Category: Entertainment

The health condition of veteran Tamil film director and actor Bharathiraja, who has been hospitalized due to breathlessness, is currently stable, as confirmed by the hospital.

In a medical bulletin, MGM Healthcare, where Bharathiraja is receiving treatment, stated, “Mr. Bharathiraja was admitted with a severe lung infection and is currently being treated in the Critical Care Unit. He is on all appropriate treatment for organ impairments and is being closely monitored by our team of medical experts.”

The hospital further noted, “His condition is stable, and he will continue to require treatment in the Critical Care Unit.”

In the meantime, notable personalities from the film industry, including directors R K Selvamani, Seeman, producer and actor Chitra Laxmanan, as well as directors Lingusamy, Ameer, A R Murugadoss, and Seenu Ramasamy, visited the veteran director at the hospital.

In a video shared after visiting the family, director R K Selvamani remarked, “We came down to meet director Bharathiraja. For the last few days, there have been incorrect reports on social media and in some media outlets regarding his health. We wanted to clarify the status and therefore came to see him today.”

He added, “We met the doctor treating the director, who informed us that Bharathiraja is in the Intensive Care Unit. All his body organs are functioning well. He has experienced a bout of pneumonia, but he is in a stable condition.”

Selvamani further explained, “When we requested to see Bharathiraja, the doctor mentioned that due to a high number of visitors yesterday, his infection had increased. Consequently, he advised against allowing further visitors to help reduce the infection. As of now, director Bharathiraja remains stable.”

He urged, “Some people, out of eagerness or perhaps ill intentions, are spreading false rumors. If you truly care for the veteran director, please pray for him, as it will aid in his recovery. Do not share false rumors. The family members or the hospital will provide accurate updates. Please refrain from spreading information on your own. We have met all the family members and the chief doctor to inquire about his health and have requested daily medical bulletins to prevent misinformation from circulating.”

The Oscar-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro has shared valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers. While attending the Palm Springs International Film Festival, he urged up-and-coming creators to ignore naysayers who claim that “art is not important,” explaining that such sentiments are “always a prelude to fascism.”

Del Toro received the directing honor at the 10 Directors to Watch and Creative Impact Awards brunch during the film festival, as reported by ‘Variety.’

He emphasized, “Be kind, be involved, believe in your art. At a time when people tell you art is not important, that is always the prelude to fascism. When they tell you it doesn’t matter, when they tell you a fucking app can do art, you say, if it’s that important, why the fuck do they want it so bad? The answer is because they think they can debase everything that makes us a little better, a little more human. And that, in my book, and in my life, includes monsters.”

In the same speech, he reflected on the “religious experience” of watching James Whale’s 1931 ‘Frankenstein’ for the first time.

According to ‘Variety’, Sara Karloff, the daughter of the original ‘Frankenstein’ star Boris Karloff, was a guest at the event.

Del Toro further noted, “Sometimes the world gets so complicated, you can only explain it with the power of monsters. We are in a time like that right now. It’s not just the size of the screens, it’s the size of the idea. Ambition includes failure, it’s right next door to success. There are no numbers on the door. You’re going to knock on that door, and it’s going to open, and it’s either a supermodel of your dreams or your mom in curlers.”

‘Frankenstein’ is slated for release on Netflix on October 17, 2025.

Miss World 2017 Manushi Chhillar recently recounted an uplifting experience from just hours before the Miss World finals, where she lent her support to Miss South Africa, Adè van Heerden.

In a recent YouTube video, Manushi recreated her iconic Miss World pageant makeup look and shared a significant moment from the competition. She revealed that Adè van Heerden faced a wardrobe malfunction when her gown ripped, and her backup outfit also failed to fit due to a broken zipper. Seeing her fellow contestant in distress, Manushi instinctively offered one of her gowns, which fortunately fit Adè perfectly.

Recalling that frantic morning, Manushi said, “A night before the finals, we had our costume rehearsals where we kind of judge whether we’re okay walking in those gowns and everything has to be timed to perfection. And Miss South Africa, Adè van Heerden’s gown ended up ripping apart. I have no idea how that exactly happened, but that was a lot of stress.”

