In the past, we were the first to inform our readers that Kartik Aaryan is all set to team up with Karan Johar and Mahaveer Jain on a creature comedy titled Naagzilla with Mrighdeep Singh Lamba as director.  We also informed our esteemed readers that the film will feature the young star in a double role. And now, there’s another exclusive and exciting scoop about Naagzilla.

According to reliable sources, the Naagzilla team is looking to cast either Anil Kapoor or Bobby Deol as the negative lead. “The script of Naagzilla warrants the presence of a senior actor in a negative role. Karan Johar has short-listed two names for the role – Anil Kapoor and Bobby Deol – and now, Kartik will take the final casting call for Naagzilla. The entire cast of Naagzilla is being decided collaboratively, and Karan will now indulge in a discussion with Kartik and Mahaveer Jain to lock the antagonist,” a source told Bollywood Hungama.

We also hear that the villain of Naagzilla will transform their look using prosthetics and visual effects. “It’s a tale of Icchadhari Naagin, and the villains’ role is as important as that of a hero. Hence, the team is being cautious of who they lock for the film,” the source tells us further.

Kartik and Karan, in consultation with Mahaveer Jain, will lock the antagonist in the next 15 days and then make an official announcement.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: With Naagzilla, Dharma Productions and Mahaveer Jain Films announce multi-film collaboration; expected to be a game-changing partnership

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Acclaimed actor and Bihar’s pride, Pankaj Tripathi, associates with Khelo India Youth Games, marking one of the biggest sporting events the state is witnessing that is witnessing sports people from across India participating. The opening ceremony is noted for its grandeur, and Pankaj Tripathi is invited as the driving force face of Bihar to champion this landmark initiative.

The Khelo India Youth Games in Bihar are drawing an unprecedented turnout, making them the largest sports celebration the state has ever experienced with athletes from across the nation partaking. Budding athletes from every corner of India are coming together to compete, showcase their talents, and fuel a new wave of enthusiasm for sports among the youth.

Pankaj Tripathi, deeply rooted in the culture and spirit of Bihar, speaks passionately about his role and the significance of hosting these landmark games. “It is an absolute honour for me to associate with Khelo India Youth Games here in my home state. To see these games being held in Bihar fills me with immense pride. Huge congratulations to the government of Bihar and the sports authorities for the landmark event.

Encouraging our youth to pursue sports is not just about building physical strength, it’s about nurturing discipline, resilience, and self-belief. I hope that my involvement as the driving force face of Bihar will inspire young boys and girls to dream big, stay active, and represent Bihar and India with passion and pride.”

With enhanced infrastructure and growing community support, the state is poised to become a powerhouse of athletic talent.

As the landmark Khelo India Youth Games continue to unfold, Pankaj Tripathi remains at the heart of this transformative movement, proudly encouraging Bihar’s youth to embrace sports as a pathway to excellence and character building.

Also Read: Pankaj Tripathi returns as Madhav Mishra in Criminal Justice: A Family Matter Season 4 premieres on JioHotstar on May 22

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Mumbai: The Indian Armed Forces’ swift response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has been given the name ‘Operation Sindoor’. As soon as the news of this operation broke on Wednesday morning, Bollywood was abuzz with producers rushing to register the title for a potential film.

According to sources, various film production companies quickly sprang into action, sending their representatives to film organizations to register the title ‘Operation Sindoor’. Trade sources reveal that Mahaveer Jain’s company was at the forefront of this rush, being the first to register the title. Zee Studios and T-Series are also in line as the third and fourth entities to register. The source further said that renowned director Madhur Bhandarkar also registered the title later for the potential film.

Film industry experts believe that the title ‘Operation Sindoor’ has such a strong cinematic appeal that the competition among producers was inevitable.

Citing examples of previous successful films based on military operations, the source mentioned, “Films like Uri – The Surgical Strike (2019), based on surgical strikes along with Border (1997), Amaran (2024) and Raazi (2018), performed exceptionally well at the box office, drawing large crowds to theatres. Similarly, films like Lakshya (2004), Shershaah (2021) and Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020), which were based on the Kargil war, were either hits or received significant attention from audiences and critics.

The source also said, “The unexpected competition for the ‘Operation Sindoor’ title has sparked intense discussion in the film industry. Now, everyone’s attention is focused on which producer will ultimately get the title. Experts believe that according to the rules, the producer who applied for the title first will have the strongest claim.”

It will be interesting to see which production house gets the opportunity to bring this significant military operation to life on the big screen and leave a lasting impression on audiences.

