The first look of Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal has been unveiled, offering a striking early glimpse into the upcoming mythological epic centered on Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered figures in Indian culture. Titled Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal, the film is slated for a theatrical release in 2026.

The first-look video introduces viewers to the film’s larger vision, capturing the essence of Pawan Putra Hanuman as an embodiment of fearless courage, unwavering devotion to Lord Ram, and immense divine strength. With its visual scale and reverential tone, the glimpse hints at an ambitious retelling rooted in India’s longstanding storytelling traditions.

Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rajesh Mapuskar, the film revisits the legendary journey of Lord Hanuman while aiming to present it through a cinematic lens designed for contemporary audiences. The project places emphasis on cultural authenticity while embracing the scope of a big-screen spectacle.

Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal is presented by Star Studio18 in association with Collective Studios, Historyverse and Abundantia Entertainment. The film is produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Vijay Subramaniam, and Vikram Malhotra.

With its first look now out, Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal sets the stage for what is expected to be one of the most talked-about mythological releases leading into 2026.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Teaser of Ranbir Kapoor-starrer Ramayana and AI film Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal attached with Avatar: Fire And Ash

Speculation is growing about a possible reunion between Raghav Juyal and filmmaker Remo D’Souza, with industry chatter suggesting that ABCD 3 could be in the works. While there has been no official confirmation yet, the buzz has gained momentum due to recent developments around both artists and their long-standing creative association.

Raghav and Remo share a history closely associated with the ABCD franchise, where their collaboration is notable for its natural rhythm and easy camaraderie. Over the years, Raghav has often credited Remo for seeing his potential beyond comic timing and dance-based roles, a trust that translated strongly on screen.

In recent times, Raghav Juyal has undergone a noticeable shift in his career trajectory. From the intense and gritty Kill to the layered performance in Gyaarah Gyaarah, followed by his turn in The Ba***ds Of Bollywood, the actor has steadily moved into more complex, performance-driven territory. This evolution has sparked curiosity about how he might re-enter the ABCD universe, should the third installment take shape.

According to industry whispers, the potential collaboration is not being driven by nostalgia alone. A source close to the development shared that if Raghav and Remo do reunite—whether for ABCD 3 or another project—it would be rooted in a strong narrative rather than fan service. The source added that Remo continues to view Raghav as an actor capable of surprising audiences, while Raghav trusts the director to give him the creative space to do so.

Adding to the speculation are Raghav’s recent remarks about manifesting a collaboration with Remo, comments that have not gone unnoticed within industry circles and are now being linked to the ABCD 3 buzz.

For now, ABCD 3 remains unannounced.

Also Read: 10 years of ABCD 2: Prabhudeva says, “I’m open to doing ABCD 3 with Remo D’Souza”

Filmmaker Milap Zaveri appears to be firmly back in action after a four-year gap, and his momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Following the release of Satyamev Jayate 2 in 2021, Zaveri returned to the director’s chair this year with Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat and Mastiii 4. Both films sparked renewed interest in his work, with audiences keen to see what he would take on next.

Now, the director has announced another project, which will be backed by T-Series. The yet-untitled film will be headlined by Akanksha Sharmaa, marking another collaboration between the actor and the filmmaker. While further details about the genre, supporting cast, and timeline remain under wraps, the announcement itself signals Zaveri’s intent to stay consistently active as a director.

Readers may recall that Akanksha Sharmaa is also the female lead in Milap Zaveri’s Tera Yaar Hoon Main. The film is set to mark the acting debut of Aman Kumar, son of producer Indra Kumar, and is being mounted under the banners of Indira Enterprise and BIK Productions. Tera Yaar Hoon Main was officially announced in November 2024.

With multiple projects lined up and repeat collaborations taking shape, Milap Zaveri’s latest announcement suggests a phase of steady output.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Milap Zaveri talks about Mastiii 4: “Riteish Deshmukh, Vivek Oberoi, Aftab Shivdasani are Amar, Akbar, Anthony of comedy!” BREAKS silence on CBFC cuts: “Film has got very few cuts; Kudos to Censor Board…”

Filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga has shelved his New Year’s break plans in order to push ahead with filming on his highly anticipated cop action drama Spirit, starring Prabhas, Triptii Dimri and Vivek Oberoi. The decision was taken to fast-track production so the project can meet its planned mid-2027 release timeframe, according to a report by Mid-Day.

Originally, Spirit was scheduled to shoot its first schedule through December and then pause for a New Year break. However, Vanga and his team decided to continue filming through the New Year’s week, with production now expected to run until at least the first week of January before a short pause. The report quoted a source close to the film revealing that the director called off holiday plans in a bid to wrap up the shoot ahead of schedule.

