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Subhash K Jha looks again at Shimit Amin’s pioneering sports film Chak De India, the Shah Rukh Khan film from 2007, in this fabulous installment of This Day That Year. We also hear from the director about the casting and making of Chak De India!

First things first. Chak De India is an outright winner. A triumph of the spirit. And of craftsmanship. While director Shimit (Ab Tak Chappan) Amin has crafted a film with immense staying power , and exception integrity and gusto, the thought-process behind the endearing endeavour harks back to a series of well-crafted Hollywood films about the team spirit, the low-spirited team and the burnt-out disgraced and exiled coach who motivates the team and galvanizes his own dormant spirit into a wide-alert status .

Dig in. It’s all there. And yet writer Jaideep Sahni takes the expected tale to heights great expectations with an endearing tone of expression.

Shimit Amin’s Chak De India, known universally as Chak De, released on August 10 in 2007, was never meant to be the blockbuster that it was. The first trailer, introducing all the members of Shah Rukh Khan’s hockey team, was a disaster. But then, we all know what happened when the film released. Salman Khan was the original choice for the coach Kabir Khan’s role in Shimit Amin’s Chak De.

There are many theories as to why Salman opted out. One theory goes that he asked Producer Aditya Chopra for too much money and they never worked together until Ek Tha Tiger when Salman got exactly the amount he wanted. Another theory is that Salman wanted some changes in the script which Director Shimit Amin refused. Shah Rukh Khan stepped in and the rest was history.Shah Rukh had played hockey and his passion for the game remained.

10 Years of Max Marketing! Acclaimed Directors and Producers Including Aditya Dhar, Kabir Khan, Sooraj Barjatya, Atul Agnihotri and Others Appreciate Varun Gupta and His Team’s Imagination to Fuel Big-Screen Magic*

Max Marketing completes a decade of boosting the magic of big screens through precise marketing skills and out-of-the-box strategies. Having been the driving force of marketing behind blockbuster films like Kabir Singh, Angrezi Medium, Padman, Rrr, Animal, Drishyam 2 and several more, Max Marketing has added a significant edge to creative marketing, all under the guidance of its creative force – Varun Gupta.

Celebrating 10 years of Max Marketing, several stalwarts of Bollywood expressed joy and heaped praise on the feat. Here’s what they said:

Ramesh Taurani of Tips Films says, “Max Marketing ideas and team’s hardwork made campaign of our film truly unforgettable.”

Celebrated filmmakers Abbas Mustan say, “The campaigns crafted by Max Marketing capture the essence of each film perfectly.

Subhash K Jha reveals 10 unknown facts about the Neeraj Ghaywan’s compelling and devastating drama, Masaan, which starred Richa Chadha and Vicky Kaushal, that stunned when it released in 2015 and stills moves audiences today.

1. The part of the caste-challenged Romeo was first offered to Rajkummar Rao. He had date issues. That’s when Vicky Kaushal stepped in.

2. Neeraj Ghaywan is from the Dalit community and has faced some of the horrific discrimination that Kaushal is shown facing in the film.

3. Producer Madhu Mantena fought tooth and nail to get the project off the ground. He firmly believed in Neeraj Ghaywan and Masaan.

4. Masaan changed a lot of lives. With Masaan, Vicky Kaushal had to start from scratch. Though he had worked in and around Varanasi as an assistant director to Gangs Of Wasseypur he was not familiar with Varanasi-proper. It was like a whole world opening up to him.

5. Vicky...

Subhash K Jha revisits Salman Khan’s Bajrangi Bhaijaan, which directed by Kabir Khan and Kareena Kapoor, released on the big screen in 2015.

Rarely have we seen Salman stay in character throughout the film. The last time he played a character and not ‘Salman Khan’ was in Kabir Khan’s Ek Tha Tiger. There he kept slipping in and out of character. Not this time! Not in Bajrangi Bhaijaan. What we see on screen is an avatar of the innocent God-fearing upright and honest ‘Prem’ from Sooraj Barjatya’s cinema, a Hanuman Bhakt whose self-righteousness would have been boring had it been played by any other star-actor.

We could say Salman plays the Son of Prem in Bajrangi Bhaijaan. And let’s not waste any more time in saying this is Salman’s career’s most accomplished performance to date, heartfelt, passionate and emotional, as he takes charge of a...

10 Years Of Bajrangi Bhaijaan(Photo Credit –Jio Hotstar)

Kabir Khan’s critically acclaimed 2015 comedy-drama Bajrangi Bhaijaan is widely regarded as one of Salman Khan’s finest performances and among his most beloved films. As the movie completes ten years today, here’s a surprising bit of trivia: before Salman took on the now-iconic role of Pawan Chaturvedi, the film was reportedly offered to another top Bollywood star. Can you guess who he was? Read on to find out.

The Bollywood Superstar Who Could’ve Starred In Bajrangi Bhaijaan

According to an earlier report by India TV, the role in Bajrangi Bhaijaan was initially offered to Bollywood’s Greek God, Hrithik Roshan. The report reveals that Baahubali helmer S.S. Rajamouli approached eminent filmmaker Rakesh Roshan with the film’s script and wanted Hrithik Roshan to play the lead role. However, things didn’t move forward due to disagreements over the script’s asking price.

