Controversial filmmaker Ram Gopal Verma came under fire for his lewd post about Kiara Advani's bikini stint in War 2, hours after its teaser was dropped, coinciding with the antagonist Jr NTR’s birthday. Taking to his X account, RGV commented on the Hrithik Roshan starrer referencing Kiara’s bit, which invited backlash on social media. What Ram Gopal Varma wrote about Kiara Advani In a now-deleted post, Ram Gopal Varma wrote, “Instead of our countries and societies, if the war between Hrithik and Jr NTR is on who gets her b**k, then 2 will be a b***buster”. He posted this alongside Kiara’s bikini still from War 2. The filmmaker was subjected to social media flak, as many pointed out that it was indecent of him to do so, while some stated that he was a repeat offender. Kiara Advani on War 2 Kiara, who is expecting her first child with Sidharth Malhotra, shared the teaser on Instagram and wrote, "Lots of firsts in this. First YRF film (emotional face emoji). First action film (female police officer emoji). First with these two amazing heroes (fire emoji). First collaboration with Ayan Mukerji (clapper board emoji). And of course, first bikini shot (mermaid emoji)." The over one-minute video suggests that the second installment will feature action and drama on a higher scale. About War 2 The film is a sequel to the 2019 action thriller War, which starred Hrithik Roshan, Tiger Shroff, and Vaani Kapoor in the lead roles. Directed by Siddarth Anand, this high-octane action drama minted Rs 200 crores within seven days of its release in 2019 and is touted to be one of the highest-grossing Hindi films of that year. The YRF Spy Universe is the biggest IP in Indian cinema today, having only delivered blockbusters with titles like Ek Tha Tiger, Tiger Zinda Hai, War, Pathaan, and Tiger 3. War 2 is the sixth YRF Spy Universe film to be released. Produced by Aditya Chopra's Yash Raj Films, War 2 is directed by Ayan Mukerji, who will be collaborating with Hrithik Roshan for the first time. The film is set to release worldwide in theatres on August 14, 2025.
21 May,2025 04:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAn actor walking out of a film might seem like a common occurrence. But that’s not the case when it involves a popular and highly anticipated franchise — especially when the actor has immortalized a beloved role. That is exactly the situation with Paresh Rawal walking out of Hera Pheri 3, months after the promo was shot and the lead cast was locked in. The film, directed by Priyadarshan, was set to reunite the OG cast including Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty. However, the fate of the film now appears to be in jeopardy following Rawal’s exit. Team was unaware of Paresh's intention to walk out Paresh Rawal's decision to walkout of the film came as a surprise not just to fans of the franchise but also to the team, including Priyadarshan, Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty. Reacting to Rawal's exit, Priyadarshan said that he was unaware of the actor's decision to leave the film. He told Hindustan Times, "I don't know why this happened because Paresh didn't inform us. Before starting the film, Akshay asked me to check with both Paresh and Suniel, and I did, and both were on board." Suniel mentioned that he got to know about Paresh walking away from the film through his kids Athiya and Ahaan Shetty. He told India Today, “We were going to begin shooting next year. We had already started, in fact. We shot a promo. It's a big thing. This is so shocking. I can't make sense of this. And you know who sent it? Athiya and Ahaan - they both sent it to me within 15 minutes, asking 'Papa, what is this?'. And I was here doing my interviews, and I felt like 'holy s***'.” Akshay Kumar sues Paresh Rawal Following Rawal’s departure, Akshay Kumar has reportedly taken legal action against his co-star, suing him for ₹25 crore. According to a report in Hindustan Times, Rawal received a legal notice claiming damages due to what is being described as unprofessional conduct. The notice states that the actor exited the film midway, despite signing legal agreements and commencing shooting. In a conversation with Bollywood Hungama, director Priyadarshan revealed that Akshay Kumar had personally invested a significant amount to acquire the rights for Hera Pheri. He also confirmed that all actors, including Paresh Rawal, had received advance payments. Paresh Rawal on leaving the third installment Paresh Rawal told Mid-day, “I know it came as a shock to many. We three make a great combination with Priyadarshanji directing us, but the fact is that I opted out because today I don’t feel like a part of it". He further said, "Priyadarshan ji tried to change my mind but he knows [me]. They all know that if I decide on something, I will follow it up. So they don’t pursue further.” There is also conjecture that Rawal was not content with his remuneration. But the actor says that was never the issue. “No amount of money compares to the love and respect of my audience. Right now, I just felt that it is a role I don’t want to do, that’s all,” he reiterated. Will there be a Hera Pheri 3 without Paresh Rawal? Priyadarshan also expressed disappointment over Rawal not communicating his exit directly. “When I heard about his decision, I messaged him to ask what happened. He replied saying I shouldn’t try to call him because he didn’t want to talk about it, and that he didn’t want to disrespect me. Is this how you show respect? I am very, very hurt,” the filmmaker told Bollywood Hungama. As for whether the film will move forward without Rawal, Priyadarshan didn’t mince words. Clearly frustrated, he said, “I don’t give a f**k. I don’t care whether it’s made or not. I was doing it for Akshay. I really don’t want to work anymore. I have some commitments to fulfill. I’ve just completed Bhoot Bungla with Akshay, and I have a film with Akshay and Saif that I’m committed to direct. Beyond that, I don’t need this kind of tension. I’d rather play with my grandchild than make movies with unprofessional actors.”
