For every word of praise that the trailer of Sanya Malhotra-led feminist drama, Mrs, received since it dropped online five days ago, it also left people puzzled. After all, the end credit slate of the trailer features no technician involved in the film's making except director Arati Kadav, producers Harman Baweja and Jio Studios, and streamer Zee5. The slate also lacked the credit to filmmaker Jeo Baby's The Great Indian Kitchen (2021), of which Mrs is the official adaptation. Naturally, it resulted into criticism online. Earlier in the day, a new trailer, including the credits for the crew and the original award-winning Malayalam film, was posted on the Zee5 instagram page. The post had Kadav, Baweja Studios and Jio Studios as collaborators. In an interview with mid-day, Kadav addressed the absence of credits of the film's Heads of Departments (HoDs). "It was an unintentional mistake and it has immediately been rectified, I think so. Now, the new trailer and henceforth, all the crew will be credited because I definitely share a very loving and collaborative relationship with my crew. And it's a good thing that you pointed this out because now it will be fixed for everybody else. This is a Mrs mission," she said.
30 January,2025 09:15 PM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka SharmaActress Swara Bhasker has been locked out and permanently suspended from her X (formerly Twitter) slammed social media platform X after her account was suspended over alleged copyright violations. Swara Bhasker criticises X The actress took to her Instagram handle to express her frustration, revealing that two of her tweets were flagged for copyright infringement, leading to her account being locked and ultimately suspended. Swara penned a detailed post along with screenshots of the posts that were flagged. One of the posts had a picture of her daughter holding the national flag on the occasion of Republic Day. Sharing a screenshot of her suspended X account, Swara wrote, “You can’t make this stuff up!!!!) Dear X, Two images from two tweets have been marked as ‘copyright infringements’. Basis which my X account is locked / disabled, I can’t access it and permanent suspension has been approved by your teams. One with an orange background and text in Hindi Devnaagri script reading “Gandhi Hum Sharmindaa hain, Tere qaatil zindagi hain” is a popular slogan of the progressive movement in India. There is no copyright violation. It is akin to urban modern folk idiom.” Her post further read, “The second image marked as a violation is an image of MY OWN child with her face concealed waving an Indian flag and with writing ‘HAPPY REPUBLIC DAY India. How can this possibly be a copyright infringement ???? Who has a copyright on my child’s likeness??? Both of these complaints are ridiculous and untenable by any rational, logical and objective understanding of any legal definition of copyright. If these tweets have been mass reported they are aimed to harass the user I.e. myself and are aimed at suppressing my freedom of speech and expression. Kindly review and reverse your decision.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Swara Bhasker (@reallyswara) Latest news about Swara Bhasker The actress has been away from the movies for sometime now and has been quite vocal about politics and various issues in the country. She uses X to voice her opinion on several matters concerning the country. Last year, she also campaigned for her husband Fahad Ahmed who lost his maiden election during the Maharashtra Assembly elections 2024. He contested from the Anushakti Nagar seat in the state on ticket by Sharad Pawar led Nationalist Congress Party. The couple who campaigned together in the days leading to the election have accepted their defeat. Swara took to social media and spoke about the defeat but also praised Fahad for going down with a fight.
30 January,2025 06:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe wait for 'Hera Pheri 3' has been a long one. While in the recent months, there has been a positive progress on the film, now Priyadarshan has hinted at joining the film as director. Today, as he turned a year older, Priyadarshan took to social media to announce that he will be directing the film and went on to tag the OG cast of the film-Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal. The filmmaker had directed the first part of Hera Pheri. This will be an epic reunion of the director and actors. Priyadarshan to direct Hera Pheri 3 On Thursday, Priyadarshan took to his Instagram stories to share a post of Akshay Kumar wishing him on his birthday and wrote, "Thank you so much for your wishes @akshaykumar. In return I would like to give you a gift. I am willing to do Hera Pheri 3. Are you ready Akshay". He also tagged Suniel and Paresh. Responding to Priyan, Akshay reshared the story and wrote, "Sir!!! Your birthday and I got the best gift of my life. Chalo karte hain phir thodi hera pheri". He also shared the 'Miracle Miracle' sticker from his film 'Welcome'. Sir!!! Your birthday and I got the best gift of my life. Chalo karte hain phir thodi hera pheri :) @SirPareshRawal @SunielVShetty @priyadarshandir https://t.co/OmJZLgHat1 pic.twitter.com/4OCbePdglF — Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) January 30, 2025 Akshay Kumar's birthday wish for Priyadarshan The actor took to social media to wish his long-time mentor, director Priyadarshan, on his birthday. In an Instagram post, the Khiladi Kumar expressed his gratitude and admiration for the veteran filmmaker, calling him the master of turning chaos into cinematic masterpiece. Akshay posted a photo of him and Priyadarshan where they can be seen sharing a laugh. For the caption, the 'Hera Pheri' actor wrote, “Happy Birthday, Priyan Sir! What better way to celebrate than by spending the day on a haunted set, surrounded by ghosts…both real and unpaid extras?" Akshay wrote in the caption, referencing their many memorable collaborations on sets filled with laughter, creativity, and, occasionally, a bit of chaos.” He continued, “Thank you for being a mentor, and the only person who can make chaos look like a masterpiece. May your day be filled with fewer retakes. Wishing you a fantastic year ahead!” Akshay’s heartfelt post is a nod to the unique bond between the actor and the director, who have worked together on numerous successful projects, including 'Hera Pheri', 'Phir Hera Pheri', 'De Dana Dan', 'Bhagam Bhag', 'Garam Masala', 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa', and others. Akshay has often credited Priyadarshan for playing a significant role in shaping his career and providing valuable guidance over the years. The actor-director duo is once again reuniting for their upcoming movie, 'Bhooth Bangla'.
