As excitement builds for Maddock Films’ Diwali blockbuster Thamma, cinemagoers will be treated to another exclusive: the official announcement video for Dinesh Vijan’s upcoming superhero drama Shakti Shalini will premiere with every screening of Thamma across India. This special video marks the formal introduction of Aneet Padda in the much-talked-about lead role, and Bollywood Hungama proudly reaffirms its spot as the first to break the news of her headline-making casting.

Months ahead of the official studio confirmation, we reported the major scoop that Aneet Padda had replaced Kiara Advani as the titular Shakti Shalini, following a series of creative pivots by Maddock Films and Dinesh Vijan [see our exclusive coverage here]. Our sources indicated the producers were impressed by Padda’s dynamic performance in Saiyaara and saw her as uniquely suited to spearhead the newest—and most ambitious—female-led franchise in the studio’s expanding cinematic universe.​

The makers of Shakti Shalini have kept story details tightly under wraps, but the announcement video set to air alongside Thamma is said to spotlight Aneet Padda’s transformation into a contemporary superhero, channeling both vulnerability and unyielding strength. For Aneet, the role is not only a breakout moment, but a promise of a franchise that celebrates Indian mythology in a modern, action-packed framework.

Maddock Films has denied speculation and rumours over the past months, but the premiere of the announcement video is the studio’s strongest confirmation, yet that Aneet Padda is Shakti Shalini. This move signals Maddock’s confidence in fresh talent and original storytelling, aligning perfectly with their Diwali release strategy for Thamma—another big-budget, genre-bending film starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna.​

By attaching the Shakti Shalini announcement video with Thamma, Dinesh Vijan and his team continue to deliver festival season fireworks, giving the audience a first look at what promises to be Bollywood’s next big heroine-led universe. Ayushmann Khurrana’s horror-comedy origin story may be the highlight of Diwali 2025, but fans will also be abuzz about Aneet Padda’s debut as Shakti Shalini—a scoop that, as always, Bollywood Hungama was proud to bring to you first.

Also Read: SCOOP: The real reason why Aneet Padda replaced Kiara Advani in Dinesh Vijan’s Shakti Shalini

In a move that’s bound to excite cinephiles and box office enthusiasts alike, the highly anticipated trailer of Sriram Raghavan’s war epic Ikkis will debut exclusively with Thamma, Maddock Films’ landmark horror-comedy, when it lands in cinemas this Diwali. The strategic pairing marks one of the year’s most compelling double bills, blending two genres Bollywood is now confidently reinventing for a fresh generation of movie-goers.

Ikkis tells the extraordinary true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of India’s Param Vir Chakra for valour in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Starring the legendary Dharmendra and breakout star Agastya Nanda, with Jaideep Ahlawat in a key role, the Sriram Raghavan-directed film promises both the adrenaline of battle and the depth of character that defines Maddock’s approach to storytelling. Originally aiming for a Gandhi Jayanti release, the filmmakers have officially shifted Ikkis to December 2025 to sidestep big-box-office clashes and optimize its reach to patriotic and family audiences across the country. New posters for Ikkis hint at searing action sequences, nuanced familial emotions, and a fresh heroic journey for Agastya Nanda as the next-generation Khetarpal.​

Meanwhile, Thamma is poised to make Diwali 2025 historic in its own right. It brings Ayushmann Khurrana—a veritable hit-machine known for his blend of comedy, heart, and consistently strong box office returns—into the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe for the first time, co-starring Rashmika Mandanna. Thamma is not only Maddock’s priciest horror comedy origin story, with major investments in technology and spectacle, but also the studio’s most ambitious world-building yet, introducing audiences to the betaal, Bollywood’s new twist on the vampire myth. Industry chatter reveals that early pre-booking numbers and a rare two-day split Diwali holiday could ensure Thamma becomes the highest opener for both Ayushmann and the MHCU franchise.​

By attaching the Ikkis trailer to every Thamma screening, Maddock has created a seamless corridor for audiences to experience two very different—but equally impactful—stories. From the supernatural thrills of Thamma this festive season to the real-life heroics of Ikkis in December, Maddock Films is signalling its intent to set the standard for bold, original entertainment in 2025 and beyond.

