EXCLUSIVE: Fans meet Salman Khan post Sikandar’s debacle; request the star to work with Kabir Khan and Ali Abbas Zafar

Exactly a week ago, Salman Khan’s much-awaited film Sikandar was released and it failed to meet the expectations of most viewers. Instead of defending the star’s choices, his huge fan base began voicing their displeasure about Sikandar and Salman Khan’s recent choice of films. They began making various trends on X (formerly Twitter), hoping that Salman Khan would pay attention to them. And as luck would have it, Salman Khan found out about the fan’s woes. A meeting took place yesterday, on April 5, where some fans were able to meet the superstar.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The meeting was attended by Salman Khan, his manager Jordy Patel, business head Vikram Tanwar and fans. The fans openly voiced their displeasure about Sikandar and that his other recent films have not been up to the mark. They also showed their trends on X and how they have been incessantly tweeting as they care for him big time and want him to make better choices.”

The source added, “Salman was moved by the love and care from his fans. He confessed that from the nascent stage, he felt something was off about Sikandar and that it was not the way a big film should be made. However, he promised that he would now do films that would make his fans happy.”

The source continued, “Regarding Sikandar, the fans complained that not just content but even the marketing was below par. They confessed that when they complained to Sajid Nadiadwala’s team about the film being leaked on the day of release, the fans got a feeling that the producer’s team didn’t take it very seriously. The fans were also upset with the insulting tweets made by Warda Nadiadwala to the fans. Screenshots of the tweets were shown to Salman.”

The source further stated, “The fans requested Salman Khan to do films with credible directors like Kabir Khan and Ali Abbas Zafar, who have given blockbusters to Salman in the past and with whom the star has a very good bond. They further requested that, just like Pooja Dadlani acts as a bridge between Shah Rukh Khan and his fans, Salman Khan should also have someone proactive in his team to keep him informed about fan messages and feedback. This person should also be available to pass on the message of Salman to the fans.”

The source signed off by saying, “Salman Khan promised to take all these aspects into consideration. The meeting lasted for an hour. It's unprecedented to see a star of this stature meeting the fans in this manner and listening to their woes. Yet again, Salman Khan proves that he’s a one-of-a-kind star. With this correct approach, there’s no doubt that he’s going to bounce back with a bang. It's only a matter of time.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Salman Khan’s DIE-HARD fan opens up after Sikandar’s debacle: “The audience in my show was laughing. Woh dekh kar dil ko chubb raha tha; we fail to understand why Salman can’t realize (that he’s going wrong). He must take a break”

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Jacqueline Fernandez grieves the demise of her mother Kim Fernandez after she passes away in Mumbai

In heartbreaking news from the world of entertainment, actress Jacqueline Fernandez’s mother, Kim Fernandez, passed away on Sunday after a brief period of hospitalization. She had been undergoing treatment at Lilavati Hospital in Bandra following a severe stroke in March. While several media outlets have confirmed the sad demise, the Fernandez family is yet to issue an official statement.

Kim Fernandez had been battling serious health complications since the stroke that occurred during the last week of March. She was urgently admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Lilavati Hospital, where she had remained under close medical supervision. In light of her mother’s deteriorating condition, Jacqueline had opted out of a scheduled IPL performance in Guwahati, ahead of the match between Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders, to be by her side. At the time, a source close to the actress was quoted in a report by Hindustan Times, saying, “Jacqueline's mother is still in the ICU and recovering, as the family waits for updates from the doctors. During this difficult time, Jacqueline has chosen to stay by her mother's side and will unfortunately miss the IPL performance.”

Known to be extremely close to her mother, Jacqueline has often credited Kim Fernandez for being her emotional anchor and support system. The two shared a strong bond, and Jacqueline has previously spoken about the influence her mother has had on her life and career. The actress, who is usually active on social platforms, has understandably stayed away from public interactions in the past few weeks as she is believed to be spending time with her family during this challenging time.

Further details regarding the final rites and any public statement from Jacqueline or her representatives are still awaited.

