Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa begin work on second production starring Keerthy Suresh: Report

After stepping into film production with Toaster, which is yet to release on Netflix, actor-producer duo Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa are already gearing up for their next project. Their second venture under their production banner will feature National Award-winning actors Rajkummar Rao and Keerthy Suresh in lead roles and is set to go on floors in Mumbai on June 1.

According to a report by Mid-Day, the untitled film will be a satirical take on India’s current education system, examining how profit motives have increasingly overshadowed the sector’s primary purpose—imparting knowledge. The story will unfold through the lens of two educators, played by Rao and Suresh, who seek to expose the commercialization of education. The narrative reportedly uses humour and irony to shed light on how education in India has evolved into a lucrative business, often at the cost of academic integrity and student welfare.

The project marks a collaboration with director Aditya Nimbalkar, who recently helmed the thriller Sector 36 (2024). Shooting will begin in Mumbai after Keerthy Suresh wraps up work on her Tamil film Revolver Rita. A second schedule is planned in Delhi, with the team aiming to complete the film in a continuous 45-day shoot.

For the unversed, the Bollywood couple, earlier this year, announced their production banner, Kampa Films. “Launching KAMPA is an emotional milestone for us. Cinema has played a significant role in shaping our lives, and this is our way of giving back. Raj and I are transforming a shared dream into reality by creating a space for fresh voices and compelling storytelling,” Patralekhaa said during the launch.

Also Read: Patralekhaa expresses frustration over being defined as Rajkummar Rao’s wife; says, “I feel very small”

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EXCLUSIVE: Paresh Rawal’s BIG REVEAL – Hera Pheri 3 rolls in 2026; Bhooth Bangla is “India’s most STUNNINGLY shot horror film”

Recently, Paresh Rawal was in the news for his interview with The Lallantop. The veteran actor was asked if Akshay Kumar was his friend. Paresh Rawal replied, “Film industry mein colleague hote hain, theatre mein dost hote hain, aur school mein jigar jaan dost hote hain. But film ke andar colleague hote hain.” Unfortunately, the quote led to a lot of noise on social media, with many wondering if anything is wrong between him and his Hera Pheri co-star. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Paresh Rawal clarified on this issue. In the same interaction, he also opened up about his upcoming exciting films.

Recently, there were reports that Hera Pheri 3’s mahurat shot took place recently and it led to a lot of excitement. Paresh Rawal said, “When it comes to Hera Pheri, the reactions are always positive. It is the most loved franchise.”

The actor didn’t give out much information on the film. But when asked when it would go on floors, he replied, “We plan to shoot in January or February 2026.” He also shared an update on Welcome To The Jungle. Both these comic capers are produced by Firoz A. Nadiadwallah. He revealed, “The shoot of Welcome To The Jungle is not complete and hopefully, it’ll resume in July or August.”

Welcome To The Jungle and Hera Pheri 3 reunite Paresh Rawal with Akshay Kumar. Until now, they have worked together in 21 films – Dil Ki Baazi (1993), Kayda Kanoon (1993), Mohra (1994), Insaaf (1997), Mr And Mrs Khiladi (1997), Angaaray (1998), Aarzoo (1999), Hera Pheri (2000), Aankhen (2002), Awara Paagal Deewana (2002), Aan: Men At Work (2004), Aitraaz (2004), Garam Masala (2005), Deewane Huye Paagal (2005), Phir Hera Pheri (2006), Bhagam Bhag (2006), Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007), Welcome (2007), De Dana Dan (2009), OMG Oh My God (2012) and Sarfira (2024).

Besides the aforementioned two comedies, Akshay and Paresh Rawal also have one more exciting film in their kitty – Bhooth Bangla. On this, Paresh Rawal stated, “It’s a stunningly shot movie of Mr Priyadarshan. No horror film in India has been shot this beautifully as Mr Priyadarshan has shot Bhooth Bangla. It’s mind-blowing. Priyadarshan is a stunning filmmaker.”