For movie buffs, this double-feature rollout also delivers on anticipation: Thamma lights up theatres from October 21, 2025, just in time for Diwali celebrations, while Ikkis will march into cinemas across India this December, with an exact date to be revealed soon. The convergence of horror-comedy and war drama, backed by powerhouse performances and Maddock’s reputation for delivering both commercial and critical hits, is set to deliver an unparalleled cinematic season for Bollywood fans.

Also Read: Low buzz, high hopes: Trade optimistic that 6-day Diwali weekend will boost Thamma and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat

Bollywood actor Parineeti Chopra and politician Raghav Chadha have shared the happiest news of their lives - the arrival of their baby boy! The couple took to social media to make the heartwarming announcement, leaving fans and friends from both the film industry and political circles showering them with love and blessings.

In a beautifully designed post featuring a pastel rainbow and a baby cradle, Parineeti and Raghav expressed their overwhelming joy, writing, “He’s finally here! Our Baby Boy. And we literally can’t remember life before! Arms full, our hearts are fuller. First we had each other, now we have everything. With gratitude, Parineeti & Raghav.”

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The couple, who tied the knot in a dreamy ceremony in Udaipur in September 2023, have often spoken about their mutual admiration and the deep bond they share. Their baby’s arrival marks a beautiful new chapter in their lives, blending Parineeti’s vibrant world of cinema with Raghav’s disciplined political journey.

Fans flooded social media with congratulatory messages soon after the announcement. Fellow celebrities from the film fraternity, including Parineeti’s cousins and close friends, also shared their excitement and extended warm wishes to the new parents.

While the couple has yet to reveal the baby’s name, the announcement radiates love, gratitude, and new beginnings. Known for her sincerity both on and off screen, Parineeti’s post perfectly captured the emotions of a new mother basking in the joy of her first child.

As Parineeti and Raghav embrace parenthood, their journey ahead promises to be filled with laughter, love, and little giggles; truly, the start of their most beautiful story yet.

Also Read : Parineeti Chopra relaunches YouTube channel with Raghav Chadha as her first guest; spill secrets on love and careers

Bollywood’s powerhouse performer Sunny Deol, who celebrates his birthday today, is back with yet another promising project that is already stirring excitement among fans. The actor, celebrated for his impactful action roles and emotional depth, announced his upcoming film titled Gabru through a heartfelt post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account. The film is set to hit theatres on March 13, 2026.

Sharing the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), Sunny Deol wrote, “Power isn’t what you show, it’s what you do! Thank you everyone for your love and blessings, here’s something for you all who have been waiting. #Gabru IN CINEMAS 13th March 2026 A story of courage, conscience, and compassion. From my heart… to the world!”

Power isnt what you show, its what you do! Thank you everyone for your love and blessings , here's something for you all who have been waiting ????????#Gabru IN CINEMAS 13th March 2026 A story of courage, conscience, and compassion. From my heart… to the world! pic.twitter.com/D8qnhet7SN — Sunny Deol (@iamsunnydeol) October 19, 2025

The post instantly created a buzz among fans and film enthusiasts, with many expressing excitement to see the Gadar 2 actor back in an intense and emotionally charged role. The tagline, “A story of courage, conscience, and compassion” hints at a film deeply rooted in human values and heroism, something synonymous with Deol’s on-screen persona.

While details about the film’s cast, director, and production team remain under wraps, Gabru appears to be an ambitious project that aligns with Sunny Deol’s signature style raw emotion, strong ideals, and a larger-than-life presence.

Following the massive success of Gadar 2 in 2023, which revived his career and reaffirmed his box-office dominance, Gabru marks yet another highly anticipated chapter in Sunny Deol’s cinematic journey. The actor’s announcement has set social media abuzz, with fans eagerly awaiting more updates about the film’s storyline and cast.

With Gabru slated for release on March 13, 2026, Sunny Deol aims to deliver yet another powerful performance that celebrates courage and conviction straight from his heart to the world.

Also Read : SCOOP: Sunny Deol’s Soorya gets its leading lady – Pragya Jaiswal confirmed after Jaipur shoot video

Anyone trying to harm Salman Khan during the shooting of his underproduction film Battle Of Galwan will find it hard to penetrate the three-tier security arrangement.

The security bandobast is impregnable and unbreakable.

A source close to the project informed, “Salman travels nationally and internationally with his private security in-charge (Shera), and with a core security of 15 other trained commandos. Then there is the third tier of security provided by the government. When they were shooting in Leh, the government provided the security net given to the biggest VVIP politicians.”

