Mumbai doesn’t hand out its biggest “respect signals” casually. And when the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, one of the city’s most iconic, most visible landmarks, glows with a tribute, it instantly becomes more than just a birthday wish. It becomes a statement.

On the eve of Salman Khan turning 60 tomorrow (December 27), Being Human has put up a striking, larger-than-life salute at the Sea Link, turning the nightly skyline into a celebration of a man who has remained a constant in India’s pop culture for decades. In a city where stars come and go with Friday box office swings, Salman has built something rarer: longevity that feels personal to generations, across single screens, multiplexes, and now the social-media age.

What makes this moment especially notable is the venue itself. The Sea Link isn’t just a bridge—it’s Mumbai’s postcard, a symbol of the city’s pace and pride. Very few initiatives or messages get honoured in this manner at this location, and that scarcity is precisely what elevates the gesture. When a tribute appears here, it’s because it’s meant to be seen, remembered, and talked about by commuters, by fans, and by the city at large.

For Salman Khan, the tribute also fits the larger picture. Being Human has long been associated with philanthropy and public impact, and this Sea Link moment blends stardom with that identity: a reminder that beyond the superstar image is a brand and a presence that has extended into social work, youth aspiration, and cultural influence.

At 60, Salman Khan isn’t just being wished. He’s being showcased on Mumbai’s biggest canvas. And that, in itself, is an achievement very few ever receive.

Also, all eyes are now on Salman Khan’s next big-screen move. The superstar is set to headline Battle Of Galwan, and going by the buzz, the teaser is expected to drop on his birthday, making December 27 not just a landmark personal milestone, but also a date that could double up as the next major announcement moment for fans. If that teaser arrives as expected, it will be the perfect one-two punch: Mumbai’s skyline celebrating the man, and the man returning the love by unveiling a glimpse of what’s next.

Also Read: 12 Salman Khan quotes on his 60th birthday

The comic caper Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2, starring Kapil Sharma, managed to get a near-unanimous positive reaction from the audience. The film was appreciated for Kapil's performances and also for its jokes that landed well, a rarity in today's times. A few hours ago, the makers of the film announced that ‘its theatrical run was impacted by limited screen availability due to ongoing multiplex takeovers by other releases’. Hence, it’ll be withdrawn from cinemas and will be re-released in January 2026.

Bollywood Hungama spoke exclusively with Ratan Jain of Venus Worldwide Entertainment. He also categorically made it clear, “I am not blaming anybody. If the other film is working well, they would obviously not want to reduce their shows. Yeh unka haq hai. I am not blaming the multiplexes either, as they were justified in their stand. They will always support a big film or one that is excelling successfully.”

When asked about the exact date for the re-release in January 2026, Ratan Jain said, “By Monday or Tuesday, I’ll announce the date.”

Besides Kapil Sharma, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 starred Manjot Singh, Hira Warina, Tridha Choudhary, Parul Gulati, Ayesha Khan, Akhilendra Mishra, Vipin Sharma, Sushant Singh, Jamie Lever, Smita Jaykar, Supriya Shukla and the late Asrani. Written and directed by Anukalp Goswami, it tells the story of a man who dreams of marrying his girlfriend. But he ends up marrying three women three times, while his girlfriend disappears.

Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 is presented by Star Studio18 and Venus Worldwide Entertainment in association with Abbas Mustan Films Production, and is produced by Ratan Jain, Ganesh Jain and Abbas-Mustan.

The original film, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon (2015), was directed by Abbas-Mustan. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Anukalp Goswami said, “I expressed the desire to direct the film. They supported me fully…When the film went on floors, Abbas-Mustan and their brother and editor Hussain bhai (Hussain A Burmawala) were present. The trio told me, ‘Tujhe kisi cheez ki tension lene ki zaroorat nahin hai’. They also provided me with a great team. Thanks to these efforts, we were able to deliver a fine product.”

Also Read: Kapil Sharma’s Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 set for re-release in January 2026

Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty has set social media abuzz with remarks hinting that Shah Rukh Khan could appear alongside Rajinikanth in the upcoming Tamil film Jailer 2, slated for a June 2026 release. In a recent interview, Chakraborty not only confirmed parts of the star-studded cast but also described his own role in the film, a sequel to Rajinikanth’s 2023 blockbuster Jailer.