The movie marks Vanga’s first collaboration with both Prabhas and Vivek Oberoi. Insiders say the director is planning distinctive looks for the stars — a move reminiscent of how Vanga’s previous film Animal presented Bobby Deol in an unexpected avatar — indicating that Spirit will continue the filmmaker’s signature visual and narrative style.

Spirit began shooting on November 27 in Hyderabad, and the extended schedule means the cast and crew are now working through late December and into January to keep the production on track.

As it stands, Spirit is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched Indian films of 2027, powered by its high-profile star cast and the creative vision of one of Bollywood’s most discussed directors.

Also Read: 2 Years of Animal EXCLUSIVE: Khushaal Pawaar shares FASCINATING secret behind casting process: “Sandeep Reddy Vanga DIDN’T provide us with a script; a FIRST-ever such experience for me…you CANNOT manipulate him”

Indian film star Sara Ali Khan has been officially announced as the latest Friend of the Brand for iconic Swiss watchmaker Longines, marking a significant collaboration between one of Bollywood’s most admired young actresses and a heritage luxury timepiece house. The announcement was shared widely across media today following a press release and Sara’s own social media post, where she expressed her excitement over the partnership.

Sara took to Instagram to share the news with her followers, writing, “I’m delighted to share that I’ve joined the Swiss watch brand LONGINES as a Friend of the Brand. Its timeless elegance, rich heritage and authenticity have long inspired me and I cannot wait to show you what’s ahead! #Longines #ElegancelsAnAttitude #LonginesPrimaluna.” This message reflects her personal admiration for the brand’s legacy and values, setting the tone for what both parties hope will be a creative and inspiring collaboration.

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Longines, founded in Saint-Imier, Switzerland in 1832, is known for its graceful designs, precision engineering, and long history of sport timing and aviation partnerships. Its winged hourglass logo is recognised in more than 150 countries around the world. The brand’s association with India dates back to 1878, when it first sold watches in the country, a historical connection that the company says this new collaboration will further strengthen.

In the official statement, Longines praised Sara’s radiant personality, effortless charm and refined sense of style, noting that she perfectly embodies the spirit of timeless elegance which is a hallmark of the brand’s identity. Her versatility and strong public presence in cinema have made her an influential figure among modern audiences, aligning with Longines’ efforts to celebrate individuals who represent elegance not just through appearance, but through authenticity, confidence, and attitude.

Sara Ali Khan, who made her film debut in 2018 with the hit Kedarnath and has since starred in successful films like Simmba, Atrangi Re, and Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, brings both contemporary appeal and cultural relevance to the Longines family. A graduate of Columbia University with a degree in history and political science, she is widely respected for her intellect as well as her on-screen presence qualities that the brand sees as reflective of its values of precision and heritage.

The collaboration is expected to spotlight Longines’ PrimaLuna collection, known for its elegant design and feminine sophistication an aesthetic that resonates with Sara’s personal style and public image, making this partnership a blend of tradition and modernity that appeals to watch enthusiasts and fashion followers alike.

This announcement adds to Sara Ali Khan’s growing list of high-profile partnerships and reinforces Longines’ commitment to working with influential cultural figures who embody its core principles of grace, authenticity, and timeless elegance.

Also Read : Sara Ali Khan shares heartfelt note for Sushant Singh Rajput on 7 years of Kedarnath: “Thank you for reminding me to be curious”

Less than 24 hours are left for the release of Avatar: Fire And Ash and the excitement is building up for it thanks to its big-screen appeal, grandeur and popularity of the franchise. Interestingly, viewers will be treated with two tantalizing assets when they venture out to watch the James Cameron directorial in cinemas from December 19.

Bollywood Hungama has learned that the introduction teaser of Ramayana has been attached to Avatar: Fire And Ash. It was launched on July 3 and has been loved for its ensemble cast and stunning VFX.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari of Dangal (2016) and Chhichhore (2019) fame, Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, KGF star Yash as Ravana, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Ravie Dubey as Lakshman and Sunny Deol as Hanuman. It is produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and 8-time Oscar-winning VFX studio DNEG in association with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, written by Shridhar Raghavan and has music by the greats, A R Rahman and Hans Zimmer. The first part releases in cinemas on Diwali 2026, while part 2 will arrive on Diwali 2027.

