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

This monsoon, get ready to be swept away by the charm of first love, fleeting moments, and the ache of separation with Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, a romantic musical drama starring Vikrant Massey and Shanaya Kapoor. Following the buzz around its first poster, the makers have now unveiled the teaser a visual and emotional treat that introduces a love story rooted in serendipity, soulful music, and silent yearning.

The teaser hints at a narrative where a spontaneous meeting between two strangers sets the stage for an emotional journey where connection grows in silence, love blooms through music, and separation becomes inevitable. From blindfolded dances to quiet moments on the road, Vikrant and Shanaya bring alive a story that is as much about inner emotions as it is about romantic highs and heartbreak.

While the film holds back on full character reveals, it teases the central conflict: love that feels destined but is disrupted by personal choices. Vikrant Massey steps into a more vulnerable, emotionally layered role, while debutant Shanaya Kapoor impresses with her expressive screen presence and raw honesty.

Backed by a lush visual palette and Vishal Mishra’s evocative music, the teaser promises a cinematic experience that is intimate, immersive, and deeply emotional. Whether it’s the innocence of falling in love or the ache of walking away, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan taps into the universal language of love and longing.

Presented by Zee Studios and Mini Films, and produced by Mansi Bagla and Varun Bagla, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan is directed by Santosh Singh and written by Mansi Bagla. With Vikrant Massey and Shanaya Kapoor at the heart of this poignant romance, the film releases in cinemas on 11th July 2025.

Also Read: Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan writer and producer Mansi Bagla reveals being inspired by Karan Johar and Yash Raj Films: “I am not simply making projects”

If all goes well, Aamir Khan is all set to create history with Sitaare Zameen Par. As per reports, its digital rights won’t be sold to any streaming platform. Instead, Aamir will release the sports drama on YouTube. Viewers will have to pay Rs. 99 to access the film. The news spread like wild fire. But at the same time, it also got misconstrued. Some social media pages speculated that Sitaare Zameen Par will be released directly on YouTube and not in cinemas.

During a group interaction with journalists, this writer asked Aamir Khan about it. He began by saying, “There’s a confusion and I want to clarify. This film is being released only in theatres. A lot of theories are going around. I have read them too (laughs). It’s not true. It will come only and only in cinemas.”

He added, “Post-release, what will happen, I have absolutely no idea. I am being 100% honest with you. There have been a lot of offers and proposals and I have said ‘no’ to everyone. There’s one simple reason why I have said ‘no’ to everyone. This is because I am a believer of cinema. Whatever I am today is because of cinema. I am sitting here in this position because people saw my film in theatres. Hence, I am a loyalist. Ho sakta hai ki main bewakoof hoon. Maybe I am committing a himakat. By not selling the OTT rights, maybe I am committing a huge mistake and it can lead to a huge financial loss. Woh apan dekhenge baad mein (smiles).”

Aamir Khan continued, “At this point, I want to do only one thing, and that is, reviving theatre business which is going down with each passing film. I believe in cinemas and I trust my audience. In today’s times, not a single producer would begin a film unless he sells the OTT rights. Correct me if I am wrong. Jab tak OTT ka sale hota nahin, woh film greenlit nahin hoti. I am the only producer who has declined to sell OTT rights. I am releasing the film only in cinemas as I want to make the theatrical sector strong.”

He further stated, “My films come once in 2-3 years and often, its ill-timed (laughs). I’ll give you an example. Nowadays, action films work a lot. A lot of people asked me to do an action film. If I wanted, I could have done an action film. But I wanted to do just this film kyunki yeh kahaani mere khoon ke andar ghus gayi thi. Hence, even I get tensed because sab action dekhna chaha rahe hai aur pata nahin meri kaunsi film aa rahi hai! Would people be interested?”

During the Taare Zameen Par fan meetup on June 2, Aamir Khan gave one more example saying, “I made a film called Ghajini (2008). You guys must have thought that since it was a mainstream film, it was expected to be a success. But that was not the case. Uss time pe action films nahin chal rahi thi. I was told, ‘The era of action film is over 2-3 years ago. Aur tumhari action film ab aa rahi hai’!”

Sitaare Zameen Par releases in cinemas on June 20.

Also Read: Team Sitaare Zameen Par to come under one roof for a musical night at Aamir Khan’s place on 6th June!

Superstar Aamir Khan is all set to release Sitaare Zameen Par on June 20. Usually, the actor has just one or no other project in hand before his immediate release. He decides his next only after his current release is out of the system. But this time, Aamir has made an exception. Last month, it came to light that he’ll play the role of Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema and that it would be directed by blockbuster filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani. There have also been reports of him working with popular South director Lokesh Kanagaraj and also in talks for the sequel to PK (2014).

During a group interaction with journalists, Aamir Khan talked about his slate. He began by saying, “PK 2 is a rumour. I don’t know anything about it.” He added, “Dadasaheb Phalke film is definitely being made. Raju and I are working on it.”

When asked about a film with Lokesh Kanagaraj, he replied, “Lokesh and I are working on a film. It belongs to the superhero genre. It’s a big-scale action film and will go on floors in the second half of 2026.”

When asked more about it, he replied, “I can’t say more than this. Yeh do saal aage ki baat hai!”

Aamir Khan also opened up on his ambitious venture, “Mahabharat has been my dream for the last 25 years. When you are making Mahabharat, you are not making a film. Aap yagna karne nikal rahe ho. You need to prepare, which I am trying to do. Whether my dream will be fulfilled or not, I can’t say right now. Until I don’t walk on that path and I don’t have a basic foundation in front of me, I can’t answer this question. Also, I can’t tell you who will be cast in the movie. Whatever I’ll answer will be wrong. I don’t have the right information right now.”

