As Aamir Khan gears up for the release of his much-awaited film Sitaare Zameen Par on June 20, the actor has made a heartfelt appeal to audiences to avoid watching pirated versions of the film. Speaking to News18 Showsha, Khan addressed the issue of piracy and its adverse impact on the film industry — especially the people who pour their time, emotions, and creativity into the filmmaking process.

As he described it as “really sad,” Aamir elaborated on the matter and said, “When you watch a pirated version of a film, you’re unknowingly causing a lot of harm. Many people don’t realise the impact.” He further stressed the ethical aspect of the matter. “If you wouldn’t steal a TV, then why is it okay to watch a pirated movie? It’s the same thing.”

Khan, who has spent three years developing Sitaare Zameen Par, also highlighted the collective effort of the cast and crew behind the film’s creation. “The emotions and hard work of these 10 kids, Genelia, Prasanna, the writer, each head of department, and myself — all of it is in this film. We want people to watch it the right way, not through piracy,” he said. The actor confirmed that concrete steps are being taken to prevent illegal sharing of the film. “We’ll be hiring agencies to help prevent and reduce illegal sharing of the film,” he added.

The timing of Khan’s statement is particularly relevant, with recent films like Sikandar suffering from piracy leaks soon after their release. Industry insiders have raised alarms over the growing menace, which not only eats into box office earnings but also undermines the integrity and message of the films themselves.

Directed by R.S. Prasanna, Sitaare Zameen Par is a sports comedy-drama and a spiritual successor to Khan’s 2007 film Taare Zameen Par. It is also the official remake of the 2018 Spanish film Champions and features real actors with Down Syndrome in pivotal roles. The film stars Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh in lead roles and has been produced by Aamir Khan along with Aparna Purohit.

With just weeks left for its theatrical release, Khan’s passionate stance against piracy is not only a warning but a reminder of the respect and support every creative work deserves.

Also Read: Kapil Sharma shares heartfelt glimpse of Aamir Khan’s soulful musical night ahead of Sitaare Zameen Par release

Amid the ongoing controversy around his recent remark on Tamil’s linguistic supremacy over Kannada, veteran actor Kamal Haasan has now stirred another significant conversation — this time addressing the long-debated issue of Hindi imposition in Southern states. Speaking to PTI, the actor-politician weighed in on the importance of linguistic freedom and inclusivity, especially in educational and employment contexts.

Haasan’s statement comes at a time when his upcoming film Thug Life has reportedly been barred from releasing in Kannada following his earlier remarks. However, the actor did not hold back in addressing broader national concerns around language politics and imposition. “Without imposition, we will learn. Don't impose, because this is ultimately education and we must take the shortest route to education… and not put hurdles in its way,” said Haasan, stressing that learning languages should be organic and never forced. He further expressed solidarity with other states that have historically resisted Hindi imposition. “I stand with Punjab. I stand with Karnataka. I stand with Andhra. This is not only place which is resenting imposition,” he shared.

Drawing attention to the practicality of English in modern India, Kamal Haasan highlighted how the country’s historical engagement with the language has helped establish it as a neutral medium of communication and education. “And English seems to be fair enough. You can do Spanish also, or Chinese. But I think the most practical thing where the shortest route to that is that we have 350 years of English education, slowly but steadily. So when you suddenly replace it, it's all over again. You make unnecessarily many people illiterate, especially in Tamil Nadu,” he stated.

He went on to add, “You suddenly force all through Hindi and you tell them that you will not get your job beyond the Vindhyas, then you start wondering, what about the promises? What about my language? Am I not one of the 22 (official languages)? These are the questions that are coming.”

The Indian 2 actor’s comments have added fresh fuel to the ongoing national debate around language politics, even as Thug Life finds itself entangled in regional tensions. Whether his statement helps build bridges or adds to the friction remains to be seen, but Kamal Haasan has made his stance clear — one that calls for linguistic respect, choice, and practicality over force.

Also Read: Shruti Haasan describes her ‘rare personal milestone’ as she sings for Kamal Haasan in Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life

In a heartwarming turn of events, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan is set to share the screen with two very special women in his life—his 90-year-old mother, Zeenat Hussain, and his sister, Nikhat Khan—in his upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par.

Sources close to the production have confirmed that Zeenat Hussain will make her on-screen debut in the film, marking a rare and touching moment in the actor’s illustrious career. Joining her will be Aamir’s sister Nikhat Khan, who has made notable appearances in recent years and has increasingly embraced her presence in cinema.