Also Read: Shekhar Kapur praises Operation Sindoor as India’s “Befitting” response to Pahalgam terror attack

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The Bombay High Court on Wednesday upheld the stay on the release of a film tentatively titled Shaadi Ke Director Karan – Johar (also wanted to change it to Shaadi Ke Director Karan Aur Johar), ruling that the movie title infringes on the personality and publicity rights of renowned filmmaker Karan Johar.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice M S Karnik dismissed the appeal filed by the movie’s maker, Sanjay Singh, who had challenged a previous order passed in March by a single bench of the court that halted the film’s release. The court maintained that Karan Johar enjoys goodwill and reputation both in India and internationally, especially within the entertainment industry.

In a strongly worded observation, the bench noted that “Karan” and “Johar,” when used together, unmistakably refer to the celebrated director and producer. The court stated that Johar’s name has effectively become a brand and carries significant economic value, which he alone has the right to commercially exploit. The court has also rejected the argument made by the petitioner that they were willing to modify the title by inserting the word ‘aur’ (and) between the two names, stating that the use of the two names, Karan and Johar, in any combination is sufficient to create confusion in the minds of the public.

The court observed that such a modification was not enough to eliminate the association with Karan Johar and added that the title would still lead audiences to believe that the filmmaker is either involved in or endorsing the movie—an impression that is misleading and unauthorized.

Karan Johar, a prominent figure in Indian cinema, is known for his extensive body of work as a director, producer, talk show host, and media personality. The court emphasized that his name has acquired substantial brand value and is protected under the principles of publicity and personality rights.

With this verdict, the High Court has made it clear that the rights of celebrities over their names and brand identities must be respected, especially when such identities are commercially valuable and closely tied to public perception. As a result of the ruling, the stay on the release of Shaadi Ke Director Karan – Johar remains in force, effectively blocking its distribution under the contested title.

Also Read: Karan Johar CLAPS BACK at “career-destroyer” tag: “I can give you detailed data about the number of outsiders we’ve launched”

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The romantic comedy Abir Gulaal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, has found itself at the centre of a geopolitical storm. Originally slated for release on May 9, 2025, the film’s debut has been indefinitely postponed following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in South Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians.

Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi and produced by Vivek Agrawal, Abir Gulaal was anticipated as Khan’s significant return to Bollywood after an eight-year hiatus. However, the film’s prospects have dimmed considerably. In the aftermath of the attack, Indian government sources confirmed that the movie would not be permitted to release in India. The decision reflects heightened diplomatic tensions and a surge in public sentiment against Pakistani artists working in Indian cinema.

Compounding the film’s challenges, its promotional content has been systematically removed from digital platforms. Songs from the film, such as “Angrezi Rangrasiya” and “Khudaya Ishq,” were taken down from YouTube channels, including those of co-producer A Richer Lens Entertainment and music label Saregama. Additionally, Vaani Kapoor has deleted all promotional posts related to Abir Gulaal from her social media accounts.

The film’s financial outlook appears grim. With satellite and OTT rights reportedly unsold, producer Vivek Agrawal faces the possibility of a complete financial loss. The film’s indefinite shelving not only affects the stakeholders but also underscores the fragile nature of cross-border collaborations in the current political climate.

Vaani Kapoor, meanwhile, continues to receive acclaim for her role in Raid 2, which is performing well at the box office. However, her association with Abir Gulaal has subjected her to scrutiny. A close associate of her mentor, Aditya Chopra, remarked, “I don’t think Adi would have advised her to do this film. Normally, she seeks his advice before signing any project.”

As for Fawad Khan, his aspirations for a Bollywood resurgence have been thwarted once again. His previous venture, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, faced similar challenges amid political tensions. The recurring pattern raises questions about the viability of cross-border artistic endeavours in the prevailing geopolitical landscape.

Also Read: Abir Gulaal posts featuring Fawad Khan removed from Vaani Kapoor’s Instagram account following Pahalgam terror attack

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In a bold move that could disrupt conventional digital release models, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan is exploring a Pay-Per-View (PPV) release of his upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par on YouTube, roughly eight weeks after its theatrical debut on June 20, 2025. If implemented, the film would bypass traditional OTT platforms and instead offer audiences a flexible, subscription-free viewing option.

Directed by R.S. Prasanna, Sitaare Zameen Par is touted as a spiritual successor to Khan’s critically acclaimed Taare Zameen Par (2007), and deals with themes of mental health and inclusivity. The decision to explore YouTube PPV aligns with Khan’s reputation for innovation and his longstanding commitment to meaningful cinema with mass reach.