She further noted, “So, for some reason, I don’t know what was going on that day with her, but I remember the morning of the finals seeing her, and she was quite low. And I was like, ‘Hey, you know what? I have many outfits. I have many gowns. Why don’t you just take one of mine?’ So she luckily fit into my clothes. It did look like the gown was made for her. I think she looked beautiful in it.”

While assisting Adè with her gown, Manushi lost track of time and didn’t complete her makeup for the finals until she was en route to the venue. She humorously added, “But while we were supposed to be getting ready for the finals, I was helping Adè with her fitting. So I didn’t do my makeup. I literally did my makeup in the bus on the way to the venue, which I’m really, really proud of.”

Amidst the chaos, Manushi went on to clinch the prestigious Miss World title, bringing pride to her country.

The song ‘Chaanta Tera’ from the upcoming film ‘Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos’ was unveiled recently. This melodious track celebrates romance in its most effortless and relatable form. With stunning visuals, the song beautifully captures fleeting emotions, light-hearted banter, and understated intimacy, making it both visually engaging and entertaining.

Featuring Star Chemistry

The music video showcases the chemistry between Vir Das and Mithila Palkar. Their organic connection adds a warm, lived-in quality that enhances the song’s charm. Sung by IP Singh and Nupoor Khedkar, their voices blend seamlessly, making the track even more appealing.

A Fun-Filled Trailer

The trailer for ‘Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos’ has ramped up the excitement. Packed with humor, it features several quirky and entertaining moments, promising a thoroughly enjoyable film experience. As both director and lead actor, Vir Das brings his unique brand of quirky comedy, which is sure to elicit plenty of laughter.

The Storyline

The film centers on Happy Patel, an enthusiastic yet hilariously inept agent who has failed the MI7 spy exams seven times. His misadventures in Goa—including encounters with the police, wild situations, and cultural misunderstandings—form the crux of the comedy.

Star-Studded Cast

The cast also includes Mona Singh, while Aamir Khan and Imran Khan make notable appearances, with Imran returning to the big screen after more than a decade.

Humor Meets Meta-Commentary

Recently unveiled, the trailer hints at a meta-humorous tone that satirizes spy tropes and Bollywood formulas, emphasizing quirky characters and situational chaos. Scheduled for a theatrical release on January 16, 2026, under the Aamir Khan Productions banner, ‘Happy Patel’ is set to deliver a lively mix of laughter, action, and offbeat storytelling, appealing to fans of genre-bending comedies.

Directed by Vir Das and featuring pivotal roles from Mona Singh, Sharib Hashmi, and Mithila Palkar, ‘Happy Patel’ aims to make its mark in the film industry.

Agastya Nanda has expressed that portraying Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, in his debut film “Ikkis” is his most cherished role.

Since Agastya is not active on social media, his sister, Navya Nanda, shared a heartfelt message on his behalf on Instagram. She wrote, “This was, is, and always will be the most special character I got to play. Thank you Arun Khetarpal….Love, Agastya. (sic)”

In previous statements, Agastya highlighted the significant role music played in understanding his character for “Ikkis.” He mentioned, “Music played a huge role in helping me understand my character and its emotional journey. Listening to the complete album now feels like revisiting those moments on set which were honest, emotional, and very close to my heart.”

Recently, Agastya’s co-star Simar Bhatia expressed her gratitude for sharing this journey with him. In a section of her touching social media post, she said, “Aggy, I have grown so fond of you. You are truly incredible in this film. I can’t wait for the world to witness the greatness of 2/Lt Arun Khetarpal through you. Thank you for making this journey feel shared, never lonely.”

Agastya has also received accolades from his grandfather, Amitabh Bachchan, for his performance in the film. Big B referred to Agastya’s acting as “perfection in every shot.” He reminisced about the day Agastya’s mother, Shweta, was rushed to the hospital during her final labor pains.

Amitabh Bachchan shared, “Emotions flow… As do they tonight when you witness the grandson excel in IKKIS… the time when his Mother, Shweta, is being rushed to Breach Candy Hospital as she encounters final labor pains… his birth… holding him barely a few hours later, and discussing whether his eyes were blue.”

He continued, “To the time when he grew a bit and holding him in my arms, and he fiddles with my beard… to his growth… to the final personal decision of his to be an actor. And tonight to see him in frame, unable to take my eyes off each time he fills the frames of the film…”

Filmmaker Vipul Amrutlal Shah’s much-awaited film, “Beyond The Kerala Story,” has finally secured a release date.

