The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards is set to celebrate its silver jubilee in Jaipur on March 8 and 9. This year, the theme is 'Silver is the New Gold.' Bollywood celebrities have started arriving in the Pink City for the grand event, which will be held at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Center (JECC). Actress Madhuri Dixit and Nushrratt Bharuccha landed in Jaipur late on Thursday evening. Speaking to the media at the airport, Madhuri Dixit said, "I share a long-standing bond with IIFA. It’s always a proud moment to be part of this event. This time, since it’s happening in Jaipur, I am even more excited." Actress Nushrratt Bharuccha also expressed her enthusiasm, saying: "I am extremely excited about IIFA this year. The fact that it’s being hosted in Jaipur makes it even more special. I’ll be here for four days and plan to explore Rajasthan during my stay." Before their arrival, actors Vijay Varma, Aparshakti Khurana, and Abhishek Banerjee had already reached Jaipur. Superstar Shah Rukh Khan is expected to arrive on Friday and will stay for three days. On Friday, IIFA will host a special dialogue session titled "The Journey of Women in Cinema" in honor of International Women's Day. The session will feature Madhuri Dixit and Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga sharing insights on the contribution of women in the film industry, their challenges, and achievements. The session will be moderated by IIFA Vice President Noorin Khan at Hotel Hyatt Regency, Mansarovar. The grand finale of the IIFA Awards will take place on March 9, where the best works and artists of Indian cinema will be honored with the prestigious IIFA trophies. While the IIFA Awards have traditionally been held in international locations, this year, the celebrations are coming home to India, starting with the culturally rich and beautiful city of Jaipur. This three-day gala will be packed with unforgettable events, performances, and tributes to some of Bollywood’s greatest milestones. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
07 March,2025 07:48 AM IST | Jaipur | IANSOn the fifth anniversary of Baaghi 3, Tiger Shroff took to social media to reflect on the hard work and dedication that went into making the action-packed film. In a heartfelt post, the actor shared the challenges and sacrifices made during the intense shoot, recalling the "blood, sweat, and tears" that contributed to the film’s success. He posted a series of photos on his Instagram handle and captioned it, “This franchise….blood sweat soul and sometimes tears #baaghi3 #5years.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiger Shroff (@tigerjackieshroff) The first image shows Tiger flaunting his abs and ripped physique while performing an action stunt. The next photos feature him alongside Shraddha Kapoor. Some of the shots capture the actor in high-octane action sequences. The final image shows Tiger and Shraddha sitting with the other cast members of the film, including Riteish Deshmukh and Ankita Lokhande. "Baaghi 3," directed by Ahmed Khan and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, was partially adapted remake of the Tamil film Vettai. The movie is the third installment in the Baaghi film series. The plot follows Ronnie,(Tiger) who travels to Syria to rescue his older brother Vikram, (Riteish ) who has been kidnapped and is held captive by the infamous terrorist Abu Jalal Gaza. The action thriller was released on 6 March 2020. Tiger is now gearing up for the release of 'Baaghi 4’ where he will reprise his role of Ronnie. On the occasion of his birthday, he dropped a new poster from the film and revealed how the 'Baaghi' franchise helped him establish his identity as an action hero in the film industry. Sharing the new fierce poster, the 'Heropanti' actor revealed that his character, Ronnie, has undergone a major transformation in this installment and hopes that fans will accept his new persona just as they did eight years ago. The latest poster showcased Tiger in a fierce, intense look, with blood dripping from his forehead and a cigarette hanging from his mouth. For the caption, he wrote, “The franchise that gave me an identity and allowed me to express my eagerness to prove myself as an action hero…is now the franchise that is changing my identity. Hes def not the same this time but i hope you guys accept him the way you did 8 years ago#grattitude #SajidNadiadwala’s #Baaghi4 Directed by @nimmaaharsha.” Presented by Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, "Baaghi 4," directed by A. Harsha, also features Sanjay Dutt, Harnaaz Sandhu, and Sonam Bajwa. The film is slated to release in cinemas on September 5. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
