Love & War targets Independence Day 2026; Sanjay Leela Bhansali looks at 14 August 2026 release

Bollywood Hungama was the first to inform our esteemed readers that Sanjay Leela Bhansali has delayed Love And War from the March 2026 slot due to a delay in shooting. We also informed our readers about the reason for the delay, which was linked to the budget clearance. And now, a little source from the industry has confirmed that Love & War is looking at an Independence Day 2026 release.

A trade source shared with Bollywood Hungama, “There is a 3-month delay in the shooting schedule, which in turn has led to a 3-month delay in release. After moving aside from the Eid 2026 release slot, the next best for Sanjay Leela Bhansali is Independence Day weekend, which gels well with the film’s theme of Love & War.”

A final call on the release date of this Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal led action romantic drama will be taken soon, but the eyes are now on the Independence Day 2026 weekend. For those unaware, Love & War is among the most awaited films of Indian Cinema, as it brings together three of the most talented actors of Indian Cinema – Ranbir, Alia, and Vicky.

The film was initially announced for a March 2026 release, but the makers are now all set for an arrival in 2nd half of 2026, before the much-awaited Ramayana on Diwali.

Also Read: DoP Sudeep Chatterjee recalls creating daylight indoors for Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial Gangubai Kathiawadi

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Aamir Khan-starrer Sitaare Zameen Par trailer set to release next week, attached to Raid 2 screenings

The much-awaited theatrical trailer for Aamir Khan’s upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par is ready to make its debut. According to a recent tweet by film journalist Himesh Mankad, the trailer, certified UA with a runtime of 3 minutes and 29 seconds, will be released online next week and will also be attached to screenings of Raid 2, which hits theatres on 1 May 2025.

Sitaare Zameen Par, a spiritual sequel to the 2007 classic Taare Zameen Par, is directed by RS Prasanna and produced by Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao. The film, which also stars Genelia Deshmukh, is inspired by the 2018 Spanish film Champions. It follows the story of an alcoholic coach mentoring a team of specially-abled children towards the Paralympics, blending humour, emotion, and drama. Aamir Khan has described the film as a humorous take on disability, stating in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India that it’s “way ahead” of its predecessor, with the challenged individuals guiding his character this time.

Aamir Khan, who last appeared on screen in the 2022 film Laal Singh Chaddha, is returning after a brief hiatus, and expectations are high for this socially relevant project. The actor is also involved in other ventures, including producing Lahore: 1947 with Sunny Deol, set for release later in 2025, and discussing potential projects with directors Rajkumar Santoshi and Lokesh Kanagaraj.

Also Read: Aamir Khan skips Andaz Apna Apna special screening in light of Pahalgam terrorist attack: “I have been badly affected”

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Tamannaah Bhatia signs Sidharth Malhotra starrer VVAN, film to go on floors in June: Report  

Actress Tamannaah Bhatia has been cast alongside Sidharth Malhotra in the upcoming folk thriller VVAN: Force of the Forrest, with filming set to commence in June 2025. The announcement, reported exclusively by Pinkvilla, follows Sidharth Malhotra’s earlier reveal of the project on Chhath Pooja 2024, confirming its production by Ektaa R Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms.

The film, described as a folk thriller, promises a unique narrative rooted in cultural storytelling, with Sidharth Malhotra leading the cast. Tamannaah Bhatia’s addition to the project marks her involvement in another high-profile venture, following her recent roles in Odela 2 and Ayan. The report indicates that the film is targeting a theatrical release during Chhath 2025, aligning with its cultural themes. The report quoted a source saying, “Tamannaah Bhatia is on a signing spree. After Ranger, Rakesh Maria Biopic, and No Entry 2, she has signed on for director Deepak Mishra’s next, Vann. The film is scheduled to go on floors in June 2025, and will hit the big screen in 2026.”

The source further added, “Tamannaah is excited to step into the world of mythology, set in the central part of India. She will be undergoing a diction training with Sidharth Malhotra for her role in the film. Vvan will be shot in real locations, and the makers have already started the pre-production to identify the forest areas. A large chunk of this film is set in a forest.” Meanwhile, no further details about VVAN’s plot or additional cast have been disclosed.

VVAN: Force of the Forrest is one of several projects in Sidharth Malhotra’s busy lineup. The actor is also attached to Race 4 with Saif Ali Khan, a comedy directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa, and in discussions for a film with Saran Sharma under Karan Johar’s production.

