The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Friday rejected a criminal petition filed by actor‑turned‑politician Kangana Ranaut, thereby allowing a defamation case initiated against her to proceed to trial. Ranaut had sought dismissal of both the underlying complaint and the summoning order issued by a Bathinda court under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code.

The legal action stems from a retweet shared by Ranaut during the 2020–21 farmers’ protests. In her post she wrote, “Ha ha ha she is the same dadi who featured in Time magazine for being the most powerful Indian…. And she is available in 100 rupees. Pakistani jurno’s have hijacked international PR for India in an embarrassing way. We need our own people to speak for us internationally.”

During the hearing under Section 482 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the bench of Justice Tribhuvan Dahiya carefully analysed the evidence and arguments. The court stated, “There are specific allegations against the petitioner, who is a celebrity, that false and defamatory imputations by her in the retweet have dented the respondent’s reputation and lowered her in her own estimation, as also in the eyes of others. Therefore, filing of the complaint to vindicate her rights cannot be termed mala fide

Justice Dahiya further noted, “The order has been passed after due application of mind to the facts of the case, by examining the preliminary evidence in the light of relevant provisions of law.”

Observers highlighted that Ranaut's defence hinged on the argument that the retweet lacked malice and was shared in good faith—without awareness of any factual inaccuracy. However, the High Court dismissed this rationale, rejecting that she was automatically protected under the Ninth or Tenth Exceptions to Section 499 IPC, which pertain to statements made in good faith for public good or cautioning others.

Significantly, the court also pointed out that Ranaut had not tendered any apology or acknowledgement of the mistake after being informed that the person in the image was mistakenly identified—and not the “Shaheen Bano” or the “Time magazine” figure as implied.

The Bathinda magistrate had previously issued a summons on February 22, 2022, after preliminary evidence satisfied him that a prima facie case of defamation existed. The High Court affirmed that determination, noting that the magistrate “duly applied mind to the material on record” before issuing process.

Also Read : Kangana Ranaut sparks uproar with claim that MPs have less power than panchayats and MLAs; says, “A lot of MPs end up feeling very frustrated”

This Friendship Day just got better as Abhishek Banerjee, Aparshakti Khurana and Varun Sharma are all set to come together for the first time on screen. Producers Imtiaz Ali and Mahaveer Jain Films are thrilled to announce their latest cinematic venture, Side Heroes, a heartfelt and hilarious ode to friendship, nostalgia, and rediscovering joy. The film will bring together three powerhouses of comedy, promising audiences an unforgettable journey filled with laughter and warmth.

The makers have also dropped an asset. It's a Friendship Day surprise, and seeing the three boys together with Imtiaz Ali is sure to be a treat.

The film tells the poignant yet comical story of three childhood buddies who reconnect at a reunion after years of distance and silence. It is an enjoyable tale of friends rediscovering the true meaning of happiness, exploring themes of dreams, love, memories, and life.

Known for their impeccable comic timing and ability to leave audiences in splits, Abhishek Banerjee, Aparshakti Khurana and Varun Sharma are set to deliver a triple dose of rib-tickling entertainment. Their combined on-screen chemistry is anticipated to be a major highlight, guaranteeing abundant laughter.

Side Heroes is directed by Ssanjay Tripaathy, written by Siddarth Sen and Pankaj Matta, and produced by Imtiaz Ali, Mahaveer Jain, Mrighdeep Singh Lamba and Reeyan Shah. It is presented by Lyca Productions and Mahaveer Jain Films in association with Window Seat Films.

MJF Producers Mahaveer Jain and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba shared, “Stories told from the heart and for the heart always resonate with us. Side Heroes is a script that we instantly related to, the tale of three friends looking back at their lives during a reunion, told through the filter of humour and emotions. It’s just the kind of film that excites all of us. We are looking forward to this journey with the amazingly talented cast and crew”.

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The film is expected to go on floors soon. If this announcement is anything to go by, a lovable film about life and friendships is on its way to our screens on Friendship Day 2026.

