Sky Force was released yesterday, and it has come as a relief to Akshay Kumar as the film has shown a good start at the box office. The film, which marks the big Bollywood debut of Veer Pahariya, has shown a decent opening. Early reports suggest that the movie earned about Rs 11 crore on its opening day. The initial trend indicates a positive start, which comes as the biggest relief for Akshay Kumar, considering his recent track record at the box office. Sky Force’s box office collection According to Sanilk, the site that tracks box office reports for films, Sky Force earned Rs 11.25 crore (net) on its opening day. The movie was made on a relatively modest budget of Rs 160 crore. After Sooryavanshi's release in 2021, this is one of Akshay Kumar’s films that has shown positive growth at the box office. His last few releases, including Khel Khel Mein, Sarfira, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, Mission Raniganj, Selfiee, Ram Setu, Raksha Bandhan, Samrat Prithviraj, and Bachchhan Paandey, all failed to make a mark at the box office. What is Sky Force about? Sky Force is based on real-life events and draws its inspiration from the air war between the Indian and Pakistani Air Forces during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. The story also touches upon the life of Squadron Leader Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya. In 1965, Pakistan attacked several Indian air bases, including Pathankot, Halwara, and Adampur. After this attack by the Pakistani Army, India conducted its first-ever airstrike against Pakistan and targeted one of the most guarded air bases in Asia, Sargodha. During this operation, while the Indian aircraft were making their way home, Squadron Leader Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya’s aircraft was shot down by an enemy aircraft, and he went missing. Akshay Kumar will reportedly be seen playing the role of Group Captain O.P. Taneja, leader of the 13-aircraft contingent, in Sky Force. Meanwhile, Veer, who has been named T. Vijaya in the film, will portray the role of Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya. The movie will also star Sara Ali Khan in a pivotal role, with the actress playing Veer Pahariya’s wife in the film.
25 January,2025 07:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentYesterday, reports came in that Mamta Kulkarni, the former Bollywood actor, has been appointed as Mahamandleshwar of the Kinnar Akhada during the Maha Kumbh last evening. Now, as Mamta has embarked on this new journey, transgender Kathavachak Jagatguru Himangi Sakhi Maa has spoken about this decision. Himangi questioned the credibility of this decision and talked about Mamta's controversial past. -She was even jailed In conversation with ANI, Himangi said, "Mamta Kulkarni has been made Mahamandleshwar by the Kinnar Akhada for publicity. Society knows her past very well. She was even jailed in the past in connection with drug cases. Suddenly, she arrives in India, participates in the Maha Kumbh, and is given the position of Mahamandleshwar. This needs investigation." She further continued and said, "By giving such a person the title of Mahamandleshwar, what kind of guru are you offering to Sanatan Dharma? This is a question of ethics. Someone who isn't worthy of being called a guru is being made one." Laxmi Narayan addressed media Yesterday, after Mamta became a Mahamandleshwar in the Kinnar Akhada, Laxmi Narayan, Acharya Mahamandleshwar of Kinnar Akhada, addressed the media and shared, "Kinnar Akhada is going to make Mamta Kulkarni (former Bollywood actress) a Mahamandleshwar. She is now named Shri Yamai Mamta Nandgiri.” While Mamta will be renamed Shri Yamai Mamta Nandgiri, Laxmi also revealed that Mamta is not prohibited from working. While the community doesn’t prohibit performing arts, she will be allowed to do any spiritual role. In conversation with ANI, Laxmi further revealed, “As I am talking here, all the rituals are underway. She has been in touch with Kinnar Akhada and me for the last one and a half years. She is allowed to perform the character of any devotional figure if she wants, as we do not prohibit anyone from performing their art.” About Mamta Kulkarni & Her Career Mamta Kulkarni recently returned to Mumbai after a long gap of around 25 years. The actress stepped away from the limelight following her controversy with drug lord Vicky Goswami. Mamta appeared in several commercially successful Hindi films such as Ram Lakhan, Waqt Hamara Hai, Krantiveer, Karan Arjun, Sabse Bada Khiladi, Andolan, and Baazi. Her last Bollywood film was released in 2002. Her 1995 film Karan Arjun, which also stars Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Kajol, was re-released in Hindi cinemas on November 22. The film revolves around the story of two titular brothers who seek revenge against their greedy uncle for murdering their father but are killed by him and reincarnated to complete the revenge.
