PC lends support Trust Priyanka Chopra Jonas to lend her support to powerful stories even from miles away. Priyanka has joined Guneet Monga Kapoor’s short film Anuja, which has been shortlisted in the Live Action Short Film category for the upcoming Academy Awards. Directed by Adam J Graves, Anuja—starring Sajda Pathan and Ananya Shanbag—tells the story of two sisters trapped in the harsh reality of child labour in New Delhi. Priyanka found the story thought-provoking and moving. “This beautiful film shines a spotlight on a subject that affects millions of children around the world, who are faced with the impossible decision between a future they cannot yet see and the immediate realities of their present. Anuja is a poignant, thought-provoking piece that makes us reflect deeply on the power of choices and how they shape the course of our lives. I am immensely proud to be associated with such a phenomenal and impactful project,” the actor said in a statement. Guneet serves as one of the executive producers on the project, which was researched and produced with the help of several community partners, including the non-profit organisation Salaam Baalak Trust. The organisation offers education and opportunities to thousands of street and working children. OG Aashiqui reunion Aashiqui 3 might not be getting off the ground anytime soon, but if rumours are to be believed, fans will witness an OG Aashiqui reunion. The lead pair of Aashiqui 2, Aditya Roy Kapur and Shraddha Kapoor, are reportedly reuniting for a love story by Mohit Suri, who also directed them in the 2013 romance. Both actors, who enjoy a massive following as an on-screen pair, are apparently eager to join the project. Mohit is said to be finalising the screenplay. A sequel to Mahesh Bhatt’s 1990 film Aashiqui, Aashiqui 2 was a massive box office success and marked a career breakthrough for both Aditya and Shraddha. The duo reunited four years later for Shaad Ali’s Ok Jaanu, the official remake of Mani Ratnam’s Tamil romance O Kadhal Kanmani (2015), starring Dulquer Salmaan and Nithya Menen.
10 January,2025 07:28 AM IST | Mumbai | The Hitlist TeamVivek Hariharan admittedly chose a rather rare and unconventional track to mark his transition from singing to music composition. One among the three numbers that he has crafted for Sonu Sood and Jacqueline Fernandes’s actioner Fateh is a death lullaby layered with musical textures that aid in creating a haunting song. In a bid to replicate the reverb that’s audible in a chapel, Hariharan travelled to Belgium to record the song in a remote chapel near Antwerp, Europe. “With Nindiya, we wanted to explore how an opera-like creation could complement the intense action sequences. Opera adds a lot of drama, but I wanted to blend it with a lullaby. The idea I had was that it should seem like death was singing for you. It was courageous of Sonu paaji to give the green light to such an unconventional concept. I haven’t seen something like this being done before and wasn’t entirely confident about it, but I’m glad it turned out so well,” shares Hariharan, who ditched a lucrative career in management consulting to pursue his passion in music. Vivek Hariharan The opera segments were recorded in Belgium with Tineke, a skilled opera singer who led a group of professional vocalists. The arrangement was orchestrated by Kris, an opera vocal arranger who frequently collaborates with Hans Zimmer, who has also contributed to Fateh. Ukrainian violinist Yevheniia, who comes with experience in western classical music, has also contributed to the song that has been rendered by Hamsika Iyer. Hariharan has also composed Roohdaari, sung by Jubin Nautiyal, and Roohdaari reprise, sung by him, for Fateh.