Also Read: Imtiaz Ali may produce his next titled Side Heroes along with Reliance Entertainment

Filmmaker Mohit Suri has marked the extraordinary success of his latest film Saiyaara with a gesture that reflects both gratitude and compassion. As the film inches toward the Rs. 300 crore club in India, Suri chose to step away from conventional Bollywood celebrations and instead organized a food distribution drive in Mumbai.

Saiyaara, which released on July 18, has become a box office phenomenon. Starring two fresh faces — Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda — the film has won over audiences with its emotional storyline, memorable music, and striking performances.

In a touching celebration of the film’s rising success, Suri visited the Shree Mukteshwar Devalaya temple in Juhu on August 2. There, he sought blessings and was later seen distributing bhog to devotees and the needy — a symbolic act of sharing the joy of the film’s journey with the larger community.

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Known for directing emotional blockbusters like Aashiqui 2, Suri has once again proven his ability to connect with audiences through storytelling — and now, through thoughtful action as well.

With Saiyaara continuing its dream run at the box office and capturing hearts nationwide, Suri’s celebration stands out not just for its humility, but for the message it sends — success feels richer when shared.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Saiyaara actor Shaad Randhawa reveals that his first scene in his debut flick Woh Lamhe was a sexual assault sequence with Kangana Ranaut: “I was nervous…Mohit Suri told me, ‘You should never play a villain thinking ki main villain hoon…’”

In a moment fans across the globe have long awaited, Shah Rukh Khan has finally clinched his first National Film Award, marking a historic milestone in a legendary career that spans over three decades. The superstar was honoured for his performance in Atlee’s 2023 blockbuster Jawan, which redefined his on-screen persona and heralded one of Bollywood’s biggest comebacks.

Taking to social media to express his gratitude, Khan shared a moving video thanking the jury, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, director Atlee, his family, and his fans. The video, laced with his trademark wit and charm, quickly went viral — particularly his iconic line, “Half a hug to everyone today… just keep the popcorn ready. I’ll be back on screen soon — with one hand, ready,” he said as he dropped a video showcasing his gratitude and the comment about a half hug? Well, that’s the consequence of a latest injury the superstar suffered on the sets of his upcoming film.

Further continuing his heartfelt speech, SRK shared, “To be honoured with the National Award is a moment I will cherish for a lifetime. This award is a reminder that acting is not just a job — it’s a responsibility. A responsibility to show truth on screen.”

He acknowledged the creators who shaped his transformative year, adding, “Thank you Raju sir, thank you Saeed, and especially Atlee sir and his team for trusting me. Atlee sir, this is — like you say — mass.”

Khan also praised his team and family, calling them the pillars behind his success. “They bear with my eccentricities and impatience and make me look much better than I am — like even now in this video. My wife and kids love me like I’m the child in the house. They know cinema takes me away from them, but they bear it with a smile,” he added.

Asserting that the award is not just personal, SRK also addressed his fans directly and stated, “Thank you for all the cheers and the tears. Thank you for pausing your scrolling to watch me. This award is for you — as each one is.”

Thank you for honouring me with the National Award. Thanks to the jury, the I&B ministry… Iss samman ke liye Bharat Sarkar ka dhanyawaad. Overwhelmed with the love showered upon me. Half a hug to everyone today…. pic.twitter.com/PDiAG9uuzo — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) August 1, 2025

Khan’s win marks a major turning point in Indian cinema. After facing a lull in the late 2010s, SRK’s resurgence in 2023 with Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki brought back the mass hysteria to box offices, reestablishing him as a cultural phenomenon. His role in Jawan — a blend of action, emotion, and political messaging — showcased a new depth to the King of Romance, proving once again that reinvention is his greatest strength.

As fans across the globe celebrate the overdue honour, the actor’s promise to return “soon on screen” ensures that the King’s reign is far from over.

