This Diwali, it's not just Thama and Kartik Aaryan-Sreeleela’s untitled film that will clash in cinemas. In Maharashtra and certain other centres of the country, Punha Shivajiraje Bhosale will also try its luck. It is the spiritual sequel to the much loved 2009 film, Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy; hence, it has generated tremendous excitement, more so after its massy teaser dropped online a few days ago. However, the film got into a controversy after a public notice was published by Everest Entertainment, which produced Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy.

As per this notice published in Atul Mohan’s Complete Cinema magazine in the June 28 – July 5, 2025 issue, Everest Entertainment LLP, through their lawyers Bar & Brief Attorneys, informed the public and the film industry that Everest Entertainment is the co-producer and the sole, legal owner of all intellectual property rights related to Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy. It also revealed that the ownership covers the world and lasts for 60 years. It further clarified that they are the absolute, beneficial and legal owners of the film’s intellectual property rights, script, music, negatives, etc.

Moreover, the public notice also said that Everest Entertainment has the exclusive rights to produce any sequel or prequel of Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy. The notice specifically warned that no one else, including Mahesh Manjrekar, Rahul Sughand, Rahul Puranik, or any third party, has the authority to enter into deals or agreements related to the film’s rights. Any such unauthorized deals would be considered a violation of Everest’s legal ownership.

Additionally, the notice invited any person, company, or entity that believes they have a claim related to the rights of the film, whether by way of assignment, license, sale, pledge, mortgage, litigation, or any other manner, to submit their claim in writing, along with documentary proof, within 14 days from the date of publication of this notice. If no claim was made within this period, it stated that the claim would be treated as waived and that Everest would not be liable or responsible for it. It also stated that without proper documentary evidence, the claims would not be considered.

Bollywood Hungama contacted Mahesh Manjrekar more than once but he was unavailable for comment.

About Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy and Punha Shivajiraje Bhosale

Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy starred Sachin Khedekar in the role of Dinkar, a common man in the present day who is facing a tough time as a Maharashtrian in Mumbai. When the situation deteriorates and, in frustration, he expresses regret over being born a Maharashtrian, the spirit of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (played by Mahesh Manjrekar) is awakened. He meets Dinkar and blasts him for his thoughts. He guides him and what happens next forms the rest of the film.

Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy also featured Priya Bapat, Siddharth Jadhav, Vineet Kumar Singh, Kamlesh Sawant, Reema Lagoo and others. It was the costliest Marathi film of the time and also an all-time grosser. It was released on April 3, 2009, the same day when the producers went on a strike triggered by a dispute with multiplex cinemas over profit-sharing. As a result, no other major film was released for the next two months. This and the extremely positive word of mouth gave Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy a clean run.

Punha Shivajiraje Bhosale will feature Siddharth Bodke in the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Mahesh Manjrekar had written and backed the 2009 film. But he has not only written but also directed the spiritual sequel while Rahul Puranik and Rahul Sugandh are the producers. The other actors in the film are Sayaji Shinde, Treesha Thosar, Bhargav Jagtap, Vikram Gaikwad, Mangesh Desai and Shashank Shende.

Also Read: Mahesh Manjrekar credits Maharashtra audience for Chhaava’s Rs 800 crore success; says, “Vicky Kaushal can never say that people came to see him”

In the first week of June 2025, Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report that Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films is considering to push his upcoming romantic drama, Param Sundari, from July 25 to August 29. With July 25 approaching and no sign of the promotions of Param Sundari commencing, it became clear that the Sidharth Malhotra-Janhvi Kapoor film will not arrive in cinemas on its original release date. Yesterday, Maddock Films, in a unique manner, revealed that their film has indeed been pushed.

Maalik, starring Rajkummar Rao, released in cinemas on July 11 and two teasers were attached with its prints. One was that of Param Sundari. The asset was the same as the one that came in May except for the release date. Instead of ‘This July’, ‘This August’ was mentioned in the new teaser. The original teaser ends with the text ‘In cinemas, July 25’. The revised teaser’s slate simply mentions ‘In cinemas worldwide this August’.

