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

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

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

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

View this post on Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holdover and new releases

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Bhadrakali Pictures (@VangaPictures) December 24, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

Night Song, the full-spectrum music company known for shaping immersive soundscapes across celebrated films and series including Scam 1992, Jigra, Coke Studio’s renowned release ‘Khalasi’, The Buckingham Murders, Maati Season 1 and many more, announces its latest collaboration on the upcoming film Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos. Co-founded by Achint Thakkar and Parth Pandya, Night Song has composed and produced the music for the spy-comedy backed by Aamir Khan Productions, marking actor-comedian Vir Das’ directorial debut. The film is set to release on 16 January 2026.

For Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos, Night Song was tasked with creating a sonic world that balances a spy drama with comedy, giving each track its own identity and purpose. The music amplifies the film’s narrative beats while keeping the tone fresh, witty, and engaging, ensuring every moment, from action to humor, is enhanced by the score.

A standout from the album is 'Banda Tere Liye,' a high-energy, cliche bending track that flips a familiar Bollywood trope by turning the man into the spectacle. Conceived as a rare male-led ‘anti-item song’ envisioned by director Vir Das, it positions the male character at the center of performance, an uncommon narrative choice in mainstream cinema. The creative process began not with a tune, but with the bold hook line itself, around which Night Song built the melody, rhythm, and sonic world. Blending club, funk, and alt-pop, the song is elevated by an earthy Indian instrumental hook that roots it in a rustic, almost village market place like setting, giving it a fresh, unexpected flavor.

Speaking about the collaboration, Night Song founders Achint Thakkar and Parth Pandya shared in a joint statement, “Creating the music for Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos was an exciting challenge for us. Each track was crafted to serve the story while staying true to our sound. Genre-bending songs like 'Banda Tere Liye' will hopefully go on to shape culture, while our Marathi rap Fckta Apan is sure to stick in the listener’s mind. We’re glad to have partnered with Vir, Kavi & Aamir Khan on a film that gave us so much creative freedom.”

Vir Das and Kavi Shastri, directors of Happy Patel, shared in a joint statement, “Night Song is a team we’ve wanted to collaborate with for a long time, and with Happy Patel, that opportunity finally came together. The album gave us the space to explore multiple genres within a single body of work, and they took our musical vision and elevated it in the best possible way. This certainly won’t be the last collaboration between us, and Night Song.”

The collaboration with Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos marks an important milestone for Night Song as it continues to expand its footprint across Indian cinema, working with leading production houses while carving out a strong creative identity of its own.

The soundtrack of Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos features 12 tracks, including 5 full-length songs and 7 songettes.

Also Read: Happy Patel Khatarnak Jasoos Trailer: Vir Das headlines quirky spy caper; return of Imran Khan and cameo of Aamir Khan add to the excitement

Fashion’s current obsession with softness, volume and translucence finds a natural expression in Sharvari’s all-white look, worn with an ease that feels instinctive rather than styled. The ensemble pairs a fitted bralette with a balloon, ballet-inspired skirt, its rounded silhouette introducing movement and drama through lightness rather than excess. Leaning into fashion’s fascination with fluid form and sculptural proportion, the look feels considered yet effortless, delicate in appearance, but anchored by structure.

The styling follows a similarly restrained approach. Hair is worn loose and natural, makeup kept fresh and minimal, allowing Sharvari’s features and the lightness of the outfit to take centre stage. There’s an effortlessness to the way she carries the look, lending it a quietly confident, undeniably alluring finish.

What elevates the look into recognisable fashion territory is the accessory. Sharvari carries the Kate Barton clear acrylic fishbowl bag, a sculptural, conversation-starting piece that has already secured its place in pop-culture fashion lore. The bag made its memorable appearance on Emily in Paris (Season 5, Episode 5, “Bonjour, Paris!”), instantly cementing its status as a cult object prized for its playful, art-driven design.

Set against the softness of the white ensemble, the bag adds a sharp, editorial contrast. It introduces wit and fashion intelligence, grounding the look in a globally relevant style conversation and signalling awareness of one of the season’s most talked-about accessories.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Sharvari 🐯 (@sharvari)

The bralette and skirt, both by @pinkporcupines, reinforce the look’s balance of structure and ease, a pairing that feels intentional, contemporary and quietly sexy. Worn with restraint and confidence, the styling makes a strong case for simplicity done well, where clean silhouettes and one unmistakable statement piece come together to leave a lasting impression.

Also Read: Boss Babe Alert! Janhvi Kapoor, Ananya Panday, Sharvari, Suhana Khan, Simar Bhatia: 5 Divas who slayed the power suit trend

Nearly 16 years after 3 Idiots became one of Bollywood’s most beloved films, talk of a possible sequel has once again stirred excitement among fans. With recent reports suggesting that a follow-up could be in the works, actor Sharman Joshi, who played Raju Rastogi in the original, has shared his reaction to the speculation.