Also Read: Farah Khan hails Shah Rukh Khan’s National Award win for Jawan: “This time the shiddat se koshish really came thru”

Saiyaara is a film of many firsts. It marks the much-anticipated debut of Ahaan Panday and also the first time that Mohit Suri has teamed up with Yash Raj Films (YRF). It is also the first time that Akshaye Widhani has turned producer. And now, it has come to light that it is also the first theatrical release of YRF, which has Netflix as its OTT partner.

The Netflix logo appears during the end credit song, making it clear that the streaming giant has come on board for the romantic, musical saga. The development is significant because, until now, all films of YRF have been released on Amazon Prime after the completion of their theatrical run. With Saiyaara, a new chapter has been written between the prestigious production house and the global streaming giant.

Interestingly, this is not the first time that both have come together for a project. YRF established its vertical, YRF Entertainment, which dabbles in making web series and digital films and also focuses on content for international audiences. The first digital drop from this vertical was The Romantics. The docu-series premiered on Netflix on February 14, 2023 and honoured Yash Chopra and Yash Raj Films’ rich cultural legacy of 50 years. This was followed by The Railway Men the same year. Starring Kay Kay Menon, R Madhavan, Divyenndu and Babil Khan, the thrilling mini-series paid a tribute to the railway workers at Bhopal station, also the unsung heroes of the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy.

In 2024, YRF unveiled Maharaj, which marked the debut of Junaid Khan. The controversial courtroom drama also starred Sharvari, Jaideep Ahlawat and Shalini Pandey. In November, the slice-of-life sports film, Vijay 69, starring Anupam Kher, arrived on the OTT platform and won hearts.

Just last week, YRF’s big-budget mystery show, Mandala Murders, starring Vaani Kapoor, released on Netflix. Earlier this year, at a grand Netflix event, YRF Entertainment announced that they have one more show in the offing, Akka, starring Keerthy Suresh, Radhika Apte and Tanvi Azmi.

Coming back to Saiyaara, this Ahaan Pandey-Aneet Padda starrer continues to rule in cinemas and is all set to cross the Rs. 300 crore mark by the end of its third weekend. As it happens with any other Hindi theatrical release, the Netflix premiere of Saiyaara will not happen anytime soon, more so when the film is unstoppable at the box office.

Also Read: “Saiyaara is everything a love story should be”: Tara Sutaria on why Mohit Suri directorial is striking a chord; reveals she’s been called “Boring” for listening to 50s and 60s music

Son of Sardaar 2, the much-awaited sequel to the 2012 hit, is turning up the laughter meter this weekend—and audiences are loving every second of it. After a successful theatrical launch on Friday, August 1st, 2025, the makers have now extended a massive 50% discount offer on tickets through the weekend, making it the perfect time for a fun-filled family movie outing.

Audiences can avail up to Rs. 200 off on their tickets using the code SOS2 across select platforms. The move comes after a phenomenal opening day response and glowing audience reviews praising the film's comedy, chaos, and energetic performances. “Kyuki ab hassne ka samay aa gaya hai (It’s time to laugh your heart out)!” the team declared while announcing the extension of the offer, emphasizing that the film is all about spreading joy and turning the weekend into a laughter riot.

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Son of Sardaar 2 features a power-packed ensemble of actors like Ravi Kishan, Sanjay Mishra, Mrunal Thakur, Neeru Bajwa, Chunky Panday, Kubbra Sait, Deepak Dobriyal, Vindu Dara Singh, Ashwini Kalsekar, Roshni Walia, Sharat Saxena, Sahil Mehta and the late Mukul Dev, in a memorable role, promising madcap mayhem, Directed by Vijay Kumar Arora, the film is a rollercoaster of cultural comedy, hilarious misunderstandings, and heartwarming moments, promising wholesome entertainment for all age groups.

