The much-awaited action-comedy Son of Sardaar 2 is all set to storm cinemas this Friday, August 1, 2025. Headlined by Ajay Devgn and backed by Jio Studios, the film’s advance bookings are now officially open — and to sweeten the deal for fans, the makers have announced a special Buy One Get One Free (BOGO) ticket offer, applicable only for first day shows across select theatres.

The promotional offer is a strategic push to boost footfalls on opening day and create early buzz for the sequel, which follows up on the 2012 hit Son of Sardaar. The film promises to retain the franchise’s signature mix of slapstick humour, over-the-top action, and Punjabi family drama — all centred around Devgn’s larger-than-life persona.

'SON OF SARDAAR 2' ADVANCE BOOKINGS OPEN – BOGO OFFER ANNOUNCED... #SonOfSardaar2 advance bookings are now LIVE.#AjayDevgn and #JioStudios have announced a special BOGO [Buy One Get One] free ticket offer – valid only for *first day shows*. Releasing in cinemas THIS FRIDAY [1… pic.twitter.com/YfIMIsGuMf

— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) July 30, 2025

However, despite the fanfare, Son of Sardaar 2 faces an uphill battle at the box office. The film’s release is wedged between two high-profile titles — Saiyaara, which continues to dominate screens since its release last Friday, and the much-hyped War 2, slated to release just a week later on August 8. Both films have strong brand pull and big stars, creating stiff competition and potentially dividing audience attention and screen space.

Additionally, while the BOGO offer may help drive higher occupancy on Day 1, it could also impact the film’s opening day revenue. With one free ticket given for every purchase, net collections for Friday could take a hit, particularly in urban centres where the offer is expected to see significant uptake. While this may work to Son of Sardaar 2’s advantage in terms of packed houses and social media chatter, it could dampen the immediate financial return — a factor that holds weight in today’s aggressively competitive box office landscape.

Nevertheless, the film benefits from Ajay Devgn’s mass appeal and the nostalgia attached to the first installment. If early audience reactions are positive, the film could find its footing through strong word-of-mouth, especially in single screens and smaller centres where Devgn continues to draw a loyal base.

As Friday approaches, all eyes will be on how Son of Sardaar 2 navigates the crowd and the commerce — and whether this gamble of timing and ticketing will pay off.

Also Read: Son of Sardaar 2 – Five challenges that lie ahead for the movie at the box office

The trailer of War 2 dropped on Friday, July 25, and ever since, the buzz around the film has gone many notches higher. Yesterday, reports came in that its lead actors, Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, will make a joint appearance at Vijayawada on August 10. Bollywood Hungama has learned that no such event has been planned in the Andhra Pradesh town. However, that doesn’t mean that the makers, Yash Raj Films, are going to go the Saiyaara or Pathaan way, that is, not have any pre-release promotions. We have learned that a spectacular event is on the anvil.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “A grand War 2 event will take place, but it won’t be in Vijayawada. The makers are planning one in Hyderabad. Jr NTR is a Telugu superstar and Hyderabad is the capital of the Telugu industry. Moreover, the administration and the police force of the city are used to having events where thousands or lakhs of people assemble to catch a glimpse of their favourite stars. Keeping these factors in mind, Hyderabad was locked for the pre-release celebration. However, the dates and other modalities are being worked out. Once it's finalized, the same will be announced.”

Earlier, it was reported that Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR will be kept apart during the promotions since in the film, they are shown to be locking horns. The trade source commented, “It makes sense to bring them together. War 2 is the biggest film of the year and it’s also a rare venture where the superstar of Bollywood and the superstar of Telugu cinema have come together, with both having leading roles. As a result, they should share the stage as it would further add to the hype surrounding the film.”

A few days ago, Bollywood Hungama had reported that Naga Vamsi of Sithara Entertainments has bagged Telugu rights for War 2 for a sum of Rs. 90 crores. The source said, “It is being said that Naga is planning the grand War 2 event in association with Yash Raj Films (YRF). This is the first film that YRF is going all out in such a way. But then this is also the first time that two major stars of different industries are coming together in such a manner. So, it requires doing something different and dhamakedaar!”

