-knit community, face tough choices about survival and freedom.

The film also features Hailee Steinfeld, Wunmi Mosaku, Delroy Lindo, Jayme Lawson, and Omar Benson Miller. Recently, Jordan expressed his belief that his portrayal of Smoke warrants an Oscar nomination.

Hollywood actor Ethan Hawke has heaped praise on fellow actor Paul Dano, calling him a “world-class human being.”

The ‘Blue Moon’ star reflected on the recent controversy where director Quentin Tarantino referred to Dano as “weak sauce” and the “worst f** actor in SAG.” Hawke viewed this incident as a “great lesson” in how to handle negativity, noting the outpouring of support for Dano.

In an appearance on the Joe Rogan podcast, he said, “I don’t think Paul Dano ever knew that so many people loved him. He’s gotta wake up one morning and find out this director’s gone off on him and saying these hateful things, but anyone who knows Quentin knows he just talks and talks.”

Hawke emphasized, “Anyone who knows Paul knows he’s a world-class human being. All this love for Paul is coming out. There’s a great lesson in that. You don’t have to worry about the negativity people send your way.”

Tarantino did mention Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2007 drama ‘There Will Be Blood’ as his fifth-favourite movie of the 21st century. However, he admitted it would rank higher if he hadn’t been disappointed by Dano’s performance alongside Daniel Day-Lewis.

On The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast, he stated, “There Will Be Blood would stand a better chance to be in number one or number two if it didn’t have a big giant flaw in it, and the flaw is Paul Dano. Obviously, it’s supposed to be a two-hander, and it’s also so drastically obvious that it’s not a two-hander. He is weak sauce, man. He’s a weak sister. Austin Butler would have been wonderful in that role. [Dano] just such a weak, weak, uninteresting guy.”

Following Tarantino’s remarks, numerous stars came forward to defend Dano. Filmmaker Matt Reeves praised him on social media, calling Dano “an incredible actor and an incredible person.” Reeves worked with Dano on the 2022 movie ‘The Batman’.

Hollywood actor Ben Stiller responded to Reeves’ message with a Hallelujah emoji, adding his own praise on his X account, stating, “Paul Dano is f** brilliant (sic).” Simu Liu, the star from ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,’ also commended the talented actor.

Bhajan Samrat and Padma Shri awardee Anup Jalota recently graced Bikaner with his presence for a musical evening organized by a charitable trust, providing a special cultural offering for local residents.

Exclusive Insights from Anup Jalota

In an exclusive interaction, Anup revealed that to celebrate the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited him to record the song in its entirety.

Initiatives and New Ventures

Jalota discussed his ongoing initiatives, particularly “Mission 500”, aimed at grooming 500 ghazal singers. He also mentioned his latest bhajan titled “Tulsi Ki Ramayan Bole”.

Thoughts on Music

The singer elaborated on the distinctions between Indian and Western music. While he acknowledged the appeal of Western music, he emphasized that Indian music offers peace and happiness, stating, “Western music mostly makes one just tap their feet, whereas Indian music touches the soul.” During the event, the program’s poster was also unveiled.

Recognition and Honors

Recently, Jalota was honored with the prestigious Padma Shri Mahendra Kapoor Award at the ITFS Awards 2025, alongside legendary singer Sudesh Bhosle and other celebrated artists. He expressed his pride, stating, “Receiving an award in the name of Mahendra Kapoor is a matter of great honour. His songs are embedded in the hearts of Inddigihunt and evoke deep devotion.”

Reality TV Journey

In 2018, the ‘Bhajan Samrat’ surprised fans by participating in the popular reality show Bigg Boss season 12, showcasing a different side of his personality. This move not only drew mainstream attention but also introduced him to a younger audience.

Actress Shefali Shah, along with her producer husband Vipul Shah and their sons, is currently reveling in the stunning beauty of Norway as the family enjoys the breathtaking Northern Lights.

The actress shared captivating photos from her extraordinary experience on social media. Expressing her excitement, Shefali shared, “Thought I’d try and explain what it is to actually see the Northern Lights. But there are no words to describe the Aurora Borealis. This magnificence is unparalleled and impossible to translate.”

She continued, “Normally, I would Google it, but I don’t want to reduce this experience by finding science or logic behind it. This is beyond the realms of the human mind, and the only thing I could do was stand there in silence with tears in my eyes, feeling blessed, grateful, and humbled and surrendering to this miracle. And realise that I was lucky to be a mere spectator of this MAGIC.” She concluded with a heartfelt note, “P.S. – I’d like to be like the Aurora Borealis, visible clearly when seen through a camera and otherwise elusive.”

