The Kerala Story, which bagged two recognitions at the recently announced 71st National Film Awards, has been subjected to a lot of flak and criticism from industry stalwarts as well as the audience. Now, actor Adah Sharma, who headlined the film, has made a strong statement defending the film and its message. She said, it is her "responsibility" to give voice to the victims' stories through the film based on real-life incidents. Adah Sharma reveals being nervous In an exclusive conversation with Hindustan Times, the actor got candid about the film and its controversial reception. Adah revealed, “Everyone is allowed to have their opinion. I think it would have been shameful not to make this film. I have met 25 girls who went through the horrors. The film is a diluted version of what they went through.” For the unversed, the film sparked nationwide conversations upon its release. The film was based on real accounts of young women who were allegedly trafficked, radicalised, and forced into terrorist organisations. Adah played one such victim in the film, which she believes came with a deep sense of moral responsibility. She further added, "I was very nervous for them to watch the film," she shared, “but thankfully, they loved it. After meeting those girls, I felt it was my responsibility to tell their story.” Adah Sharma addressed the criticism Adah emphasised that the film spoke the truth, saying, “If telling the truth is being shameful, then I don’t mind being shameless. I have no shame in saying I am anti-terrorism. People who are calling it shameful—I think it has hit a nerve, and I don’t think nerves are hit by lies.” Addressing the criticisms which labelled the film as “politically motivated,” following its winning National Awards, the actress further said, “There is no mention of any political leader or party. For me, it has been a story of girls who are trafficked, brainwashed, and taken to become terrorists. I stand with these girls. If that is political, then so be it.” Her statement comes amid debates over the film's themes and its place in India’s socio-political discourse. Despite divided public opinion, Adah remains unwavered: “I can’t see it in any other way. I have to stand with the truth.”
13 August,2025 08:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRapper Badshah has come under fire after he received a letter from the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. The film body wrote to him regarding his upcoming show, pointing out that it is allegedly sponsored by a company based in Pakistan. The rapper recently announced his Badshah's Un-Finished Tour, which kicks off in Dallas on September 19, 2025. FWICE writes to Badshah FWICE wrote a lengthy letter to Badshah seeking clarification from him. The letter read, "Dear Mr. Badshah, It has come to our attention that you are scheduled to perform in an upcoming event Badshah Un-Finished Tour at the Curtis Culwell Centre in Dallas, USA, on the 19th of September 2025, which is reportedly being sponsored by 3Sixty Shows, a company owned and operated by Pakistani nationals." The letter further added, "As you are aware, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), in alignment with the directives issued by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, has clearly instructed all artists, performers, and technicians in the Indian entertainment industry to refrain from engaging in any professional collaborations or performances with Pakistani nationals or organizations connected to Pakistan. These measures are in place considering the continuing acts of terrorism and hostile activities directed against India from across the border." Seeking clarification from the rapper, FWICE wrote, "In light of this, we request your immediate clarification regarding your association with this event and the said organisers. We trust that as a respected Indian artist, you will uphold the sentiments of the nation and the directives issued by FWICE and the Government of India. Your prompt response will be appreciated so that we may take the necessary steps in accordance with our regulations." FWICE earlier warned Kartik Aaryan Notably, prior to Badshah, the film body had warned actor Kartik Aaryan against his participation in an Independence Day event organised by a Pakistani restaurant in Houston, United States. The actor's team, however, officially wrote to them saying, "Kartik Aaryan is not associated with this event in any capacity. He has never made an official announcement about participating in this event. We have contacted the organisers and requested to remove all promotional materials featuring his name and image."
