A new controversy is stirring in the Indian film industry as Ye Re Ye Re Paisa 3, a Marathi-language film, was reportedly pulled from several theatres across Maharashtra just a week after its release. Ameya Khopkar, President of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena’s (MNS) film wing, has strongly condemned multiplex chains for allegedly replacing the film to make way for the Hindi-language romantic drama Saiyaara, backed by Yash Raj Films.

Accusations of Unfair Screen Allotment Speaking to the press, Khopkar alleged that despite the film’s July 18 release and a “great response from the audience,” it was quickly dropped from key screens across the state to accommodate Saiyaara, starring Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda.

“Our film Ye Re Ye Re Paisa 3 was screened in Maharashtra on July 18. On the same day, a Hindi film named Saiyaara was also released,” Khopkar said. “Even in the heart of Mumbai, there is no place for Marathi films. Multiplexes like Plaza Cinema in Dadar gave all four shows to Saiyaara, completely removing our film.”

मराठीसाठी मल्टिप्लेक्सच्या काचा फुटणार ? . . . (Amey Khopkar, Ye Re Ye Re Paisa 3, Marathi Movie, Multiplexes, Marathi artists, Marathi, Comedy-drama, Sanjay Jadhav, Maharashtra)#ameykhopkar #yereyerepaisa3 #marathimovie #comedydrama #movie #maharashtra #viralkarbhar pic.twitter.com/5tP4f2rTlV

— Viral Karbhar (@ViralKarbhar) July 26, 2025

Political Fallout and Rising Tensions Khopkar, while refraining from immediate protest, issued a stern warning for the future. “I am quiet now because I don’t want to protest for my films. But next time, if any Marathi film faces such treatment, I will break the glasses of multiplexes,” he warned.

His comments have triggered swift political reactions. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut took to social media to express solidarity, stating: “To accommodate Saiyaara, Ye Re Ye Re Paisa 3 has been sidelined. This has become routine. The fight for Marathi must intensify.”

मराठी साठी सगळे एकत्र येत आहेत,लढत येत आहेत तरीही प्रश्न काही संपत नाहीत, संयारा या हिंदी चित्रपटास थिएटर मिळावे म्हणून- “येरे येरे पैसा ३”या मराठी चित्रपटास उतरवण्यात आले, हे नेहमीचेच झाले आहे, मराठीचा लढा अधिक तीव्र करावा लागेल, मराठीचे खरे मारेकरी वेगळेच आहेत जय महाराष्ट्र! pic.twitter.com/mQlFvkGLsl — Sanjay Raut (@rautsanjay61) July 25, 2025

In response, members of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena’s cinema wing staged a protest outside a PVR multiplex in Bandra, demanding better enforcement of Maharashtra’s mandatory screen quota for regional cinema.

Also Read: Saiyaara Box Office: Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda starrer has a SOLID second Friday

The Hrithik Roshan and NTR Jr. starrer War 2 is the most anticipated film in Indian Cinema, and the makers created a storm with the trailer launch just a day ago. There has been tremendous chatter about the visuals and the scale of this YRF Spy Universe Saga, as the makers have crafted six unique action sequences to take the audience on a ride during the Independence Day 2025 weekend. There is a chatter all across of War 2 matching the global standards of filmmaking. 

And now we have found the reason for this. A trade source confirms that War 2 is the most expensive and most ambitious film of the YRF Spy Universe. “War 2 is made on a budget of Rs. 400 crores, surpassing the budget of Tiger 3 (Rs. 350 crores), and Pathaan (Rs. 325 crores). This does not include the marketing budget kept aside for print and publicity,” the source told Bollywood Hungama discretely.

We hear that NTR Jr. has drawn a pay cheque of Rs. 70 crores for War 2, whereas Hrithik Roshan has got an upfront fee of Rs. 50 crore, with an additional clause of a back-end deal for profit sharing. Kiara Advani, on the other hand, has got Rs. 15 crores, whereas Anil Kapoor is drawing Rs. 10 crores for War 2. The acting fees alone have resulted in Rs. 150 crores, with Ayan Mukerji getting a hefty cheque of Rs. 30 crores. “The remaining Rs. 220 crores have been invested in mounting the film at an unimaginable scale. The visuals of War 2 will take the audience on an unforgettable ride,” the trade source told Bollywood Hungama.

Directed by Ayan Mukerji, War 2 is all set to release on August 14, 2025. The film continues the YRF Spy Universe that started in 2012 with Ek Tha Tiger. Also Read: War 2 trailer out: Karan Johar calls it blockbuster, Alia Bhatt says “Mazedar”; Sidharth Malhotra can’t wait wife Kiara Advani in action avatar

World-renowned Iranian filmmaker Majid Majidi, acclaimed for cinematic gems like Children of Heaven and Baran, has arrived in Mumbai to finalise an upcoming drama project with Shabbir Boxwala, Ajay Shah & Himanshu Gandhi of Kaash Entertainment Pvt. Ltd..

The emotionally rich drama will be a powerful Indo-Iranian collaboration, co-produced by Aakash & Vega Garg of True Aura Films. The project aims to blend Majidi’s globally celebrated humanist storytelling with the heart and soul of Indian cinema.

Pre-production meetings are in full swing, with key discussions underway to finalise the script, casting, and schedule. The project is expected to go on floors later this year.

This landmark collaboration marks a cultural and creative synergy that has already generated buzz in both Indian and international film circles. An official announcement is expected shortly.

Also Read: Mukesh Bhatt in talks with Iranian director Majid Majidi for an international project

The third instalment of the cult 2000s comedy Hera Pheri has been making headlines ever since it was announced. After months of speculation, legal battles, and statements from the cast, Akshay Kumar has finally cleared the air, bringing some much-needed good news for fans.

In an exclusive chat on The Right Angle with Sonal Kalra Season 2, produced by Gautam Thakker Films, Akshay Kumar said, "Nahi, yeh publicity stunt nahi hai. The things went legal, so when legal things are involved, we cannot call it a publicity stunt; it is a real thing.” He further added, “But ab sab kuch thik ho gaya hai. Very soon, some kind of announcement can come. Yes, there were some ups and downs. But now everything is solved, and we are back together, and we have always been together. Yes, that's it!"

In the same interview, Akshay Kumar also lauded the success of Saiyaara. He said, “I think it's the best thing that has happened. One of the great things for the Hindi film industry is that a film with two debutants, Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, has worked so well. I welcome them to the industry, and I’m very happy. It’s a good sign, and for newcomers’ films to do so well is truly a big deal."

Speaking of the professional front, besides Hera Pheri 3, Akshay also has an exciting project in his kitty, titled Bhooth Bangla. The upcoming horror-comedy will mark the reunion of Akshay and director Priyadarshan. The film will also star Wamiqa Gabbi, Paresh Rawal, and Tabu in pivotal roles. The film is slated to release on April 2, 2026.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar walks the ramp after 12 years for Falguni Shane Peacock at India Couture Week 2025

The Maddock Horror Comedy Cinematic Universe has emerged as a huge success, more so after its last film, Stree 2 (2024), earned more than Rs. 500 crores at the box office. As a result, the excitement is tremendous for its next film, Thama. It stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal and is directed by Aditya Sarpotdar of Munjya (2024), which was also a surprise success from this universe. It is common knowledge now that Varun Dhawan will reprise the role of Bhediya in this film. Bollywood Hungama has learned more information about the appearance of the young actor in this film.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Varun Dhawan has a lot more screen time in Thama, than in Stree 2. Even in Stree 2, he was a highlight and here, the makers have ensured that the impact of his performance is many notches higher. He shot for as many as 6 days, which clearly indicates how crucial he is to the narrative.”

The source further said, “Varun Dhawan plays Bhediya while in Thama, Ayushmann Khurrana is a vampire. The werewolf vs vampire enmity is a common trope for a long time. Blockbuster producer Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films has taken this aspect in his upcoming release. Aditya Sarpotdar has canned it in a massive way and the action sequence between the two is expected to be a visual spectacle in terms of VFX and scale. The scene was shot in March-April this year.”

Interestingly, one of the upcoming films of Maddock Horror Comedy Cinematic Universe is Bhediya 2 and Thama is expected to give a hint about that as well. Bhediya 2 is scheduled for release on August 14, 2026 but as per trade sources, the film will be pushed due to delays. A new date for this film, as well as for other films of this universe like Shakti Shalini, originally meant for release on December 31, 2025 and Chamunda, which has been scheduled to hit cinemas on December 4, 2026, is also expected to be announced.

Thama, which will be out on Diwali 2025, marks Ayushmann Khurrana’s first release after more than 2 years. His last release, Dream Girl 2, was released on August 25, 2023. As for Varun, before Thama, he’ll be seen in a leading role in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, co-starring Janhvi Kapoor. It will be released on the big screen on October 2 this year.

Following the Indian government’s recent crackdown on 24 OTT platforms for allegedly broadcasting explicit content, one of the names that surfaced was ALTT, formerly known as ALTBalaji. Amid widespread speculation and media coverage, Balaji Telefilms Limited has issued a strong clarification distancing producer Ekta Kapoor and her mother Shobha Kapoor from the platform.

In an official statement released on July 26, Balaji Telefilms emphasized that the company is a “professionally run media organization” listed on both the BSE and NSE. The statement further confirmed that ALTT is now operated solely by Balaji Telefilms, following the approved amalgamation of ALT Digital Media Entertainment Ltd. with the parent company as of June 20, 2025. “No Longer Associated Since 2021” The clarification was issued in response to media reports suggesting that ALTT had been disabled by authorities and still had ties to Ekta and Shobha Kapoor. “Contrary to such reports, Ms. Ekta Kapoor and Mrs. Shobha Kapoor are not associated in any capacity whatsoever with ALTT,” the company asserted, noting that the duo had officially stepped down from their roles in June 2021.

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The company strongly denied any insinuations linking them to current developments around the ban and urged media outlets to report responsibly and factually.

The controversy stems from a Ministry of Information & Broadcasting order earlier this week, which directed internet service providers to block 24 OTT platforms allegedly involved in distributing vulgar or sexually explicit content.

Also Read: Govt blocks ALTT, ULLU and 22 other platforms over adult content violations: Reports

Tara Sutaria has finally addressed the growing speculation surrounding her rumoured relationship with Sky Force actor Veer Pahariya. The buzz began with a string of flirty social media interactions and escalated after their recent joint appearance at the Mumbai airport. Now, the actress has responded to the public curiosity during an interaction with ANI at the ongoing India Couture Week.

Reacting to the online chatter and the fan love that followed, Tara said, “That’s very, very sweet, and it’s so nice to see and read about it online.” However, when pressed further about her equation with Veer, she chose to stay discreet, adding, “I’m sorry, I won’t be able to talk about that at the moment.”

Dating rumours first surfaced after Tara shared behind-the-scenes pictures with AP Dhillon from their music video ‘Thodi Si Daaru.’ Veer dropped a comment saying, “My,” followed by a red heart and star emoji. Tara responded with “Mine,” accompanied by a red heart and an evil eye emoji. This brief yet telling exchange sparked curiosity among fans, many interpreting it as a soft confirmation of their relationship.

The speculation gained further traction when Tara and Veer were spotted arriving at the Mumbai airport in the same car. Dressed in coordinated white outfits, the duo opted not to pose for photographs but were seen walking close together, with Veer courteously holding the car door for Tara.

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While Tara continues to keep her personal life under wraps, the buzz around her and Veer Pahariya refuses to die down. On the work front, Veer made his Bollywood debut earlier this year with Sky Force, co-starring Akshay Kumar, Sara Ali Khan, and Nimrat Kaur. Tara, meanwhile, has been seen in back-to-back music videos, including 'Thodi Si Daaru' and 'Pyaar Aata Hai,' following her last big-screen appearance in Apurva (2023).

Also Read: Tara Sutaria blows kisses to rumoured beau Veer Pahariya during stunning ramp walk at India Couture Week

The entertainment industry is buzzing with anticipation as three dynamic stars — Ranveer Singh, Sreeleela, and Bobby Deol — come together for a massive new project that’s already being touted as one of the biggest collaborations of recent times. And now, the wait for more details may finally be nearing its end, as the film’s title and first look are expected to be revealed next week.

According to an independent industry source, “The collaboration of Ranveer Singh, Sreeleela, and Bobby Deol is shaping up to be even more thrilling with each passing update. Fans are in for a treat, as the title of the film will be revealed in the coming week, along with the unveiling of its first look!”

The casting alone has created enormous buzz, with all three stars bringing their distinct presence to the table. The film is believed to be a high-octane commercial entertainer, blending action, drama, and star power like never before.

Ranveer Singh, known for his magnetic screen presence and transformative roles, was recently seen at Mehboob Studio, fueling speculation about the film's progress. With Dhurandhar slated for a December 2025 release and Don 3 expected to go on floors soon, Ranveer is clearly on a career-high with a lineup that screams scale and ambition.

Sreeleela, the sensational South Indian actress who has rapidly risen through the ranks with her stunning performances in Telugu cinema, is all set to make her Bollywood debut this year. She stars opposite Kartik Aaryan in an untitled romantic musical directed by Anurag Basu, and her inclusion in this mega project only cements her position as one of the most promising talents in Indian cinema.

Meanwhile, Bobby Deol, who has been on a career resurgence post his impactful role in Animal, continues to impress with his multi-language lineup that includes the Tamil film Jana Nayagan, and several Bollywood projects.

As anticipation builds and curiosity reaches a fever pitch, this upcoming announcement could finally give fans a glimpse into what promises to be a cinematic spectacle. Audiences are now eagerly waiting for the title reveal and first look that is reportedly dropping next week.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone hilariously trolls Ranveer Singh with relatable meme: “Me phoning my husband to ask his opinion about something I’ve already decided”

Telugu actor and comedian Venkat Raj, popularly known as Fish Venkat, passed away on July 18 in Hyderabad due to complications related to kidney disease. He was 53 years old and had been undergoing dialysis while being treated in the ICU. His family had been appealing for financial assistance to cover the cost of a kidney transplant, which was estimated at around Rs 50 lakh. Unfortunately, Venkat passed away before the necessary funds could be raised.

Venkat had appeared in numerous Telugu films, including Adhurs, Gabbar Singh, Shivam, and Khaidi No 150. His final on-screen appearance was in the 2024 film Coffee with a Killer.

Following the heartbreaking news, actor Sonu Sood extended his support to Venkat’s bereaved family. He promptly transferred Rs 1.50 lakh as a gesture of assistance and also personally spoke to Venkat’s wife and relatives over a phone call to offer his condolences.

According to Sonu Sood’s team, he initially believed that Venkat was still hospitalized and had a chance of recovery. However, he was “shocked to know” that the actor had already passed away. As reported by Hindustan Times, Sonu personally spoke to Venkat’s wife and other family members over a phone call and assured them of his continued support whenever needed.

Venkat’s wife, who was deeply touched by the kind gesture, expressed a sense of relief, especially since her husband had always admired Sonu Sood, Hindustan Times also reported.

Earlier reports claimed that actor Prabhas had offered Rs 50 lakh for Venkat’s kidney transplant, but the family later clarified that they never received any such amount.

“Some unknown person called us pretending to be Prabhas Anna’s assistant. We found out after that it was a fake call. He doesn’t even know something like this is happening. We have not received any financial help yet," a family member told The Free Press Journal.

Before Venkat’s passing, actors like Vishwak Sen and Pawan Kalyan had also reportedly come forward to assist. Pawan Kalyan was said to have donated a sum after learning about Venkat’s condition. Although the financial help was delayed, the support from the film fraternity, especially Sonu Sood, provided some solace to the family during this difficult period.

Also Read : Sood rescues snake in Mumbai society, warns public against taking risks

The much-anticipated third installment of the Don franchise has seen its fair share of delays and changes since its official announcement. While Ranveer Singh has been confirmed as the new Don, replacing Shah Rukh Khan, recent developments suggest a significant shake-up in the casting of the female lead.

Kriti Sanon Replaces Kiara Advani Initially, Kiara Advani was onboard to play the leading lady in Don 3. However, according to fresh reports, the actress has now opted out of the project. Kriti Sanon is reportedly stepping into the role, marking her first collaboration with Farhan Akhtar and Ranveer Singh under the Don banner.

Fueling the speculation, Kriti recently dropped a birthday note for Ranveer on her Instagram Stories, writing, “P.S. looking forward to working with you soon!” The line has been interpreted by fans and media as a subtle confirmation of her involvement in Don 3. A Nod to the Past: Iconic Dance Track to Be Recreated Adding to the buzz, Don 3 is rumoured to feature a high-energy dance number reminiscent of the cult-favourite ‘Aaj Ki Raat’ from Don (2006), which originally starred Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and Isha Koppikar. The song, known for its slick choreography and stylish visuals, remains one of the most iconic tracks from the franchise.

According to a report by India Today, the upcoming film will feature a similar peppy number, with Kriti Sanon already locked in for the performance. She will reportedly share screen space with another actress, recreating a trio dynamic similar to the original song sequence. For the unversed, it is worth mentioning here that Bollywood Hungama earlier reported that Sharvari will be seen playing the lead in Don 3. Release Timeline and Public Reaction Don 3 is slated to go on floors in January 2026, with a theatrical release planned for December 2026. While the reboot has generated substantial curiosity, Ranveer Singh’s casting as the new Don received mixed reactions upon announcement, with a section of fans drawing comparisons with previous actors who portrayed the role — Amitabh Bachchan in the 1978 original and Shah Rukh Khan in the 2006 reboot.

Also Read: SCOOP: Vikrant Massey walks out of Don 3. What went wrong?

Abhishek Banerjee’s recent Instagram post from Chennai drew attention, not just because he’s shooting something new, but because the city has personal significance for him. Born in Kharagpur and raised in Kalpakkam, a coastal township near Chennai, Abhishek spent much of his childhood in Tamil Nadu.

Now, years later, he is back in front of the camera, filming an undisclosed project in Chennai. The timing aligns with the recent momentum in his career. Paatal Lok continues to find viewers, and Stolen has generated buzz in Tamil Nadu film circles, contributing to his growing presence in the South.

For many, it feels like a cinematic homecoming, the boy from Kalpakkam returning as one of India’s intriguing screen talents. This visit to Chennai carries personal significance for him.

A source shared, “Chennai and Kalpakkam hold a special place in Abhishek’s childhood memories. The local food, the sea breeze, the monsoon rains — it all feels familiar to him. Returning here for a shoot feels like coming full circle for the Stolen actor. While details of the project are still under wraps, shooting in this new environment has been a unique and meaningful experience for him and his team.”

Also Read: Abhishek Banerjee to play cop on screen? Here’s what we know!

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has ordered the blocking of 24 apps and websites for hosting and promoting obscene, adult, and vulgar content. The platforms were found to violate multiple Indian laws, including those governing digital content and the portrayal of women.

The order, issued under the Information Technology Act, 2000, directs all Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in the country to restrict public access to the identified platforms. These websites and mobile applications have been accused of distributing sexually explicit material and indecent representations of women, contravening Section 67 and 67A of the IT Act, Section 294 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 4 of The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986. List of Banned Platforms Among the platforms named in the MIB's directive are several popular streaming and entertainment apps that have faced criticism in the past for pushing boundaries with erotic content. Notable names include:

ALTT ULLU Big Shots App Desiflix Boomex Navarasa Lite Gulab App

In addition to these, the government has also banned the following platforms:

Kangan App Bull App Jalva App Wow Entertainment Look Entertainment Hitprime Feneo ShowX Sol Talkies Adda TV HotX VIP Hulchul App MoodX NeonX VIP Fugi Mojflix Triflicks

Legal Framework Behind the Action The move is rooted in specific legal provisions:

Section 67 & 67A of the IT Act: Prohibit publishing or transmitting obscene and sexually explicit material in electronic form. Section 294 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023: Replaces the previous IPC section, penalising obscene acts and content. The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986: Bans the portrayal of women in an indecent manner in media and advertisements.

Coordination with DoT and ISPs To ensure effective enforcement, the MIB has also communicated with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), requesting cooperation in coordinating with ISPs for swift implementation of the ban across Indian networks.

Also Read: SEBI bans Arshad Warsi, wife Maria Goretti for one year in market manipulation case