Currently shooting for Battle Of Galwan in Mumbai, Salman is provided with an elaborate security arrangement not provided to any actor in India before.

Said the source, “The entire cast and crew of the Battle Of Galwan have to surrender their cell phones a mile away from the actual location. This includes Salman himself and the director Apoorva Lakhia, as any interceptor can track down Salman through any phone present on location. At the end of the day, every crew member’s phone is scrutinized for suspicious movement. Guests desirous of visiting Salman on the sets have to get their Aadhaar Cards scanned and approved in advance.”

Isn’t it cumbersome to shoot with so many hurdles?

“Not at all. Salman has learnt to live with the security. Fifteen of the security guards are on the actual set with him. But they are trained to make themselves invisible. Not once does Apoorva Lakhia have to yell at them for coming in the way of the camera,” said the source.

Also Read: Salman Khan shoots patriotic song with 60 dancers for Battle of Galwan: Report

The third generation of the illustrious Khanna family is all set to enter the movie industry. Yesteryears’ superstar Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia’s granddaughter Naomika Saran will make her screen debut in film being produced by Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films.

Naomika is the daughter of Rajesh and Dimple’s younger daughter Rinke Khanna who was once an aspiring actress in Filmistan. Rinke did films like Pyar Mein Kabhi Kabhi and Jis Desh Ganga Mein Rehta Hai. When she was removed by Ram Gopal Varma from his film Company and replaced by Manisha Koirala, Rinke quite the film industry, got married and migrated to the West.

Now, her daughter is all set to rekindle the Khanna magic on screen. Naomika’s co-star in her debut film is the talented Vedang Raina, Alia Bhatt’s co-star in Jigra, currently shooting for a film with Imtiaz Ali in Punjab.

Also Read: Naomika Saran, Rajesh Khanna’s granddaughter, to debut in romantic comedy opposite Vedang Raina: Report

Ayushmann Khurrana is currently gearing up for Thamma, which is all set to release this Diwali, that is, on October 21. Bollywood Hungama has learned that 10 days after the release of the horror comedy, the talented actor will start filming for blockbuster director Sooraj Barjatya’s yet-untitled family film. It will be produced by Rajshri Productions and Mahaveer Jain Films.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “After Uunchai (2022), Sooraj Barjatya’s last film, Rajshri Productions has decided to join hands once again with Mahaveer Jain Films. Both Sooraj Barjatya and Mahaveer Jain had a wonderful time working with each other on Uunchai and hence, they decided to collaborate once more for the upcoming film.”

The source continued, “The film goes on floors on November 1. It is a romantic family entertainer and would have the trademark Sooraj Barjatya stamp. Besides Ayushmann, it also stars Sharvari.” The film is presented and produced by Rajshri Productions in association with Mahaveer Jain Films and Anita Gurnani.

This family entertainer marks Mahaveer Jain’s next big venture after Naagzilla. Starring Kartik Aaryan, it is directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba and is made in collaboration with Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions. Sharvari, meanwhile, is also gearing up for the release of YRF Spy Universe’s first female-led film, Alpha, co-starring Alia Bhatt and Bobby Deol. It will be released on cinemas on Christmas this year.

Last week, Ayushmann Khurrana attended the first day of the silver jubilee edition of FICCI Frames 2025. At his session, he confirmed for the first time that he had signed Sooraj Barjatya’s next. He said, “As for my line-up, Thamma is my first big Diwali release. It would be followed by a Sooraj Barjatya film, which is for a wider audience. Then I am also doing a Dharma film, which also would be for a wider audience…”

Also Read: BREAKING: Ayushmann Khurrana CONFIRMS Sooraj Barjatya and Dharma Productions’ next at FICCI Frames 2025: “These films are for a wider audience”

Bollywood is gearing up for a star-studded treat next year as the first poster and announcement of Pati Patni Aur Woh Do has been unveiled. The film brings together an ensemble cast of Ayushmann Khurrana, Sara Ali Khan, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Rakul Preet Singh in what promises to be a fun, dramatic, and entertaining ride.

Directed by the popular filmmaker Mudassar Aziz, Pati Patni Aur Woh Do introduces audiences to the world of Prajapati Pandey, setting the stage for a quirky, vibrant narrative filled with drama, comedy, and romance. The makers have confirmed that the film is scheduled to release on Holi, 4 March 2026, marking a perfect festive launch that aligns with the film’s colourful and lively theme.

