Bollywood Hungama was among the first ones to confirm that Aneet Padda, who became a nationwide sensation with Saiyaara (2025), has replaced Kiara Advani in Shakti Shalini. On October 19, we also brought to you the news that Shakti Shalini’s announcement video is attached with Thamma, the grand Diwali release. And now, we bring to you another exciting update from the film. It has come to light that Shakti Shalini will release in cinemas on December 24, 2026.

Just like Thamma, Shakti Shalini also belongs to the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. The blockbuster franchise began with Stree (2018) followed by Bhediya (2022). Munjya (2024) came next and it was a sleeper super-hit. Stree 2 (2024) emerged as the highest Bollywood grosser of all time. Thamma is the fifth film of the universe.

When Shakti Shalini starred Kiara Advani, the plan was to release it on December 31, 2025. With the Aneet Padda-starrer having moved to 2026, it means that three films of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe will arrive next year – Shakti Shalini, Chamunda and Bhediya 2. Stree 3 will arrive in 2027. In 2028, the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe will end with a bang with three exciting movies, namely Maha Munjya, Pehla Mahayudh and Doosara Mahayudh.

Until now, prominent names are a part of this world like Shraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, Sharvari, Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Varun Dhawan, Aneet Padda and above all, Akshay Kumar. Many more famous actors are expected to join the series in these upcoming films.

The Maddock Horror Comedy Universe has turned into India’s own Marvel-style saga — and Shakti Shalini could be the next major chapter tying all the worlds together. With each film introducing new characters and mythologies, the stage is now set for a multi-film crossover event that fans have long awaited.

Also Read: Shakti Shalini announcement video to debut with Thamma: First glimpse reveals Aneet Padda’s starring role

Senior and versatile Hindi film actor Govardhan Asrani, popularly known as Asrani, passed away this evening at around 4 PM after battling a prolonged illness at Arogya Nidhi Hospital, Juhu, Mumbai. He was 84. He was cremated at Shastri Nagar, Santacruz, in the presence of his close friends and family, informed his manager Babubhai Thiba.

Originally hailing from Jaipur, Rajasthan, Asrani’s demise marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, especially in the realm of comic acting.

Asrani, widely celebrated for his impeccable timing and memorable expressions, was a household name across generations. Over several decades, he carved a niche for himself in Bollywood with performances that effortlessly blended humour with relatability. His ability to bring laughter to audiences made him one of the most cherished comic actors in the industry.

Born in Jaipur, Asrani ventured into Hindi cinema at a time when comic actors were often confined to stereotypical roles. However, he broke these conventions with his versatility, delivering performances that ranged from subtle wit to over-the-top hilarity. Many of his roles, particularly in films from the 1970s and 1980s, continue to be celebrated by cinephiles and casual viewers alike.

Beyond his comic genius, Asrani’s dedication to his craft and humble persona off-screen earned him the respect of peers and co-stars. Over the years, he collaborated with some of the biggest names in Hindi cinema, leaving an indelible mark in both lead and supporting roles. His performances were not just about laughter; they often carried an underlying humanity that resonated deeply with audiences.

The film fraternity and fans across India are mourning the loss of this iconic actor. Tributes are pouring in from fellow actors, directors, and admirers who remember Asrani not just for his comic brilliance but also for his contribution to the evolution of Hindi cinema. His legacy as a master of comic timing and memorable performances will continue to entertain and inspire generations to come.

Asrani was last seen in Kajol starrer show The Trial Season 2, where he played the role of an advocate, once again proving his versatility and commitment to bringing depth to every character he portrayed.

Salman Khan recently made headlines during his appearance at the prestigious Joy Forum 2025 in Saudi Arabia, where he shared the stage with Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan. The event, known for bringing together global entertainment figures, saw the three Khans engage in a rare and candid conversation that quickly went viral across social media platforms.

While much of the chat focused on the evolution of Indian cinema and its growing international reach, one particular comment from Salman Khan sparked widespread discussion online. During his interaction, the actor spoke about the rising popularity of Indian films in Saudi Arabia and the diverse communities contributing to the country’s booming entertainment audience.

Salman said, “Right now, if you make a Hindi film and release it here (in Saudi Arabia), it will be a superhit. If you make a Tamil, Telugu, or Malayali film, it will do hundreds of crores in business because so many people from other countries have come here. There are people from Balochistan, there are people from Afghanistan, there are people from Pakistan… everyone is working here."

