Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR attended the much-talked-about War 2 promotional event organized at a grand scale in Hyderabad. Before the stars came on the stage, Akshaye Widhani of Yash Raj Films (YRF) spoke about the stars, the film and a lot more.

Akshaye Widhani began by saying, “It’s a real privilege and an honour to be here. We are all very excited about War 2. This year, we celebrate 25 years of Hrithik and NTR sir, which is amazing. The fact that these two icons of Indian cinema have come together indicates that something special is happening. War 2 is going to be a game-changer. I want to take a moment to thank them both for doing this and making sure that we made such a special film. I would also like to thank everyone who has come out today. War 2 is going to be a surprise that all of you are going to love. You are also going to enjoy NTR to the fullest in the film!”

As expected, the crowd went crazy on hearing the last sentence. Akshaye Widhani continued, “Both Hrithik sir and NTR are outstanding. I can’t wait for you guys to watch it. War 2 is a true Pan-India film. The greatest actors of the North and South have come together for this film. I think it’s going to be extra special and magical. I believe we have created a film that is fitting to their legacy. Both have an incredible body of work and they have achieved a lot in 25 years. Their fans have given so much love that we hope that all that love comes to War 2.”

He added, “YRF Spy Universe is truly one of India’s leading franchises. It took years of hard work to get here. A lot of thought, strategy and curation have gone into building this universe.”

When asked where War 2 fits in the timeline of the universe, Akshaye replied, “I think Ayan Mukerji has made such a fine film that we are all proud of. As for the timeline, I don’t want to share anything about the story of the film. We have worked very hard to keep the story hidden and make sure that it’s a surprise for the audience when they come on the 14th. All I can say is that it’s a brilliant film and fits perfectly in the universe.”

War 2 releases in cinemas on August 14.

Also Read: Coolie v/s War 2: Rajinikanth starrer releases on 1200 screens against Hrithik Roshan and NTR’s actioner in Hindi

The biggest showdown of the year between War 2 and Coolie has begun. While the Rajinikanth starrer has taken the box office by storm globally, things are slowly starting to gain momentum in Hindi as well. Seeing a North India release by Pen Marudhar, Coolie is slated to release on 1200 screens in Hindi, which is the second highest for a Tamil film dubbed in Hindi after 2 Point 0.

A trade source shared with Bollywood Hungama, "Coolie is getting a good release in Hindi, as the makers have managed to fetch 1200 screens. The distributor has managed to get about 3500 shows in Hindi, which is reasonable for a dubbed film in a clash scenario. However, the release size is nowhere close to War 2, which arrives on 5000 screens in Hindi. The Hrithik and NTR Jr. film will be showing a substantial lead with showcasing in Hindi, as in Hindi, it is undoubtedly what Coolie is turning out to be for the Non-Hindi audience."

The battle for showcasing is going on at a super strong pace all across the country, as Pen Marudhar is trying to get some shows in single screens too. "YRF announced it will capture over 90 percent of single screens in India, but the single screen bookings are yet to open as team Coolie is trying to get one show per screen. The negotiations are on, and the single-screen owners are stuck in a fierce battle."

Overall, War 2 is set for a significant lead in North India as the giant force of YRF will always be prefered over anyone else in the North market, but Pen Marudhar is trying to find a way out to get some sort of counter showcasing, to get footfalls on the first day.

Also Read: SCOOP: Not Salman Khan, or Shah Rukh Khan, Bobby Deol to have a cameo in War 2

War 2 is among the most awaited films of 2025, which brings together Hrithik Roshan and NTR for the first time. Since it is a part of the YRF Spy Universe, there are several rumours and speculations about Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan making an appearance in the end credit sequence of War 2. But we can confirm that neither of the two superstars have a cameo in War 2.

Sources close to the project told Bollywood Hungama, "War 2 won't feature either of Tiger or Pathaan, however, their names will be used at some key junctures of the film. The end credit sequence of War 2 will act as a build up for the next chapter of YRF Spy Universe - Alpha. Aditya Chopra is staying true to his vision of continuing the story forward, rather than opting for gimmicks by bringing all 3 superstars in the same film. He is reserving the union of all 3 superstars for a mega project, which is in the development stage."

We asked the source what is the surprise element of War 2. "With War 2, Aditya Chopra will be establishing Bobby Deol to the Universe. It's an epic introduction to Bobby Deol's character, who is one of the main villains in the timeline going forward. Aditya Chopra is known to go against the tide, and instead of establishing his two female leads of Alpha - Alia Bhatt and Sharvari - he is going ahead by unleashing the negative force of the film, Bobby Deol," the source told Bollywood Hungama.