30 January,2025 05:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentShanaya Kapoor has offered a glimpse into her much-anticipated and unconventional Bollywood debut with behind-the-scenes pictures from Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan. The film, an adaptation of Ruskin Bond’s short story The Eyes Have It, is a romantic drama featuring Vikrant Massey alongside Shanaya. The story follows two strangers who meet on a train, forming a brief yet poignant connection—both are blind but unaware of each other’s blindness. Shanaya shared pictures to mark a wrap of the India schedule. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shanaya Kapoor 🤍 (@shanayakapoor02) With Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, Shanaya embraces a challenging role in an unconventional debut. The film explores themes of resilience, passion, and the human spirit, woven into a musical narrative. Directed by Santosh Singh, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan is shaping up to be a visually stunning love story, with Shanaya Kapoor taking center stage alongside Vikrant Massey. Beyond this project, Shanaya has signed on for several other projects lined up, the details of which will be announced soon. Shanaya Kapoor’s character is strong and emotional Earlier, Shanaya told Pinkvilla, "It’s very exciting for me to be sharing the screen with Vikrant in such a heartfelt and original story. My character is very close to my heart - she’s strong, emotional, and vibrant. And I am grateful for this opportunity. I would like to thank Santosh for guiding me every step of the way, and I am excited about working with dynamic and involved producers Mansi and Varun Bagla. Need all your love and blessings as we embark on this journey.” Shanaya Kapoor’s work front Meanwhile, the fashion enthusiast recently attended the Paris Fashion Week 2025. She was spotted at the AMIRI Autumn-Winter 2025-2026 show. Shanaya was dressed in a stunning burgundy blazer and matching trouser set, a meticulously crafted ensemble by AMIRI. The sleek, tailored look was elevated by black boots, adding an edge to her otherwise refined appearance. Shanaya’s makeup was flawlessly executed, with a clean, glowing finish that accentuated her natural beauty. Her sleek hairdo added to the modern, minimalistic vibe, while silver studs in her ears added a touch of understated glamour. Shanaya was to star in Mohanlal's pan-India Vrushabha, directed by Nanda Kishore. It was planned for a release this year but has reportedly been shelved. Earlier, Dharma Productions announced a film titled Bedhadak with Shanaya, Lakshya, and Gurfateh Pirzada. The film was to be directed by Shashank Khaitan. It was also shelved due to reasons unknown.
30 January,2025 02:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVeteran Bollywood filmmaker Rakesh Roshan opened up about his son and superstar Hrithik Roshan’s divorce with Sussanne Khan. Hrithik and Sussanne parted ways in 2013. They got married in 2000 but after 13 years of living together, the duo announced their separation. They continue to co-parent their two sons, Hrehaan Roshan and Hridhaan Roshan. While Hrithik is currently dating actor-singer Saba Azad, Sussanne is in a relationship with Arslan Goni. They all are friends with each other and are often spotted hanging out together. Hrithik and Sussanne had a ‘misunderstanding’ In an interview with Yuvaa, Rakesh Roshan was asked about his son’s divorce, to which he replied, “Whatever has happened has happened between the couple, for me Sussanne is Sussanne. They were the ones who fell in love, they were the ones who had a misunderstanding, and they have to solve it. For us, she came to our house, and she is still a member of the house.” Earlier, Sussanne’s brother and former actor Zayed Khan was asked if he had an altercation or drifted apart following Hrithik’s divorce with Sussanne, to which he denied, and said, “We did everything that a brother-in-law should at that time. While it was and when it wasn’t… we were always the same because, at the end of the day, his children are my children. They have grown up in my hands. We are too mature for all of this. There are more important things. It was their choice, and what had to happen, happened.” Rakesh Roshan’s work front Rakesh Roshan and director Karan Malhotra are planning to roll out Krrish 4 in the summer of 2025. An insider told Mid-day, “Karan has been fine-tuning the script with Rakesh Roshan for over two years. Hrithik is involved in the creative process. The past two years have shown that spectacle films are a draw at theatres. So, he wants to ensure that his superhero film pushes the envelope. They will take the project on floors in summer 2025, with schedules in Mumbai and parts of Europe.” Rakesh Roshan was recently featured in Netflix’s docuseries The Roshans. It features several Bollywood stars who speak about the family's immense impact on the industry.