This has raised questions about whether Param Sundari will be released on August 29 or some other date next month. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “August 29 seems like the likely date. If they had planned to release the film on August 1, there would have been some developments by now in terms of promotions and distribution deals. That hasn’t happened so far. It probably won’t arrive in cinemas on August 14 as the two biggies, War 2 and Coolie, have already taken over the coveted slot. And as it usually happens, it is not advisable to release a film a week before or after the clash of two biggies. This leaves August 29 as the apt date for Param Sundari. Nevertheless, let’s wait for the official announcement.”

Besides Param Sundari, the other teaser that moviegoers got a chance to see with Maalik is that of Baby Do Die Do. It 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 and his voice can be heard. The asset ends with the lines ‘Badi story, badi screen pe, coming soon, baby!’

Yesterday, Huma Qureshi and Saqib Saleem took to Instagram to inform their followers that the teaser of Baby Do Die Do can be experienced only in cinemas for the time being. They also revealed that the first 5000 people who join their broadcast channel will exclusively get a chance to see it before it drops digitally.

Also Read: SCOOP: Dinesh Vijan contemplating pushing Param Sundari’s release; Ajay Devgn’s Son Of Sardaar 2 might be the only Hindi release on July 25

National Award-winning filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar has kicked off filming for his next highly anticipated project titled The Wives — and it’s already creating buzz for its bold subject and intriguing casting. As per sources close to the production, Arjan Bajwa has been finalized as one of the leads and will be seen opposite actress Mouni Roy.

A source revealed, “Arjan has been finalised to play one of the leads in The Wives. The film is already being shot, and Arjan will begin filming his part soon.” The drama promises to be a compelling mix of scandal, secrets, and high-society intrigue — a signature blend that fans have come to expect from Bhandarkar, whose filmography includes cult hits like Page 3, Fashion, Heroine, and Chandni Bar.

This marks a reunion for Bhandarkar and Bajwa, who previously worked together in the critically acclaimed Fashion (2008), where Arjan starred opposite Priyanka Chopra. The film was a major success and earned widespread acclaim, solidifying Bajwa’s place in the industry.

While the plot of The Wives remains under wraps, the title and Madhur’s reputation for exploring the murky realities of elite circles suggest a gripping narrative filled with emotional twists, buried truths, and societal commentary.

Arjan Bajwa, known for his versatility, continues to impress both in films and digital platforms. He’s received praise for his roles in Crook, Son of Sardaar, Bobby Jasoos, Rustom, and Kabir Singh. His digital projects like Bestseller and State of Siege: 26/11 further established him as a powerful performer.

2025 is shaping up to be a busy year for Bajwa, who already has two major releases lined up — Second Chance and his much-talked-about international debut, Demon Hunters. With Bhandarkar’s trademark storytelling and a strong cast, The Wives is set to be one of the most talked-about films of the year.

Also Read: Rahul Bhat begins shoot for Madhur Bhandarkar directorial The Wives; gives a sneak peek into sets

Shooting of Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3, which has been delayed for various reasons, will finally commence from January 2026.

Confirming this development, a source told this writer, “There’s been a delay, yes. But it couldn’t be helped. Ranveer Singh who replaced Shah Rukh Khan in the franchise had to face a surplus of trolling online for ‘daring’ to step into SRK’s shoes. Farhan and Ranveer mutually decided to lie low to let the heat die down. He also needed time to prepare for the part as it requires special martial arts skills. After that, Kiara Advani who was signed in place of Priyanka Chopra as the leading lady got pregnant. Farhan had to halt the show on account of Kiara’s changed circumstances. Thirdly, Farhan got busy with his gruelling regime as an actor in the war film 120 Bahadur where he plays Major Shaitan Singh. It is scheduled for release on November 21, 2025.”

Don 3 is finally ready to hit the road. The shooting begins in January 2026. “They are aiming for a December 2026 release. There is a possibility that Priyanka Chopra may come back to the franchise,” the informed source let out.