Sanya Malhotra To Embrace Bold Role In New Action-Comedy (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Sanya Malhotra is set to appear in an action-comedy led by Neeraj Tiwari and Mukesh Gupta of Aagaaz Entertainment. The untitled project is co-produced by Ratpack Stories and Travelin’ Bone Entertainment (USA) and directed by Kapil Sharma, best known for his work as a co-director in the highly-acclaimed series Aarya.

The film is the first of Aagaaz Entertainment’s 2025 production slate. It promises an exhilarating blend of action and humour, with the Mrs star in a fierce, uncharted role that will add a striking new dimension to her already diverse repertoire.

What Did Sanya Malhotra Say About Her Upcoming Role?

Speaking about her new role Sanya Malhotra shared, “The moment I heard the script, I knew this was something I had to do! It’s quirky, packed with action, and has an infectious energy which I absolutely love.

Kabir Khan Breaks Silence on Sardaar Ji 3 Row, Urges Public to Separate Art from Politics (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Filmmaker Kabir Khan has broken his silence on the ongoing controversy surrounding Sardaar Ji 3, starring Diljit Dosanjh and Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. After the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, the film faced massive backlash for including a Pakistani actor. As a result, the movie was not released in India and was instead launched overseas on June 27.

In a recent interview, Kabir Khan defended the makers of Sardaar Ji 3, explaining that the casting happened long before the unfortunate events unfolded.

“Don’t Mix Art With Politics,” Says Kabir Khan

In an interview with Ndtv, Kabir explained that the casting for Sardaar Ji 3 happened months ago and the film had already been shot before the situation worsened. “It was a decision that was taken ages ago. By the time things changed,...

Check Out The Latest Ott Releases From July 14 To July 20!(Photo Credit –YouTube/Facebook)

This week, Zee5 unexpectedly leads the chart with three new titles. Prime Video follows with two releases, including a big-budget South Indian film and a series from the United States. Lionsgate Play presents a title centered on a match between a human and a machine. Netflix offers two titles as well, one a highly popular comedy show in India and the other an English-language investigative thriller. For more details on these and other new releases, please continue reading.

Netflix Untamed (English) – July 17, 2025

This mini-series is set in Yosemite National Park, where a dead body is found and suspicion of murder arises. However, it is likely that there is something far beyond just a single murder, a grand conspiracy unfolding there.

The Great Indian Kapil Show Season 03 Episode 05 (Hindi) – July 19, 2025

This week, the guests will be the...

When & Where To Stream Rangeen On Ott? ( Photo Credit – Prime Video )

The upcoming Indian comedy-drama Rangeen has an official release date. The show is billed as a humorous and poignant exploration of love, loyalty, and self-discovery. It is produced by Kabir Khan and Rajan Kapoor, created and written by Amardeep Galsin and Amir Rizvi, and directed by Kopal Naithani and Pranjal Dua.

Rangeen also features a stellar ensemble cast, including Vineet Kumar Siingh, Rajshri Deshpande, Taaruk Raina, and Sheeba Chaddha in lead roles. Continue scrolling to find out more about the show’s premiere.

When & Where To Watch Rangeen?

Rangeen will premiere on Prime Video on July 25, 2025, in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide. The Ott platform took to social media to announce the release date with a caption that read, “Real eyes realize real lies #RangeenOnPrime, New Series, July 25 @Pranjal.Dua @Kopious1 @kabirkhankk #AmirRizvi @bluemagic.films.”

View this...

Ranveer Singh’s Top 5 Highest-Rated Films On IMDb ( Photo Credit – Facebook )

Bollywood star Ranveer Singh is the powerhouse of energy and talent. With a career spanning over 14 years, he has carved a niche for himself in showbiz by delivering wonderful performances and has emerged as one of the most versatile actors in Hindi cinema. From his debut in Band Baaja Baaraat to his upcoming releases like Don 3 and Dhurandhar, Ranveer continues to push the envelope with every role he takes on. As the anticipation builds around his next big-screen outings, let’s revisit five of his highest-rated films that showcase the range and brilliance he brings to the screen.

1. Gully Boy (2019): Director – Zoya Akhtar IMDb rating – 7.9/10 Where to watch – Amazon Prime Video

Plot: Gully Boy is one of Ranveer Singh’s best movies. It also stars Alia Bhatt, Siddhant Chaturvedi in lead roles. He played the role of Murad,...

Subhash K Jha revisits Kabir Khan’s 2009 drama New York which features John Abraham, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Katrina Kaif, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, and Irrfan Khan. We also hear from Neil Nitin Mukesh about his thoughts on the film then and 16 years later.

It isn’t as if New York is the first remarkable film to synthesize terrorism and friendship. Mani Ratnam’s Dil Se comes to mind immediately where the enigma of the female terrorist played with supine splendour by Manisha Koirala was often invested into scenes of disarming domesticity. New York goes a step further to explore the evolution of terrorism in the context of home-grown emotions such as friendship and betrayal. Director Kabir Khan, discards the exasperating documentary-like directness of his first feature film, Kabul Express, to transport us into a cinema that needles us into swirling sensations suggesting a close link between cinema and life. The resultant brew...