Besides Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, War 2 also stars Kiara Advani. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, it releases in cinemas on August 14.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Hrithik Roshan-Kiara Advani’s War 2 love track is a ‘Flashback’ song exploring Kabir-Kavya’s past

Tanishaa Mukerji has come out strongly in defence of the recently released romantic musical Saiyaara, after a podcast speaker accused the film’s team of paying Gen-Z audiences to create emotional scenes in theatres for promotional purposes.

The controversial statement was made during The Asymmetric Crew podcast, which featured the creator of The Barber Shop with Shantanu. A speaker, during a candid segment, alleged that the emotional reactions seen in theatres post-Saiyaara screenings were not genuine. “What's happening with this ridiculous Saiyaara movie. The producer of this movie, in my view, has paid ₹500 in dehadi to lots of these Gen-Z young folks to go into these theatres and put on emotional performances of crying… This is how the movie is getting promoted by the way. The whole world has now become a bunch of performers,” the speaker claimed, sparking outrage online.

In a sharp rebuttal, actress and producer Tanishaa Mukerji dismissed the criticism, calling it baseless and regressive. “Completely disagree. Times are changing and these people are stuck in the past. Love and appreciate the new. And honestly, what rubbish is this man saying? Does he know anything for a fact. He is using the phenomenon of Saiyaara to get views by talking negatively. If people are reacting to a film what is so wrong about that. Just because he cannot relate doesn’t mean the younger generation doesn’t either. Every generation is different. This is India. We react. Go watch the film see how the audiences are moved. Then talk. This is just Bollywood bashing! Brands just have to find new ways to connect to their audiences!” Tanisha said in a strongly worded statement.

Saiyaara has become somewhat of a cultural moment ever since its release, especially among younger audiences. The film marks the Bollywood debut of Ahaan Panday, nephew of veteran actor Chunky Panday, alongside newcomer Aneet Padda. Directed by Mohit Suri and produced under the Yash Raj Films banner, the film blends soulful music with an intense love story.

While the debate rages on about modern film marketing and audience behavior, Tanishaa’s statement has sparked an important conversation on generational shifts and how emotion-driven content connects with evolving viewers.

Also Read: Saiyaara Box Office: Mohit Suri directorial surpasses Pathaan, Kabir Singh, Sanju and Bajrangi Bhaijaan; breaks into Top 15 All-Time Highest Second Monday grossers

Aamir Khan made a path-breaking announcement today, July 29, at a five-star hotel in Mumbai that he’ll release his recent hit film, Sitaare Zameen Par, on YouTube. The superstar has opted for a pay-per-view model, that is, one can pay Rs. 100 to rent the film. However, one can’t permanently own the film, as explained by Aamir Khan.

Aamir said, “You can rent Sitaare Zameen Par for Rs. 100. Let me explain the technicality. Once you rent, the film, it will stay in your account for 30 days. Once you start viewing the film, you have 48 hours to complete the film.”

This writer asked if one can pay more to buy the film, that is, have permanent access to Sitaare Zameen Par. Aamir Khan explained, “We were wondering whether to do that or not. We realized that it’s better to take one step at a time. This is something new that we are doing. So, right now, we are only keeping the option of rent. As we go along and as we understand this part better, then we can start offering such options.”

He also shared his other plans, “Aamir Khan Talkies is the platform where you’ll get to see films of Aamir Khan Productions like Lagaan, Dangal, Peepli [LIVE], Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, Taare Zameen Par etc. On August 1, you’ll only get Sitaare Zameen Par. A week later, we’ll add more films. This way, the whole library of Aamir Khan Productions will be available on Aamir Khan Talkies. My father Tahir Hussain made movies like Caravan, Anamika etc. Those films will also be available on our YouTube channel.”

He added, “Aamir Khan Talkies will have free content as well as pay-per-view stuff. I’d like to upload episodes of my TV show ‘Satyamev Jayate’. I’d not like to charge for it; it can be accessed for free.”