13 August,2025 08:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAanand L Rai's Raanjhaana was recently re-released in theatres with a twist. The makers- Eros International- without the consent of the director or the cast, altered the ending of the film using AI for re-release. After Dhanush and Aanand L Rai now actor Zeeshan has spoken against the AI version of the film. Zeeshan on AI version of Raanjhanaa Zeeshan played the role of Dhanush's character Kundan's friend Murari. Talking about the AI version of the film in a conversation with Digital Commentary, he said, "Mere hisaab se bhut kharab baat hai. I totally disagree. Ek duniya hoti hai, ek khaanikaar bethke bunta hai. I think Raanjhanaa ki khoobsurti yeh thi ki vo jo aapko ek pain aur satisfaction milta hai, voh pyaar main jo akhiri mukaam ki baat hoti hai, apni maut main pahunch jaana aur itna pyaara tha ki usse jaane diya. Voh khoobsurti nahi cheenani chahiye. Aapne film ka saar badal diya, cheen liya (In my opinion, it’s a very bad thing. I totally disagree. There’s a whole world, and then there’s a storyteller who weaves it. I think the beauty of Raanjhanaa was that it gave you both pain and satisfaction — that final stage of love where you reach your own death, and it was so beautiful that you let it happen. That beauty shouldn’t be taken away. You changed the essence of the film; you took it away)." Actor reacts to AI-altered scene The AI-altered scene has a happy ending where it shows Kundan's character come to life and Sonam Kapoor, Zeeshan Ayyub, and Swara Bhasker 's characters rejoicing. “Aapne audience se ek bhut important emotion cheen liya. Mujhe toh gussa bhi aaya, maine socha sue kardunga yaar. Le deke humari itni to izzat hoti hai ki acting achhi hoti hai, usmein jo mera shot inhone AI se karaya hai, itna zaleela hone waala shot hai voh, mera dil beth gaya. Main kabhi aise aansun puchte hue nahi rounga (You took a very important emotion away from the audience. I even got angry, I thought, ‘I’ll sue them, man.’ The only respect we have is that our acting is good, and here they made my shot with AI — and it’s such a humiliating shot that my heart just sank. I’ll never cry the way shown in the AI version)."
13 August,2025 07:54 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSon of Sardaar 2 actress Mrunal Thakur recently made headlines after an old video of hers went viral on the internet. In the video she was seen making fun of actress Bipasha Basu, claiming she was better than her. Bipasha has now reacted to the old video of Mrunal. The body-shaming remarks made by the Son of Sardaar 2 star have sparked major controversy, with many slamming her for her comments. Bipasha Basu takes a jibe at Mrunal Thakur After the old clip made rounds on the internet, Bipasha broke her silence, reacting to Mrunal's comments. Although she did not direct her response to the Sita Ramam actress, her comments were clearly a response to the viral remarks. Taking to her Instagram stories on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Bipasha shared a quote which read, "Strong women lift each other up." The actress further addressed the 'muscles' comment, writing, "Get those muscles beautiful ladies, we should be strong. Muscles help you attain good physical and mental health forever! Bust the age old thought process that women should not look strong or be physically strong." (sic) Mrunal Thakur's comment It all started when an old clip of Mrunal from her Kumkum Bhagya days resurfaced on the internet recently. In the clip, Mrunal can be seen chatting with her Kumkum Bhagya co-star Arjit about fitness. When Arjit playfully dares her to do a headstand, Mrunal can be seen jokingly claiming that he could sit while she balanced on her head. View this post on Instagram A post shared by qualiteaposts (@qualiteaposts) The actor then challenged her to do push-ups, to which the actress replied that he might be interested in marrying a strong, muscular woman. She then remarked, "Do you want to marry a girl who is manly with muscles? Go marry Bipasha." Further, she can be heard saying, "Listen, I am far better than Bipasha." This old clip of Mrunal did not sit well with netizens as she attracted a lot of flak for pulling down another woman. Many even slammed her for comparing herself to Bipasha Basu. Notably, Mrunal Thakur is yet to respond to the backlash surrounding her old video going viral.