30 January,2025 02:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe makers of Shahid Kapoor’s upcoming film Deva announced its advance ticket bookings on Wednesday. Directed by acclaimed Malayalam filmmaker Rosshan Andrrews and produced by Zee Studios and Roy Kapur Films, Deva is an electrifying and explosive action thriller set to release on January 31, 2025. As ticketing websites commenced bookings, we came across Deva’s most expensive show in Mumbai. Deva’s most expensive ticket in Mumbai According to BookMyShow, watching Shahid Kapoor’s Deva will cost around Rs 2000 at Jio World Drive. After that comes Jio World Plaza at Rs 1820 which is almost full at the time this article was published. Deva has already taken the internet by storm with its gripping trailer and chart-topping songs. Adding to the buzz, the makers have unveiled a pulse-pounding video featuring Shahid Kapoor as the intense and unpredictable cop, Deva. This sneak peek offers yet another glimpse of the fierce energy he brings to the role, leaving audiences eager for what’s to come. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zee Studios (@zeestudiosofficial) Shahid Kapoor on experimenting with looks In a journey spanning over two decades, Shahid Kapoor has never shied away from experimenting with his looks to transform into the characters he has played—whether it's Tommy Singh in Udta Punjab, Haider Meer in Haider, or Dev Ambre in the upcoming film Deva. Shahid strongly believes that nothing is too much to invest in a character, especially for those who love what they do. He told IANS, “So I would say whatever it takes to get the job done, but of course, we are professional actors, you know, you don't need to actually do something. I think that's something sometimes people think that an actor should prep like that.” He added, “Some actors also think like that, but I don't at all prescribe to that kind of a mindset. I think it's a job and you should know professionally how to do it. But you should give everything that you have to make it the best that it can be.” Ever since his debut in 2003 with Ishq Vishk, Shahid has given memorable characters in films such as Vivah, Phata Poster Nikhla Hero, Jab We Met, Haider, Udta Punjab, Kabir Singh and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya to name a few.
30 January,2025 11:34 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood superstar Aamir Khan was recently photographed attending a screening of the Marathi film Ilu Ilu 1998 with his son-in-law Nupur Shikhare and his mother Pritam Shikhare. It might be noted here that Mr Perfectionist's son-in-law comes from a Maharashtrian family. Also present for the same was the film’s lead actor Elli AvrRam, who marked her Marathi debut. Aamir's daughter, Ira Khan tied the knot with Nupur in a registered marriage on 3rd January 2024, in Mumbai's Taj Lands End. The couple got engaged back in September 2022. Nupur had popped the big question during a cycling race. Elli AvrRam shares insights on her role in Ilu Ilu 1998 In the film, Elli AvrRam essays the role of a Goan catholic English teacher. The actress, who is known for her effervescent charm and magnetic screen presence, is taking a nostalgic leap into the colorful chaos of 1998 in this quirky, heartwarming drama. The film is directed by Ajinkya Bapu Phalke and promises to be a delightful cocktail of romance, comedy, and heartfelt nostalgia. The movie takes its title from the iconic '90s catchphrase that still evokes a rush of sweet memories. This film is set to release on January 31. Talking about the film, Elli told IANS, “When I first read the script for ‘Ilu Ilu 1998’, I was immediately drawn to the depth and charm of Ms. Pinto’s character. I’m playing a Goan catholic English teacher. She is a woman full of warmth, strength, and subtle complexities, and I saw it as an exciting challenge to bring her to life. Making my debut in Marathi cinema felt like a natural progression for me as an artist, and I was eager to explore this vibrant industry.” Aamir Khan’s work front Moving on, Aamir is presently working on his next, Sitaare Zameen Par. If the reports are to be believed, he shot for the drama in Vadodara, Gujarat. Apart from Aamir, the movie will also see Genelia Deshmukh in a key role. Directed by R. S. Prasanna, the film is the sequel to the 2007 blockbuster, Taare Zameen Par. He is also producing the period drama Lahore 1947 which stars Sunny Deol and Preity Zinta.