We at Bollywood Hungama, offer our heartfelt condolences to Jacqueline Fernandez and her family.

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Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi to shoot new songs for Bhool Chuk Maaf: Report

To amp up the entertainment quotient of their upcoming comedy Bhool Chuk Maaf, the makers have decided to add two brand-new songs to the film’s soundtrack. Starring Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi, the time-loop wedding comedy is now set to hit theatres on May 9, instead of its original April 10 release date.

New Songs to Add Energy & Charm According to a report by Mid-Day, director Karan Sharma and producer Dinesh Vijan felt that adding two more songs would enhance the mass appeal and musical energy of the film, which follows Rajkummar Rao’s character reliving the same day—his wedding eve—over and over again.

A source close to the production revealed: “Of the two songs, Rajkummar and Wamiqa filmed one on March 29 at a studio in Mira Road. A set replicating a small-town street was constructed for this upbeat number.” This track is being described as a vibrant, peppy promotional song composed by Tanishk Bagchi, with choreography by Vijay Ganguly and styling by Sheetal Sharma. Romance in Varanasi: Second Song Set for Mid-April Shoot The team is currently prepping for the second song, which will be shot in Varanasi, the film’s primary setting. Slated to be filmed in mid-April, this track will have a “romantic bachelorette party” vibe, perfectly complementing the wedding theme of the story. The chemistry between Rajkummar and Wamiqa is expected to be a highlight of the sequence. Why the Release Was Postponed The update on these additional songs comes just days after the announcement that Bhool Chuk Maaf had been postponed to May 9. Initially scheduled for release on April 10, the makers decided to delay the film to avoid a clash with a crowded release calendar. As reported by Bollywood Hungama, the original release week featured films like Sunny Deol’s Jaat and Phule, Salman Khan’s Sikandar (March 30), Akshay Kumar’s Kesari Chapter 2 (April 18), and Emraan Hashmi’s Ground Zero (April 25).

Also Read: Yash Raj Films to distribute Rajkummar Rao-Wamiqa Gabbi starrer Bhool Chuk Maaf worldwide

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Ek Jaadugar first look: Vicky Kaushal wields magic in Shoojit Sircar’s fantasy drama

Bollywood’s versatile heartthrob Vicky Kaushal steps into a magical new avatar in Shoojit Sircar’s upcoming fantasy drama, Ek Jaadugar. The first look poster dropped yesterday, and it's already casting a spell on fans and cinephiles alike.

A Magical Makeover for Vicky Kaushal The poster features Vicky Kaushal in an enchanting magician’s get-up — a rich green velvet suit adorned with intricate embroidery, a flamboyant emerald bowtie, and a tall top hat with a green feather. His dramatic curled mustache and mischievous glint evoke the classic illusionist charm, blending vintage flair with cinematic elegance.

He holds a glowing wand with a burst of blue light, seemingly conjuring a swirling green crystal orb that floats above his palm. Surrounding him are visual cues straight out of a magician’s playbook — a white dove mid-flight, a rabbit leaping from a hat, and playing cards soaring through the air. The entire scene is set against a vintage circus or theatre backdrop, complete with velvet curtains, heightening the fantastical tone of the film.

Fans are already buzzing about Vicky’s never-seen-before avatar. Social media is flooded with comments praising his magical makeover, with many wondering if the film leans more toward fantasy, drama, or a heartwarming tale wrapped in illusion. With Shoojit Sircar at the helm, expectations are high for a unique storytelling experience that blends realism with whimsy.

Speaking of the professional front, Vicky is currently basking in Chhaava's success. The historical drama, directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Maddock Films, received positive reviews from the critics as well as the audience. It also featured Rashmika Mandanna as the female lead, Akshay Khanna as the antagonist, and Viineet Kumar Singh in a supporting role.

Coming to the upcoming projects of Vicky, besides Ek Jaadugar, he also has a film with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, titled Love & War.

Also Read: Sanjay Leela Bhansali plans massive Pan-India release of Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal’s Love & War

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Salman Khan in talks for Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2 with V. Vijayendra Prasad? Here's what we know!