This is not the only horror comedy in the pipeline for Paresh Rawal. He also features in Thama, co-starring Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. It releases on Diwali 2025 and belongs to the highly successful Maddock Horror Comedy Cinematic Universe, which also comprises Stree, Munjya, Bhediya etc.

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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Sanam Teri Kasam 2 Row: Harshvardhan Rane slams Mawra Hocane as she accuses him of ‘using her name for attention’; says, “I have zero tolerance for any attack on my nation’s dignity”

Amid escalating Indo-Pak tensions, Harshvardhan Rane has finally broken his silence after Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane lashed out at him on social media for stepping away from Sanam Teri Kasam 2. In a strongly-worded Instagram story, Rane called her statement ‘an attempt at personal attack’ while emphasizing that he chose to step down from the film because he ‘has zero tolerance for any attack on his nation’s dignity’.

The controversy erupted when Hocane reacted sharply to reports that Rane had refused to work with her in the sequel to their 2016 romantic drama due to ongoing geopolitical issues. In a post shared on her social media (as reported by FilmiBeat), Mawra wrote, “I don’t know whether to call this unfortunate, sad or comical. someone I expected to have basic common sense has risen from deep slumber with a PR strategy. Look around you, look at what’s going on!!! We could all hear explosions, children in my country died due to an unjustified cowardly attack, innocent lives are lost and after multiple attempts to still maintain grace and peace, a befitting response by my armed forces have caused frenzy in your country last night. While our nations are at war, this is what you come up with.. a PR statement to get attention??? What a pity!”

“Making such announcements at this volatile time, it’s both shameful and bizarre to see you so hungry and desperate. If throwing all the respect away and using my name after 9 years is getting you the headlines, you might be surrounded by the wrong team. Praying for our soldiers.. and civilians on both sides, not immersed in the thoughts of what my next film should be! May sense prevail”, she added.

Responding to this, Harshvardhan Rane said, “That sounded like an attempt at personal attack. Fortunately, I have tolerance to overlook such attempts – but have zero tolerance for any attack on my nation’s dignity. An Indian farmer would pluck out the unwanted weed from his crop its called WEEDING, the farmer doesnt need a PR team for this act, its called common sense. I simply offered to step down from Part 2. I am fully within my rights to choose not to work with individuals who label my country’s actions as ‘cowardly.’ so much hate in her speech, so many personal remarks, I never mentioned her name or resorted to calling her names. Didn’t attack her dignity as a woman. I intend to maintain that standard.”

The directors of Sanam Teri Kasam, Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru, have also weighed in on the controversy, standing firmly with Rane. In a statement to Hindustan Times, they said, “So we fully agree with our government’s decision: Not a single rupee should be paid. Not a single minute of our time as a nation should be offered. Not a single Indian platform should engage with them. What matters most is our nation and the welfare of our people. We stand by our government and fully support its decision. Nation First – Always!”

With both the lead actor and directors aligned on their decision, it is now confirmed that Mawra Hocane will not be part of Sanam Teri Kasam 2.

 Also Read: Harshvardhan Rane refuses to work with Mawra Hocane in a powerful note condemning her anti-India comments

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On Narasimha Jayanti, makers of Mahavatar Narsimha reveal release date with a roaring teaser; watch

The new video of Mahavatar Narsimha, featuring Ashwin Kumar and produced by Hombale Films and Kleem Productions, showcases visually rich scenes combined with mythological storytelling.

Ashwin Kumar’s upcoming film Mahavatar Narsimha has been generating attention with its visually striking posters. Produced by Hombale Films and Kleem Productions, the project marks the beginning of the Mahavatar series, which aims to depict the stories of Lord Vishnu’s various avatars. Building anticipation, the makers recently released a teaser that received a positive response. Now, they have announced the release date through a new video.

On the occasion of Narasimha Jayanti, The makers of Mahavatar Narsimha have announced the release date as 25th July 2025. To make this grand announcement, they shared an epic video showcasing the roar of Mahavatar Narsimha in its purest form. The video offers glimpses of the divine Mahavatar’s formation while stating, “When the faith is challenged, he appears.”