The critically acclaimed Indo-Australian film collaboration “My Melbourne” is gearing up for its second installment, bringing together another stellar lineup of Indian filmmakers to continue the project’s mission of cultural bridge-building through cinema.

Following the March 2025 release of the first “My Melbourne” — which featured segments directed by Rima Das, Onir, Imtiaz Ali, and Kabir Khan — Mind Blowing Films has revealed that Rajkumar Hirani, Anjali Menon, Shoojit Sircar, and returning helmer Onir will direct the upcoming second chapter.

The original “My Melbourne” anthology film tackled themes of identity, gender, race, sexuality, and disability, earning critical praise across India and Australia.

“The success of ‘My Melbourne’ has been overwhelming and deeply fulfilling,” said Mitu Bhowmick Lange, CEO of Mind Blowing Films and the creative force behind the project. “It has proven that stories told with authenticity and heart can transcend borders. We are honored to have some of the most acclaimed...

In a new installment of This Day That Year, Subhash K Jha revisits Salman Khan’s Tubelight, directioncted by Kabir Khan that released in 2017.

Faith, they say, can move mountains. The hero of Kabir Khan’s latest and his most…ummm… noble (if one can use that word without cynicism) film to date actually thinks he can move a mountain by just focusing hard on getting it right.

Tubelight is not a film for the cynics. But if you can toss aside your reservations about a world steeped in arcadian innocence and accept humanism rather than hedonism as a way of living, you can actually savour the supple undulating rhythms of Kabir Khan’s storytelling without questioning his right to create a world so far removed from practical, stressful concerns while addressing a theme as grim as war and its ravages.

This is a very simple story with a deceptively...

Kartik Aryan went beyond anything Kabir Khan had expected from the actor in Chandu Champion which completes on year on June 14.

All praise for the young star-actor , Kabir Khan says, “Kartik listens very carefully to what the director says. Since Chandu Champion was a biopic on a real-life hero, it was absolutely imperative that Kartik remained within the parameters of the character. This, he did throughout the shooting. I was very pleased with Kartik’s performance in Chandu Champion.”

Kartik Aaryan in his scene-chewing avatar gives his character the kind of spin that we get to see only in the best bio-pics featuring the finest actors of the world.In his game-changing performance, Kartik proves you don’t need support from within to prove yourself in your chosen field. You only need talent and balls.Murlikant Petkar will agree.

Murlikant Petkar’ s stunning achievements are not so much in the public eye.

10 Bollywood Sports Films ( Photo Credit – Prime Video; Facebook )

Whether you are looking for edge-of-the-seat thrills or are fond of watching feel-good stories about underdogs competing against all odds, these Bollywood sports films have something for everyone. From Shah Rukh Khan’s iconic hockey drama Chak De! India to Vineet Kumar Singh’s compelling performance in Mukkabaaz, these ten sports movies are absolute must-watches and perfect for your next weekend binge.

For this listicle, we have ranked a unique mix of popular and overlooked sports films according to their IMDb ratings. We have included only those films that are currently streaming on Ott.

10. ‘83 Release Year – 2021 Director – Kabir Khan IMDb Rating – 7.5/10 Streaming On – Jio Hotstar & Netflix

Plot: The inspiring biographical film tells the true story of how the Indian cricket team, led by captain Kapil Dev (played by Ranveer Singh), beat all odds to defeat the mighty West Indies and won the 1983 Cricket World Cup.

Subhash K Jha turns the spotlight on noted actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, known for completely transforming into his character in films like New York, Gangs of Wasseypur and so many more in this special focus at his varied and storied career.

There was something extraordinary about Nawazuddin Siddiqui when I saw him for the first time in Kabir Khan’s New York. He played a victim of cultural targeting. In a monologue that rips a hole in your soul, Nawaz’s character comes on camera to tell us what was done to him and his family by the cops on suspicion of terror activities.

Nawaz never gave a better performance.

The voice, the eyes, brimming with unspeakable pain, looked like a video recording of a real-life victim, like a Jew or a Kashmiri Pandit telling us what he has gone through during the holocaust. When I asked Kabir where he had got that documentary footage,...

Did You Know Sooraj Pancholi Was A Body Double In Salman Khan’s Ek Tha Tiger? (Photo Credit – Instagram/YouTube)

In the action thriller genre of Bollywood films, Salman Khan’s Ek Tha Tiger remains one of the most loved films. The Kabir Khan-directed film boasts adrenaline-fueled action sequences that swoon fans. Viewers were so engrossed in the action-packed thriller that not many knew Sooraj Pancholi was Salman Khan’s body double. The actor was impressed with Pancholi that he asked the director to use him as a body double, particularly in action sequences. (via Filmibeat)

Well, the Hero actor was not just Mr. Khan’s body double; he also served as an Assistant Director to Kabir Khan for Ek Tha Tiger, at the age of 22. Earlier to this, he was also a part of Guzaarish helmed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali when he was just 17. While working as an Ad,...

Nawazuddin Siddiqui Speaks On Bajrangi Bhaijaan Sequel(Photo Credit –Facebook)

Bajrangi Bhaijaan is one of the epic films of Bollywood to come out in the last decade. The heartful performance of Salman Khan combined with Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s eternally quirky Chand Nawab render the film an absolute jackpot both critically and commercially.