Also Read: Tamannaah Bhatia reunites with John Abraham for Rohit Shetty’s biographical film on Rakesh Maria’s life

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Mahira Khan deletes Instagram post condemning Pahalgam terror attack

Pakistani actress Mahira Khan, known for her role opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the 2017 Bollywood film Raees, has deleted her Instagram post condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, which occurred on 22 April 2025, claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, and has sparked widespread grief across India and beyond.

On Thursday, 24 April, Mahira shared a message on her Instagram Stories, describing the attack as an act of “cowardice”. Her post read, “Violence anywhere in the world, in any shape or form is an act of mere cowardice. My condolences to all those affected by the attack in Pahalgam,” accompanied by a broken heart emoji. However, the post had been removed by Friday morning, prompting varied reactions online.

Several other Pakistani celebrities, including Fawad Khan, Hania Aamir, and Mawra Hocane, also condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with the victims’ families. Fawad Khan, for instance, shared his grief on Instagram, stating, “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident.”

The Pahalgam attack, one of the deadliest in the region since the 2019 Pulwama bombing, targeted tourists in the scenic Baisaran Valley. Reports indicate that the assailants questioned victims about their religion before opening fire, intensifying the tragedy’s impact. The incident has drawn condemnation from global leaders, Indian political figures, and Bollywood stars, including Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and Salman Khan, among others.

Also Read: Arijit Singh cancels Chennai concert after Pahalgam terror attack; Anirudh Ravichander pauses ticket sales of Hukum World Tour

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Arijit Singh cancels Chennai concert after Pahalgam terror attack; Anirudh Ravichander pauses ticket sales of Hukum World Tour

In response to the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, prominent Indian artists Arijit Singh and Anirudh Ravichander have made significant announcements regarding their upcoming concerts. The attack, one of the deadliest in the region, has prompted widespread mourning across India, with the entertainment industry showing solidarity with the victims and their families.

Arijit Singh Cancels Chennai Concert
Bollywood singer Arijit Singh has cancelled his highly anticipated concert scheduled for April 27, 2025, in Chennai. The decision, made in collaboration with event organizers, reflects a collective commitment to honour the victims of the Pahalgam attack. Arijit shared the announcement via his Instagram Stories, reposting a statement from the organizers: “In light of the recent and tragic events, the organizers, along with the artist, have collectively decided to cancel the upcoming show scheduled to happen in Chennai this Sunday, April 27th.”

All ticket holders will receive full refunds, which will be automatically processed to their original payment methods. The organizers provided an email, events@district.in, for any ticketing queries. No rescheduling details have been announced.

Anirudh Ravichander Postpones Bengaluru Ticket Sales
Music composer Anirudh Ravichander, known for his work on films like Jailer, has postponed ticket sales for his Hukum World Tour concert in Bengaluru, originally set to begin on April 24, 2025. The concert, scheduled for June 1, 2025, will have a new ticket sale date announced soon. Anirudh shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, stating, “The tragic events in Pahalgam have deeply shaken us all. Our heartfelt prayers and deepest condolences go out to the victims and their families.” He cited the national mourning as the reason for the postponement.

 

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The Pahalgam Attack and Industry Response
The attack, which claimed 26 lives, targeted tourists and locals in Baisaran Valley, a popular tourist spot in Pahalgam. It has sent shockwaves across India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowing to pursue and punish those responsible. Bollywood celebrities, including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and Alia Bhatt, have expressed their condolences.

Also Read: BREAKING: Saregama pulls down songs of Fawad Khan-Vaani Kapoor starrer Abir Gulaal after Pahalgam attack

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Suniel Shetty, Sonali Kulkarni, Shraddha Kapoor conferred with Master Deenanath Mangeshkar Awards

The 83rd Memorial Day of the legendary Master Deenanath Mangeshkar was observed with grace, gratitude, and grandeur at the Deenanath Mangeshkar Natyagruha in Mumbai on April 24. Organised by the Master Deenanath Mangeshkar Smruti Pratishthan — a public charitable trust by the Mangeshkar family for over 35 years — this annual homage brought together the finest voices, minds, and hearts in the celebration of legacy and excellence.

The Master Deenanath Mangeshkar Awards this year celebrated a diverse constellation of remarkable individuals. Sunil Shetty and Shraddha Kapoor were felicitated for their impactful contribution to Indian cinema, bringing both commercial success and heartfelt storytelling to the screen. Sonali Kulkarni was honoured for her distinguished body of work that seamlessly bridged the worlds of theatre and film, reflecting emotional depth and cultural richness. Reewa Rathod, a name steadily rising in the realm of Indian music, was recognised for her melodious excellence and promise.