Salman Khan is one of the most beloved superstars in the country, with a filmography that boasts some truly remarkable films. Among them, one of his most loved and appreciated films is Bajrangi Bhaijaan, which was released in 2015. Not only did he deliver one of the finest performances of his career, but the film also won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment at the 63rd National Film Awards.

Salman Khan's fans have always eagerly awaited a sequel to the film, and speculation suggests that he is in discussions with screenwriter V. Vijayendra Prasad. According to an independent industry source, “Salman Khan has met V. Vijayendra Prasad a couple of days back. They have come up with an idea and discussions are on that could be for Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2. Moreover, there is a chance of possible collaboration between V. Vijayendra Prasad and director Kabir Khan, the trio is coming together. However, nothing has been finalized yet."

While the original film touched hearts with its emotional narrative and won widespread acclaim, it will be exciting to see, what direction the sequel might take.

Moreover, V. Vijayendra Prasad is regarded as one of the most successful screenwriters in India and is the only writer to have contributed to several of the biggest films in Indian cinema. His notable works include Bobbili Simham (1994), Magadheera (2009), Eega (2012), the Baahubali duology (2015–2017), Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), and RRR (2022).

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Salman Khan’s DIE-HARD fan opens up after Sikandar’s debacle: “The audience in my show was laughing. Woh dekh kar dil ko chubb raha tha; we fail to understand why Salman can’t realize (that he’s going wrong). He must take a break”

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REVEALED: In Ganga Ram, Salman Khan to play a character named Ganga, Sanjay Dutt to essay the role of Ram

A few days ago, Bollywood Hungama broke the news that Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt are expected to be seen in a film called Ganga Ram. As expected, the news broke the internet and spread like wild fire. Now, we bring to you another piece of information about this upcoming movie.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “After the Ganga Ram news came out, many began to wonder if Ganga Ram is the name of one person. Fans speculated that either Salman Khan or Sanjay Dutt will be playing Ganga Ram.”

The source continued, “But that’s not the case. Ganga and Ram are the names of two principal characters. While Salman Khan will essay the role of a character named Ganga, Sanjay Dutt will reprise the role of a man named Ram.”

The source also revealed, “Ganga Ram is mounted as a wholesome entertainer and will have lots of action. The makers are trying to ensure that the audience gets its money’s worth when they come to see this film starring two macho stars of Bollywood.”

The film will be produced by Salman Khan Films and directed by debutant Krish Ahir, who has been an associate on multiple films produced by Salman Khan over the last 5 years. During the promotions of the grand Eid release, Sikandar, Salman Khan hinted that he would be doing a film with Sanju.

Last weekend, at the trailer launch of The Bhootnii, Sanjay Dutt also confirmed his reunion with Salman Khan saying, “Yes, Salman and I are indeed working together. We both are brothers and we are coming together. You all have seen us in Saajan (1991) and in Chal Mere Bhai (2000). Ab dono mein tashan dekh lijiye! It’s an action film and I am very excited and happy that I’ll work with my chhota bhai after 25 long years.”

Also Read: SCOOP: Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt’s next titled Ganga Ram; debutant Krish Ahir to direct

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EXCLUSIVE: Gulshan Devaiah on why Afsos 2 never happened: “I don’t think it did well enough for Amazon”; opens up on Anurag Kashyap's criticism about OTT giants: “In principle, I do agree with him but…”

Gulshan Devaiah’s Hunterrr (2015) was re-released recently in cinemas. While speaking about it exclusively with Bollywood Hungama, we asked him about his quirky thrilling show Afsos (2020). There’s a trend of a web series having multiple seasons but Afsos never had a Season 2.

When asked about it, Gulshan Devaiah revealed, “When the show was written, I was signed for 3 seasons. That’s a general rule of thumb that a lot of people follow. I don’t think it did well enough for Amazon. Also, it was not an Amazon original; if it was, it might have had a Season 2. It was not as heavily promoted as Amazon does for its originals. Tell me about it; I did Dahaad. They promote and how! Hence, I don’t think it got the kind of promotion that would have helped it.”

