Category: Entertainment

Actor Mona Singh, whose career spans television, cinema, and digital platforms, reflects on the first 25 years of the 21st century as a significant period of personal growth and transformation within the entertainment industry.

Describing her journey, Mona shared that it has been defined by learning and gratitude. “Personally, it’s been a journey of constant learning and gratitude. I’ve grown with the industry, as an actor and as a person. I’ve been fortunate to play characters that allowed me to evolve, challenge myself, and stay relevant across mediums. I feel thankful to still be here, still excited, still curious,” she expressed.

From becoming a household name with her role in the 2003 show Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin to making a lasting impression in films like 3 Idiots, Munna Bhai M.B.B.S., and Laal Singh Chaddha, Mona has consistently adapted to the evolving formats and storytelling styles.

Her recent work in the series The Ba**ds of Bollywood** further showcased her ability to portray complex and contemporary characters with ease.

When asked about the change that surprised her the most, Mona remarked, “What surprised me the most was how quickly the industry embraced change. OTT platforms opened up a whole new world for actors and storytellers, and suddenly age, genre, and format didn’t matter anymore.” She added, “Also, the way audiences connect directly with artists now, through social media, is something I never imagined in the late 90s.”

Reflecting on Bollywood’s evolution over the past 25 years, Mona identified the most significant shift as being in storytelling. “When I look back at the first 25 years of this century, the biggest change I see is in storytelling. Stories have become far more real, layered, and fearless. We’re no longer afraid to explore uncomfortable emotions or grey characters.”

She emphasized that technology has radically transformed the way films are shot and presented. “But what excites me most is how the audience has evolved. Viewers today are curious, sharp, and open to all kinds of stories—big, small, commercial, or niche. That shift has been beautiful to witness.”

As this quarter-century comes to a close, the actress shared that she will remember this time for courage. Explaining her choice, she said, “I’ll remember these 25 years for courage—the courage to tell new stories, to break stereotypes, to reinvent ourselves. I’ll remember the love of the audience, the friendships formed on sets, and the joy of doing work that continues to matter.”

“Most of all, I’ll remember how cinema kept changing, and how I changed with it.”

Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore recently shared her thoughts on the ongoing debate surrounding nepotism in the film industry. She believes it is quite natural for children to be influenced by their parents’ professions, whether they are doctors, lawyers, painters, or musicdigihunt.

In a conversation with her daughter Soha Ali Khan on the podcast “ALL ABOUT HER,” Sharmila was prompted to differentiate between nepotism and legacy. She illustrated her point by mentioning how Soha’s daughter, Inaaya, observes her mother at work. “Now, Inaaya is growing up with you; she sees you getting ready. If you are doing a podcast, she is interested, so obviously, she is getting influenced. It is like everybody does – like a doctor’s children, lawyer’s children, painter’s children, so they all look up to their parents and they all want to emulate them; there is nothing wrong with that,” Sharmila explained.

Moreover, she emphasized that while a prominent figure might secure their child a first opportunity in the industry, ultimately, acceptance as an artist depends on the audience. If an influential person has substantial clout, they might secure a second chance for their child, but that represents the limits of their influence.

Sharmila also discussed the financial risks producers take when casting actors. “If you call it nepotism, maybe producers have to spend a lot of money on advertising. They can say, ‘so and so’s son… so and so’s daughter,’ so it is already a little well-known, but after the first film, nobody can push that person,” she added.

Actress Khushi Kapoor recently wished her sister Anshula Kapoor a happy birthday, describing her as the “best human.”

Khushi shared a heartfelt post on the Stories section of her official Instagram account, featuring a photo of herself affectionately hugging Anshula at what appeared to be a party. In the snap, she looks to be giving her big sister a sweet kiss.

“Happy birthday to the best human @anshulaKapoor,” she captioned the touching birthday wish.

To provide some context, Anshula and actor Arjun Kapoor are children of Boney Kapoor and his first wife, Mona Shourie. Janhvi and Khushi Kapoor are their half-sisters, born of Boney’s second marriage to the late actress Sridevi.

During Anshula’s recent Ghor Dhana ceremony, both Khushi and Janhvi were actively involved in their bridesmaid duties. Anshula shared a clip on her Instagram where Janhvi was seen tying a Paranda to her hair, with Khushi lending a helping hand.