The evening also shone a spotlight on the veteran Sachin Pilgaonkar, whose decades-long journey as an actor, director, and icon continued to resonate across generations. Theatre and film veteran Sharad Ponkshe was recognised for his powerful stagecraft and compelling portrayals. The world of Indian classical music saw two iconic women saluted— the legendary violinist Padma Bhushan Dr. N. Rajam, whose bowed notes carried the soul of India across continents, and Mrs. N Rajam, whose lifelong dedication to nurturing and preserving the purity of classical music inspired generations of students and connoisseurs alike.

Accepting the award, Sonali Kulkarni said, “Receiving the Master Deenanath Mangeshkar Puraskar is an overwhelming honour. This award carries the legacy of one of the most revered families in Indian arts, and to be recognised for my work in both films and theatre in Hindi and Marathi under this banner is deeply humbling. This is indeed the best scholarship I have ever received. I dedicate this to all my mentors, co-artists, and audiences who have believed in my journey.”

The highest honour of the evening, the Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Puraskar, was conferred upon Padma Vibhushan Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, for his visionary leadership and immense contribution to India’s growth story.

Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Pt. Hridaynath Mangeshkar shared, “Each year, we honour individuals who embody the spirit of dedication, excellence, and service that Master Deenanathji lived by. This celebration is not just a tribute to the past but a torch passed on to the present and future.”

Also Read: Suniel Shetty pens emotional note after welcoming granddaughter: “It’s a happiness that’s pure and untouched by anything the world can give or take away”

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Rajkummar Rao unveils fierce gangster avatar in Maalik, set to release on July 11

Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao is set to captivate audiences with a powerful transformation in his upcoming film, Maalik. The actor, known for his versatile roles, steps into the shoes of a ruthless gangster in this high-octane action thriller. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on July 11 2025, as confirmed by producers Tips Films and Northern Lights Films.

Directed by Pulkit, acclaimed for his work in thrillers and dramas, Maalik is currently in post-production. The film also stars Medha Shankr, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Manushi Chhillar, and Huma Qureshi in pivotal roles. The music is composed by Sachin-Jigar, with lyrics penned by Amitabh Bhattacharya.

 

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Set against the backdrop of Lucknow, Varanasi, and Unnao, the film’s shooting commenced in August 2024. Rajkummar Rao underwent significant physical preparation to portray his character authentically, engaging in intense action sequences, including weapon-based and hand-to-hand combat.

With its gripping storyline and Rajkummar Rao’s intense performance, Maalik promises to be a must-watch for action thriller enthusiasts. Mark your calendars for 11th July 2025, and prepare to witness a new dimension of Rajkummar Rao’s acting prowess.

Also Read : Rajkummar Rao joins Sun King as brand ambassador to promote clean, reliable energy

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EXCLUSIVE: Siddharth Anand – Mahaveer Jain’s international thriller starring Vikrant Massey as Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar titled White

In October 2024, Bollywood Hungama had releveled that acclaimed filmmaker Siddharth Anand — known for Pathaan, War, and Fighter — under his banner Marflix Pictures, had joined forces with producer Mahaveer Jain — of Uunchai and NaagZilla fame — through Mahaveer Jain Films, to announce their next ambitious collaboration that would feature Vikrant Massey as Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Well, the said international production has now been titled White.

EXCLUSIVE: Siddharth Anand – Mahaveer Jain production starring Vikrant Massey as Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar titled White

An edge-of-the-seat global thriller, White will feature the versatile Vikrant Massey in the role of renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Production preparations are currently underway in Colombia, with filming scheduled to begin this July. The film brings together a distinguished international crew to depict the powerful and inspiring story of how Colombia’s brutal 52-year-long civil war was resolved — a largely untold chapter of modern peace-building.

Speculation around Massey’s involvement began when the actor was seen sporting significantly longer hair and undergoing a physical transformation, hinting at his preparation for a character of deep spiritual presence.

With critically acclaimed performances in films like 12th Fail and The Sabarmati Report, Vikrant Massey continues to impress with his ability to undergo remarkable transformations. White will be directed by noted ad filmmaker Montoo Bassi and co-produced by Peacecraft Pictures, alongside the powerhouse duo of Siddharth Anand and Mahaveer Jain.

