Bollywood superstars Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan are reportedly set to share the screen once again in an upcoming project directed by Anees Bazmee, according to Filmfare. The film marks a significant reunion for the actor-director duo, who last worked together 14 years ago on Thank You (2011).

After weeks of speculation about the casting, Filmfare has reported that Vidya Balan has been roped in as one of the leading ladies for the untitled movie. This casting decision was “unanimously welcomed by the team,” insiders say, signaling strong confidence in the pairing.

A source close to the production told the publication, “Akshay and Vidya share effortless chemistry as actors, something audiences have loved in films like Heyy Babyy (2007), Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007) and Mission Mangal (2019). Off screen too, they share a warm equation, which made this an easy yes for everyone involved.”

The new film is expected to feature two prominent female characters, with Vidya playing one of the leads. While details about the second female role and storyline are still under wraps, insiders suggest it will balance humour, emotion, and strong character arcs, elements Bazmee and Akshay are both known for.

This project also marks Akshay and Vidya’s first on-screen collaboration in six years, following their successful work in Mission Mangal. Their pairing has long been popular with audiences, particularly after the cult success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa.

Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar continues to stay busy with multiple films in progress, including Welcome To The Jungle, Haiwaan, and Bhooth Bhangla.

Also Read : Saiyami Kher calls Haiwaan an “Absolute ball,” praises Akshay Kumar’s new avatar and Saif Ali Khan’s performance

Dhurandhar, which is all set to become the biggest hit of the year, enters the third week of its release today. The film overperformed in its second week and is now all set for another huge week from today. The Ranveer Singh-starrer also had a release in the IMAX version. However, its IMAX run ended yesterday, on December 18.

This is because Avatar: Fire And Ash has now taken over all the IMAX screens across India and also the world. Directed by James Cameron, the fantasy drama is known for its spellbinding visuals. Hence, it makes for an ideal watch in IMAX theatres. It's no wonder that its shows in the IMAX cinemas got filled first.

Nevertheless, Dhurandhar had a glorious run in the IMAX version. The film also had a big screen appeal which enticed people to check it out in IMAX. Interestingly, the film didn’t get a release in IMAX on the day of its release due to late delivery of prints. But once the issue settled, the film managed to score big time in the wide-screen cinemas.

Avatar vs Dhurandhar update

Yesterday, Bollywood Hungama had reported that the advance booking in several one-screen and two-screen cinemas had not begun for shows from December 19 due to show-sharing issues between Avatar: Fire And Ash and Dhurandhar.

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

The matter was expected to be resolved. Sadly, that hasn’t happened. The trade source informed Bollywood Hungama, “Disney was adamant about getting all shows for Avatar: Fire And Ash while the single screens requested for show sharing. With no other option, single-screen cinemas had to give up on the plan to play Avatar: Fire And Ash. Late Thursday night, they opened the advance booking and have decided to continue playing Dhurandhar with all shows until December 24.”

The only exception is PVR Le Reve, Bandra, formerly known as Globus Cinema. It’ll play Avatar: Fire And Ash with two shows a day, at 8:00 am and 7:20 pm, while Dhurandhar will be played by 11:40 am, 3:30 pm and 11:00 pm. In other words, PVR Le Reve is one of the few single screens in the whole of India that will play the James Cameron directorial.

On the other hand, all the two-screen cinemas of Mumbai have allotted 3 shows to Avatar: Fire And Ash and the remaining 6 shows to Dhurandhar.

Finally, those hoping to watch Avatar: Fire And Ash at Mumbai’s iconic G7 complex, popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy, might be disappointed. Until December 18, bookings for Galaxy and Gemini were not opened, fuelling hope that the James Cameron directorial would find a slot in one of the two screens. However, late Thursday night, bookings for all screens were opened, and there was no listing for Avatar: Fire And Ash. Dhurandhar will continue to play in Gaiety and Galaxy, the complex’s biggest screens, while Gemini will play four shows of Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2.

Also Read: Adivi Sesh BREAKS silence on Dacoit’s CLASH with Dhurandhar 2 on March 19, 2026: “I wish the sequel is world’s BIGGEST hit; jin logon ko Dhurandhar 2 ka ticket na mile, woh Dacoit dekhne aa jaaye!”

Actor, entrepreneur, and style icon Shilpa Shetty announces her much awaited signature Mangalsutra Bracelet collection, this time crafted in purest Type IIa (Type 2A) diamonds through a creative collaboration with Limelight Lab Grown Diamonds.

