Filmmaker Karan Johar, known for crafting some of Indian cinema’s most iconic love stories, is now lending his voice to a new kind of narrative—one that unfolds far from the glitter of wedding décor and dreamy romantic moments. Johar has been announced as the brand ambassador for The Bridal Retreat, a first-of-its-kind initiative that focuses not on the big day itself, but on the emotional and mental preparation that comes before and beyond it.

“I’ve spent years telling love stories through cinema—but The Bridal Retreat is about the story behind the scenes,” said Karan Johar and added, “It’s not about perfect weddings—it’s about preparing women for what comes after. This retreat offers a rare opportunity: a chance for brides to meet themselves before the world meets the bride. In a world of beautifully curated celebrations, we sometimes forget the inner transformation that marriage brings. The Bridal Retreat places that journey at the centre.”

Organised by E-Factor Experiences, The Bridal Retreat is a five-day experiential programme curated specifically for brides-to-be. It includes sessions on identity, wellness, body movement, communication, and cultural reflection, all conducted by seasoned experts from the fields of mental health, fashion, and relationship coaching. The idea is to guide women through introspection and self-awareness—helping them make mindful transitions into married life.

Samit Garg, co-founder and managing director of E-Factor Experiences, elaborates on the intent behind the programme. “The Bridal Retreat is not just a concept—it’s a commitment. It recognises that while weddings are important milestones, what truly shapes a woman’s journey is how she enters this new phase—mindfully, emotionally equipped, and in tune with her sense of self. With Karan Johar joining us, we’re adding another layer of meaning and purpose to this platform,” he shard.

In 2025, limited-edition retreats will be held across seven Indian cities—Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Jaipur, and Goa. Each edition will offer an intimate, supportive environment for brides-to-be to pause, reflect, and align with their personal vision of partnership and change.

With Karan Johar bringing emotional depth and cinematic insight to the initiative, The Bridal Retreat promises to redefine the bridal experience—shifting the focus from picture-perfect ceremonies to personal transformation and conscious beginnings.

Also Read: Photos: Karan Johar announced as Brand Ambassador for ‘The Bridal Retreat’ by E-Factor Experiences

Akshaye Khanna’s 2021 action-packed OTT film State of Siege: Temple Attack is all set to make its theatrical debut under a brand-new title — Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti. Nearly five years after its digital premiere, the high-octane drama will hit cinema halls on July 4, 2025, offering audiences a gripping, large-screen retelling of one of India’s most harrowing terror incidents.

Directed by Ken Ghosh, the film is a dramatic recreation of the 2002 terrorist attack on the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat. It captures the horror of the assault and the bravery of the National Security Guard (NSG) commandos who led the operation to neutralise the attackers. The story, inspired by real events, blends tension, patriotism, and action in equal measure.

To mark the announcement, the makers released a new poster on Instagram, which features haunting temple pillars casting the silhouette of a lone armed commando — a striking visual that evokes both reverence and courage. The caption reads, “An act of terror met with unmatched bravery, The story of courage, sacrifice, and survival comes alive in #AkshardhamOperationVajraShakti”.

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Akshaye Khanna headlines the cast as Major Hanut Singh, a fierce and strategic NSG officer. The ensemble includes Gautam Rode as Major Samar, Vivek Dahiya as Captain Rohit Bagga, Akshay Oberoi as Captain Bibek, and Abhilash Chaudhary portraying the main antagonist, terrorist Iqbal. Supporting roles are essayed by Parvin Dabas, Samir Soni, Abhimanyu Singh, Mir Sarwar, Manjari Fadnis, Chandan Roy, and Shivam Bhaargava.

The film is presented by Zee Studios and produced by Abhimanyu Singh in collaboration with Contiloe Pictures. Key credits include Tejal Shetye as the director of photography, Mukesh Thakur in charge of editing, and a screenplay penned by William Borthwick and Simon Fantauzzo.

Serving as a standalone sequel to State of Siege: 26/11, this new chapter continues to spotlight the valor of India’s elite forces, bringing their untold stories to life on the silver screen.

Also Read: Akshaye Khanna joins Prashanth Varma Cinematic Universe; to play a key character in Mahakali

The overzealous PR machinery around certain stars often spins stories that serve their clients' agendas — even if they’re far from the truth. The latest “news” being floated for Allu Arjun fans is that he’s likely to replace Ranveer Singh in the much-anticipated big-screen adaptation of Shaktimaan, the iconic Doordarshan superhero series that aired from 1997 and ran for eight years.

