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Shreyas Talpade's team puts out official statement on multi-crore chit fund scam
Yesterday, reports came in that a fraud case was registered against several individuals, including Bollywood star Shreyas Talpade. The case was registered for duping people out of crores under the guise of a chit fund scheme. Now, with these reports making headlines, the actor's team has finally reacted and refuted the claims. Shreyas Talpade’s team has issued an official statement in light of him being named in a multi-crore chit fund scam. Shreays Talpade’s team puts out an official statement While talking to the actor’s official account, his team has rubbished the reports of the actor being named in the scam and termed the actor’s involvement in fraud or misconduct as completely false and baseless. The actor’s team said in the statement, “It is deeply unfortunate that in today's world, a person's hard-earned reputation appears to be vulnerable to undue tarnishment by unfounded rumours. Recent reports alleging Mr. Shreyas Talpade's involvement in fraud or misconduct are completely false, baseless, and devoid of any merit whatsoever. As a public figure, Mr. Talpade, like many other celebrities, is frequently invited to various corporate and annual events, which he attends as and when possible.” The team said that beyond such appearances, the actor has no association whatsoever with the company in question. “Needless to say, Mr. Talpade has no nexus whatsoever with any fraudulent or unlawful acts as are being alleged and/or circulated. We urge everyone to verify facts before spreading misinformation and request that Mr. Talpade's name be kept away from these baseless rumours. Mr. Talpade is a law-abiding citizen who remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, honesty, and professionalism in all of his endeavours,” they added. About the fraud case against Shreyas Talpade Earlier, it was reported in the media that a company called The Loni Urban Multistate Credit and Thrift Cooperative Society Limited targeted villagers by promising high returns on investments. The company’s agents are said to have collected large sums of money from locals, as they lured them with the claim that their investments would double within a short period—a stark reminder of what happened with Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar in Phir Hera Pheri. Shreyas’ personal life Shreyas Talpade, renowned for his Golmaal fame, reportedly suffered a heart attack in December 2023. Reportedly, Shreyas was perfectly fine and had been shooting for Akshay Kumar's Welcome to the Jungle the entire day. After returning home, he complained about feeling uneasy and subsequently collapsed.
29 March,2025 07:53 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Kangana Ranaut vs Javed Akhtar case: Lyricist reacts to mutual settlement claims
On February 28, Javed Akhtar and Kangana Ranaut ended their four-year defamation case filed by the former against the actor by reaching a settlement through mediation (March 1). But the chapter is far from over. A month on, the noted screenwriter-lyricist is displeased by how sections of the media have portrayed it as a mutual settlement, disregarding the fact that he agreed to enter a mediation only after his singular ask was met—of receiving an apology from the actor. A snapshot of Kangana Ranaut’s apology letter Talking to mid-day, Akhtar says he is perturbed at how an important facet that led to both parties agreeing for a mediation has not been factored. “It was a mutual settlement only after Kangana apologised in writing to me, which was my only demand when I filed the case. I had not asked for monetary compensation from her. It was my reputation that I was concerned about,” he says. mid-day is in possession of the letter of apology issued by Ranaut. In the letter, the actor, filmmaker and MP stated that the remarks made by her in a 2020 interview and thereafter were “the result of a misunderstanding,” and went on to apologise for the “inconvenience” caused to Akhtar. Following this, both parties withdrew their respective cases. Kangana Ranaut (left) posted this picture while announcing the resolution of her four-year legal feud with Javed Akhtar (right) It all started in 2020 when the veteran lyricist and screenwriter filed a defamation case against Ranaut, alleging that she had damaged his reputation by dragging his name in the Sushant Singh Rajput death case. The actor retaliated by lodging a counter-complaint in September 2021, accusing Akhtar of criminal intimidation and insult to modesty. On February 28 this year, Ranaut announced on her social media handles that they ended their four-year legal feud through mediation, even posting a picture of herself with Akhtar at the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court in Bandra. Akhtar, 80, says that in the following weeks, it was distressing for him to see that media reports did not mention the apology. “I was mystified why nobody was mentioning the written apology. But I’m not here to gloat about my victory. I’m relieved that my cause was served. I asked for an unconditional apology in writing not during the mediation; the mediation happened only after she tendered her apology in writing,” he says. Point out that Ranaut also said that he would pen a few songs for her directorial venture, and he laughs, “Who can say what may happen in the future? Never say never!”