Soon after the clip surfaced online, social media was abuzz with reactions. Many users questioned whether Salman’s mention of Balochistan was a geographical slip or a deliberate remark. Some netizens pointed out that Balochistan is a region, not a separate country, leading to debates over the actor’s geopolitical awareness. Others, however, defended Salman, suggesting his comment was likely taken out of context and was simply meant to acknowledge the multicultural workforce in Saudi Arabia.

I don’t know if it was slip of tongue, but this is amazing! Salman Khan separates “people of Balochistan” from “people of Pakistan” . pic.twitter.com/dFNKOBKoEz — Smita Prakash (@smitaprakash) October 19, 2025

Despite the mixed reactions, the moment added yet another viral chapter to the actor’s long list of headline-grabbing appearances.

On the professional front, Salman Khan is currently gearing up for his next big venture, Battle of Galwan, a film inspired by true events. Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the high-octane drama features actress Chitrangda Singh alongside an ensemble cast. With the filming in process, the project has already generated immense buzz among fans eager to see Salman in a powerful new avatar.

As discussions around his Joy Forum statement continue to trend, one thing remains certain — Salman Khan knows how to keep the spotlight firmly on him, both on and off the screen.

Also Read: Sajid Nadiadwala NOT making Tere Naam 2 with Salman Khan; here’s the TRUTH behind the viral buzz!

Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui is set to take on a new role in the upcoming heist film Faraar, where he will portray a physics professor. According to HT City, this marks a departure from his previous roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Joining him in this venture is Hollywood actor Ilia Volok, known for his performances in Mission Impossible, G.I. Joe, and Indiana Jones, who will play the antagonist.

Directed by Kushagra Sharma, Faraar aims to redefine the portrayal of villains in cinema. He shared, “Casting Ilia Volok opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui was a creative decision driven by the desire to reintroduce the essence of a powerful, layered villain while breaking away from conventional portrayals. As cinema becomes increasingly global, it is essential to bring together two performers who embody depth, intensity, and authenticity.”

He added, “Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s brilliance on screen demands an equally compelling counterpart, and Ilia Volok brings that rare combination of gravitas and unpredictability. Also, with the Money Heist composers crafting the background score, audiences can expect a sound that takes the thrill to the next level, turning the film into a true big-screen experience that’s meant to be felt as much as it’s watched.”

The film also features Nimisha Sajayan, known for her role in Dabba Cartel, and boasts a background score composed by Ivan Lacamara, the Spanish composer famed for his work on Money Heist. This collaboration is expected to elevate the film's intensity and provide a gripping auditory experience.

The film is currently in production, with more details expected to be released in the coming months.

Also Read : Nawazuddin enters the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU) with Thamma, says: “It’s first time my children will be able to watch me on the big screen

The Delhi High Court has granted singer Kumar Sanu interim protection over his personality rights, restraining the unauthorized use of his name, likeness, image, and voice for commercial purposes.

Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, presiding over the case Kumar Sanu Bhattacharjee vs Jammable Limited & Ors., observed that prima facie, the celebrated singer’s personality traits are protectable elements of his identity. The interim injunction will remain in effect until the next hearing, scheduled for March 30, 2026.

“Prima facie, the Plaintiff’s personality traits and/or parts thereof, including Plaintiff’s name Kumar Sanu, voice, image, photograph or likeness and other attributes are protectable elements of the Plaintiff’s personality rights. The Plaintiff is entitled to protect itself against morphed and distorted content which is demeaning,” the Court stated in its order.

The Court also drew reference to earlier rulings concerning the personality rights of Bollywood figures such as Anil Kapoor, Karan Johar, and Jackie Shroff.

As part of its interim directions, the Court ordered Amazon and Flipkart to remove listings that violate Kumar Sanu’s personality rights and restrained two e-commerce sellers from selling any merchandise featuring his name, photo, or likeness without authorization.

Google and Meta were directed to take down infringing content identified in Sanu’s petition, as well as any fresh material flagged by the singer in the future. Additionally, both platforms were ordered to provide Basic Subscriber Information (BSI) of the anonymous accounts responsible for sharing such content within three weeks.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) were also instructed to suspend URLs, websites, and mobile applications found to be misusing Sanu’s identity and take similar action against any new instances brought to their attention. Allegations of AI Misuse and Unauthorized Content The Court’s decision came in response to a Rs 2 crores suit filed by the playback legend against several AI-based platforms, online intermediaries, digital entities, and unidentified individuals accused of creating fake, morphed, and impersonated content in his name.

According to Sanu, the defendants misused his persona to sell merchandise, impersonated him on social media, and even developed a mobile application on the Google Play Store using his image and voice. The suit alleged that AI-generated sound recordings imitating his voice and GIFs caricaturing him had caused reputational damage and subjected him to “unsavoury humour” online.