In an interview, Joshi made it clear that while he hopes a sequel happens, he has not received any official confirmation. “I so hope that happens, but I have not been informed yet,” he told Hindustan Times, responding to rumours about the next chapter. He pointed out that similar buzz has surfaced in the past, only to turn out to be unrelated.

“On more than a couple of occasions, there has been buzz that the 3 Idiots sequel is happening. The last time the reports came, it turned out to be for an ad campaign. Let’s see, hopefully this time it’s true.” When asked whether he knows if the story would pick up where the original left off, Joshi admitted he has no details yet. “I am in no position to know, but only the master, Raju sir, Abhijat (Joshi, writer) sir and Aamir would be working on it if there is potential,” he said, referring to director Rajkumar Hirani, writer Abhijat Joshi and co-star Aamir Khan.

Joshi also shared a light-hearted memory from his audition days, recalling how he learned about landing the role of Raju. He said he was working out in the gym when Hirani called with the final news, joking that the director told him not to expect to see his gym body for three years. “I think of 3 Idiots, and a smile comes on my face. That film felt like a fairytale, from the time I heard the story till today,” Joshi added.

While an official announcement about the sequel is still awaited, recent reports suggest that the script may be ready and that production could begin in 2026, with the original cast possibly reuniting.

Also Read: 3 Idiots sequel to be titled 4 Idiots, makers in search for a fourth lead to accompany Aamir Khan, R Madhavan and Sharman Joshi: Report

As Dhurandhar continues to rewrite box office history with its Hindi-only release and has emerged as the biggest Indian film phenomenon of recent times, the unprecedented audience response, particularly the strong demand from South Indian markets, has now set the stage for an even bigger sequel.

The makers have officially announced Dhurandhar 2, slated for a grand Eid 2026 release on March 19, 2026, with the film set to release simultaneously in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam, marking its five-language pan-India and global rollout.

Despite releasing only in Hindi, Dhurandhar witnessed exceptional traction across South India through word-of-mouth, social media virality and repeat viewing. South distributors and exhibitors consistently flagged strong audience demand for dubbed versions, with fans actively calling for the film to be made available in regional languages. Taking cognisance of this organic demand not just in South India but South Indian audiences globally, the makers have decided to expand the franchise’s footprint with Dhurandhar 2, ensuring audiences across regions can experience the film in their local language from day one.

Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Aditya Dhar and produced by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, Dhurandhar 2 promises to scale up both narrative ambition and cinematic spectacle, charting the next phase in this action entertainer’s journey.

Currently in post-production, Dhurandhar 2 is shaping up to be the most anticipated Indian release of 2026, arriving this Eid, bigger and truly pan-India. Mainstream release beyond the diaspora audience in some overseas territories is also being explored.

The storm is set to return. This time, everywhere.

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!”

Mahaveer Jain Films is thrilled to present 'MJF NXT', a platform for emerging creative talents in the entertainment industry landscape. The inaugural association under 'MJF NXT' brings together acclaimed music director Tanishk Bagchi [Saiyaara being his latest chartbuster] and dynamic young producer Divyansh Jain, joining forces to produce multiple films with MJF NXT. With a focus on creating young, joyful, musical films, the talented duo plans to set up a distinct line of new projects.

Mahaveer Jain Films is currently producing a diverse range of films with top creative names like Naagzilla with Kartik Aaryan, directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, in partnership with Dharma Productions. They are also a part of Yeh Prem Mol Liya; after Uunchai (2022), they have reunited with legendary director Sooraj R Barjatya for this family entertainer, starring Ayushmann Khurrana, Sharvari, and Anupam Kher. It is jointly produced with Rajshri Films.

Thirdly, they are making White, an international cast and crew backed thriller with Siddharth Anand. It stars Vikrant Massey as Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Side Heroes, a friendship film with Imtiaz Ali, starring Varun Sharma, Abhishek Banerjee, and Aparshakti Khurana, is also a film to watch out from Mahaveer Jain Films. Recently, they announced they are making ace filmmaker Ram Madhvani’s next, starring Tiger Shroff. Lastly, they are also a part of a jungle adventure film with iconic musician Arijit Singh and his wife Koyel Roy Singh.

Mahaveer Jain Films (Mrighdeep Singh Lamba & Amit Upadhyay, along with Kavin Shah & Bala Sahab Darade) aims to strengthen more filmmakers and support upcoming talents in the industry, enhancing the entertainment ecosystem.

It would be interesting to look forward to an exciting slate of films from 'MJF NXT' that promises to captivate audiences, champion emerging talent, and deliver fresh, joyful storytelling across genres.

Also Read: Tanishk Bagchi drops new track ‘SEEN’, a moody anthem blending heartbreak with late-night vibes