29 March,2025 07:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBR
Yash starts shooting Toxic's final leg near Afghan Church, Colaba in Mumbai
All eyes may be on this Eid release, but Yash has already set his sights on 2026 Eid. That’s when the Kannada star’s period drama, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups, will hit the theatres. With a year to go for the release, the actor and director Geetu Mohandas are already shooting the last leg in Mumbai. (L to R) Kiara Advani plays Yash’s love interest, and Nayanthara, his sister Sources tell us that the unit’s first stop in the city is the Afghan Church in Colaba. A source reveals, “Over the next three days, the team will film some high-octane action sequences at the location. Only Yash is required for this stint; leading ladies Nayanthara and Kiara Advani finished their portions earlier. With the unit having procured the necessary permission from local authorities, they have blocked the lane in which they are filming to ensure there is no disruption. After the Colaba shoot, they will move to Madh Island to complete the last few scenes. With that, it will be a wrap on the principal photography.” That will give Mohandas months for Toxic’s post-production. The source adds, “Geetu knows that after the KGF franchise, Yash’s next will arrive amid high expectations. She wants to ensure it is on a par with international action thrillers.”
29 March,2025 07:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar Basu
Salman Khan's Sikandar unlikely to surpass his highest opener Tiger 3
From the look of things, it will be a grand Eid for Salman Khan fans. The advance booking window for Sikandar opened on March 27, and earned over Rs 10 crore on the first day. Despite its strong advance booking figures, buzz in the trade is that Sikandar is unlikely to smash Khan’s highest opener, Tiger 3 (2023), which had raked in Rs 43 crore on its first day. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh notes, “There are lots of factors [going in Sikandar’s favour]—it’s an Eid release, it stars Salman, and AR Murugadoss is the director. The assets may not have tracked as expected, but Sajid Nadiadwala [producer] and Salman know the pulse of the audience. Spot bookings will be the main focus. Since Tiger 3 made Rs 43 crore, Sikandar has the pressure to not settle at a final figure of Rs 25 crore [on Day One]. It has to top Tiger 3, which will be a challenge.” Like Sikandar, Tiger 3 was not only a festival release but also a Sunday offering. One could argue that the 2023 Diwali offering had the advantage of being part of the YRF Spy Universe. In contrast, Sikandar is a standalone action drama, which may not have the same multiplex appeal. But trade circles are confident that single-screen theatres, in cities as well as in tier-2 and -3 towns, will be the film’s stronghold. Manoj Desai, executive director of Gaiety-Galaxy, states, “Salman’s films have an unmatched pull in single screens. His fans don’t care about reviews or [box-office] comparisons; they come for the experience. They should increase the number of screens; Bhai’s film on Eid is bound to do well.” Ready to shell out Rs 2400? Sikandar has adopted an aggressive pricing strategy in metros, with some premium multiplexes in Mumbai and Delhi selling tickets priced as high as ₹R2400. An insider says, “This is a terrible idea. It may work for the first three days, but it will be unaffordable to the common man. That is Salman’s primary audience.” Rs 3000The price of Pushpa 2 tickets in some multiplexes Rs 2500The highest that Tiger 3 tickets were priced at
29 March,2025 07:13 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar Basu
Have you heard? Kartik Aaryan locks Valentine’s Day 2026 for Tu Meri.. release
KJo-Kartik’s Valentine’s Day gift (From left) Karan Johar and Kartik Aaryan Kartik Aaryan’s upcoming romantic comedy, Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri, will now hit theatres on Valentine’s Day next year. The film was initially slated to release in December 2025. In fact, filmmaker Karan Johar, who is backing the movie under his banner Dharma Productions had called it “the best Christmas gift”. However, now the film will release on February 14, 2026. The movie is reportedly set to star Ananya Panday as the female lead, marking her reunion with Kartik after Pati Patni Aur Woh (2019). Director Sameer Vidhwans, who had directed the actor in Satyaprem Ki Katha (2023), will be helming the new project. Battling the mafia Saif Ali Khan in Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins. Pics/Instagram Saif Ali Khan makes his first screen appearance since the tragic January incident, where an assailant attacked him at his Bandra residence. Directed by Kookie Gulati and Robbie Grewal, Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins will see Saif play a suave conman in a high-stakes battle against Jaideep Ahlawat, who plays a mafia boss. The