War 2 is set to release on August 14, 2025 in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. It is directed by Ayan Mukerji and is the 6th Chapter of YRF Spy Universe.

Also Read: Intense screen battle between Coolie and War 2 in Telugu states; NTR Jr. flexes his power against Rajinikanth

Filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya revealed that his upcoming film, a family drama based in Mumbai, will feature Ayushmann Khurrana portraying the iconic role of ‘Prem’, which was previously played by Salman Khan in a number of films and Shahid Kapoor once in Vivah. Known for timeless films like Hum Aapke Hain Koun, Barjatya mentioned that he aims to craft sincere and relatable narratives.

In an interview with PTI Barjatya said, “We’re filming with them in Mumbai. The story takes place in Mumbai. He’s a committed and talented actor. The key is finding the right story, presenting it authentically, and working with the right cast. In addition to them, there are more actors involved, just like in all my films.”

He further stated, “I’ve this nervousness before the shoot of every film. This has been there even when I made my first film, Maine Pyaar Kiya; it's still the same. As a creator, it's not about how much box office it will do, it's about whether you’re able to connect or not, with that thought or scene.”

“For me, whether it’s a film or a series, it’s essential that the world I create feels genuine — it shouldn’t come across as fake. Everyone watching should feel, ‘This is exactly how my home is.’ That’s the biggest challenge for me. I want to tell stories that I understand. While it’s important to have all kinds of films, making family films holds special value,” the 61-year-old director added.

He has delivered numerous Bollywood hits, most of which starred Salman Khan, including Maine Pyar Kiya, Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, Hum Saath-Saath Hain, Vivah and Prem Ratan Dhan Payo.

According to media reports, the upcoming film will be a family drama, with Khurrana stepping into the iconic role of Prem, a character previously portrayed by Salman Khan in Barjatya’s films.

Ayushmann Khurrana is currently busy with his upcoming project, Thama, which also features Rashmika Mandanna. The film is part of Maddock Film’s horror universe.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Sooraj Barjatya calls himself, Aditya Chopra, and Karan Johar “golden spoon people,” admits being conservative in filmmaking; says, “We haven’t seen the ups and downs of life”

Yash Raj Films’ War 2, directed by Ayan Mukerji, is the most awaited film of 2025, and the company announced the start of this massive pan-India action spectacle with India booking by releasing an insane new action promo featuring Hrithik Roshan & NTR as super-spies Kabir and Vikram!

Produced by Aditya Chopra, War 2 is the sixth installment from the fabled YRF Spy Universe franchise, which has only delivered blockbusters. War 2 promises to be an adrenaline-pumping spectacle, with jaw-dropping scale and action and an intense, gripping story that will see Hrithik and NTR take on each other for an epic, bloody showdown. The film is scheduled to hit theatres worldwide on August 14, 2025.

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Also Read: Coolie vs War 2 Box Office: Rajinikanth storm leaves Hrithik–NTR Jr. Rs. 32 cr. behind in overseas, Rs. 47 cr. worldwide

Mithoon and Palak Muchhal, the celebrated musical duo, are set to embark on their inaugural all-India tour titled Mithoon & Palak Live – A Tribute to Indian Cinema. The tour is valued at Rs 10 crores, underlining both its grandeur and the immense confidence behind the project. Commencing on October 4 in Surat, the tour will traverse various cities across India, starting with Surat, Baroda, and Ahmedabad.

The concept for the tour was inspired by their first joint live performance at a television award show in early June, where they paid homage to legendary actors Raj Kapoor and Manoj Kumar. It will be organized by Paresh Khandelwal - Chairman, Yashvi Group, who said, “We were mesmerised to see Mithoon and Palak perform live at a television award show recently. It is our vision and desire to take their act live all over the country, for which we have launched this tour. We will be starting with the magical city of Surat and a few other cities in Gujarat, followed by other parts of the country. “

Mithoon and Palak's collaborative journey began in 2013 with the hit song 'Meri Aashiqui' from Aashiqui 2. Their partnership has since flourished, both professionally and personally. Their upcoming tour not only celebrates their musical synergy but also their shared passion for Bollywood's rich cinematic history.

Also Read: Palak Muchhal reflects on 25 Years of changing lives with ‘Saving Little Hearts’ initiative: “This journey has been my life’s purpose”

The much-anticipated romantic thriller Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, starring Harshvardhan Rane and Sonam Bajwa, has a new release date. Initially slated to hit cinemas on Gandhi Jayanti, October 2, the film will now arrive on October 21, 2025.