Expressing gratitude to her sisters, Anshula posted an emotional note on social media, thanking them for being her “soft place to land” on her special day. She wrote, “Didn’t know how much I needed their quiet kind of love until I had it. The kind that doesn’t need words – just a hug at the right time, a hand that reaches to hold mine, a look that says ‘we’ve got you’. The kind that shows up softly, but stays loud in my heart.”

She further added, “My sounding boards, my built-in cheerleaders, my unspoken comfort. Thank you for being my soft place to land, always. ILY my @janhvikapoor @khushikapoor (white heart emoji).”

Anshula is also preparing for her upcoming wedding to Rohan Thakkar. The two met on a dating app in 2022 and enjoyed a long conversation that lasted the entire night. After three years of dating, Rohan proposed to her in New York.

Veteran actor Raza Murad took a moment to remember Bollywood legend Rajesh Khanna, reflecting on the superstar’s remarkable achievement of delivering sixteen consecutive hit films.

Cherished Memories

Murad fondly recalled how Khanna, affectionately known as ‘Kaka,’ captured the hearts of the nation with his unparalleled charm, talent, and screen presence, leaving an enduring legacy in Indian cinema. On his Instagram handle, Raza Murad shared a throwback photo of them, writing, “Today is the birthday anniversary of kaka ji, the phenomenal superstar, Rajesh Khanna, who took the entire country under his spell by giving sixteen hits consecutively, a record which could never be surpassed.”

He added, “I had the privilege of sharing screen space with kakaji in Namak Halaal (1973). I have some very fond memories with him during the making of this classic movie.”

Tribute from Jackie Shroff

On Rajesh Khanna’s 83rd birth anniversary, veteran actor Jackie Shroff also paid a heartfelt tribute to the iconic star by dedicating the legendary song “Chala Jata Hoon” from the 1972 classic “Mere Jeevan Saathi.” Jackie captioned his post: “Always in our hearts… Remembering Rajesh Khanna ji on his birth anniversary.”

A Cinematic Legacy

Rajesh Khanna began his illustrious acting career in 1966 with “Aakhri Khat,” which became India’s official entry to the Academy Awards in 1967. Fondly called “RK,” “Shehzada,” “King of Romance,” and “Pasha of Passion,” he emerged as a defining figure in Bollywood.

His filmography boasts memorable titles such as “Aradhana,” “Anand,” “Amar Prem,” “Kati Patang,” “Haathi Mere Saathi,” “Safar,” “Do Raaste,” and “Sachaa Jhutha.” Known for his romantic roles, Khanna achieved a record of 17 consecutive hits in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Rajesh Khanna passed away on July 18, 2012, at his Mumbai residence “Aashirwad,” after battling cancer since July 2011. His final film, Riyasat, starring Gauri Kulkarni, Aryan Vaid, Aryeman Ramsay, and Raza Murad, was released posthumously on July 18, 2014, two years after his demise.

Actress Sameera Reddy has shared another healthy yet delicious recipe for banana stem and dal curry, which she claims is highly beneficial for gut health.

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 banana stem (cleaned, finely chopped & soaked)
• ¼ cup dal (toor or moong)
• Curry leaves
• 1 tsp turmeric
• Mustard seeds
• Ghee (for tempering)
• ½ cup fresh grated coconut
• 1 green chilli
• 1 Kashmiri chilli
• 1 tsp whole jeera
• Salt to taste

Recipe Instructions:

1. Begin by pressure cooking the banana stem and dal together with some turmeric and salt. It’s generally recommended to cook for about 6 whistles, though the timing may vary based on the tenderness of the stem.

2. Next, grind the coconut along with the green chilli and jeera to form a smooth paste.

3. Heat ghee in a pan and add spluttered mustard seeds, Kashmiri chilli, and curry leaves for tempering. Pour this tempering into the cooked banana stem-dal mixture.