Also Read: Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3 finally gets rolling: Ranveer Singh – Kiara Advani to shoot from January 2026, Priyanka Chopra may return

Ajay Devgn, Ravi Kishan, Sanjay Mishra, Mrunal Thakur, Chunky Panday, Deepak Dobriyal, Ashwini Kalsekar, Kubbra Sait, Roshni Walia, and Sharat Saxena attended the launch of the trailer of their film Son Of Sardaar 2 in Mumbai. Since the film is about a sardar, a journalist asked Ajay Devgn to comment on the recent controversy involving the sardar that has made India proud, Diljit Dosanjh.

Ajay Devgn replied, “I don’t know where the trolling comes from aur kya sahi hai aur kya galat. I am not in his shoes to comment on that. Uski apni problem hogi. Those who are saying (criticizing him), they are doing so as they hold a certain point of view.”

Ajay Devgn continued, “So, when there are two diverse points of view, woh baith ke solve kiye ja sakte hai. Aap apne hisaab se soch rahe hai, woh apne hisaab se soch rahe hai, aisa nahin hota. So, I will not blame anybody. I will not even say ki isme se koi galat hai aur koi sahi hai. I believe that they need a conversation.”

Diljit Dosanjh got into trouble as his recently released film Sardaar Ji 3 stars Pakistani star Hania Aamir. There has been a massive outrage against Pakistani artists in India, more so after the ghastly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir on April 22. There were speculations that Sardaar Ji 3 features Hania but the makers remained mum about it. The truth was out once the trailer was released a few days before release. Though the makers didn’t release the film in India, there was a lot of criticism over this issue. FWICE even took the decision to boycott Diljit. Many, however, are in support of the global star and they feel that the outrage is unfair since he shot with Hania Aamir before the Pahalgam attack.

Coming back to Son Of Sardaar 2 trailer launch, director Vijay Kumar Arora and producer Kumar Mangat Pathak also made their presence felt. The film releases in cinemas on July 25.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn brings back the madness with Son of Sardaar 2 trailer; promises double the drama and desi punch

At the electrifying teaser launch of her upcoming film KD – The Devil, Shilpa Shetty Kundra turned heads in a statement-making saree that was anything but traditional. Styled by Sukriti Grover, the actress donned a radiant tie-dye creation from designer Akansha Garjia’s AG-OG collection, blending the vibrance of Indian dyeing techniques with sleek contemporary tailoring.

A Modern Take on a Timeless Drape The star of the ensemble was a sunrise-shaded georgette saree, shimmering subtly with sequins that played beautifully under the spotlight. The handcrafted tie-dye pattern in Rani pink and turquoise gave the look a vibrant, youthful energy. Fluid and softly structured, the saree was paired with a solid-coloured choli in satin/raw silk, staying true to the designer's blend of earthy craftsmanship and urban polish.

The overall outfit, priced at Rs 42,000, included a stretch satin petticoat in a matching pink hue, ensuring comfort without compromising on silhouette. The fabrics—satin silk and raw silk—offered a tactile richness, enhancing the interplay of texture and sheen. The Blouse That Broke the Mold Shilpa’s blouse was not your standard saree pairing—it featured a racer-back cut, visible from behind, adding a modern, athletic edge to the otherwise elegant look. With a centre-back zip opening, the blouse provided a clean, tailored finish. This unexpected detail elevated the outfit into a blend of red carpet glamour and high fashion. Statement Styling Keeping the focus on the saree’s vivid palette, Sukriti Grover styled the actress with chunky turquoise accessories—ring stacks and bold ear cuffs that echoed the colour story of the outfit without overwhelming it. Shilpa’s hair was styled in voluminous, soft waves, framing her face beautifully. Her makeup was luminous and balanced, with soft rose lips, sculpted cheeks, and a well-defined eye.

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From every angle—whether captured in a sweeping full-length frame or a close-up—the saree commanded attention. The fluid drape, rich colour play, and Shilpa’s effortless poise combined to make this one of her most memorable promotional looks in recent times.