While the details of their roles are being kept tightly under wraps, their inclusion adds a deeply personal dimension to Sitaare Zameen Par, which is already generating considerable buzz as the spiritual sequel to the 2007 classic Taare Zameen Par. Directed by R.S. Prasanna, the film features Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh in lead roles, alongside ten debutant child actors, and is scheduled for release on June 20, 2025.

This is not the first time Aamir has woven elements of his personal life into his professional journey, but to feature his nonagenarian mother on screen is a particularly tender gesture. Zeenat Hussain, long known for her quiet presence behind the scenes, has rarely been in the public eye. Her participation in Sitaare Zameen Par is seen by many as a moment of celebration—not just of cinema, but of family, legacy, and love.

Meanwhile, Nikhat Khan, who has appeared in films like Mission Mangal and Saand Ki Aankh, has been gradually stepping into the limelight. Her presence in Sitaare Zameen Par only adds to the film’s layered narrative and familial warmth.

With music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya, Sitaare Zameen Par promises to be an emotional, musical journey, and now—with Aamir’s own family gracing the screen—one that carries even more meaning.

As the film heads toward release, all eyes are now on how these deeply personal appearances will be woven into the story—and how they will resonate with audiences who have followed Aamir’s career, and family, with deep affection.

Also Read: Aamir Khan BREAKS silence on reports of Sitaare Zameen Par’s post-theatrical release on YouTube and why he’s taken a huge risk: “Not a SINGLE producer would begin a film unless he sells OTT rights…I am the ONLY producer who has said ‘NO’ to everyone”

Aamir Khan Productions has sent the internet into a tizzy with a sneak peek into the dazzling preparations for the grand premiere of their much-anticipated film, Sitaare Zameen Par. Taking to their official social media handle, the production house revealed exclusive behind-the-scenes photos showcasing the couture ensembles being prepped for the film’s red-carpet debut.

In a post that has fans buzzing, the caption read: "Premiere looks are about to get legendary, get ready for a Sitaare-studded surprise!" The spotlight is firmly on the opulent, hand-crafted creations by celebrated designer duo Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla—renowned for their legacy of high fashion and statement red-carpet moments. The duo has been tasked with styling the entire ensemble cast of Sitaare Zameen Par, including lead stars Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh, along with the film’s ten fresh-faced debutants.

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The debutants—Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, Vedant Sharma, Ayush Bhansali, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, and Simran Mangeshkar—are being launched in what is poised to be one of 2025’s most heartfelt and high-profile cinematic offerings.

Directed by R. S. Prasanna, best known for the barrier-breaking Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, Sitaare Zameen Par brings together a powerhouse team. The film features music by the trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy with lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya, and a screenplay penned by Divy Nidhi Sharma.

Produced by Aamir Khan and Aparna Purohit under the Aamir Khan Productions banner, with Ravi Bhagchandka also serving as producer, the film is slated for an exclusive theatrical release on June 20, 2025.

With a narrative that blends heart, hope, and star power—and now, a designer red-carpet reveal to match—Sitaare Zameen Par is gearing up to be one of the year’s most stylish cinematic events.

Also Read: From Raj Thackeray to Sachin Tendulkar: Aamir Khan hosts star-studded musical night for Sitaare Zameen Par debutants

South superstar and four-time National Award winner Dhanush is turning heads once again—this time with a striking transformation for his upcoming Hindi film Tere Ishk Mein. Spotted in a crisp Indian Air Force uniform, with a close-cropped haircut and a steely moustache, Dhanush’s new avatar has sent fans into a frenzy and raised anticipation for what’s being touted as one of his most intense roles yet.

The film marks a full-circle moment for Dhanush, as he reunites with director Aanand L Rai—nearly 12 years after their cult classic Raanjhanaa introduced him to Bollywood and established him as a pan-India phenomenon. Their new collaboration, Tere Ishk Mein, promises to explore another emotionally charged and deeply rooted narrative, this time with even greater cinematic scale and ambition.

While the plot remains tightly under wraps, early buzz from the sets hints at a layered character arc for Dhanush. His rugged military avatar signals a significant shift from the affable, boy-next-door roles he has played in the past. Industry insiders suggest this could be his most demanding Hindi-language role yet, showcasing not just his physical transformation but also a profound emotional evolution.

Produced by Gulshan Kumar, T-Series, and Colour Yellow Productions, Tere Ishk Mein is helmed by Aanand L Rai and written by long-time collaborator Himanshu Sharma. The film also stars Kriti Sanon in a pivotal role and features a soul-stirring soundtrack composed by music maestro A.R. Rahman—reuniting the winning team that brought Raanjhanaa to life.