Gulshan continued, “Nevertheless, it has its own fan base. It ends at a very interesting point. You don’t know if he is Chiranjeevi.”

He also added, “These are things you have to accept. It’s part and parcel of an actor’s life. I am not blaming Amazon. I am sure that they have their policies and their budgetary allocations. They can’t break their protocols.”

A few weeks back, Anurag Kashyap blasted streaming executives for not giving creative freedom to show creators as they do in the West. Does Gulshan Devaiah agree with this notion?

He explained, “I don’t want to be the guy who complains. But at the same time, I always felt that we could do better, since the beginning. There will be restrictions. India is a different country. It’s a very complex nation. It’s so diverse. There are things which bind us together and there are things which also break us apart. The fact that we are still together is a miracle! Hence, it will always be challenging for storytellers to say what you can and what you cannot say. Freedom of speech can never be absolute; there are terms and conditions. Sometimes, you have to fight and swim against the flow. At times, you have to find creative ways to still tell your story.”

He further stated, “In principle, I do agree with him. I don’t agree with the accusations that he’s making as I don’t know (about it fully) as I am not a creator. I have never been in that kind of discussion about scripts. I only discuss contracts. But I do feel we can do better, especially in terms of storytelling. There are so many millions of rooted stories we can tell from India alone.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Gulshan Devaiah talks about Hunterrr’s re-release; reveals, “I had some experience of shooting erotic scenes thanks to Vivek Agnihotri’s Hate Story”; decodes Bollywood’s profit illusion: “A Rs. 70 cr film making Rs. 100 cr is NOT profitable…”

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EXCLUSIVE: Trailer of Ajay Devgn-starrer Raid 2 to be launched on April 8; will be attached with the prints of Sunny Deol Jaat

The teaser of Raid 2 was unveiled on March 28 and it got a very positive response, enhancing the buzz for the thriller. Since then, there has been a tremendous demand for the trailer. Several reports speculated that Raid 2's trailer will be launched on April 2, on the occasion of lead actor Ajay Devgn's birthday. Bollywood Hungama has now learned when the much-awaited trailer will finally be out.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, "The trailer of Raid 2 will be out on Tuesday, April 8. A trailer launch will be held on a grand scale in Mumbai. Ajay Devgn and the entire star cast of the film will be present."

The source further said, "The viewers will get a chance to see Raid 2's trailer on the big screen from Thursday, April 10. This is because the promo will be attached with Sunny Deol's upcoming release Jaat. The makers of Raid 2 requested Sunny Deol and the producers of Jaat and they were more than happy to attach Raid 2's trailer with their prints."

Raid 2 releases in cinemas on May 1. Apart from Ajay Devgn, it stars Riteish Deshmukh as the antagonist. The villain of the first part, Saurabh Shukla, also features in the film. Vaani Kapoor is paired opposite Ajay Devgn. Rajat Kapoor, Supriya Pathak and Amit Sial also are a part of the star cast.

Raid released in 2018 and featured Ajay Devgn as honest officer Amay Patnaik with Ileana DCruz playing his wife. The film told the story of an officer and his team and the challenges they faced when they raided a corrupt and powerful politician’s palatial residence. In Raid 2, Ajay Devgn once again essays the part of Amay Patnaik. Just like part 1, the second installment is also directed by Raj Kumar Gupta and produced by Bhushan Kumar and Krishan Kumar's T-Series and Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak's Panorama Studios.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn, Janhvi Kapoor seek blessings at Mumbai’s Krishna Kali Temple

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Chhorii 2 trailer out: Nushrratt Bharuccha and Soha Ali Khan starrer promises darker and intense fight of a mother, watch

Prime Video today unveiled the spine-chilling trailer of Chhorii 2, the highly anticipated sequel of its 2021 Original horror film, Chhorii. Expanding the twisted world of its predecessor, which was celebrated for its suspenseful storytelling deeply rooted in folklore, this new chapter plunges even deeper into folkloric horror, supernatural terror, and the unbreakable will of a mother fighting against forces beyond comprehension. A T-Series, Abundantia Entertainment, Psych, and Tamarisk Lane Production, the horror film is helmed by Vishal Furia, and it brings back Nushrratt Bharuccha as Sakshi, joined by Soha Ali Khan in a pivotal role, alongside an ensemble cast featuring Gashmeer Mahajani, Saurabh Goyal, Pallavi Ajay, Kuldeep Sareen, and Hardika Sharma. Chhorii 2 is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and across more than 240 countries and territories worldwide on 11th April 2025.