 

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A post shared by Hombale Films (@hombalefilms)

With powerful BGM, and stunning visuals, the video sets a new benchmark for mythological storytelling on the big screen. This itself promises a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience for audiences to witness in theatres.

As they announced the release date with this enthralling video, the makers shared the caption, “Come to the Theatres on 25th July 2025. To Witness the Divine DARSHAN. To Feel the Mighty ROAR. To have an Experience like never before on the Big screen! Presenting #MahavatarNarsimhaGlimpse. LET THE ROAR AWAKEN YOUR SOUL! Experience it. Live it. Believe it. #MahavatarNarasimha is an epic that brings to life the Legendary tale of Lord Narasimha, the most Ferocious, the Half-Man, Half-Lion Avatar-Lord Vishnu’s Most Powerful Incarnation. Stay tuned for the thrilling adventure!”

Hombale Films, the production house behind Mahavatar Narsimha, has previously delivered major pan-India titles such as KGF Chapter 1 & 2, Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire, and Kantara. Known for their focus on Indian stories and cultural narratives, the studio has played a key role in bringing rooted tales to a national audience. With a growing slate of successful releases, Hombale Films has established itself as a prominent name in the Indian film industry.

Directed by Ashwin Kumar, Mahavatar Narsimha is produced by Shilpaa Dhawan, Kushal Desai, and Chaitanya Desai under Kleem Productions, in collaboration with Hombale Films. This partnership aims to bring a culturally rich and visually ambitious film to audiences across platforms. Set to release in 3D and five Indian languages, the film will hit theatres on 25th July 2025.

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Manish Goel clears air on Anupama exit rumours and fallout buzz with Rupali Ganguly

Amid swirling rumours about his exit from Anupama and alleged differences with lead actress Rupali Ganguly, actor Manish Goel has finally broken his silence and set the record straight. Speaking to Money Control, Goel clarified that his role as Raghav was never meant to be permanent and was designed as a limited-time appearance from the outset.

“My character was only meant to last four months. Out of that, I have completed three months already,” he stated, dismissing claims that he was quitting the show due to internal conflict. He further shared, “When a cameo of an actor is extended, it works excellently for them and if it is not, then also fine, you were already informed about the same in advance”, indicating that there was no sudden change or fallout that led to his character wrapping up.

The buzz around Goel’s alleged exit intensified following reports that hinted at a fallout between him and Rupali Ganguly, with rumours suggesting that their off-screen differences may have led to his departure. An India Forums report even hinted that the show might be heading for another leap, further fuelling speculation. However, Manish was quick to shut down these reports. “Not quitting as of now, no information on the leap too,” he asserted.

Addressing the rumours of a tiff with Ganguly, the actor said, “Rupali aur meri pehchaan aaj ki nahi hai (We don’t know each other from now). I have known her since I landed in Mumbai. This is the fourth time I am working with her. Usually, there is no fire without a spark, but in this case, there is neither spark nor fire. I do not know why people spread such things. This is false.”

Manish Goel made his entry into the popular Star Plus series earlier this year as Raghav, a character who added drama and intrigue to the evolving storyline. While the show continues to captivate audiences, it also stars Adrija Roy and Shivam Khajuria in the lead roles.

Also Read: Gaurav Khanna shares excitement as he returns to Star Plus, albeit not in Anupama; marks his new role as host on Holi Mahasangam

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REVEALED: Yash Raj Films in talks to shoot Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Pathaan 2 in Chile

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan made a stunning comeback with Pathaan (2023). The film became SRK’s first Rs. 500 crores grosser and also the highest grosser of Bollywood, beating the long-standing record of Baahubali 2 – The Conclusion (2017). As a result, there was a lot of excitement when reports emerged that the producers, Yash Raj Films (YRF), are working on Pathaan 2. And now, an interesting development has come to light with regard to the film’s shooting location.

The President of Chile, His Excellency Gabriel Boric Font, recently arrived in India and met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi. He then came to Mumbai and conversed with filmmakers to explore the possibility of shooting movies in his country. Actor Anshuman Jha, in an interaction with Mid-Day, opened up on this aspect.