So, naturally, the excitement reached new heights among fans when the rumor mills started churning chatter about Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2. But will Nawaz return as the beloved Pakistani reporter? Here’s what the actor has to say!

“Main Pehle Mein Tha, Toh Mujhe Bhi Lo?” Nawazuddin Doesn’t Think So

In an open interview with Hindustan Times, Nawazuddin Siddiqui revealed he has not received any word regarding the sequel. “I don’t have any idea if a sequel is even happening,” he explained.

When asked if he would like to return as Chand Nawab, Nawaz was clear: “It (the...

The powerful anthology film My Melbourne , featuring stories by four great directors, Onir, Rima Das, Kabir Khan, and Imtiaz Ali, is the Opening Gala film at the prestigious UK Asian Film Festival. The film explores identity, belonging, and resilience through four true stories of underrepresented voices in Australia.

To set the scene, here is the trailer

Imtiaz Ali is the creative director of Jules, which Arif Ali directed along with Tammy Yang. The story delves into the tale of Sakshi and Jules, who form an unlikely bond and navigate their connection despite their differences. Sakshi is a 23-year-old newly married girl who has recently moved to Melbourne. She has no friends, a controlling husband, a passion for food blogging, and a love for vanilla slices. Jules is a 52-year-old homeless woman with a critical tongue, a survivor’s spirit, and a flair for crossword puzzles and poetry. While no two people are more different,...

Gangs Of Wasseypur 3: Nawazuddin Siddiqui Has A Point To Refuse The Threequel & It Is So Good! ( Photo Credit – YouTube )

Nawazuddin Siddiqui has been missing from the news for a long time. The actor will next be seen in Costao, a film arriving on Zee 5. During the promotions of the film the actor, recently, talked about his first big and iconic character Faizal Khan from Gow, directed by Anurag Kashyap.

The film was released in two parts, and there have been speculations about the third part for a long. But if the third part happens, will Nawazuddin jump into the universe and take it forward?

Well, “Anurag won’t make it. Neither will I act in it,” said Nawazuddin Siddiqui in a recent interview with Mid-Day when asked about Gangs Of Wasseypur 3. He further said, “I get such offers so much. People even tell me, ‘Let’s take your character,...

Stories of ordinary individuals standing tall against corrupt systems, criminal networks, and oppressive powers have long resonated with audiences. With Costao premiering on ZEE5 Global on May 1, the platform once again brings to life a compelling tale of courage and conviction, where one man dares to defy impossible odds.

Inspired by true events, Costao stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui as a fearless customs officer who challenges a sprawling empire of smuggling and corruption. This gripping film joins a rich legacy of Indian cinema where singular, unbreakable protagonists fight against the tide. Here’s a look at Costao and other iconic Bollywood and Ott films that spotlight one man’s fight against all odds.

1. Costao (2025)

Platform: ZEE5 Global | Premiere Date: May 1, 2025

Set in the turbulent world of 1990s Goa, Costao is inspired by the real-life story of a heroic customs officer who stood alone against a corrupt empire built on crime and smuggling.

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, director of Indian Film Festival of Melbourne talks with Subhash K Jha about producing the brilliant anthology My Melbourne, featuring stories by Onir, Kanir Khan, Rima Das and Imtiaz Ali.

Please tell me about how the project was incepted?

We do the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, which has a very popular Short Film competition. Over the years, we have had wonderful winners from South Asian communities, yet never saw them of their work in the mainstream Australian screen space. Most of them told me about the lack of representation and inability to be authentic in the stories that they wanted to tell. I was discussing this with Onir and we came up with the idea where he would mentor emerging creatives from underrepresented backgrounds and create a short film. I kept thinking of it and felt that it would be so great if we could make...

Salman Kabir Creative Clash (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Salman Khan is well-known for his hot-headed nature. The Dabaang star has had great duels with Bollywood bigwigs, and he has no qualms about it. One such person with whom Salman had a rough start is director Kabir Khan. It was Yash Raj Films’ first project, starring Salman Khan, titled ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ and director Kabir Khan was given the task to direct the spy-thriller.

However, Salman and Kabir Khan hadn’t worked together in the past, and there were bound to be some differences. While the movie did turn out to be a huge blockbuster success, Salman Khan and Kabir Khan did have some differences during the making of the film.

While Salman has never addressed it publicly, Kabir Khan did speak about it at a media event back in 2015. Ironically, that was during a media event before the release of Salman...

Sushant Chandu Champion Connection (Photo Credit – Prime Video/Hotstar)

Even years after his untimely passing, Sushant Singh Rajput remains a name that leaves both fans and the film fraternity emotional. Known for his passion for meaningful cinema, the actor delivered unforgettable performances, from Kai Po Che to iconic M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story.

But few of his fans know that one of his dream projects was none other than Chandu Champion. The late actor was once set to headline the inspiring story of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist.

Sushant Owned the Rights to Murlikant Petkar’s Story

The revelation came straight from Chandu Champion actor Bhuvan Arora during a recent chat with Hindi Rush. Speaking about the film, Bhuvan shared that Sushant not only had an emotional connection to the story but had also bought the rights to make the film.