Presented by Jio Studios and Devgn Films, the film is produced by Ajay Devgn and Jyoti Deshpande, along with N R Pachisia and Pravin Talreja, and co-produced by Kumar Mangat Pathak. The movie is released under Devgn Films and SOS 2 Limited banners. With footfalls rising and buzz growing across social media, the extended offer is expected to further boost the film’s already strong box office run.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn mimics Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff in hilarious Border spoof in Son of Sardaar 2

The winners of the 71st National Film Awards were unveiled at the National Media Centre in New Delhi on Friday, honouring cinematic excellence for films certified in 2023. Among the major winners, Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery stood out, clinching the prestigious Best Hindi Film award. The satirical social drama, produced by Guneet Monga Kapoor under the Sikhya Entertainment banner, was recognised for its sharp storytelling and impactful themes.

Celebrating the win, Guneet Monga Kapoor expressed her heartfelt gratitude in a statement: “Every time a story from the heart of India is honoured, it’s a win for every voice that deserves to be heard. We are incredibly honoured to receive the Best Hindi Film award for Kathal at the 71st National Film Awards. Grateful beyond words for this recognition.”

She acknowledged the film’s director, Yashowardhan Mishra, and co-writer Ashok Mishra, calling the story “sharp, original, and deeply human.” Guneet also extended thanks to producing partners Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor of Balaji Telefilms, Netflix India, and her own team at Sikhya Entertainment, including co-producer Achin Jain.

A special mention was made for lead actress Sanya Malhotra, whose portrayal of Mahima, a determined police officer. Guneed added, “Kathal wouldn’t have been possible without the unconditional support of my co-producer Achin Jain and the incredible team at Sikhya Entertainment, this journey wouldn’t have been possible without your belief and support. And to Sanya Malhotra, your performance as Mahima was both powerful and full of heart.”

She added, “You brought Mahima to life with such nuance, warmth, and unwavering strength, dil jeet liya! Thank you for leading this story with such grace, authenticity, and quiet power. Set and shot entirely in the culturally rich state of Madhya Pradesh, Kathal is a satirical tale rooted in the everyday, a reminder that truth often hides in the most unexpected places. MP ki saadgi ne humari film ko aur khoobsurat bana diya! This win is for every storyteller who dares to look closer and tell stories that matter. Bahut bahut shukriya!”

With this award, Kathal cements its place among the year's most impactful films, continuing Guneet Monga Kapoor’s legacy of producing socially conscious cinema with heart.

Also Read : Guneet Monga Kapoor leads launch of Women in Film India, fellowship announced at Cannes Film Festival 2025

The winners of the 71st National Film Awards were officially announced on Friday at a press conference hosted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting at the National Media Centre, New Delhi. The prestigious awards honour excellence in Indian cinema and recognise films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) between January 1 and December 31, 2023.

Among the biggest winners this year was Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, which took home two major honours. The romantic family drama, known for its vibrant storytelling and strong ensemble cast, won the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The category celebrates films that resonate widely with audiences while upholding cinematic and emotional integrity.

In addition, the film also bagged the award for Best Choreography for the energetic and visually striking number ‘Dhindhora Baje Re’, choreographed by Vaibhavi Merchant. The elaborate dance sequence, featuring leads Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, was praised for its grandeur, fusion of classical aesthetics, and impeccable execution.

Reacting to the recognition, director Karan Johar shared, “I am ecstatic and overwhelmed to win the national award for a film exceptionally close to my heart. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.. I am grateful to the jury and continue to be humbled by the enormous love the film continues to recieve.”

The National Film Awards continue to serve as one of the most credible platforms in recognising artistic merit across languages and genres in Indian cinema. With Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani securing key wins, the film's success highlights the enduring appeal of mainstream cinema that blends traditional values with modern narratives.

The full list of winners showcases the diversity and evolving creativity in Indian filmmaking, affirming the industry’s commitment to both entertainment and excellence.

Also Read : From Alia Bhatt to Malaika Arora: 5 Bollywood diva’s who light up the perfect light

The winners of the prestigious 71st National Film Awards were announced on Friday at the National Media Centre in New Delhi, honouring excellence in Indian cinema for the year 2023. Among the standout achievements this year, Rani Mukerji bagged the National Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her powerful performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway.

The emotional courtroom drama, directed by Ashima Chibber and produced by Monisha Advani, Madhu Bhojwani, and Nikkhil Advani under the banner of Emmay Entertainment, struck a chord with audiences and critics alike. Based on true events, Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway narrated the harrowing journey of a mother fighting a foreign legal system to regain custody of her children. Rani Mukerji's portrayal of Debika Chatterjee — a mother’s raw, unrelenting fight — was widely praised and now stands recognized at the highest national level.

On winning the award Rani Mukerji stated, “I’m overwhelmed to have won the National Award for my performance in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. Incidentally, this is the first ever National Award in my 30 year career. As an actor, I have been fortunate to have some incredible films in my body of work and have got so much love for them. I thank the National Award jury for honouring my work in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. I share this moment with the entire team of the film, my producers Nikkhil Advani, Monisha and Madhu, my director Ashima Chibber, and everyone who worked on this truly special project that celebrated the resilience of motherhood. For me, this award is also a validation of my 30 year body of work, my dedication to my craft with which I feel a deeply spiritual connection and my passion for cinema and this beautiful film industry of ours.”

She stated, “I dedicate my National Award to all the incredible mothers of this world. There is nothing like a mother’s love and her ferocity to protect her own. The story of this Indian immigrant mother who went all out for her child and took on a nation shook me deeply.. a mother's love for her child is unconditional…I realised this when I had my own. So, this win, this film feels deeply emotional and personal. A mother can move mountains for her children and also make the world a better place. This film tried to show this.”

Rani further elaborated, “It also feels the apt time to again thank all my fans, from across the world, who have relentlessly supported me through thick and thin for these 30 years! Your unconditional love and support is everything that I have ever needed to stay motivated, to show up at work every day and to deliver performances that have entertained you. You’ve embraced every role, every character, every story I’ve had the good fortune to bring to life. So, without you I would be a nobody today.

Rani delivered a powerful performance, infusing the character with raw emotion, vulnerability, and strength. She authentically portrayed the pain and determination of a mother who refused to back down. The emotional intensity she brought to both the courtroom scenes and the more subdued moments of maternal grief is profoundly affecting and uplifting.

The film not only highlighted cultural tensions and the indifference of bureaucracy but also reinforced Rani’s exceptional talent in leading a film with grace and depth.

Also Read : Rani Mukerji and Vikrant Massey to win National Awards this time?

The month of August is here and the release of Coolie is less than two weeks away. The excitement for it is sky-high as it marks superstar Rajinikanth’s first film with blockbuster filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj. Meanwhile, in a significant development, the film has been awarded an ‘A’ certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). This was confirmed by the producers, Sun Pictures, on their official social media accounts today at 6:00 pm.

Interestingly, in more than 3 ½ decades, Rajinikanth’s films haven’t received ‘A’ rating. His movies have essentially been lapped up by the audience of all ages but Coolie will clearly be an exception. In the 80s, several of his films were given an adult rating, like Puthukavithai (1982), Ranga (1982), Naan Sigappu Manithan (1985), Netrikkan (1981), etc. Oorkavalan (1987) is also said to be ‘A’ rated, as per his fans, but Bollywood Hungama couldn’t verify it. Siva (1989) was the last film of the mega star to be awarded an ‘A’ certificate. In other words, Coolie is Rajinikanth’s first adult film in 36 years. Interestingly, Coolie is also Lokesh Kanagaraj’s first adult film ever.

Coolie is all set to clash with another gigantic film, War 2, starring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, on August 14. With the film being given an adult rating, it remains to be seen whether its prospects will be affected, especially in the Hindi-speaking markets, more so when it faces tough competition from the YRF Spy Universe saga. But then, the success of films like Animal (2023), Kabir Singh (2019) etc. have proved that A-rated films can also excel big time at the ticket window, if they get widespread acceptance from the target audience.

Coolie’s much-awaited trailer will be out tomorrow, that is, August 2. It is keenly awaited as that would finally give an idea of how well it can work in the Northern belt. The film also stars Aamir Khan and Nagarjuna in supporting roles.

Also Read: Sanskaari CBFC springs a surprise; allows NAKED butt scene in Liam Neeson’s The Naked Gun

The outrageous adult comedy The Naked Gun has been released today, August 1, in cinemas and it has been noticed due to the popularity of the series, casting and hilarious trailers. There was apprehension among the fans of the series about whether the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) would recklessly ask for cuts in adult scenes. But in a rare instance, the CBFC hasn’t made any major changes in the film.

As per the cut list, the Examining Committee of the CBFC just deleted a one-second ‘obscene visual’ at 41 minutes into the film. What has astonished the fans is that there’s a 2-3 second shot of lead actor Liam Neeson’s naked butt. The CBFC, however, neither asked the studio to blur the posterior of the veteran actor nor instructed them to do away with the shot.

After the only cut was implemented, The Naked Gun received a censor certificate on July 25. The film was passed with an ‘A’ rating. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 87.31 minutes. In other words, The Naked Gun is 1 hour, 27 minutes and 31 seconds long.

A trade source commented, “One can argue that since The Naked Gun received an ‘A’ rating, the butt shot has been allowed. But then, there have been instances in the past where the CBFC has cut scenes even in adult films. A recent example is that of the Ranbir Kapoor-starrer Animal (2023), where close-up shots in an intimate scene were axed despite the film getting an adults-only rating. While violent scenes often are untouched, the CBFC often targets such scenes, which is why it is called the ‘Sanskaari Censor Board’.”

However, an industry insider reminded, “Maybe, the CBFC has no issue with showing male butt. Wasn’t Ranveer Singh’s buttock shot in Befikre (2016) approved by CBFC, that too with a U/A rating?”

Also Read: Pamela Anderson opens up on playing Femme Fatale in The Naked Gun: “I work a lot on the character”

Vikrant Massey indeed is the best actor of this generation as he has been awarded the prestigious National Award for Best Actor for his powerful performance in 12th Fail, where he plays the real-life IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma. Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the film narrates the extraordinary journey of a young man from a humble background who dares to dream big. Battling poverty, self-doubt, and the pressure of India’s most competitive examination — the UPSC — Manoj’s story is one of perseverance and hope. With this win, Vikrant has firmly asserted his place the best actor of this generation.

Massey’s portrayal of Manoj has been widely celebrated for its sincerity, subtlety, and emotional depth. His ability to embody the vulnerability and resilience of the character made the performance both relatable and inspiring. The film struck a chord with audiences across the country, and critics hailed Massey’s work as one of the finest performances in recent years.

This National Award win not only recognizes his hard work and dedication but also marks a significant milestone in his career. From television to cinema, Vikrant has steadily carved a niche for himself as an actor who brings authenticity and gravitas to every role. With each project, he continues to prove why he is among the best in the business.

Sharing  his reaction on winning the National Award, Vikrant said in a statement, "I want to thank the Honourable Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the NFDC, and all the esteemed jury members of the 71st National Film Awards for considering my performance worthy of this recognition. I also want to thank Shri Vidhu Vinod Chopra ji for giving me this opportunity."

He added, "Today, if I may say so, a 20-year-old boy’s dream has come true. I am eternally grateful to the audiences for honouring my performances and for recommending this film with such love. It is a privilege to be sharing my first National Award with an icon like Shah Rukh Khan. Lastly, I dedicate this award to all the marginalised people in our society — those who are often looked through, and those who are fighting the socio-economic paradigm of our country every single day."

Up next, Vikrant will be seen stepping into the shoes of renowned spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for an upcoming biopic — yet another challenging role that showcases his range and fearlessness as a performer. With a string of memorable roles and now a National Award to his name, Vikrant Massey has truly emerged as one of the most bankable and respected talents in Indian cinema today.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan wins first National Award for Jawan, 33 years after his film debut