Actress Shweta Tripathi was recently seen performing Aarti and Puja at the sacred Ganga Ghat in Benaras during breaks from the shoot of Mirzapur: The Film. The serene moment was a deeply emotional one for the actress, who shares a long-standing and personal bond with the holy city. Benaras has always held a special place in Shweta’s heart, it’s where she filmed her debut film Masaan, and where her spiritual and professional journeys seem to intersect.

Reflecting on her connection with the city, Shweta shared, “Benaras… this city keeps calling me back. I’ve been coming here since the time of Masaan. My Nana studied at BHU, my mother wore a Benarasi lehenga for her wedding, in so many ways, this city is intertwined with my life. Even my trainer, Tridev Pandey, is from here. Mirzapur too has its roots in this region, and all of this makes Benaras feel like home to my heart. I love the food, the relaxed pace of life, the taste of kadak kulhad chai, and the simplicity of the people. These days, even the weather feels like it’s welcoming us with open arms.”

She further added, “The madness of Mirzapur is such that fans are constantly posting updates and pictures from our shoots across Benaras, it’s like getting live updates from our extended family! It’s not just the cast and crew anymore; the audience has become a part of our world too. Behind the scenes, there’s so much love, laughter, and beauty, it’s what keeps me motivated every single day. The family of Prime Video and Excel Entertainment has grown even bigger this time, and it truly feels like one big family now.”

With Mirzapur: The Film being one of the most awaited releases, Shweta’s emotional connection with Benaras adds a heartfelt layer to her journey, a perfect blend of nostalgia, devotion, and gratitude.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Sonal Chauhan to star in Mirzapur: The Film, her addition is expected to add another layer to the plot

Actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Suniel Shetty has hit a significant digital milestone, crossing 1 million followers on LinkedIn. The achievement firmly establishes him as a major voice and respected figure within the corporate and startup ecosystem, admired for his authenticity and grounded perspective.

Shetty's engagement on the professional networking platform goes far beyond mere celebrity presence. Followers—including business leaders, corporates, and entrepreneurs—look to him for his candid wisdom on leadership, health, discipline, and people management, which he consistently shares from his real-life experiences. His content, often described as speaking "from the heart," reflects his unique philosophy: "Value Over Valuation. Impact Over Impressions."

The LinkedIn milestone comes amid a period of high activity and newsworthy developments for the versatile star, including protecting personality rights. In a move highlighting the growing problem of digital misuse, Shetty recently moved the Bombay High Court to seek protection of his personality rights. He is fighting the unauthorized use of his image, name, and likeness, particularly against deepfake videos and commercial use by unauthorized websites, including real estate and gambling platforms.

Fans can eagerly anticipate his return to one of his most iconic roles as Shyam in the long-awaited ensemble comedy, Hera Pheri 3, reuniting him with co-stars Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal. He is also set to feature in the massive ensemble action-comedy, Welcome to the Jungle.

Shetty’s most recent projects include Kesari Veer, a theatrical release, and Nadaaniyan, a direct-to-OTT release marking the debut of Ibrahim Ali Khan.

Also Read: Suniel Shetty approaches Bombay High Court seeking protection of personality rights, cites fake photo with grandchild

Masaba Gupta, renowned for her innovative approach to Indian fashion, has earned a prestigious spot on the Economic Times 40 Under 40 list, standing out as the only Indian designer to be featured. This recognition celebrates not just her brands but also marks a milestone for Indian designers on the global stage.

Known for redefining Indian design language and challenging conventional beauty standards, Masaba’s work resonates deeply with contemporary culture, beauty, and entrepreneurship. She has carved a distinctive identity within the fashion industry, uniquely blending modern sensibilities with Indian tradition.

Reflecting on her journey in past interviews, Masaba has spoken candidly about the challenges and responsibilities of being a trailblazer. During a chat with ET Brand Equity in June 2024, she embraced the label of “rebellion,” noting that a lot of her creative expression is an act of challenging the norms. “We as Indians didn’t understand or embrace the exotification of India for a long time, but the world embraced it before we did,” she said.

Masaba also stressed the importance of endurance and hard work in entrepreneurship. Starting her business at 19, she recalls the gruelling work ethic required long before start-up culture became mainstream. “Before I see a spark of success, I will have to work 24/7, 365 days a year,” she shared, emphasizing loyalty and team engagement as key factors in sustaining a brand.

Also Read: Masaba Gupta teases Mini Masaba brand launch amid pregnancy glow: “Mini Masaba will be a celebration of motherhood, creativity…..”