25 January,2025 05:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDivya Dutta, who has worked with Amitabh Bachchan in several films, met him very recently during the grand birthday bash of Javed Akhtar. During their meeting, Divya got a chance to click a few pictures with one of the biggest superstars of the industry. Now, Dutta has taken to her Instagram to pen a long and heartfelt note for Big B as she expressed her love and admiration for him. Divya Dutta shares heartfelt message to Amitabh Bachchan Divya shared a picture with Big B that has her sitting near him. In the picture, Divya can be seen slaying a brown kurta look paired with big oxidized earrings, while Amitabh Bachchan was spreading his charm in a red printed jacket. While sharing this picture on her Instagram, Divya wrote, "I could never describe in words what he means to me... how watching him weave his magic on the big screen gave me a connection with the world of movies, how doing 4 films with him (shared screen space in Baghban and Last Lear) left me yearning for more... how generous he has always been..." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Divya Dutta (@divyadutta25) She further continued and shared, "How will I ever forget his prompt response to launch my book on Ma (truly special), and how whenever I meet him, there’s so much I want to say... par all I do is feel that immense joy of just being with him... Just to say... thank you @amitabhbachchan sir... for being who you are... always wishing you lots of love n regards..." About Javed Akhtar’s bday bash Javed Akhtar turned 80 on January 17, and it was a grand celebration with Farhan Akhtar, daughter Zoya Akhtar, wife Shabana Azmi, Vidya Balan, Urmila Matondkar, Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, and Aamir Khan marking their attendance at the celebration. Earlier, Urmila Matondkar had shared a series of inside pictures from the celebration. Urmila, while sharing the pictures from the grand bash, wrote, "An absolute epic day that it was... with some of the best talents our industry has!! An afternoon full of love, laughter, affection, admiration, and great camaraderie 🥰❤️Because it was a special birthday of someone very special to all of us... ‘Jaadu’ in the real sense, as the entire nation is spellbound with his words for decades... #oneandonly @jaduakhtar ❤️ Thank you, dearest @azmishabana18, for these awesome moments which truly enrich my life."
25 January,2025 04:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood has a way of touching our hearts. Its stories inspire us, its characters stay with us, and its moments feel like our own memories. This Republic Day, Tata Play Bollywood Premiere on #305 brings you a lineup of films that echo the spirit of the day—stories of justice, courage, and the will of ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Whether it’s the thrill of courtroom drama, tales of sacrifice, or the raw emotions of human relationships, these movies reflect the values we hold close as a nation. This is a celebration of the cinema we love. So, grab a spot and let these blockbusters take you on a journey you won’t forget. Satyamev Jayate 2 - 11:00 AM In this gripping action drama, John Abraham delivers a double dose of patriotism and justice as Satya and Jay, two brothers with fiery ideals. Directed by Milap Zaveri, the film explores themes of corruption and societal reform, with iconic dialogues like “Tan Man Dhan se badhkar Jan Man Gan.” Supported by Divya Khosla Kumar’s heartfelt performance and a powerful soundtrack, the film’s high-octane action sequences and emotional core strike a chord with audiences. A tribute to the spirit of justice, Satyamev Jayate 2 is a must-watch. Section 375 - 1:15 PM This courtroom drama is as riveting as it is thought-provoking, tackling the complex interplay between law, morality, and justice. Akshaye Khanna shines as a sharp, no-nonsense defence lawyer, while Richa Chadha complements him with a powerful portrayal of a public prosecutor driven by a sense of duty. Directed by Ajay Bahl, Section 375 is a masterclass in storytelling, with its screenplay taking three years of research and 29 drafts to perfect, resulting in a narrative that explores the delicate balance between law and justice. The film’s layered