movie is set to premiere on Netflix on April 25. For this project, the actor is reuniting with filmmaker Siddharth Anand, who had earlier directed him in films Salaam Namaste (2005) and Ta Ra Rum Pum (2007). Siddharth is the producer of the show. On collaborating with him again, Saif said, “Reuniting with Sid Anand has always felt like coming home.” Not a joke Tamil actor Shruthi Narayanan has addressed the recent leak of a viral video, falsely touted as her casting couch video, which showed her in a compromising situation. Taking to social media, she hinted that the video is fake and AI-generated. Sharing a video explaining AI-generated content, Shruthi expressed her distress, saying, “For you guys, spreading these contents on me it’s just a joke... But for me and my close ones, this is a very hard situation. Especially for me, it’s a very difficult time.” The actor is recognised for her role in Siragadikka Aasai, a popular Tamil serial aired on Star Vijay. ‘Success is freedom’ Samantha Ruth Prabhu Samantha Ruth Prabhu recently shared her perspective on success at the Indian Film Festival of Sydney’s curtain-raiser event on Thursday. Emphasising the importance of breaking free from stereotypes, especially for women, The Citadel: Honey Bunny (2024) actor said, “Success, for me, is freedom. I don’t wait for others to tell me that I am successful. Success is waking up with the freedom to do what you are passionate about. It is about not being put in a box and not being told what women can or cannot do.” Samantha also reflected on her personal and professional journey, discussing how she navigated obstacles with determination and authenticity. On the work front, Samantha will be seen in Maa Inti Bangaram, and web-show Rakt Bramhand: The Bloody Kingdom. Making an exit Romit Raaj Romit Raaj, who plays Rohit Poddar in TV serial Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is set to leave the show. His character will be killed off in an upcoming episode. Confirming his exit, Romit said, “My Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai journey has been closest to my heart. I knew it was going to be a short journey, and I cherished every moment.” The actor has already filmed his final episode and is looking forward to new beginnings in the television industry.
29 March,2025 07:09 AM IST | Mumbai | The Hitlist Team
Vijay Varma talks about finding happiness in relationship after breakup
Days after his break up with actress Tamannaah Bhatia, actor Vijay Varma emphasized the importance of embracing every aspect of a relationship. At a recent event in Mumbai, the actor shared a refreshing and lighthearted perspective on relationships, offering valuable insights into how to maintain happiness despite life’s challenges. Vijay Varma compares relationship with ice-cream When asked about the nature of relationships, comparing them to ice cream with different flavors—sweet, salty—Vijay advised that it’s better to accept and enjoy whatever comes your way, making the most of every moment. Vijay Varma told IANS, “Relationships, you talking about, right. I think if you enjoy relationship like ice cream, you will be very happy. That means whatever flavour comes you embrace it and run with it.” Earlier this month, news surfaced that Tamannaah and Vijay have ended their two-year relationship. Although neither of them has officially addressed the breakup on their social media accounts, rumors have been circulating, suggesting that the couple has called it quits. A source was quoted saying, “Tamannaah Bhatia and Vijay Varma parted ways weeks ago as a couple, but they plan to remain good friends. Both have been working hard in their respective schedules.” About Vijay and Tamannaah Vijay and Tamannaah fueled dating rumors when they were first seen together at a New Year’s Eve party in 2023. As the couple made more public appearances together, the speculation only grew, and they eventually confirmed their relationship during the promotions of “Lust Stories 2.” Since then, they have been frequently spotted together at events, movie screenings, date nights, and various social functions. In 2024, Tamannaah made their relationship public when she referred to Vijay as her "happy place.” Soon after, Vijay also expressed his affection for Tamannaah in several interviews. The two first shared the screen in the Netflix anthology “Lust Stories 2,” where they reportedly grew close during the filming process. Tamannaah Bhatia and Vijay Varma part ways A source close to the couple informed Pinkvilla, "Tamannaah Bhatia and Vijay Varma parted ways weeks ago as a couple but they plan to remain good friends. Both have been working hard in their respective schedules." In 2024, Tamannaah officially confirmed her romance with Vijay in an interview in June. Since then, the couple has been openly affectionate, regularly commenting on each other's social media posts and making public appearances together at various events.