07 March,2025 07:45 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSSecond baby? Maybe Alia Bhatt has revealed that Ranbir Kapoor and she have already chosen a name for their second child. The couple, who welcomed daughter Raha Kapoor in 2022, had Neetu Kapoor suggest the name for her. On a recent podcast, Alia shared that they shortlisted names and liked one boy name, which she won’t reveal yet as she hopes to use for their next child. Alia said that they went ahead with the name “Raha” as it goes well with both genders. While she didn’t clearly state when they are planning their second child, there have been speculations that Alia might plan to have another child after wrapping the shoot of her actioner, Alpha. The next move Yami Gautam and Emraan Hashmi After Dhoom Dhaam, Yami Gautam is apparently set to star in a legal drama based on the landmark Shah Bano Case of 1985. We have learned that she will play the titular role of Shah Bano Begum, bringing to life her remarkable seven-year legal battle. Emraan Hashmi will reportedly play the role of her husband, a well-known advocate. The film will be directed by Suparn Varma, and will explore the complex legal battle and its social implications. While this is one of the first few projects that Yami has signed after her maternity break, Emraan has Ground Zero and a Netflix series in his kitty. Who is Don’s next Roma? Kriti Sanon and Kiara Advani Yesterday we reported that Kiara Advani has walked out of Don 3 after announcing her pregnancy (Don 3 loses its leading lady, March 6). Now rumours are swirling that Kriti Sanon might play the role of Roma in Don 3, previously portrayed by Priyanka Chopra in Shah Rukh Khan’s Don (2006) and Don 2 (2011), and Zeenat Aman in Amitabh Bachchan’s Don (1978). Although unconfirmed, fans are excited about the possibility, believing Kriti could bring a fresh and fierce energy to the character. If Kriti joins Don 3, starring Ranveer Singh, it would be a major milestone in her career, and mark her return to the action genre after her debut movie Heropanti (2014). Memes keepe me alive Renuka Shahane After Jyotika, Renuka Shahane has spoken out about ageism against women in the entertainment industry and how the “ageist” society doesn’t give female actors the kind of work they deserve. She noted that if actors like her are not seen too often, the audience tends to forget them. She feels that the several memes about her on social media, especially the infamous staircase scene from Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994), help her with visibility among the new generation. She feels that such memes keep her relevant. “These things keep you alive in conversations, otherwise you don’t get the attention your talent deserves,” she explained. Janhvi’s village girl avatar Janhvi Kapoor Director Buchi Babu Sana wished Janhvi Kapoor on her birthday, on Thursday, by unveiling a new poster from their upcoming film, tentatively titled RC 16. He teased that Janhvi plays a “terrific character” in the Ram Charan-starrer, which is her second Telugu film. Before this, she was seen in NTR Jr’s Devara: Part 1 (2024). Sharing a behind-the-scenes poster, the director wrote, “Loved working with you and I can’t wait for everyone to see your terrific character on screen.” The poster shows Janhvi smiling, dressed casually, with a goat in her arms. The film is scheduled to release in cinemas later this month. Rajamouli’s jungle adventure gets bigger SS Rajamoul and Prithviraj Sukumaran Reports of Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran joining the cast of SS Rajamouli’s upcoming film, SSMB 29, starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra, have been making rounds. Although Rajamouli hasn’t made an official announcement, Prithviraj’s involvement was recently confirmed by his mother, Mallika Sukumaran. The actors were also spotted shooting together. We have learned that the film’s first schedule is complete, and the second leg is underway in Odisha. The project is touted as a jungle adventure drama. An official announcement is awaited from the makers.
07 March,2025 07:44 AM IST | Mumbai | The Hitlist TeamBorder 2 has been Nidhi Dutta’s baby as she is not only producing the Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh and Ahan Shetty-starrer, but has also written it. As she shapes up her passion project based on the 1971 India-Pakistan war, she has another reason to celebrate. The producer is expecting her first child with husband Binoy Gandhi, who recently directed Ghudchadi (2024). JP Dutta Sources tell us that she shared the good news with her cast and crew right when director Anurag Singh took Border 2 on floors in January. A source from the unit reveals, “She announced her pregnancy on the set, and the unit couldn’t be happier. Her parents JP Dutta and Bindiya were over the moon! Interestingly, Bindiya was expecting their second child, Siddhi, during the making of Border [1997]. Nidhi wants to be a hands-on producer. Being a woman producer on a war film isn’t easy, but having such examples will encourage more women. She is balancing the film and her pregnancy beautifully. The baby is due in July; by then, the movie’s post-production will begin.” When mid-day reached out to filmmaker JP Dutta, he confirmed the news, saying, “Yes, it’s true. We need everyone’s blessings as Nidhi and Binoy begin this new chapter in their lives. To see my daughter working on the film tirelessly while expecting her bundle of joy makes me so proud.”