In the photos, Shefali, Vipul, and their children appear ecstatic as they witness the stunning lights. A few days prior, the couple celebrated 25 years of marital bliss. To mark this special milestone, Shefali posted a video of herself and Vipul joyfully dancing at a family function. Draped in a pink saree, Shefali looked stunning, while Vipul appeared dapper in a simple white kurta pyjama.

Reflecting on what 25 years of marriage means to her, the Di Dhadakne Do actress shared, “25 years of marriage. Miles of ground covered. 45,000 feet above sea level. One celebration. Heading to one holiday. Two seats together, but I chose to get myself another seat even though it wasn’t next to him. I like a window seat and he prefers aisle for better leg space (In this aircraft there was only one seat next to the window, no aisle.)”

She further explained, “No drama, just comfort for both of us. Yes, a lot may say, ‘What’s a little discomfort for togetherness?’ Sure. But dismissing your wish or your comfort is not a testimony of a good marriage. The intensity of love doesn’t depend on the basis of sharing an armrest. Just because we didn’t sit together doesn’t mean we are getting divorced. Because space doesn’t mean distance. Togetherness doesn’t mean claustrophobia. Bond doesn’t mean binding. And compromising single-handedly is not companionship.”

Shefali elaborated, “Our marriage, like many, has been full of ups and downs, easy and difficult, immense unbridled joy and excruciating pain. But through thick and thin, of our bodies, wallets, patience, tolerance and love, we have survived it all. For better or worse of moods, temperaments, ego, adjustments and growth.”

She added, “If this sounds like a perfect marriage, it’s far from it. We have danced together for 25 years. Sometimes in sync, sometimes out of sync. Sometimes I lead and he follows, and sometimes it’s vice versa. Sometimes we have also stepped onto each other’s toes and tripped. But we’ve always picked each other up (after laughing). Happily ever after was and still is the goal, but it is not realistically possible 24/7, 365 days a year. But we know together our chances of happily ever after are far higher. And thank God and touch wood for that. And of course, our sunshine boys have been our Fevicol ka jod.”

Currently, the actress is celebrating the success of her recently released series, Delhi Crime 3.

The makers of director Dhananjay Shankar’s explosive action entertainer ‘Bha Bha Ba’ (acronym for ‘Bhayam, Bhakthi, Bahumanam’) have released ‘Azhinjattam’, the energetic first single from the film, much to the delight of fans and film enthusiasts.

Mohanlal Promotes the Track

Mohanlal shared the link to the lyrical video on his X timeline, stating, “#Azhinjattam lyrical video out now! A Shaan Rahman Musical. Sung by #MGSreekumar, #VineethSreenivasan, #NiranjSuresh. Lyrics by #VinayakSasikumar. #BhaBhaBa in cinemas worldwide from 18th December 2025.”

Details About the Song

The fast-paced energetic number features music by Shaan Rahman and vocals by MG Sreekumar, Vineeth Sreenivasan, and Niranj Suresh. The lyrics are by Vinayak Sasikumar.

Buzz Around the Film

The film has generated significant attention following the recent release of its trailer. Coincidentally, this trailer was unveiled shortly after a court cleared actor Dileep of all charges in the high-profile actress assault case that had shaken Kerala.

The trailer opens with Vineeth Sreenivasan inserting an audio cassette into a tape recorder, where a voice states, “You must have figured out who I am by now because my face has been put up in every nook and corner of this state.” Dileep’s character is introduced, and at one point, he declares, “This was the moment I was waiting for – my comeback moment.”

Action and Comedy Await

The trailer suggests that the film will feature a mix of high-octane action and comedy. Notably, Mohanlal is expected to make a cameo appearance as Dileep’s close friend. There is also a flashback segment that will explore the relationship between the characters played by Mohanlal and Dileep.

Anticipation Builds

This film is generating enormous expectations as it marks Dileep’s first release post-acquittal. Fans are particularly excited about Mohanlal’s cameo.

Cast and Crew

In addition to Dileep, Vineeth Sreenivasan, and Mohanlal, the film boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Dhyan Sreenivasan, Sandy, Balu Varghese, Baiju Santhosh, Saranya Ponvannan, Sidharth Bharathan, and Redin Kingsley, among others.

Produced by Gokulam Gopalan and Krishnamoorthy, with co-production by Baiju Gopalan and VC Praveen, the film features music by Shaan Rahman and an original score by Gopi Sundar. Cinematography is handled by Armo, while editing is managed by Ranjan Abraham. The story has been crafted by Fahim Safar and Noorin Shereef.

The film is slated to hit screens on December 18 this year.