29 March,2025 01:09 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
First looks of Akshay Kumar, R Madhavan and Ananya Panday from Kesari Chapter 2
Kesari Chapter 2 is among the most-awaited films of this year. Fans' excitement has gone to the next level ever since the makers released the film's teaser recently. And now, on Friday, captivating the audience's attention, the first look of actors Akshay Kumar, Ananya Panday and R Madhavan was unveiled. Ananya Panday as lawyer Dilreet Gill Ananya, as a lawyer, looked confident in the video, with her voiceover saying, "Uss din Jallianwala Bagh me jo hua uska sach puri duniya ko pata chalna chahiye (What happened that day at Jallianwala Bagh, the truth must be told to everybody)." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dharma Productions (@dharmamovies) Sharing her look, the makers on Instagram wrote, "Embraced by compassion, fueled by justice. Introducing Ananya Panday as Dilreet Gill in Kesari - Chapter 2. In cinemas worldwide, 18th April." R Madhavan plays Neville Mckinley in the film. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dharma Productions (@dharmamovies) Madhavan's character, McKinley, is introduced with the caption, "Sharp, fearless, undeniable... but playing for the other side! Introducing R. Madhavan as Neville Mckinley in Kesari: Chapter 2." Akshay Kumar as C Sankaran Nair Kumar will essay the lead role in the film who is also a noted lawyer. His character of C Sankaran Nair is based on real life. He was a fearless lawyer who dared to take on the British Empire in the wake of a national tragedy. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dharma Productions (@dharmamovies) Kesari Chapter 2 teaser The daring teaser challenges traditional formats with an unprecedented 30-second opening, featuring no visuals, no logo, and no title. Instead, it relies solely on sound to immerse audiences in the chaos and horror of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. This is not just an absence of visuals, it’s sensory storytelling at its most powerful. Gunshots, screams, and rising tension create an atmosphere so intense that it grips viewers before they even see a single frame. This is sensory storytelling at its boldest. Adding gravitas to the teaser, we have a voiceover that lands like a punch: “Don’t forget that you’re still a slave to the British Empire.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dharma Productions (@dharmamovies) Kesari Chapter 2 will focus on the untold story of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The first part, which was released in 2019, followed the events leading to the Battle of Saragarhi, a battle between 21 Sikh soldiers of the 36th Sikh Regiment of the British Indian Army and 10,000 Afridi and Orakzai Pashtun tribesmen in 1897. Parineeti Chopra played a pivotal role in the first chapter. The film will be released on April 18.