storytelling keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Batla House - 3:15 PM Inspired by real events, Batla House tells the gripping story of one of India’s most controversial police encounters. John Abraham plays DCP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav, a man torn between duty and public scrutiny. Directed by Nikkhil Advani, the film stands out as John Abraham spent significant time with the real DCP to capture the complex duality of his personality—shy off duty, but transforming completely on the job. With its raw intensity and patriotic undertones, Batla House is a must-watch for Republic Day. Sardar Udham Singh - 5:30 PM This masterpiece brings the story of one of India’s greatest revolutionaries to life. Vicky Kaushal delivers a career-defining performance as Sardar Udham Singh, whose quest for justice following the Jallianwala Bagh massacre shook the British Empire. Directed by Shoojit Sircar, the film is a testament to exceptional storytelling and cinematic excellence. Winner of the National Film Award for Best Hindi Feature Film (2023) and Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor (2022), the film has been widely celebrated for its narrative and Vicky’s emotionally charged portrayal. Perfect for Republic Day, Sardar Udham Singh is a tribute to the sacrifices that shaped India’s history. Raazi - 8:00 PM In Raazi, Alia Bhatt delivers a performance of a lifetime as Sehmat Khan, a young Kashmiri woman who becomes an undercover spy to serve her nation. Directed by Meghna Gulzar, this emotionally charged thriller captures the courage and sacrifice of an ordinary woman navigating extraordinary circumstances. Set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the film’s powerful narrative won the Filmfare Award for Best Film (2019) and Best Director (Meghna Gulzar). Alia’s portrayal earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Actress and the IIFA Award for Best Actress, solidifying her status as one of Bollywood’s finest talents. With unforgettable dialogues like “Watan ke aage kuch nahi,” Raazi is a heartfelt tribute to all unsung heroes of India. This film makes for a perfect conclusion as it celebrates the spirit of patriotism like no other.
25 January,2025 03:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood actor Shahid Kapoor, who is gearing up for the release of his upcoming film Deva recounted being a part of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s period drama Padmaavat in 2018. In an interview on Raj Shamani’s podcast, Shahid got candid about how he was made to feel “lesser” on sets and also shared that he would never want his kids to become actors. Shahid Kapoor was made to feel ‘lesser’ on the sets of Padmaavat Without naming the film, Shahid Kapoor shared, “This happened right before Kabir Singh. I don’t want to get into specifics, but I was made to feel like I am lesser, as an artist, as a star, as an individual. I was put in a situation where I was made to feel like I am lesser. And I would never accept that. And I fought it because I am a survivor. Through my journey of 21 years, I have learned that I am a survivor and I can get out of such difficult situations.” Interestingly, Padmaavat was re-released on January 24. It is based on the epic poem by Malik Muhammad Jayasi and sheds light on the tale of Rani Padmavati, a legendary Rajput queen, portrayed by Deepika Padukone. The film tells the story of her beauty, valour, and the ruthless attempts of Sultan Alauddin Khilji, played by Ranveer Singh, to conquer her kingdom. Shahid Kapoor also starred as Maharawal Ratan Singh, Padmavati's devoted husband. Shahid Kapoor doesn’t want his kids to become actors Shahid Kapoor also revealed that he does not want his kids Misha and Zain to do his job. He stated, “Kaafi saari cheeze hai, that I do not want them to take from me, I want them to be more confident inherently, which I think they both are. I wasn't inherently that confident. Ideally, I wouldn't want them to do my job, picture mein mat aana yaar. Kuch aur karo, Bohot up and down hota hai yaar, bohot rough hai. (Don’t get into acting. Do something else. There are many ups and downs, it’s very rough) If they want to, it's their choice, but I would be like choose something simple, this is too complex.”