10 January,2025 07:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuWhen the cast of the Avengers franchise participated in a mammoth promotional world tour for the 2019 actioner, a story that greatly amused fans was that only a handful of actors of the American multi-starrer were given access to the entire script. In a bid to ensure that the film’s contents did not make their way to the public domain before it hit screens, the makers had allowed most of the cast members access to only those scenes that featured them. Back home in India, matters are no different. mid-day has it that while Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna, the lead actors of AR Murugadoss’ Sikandar, were kept abreast of the storyline, the film’s supporting stars, Kajal Aggarwal, Sathyaraj, Anant Mahadevan, Sharman Joshi, Prateik Babbar, Nawab Shah, and Anjini Dhawan, were given limited access to the script. Confirming the development to mid-day, an insider adds that the supporting actors have also been made to sign a non-disclosure agreement. “They are only being told about their scenes a few days before the filming leg begins. The makers are being secretive about the story and script as they want to keep everything relating to it confidential. Each aspect will be unveiled as a surprise, and fans will learn about the characters only when the first trailer is released,” says the source. Kajal Aggarwal (L) and Anant Mahadevan (R) feature in AR Murugadoss’s Sikandar At a time when behind-the-scenes set images are making their way to social media without the knowledge of filmmakers, the measures being taken by Murugadoss and producer Sajid Nadiadwala seem appropriate. “There has been speculation that the film is an adaptation of Murugadoss’s Tamil movie, Sarkar [2018], but it is not true. If audiences believe this film is a remake, they may create comparison videos on YouTube which may lead to unnecessary criticism. The makers have maintained that this is an original story, and the script has been put together by Sajid and Murugadoss.” Given that the film features an array of actors across film industries, the makers are also taking measures to ensure that the crew adheres to a structured shooting schedule. “Everything is being done in an organised manner so that nobody needs to [return to] reshoot any portion. The dubbing is also being done in the same way—once an actor shoots a scene, they complete the dubbing immediately. Currently, the last schedule is being filmed in Mumbai and will be completed in February, when crucial scenes with Salman and the antagonists will be shot.” mid-day reached out to Murugadoss, but did not hear from him till press time.
10 January,2025 07:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBRThe illustrious legacy of one of India's most iconic film families comes to life in the upcoming docu-series The Roshans, a mesmerizing portrayal of a family that has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Directed and co-produced by Shashi Ranjan and produced by Rakesh Roshan, the series is set to premiere on January 17. This intimate journey through the remarkable lives of the Roshan family reveals tales of triumph, tragedy, and unyielding spirit. From Jagrath to the Roshans From Roshan Lal Nagrath, who created timeless classics to his sons (Rakesh Roshan and Rajesh Roshan), who emerged from the shadows of their father’s legacy to carve out their niche, and his grandson (Hrithik Roshan) who continues to capture hearts across the globe, this story celebrates a legacy marked by resilience. Recounting stories of the Roshans’ lives through anecdotes are some of Bollywood's biggest names: Sanjay Leela Bhansali recalls the timeless melodies that became the soul of Indian cinema, while Shah Rukh Khan shares how Rakesh Roshan’s visionary storytelling inspired him during the making of Karan Arjun, among other personal tributes. The trailer also gives a glimpse into the behind the scene footages that will surley get film fanatics excited. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in) The Roshans also delves into the story of Hrithik Roshan, whose meteoric rise from a hesitant dreamer to becoming India’s overnight superstar will leave viewers inspired. From conquering his fears in Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai to redefining Indian cinema with Koi Mil Gaya, Dhoom 2, Krrish, Super 30, War and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Hrithik’s journey embodies the perseverance and passion that define the Roshan family. He is also considered to be the last of the superstars of Bollywood. The documentary's release coincides with Hrithik's 25 year celebration in the industry. The Roshans is more than a story; it’s a celebration of how the family — through the highs of each musical note and box office hit, and the lows of tough times — stayed together, continuing to light up the screen and our hearts. Rediscover the magic of cinema and the strength of dreams with The Roshans. Enjoy this “Dil Ka Rishta” (heartfelt bond) with the family on January 17, only on Netflix.