21 May,2025 03:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Paresh Rawal shocked fans of the Hera Pheri franchise by revealing that he will no longer return to play the beloved character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte. However, it seems that the news of Rawal's exit has also come as a surprise to filmmaker Priyadarshan, who was brought on board to direct the third installment of the comic caper. The film was all set to reunite the cast of Hera Pheri, including Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty. Priyadarshan says Paresh Rawal did not inform about exit Reacting to Rawal's exit, Priyadarshan said that he was unaware of the actor's decision to leave the film. He told Hindustan Times, "I don't know why this happened because Paresh didn't inform us. Before starting the film, Akshay asked me to check with both Paresh and Suniel, and I did, and both were on board." The filmmaker recently wrapped up the film Bhoot Bangla, which starred Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar. Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar has reportedly sued Paresh Rawal for Rs 25 crore, claiming financial losses as the film’s producer. Reacting to the same, Priyadarshan said, "I don't have anything to lose, but Akshay has invested money, and that could be the reason why he is taking this action. Paresh Rawal hasn't spoken to me till date." Paresh Rawal says Priyadarshan tried changing his mind Talking to Mid-day about leaving Hera Pheri 3, Paresh said, “I know it came as a shock to many. We three make a great combination with Priyadarshanji directing us, but the fact is that I opted out because today I don’t feel like a part of it,” confirms the actor. Speculation suggested that Rawal left the project owing to creative differences with the director, but he denied the rumours, saying, “I love Priyadarshan and have great respect and faith in him as a director. We have done wonderful movies together in the past and will continue to do so. There were no creative differences, nor is there a possibility of having any with him.” There is also conjecture that Rawal was not content with his remuneration. But the actor says that was never the issue. “No amount of money compares to the love and respect of my audience. Right now, I just felt that it is a role I don’t want to do, that’s all,” he reiterates.
21 May,2025 03:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentJanhvi Kapoor looks like a goddess in her look for the premiere of her film Homebound at Cannes 2025. This is the actress' first time at the prestigious film festival and she has been serving looks ever since she arrived in the city of Cannes. Janhvi Kapoor dazzles in Homebound premiere look Today marked the premiere of her film Homebound that also stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa. For the big day, Janhvi opted for a stunning ensemble designed by Anamika Khanna. She was styled by Rhea Kapoor. Sharing Janhvi's look for her premiere, Rhea wrote, "For the Official Premiere Screening of Homebound this morning in Cannes. @janhvikapoor wears custom @anamikakhanna.in couture. She wears a mix of archival traditional indian jewels mixed with custom jade and jadao creations." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rhea Kapoor (@rheakapoor) Janhvi Kapoor's debut red carpet look A day before the premiere of Homebound, Janhvi served her first red carpet look as she walked with the team of Homebound on day 8. She left no stone unturned to steal attention with her outfit. Dressed in ace designer Tarun Tahiliani's custom outfit, Janhvi looked like a vision in pink. She wore a long pleated skirt and corset crafted in tissue, specially woven in Benaras. Rhea Kapoor styled the ensemble. She elevated the attire with an integrated duppata-like drape that was attached to her sleek bun. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tarun Tahiliani (@taruntahiliani) The surface of the outfit was "brought to life with a hand-crushed technique that lent depth and texture, while a signature TT drape added a touch of sculptural fluidity." Janhvi exuded princess vibes. Many fans even said that her look reminded them of her mother and late actress Sridevi. About Homebound Homebound, which revolves around two childhood friends played by Khatter and Jethwa, will have its world premiere at Cannes on Wednesday. The official synopsis of the film reads: "Two childhood friends from a small North Indian village chase a police job that promises them the dignity they've long been denied. But as they inch closer to their dream, mounting desperation threatens the bond that holds them together." The film has been directed by Neeraj Ghaywan who returns to the festival after presenting his film Masaan years ago. The film has been backed by Dharma Productions. Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese, impressed by the film, got onboard as executive producer.