Also Read: Shilpa Shetty raises laughs at KD – The Devil teaser launch: “Teaser pe itna paisa kharcha kaun karta hai?”; also opens up on language controversy: “Aapka mic bandh kiya hai…”

ZEE5 and Zee Cinema are all set to premiere the world digital release of the spooky-yet-hilarious horror-comedy The Bhootnii on July 18 at 8 pm. After tickling funny bones and sending chills down spines in theatres, The Bhootnii now brings its wild chaos, eerie thrills, and outrageous laughs to your living room.

Produced by Deepak Mukut of Soham Rockstar Entertainment and Sanjay Dutt of Three Dimension Motion Pictures and written and directed by Sidhaant Sachdev, The Bhootnii boasts a high-voltage cast led by Sanjay Dutt as a quirky ghostbuster with secrets of his own, Mouni Roy as the dangerously enchanting spirit Mohabbat, and Sunny Singh and Palak Tiwari as college students caught in the eye of this supernatural storm. The film also stars Aasif Khan and Nick (BeYouNick) in supporting roles.

Set in the haunted grounds of St. Vincent’s College, Delhi, where an old ghost and a cursed tree wreak havoc every Valentine’s Day, the story follows heartbroken student Shantanu (Sunny Singh), who accidentally awakens Mohabbat, a seductive ghost with a tragic backstory and a deadly obsession. As hallucinations, hauntings, and mysterious deaths plague the campus, the eccentric Baba (Sanjay Dutt) enters the scene with his paranormal toolkit and a puzzling past.

With Mohabbat growing stronger by the day and Holika Dahan looming—a night when she can claim souls forever—Shantanu must uncover what she truly wants. But the real twist? Baba might not be the savior he seems.

Sanjay Dutt shared, “The Bhootnii was always meant to be a fun, quirky ride - a real clutter breaker. Unfortunately, it didn’t get enough screens during its theatrical release, and its run was shorter than we’d hoped for. Sometimes some films get a bit lost amidst the noise. But this is a film made with a lot of love and care. We truly believed in the story and the heart behind it. I genuinely hope it connects with the audience on ZEE5 and Zee Cinema.”

Mouni Roy said, “Portraying Mohabbat in The Bhootnii was a deeply exciting experience—she’s mysterious, intense, and emotionally layered in such an intriguing way. It was a joy exploring her complexity, and I’m grateful for the overwhelming love she’s received since the theatrical release. Working with Sanjay Dutt sir was an honour—he brings such ease and energy to the set. And heartfelt thanks to Sidhaant Sachdev for trusting me with this challenging and unconventional role. The Bhootnii truly has something for everyone—chills, laughs, and a surprising amount of heart. I can’t wait for audiences to experience all of it when the film drops on ZEE5 and Zee Cinema.”

Sunny Singh shared, “Playing lead character Shantanu in The Bhootnii was an absolute rollercoaster—he’s a regular guy caught in some seriously bizarre and spooky chaos. What I loved most was how the film mixes horror with humour without losing its emotional core. Working alongside a legend like Sanjay Dutt sir, the incredibly talented Mouni Roy and the very sweet Palak Tiwari made it even more memorable. Siddhant’s vision brought this mad world to life, and I’m thrilled that audiences can now experience all the laughs, chills, and twists from the comfort of their homes. Get ready, because this haunting comes with a side of madness!”

Palak Tiwari said, “Playing Ananya in The Bhootnii was such an exciting experience—she’s strong, curious, and finds herself caught in situations that are way beyond the ordinary. What I loved most was how the film balances emotion, suspense, and just the right touch of quirky horror. Shooting for it and working with Sanjay Dutt sir was an absolute honour—there’s so much to learn just by being around his energy and presence on set. It was genuinely fun—we had a great vibe on set and a team that made every day memorable. This wouldn't have been possible without Sidhaant Sachdev sir's guidance throughout the journey and for his belief in the story and in me. I can't wait for audiences to watch the film and give it all their love on ZEE5 and Zee Cinema.”