09 January,2025 10:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs we celebrate the Krrish star's special day, it would be sinister to not talk about his dance numbers. Changing the face of dance in Indian cinema with his debut to continuing to rule the hearts of the audience more than two decades later, Hrithik Roshan’s dancing talent knows no bounds. Offering the perfect tracks for every occasion, Hrithik Roshan’s discography includes the ideal songs for solo performances, romantic duets, family functions, friendly face-offs and a whole lot of party numbers! Here’s a look at the 11 most iconic dance numbers by Hrithik Roshan: Ek Pal ka Jeena For decades now, whenever this song plays on the dance floor, the best dancers of the group take the spotlight to flaunt their moves and channel the inner Hrithik Roshan in them. You Are My Soniya Even two decades after its release, every club continues to play this classic party number inviting a friendly banter of the genders on the dance floor. Trying to recreate the swag of Hrithik Roshan in a black body-hugging fit, You Are My Soniya is amongst the favourites of the millennials. Bole Chudiya Every wedding sangeet is incomplete without a performance on Bole Chudiya. Adding his irresistible charm to the energetic traditional dance number, Bole Chudiya is the official sangeet anthem in India! Main Aisa Kyu Hoon Offering a sense of belonging to every individual, Main Aisa Kyun Hoon is more of a form of self-expression via dance. Too many dance competitions and annual functions have witnessed solo performances of dance enthusiasts dancing to this song. It’s Magic It doesn’t matter that it took us ages to figure out the lyrics of ‘I’ve got the vibe you need’, we figured out how to dance to this banger immediately! Another favourite for dance competitions and annual functions, the song resonates with the childhood of many of us. Dhoom Again Does anyone need to say anything more! One of the most cult classic dance numbers of Indian Cinema, this song is not just a visual treat owing to the impeccable dance steps by Hrithik Roshan but an irresistible charmer forcing everyone to hit the dance floors. Tu Meri (Bang Bang) The insane energy and foot-tapping beats of the song are enough to compel everyone to hit the dance floor and have a great time. Ghungroo A rage in itself, Ghungroo became an instant hit with its light and breezy yet groovy tunes and the epic hook step by Hrithik Roshan. Not a single party or get together has gone by ever since then without a bunch of friends attempting the hook step in full confidence. Dil Na Liya Hrithik Roshan just has the knack for picking the best dance numbers of probably every song he does turns into a party number owing to his effortless dance. This energetic track from Krrish is simply amongst the best dance tracks of the superstar. Bawre Probably one of the most underrated songs of Hrithik Roshan, Bawre was an instant hit across quarters owing to the effortless dance of Hrithik Roshan and the beats that force you to groove. The vibrant video matches up to the folksy music making it an ideal dance song. It doesn’t matter if one could match the steps by Hrithik Roshan, but as the actor always says, it’s important to move and every song by the superstar allows channeling the dancer in us!
09 January,2025 10:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRam Gopal Varma's cult classic Satya which was first released in theatres in 1998 is all set to be re-released in theatres. 26 years later, the film's characters, plot and music is still very much relevant and part of the pop culture. For those who did not watch the iconic movie on the big screen have a chance to watch Manoj Bajpayee's iconic Bhiku Mhatre on the screen from January 17. Ram Gopal Varma makes a confession ahead of Satya re-release Ahead of the film's re-release, director Ram Gopal Varma had an introspection and confession to make. He looked back on the days they made the film and the success that followed it. "SATYA was a film which me and all involved mostly made it without having a clue about what we were making except for a real gut instinct on the subject matter. On our talent fronts each of us realised our each others talents only after the film became a cult hit and then hearing the praise about each of our talents from others," he wrote. He further said, "The characters in SATYA felt so real not because of putting in a tremendous effort in character design but simply because I mostly copied them from real life characters." "SATYA proved to me that great films cannot be made but they just make themselves. The fact none of us involved in the film could repeat the magic of SATYA ever again proves my above point. In short we din’t make SATYA , SATYA made us. It’s like we all gave birth to a baby called SATYA and how it grew up and became what it became was never really neither in our intention nor in our control." On the occasion of the re release of SATYA