4. Finally, combine everything with the coconut paste and boil for a few minutes until well mixed.

In her post, the ‘De Dana Dan’ actress highlighted the benefits of this curry:

• Rich in fiber & iron – helps reduce fatigue
• Supports hormonal balance
• Excellent for gut health & detox
• Helps reduce bloating & water retention
• Aids in weight management
• Supports menstrual health
• Helps regulate blood sugar
• Promotes calm mood & digestion

Sameera also emphasized that the fibrous strings from the banana stem that may remain after cooking should be removed and not consumed, as they can be difficult to digest. “Removing them helps keep the curry light, smooth, and gut-friendly,” she added.

Actress Kajol took to social media on Monday to wish Twinkle Khanna a very happy birthday in the sweetest manner.

A Special Bond

Describing Twinkle as her “partner in crime,” Kajol shared a delightful image showcasing their close relationship and playful camaraderie. Alongside the picture, the ‘Dilwale’ actress wrote, “Happy Birthday to my partner in crime @twinklekhanna,” along with a red heart emoji. The candid shot features both of them smiling while posing together.

Memorable Moments

In the photo, Kajol and Twinkle twinned in stylish black outfits, captured during their popular talk show, “Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle,” where they invite celebrities and discuss various fun topics. The finale of Season 1 of the show aired on November 13, featuring Kriti Sanon and Vicky Kaushal.

Celebrating a Milestone

On December 29, Twinkle celebrated her 52nd birthday, receiving warm wishes from her friends and family on social media. The daughter of Bollywood legends Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia, she made her acting debut opposite Bobby Deol in the 1995 romantic drama “Barsaat,” which was a box-office success and earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut.

Twinkle went on to feature in several Hindi films, including “Jab Pyaar Kisise Hota Hai,” “Baadshah,” and “Mela,” and also worked in a few Telugu films before stepping away from acting in 2001. Her last on-screen role was in the 2001 Hindi film “Love Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega.” After that, she decided to leave acting, sharing that she no longer enjoyed it and found the constant spotlight overwhelming. Khanna has openly expressed that acting never truly interested her and that she felt it wasn’t the right path for her.

Personal Life

On the personal front, Twinkle married actor Akshay Kumar on January 17, 2001. The couple is blessed with two children, Aarav and Nitara.

The makers of the highly anticipated film ‘Drishyam 3’ are moving forward with production, preparing to kick off the Goa schedule after successfully completing the Mumbai segment. This news comes amid the ongoing controversy regarding Akshaye Khanna’s exit from the film, following negotiations about his remuneration.

New Addition to the Cast

Joining the ‘Drishyam’ franchise is actor Jaideep Ahlawat, known for his intense screen presence and nuanced performances. His involvement promises to inject a compelling new energy into the ‘Drishyam’ universe, creating a fresh and unpredictable dynamic as the story unfolds.

Filming Details

Filming in Goa is scheduled to begin on January 8, with the production expected to continue until the end of February. The entire cast, including Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor, will participate in this edge-of-the-seat family thriller.

Controversy Over Akshaye Khanna’s Exit

In an unexpected turn, Akshaye Khanna, who has captivated audiences with his recent performances, has opted out of ‘Drishyam 3’. This decision has sparked significant discussion within the industry. Reports indicate that the split arose from disagreements related to both remuneration and creative aspects of his role. Khanna reportedly sought a considerable fee increase, with figures around INR 21 crore mentioned, a demand that the makers found challenging to accommodate within their budget.

Additionally, creative differences emerged regarding the character’s appearance, notably a dispute about Khanna wearing a wig for continuity, which the producers and director deemed impractical for a sequel context.

Production Team and Release Date

Presented by Star Studio18 and produced by Panorama Studios, ‘Drishyam 3’ is directed by Abhishek Pathak and involves a writing team of Abhishek Pathak, Aamil Keeyan Khan, and Parveez Shaikh. The film is produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Kumar Mangat Pathak, and Pathak himself. The theatrical release is slated for October 2, 2026.

Bollywood icon Madhuri Dixit recently shared her heartfelt experiences while working with the legendary actor Dharmendra.

In an exclusive interview, she reminisced about her early career as a junior alongside him and expressed admiration for his humility. Dixit praised Dharmendra for never letting his success overshadow his kind nature. She noted his unwavering encouragement toward others and his passion for poetry, describing him as not only a remarkable actor but also a true gentleman.