The high-profile legal battle over the inheritance of late industrialist Sunjay Kapur, husband of actress Karisma Kapoor’s estranged wife Priya Sachdev Kapur, continued in the Delhi High Court on Wednesday. Priya Sachdev Kapur firmly defended the authenticity of Sunjay Kapur’s will amidst allegations of forgery and manipulation voiced by Karisma Kapoor’s children from her marriage to Sunjay Kapur.

Senior Advocate Rajiv Nayar, representing Priya Kapur, argued before Justice Jyoti Singh that mere typographical errors or spelling mistakes in the will do not render the document invalid. “The only grounds to challenge a will are if the deceased was not of sound mind or was under coercion. Spelling mistakes, wrong address, or errors like writing ‘testatrix’ instead of ‘testator’ are not valid grounds,” Nayar asserted.

Further, the defense stated that the fact that the will surfaced seven weeks after Sunjay Kapur’s death does not invalidate it either. “Is that a challenge maintainable under the law? Suppose I kept the will in my pocket, and it surfaces at an appropriate time, will it be declared invalid?” the counsel questioned.

The legal tussle centres on a will dated March 21, 2025, which allegedly bequeaths Sunjay Kapur’s entire personal estate, reportedly worth Rs 30,000 crores, to Priya Sachdev Kapur. This has been vehemently contested by Karisma Kapoor’s children Samaira and Kiaan, who have accused Priya of forging the document and attempting to gain exclusive control over Sunjay Kapur’s assets.

Senior Advocate Mahesh Jethmalani, representing the children, has raised serious doubts on the will’s validity, highlighting numerous discrepancies including the use of feminine pronouns “she” and “her” to describe Sunjay Kapur in several sections of the document. Jethmalani termed Priya Kapur as “an acute gambler” and characterized the alleged will as a “fabricated document” designed to disinherit the children and consolidate control of the estate.

Addressing the witnesses of the will, Nayar pointed out that the individuals who attested the document were a Chartered Accountant and a Company Secretary associated with Sunjay Kapur’s business, hinting at credibility. He also revealed that affidavits from these witnesses were submitted in court to substantiate the will’s authenticity.

The heirs have challenged the exclusion of Sunjay’s mother, Rani Kapur, from the will, and the disproportionate share it accords to Priya Kapur and her minor son, heightening the contention around the estate distribution.

The court has adjourned the matter for further arguments on Friday, as both parties prepare to substantiate their positions in this complex inheritance dispute that has captured extensive media and public attention.

Also Read: Priya Sachdev pens heartfelt birthday tribute to late husband Sunjay Kapur amid ongoing legal dispute with Karisma Kapoor and kids

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan has secured a major legal victory as the Delhi High Court granted him interim protection against the unauthorised use of his name, likeness, and voice through AI-generated and deepfake content. The court directed the immediate removal of several objectionable URLs and online listings that used the actor’s identity for commercial gain without consent.

The ruling highlights the growing urgency around personality rights in India, especially with the rapid rise of artificial intelligence tools that can digitally replicate a celebrity’s appearance or voice. For Hrithik, who is among the country’s most recognisable faces, the case represents a firm stand against the misuse of AI technology for monetisation and misinformation.

Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, while delivering the order, clarified that fan clubs or appreciation pages cannot be taken down indiscriminately at this stage. The court stated that “fan clubs cannot be taken down at the ex parte stage,” and instead instructed specific URLs and e-commerce listings violating Hrithik’s personality rights to be taken down. The matter has now been scheduled for its next hearing on March 27, 2026, where the court is expected to consider a broader injunction.

In its observations, the court noted that the unauthorised use of a celebrity’s persona—whether through merchandise, AI-manipulated images, deepfake videos, or voice simulations—amounts to a violation of their publicity and personality rights. The court’s stance reinforces that digital likenesses, when used without approval, could harm both reputation and public trust.

Hrithik’s move comes amid a rising wave of similar petitions from prominent industry figures including Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Karan Johar, Kumar Sanu, and Akkineni Nagarjuna, all seeking legal safeguards against AI misuse and digital impersonation. Earlier this year, the court had also directed Meta and Google to justify delays in removing morphed videos and false advertisements using celebrity identities.

Significantly, Hrithik’s case also draws attention to the fine balance between fan engagement and digital rights protection, as the court avoided a blanket takedown of genuine fan content.

