In a bold casting move, the makers of Border 2 have announced that newcomer Medha Rana will star opposite Varun Dhawan in the upcoming war drama. Backed by T-Series and J.P. Films, the film is slated for a Republic Day weekend release on January 23, 2026.

Directed by Kesari fame Anurag Singh, Border 2 is positioned as a successor to the 1997 war classic Border. While it carries forward the patriotic legacy of the original, the new installment aims to build its own identity with fresh casting and a renewed narrative approach.

Medha Rana, who comes from an Army background, has been selected for the lead female role. Her casting is seen as a deliberate shift from conventional choices, with the focus firmly on character authenticity.

Producer Bhushan Kumar shared the reasoning behind this choice, “It was imperative for us to find someone who could naturally embody the dialect, spirit, and rooted essence of the region. Medha impressed the team not just with her raw talent, but with her effortless command over the regional dialect and her emotional range as an actor. We truly believe she will bring depth and realism to the role.”

Co-producer Nidhi Dutta added, “Border 2 is not just a film; it’s an emotion. Every choice we’ve made, from the director to the cast, is driven by our vision to tell a story that feels honest, powerful, and relevant. Medha Rana opposite actor Varun Dhawan will bring freshness and sincerity that aligns beautifully with the tone of the film.”

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The casting marks a strategic break from star-driven formulas. Instead, it puts narrative needs first, with the producers emphasizing realism and emotional depth over popularity.

Border 2 is backed by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, J.P. Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, and presented by Gulshan Kumar & T-Series in association with J.P. Films. It promises a blend of high-octane action, emotion, and a tribute to the spirit of Indian soldiers.

With Varun Dhawan stepping into a rugged war role and Medha Rana set for a major debut, the film is shaping up to be a significant entry in the war drama genre. More on Medha Rana’s character and role is expected to be revealed in the coming months.

As for Border 2, the film marks the return of Sunny Deol in a power packed army officer’s role along with Diljit Dosanjh and Ahan Shetty also playing essential roles. Other names of female actors doing the rounds for the movie include Sonam Bajwa, Mouni Roy, and Vinali Bhatnagar.

Also Read: Diljit Dosanjh wraps up Border 2 shoot with laddoos and love; Varun Dhawan shares heartfelt BTS moment

After months of speculation and hopeful anticipation, actress Raveena Tandon has finally broken her silence on the status of Aranyak Season 2 — and it’s not the news fans were hoping for. Speaking to Hindustan Times, Tandon confirmed that the sequel to Netflix India’s 2021 hit crime thriller has been shelved.

“It’s not happening. Now I can say it,” she admitted candidly. “Earlier, we all had hope. In fact, I think season two was written as well, but I am not sure what the platform has in mind.”

Tandon, who portrayed the fierce and emotionally layered cop Kasturi Dogra, had earned widespread acclaim for her powerful performance in the series. The show marked her series debut and was praised for its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances, and engaging mystery that blended folklore with modern-day crime.

“Every time they say, ‘Oh my God, it was a great show and one of our highest-viewed shows immediately after COVID.’ That was a role so close to my heart, and I loved playing that character,” she added. “But I don’t think they were able to crack a good script for season two. And then the expectations were so high, so they didn’t want to spoil that."

Aranyak was created by Charudutt Acharya and Rohan Sippy, directed by Vinay Waikul, and featured a stellar cast including Parambrata Chatterjee, Ashutosh Rana, Taneesha Joshi, Anna Ador, Zakir Hussain, and Meghna Malik. The series gained a dedicated fanbase for its gripping narrative set in the misty forests of Himachal Pradesh, where a haunting myth and a brutal crime intertwined.

Despite being one of the most-watched Indian shows on Netflix post-COVID, it now joins the list of high-potential series that never made it past the first season. Fans and critics alike had high hopes for a follow-up that would delve deeper into Kasturi’s world and unanswered threads from the finale.

While the curtain has fallen on Aranyak Season 2, Raveena’s emotional connection to the role and the show’s impact on Indian streaming content will undoubtedly remain memorable.