Originally portrayed by Mukesh Khanna, Shaktimaan remains one of India’s most beloved homegrown superheroes. The film adaptation — currently in development — is being written and directed by actor-filmmaker Basil Joseph, who has always had Ranveer Singh in mind for the titular role.

While speculative reports of casting changes surface periodically, with the most recent rumour linking Allu Arjun to the role, a source close to the project has dismissed the chatter outright.

“No one else is doing Shaktimaan. It is Ranveer Singh and no one else. Whoever is spreading rumours of his replacement clearly has their own agenda,” the source stated.

To get clarity, I reached out directly to Basil Joseph, who firmly confirmed, “Shaktimaan will be made only with Ranveer Singh.”

Also Read: BREAKING: Basil Joseph’s Shaktimaan with Ranveer Singh is not a 3-part project

The trailer and assets of Maa, starring Kajol, have heightened a lot of curiosity and hence, trade and industry are excited to see how it performs at the box office. Viewers who’ll venture to watch the mythological-horror film will be in for a surprise as they’ll get a chance to see the teaser of the next big film starring Kajol’s hubby, Ajay Devgn – Son Of Sardaar 2.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “It all fell in place beautifully. Both Son Of Sardaar 2 and Maa are backed by Devgn Films and Jio Studios. Son Of Sardaar 2 is a month away from release and the makers were anyway planning to release the teaser. They realized that it would be apt that the promo was attached with the prints of Maa. All the parties unanimously agreed with the decision.”

The source further said, “However, the teaser of Son Of Sardaar 2 will first be released digitally on Tuesday, June 24. Viewers can enjoy it on the big screen with Maa when it releases in cinemas on June 27.”

Maa also stars Kherin Sharma, Ronit Bose and Indraneil Sengupta. It is directed by Vishal Furia of Chhorii (2021) and Chhorii 2 (2025) fame. As for Son Of Sardaar 2, it features Ajay Devgn opposite Mrunal Thakur. The others in the star cast include Ravi Kishan, Deepak Dobriyal, Kubbra Sait, Chunky Panday, Sharat Saxena, Vindoo Dara Singh, Sanjay Mishra, Neeru Bajwa and the late Mukul Dev. It is directed by Vijay Kumar Arora. The comic caper releases in cinemas on July 25.

The trailer launch of Maa was held on May 29 and was a memorable affair. The host asked “Kahan se shuruaat hui?” with regards to the casting. Kajol, in her trademark style, immediately answered, “Ghar se shuru hui! Who could he imagine in a horror role besides me?” Ajay Devgn laughed and added, “Koi bhi husband apni wife ko hi cast karega!”

Also Read: Surjasikha Das on working with Ajay Devgn in Maa after clicking a picture with him during her early days; says, “Getting the opportunity to work with him so early in my career truly feels like a blessing”

2025 has been an eventful year for Jacqueliene Fernandez. The year started with Fateh, where she played the female lead. And just recently, she was seen in the multi-starrer comedy Housefull 5, which has turned out to be successful. Now, adding yet another feather to her cap, Jacqueliene is all set to be honored at the Italian Global Series Festival with the prestigious Italian Audiovisual Industry Ambassador Excellence Award.

The festival, which will take place from June 23 to 28, 2025, across the scenic Italian cities of Rimini and Riccione, is a grand celebration of television storytelling, writing, acting, and global creativity. It marks the much-anticipated revival of the iconic RomaFictionFest, which ran from 2007 to 2016 in Rome. Now reimagined and reintroduced in Romagna, the festival brings together the best of global television talent and vision.

A source close to the development shared, “Jacqueliene Fernandez will be honored with the Italian Audiovisual Industry Ambassador Excellence Award at the upcoming Italian Global Series Festival, taking place between Rimini and Riccione from June 23 to 28. The festival, seen as a revival of the iconic RomaFictionFest, celebrates global excellence in acting, creativity, and storytelling — and Jacqueliene’s recognition is a testament to her growing influence on the international stage.”

With this milestone, Jacqueliene continues to represent India on major global platforms — basking in international glory while staying rooted in her cinematic journey. Her presence at the Italian Global Series Festival promises to be a moment of pride not just for her fans, but for the entire Indian entertainment industry.

Also Read: Inside Jacqueline Fernandez’s retreat to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s ashram

During an interaction with select group of journalists on June 4, Aamir Khan talked about Sitaare Zameen Par and opened up like never before on the remake factor. His latest release was remade from the 2018 Spanish film, Campeones aka Champions.