While speaking with Siti Cinema, Chakraborty remarked that his next project was Jailer 2, “where everybody is against me.” He went on to list several prominent actors, saying, “Rajinikanth, Mohanlal, Shah Rukh Khan, Ramya Krishnan, Shiva Rajkumar, all their characters are against me.”

If true, this would mark the first time Shah Rukh Khan and Rajinikanth share screen space in a theatrical film. Though both superstars appeared in the 2011 movie Ra.One — in which Rajinikanth’s character Chitti from Enthiran was featured — they never directly acted opposite each other. Fans have been eagerly awaiting an official collaboration between the two icons, and Chakraborty’s comments have reignited excitement.

Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and produced by Sun Pictures, Jailer 2 reunites Rajinikanth with his 2023 co-star Ramya Krishnan. Earlier reports and actor statements have also hinted at the involvement of other celebrated artists, including Mohanlal, Shiva Rajkumar, Vidya Balan and additional supporting cast members, suggesting a multi-layered narrative with several key characters.

Jailer 2 is expected to expand on the action and dramatic elements that made the first instalment popular. At the time of writing, there has been no official announcement from the Jailer 2 production regarding Shah Rukh Khan’s role.

Also Read: Nora Fatehi’s name surfaces for special song in Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2 amid growing buzz

A few days ago, the makers of Drishyam 3 announced that their highly anticipated film will be released on October 2, 2026. The press note mentioned the name of the leading actors of the film – Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran and Rajat Kapoor. Akshaye Khanna’s name was missing and it raised eyebrows. The actor is on a high after Dhurandhar and hence, fans were looking forward to seeing him in the next part of Drishyam, especially when he rocked the show in Drishyam 2 (2022). Meanwhile, reports emerged that he had walked out of the third part due to remuneration differences. Bollywood Hungama has now found more information about what led to his exit.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Akshaye was menacing as the villain in Chhaava, while he stole the show, and how, in Dhurandhar. He has become the next big thing. Realizing the same, he decided to revise his fees. Accordingly, he asked for Rs. 21 crores from the makers of Drishyam 3.”

The source continued, “The makers of Drishyam 3 were taken aback. They tried to reason with him that if he’s paid a bomb, the film would go over-budget. But Akshaye Khanna felt that he was justified in his demand. He knew that his presence now significantly enhanced the excitement for a film.”

Meanwhile, another source said, “We also heard that there were a few more fronts where Akshaye Khanna and the makers had a disagreement as well. One of them was that Akshaye suggested that he'd like to wear a wig. The makers were not comfortable with the idea, probably because he was without a wig in the second part.”

The earlier source then said, “Since Akshaye Khanna’s demands were not met, he decided to walk out of Drishyam 3. Of course, he wished the makers well. The parting happened on a good note and the makers hope to collaborate with Akshaye in future when they’ll be on the same page.”

Also Read: Akshaye Khanna walks out of Drishyam 3 over remuneration differences after Dhurandhar success: Report

Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol are set to host a deeply emotional and special screening of the film Ikkis on Monday, December 29, in loving memory of their beloved father, the late legendary actor Dharmendra. It is the last movie of the late actor, which he completed shooting and dubbing before his demise on November 24 at the age of 89.

The private screening will be held at a multiplex in Mumbai and is expected to be attended by close family members, friends from the film fraternity, and a few specially invited guests who shared a close bond with the iconic star. The family has also invited members from the media for the special occasion.

Dharmendra remains one of the most towering and beloved figures in Indian cinema. With a career spanning over six decades, he redefined stardom with his effortless charm, emotional depth, and unmatched versatility, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.

The special screening of Ikkis stands not just as a cinematic event, but as a heartfelt homage by two sons honouring the memory of a father whose impact transcended films and fame. The Deol family’s gesture serves as a reminder that legends never truly fade—they live on through stories, memories, and the love they leave behind.

Produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, Ikkis is directed by Sriram Raghavan. The movie is based on the sacrifice of the Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal in the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The film will see Agastya Nanda essay his character while it will also star Jaideep Ahlawat and Simar Bhatia in key roles.

