Recent media reports suggesting that Aditya Roy Kapur was in talks for Mohit Suri’s next directorial and later opted out have now been firmly denied. The speculation sparked curiosity but sources close to the actor have clarified that the reports are inaccurate and based on incorrect assumptions.

According to a source close to Aditya Roy Kapur, there were no discussions or casting conversations between the actor and the filmmaker. “A lot has been written about Aditya being in talks for Mohit’s film, but the truth is far simpler — there were no discussions or casting offers made. So, the question of him opting out doesn’t arise,” the source stated.

Aditya Roy Kapur himself also addressed the rumours, brushing them off with humour. When contacted, the actor said with a smile, “The report isn’t true. Mohit and I have only been meeting to play cricket, not to discuss a film!”

The rumours had gained traction as reports indicated that an untitled project was being developed with Mohit Suri at the helm and Aditya Roy Kapur being considered as the leading man. While the project was said to be in its early stages, the screenplay was expected to be under development with casting decisions reportedly expected to be taken only at a later point. However, no further details on the film were being revealed.

Meanwhile, buzz about a potential collaboration between Mohit Suri and Aditya Roy Kapur had naturally generated interest considering that the duo has previously worked together on Malang in 2020. It had showcased Aditya in a darker, more intense avatar. Even earlier, Suri directed Aditya in Aashiqui 2 (2013), a blockbuster that went on to become a cultural phenomenon, remembered for its soulful music and emotionally charged performances.

Meanwhile, Mohit Suri’s most recent outing, Saiyaara, turned out to be a record-breaking success. The film marked the debut of Ahaan Panday and featured Aneet Padda as the leading lady, with their on-screen chemistry becoming a major talking point.

For now, while speculation around future projects continues, Aditya Roy Kapur has made it clear that there is no truth to reports of him opting out of Mohit Suri’s film, setting the record straight once and for all.

Also Read: Photos: Vicky Kaushal, Raghav Juyal, Ishaan Khatter, Aditya Roy Kapur and Vishal Jethwa snapped at a pre-Christmas party

Bollywood actor Shraddha Kapoor is gearing up for a packed and varied year in her film career, with back-to-back projects lined up for 2026. After completing work on the biographical drama Eetha, she is set to begin shooting the much-anticipated fantasy film Naagin in April.

Final Stretch of Eetha Production

Kapoor is currently in the final phase of filming Eetha, directed by Laxman Utekar, in which she portrays legendary Tamasha and Lavani performer Vithabai Narayangaonkar. The role has demanded intense physical preparation and emotional depth, with the actress undergoing months of training.

A production source told Mid-Day: “Shraddha has been deeply invested in Eetha. The role is physically gruelling and emotionally intense, but she is keen to finish the film within the schedule. The makers are confident of wrapping by March.”

The shoot experienced a brief pause after Kapoor sustained an injury during a dance sequence, but insiders say this did not significantly derail the schedule.

Shraddha Kapoor’s Transition to Naagin

Immediately after completing Eetha, Kapoor will switch genres and begin work on Naagin, a high-concept fantasy film slated to go on floors in April 2026. According to the report, the project has been in development for some time, with efforts focused on finalising visual design and casting ahead of principal photography.

The report quoted a production insider saying: “Naagin has been in development for a long time, and the team wanted to get everything right — from the VFX design to the casting. With Shraddha locked in, the rest of the cast has fallen into place. The plan is to start shooting by April.”

The film is expected to explore supernatural and mythological themes, marking a distinct shift from Kapoor’s recent performance-driven role in Eetha.

Also Read: Shraddha Kapoor slams “negative PR and manufactured controversies” around Dhurandhar; urges Aditya Dhar to prepone sequel

Farhad Samji is known for directing mass-appealing and often comical films like Bachchhan Paandey (2022), Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan (2023), Housefull 4 (2019), etc. and writing (along with brother Sajid) memorable films like Singham (2011), Bol Bachchan (2012), Housefull 2 (2012), Chennai Express (2013), etc. However, with his next project, he is all set to switch genres. It has come to light that Farhad has written a film on Senior Inspector Subhash Shinde who contributed to cricket.

The film in question is an adaptation of the book 'Safed Khaki' written by Atharwa Shinde, daughter of Subhash Shinde. In an interview to Mid-Day in November 2025, she revealed that Nishikant Kamat of Mumbai Meri Jaan (2008) and Drishyam (2015) fame was impressed by the story and wanted to make a film at one point. But the project was stalled after his demise in 2020.

