Following backlash over a church scene in Jaat featuring Randeep Hooda, the film’s director Gopichand Malineni has responded to the controversy, emphasizing that the intent was never to hurt religious sentiments. His remarks come after the makers issued an official statement confirming the removal of the scene from the film.

Speaking to Mid-Day, Malineni explained that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) had not flagged the controversial scene when reviewing the trailer. However, the board later instructed the team to blur the background in the final print. “The censor board didn’t mention anything for the trailer cut, but later, it told us to blur the background in the film print. It was done even before people objected,” he said. Reiterating his stance on filmmaking and audience sensitivity, Malineni added, “If a film has to be a blockbuster, it has to be watched by as many people as possible. No filmmaker wants to hurt any people or community. We want to entertain them.”

Earlier, the film’s production team had released an official apology acknowledging the public concern and confirming that the scene in question had been removed. “There has been a backlash for a specific scene in the film. The scene has been removed from the film with immediate effect. Our intention was not to hurt any religious sentiments. We deeply regret it and have taken a quick action of deleting the scene from the film. We sincerely apologize to everyone whose beliefs have been hurt,” the statement read.

Jaat, directed by Malineni, features an ensemble cast including Sunny Deol, Saiyami Kher, Regina Cassandra, and Randeep Hooda. Set against a gritty rural backdrop, the film dives into themes of identity, justice, and social tension. Hooda plays a conflicted character navigating politics, violence, and redemption, while the supporting cast adds depth to the film’s narrative.

Jaat was released in theatres on April 10, 2025. The film continues to draw attention not only for its performances and story but also for the conversations it has sparked around creative expression and social responsibility in cinema.

Also Read: Jaat controversy: Jalandhar police file FIR against Sunny Deol, Randeep Hooda, over a scene allegedly offending Christian community

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Shoojit Sircar’s acclaimed film Piku, starring Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and the late Irrfan Khan, is set to return to theatres on May 9, 2025, marking the film’s 10th anniversary. A warm, slice-of-life narrative about a father-daughter relationship, Piku has remained a beloved film for audiences across generations.

The re-release was announced by Deepika Padukone through her social media, where she posted a video featuring Amitabh Bachchan reminiscing about the film’s journey and announcing its theatrical comeback. In her caption, Padukone expressed a deep personal connection to the film, writing, “A film that will always have my heart – PIKU is back in theatres on 9th May, 2025 to celebrate its 10th Anniversary! Irrfan, we miss you! And think about you every so often…”

The film, originally released in 2015, was praised for its grounded storytelling and heartfelt performances. It portrayed the bond between Piku, a strong and independent architect, and her ageing, hypochondriac father Bhashkor, played memorably by Bachchan. Irrfan Khan, in one of his most understated roles, brought quiet strength to the character of Rana, the man who becomes an unexpected anchor in their lives during a road trip that redefined family dynamics.

 

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Directed by Shoojit Sircar and written by Juhi Chaturvedi, Piku stood out for its treatment of everyday relationships, nuanced emotional depth, and the balance of humour and sentiment woven into the narrative. The chemistry between the lead trio gave the film an authenticity that resonated deeply with viewers.

The re-release also serves as a tribute to Irrfan Khan, whose passing in 2020 left a void in Indian cinema. His role in Piku remains one of his most loved performances.  The film’s music, composed by Anupam Roy, and its minimalistic yet relatable aesthetic continue to connect with audiences. Its dialogue and moments, especially those involving the subtle tensions and affections in the father-daughter relationship, have remained etched in popular memory.

As Piku returns to the big screen, it offers an opportunity for both new audiences and long-time fans to experience the film once more—this time through the lens of nostalgia and remembrance.

Also Read: Shoojit Sircar recalls making of Piku, shares BTS photo with Deepika Padukone: “This picture captures the essence of…”

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Andaz Apna Apna (1994) will be re-released on April 25 and on this joyous occasion, Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to Priti Sinha, Amod Sinha and Namrata Sinha, the children of the comic caper’s deceased producer, Vinay Sinha. They opened up on the re-release plans and the experience of releasing the film 30 years ago.

Priti Sinha revealed, “Most of the actors were out of town when the film was released. They were shooting. Aamir bhai and Salman sir were quite busy. Their careers were at an all-time high. When we signed them, they didn’t have that many films but in those 4 years, they got very busy. Even getting them to do interviews was not possible.”