Set in the unexplored realm of underground caves, the trailer of Chhorii 2 pulls viewers back into Sakshi’s haunting world, now even darker, deadlier, and more perilous. Haunting rituals, ghostly figures, and unsettling folklore build an atmosphere thick with dread as she confronts malevolent supernatural forces to protect her daughter, Ishani. Soha Ali Khan’s mysterious, ‘Daasi Ma’ character only adds to the tension. Beneath the scares, the trailer reveals an emotional survival story, a mother’s unyielding fight against evil, promising a chilling, more intense chapter filled with deeper fears and unexpected twists.

Speaking about stepping back into Sakshi’s world, Nushrratt Bharuccha shared, “Returning as Sakshi in Chhorii 2 has been one of the most intense yet rewarding experiences of my career. After 7 years of tirelessly protecting her child, Sakshi’s deepest fear comes true, which adds a whole new level of emotion and intensity to the narrative. The horror in this installment feels darker, more powerful, and very real because it taps into a mother’s worst nightmare. Vishal has masterfully woven spine-chilling moments with raw emotions making the story a gripping blend of survival, love, and the lengths a mother will go to protect her child."

Soha Ali Khan, who joins the Chhorii franchise, added, “Joining the talented cast of Chhorii 2 and stepping into such a compelling role was a thrilling new challenge for me. What drew me to the film was how it mixes unsettling, atmospheric horror with folklore that feels so rooted in our culture. My character is layered — there’s menace but also mystery. She’s not someone you can easily predict, which made her a fascinating character to portray on screen. Vishal has crafted a world where fear creeps in from all sides, and being a part of it allowed me to explore a completely new side of myself as an actor."

 

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Sharing insights about the film’s premise, director Vishal Furia highlighted, “With Chhorii 2, we didn’t just want to make a sequel – we wanted to amplify everything that made the first film so haunting and emotionally powerful. The world of Chhorii expands in this chapter; the folklore runs deeper, and the evil Sakshi faces feels more personal and dangerous. We’ve introduced new characters, fresh subplots, and unexpected twists, all while staying true to the rooted backdrop that gives the story its unique authenticity. At the heart of it, Chhorii 2 is about a mother’s relentless fight against something that is all pervasive, and that is where the real terror lies."

Vikram Malhotra, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Abundantia Entertainment, said, "With Chhorii 2, we build upon the success of the first film, taking the franchise to new heights. As part of our commitment to genre-driven storytelling, this film is a key addition to our content library, dedicated to horror and paranormal narratives. Chhorii 2 is a perfect example of how the horror genre can tap into deep fears, challenge perceptions, and offer an immersive entertainment experience that truly connects with audiences. It remains our endeavour to bring such impactful stories to life, and we, along with our long-standing partners Prime Video, are excited to offer viewers across the globe another unforgettable chapter in the Chhorii universe."

Also Read: Nushrratt Bharuccha unveils spooky new poster of Chhorii 2; watch

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Singer Hans Raj Hans' wife Resham Kaur passes away at 62 after prolonged illness

Resham Kaur, the wife of renowned Punjabi folk and Sufi singer and politician Hans Raj Hans, passed away on April 2, 2025, at the age of 62 after a prolonged illness. She breathed her last around 1 pm at Tagore Hospital in Jalandhar, where she had been receiving treatment for heart-related issues.

According to reports, Resham Kaur had been battling heart ailments for some time and had recently undergone a stent procedure. Despite medical efforts, her condition did not improve.