21 May,2025 03:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActress Sonia Rathee, who is gearing up for her upcoming movie 'Kapkapiii', has shared her experience of working with Shreyas Talpade and Tusshar Kapoor in the film. The actress said that she went through a learning curve with the film, as she hailed them as one of the biggest names in the space of comedy. The actress reflected on how their presence on set became an unexpected acting masterclass. What surprised her the most, she shares, was the quiet intensity Tusshar Kapoor brought to the shoot. Known for his comedic timing in iconic franchises like 'Golmaal'. Talking about the same, she said, “Tusshar surprised me the most, he was so quiet and in his zone on set. But the way he could switch in and out of character, especially when he had to be intense or scary, was honestly fascinating. There’s a certain discipline and ease he brings to the craft that really stayed with me". While Kapoor’s focus impressed her, it was her extended time with Shreyas Talpade that left an indelible mark. She was impressed by Shreyas Talpade's knack for improvisation and collaboration, traits that elevated not just the scenes but also her understanding of the craft. She shared, “His improvisation skills are incredible. What I appreciated most was how collaborative he is. He would always encourage us to think deeply about the scenes, to ask questions, to engage in conversations". More than just a co-star, Talpade became a mentor of sorts for Rathee, generously sharing stories from his journey in the industry. he shared, “He spoke candidly about his journey, the highs and lows of his career. Those conversations gave me a lot of insight not just into acting, but into the resilience and thoughtfulness the industry demands". Set to bring a fresh blend of chills and chuckles, 'Kapkapiii' is already creating excitement among fans of the genre. ‘Kapkapiii’ is set to release in cinemas on May 23. 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
21 May,2025 01:41 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSIn a significant move to boost Uttarakhand’s standing as a preferred destination for filmmakers, actor Sunny Deol on Tuesday met with officials from the Uttarakhand Film Development Council. The meeting was held at the Halduwala location in Dehradun, where the large-scale war set for his upcoming film Border 2 has been constructed. This interaction highlights the growing collaboration between the film industry and the state government to promote Uttarakhand as a major hub for film production. Council CEO Bansidhar Tiwari, along with Joint CEO Dr. Nitin Upadhyay, met the actor and director Anurag Singh. A source close to the development revealed that the team held an in-depth discussion on Uttarakhand’s progressive film policy, the rich variety of shooting locations, and the state government’s continued support to filmmakers. “From timely permissions to local resources and seamless administrative cooperation, the environment in Uttarakhand is proving ideal for film productions,” said Tiwari, highlighting how the state is becoming a stronghold for quality filmmaking. Sunny Deol too expressed his appreciation for the state’s cooperation. The meeting also shed light on other film projects underway in Uttarakhand. Filming for ‘Ginny Weds Sunny 2,’ starring Avinash Tiwari and Medha Shankar, is ongoing in Dehradun. Veteran actors Govind Namdev and Sudhir Pandey are also part of the project. Comedy satire ‘Uttar Da Puttar, ‘featuring Annu Kapoor, Pawan Malhotra, and Bijendra Kala, is being shot across Dehradun and Rishikesh. Supporting regional cinema as well, three Garhwali-language films — ‘Marcha, Teri Maya’, and ‘Namak’ — are being shot in Dehradun, Tehri, and Uttarkashi. These films are receiving technical and logistical support from the government, promoting local language, culture, and tradition. The council shared that over the past year, several noteworthy Hindi films and web series, such as ‘Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video,’ ‘Do Patti,’ ‘Putul,’ ‘Rautu Ka Raaz,’ ‘Tanvi The Great,’ and ‘Kesari 2,’ have completed shoots in the state. In the fiscal year 2024–25 alone, the Uttarakhand government has issued 225 filming permits. Speaking of ‘Border 2,’ directed by ‘Kesari’ fame Anurag Singh, the upcoming action drama is being produced by JP Dutta, Nidhi Dutta, and T-Series. The film is based on the 1971 India-Pakistan war and features an ensemble cast including Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Ahan Shetty alongside Sunny. A massive set replicating a Kashmiri village has been erected in Dehradun’s Halduwala area, with work beginning as early as November last year. The film includes elaborate war sequences with tanks and army movements, relying heavily on VFX to enhance its visuals. ‘Border 2’ is slated to hit theatres on January 23, 2026. 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