The update comes with a fresh version of the film’s intense poster, featuring the lead pair in a gripping moment, hinting at the film’s passionate and dramatic tone.

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Announced earlier this year on Valentine’s Day, the project was originally titled Deewaniyat before being retitled Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat. In June, Harshvardhan Rane revealed that the team had wrapped filming, sharing a behind-the-scenes video from the set’s wrap-up celebrations. However, the joyous occasion took an unexpected turn when a freak pyrotechnic mishap occurred. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident, and filming concluded successfully.

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Produced by Anshul Garg and directed by Milap Milan Zaveri, Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat promises an intense cocktail of love, obsession, and drama, and is now set to light up the big screens just ahead of the festive season.

Also Read: Trade experts say that Saiyaara’s massive success prove that Kartik Aaryan-Anurag Basu’s next and Harshvardhan Rane’s Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat are also at an advantage

The Hindi remake of The Intern, first announced in 2021 with Deepika Padukone producing and starring, is finally seeing fresh developments—though not in the way fans initially expected.

Back in 2021, the project was intended for a swift turnaround, with plans for release the very next year. However, after nearly five years of little progress and only sporadic updates, reports now suggest that Padukone will no longer appear on screen in the film. Instead, she will take on the role of producer exclusively, overseeing what’s being described as a “creative and logistical reboot” of the project.

A report by Mid-Day quoted a source saying, “This time, Deepika will step away from acting in the film to serve solely as a producer, overseeing the creative and logistical reboot. A new leading lady is being cast to play the part she was once slated to perform.”

According to the source, the decision comes as part of Padukone’s broader career shift towards creation and storytelling. “The Intern is the first of five projects she plans to mount in the coming year. She is looking to tell stories that are globally relevant,” the insider added.

The original 2015 Hollywood film, directed by Nancy Meyers, starred Robert De Niro as a senior intern at a fashion start-up, alongside Anne Hathaway. The story has already been adapted in Japan as the 2022 TV drama Unicorn Ni Notte, featuring Hidetoshi Nishijima in De Niro’s role and Mei Nagano in Hathaway’s part.

With Padukone now solely behind the camera, casting for the lead role in the Hindi remake is underway.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone breaks the internet with 1.9 billion views on Instagram reel; sets world record

The box office has turned into a battlefield in Telugu as War 2 and Coolie have engaged in an intense screen battle in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Reliable sources confirm that Asian Cinemas and Sitara Entertainment are fighting it out for prime time shows in the Telugu states. "With NTR Jr. as the lead, War 2 will eventually win the showcasing battle in Telugu states. However, Suniel Narang, the owner of Asian Cinemas, is going out of his way to secure 40 percent screen for Coolie," a trade source shared with Bollywood Hungama.

The trade source informed that the exhibitors in Telugu states are, however, in favour of Naga Vamsi, as NTR Jr. is one of the biggest local stars, and none are willing for a face-off with him. "NTR Jr. is an influential personality, same for Naga Vamsi. No one is willing to upset them. The intense face-off between Coolie and War 2 will end soon, and the latter will get strong showcasing in the Telugu states. Approx. 62 percent of the screens will go to War 2, leaving just 38 percent for Coolie," the source told us further. While Asian Cinemas are trying for a 60:40 ratio, Sitara Entertainment is hoping to secure screens in the ratio of 70:30 in its favour.

It's going to be a clear lead for War 2 over Coolie in North India and Andhra Pradesh / Telangana, as the studio YRF, along with local distributor partners, are going all out to do complete justice to the scale of the film. "NTR Jr. too is flexing his equations and stardom to get premium showcasing and has succeeded in doing so against Rajinikanth."

With a rather low release in Telugu states, Coolie is sure to trail behind War 2, but in the long run, the winner will be decided by the audience's word of mouth. All eyes are on the August 14 releases now. Also Read: Hrithik Roshan unveils ‘unfiltered’ BTS glimpse from War 2 training: “No lights, no retakes”

Fans of Fawad Khan in India were an excited lot after they learned that his comeback Bollywood film, Abir Gulaal, was all set to release on May 9. But following the shocking Pahalgam attack on April 22, the industry was up in arms against Pakistani artists working in the Bollywood film industry. The opposition was huge and as a result, Abir Gulaal was postponed indefinitely. Many feared that the film might never see the light of day. But it has now come to light that Abir Gulaal is all set to release, that too this month.