07 March,2025 07:28 AM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBRSouth star Khushboo Sundar returned to Hindi cinema after 22 years with director Anil Sharma’s Vanvaas (2024). It won’t be too long before we see her again as she is doing another Bollywood film. Keen to continue building a diverse filmography, the actor mentions that she rejects more movies than she accepts, across languages. Sometimes, it’s the reverse as well. “There are times when I am rejected. It’s a part of the process,” says the senior actor, who has had a 45-year career spanning Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam films. Tanvi Azmi played the role in Bajirao Mastani, for which Khushboo Sundar had auditioned If things had gone as per her wishes, Sundar would have featured as Ranveer Singh’s mother in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Bajirao Mastani (2015). But she recalls that her audition didn’t make the cut, and Tanvi Azmi bagged the role. “My girls keep cursing me for [losing out on] it,” she laughs, before adding, “It was a brilliant role. But they said I didn’t fit it. Tanvi was outstanding in it and won the National Award as well. When the casting director makes a choice, s/he is clear about it. I remember they had said that I didn’t look negative, and old enough to play Ranveer’s mother.” Besides being a politician, Sundar has been among the leading stars in the Tamil film industry. While many may believe that stars and auditions don’t go hand-in-hand, she harbours no such misguided notions. “I don’t look at myself as a star. My daughter has turned producer, and I’m starring in her maiden production. She won’t cast me if she thinks I don’t fit the role. You can’t say, ‘I won’t audition because I’m a star’. Even Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts audition for parts. So, why not us?”
07 March,2025 07:24 AM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka SharmaIn a recent interview, director Chaitanya Tamhane told mid-day that stars and filmmakers should make one film for the kitchen and one for the soul. Filmmaker Kabir Khan has been living that motto from the start of his career. In his filmography, there are blockbusters like Ek Tha Tiger (2012) and Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), as well as hard-hitting offerings like Kabul Express (2006) and New York (2009). “I’ve never been in the race of being commercially viable. Despite that, I’ve had some big commercial successes. That’s important because it keeps you relevant and allows you to do anything you want. For me, success is [being able to] select what I want to do. So far, I’ve been able to pick up films that have struck a chord with me,” says the director. A still from the short film, Setara. Pic/Instagram His search for such stories led him to My Melbourne. The anthology, which sees four directors—Imtiaz Ali, Rima Das, Onir and Khan—unite to tell short stories, is releasing in India on March 14. Khan’s short Setara tells the true story of a 15-year-old Afghan girl rebuilding her life in Melbourne after fleeing the Taliban, and finding a sense of belonging through cricket. A chance encounter brought this subject to the director. “My film 83 [2021] was getting an award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2022. At one of the receptions, I saw four-five girls in hijabs coming to see Kapil [Dev] sir. They were members of the Afghan women’s cricket team, who had to run away from Afghanistan. That immediately struck a chord with me because I’ve always felt for Afghanistan, and I love underdog stories.” As we talk about Afghanistan, we recollect Meryl Streep’s statement about cats having more freedom than women in Kabul. Having studied the country since his days as a documentary filmmaker, Khan rues the current situation. He laments, “What girls like Setara are going through today is worse as they had 20 years of relative peace [between 2001 and 2021]. A generation of girls was born after the Taliban [regime collapsed] in 2001, and just when they were ready to spread their wings, things went back to square one. What’s sad is that we’re slowly forgetting it because there are more important things coming on the news like Gaza and Ukraine. Nobody is talking about Afghanistan today. So, at least, these films keep provoking a conversation. I’m so happy to see Setara, who is full of enthusiasm for the future. You can rise above the trauma you went through, and the film talks about that.”
07 March,2025 07:19 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuAcclaimed actress Shweta Tripathi is set to make her mark as a producer, with four exciting projects in the pipeline spanning diverse genres. Among them, her debut production is a queer love story between two women, a project she initially joined as an actor before deciding to back it as a producer. The film, which celebrates LGBTQIA+ representation, is a deeply personal and significant step in her journey as a storyteller. Shweta on the freedom to tell stories Speaking about her decision, Shweta Tripathi shared, "When this script came to me as an actor, I was instantly drawn to its honesty, sensitivity, and the way it portrayed love in its purest form. As I delved deeper, I realized how important it was for this story to be told the right way. That’s when I decided to step in as a producer. This is not just a film; it’s a celebration of love, identity, and the courage to be oneself. As a producer, I now have the creative freedom to tell stories, and I couldn’t have asked for a better beginning." Shweta plans to explore vivid genres Apart from this queer romance, Shweta’s production slate includes a horror film, a drama, and a psychological thriller. Beyond these, Shweta is also keen to produce children's stories, a genre close to her heart. She believes that the films we grow up watching shape us in profound ways, and she hopes to create stories that leave a lasting impact on young minds. Shweta adds, "Children’s films played a huge role in shaping my personality. They teach empathy, curiosity, and courage in ways that stay with you for life. As a producer, I want to create films that not only entertain but also inspire the next generation." With her bold storytelling choices and unique vision, Shweta Tripathi is all set to bring fresh and meaningful narratives to Indian cinema. About Shweta Tripathi Shweta is known for her work in critically acclaimed films and series such as Masaan, Cargo, Mirzapur franchise, Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhein franchise, Haraamkhor, Gone Kesh, and Kaalkoot, among others. The 39-year-old, who is married to actor and rapper Chaitanya Sharma, was recently seen in the romantic crime thriller series Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein, directed by Sidharth Sengupta.