The other teaser attached to the Hollywood flick is that of Hanuman – The Eternal. This video isn’t out yet on digital and hence, viewers will see a glimpse of the film for the first time on the big screen. It is one of India’s first theatrical films made using AI and arrests attention thanks to its visual appeal, scale and depiction of Lord Hanuman. It is directed by Rajesh Mapuskar of Ferrari Ki Sawaari (2012) and Rudra: The Edge Of Darkness (2022) fame, produced by Vikram Malhotra’s Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network’s Historyverse. As per reports, it is slated for a theatrical release on Hanuman Jayanti, that is, April 2 next year.

However, Hanuman – The Eternal has been in the news after Anurag Kashyap slammed the announcement news and also one of the film's producers, Vijay Subramaniam, for backing an AI-generated film while heading an artists' agency. Shockingly, Anurag even mentioned in the post, “This right here is the future for the spineless and cowardly so-called artists in the Hindi Film industry. Well done Vijay Subramaniam. Shame is not enough on you. You should be in the gutter.”

Also Read: Ramayana: Ranbir Kapoor starrer to mark a historic collab with Avatar: Fire and Ash as it premieres in theatres

The biggest Hollywood film of the year, Avatar: Fire And Ash, is all set to release tomorrow, that is, Friday, December 19. While advance booking commenced on December 5, several cinemas, especially one-screen and two-screen cinemas, have yet to begin advance booking. Bollywood Hungama spoke to trade and exhibition sources to understand the reason behind it.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Disney, the studio releasing Avatar: Fire And Ash, has asked single-screen theatres that they want all shows for their film. In two-screen cinemas, they have asked for 5 or 6 shows. However, exhibitors are not comfortable with this directive as Dhurandhar is running very successfully. They are confident that even in its third week, the Ranveer Singh-starrer will find a huge audience, as evident by the steady footfalls the film has generated in the weekdays.”

The source continued, “The exhibitors have requested that they’d like to divide shows equally between the two films. After all, they realize that Avatar: Fire And Ash will also be a crowd puller. However, so is Dhurandhar. But Disney hasn’t accepted this idea. Negotiations are going on and a middle ground is expected to be reached today.”

As for 8:30 am on December 18, single-screen theatres in Mumbai like Gold Cinema Santacruz, Chitra Dadar, Roxy Opera House, Maratha Mandir, Kasturba Malad, Citylight Mahim, Inox Nakshatra Dadar, MovieTime Star City, New Excelsion, MovieTime Dahisar, Gold Cinema Sona Borivali, MovieMax Andheri East, MovieTime Suburbia, PVR Le Reve etc. are yet to start bookings for tomorrow.

The same issue can be seen in two-screen plexes like Sun City Vile Parle, Mukta A2 Cinemas Lalbaug, Topiwala Goregaon, PVR Milap Kandivali, Movietime Malad etc.

Shockingly, ticket sales for Avatar: Fire And Ash as well as Dhurandhar, for December 19 onwards are yet to commence in a full-fledged manner in even certain three-screen properties like Sterling, MovieMax Mira Road, MovieMax Sion etc. as well as in four-screen properties like Miraj R Mall Mulund, Inox Raghuleela Kandivali, PVR Odeon Ghatkopar, Inox Korum Mall Thane, MovieMax SM5 Kalyan, MovieMax Wonder Mall Thane, etc.

At Mumbai’s iconic G7 complex, popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy, advance bookings have opened in four cinemas, but Galaxy and Gemini are yet to begin. Dhurandhar will continue at Gaiety with three shows from December 19. Until December 18, it was being screened in both Gaiety and Galaxy. It now remains to be seen whether Avatar: Fire And Ash will be accommodated at Galaxy or Gemini, or both, and whether Dhurandhar also gets additional shows in the other two cinemas at G7.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Unlike Avatar: The Way Of Water, CBFC passes Avatar: Fire And Ash with ZERO cuts

Ikkis, the highly anticipated war drama marking the theatrical debut of Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson Agastya Nanda, has officially postponed its release date. Originally slated for December 25, the film will now hit theatres on January 1, 2026, positioning itself as the very first Bollywood release of the new year.

The announcement came via Maddock Films’ social media, where the makers teased fans with a powerful message: “This new year, gift yourself courage. Final #Ikkis trailer drops this weekend in theatres. A new chapter unfolds in legendary director Sriram Raghavan’s first war film. The true story of India’s youngest Paramveer Chakra Awarded, Second Lt. Arun Khetarpal. Some heroes die young. Experience courage in cinemas. #Ikkis releasing on 1st January 2026.”

Sources close to the production revealed that producer Dinesh Vijan opted for a strategic shift to avoid box-office clashes, a formula that previously worked wonders for films like Hindi Medium and Chhaava. This move ensures a clear theatrical run for Ikkis, giving it the spotlight it deserves.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, known for his mastery in thrillers, Ikkis marks his first foray into the war genre. The film is based on true events from the 1971 Indo-Pak War, chronicling the heroic story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra for his unparalleled bravery.