Trending When Divya Dutta Ran...

Four prominent directors get together to weave a pastiche of pain and reconciliation in My Melbourne. The stories are told with a compelling clarity and cohesion, and we come away from them enriched, perhaps wiser, without being told how to live our lives. The tone of storytelling in every segment is never preachy, always gentle (even when emotional or physical violence is involved) and beseeching, as though to tell us that even when life sucks—as it often does—there is always a way out. So never despair.

Significantly, each segment is named after a woman. In the first segment Nandini (the name of a character who is already dead when the story begins), a father travels from Kolkata to Melbourne after his wife’s death to make peace with his gay son Indraneel (played by a striking Bangladeshi-Australian actor Arka Das). Director Onir shows a strong grip on his...

UK Asian Film Festival – the world’s longest running South Asian film festival – has unveiled the full programme of its 27th edition and it is an outstanding. Running at venues across London, Leicester and Coventry Ukaff opens Thursday May 1st and runs through Sunday 11th May.

This year’s “Longing and Belonging” theme will celebrate cinema that explores one of the most profound human experiences—the search for connection, identity and purpose. In every corner of the world, people grapple with feelings of longing—the ache for love; the pull of home; the need for acceptance; and the pursuit of meaning. Through the lens of cinema, these universal desires come to life in stories of displaced immigrants; journeys of self-discovery; quests for love; and the tension between tradition and modernity. As society moves forward, cinema remains a powerful tool for change—one that sparks conversations, amplifies voices and builds empathy.

Exclusive: Veteran filmmakers Imitiaz Ali and Onir are among the guests confirmed to attend this year’s UK Asian Film Festival, which runs Thursday 1st – Sunday 11th May at venues across London, Leicester, and Coventry.

The festival’s opening gala will take place at the BFI Southbank and will feature the European premiere of the anthology flick My Melbourne (2024). Described as a “bold and moving celebration of diversity,” the anthology explores identity, belonging and resilience through four true stories of underrepresented voices in Australia—a queer man reconnecting with his father; a deaf dancer chasing her dream; a food blogger bonding with a homeless poet; and a refugee girl finding hope through cricket. Directors on the project are Onir, Rima Das, Imtiaz Ali, and Kabir Khan.

The closing film will be the London premiere of The Glassworker (2024), the Oscar-nominated animated feature from director Usman Riaz. The film’s synopsis reads: As war looms,...

Are you ready to go back to the drive-in and watch one of your favorite Bollywood films, Bradford? Well, get ready because the first in a series of large-scale outdoor cinema spectaculars for Bradford 2025 takes place this April, as a Drive-In Cinema comes to Cannon Mills in Great Horton, overlooking the cityscape of Bradford’s historic textile mills. From 17 to 19 April, there will be three days of screenings for audiences to watch from their car in a classic movie-going experience. How exciting is this?

Specially programmed for the Drive-In is a strand of classic and contemporary Hindi films, opening with Kabir Khan’s 2015 smash hit Bajrangi Bhaijaan and classic Bollywood comedy Amar, Akbar, Anthony.

There will also be a chance to see family-friendly road-trip movie Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, and romantic musical comedy Jab We Met. All Hindi films will be subtitled in English.

English language films include a Good...

Is Salman Khan’s Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2 Happening? ( Photo Credit – Facebook )

Salman Khan fans are in for a treat as speculation heats up around Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2. While the superstar’s latest film, Sikandar, is currently running in theaters, reports suggest another major project is quietly gaining momentum in the background.

According to a recent Pinkvilla report, Salman met with veteran screenwriter V. Vijayendra Prasad earlier this week, and all signs point to it being about the much-anticipated Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2. Although both parties remain tight-lipped about the details, insiders close to the development hint that the sequel to the 2015 blockbuster may finally be moving forward.

Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2 Script Has Reportedly Been Ready for A While

Writer V. Vijayendra Prasad, who penned the original Bajrangi Bhaijaan, has previously confirmed that the sequel script is ready. However, it has been waiting for Salman Khan’s approval. With this fresh round of discussions, fans hope...

Bollywood star Kartik Aaryan has showered praises on the much-anticipated anthology film My Melbourne. Kartik expressed his high praises for the film saying he was highly impressed by the film and its compelling storytelling.

Expressing his admiration for the project, Kartik Aaryan shared, “I really enjoyed watching the movie. It’s really uplifting and it’s all about inclusivity and diversity. The movie relent lives up to the expectations. I especially loved Kabir sirs movie, Setara and that’s my personal favourite. It’s so brilliantly acted and i wish the entire team all the best”.

A collective effort of renowned Indian filmmakers, My Melbourne features four distinct stories:

Kabir Khan’s Setara – A powerful tale of a 15-year-old Afghan girl fleeing the Taliban and finding solace in cricket while adjusting to a new life in Melbourne. Imtiaz Ali & Arif Ali’s Jules – A heartwarming narrative exploring cross-cultural friendships and personal identity.

Academy Award-winning music composer A.R. Rahman has introduced the first track from the much-anticipated anthology My Melbourne. The song titled Rukhna Nahi, is a celebration of empowerment and unity through music. The vocals have been given by Aryans Sayeed, an Afghani musician who is making her Hindi debut with the song. Known off her extensive work in activism for women’s rights in Afghanistan, Aryana is currently settled in London. Hailing from Kabul, the singer has been an icon in the culture and music space of Afghanistan early on. The songs lyrics and music has been done by Anurag Sharma.