He further stated, “I also want Aamir Khan Talkies to be a platform for new, emerging talent. A lot of young filmmakers have made great films and at times, no one buys their movies. So, if we like their films and if they contact us, we’d like to upload them on our channel. It’ll help them to showcase their talent. Whatever that film earns, most of the profit will be given to the filmmaker while AKP will keep the minimum amount as a fee.”

As for future plans, he revealed, “Going forward, it'll be my strategy to bring the film to cinemas first. Once its theatrical run is over, I’ll bring the film on pay-per-view on YouTube.”

Also Read: Aamir Khan launches Aamir Khan Talkies for Pay-Per-View films on YouTube: “I want to reach every Indian at a reasonable price”

Aamir Khan made a path-breaking announcement today, July 29, at a five-star hotel in Mumbai that he’ll release his recent hit film, Sitaare Zameen Par, on YouTube. The superstar has opted for a pay-per-view model, that is, one can pay Rs. 100 film to rent the film. Discussions about such a mode were going on even before the film was out. Aamir was asked about it, but he denied any such plans to many journalists. To all these reports, Aamir Khan, as a thoughtful gesture, apologized for lying.

Aamir Khan began by saying, “To all those journalists who asked me whether my film was coming on YouTube and I denied the same, I'd like to fold my hands and apologize for lying. Main kuch aur bol nahin paa raha tha. I wanted to protect the theatrical business. Meri shuruaat hui hai cinema se and I am very loyal to theatres. Hence, I'll make all efforts to protect the theatrical business. Hence, while doing this experiment, we wanted to protect the theatres. As a result, I had to say that I am not bringing my film on YouTube. Woh mujhe kehna pada aur uske liye main maafi chahta hoon. Unfortunately, I had to lie. If I had not lied, mera jo sapna tha, woh wahin khatam ho jaata.”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Bollywood Hungama???? (@realbollywoodhungama)

Aamir Khan’s decision to bring Sitaare Zameen Par in just six weeks of theatrical release has also raised eyebrows, especially when he often rejected the idea of a film releasing in 8 weeks on OTT. On this, he replied, “Pay-per-view model and subscription model mein zameen aasmaan ka farak hai. When I release my film after 8 weeks on a subscription model, a person who has bought a subscription to that OTT platform is not buying my film per se. He's paying to access films available on that platform. After a few months, he'll learn that my film is also available. He may or may not watch it. As a creative person, I'd like to take a thousand steps towards my audience. But I want my audience to take one step towards me. When we opt for a subscription model, we are, more or less, providing the film for free. Pay-per-view is the same model as the theatre. Theatre experience is different. You watch a film with 300-500 people. You laugh, cry and clap together. The theatre is equipped with Atmos sound. That is an experience and this is a different experience. In cinemas, viewers might feel more amazed. But on YouTube, viewers will have the option of convenience. Hence, it was my plan from the beginning to bring the film on YouTube at the end of its theatrical run.”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Bollywood Hungama???? (@realbollywoodhungama)

Another journalist asked on the same lines and Aamir Khan said, “OTT is a totally different model. Let me make it clear that I have no objection to OTT platforms. But I don't like the arrangement that the film has to release on OTT 8 weeks after release. Hence, I moved away from it. I am not of the belief that the pay-per-view model can affect the theatrical business of my film.”

Also Read: Aamir Khan ADMITS that he was offered Rs. 125 cr for Sitaare Zameen Par’s OTT rights: “Mujhe woh badi company ke Rs 125 crore nahin chahiye. Mujhe meri audience ka sau rupaye chahiye”

In her birthday week, Kriti Sanon has more than one reason to mark the occasion. The actress has expanded into business, leading her skincare venture over the past two years. She has established one of India’s notable celebrity-led brands in the competitive beauty industry.

With revenue crossing Rs. 400 crores and a 60% repeat customer rate, the brand has seen significant growth. It currently serves over 19,000 pin codes across India, with its consumer base increasing from 1 million last year to 4 million this year. Kriti Sanon, who has an engineering background, partnered with six engineers to build a D2C brand that reached Rs. 400 crore in gross sales within two years.