Apart from Agastya Nanda, the film boasts a stellar cast including Jaideep Ahlawat, Simar Bhatia, Sikander Kher, and others. Adding an emotional layer, Ikkis will also serve as a posthumous release for the legendary Dharmendra, making it a cinematic milestone.

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With its gripping narrative, patriotic fervor, and star-studded ensemble, Ikkis promises to be more than just a film—it’s a tribute to courage and sacrifice. As the countdown to January 1 begins, fans can expect the final trailer to drop this weekend, setting the tone for an unforgettable start to 2026.

Also Read: Yash Raj Films to release Ikkis overseas; industry heavyweights Aditya Chopra and Dinesh Vijan collaborate for the FOURTH time in 2025

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty has issued a strong clarification on social media amid mounting allegations in a Rs. 60.48 crore fraud case linked to her defunct venture, Best Deal TV. Her statement comes as legal proceedings intensify and questions about her foreign travel permissions dominate headlines.

The actress issued an official statement on her Instagram story, addressing the matter, “We categorically deny the baseless and motivated allegations being circulated. The issues sought to be raised are being given a criminal colour without any lawful basis. A Quashing Petition has already been filed before the Hon'ble High Court and is pending adjudication. Having fully cooperated with the investigation, we are sanguine that justice will prevail and have complete faith in the law enforcement authorities and the judicial system of our country. We respectfully urge the media to exercise restraint as the matter is sub judice.”

The Bombay High Court has directed Shetty and her husband, businessman Raj Kundra, to deposit Rs. 60 crore or furnish a continuous bank guarantee from a nationalised bank before considering lifting the Lookout Circular that currently restricts their overseas travel. The order came during a hearing on their urgent plea to visit London for Kundra’s ailing father. The LOC was issued by Mumbai Police’s Economic Offences Wing following a complaint by UY Industries Pvt Ltd director Deepak Kothari, alleging misappropriation of funds invested in Best Deal TV between 2015 and 2023. The couple has denied any wrongdoing, calling the allegations malicious and aimed at extortion.

Meanwhile, the actress’ upscale restaurant chain Bastian too has been facing multiple issues. A Bengaluru police station has filed a complaint against the outlet under Section 103 of the Karnataka Police Act for hosting a lavish private bash, allegedly flouting local regulations by remaining open well past the stipulated closing time. Along with that, another set of reports have suggested that Bastian’s Mumbai outlet in Dadar faced an income tax raid on Wednesday, while details of the search operation remain undisclosed.

Also Read: Bengaluru Police book Shilpa Shetty-owned Bastian for late-night operations

Actor Shaad Randhawa has had a busy 2025 with three releases during the year. Two of these, Saiyaara and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, performed strongly at the box office. Building on that momentum, the actor has now signed a new project with a legacy production house.

Shaad Randhawa will next appear in filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya’s upcoming directorial, which features Ayushmann Khurrana in the lead. The project marks his first collaboration with the Barjatya banner, and the actor has already begun shooting for the film.

Shaad informed, “All I can say is that this is a completely different role from anything I’ve portrayed before. This film is extremely special to me, as it has always been a dream to work with Sooraj ji. I am deeply grateful to Sooraj ji and Mukesh Chhabra bhai for giving me this opportunity.”

While details of the film are being kept under wraps, Ayushmann Khurrana has shared that he plays a character named Prem, a role that differs slightly from the traditional family entertainers associated with Sooraj Barjatya. He has described the film as carrying a strong message without being preachy, with its tone and genre sitting somewhere between Barjatya’s filmmaking sensibilities and the kind of films Ayushmann is known for.

Also Read : BH OTT India Fest 2025: Shaad Randhawa on how Harshvardhan Rane won his heart on Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat sets: “He told me, ‘You speak my first 5 lines…RARELY seen an actor do that”

Netflix is set to kick off 2026 with a bang as Neeraj Pandey and Emraan Hashmi join forces for Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web, a crime thriller that promises edge-of-your-seat excitement. The show takes viewers behind the scenes of airport customs—a world rarely explored on screen—where every suitcase could hide a secret and every passenger might be a suspect. At the center of this high-pressure environment is Superintendent Arjun Meena, played by Emraan Hashmi, a calm and calculating officer determined to dismantle smuggling networks ranging from luxury goods to international syndicates.