As the proceedings continue, Hrithik’s legal team is likely to pursue a comprehensive interim injunction to further restrict the use of his image, voice, or name in unauthorised content. Industry observers suggest this verdict could serve as a benchmark ruling for Indian celebrities battling the AI deepfake crisis, redefining how identity and intellectual property are safeguarded in the entertainment world’s digital future.

Also Read: Hrithik Roshan moves Delhi High Court to protect his personality rights amid rising AI misuse

Director Mani Shankar’s Knock Out completed 15 years today. Starring Irrfan Khan, Sanjay Dutt and Kangana Ranaut, the movie tackled the issue of India’s black money stacked in foreign banks. Shankar looked back at the film in an interview with us.

What made you plunge into this project?

Knockout was purely ideological. Third film of my trilogy on the state of the nation. In 16 December, the idea was to show that the enemy isn’t outside us, it’s within us and the real danger is always from within. In Tango Charlie, it was that the war which rages inside our own borders is the real battle we need to win. In Knockout, it was that our wealth looted in 60 years by our own people and carried beyond our shores far exceeds what the British did in 2 ½ centuries- and it can come back- if people are determined enough.

Was that the trigger for Knockout?

With that idea in mind, I set out to create a compelling thriller. Yes, the idea of Phonebooth inspired me, but more than that, the film Liberty Stands Still with Wesley Snipes was more inspiring. I liked the notion of a sniper holding someone hostage and adapted that to Knockout.

The casting Sanjay Dutt and Irrfan Khan was interesting

Sanjay Dutt performed masterfully. He, sort of, slipped into his character effortlessly. He, for the first time, played a person whose character kept morphing and shifting - with each iteration more spellbinding than the earlier one.

Irrfan? You had problems with him, he wanted the climax changed?

When at the end his character showed his true self, he had floored the audience, and his final demand as a gunman, hostage taker simply drew their breath away. Irrfan was a genius of an actor. Yes he wanted the climax changed.

Why?

Shall I tell the truth? He didn’t want the movie to end the way it did. He wanted to do the dirty job - betray his boss with a change of heart. But he wanted to die not live. He felt ethically crossed over. He wanted to do the job, get the money and wanted his death to tell a story by itself. We looked at his suggestion. It had its strong points. But in the end, I told him that the audience wouldn’t have wanted that. I convinced him and he went with it. Through the film he never meets Sanjay Dutt though they engage in all kinds of dialogue and action. He didn’t want to meet him even in the end, and he had his way.

The earlier ending was where the two men glance at each other in the last shot- a sort of recognition- “So it was you after all!” But Irrfan had his way with that. I must say it was a good ending. When two strong wilful actors meet, and the script pairs them equally, sparks happen I suppose. I think Knockout was a thriller and a great performance film. Kangana didn’t have much role. Between Dutt and Khan, they knocked away 85 percent of the footage. But she still did a super professional job and gave it her best. As did others, Sushant Singh, Gulshan Grover. I think the theme of Knockout will far outlive the film. Our nation’s money is still parked outside: an estimated 2 trillion dollars.

Jannat girl Sonal Chauhan is all set to star in the film version of the popular Prime Video series, Mirzapur. As per a source close to the development, the actress has come on board for one of the most anticipated films, promising to bring a refreshing energy and a striking arc to the film’s plot. There was buzz around Sonal’s casting in the film after she was spotted at the movie’s mahurat in August.

A source in the know told us, “Sonal Chauhan’s addition to Mirzapur adds a whole new layer to the plot, making it more exciting along with the substantial star cast. While the details are still kept under wraps, her addition promises to enhance the film’s storyline to newer levels.”

The film, which was announced last year, will mark the return of Pankaj Tripathi in his fan-favourite character Kaleen Bhaiya, Ali Fazal and Guddu Pandit, Divyenndu as Munna Tripathi and Shweta Tripathi as Golu Gupta. It also brings Abhishek Banerjee and Jitendra Kumar under one roof. The crime thriller, backed by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment, is directed by Gurmmeet Singh and is expected to release soon.

Meanwhile, Sonal Chauhan is making her Punjabi film debut with Shera, co-starring Parmish Verma. Written and directed by Savio Sanddhu, Shera releases in theatres on May 15, 2026.

Also Read: Sonal Chauhan meets die-hard fan who gifts hand-made sketch during Shera shooting

Veteran actress and dancer Madhumati passed away at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable contributions to Indian cinema and dance. Her death was announced on October 15, 2025, triggering an outpouring of tributes from fellow celebrities and fans alike.