Siddharth Anand’s White seeks to spotlight how ancient Indian wisdom played a pivotal role in resolving one of history’s longest-running conflicts. With a stellar team of creators known for their impactful storytelling, White is poised to become a landmark international production from India — bringing an important, little-known story of peace and humanity to global audiences.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Vikrant Massey in advanced talks to play Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in an international thriller; to be produced by Siddharth Anand, Mahaveer Jain

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Nandu strikes again! Akshay Kumar’s much-loved anti-smoking ad makes a COMEBACK with Emraan Hashmi’s Ground Zero

In October 2024, Bollywood Hungama published the viral news that a decision was taken to discontinue Akshay Kumar’s anti-smoking ad by the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) in the second half of September. It was replaced by a new ad, showing how quitting tobacco can lead to positive changes in your body within 20 minutes and also of a woman expressing anguish over her husband’s deteriorating condition owing to cancer. Hence, it’ll be a pleasant surprise to know that viewers who’ll venture out to watch the new release, Ground Zero, starring Emraan Hashmi, will be greeted with the much-loved anti-smoking ad featuring Akshay Kumar.

Sadly, this doesn’t mean that Nandu is back. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Ground Zero was passed by the CBFC on September 9, 2024. It was the time when the rule suggested that Akshay Kumar’s ad be incorporated into films featuring characters smoking or consuming tobacco. Some 10 days after the film was certified, the new ad rule was enforced. It has been more than 7 months since viewers haven’t seen Akshay Kumar asking Nandu to quit smoking. Hence, when the ad makes a comeback, albeit as an exception with Ground Zero, it’ll be greeted with a lot of warmth.”

An official at a multiplex told Bollywood Hungama on the condition of anonymity, “The new ad is disturbing and gory. Now people finally realize that Akshay Kumar’s ad was so much better. It had no gory visuals and at the same time, it also put across the message effectively. We hope the government once again makes it compulsory for this ad to be played. Even the audience would prefer it over the new PSA.”

The ad featuring Akshay Kumar was first shown during the release of his 2018 Independence Day film, Gold. It shows Akshay Kumar telling a man named Nandu to stop smoking and use the money saved to buy a sanitary pad for his wife. The ad also helped promote his earlier 2018 film Pad Man. Interestingly, this ad was only mandatory for Hindi films by CBFC.

Cut list details

Speaking about the cuts, the CBFC simply asked for two words to be replaced in Ground Zero. They also ordered the makers to submit a consent letter and submit the story and script since it’s a film inspired by true accounts.

Interestingly, the makers of Ground Zero approached the CBFC once again on April 9 to inform the Examining Committee of the voluntary modifications made. The makers added a new background score track and song audio in five places. They also updated the text and picture shown at the end. Finally, the logo of the film was also updated with a new animated title logo.

Once these changes were made, the final run time of Ground Zero is 137.19 minutes. In other words, the film is 2 hours 17 minutes and 19 seconds long. It has been passed with a U/A certificate.

Also Read: Farhan Akhtar on Ground Zero premiere in Srinagar, “Honoured to host this screening for BSF and CISF Jawans”

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Prime Video announces Global premiere of Crazxy, a thrilling rollercoaster starring Sohum Shah

Prime Video has announced the exclusive global streaming premiere of Crazxy, a gripping thriller that promises to keep viewers hooked. Directed by Girish Kohli, the film is produced by Sohum Shah, Mukesh Shah, Amita Shah, Adesh Prasad, and co-produced by Ankit Jain under Sohum Shah Films.

Featuring a powerhouse performance by the protagonist, Sohum Shah, along with some stellar performances by the ensemble cast featuring acclaimed actors like Nimisha Sajayan, Shilpa Shukla, Tinnu Anand, Piyush Mishra, and Unnathi Suranaa in pivotal roles. Crazxy is now streaming exclusively in India and over 200 countries and territories worldwide.

 

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Set against a tense and emotionally charged backdrop, Crazxy follows the story of Dr. Abhimanyu Sood (played by Sohum Shah), a respected surgeon but a questionable human being, whose life is turned upside down when his young daughter is kidnapped. With the clock ticking, Abhimanyu is thrust into a harrowing moral crisis—should he comply with the sinister demands of the kidnapper or uphold his oath as a doctor? Each decision carries devastating consequences. Will Abhimanyu save his life or his daughter’s?

Sohum Shah’s performance in Crazxy, along with the film’s bold storytelling and character exploration, has received praise from both critics and audiences for pushing creative boundaries.

Also Read : Sohum Shah starrer Crazxy to release on OTT; deets inside

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