Reflecting on the journey, Kriti shared, “The past two years have been nothing short of incredible. Building HYPHEN from scratch has been one of the most personal and fulfilling journeys of my life. Watching it grow from an idea into a brand that so many of the consumers now trust and love — still feels surreal. I am so grateful to every single person who has believed in us and has chosen to HYPHEN us in their lives! This is only the beginning, where we continue to hyphen skincare with innovation and grow alongside a community that makes it all so worth it. Happy 2 years to us!”

Sanon’s brand focuses on science-based formulations, plant-based ingredients, and accessible pricing, a combination that has found a wide consumer base across India. Her active involvement has helped shape the brand’s direction and operations within the skincare sector.

Also Read: Elli AvrRam on celebrating her birthday morning with family in Sweden; says, “I wake up in bed with breakfast, cake and gifts”

Aamir Khan invited media for a special announcement on Tuesday, July 29, at a five star hotel in Mumbai. The invite didn't mention what the announcement would be about and hence, journalists assembled at the venue with lot of curiosity. Aamir came on stage and made the headline worthy announcement - his recent hit film Sitaare Zameen Par will not release on any OTT platform after completing it's theatrical run. There was a speculation about it for a while but Aamir never confirmed or denied his plans to opt for a YouTube release. But Aamir being a trend se, he chose to make this announcement in style.

Aamir Khan began his speech explaining how YouTube is having the largest penetration when it comes to online video platform in India. He further said that with the rise of UPI, it has become easy for the masses to make electronic payments with ease. Hence, the superstar decided to go the YouTube way.

While he was explaining the importance of YouTube and getting his film to the remote corners of the country, the screen behind displayed the poster of Sitaare Zameen Par. Along with the poster, it also mentioned that the sports drama will be out on August 1 on Aamir Khan's YouTube channel, that is, Aamir Khan Talkies. Aamir has opted for a Pay-Per-View basis, that is, one has to pay a nominal amount to access the film. Aamir has decided on Rs. 100 as the price point of his film.

Bollywood Hungama was the first one to write that Aamir Khan was offered Rs. 125 crores by Netflix to skip YouTube release and release his film on their platform. A journalist asked him about it and he said, "I have a lot of confidence in (pay-per-view) model and I'll tell you why. I don't want Rs. 125 crore from OTT platforms. I want Rs. 100 from the aam junta of our country. Mujhe woh badi company ke Rs 125 crore nahin chahiye. Mujhe meri audience ka sau rupaye chahiye. I trust my work and I trust my audience. If my work is worth it, the audience will first watch the film in theatre and then watch it on YouTube on pay per view."

Talking more on OTT deals, he explained, "Cinema ko usse nuksaan ho raha hai. Such a deal will benefit only me. I can't do it. It'll affect the industry in the long run. Hence, I refused."

Also Read: Aamir Khan recalls mistaken fan crowd for Tiger Shroff; actor responds with humble note

In a landmark move for Indian film distribution, Aamir Khan has announced the global digital release of his latest theatrical film Sitaare Zameen Par exclusively on YouTube starting August 1, 2025. The film, which enjoyed a successful run at the box office, will now be available via YouTube’s movie-on-demand service, marking a strategic shift in how major Indian films reach audiences post-theatrical release.

We at Bollywood Hungama were the first ones to make this announcement. Now, confirming the development, Khan stated, "For the past 15 years I have been struggling with the challenge of how to reach audiences who do not have geographical access to theatres... With YouTube being on most devices, we can finally reach vast sections of people in India, and a significant part of the world."

Sitaare Zameen Par, directed by RS Prasanna and written by Divy Nidhi Sharma, features Khan alongside Genelia Deshmukh and introduces ten actors with intellectual disabilities in key roles. Described as a spiritual successor to Taare Zameen Par (2007), the film touches on themes of love, laughter, and inclusivity, resonating with a wide audience during its theatrical run.

The film will be priced at Rs.100 in India and will roll out in 38 international markets including the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Australia, Singapore, and Indonesia, with localized pricing. Subtitles and dubbed versions in multiple languages will be offered to broaden accessibility.