Aamir continued, “Mera mann hai 25 saalon se ki main Mahabharat pe kaam karoon. But as I said, it’s a different journey. Where this journey will reach, I don’t know. But I’ll surely start the journey. It's just a dream right now.”

Also Read: Aamir Khan defends Sitaare Zameen Par, remake of Campeones, “I am giving it my perspective”

The teaser of Param Sundari was attached with Bhool Chuk Maaf and it was met with a positive response. On May 29, it was released digitally and further added to the film's hype. However, fans of Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor might have to wait a little longer as the producers, Maddock Films, are contemplating postponing its release.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Param Sundari is scheduled to release on July 25. Dinesh Vijan had a meeting with his team and is discussing whether they should stick to the date or arrive later. There are too many releases next month and this is one of the reasons behind the team having second thoughts.”

The source continued, “The Maddock team is looking at August 29. No film has taken this slot. They are also considering other dates.”

The source cautioned, “The USP of Maddock is the way they take swift decisions. We have seen that in the past when they decided to suddenly release Zara Hatke Zara Bachke within 3 weeks or when they pushed Bhool Chuk Maaf not just by a week but also decided to cancel its theatrical release. Hence, with Dinesh Vijan, you never know. He might push the release or he might also stick to July 25. A clearer picture would emerge in a few days.”

If Param Sundari gets pushed, Son Of Sardaar 2 will get a solo Bollywood release. The grand comic caper is also scheduled to arrive in cinemas on July 25. It stars Ajay Devgn, Mrunal Thakur, Sanjay Mishra, Kubbra Sait and the late Mukul Dev.

Overcrowded July

Meanwhile, trade is concerned as there are far too many releases in the month of July. The month will begin with the musical Metro…In Dino, the Pan-India film Kingdom and the much-awaited Hollywood biggie Jurassic World: Rebirth clashing at the box office on July 4. On July 11, Vikrant Massey-Shanaya Kapoor starrer Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan and Rajkummar Rao’s action drama Maalik would release along with another Hollywood biggie, Superman.

On July 18, Mohit Suri and Yash Raj Films will present their romantic saga, Saiyaara, also the debut vehicle of Ahaan Panday. The same day, two Hollywood flicks are also scheduled to be released – Smurfs and I Know What You Did Last Summer. While the former can attract kids in hordes, the latter is a slasher film and after Final Destination Bloodlines, this can be another A-rated box office surprise. Lastly, besides Param Sundari and Son Of Sardaar 2, The Fantastic Four: First Steps will also have a release on the big screen on July 25.

Also Read: Param Sundari Teaser: Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor set the screen ablaze in this North-Meets-South love saga

Rhea Chakraborty continues to shine, both on screen and off. She has been busy working on projects and her brand lately. Rhea, who has consistently impressed audiences with her performances and fashion-forward presence, is now gearing up for exciting international opportunities. And amidst this, a special NDPS court has permitted Rhea to travel abroad for professional commitments between June 1 and September 15, allowing her to fulfill her work responsibilities in Sri Lanka, Serbia, and across Europe.

The court acknowledged her past compliance with bail conditions during earlier travel and observed that she has demonstrated complete responsibility and adherence to legal norms. This decision paves the way for Rhea to travel for the filming of Stepsons Season 1, a highly anticipated international project.

The court firmly rejected the prosecution’s concerns, emphasizing Rhea’s deep roots in Mumbai and her history of cooperation with all legal procedures. Earlier this year, the CBI filed a closure report in the Sushant Singh Rajput case, clearing her of abetment charges. Rhea will submit detailed travel plans, including all necessary addresses and contacts, as she prepares to represent Indian talent on an international platform.

Adding to her ongoing journey is her fashion brand Chapter 2, which perfectly symbolizes this phase of transformation and resilience. Built on themes of renewal and strength, the brand is an authentic extension of her spirit, bold, fresh, and empowering.

With exciting projects on the horizon and her brand growing steadily, Rhea is focused on her work, evolving every step of the way. This phase of her life marks a significant chapter filled with creativity, travel, and self-expression. Her fans, who have stood by her with unwavering support, are thrilled to see her flourish globally.

Also Read: Rhea Chakraborty pens emotional note as ‘Fauji Daughter’ amid Indo-Pak tensions; salutes armed forces families

The trailer of Sitaare Zameen Par, the eagerly anticipated spiritual sequel to the iconic 2007 film Taare Zameen Par, promises a heartwarming family entertainer. Filled with love, laughter, and happiness, the trailer has already sparked a wave of excitement across the nation. Now, as the film approaches its release, the team is all set to come together under one roof for a special musical night.

According to an independent industry source, "The team of Sitaare Zameen Par is all set to come together for a musical night, which will be held on June 6 at Aamir Khan's residence. While Aamir Khan will host the evening, the event will also see the presence of the 10 debutants, along with composer trio Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy, who will be part of the celebration."

Aamir Khan Productions proudly presents 10 rising stars: Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, Vedant Sharma, Ayush Bhansali, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, and Simran Mangeshkar. Directed by R. S. Prasanna, who previously helmed the barrier-breaking blockbuster Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, now returns with the biggest collaboration with Aamir Khan Productions' Sitaare Zameen Par.

Also Read: Taare Zameen Par Fan Meetup: Aamir Khan admits that Sitaare Zameen Par was the ONLY film of his career where no one fought or raised their voice; credits his co-stars: “They would happily come on the set and would kiss and hug you…”