06 March,2025 06:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSalman Khan is a superstar who enjoys a massive fan base across the nation. While he has delivered some of the biggest films with top directors, he has recently been making headlines for his potential collaboration with director Atlee. However, in the latest update, the film has been put on the back burner due to Rajinikanth’s date conflict. Atlee is in advanced talks with Salman Khan for a mega-budget, two-hero film, with Sun Pictures as the producer. The film is said to be a reincarnation-based period drama, similar in scale to Game of Thrones. However, according to recent reports, the project has now been put on back burner, leading to plenty of speculation. Salman Khan-Atlee film's casting conflict According to an independent industry source, “A6 with Salman Khan was always planned as a Two Hero Project and the intent was to rope in two top names from the North and South to justify the mammoth budget of Rs 650 crore. While Salman Khan okayed the film, Atlee and Sun Pictures were confident to rope in either of Kamal Haasan or Rajinikanth for the film. The conversations with both the giants of Tamil Cinema continued for over 6 months, but the things didn’t fall in place for multiple reasons.” The source further added, “While Kamal Haasan wasn’t too sure on playing the role of Salman Khan’s father in the film, Rajinikanth is committed to shoot for Coolie and Jailer 2 until the start of 2026. He is on the verge of green lighting another project post Jailer 2, which means his dates are blocked till 2026. After both the conversations fell through, Atlee and Sun Pictures were looking for options all across but couldn’t find an ideal replacement for Rajinikanth or Kamal Haasan. They wanted to cast someone who can bring in big revenue from Digital and Satellite in the local language (eg. Rajinikanth / Kamal Haasan in Tamil), but the options of senior superstars with that market value was limited.” The makers even made an attempt to go international. “Conversations were initiated with Slyvestor Stallone to play the parallel lead, but the financials didn’t fall into place. The team is still exploring options of casting other international names and the process will take longer than usual due to complexities of contracts and other barriers. After all the attempts, Atlee, Salman and Sun Pictures have decided to team up in the near future, as some films are designed in a way to work out only as a collaboration between the two industries - Either North and South or India and Hollywood - and ambitious things often take time to materialize,” the source concludes. Moreover, it will be exciting to see who will collaborate with Salman Khan on Atlee's film and how these giants in the entertainment industry will create a cinematic spectacle.
06 March,2025 01:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAnurag Kashyap had said in December that he plans to move out of Mumbai. Now the filmmaker has put his plan into action and confirmed his move out of the city. While he did not reveal his new location, he shared that he has paid the first rent of his new home. Anurag moves out of Mumbai In a recent interview with The Hindu, Kashyap confirmed that he has indeed moved out of the city. He said, "I’ve left Mumbai. I want to stay away from film people. The industry has become too toxic. Everyone is chasing unrealistic targets, trying to make the next Rs 500 or Rs 800 crore film. The creative atmosphere is gone.” According to several reports, Kashyap has shifted his base to Bengaluru. “A city is not just its structures but also its people. And here they pull you down," he said reflecting on the move. The Kennedy director also said that many filmmakers have already left Mumbai, quietly. The biggest exodus is to the Middle East, especially Dubai. Others have relocated to Portugal, London, Germany, and the US. And these are mainstream filmmakers I’m talking about,” he added. When Anurag Kashyap spoke about leaving Mumbai The filmmaker known for films like Gangs Of Wasseypur, Black Friday, Sacred Games and more had blamed the profit-hungry mindset of the industry behind his decision. While talking about how the ‘joy of filmmaking is sucked out,’ he said, “Because now it comes at a cost. Which makes my producer start thinking about profits and margins. Right from the beginning, before the film starts, it becomes about how do we sell it. So the joy of filmmaking is sucked out. That’s why I want to move out. Literally, next year I am moving out of Mumbai. I am going to the South. Because I want to go where there is stimulation. Otherwise, I will die out as an old man.” “I am so disappointed by my own industry. Not just disappointed, I am disgusted by the mindset that’s here. A script like Manjummel Boys would never be made in Hindi. But when the film becomes a hit, definitely a Hindi filmmaker or producer will say, ‘Let’s remake it.’ The next day they will call me and ask, ‘You know the filmmaker? Can we get the remake rights?’ This is the mindset here. Let’s just remake what’s already worked. But they don’t understand anything and will not try anything new which does not have a reference point. I’m so disgusted," he further continued and stated.