Gunjan Soni, Country Managing Director at YouTube India, commented, "The digital launch of Sitaare Zameen Par exclusively on YouTube underscores a significant step towards democratizing Indian film distribution at a global scale."

Notably, Sitaare Zameen Par will not be released on any other digital platform, making YouTube its exclusive streaming destination. The film’s availability via pay-per-view is aimed at transforming home devices into ‘janta ka theatre’, targeting viewers who either missed the film in cinemas or prefer digital convenience.

Aamir Khan Productions plans to continue this digital-first approach with future titles, reinforcing YouTube’s evolving role beyond trailers and music to full-length film releases. Khan is also producing upcoming films Lahore 1947 with Sunny Deol and Ek Din featuring Junaid Khan and Sai Pallavi.

At the launch of Sitaare Zameen Par’s Pay Per View in Mumbai, Aamir Khan also revealed that he is open to letting other producers use this option if they are interested. "I have very good relations with other producers and if there is any producer who is interested in using this platform for their films in which I have acted, I will be happy to extend my support to them”, he added.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Bollywood Hungama???? (@realbollywoodhungama)

With India leading in digital payments and internet penetration, Khan’s move signals a new chapter in film distribution—where reach, affordability, and flexibility converge to reshape audience access.

Also Read: Ahmed Khan recalls Aamir Khan’s dedication on set; says, “He always wanted to perfect every dance step”

After delivering a global chartbuster with Snake alongside Jason Derulo — which has racked up over 130 million views and counting — Nora Fatehi is back to light up the international music scene. In a major development, she reunites with Tanzanian hitmaker Rayvanny for Tetema, a power-packed recreation of the original Afro-Bongo anthem made famous by Rayvanny and Diamond Platnumz. But this time, it comes with an exciting twist — Nora Fatehi will not just feature in the track but also lend her vocals, marking her return as a singer on the global stage.

The track, titled Oh Mama Tetema, is set to release on August 7, and sources close to the production confirm that the reimagined track may be titled Oh Mama Tetema and will blend Afro-Bongo beats with Nora’s unmistakable brand of glamour and performance energy. What’s even more striking is the multilingual lyrical blend, with Nora delivering her lines in English, Hindi, and Swahili, a move that not only expands the song’s cultural reach but reinforces her image as a truly global entertainer.

“Nora isn’t just lending her presence to the music video — she’s actually singing on the track. ‘Tetema’ will see her blend Hindi, English, and Swahili with her trademark energy. This marks a major leap in her global music journey, and the fusion vibe of the song reflects her evolution as a true international artist,” says a well-placed industry source.

This new track reunites Nora and Rayvanny after their 2019 viral hit Pepeta, which had earned both stars international acclaim. Tetema is expected to take things several notches higher — a global fusion anthem that promises to be as infectious on dance floors as it is on streaming platforms.

True to form, Nora will also be curating bold fashion-forward looks for the music video. Known for her trendsetting aesthetics, the Tetema visuals are set to celebrate modern Afro-pop culture with a high-octane style quotient.

Backed by T-Series, one of India’s biggest music powerhouses, the song is already being touted as one of the most anticipated cross-cultural collaborations of the year. With Nora’s sizzling screen presence and now, her vocals adding a whole new dimension, Tetema may well become the next global obsession.

As the August 7 release draws near, fans across continents are eagerly waiting to witness Nora Fatehi — the dancer, the performer, and now, the multilingual singer — bringing her “swag and spice” back to the mic, this time louder and more global than ever.

Also Read: Nora Fatehi stuns in Louis Vuitton power suit at Paris Fashion Week

On July 12, Bollywood Hungama was the first one to inform about the contents of the teaser of Huma Qureshi’s upcoming film, Baby Do Die Do. Now, we bring to you the gritty first look of the action thriller.

The first look consists of Huma Qureshi looking menacing as she stands on a rainy night holding an umbrella, dressed in an all-black rugged leather ensemble that complements her fierce expression with a white-coloured pigeon flying around. On top of the quirky title, the makers have also mentioned its relevance. Huma’s surname in the film is Karmarkar, which translates to ‘Do Die Do’.