28 March,2025 09:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Shreya Ghoshal announces Mumbai concert of All Hearts Tour
After an extraordinary global journey, Shreya Ghoshal’s record-breaking All Hearts Tour is finally making its much-anticipated homecoming to Mumbai on 10th May. With over 40+ sold-out concerts and 2,00,000+ hearts touched worldwide, this tour has set a new benchmark in live music, and now, Mumbai is set to witness the magic of her unparalleled voice. Shreya Ghoshal to perform in Mumbai Sharing the announcement, Shreya shared on social media, “Mumbai... it's finally happening!! The All Hearts Tour is coming home, and I couldn't be more thrilled to announce that we're bringing the magic to my very own city — Mumbai! From city to city, your love has been overwhelming, and now it's time to feel that same energy with my home crowd. I've dreamt of this moment — singing my heart out, surrounded by familiar faces and the vibrant spirit of this incredible city. Let's make it a night to remember." View this post on Instagram A post shared by shreyaghoshal (@shreyaghoshal) About the All Hearts Tour Hailed as the voice that heals the soul, Shreya Ghoshal promises an enchanting evening filled with melody, nostalgia, and pure musical brilliance. Fans will be treated to a mesmerizing setlist featuring timeless classics like Mere Dholna, soul-stirring renditions of recent hits like Ve Kamleya, and a journey through the most beloved songs of her illustrious career. Whether it's her heartfelt romantic ballads, mesmerizing classical performances, or high-energy chartbusters, this concert is set to be an emotional and unforgettable experience for every music lover. The All Hearts Tour is not just about the music—it’s a spectacle of world-class technical production, breathtaking visuals, dynamic lighting, and stunning special effects. Every element is curated to create an immersive experience that enhances the magic of Shreya’s soulful, heart-touching vocals. For Mumbai, this is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of music, emotions, and the voice that has been the soundtrack of millions of lives. As one of India’s most cherished and celebrated singers, Shreya Ghoshal continues to captivate hearts, evoke deep emotions, and create timeless musical memories. Mumbai, get ready for a night of magic on 10th May—an evening of soul-stirring melodies, unforgettable moments, and a celebration of music like never before!
28 March,2025 09:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Years after public fallout, Arijit Singh sings for Salman Khan in Sikandar
Presenting love, romance, and the beautiful fresh chemistry between Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna, the song 'Hum Aapke Bina' from Sajid Nadiadwala's Sikandar, directed by A.R. Murugadoss, is out now. While the film is all set to hit theaters this Sunday, Hum Aapke Bina takes us into a world filled with love and romance, serving as a breath of fresh air amidst the action and intense mood of the film. After Zohra Jabeen, Bam Bam Bhole, and Sikandar Naache, Hum Aapke Bina from Sikandar is out, and it truly touches hearts with its loving melody. Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna's chemistry shines throughout, while the song is a visual spectacle with its massive, enthralling backdrops that perfectly complement the melody. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nadiadwala Grandson (@nadiadwalagrandson) Salman Khan’s charm is second to none and his eyes in romantic numbers light up the world. With "Hum Aapke Bina" featuring the freshest onscreen pair, Salman and Rashmika are all set to raise the bar for couple goals. The chemistry between the two is eccentric and absolutely sensational. Beautifully sung by Arijit Singh, the song's music is composed by Pritam, with lyrics penned by Sameer. Hum Aapke Bina further heightens the excitement to witness Sikandar on the big screen this Sunday. Salman Khan lauds Rashmika's work ethics Recently, during the promotional leg of the film, Salman heaped praise on his ‘Sikandar’ co-star Rashmika Mandanna for her work ethics and dedication. Salman spoke with fellow superstar Aamir Khan, and A.R. Murugadoss in a special video. During the conversation, the subject of the female lead of ‘Sikandar’ came up. Aamir, who often forgets people’s names, asked Salman about the female lead to which Salman said, “Rashmika Mandanna, she is very hard working. I remember in Hyderabad, she was shooting with us from 7:00 pm to 6:00 am. And she used to get ready for, I think ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ she was shooting at that time, and she had a fever also. She used to shoot all day for ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’. And she used to come back and shoot with us”. Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, the film is set to release in theatres on March 30, 2025. Get ready for an epic cinematic experience this Eid 2025! Salman Khan returns to the big screen, joined by the stunning Rashmika Mandanna in Sikandar. Backed by the visionary Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by the master storyteller A.R. Murugadoss, the film is set to release on March 30, 2025.