Represented by Advocate Sana Raees Khan, Sanu argued that such acts infringed his right to privacy, goodwill, and reputation, in addition to violating the provisions of the Copyright Act, 1957. The suit emphasized that his stage names — “Kumar Sanu,” “Sanu Da,” and the title “The Melody King of Bollywood” — enjoy dual protection under personality/publicity rights and trademark law. Kumar Sanu Reacts

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  A post shared by Kumar Sanu (@kumarsanuofficial)

Following the court’s ruling, Kumar Sanu expressed gratitude on social media, acknowledging his legal team and the judiciary for recognizing artists’ rights. He wrote, “I am deeply grateful to my advocate, Sana Raees Khan, for her powerful and masterful arguments that led to this significant victory in court. My heartfelt thanks to the Hon’ble Delhi High Court for recognizing and upholding my Personality Rights.”

Also Read: Kunickaa Sadanand’s old remarks on rapes in Bollywood resurface; Jaan Kumar Sanu REACTS sharply

Krown Stars Entertainment proudly announces its first-ever collaboration with global music giant T-Series for its upcoming Malayalam film, Karakkam. The partnership marks the beginning of a long-term creative association between the two banners, bringing together strong storytelling and musical excellence on a national platform.

The film’s music is crafted by the talented musician Sam CS, with lyrics penned by acclaimed writers Muhsin Parari, Vinayak Sasikumar, Anwar Ali, and Hareesh Mohan. Together, they promise a powerful and immersive musical experience that lies at the heart of Karakkam’s storytelling. With Karakkam, Krown Stars Entertainment begins their journey to deliver distinctive Malayalam stories that balance rooted narratives with global sensibilities.

Speaking about the announcement, Kimberly Trinidade and Ankush Singh, producers and founders of Krown Stars Entertainment, said: “We’re thrilled to announce Karakkam in association with T-Series. This partnership marks the first of many exciting collaborations to come. Malayalam cinema is at a creative high, and we are proud to be part of this wave.”

T-Series spokes person says,“We’re happy to team up with Krown Stars Entertainment for Karakkam. The Malayalam film industry has consistently impressed audiences with its powerful storytelling and creative vision. This collaboration marks a new beginning, and we look forward to many more such inspiring projects together.”

With production currently underway, Karakkam is directed by Subhash Lalitha Subrahmanian from a screenplay written by Nipin Narayanan, Subhash Lalitha Subrahmanian, and Arjun Narayanan. Karakkam is set to be a cinematic experience that bridges genres and audiences, backed by the creative synergy of Krown Stars Entertainment and T-Series.

The film is co-directed by Jithin C. S.; Bablu  Aju serves as cinematographer, and Nithin Raj Arol is the editor. Rajesh P. Velayudhan heads art direction. Rinni Divakar is the production controller, Prasobh Vijayan the executive producer, and Mohit  Chaudhary is the creative producer.

Also Read: T-Series presents energetic track ‘Aura Farming’ featuring Zahrah Khan and the viral Aura Farming kid

Filmmaker Mira Nair is reportedly moving ahead with her long-awaited biopic on the celebrated painter Amrita Sher-Gil, tentatively titled Amri. Though an official announcement is yet to be made, reports suggest that Tanya Maniktala, best known for her performance in Nair’s 2020 BBC series A Suitable Boy, has been chosen to play the Hungarian-Indian artist.

Earlier speculation had linked Ananya Panday to the lead part, but a latest report by Mid-Day now indicates that Nair has opted to reunite with Maniktala for the ambitious project. The film, said to be a period drama set across India, Hungary, and France, aims to showcase the life and art of Sher-Gil — regarded as one of the most important modernist painters of the early 20th century, whose work bridged European and Indian aesthetics.

According to the report, the narrative will explore Amrita’s artistic journey alongside her relationships with key figures in her life, including her father Umrao Singh Sher-Gil Majithia, her husband Viktor Egan, fiancé Yusuf Ali Khan, and close friend Jawaharlal Nehru. In 2023, actors such as Naseeruddin Shah, Vicky Kaushal, and Jim Sarbh were reportedly approached for crucial roles.

Nair, who has been developing the project for nearly four years, is said to be planning to begin production by the end of the year if all goes according to schedule. The filmmaker’s vision reportedly extends beyond a conventional biopic; she intends to highlight Sher-Gil’s influence in shaping the narrative of Indian modern art while introducing her legacy to wider international audiences.

While official confirmation about the film’s cast and production timeline is awaited, the renewed buzz around Amri signals that Nair’s much-anticipated tribute to one of India’s pioneering women artists may soon be a step closer to reality.