My Melbourne, an anthology featuring four compelling stories directed by Kabir Khan, Imtiaz Ali, Onir, and Rima Das, explores human connection, resilience, and identity against the vibrant, multicultural backdrop of Melbourne. Inspired by true events, the film sheds light on themes of race, gender, sexuality, and disability, offering an authentic...

The trailer for My Melbourne, an anthology of four powerful stories set in Melbourne, is out now, offering a glimpse into the unique, thought-provoking tales of human connection, resilience, and identity. Set against the multicultural backdrop of Melbourne, the film delves into the diverse experiences of four characters, each facing their own personal journey. With its India release scheduled for 14th March 2025 across cinemas, My Melbourne brings ogether the creative genius of four renowned Indian filmmakers – Kabir Khan, Imtiaz Ali, Rima Das, and Onir.

The four stories all inspired by true incidents and each directed by different filmmakers, provides a lens into Melbourne’s diverse communities while addressing universally relevant themes of race, gender, sexuality, and disability. The narratives reflect both individual and collective struggles, ultimately celebrating the power of inclusivity, identity, and connection.

Nandini – Directed by Onir tells the story of Indraneel, a queer Indian man, reunites with his...

UK Asian Film Festival – the world’s longest running South Asian film festival – has announced the Opening and Closing films and theme of its 27th edition. Running at venues across London, Leicester, and Coventry from Thursday, 1st – to Sunday, 11th May, the UK Asian Film Festival is presented by Tongues on Fire. It is supported by the BFI Audience Projects Fund, awarding National Lottery funding. UK Asian Film Festival is powered by broadcast partner Lyca Radio.

The UK Asian Film Festival has long been a champion of South Asian female-centric cinema and women in film, both on and off-screen. Each year, its programmes challenge patriarchal norms, spark critical conversations, and drive its mission to advocate for gender equality in the film industry.

This year’s “Longing and Belonging” theme will celebrate films that explore one of the most profound human experiences—the search for connection, identity, and purpose. People grapple...

Vicky Kaushal and Kabir Khan Collaboration ( Photo Credit – Instagram )

Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava is currently dominating the Indian box office charts. The audience loved Vicky’s acting skills and the historical depiction of Shri Sambhaji Maharaj. This made the movie unstoppable at the box office, even in its third week. Amid this, well-known director Kabir Khan has shared an update about his potential future collaboration with the Chhaava star.

What Kabir Khan said about working with Vicky Kaushal

During a recent interview with News18 Showsha, the Chandu Champion’s director stated that he would love to work with Vicky Kaushal. Further, Kabir also hailed Kaushal’s acting skill, stating that he is one of the finest actors in this industry.

Khan said, “Vicky is one of the finest actors that we have. He’s family to me. I’m extremely close to both Vicky and Katrina. So, I would love to work with him.

Subhash K Jha Revisits Sujoy Ghosh-Vidya Balan’s 2012 thriller Kahaani in a new installment of This Day That Year.

Playing Vidya Bagchi, an Nri who lands in Kolkata heavily pregnant and immeasurably distressed by the disappearance of her husband, Vidya Balan doesn’t hit a single false note in the entire graph of her character’s fascinating journey. Kahaani is not an ordinary thrill-a-minute film about a search for a missing person; it’s a lot more. Bringing a virgin vitality to the suspense drama Kahaani actually strikes a captivatingly consonant balance between realism in art and the art of courting realism without losing the sheer entertainment quotient of the plot.

From the moment Vidya lands in Kolkata the colour, vibrancy, bustle and jostle that are peculiar to Kolkata, assail our senses. It’s a claustrophobic yet liberating world of intrigue and deception. A pungent flavour of anxiety...

Director Kabir Khan has announced plans to bring back the hit film Bajrangi Bhaijaan, featuring Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan, to theaters for its 10th anniversary.

In a chat with India Today Digital, Kabir Khan shared his wish to celebrate the film’s decade milestone in a special way. When asked about a re-release, he mentioned, “I will talk to Salman Khan and suggest we do something about it. That sounds like a great idea.”

Bajrangi Bhaijaan, which follows the journey of a young mute girl from Pakistan who finds love and friendship in India, was a huge success both critically and commercially when it came out in 2015. The film received praise for its touching story, strong performances, and meaningful social message.

As the 10th anniversary approaches, fans are excited for the re-release. With its enduring themes and beloved characters, Bajrangi Bhaijaan is expected to enchant audiences once more on the big screen.

“My Melbourne” (2024) is a unique Indo-Australian collaboration where Indian filmmakers, namely, Onir, Imtiaz Ali, Rima Das, and Kabir Khan, team up with local talents in Melbourne to tell four stories about race, gender, sexuality and disability. Based on true migrant experiences, the anthology of four shorts features tales of displacement, discrimination, inequality, alienation, and estrangement of four individuals grounded by unique situations in Melbourne but bound together by similar aspirations and themes. Reflecting on South Asian realities, the film provides the platform to showcase a few unsaid stories and represent some of the underrepresented voices in the Australian city of Melbourne that resonate globally.