Amod Sinha revealed, “Hence when my father held a premiere, nobody was able to make it as everyone was travelling. Only Meenakshi Seshadri came (laughs). She was not even in the film. Raj ji (Rajkumar Santoshi) also was not in town.” When asked where it was held, he replied, “It was held in Metro Cinema. That’s where the film was released.”

Despite the no-show by the cast, Namrata Sinha said that their father didn’t worry, “He had a lot of friends in income tax, customs etc and they graced the premiere. A lot of my relatives also attended. It was a celebration of a film which was made with a lot of love and struggle.”

30 years later, will there be a premiere of the re-release? Priti Sinha said, “We don’t know if we’ll do a premiere. But we’ll have a preview where Aamir bhai, Salman sir, Karisma Kapoor, Raveena Tandon and whoever is available will be invited. It’ll be a restrictive preview as it’s a re-release.”

Talking about the release strategy, Amod Sinha said, “Cinepolis is distributing the film. As of now, it’s being released in around 530 theatres right now. I think it’s better to start with this number and then increase the screen count as and when the need arises.”

Namrata Sinha assured that watching Andaz Apna Apna on the big screen will be a treat, “We have remastered the film 4K and worked on its DI. We have upgraded the sound system to Dolby 5.1.”

She added, “The music of the film has also been re-released. Tips is releasing the album after reworking the sound quality. It has also started promotion on radio channels.”

There’ll be an added treat for the fans of the film. Priti Sinha confessed, “Before the film starts, we have added an opening credit of the team who helped achieve the re-release. There’s a song in the Andaz Apna Apna album, ‘Shola Shola’, which didn’t make it in the final cut. We have played that song in the background (during the new opening credit). We have also mentioned people under ‘Special Thanks’ and added names of our brand partners.”

The IPL team, Mumbai Indians, is one of the many brand partners. Priti smiled and said, “Woh humein bahut khushi se promote kar rahe hai. That’s the love everyone has for the film.”

Also Read: Salman Khan shares new trailer of Andaz Apna Apna ahead of its re-release on April 25: “Amar Prem Ka Andaaz is back”

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Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has issued a clarification in the wake of a growing social media storm over his controversial remarks on Brahmins. The backlash stems from a comment he made in response to a user who wrote, “Brahmins tumhare baap hain…” (Brahmins are your fathers), to which Kashyap replied, “Brahmin pe main mootoonga.. koi problem?” (I will urinate on Brahmins… any problem?).

The statement triggered a wave of outrage online, with several users issuing rape and death threats not only to Kashyap but also to his daughter, friends, and colleagues. In response, the filmmaker shared a note on social media clarifying his position and offering an apology—not for his words, but for the hateful consequences they sparked. “This is my apology, not for my post but for that one line taken out of context and the brewing hatred,” he wrote on Instagram. “No action or speech is worth your daughter, family, friends and colleagues getting rape and death threats from the kingpins of sanskar.”

Kashyap stood by his original comment, asserting, “So kahi hui baat wapis nahin li ja sakti aur na loonga lekin mujhe jo gaali dena hai do. Mere parivaar ne na kuchh kaha hai na kahta hai. Isliye agar mujhse maafi hi chaahiye to ye meri apology hai. (So the words I have said cannot be taken back, nor will I take them back. If you want to abuse someone, abuse me. My family has said nothing and says nothing. So if an apology is what you need from me, this is it)”.

 

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He concluded the note with a strong message directed at those attacking women under the guise of cultural righteousness: “Brahmin log, auraton ko baksh do, itna sanskar to shastron mein bhi hai, sirf manuwaad mein nahin hai. Aap kaun se Brahmin ho tay kar lo (Brahmins, spare the women. Even the scriptures speak of such values—not just Manusmriti. Decide what kind of Brahmin you are)”.

The filmmaker has not deleted the original post, standing his ground even as he expresses concern over the safety of those close to him. The incident has sparked renewed conversations around caste, free speech, and the lines between provocation and accountability.

Also Read: Anurag Kashyap REACTS with a sarcastic comment as Phule faces censorship over caste references after Dhadak 2

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The much-anticipated psychological thriller Nikita Roy is all set to hit theatres on May 30, 2025, as the makers unveiled a striking new poster today, revealing the official release date. Backed by Nickky Viicky Bhagnani, the film boasts a stellar cast featuring Sonakshi Sinha, Arjun Rampal, Paresh Rawal, and Suhail Nayyar in lead roles.