Aamir Khan began by saying, “Laal Singh Chaddha (2022) wasn’t my only solo remake before Sitaare Zameen Par. 10-15 of my films have been remade and most of them are super-hits, like Ghajini (2008). Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988) was a remake of Romeo And Juliet. For me, it’s a new canvas. Also, so many remakes have worked in India. We are in 2025 now. If you start counting from the 1970s, toh aapko remakes zyada milegi original material se. Main yeh daava kar ke keh sakta hoon. Hence, its only the trolls (who are spreading negativity over the remake factor). Some of our biggest hits are remakes. And if cut and paste is so easy, toh fir aap kar lo. But its not cut and paste. You have to infuse life into it.”

He added, “If remaking is such a sin, then let’s forget Shakespeare. Why are we still adapting his works? Hence, yeh sab bakwaas baatein hai. I believe in remakes, and I’ll do it throughout my life. Whenever I come across a promising material, I’ll remake it. Why shouldn’t I? If you don’t want to watch it, please don’t it. That’s your choice. It’s my choice to work on the remake.”

He further told the journalists, “I saw such a beautiful film in Spanish. How many of you will watch the Spanish original? I don’t think you guys must have watched any Spanish film in your life. Ek aadh dekhi hogi. If I decide that I shouldn’t remake, then should I drop making a film on such a beautiful topic which will sensitize our audience? If, for instance, some filmmaker in Iceland makes a film, does this mean that no on in the world can remake it? Kya mazaak kar rahe ho yaar! The impact that the Spanish original had in the home market, I want that to happen in India as well.”

Aamir Khan then asked a journalist, “Have you tried Spanish film? Did you enjoy?” She replied, “I like Indian food.” Aamir immediately replied, “See, you like desi food! Like I don’t like aubergine but I prefer baingan ka bharta. I also like desi food. I love dal chawal; I eat it with my hands. The same applies for remakes. I am adapting a good story in the Indian context and I am presenting you as per the taste you prefer.”

Aamir got teary-eyed as he exulted, “When you were 7 or 8 years old, you must have attended birthday party in your society or extended family. You must have been excited to have cake and play with balloons. Now imagine that you are 7 years old and you have Down Syndrome or Autism. You are not being called for birthday parties. You ask your mother, ‘Why wasn’t I invited for the bash?’. What will your mother answer? Will she have the heart to say, ‘They don’t want you there’.”

Aamir Khan apologized for getting emotional. He continued, “So, should we change this situation or not? Hence, I made this film. Yet, some would say ‘Aamir is again remaking’. Arre, what Aamir Khan is making is very important, bhai. Aap dekho toh sahi.”

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan visits sets of Aamir Khan starrer Sitaare Zameen Par, shares iconic moments with cast

On the occasion of World Yoga Day, which falls on June 21, India is set to witness a remarkable fitness movement through the Fit India Cult Yogathon, where 1 million Surya Namaskars will be performed simultaneously across the country. In Delhi, over 1500 participants will come together to take part in this unified celebration of health and well-being.

Adding to the significance of the event, actress Rakul Preet Singh and actor-producer Jackky Bhagnani will join participants on stage to perform Surya Namaskars, promoting the message of fitness as a way of life. Their consistent advocacy for wellness and balanced living has inspired many, making them ideal ambassadors for the campaign.

As a recognition of their contribution, the couple will be conferred with the title of ‘Fit India Couple’ at the venue. The honour celebrates their shared dedication to health and their ability to motivate others by leading through example.

A source associated with the event shared, “Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani embody the essence of fitness as a shared journey. This honour is a celebration of the lifestyle they represent—consistent, inspiring, and authentic. Their presence on World Yoga Day will further the movement’s impact across generations.”

As a recognition of their contribution, the couple will be conferred with the title of ‘Fit India Couple’ at the venue. The honour celebrates their shared dedication to health and their ability to motivate others by leading through example. Last year, actor Ayushmann Khurrana was conferred with the title of ‘Fit India Icon’ for the same initiative. The couple is also expected to promote the initiative through social media, encouraging their followers to embrace yoga and join the nationwide celebration of wellness.

Also Read: Rakul Preet Singh redefines ethnic glam in 10 traditional looks

Indian actor R. Madhavan and wife Sarita have given on rent a co-owned residential apartment located in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex for a starting monthly rent of Rs. 6.50 lakh, according to property registration documents reviewed by real estate platform squareyards.com on the website of the Inspector General of Registration (IGR). The leave and license agreement was officially registered in June 2025.

Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) is a planned commercial hub in Mumbai, developed to ease congestion in traditional business districts. It hosts a concentration of financial institutions, multinational companies, and consulates, making it one of the city’s most sought-after office markets. While primarily commercial, the surrounding areas have seen high-end residential development driven by proximity and infrastructure. Strong connectivity and consistent demand continue to keep property values elevated across segments.

According to property registration documents accessed by Square Yards, R. Madhavan and his wife Sarita have rented out a residential unit located in Signia Pearl, Bandra Kurla Complex. The rental agreement includes a security deposit of Rs. 39 lakh and was registered with a stamp duty of Rs. 47,000 and registration charges of Rs. 1,000.

As per Square Yards’ analysis, the lease tenure spans 24 months (two years), starting from the first week of June 2025, with a lock-in period of 16 months. The monthly rent starts at Rs. 6.50 lakh in the first year and escalates by 5% to approximately Rs. 6.83 lakh in the second year. Over the full term, the cumulative rental value is estimated at approximately Rs. 1.60 crore.

Madhavan and his wife acquired this property—measuring 388.55 sq. m. (~4,182 sq. ft.)—for a total value of Rs. 17.50 crore in July 2024. Based on the agreed rental terms and acquisition cost, the gross rental yield stands at approximately 4.5% for the first year, rising to around 4.7% in the second year of the lease.

R. Madhavan is an Indian actor and filmmaker known for his work predominantly in Tamil and Hindi cinema, with appearances in Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and English films as well. He established himself with successful Tamil films like Minnale (2001), Kannathil Muthamittal (2002), Anbe Sivam (2003), and Aaytha Ezhuthu (2004), while also making a mark in Hindi cinema with notable roles in Rang De Basanti (2006), Guru (2007), and the blockbuster 3 Idiots (2009). As of 2025, Madhavan remains actively involved in multiple film projects, following his directorial debut with Rocketry: The Nambi Effect.

Also Read: Happy Birthday R Madhavan: Celebrating a remarkable 25-year journey in cinema

Prime Video, on June 20, announced the exclusive global streaming premiere of Ground Zero. Directed by Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar, the film is produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under the banner of Excel Entertainment. Boasting a powerhouse cast featuring Emraan Hashmi, Sai Tamhankar, Zoya Hussain, and Mukesh Tiwari in lead roles, this riveting patriotic action-drama promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Ground Zero is now streaming exclusively on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories worldwide.

Inspired by real events, Ground Zero unfolds against the tense backdrop of Kashmir. The fictional film explores the remarkable two-year investigation led by BSF officer Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey and his team to uncover the mastermind behind the 2001 Parliament attack. The film stands as a powerful tribute to the valor, resilience, and strategic brilliance of India’s security forces. It delves into the intricate realities of counter-terrorism operations, capturing the high-stakes intensity of the mission while honoring the unwavering patriotism and sacrifice that led to one of the country’s most significant counter-insurgency victories.

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Also Read: Prime Video unveils the powerful trailer of In Transit, an unscripted docuseries produced by Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti

Multiplex Association of India (MAI) proudly applauds Mr. Aamir Khan for his visionary and resolute decision to release his film, Sitaare Zameen Par, exclusively in theatres on 20 June 2025.

In an era wherein media and distribution platforms have become increasingly fragmented, Aamir Khan’s choice to back the theatrical format reaffirms the enduring power of the big- screen experience. Known for his deep connection with audiences and exceptional commitment to meaningful storytelling, Aamir’s move sends a powerful message — that cinemas remain the premier destination for community-driven, immersive storytelling. It also serves as a rallying moment for multiplexes and single screen theatres all over the country.

“Aamir Khan has always been a filmmaker who puts the audience first. His decision to bring Sitaare Zameen Par exclusively to cinemas is a significant show of confidence in theatres and the shared magic of the moviegoing experience. Indian exhibitors thank Aamir Khan for standing by theatres. As we continue to welcome audiences with renewed energy and world-class films, Sitaare Zammen Par will remain a shining example of cinema's resilience and its irreplaceable magic” said Kamal Gianchandani, President, MAI.

???? MAI applauds Aamir Khan for releasing Sitaare Zameen Par exclusively in cinemas on 20 June! A bold move that reaffirms the magic of the big screen and the power of collective storytelling. ????#ThankYouAamir #SitaareZameenPar #BackToTheatres pic.twitter.com/dpgHmTSSAG — Multiplex Association Of India (@MAofIndia) June 19, 2025

“Aamir Khan has always been a filmmaker who creates for the theatrical experience. His decision to back cinemas with Sitaare Zameen Par is a significant moment for all of us. It’s not just a film release; it’s a message of unwavering belief in theatres. We’re incredibly grateful to Aamir Khan Productions for boldly standing by cinemas. Sitaare Zameen Par is exactly the kind of film that brings people to theatres, thoughtful, moving, and made for a collective experience,” added Devang Sampat, CEO, Cinepolis India.

As India’s cinemas continue their march forward, Sitaare Zameen Par marks a key milestone, one that reaffirms the vitality of theatrical storytelling and the strong relationship between Indian filmmakers and the exhibition community.

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Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan visits sets of Aamir Khan starrer Sitaare Zameen Par, shares iconic moments with cast

Skechers, The Comfort Technology Company®, announced that Bollywood superstar Kartik Aaryan has signed on as its newest brand ambassador for India. The award-winning actor will first appear in a marketing campaign supporting the brand’s signature Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins® footwear.

Speaking on the association, Rahul Vira, CEO of Skechers South Asia Pvt. Ltd., said, "Kartik Aaryan embodies the spirit of Skechers—bold, versatile, stylish and innovative. We are proud to partner with Kartik, an award-winning actor that is equal parts talent, charisma and adventurous. As a prominent contemporary youth icon, his broad appeal coupled with his dynamic persona will help keep Skechers in the mind of consumers shopping for our in-demand lifestyle and athletic footwear across India. we believe Kartik’s influence will amplify our connection with his fans who value the innovation and comfort that is only offered by Skechers.”

Sharing his enthusiasm about joining the Skechers family, Kartik Aaryan said, “I am excited to collaborate with Skechers—a brand that stands at the intersection of cutting-edge performance and contemporary style. What truly impressed me is their relentless focus on innovation, especially the Slip-ins technology, which redefines convenience without compromising on design. I’m always on the move, so I love that I can just slip in and go. Skechers’ vision aligns perfectly with my own belief in pushing boundaries, and I look forward to being part of their incredible journey as they continue to inspire athletes and trendsetters alike.”

Designed for those who value both style and ease, the Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins feature the brand’s exclusive Heel Pillow® technology, allowing consumers to simply slip into their footwear without bending down or using their hands. The uniquely Skechers design makes comfort as effortless as it is stylish.

Kartik Aaryan joins a Skechers roster that includes Indian actress Ananya Panday, along with elite athletes including footballers Sunil Chhetri, Harry Kane, Baris Alper Yilmaz, Isco Alarcón and Mohammed Kudus; cricket players Jasprit Bumrah, Ishan Kishan and Yastika Bhatia; pickleball pros Sonu Vishwakarma, Vrushali Thakare, Vanshik Kapadia and Mayur Patil; as well as basketball stars Julius Randle, Joel Embiid, Norman Powell, and Rickea Jackson.

Also Read: Ananya Panday wraps up Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri schedule; groves on ‘Dheeme Dheeme’ with co-star Kartik Aaryan in BTS video, watch

Hold onto your pagdis, because Jassi is back with double the dhamaka and double the masti! The wait is finally over. After a blockbuster run with the first film, Ajay Devgn returns with the much-anticipated sequel, Son of Sardaar 2, ready to bring the house down!

Directed by Vijay Kumar Arora, Ajay Devgn reprises his iconic role as Jassi in Son of Sardaar 2, set to explode onto the big screen on July 25, 2025. Presented by Jio Studios and Devgn Films, A Devgn Films and SOS 2 Limited production, Son of Sardar 2 is produced by Ajay Devgn and Jyoti Deshpande. Produced by N R Pachisia and Pravin Talreja, and co-produced by Kumar Mangat Pathak. Son Of Sardaar 2 is releasing on July 25, 2025.

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Ajay Devgn’s look in the poster of Son of Sardaar 2 captures a bold and larger-than-life presence. Dressed in a sleek black leather jacket paired with dark trousers and a white shirt, Ajay exudes confidence and charisma. His signature intense expression is complemented by a bright yellow turban, adding a traditional yet striking element to his appearance. Posing atop two military tanks, with one foot planted on each, he stands tall and commanding, reinforcing the tagline “The Return of the Sardaar.” The overall styling blends rugged masculinity with a touch of flamboyance, setting the tone for an action-packed, entertaining sequel.

Interestingly, Son Of Sardaar 2 will be clashing with Maddock Films' Param Sundari, starring Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor.

Also Read: Mrunal Thakur shares clapperboard pic sets of Son of Sardaar 2 sparking interest from fans