The makers, Sunshine Pictures Limited, announced that the movie will hit cinema halls on February 27 this year. They shared a motion poster on social media to reveal the release date, featuring impactful lines:

“They said it was just a story.

They tried to silence it.

They tried to discredit it.

But the truth didn’t stop.

Because some stories don’t end.

This time, it goes deeper.

This time, it hurts more.

Beyond The Kerala Story.”

The caption continued, “…and it continues, Beyond the Kerala Story… Presented by Vipul Amrutlal Shah & Sunshine Pictures. Directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh… Co-produced by Aashin A Shah… In cinemas on 27th February 2026.”

To refresh your memory, the 2023 release “The Kerala Story” sparked widespread discourse across the country and bagged two National Awards for ‘Best Direction’ and ‘Best Cinematography.’ Directed by Sudipto Sen and starring Adah Sharma, the film revolves around the indoctrination of aspiring nurses—two Hindu and one Christian—based on true events from a north Kerala district.

“Beyond The Kerala Story” promises to deliver another hard-hitting narrative, with an emphasis on storytelling and scale. This sequel aims to return to the rawness of real life, highlighting the voices of actual victims and uncovering truths hidden in plain sight within our own neighborhoods.

Produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah under his banner Sunshine Pictures Limited and directed by National Award winner Kamakhya Narayan Singh, “Beyond The Kerala Story” is set for theatrical release on February 27.

National Award-winning filmmaker Sudipto Sen, renowned for his work on “The Kerala Story,” has made headlines with his recent visit to the Nova Massacre Site. This memorial commemorates the tragic October 7, 2023 attacks carried out by the terrorist group Hamas.

Spearheading an Indian delegation of filmmakers, producers, writers, critics, and festival directors, Sen traveled to Israel at the invitation of the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This journey signifies a meaningful moment for cultural and creative exchange.

A Pioneering Visit

What made Sen’s visit particularly remarkable is that he became the first international filmmaker to visit the Nova Massacre Site, located in Israel’s Gaza Envelope. Accompanied by senior film critic and journalist Murtaza Ali Khan, Sen was visibly moved by the grim realities he observed.

He described the site as “a wound, not just a place,” and expressed the emotional toll of hearing accounts from survivors and the families impacted by the tragedy. Sen emphasized that these human stories deserve to be shared openly, beyond the confines of political discussions.

Reflections on Human Suffering

During his visit, Sen remarked, “This place is not merely a location; it is a wound. Listening to survivors and grieving families was a stark reminder of the depth of human suffering. This is the Gaza story the world needs to hear. When you stand here, arguments fade away; only human lives and their truths remain, demanding honesty. I remember visiting the Wailing Wall, and I made sure I prayed for peace for everyone, on every side. Our world needs more truth, deeper compassion, and greater courage.”

Sen further articulated the significance of this journey, stating, “This journey was not simply a filmmaker’s visit—it was a responsibility, a confrontation with truth that I cannot unsee. What I have experienced here will shape the stories I choose to tell.”

Jerusalem Sessions and Global Dialogue

In addition to his visit to the memorial, Sudipto Sen participated in the Jerusalem Sessions, a global forum that welcomed prominent Hollywood filmmakers, producers, and content creators. The discussions examined cinema’s responsibility, counter-terror narratives, and the impact of storytelling on global understanding, particularly amid conflicts. Sen described these exchanges as intense and meaningful, also hinting at future film projects.

He visited the Wailing Wall, where he offered prayers for peace and compassion, reflecting on the urgent need for truth, courage, and empathy in today’s world.

Recognition from Israeli Officials

Israeli officials praised Sen’s presence and clarity of purpose, recognizing his visit as a strong testament to India’s growing influence in global cultural dialogues. They underscored that this journey transcended cinema, evolving into a form of moral witnessing.

Actress Yami Gautam, who proudly embraces her pahadi roots, recently shared a snapshot of her cozy winter indulgence with her sister Surili, referring to it as her “perfect combo.”

Yami posted on Instagram, offering a glimpse into a serene moment at home. In the heartwarming scene, she is seen engaged in a heartfelt conversation with Surili, sipping on hot tea and enjoying panjiri laddoos, all set against a peaceful sylvan backdrop.