Also Read: Dharmendra’s last interview on Ikkis few months before his demise, “To do this film is my way of paying tribute to India’s armed forces”

After assembling 18 actors for Housefull 5, Bollywood’s ensemble trend has grown even bigger with Welcome To The Jungle, which brings together a massive 24-member cast - Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Paresh Rawal, Arshad Warsi, Raveena Tandon, Jacqueline Fernandez, Disha Patani, Lara Dutta, Tusshar Kapoor, and several others. The scale of Welcome To The Jungle signals a clear step up in ambition when it comes to multi-starrer projects in mainstream Hindi cinema.

Welcome To The Jungle recently wrapped its year-end shooting schedule in Mumbai, marking an important milestone for the large-scale production. To announce the wrap and extend Christmas wishes, Akshay Kumar shared a behind-the-scenes video featuring the cast.

The clip hinted at Akshay being seen in two different avatars in the film — a younger and an older version — adding intrigue to the project. Announcing the wrap, the actor wrote, “Wishing one and all a very Merry Christmas from the giant cast of Welcome to the Jungle! In cinemas 2026. Never have I ever been part of something so big… none of us have. We can’t wait to present our gift to you. It’s a wrap, people! Well done, gang. Such a huge effort from everyone involved in making this happen. From our big family to yours at home, we wish you nothing but the best for 2026.”

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  A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar)

With its 24-actor ensemble and a 2026 theatrical release locked in, Welcome To The Jungle stands out as one of the largest multi-starrer films currently in the pipeline, reflecting the industry’s growing appetite for scale-driven, ensemble-led spectacles.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar supports two different looks in new Welcome To The Jungle video: “Never have I ever been part of something so big”

Recent industry rumours that Ranveer Singh walked out of Farhan Akhtar’s highly anticipated film Don 3, following the massive success of his blockbuster Dhurandhar, have been challenged by multiple reports. Sources cited in the PinkVilla say the narrative linking his departure to Dhurandhar’s box-office performance is not accurate.

Allegations suggested that Ranveer’s growing clout after Dhurandhar — which has been breaking records across India — led him to distance himself from Don 3 to avoid repeating back-to-back gangster roles. The Free Press Journal report notes that Farhan Akhtar was among the early supporters of Ranveer’s career, backing him at a time when several projects were stalled or shelved.

However, India Today’s recent report has stated that the claim he quit Don 3 because of Dhurandhar’s success is unfounded. The evolving situation reportedly stems from creative disagreements and scheduling factors, not a simple decision driven by box-office momentum. Neither Ranveer nor the Don 3 production team has issued an official statement on the specifics of his involvement or departure.

Don 3, a continuation of Farhan Akhtar’s iconic franchise originally revived with Shah Rukh Khan in 2006 and 2011, has seen casting changes in recent months. While the search for a new lead continues amid uncertainties, Dhurandhar has kept Ranveer’s profile at a high point, with its strong performance at the ticket windows contributing to the ongoing conversation around his next career moves.

Also Read:  Ranveer Singh quits Don 3 amid Dhurandhar’s blockbuster run?

Dharma Productions has firmly denied allegations of plagiarism surrounding its film Homebound after author and journalist Puja Changoiwala accused the makers of copying her 2021 novel of the same name. The controversy erupted just days after the movie was shortlisted for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards.

Changoiwala sent a legal notice in October claiming that significant portions of the film’s second half — including scenes, dialogue, narrative structure and sequence of events — closely mirror her book. She also argued that Homebound shares not just a title but substantial creative elements, and is seeking legal remedies that include a potential injunction and damages.

A statement from Dharma Productions, shared by Mid-Day, said, “The allegations of copyright infringement are baseless and unfounded, and Dharma Productions categorically denies the same. Homebound is an officially licensed adaptation inspired by the New York Times article by Basharat Peer, with all requisite rights lawfully acquired and due credit duly provided. A legal notice has been received and duly responded to by Dharma Productions’ legal counsel.”

It further read, “Dharma Productions has become aware through media reports of an alleged pre-suit mediation before the Bombay High Court — however, no formal communication has been received to date. We take such allegations seriously and are exploring legal action at our end to protect the integrity of our film.”

The film, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor, is set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 migrant exodus. While Homebound continues to attract attention for its awards prospects, the copyright dispute adds a new legal dimension to its public conversation.

Also Read: Oscar-shortlisted Homebound faces copyright suit; deets inside! 