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The film is produced by Bhushan Kumar and Renu Ravi Chopra, with creative production led by Juno Chopra. Industry insiders suggest that the combination of Ayushmann’s impeccable comic timing, Sara’s on-screen charm, Wamiqa’s intensity, and Rakul’s charisma will make this film a must-watch for audiences of all ages.

While details of the plot remain under wraps, the title hints at a modern take on relationships, possibly exploring the dynamics between multiple characters in a humorous and dramatic setting. The teaser announcement already has fans speculating about the twists and turns that Pati Patni Aur Woh Do will bring to the big screen.

The film also marks a notable collaboration for the four actors, each of whom has carved a niche in Bollywood with their distinct choices of roles. With Holi being one of the biggest festive seasons in India, the makers are confident that the film’s release will resonate with families and youth alike, promising a mix of laughter, romance, and entertainment.

As anticipation builds, fans are already marking their calendars for 4 March 2026, eager to witness the launch of Prajapati Pandey’s world and the chemistry of this dynamic ensemble on the silver screen.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: CBFC reduces kissing scene in Thamma by 5 seconds; replaces ‘Azaadi doonga’ with ‘Aiyaashi karata hoon’

Bollywood’s legendary trio Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Aamir Khan are set to unite for the very first time in a groundbreaking project, sending waves of excitement through fans worldwide. This unprecedented collaboration was revealed in a heartwarming social media post by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, who shared exclusive photographs with the three cinema icons and wrote in Hindi, “मेरे तीन विश्व प्रसिद्ध भाइयों, सलमान खान, शाहरुख खान, और आमिर खान के साथ, हम एक बड़े सरप्राइज पर काम कर रहे हैं जो इंशा अल्लाह जल्द ही सबके सामने आएगा।”​

This rare reunion took place at Joy Forum 2025 in Riyadh, an event that not only hosted Bollywood’s biggest stars but also welcomed renowned personalities from across the globe, including YouTube sensation MrBeast. The photographs capturing the historic moment quickly went viral on social media, as fans rejoiced at seeing the three Khans together, a sight cherished but seldom witnessed over their nearly 35-year reign in Hindi cinema.​

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While details about the project remain tightly under wraps, Turki Alalshikh's caption has fuelled speculation and anticipation, suggesting that the collaboration is more than just a fleeting public appearance. In recent years, fans have only seen Salman, Shah Rukh, and Aamir together on rare occasions, such as at exclusive screenings or celebratory events, making this new venture all the more significant. Industry insiders describe the union as “a dream itself,” echoing Shah Rukh Khan’s own words from Joy Forum, where he expressed deep admiration for his fellow Khans and hinted that this long-discussed dream might finally be realized.​

Within hours, Turki’s post and the accompanying photographs became the focus of trending discussions, with fans and celebrities alike celebrating the power and legacy of the “three Khans.” The prospect of a joint project has set the Indian film industry abuzz, with many speculating about a historic movie, global show, or cultural initiative. Each of the Khans brings an unparalleled fan base and distinctive legacy, making this collaboration one of the most anticipated in recent Bollywood history.​

As the world eagerly awaits the official announcement, this coming together of the Khans—facilitated by international collaboration and visionary leadership—represents not only a moment of nostalgia but also the start of a new chapter in Indian cinema. With Turki Alalshikh promising a “big surprise” and the three superstars confirming their camaraderie on the international stage, Bollywood fans can look forward to a once-in-a-lifetime artistic event that will reverberate far beyond the silver screen.​

Also Read : Joy Forum 2025: Salman Khan wishes that Aryan Khan should act and supersede father Shah Rukh Khan; SRK manifests, “If Salman has a son, I’d like him to be the BIGGEST star ever in the HISTORY of mankind!”

Actress Zaira Wasim has officially announced her marriage. She took to Instagram to share the joyous news with the caption, “Qubool hai x3.” The post featured two serene glimpses from her wedding ceremony, one showing her signing the nikah papers adorned in henna and jewelry, and another capturing her and her husband from behind, gazing at the full moon, symbolizing a sacred new beginning.