06 March,2025 12:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAlia Bhatt is among the top stars of Indian cinema. The actress embraced motherhood in 2022 after welcoming her beautiful baby girl Raha, with husband Ranbir Kapoor. In a recent interview with podcaster Jay Shetty, Alia spoke about how motherhood has changed her, its impact on her daily life. She also spoke about the special bond her actor husband shares with their 2-year-old daughter. Alia Bhatt on motherhood Alia Bhatt got married to Ranbir Kapoor in April 2022 and the couple welcomed their daughter in November of the same year. The actress said that nothing can ever prepare anyone for motherhood. Talking about her experience of being a mother, Alia said, "I don't think you can prepare yourself to feel what you are about to feel. I've forgotten what life was pre-motherhood—in terms of my feelings, way of life, or the way my brain functioned at the time. My days are so full now. In fact, I wonder what I was doing earlier." She further said, "When you speak about surprises, there are many because she is a toddler now—she is always bubbling. The feeling of motherhood is ever-evolving, but one thing I can say for sure is that I have become incessantly protective ever since she was born. I remember the early months after she was born; it was bliss for me. I enjoyed the survival and nurturing feeling." Alia Bhatt on Ranbir's special bond with Raha The actress also spoke about the special bond Ranbir shares with Raha. She revealed that Ranbir always wanted to be a girl dad and that he becomes totally different person in her presence. "They have a very special friendship. You'd feel like they are two friends—two adults or two toddlers. When he looks at Raha, there are stars in his eyes. I've known him pre-fatherhood, and now, I see the difference. I see how he is different with people. As a father, he is so full—there's a fullness that I have experienced, and I see it on a daily basis. It's sweet and special to watch their conversations. I'm always secretly video-recording their random moments," she revealed.
06 March,2025 11:06 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Sohum Shah made news last year with the re-release success of his much loved and critically acclaimed film Tumbbad. Amid this success, the actor released his latest film 'Crazxy'. However, days after the release of the film, the makers surprised all by the changing the climax. The news was shared by trade analyst Taran Adarsh on X who termed this move as 'daring'. The climax was modified based on audience feedback. Climax of Crazxy changed Crazxy was released in theatres last week. The initial climax generated a lot of discussion among cinema lovers. While some praised the gripping narrative some felt that the climax lacked a punch that would do justice to the whole movie. Responding to the feedback, Sohum Shah who is also the co-producer of the film, took the step of changing the climax with the promise of elevating the film's emotional and cinematic impact. This is probably the first time the climax of a film has been completely changed after release. Earlier, minor modifications based on feedback have been made but changing the entire climax is probably a first. The updated version of the film will be available in theatres from March 7. Crazxy's Box office performance: Written and directed by Girish Kohli, the film is produced by Sohum Shah, Mukesh Shah, Amita Shah, and Adesh Prasad, with Ankit Jain as co-producer. With an opening collection of Rs 1.10 crore, Crazxy made its mark like no other small-budget film has done before. This success is undoubtedly built on the trust Sohum Shah earned with Tumbbad, but most importantly, he has done full justice to the content, ensuring the film not only holds strong at the box office but also registers steady growth with good word of mouth. As the film sees an upward trend, Crazxy has already reached its breakeven point, grossing Rs 4.25 crore in just three days of its release. From executing an exceptionally creative promotional campaign to delivering a stellar performance, Sohum has crafted yet another masterpiece. While the story of Crazxy is undeniably compelling, the dedication of the entire crew also deserves recognition for bringing this vision to life.Crazxy stands as a shining example of quality cinema that never fails to impress. It reinforces the importance of supporting good films and making space for cinema that truly celebrates storytelling and the love of audiences.
06 March,2025 09:47 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