With Dhanush’s newly revealed look creating waves online and fan excitement reaching a fever pitch, Tere Ishk Mein is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated theatrical releases of the year. The film is slated to hit cinemas across India on November 28, 2025.

Also Read: Aanand L Rai shares heartwarming BTS moments from Tere Ishk Mein sets featuring Kriti Sanon and Dhanush

In one of the most anticipated announcements of the year, Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone has officially joined forces with Telugu icon Allu Arjun for director Atlee’s next major venture. Backed by powerhouse production house Sun Pictures, the upcoming pan-India film — tentatively titled #AA22xA6 — is already generating massive buzz across industries and fanbases alike.

Marking her first-ever collaboration with both Allu Arjun and Atlee, Deepika’s casting signals a fresh cinematic pairing and a massive pan-Indian spectacle in the making. Known for her versatility, screen presence, and ability to elevate any narrative she’s a part of Deepika’s presence is expected to bring a new dimension to this high-octane entertainer.

Allu Arjun, who is still riding high on the success of Pushpa: The Rise and gearing up for Pushpa 2: The Rule, adds another milestone project to his growing repertoire with this film. With director Atlee at the helm — whose previous hits include Jawan, Bigil, and Mersal — expectations are sky-high for a massy action-packed blockbuster laced with strong storytelling.

DEEPIKA PADUKONE JOINS ALLU ARJUN IN ATLEE - SUN PICTURES' MAJOR PROJECT... #DeepikaPadukone has joined #AlluArjun in director #Atlee's next venture, produced by #SunPictures... The project – #AA22xA6 – goes on floors later this year.#AA22 | #A6 pic.twitter.com/70PtWoFB8y

— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) June 7, 2025

Sun Pictures, known for delivering big-screen spectacles, is backing the project with scale and ambition. With #AA22xA6 set to go on floors later this year, the film is poised to be one of the biggest collaborations ever between North and South Indian cinema.

Fans across the country are already abuzz on social media, with hashtags like #AA22, #A6, and #DeepikaPadukone trending since the announcement. This casting coup not only adds star power but also emphasizes the blurring lines between regional and national cinema, promising a true pan-India cinematic celebration.

Also Read: Fact-Check: Deepika Padukone NOT removed from Kalki 2898 AD sequel due to ‘friction on the sets’ and ‘shorter work hour demand’; filming to begin in 2026

In a significant move that promises to elevate Indian storytelling for global audiences, streaming giant Netflix and Balaji Telefilms Ltd. have announced a long-term creative collaboration. The strategic partnership will span multiple formats, genres, and narratives, reinforcing both companies shared vision to deliver high-quality, culturally rooted content to a global viewership.

This alliance brings together two powerhouses of entertainment—Netflix, a global leader in streaming, and Balaji Telefilms, helmed by the prolific Padma Shri awardee and International Emmy winner, Ekta Kapoor. Known for her deep understanding of India’s cultural pulse and her knack for crafting iconic characters and stories, Kapoor’s creative legacy spans decades across television, cinema, and digital platforms.

Balaji and Netflix have previously collaborated on a string of successful titles, including Kathal, Pagglait, Jaane Jaan, and Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare. With this newly minted long-term partnership, the focus shifts toward an ambitious lineup of fresh narratives, including an untitled series already in advanced stages of development.

Speaking on the collaboration, Monika Shergill, Vice-President, Content, Netflix India, said, “Ekta has been a force in shaping Indian entertainment with unforgettable stories and characters that made it to pop culture, even before hashtags existed. Her creative instinct and deep understanding of the audience’s pulse have consistently set her apart in shaping what India chose to watch and love for more than two decades. At Netflix, our focus is to serve audiences with very diverse tastes and this collaboration will bring unique stories in rooted ways, marking an exciting new chapter in our creative journey.”

Ekta Kapoor, Joint Managing Director, Balaji Telefilms, echoed the excitement, stating: “At Balaji Telefilms, storytelling has always been at the heart of everything we do — whether through cinema, television, or digital platforms. Partnering with Netflix, the world’s leading storytelling platform known for its premium content and constant innovation, is a big moment for us. It allows us to bring powerful, culturally rooted, and emotionally resonant stories to a global audience. The beginning of this new collaboration marks an exciting new chapter where we continue to push creative boundaries and deliver content that entertains, inspires, and connects people everywhere."