25 January,2025 02:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor-comedian Kapil Sharma announced the much-awaited sequel to the hit comedy Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon. The film has officially gone on floors in Mumbai. Starring Kapil in the lead role, the film promises to deliver another dose of laughter and chaos. It is directed by Anukalp Goswami and produced by Ratan Jain, Ganesh Jain, and Abbas-Mustan under Venus Worldwide Entertainment in association with Abbas Mustan Film Production. Manjot Singh joins Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 The film marks Kapil's reunion with the legendary duo Abbas-Mustan, who helmed the first installment. Their collaboration delivered a laughter riot, and fans are thrilled to see the magic unfold again. Joining the cast this time is the talented Manjot Singh, known for his impeccable comic timing. With this combination of seasoned humor and fresh energy, the sequel promises to be an even bigger entertainer. The first part featured Arbaaz Khan, Sai Lokur, Manjari Fadnis, Elli Avram, Simran Kaur Mundi, and Varun Sharma. Kapil Sharma receives death threats The film’s announcement comes days after Kapil Sharma received death threats, reportedly from Pakistan. Besides Kapil, Rajpal Yadav and Remo D’Souza were also targetted. “We have been monitoring your recent activities, and we believe it is imperative that we bring a sensitive matter to your attention. This is not a publicity stunt or an attempt to harass you,” the email said, asking them to “treat this message with the utmost seriousness and confidentiality.” Preliminary inquiry suggested that the mail, sent from the mail ID '[email protected]', was sent from Pakistan, a Mumbai police official told PTI. Kapil first gained widespread attention with his victory on The Great Indian Laughter Challenge 3 and went on to star in hit comedy shows like Comedy Circus. However, it was the 'Comedy Nights with Kapil' show that made him one of India's most prominent comedians. In addition to his television career, Sharma has also ventured into the film industry with roles in movies such as 'Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon', 'Firangi', 'Zwigato', and 'Crew'. More recently, he launched 'The Great Indian Kapil Show' on Netflix, which has attracted a star-studded lineup of celebrities, including Aamir Khan, and Ranbir Kapoor among others.
25 January,2025 01:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs they completed ten years of marital bliss on January 25, actors Soha Ali Khan and Kunal Kemmu shared heartfelt posts for each other on their wedding anniversary. The couple is celebrating this milestone in Japan with a romantic holiday. They are accompanied by daughter Inaaya and the other power couple Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa. Kunal and Soha’s posts on 10th wedding anniversary Soha took to her Instagram feed, where she shared a reel video featuring the precious moments they have spent together. The clip begins with the couple’s day of marriage. They are seen reading out the vows to each other. The video then moves ahead to the various places they have traveled, the experiences they have shared, and Soha’s pregnancy days. “Ten years later ... I still do, and I always will,” Soha wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Soha (@sakpataudi) Kunal dedicated the son Tennu Le from his 2009 film Jai Veeru and wrote, "In sunshine, in rain. In happiness, in pain. You make the cold seem warmer, and you make the odd seem sane. It would be incomplete, this journey called life, if I didn’t have you as my partner, my wife @sakpataudi. Happy 10th Anniversary, my jaan." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kunal Kemmu (@kunalkemmu) Soha and Kunal’s relationship It was in 2009 on the sets of Umesh Shukla's comedy film ‘Dhoondte Reh Jaaoge’, when Soha and Kunal met. They started dating while sharing screen space in the crime comedy ‘99’ and ‘Mr. Joe B Carvalho’. They got married in 2015 and welcomed their daughter Inaaya Naumi Kemmu in 2017. Soha is the daughter of former cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and veteran actor Sharmila Tagore. On the work front, Soha is best known for her roles in films including 'Mumbai Meri Jaan', 'Tum Mile', 'Rang De Basanti', 'Hush Hush', 'Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster Returns' and 'Tera Kya Hoga Johnny'. She was also seen in web series like 'Kaun Banegi Shikharwati' and 'Hush Hush.' Kunal, on the other hand, has worked in several movies, such as 'Raja Hindustani', 'Kalyug', 'Traffic Signal', 'Golmaal 3', 'Blood Money', 'Golmaal Again', and 'Lootcase'. He was last seen in 'Madgaon Express' which also marked his directorial debut.