Also Read: Raveena Tandon pens heartfelt note for son Ranbir on his 18th birthday: “My Sunshine, My Forever Love”

Just a day back, we exclusively informed that NTR Jr. is drawing Rs. 70 crores as salary for War 2, whereas Hrithik Roshan has a pay cheque of Rs. 50 crores with backend profits. And now, there is a twist in the tale. Very reliable trade sources have confirmed that YRF has parted ways with the Telugu rights of War 2 by selling it upfront to Naga Vamsi.

“Naga Vamsi has bagged Telugu rights for War 2 for a sum of Rs. 90 crores. Every profit from the theatrical medium in Telugu will now rest with Naga Vamsi, and YRF, in turn, has got outright recovery of Rs. 90 crores against a budget of Rs. 400 crores. The case of Telugu is now settled between the parties,” a trade source shared with Bollywood Hungama.

As a masterstroke deal, Naga Vamsi and NTR Jr. have entered into a backend deal to share the profits of War 2 from the Telugu version. “After drawing a big pay cheque of Rs. 70 crores, NTR Jr. is also entitled to a share in profits from the Telugu version from Naga Vamsi. He is likely to end up with a pay cheque of Rs. 100 crore plus by the end of the run, as the Telugu version of War 2 is sure to yield big profits. Neither YRF nor Hrithik has a share in the profits of Telugu; it will be split between NTR Jr. & Vamsi,” the trade source further shared with Bollywood Hungama.

Hrithik on the other hand, has a direct deal with YRF, who will share a percentage from the overall profits of the project. The Telugu revenue from YRF point of view is fixed at Rs. 90 crores; everything it earns beyond is a surplus for Vamsi & NTR Jr., who have bagged the film on a MG model.

War 2 is all set to release on August 14, 2025 with Ayan Mukerji as director Also Read: WAR 2 is India’s most EXPENSIVE spy thriller at Rs. 400 crores; NTR Jr. paid Rs. 70 cr. while Hrithik walks away with Rs. 50 crores plus profits!

This morning, internet went abuzz with reports saying that Gen Z sensation of the year, Saiyaara’s Aneet Padda’s next is a streaming project directed by Nitya Mehra and her husband Karan Kapadia. When checked, industry sources have revealed that this project in question, titled Nyaya, was shot before Aneet signed Saiyaara and that she would be built as a theatrical heroine post Saiyaara’s historic success.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Aneet is a big screen heroine for YRF. Nyaya was shot before she signed Saiyaara and it has no bearing on her career trajectory as a theatrical heroine going forward. A girl who is delivering probably a Rs. 400 crores hit in theatres, is a true Gen Z star at the age of just 22, will be preserved for theatricals. There are huge plans to make her the face of a generation and that can be achieved only by consolidating her theatrical equity.”

Coming to Saiyaara, the Mohit Suri directorial, which also launched Ahaan Panday, has reached Rs. 200 crores mark domestically in just nine days.

Also Read: Saiyaara Box Office: Ahaan Panday enters the Rs. 200 crore club; becomes first-ever debutant to achieve the feat

Actor Vineet Kumar Singh and his wife Ruchira Singh have embraced parenthood as they welcomed their first child, a baby boy, three years after tying the knot. The joyous announcement was made by the couple on Sunday via a heartfelt social media post.

Sharing their happiness with fans and well-wishers, the couple wrote, “God’s kindness overflows! Move over world, the littlest Singh has arrived and he’s already stealing hearts and milk bottles. Thank you, God, for this precious little bundle of joy! – Ruchira & Viineet.”

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The post was quickly met with a wave of congratulations from fellow actors and friends across the industry. Actor Vikrant Massey extended his warm wishes with a comment that read, “Bahut bahut badhai bhai sahab.” Ahana Kumra added, “Such good news you two!!! Can’t wait to meet the little one!!” while Avinash Tiwary and Rasika Dugal also shared their joy with heartfelt messages. Celebrating a New Chapter The couple, who have often kept their personal life away from the limelight, first shared the news of their pregnancy back in May with a beautiful maternity photoshoot. The pictures captured tender moments between the soon-to-be parents — one showed Vineet lovingly cradling Ruchira’s baby bump, while another candid snap featured the two enjoying a cozy meal of pasta and pizza.