Actor Vindu Dara Singh, who learned dance from Madhumati, shared a heartfelt message on social media, calling her “our teacher and guide” and expressing deep sorrow: “Rest in peace, Madhumati ji. A beautiful life led filled with love and blessings from many of us who learnt dancing from this legend”.​

Akshay Kumar, who was one of her students and often credits Madhumati as his first dance guru, paid a touching tribute on social media, saying, “My first and forever guru. Everything I know about dance, I learnt at your feet, Madhumati ji. Har ada, har expression mein aapki yaad hamesha saath rahegi. Om Shanti.” He shared a nostalgic picture from his dance academy days, highlighting her profound influence on his career.​

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Born in Maharashtra in 1938, Madhumati began her career as a dance performer in 1957. She was trained in multiple classical forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Manipuri, and Kathakali, and became known for her expressive dance style in films like Ankhen, Tower House, Shikari, and Mujhe Jeene Do.

Madhumati was also known for her personal life, having married respected dancer Deepak Manohar at age 19 despite her mother’s reservations. She was celebrated for her graceful performances, and many actors, including Akshay Kumar, regard her as a key influence and mentor in their dance journeys.

Madhumati’s passing was mourned by the entire film fraternity. Her last rites and the cause of her death are yet to be officially announced, but her impact on Indian dance and cinema remains immortal.

Bollywood Hungama offers its heartfelt condolences to Madhumati’s family and loved ones.

Also Read: Mahabharat fame Pankaj Dheer passes away after battle with cancer

The trailer for De De Pyaar De 2 is finally out, and it’s already creating buzz across the film industry and social media. Ajay Devgn returns as Ashish, stepping back into the quirky world of love and family dynamics — this time facing off with Ayesha’s father, played by R. Madhavan. Packed with light-hearted moments, witty exchanges, and plenty of laughs, the trailer has set high expectations for the film’s theatrical release on 14th November 2025.

Following the trailer launch, several Bollywood celebrities took to social media to share their reactions, praising the cast and expressing their excitement for the sequel.

Industry Reactions Pour In

Global star Priyanka Chopra kept it short and sweet, commenting: “Too good!”, Nushrratt Bharuccha shared her excitement on Instagram Stories, writing: “Woaahhh! Mazaaa aa gaya guys!! Too good!!”, She also tagged the lead cast — Ajay Devgn, Rakul Preet Singh, R. Madhavan, and others — expressing her full support. Arjun Kapoor, who enjoyed the first film, also joined in the appreciation, saying: “Loved part 1 and now part 2 looks 2 good! Can’t wait”, Rajkummar Rao called the trailer hilarious, adding: “#DeDePyaarDe2 This is hilarious Looking forward to watching it in theatres.”

Other celebrities, including Vivek Oberoi, Sophie Choudry, Jackky Bhagnani, and Patralekhaa, also shared their love for the trailer, adding to the growing anticipation ahead of the film’s release.

Directed by Anshul Sharma and produced by Bhushan Kumar and Krishan Kumar of T-Series, along with Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg of Luv Films, De De Pyaar De 2 promises to bring a fresh dose of romance, humour, and family drama to the big screen. The film is set to hit cinemas on 14th November 2025.

Also Read: De De Pyaar De 2 Mumbai trailer launch: Ajay Devgn’s rare LOL moment steals the show; jokes why DDPD 2 is Shaitaan 2: “This time, I steal R Madhavan’s daughter”

The Bombay High Court has directed the prosecution to verify the family background of actress Shilpa Shetty after she submitted an affidavit seeking permission to travel abroad for a professional engagement. The directive came during the ongoing hearing of Shetty and her husband Raj Kundra’s plea challenging the Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against them by the Mumbai Police’s Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in a Rs 60-crore cheating case.​

A bench comprising Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad heard the matter on Tuesday. The court had earlier instructed the couple to deposit Rs 60 crores—the amount allegedly misused—if they wished to travel internationally. It had firmly reiterated that no leisure travel would be allowed while the probe remained active.

The case stems from a complaint filed by businessman Deepak Kothari, who accused Raj Kundra and Shetty of enticing him to invest Rs 60 crores in their venture, Best Deal TV Pvt Ltd, between 2015 and 2023, and then diverting the funds for personal gains. The EOW subsequently requested a Look Out Circular to restrict their travel abroad while the investigation continues.

Shetty’s counsel, Advocate Niranjan Mundargi, informed the court that the actor had been invited by American YouTube personality MrBeast to participate in an event in Los Angeles from October 22 to 27, and that only she and her son would travel, while her husband, daughter, and mother would remain in Mumbai. Mundargi emphasized that Shetty’s participation required court approval, as failure to attend could cause contractual liabilities.