With “My Melbourne” (2024), each filmmaker directs a prime display of their auteurship by doing what they do best. Rima Das directs “Emma” which tells the story of a talented deaf dancer in pursuit of acceptance while overcoming discrimination. “Jules” by Imtiaz Ali is a story of self-discovery,...

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 has united individuals from diverse backgrounds to partake in a sacred immersion at the Sangam in Prayagraj. This significant spiritual event, occurring after a span of 144 years, has attracted millions of devotees to the location. Among the attendees are numerous Bollywood figures who have recounted their experiences of immersing themselves in the waters of Prayagraj.

Anupam Kher, a veteran actor known for his impactful performances, was among the first to partake in the holy dip on January 23. He took to social media to document his experience, sharing photographs and videos that captured the essence of the moment. Kher expressed profound sentiments, stating that “life achieved fulfillment through a dip in the Ganga during Mahakumbh,” emphasizing the transformative power of the sacred waters.

Milind Soman, the fitness icon and actor, along with his wife Ankita Konwar, also embraced the spiritual atmosphere of the Maha Kumbh Mela. The...

Anil Ravipudi Salman Khan Movie (Photo Credit – Instagram)

South Indian cinema has been gaining immense popularity in the North, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Southern filmmakers are now receiving significant attention, and many Bollywood actors wish to join hands with Tollywood heroes as popular Bollywood directors have recently faced setbacks. Bollywood top directors, including Rajkumar Hirani, Rohit Shetty, Ali Abbas Zafar, Kabir Khan, and Sanjay Leela Bhansali, have faced setbacks with their recent releases.

This has allowed Southern directors to make their mark in the Bollywood market. One such director is Anil Ravipudi, who has gained a reputation for creating successful family entertainers with a strong comedic element. His fans wish that a successful Bollywood remake could elevate his career to new heights. Sharing about the same, the director made some interesting comments in his recent interview.

Anil Ravipudi’s latest blockbuster, Sankranthiki Vasthunnam, has made waves,...

Kaun Banega Crorepati (Kcbc) is Amitabh Bachchan’s most precious screen creation ever. In January 2000, Star TV’s star helmer Sameer Nair went to Mr Bachchan with the idea of an Indian version of ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire’, and Mr B was agog. Here is what happened.

Firstly, congratulations on your latest project , two collaborations with director Kabir Khan.

Our partnership with Kabir is fuelled by our mutual love for storytelling. At Applause Entertainment, our vision is to collaborate with powerful creative voices to tell stories that are unique, distinctive, and popular and resonate with audiences in meaningful ways. We look forward to exciting times ahead with Kabir.

Sameer, how did Kbc begin?

I remember walking into the Bachchans’ home, where Jalsa was, armed with the VHS of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, the original version of Kbc.

Were you sure that it was going to be Mr Bachchan?...

2 storytellers, two films, 1 exciting partnership! Kabir Khan, the powerhouse director behind blockbusters like Ek Tha Tiger, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, 83 and Chandu Champion, and Applause Entertainment, known for series like Black Warrant, Scam, Criminal Justice , Tanaav, Undekhi among others are set to present two exciting stories to the world of cinema.

The films will be co-produced by Applause Entertainment and Kabir Khan Films, with Kabir Khan at the helm. Known for his ability to craft deeply moving stories with mass theatrical ;appeal, Kabir will be taking on the role of director for one film while creatively producing both. This partnership unites Kabir’s cinematic vision with Applause Entertainment’s commitment to groundbreaking narratives, promising films that are entertaining while resonating deeply with today’s audiences.

Sameer Nair, Managing Director, Applause Entertainment, “Our partnership with Kabir is fuelled by our mutual love for storytelling. At Applause, our vision is to collaborate with...

Exclusive: Hot on the heels of launching Netflix police drama Black Warrant, India’s Applause Entertainment has struck a two-picture deal with 83 and Ek Tha Tiger director Kabir Khan.

The pact will see Applause and Kabir Khan Films co-produce a pair of features, with Bollywood blockbuster maker Khan at the helm as director and creative production lead on both. No further details of the pics yet, but Applause Managing Director Sameer Nair said the partnership is “fuelled by our mutual love for storytelling.”

“This collaboration with Applause is a natural fit as we both share a passion for stories that resonate with people at their core,” added Khan. “The beauty of this partnership lies in the creative freedom it offers, and I’m thrilled to embark on this exciting journey with Sameer and his incredible team.”

Khan began his directing career in 2006 with adventure thriller Kabul Express, and went on...

After a spectacular start with Pyaar Ka Punchnama Kartik Aaryan’s career dipped when films like Subhash Ghai’s Kaanchi and Ashwin Chowdhary Guest In London proved cold turkeys. But thereafter, Kartik saw only success, and nothing could keep him down. Here are the five finest from Kartik Aaryan.

1. Pyaar Ka Punchnama (2011):

Playing Rajat, a.k.a Rajjo, Kartik’s stole the show from his co-stars Divyendu Sharma and Raayo S. Bakhirta, who unfortunately got left far behind as Kartik’s Rajjo caught the nation’s attention. It was a performance that youngsters connected with, of a guy totally dominated by his girlfriend to the point of asphyxiation. The role and, the character and his relationship with his girlfriend reminded me of a certain actor who is no more with us and whose live-in similarly smothered him.