21 May,2025 01:40 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSBollywood actor Kartik Aaryan is all set to kickstart the shooting for his film 'Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri'. On Tuesday night, he posted a short video clip in which he could be seen giving a glimpse of a scenic location from the plane. "Here we go (a Korean emoji heart) Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri," he captioned the post, expressing excitement about the film. Picture Courtesy/Kartik Aaryan's Instagram account ANI has learnt that Kartik has headed to Europe for the shooting of the 'Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri'. The film, a romantic comedy, is set to hit theaters on February 13, 2026, just in time for Valentine's Day. The movie, directed by Sameer Vidwans, marks Kartik Aaryan's second collaboration with the director, following their work on 'Satyaprem Ki Katha'. It is produced under the banner of Dharma Productions. The plot details are still under wraps. In the coming months, Kartik will also be seen in 'Nagzilla' directed by 'Fukrey' fame director Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. Announcing the film, Kartik recently took to Instagram and shared his first look. The motion poster featured a shirtless Kartik looking at a city from a snake-infested lair. "Insanon wali picharein toh bahut dekh leen, ab dekho naagon wali pichchar #Naagzilla - Naag lok ka Pehla kaand....Funnn phailaane Aa raha hu main, Preyamvadeshwar Pyare Chand ... Naag Panchami par aapke nazdeeki Sssssinemas mein. 14 August 2026 ko," he captioned the post. 'Nagzilla' will be released in theatres on August 14, 2026. 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
21 May,2025 01:12 PM IST | Mumbai | ANIStating that the response to the War 2 teaser had been incredible, Telugu star Jr NTR on Tuesday thanked fans for their constant presence and heartfelt wishes for his birthday. Taking to his X timeline, the actor, who celebrated his 42nd birthday on Tuesday, put out a note of gratitude to the love that was showered on him by fans, well wishers, media, and colleagues. Thank you. pic.twitter.com/62BsFWHKHP — Jr NTR (@tarak9999) May 20, 2025 He wrote, "Sometimes I pause and look back at this journey and every time, it's you who come to mind first. Thank you my dear fans for your constant presence and heartfelt wishes." He also went on to say, "The response to the War 2 teaser has been incredible. I can't wait for you to experience it on August 14th. A big thank you to all my well wishers, media and colleagues in the industry for your warm wishes. Grateful, always." Earlier in the day, the makers of 'War 2' released an explosive teaser of the film, featuring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR in the lead. The over one-minute video suggests that the second installment will feature action and drama on a higher scale than what audiences saw in War (2019), which showcased Tiger Shroff and Hrithik Roshan blazing guns at each other. The video also showcased a glimpse of actress Kiara Advani and Hrithik’s romance. The actors took to Instagram, where they shared the first look and the link to the teaser in Hindi, Telugu and Tamil. The high-intensity movie poster features the two muscular men in tactical combat gear, standing back-to-back. “War 2”, which is directed by Ayan Mukherji, is slated to release on August 14. It may be recalled that the first installment of 'War', an action thriller, was directed by Siddharth Anand and produced by Aditya Chopra under Yash Raj Films. The film had Hrithik and Tiger in the lead roles. Vaani Kapoor and Ashutosh Rana were in pivotal roles. It was the third installment in the YRF Spy Universe. In the film, an Indian RAW agent is assigned to eliminate his former mentor who has gone rogue. 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
21 May,2025 01:11 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSFirst, Pakistani shows were removed from Indian platforms in the aftermath of the two countries’ military conflicts. Now, the rising public sentiment is that Turkish dramas should be pulled down, following Turkey’s anti-India stance. While Zee5 has already pulled the plug on its Turkish drama catalogue, multiple OTT platforms are contemplating their removal. In the past seven-eight years, the dramas became wildly popular in India, with shows like Ertuğrul, Feriha, and Masum amassing a dedicated fan base. In light of recent events, Zee5 quietly removed Relationship Status: It’s Complicated and other series over the past week. An insider reveals, “We’ve been monitoring the sentiment for weeks. While there is no government directive, we made a business decision to avoid a potential backlash. These titles, a part of the Zindagi bouquet, were doing well in Tier-1 and -2 cities, but the risk of reputational damage outweighed the benefits.” Amazon MX Player has a wide library that includes fan favourites like Golden Boy, Love is in the Air, Endless Love, and more. The content team at the streamer has been apparently issued an internal memo to halt acquisition of fresh Turkish content. An insider says, “We haven’t received any formal instructions or advisory from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. As of now, no content has been removed, but we have paused new acquisitions from Turkish production houses.” Multiple YouTube channels streaming Turkish series are also reportedly facing increased scrutiny. Live Pakistan, a popular YouTube curator that streamed Resurrection: Ertuğrul, was unavailable in India since Friday noon. A source from the channel says, “We received three takedown requests in the past two days. It felt coordinated. If this escalates, more channels could disappear overnight from India.” The show remains available on another channel. It may be noted that the Indian government has not issued any advisory regarding Turkish dramas. However, several Indian universities suspended academic ties with Turkish institutions. In the entertainment sector, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) appealed to film producers to avoid shooting in the Eurasian country (Turkey no-go for Bollywood, May 15). Another source shares, “As India strains its ties with Turkey, there will be a ripple effect in the entertainment industry. But until a formal notification is sent out by the government, the heads of OTT platforms will keep guessing and play it safe.”