Also Read: Ananya Panday curates special Diwali board: “Helped me share traditions I cherish with a fresh twist”

Earlier in the morning, it was revealed that Sajid Nadiadwala is planning to make Tere Naam 2 with Salman Khan and is on the verge of procuring rights from the producers of the original film. However, very reliable sources have strongly denied the development to Bollywood Hungama and have confirmed that Sajid Nadiadwala is not associated with Tere Naam 2 in any manner. "Sajid believes in creating his own franchises and is not interested in acquiring films from any other producer. He is not making Tere Naam 2 with Salman Khan or any other actor at this point in time."

Tere Naam is a love film of Salman Khan from the early 2000s, and there has been talk about a sequel for the longest time. "But there can't be any sequel without a script. The whole idea of part two with Sajid Nadiadwala makes no sense. Sajid had vaguely told people that the launch film of his son with Shashank Khataan as director is as intense as Tere Naam. Someone twisted his words, and in the grapevine, people announced Tere Naam 2 with the producer."

Sajid also believes that Tere Naam is a timeless saga of love, and a classic like that should not be touched. "He will definitely make another film with his friend, Salman Khan, and there is no bad blood between the two. It could be Kick 2 or something else, but the collaboration has nothing to do with Tere Naam."

Sajid has his focus on his present line-up of films, which includes O Romeo, and his son's debut film. Also Read: Sajid Nadiadwala congratulates Kartik Aaryan on winning Best Actor for Chandu Champion: “Proud of you”

The Diwali biggie Thamma is all set to release tomorrow and the excitement is growing for it as the release date nears. Bollywood Hungama informed readers yesterday, that is, Sunday, October 20, that the teaser of Ikkis and the announcement promo of Shakti Shalini will be shown with the horror comedy. Bollywood Hungama has learned that there’s one more exciting asset attached to Thamma – Cocktail 2.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “A song promo of Cocktail 2, titled ‘Jab Talak’, was passed by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on October 16. Its run time is 111 seconds, that is, 1 minute and 51 seconds, and it has been passed with a U/A 16+ rating.”

The trade source further said, “The theatres have been informed of the promos to be shown with Thamma and one of them is that of Cocktail 2; the other two being Ikkis and Shakti Shalini. Cocktail 2’s release is many months away, but it’s a big, vibrant film, as evident from the on-set pictures from Sicily, Italy. Also, with audiences expected to arrive in hordes for Thamma in cinemas, it can be a great time to present its first look.”

Cocktail 2, like Thamma, is backed by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films. While the first part starred Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone and launched Diana Penty, the second part features Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna. Both parts have been directed by Homi Adajania. Interestingly, Rashmika also stars in Thamma. The other lead actors in the film are Ayushmann Khurrana, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal.

Thamma is directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, who directed the other significant film of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe – Munjya (2024). Shakti Shalini also belongs to the same universe and hence, it is apt to have its promo with Thamma.

Also Read: Shakti Shalini announcement video to debut with Thamma: First glimpse reveals Aneet Padda’s starring role

After the debacle of War 2, director Ayan Mukerji has decided to take a backseat as the director of Dhoom 4. Sources close to the development confirm that Ayan has backed off from Dhoom 4 and, in a closed-door conversation with Aditya Chopra, conveyed his reservation. "Ayan believes that films like War 2 and Dhoom 4 were never meant for him, and he wants to do something a lot wider with scope for romance, drama with spectacle vibes and storytelling," an insider told Bollywood Hungama.

The insider informed Bollywood Hungama, "Ayan was just executing what was written on paper by Shridhar Raghavan, and had little say on the script and screenplay. He does not want to be on another journey of just execution, as he is a passionate filmmaker who prefers to exclusively work on the written material and bring more to the screen than what's written."

The source also confirms that the decision to step back from Dhoom 4 has been taken after a series of conversations with Aditya Chopra and Ranbir Kapoor. "Both Chopra and Kapoor understood Ayan's point of view and have parted ways on the right note. Ayan is now working on Brahmastra 2 and will take the film on floors in 2026. The writing work is concluded, and some polishing is going on during his stay in the Himalayas."

Aditya Chopra is meanwhile exploring more direction options. "Insiders at YRF have also suggested that the boss direct the new Dhoom film himself, as Ranbir has already allotted his dates for the new Dhoom film." A lot more drama will unfold in the days to come. Also Read: Priyanka Chopra pays a surprise visit to Durga Puja pandal organized by Kajol and Rani Mukerji’s families, poses with Ayan Mukerji and Tanishaa Mukerji

As excitement builds for Maddock Films’ Diwali blockbuster Thamma, cinemagoers will be treated to another exclusive: the official announcement video for Dinesh Vijan’s upcoming superhero drama Shakti Shalini will premiere with every screening of Thamma across India. This special video marks the formal introduction of Aneet Padda in the much-talked-about lead role, and Bollywood Hungama proudly reaffirms its spot as the first to break the news of her headline-making casting.