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This collaboration will be executed through Balaji Telefilms Ltd., including its film and digital divisions—Balaji Motion Pictures and Balaji Telefilms Digital—ensuring a cross-medium approach tailored to the tastes and habits of modern streaming audiences.

As Netflix continues to expand its India slate and Balaji deepens its digital storytelling ambitions, this creative alliance marks a new chapter in shaping content that not only resonates locally but also finds meaningful connections with viewers worldwide.

Also Read: Ektaa Kapoor says, “Women uplifting women is the core of Bade Achhe Lagte Hain season 4”

Actress Sanya Malhotra continues her triumphant journey in cinema as she was recently honoured with the People’s Choice Star of the Year award at the Bollywood Hungama Style Icons 2025 – Summit and Awards. The recognition, is a testament to her growing influence and heartfelt connection with audiences—particularly for her stirring performance in the critically acclaimed film Mrs.

A consistent performer known for her understated strength and emotional range, Sanya Malhotra has steadily evolved into one of Indian cinema’s most relatable and admired talents. With Mrs., she delivered a career-defining portrayal that resonated deeply with viewers, making her a clear fan favourite.

Taking to Instagram to express her gratitude, Sanya shared an emotional message: "Thank you @realbollywoodhungama for honouring me with the People's Choice Star of the Year award for Mrs.????❤️ I'm extremely grateful for the love, inspiration and constant support from my team and all the amazing people who connected with Mrs so deeply ???? Kaafi khushi ☺️"

Sanya also turned heads on the red carpet, exuding elegance in an ensemble that matched her natural charisma. Ethereal and radiant, her effortless style added a touch of grace to the star-studded evening, echoing the very qualities that have made her so beloved by fans.

The success of Mrs. has reinforced her versatility as an actress, with both critics and audiences praising her nuanced performance. This latest award reflects not only her artistic growth but also the authenticity she brings to every role—qualities that have endeared her to audiences across the board.

Beyond Mrs., Sanya is riding a wave of momentum. Her energetic appearance in Thug Life’s song “Jinguchaa” has captured audience attention, with the track garnering massive praise since its release. Looking ahead, she has a promising slate of projects including Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari and a high-profile collaboration with Anurag Kashyap and Bobby Deol—solidifying her position as one of the most exciting talents in the industry today.

As Sanya continues to expand her creative horizons, this People’s Choice award stands as a heartfelt nod to her journey—grounded, fearless, and deeply in tune with the people who admire her most.

Also Read: Sanya Malhotra expresses gratitude for overwhelming response for Mrs: “Thank you for embracing Mrs with so much love”

Ranbir Kapoor’s premium lifestyle brand, ARKS, has taken a significant stride beyond fashion and footwear with the launch of its debut fragrance—ARKS Day. Known for redefining everyday essentials through the lens of minimalism and quiet confidence, ARKS now explores the world of fine fragrances, marking a new chapter in its evolving identity.

ARKS Day is designed as the finishing touch to one’s daily ensemble— “the final, invisible layer before you step out the door.” Gender-inclusive and timeless, the fragrance embodies ARKS' signature ethos of subtle sophistication. It opens with a fresh citrusy burst, layered with warm woody undertones, and settles into a musky finish—mirroring the brand’s philosophy of balance, simplicity, and inner strength.

“ARKS Day brings back a lot of memories from my childhood—the places I felt drawn to, the people who made me feel at home. We wanted to capture that essence in this first bottle. It's familiar, grounding, and made for those who carry their world with quiet strength,” said Ranbir Kapoor, Founder of ARKS.

With this launch, ARKS transitions into what the brand calls its "sensory chapter," offering not just clothing and sneakers, but also a holistic lifestyle experience. The scent is envisioned as a natural extension of the curated wardrobe ARKS has built—a product that complements its understated yet impactful identity.

“ARKS Day marks our entry into an exciting category that aligns with our vision of building a holistic lifestyle brand. It’s a strategic step—extending our philosophy into scent and deepening how consumers experience ARKS beyond apparel and sneakers,” added Abhinav Verma, Co-founder & CEO of ARKS.

To introduce ARKS Day, the brand has rolled out a campaign film that captures its distinctive tone—effortless cool and quiet confidence. For the first time, the brand narrates the story behind the making of the fragrance, underscoring its emotional and creative roots.