Kaveri Das, Business Head – Hindi, ZEE5 said, “At ZEE5, our content strategy is rooted in understanding evolving audience preferences and delivering stories that are fresh, entertaining, and culturally resonant. With The Bhootnii, we’re excited to further diversify our Hindi slate by tapping into a genre blend that viewers are increasingly drawn to—quirky horror-comedy with strong characterization and mass appeal. The film combines elements that appeal to the masses: youth-centric settings, supernatural intrigue, and a generous dose of humour. As we continue to expand our original and acquired offerings, our focus remains on curating content that surprises, entertains, and connects deeply with diverse audience segments—and The Bhootnii delivers on all counts.”

Deepak Mukut of Soham Rockstar Entertainment said, “The Bhootnii is a mad, magical mix of chaos, comedy, and chills—and that’s exactly what makes it so special. From the very beginning, we wanted to create a world that felt unpredictable and larger-than-life, with characters you don’t meet every day. With Sanjay Dutt, Mouni Roy, Sunny Singh, and Palak Tiwari at the centre of it all, the film became an unforgettable ride. Sidhaant Sachdev brought incredible energy and vision to this universe, and we’re thrilled that audiences can now enjoy it on ZEE5 and Zee Cinema. Whether you missed it in theatres or want to relive the madness, this is one haunting you’ll enjoy from start to finish.”

Also Read: Shilpa Shetty raises laughs at KD – The Devil teaser launch: “Teaser pe itna paisa kharcha kaun karta hai?”; also opens up on language controversy: “Aapka mic bandh kiya hai…”

The much-anticipated trailer of Son of Sardaar 2 is finally out, and Ajay Devgn fans are in for a riot of laughter, drama, and signature Punjabi madness! After teasing audiences with a swag-filled announcement video and catchy tracks like ‘Pehla Tu Duja Tu’, the makers dropped the trailer at a star-studded launch event in Mumbai — and it’s nothing short of full-on Bollywood masala.

Reprising his iconic role as the unapologetically desi Jassi, Ajay Devgn returns with even more swag, humour, and chaos in Son of Sardaar 2. The trailer opens with a fun throwback to the 2012 blockbuster Son of Sardaar, instantly tapping into nostalgia before launching into a new chapter of Jassi’s journey — this time taking the madness all the way to Scotland!

Directed by Vijay Kumar Arora, Son of Sardaar 2 promises double the comedy, double the action, and plenty of hungama as Jassi navigates new turf, new trouble, and a whole lot of heart. From hilarious punchlines to foot-tapping music, the trailer sets the tone for a perfect family entertainer with mass appeal.

The film features an ensemble cast brimming with comedic and dramatic talent including Ravi Kishan, Sanjay Mishra, Mrunal Thakur, Neeru Bajwa, Chunky Panday, Kubbra Sait, Deepak Dobriyal, Vindu Dara Singh, Roshni Walia, Sharat Saxena, Sahil Mehta, and the late Mukul Dev — making this sequel not just a visual spectacle but an emotional one too.

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Presented by Jio Studios and Devgn Films, Son of Sardaar 2 is a Devgn Films and SOS 2 Limited production, produced by Ajay Devgn and Jyoti Deshpande, with N R Pachisia and Pravin Talreja backing the project and Kumar Mangat Pathak on board as co-producer.

Slated to release on July 25, 2025, Son of Sardaar 2 is shaping up to be one of this monsoon’s biggest Bollywood dhamakas. With Jassi’s loud, proud Punjabi heart taking on new challenges in a foreign land, fans can expect a high dose of nostalgia, new-age comedy, and Ajay Devgn’s unbeatable screen presence. Watch the trailer now and get ready for a rollercoaster ride of laughs, punches, and pure desi swag!

Also Read: Ajay Devgn drops first song ‘Pehla Tu Duja Tu’ from Son Of Sardaar 2 ahead of July 25 release

Comedian-actor Kapil Sharma’s newly opened eatery in Canada, The Kap’s Cafe, issued a heartfelt statement after multiple rounds of gunfire were shot at the café’s exterior around midnight on July 9, just a couple of days after its launch. A video of the incident quickly surfaced online, leaving fans worried about the safety of the place.

In response to the unsettling incident, the official Instagram handle of The Kap’s Cafe shared a message expressing grief and resilience in the face of violence. The statement read: “We opened Kap’s Cafe with hopes of bringing warmth, community, and joy through delicious coffee and friendly conversation. To have violence intersect with that dream is heartbreaking. We are processing this shock but we are not giving up.”