But later, Farhad Samji came on board and he, along with Piyush Singh, has now written the screenplay and dialogues. Atharwa told Mid-Day, “I feel immense joy and deep gratitude that Farhad Samji is writing the screenplay and dialogues for my story.”

Moreover, Nitin Ramesh Tendulkar, elder brother of Sachin Tendulkar and a respected lyricist in Marathi cinema, will pen the songs of the film.

About Subhash Shinde

As per the Mid-Day article, Subhash Shinde spent over four decades with the Maharashtra Police, mostly in the Crime Branch. In his younger days, he also trained under the Bombay Cricket Association–Mafatlal Bowling Scheme, which began in 1990. On November 11, 2011, he built a police cricket team from scratch in Navi Mumbai Rural. Few expected much from it, but the team went on to win several tournaments on the MCA (Mumbai Cricket Association) and state circuits, including the Times Shield, Government Shield, DY Patil Tournament, Kanga League, Kurla Bapat Tournament, Thane Vaibhav Tournament, and many other MCA-affiliated office and corporate events.

Also Read: SCOOP: Farhad Samji is still a part of Akshay Kumar-starrer Hera Pheri 3; all set to direct the much-awaited comic caper

Kalyani Priyadarshan may soon be stepping into Bollywood, if recent industry buzz is anything to go by. According to a report by 123 Telugu, the actress is expected to make her Hindi film debut opposite Ranveer Singh in his upcoming project Pralay, which is also said to mark the actor’s debut as a co-producer under his banner, Maa Kasam Films.

For a while now, speculation was rife that Alia Bhatt might reunite with Ranveer Singh for their third film together after Gully Boy and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. However, the latest reports indicate that the makers have instead locked Kalyani Priyadarshan as the leading lady. While no official announcement has been made so far, filmmaker Jai Mehta has reportedly finalised the actress for the role.

Pralay will mark the solo directorial debut of Jai Mehta, son of acclaimed filmmaker Hansal Mehta. Jai previously assisted his father on the highly successful series Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story and has since been keen to helm a feature film of his own. If reports are to be believed, pre-production work on the untitled project is expected to begin in April, with the film likely to go on floors between July and August.

Although the makers are keeping the storyline under tight wraps, the film is said to be set in a futuristic world and will revolve around a kind of zombie apocalypse. The narrative reportedly explores the downfall of Mumbai, with AI-driven sets forming a crucial part of the film’s visual landscape. A grim atmosphere featuring decay, abandoned spaces and desolation is expected to play a key role in establishing the tone and world of the story.

Kalyani Priyadarshan, meanwhile, had a strong 2025 with Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, which received positive responses across the country. In the film, produced by Dulquer Salmaan, she portrayed India’s first female superhero, a performance that earned her considerable appreciation and further expanded her Pan-Indian appeal.

Ranveer Singh, on the other hand, is currently enjoying the continued praise for Dhurandhar and is also gearing up for the release of its second instalment, scheduled to hit screens on March 19 this year. If the reports around Pralay hold true, the film could mark an interesting new chapter for both Ranveer and Kalyani, bringing together a fresh pairing in a genre rarely explored in mainstream Hindi cinema.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan’s Bhooth Bangla release date postponed in anticipation of the Dhurandhar 2 wave; new date to be announced shortly

After weeks of speculation surrounding their marriage, popular television actors Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij have officially confirmed that they are going their separate ways. The couple, who tied the knot in 2011 and share three children, addressed the ongoing rumours by issuing a detailed and heartfelt note on social media, putting an end to conjecture around their relationship status.

Taking to their Instagram Stories, Jay and Mahhi clarified that while they have decided to part ways as partners, they will continue to remain united as co-parents. Stressing that their decision is rooted in peace, maturity and mutual understanding, the duo urged fans and the media to refrain from attaching negativity or assigning blame to their separation.

“Today, we choose to part ways on a journey called life, yet we continue to have each other's back. Peace, growth, kindness, and humanity have always been our guiding values. For the sake of our children Tara, Khushi, Rajveer, we commit to being the best parents, the best friends, and whatever else it takes to do what is right for them,” read a part of their statement.