13 August,2025 06:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs the Hindi film Parineeta gears up for a re-release on August 29 for one week at PVR INOX theatres across India, audiences have another chance to experience not just its elegant storytelling and remarkable performances, but also its unforgettable music- a soundtrack that has defined romance for an entire generation. Composed by Shantanu Moitra with lyrics by Swanand Kirkire, Parineeta’s music has stood the test of time. Parineeta album Leading the album is the tender Piyu Bole, sung by Shreya Ghoshal and Sonu Nigam, which became the ultimate romance anthem of the 2000s. Equally loved is Kasto Mazza, a joyous, folk-infused train journey brought alive by Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghoshal, while the smoky, jazz-flavoured Kaisi Paheli Zindgani, performed by the legendary Rekha, remains one of the most iconic cabaret numbers in Hindi cinema. From the wistful Raat Hamari Toh to the soulful Soona Man Ka Aangan, every song reflects the perfect synergy between Moitra’s compositions and Kirkire’s poetry. Vidya Balan recalls memories of Parineeta music Actress Vidya Balan said, “There is something about Piyu Bole that just has my heart. I think it’s so easily hummable, it has that old-world charm, it’s so romantic, and the way it was shot added to making the song somewhat timeless. It’s still relatable, even for people today. In fact, a lot of young kids have told me they like that song, and I feel that is very telling that there's truly something timeless about it. The first song I heard that was recorded for Parineeta was Raat Hamari Toh. I was shooting with Dada for a music video in Kolkata, and he told me, “Just go down to the car, there’s a CD with a song we’ve just recorded.” I went down, played it, and I burst out crying in the car. It’s such a beautiful, haunting, and powerful song… it’s so easy to cry listening to it. I love the music of Parineeta every single song.” 'Had the freedom to write' Lyricist Swanand Kirkire added that the songs in Parineeta came from a place of lived emotions. "Parineeta was a dream where poetry and melody danced in perfect harmony. Every song was born out of deep lived emotion- from the tender confession of Piyu Bole to the unrestrained joy of Kasto Mazza to the playful enigma of Kaisi Paheli Zindgani. Shantanu’s music gave my words flight, and the voices of Shreya, Sonu, and Sunidhi breathed soul into them. And then came Vidya, Saif, and Rekha ji, bringing those songs alive on screen and turning them into instant classics. A special thanks to Vinod for empowering us with both the freedom to write poetically and the confidence to do so. Two decades later, hearing these songs remastered in all their glory feels like opening an old letter that still gives me goosebumps." 'Feels like meeting an old friend' Music composer Shantanu Moitra complimented every team member who made the music of the movie what it is today. "Parineeta is a piece of my heart. The music was born from a place of pure truth — melodies given room to breathe, carrying words that spoke directly to the soul. I was in awe of how Chitra ji, Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal and Sunidhi Chauhan infused every note with such depth and sincerity, and how Rekhaji’s performance lent Kaisi Paheli Zindgani its timeless grace. Working with Swanand was pure magic; his lyrics didn’t just complement the music- they lifted it to another plane. And at the centre of it all was Pradeep Sarkar, who wove music, story, and visuals into a seamless work of art. I am grateful to Vinod, whose belief and vision made this journey possible and inspired every creative choice along the way. Hearing this soundtrack now, remastered and alive on the big screen, feels like meeting an old friend in a new light — the soul is the same, but the colours are brighter."