Her brother, Paramjit Singh, stated that she had been hospitalized for five days prior to her demise. The funeral is scheduled for Thursday at 11 am in Shafipur, the ancestral village of Hans Raj Hans.

Hans Raj Hans, a Padma Shri awardee, is celebrated for his contributions to Punjabi folk and Sufi music. He has collaborated with legendary artists like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and has contributed to several Bollywood films. The couple has two sons, Yuvraj and Navraj. Navraj is married to Ajit Kaur Mehndi, daughter of renowned singer Daler Mehndi.

Political leaders, including Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu and BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh, have expressed their condolences. Bittu, in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, wrote, “May Waheguru grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give the family the strength to bear this profound loss.”

Shiromani Akali Dal leader Daljit Singh Cheema also expressed his grief, stating, “This is a huge loss for the whole family. Resham Kaur ji had played a big role in the life of Mr. Hans Raj Hans. She was a religious lady who supported Mr. Hans and the family through thick and thin.”

The family is yet to release an official statement regarding her passing.

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Vir Das to debut as author with memoir The Outsider

Comedian and actor-producer Vir Das is set to share his journey in his upcoming memoir, The Outsider. Known for his sharp wit and bold humor, Vir reflects on feeling like an outsider beyond just the comedy world. From being stranded on a beach in Mexico to navigating cultural identity and career ups and downs, the memoir explores his experiences of self-discovery, setbacks, and laughter.

Vir took to his social media to announce the book The Outsider - A Memoir for Misfits highlighting with a very deeply personal video showcasing the many chapters of his life, his identity, his career. The video announcement highlights his awkwardness, his global dominance, his lows as a comedian, his highs of being on world stage and to becoming the person he is today. In his words the book is guided from one idiot, fool, drifter, loser, dreamer and misfit to a world of such people.

In the book, amongst many incidents highlighted Vir recounts a memorable moment when, stranded on a pier in Cozumel, Mexico, with his cruise ship sailing away due to visa issues, he realized that being an outsider isn’t just something he experiences—it’s who he is. That moment, he says, perfectly encapsulates his life: “I was broke, hungover, dumped, jobless, and my trousers were full of sand. But, you know, when life gets absurd, the only way forward is to laugh.”

 

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The Outsider is more than just a memoir—it’s a journey through the highs and lows of a life spent between cultures. Born in India, Vir Das moved frequently between India and Lagos, Nigeria, never fully fitting into one identity. He was the Indian kid in Africa and the African kid in India. His outsider experience continued as he performed in Illinois, worked in Chicago, and eventually made his mark in Bollywood and global stand-up. With a career that defies convention, Vir has broken barriers and built a name for himself from New York to Mumbai.

Being an outsider hasn’t been all bad for Vir Das—it’s shaped him into who he is today. His memoir celebrates resilience, humor, and the power of embracing the unconventional. He shares how failure and rejection played a role in his success, how being different became his strength, and how he learned to thrive in situations where others might walk away.

Vir’s message is simple: being an outsider isn’t a setback—it’s something to embrace. He has turned challenges into opportunities, building a successful international career while staying true to himself.

Reflecting on his globe-trotting life, Vir says: “I’ve had a strange life that took me across the world more than anyone I know. I don’t know how one ends up being the Indian kid in Nigeria, the African kid in boarding school, the boarding school kid in Delhi Public School, the Delhi kid in Galesburg, Illinois, the Chicago guy in Alabama, the America-return in Mumbai, the Bollywood guy in comedy, the stand-up comedy guy in Bollywood, the Bollywood guy in Indie Music, and the Indian in American comedy. All I know is, when you are blessed enough to step into all those worlds, you write a book about it. I hope to take you across the world through the eyes of a fortunate fool.”