This marks Neeraj Pandey’s fourth collaboration with Netflix and his first with Hashmi, a pairing that promises precision, pace, and globe-trotting thrills. Pandey brings his signature storytelling style—sharp, grounded, and layered with tension—while Hashmi steps into a refreshing new avatar as a leader whose instincts are as lethal as his strategies. Elaborating on this collab, Neeraj Pandey said, “Airports are familiar to all of us, yet what unfolds behind the scenes is rarely seen. The world of customs is not something that has been explored on screen, and that was part of the appeal in our endeavour to introduce our audiences to a new unexplored world which is quiet, disciplined, and high-pressure. With Taskaree, we bring together an ensemble that could reflect the complexity with depth and conviction. And as always Netflix continues to be a strong partner in supporting stories that are rooted, authentic, and built for scale.”

Emraan Hashmi reflected on his role and added, “Taskaree was exciting for me on many levels. It’s my first time working with Neeraj Pandey and stepping into his world. Playing a customs officer is new territory for me, and Arjun Meena isn’t loud or flashy, he’s calm, observant, and always thinking two steps ahead. I enjoyed stepping into that space. I’m really looking forward to audiences seeing me in this new role. Partnering with Netflix and Neeraj sir makes it even more special, it’s makers that encourage stories like this to be told at scale.”

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Adding to the anticipation, Tanya Bami, Series Head at Netflix India, shared, “We are excited to kick off 2026 with a show that introduces audiences to the high-stakes, unseen world of airport customs. With sharp and quirky tones and unpredictable twists Taskaree has everything that makes for a compelling thriller. Filmed across four countries and multiple international airports, the show unpacks an intricate smuggler’s network in classic Neeraj Pandey style. It offers a fresh, immersive perspective that will be relatable for anyone who has ever taken a flight. We’re delighted to have Emraan headline the show, especially after the overwhelming love and fandom he received for his cameo in The Ba***ds of Bollywood.”

Apart from Hashmi, the ensemble cast also includes Sharad Kelkar, Amruta Khanvilkar, Nandish Singh Sandhu, Anurag Sinha, and Zoya Afroz, adding grit and intensity to a narrative where tension never clocks out. Produced by Friday Storytellers and directed by Raghav Jairath, the series premieres globally on January 14, 2026.

Also Read: Emraan Hashmi and Raghav Juyal’s hilarious Spotify wrapped reunion takes internet by storm; watch

Dhurandhar has marked a notable moment for Indian film music, becoming the first Bollywood film to see all tracks from its soundtrack chart simultaneously on the Spotify Global Top 200, along with a full presence on India’s national charts. Composed and produced by Shashwat Sachdev, the album has delivered a rare and wide-ranging chart performance for a Hindi film soundtrack.

On Spotify India, all 11 tracks from the album are currently charting inside the Top 200, making Dhurandhar the first Indian film album to place 11 out of 11 songs on the chart at the same time. The title track stands at #3, with ‘Ishq Jalakar’, ‘Karvaan’ at #5 and ‘Gehra Hua’ at #7, while the remaining tracks continue to hold strong positions across the chart reflecting sustained listener engagement across the full album rather than isolated singles.

The album’s impact extends well beyond India. Dhurandhar debuted at #2 on Spotify’s Global Top Albums chart and at #5 on Spotify’s US Top Albums chart, underscoring the soundtrack’s international reach and its crossover appeal among global listeners. These rankings place Dhurandhar among the highest-debuting Indian film albums on Spotify worldwide.

On Apple Music India, Dhurandhar has secured the #1 album position, with tracks from the soundtrack simultaneously dominating individual song charts. The performance highlights a rare convergence of album listening and song-level discovery across platforms.

With Dhurandhar, Shashwat Sachdev presents a soundtrack that spans multiple styles, from score-driven compositions to contemporary, hip-hop-influenced tracks and emotion-led songs, while remaining cohesive as an album. The breadth of its chart presence reflects both its sonic range and its appeal across a wide audience base.

Reacting to the achievement, the composer, super producer Shashwat Sachdev stated, “I never imagined this album as a chase for numbers. Dhurandhar was made slowly, with trust, friendship, and a lot of love for the music itself. To see all eleven tracks finding a place on the charts and a few of them living at the very top is deeply humbling. This belongs to every artist, musician, engineer, and collaborator who gave a piece of their soul to these songs. I’m grateful beyond words, and I’m just happy the music found its people.”

The achievement follows Sachdev’s recent work on The Ba***ds of Bollywood and further reinforces his standing as one of the few Indian composers whose film music regularly finds global streaming traction. In that context, Dhurandhar stands out as a significant milestone for Bollywood music on the international stage.

Also Read : Akshaye Khanna keeps it low-key after ‘Dhurandhar’ success, performs Vastu Shanti hawan at Alibaug home