Directed by Kussh S Sinha, the film promises a chilling and immersive cinematic experience, diving deep into themes of mysticism, psychological tension, and human vulnerability. Set against a haunting narrative backdrop, Nikita Roy explores the grey zones of the human mind, making it one of the most intriguing genre entries of the year.

A Nikita Pai Films Ltd. production, the film is headed by Kinjal Ashok Ghone in association with Nickky Khemchand Bhagnani, Viicky Bhagnani, Ankur Takrani, Dinesh Ratiram Gupta, and Kratos Entertainment. The story and screenplay are penned by acclaimed thriller writer Pavan Kirpalani.

Sharing their excitement, producers Nickky and Viicky Bhagnani said, “This film is very close to our hearts. It dares to tread where most mainstream films don’t and explores a genre we truly believe audiences are ready for. With a powerful cast, a gripping narrative, and Kussh S Sinha’s unique vision, we can’t wait for the world to experience Nikita Roy on the big screen.”

The film is also co-produced by Anand Mehta, Prakash Nand Bijlani, Shakti Bhatnagar, Mehnaaz Shaikh, and Prem Raj Joshi.

With its intriguing premise, seasoned ensemble, and genre-bending tone, Nikita Roy is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about thrillers of the year. The countdown begins as the film heads for a worldwide theatrical release on May 30, 2025.

Also Read : Sonakshi Sinha shuts down troll who said, “Your divorce is too close to you”

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Actress Urvashi Rautela has stirred controversy with her claim that a temple in Uttarakhand is dedicated to her. In a recent interview with Siddharth Kannan, the actress spoke about the Urvashi Temple near Badrinath Dham, prompting backlash from local priests and residents.

In the interview, the actress claimed, “There is a temple in my name in Uttarakhand. If one visits Badrinath, there is a ‘Urvashi temple’ right next to it.” When asked if people go there to seek blessings, she replied, “Ab mandir hai toh woh hi toh karenge (It’s a temple, they will do that only).”

The actress also mentioned that Delhi University students offer prayers and “even garland my pictures,” adding that they refer to her as ‘Damdamamai.’ She emphasized, “I am being serious about it. It is true. There are news articles about the same too. You can read them.”

Local religious authorities have firmly denied the claims. Bhuwan Chandra Uniyal, former religious officer of Badrinath Dham, told India Today that Urvashi’s statements were “misleading.” He clarified the temple is dedicated to Goddess Urvashi from Hindu mythology and is one of the 108 Shaktipeeths.

“It is not her temple. Such statements are unacceptable, and the government should take strict steps against anyone making such claims,” Uniyal said.

Amit Sati, President of the Brahma Kapal Teerth Purohit Society, also criticized the actress’s remarks, stating that the ancient temple is associated with Goddess Urvashi, not any individual. “Such statements disrespect the religious sentiments of the people here,” he added.

Locals from Bamni and Pandukeshwar villages, who regard the temple as sacred, have expressed anger. Resident Ramnarayan Bhandari said no one has the right to make personal claims about a site with mythological importance.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Urvashi Rautela on working in OTT in the future, “If there’s an interesting role, then why not?”

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In a disheartening turn of events, Kesari Chapter 2, the much-anticipated spiritual sequel to the 2019 patriotic action-drama Kesari, has fallen prey to online piracy just a day after its release on April 18. The film, which stars Akshay Kumar in the lead and is based on the aftermath of the India’s most infamous genocide – the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, was leaked across several piracy websites including Filmyzilla, Movierulez, Tamilrockerz, and even platforms like Telegram.

What’s more troubling is the widespread availability of the pirated film in multiple video formats, ranging from 1080p and HD versions to lower-quality formats like 240p. Keywords such as “Kesari 2 Download” and “Kesari 2 Movie HD Download” have reportedly been trending across these sites, driving traffic to the illegal uploads and potentially hurting the film’s box office performance.

While the makers have yet to issue an official statement regarding the leak, Akshay Kumar had made a heartfelt appeal to audiences ahead of the film’s release. Speaking at a press conference, he had said, “I humbly request you all to please keep your phones in your pockets and listen to every dialogue of this film. It will mean a lot. If you try to check your Instagram during the movie, it will be a humiliation for the film. So I request everyone to keep their phones away.”

Though the actor didn’t directly address piracy, his statement underscored the importance of respecting cinematic experiences – a sentiment that appears to have been overshadowed by the leak. The leak of Kesari Chapter 2 serves as yet another reminder of the urgent need for stronger enforcement and digital vigilance to protect creative content.