What’s also striking about the poster is that she’s standing at what appears to be a railway station that sounds similar to that of Badlapur. While the station’s name in Hindi is mentioned as ‘Vadalpur’, its English translation seems to be ‘Vadlapur’. It immediately brought back memories of the movie Badlapur (2015), starring Varun Dhawan. One of its most famous stills also features Varun standing in front of the Badlapur station nameboard. Incidentally, Huma also starred in the film in a crucial role along with Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Radhika Apte, Yami Gautam, Vinay Pathak and Divya Dutta. It was directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan.

The first look of Baby Do Die Do was sent by Huma to her fans on Instagram. The Badlapur connection makes one wonder if this is just a homage to her 2015 film? Or will Varun Dhawan appear in a cameo in the film? Only time will tell.

Baby Do Die Do is produced by Huma Qureshi and Saqib Saleem under the banner of Saleem Siblings. The one-minute teaser focuses on Huma’s character and describes her as ‘1st desi female assassin’. The film also stars Sikandar Kher but only his voice can be heard in the promo. The asset ends with the lines ‘Badi story, badi screen pe, coming soon, baby!’.

Also Read: Huma Qureshi turns fierce assassin in Baby Do Die Do; teaser dropped on her birthday by brother Saqib Saleem

The Shift’s first-ever list of 90 influential women in leadership, creativity, and culture includes Indian cinema figures Zoya Akhtar and Deepika Padukone.

They are in incredible company, alongside names like Amal Clooney, Selena Gomez, Angelina Jolie, Billie Eilish, Amanda Gorman, and other rising voices, legacy leaders and global changemakers.

Both Deepika and Zoya have been pioneers in the make driven industry with their talent and creative choices. As Indian women, they have inspired audiences globally, setting new standards.

The list also honours other Indian-origin women making a global impact, including Leena Nair, Rupi Kaur, Trisha Shetty, Geetha Murali, Shilpa Yarlagadda, and Seema R. Hingorani

At the heart of the initiative is Gloria Steinem — a globally respected feminist icon, author, and activist whose decades-long work has shaped conversations around gender equality, civil rights, and social justice. A central figure in the feminist movement since the 1960s, Steinem’s voice and activism have influenced policies, empowered countless women, and sparked worldwide dialogue on systemic change.

To honour and continue her legacy, the Gloria Steinem Foundation was established. The foundation is committed to sustaining the momentum of the feminist movement by supporting emerging leaders, grassroots organizations, and transformative projects. Its mission is not only to preserve Steinem’s pioneering contributions but also to nurture a new generation of changemakers committed to equity, inclusion, and social progress.

Also Read : Farhan Akhtar on a sequel to Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, “We need to justify the sequel”

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 will present a special tribute to legendary filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak, marking the 100th anniversary of his birth. Known for his work as a director, screenwriter, actor, and playwright, Ghatak’s films gained wider recognition posthumously.

Known for his deep engagement with partition, social realities, and feminism, Ghatak’s films like Meghe Dhaka Tara, Subarnarekha, and Komal Gandhar are now celebrated as masterpieces. His distinctive voice and revolutionary visual storytelling shaped the narrative of Indian cinema in ways that are still being studied and appreciated by filmmakers and scholars across the globe.

Padma Shri awardee Ritwik Ghatak received several National Awards for his work. IFFM 2025 will feature a retrospective of his films, along with panel discussions and academic sessions to highlight his body of work and present it to new international audiences.

Speaking about the tribute, IFFM Festival Director Mitu Bhowmik Lange said, “Ritwik Ghatak was a visionary far ahead of his time. His cinema dealt with trauma, displacement, and identity with such poetic depth and urgency that it resonates even more today. At IFFM, we believe it is our responsibility to bring global attention to icons like Ritwik Ghatak, whose work shaped the conscience of Indian filmmaking. This centenary celebration is not just a tribute, it’s a reminder of the kind of stories we must continue to tell.”

The centenary celebration will be a key event at IFFM 2025, bringing together cinephiles, historians, and contemporary filmmakers to reflect on Ritwik Ghatak’s work and its impact on cinema.