She emphasized her comfort during the colder months with the caption: “Baatein + Panjiri Ladoo + Chai = Perfect combo #healthypanjiriladoos #winterlove #pahadis.”

Recently, Yami appeared in “Haq,” a courtroom drama directed by Suparn Verma. The film stars Emraan Hashmi and Sheeba Chaddha in pivotal roles and is inspired by the landmark Supreme Court judgment of Mohd. Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum, which addresses matrimonial issues in Muslim households.

The film reportedly draws elements from journalist Jigna Vora’s book “Bano: Bharat ki Beti” and has faced pre-release legal controversy regarding its portrayal of the Shah Bano case.

Last month, Yami wrote a note for her husband Aditya Dhar and the team behind “Dhurandhar,” calling them some of the “hardest working and finest people” she has known. In her enthusiastic caption, she declared: “And it’s DHURANDHAR DAY today!!!! Some of the hardest working & gem of people that I know & proud to call them my family!!! You have given all your heart, devotion, dedication, intent, passion, sweat, blood, tears (which you never show) to this film, Aditya!!!”

Yami expressed her emotions further, saying: “Too many emotions running today, many hearts beating together!!! You guys are Dhurandhars in your own might. DHURANDHAR is not a parting gift of 2025 but is here to welcome 2026 for all of us across the globe. Ab yeh aapki film hai, audience. Jai Hind,” she added.

“Dhurandhar” is a star-studded saga inspired by incredible true events, set against the gritty backdrop of the criminal underworld intertwined with Indian patriotism, featuring thrilling action sequences, Shakespearean betrayals, and espionage tradecraft.

The film’s plot is loosely based on Operation Lyari, a government-led crackdown targeting local gangs and crime syndicates in the Lyari area of Karachi, Pakistan.

Actress Jiya Shankar is back in the spotlight, this time due to her personal life. Recently, she quashed rumors of her engagement with ‘Bigg Boss OTT 2’ co-contestant Abhishek Malhan and shared a romantic photograph with an unknown man.

As speculation about this mystery man intensifies, Jiya’s team has stepped in to request privacy. They emphasize that the actress does not want to be part of “publicity stunts or manufactured narratives.”

In their statement, they said, “We as representatives of Jiya have always maintained a clear and consistent stance. She does not engage in publicity stunts or manufactured narratives. Our only intent was to address the rumors and the trolls, not to spark unnecessary debates.”

They further stated that a credible artist like Jiya, whose body of work speaks for itself, has never relied on controversy for momentum.

“Her focus remains firmly on her craft, personal growth, and the life she has consciously chosen to build with integrity and independence. She is content, secure, and grateful for the love she receives, while choosing to share only what aligns with her values. We urge conversations to remain respectful, positive, and centered on meaningful work rather than speculation — Regards, Team Jiya Shankar,” they concluded.

Both Jiya and Abhishek recently addressed the engagement rumors, with Jiya clarifying on social media that she is neither dating nor engaged to him.

Abhishek also reacted to the linking of his name with Jiya in a social media post, stating, “I want to make one thing very clear, please stop linking my name with anyone.” He noted that he participated in ‘Bigg Boss OTT 2’ three years ago and that his chapter with Jiya ended there.

The makers of director Badrappa Gajula’s upcoming entertainer, featuring actress Anupama Parameswaran in the lead, have announced the film’s title as ‘Crazy Kalyanam’.

The title poster, unveiled recently, showcases a vibrant and festive mood, hinting at a film packed with humor, emotions, and cultural elements. The visual design suggests a wedding-centric narrative blended with high-energy entertainment. (gulte.com)

The film stars Dr. Naresh Vijayakrishna, Anupama Parameswaran, Tharun Bhascker, and Akhil Raj Uddemari in prominent roles. It is written and directed by Badrappa Gajula and produced by Boosam Jagan Mohan Reddy. Music is composed by Suresh Bobbili, with cinematography by Shyam Dupati. The film is currently under production. (gulte.com)

Anupama Parameswaran has been actively involved in various projects, including the Tamil film ‘Dragon’ and the Malayalam film ‘Janaki V vs State of Kerala’. She has also been vocal about issues like cyberbullying, taking legal action against individuals spreading false content about her and her family. (filmibeat.com)

Fans are eagerly awaiting ‘Crazy Kalyanam’, anticipating a wholesome cinematic experience aimed at family audiences.