The message further acknowledged the overwhelming support received from the community: “Your kind words, prayers, and memories shared via DM mean more than you know. This cafe exists because of your belief in what we’re building together. Let’s stand firm against violence and ensure Kap’s Cafe remains a place of warmth and community. From all of us at Kap’s Cafe, thank you and see you soon, under better skies.”

While the café has taken a strong stance against the act of violence, Kapil Sharma has yet to issue a personal statement on the matter.

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The shooting occurred around 1 AM on July 9. CCTV footage shows an individual firing shots from a moving car before fleeing the scene. No customers were present at the time, but the property sustained damage. Khalistani terrorist Harjeet Singh Laddi later claimed responsibility for the attack, demanding an apology from Kapil Sharma for his alleged objectionable remarks.

World Famous comedian Kapil Sharma's newly inaugurated restaurant KAP'S CAFE shot at in Surrey, BC, Canada last night. Harjit Singh Laddi, a BKI operative, NIA's (INDIA ) most wanted terrorist has claimed this shoot out citing some remarks by Kapil@SurreyPolice pic.twitter.com/p51zlxXbOf — Ritesh Lakhi CA (@RiteshLakhiCA) July 10, 2025

Also Read: Kapil Sharma launches Kaps Café in Canada; fans flock to the soft opening

The Delhi High Court on Thursday put a temporary halt on the release of the film Udaipur Files, which is based on the murder of tailor Kanhaiya Lal. The film was scheduled to be released on July 11. The court's order will remain in effect until the central government takes a decision on the petitions seeking a permanent ban on the movie.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Anish Dayal directed the petitioners to submit their grievance to the central government within two days.

The petitioners, who are accused in the Kanhaiya Lal murder case, approached the court arguing that the release of the film would compromise their right to a fair trial.

The bench noted that "admittedly, petitioners have not taken recourse to available remedy with the central government."

"Since we are relegating petitioner to invoke revisional remedy, we provide that till the application for grant of interim relief is decided by the government there shall be stay on release of the film," the bench stated.

Udaipur-based tailor Kanhaiya Lal was killed in June 2022, allegedly by Mohammad Riyaz and Mohammad Ghous. The accused later released a video claiming that the murder was carried out in retaliation for Lal’s alleged social media post supporting former BJP leader Nupur Sharma, following her controversial remarks about Prophet Mohammed.

The case was investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and the accused were charged under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), along with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. The trial is currently underway before the special NIA court in Jaipur.

Also Read : Udaipur Files faces 150 cuts from CBFC, legal petition filed ahead of July 11 release

The investigation into the financial fraud case involving Alia Bhatt’s former personal assistant, Archana Shetty, has taken a serious turn with fresh allegations surfacing. Sources within the Juhu Police have confirmed that Shetty allegedly leaked confidential information related to Bhatt’s production house, Eternal Sunshine Productions, to an unidentified individual based in the United States.

According to officers familiar with the probe, the data leak is believed to have involved sensitive business documents, financial reports, and potentially unreleased project details. The motive behind the leak is currently being examined, with authorities suspecting it may be linked to financial gains or the exploitation of proprietary content.

In parallel, Shetty is also accused of transferring large sums of money from Alia Bhatt’s personal and company-linked accounts into those belonging to multiple individuals. Among the recipients named in the preliminary investigation are Satvik Sahu, Simi John, Shashank Pandey, Chandni Jitendra Prasad Dixit, and Manish Sukhij. The pattern of these transactions suggests an attempt to mask the embezzlement using multiple personal and firm accounts.

Adding to the growing list of accusations, Shetty is said to have made purchases in the name of Eternal Sunshine Productions without authorization. These include high-value electronics and other goods reportedly delivered to various addresses unconnected to the company. Notably, iPhones and iPads were among the items bought, indicating misuse of company funds for personal consumption or resale.