As per a report in Biz Asia Live, Abir Gulaal will arrive in cinemas globally on August 29. The same report also mentioned that the film has been renamed as Aabeer Gulaal.

The report doesn’t mention anything about the India release. But as per industry sources, going by the anger against Pakistani artists, it is unlikely that Abir Gulaal would be allowed a release in the country.

An industry insider commented, “The makers of Abir Gulaal will go the Sardaar Ji 3 way. The Diljit Dosanjh-starrer did not get a release in India as it starred Pakistani actress, Hania Aamir. It went on to do huge business overseas. Another Punjabi film, Chal Mera Putt 4, also had a release only outside India and it also became a huge success.” It now remains to be seen if Abir Gulaal also follows the footsteps of these two Punjabi hits, in terms of box office.

Before the Pahalgam attack, the promotions of Abir Gulaal were happening in full swing. The music launch, which was held in Global Village, Dubai, on April 19, got a huge response from fans and media. But all changed after the Pahalgam attack. Two days after the attack, the songs of the film were pulled down by the audio company, Saregama.

Also Read: Fawad Khan – Vaani Kapoor starrer Abir Gulaal caught in cross-border controversy, Songs removed; release halted shelved Indefinitely amid India-Pakistan tensions

Director Ashwin Kumar, producer Shilpaa Dhawan, Chaluve Gowda of Homebale Films and eminent distributor Anil Thadani attended the success press meet of their surprise animated blockbuster, Mahavatar Narsimha. Usually, film events are held in five-star hotels. But the success press conference of this devotional film was held at Mumbai’s ISKCON Temple. Chaluve Gowda analyzed what worked for the film and also answered how he feels that their film thwarted the run of another blockbuster film, that is, Saiyaara.

Chaluve Gowda said, “If you see, the story was not new. In Kannada, Dr Rajkumar had acted in a film on this topic. The first Telugu colour film was Bhakta Prahlada (1967). So, the story was not new, but the way the animation was done (in Mahavatar Narsimha), especially in the last 20-25 minutes, it was no less than a live action movie.”

Chaluve Gowda continued, “This is what made the film different. It was no longer a film just for the kids. We had confidence in the movie. The intention was not to take away the success of other films. But the content was so good that it managed to run successfully. Also, I feel that the other films have done their business. Those films were showing a slowing trend.”

Chaluve Gowda was also asked about their upcoming films. He replied, “Our most anticipated film is coming on October 2, Kantara: Chapter 1. After that, we have Salaar 2 (titled Salaar Part 2: Shauryanga Parvam).”

Chaluve Gowda then revealed, “We have signed two more movies with Prabhas sir. We have also signed a film with Hrithik Roshan. It is in the preliminary stage. We also have a couple of more projects which are in very early stages. We’ll disclose about them at the right time. We are excited (about these films).”

Also Read: Ashwin Kumar promises Mahavatar Parshuram will make for a “NEVER-BEFORE-SEEN experience”; producer Chaluve Gowda reveals Prabhas-Prashanth Neel’s epic reaction to Mahavatar Narsimha: “They told Ashwin, ‘Come South and do an action film’”

Director Bharat Shrinate’s Udaipur Files finally hit theatres across India on Friday, August 8, following months of controversy and a prolonged legal battle.

The film is based on the Kanhaiyalal murder case of 2022, an incident that shocked the nation. Trouble began soon after the teaser’s release, when Kanhaiyalal’s family raised objections and filed a petition in the Rajasthan High Court. They argued that the film was causing them “mental agony” and could “spoil social harmony.” This led to a temporary stay on the release.

In July 2025, the Supreme Court overturned the stay, ruling that making a film on a true incident is not illegal, as long as it does not violate constitutional limits. The court’s decision cleared the way for the movie to be certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and released for the public.

Originally titled Gyanvapi Files: A Tailor’s Murder Story, the film was initially scheduled for release on July 11, 2025. However, its debut was postponed due to the legal proceedings. The Supreme Court ultimately directed its release on August 8.

Produced by Amit Jani and featuring Vijay Raaz in the lead role, Udaipur Files brings to screen a dramatized depiction of one of the most disturbing crimes in recent years. The project has drawn attention not only for its sensitive subject matter but also for the legal precedent reaffirming filmmakers’ right to portray real-life incidents within constitutional boundaries.

Also Read : Udaipur Files row: After Delhi HC stay, petition filed with I&B Ministry to ban Vijay Raaz starrer