Tiger Shroff and Lakshya are gearing up to shoot a major dance-off sequence for their upcoming film Lag Jaa Gale, with a large production number scheduled to be shot at Mukesh Mills in Colaba starting December 24, 2025. The sequence is being described by insiders, quoted by a Mid-Day report, as a full-scale dance battle designed to showcase contrasting performance styles between the two actors.

The report stated that choreographer Ganesh Acharya has crafted the routine, which involves over 100 professional dancers and is expected to be wrapped up by December 29. The beat-driven number is reportedly structured to highlight Tiger’s explosive, athletic dance approach alongside Lakshya’s more fluid and relaxed style, with rehearsals underway for the past three weeks.

The dance face-off adds a new layer of excitement to Lag Jaa Gale, a revenge action-drama produced by Dharma Productions and directed by Raj Mehta. The film also stars Janhvi Kapoor, with whom Tiger Shroff shares screen space for the first time in this project. Lag Jaa Gale is among the high-profile Hindi cinema releases lined up for 2026. Tiger’s commitment to intense choreography and physical performance has been a defining feature of his career.

Reportedly, the creative team is aiming for the dance-off sequence to stand out as one of the year’s most talked-about musical moments.

Also Read: Tiger Shroff and Janhvi Kapoor to headline Raj Mehta’s Lag Jaa Gale, backed by Karan Johar: Report

Rakesh Anand Bakshi, son of the late lyricist Anand Bakshi, has publicly criticised the makers of Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri over the way credits were attributed for the remix version of the iconic song ‘Saat Samundar Paar.’ He took to Instagram on December 24 to challenge the decision to list Karan Nawani as a co-lyricist alongside his father for the track’s updated version.

The original ‘Saat Samundar Paar,’ composed by Viju Shah and written by Anand Bakshi, was featured in the 1992 film Vishwatma and remains a beloved classic. In the new remix, released as part of Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday’s film, the credits name both Bakshi and Nawani, the latter of whom has performed the remake and reportedly added only minimal lyrical content.

Rakesh objected to this shared credit, arguing that adding one or two lines to an existing lyrics sheet does not justify co-lyricist status. He pointed out that music credits already distinguish between “original” and “additional” components, and said the same should apply to lyrics to preserve the contribution of original writers. “The producer and/or publisher should not claim credit for any writer, singer, etc. as co-lyricist for adding one or two lines to the original lyrics,” he wrote.

He further described the newly added lyrics as a mismatch with the spirit of his father’s original writing, asserting they disrupt the continuity and intent of the verse. In his post, Rakesh tagged the music label Saregama Music and the artist, urging the industry to reform crediting practices used on streaming platforms.

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  A post shared by Rakesh Anand Bakshi 🖌 (@rakbakx)

The remix has drawn mixed responses from audiences, with some fans and netizens criticising it for failing to live up to the original’s appeal. The film Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri is scheduled for theatrical release on December 25, 2025.

Also Read: Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri expected to release in single screens on December 26; major victory for Dharma as Raj Mandir to play Kartik Aaryan-starrer; Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 suffers due to unstoppable Dhurandhar wave

The last big film of 2025, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri has released today in cinemas. Bollywood Hungama was the first ones to report about its struggles in getting screens due to the Dhurandhar wave that just refuses to subside. In this report, we bring to you an update on the same and also of that of holdover and other new releases.

An exhibition source told Bollywood Hungama, “Many single-screen cinemas will continue playing Dhurandhar today. Its distributors were of the belief that the film is doing exceptionally well and also, a new week starts only from Friday, December 26. As a result, they didn’t allow many cinemas to reduce shows of their film and accommodate Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri. Meanwhile, the in-house distribution team of Dharma Productions is trying its best to secure a greater number of screens from tomorrow.”

As of 8:00 am on December 25, single-screen cinemas of Mumbai like Regal, Gold Cinema Santacruz, Gold Cinema Dadar, Gold Cinema Thane, Gold Cinema Borivali, Chitra, Plaza, Roxy, New Excelsior, Kasturba, Citylight, MovieMax Andheri East, MovieTime Suburbia, Mukta A2 Orion Santacruz, etc. will only play Dhurandhar on December 25. However, these cinemas haven’t opened plans from December 26, leading to hope that these cinemas will divide shows between the two films. On the other hand, cinemas like Anand, MovieTime Star City and MovieTime Dahisar have declined to screen Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri and will continue with Dhurandhar even in the coming weekend.