13 August,2025 06:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentHrithik Roshan and Jr NTR have appealed to fans, media, and audience with a special message, requesting them to avoid posting spoilers about War 2 to preserve the multiple secrets, twists and turns that the story has to offer to people. The film directed by Ayan Mukerji will be released in theatres on Thursday. Hrithik and Jr NTR, who play Indian soldiers at loggerheads in the action-entertainer, said they have made War 2 ‘with a lot of love, a lot of time and a lot of passion’ and it is a big screen spectacle that should be enjoyed only in cinemas. Hrithik and Jr NTR's appeal to the audience Hrithik said, “War 2 has been made with a lot of love, a lot of time and a lot of passion. The best way to experience this cinematic spectacle is in the theatres as the constant twists and turns of this dramatic story unfold in front of your eyes. I have a request to make to all of you - media, audience, fans - please protect our spoilers at any cost.” Jr NTR said, “When someone comes to the theatres to watch War 2, they should feel the same amount of joy, thrill, and entertainment as you have felt watching War 2 for the first time. Spoilers are no fun and they hugely impact the film-watching experience. Please give us a lot of love and let the story of War 2 be a secret to everyone. We are counting on you.” What to expect from War 2 end credits A senior industry informer confirms, “The YRF Spy Universe is getting bigger and bigger with each film. War 2’s end credits roll will reveal two huge plot points that will shape the next chapters of the spyverse. YRF is doing its best to keep these a secret from audiences and fans but those in the know are telling us that these moments will blow people’s minds!” The source adds, “Not just War 2 but even its end credits are a must-watch. The YRF Spy Universe is known as the Marvel of India and it is being conjectured that these two Easter eggs will show us all what Aditya Chopra has in mind as the next slate of films. Rumours are rife about whether new characters will be introduced, or whether the other Spyverse icons will return in the end credits of War 2 or new film will be announced. YRF will make us wait for 2 more days before we know more.
13 August,2025 06:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan turned a year older, she was showered with heart-warming wishes from Kareena Kapoor, Saba Pataudi, and Soha Ali Khan. Taking to Instagram stories, Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor Khan took to Instagram stories to wish Sara on her birthday. She shared a throwback picture with her. Her father, Saif Ali Khan and brother, Ibrahim Ali Khan, are also seen in the photo. Picture Courtesy/Kareena Kapoor Khan's Instagram account Kareena, who shares a special bond with the 'Simmba' star, wrote in the caption, "Happy birthday darling @saraalikhan95. Have the bestest one yet..tons of love" Saif Ali Khan's sister and Sara's aunt, Saba Pataudi, also posted a series of pictures of the 'Kedarnath' actor, from childhood to the more recent ones. Calling her "little poser", Saba wrote, Dear Sara, My little poser turns out a star was born..I've watched the mischief munchkin become a warm loyal kind and talented, hardworking, stunning woman, I proudly call my niece. The Leo in you can frustrate me sometimes but deep down, the overprotective sister , beautiful daughter, also resides a caring friend I've had the privilege to know. And I look at you with wonder , forgetting I'm actually the older -aunt! Love you..Always n forever ..Happiiiiiieeestttt Birthday Sara bia! @saraalikhan95" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Saba Pataudi (@sabapataudi) Soha Ali Khan has a special birthday wish for Sara. She shared a video featuring 'Atrangi Re' actor along with her grandmother, veteran actor Sharmila Tagore and Soha herself. "Sara bia happy happy birthday!! May you always be so articulate, so elegant, so warm and so happy to chat at 2 am!!! #happybirthday #talktoher.. @saraalikhan95," the 'Dil Maange More' actor wrote in her birthday post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Soha (@sakpataudi) Sara, the firstborn of actors Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, made her acting debut with Abhishek Kapoor's film 'Kedarnath' in 2018, and since then, she has featured in movies like 'Simmba', 'Love Aaj Kal 2', and 'Coolie No. 1'.Sara also starred in the drama 'Atrangi Re', romantic comedy 'Zara Hatke Zara Bachke', historical biographical film 'Ae Watan Mere Watan', and action drama film 'Sky Force' alongside Akshay Kumar. The ace star was recently seen in the musical romantic drama film, 'Metro... In Dino'. Directed by Anurag Basu, the film, released on July 4, explores four distinct love stories of couples -- ranging from young to old and middle-aged -- living in a metro, serving as a spiritual sequel to Anurag Basu's 2007 film Life in a... Metro. It also stars Aditya Roy Kapur, Konkona Sen Sharma, Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Anupam Kher and Neena Gupta. 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