The Juhu Police have already registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including criminal breach of trust and cheating, and are now coordinating with cybercrime experts to trace the path of the leaked information. They are also working to identify the US-based recipient and establish whether any international laws have been violated.

Police officials are reportedly verifying financial trails and digital communications. The involvement of foreign entities adds a layer of complexity to the case. We hear that they are also reaching out to relevant authorities abroad to investigate it further.

Alia Bhatt has remained tight-lipped about the incident and no official statement has been released from Eternal Sunshine Productions regarding the breach. Further updates are awaited as the probe deepens.

Also Read: Alia Bhatt’s former assistant arrested for allegedly cheating her of Rs 77 lakh

The Indian Express Group and SCREEN on Wednesday announced the launch of SCREEN Academy, a not-for-profit initiative aimed at supporting and highlighting emerging talent in Indian cinema.

With an exciting and fast-growing list of diverse members including Cannes and Oscar winners, Guneet Monga, Payal Kapadia and Resul Pookutty, and veteran screenwriter Anjum Rajabali, the Academy, working with India’s top film institutes, will identify and empower the next generation of filmmakers through education, representation, and recognition.

Established with the generous support of Founding Patron Abhishek Lodha of the Lodha Foundation, SCREEN Academy will annually provide postgraduate fellowships to students nominated by their film schools, who demonstrate exceptional storytelling potential but lack the financial resources to pursue formal film education.

Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis said the timing and the location couldn’t be more relevant. “The film industry has an inseparable association with Mumbai. I am thrilled to learn of the inception of the not-for-profit Screen Academy by The Indian Express Group…I am certain that the Indian film industry will benefit immensely from the new filmmaking talent the academy aims to cultivate.”

Said Anant Goenka, Executive Director of The Indian Express Group, who steered the idea of the Academy: "SCREEN Academy represents a bold step toward institutionalising excellence in the entertainment and culture space. We will create an ecosystem that not only celebrates excellence but actively nurtures diverse and promising talent with both financial aid and access."

For Abhishek Lodha, the Academy’s work is key to India’s soft power and growth as a global leader in the  creative arts. "The Lodha Foundation is committed to supporting India’s progress to becoming a developed nation by 2047. Films and creative arts are a key strength of our nation and the SCREEN Academy will play an important role in furthering India’s progress to a global leader in this field. The Lodha Foundation is pleased to partner with the SCREEN Academy in this ambitious initiative.”

The SCREEN Academy Fellowships 2025 will cover full financial support for postgraduate studies at premier institutions, Film and Television Institute of India (Pune), Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (Kolkata), and Whistling Woods International (Mumbai). The Academy plans to expand its footprint across the country and add more film schools going forward.

Beyond funding, SCREEN Academy fellows will benefit from an unprecedented industry mentorship programme featuring India's top studios and most respected film professionals as Academy members. These industry leaders will provide masterclasses, internships, and ongoing professional guidance.

Said Dhiraj Singh, Director, Film and Television Institute of India: “ SCREEN is a very respected name in film journalism. FTII is very happy that a meaningful collaboration is taking shape. I am sure students and the industry will benefit greatly with this scholarship program.”

Samiran Dutta, Director in charge of the Satyajit Ray institute, said the fellowships will plug a vital gap. “We have talent from diverse and unknown parts of India, not only from urban metros, producing great ideas and fabulous stories. Understandably, some of our students find it difficult to negotiate the expenditure of film education. The SCREEN Academy fellowship will help in their quest to make great cinema”

“At Whistling Woods International, we believe that access to quality education can transform lives. This scholarship, in collaboration with the SCREEN Academy, ensures that financial constraints do not come in the way of creativity and ambition. It’s a partnership rooted in shared values — excellence, inclusivity, and a deep commitment to nurturing the storytellers of tomorrow,” said Meghna Ghai Puri, President Whistling Woods International

Selecting the fellows will be a panel headed by Anjum Rajabali, the veteran screenwriter and film academician. “This hugely generous initiative offers much-needed support to young people to avail of formal education in the craft, for which the film, TV, and the OTT sector will be grateful for having access to this talent pool. These scholarships will help in driving up the quality of writing and filmmaking here.”