30 January,2025 11:28 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndian fitness icon and actor Milind Soman visited the Maha Kumbh 2025 with his wife Ankita Konwar on Mauni Amavasya. He took a dip in the holy River Ganga and condoled the deaths of stampede victims. Milind felt speechless while sharing his experience and wrote in his posts that although his heart is full, he is sad about the tragic event that led to the loss of lives. Milind Soman at Kumbh Mela 2025 Taking to Instagram Milind shared a post taking a dip in the River Ganga and wrote, “Blessed to be at the Mahakumbh with @ankita_earthy on the very special day of Mauni Amavasya! Such a spiritual space and experience reminds me of how small and insignificant I am in the vastness of existence and how every moment that we are here is so special. Even though my heart is full, I am saddened by the events of last night, and my prayers are with the families who lost loved ones. Har Har Gange! Har Har Mahadev!!” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Milind Usha Soman (@milindrunning) In a subsequent post, he added, “There are no words to describe how full my heart is right now! To have the opportunity to be at the Mahakumbh and that too on the auspicious moments of Mauni Amavasya is beyond my comprehension. These are the moments that make you realise the importance of our very insignificant existence. My heart goes out to the people who lost their loved ones last night. May we all find peace through our prayers. Har Har Mahadev.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ankita Konwar (@ankita_earthy) What happened at Maha Kumbh At least 30 people were killed while 60 were injured in the pre-dawn stampede that occurred at Maha Kumbh, according to officials. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh to the kins of the deceased, while adding that security forces have been deployed at the site. Milind Soman’s work front Milind Soman was last seen in the film Emergency directed by Kangana Ranaut. He played the role of Sam Maneckshaw who was the former Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army. Based on the period when an emergency was imposed in the country in 1975, it stars Ranaut as the former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi.
30 January,2025 10:53 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAce film director Priyadarshan celebrates his birthday on January 30. The movie maverick, who is busy shooting for his upcoming film Bhooth Bangla with Akshay Kumar, marked the special day on sets. He also received a sweet birthday wish from the Bollywood superstar who called him his mentor. Akshay Kumar’s birthday wish for Priyadarshan Akshay Kumar shared a candid picture of sharing a laugh with Priyadarshan from the sets of Bhooth Bangla and wrote, “Happy Birthday, Priyan Sir! What better way to celebrate than by spending the day on a haunted set, surrounded by ghosts…both real and unpaid extras? Thank you for being a mentor, and the only person who can make chaos look like a masterpiece. May your day be filled with fewer retakes. Wishing you a fantastic year ahead!” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) Bhooth Bangla marks the reunion of Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar after a long gap. The duo has earlier given blockbuster films such as Hera Pheri, Bhagam Bhag, Garam Masala, De Dana Dan, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa among others. The film will also see a reunion of Akshay and Tabu after 25 years. It is produced by Shobha Kapoor and Ektaa R Kapoor's Balaji Telefilms and Akshay Kumar's production house, Cape of Good Films. The film is slated for a theatrical release on April 2, 2026. Paresh Rawal is also a part of the movie. Priyadarshan’s journey into showbiz Best known for his comedy films, movie maverick Priyadarshan has also experimented with some action, thriller, and period dramas. His collaborations with Mohanlal were highly popular in Malayalam cinema during the 1980s and 1990s. Priyadarshan also won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in 2019 for his period epic 'Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea'. In 2012, the Government of India honoured him with Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award for his contribution to the arts. Akshay Kumar’s work front Besides Bhooth Bangla, Akshay will be seen as Lord Shiva in the upcoming Telugu film Kannappa. It also stars Vishnu Manchu in the lead role and features a star-studded cast including Mohan Babu, R. Sarathkumar, Madhoo, Mukesh Rishi, Mohanlal, Prabhas, and Kajal Aggarwal. He also has Housefull 5 and Welcome to the Jungle.