13 August,2025 05:26 PM IST | Mumbai | ANIActor John Abraham is one of the rare stars in the Hindi film industry who leads a very private life. Apart from his movies, not much is known about the actor. He rarely makes public appearances with his wife Priya Runchal, an investment banker. John recently revealed that their decision to maintain privacy is a conscious one, mutually agreed upon by him and Priya. He also spoke about how he has always stayed away from scandals throughout his career. John Abraham on his private personal life In an interaction with India Today, John explained why there is rarely any news about him apart from his films. He said, “That is a very conscious decision, because my films have nothing to do with my personal life. In all these years, I have never had a publicist or an agent. I don’t have someone who is manufacturing stuff for me out there. So the minute my films are over, I become not newsworthy and I go into my shell and come out to speak only when I have something relevant to say.” When he is not promoting or working on a film, John invests time in his hobbies and interests, which include his football academy in Shillong. John on his disciplined life John and his wife prefer to live a low-profile life despite his profession. He added that they avoid Bollywood parties, something he did even before marriage. “I never went to parties even before I got married. I have always chosen to stay out because the music is too loud and I don’t drink alcohol. I have a problem with alcohol because my father loves his single malt. Also, I sleep very early and wake up at 4–4:30 am. I read as much as I can after waking up and devour world news,” he said. John Abraham’s work front The actor is currently gearing up for the release of his much-awaited film Tehran, co-starring Manushi Chhillar. The film is reportedly based on the 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats in New Delhi. Directed by Arun Gopalan, Tehran will premiere on ZEE5 on August 14.
13 August,2025 04:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentJanhvi Kapoor will next be seen playing the role of a Malayali in the upcoming film Param Sundari co-starring Sidharth Malhotra. For the role, the actress has picked up the Malayali accent and is being lauded for the same. Having grown up in Mumbai, Janhvi has South Indian roots from her mother Sridevi's side. After the release of Param Sundari trailer, her dialect coach commented on her accent. Janhvi Kapoor's dialect coach lauds her Janhvi's dialect coach took to Instagram to applaud her dedication. Sharing a picture with Janhvi, she wrote, “You have worked so hard on getting your Malayalam dialogues and accent correct and I am so proud of how it has come out as a Malayali. The accent, dialect, and diction is perfect and I was so happy to see how you have given your best and paid attention to every detail. You sound perfect as a half-Malayali, half-Tamil ponnu. Can’t wait for everyone to meet Sundari.” In the trailer, Janhvi’s hard work shines through- from the lilting rhythm of her speech to the cultural authenticity she brings on screen. Her final monologue, laced with wit and rooted in her character’s South Indian pride, is already being hailed as one of the film's highlights. Param Sundari trailer Param Sundari pairs Janhvi with Sidharth Malhotra in a North-meets-South love story that promises to blend romance, humour, and heart. With such attention to detail in performance, Janhvi’s Sundari might just be one of her most memorable roles yet. Shot against the breathtaking backdrop of Kerala, the trailer captures the intoxicating blend of monsoon-drenched roads, backwater bike rides, and the architectural beauty of centuries-old churches - including a heart-stopping sequence that echoes the timeless romance of our favourite onscreen couple SRK and Kajol. The trailer also hints at an emotional undercurrent, with Janhvi’s Sundari exuding a grace, charm, and innocence. Janhvi Kapoor, who looks stunning in the trailer in her beautiful chiffon sarees, says, “Sundari is deeply personal to me. Her grace, quiet strength, and love for her roots resonate with my own South Indian heritage. Shooting in Kerala, surrounded by such beauty, I felt an emotional connection to her world that I hope the audience will feel too."