25 January,2025 12:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood’s versatile actor Rajpal Yadav, who received death threats from Pakistan a couple of days back, informed on Instagram that his father Naurang Yadav had passed away. According to reports, Rajpal, who was in Thailand rushed to Delhi upon learning about his father’s demise. Nourang was admitted to AIIMS due to health issues. Rajpal Yadav’s father no more In an emotional post on Instagram, Rajpal shared a picture with his father and wrote in Hindi, “Friends, today our energy, our strength, the warrior of our lives, our revered father, is no longer with us. However, his blessings and the inspiration we received from him have always been with us, are with us, and will always remain with us. Love you all, and thank you so much for all your blessings!” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rajpal Naurang Yadav (@rajpalofficial) Rajpal Yadav receives death threats Rajpal Yadav along with comedian Kapil Sharma reportedly received death threats from Pakistan. The threatening message was sent to Rajpal Yadav's email account from a person named Vishnu, who allegedly warned that Sharma, his family, his associates, and the Baby John actor would be killed. The email, sent on December 14, 2024, raised concerns and led to a formal complaint. The Amboli Police has registered the case under Section 351(3) of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with the threat of harm. They are now investigating the threat and the person behind the malicious email. At this stage, the police have not identified the person responsible, and investigations continue. In his audio statement, Rajpal Yadav clarified that he had already informed both the cybercrime department and the police about the threats and had refrained from speaking further on the matter. The actor stated, “I have informed both the cybercrime department and the police, and after that, I haven’t spoken to anyone. In fact, it’s not my job to talk about this incident when I don’t know anything about it. I am an actor, and in acting, I try to entertain people of all ages, young and old, through my work. I don’t want to say anything more than this. Whatever needs to be said about this matter, the agencies are capable of providing the information. I have shared the details I was aware of.”
25 January,2025 10:05 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFormer Rajya Sabha MP Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati on Friday said upcoming historical drama "Chhaava" based on Maratha warrior-king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj must be shown to historians before its release to ensure accuracy. The comments from the former MP, a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, came amid protests from some quarters who objected to a dance sequence in the film featuring actors Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, who play the roles of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Maharani Yesubai, respectively. The film's trailer, released earlier this week, has a sequence in which Kaushal and Mandanna are seen dancing with the 'lezim', a traditional musical instrument associated with Maharashtra's cultural heritage. "It is commendable the film highlights the life and valiant reign of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Director Laxman Utekar and his team showed me the movie's trailer. I told them I would like to watch the entire movie before its release. I also offered to connect them with historians to address inaccuracies to ensure this significant story is presented authentically to audiences worldwide," said Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati. "However, the filmmakers have not engaged with historians as yet. While the lezim is an important part of our cultural heritage, it is necessary to discuss whether taking such cinematic liberties aligns with the dignity and historical portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj. Historians and experts should deliberate on the appropriateness of this depiction," he asserted. He said filmmakers must ensure that depictions of such historical personalities must always remain respectful and accurate. Earlier in the day, some Maratha outfits held a protest at the historic Lal Mahal here. "We object to the dance sequence in which Sambhaji Maharaj and Rani Yesubai are shown dancing after the coronation. The filmmakers should show the movie to historians and it must be released only after getting their green signal," one of the protesters said. If the makers fail to do so, then it will be ensured that the movie is not released in Maharashtra, he warned. "Chhaava" is set to release in theatres on February 14.