Speaking about the launch, Shilpa shares, “The mangalsutra has always held deep emotional meaning for me, but I’ve also believed that tradition should evolve with the woman who wears it. The Mangalsutra Bracelet was born from that very thought: a piece that carries sentiment yet fits seamlessly into a modern woman’s everyday style.”

Explaining her decision to re-envision the design, she adds, “I wanted to reinterpret this bracelet in a way that reflects today’s values of conscious luxury, meaningful craftsmanship, and individuality. When I discovered the brilliance and purity of Type IIa (Type 2A) lab-grown diamonds, I knew they were the perfect way to elevate this design. They are of exceptional quality, sustainable, and absolutely stunning.”

The collection features a series of handcrafted bracelets that reinterpret the timeless mangalsutra through a contemporary lens. Minimal in form, rich in symbolism, and designed for all-day wear. Shilpa further shares, “Every piece in this capsule has been personally curated and designed by me. It’s something I would wear to work, at a celebration, or even while travelling. It’s a reminder that tradition can be intimate, expressive, and beautifully individual.”

Adding to Shilpa’s sentiment, Pooja Madhavan, Founder of Limelight, says: “This collection is a celebration of how traditions evolve. The Mangalsutra Bracelet that once symbolized rarity now represents choice, individuality and modernity, values that align deeply with Limelight. Co-designing this with Shilpa has allowed us to bring a contemporary icon to today’s woman.”

Also Read: Shilpa Shetty breaks silence on Rs. 60 crore fraud allegations – here’s what she said

Legendary playback singer Kumar Sanu has approached the Bombay High Court seeking Rs 30 lakhs in damages from his ex-wife Rita Bhattacharya over allegedly defamatory interviews that resurfaced recently. The court heard the petition on December 17, with Sanu also demanding removal of the content accusing him of mistreating her during pregnancy, including starving her, locking her in the kitchen, and denying medical care.

The suit, filed by advocate Sana Raees Khan, argues that Bhattacharya's statements breach their 2001 divorce consent terms from Bandra Family Court, which prohibited mutual accusations post-separation. The interviews went viral on social media in September 2025, causing reputational harm and mental distress after legal notices were issued to Bhattacharya and platforms like Meta and YouTube demanding content takedown.

Sanu and Bhattacharya married in the late 1980s, had three children—Jiko, Jassi, and Jaan—before divorcing. Sanu, famed for 1990s hits in Aashiqui, Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin, and Saajan, previously had a publicized affair with actress Kunickaa Sadanand, a Bigg Boss 19 contestant.

In October 2025, Kumar Sanu made headlines when the Delhi High Court protected his personality and publicity rights, ordering removal of objectionable social media content, memes, and videos misusing his voice and image from concerts.

Also Read: Kunickaa Sadanand says she has “No regrets” as she opens up about her long-hidden relationship with Kumar Sanu after Bigg Boss 19 exit

The makers of Aakhri Sawal, directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Abhijeet Mohan Warang, have released the film’s mahurat glimpses, offering an early look into the project. The film features an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Neetu Chandra, Amit Sadh and Sameera Reddy, among others.

Rooted in real events from the pre-Independence era, Aakhri Sawal is positioned as a historical drama that explores lesser-known aspects of India’s past. According to the makers, the narrative centres on a pivotal meeting that played a role in shaping the country’s future, moving beyond conventional textbook accounts.

The release of the mahurat visuals marks the formal commencement of the film’s journey. The project aims to present its subject matter with an objective lens, focusing on historical truths that have not previously been explored on screen.

Abhijeet Mohan Warang made his directorial debut with the Marathi film Picasso in 2021, which earned a Special Mention at the 67th National Film Awards. His body of work includes films such as Deja Vu, Prem Pratha Dhumshan, Piccolo, and the short film Virtual Reality, spanning both Marathi and Hindi cinema.

Aakhri Sawal is produced by Nikhil Nanda and Ujjwal Anand under the banners of Nirvikar Films and Nikhil Nanda Motion Pictures. The film is written by Utkarsh Naithani and co-produced by Dr. Deepak Singh, in collaboration with Prerna Arora.

Further details regarding the film’s schedule and release are expected to be announced in the coming months.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Tridha Choudhury CONFIRMS Aashram 4: “We shoot in early 2026”; shares excitement of working with Sanjay Dutt in Akhri Sawal: “Will be able to believe it only when I meet him on the sets”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For now, ABCD 3 remains unannounced.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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