13 August,2025 04:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDivya Khossla has finally made the much-awaited announcement about her next with Neil Nitin Mukesh. After teasing us fun BTS glimpses, they have finally unveiled look of their first film- Ek Chatur Naar. The comedy thriller features them in sassy yet surprising roles. The reveal finally brings the story’s thrilling tone to light, promising clever plot twists that will take you on a gripping ride of drama and edge-of-the-seat thrills. Ek Chatur Naar first look out! After sparking buzz with glimpses of Divya Khossla’s new look, her lively BTS dance on Sridevi’s iconic 'Na Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hain', and Neil Nitin Mukesh’s surprise 'Jeene Ke Hain Chaar Din' moves, the first look is finally here. T-Series has finally put all speculation to rest by unveiling the first look motion posters of its upcoming film Ek Chatur Naar, starring Divya Khossla and Neil Nitin Mukesh. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Divya khossla (@divyakhossla) Versatile actress Divya Khossla returns with a never-seen-before avatar, this time exuding sharp wit, charm, and an unpredictable edge. Neil Nitin Mukesh, known for his intense and serious roles, will be surprising fans with a unique look of his own. These first look posters end the guessing game and invite you to catch the chase in a film full of hidden layers. T-series presents, A Merry Go Round Studios Production, directed and produced by Umesh Shukla, Ashish Wagh and Zeeshan Ahmad. Ek Chatur Naar starring Divya Khossla and Neil Nitin Mukesh is releasing in Cinemas on 12th September 2025. About Divya and Neil Divya was last seen in Savi, where her intense performance won hearts. She was next shooting for Hero Heeroine with Paresh Rawal. Sharing her experience, she stated, “It feels like a fresh chapter in my career. Just like my previous role in Savi helped me explore new aspects of myself, this film is pushing me to tap into emotions I never knew I had. Working with someone as experienced as Pareshji is truly an honour and a dream come true." Meanwhile, Neil featured in several web series including Hisaab Barabar and Hai Junoon. Hisaab Barabar starred him alongside R Madhavan and Rashami Desai, while Hai Junoon had Sidharth Nigam, Jacqueliene Fernandez and Sumedh Mudgalkar.
13 August,2025 03:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor-turned-author Twinkle Khanna knows how to bring a smile to people’s faces, whether it’s with her writing or her dance skills. On Wednesday, the actress took to her Instagram feed and shared a video of herself performing a popular Bollywood hook step. She was seen dancing to the song Tamma Tamma, which originally featured Madhuri Dixit and Sanjay Dutt in the 1989 film Thanedaar. Twinkle Khanna goes Tamma Tamma In the video, Twinkle is dressed in flared denim pants and a black blazer, looking as stunning as ever. She entertains those around her with the Tamma Tamma hook step. Sharing the video, Twinkle wrote, “Thought I was pulling off a Madhuri, but ended up looking like Sanjay Dutt. Side note: fractured my foot during the pandemic attempting this very step.” Twinkle’s actor-husband Akshay Kumar took to the comments section to leave a priceless remark: “Talent – questionable. Confidence – unshakable. Wife – priceless,” along with a laughing emoji and a red heart. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Twinkle Khanna (@twinklerkhanna) What’s next for Twinkle? The author will soon be taking up hosting duties for Amazon Prime Video’s chat show Two Much, alongside actress Kajol as her co-host. On July 22, Amazon Prime dropped the first glimpse of the talk show, promising a guest list featuring some of the biggest names in Bollywood and the industry’s Who’s Who — outshining even the most glamorous red carpets. The platform described Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle as bold, brilliant, and unapologetically unfiltered, offering hot takes on cool topics, all powered by the infectious energy of its vivacious hosts. According to Filmfare, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan were spotted on the show’s set to shoot an episode together. While this has not been officially confirmed, if true, the reunion of the two superstars is sure to delight fans. Nikhil Madhok, Director and Head of Originals, Prime Video, India, said, “We are very thrilled to announce Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle—a first-of-its-kind talk show, hosted by two of the sharpest voices in Indian entertainment, who are set to reinvent the genre. With a mix of charismatic celebrities on the guest list, Kajol and Twinkle will bring their signature blend of wit, feistiness, and unparalleled insights to sparkling conversations that are humorous, unfiltered, and unapologetic. Joining forces with Banijay Asia, we are creating something truly bold, fresh, and unforgettable for our audiences.”
13 August,2025 02:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