28 March,2025 06:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Hrithik Roshan to make directorial debut with 'Krrish 4'
Recently, filmmaker Rakesh Roshan announced that he will not be directing the upcoming installment of the superhero film, Krrish. It has now been revealed that the directorial ropes has been handed over within the family. Yes, that's right! Hrithik Roshan will be making his directorial debut with the film Krrish 4 in which he also plays the titular roles. Before becoming an actor, Hrithik had assisted his father Rakesh in the hit film Karan Arjun starring Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. The development of the fourth installment of India’s biggest superhero franchise has been confirmed by Rakesh Roshan, who has helmed the earlier 3 parts of the franchise. Hrithik has an ambitious vision: Rakesh Krrish 4 will be produced by Yash Raj Films in association with Rakesh Roshan. The shooting for the film is set to begin early next year. Confirming the development Rakesh Roshan said, “I’m passing the baton of the director of Krrish 4 to my son, Hrithik Roshan, who has lived, breathed and dreamt about this franchise since its inception with me! Hrithik has a clear and a very ambitious vision of taking Krrish’s journey forward with the audience for the next decades”. He further mentioned, “I couldn’t be more proud to see him wear the director’s hat for a film that means the world to us as a family. ‘Krrish’ has entertained audiences the world over and Hrithik will now reveal the next chapters of this superhero saga and take the vision I created so many years ago to greater heights”. Aditya Chopra onboards as producer Rakesh Roshan is thrilled that Aditya Chopra is taking over the reigns of ‘Krrish 4’ as the producer. He further mentioned, “It brings me so much joy to see someone like Adi as the producer of Krrish 4. It was he who convinced Hrithik to sit in the director’s chair. Adi and Yash Raj Films have the knowledge, understanding and technological might to produce this film and add great value to this project”. “Hrithik and Adi coming together as a producer-director pair with me behind them is a rare and deliciously creative combination! I’m sure they will turn Krrish 4 into a theatrical experience that has never been made in India. The dream is to make India proud globally with a larger than life experience like ‘Krrish 4’”, he added. (with inputs from IANS)
28 March,2025 05:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Did Sunny Deol inspire Randeep Hooda to hit the gym during his school days?
Actor Randeep Hooda shared how Sunny Deol played a key role in shaping his early fitness journey. Reminiscing about his school days, he revealed that he and his friends drew motivation from Sunny’s iconic posters, which pushed them to hit the gym and build strength. The 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar' actor recalled adorning hostel cupboards with Sunny's posters, which sparked in him the passion to start lifting weights and doing push-ups — a habit that stayed with him for life. Randeep, who is working with Deol in the upcoming thriller “Jaat,” expressed, “I have always been a huge fan of Sunny Deol. Growing up, we admired his powerful screen presence, his intensity, and his physique. I still remember us having his posters in our school hostel cupboards, looking at them and getting inspired to lift weights and doing push-ups.” “When I was offered the role, what convinced me the most was that I was playing this ultra macho action star opposite a legend like Sunny sir, to match his energy and intensity on screen—it’s an actor’s dream. He is a powerhouse, and sharing this space with him is both a challenge and an honor,” Randeep added. Earlier, in a statement, Sunny Deol revealed the journey of “Jaat” had begun during “Gadar 2.” The ‘Ghayal’ actor stated, “We all were very excited about it, we were about to start a beautiful film, and after following many directors, Gopi agreed to do the film. We met in Goa, and he said he would direct the film and had another story to narrate. He narrated to me the story of "Sorry Bol" (laughs). And with 'sorry, sorry, sorry,' he pulled me into the entire film and story, and this is how we made 'Jaat.'” “Jaat,” directed by Gopichand Malineni, will see Sunny in the titular role, while Hooda plays a menacing villain. The action thriller marks the first on-screen collaboration between Deol and Hooda. The film boasts a strong ensemble cast, including Vineet Kumar Singh, Saiyami Kher, and Regina Cassandra in pivotal roles. “Jaat” is set to hit theatres on April 10. 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
28 March,2025 11:30 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS