When I got a call from the super-prolific Priyadarshan at around 8 pm on Tuesday, he sounded visibly upset. “What the f**k is wrong with these people? Why is Paresh, whom I’ve always considered an integral part of my film family, behaving in such a manner? I don’t need this. I don’t need to make any films at all. I’m more than happy with what I’ve made so far. And I am financially well-off. I don’t need to make Hera Pheri or any other film.”

So how did this project even happen?
“You know very well that I never wanted to return to Hera Pheri — not twenty-five years ago when it was first made, and certainly not now. It was my dear friend Akshay Kumar who persuaded me. One day, while we were shooting Bhoot Bungla, he came to me and said, ‘I have paid a huge amount of money for the Hera Pheri rights. I’ve asked Suniel and Paresh to be part of Hera Pheri 3, and they have happily agreed. Now I am asking you. Will you direct Hera Pheri for me?’ Of course, I said yes. I can’t say no to Akshay. Otherwise, I had no interest in revisiting Hera Pheri.”

Pausing for breath, Priyan confided how stressed the entire incident has made him. “I’m in my village right now, peacefully spending time with my relatives, watching the sky. The last thing I need is this kind of tension. I don’t care for the stress of filmmaking anymore. I would be happy to retire right now. I’ve done enough work. I no longer feel excited about filmmaking.”

So, what exactly is the explanation Paresh Rawal has given for his sudden exit?
“That’s the thing — he hasn’t given me or Akshay any explanation. After Akshay asked me to come on board, I came up with an idea for Hera Pheri 3, which everyone liked. Yes, Paresh loved it too. We even shot a bit for the film, and everyone was happy. There was no sign of any unhappiness from Paresh. I don’t know where this is coming from. I feel the whole thing is one big conspiracy.”

Did Paresh indicate his withdrawal to you directly?
“Nothing! He indicated nothing. When I heard about his decision, I messaged him to ask what happened. He replied saying I shouldn’t try to call him because he didn’t want to talk about it, and that he does not want to disrespect me. Is this how you show respect? Subhash, I am very, very hurt. There are two actors I’ve worked with the most: Mohanlal and Paresh Rawal. In Hindi, I don’t think there’s any actor I’ve worked with as extensively as Paresh. Every time I wrote a script in Hindi; I would find a proper place for Paresh.”

On Akshay Kumar’s Rs. 25 crore lawsuit against Paresh Rawal
“I’m not surprised. It’s his money. He paid a huge amount for the Hera Pheri rights. Now suddenly one of the core actors decides to opt out. It’s Akshay’s problem, not mine. He has all my support. But the financial losses are his. By the way, everyone — including Paresh — has been paid an advance.”

Would Hera Pheri 3 be made without Paresh?
Priyan loses his cool at the question. “I don’t give a f**k. I don’t care whether it’s made or not. I was doing it for Akshay. I really don’t want to work anymore. I have some commitments to fulfil. I’ve just completed Bhoot Bungla with Akshay, and I have a film with Akshay and Saif that I am committed to direct. Beyond that, I don’t need this kind of tension. I would rather play with my grandchild than make movies with unprofessional actors.”

Also Read: Priyadarshan sides with Akshay Kumar as Paresh Rawal exits Hera Pheri 3: “He hasn’t spoken to me till date”

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The buzz around Aamir Khan’s upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par is steadily building as it nears release. A spiritual sequel to the 2007 film Taare Zameen Par, it has drawn attention following the trailer launch. The film introduces 10 young debutants, bringing a fresh energy to the screen. Sitaare Zameen Par aims to offer a heartfelt and uplifting story. Meanwhile, sources indicate that the makers are preparing to release the film’s first song, adding to the growing interest.

A source close to the film’s production revealed, “The film’s first song, ‘Good for Nothing’, is set to release on May 22. Sung by Shankar Mahadevan and Amitabh Bhattacharya, with Neil Mukherjee on guitar and Sheldon D’Silva on bass.” The track has already sparked high anticipation among music lovers.

The trailer of Sitaare Zameen Par offers a touching glimpse into a story of redemption. A former basketball coach, facing legal consequences, is ordered by the court to train a team of misfits—an emotional journey filled with humour, growth, and second chances.

Aamir Khan Productions proudly presents 10 rising stars: Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, Vedant Sharma, Ayush Bhansali, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, and Simran Mangeshkar. Directed by R. S. Prasanna, who previously helmed the barrier-breaking blockbuster Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, now returns with the biggest collaboration with Aamir Khan Productions’ Sitaare Zameen Par.

Made under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions, Sitaare Zameen Par will star Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh. The lyrics are penned by Amitabh Bhattacharya and music is composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. The screenplay is written by Divy Nidhi Sharma. The film is produced by Aamir Khan and Aparna Purohit, with Ravi Bhagchandka as producer. Directed by R. S. Prasanna, the film will be released in theatres on 20th June, 2025.

Also Read : Meet Rishi Shahani aka Sharmaji from Sitaare Zameen Par, the man who’ll make you smile no matter what!

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In what promises to be one of the most anticipated films of 2026, Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal have undergone dramatic physical transformations for their roles in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War. According to an independent industry source, Ranbir Kapoor has lost 12 kilograms, while Vicky Kaushal has shed an impressive 15 kilograms for their respective roles as Indian military officers.

An insider revealed, “Ranbir Kapoor has lost 12 kgs while Vicky Kaushal has lost 15 kgs for their characters in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War. This extensive physical transformation of both stars is evident enough to light up the screens for the audiences.”

Currently in production, Love & War is described as a sweeping love story set against the backdrop of war. The narrative is centred around a complex romantic triangle featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal as rival officers, both drawn to Alia Bhatt’s character, who plays a glamorous cabaret dancer. The film explores themes of passion, loyalty, and sacrifice during turbulent times.

The recent schedule marked the first time the three leads — Ranbir, Vicky, and Alia — shot together, further building anticipation for the chemistry and dynamics to unfold on screen. Adding to the intrigue, the film also stars Orry in a pivotal role as Alia’s close friend, bringing another layer to the evolving relationships in the story.

Directed by Bhansali, known for his visual grandeur and emotionally rich storytelling, Love & War is slated for a theatrical release in March 2026.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal begin FIRST joint shoot for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War 

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The Hera Pheri 3 controversy has taken a dramatic legal turn. Actor Akshay Kumar has filed a Rs 25 crores lawsuit against co-star Paresh Rawal for abruptly exiting the film after the shoot had already begun. The decision, according to director Priyadarshan, came without any prior communication, despite Rawal claiming otherwise.

Priyadarshan Backs Akshay’s Legal Action
In an interview with Hindustan Times, veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan backed Akshay Kumar’s decision to pursue legal recourse. “I don’t have anything to lose, but Akshay has invested money and that could be the reason why he is taking this action. Paresh Rawal hasn’t spoken to me till date,” said Priyadarshan.

He added that before the filming began, Akshay had asked him to confirm participation with both Paresh and Suniel Shetty. “I did and both were onboard,” Priyadarshan stated.
Contradicting Claims: Who Knew What, and When?
The matter has been further complicated by conflicting statements. While Priyadarshan insists that Rawal never communicated his exit, Paresh Rawal has told Mid-Day that he informed Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Priyadarshan himself.

“Priyadarshanji tried to change my mind, but he knows [me]. They all know that if I decide on something, I will follow it up. So they don’t pursue further,” said Rawal, implying that his decision was final and known to the key stakeholders.

Interestingly, despite the fallout, Priyadarshan has recently directed both Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal in another film titled Bhooth Bangla. The film’s fate remains uncertain amidst this tension, though no changes have been confirmed as of now.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar sues Paresh Rawal for Rs. 25 crore over unprofessional behaviour following sudden exit from Hera Pheri 3

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Bollywood Hungama was the first one to break the news last week that Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment had filed a Rs. 25 crores defamation suit each against Mofusion Studios and YouTube after the latter took down the teaser of Housefull 5 citing copyright infringement. Now it has come to light that the exciting teaser is back.

A source explained to Bollywood Hungama what happened behind the scenes, “On May 9, YouTube unexpectedly took down the teaser of Housefull 5, citing a copyright claim by Mofusion Studios on the use of the song ‘Laal Pari’. Viewers were met with a message stating the video was unavailable due to this claim. Sajid Nadiadwala of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment took up the matter with YouTube very seriously. It informed the video sharing platform that Yo Yo Honey Singh has given in writing that he’s the sole rights holder to the song. A legal notice was also sent to YouTube asking them to restore the teaser.”

The source continued, “The team of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment presented a water tight stand. The authorization letter of Yo Yo Honey Singh turned out to be a crucial piece of evidence. As a result, YouTube put down the strike. This is how the teaser is now back on the platform from today, May 20.”

Housefull 5 stars Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Abhishek Bachchan, Fardeen Khan, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, Nana Patekar, Chunky Pandey, Johny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Dino Morea, Chitrangda Singh, Ranjeet, Soundarya Sharma and Nikitin Dheer. It is directed by Tarun Mansukhani of Dostana (2008) fame and releases on Bakri Eid, on June 6, 2025.

Also Read: Chitrangda Singh speaks on taking a comic leap with Housefull 5: “Comedy is serious business”

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Chitrangda Singh has long been celebrated for her versatility and ability to bring depth to every role she takes on. Whether portraying emotionally complex characters in Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi and Inkaar or delivering powerful performances like Nandini Basak in Khakee: The Bengal Chapter, she has consistently demonstrated a great range as an actor. Now, she is preparing to surprise audiences yet again by stepping into an out-and-out comedy with Housefull 5.

“This is actually the absolute first time I’m doing comedy, and let me tell you, it is very difficult,” Chitrangda admits. “I genuinely believe it’s harder to make people laugh than to make them cry.” She describes the genre as an entirely different skillset, one that demands precision, restraint, and rhythm. “It’s a different ball game altogether. You have to be so smooth that all your jokes and timing land perfectly. It’s not just about delivering a funny line – it’s about the energy, the pacing, the setup. Comedy is serious business.”

While the film promises humor, Chitrangda hints that it’s not all fun and games. “You can expect me doing some comedy, yes – but the film is not just comedy. There are a lot of twists and turns. It’s a very interesting script,” she says. “The character is definitely going to surprise you.”

In Khakee: The Bengal Chapter, Chitrangda captivated audiences as Nandini Basak, the formidable Leader of the Opposition. With yet another powerful performance, she reaffirmed her versatility and the quiet strength she brings to every role. Not stopping with Housefull 5, Chitrangda will also be seen next in Raat Akeli Hai 2, further solidifying her ability to navigate diverse genres with ease.

Also Read: Chitrangda Singh reveals it is a ‘huge compliment and responsibility’ to be compared to Smita Patil; says, “I would absolutely love to portray her life on screen”

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As Hai Junoon reaches its 20-episode climax, fans are swept up in a storm of emotions and sense of excitement. The musical drama, known for its powerful performances, gripping rivalries, and heartfelt moments, concludes in a way that leaves audiences craving more.

The final episode sparks intense speculation about the future of Gagan Ahuja, Pearl Saldhana, and the ever-evolving battle between Supersonics and Misfits. Will Gagan finally step into his true destiny, or will his past keep pulling him back? Can Pearl break free from the constraints shaping her life? And, most importantly, will the fiery competition between Supersonics and Misfits take an unforeseen turn?

With so many unanswered questions, anticipation for Season 2 has reached an all-time high. Fans are eager to see new alliances, shocking betrayals, and deeper conflicts unfold, reshaping the dynamics of the show. The next season could dive into Gagan’s struggle for self-identity, Pearl’s quest for personal freedom, and the shifting friendships and rivalries within the college.

The biggest mystery that remains is will we finally get the clarity we seek, or will Hai Junoon continue to keep us on the edge, craving more? One thing is certain the show has mastered the art of keeping audiences hooked, ensuring that viewers stay invested and eagerly await the next chapter in this musical and dramatic saga.

Also Read: Neil Nitin Mukesh on bagging Hai Junoon, “Aditya Bhatt, Sagar Thakkar and Abhishek Sharma literally fought for me to be a part of this show”

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Actress Preity Zinta is upset over fake pictures circulating on social media that show her with Rajasthan Royals’ 14-year-old cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi. She expressed surprise that people are believing these false images. On Monday, videos and photos surfaced online showing Vaibhav meeting Preity in Jaipur, including one where she is seen talking to and hugging him, with claims that it was taken at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium. After the picture of her hugging Vaibhav gained significant attention, Preity took to social media to clarify that the images were fake.

Reposting a news article with the altered image, Preity Zinta wrote, “This is a morphed image and fake news. Am so surprised now news channels are also using morphed images and featuring them as news items.” She shared another link to a regional news report on the same video and commented, “Fake news with morphed image.”

This is a morphed image and fake news. Am so surprised now news channels are also using morphed images and featuring them as news items !
— Preity G Zinta (@realpreityzinta) May 20, 2025

Earlier on Monday, the official Rajasthan Royals’ X (formerly Twitter) account shared a video of Preity meeting Vaibhav, with the caption, “Flex levels at school: Vaibhav Suryavanshi.”

The video shows Preity conversing with Royals opener Yashasvi Jaiswal before stepping aside and saying, “Nice meeting you.” She then tells Shashank Singh that she wants to meet the 14-year-old Vaibhav, saying, “Come, let’s go say hi to him.”

Preity Zinta approached Vaibhav, and they had a brief conversation. After their chat, Vaibhav shook her hand. However, the video shared by the franchise does not show Preity hugging Vaibhav.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi is a 14-year-old cricketer playing for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025. Hailing from Maharashtra, he has already impressed many with his exceptional talent at such a young age. Both fans and coaches have high hopes for him, considering him a future star. His recent meeting with actress Preity Zinta during a match gained significant attention, further boosting his popularity.

Also Read : Preity Zinta responds to Bollywood celebrities silence on Pahalgam attack: “People process things differently”

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In a surprising turn of events, Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has reportedly taken legal action against long-time collaborator and co-star Paresh Rawal, seeking Rs. 25 crore in damages after the latter abruptly exited Hera Pheri 3 mid-way through production. The film, directed by Priyadarshan and produced under Akshay’s banner Cape of Good Films, had officially gone on floors in April 2025 with the original trio—Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal—reuniting for what fans hoped would be a nostalgic rollercoaster. However, just days ago, it was reported that Rawal had opted out of the project citing “creative differences.”

What caught the industry and fans off guard was Rawal’s public clarification on X (formerly Twitter), where he stated: “I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences. I REITERATE THAT THERE  ARE  NO CREATIVE DISAGREEMENT WITH THE FILM MAKER . I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan the film director.” The remark has not only raised eyebrows but also prompted serious backlash from the production team, especially since Rawal had already been paid his full quoted fee for the film.

An industry insider close to the development shared, “It is extremely unprofessional for an actor to walk out of a project halfway—especially after accepting payment and knowing the production is already underway. These are not just films, they are multi-crore commitments involving hundreds of crew members and extensive planning.”

The same source revealed that all rights and financial clearances had been addressed only after the principal cast gave their nod, further highlighting the disruption Rawal’s sudden withdrawal has caused. Another source added, “Paresh Rawal had already received a portion of his fee at the time of signing the film. However, despite being paid, he rather unceremoniously exited the project mid-way, leaving the makers in a complete lurch. Such behaviour, especially during active production, is being viewed as highly unprofessional and disruptive to the film’s overall schedule and planning.”

It is understood that Cape of Good Films is now proceeding with legal action, citing financial damages, production delays, and reputational harm. While no formal statement has been issued by Akshay Kumar’s team, sources confirm that the Rs. 25 crore lawsuit is not just punitive but also meant to set a precedent around accountability in high-stakes filmmaking.

The Hera Pheri franchise has long been beloved by fans for its iconic trio and madcap humour, and this unexpected controversy has cast a shadow over what was poised to be a celebratory return. It remains to be seen how the legal proceedings unfold—or whether a replacement for Rawal’s role will be announced in the coming weeks.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Paresh Rawal clarifies on ‘Akshay Kumar is a colleague’ statement: “People are asking ‘Kya ho gaya (aap dono ke beech)?’. Arre bhai, kuch nahin hua…he’s a friend and will remain a friend”

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Ahmed Khan exclusively spoke to Bollywood Hungama last month on 7 years of his blockbuster, Baaghi 2 (2018). In the same interaction, he also opened up about his next, Welcome To The Jungle, which is one of the most awaited films of Bollywood for many.

When asked when it’ll be out, Ahmed Khan said, “Firoz A. Nadiadwallah is a very passionate producer. He always says, ‘We have to not make films but movies. Hence, he wants to make everything big. He told me, ‘Ahmed, assemble as many people as you want in this film’. He went all out. I spoke to all the actors, and they all came on board immediately.”

He further stated, “70% of the shoot is over. Everybody is surprised that we could finish so much of the shoot so fast. We started filming in March 2024. Accommodating everybody’s dates took a lot of time. Hence, to finish such a large chunk in 1 year is a feat. Only two small schedules are left – one is an international schedule for the songs, and the other one is an action-packed one set in a jungle.”

Ahmed Khan added, “We expected that the film would take much more time and we were okay with it. In some films, there are only two schedules, and you could finish the film quickly. In some films, the process is different. You shoot over 4-5 schedules. Then, you go to the edit room, see what is missing and then shoot accordingly. I have been given enough time to go back and forth. It wasn’t planned, but it happened due to the cast.”

Will Welcome To The Jungle release in 2025 or 2026? The filmmaker answered, “I am going to finish the film and deliver. Then, it’s up to Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Firoz bhai to decide when to release it. But we are clear that we won’t release a half-baked film. Many filmmakers block a date and then they race against time to finish work. I am done with that in my life. I believe that we should make the film, feel satisfied with the product and then put out a release date. Aaj release date ki koi value hi nahin rahi. There are so many films whose release date changes 4-5 times. In the process, you end up speeding up and then not finishing your product properly. Chalein ya na chalein, that is secondary. That is in the public’s hands. You know so many producers and directors. Ask them if they were satisfied with their product. Everyone will tell you, ‘If we had more time in hand, toh accha hota’. Nobody would tell you, ‘My film is perfect. It can’t go wrong’. Everyone feels that they have to leave something out.”

Ahmed Khan’s Baaghi 2 had a forest setting, and it proved lucky for Ahmed Khan. Will he be second time lucky with Welcome To The Jungle, which is also set in a jungle? Ahmed laughed and exulted, “That’s a good one. Yes indeed, the jungle is very lucky for me. Maybe, I should stay in the jungles from now on!”

Besides Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty, Welcome To The Jungle also stars Paresh Rawal, Arshad Warsi, Johny Lever, Rajpal Yadav, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Daler Mehndi, Mika Singh, Rahul Dev, Mukesh Tiwari, Sharib Hashmi, Inaamulhaq, Zakir Hussain, Yashpal Sharma, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Jacqueline Fernandez, Disha Patani and child actor Vrihi Kodvara.

Also Read: OMG 3 in early development as Akshay Kumar, Amit Rai discuss ideas: Report

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