Last week, we reported how PVR Le Reve in Bandra was one of the few single screen in the whole of India to play Avatar: Fire And Ash. This week, it’ll be a rare theatre to play Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, at 3:35 pm daily.

Amid this uncertainty, good news has come from Jaipur for the team of Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri. The iconic Raj Mandir will play Dhurandhar today, but from tomorrow, it’ll only play the Kartik Aaryan-Ananya Panday starrer in all shows. It’s a major victory for Dharma and has given hope that they’ll be able to similarly procure single screens in Mumbai and other cities as well.

Holdover and new releases

With a big film like Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri struggling for screens, the smaller and regional films stand even less chance. The Hindi version of Mohanlal’s Vrusshabha has been released in only three cinemas in Mumbai. The same goes for the new Marathi release, Gotya Gangster. Vande Bharat Via USA has managed to get a decent number of screens in Gujarat, but this Gujarati film, starring a popular actor like Malhar Thakkar, could have got more shows had it come on some other date. This has made the trade wonder – like Ikkis, why weren’t these regional films postponed?

As for holdover releases, the scenario is shocking. Kapil Sharma’s Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 has underperformed but was getting audiences steadily. Yet, from December 25, it will play only in the 105-seater of Gaiety-Galaxy called Gossip. A trade insider said, “The film ran house full yesterday in the night show at Inox R City Ghatkopar. We understand that cinemas are struggling in accommodating two 3 hour plus films like Dhurandhar and Avatar: Fire And Ash along with Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri. But the way this film got a raw deal in Week 2 is plain disappointing, especially when it has received appreciation.”

Tere Ishk Mein, too, has suffered, and is currently shown only in 2 cinemas of Mumbai.

However, Avatar: Fire And Ash has managed to stand in front of Dhurandhar. Despite underperformance, it has found an audience. As of 10:00 pm on December 24, it sold 86,000 tickets for Christmas Day in the national chains, which is praiseworthy.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: In a RARE development, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri front-row seats priced HIGHER than back rows at PVR Oberoi Mall, Goregaon and yet SOLD OUT

Ranbir Kapoor and Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal is returning to theatres in a new market two years after its original release, with a Japanese release date now confirmed. The makers announced that the action drama will open in cinemas across Japan on February 13, 2026.

Production house Bhadrakali Films shared a specially designed poster for the Japanese audience on X (formerly Twitter), featuring Ranbir Kapoor’s intense portrayal of Ranvijay Singh, alongside a Japanese tagline that translates to “This man cannot be stopped.” The announcement highlighted the film as a memorable cinematic experience beyond its initial home market.

この男は誰にも止められない。🔥 Kono otoko wa Darenimo Tomerarenai🔥 The most talked-about, debated, and unforgettable cinematic experience is coming to Japan.🪓

Animal releases in Japanese theatres on February 13, 2026. 🇯🇵🇮🇳#Animal #AnimalinJapan #AnimalTheFilm #RanbirKapoor… pic.twitter.com/0ppdkqtd0W

— Bhadrakali Pictures (@VangaPictures) December 24, 2025

Animal was originally released in India in December 2023 and became a significant commercial success. It earned around Rs 553 crores net domestically and approximately Rs 915 crores worldwide, finishing its initial run among the top-grossing Indian films of all time.

With the Japanese release, the film now has an opportunity to push its worldwide total closer to, or beyond, the Rs 1000 crores mark. This benchmark has taken on added significance as Dhurandhar—the Ranveer Singh–led thriller directed by Aditya Dhar—has overtaken Animal’s global tally and is expected to finish its run between Rs 1000 crores and Rs 1100 crores globally.

Indian films have shown promising returns in Japan in recent years. RRR reportedly grossed over ¥2.4 billion (about Rs 150 crores) there, while KGF: Chapter 2 also delivered strong box office returns. If Animal replicates similar performance, it could significantly bolster its global revenue.

Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Animal features Ranbir Kapoor alongside Rashmika Mandanna, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol and Triptii Dimri in pivotal roles. Though commercially successful, the film drew debate for its depiction of violence and themes critics labeled as problematic. Supporters, including the director, maintained that those elements were intentional aspects of creative expression.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: “Single Papa is a vital balance to films like Animal, Kabir Singh and Dhurandhar,” says Ankur Rathee