Renowned Telugu actor and former MLA Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away on Sunday at the age of 83. He breathed his last at his residence in Hyderabad, leaving behind a legacy spanning over four decades in Indian cinema.

Known for his impeccable performances across genres, Rao had acted in more than 750 films in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam. His versatility allowed him to portray a wide range of roles—from iconic villains to memorable character roles. Films like Pratighatana, Aha Naa Pellanta, Shiva, and Mahatma cemented his reputation as one of Telugu cinema’s finest actors.

Born in Vijayawada, Kota Srinivasa Rao began his professional life as a banker and theatre artist before entering films in the late 1970s. Over the years, he became a beloved figure in the industry, earning accolades including the Padma Shri in 2015 for his contribution to the arts.5

Apart from acting, Rao was active in politics and served as an MLA from the Vijayawada East constituency from 1999 to 2004, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Condolences have poured in from across the film and political fraternities. Celebrities, politicians, and fans have remembered him as a towering personality whose performances left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

Rao is survived by his wife and children. His final rites are expected to be held with full state honours.

Vikrant Massey, who has just had a release in the form of Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, is now preparing for the biggest challenge of his career: he will play the main antagonist opposite Ranveer Singh in Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3.

Massey’s role, revealed a knowledgeable source, is that of a suave smooth-talking scamster. He will apparently change his look for the character, put on weight and train in special martial arts for his climactic combat with Ranveer Singh.

But there have been recent reports about Massey being replaced by Vijay Deverakonda in the film. There is, however, no truth to these claims.

While Farhan Akhtar is not yet ready to talk about Don 3, a source close to him revealed, “It’s been Ranveer and Vikrant from the start. Baseless rumours of Deverakonda replacing Massey are not going to tamper with the cast in any way.”

Also Read: Farhan Akhtar to start shooting Don 3 with Ranveer Singh from January 2026

In India, watching a Hollywood film in cinemas means having an abrupt interval point. Some studios attempted to solve this issue by inserting an intermission point themselves so that cinemas don’t force it in the film as per their wishes. The same was done in Superman and yet, a case of ‘double interval’ emerged at many cinemas, inconveniencing cinemas.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Superman is a 2-hour and 9-minute long film. Usually, the interval occurs when half of the film has been done. In the case of Superman, Warner Bros have added an interval after nearly 80 minutes. They had their reasons to do so. A lot is happening before that and it's going in one flow. Hence, they felt that incorporating an interval point at around an hour would hamper the impact of the nail-biting sequence. Hence, the interval comes once the crucial scene is over.”

The source continued, “All theatres were also informed about it in advance. Yet, it came to light that several cinemas either didn’t read the interval directive or simply chose to ignore it. They paused and thereby forced an interval at around an hour. What happens is that the unsuspecting viewers have no idea that the studio has already made arrangements for an interval point later. During the actual intermission point, a slate mentioning ‘Interval’ appears on screen followed by the anti-smoking ad. Imagine getting back to your seat and 20 minutes later comes another break into the narrative.”

The source further said, “This has angered the viewers. There have been instances where they have confronted the managers at the cinemas. The studio is aware of the issue and once again told the cinemas that they don’t need to force an interval as it already exists. Yet, we are getting reports that it is still happening in some places. Thankfully, fewer complaints have been reported on Saturday than Friday.”

Multiple Cinemas have goofed up in #SupermanMovie Shows by giving double intervals. I can understand the first show, but in evening and late evening shows, it's not done. Is it not being communicated to Cinemas? Or is it just ignorant staff of cinemas with a don't care attitude. — amit dadhich (@amit12354) July 11, 2025

Bollywood Hungama spoke to two disgruntled viewers. Harshad Bende, who saw Superman at 8:15 pm on Friday at PVR Lodha Xperia, Palava, near Mumbai said, “There was an interval after an hour. 30 minutes after this interval, another interval slate appeared. This means that there were two intervals. An anti-tobacco ad was also played after the slate. It ruined the moviegoing experience for me and for others.”

He added, “After the movie, I asked the manager about two intervals. He had no answer and had no idea why it happened. The next day, I went to see another film in the same theatre. This time, I met another manager who was on the morning shift. I informed him of the situation. He said that there was an error on their part and apologized to me. But he had no proper explanation for why it happened. He simply said that the projectionist didn’t know where to insert the interval point and added it at mid-point. And the management didn’t inform the projectionist that the film had an interval point. This miscommunication caused the problem.”

Nayan B Rathod saw Superman on Saturday morning at 9:10 am at Inox Old GMC, Panaji, Goa. He revealed, “There were two intervals in our show. The first one was abrupt but the other one had the interval slate. I and the rest of the patrons were confused. We wondered, is the first interval legitimate or the second one? We feared that the film would start from the point where the first interval was added! This goof-up was not done.”

Meanwhile, it's a case of vice versa with the other release of the week, Maalik. This 152-minute-long movie consists of an interval after an hour. Here, it’s the second half which is lengthier.

Also Read: Team Superman shares heartfelt message to Indian fans ahead of Global release: “This movie is for all the people of India”

If there is one tireless explorer in Indian cinema, it is Aamir Khan. Way back in 1998, he was the first Khan superstar to sing in his voice in Vikram Bhatt’s Ghulam. Now 27 years later, Aamir is back singing on screen. This time his voice trained and ready to take on the singing vocation professionally.