on JAN 17 th 2025, here’s both an INTROSPECTION and a CONFESSION SATYA was a film which me and all involved mostly made it without having a clue about what we were making except for a real gut instinct on the subject matter On our… — Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) January 9, 2025 Never had a script: RGV "I don’t remember a single time any of us discussing , whether SATYA will work at the box office but we all seriously wanted it to work for us. We never had a script but strangely enough we were all being very true and honest to what we were shooting each day. And then with the final outcome of what we made , we were as much shocked as the audience ..I go back to my line that no parents can know what their child will become when he grows up." "The only time I realised that there is something really special about SATYA is on the last day of mixing , when I saw most of the characters, I created with so much love being killed like dogs .. Not that I din’t know that before , but to see it in a flow along with music and sound stirred something deep in me ..I got choked and had tears in my eyes which prompted me to put a super at the end of the film “My tears for SATYA are as much as for those, who he killed". "The point is whether one is a gangster or a cop or a common man , underneath all of them is a human being. This truth of SATYA dawned upon me much after it released is that SATYA is not a gangster film, but it’s actually about human beings and the circumstances they are placed in either by force or by accident. But once they are in , destiny takes over and no one is in control after that including the ones who created those circumstances." "SATYA was made by honest instincts and not by clever design , and the cult status it achieved should be a wake up call for all film makers present and future including us, its original makers". "When the whole industry right now is in a MAD RUSH in their REQUISITIONS for MASSIVE BUDGETS, EXPENSIVE VFX , GARANGUTAN SETS and SUPER STARS it might be prudent for all of us to take a hard re look at SATYA and give a deep thought to why it became such a BIG BLOCKBUSTER minus any of those above mentioned REQUSITES .. That would be the real true tribute to SATYA," RGV concluded.
09 January,2025 08:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentOn Thursday morning, the rumour mills were churning stories of Shibani Dandekar expecting her first child with her husband Farhan Akhtar. The news surfaced and spread like wildfire on social media on the day Akhtar turned a year older. However, soon after the report floated on the internet, Shabana Azmi who is Farhan's step mother put an end to the rumours. Azmi is married to Farhan's lyricist father Javed Akhtar. Talking to E-Times, Shabana Azmi simply said, "There's no truth it it," referring to the Shibani's pregnancy rumours. About Shibani's pregnancy rumours Reports of Shibani being pregnant surfaced after she was spotted wearing a loose sweatshirt at Farhan Akhtar’s birthday bash on Wednesday night. The intimate party took place at Zoya Akhtar’s Mumbai residence and was attended by Farah Khan, Sajid Khan, Anusha Dandekar, Javed Akhtar, and Shabana Azmi. Akhtar turned 51 today. He shares his birthday with filmmaker Farah Khan and sister-in-law Anusha Dandekar. This isn’t the first time Shibani has been rumoured to be pregnant. Back in 2022, Shibani shared a series of pictures on Instagram from her post-wedding photoshoot and scores of netizens speculated about pregnancy. She quashed the rumours by posting a picture wearing a crop top with her abs on display and the caption, "I am a woman! I am nottttt pregnant! It was the tequila." Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar's relationship Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar, who dated for almost three years, tied the knot at Farhan's family farmhouse in Khandala. The ceremony took place in the presence of close friends and family members on February 19, 2022. Farhan was previously married to celebrity hairstylist Adhuna Bhabani. The two got married in 2000 and parted ways in 2017. They are parents to two daughters Shakya and Akira. Shabana Azmi's work front The year 2024 was quite eventful for the veteran actress who completed 50 years in the film industry. Azmi was last seen on the big screen in the film 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani'. She essayed the role of Alia Bhatt's grandmother, who rekindles an old romance with the character played by Dharmendra. She will next be seen in the film 'Bun Tikki', backed by designer Manish Malhotra. The film stands out as the most anticipated debut picture of the year, bringing together two renowned actors, Shabana Azmi and Zeenat Aman, on the big screen. The film is directed by Faraz Arif Ansari and also stars actor Abhay Deol. Jyoti Deshpande, Dinesh Malhotra, and Marijke Desouza will produce the film under the umbrella of Manish Malhotra’s Stage 5 Productions.