Zaira, who stepped away from the film industry in 2019 citing her spiritual journey, made a rare social media appearance to share the personal milestone. She did not reveal her husband’s identity or show his face, choosing to maintain the privacy she has long valued. Dressed in a red embroidered bridal ensemble with golden detailing, Zaira looked every bit the traditional bride in a ceremony that seemed intimate and elegant.

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Fans and well-wishers flooded the comments section with blessings and congratulatory messages. One user wrote, “Allahumma barik, sister. May Allah bless your marriage … till Jannah, Ameen,” while others expressed joy at her return to social media for such a heartfelt reason.

Zaira rose to fame as the young Geeta Phogat in Aamir Khan’s Dangal (2016), a performance that earned her widespread acclaim and a National Film Award. She went on to star in Secret Superstar (2017) and The Sky Is Pink (2019) before choosing to leave the film world, saying it conflicted with her faith.

With her simple caption, “Qubool hai x3,” Zaira Wasim announced her wedding with grace and humility, marking not just a union but a quiet reaffirmation of the life choices she stands by away from the limelight, on her own terms.

Three days are left for the release of the grand Diwali biggie, Thamma, and the excitement is gradually building up. The makers, Maddock Films, completed the censor process on time and in this article, Bollywood Hungama will exclusively focus on the cuts suffered by the horror comedy.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) asked for audio cuts in three places and one visual modification as well. The word 'Alexander' was replaced with ‘Sikandar’. In another dialogue, the word ‘Ashwathama’ was muted.

In the second half of the film, the words 'Azaadi doonga' were replaced with 'Aiyaashi karata hoon'. The Examining Committee also asked the makers to ‘reduce the slurping sound of drinking blood to minimum’. Finally, a kissing scene in the second half was reduced by 30%, that is, by 5 seconds.

The last modification may dampen the excitement of the moviegoers but on the positive side, this is the shortest intimacy cut asked by the CBFC in recent times. In Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, liplock visuals were reduced by 60%. In Saiyaara, the makers were instructed to delete and replace 10 seconds of ‘sensual, intimacy, body exposure visuals’. Lastly, in Superman, the CBFC axed 33 seconds of ‘sensual visual’ from Superman. It led to massive criticism as the studio had to make abrupt cuts to accommodate CBFC’s directive.

Coming back to Thamma, once the changes were made, the censor certificate was handed over to the makers on October 15. The film was passed with a U/A 16+ rating. The length of the movie, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 149.59 minutes. In other words, Thamma is 2 hours 29 minutes and 59 seconds long.

Thamma releases on Tuesday, October 21 and stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal. It is backed by blockbuster producer Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films and directed by Aditya Sarpotdar of Munjya (2024) fame. It is a part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe and hence, belongs to the same world as Stree, Bhediya and Munjya.

Also Read: Thamma Creates Diwali Frenzy: Thamma advance tickets selling fast after historic fan screening in Delhi

Filmmaker Sandhya Suri has voiced strong disappointment after the last-minute decision to pause the digital premiere of her film Santosh in India, calling the move “a real shame”. The film set to debut on Lionsgate Play in India on Friday, October 17 was suddenly pulled.

The delay follows persistent conflicts with India’s censorship system. Suri said, “The process in India is that the censor board (CBFC) may ask you to make cuts for a theatrical release. The cuts they asked for were not acceptable to me or my team. We could not make those cuts as they compromised the integrity of the film too profoundly.”

She further insisted that her objections to mandated cuts for theatrical release remained the same for a streaming run and stated, “The objections I had to cuts for the theatrical release remain my objections for a streaming release. The streamers don’t need, by law, to have censorship status to show films. But perhaps this is about an environment in which streamers take on certain objections of their own accord for a harmonious universe.”

Suri also flagged the unintended consequence of pulling the premiere: potential piracy. “It was announced and now we’re un-announcing, so a lot more people are going to watch it in some other form,” she remarked. “My wish is for the film to be distributed legitimately and uncut in India.”

Santosh revolves around a widowed police constable, Santosh (played by Shahana Goswami), who steps into her late husband’s job and ends up investigating the murder of a young girl. Produced by Good Chaos with co-producers Razor Film and Haut et Court, it was backed by BFI and BBC Film. The film also represented the UK’s submission for the Best International Feature category at the 97th Academy Awards.

Also Read : Santosh Release halted by CBFC over depiction of police brutality and caste issues; director Sandhya Suri REACTS!