25 January,2025 09:24 AM IST | Mumbai | PTIBollywood actor Shahid Kapoor, who is currently on a promotional spree for his upcoming movie Deva recalled his struggle days before making it big in the film industry. From living in rented houses to not having enough clothes to wear, Shahid got candid about life before stardom. He also took a dig at his contemporaries who have a different definition of struggle. Shahid Kapoor on his struggle days Shahid is the son of veteran actors Pankaj Kapur and Neelima Azeem. He was recently featured on Raj Shamani’s popular podcast "Figuring Out". “My father is a character actor, and my mom was a Kathak dancer since she was 15 years old. I have lived in rented houses. I have given many auditions so I don’t have that sense of privilege,” he shared. He continued, “I went through a very long phase of feeling victimised by my circumstances. Some people struggle in a BMW, they start their journey by working with the top two-three directors in the country. I came after giving 250 auditions.” “Today, people say that Shahid’s fashion sense is so good, and sometimes, I laugh at things like this, because I remember at one point, I didn’t have enough money to buy clothes in Lokhandwala,” added Shahid. Shahid Kapoor doesn’t want his kids to become actors Shahid Kapoor also revealed that he does not want his kids Misha and Zain to do his job. He stated, “Kaafi saari cheeze hai, that I do not want them to take from me, I want them to be more confident inherently, which I think they both are. I wasn't inherently that confident. Ideally, I wouldn't want them to do my job, picture mein mat aana yaar. Kuch aur karo, Bohot up and down hota hai yaar, bohot rough hai. (Don’t get into acting. Do something else. There are many ups and downs, it’s very rough) If they want to, it's their choice, but I would be like choose something simple, this is too complex.” Apart from Shahid Kapoor, Deva also stars Pooja Hegde as a journalist in a pivotal role. The film is directed by Rosshan Andrrews and produced by Zee Studios and Siddharth Roy Kapur. Deva is scheduled to be released in theatres worldwide on January 31.
25 January,2025 09:06 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRenowned singer Kavita Krishnamurthy celebrates her birthday on January 25. Her real name is Sharda, which she changed at the behest of legendary music composer Hemant Kumar. Her Bengali Mamani (maternal aunt), whom she credits for her musical career went ahead and christened her Kavita. In a career spanning over four decades, Kavita Krishnamurthy has enthralled audiences with several memorable songs. Debuted in the industry with 'Aayega aanewala' (Kadambari; 1976 -- a rendition of the popular Lata Mangeshkar number from Mahal ) she has notched up several hits like 'Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyaan', 'Tu Cheez Badi Hai Mast Mast', 'Hawa Hawai' and 'Kay Sera Sera' among others. Best songs of Kavita Krishnamurthy Kavita Krishnamurthy on Bollywood playback singing The Padma Shri recipient has lent her voice to actresses like Nutan, Helen, Shabana, Sridevi, and Kajol, to Karishma Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and Rani Mukerji among others. Asked how Bollywood playback singing has changed throughout her long career, she told IANS that when she started as a playback singer, she found most of her songs to be essentially Indian. "They were based a lot on folk, a little bit sometimes raga-based, but more geet-kind of songs. Pronunciation of Hindi words also had to have a certain amount of clarity. The poets played a very important role. It could have been a classical-based song, a happy, sad, or romantic duet, or sometimes a bhajan in a movie. Also, we'd be recorded with the musicians most of the time, if we made a mistake we had to redo the whole song," she said. She added that it was never line-by-line, but half- or quarter-song was sung together. “It's only after 2000, that you could do a line or half a phrase. Technically, things changed a lot." Cut to the present day, and the acclaimed singer finds quite a lot of Western-based numbers, Sufi songs, and item numbers. "Trends have changed and there are more rhythm-oriented and guitar-based songs than there were in the past." Kavita got married to renowned violinist L. Subramaniam on 11 November 1999. The singer has travelled all over the world while actively exploring fusion music. She has played in concert halls around the world. She has performed as a soloist in orchestras and collaborated with Western performers in jazz, pop, and classical genres. Kavita has garnered four Filmfare Best Female Playback Singer Awards (winning consecutively from 1995 to 1997), as well as the Padma Shri in 2005. (With inputs from Agencies)
25 January,2025 08:36 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