Said Aamir, “When I sang ‘Aati kya khandala’, I did it for a lark. I was lucky it worked. Now, I’ve been properly training to be a singer for some years now. It’s a for an untitled comedy. Let me tell you what kind of film it is. It is a Basu Chatterjee or Hrishikesh Mukherjee genre of film, which I feel that we have forgotten making. You know, we don't make that kind of cinema anymore. Sweet, innocent comedy. And, you know, the stakes of a film like this are never too high. No one's going to die or anything in the plot. It'd be a really warm, wonderful feeling you get when you watch the film.”

Aamir plays a cameo in the sweet-natured comedy. But that is not what makes this project so special.

Said Aamir, “I am playing a cameo. I'm playing a very important cameo in that. Subhash, you'll be surprised to hear that I'm singing two songs in that, in my own voice. Oh wow, that's amazing. Since I sang ‘Aati kya khandala’, I have been taking classes in singing. And my guru is Sucheta Bhattacharjee. I've been learning singing from her.”

Aamir is a huge fan of Lata Mangeshkar. “My days begins with her songs,” he said. “I miss Lata Didi so much. I was very close to her. She was always so warm and loving to me. And I would have really liked her to hear my attempts, whatever I'm making. Ram Sampath is composing the songs that I will be singing in the untitled comedy. I can’t wait to know how the audience reacts to my singing.”

Also Read: Aamir Khan on not going with Kabaddi in Sitaare Zameen Par: “We did first try and see if we can put in another game”

Karan Veer Mehra has just set the internet ablaze with the first look of his upcoming action-drama Silaa - and it’s nothing short of explosive. Donning the fierce avatar of Zehraak, Karan Veer is unrecognisable in this raw, blood-soaked, battle-ready look that showcases his most intense transformation yet.

Helmed by acclaimed filmmaker Omung Kumar B, Silaa features Harshvardhan Rane and Sadia Khateeb in lead roles, with Karan Veer Mehra portraying a pivotal, fiery character who’s already making waves online.

The newly unveiled poster captures Karan Veer Mehra like never before - drenched in blood and sweat, gripping a sword, and surrounded by raging flames. His muscular frame, flowing hair, and storm-like expression channel a warrior forged in fire. Battle scars, clenched fists, and a spine-chilling roar all point toward a man on a divine mission for justice.

Sharing the look on his social media handles, Karan Veer captioned the post: “Khud hi khuda, khud hi insaaf!” — a bold statement that perfectly sums up the divine vengeance and unstoppable force that Zehraak embodies.

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Fans have quickly hailed it as one of the actor’s most powerful avatars, with many calling it a complete reinvention of his screen persona. Known for his versatile roles in the past, Karan Veer seems to be tapping into uncharted territory, and audiences are here for it.

But Silaa isn’t just another high-octane action flick. Under Omung Kumar’s direction, the film aims to deliver a balanced mix of action, emotion, and drama. With a narrative anchored by powerful character arcs and emotional depth, Silaa promises to offer more than adrenaline—it brings heart, purpose, and storytelling.

Harshvardhan Rane and Sadia Khateeb, both known for their emotionally nuanced performances, play central characters whose lives intertwine with Zehraak’s path of destruction and redemption.

With its bold visuals, compelling characters, and emotionally charged plot, Silaa is already shaping up to be a must-watch cinematic experience. And with Karan Veer Mehra in warrior mode, the stage is set for a roaring storm when the film hits screens. Keep your eyes peeled — Zehraak is coming, and he’s bringing justice with a sword.

Also Read: Sadia Khateeb on her first action role in and as Silaa, “I am beyond grateful and extremely thrilled to be getting on this journey”

After the historic success of Pushpa 2, Allu Arjun is collaborating with Atlee on a never seen before epic film tentatively titled AA22 x A6. The film has got a solid ensemble cast on board with Allu Arjun, Deepika Padukone, Rashmika Mandanna, Janhvi Kapoor, and Mrunal Thakur. The film is the most discussed of Indian Cinema, as the filmmaker has promised a global film, with visuals like never before.

And our news is going to make it all the more exciting for fans. While there is constant speculation about Allu Arjun's dual role in AA22 x A6, we have the most exclusive and inside scoop on the film. Reliable sources have confirmed to Bollywood Hungama that Allu Arjun has 4 different roles in A6. "Allu is playing the entire family tree in Atlee's next film. He will be seen as a grandfather, father, and two sons in the film, making it a quadruple role for Allu. This would mark the first multiple role film of his career," a source told Bollywood Hungama.

We hear that Atlee initially wanted Allu to play a double role, and cast two other actors for the parts of father and grandfather. "However, Allu insisted on playing all four characters himself. At first, Atlee was hesitant, but on doing the look test, he felt this worked in favour of the film. The audiences will get to see 4 different avatars of Allu Arjun at the price of one ticket," the source told us further.

A6xAA22 is slated to hit the big screen in 2027, and the shoot is presently underway in Mumbai. Also Read: SCOOP: Rashmika Mandanna to play the main villain in Atlee’s next with Allu Arjun

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…”