21 May,2025 12:53 PM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuActress Rashmika Mandanna was a beauty in black as she got back on the red carpet during the Zee Cine Awards 2025. The 'Animal' actress was seen carrying a black contemporary fusion saree with utmost grace. Her blouse included a deep sweetheart neckline with a net waist. She accessorised her look with golden heart-shaped earrings and brown toned makeup. The stunner decided to leave her hair open with a middle parting. "After a while, I was back on the red carpet again...All the love pouring in makes my heart so happy. Just wanted to show you what I wore that day..", Rashmika wrote in the caption. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rashmika Mandanna (@rashmika_mandanna) Thanking her team, she added, "Biggest shoutout to my team.. they’ve always got my back. The only way I survive these incredibly tough, busy days is because of them and my family. Bone-crushing hugs to each one of you." On Monday, Rashmika introduced her InstaFam to her new best friend. Taking to social media, the diva shared some special moments that reflected her growing bond with her new BFF — the fuzzy blue alien Stitch. Rashmika was seen goofing around with Stitch during her shoot. She interacted with him during photoshoots and restaurant outings. Towards the end of the video, Rashmika asked her BFF, "Stitch, do you want to be my date?” Dropping the video on social media, the 'Pushap actress wrote in the caption, “Too cute to handle, too crazy to miss. My bestie stitch is making me simp with madness and bliss! Please tell me I’m not the only one losing it over him. Psssstt.. Oh, he is gonna be in cinemas from 23rd May #LiloAndStitch.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rashmika Mandanna (@rashmika_mandanna) On the professional front, Rashmika has a promising lineup ahead with Aditya Sarpotdar's “Thama,” co-starring Ayushmann Khurrana, along with “Kubera,” “Pushpa 3”, “The Girlfriend,” and “Rainbow.” 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
21 May,2025 11:56 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSBollywood diva Priyanka Chopra, who is the ambassador of the luxury brand, flew to Sicily, Italy, to be a part of the unveiling of the brand's new collection. The 'Barfi' actress decided to treat her InstaFam with some glamorous titbits from "A night in Sicily" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Priyanka (@priyankachopra) PeeCee was a sight for sore eyes in an elegant beige Christian Dior gown with a semi-transparent overlay. She enhanced her look with a diamond-encrusted Serpenti necklace from the house of Bvlgari, and an identical Serpenti bangle. She opted for a matt lip color with complementary eye shadow and blush to complete her look. For hair, PeeCee went with a swept-up tousled updo with two strands of hair framing her face. Priyanka's latest post provided an insight into the main event, along with a snap of champagne by the pool, some appetizing pasta, and some books to be read while enjoying a stunning view. We also saw some sneak peeks from the formal sit-down dinner. However, PeeCee's placard at the dining table had her name misspelt. It read, 'Pryianka Chopra Jonas’. Netizens were quick to notice this and pointed out the mistake in the comment section. One of the Insta users wrote, “There's a spelling mistake @priyankachopra they've spelled your name incorrect @bvlgari.” “@bvlgari you could have spelled her name correctly at least." Another one commented, "I find it racist and offensive when people cannot be bothered to check the spelling of an individual’s name. It’s just sad and I’ve experienced it countless times.” In 2024, PeeCee was a part of the Bvlgari event in Rome, Italy, where she made a lot of heads turn in a cream and black off-the-shoulder dress. On the professional front, Priyanka is presently occupied with SS Rajamouli’s upcoming drama "SSMB29", opposite Tollywood heartthrob Mahesh Babu. 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
21 May,2025 11:51 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