30 January,2025 09:53 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIf franchise films are the ticket to success today as many filmmakers and trade analysts will have you believe, Ajay Devgn seems to have a winning hand. The superstar has seven franchise films in the pipeline, with his 2025 release slate consisting of three sequels—Raid 2, De De Pyaar De 2, and Son of Sardaar 2. He will also shoot for the latest instalment of Dhamaal this year, while scripting of Drishyam 3, Shaitaan 2 and Golmaal 5 is in process. For now, director Anshul Sharma’s De De Pyaar De 2 has Devgn’s undivided attention. An insider reveals, “With Rakul Preet Singh and R Madhavan, Ajay is filming the 12-day schedule at various sets across Mumbai. The cast and crew will head to Punjab by mid-February for the final leg during which two songs and some emotional scenes will be canned.” The actor will then swiftly move from the world of the romantic comedy to that of his action comedy. The insider adds, “While in Punjab, Ajay will also shoot a song for Son of Sardaar 2, after which it will be a wrap on the movie that also stars Mrunal Thakur and Ravi Kishan.” Ajay Devgn and Rakul Preet Singh in De De Pyaar De Summer will see the actor returning to the universe of Dhamaal, six years after headlining the last instalment, Total Dhamaal (2019). While Total Dhamaal’s stars Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit-Nene will be missing in the upcoming instalment, Devgn will reunite with franchise regulars Riteish Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi and Jaaved Jaaferi for Indra Kumar’s directorial venture. A source reveals, “The unit will kick off the shoot in Mumbai before heading to Goa for an elaborate schedule in April. Indra-ji has got bulk dates of the cast and will film the comedy in a straight schedule till August, readying it for a Diwali release. The adventure comedy, produced by Ajay and Bhushan Kumar, among others, has been written by Paritosh Painter, Balwinder Singh Suri and Bunty Rathore.” By the year-end, it will be time for the superstar to prep for what is easily among his most loved franchises—Drishyam 3. We’ve heard that the crime thriller’s script is currently being penned by the writing teams of the Malayalam and Hindi versions, with director Jeethu Joseph leading the former. The source adds, “The plan is to shoot Mohanlal’s Malayalam and Ajay’s Hindi versions simultaneously in 2026.”
30 January,2025 08:37 AM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBRBest known for his comedy films, movie maverick Priyadarshan, who celebrates his birthday on January 30, has also experimented with some action, thriller, and period dramas. His collaborations with Mohanlal were highly popular in Malayalam cinema during the 1980s and 1990s. He later transitioned to Bollywood where he delivered several hits by teaming up with superstar Akshay Kumar. Check out their collabs as they reunite for Bhooth Bangla after 14 years. Hera Pheri Best comedy film of all times, this Akshay Kumar-starrer is a comedy thriller also featuring Paresh Rawal, Sunil Shetty, and Tabu in the pivotal roles. It is a remake of Ramji Rao Speaking 1989, a Malayalam film. This movie also has a sequel by the name of Phir Hera Pheri, which was released after the first installment of the movie. It revolves around a quest of three unemployed men, two tenants, and a landlord, who clash in desperate need of money and come together for a journey to seek out different ways to attain some cash. Bhool Bhulaiyaa This comedy horror film felt just a little short of becoming another cult classic. Inspired by the Malayalam film Manichitrathazhu, it featured Akshay, Vidya Balan, Ameesha Patel, Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, and Shiney Ahuja in the lead roles. It revolves around an NRI couple who decides to reside in their ancestral home, which is said to be haunted. Soon, paranormal activities are detected by the couple which leads to the arrival of a friend, a psychiatrist who enters the frame to solve the mystery. Garam Masala Garam Masala is a romantic comedy that featured Akshay with John Abraham, Paresh Rawal, Rimi Sen, Neha Dhupia, and Rajpal Yadav. It revolves around two photographer friends who are womanizers. It is a remake of the Malayalam comedy Boeing Boeing also directed by Priyadarshan. Bhagam Bhag Bhagam Bhag features Akshay Kumar, Govinda, and Paresh Rawal in lead roles. The film also stars Lara Dutta, Rajpal Yadav, Jackie Shroff, Arbaaz Khan, Shakti Kapoor, Manoj Joshi, Razak Khan, Sharat Saxena and Asrani. It revolves around a theatre group that travels to London for a show only to be accused of a murder they did not commit. They mistakenly become the enemies of a drug dealer and a gang. The film has adapted certain subplots of the Malayalam film Mannar Mathai Speaking. Bhooth Bangla Priyadarshan's upcoming horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla will be special for movie buffs, especially those who are fans of the 90s and early 2000s Hindi films. Tabu and Paresh Rawal are a part of the film. It is currently being shot in Rajasthan. For those unversed, Priyadarshan also won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in 2019 for his period epic 'Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea'. In 2012, the Government of India honoured him with Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award for his contribution to the arts.
30 January,2025 08:33 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT