Filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, best known for The Kashmir Files, has announced that the trailer of his upcoming film The Bengal Files will be launched in Kolkata on August 16, 2025. The choice of date is no coincidence — it marks the anniversary of Direct Action Day, a turning point in India’s pre-independence history.

On August 16, 1946, the Muslim League called for a protest to demand a separate Muslim homeland, Pakistan. What began as a demonstration in Calcutta soon spiraled into large-scale communal violence between Hindus and Muslims, leading to mass killings and destruction. Among the figures remembered from that day is Gopal Mukherjee, who, despite lacking political authority, mobilized local youth to defend Hindu communities against attacks.

Agnihotri explained the significance of choosing this date, saying, “We have chosen this day for the trailer launch, considering what happened on 16th August 1946 in Calcutta. While the protest by the Muslim League for a separate Muslim homeland escalated massively and led to the genocide of many Hindus, Gopal Mukherjee stood as a wall in defense of Hindus. So, as a tribute to them and to highlight the current scenario in Kolkata, we have decided this.”

Speaking about The Bengal Files, formerly titled The Delhi Files: The Bengal Chapter, the film is the third and final part of Agnihotri’s Files Trilogy after The Tashkent Files (2019) and The Kashmir Files (2022). The series explores events from modern Indian history that Agnihotri believes have been overlooked or misrepresented.

The Bengal Files focuses on the communal violence that shook undivided Bengal during the 1940s. It specifically portrays Direct Action Day and the Noakhali riots of 1946, which have been described as a Hindu genocide. The film will be released in two parts. The first installment, titled The Bengal Files: Right to Life, is scheduled for release on September 5, 2025, coinciding with Teachers’ Day in India.

Agnihotri has said in the past that the film was initially called The Delhi Files to emphasise his belief that “the destiny of India is written in Delhi and not in Bengal.” However, with the shift in focus, the project now directly engages with Bengal’s turbulent history.

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With its trailer launch planned on the very day that history unfolded, The Bengal Files aims to revive conversations around one of the most violent chapters in India’s independence struggle, while drawing parallels with present-day concerns.

Also Read: The Bengal Files trailer to be launched with War 2 and Coolie in theatres

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 turned into a star-studded celebration as Indian cinema’s finest talents were honoured at the prestigious Awards Night. Applause, emotion, and pride filled the air as filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s poignant drama Homebound emerged as the evening’s biggest winner, bagging both Best Film and Best Director.

Bollywood icon Aamir Khan was conferred with the coveted Excellence in Cinema Award, recognising his unparalleled legacy and contribution to Indian cinema. Speaking about his win, Aamir Khan said, “I have been attracted to telling stories from a very young age. Filmmaking is a collaborative art and this award and recognition wouldn’t have been possible without my writers, directors, co-stars, and the audiences who have given me the opportunity to tell the stories and be part of the many stories I have been part of.”

Meanwhile, Abhishek Bachchan delivered an emotional moment on stage as he won Best Actor (Male) – Film for I Want to Talk. Abhishek Bachchan, visibly moved after his Best Actor win, added, “Life has come a full circle for me. I came here in 2022 where I was feted with the excellence in cinema award for my body of work. But this is an emotional moment for me to get the best actor on this very stage and be recognised for my role in a film that’s extremely special to me. It was 3 years back in Melbourne at this same festival where Shoojit Da offered me this role in I Want To Talk. It was Shoojit Da who believed in me that I could pull off this role and this role is an ode to my father and my daughter because it’s about caring and raising a parent.”

The festival’s winners reflected the incredible diversity and depth of Indian storytelling across formats. Homebound was declared Best Film, while Neeraj Ghaywan won Best Director for the same. Angammal earned the title of Best Indie Film with Gugun Kigpen receiving a Special Mention for Boong. Geetha Kailasam won Best Actor (Female) – Film for her performance in Angammal.

The television segment saw Black Warrant win Best Series, with Jaideep Ahlawat taking home Best Actor (Male) – Series for Paatal Lok Season 2, and Nimisha Sajayan winning Best Actor (Female) – Series for Dabba Cartel. Reflecting on the journey, Jaideep said "This award is truly overwhelming. To be recognized on an international platform like the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne is an honor I will cherish forever. Hathiram Chaudhary's journey has been an extraordinary one, and this award belongs to the entire team who poured their heart and soul into making Paatal Lok what it is today. I’m deeply grateful to the jury and, most importantly, to the audience for their love and support. This is for all of you."

Among the honorary recognitions, Arvind Swamy was celebrated with the Leadership in Cinema Award, Vir Das was honoured with the Disruptor Award, Aditi Rao Hydari was recognised for Diversity in Cinema, and Baksho Bondi won the Equality in Cinema Award. Arvind Swamy shared his happiness over the award and stated, “I’m still a student of cinema even though I have been given leadership in cinema for my work. If anyone offers me role even today that’s in my comfort zone, I wouldn’t do it, I always want roles that challenge me. I’m grateful for the recognition to be given the Leadership in Cinema award at IFFM 2025.”

Other categories included the short film  where Kalar Pencils by Dhananjay Santosh Goregaonkar won Best Short Film (India), while Drifters by David Liu was awarded Best Short Film (Australia).

Now in its 16th edition, IFFM has once again reaffirmed its status as the largest Indian film festival outside of India, bringing together filmmakers, stars, and audiences in a grand celebration of cinema. The festival continues until August 24, with Homebound serving as the closing film.

Also Read: Aamir Khan inaugurates Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025 with Gauri Spratt; unveils opening night film Baksho Bondi

Maddock Films is set to take the Indian horror-comedy landscape to new heights with its latest announcement, The World of Thama, which will be unveiled on August 19, 2025. The news comes as the production house celebrates the first anniversary of Stree 2, India’s number one Hindi film, on Independence Day. Producer Dinesh Vijan is expanding the Maddock Horror-Comedy Universe, promising audiences a glimpse of the ‘sarvashaktishaali’ villain destined to redefine fear in Bollywood.

The recently released teaser hints at the interconnected world of Maddock Supernatural Universe, which already includes hits like Bhediya, starring Varun Dhawan, Stree, featuring Shraddha Kapoor, and Munjya. According to the teaser, Thama will inject a fresh dimension into this universe with a story that blends romance and horror in a way the franchise has never explored before.

“Independence Day Special! The No. 1 Hindi film Stree 2 turns 1 today. To celebrate, Dinesh Vijan expands the Maddock Horror-Comedy Universe with #THAMA. The World of Thama unveils Tuesday, Aug 19 — your first glimpse at the sarvashaktishaali villain set to redefine fear. The film storms into cinemas this Diwali 2025. Brace yourself — this chapter is a love story, wilder and deadlier than anything you’ve seen before,” read Maddock Films’ official Instagram post on Friday.

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Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, Thama will feature Ayushmann Khurrana in the lead role, with Rashmika Mandanna as the leading lady. Reports suggest that the film will delve into the world of vampires, promising a thrilling, blood-soaked narrative that combines romance, comedy, and high-octane horror. According to early descriptions, “This universe needed a love story. Unfortunately, it's a bloody one,” signaling the daring new direction of the franchise.

Maddock Films has built a reputation for blending unconventional storytelling, unforgettable characters, and high-concept entertainment that resonates with audiences across India and beyond. With Thama, the studio is set to push the boundaries of the horror-comedy genre, promising fans a visually stunning and narratively rich cinematic experience this Diwali.

As excitement builds for the August 19 announcement, audiences are eager to witness the next chapter in the Maddock Supernatural Universe, one that promises to be wilder, deadlier, and more romantic than anything the franchise has delivered so far.

Also Read: REVEALED: Varun Dhawan shoots for six days for Ayushmann Khurrana-Rashmika Mandanna starrer Thama; Vampire vs Bhediya battle expected to be a VISUAL spectacle

Kriti Sanon has made headlines again, this time for her latest luxury real estate investment. According to The Economic Times, the actress has purchased a sea-facing duplex penthouse in Mumbai’s prestigious Pali Hill locality in Bandra West. The property, located in the Supreme Prana residential tower, reportedly cost over Rs 78.20 crore, making it one of her most extravagant real estate acquisitions to date.

The newly acquired penthouse spans the 14th and 15th floors and covers 6,636 sq ft, with an additional 1,209 sq ft open terrace on the top floor. Valued at approximately Rs 1.18 lakh per sq ft, the deal includes six exclusive car parking slots. The transaction has been completed jointly with her mother, with stamp duty of Rs 3.91 crore and a total investment exceeding Rs 84.16 crore, inclusive of GST and other charges. The penthouse offers exclusive terrace rights, giving Kriti uninterrupted panoramic views of the Arabian Sea — a feature that adds to the allure of this ultra-luxury residence.

This isn’t Kriti’s first foray into Mumbai real estate. In 2024, she acquired a 4-BHK apartment in Bandra West priced at Rs 35 crore. In 2023, she also invested in a 2,000 sq ft plot in Alibaug, a popular getaway for celebrities near Mumbai. With this latest purchase, Kriti is steadily building a portfolio of high-value properties, cementing her presence in the city’s elite real estate circuit.

On the professional front, Kriti Sanon is gearing up for some exciting projects. She will be seen opposite Dhanush in Aanand L. Rai’s romantic drama, Tere Ishk Mein, which explores themes of love and obsession. Fans also have another reason to celebrate, as Kriti recently confirmed her next project, Cocktail 2, directed by Homi Adajania, promising yet another memorable performance from the actress.

With a blend of high-octane film projects and strategic real estate investments, Kriti Sanon continues to make waves both on and off the screen. The sea-facing penthouse in Pali Hill not only underscores her luxurious lifestyle but also reflects her growing penchant for premium properties that offer both elegance and privacy.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon joins Homi Adajania’s Cocktail 2; actress begins prep for ‘The Sicilian Chapter’

The Bombay High Court has thrown out a copyright infringement plea against Balaji Telefilms over its 2023 comedy Dream Girl 2, ruling that the film’s storyline is entirely different from the applicant’s work and that the claim of breach of confidence was ‘far-fetched’.

The case was filed by writer Ashim Kumar Bagchi, who claimed the Ayushmann Khurrana-starrer was based on his script originally titled Kal Kisne Dekha and later re-registered as The Show Must Go On. Bagchi alleged that his story — a gender-swap comedy about a man impersonating a woman and navigating hilarious situations whenever his real identity was at risk — had been shared in confidence with one of the film’s credited writers years ago. He argued that elements of his work had been used without permission.

However, the court observed that what Bagchi was seeking amounted to a monopoly over generic ideas and common comedic tropes — such as mistaken identity and disguise — that cannot be protected under copyright law. These elements, the court said, were “stock” and “unoriginal” in nature and therefore not eligible for protection. Finding no substantive similarity between the two works, the judges dismissed the case and ordered Bagchi to pay Rs 1 lakh each in costs to Balaji Telefilms and another defendant.

Directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa, Dream Girl 2 is the sequel to the 2019 blockbuster Dream Girl. The film sees Ayushmann Khurrana reprising his role as Karam, who once again takes on the female persona of ‘Pooja’, leading to a series of comedic chaos and romantic misunderstandings. Featuring Ananya Panday as the female lead alongside Paresh Rawal, Vijay Raaz, and Rajpal Yadav, the movie was a commercial success, cementing its place as one of Bollywood’s most popular comedy franchises. The film was a spiritual successor to the 2019 comedy also featuring Ayushmann.

Also Read: Sooraj Barjatya confirms Ayushmann Khurrana as the new ‘Prem’ in upcoming family drama; says, “Ayushmann is a committed and talented actor”

Amidst the unsavoury accusations from his brother, Aamir Khan quietly jetted off for a vacation with his ladylove Gauri Spratt on Tuesday. “I needed a breather; some pause from all the stress. Gauri has a very calming effect on me. Just being around her makes me feel peaceful,” Aamir told this writer.

The past week has been far from easy for the actor, with his brother Faisal accusing him of enforced confinement, among other things. Aamir was expected to attend a pre-release event in Hyderabad for Coolie alongside Rajinikanth and Nagarjuna, but chose to give it a miss, preferring to avoid uncomfortable questions from the media about his family situation.

In conversation, Aamir confirmed he hasn’t charged any money for Coolie. “No, Subhash, I haven’t charged any money. I have too much love and respect for Rajni Sir to even think of money. Just sharing the screen with him is reward enough.”

On his decision to fly off on the eve of the film’s release, Aamir explained, “It isn’t as if I am the hero of Coolie. I am just a cameo player. Rajini Sir and Nag play the central characters. If audiences flock to see Coolie, it will be to see them, not me.”

Also Read: SCOOP: Coolie shows increased in multiplexes on popular demand; showcasing battle with War 2 gets intense

The wait for one of Bollywood’s most anticipated sequels is finally over. On the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, the makers of Border 2 unveiled the film’s first poster along with its official release date. The war drama, inspired by true stories, is set to hit theatres on January 22, 2026, giving audiences the perfect build-up to the extended Republic Day weekend.

The timing of the announcement serves as a tribute to India’s Bravehearts, echoing the patriotic sentiment that made the original Border a landmark film in Indian cinema. The newly released poster showcases Sunny Deol back in his most memorable role — a battle-hardened soldier — dressed in military gear and gripping a bazooka with fierce determination. With an intense gaze and the weight of duty etched on his face, Deol embodies the courage and sacrifice of the Indian armed forces, ready to once again lead audiences into an emotionally charged cinematic battlefield.

Speaking about the announcement, producer Bhushan Kumar said, “Border is more than a film — it’s an emotion for every Indian. With Border 2, we aim to carry forward that legacy and bring it to a new generation. The new release date gives audiences more time to come together and experience the film in theatres during an extended Republic Day weekend.”

Producer Nidhi Dutta added, “The first Border was a heartfelt salute to our armed forces. This time, we return with the same passion, a fresh story, and a promise to evoke the same pride and tears in every theatre. With the new release date, we are happy to bring the film to cinemas sooner, allowing audiences to enjoy a longer Republic Day weekend.”

Director Anurag Singh highlighted the significance of the Independence Day reveal, stating, “Announcing the date on Independence Day is symbolic. This day reminds us of the sacrifices made by our soldiers for India’s freedom and so does our film. It’s an honour and a privilege to honour their undying spirit through this story.”

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Directed by Anurag Singh, Border 2 features an ensemble cast including Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Medha Rana, Mona Singh, and Sonam Bajwa. The film is produced by Bhushan Kumar and J.P. Dutta, with production support from Krishan Kumar and Nidhi Dutta, under the banners of T-Series and J.P. Films.

Backed by a powerful production team including Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, J.P. Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, Border 2 promises to uphold the emotional intensity and patriotic fervour of its predecessor while introducing a new generation of viewers to its legacy. With its release timed to coincide with a long Republic Day weekend, the film is poised to deliver a stirring tribute to the heroism and indomitable spirit of the Indian soldier.

Audiences can gear up for what promises to be a monumental saga of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice as Border 2 storms into cinemas nationwide on January 22, 2026.

Also Read: BREAKING: CBFC passes date announcement teaser of Border 2 with a U/A 16+ certificate

An old video of actress Mrunal Thakur from her Kumkum Bhagya days resurfaced online a couple of days ago, sparking controversy and heated discussions across social media. The clip, dating back to her time on the popular Ektaa R. Kapoor show on Zee TV, features Thakur in a light-hearted media interaction with her co-star Arjit Taneja.

In the video, Mrunal is heard asking, “Would you rather marry someone who is more manly with muscles?” When Taneja responds that he would prefer a physically fit partner, she quips, “Go marry Bipasha then. Listen, I am far better than Bipasha.” While seemingly meant as playful banter, the remark did not sit well with fans of Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu, many interpreting it as body-shaming and dismissive.

As the clip gained traction online with fans and followers slamming Thakur for her opinions, Mrunal decided to address the matter head-on by issuing a candid apology on her social media page. “19-year-old me as a teenager said many silly things. I didn’t always understand the weight of my voice or how much words, even in jest, could hurt. But it did, and for that I am deeply sorry. My intent was never to body-shame anyone,” her statement read. She further added, “It was playful banter in an interview that went too far. But I understand how it came across, and I truly wish I had chosen my words differently. With time, I’ve grown to appreciate that beauty comes in every form, and that’s something I truly value now.”

Her clarification has been widely shared, with many appreciating her honesty, growth, and willingness to take accountability. The actress, known for her strong yet empathetic persona, concluded by reiterating her belief that women can be both “soft and strong” — a combination she believes makes them unstoppable.

Also Read: Mrunal Thakur: “If someone hacks my phone they will find…” | Star Tech

In a refreshing blend of music, design, and environmental consciousness, Bollywood star Ranveer Singh takes centre stage in Sansaar by D’Decor’s latest campaign film — a lyrical celebration of mindful living.

The sustainable soft furnishings brand’s new TVC, anchored by an original song, pays tribute to the small, everyday choices that not only create beautiful homes but also contribute to a healthier planet. The visuals follow Ranveer through a home alive with slow mornings, quiet pauses, and spontaneous moments — embodying Sansaar’s philosophy: Live Consciously.

The film also showcases Sansaar’s newest collections, including blackout, sheer, and textured curtains, plush upholsteries in tactile finishes like chenille and bouclé, airy embroideries, subtle prints, and breathable 100% cotton bedding. Every design is crafted with sustainability in mind, featuring durable, easy-to-care-for fabrics and natural, moisture-absorbent fibres for long-lasting comfort and elegance.

“In a world of excess, we chose depth,” said Sarah Arora, Co-founder and Creative Director of Sansaar. “The collections are less about styling a space and more about shaping a state of being. Sustainability is woven not just into the fabric, but into the philosophy of daily life.”

Sanjana Arora, Co-founder and Business Head, echoed the sentiment: “Our aim is long-term value creation. We want customers to see their purchases not as mere products but as investments in a lifestyle. Collaborating with a cultural icon like Ranveer Singh helps amplify that message and moves us closer to reshaping India’s sustainable furnishings industry.”

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The TVC premieres this week across television and digital platforms, followed by a nationwide integrated campaign promoting the collection. With Ranveer’s charismatic presence and a musical narrative at its core, Sansaar is positioning sustainability not just as a design choice, but as a way of life.

Also Read: Shanoo Sharma breaks silence on Ranveer Singh exiting from YRF; says, “There is no bad blood”

December 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most explosive months in recent Bollywood memory — a perfect storm of star power, big budgets, and box office rivalry. The festivities will kick off on December 5 with Dhurandhar, the much-hyped Ranveer Singh starrer that’s expected to dominate screens and headlines right out of the gate. But just when the dust begins to settle, the month will deliver its biggest punch: a Christmas Day clash between two heavyweight releases — the Kartik Aaryan–Sreeleela starrer helmed by Anurag Basu, and Alpha, a high-octane entertainer featuring Alia Bhatt, Sharvari, and Bobby Deol.

For audiences, it’s the kind of year-end treat moviegoers dream about — two distinct films, each backed by marquee names and promising a cinematic experience worthy of the holiday season. Basu’s project, pairing Kartik and Sreeleela for the first time, teases a blend of compelling storytelling, visual flair, and fresh chemistry. In contrast, Alpha arrives with the pulling power of Alia Bhatt’s proven versatility, Sharvari’s rising star appeal, and Bobby Deol’s current wave of fan momentum. The result? A choice so tempting that many might just opt to double-dip at the box office.

But while audiences might rejoice, trade insiders are bracing for an intense battle for eyeballs, showtimes, and ticket sales. Holiday clashes have historically been a double-edged sword — on one hand, they create a buzz that fuels footfalls for both films; on the other, they split the audience and potentially limit each film’s overall earning capacity. And this particular clash comes with an added twist: Dhurandhar, releasing just 20 days earlier, will still be in the thick of its theatrical run, vying for the same premium screens.

The last time Bollywood saw this level of December congestion, the competition pushed films to up their marketing game, leverage fan communities, and offer differentiated experiences to stand out. Expect aggressive promotions, high-decibel social media campaigns, and possibly some tactical screen-sharing negotiations in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

From a business standpoint, the holiday frame is lucrative enough to sustain two big films — but the shadow of Dhurandhar could make this a true test of content over hype. If either (or both) Christmas releases manage strong word-of-mouth, they could turn the three-way December pile-up into a blockbuster bonanza.

One thing’s certain: this December, Bollywood is giving audiences more than just cinema — it’s offering them a front-row seat to a high-stakes, star-studded showdown. And whether you’re a fan, a filmmaker, or a box office analyst, you’ll want to grab your popcorn and watch how this one plays out. And the only competition bigger than the films will be the battle for your ticket.

Also Read: Avinash Tiwary to team up with Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri for Vishal Bhardwaj’s next? Here’s what we know!

In what promises to be one of the most anticipated releases of the year, the upcoming Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela starrer directed by acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Basu has locked its release date — December 25, 2025. The Christmas Day slot, traditionally considered one of the most lucrative and high-profile dates on the Bollywood calendar, sets the stage for a major box office event.

The film backed by Bhushan Kumar led T-Series, brings together a fresh on-screen pairing in Kartik and Sreeleela, whose collaboration with Basu is already creating significant buzz in industry circles. Known for his mastery in blending layered storytelling with vivid characters, Basu’s directorial touch is expected to lend the film both visual richness and emotional depth.

While details of the plot remain tightly under wraps, insiders hint at a narrative that combines strong drama with Basu’s signature blend of whimsy and human connection. The production is already being touted as a large-scale, big-screen experience with music and visuals crafted to match the grandeur of its release window.

Kartik Aaryan, who continues to ride a wave of box office success, will be seen stepping into a role that promises to explore a new facet of his performance range. For Sreeleela, one of the fastest-rising stars in Indian cinema, the project marks her most ambitious Hindi film outing yet — a high-visibility launch into pan-India stardom.

With a stellar team behind the scenes and a release date that aligns with the holiday season, expectations are sky-high. Industry watchers will be keeping a close eye on how the film shapes up in the coming months, but for now, December 25, 2025, is a date firmly circled in the diaries of film lovers.

Also Read: “Kartik’s film will be a rage” – Saiyaara’s success creates buzz for Kartik Aaryan’s next, says trade guru Taran Adarsh

Just a day before the Independence Day, makers Swarnim Global Services Pvt. Ltd and CA Suresh Jha ignited curiosity and conversation by officially announcing The Taj Story. To mark the announcement, the makers unveiled a powerful short teaser that captures the soul and essence of the film, leaving audiences intrigued about its message.

Featuring a powerhouse ensemble led by Paresh Rawal, along with Zakir Hussain, Amruta Khanvilkar, Sneha Wagh, and Namit Das, The Taj Story is positioned as a hard-hitting social drama that fearlessly raises one of the most provocative questions of our times: “Even after 79 years of Independence, are we still slaves of intellectual terrorism?”

After 79 year of Independence are we still a slave of Intellectual Terrorism? The Taj Story in cinemas on 31st October 2025 Producer : CA Suresh Jha Writer & Director : Tushar Amrish Goel Creative Producer: Vikas Radhesham @casureshjha @tusharamrish@vikasradhe @dasnamit… pic.twitter.com/F0J46NzA02 — Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) August 14, 2025

Penned and directed by Tushar Amrish Goel, with Vikas Radhesham as Creative Producer and music being scored by Rohit Sharma, The Taj Story is not just another period or historical film — it’s a cinematic debate. Among its core themes is a question that has sparked discussions for decades: Who really built the Taj Mahal? Was it Shah Jahan, or does history hide another truth? The film dives into this contested narrative, blending social commentary with a re-examination of historical facts.

The Taj Story is set for a grand nationwide theatrical release on October 31, 2025, and it aims to be a conversation starter, urging viewers to question, reflect, and perhaps, reframe the way they see both history and freedom.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar DENIES Hera Pheri 3 rift with Paresh Rawal was “publicity stunt”: “There were some ups and downs. But now everything is solved”