He said that he not only met the Chilean President but also Carolina Arredondo, the Minister of Culture and Arts, to discuss a cultural exchange via his production house, First Ray Films. He has begun conversations to shoot Lakadbaggha 3 next year. While speaking to the tabloid, he also divulged that even YRF is considering shooting Pathaan 2 in Chile.

Mid-Day mentioned a claim from a source that the Chilean delegation visited YRF Studios. Anshuman Jha’s quote followed, which said, “There are concrete conversations of Pathaan 2 by Yash Raj Films and Lakadbaggha 3 being shot in Chile next year. I hope we help His Excellency’s vision of bringing the beauty of Chile to the world through our cinema.”

Pathaan’s first part also starred Deepika Padukone and John Abraham and was directed by Siddharth Anand. It told the story of a spy fighting a dangerous terrorist who had joined hands with Pakistan to destroy India. It is also a part of the YRF Spy Universe. Hence, in a crucial scene, Salman Khan appeared in a special appearance, reprising the role of Tiger. The scene of SRK and Salman fighting baddies together generated a historic craze in cinemas.

Speaking of Lakadbaggha (2023), it was produced by Anshuman Jha and also starred him in a leading role along with Ridhi Dogra and Paresh Pahuja. The film, based on an animal-loving vigilante, got massive acclaim worldwide. This motivated Anshuman to announce Lakadbaggha 2 and it was shot in Indonesia. Coincidentally, both Lakadbaggha and Pathaan were released in the same month of January 2023.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone set to return for Pathaan 2, script locked

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Salman Khan faces backlash over ‘Ceasefire’ tweet; deletes post

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has found himself in the midst of a social media storm after posting a brief comment on the India-Pakistan ceasefire announced on Saturday evening by US President Donald Trump. The actor, who had remained noticeably silent during India’s military response — Operation Sindoor — to the Pahalgam terror attack, tweeted about the ceasefire shortly after the announcement was made. However, the tweet drew sharp criticism from netizens, compelling Khan to delete the post soon after.

Over the past few days, several prominent Bollywood celebrities have openly voiced their support for the Indian Armed Forces and condemned the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region. Operation Sindoor, India’s retaliatory strike against terrorist hubs, was widely praised by actors, filmmakers, and citizens alike. Yet, Salman Khan refrained from commenting on the Indian Army’s efforts or the volatile border situation, choosing instead to post, “Thank God for the ceasefire” when it was announced. The actor’s last post on the incident was soon when he posted a condolence message following the initial terror attack in Pahalgam.

His tweet following the ceasefire was seen by many as ill-timed and insensitive. Social media users quickly called him out for ignoring the sacrifices of the Indian soldiers while choosing to speak only after a diplomatic truce was announced. As the backlash intensified, Salman Khan quietly deleted the tweet without offering any clarification, further fuelling criticism and sparking debates online about the responsibilities of public figures during national crises.

While many celebrities continue to stand in solidarity with the nation’s armed forces, Salman Khan’s brief and ultimately deleted message has once again brought into focus the role of influential voices during times of national conflict — and the consequences of staying silent when it matters most.

Meanwhile, in a worrying development, reports suggest that Pakistan has already violated the ceasefire within hours of its announcement. Fresh attacks were allegedly carried out in certain Indian regions late Saturday night, leaving citizens furious and disappointed over the breach of trust.

Also Read: Kabir Khan on why he knew Salman Khan would back Bajrangi Bhaijaan despite no action: “Salman is a LIVING example of the secular culture of this country”; also reveals why Salman feared studios might have REJECTED the film

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Aamir Khan Productions releases statement mourning the demise of makeup artist Vikram Gaikwad

Among the many members of the Indian film industry were Aamir Khan and his production house who mourned the loss of legendary makeup artist Vikram Gaikwad after he passed away in Mumbai on Saturday. Known for his exceptional work across Hindi, Marathi, and South Indian cinema, Gaikwad’s contribution to Indian cinema has been hailed as nothing short of transformative. His final rites were reportedly held at Shivaji Park in Dadar, where close friends, colleagues, and fans gathered to bid farewell to one of the finest artists in the industry.