They further added, “Though we walk separate paths, there is no villain in this story and no negativity attached to this decision. Before any conclusions are drawn, please know that we choose peace over drama and sanity above all else. We continue to respect one another, support one another, and remain friends, as we always have been. With mutual respect, we ask for your respect, love, and kindness as we move forward.”

Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij have long been regarded as one of television’s most admired couples. Over the years, they have frequently spoken about family and togetherness, often sharing glimpses of their personal life with fans. The couple are parents to Tara, their biological daughter born in 2019, and Khushi and Rajveer, whom they raised and supported from a very young age.

Professionally, Jay remains one of Indian television’s most recognisable and loved reality show hosts, having fronted several high-profile programs. Mahhi, on the other hand, is widely known for her impactful performances in popular shows such as Laagi Tujhse Lagan and Balika Vadhu.

While the confirmation of their separation marks the end of a significant chapter, Jay and Mahhi’s statement makes it clear that their priority remains their children and maintaining a respectful bond moving forward.

Also Read: Photos: Celebs snapped attending Mahi Vij and Jay Bhanushali’s daughter Tara’s birthday party

The 50, India’s upcoming large-scale reality show, is already sparking curiosity as it gears up for its premiere on 1st February. Produced by Banijay Asia, the show is a successful global reality franchise that has come to India after making waves internationally. Streaming soon on JioHotstar and Colors, The 50 promises a bold new format set to disrupt the Indian reality TV playbook.

At the centre of the intrigue is Farah Khan, who reacts to The 50 and its enigmatic host, The Lion, in her trademark witty, candid, and unfiltered style. The film opens with Farah pointing at a towering flex that declares, “Badalne waali hai reality shows ki reality,” prompting her to question why she hasn’t been called for what’s being touted as India’s biggest reality show. What follows is a sharp, playful exchange that sets the tone for the show’s bold ambition and disruptive spirit.

Speaking about the show, Farah Khan says, “Reality shows in India have followed a certain pattern for years, and finally The 50 is coming in to shake that up. The scale is massive, the number of people is unprecedented, and the constant pressure leaves no room for comfort. That’s exactly what makes it exciting—it’s intense, unpredictable, and a wild ride from start to finish. Comfort zone jaisi cheez yahaan exist hi nahi karti. Having seen and judged almost every kind of reality format, I genuinely believe The 50 will change the way audiences look at reality television."

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With its unprecedented scale, high-pressure gameplay, and a format that breaks away from familiar reality conventions, The 50 is positioning itself as a game-changer in the genre. Farah Khan’s reaction serves as the perfect entry point into this new world, one that promises intensity, unpredictability, and constant twists for both players and viewers alike. As anticipation builds, The 50 is set to usher in a new era of reality entertainment when it premieres soon on JioHotstar and Colors.

Also Read: Sajid Khan undergoes surgery after on-set foot injury, confirms Farah Khan; shares health update

Raaj Kamal Films International has officially announced the director of Thalaivar 173, the highly anticipated film starring Superstar Rajinikanth. The project will be directed by Cibi Chakaravarthi and produced by Kamal Haasan and R. Mahendran under the banner of Raaj Kamal Films International.

The announcement confirms that Thalaivar 173 will feature music composed by Anirudh, marking yet another high-profile collaboration between the composer and Rajinikanth. With this update, the makers have put to rest speculation surrounding the film’s creative leadership and have formally locked its core team.

According to the official statement, filming is set to begin shortly, while further details regarding the cast, technical crew, and production schedule will be revealed at a later stage. The makers have chosen to keep additional information under wraps for now, adding to the anticipation surrounding the project.

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Thalaivar 173 is slated for a grand theatrical release during Pongal 2027, positioning it as a major festive release. With Rajinikanth in the lead, Kamal Haasan backing the project as producer, and Cibi Chakaravarthi at the helm, the film is already shaping up to be one of the most closely watched Tamil releases on the horizon.

Also Read: Sundar C exits Thalaivar 173, Rajinikanth collaboration faces unexpected roadblock: “A difficult decision”

Zee Studios has announced the release date of its most ambitious and unconventional cinematic offering, Gandhi Talks, slated to hit theatres on January 30, 2026. Designed as a rare silent film in modern Indian cinema, Gandhi Talks stands as a bold creative leap where silence becomes the strongest form of storytelling.