Coming to the film which also stars R Madhavan, and Ananya Panday along with Akshay Kumar, it is a historical courtroom drama set against the aftermath of the 1919 Jallianwala incident. At its heart is the story of Indian statesman C Sankaran Nair, played by Kumar, who risks everything to legally challenge the British Crown and General Dyer by filing a case of genocide in a British court. The film blends fact-based narrative with emotionally charged performances, offering a compelling take on colonial resistance and the early legal foundations of India’s freedom struggle.

Also Read: Kesari Chapter 2 Hits Theatres: Vicky Kaushal, Raj Mehta, Farah Khan and other Bollywood stars shower praise on the film’s performance

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In a significant first for the versatile Saif Ali Khan, the actor is set to play a blind character in acclaimed filmmaker Priyadarshan’s next project — marking not only his first time portraying a visually impaired character but also his first collaboration with the veteran director.

Confirming the development, Saif said, “Yes, I am doing a film with Priyadarshan next. I play a blind guy. Very exciting.” Despite both being prominent figures in the Indian film industry for over 25 years, Saif and Priyadarshan have never previously worked together. That changes now, as the two have finally locked in a script that excites them both. Interestingly, the film will not be a comedy — a genre Priyadarshan is famously associated with — but a thriller.

Priyadarshan shared, “I’ve always liked Saif’s screen presence. I was waiting for something suitable to do with him.” Meanwhile, Saif will next be seen in Netflix’s Jewel Thief, a high-stakes heist drama in which he stars alongside Jaideep Ahlawat.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan and Nikita Dutta’s sizzling chemistry shines in the romantic track ‘Ilzaam’ from Jewel Thief, watch

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Sunny Deol’s latest release Jaat has been in the news not just for its action-packed storyline and patriotic fervour, but also for a scene that drew sharp criticism from members of the Christian community. The controversy revolved around a particular sequence featuring the film’s villain played by Randeep Hooda set inside a church, which some viewers from the Christian community found offensive and disrespectful to their religious sentiments.

Following the growing uproar, the makers of Jaat have acted swiftly to address the concerns. In an official statement, the team clarified their position and confirmed that the scene has been removed from all versions of the film.

The makers said in an official statement, “There has been a backlash for a specific scene in the film. The scene has been removed from the film with immediate effect. Our intention was not to hurt any religious sentiments. We deeply regret it and have taken a quick action of deleting the scene from the film. We sincerely apologize to everyone whose beliefs have been hurt.”

The controversy had begun gaining traction on social media soon after the film’s release, with several prominent voices from the Christian community demanding a public apology and action.

Directed by Gopichandh Malineni, Jaat also stars Saiyami Kher, Viineet Kumar Siingh, Regena Cassandrra among others. The film has earned over Rs. 60 crores at the India box office in its extended first week.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Gopichandh Malineni ECSTATIC with response to Jaat: “Great to see people SCREAMING in theatres, ‘Sorry bol’; my idea for Sunny Deol was – less talking and MORE action!”; reveals that Jaat’s Telugu version to release in a couple of weeks

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Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film King has been creating waves ever since news about the same came out for the first time last year. This is purely because it is a film starring SRK, one of the biggest stars not just in India but world over. Plus, it’s helmed by Siddharth Anand, the director of the actor’s comeback film Pathaan. But the reason why King is anticipated even more is because it marks the big screen debut of the superstar’s daughter Suhana Khan. The film follows her OTT debut with The Archies.

Now, a latest report has sparked more excitement for King. As per a report by Peeping Moon, Arshad Warsi has joined the cast of the film. The report states that he will be playing a pivotal role in the film but details about his character are currently kept under wraps.

Shah Rukh and Arshad have been friends since long. But this is the first time that the two will be seen in a movie together where both are playing prominent roles. Interestingly, SRK had done a guest appearance in Arshad starrer Kuchh Meetha Ho Jaye in 2005. The Samar Khan directorial also starred SRK’s Pardes co-star Mahima Chaudhry along with Rohit Roy, Sandhya Mridul and Jaspal Bhatti.

Coming back to King, the film is produced under Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment and Siddharth Anand’s Marflix Pictures and it also stars Abhishek Bachchan and Abhay Verma of Munjya fame.

Also Read: When Shah Rukh Khan went off script while filming Don: Alyy Khan recalls candid on-set moment

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