Aamir Khan Productions, with whom Gaikwad collaborated on multiple successful projects, paid a heartfelt tribute on X (formerly Twitter). The post read, “It is with great sorrow that we say goodbye to the legendary make-up artist Vikram Gaikwad. I had the pleasure of working with him in films like Dangal, PK and Rang De Basanti, to name a few. He was a true master of his craft and his work transformed many actors into unforgettable characters that will live forever on screen. Heartfelt condolences to the family from me, and everyone at AKP… We will miss you Dada.”

pic.twitter.com/6yXrPvwIc6
— Aamir Khan Productions (@AKPPL_Official) May 10, 2025

Apart from the film industry, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also expressed his condolences and acknowledged Gaikwad’s vast contribution to the world of cinema and theatre. He posted on X (a portion of the translated message), “With Vikram Gaikwad’s passing, we have lost an accomplished artist whose contribution to Indian cinema and theatre is immeasurable. On behalf of myself and the Shiv Sena party, I offer heartfelt tributes.”

रुपेरी पडद्यावर व्यक्तिरेखा जिवंत करणारा जादुगार हरपला!
राष्ट्रीय पुरस्कार विजेते सुप्रसिद्ध रंगभूषाकार विक्रम गायकवाड यांचे आज दुःखद निधन झालं. त्यांच्या जाण्याने रंगभूषेतून पडद्यावर व्यक्तिरेखा जिवंत करणारा एक जादुगार आपल्यातून निघून गेला आहे.

रंगभूषाकार म्हणून ‘सरदार’ या…

— Eknath Shinde – एकनाथ शिंदे (@mieknathshinde) May 10, 2025

Gaikwad, a National Award-winning makeup artist, was widely respected for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to bring characters to life on screen. Some of his most acclaimed work featured in films include Ponniyin Selvan, ’83, Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, Uri: The Surgical Strike, Sanju, M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, O Kadhal Kanmani, and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Apart from Bollywood, Gaikwad was a highly respected name in Marathi cinema and theatre, having shaped the visual identities of numerous historical and contemporary characters portrayed on screen.

His passing marks the end of an era in the world of Indian makeup artistry. As tributes continue to pour in from all corners of the industry, one thing is certain — Vikram Gaikwad’s legacy will live on through the unforgettable characters he helped create and the generations of artists he inspired.

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Content Engineers deny any association with Operation Sindoor film; issue official clarification

Following the announcement of the film Operation Sindoor by Nicky Vicky Bhagnani Films in collaboration with The Content Engineer, the production house called Content Engineers has officially denied any involvement in the project. The announcement comes amid rising online criticism of the film’s timing and sensitivity, given that it is based on India’s recent military retaliation after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack.

In a strongly worded statement, Content Engineers clarified that it is not associated “in any capacity” with the upcoming war drama, adding that it should not be confused with ‘The Content Engineer’—a separate and unrelated entity. Speaking on behalf of Content Engineers, CEO Utpaal Acharya said, “We have no involvement – creative, financial, or otherwise – with the film project ‘Operation Sindoor’ which was recently announced. Any association being reported is factually incorrect. We request the media and public to refrain from linking our name to this film.”

The clarification aims to set the record straight after confusion emerged over the similarity in names between the two entities – Content Engineers and The Content Engineer. Meanwhile, social media backlash had intensified over the weekend following the film’s announcement, with many netizens calling out the production for allegedly trivializing a sensitive national issue and using the Indian Army’s recent strike for cinematic publicity.

Operation Sindoor, as announced on May 10, is based on India’s strategic counterstrike against terror hubs across the Line of Control on the night of May 6 and 7. The operation was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which several Indian civilians lost their lives. The film announcement received swift backlash online, forcing director Uttam Maheshwari to issue an apology for the timing and insensitivity of the reveal.

While distancing itself from the project, Content Engineers also reaffirmed its respect for the Indian Armed Forces, stating its “unwavering solidarity with their real-life sacrifices.”

