Have you heard? Rana as Shahid’s nemesis 

Shahid Kapoor and Rana Daggubati

Earlier this March, news appeared about Shahid Kapoor being signed on to play Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in OMG 2 director Amit Rai's next. While the period drama is slated to go on floors by this year-end, we now hear that producers Dil Raju and Wakaoo Films are contemplating bringing Rana Daggubati onboard to essay the antagonist, Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Reportedly, talks with the south-based actor have begun, and things will be finalised after all the production logistics are in place. Sasha is also said to be pleased with Rana being Amit's first choice to play his onscreen nemesis. While the movie is not a biopic on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, sources claim that the narrative revolves around the Maratha King's escape from Auragzeb's captivity. The final draft of the screenplay is complete, and Shahid will begin extensive prep for his role when the production schedule is finalised. It will be interesting to see how Rana portrays the Mughal emperor.

Kangana questions her detractors

Kangana Ranaut getting slapped by CISF constable Kulwinder Kaur at Chandigarh airport continues to evoke polarised responses. Hitting back at her detractors, like Vishal Dadlani, the actor questioned if those supporting the attack on her would also be okay if someone was "raped or murdered." In a social media post, she stated, "Every rapist, murderer, or thief always has a strong emotional, physical, psychological, or financial reason to commit a crime; no crime ever happens without a reason, yet they are convicted and sentenced to jail. If you are aligned with the criminals' strong emotional impulse to commit a crime, violating all laws of the land, remember, if you are okay with breaking into someone's intimate zone without their permission, touching their bodies, and assaulting them, then deep down you are okay with rape or murder. You must look deeper into your psychological criminal tendencies." Kangana concluded her post by requesting people to take up yoga and meditation rather than letting life become a bitter and burdensome experience. "Don't carry so much grudge, hate, and jealousy. Free yourself,"
she added.

Adieu, Ramoji Rao

Media baron Ramoji Rao, 87, who also founded the Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, passed away yesterday. Last Wednesday, he was rushed to Star Hospital due to high blood pressure and breathlessness. His body was shifted to his residence in Ramoji Film City for prominent political leaders and film personalities to pay their last respects. Rao founded Usha Kiran Movies in 1983. He also produced Riteish Deshmukh's debut film, Tujhe Meri Kasam (2003). Rao started Ramoji Film City in 1996. It is the largest studio in the world, complete with shooting, production, and post-production facilities.

Party's on!

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's second pre-wedding celebration on the cruise had a lot of guests from B-Town. Shah Rukh Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, comedian Russell Peters, who also performed on the cruise, global business bosses like Jeff Bezos, renowned Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli, and politicians like Uddhav Thackeray were in attendance. Apparently, the night began with a masquerade party, which ended with Katy Perry's performance. One evening was dedicated to a La Dolce Vita-themed night, with everyone dressed to give off an Italian vibe. While the party made news for its oppulance, it has reportedly rubbed several business owners in Portofino the wrong way. Apparently, locals and police were enraged by the loud music and bad manners on display at the wedding party.