Also Read : From Shahid Kapoor to Vir Das to Anshuman Jha: Bollywood actors taking behind-the-scenes roles in 2025

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Shiv Sena and MNS raise objections to the return of Fawad Khan to Indian cinema with Abir Gulaal

Fawad Khan returning to Bollywood with Abir Gulaal has drawn reactions from political parties in Maharashtra, particularly the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and Shiv Sena. The upcoming film, also starring Vaani Kapoor, recently unveiled its trailer, bringing the Pakistani actor back to the Indian film industry after nearly a decade. The ban on Pakistani artists in Indian films has been in place since 2016. While the Bombay High Court dismissed a petition regarding the ban in 2023, tensions regarding their involvement in Bollywood remain.

Reacting to the trailer of Abir Gulaal, MNS leader Ameya Khopkar expressed the party’s opposition to the film’s release in Maharashtra. "We only learned about this film's release today when the makers announced it. But we are making it clear that we will not allow this film to release in Maharashtra because it features a Pakistani actor. Under no circumstances will we permit such films to be released in the state. We are gathering more information about the film and will soon issue a full statement," Khopkar told Dainik Bhaskar.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam (from Eknath Shinde faction) also addressed the issue, emphasizing the general sentiment towards Pakistani artists in India. Speaking to ETimes, he shared, "There is widespread hatred for Pakistan in India. When a film from Pakistan is released, Indian audiences do not prefer watching it. Even if a few people watch it out of curiosity, Pakistani artists have never been able to gain widespread success in India. If the central government has a policy on this, it should be implemented. The decision on whether Pakistani films should be released in India or if their artists should be allowed to work here must be made by the government."

The controversy surrounding Fawad Khan’s return highlights the ongoing debate over cultural exchanges between India and Pakistan, with political parties and industry stakeholders holding differing views. Meanwhile, Abir Gulaal is a romantic drama that is scheduled hit cinemas on May 9, 2025. It remains to be seen whether if these objections will impact the release of the entertainer.

Also Read: Fawad Khan makes comeback with Abir Gulaal; teaser unveils a dreamy romance with Vaani Kapoor

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Fatima Sana Shaikh reveals her casting couch experience in the South; says, “Casting director kept asking if I would ‘do anything’ for the role”

Fatima Sana Shaikh has once again ignited a crucial conversation on the existence of casting couch in the film industry. In a clip from an older interaction, that has recently surfaced on social media, the Dangal actress candidly spoke about her experiences in the South Indian film industry, revealing how certain filmmakers and producers exploit aspiring actors under the guise of offering roles.

“There was some casting happening in the South and I sent my profile. After he received it, he asked, ‘If I was ready to do anything’ and I responded on message saying that ‘I will be working hard and whatever is required for the role’, I will do that. But he kept repeating the same thing – ‘You can do anything for your casting’—again and again. I was playing dumb. I was getting irritated but I also wanted to see how long he would continue. Eventually, he too got irritated and left it there,” she shared.

Fatima further revealed the harsh realities of navigating the industry, highlighting how many aspiring actors, especially women, are often placed in uncomfortable situations. “When I was in South, there were a lot of small-time producers. At that point of time, we would think, ‘You will get a chance in Bollywood after establishing yourself in the South industry.’ There used to be so many ways to approach this. We were in a room where the producers would openly state that you would get a chance there only when ‘you meet people’ and things like that. They would not address it (casting couch) directly but would speak in a vague manner, but they would ask you to ‘do things’ for a role.”

once Fatima Sana Shaikh reveals shocking Encounters with the casting couch In the South film industry

harsh reality of the film industry . pic.twitter.com/6V1lsGPjAn — Kapil`ॐ (@iAKsSaviour) April 1, 2025

The actress also acknowledged that such incidents aren’t limited to the South but exist in every industry, including Bollywood and modelling. “Not everyone is like that but we have also heard such incidents from many actresses and even actors – there is abuse of every kind in every industry, even modelling. But you can’t help it, wherever there is power….”

As Fatima Sana Shaikh’s statements continue to gain traction, her courage in addressing the issue publicly has once again put a spotlight on the long-standing problem of exploitation in the film industry.

Also Read: Fatima Sana Shaikh shares passion for painting, reflecting on artistic journey: “I’ve always been wanting to have the freedom to paint”

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