Content Engineers are known for their recent critically acclaimed film Phule starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa and also have a busy slate ahead with films Elham, Matinee, Tibba, Mugai (Tamil), and web series such as Kahani Kalki Ki and Bhai Bro Comrade (BBC). Notably, Content Engineers’ first Hollywood production Eleanor The Great—Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut—is set to premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival on May 20.

The India division of Content Engineers is led by Utpal Acharya and is a subsidiary of San Francisco-based Content Engineers Inc., part of the Veear Group of Companies, owned by climate and AI entrepreneur Dr. Raj Khaware.

Also Read: Movie named Operation Sindoor announced by Nicky Vicky Bhagnani Films and The Content Engineer, first poster also released

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EXCLUSIVE: Bombay High Court restrains OTT release of Bhool Chuk Maaf; upholds PVR Inox’s rights; next hearing on June 16 (COMPLETE DETAILS INSIDE)

In a significant interim ruling, the Bombay High Court on May 9, 2025, granted ad-interim relief to PVR Inox Limited, restraining Maddock Films and its associates from releasing the film Bhool Chuk Maaf on any platform—including OTT—until the expiry of an 8-week holdback period following its first theatrical release in India. The verdict came after PVR Inox moved the court urgently, following Maddock Films’ sudden revocation of their agreement just a day before the film’s scheduled theatrical release on May 9.

The core dispute arose when Maddock Films, citing concerns over heightened national security, cancelled the theatrical launch and opted for a direct OTT release on May 16 through a platform owned by one of the defendants (Amazon Prime Video). However, PVR Inox argued that this was a clear breach of their binding agreement signed on May 6, 2025, which mandated not only a theatrical release but also an 8-week exclusivity window before any digital premiere.

Maddock Films argued that the clause requiring an 8-week theatrical holdback only applied if the film was released in cinemas (which they opted not to do due to heightened national security concerns), claimed they had the right to choose the release platform as copyright holders, and contended that PVR Inox, having opted for damages, could not seek injunctive relief.

One of the central concerns raised by PVR Inox’s counsel, Mr Dinyar Madon, was that all 31 PVR theatres in New Delhi — where the film was scheduled to be released — were fully operational, had commenced promotional activity weeks in advance, and had also registered significant advance bookings. This directly countered Maddock’s claim that increased security concerns had necessitated the shift. The court took note that Maddock did not produce any official government circular or notification supporting the decision, and clarified that the only cinema closure cited—one in Jodhpur—was irrelevant as the film was never scheduled to release there.

Justice Arif S Doctor remarked that the decision to scrap the theatrical release was driven purely by commercial calculations. The producers had seemingly concluded that a direct-to-OTT strategy was more beneficial under the current circumstances. However, the Court firmly held that this was not a valid basis to walk away from a binding agreement. The judge observed that mere inconvenience or change in economic outlook does not grant a party the liberty to renege on contractual obligations — especially in the absence of a force majeure clause, which the agreement in question did not contain.

In contrast to Maddock Films’ inaction, PVR Inox had fulfilled its part of the bargain—blocking screens across India, promoting the film via social media, in-theatre standees, and video walls, and initiating public ticket sales based on the agreed release date. The judge noted that a last-minute cancellation of this magnitude would not only harm the multiplex operator financially but could also damage its reputation and consumer trust.

Furthermore, the court rejected the defence that PVR had forfeited its right to an injunction by demanding damages. It held that under Section 42 of the Specific Relief Act, a plaintiff may still seek injunctive relief despite having sought compensation in parallel. The court also denied the copyright holder’s argument that ownership allowed them to unilaterally choose the release platform, stating it could not override a concluded contractual agreement.

The matter is now listed for further hearing on June 16, 2025. Until then, Bhool Chuk Maaf cannot be released on OTT or any other non-theatrical platform in India.

Also Read: Dinesh Vijan speaks out on Bhool Chuk Maaf direct to release on Amazon Prime amid political tensions: “It’s natural to wonder how this will impact the film”

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