The campaign is headlined by Ranbir Kapoor and supported by the ‘ARKS Insiders’—a community of creators and tastemakers who reflect the brand’s values. These include Varun Duggirala (Entrepreneur), Anshuka Parwani (Yoga & Wellness Expert), Sukhmani Gambhir (Stylist and Influencer), Rob (Artist), Sahiba Bali (Actress), Barkha Singh (Actress), and Moses Kaul (Music Artist & Actor).

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With ARKS Day, Ranbir Kapoor and team not only offer a new product but extend an emotion—a quiet, grounded reminder of identity, comfort, and personal resonance. It's a bold yet seamless move for a brand that continues to evolve as a modern, refined lifestyle label.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor starrer Dhoom 4 to go on floors in April 2026: Report

Yesterday, June 5, a post was uploaded on an Instagram handle, speculating that Deepika Padukone may be dropped from the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD (2024). The report further stated that ‘her demand for shorter work hours post-motherhood is reportedly causing friction on sets. Kalki 2 makers are considering reducing or removing her role’. Bollywood Hungama has learned that this is not true and that it is part of a larger attempt to make her seem unprofessional.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “It all began after Deepika Padukone left Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Prabhas-starrer Spirit. As per inside reports, she had certain conditions with regard to working hours. She was not ready to work endlessly as she wanted to spend quality time with her daughter. However, the reports of her being dropped by the makers of Kalki 2 are not true at all.”

The source added, “How can there be friction on the sets when the film has not even gone on floors? In fact, the shooting begins almost a year from now. Moreover, Deepika Padukone is an indispensable part of Kalki 2898 AD. The first part’s story revolved around her and she has a crucial role in the sequel as well.”

An industry insider commented, “A narrative is being built that due to her ‘unreasonable’ demands, she is being dropped from films. The Instagram handle, which started the rumour, also stated ‘This could impact her career after back-to-back project losses’. But those who spread this news conveniently forget that though she lost on to Spirit, she bagged Allu Arjun-Atlee film. She also has signed Shah Rukh Khan-starrer King. And of course, she also has Kalki 2 in the pipeline. How can an unprofessional actor bag such big-ticket projects?”

Kalki 2898 AD also stars Prabhas and Amitabh Bachchan in leading roles and it’s directed by Nag Ashwin. The first part was released on June 27, 2024 and was a success at the box office.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone to Samantha Ruth Prabhu: 5 actresses who nailed the halter neck trend

Akshay Kumar’s latest franchise offering, Housefull 5, has achieved a major milestone by becoming his widest international release ever. The comedy caper has debuted in over 85 countries, with screenings across 1,300+ locations and on more than 2,000 screens globally — a new benchmark for the actor in terms of overseas footprint. This is a renewed global push for one of Bollywood’s longest-running comedy series.

The Housefull franchise has traditionally enjoyed popularity among family audiences and NRIs, and with its fifth installment, the makers have significantly expanded the film’s reach beyond key diaspora markets. The aggressive overseas rollout is part of a broader strategy to position the film as a global entertainer and tap into international theatrical revenue early in its run.

Housefull 5’s ensemble cast and franchise recall value seem to have played a key role in justifying such a large-scale release. The film is expected to take a positive opening not only in India but worldwide.

Housefull 5 has also been in the news for being released with two climaxes simultaneously.

Directed by Tarun Mansukhani and produced under Sajid Nadiadwala’s Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, the movie, apart from Akshay Kumar, also stars Riteish Deshmukh, Abhishek Bachchan, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nargis Fakhri, Sonam Bajwa, Fardeen Khan, Chunku Pandey, Jackie Shroff, Sanjay Dutt, Nana Pataker, etc.

Also Read: BREAKING: Bobby Deol has a rocking cameo in Housefull 5

The comic caper Housefull 5 has released today and there's a lot of excitement for it, thanks to its sprawling casting, murder mystery element, grandeur and the unique strategy of having two endings. But that’s not all. Viewers who will go to watch Housefull 5 will be in for a surprise.

It turns out that there's one more prominent actor in the film, and that's none other than Bobby Deol!

Bobby Deol appears in the film in a cameo at a crucial juncture, that too all of a sudden. There are reports of viewers whistling and hooting in his entry scene.

Interestingly, Bobby Deol was also a part of Housefull 4 (2019).

Housefull 5 stars Akshay Kumar, Abhishek A Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, Nana Patekar, Chitrangada Singh, Fardeen Khan, Chunky Pandey, Johnny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Dino Morea, Ranjeet, Soundarya Sharma, Nikitin Dheer, and Akashdeep Sabir. It is written and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by Tarun Mansukhani.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar shares fun BTS video, building buzz for Housefull 5 release this Friday; watch