At a time when cinema is often defined by scale and sound, Gandhi Talks chooses restraint, emotion, and stillness to communicate its message. The film brings together an extraordinary ensemble featuring Vijay Sethupathi, Arvind Swamy, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Siddharth Jadhav, all of whom have consciously stepped into a form of storytelling that relies purely on performance and expression.

For actors like Vijay Sethupathi and Arvind Swamy, the decision to headline a silent film reflects their unwavering belief in craft-driven cinema. Known for consistently choosing roles that challenge convention, their involvement underlines the film’s artistic integrity. Aditi Rao Hydari and Siddharth Jadhav further enrich the narrative with deeply nuanced, expression-led performances embracing vulnerability and emotion without the support of dialogue.

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Adding an exceptional layer to the film is A.R. Rahman’s music, which becomes the emotional voice of Gandhi Talks. In the absence of spoken words, Rahman’s score acts as the narrator, guiding the audience through the film’s emotional landscape. His music transforms silence into a powerful, immersive experience elevating the film to a global, festival-ready canvas.

Speaking about the vision behind the film, director Kishore Belekar shared, “Gandhi Talks is a film about trusting silence. As Indian cinema marks over a century of storytelling, we wanted to return to the medium’s most elemental form pure performance and emotion. The actors embraced that vulnerability completely, and A.R. Rahman’s score became the film’s voice. With Zee Studios’, Meera Chopra’s support, we were able to make a bold, honest piece of cinema.”

With Gandhi Talks, Zee Studios once again reinforces its commitment to supporting path breaking, prestigious storytelling films that challenge cinematic norms and expand the language of Indian cinema.

Set to release on January 30, 2026, Gandhi Talks promises to be a cinematic experience that speaks volumes without saying a word.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Gaurav Verma explains the INSIDE story on why Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan didn’t CLASH with any other film: “From the start, we were chasing Rs. 75 cr day 1…we called up Karan Johar, Zee Studios, Jailer makers…”

Veteran actor Anupam Kher marked a historic milestone in his career on January 3, 2026, as he commenced work on his 550th film, Khosla Ka Ghosla 2. Sharing the moment with his followers on social media, the actor reflected on his decades-long journey in Indian cinema, describing the achievement as one rooted in gratitude rather than finality.

In a heartfelt note, Kher revealed how an international director at the Cannes Film Festival had once dubbed him the “Marathon Man of Indian Cinema” upon learning about the sheer volume of his work. As he began filming the sequel in Delhi, the actor wrote, “So today as I start my 550th film #KhoslaKaGhosla2 my heart is filled with GRATITUDE and THANKFULNESS!”

Looking back at his early years, Kher recalled arriving in Mumbai on June 3, 1981, with little sense that such a landmark awaited him. “Never had I dreamt that I will reach this LANDMARK of 550 films,” he wrote, adding that despite the achievement, he feels far from done. “I have reached only the ‘interval point’ of my life and my career! Dreams have no EXPIRY date!”

The actor credited his longevity to optimism, perseverance, and hard work, while underlining the collective effort behind his survival in the industry. “My survival for all these years has only been possible because of the support I got from all my producers, directors, co-actors, technicians and above all YOU, my AUDIENCES!” Kher concluded the note with a message of gratitude and faith, signing off with “Jai Ho! Jai Hind! Om Namah Shivay!”

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What to Expect From Khosla Ka Ghosla 2 Khosla Ka Ghosla 2 serves as a sequel to the much-loved 2006 cult classic Khosla Ka Ghosla, in which Anupam Kher played the middle-class patriarch Kamal Kishore Khosla. Reportedly, the sequel is being directed by Umesh Bist, best known for Pagglait, and is expected to revisit the Khosla family with a contemporary lens while retaining the humour and emotional grounding of the original.

Also Read: Max Amini reflects on a life-changing India visit filled with acceptance, generosity and optimism: “There’s a magic here”; also speaks about his memorable meeting with Anupam Kher

The much-anticipated sequel to Vijay Deverakonda’s 2025 spy thriller Kingdom has officially been shelved, producer Naga Vamsi confirmed in a recent interview with Idlebrain. The decision comes after the first film’s lukewarm box-office performance, ending hopes of expanding the franchise.

Kingdom, directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri and starring Deverakonda as Suri — a constable-turned-spy — released in theatres in July 2025 with a narrative designed to leave room for future instalments. However, despite high expectations, the film failed to generate significant commercial traction.