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Vineet Kumar Singh tied the knot with Ruchira in a quiet ceremony in 2021.

Also Read: Vineet Kumar Singh safely returns to Mumbai after being stranded at Dubai Airport amid regional tensions

Global cultural publication ‘The Shift’ has unveiled its latest list of over 90 extraordinary women spanning activism, creativity, leadership, and cultural influence, names include Amal Clooney, Mariska Hargitay, Selena Gomez, Billie Eilish, Angelina Jolie, Amanda Gorman, Jessica Chastain, Olivia Rodrigo, Lucy Liu, Misty Copeland, Billie Jean King… and Indian actor Deepika Padukone. A global icon, Deepika’s recognition not only reflects her cinematic impact but also her work in mental health advocacy and women’s empowerment through her Live Love Laugh Foundation.

Sharing the proud moment on social media, Deepika posted, “In tribute to the one and only Gloria Steinem and her 91 years of activism, The Shift is honoring 90 voices shaping our future.@theshiftison grateful for the honour… #TheShiftIsOn”

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As part of this inaugural issue that celebrates the 91 years of contribution by Gloria Steinem, THE SHIFT 90 PLUS ONE edition quotes Deepika saying, “Success to me isn't just about professional achievements but also about well-being-where mental health and self-care matter as much as discipline, dedication and determination. I strongly believe in the power of patience, balance, consistency, and authenticity, and I hope to inspire a generation that values all of these virtues equally."

As a mental health advocate, she founded the Live Love Laugh Foundation, impacting lives worldwide. Her influence extends beyond entertainment as a disruptor, with international collaborations and appearances solidifying her global presence. With numerous awards and accolades, Deepika continues to inspire millions across the globe. Recently, she also became the first Indian star to be the recipient of the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame star in 2026.

With this dual recognition on a global leadership list and in a high‑octane pan‑India film as her next, Deepika Padukone continues to redefine what it means to lead, influence, and inspire.

Also Read: Deepak Tijori proposes Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar sequel: “Aamir Khan and I can play headmasters of rival schools”; FULLY supports Deepika Padukone’s eight-hour demand: “She shouldn’t suffer because she is a mother”

If the buzz in the industry is anything to go by, Khosla Ka Ghosla 2 is officially in the pipeline, nearly two decades after the cult satirical comedy first hit theatres in 2006. The original film—starring Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, Navin Nischol, Pravin Dabbas, Tara Sharma, Ranvir Shorey, and Vinay Pathak—earned widespread acclaim for its quirky yet grounded portrayal of middle-class Delhi and its battle against corruption and real estate scams.

According to a recent Pinkvilla report, the sequel is now in active development, with Umesh Bisht and his team at the helm of scripting and casting. A source close to the project confirmed, “Khosla Ka Ghosla 2 script is locked and presently in the casting stage. The team is aiming to start by November this year for a 2026 release. Much like the first part, this one too is an outright comic entertainer.”

The biggest update so far is the addition of actress Huma Qureshi to the ensemble. The source further revealed, “Huma has come on board as one of the main characters of Khosla Ka Ghosla 2. She heard the script and loved what is on paper. The film will most likely be produced by T-Series, and the modalities are being worked out at the moment.”

Interestingly, Huma Qureshi has been expanding her creative reach. Alongside acting, she has launched a production house with her brother and fellow actor, Saqib Saleem. “Huma has also started her own production house with her brother and the first film, Baby Do Die Do is scheduled to release soon,” the source added.

While the return of original cast members like Anupam Kher and Boman Irani is yet to be officially confirmed, anticipation is running high among fans who made the first film a sleeper hit.

In the meantime, Huma is also juggling a packed slate with the Yash-starrer Toxic, OTT projects, and now, her debut venture as a producer. Fans of the film are quite excited about this news where Khosla Ka Ghosla 2 with its witty tone and timeless relevance is all set to revive the laughter and layered satire that made the first film a classic.

Also Read: Boman Irani on initially refusing his iconic role in Khosla Ka Ghosla: “I thought, ‘This isn’t for me'”

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.