Months ahead of the official studio confirmation, we reported the major scoop that Aneet Padda had replaced Kiara Advani as the titular Shakti Shalini, following a series of creative pivots by Maddock Films and Dinesh Vijan [see our exclusive coverage here]. Our sources indicated the producers were impressed by Padda’s dynamic performance in Saiyaara and saw her as uniquely suited to spearhead the newest—and most ambitious—female-led franchise in the studio’s expanding cinematic universe.​

The makers of Shakti Shalini have kept story details tightly under wraps, but the announcement video set to air alongside Thamma is said to spotlight Aneet Padda’s transformation into a contemporary superhero, channeling both vulnerability and unyielding strength. For Aneet, the role is not only a breakout moment, but a promise of a franchise that celebrates Indian mythology in a modern, action-packed framework.

Maddock Films has denied speculation and rumours over the past months, but the premiere of the announcement video is the studio’s strongest confirmation, yet that Aneet Padda is Shakti Shalini. This move signals Maddock’s confidence in fresh talent and original storytelling, aligning perfectly with their Diwali release strategy for Thamma—another big-budget, genre-bending film starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna.​

By attaching the Shakti Shalini announcement video with Thamma, Dinesh Vijan and his team continue to deliver festival season fireworks, giving the audience a first look at what promises to be Bollywood’s next big heroine-led universe. Ayushmann Khurrana’s horror-comedy origin story may be the highlight of Diwali 2025, but fans will also be abuzz about Aneet Padda’s debut as Shakti Shalini—a scoop that, as always, Bollywood Hungama was proud to bring to you first.

Also Read: SCOOP: The real reason why Aneet Padda replaced Kiara Advani in Dinesh Vijan’s Shakti Shalini

In a move that’s bound to excite cinephiles and box office enthusiasts alike, the highly anticipated trailer of Sriram Raghavan’s war epic Ikkis will debut exclusively with Thamma, Maddock Films’ landmark horror-comedy, when it lands in cinemas this Diwali. The strategic pairing marks one of the year’s most compelling double bills, blending two genres Bollywood is now confidently reinventing for a fresh generation of movie-goers.

Ikkis tells the extraordinary true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of India’s Param Vir Chakra for valour in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Starring the legendary Dharmendra and breakout star Agastya Nanda, with Jaideep Ahlawat in a key role, the Sriram Raghavan-directed film promises both the adrenaline of battle and the depth of character that defines Maddock’s approach to storytelling. Originally aiming for a Gandhi Jayanti release, the filmmakers have officially shifted Ikkis to December 2025 to sidestep big-box-office clashes and optimize its reach to patriotic and family audiences across the country. New posters for Ikkis hint at searing action sequences, nuanced familial emotions, and a fresh heroic journey for Agastya Nanda as the next-generation Khetarpal.​

Meanwhile, Thamma is poised to make Diwali 2025 historic in its own right. It brings Ayushmann Khurrana—a veritable hit-machine known for his blend of comedy, heart, and consistently strong box office returns—into the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe for the first time, co-starring Rashmika Mandanna. Thamma is not only Maddock’s priciest horror comedy origin story, with major investments in technology and spectacle, but also the studio’s most ambitious world-building yet, introducing audiences to the betaal, Bollywood’s new twist on the vampire myth. Industry chatter reveals that early pre-booking numbers and a rare two-day split Diwali holiday could ensure Thamma becomes the highest opener for both Ayushmann and the MHCU franchise.​

By attaching the Ikkis trailer to every Thamma screening, Maddock has created a seamless corridor for audiences to experience two very different—but equally impactful—stories. From the supernatural thrills of Thamma this festive season to the real-life heroics of Ikkis in December, Maddock Films is signalling its intent to set the standard for bold, original entertainment in 2025 and beyond.

For movie buffs, this double-feature rollout also delivers on anticipation: Thamma lights up theatres from October 21, 2025, just in time for Diwali celebrations, while Ikkis will march into cinemas across India this December, with an exact date to be revealed soon. The convergence of horror-comedy and war drama, backed by powerhouse performances and Maddock’s reputation for delivering both commercial and critical hits, is set to deliver an unparalleled cinematic season for Bollywood fans.

Also Read: Low buzz, high hopes: Trade optimistic that 6-day Diwali weekend will boost Thamma and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat