The proposed visit of Sunny Leone to the holy city of Mathura has been cancelled following strong opposition from religious organisations over a planned New Year programme. The actress was reportedly scheduled to attend a private New Year event at a hotel in Mathura. The event was called off after the protests.

Reacting on behalf of his wife, Sunny Leone’s husband Daniel Weber said, “First off, it’s not a New Year’s show. Her New Year’s show is in Hyderabad. Everyone knows. And it’s publicized everywhere. She’s had a show almost every day for the last five, six days, seven days.”

Daniel feels the couple is needlessly made to prove their allegiance to India. “Sunny and I are in India for sixteen years. That is a very good portion of our lives. We have been, I believe, good citizens. We’ve done plenty of good deeds from the goodness of our heart because we like to give back to a country that has given us so much. So, I do find it amazing that there is still a group, be it whatever group it is, that protests that Sunny is coming somewhere.”

Daniel feels Sunny’s presence in any city brings positivity. “When she visits a city, it brings revenue, brings business, brings eyeballs, and it brings, you know, it is not bringing anything bad. It is bringing entertainment. And I believe that we should celebrate that. And I do find it very strange that 16 years later, that we are still facing something like this. We haven’t faced something like this in a long time. So I’m very surprised.”

Daniel hopes to be invited to Mathura someday. “I hope that they do one-day invite us back and realize that that was a wrong decision. I do believe it’s a wrong decision. But we will respect it and let them do what they want to do. And we will go somewhere else and have great entertainment somewhere else and enjoy and provide wonderful entertainment for another city and another place. And they will enjoy it. And we will all have a wonderful year. God bless everyone.”

Also Read: Sunny Leone shares video of woodwork session with kids, Daniel Weber calls it “the best”

Ananya Panday has once again found herself at the centre of industry chatter, this time for a mysterious new shoot that has set fashion and luxury circles abuzz. While no official announcement has been made, sources close to the actress suggest that something significant may be brewing behind the scenes.

“There's growing intrigue around Ananya Panday's latest hush-hush shoot, with industry insiders hinting that she may be fronting a major new collaboration with a leading jewellery brand. Those close to the production describe the mood as distinctly ‘elevated and modern,’ featuring sleek lighting, reflective surfaces, and intimate, beauty-led close-ups—an aesthetic departure from Ananya's recent brand outings,” a source revealed.

The visual language of the shoot, coupled with tight confidentiality around the project, has only fuelled curiosity. According to insiders, the styling and overall mood appear to signal a more luxe, contemporary direction, sparking conversations about whether this could mark a defining moment in Ananya’s brand journey.

“While the team involved has remained tight-lipped, subtle styling cues and early behind-the-scenes whispers have sparked speculation within fashion and luxury circles. Some believe this could be her biggest jewellery partnership yet, possibly tied to a new-age collection aimed at younger audiences or maybe miss Pandey is launching her own brand!!?? Is this AP's latest bait to attract the Gen Z audience and jewellery divas. Well only time can tell!” the source added.

Though speculation is rife, those close to the development stress that nothing has been formally confirmed. However, the buzz surrounding the project has already ensured that all eyes are firmly on Ananya, with many keen to see whether this mystery shoot translates into a major luxury association or an entrepreneurial leap.

On the film front, Ananya Panday was recently seen reuniting with Kartik Aaryan in Tu Mera Main Teri Main Teri Tu Mera, which hit theatres on December 25. Looking ahead, the actress has Chand Mera Dil lined up alongside Lakshya and is also set to return as Bella in Call Me Bae 2. In addition, she is reportedly juggling a few unannounced projects, further underlining her busy slate.

Whether it’s a high-profile jewellery collaboration or something entirely unexpected, Ananya Panday’s latest move has undeniably captured industry attention, making it one of the most closely watched developments in the fashion and entertainment space right now.

Also Read: Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri gets prestigious screening at Rashtrapati Bhavan

2026 will begin on a patriotic and emotional note, thanks to Ikkis. It tells the story of Arun Khetarpal, who, at 21, became the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra for the bravery he showed during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. It was originally scheduled for a release on December 25 and was pushed to January 1. With the Christmas release in mind, the makers of Ikkis completed the censor process on time. In this article, Bollywood Hungama will exclusively focus on this aspect.

To begin with, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) asked the makers to suitably modify the opening disclaimer and include the acknowledgement for Poona Horse Regiment, Colonel Hanuth Singh and the tank crew. The same was also to be communicated in a voiceover. This was followed by photographs of warriors and an introductory voiceover about Arun’s tank crew.

In the end credits, the makers were also asked to add a text with a voiceover. They also suitably modified the credits and added a full iconic image of a Lt. General as per the suggestion of a defence expert.

Due to the genre and realism of the subject, the makers submitted a consent letter from a member of the Khetarpal family and also proper documents for scenes based on true events.

Now, coming to the cuts. In the second half of the film, the name of a tank was asked to be deleted. Lastly, a 15-second dialogue about India-Pakistan relations was asked to be deleted. The CBFC members also asked the makers to blur the alcohol brand name and add anti-smoking static.

Once these changes were made, Ikkis was passed with a U/A 13+ certificate on December 15. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 147.15 minutes. In other words, Ikkis is 2 hours, 27 minutes and 15 seconds long.

Ikkis stars Agastya Nanda, Jaideep Ahlawat, newcomer Simar Bhatia and the late Dharmendra.

Also Read:  “Ikkis is 100 times of what we see in the trailer”: Arun Khetarpal’s brother gets emotional after special screening

The much‑anticipated fifth instalment of the Golmaal franchise is shaping up to be a fresh and bold entry in the popular comedy series, with new elements including a fantasy‑inspired tone and a female antagonist. Directed by Rohit Shetty, the upcoming film marks a new creative direction for the long‑running ensemble franchise that began with Golmaal: Fun Unlimited in 2006.

According to a report by PTI, Golmaal 5 will bring back the familiar team of mischief‑prone characters led by Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade and Kunal Khemu, with Sharman Joshi rejoining the cast this time — reviving a connection to the original film.

An insider told the news agency that the new chapter is more than just another comedic romp: “The fifth part is going to be a fantasy comedy.” This suggests that the film will blend the franchise’s signature humour with elements of fantasy or surreal storytelling, potentially raising the stakes beyond the prank‑filled situational comedy of earlier editions.

One of the biggest twists in Golmaal 5 is the plan to introduce the franchise’s first female villain. While casting discussions are reportedly still underway, makers have chosen to write the story in a way that places a woman in the negative role — breaking new ground for the series. “This story was written in a manner that the negative character is (played by) a woman,” the insider explained.

Alongside the core cast, familiar supporting actors such as Johnny Lever, Ashwini Kaleshkar, Mukesh Tiwari and Sanjay Mishra are also expected to return, ensuring that the distinctive comic flavour of the series is preserved.

Over nearly two decades, the Golmaal franchise has built a reputation for chaotic humour and quirky characters who find themselves in absurd situations. With Golmaal 5, the shift toward fantasy could broaden the film’s visual and narrative palette while keeping its heart in the same mischief‑driven comedy that audiences have enjoyed.

Also Read: BREAKING: Rohit Shetty features in a rocking cameo in Ajay Devgn-starrer Son Of Sardaar 2; has a Golmaal 5 connection

Saif Ali Khan has never shied away from speaking about his love for literature, and in a recent conversation with Esquire India, the actor offered rare insight into the books that have left a lasting impact on him—stories that are poetic, emotional, and deeply reflective of society and history.

Speaking about a novel that struck a particularly strong chord, Saif revealed that Black River by Nilanjana Roy is among his most cherished reads. Describing it as far more than a conventional crime novel, he said, “It’s kind of a police procedural murder mystery, but it’s also really emotional and kind of moving about the murder of a very young little girl.” The actor added that the story resonated with him so deeply that he went on to acquire the rights to the book.

“I love the story so much that I bought the rights to the book and we're trying to make a movie out of it,” Saif shared, while acknowledging that the adaptation process is taking time. He described the novel as “lyrical,” “dramatic,” and “really poetic, beautiful,” noting that its emotional weight extends beyond the mystery. Quoting the book’s description, he added, “It’s kind of like an ode to an India that might not exist anymore… quite an emotional piece as well.”

Saif also spoke about his fondness for ghost stories, particularly those rooted in strong literary tradition. One of his favourites is Japanese Ghost Stories by Lafcadio Hearn. Reflecting on the author’s life and writing, Saif said, “I love very well-written ghost stories,” before elaborating on Hearn’s journey from Ireland to Japan and his deep immersion in Japanese culture.

“He would retell famous Japanese ghost stories, but in this amazing, amazing poetic prose,” Saif noted, calling the collection one of his favourite books. For him, the appeal lies not just in the supernatural elements but in the emotional depth and literary elegance with which these stories are told.

Another book that left a strong impression on the actor is Pandora’s Jar by Natalie Haynes, which offers a feminist reinterpretation of women in Greek mythology. Saif described it as “a kind of feminist take on all the famous women in Greek myth and history,” including figures like Medusa, who have long been portrayed as monstrous through a male-centric lens.

Discussing Medusa in particular, Saif said, “She was a beautiful girl, and she was raped in this temple. And then she was punished for being raped in the temple… And she's viewed as a monster.” He added that this reframing of mythological narratives made a deep impact on him, concluding, “I've always felt something for her.”

Through these choices, Saif Ali Khan’s reading list reveals a clear pattern—stories that challenge dominant narratives, explore emotional truths, and offer layered perspectives on culture, history, and humanity.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan reveals why Priyadarshan’s Haiwaan gave him one of his most rewarding acting experiences: “There was something to perform every day”

A couple of days ago, producer Kumar Mangat Pathak spoke about his bad experience with Akshaye Khanna, which eventually led to the latter replaced by Jaideep Ahlawat in Drishyam 3, in an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama. Now, writer-director Manish Gupta has spoken about his experience with Khanna while working on Section 375.

Akshaye Khanna worked with you in Section 375. What was that experience like? In 2017, Akshaye signed my film Section 375 with me as director-writer and Kumar Mangat as producer. His fee was fixed at Rs. 2 crores. He took an advance of Rs. 21 lakhs, and he signed a contract with us. But suddenly, he gave away the dates he’d committed to us to another movie The Accidental Prime Minister and he flew off to London to shoot that movie, leaving me and my crew waiting idle for six months!

He left you stranded for six months? That’s right. Then, after finishing that movie, Akshaye came back and started demanding Rs. 3.25 crores. instead of the Rs. 2 crores signed by him in the contract. His thus breached his contract. Akshaye’s unreasonable demands did not end here.

What were his other demands? He wanted to fully control the film and wanted everything done his way. But I am not the sort of director who gives in to the whims of any actor. I stood up to Akshaye’s unreasonable behaviour. But sadly, in Bollywood, most directors bend to every wish of the actor.

That is true. Akshaye was just following the A-listers who direct the director Since it was hurting Akshaye’s ego to take orders from an authoritarian director like me, he started pestering the producer Kumar Mangat to remove me as the director of the film and give the entire control of the film to him (Akshaye) instead.

But the film has Ajay Bahl’s name as director? Producer Kumar Mangat, instead of disciplining the actor’s unreasonable behaviour, instead made me a scapegoat and removed me as the director while seizing my fully-written bound script and the hard drive containing my three years of hard work on the pre-production.

Didn’t you take them to court? I warned Akshaye that I would drag him to court, and I sent two legal notices to producer Kumar Mangat. My lawyers Naik Naik & Co. were filing a case at Bombay High Court against both of them, but Kumar Mangat promptly did an out-of-court settlement with me. Today, ironically when producer Kumar Mangat is facing the brunt of Akshaye’s unethical behaviour in an Ajay Devgan starrer film Drishyam 3, Mangat has taken legal action against Akshaye.

Do you feel, like I do, that Akshaye Khanna’s performance in Dhurandhar is over-hyped? Akshaye is no doubt a brilliant actor. I am only pointing out his lack of ethics. Akshaye’s comeback film after a decade of anonymity was my film Section 375 but this is how he repaid me for giving him such a beautiful script. Anyway, Section 375’s credits carry my name as the solo writer of the ‘story, screenplay and dialogues’. So, the world knows that the film was solely my vision.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Kumar Mangat Pathak CONFIRMS Jaideep Ahlawat’s entry in Drishyam 3: “We have got a BETTER actor than Akshaye Khanna and most importantly, we have got a better person than Akshaye”

Recent reports suggesting that Zee TV is gearing up to launch a new show titled Pavitra Rishta have sparked controversy, with producer Ektaa R Kapoor openly expressing her displeasure over the use of the iconic name. While the original Pavitra Rishta remains deeply associated with Ankita Lokhande and the late Sushant Singh Rajput, who played Archana and Manav Deshmukh respectively, industry buzz indicates that the upcoming show will be a completely new story and not connected to the 2009 television classic.

Ektaa R Kapoor, who produced the original series under her banner Balaji Telefilms, took to social media to call out the makers for reusing the title. In a strongly worded post, she wrote, “When u can’t create an IP u feed on an established one of another creator!” She went on to further criticise the move, adding, “Terrible ethics or intellectual bankruptcy!!! Or both!!! Nothing Pavitra about it!!!”

The post quickly caught attention online. The producer revealed that she viewed this as an attempt to capitalise on the legacy of a beloved show. Pavitra Rishta, originally aired in 2009, went on to become one of Indian television’s most iconic dramas.

According to reports, the new - upcoming Zee TV show is expected to star Abrar Qazi, known for his work in Yeh Hai Chahatein, and Priyanshi Yadav, who played the female lead in shows like Pandya Store and Doree. The show is said to be helmed by Siddharttha Vankara and is reportedly a love story featuring an ensemble cast that includes Pallavi Pradhan and Roopa Divetia.

Further talking about the new Pavitra Rishta, it is slated to premiere on television in February. Meanwhile, the backlash surrounding the title has already stirred debate within industry circles and among audiences, many of whom continue to associate the name exclusively with Ektaa R Kapoor’s original creation.

However, while the makers of the new show have yet to issue an official statement addressing Ektaa Kapoor’s objections, the controversy has reignited discussions around intellectual property, originality and the ethics of reusing established titles in Indian television.

Also Read: Harshvardhan Rane to lead Ektaa R. Kapoor’s Shootout in Dubai: Report

After Chandu Champion, Kartik Aaryan and Kabir Khan are all set to reunite for the second time. According to reliable sources, Kartik and Kabir's next is a sports-adventure film set against the backdrop of Kashmir. "Kartik and Kabir are teaming up for what could be a game-changer in the genre. It's a one of its kind sports adventure with a high production budget. Kartik will be undergoing rigorous training for the film, and is committed to start shooting from the month of February 2026."

The film will be shot at real locations all across the globe and aims for a 2027 release. "Kabir is aiming to shoot the film from February to October 2026 at multiple locations, and Kartik will undergo physical transformation for his part. He dives into this new age commercial film right after wrapping up Nagzilla for Dharma Productions," a source told Bollywood Hungama

Kartik is currently reading multiple scripts and is also looking to start work on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4 in the second half of 2026. He was in talks with Luv Ranjan too for a feature film. "After Nagzilla and Kabir Khan's next, Kartik is keen to start shooting for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4 with Anees Bazmee. He is also expected to finish shooting for the remaining portions of Anurag Basu's next in 2026."

The Kartik Aaryan - Kabir Khan film will be produced by Applause Entertainment.

Also Read: Kabir Khan and Kartik Aaryan to reunite for a mega-budget sports-based action movie after Chandu Champion

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is all set to pull off one of the greatest casting coup of the modern era with his next directorial, Love And War, which brings together Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal for the first time. The film went on floors in November 2024 and was slated to arrive in December 2025. However, it has been stuck in the cycle of delays over the years.

The makers then announced an Eid 2026 release, but it seems that the March deadline too has been missed, as now, we have an exclusive update on the revised shoot schedule of this SLB film. Reliable sources have confirmed that Sanjay Leela Bhansali has extended the shoot schedule of Love And War to May 2026. A source informed Bollywood Hungama, "Ranbir, Alia and Vicky have blocked their calendars till May 2026 now. All their prior commitments stand delayed due to the increase in shoot days for Love And War."

As reported by Bollywood Hungama before, Ranbir had requested SLB to release Love & War in the month of June 2026, but the same stands invalid now. "There's no way for Love & War to release in June. Bhansali is now making an attempt to bring it on the big screen in August or September 2026. A date will be decided shortly. This has left some of the members of the Ramayana team disappointed, as they were hoping for a gap of at least 6 months between Love & War and Ramayana. The delay in shoots has also resulted in an increase of budgets for Love & War."

Buzz indicates that the date of Love & War will be announced in January, with the first look of all actors.

Also Read: SCOOP: Ranbir Kapoor’s special request to Sanjay Leela Bhansali; release Love And War in June 2026

PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema exhibitor, celebrates the legacy of one of India’s greatest filmmakers, Satyajit Ray, with the re-release of Aranyer Din Ratri in select cities on January 9, 2026. Widely regarded as the film that firmly established Satyajit Ray among the masters of world cinema, Aranyer Din Ratri follows four brash young men from the city who set off on a carefree trip to the forests of Jharkhand to escape their monotonous urban lives—only to find their assumptions about life, love, privilege, and identity deeply challenged. Revelatory in its nuanced exploration of identity politics and class, the film features stellar performances by Soumitra Chatterjee, Sharmila Tagore, Aparna Sen, and Simi Garewal. Beautifully shot and anchored by a remarkable ensemble cast, Aranyer Din Ratri remains a timeless and profoundly resonant cinematic experience.

An adaptation of Sunil Gangopadhyay’s novel of the same name and originally released over 55 years ago, Aranyer Din Ratri is a layered exploration of gender, class, complex human emotions, and moral ambiguity, offering a searing commentary on social structures that remains strikingly relevant. Talking about the re-release Niharika Bijli, Lead Strategist, PVR INOX Ltd., said: “Re-releasing Aranyer Din Ratri is a privilege, and it excites us immensely that people will get to watch this gorgeous film on the big screen. At PVR INOX, we believe cinema is a living archive of our cultural memory, and Satyajit Ray’s films continue to speak powerfully across generations. Bringing this timeless classic back to the big screen is our way of honouring his legacy while inviting younger audiences to experience the depth, relevance, and sheer cinematic brilliance of his storytelling.”

The re-release of Aranyer Din Ratri is part of PVR INOX’s ongoing initiative to honour exceptional talents and landmark films from India and around the world. By bringing timeless films back to the big screen, PVR INOX not only revives the magic of great cinema but also creates a rare opportunity—for a new generation to discover these cinematic masterpieces and for the generation that grew up with them to relive their nostalgia and charm.

The film is being re-released in association with Piyali Films, which holds the theatrical rights to Aranyer Din Ratri. Booking details and theatre listings will be available soon on the official PVR INOX app and website.

Also Read: Sharmila Tagore on Aranyer Din Ratri at Cannes; reveals, “Satyajit Ray did everything himself”

The anticipation around Drishyam 3 has entered an exciting new phase as Jaideep Ahlawat officially joins the franchise as the film moves from the Mumbai schedule to a crucial leg in Goa. Known for his intense screen presence and nuanced performances, Jaideep Ahlawat’s addition brings a compelling new energy to the Drishyam universe, promising a fresh and unpredictable dynamic as the story unfolds.

Filming in Goa is set to commence from January 8, 2026, with the schedule expected to continue till the end of February.

The entire cast will be part of the Goa schedule with Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran and Rajat Kapoor returning for this edge-of-the-seat family thriller.

Will Vijay Salgaonkar outwit the system once again, or will the future hold consequences beyond imagination? Audiences will discover the answers on Drishyam Day.

Presented by Star Studio18, the Panorama Studios production is directed by Abhishek Pathak and written by Abhishek Pathak, Aamil Keeyan Khan and Parveez Shaikh. Produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak, Drishyam 3 is all set to release theatrically on October 2, 2026.

Also Read:EXCLUSIVE: Kumar Mangat Pathak CONFIRMS Jaideep Ahlawat’s entry in Drishyam 3: “We have got a BETTER actor than Akshaye Khanna and most importantly, we have got a better person than Akshaye” 

Actor Kriti Kharbanda has alerted fans and followers to a case of identity theft after discovering that an unknown individual has been impersonating her on WhatsApp. Taking to Instagram, the actor shared details of the incident and urged people to remain cautious and verify information before responding to messages claiming to be from her.

Kriti posted a screenshot of the suspicious WhatsApp chat on her Instagram Stories, clarifying that the number in question does not belong to her. “Not ok. Not cool. Not my number. Pretending to be someone you're not is a clear case of identity theft. Be warned,” she wrote, making it clear that any communication from the said number should be treated as fraudulent.

The actor’s public warning comes amid a growing number of impersonation and cyber fraud cases targeting celebrities and public figures, often with the intent to mislead fans or solicit money and personal information. By flagging the issue promptly, Kriti aimed to prevent potential misuse of her identity and protect her followers from falling prey to scams.

Fans responded swiftly to her post, thanking her for the clarification and expressing concern over the increasing misuse of social media and messaging platforms. Several users also urged stricter action against online impersonation and stronger safeguards on digital platforms.

While Kriti Kharbanda did not confirm whether a formal complaint has been filed, her message serves as a reminder to remain vigilant online. Cyber experts advise users to verify their accounts, avoid sharing personal or financial details, and report suspicious activity directly to the platform's authorities.

Kriti Kharbanda, known for her work in Hindi and Kannada cinema, continues to be active on social media, where she frequently engages with fans. Her latest post underscores the importance of digital awareness and responsible online behaviour in an era of rising cybercrime.

Also Read: Kriti Kharbanda talks about the late-night drive that made her fall for Pulkit Samrat all over again: “I call him Annapurna”