When asked about the planned follow-up, Vamsi made it clear that Kingdom 2 is no longer in the cards. “No, we are not making it anymore,” he told entertainment portal Idlebrain, adding that he felt there was little value in re-hashing discussions about why the first film did not take off. “There is no point in talking about what happened because it’ll only hurt Gowtam. There’s nothing more to do now,” Vamsi stated, signaling a desire to move forward rather than dwell on setbacks.

Despite shelving the sequel, Vamsi affirmed that his working relationship with the director remains intact. “But yeah, we will collaborate with Gowtam. He is doing a different film now,” he said, hinting at new creative ventures beyond the Kingdom universe.

Meanwhile, Vijay Deverakonda — who had hoped Kingdom would be a career milestone after a few recent downturns at the box office — has other projects lined up, including the action film Rowdy Janardhana, directed by Ravi Kiran Kola, which is scheduled for release in 2026.

Also Read: Vijay Deverakonda celebrates New Year in Rome; fans spot Rashmika Mandanna in one of the pics

Although they have remained the best of friends over the years, Rani Mukerji and Akshay Kumar, believe it or not, have never worked together in any film so far. This is about to change. Rani Mukerji and Akshay Kumar are coming together for the first time in director Amit Rai’s OMG 3.

Apparently, Akshay, who played Lord Krishna in the first film titled OMG! Oh My God (2012) and Lord Shiva in OMG 2 (2023) will be cast as God again in part 3.

Right now, director Amit Rai is focusing on finishing and releasing a film called Dharma, which he shot with Pankaj Tripathi and Pavan Malhotra in Bihar. The film stars newcomers in the lead. It also features two hundred dogs.

Rai plunges into OMG 3 with Rani and Akshay as soon as Dharma is complete.

Also Read: OMG 3 in early development as Akshay Kumar, Amit Rai discuss ideas: Report

Sai Pallavi will have a promising 2026 as she’ll be seen in the highly awaited Ramayana. The VFX-heavy, star-studded film will release in cinemas on Diwali. However, this won’t be her Hindi debut. She’ll be introduced to the Hindi audience with Mere Raho, co-starring Junaid Khan. The film will finally be out in 2026. However, there’s been confusion and uncertainty in the trade about its release date.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Until recently, the makers had locked April 24 as the release date for Mere Raho. They felt that it would be an ideal time for the flick to hit cinemas. But now, there have been reports coming in that Mere Raho will be pushed to July 2026.”

Mid-Day recently reported about the July release of the film. The article carried a quote by a source who said, “July offers better leg room for a film like Mere Raho. It needs time, repeat value, and controlled screen density. The summer corridor allows the film to breathe without the noise that comes with the festive and holiday rush.”

Our source added, “The producer, Aamir Khan Productions, has been very secretive about the release date. It may be released on April 24, or it may not. But since the news of the July release has come to the fore, many have wondered if the film is being pushed due to Battle Of Galwan. The Salman Khan-starrer has been locked for release on April 17. May 1, meanwhile, will see Raja Shivaji and The Devil Wears Prada 2 arriving on the big screen. As a result, the makers may have thought of moving the film to a less-crowded window.”

Aamir Khan Productions’ Happy Patel Khatarnak Jasoos, written and acted by Vir Das, will hit the theatres on January 16. There is hope that Aamir would attach the first look teaser of Mere Raho with the prints of Happy Patel Khatarnak Jasoos.

About Mere Raho

Reportedly, Mere Raho is a remake of the Korean film One Day (2011). The love story was shot during the beautiful Snow Festival in the town of Sapporo, Japan and hence it promises to be a visual treat to the moviegoers. Images of Junaid and Sai in the Far East country got leaked during the Japan schedule, which took place in early 2024. The love story went on floors in December 2023 in Mumbai.

Last year, there were reports that Aamir Khan was planning to release the film on Valentine’s Day 2024. However, he decided to postpone the release after the makers of Junaid’s debut theatrical venture, Loveyapa, decided to bring the romcom on February 7. Mere Raho was then scheduled for a release on December 12 and now it’ll finally arrive in 2026.

Also Read:Junaid Khan-Sai Pallavi starrer Mere Raho release shifted to Summer 2026 amid crowded December line-up: Report