09 January,2025 07:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActress Nora Fatehi was also in Los Angeles when a massive wildfire ravaged Los Angeles. The actress who got an evacuation notice left the city within minutes and headed to the airport to leave the town that has been engulfed by a raging fire. The actress took to social media to share an update on her evacuation from Los Angeles. In the video, she narrated her harrowing experience. “Hey guys, so I'm in Los Angeles, and the wildfires are crazy. I've never seen anything like this. This is insane. We just got an evacuation order like five minutes ago. So I quickly packed all my stuff and I’m evacuating out of here out of this area. I’m gonna go near the airport and chill there because I have a flight today and I really hope I can catch it”. And I hope it doesn't get canceled because this sh** is scary. I have never experienced this before so I’m gonna keep you guys updated. Hopefully, I can get out in time. And yeah, man, I really hope people are safe. Like this is insane. I've never seen anything like this before, like just uncontrollable fires. Crazy. I’m gonna keep you guys updated”. Paris Hilton watches her Malibu home burn to the ground Paris Hilton took to Instagram and shared a video of watching the destruction on LIVE TV. In a comprehensive post, she wrote that no one should ever have to experience something like this. Heartbroken by the tragic events, Paris revealed that her son Phoenix took his first steps in this house where she built many precious memories, and wished for the same with daughter London. Wildfire impacts Oscar and other Hollywood events It has been reported that the deadline for Oscar nomination voting was extended two days due to the fires. Voting for the nearly 10,000 Academy members opened January 8 and was originally set to close on January 12, reports ‘Variety’. Deadline is now January 14. The nominations announcement, originally scheduled to be announced on January 17, has moved to January 19. As per ‘Variety’, Conan O’Brien will host the 2025 Oscars ceremony, which takes place on March 2. The Academy sent an email to members Wednesday afternoon detailing the date changes from CEO Bill Kramer. “We want to offer our deepest condolences to those who have been impacted by the devastating fires across Southern California”, the email read, in part. “So many of our members and industry colleagues live and work in the Los Angeles area, and we are thinking of you”.
09 January,2025 06:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan celebrates his birthday on January 10. Fondly called the Greek God of showbiz, Hrithik has been a heartthrob for years, courtesy of his swoon-worthy looks. While the actor rose to stardom with his debut film Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai in 2000, Hrithik struggled to find impactful roles in the years after. One film that has stuck with every millennial is Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon (2003) alongside Kareena Kapoor, which made Hrithik a meme material with the advent of social media. Hrithik Roshan on his character in Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon Hrithik Roshan played the role of Prem Kishan, who falls in love with Kareena Kapoor. He comes bearing an extremely energetic persona, which continues to leave viewers in splits. When asked about the same, he told Film Companion, I was not mature enough to understand that side of me. I generally don't gravitate toward characters that are that far away in essence. A very happy a very uppity 'Wo ho ah ah' all that doesn't come very naturally to me and at that point in time, I wasn't aware of the fact that there are some things that are not natural to your state. Even if you tried really hard, which I did, you would still fail. But I tried, I gave it my best shot.” Hrithik Roshan would cringe at his past work In another interview with ETimes, the actor shared, "I look at my past work and cringe. I don’t know how my previous works have received so much love. I am extremely critical of my performance. But yes, I’ve never been disappointed by my performance. The more mistakes, I’ve made, they have only helped me grow more.” Hrithik Roshan’s work front Hrithik Roshan will complete 25 years in Bollywood this year. As a special treat for fans, Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai is re-releasing in theatres on his birthday. The film also featured Ameesha Patel and was directed by his father Rakesh Roshan. Hrithik will be seen in War 2 directed by Ayan Mukerji, who is best known for his films Wake Up Sid, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, and Brahmastra. The film also stars Jr NTR and Kiara Advani.