2. Akaash Vaani (2013):

In one of the film’s high dramatic moments...

The sheer volume of emotional and physical distance that Kabir Khan covers in the 5 episodes of this homage to the soldierly valour of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s breakaway army, in The Forgotten Army is mindboggling. But then Kabir is no stranger to impossible challenges. In Bajrangi Bhaijaan he actually made Salman Khan Act. Remember?

There is a gallery of competent actors surrendering to the their characters, not unlike the Indian Pow in this film who lay down their weapons before the Japanese in the hope that their country would be freed of British rule through the new alliance.

The politics of The Forgotten Army is complex. Kabir Khan doesn’t shy away from biting into those bitter politics of a time when Gandhi was God, and self-governance was a religion. By exploring the most neglected subsidiary of the Indian Freedom Movement—the contribution of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and...

Does Janhvi Kapoor & Arjun Kapoor Share A Good Bond? ( Photo Credit – Instagram )

Janhvi Kapoor and Arjun Kapoor’s sibling bond became stronger after the untimely demise of legendary actor Sridevi on February 24, 2018. Janhvi Kapoor opened up on her equation with half-siblings Arjun Kapoor and Anshula Kapoor after Sridevi’s death.

In an interview with Bazaar India magazine, Janhvi shared that her relationship with Arjun and Anshula is organic, and they often meet for family dinners, and now they bond well. She said, “We started off by making plans over the first couple of months, but now we meet for family dinners every two or three weeks. It doesn’t feel like, ‘Oh, we must make an effort or we must meet’,there is a willingness to meet as a family. It feels much more organic now, and I don’t know whether we are similar in terms of our personalities...

Rashmika Mandanna opens up about Thama (Photo Credit – Instagram)

The pairing of Rashmika Mandanna and Allu Arjun has once again conquered the box office with the recent release of Pushpa 2: The Rule. Despite being released on December 5, 2024, the film persists in performing extremely well in terms of box office collections. Amid this success, Rashmika Mandanna recently gave an interview with Pinkvilla, where she shared intriguing details about her forthcoming movie Thama.

Rashmika Mandanna drops major insiders about the project “Thama”

During the interview, Rashmika revealed that she would begin shooting for the film the following day, indicating that production has already commenced. Additionally, she shared details about her unique role in the movie. Expressing her excitement for the project, she stated: “That’s gonna be incredible, guys. I am going to be flying around. I’m so excited.”

Trending Kartik Aaryan Reveals He “Lied” To Kabir Khan About Knowing...

What Did Taapsee Pannu Say About The Possibility Of Badla 2? (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Badla is considered one of Taapsee Pannu’s biggest hits. The film grossed over Rs. 100 crore upon its release in 2019, thanks to its various twists and turns, stellar performances by Taapsee and Amitabh Bachchan, and Sujoy Ghosh’s amazing direction.

Considering the film’s box office success, fans wondered if the makers would create a Badla 2, continuing the story of the mystery thriller. Taapsee has now revealed the plans for a Badla sequel and shared a positive update with fans.

Taapsee Pannu Says She Has Discussed Badla 2 With Sujoy Ghosh

The Haseen Dilruba star recently appeared at Agenda Aaj Tak. During the interview, she talked about her films that could get potential sequels. The actress highlighted that Badla 2 is very much a possibility, saying, “Haan, meri kuch picture hain jiska part 2 ban sakta hai (There are several...

Did Kartik Aaryan Lie To Kabir Khan To Land Chandu Champion Role? ( Photo Credit – Instagram )

Earlier this year, Kartik Aaryan received rave reviews for his incredible performance in Kabir Khan’s Chandu Champion. The actor underwent an extreme physical transformation and rigorous training to play Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist. Kartik has now revealed that he had to lie to Kabir Khan to get the role of Murlikant in Chandu Champion. As the film required someone who could swim, Kartik told the director that he was an expert swimmer despite barely knowing the basics of the sport.

Kartik Aaryan Lied to Kabir Khan About His Swimming Skills for Chandu Champion

During a recent interaction at Agenda Aaj Tak 2024, Kartik Aaryan was asked if he had ever told a lie to land a role in a film. The actor then recalled how he secured the role of Murlikant Petkar in Chandu Champion,...

When Mukesh Khanna Slammed Bollywood Over Commercialization Of Every Content (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Mukesh Khanna is known for sharing his views and opinions without filtering his words. Due to the same thing, he has faced backlash on several occasions, but the same quality is also being admired by many. In the past few years, especially in the post-pandemic era, the veteran actor has been very vocal about controversies related to the entertainment industry, especially Bollywood. Back in 2020, the actor addressed the controversy surrounding Akshay Kumar’s Laxmmi Bomb, which was later titled Laxmii.

Before its release, Laxmii grabbed the negative limelight due to its title. Many thought that the title Laxmmi Bomb hurt religious sentiments as it insulted the Hindu goddess Laxmi. Apart from that, the film was dragged into another controversy as many claimed that it was promoting Love Jihad. Reacting to all such allegations, the Shaktimaan actor got...