He reiterated that there were no direct allegations against Shetty. The complaint, he argued, centered on Raj Kundra, and Shetty’s role as a former director of Best Deal TV was nominal and ended in 2016.

In a notable development, the Chief Justice orally remarked, “Why don’t you become an approver against accused no. 1 (Kundra) then?”, hinting that Shetty could assist the prosecution to clear her name if she genuinely had no role in the alleged fraud.​

The bench has adjourned the matter to Thursday, October 16, directing the prosecution to report after verifying details of Shetty’s affidavit and family background. The court also instructed Shetty and Kundra to file a written affidavit by the same date, affirming their stand and financial position in the case.

Also Read: Bombay HC blocks Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra’s international travel amid Rs 60 crores fraud case

Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, renowned for his iconic portrayal of Karna in BR Chopra’s epic television series Mahabharat, passed away on October 15, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 68 years old. His team released a heartfelt statement announcing his demise:

"With profound grief and deep sorrow, we inform you of the passing of our Trust’s erstwhile Chairman and CINTAA's former Hon. General Secretary, Shri Pankaj Dheer ji, on 15th October 2025. The cremation will be held today at 4:30 pm, next to Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai."

Pankaj Dheer’s portrayal of Karna, one of the most complex and tragic characters of the Mahabharata, remains etched in the hearts of millions. In a previous interview with Lehren, Dheer reflected on the significance of the role and the immense love it garnered over the decades.

He shared: "The Mahabharata is a beautifully written granth addressing all kinds of human relationships and moral lessons. When we made the show, we didn't have many references for Karna’s character. I had to use my own intellect and creativity to shape how Karna would walk, talk, and carry himself. I chose to play Karna with great restraint to generate sympathy, balancing the dramatic performances around me."

Dheer also expressed his gratitude for the enduring connection fans had with his Karna, recalling that his image as Karna even appeared in school history books and that he is worshipped in temples dedicated to Karna in places like Karnal and Bastar. He said, "People have loved me from the bottom of their hearts. This acceptance makes it hard for others to play the role. I have been offered Karna's role in other adaptations, but I refused. To me, playing Karna was a once-in-a-lifetime fate."

Fans and colleagues alike mourn the loss of a titan whose work transcended time.

Bollywood Hungama extends its heartfelt condolences to Pankaj Dheer’s family, friends, and well-wishers during this difficult time.

Also Read: Pankaj Dheer reveals he was the first choice for Arjun’s role in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat; recalls missing it over “stupidity” 

Ranveer Singh has done it again — setting the internet ablaze with his most intense and electrifying look to date. The superstar, known for constantly reinventing himself, has unveiled a new avatar that’s all grit, command, and raw power. Dressed in full combat gear, his expression steely and unrelenting, Ranveer looks like a man on a mission — focused, fearless, and ready for war.

The newly released stills and short clips have left fans speculating about what exactly this project could be. While official details remain tightly under wraps, industry chatter suggests that this could either be a high-octane film or a big-budget brand commercial that’s part of a larger cinematic-style universe. What’s certain, though, is that this reveal marks the beginning of something massive.

Adding to the intrigue is the star-studded combination at the center of it all. The project brings together Ranveer Singh, Bobby Deol, and Sreeleela — an unexpected yet thrilling trio sharing the screen for the first time. Over the past few days, fans have already been treated to character reveals of the other two stars, each adding to the mystery.

Bobby Deol was introduced as Professor White Noise — an enigmatic figure cloaked in charisma and chaos, instantly setting off social media theories about his role. Meanwhile, Sreeleela’s fiery look as Agent Mirchi showcased her in a bold, action-packed avatar that’s far removed from her previous work. Now, with Ranveer’s ‘Agent Mode’ reveal, the puzzle pieces are finally beginning to align — but only just enough to leave everyone wanting more.

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There’s a palpable sense of scale and tension in every frame unveiled so far. The sharp visuals, the high-stakes energy, and the cinematic tone have fans convinced that this is no ordinary campaign — it feels like the start of a sprawling action universe, one that could blur the lines between film and fiction.

Social media platforms have exploded with speculation, with fans praising Ranveer’s fierce transformation and wondering when the full project will drop. One thing’s for sure — this reveal is just the beginning. With the fuse now lit, all eyes are on what’s next — and how soon this powerhouse trio will officially blow up the internet.

Also Read: Ranveer Singh, Bobby Deol, and Sreeleela wrap up shoot for untitled project; BIG announcement coming next week