09 January,2025 02:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIt's filmmaker Farhan Akhtar's birthday on January 9. He turned 51. After celebrating the special day with an intimate bash last night, reports of the actor-filmmaker embracing fatherhood once again with his wife Shibani Dandekar have surfaced. Several media outlets have claimed that Farhan and Shibani are set to welcome their first child. Is Shibani Dandekar pregnant? Reports of Shibani being pregnant surfaced after she was spotted wearing a loose sweatshirt at Farhan Akhtar’s birthday bash. The intimate party took place at Zoya Akhtar’s Mumbai residence and was attended by Farah Khan, Sajid Khan, Anusha Dandekar, Javed Akhtar, and Shabana Azmi. This isn’t the first time Shibani has been rumoured to be pregnant. Back in 2022, Shibani shared a series of pictures on Instagram from her post-wedding photoshoot and scores of netizens speculated about pregnancy. She quashed the rumours by posting a picture wearing a crop top with her abs on display and the caption, "I am a woman! I am nottttt pregnant! It was the tequila." Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar's relationship Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar, who dated for almost three years, tied the knot at Farhan's family farmhouse in Khandala. The ceremony took place in the presence of close friends and family members on February 19, 2022. Farhan was previously married to celebrity hairstylist Adhuna Bhabani. The two got married in 2000 and parted ways in 2017. They are parents to two daughters Shakya and Akira. Farhan Akhtar’s work front On the work front, Farhan will be seen headlining '120 Bahadur'. The movie, which is set against the backdrop of the 1962 Indo-China war, will hit the theatres on November 21, 2025. The film is a tribute to Major Shaitan Singh Bhati PVC and the soldiers of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment. It draws inspiration from the legendary Battle of Rezang La. Farhan will be seen donning the role of Shaitan Singh Bhati PVC. Meanwhile, as a director, Farhan is all set to come up with 'Don 3', which stars Ranveer Singh and Kiara Advani. In August 2023, Farhan, in a special announcement video, revealed that Ranveer Singh will be the new Don in the third film of the hit franchise. Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan played the character in the earlier versions. The 'Don' franchise has always been associated with compelling stories, exhilarating action, and unforgettable moments.
09 January,2025 02:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentGlobal icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas praised "brave" first responders for working through the night and continuing to help affected families in the wake of the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles. More than 1,000 structures have burned making it the most destructive in Los Angeles history. Several Hollywood celebs have also lost their homes to the tragic event. Priyanka Chopra lauds first responders Priyanka took to her Instagram stories, where she shared a post of “first responders” trying to control the wildfire, which has destroyed thousands of acres of land. Thanking them, she wrote: “A huge shoutout to the incredibly brave first responders. Thank you for working tirelessly overnight and continuing to help families affected. @lasdhq @losangelesfiredepartment @lapdhq.” The actress had earlier shared a clip of the wildfire engulfing the Los Angeles neighbourhood. She could be heard saying in the video, "It’s crazy." Her post also included the caption, "My thoughts are with everyone affected. Hope we are all able to be safe tonight.” A massive wildfire took over Los Angeles on January 7, 2025, forcing scores of residents to leave the place. Celebs such as Paris Hilton, Adam Brody, Leighton Meester, Anna Faris, Spencer and Heidi Pratt, Cameron Mathison, and Jennifer Hewitt have lost their family homes and mansions to the fires. Priyanka Chopra’s work front Meanwhile, on the work front, Priyanka Chopra wrapped the shooting of her upcoming film 'The Bluff' which is directed by Frank E Flowers and also features actor Karl Urban. 'The Bluff' is set in the 19th-century Caribbean and follows the story of a former female pirate, played by Priyanka, who must protect her family when the sins of her past catch up to her. It was mostly filmed in Australia. Apart from 'The Bluff', Priyanka is also set to star in 'Heads of State' alongside John Cena and Idris Elba. It is an action comedy film directed by Ilya Naishuller. Besides that, she also has the second season of ‘Citadel’. Created by The Russo Brothers, the action-packed show revolves around two elite agents Mason Kane (Richard Madden) and Nadia (Priyanka) of the global spy agency Citadel.
09 January,2025 01:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