Remembering the legendary figure, Madhuri Dixit said, “I have done one film with him and we were like juniors, literally like we were like little babies and he was a thorough gentleman—very sweet, well-spoken, and very down-to-earth. He never took his success seriously.”

She added, “You would always see him praising others. He would always encourage everyone and he loved poetry. He loved to write poetry. So, he used to recite some of his poems to us. What a handsome man! I always thought he was one of the most handsome men in the industry, and it’s a big loss to the industry.”

Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. He had been battling age-related health issues for several months and had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. Following his discharge, he continued his treatment at home but sadly, breathed his last just 12 days later.

In the wake of his passing, Madhuri Dixit took to social media to pay tribute to the late superstar. She wrote, “An icon who defined grace, strength, and humility. Dharamji, your loss leaves a void that can never be filled. Your legacy goes beyond the screen; it lives in the love and admiration of millions. Your remarkable body of work, your humility, and your ever-endearing spirit have left an indelible mark on this industry. Thank you for inspiring, entertaining, and touching hearts across decades. Forever remembered, forever cherished.”

Actress and content creator Anushka Sen’s debut single, “Chameleon,” has made its mark in New York City’s iconic Times Square.

A Dream Come True

Anushka expressed her excitement by sharing a video of the song showcased on a prominent billboard in the bustling area. She took to Instagram to convey her joy, stating, “We got featured in New York City Times Square!!!! 🇺🇸 Chameleon Music video featuring on the billboard of NYC in the middle of Times Square is such a dream come true! And to be there to witness it live was wonderful, every hour for a special moment, truly unbelievable! Thank you for the love always. Keep streaming my first single Chameleon, out everywhere (sic).”

A Notable Collaboration

“Chameleon” also marks Anushka’s first collaboration with Grammy-winning American producer Ken Lewis, who has worked with leading global artists like Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, and Kanye West.

Reflecting on her musical journey, Anushka previously remarked, “Music has been woven into my life for as long as I can remember, but I never truly imagined I would one day create a song of my own and put it out into the world.” She described “Chameleon” as a creation that emerged during a period of introspection about her identity and aspirations. “It’s a song born out of change, the kind of change that feels scary but necessary. Throughout my life, people have expected me to stay in one mould or continue doing only what I’m known for, but I’ve never believed in limiting myself like that,” she added.

Recording the Experience

The song was recorded during Anushka’s recent trip to the USA. She also shared that a significant aspect of this dream is rooted in her childhood. “A big part of this dream comes from my childhood. I grew up around music; my mother has been my earliest teacher, and she’s the person who quietly planted this love for singing in me.”

Actress Krystle D’Souza has shared her unforgettable experience working with Ranveer Singh in the film “Dhurandhar.”

In an exclusive conversation, she explained how the superstar significantly boosted her confidence. Krystle highlighted that Ranveer’s energy, focus, and encouragement made her feel prepared to launch her song “Shararat” on stage. She described the entire experience as “amazing.”

She elaborated, “I think, you know, Ranveer is a very dedicated, focused actor, and he was most of the time in his character. During the two days that I shot, he was completely into his role.” She added, “When the music launch happened and the film was done, he was Ranveer Singh. The energy, the vibe, the confidence he gave me so I could be on that stage launching my song was incredible. It was such a beautiful experience.”

Krystle D’Souza, alongside Ayesha Khan, features in the song “Shararat” from “Dhurandhar,” which is sung by Jasmine Sandlas and Madhubanti Bagchi.

The ‘Chehra’ actress also reflected on how what started as a small role in the film turned into a significant milestone. She expressed gratitude for the chance to be part of an ensemble cast with some of the industry’s most respected names.

“Honestly, this feels like a dream. Sharing screen space with Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, and R. Madhavan is a huge deal for me. I didn’t know how much footage or screen time I would get in the song, but I said yes because I heard the film had an impressive cast with many incredible actors. I wanted to be a part of it, even in a small capacity. I’m truly happy that what began as a small opportunity turned into something really big for me,” Krystle stated.

“Dhurandhar,” directed by Aditya Dhar, features Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, Sara Arjun, Rakesh Bedi, and others. The action thriller was released in theatres on December 5.