A trade source informed Bollywood Hungama, “Aamir has always believed in pushing the envelope – not just in content but also in how films are brought to audiences. With Sitaare Zameen Par, he’s exploring a model that ensures wider reach without locking viewers into specific OTT subscriptions. If this works, it might open a new monetization avenue for filmmakers who don’t want to compromise on creative control or revenue share.”

The strategy echoes a growing industry sentiment that alternative release models – especially direct-to-consumer digital platforms – may offer filmmakers more autonomy and better margins. For Khan, who has often taken unconventional paths with both storytelling and marketing, this move could mark another milestone in reshaping how Bollywood connects with its global audience.

With anticipation building for its theatrical release, all eyes are now on how this YouTube experiment unfolds – and whether it will spark a broader shift in post-theatrical film distribution.

Also Read: Aamir Khan set for first sequel in over three decades with Sitaare Zameen Par

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Bollywood fans, get ready to relive the magic of two iconic films as Hum Tum and Dhadkan are slated for a theatrical re-release this month! The beloved romantic comedy Hum Tum, starring Rani Mukerji and Saif Ali Khan, will return to cinemas on May 16, 2025, followed by the emotionally charged romantic drama Dhadkan, featuring Suniel Shetty, Shilpa Shetty, and Akshay Kumar, on May 23, 2025.

Hum Tum, directed by Kunal Kohli and produced by Yash Raj Films, redefined the rom-com genre upon its release on May 28, 2004. The film follows the evolving relationship between Karan (Saif Ali Khan) and Rhea (Rani Mukerji) through chance encounters, witty banter, and heartfelt moments. Its infectious chemistry, memorable soundtrack by Jatin-Lalit, and Prasoon Joshi’s lyrics, including hits like ‘Ladki Kyon’ and the title track, made it a cultural touchstone. Saif Ali Khan’s National Film Award-winning performance and Rani Mukerji’s portrayal of the fiercely independent Rhea cemented their status as the “it” jodi of the early 2000s. Interestingly, the re-release will be happening two weeks ahead of its 21st anniversary.

Meanwhile, Dhadkan, released in 2000, remains a cornerstone of Bollywood’s romantic drama genre. Directed by Dharmesh Darshan and produced by Ratan Jain, the film tells the poignant tale of Anjali (Shilpa Shetty), torn between her love for Dev (Suniel Shetty) and her marriage to Ram (Akshay Kumar). The film’s emotional depth, coupled with its chart-topping music by Nadeem-Shravan, including classics like ‘Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hai Dil Se’ and ‘Tum Dil Ki Dhadkan Mein,’ struck a chord with audiences. In case you don’t know, Dhadkan will be turning 25 this year in August.

Also Read: “Andaz Apna Apna is our father’s legacy” – Priti Sinha on the cult comedy’s re-release and sequel plans; says, “IP rights belong entirely and exclusively to Vinay Pictures”

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Marflix Pictures’ latest high-octane thriller Jewel Thief – The Heist Begins, has made a spectacular entry into the streaming world, topping Ormax Media’s digital viewership TRP list in its opening week with a staggering 5.2 million viewership count, and stands at the #1 spot as the Top-5 most-watched films on OTT in India, in the April 28- May 4 The heist thriller that released on April 25, also marks the OTT debut of Marflix. It has outperformed several major releases across platforms to claim the coveted top spot. This impressive performance is a testament to the growing appetite for premium thriller content among Indian streaming audiences.

The film’s success can be attributed to multiple factors, including the Anands’ signature high-production values, stellar performances by the star cast, perfect dose of action, song & dance, and popcorn drama – in other words, the fun entertainer to watch in the comfort of one’s home. The 5.2 million viewership figure represents one of the strongest opening weeks for an original Indian movie, suggesting that the audience’s fascination with complex antiheroes continues. What also contributed to the movie’s popularity was its intriguing marketing strategy.

The record-breaking viewership numbers are particularly noteworthy, given the increasingly competitive streaming landscape in India, where multiple platforms compete for audience attention with star-studded original content. Jewel Thief has managed to cut through this clutter, with social media buzz and positive word-of-mouth driving sustained viewership beyond initial curiosity. As the series continues its run, it is expected to maintain momentum, especially given the show’s premise and the creators’ background in crafting successful theatrical franchises. For now, the 5.2 million viewership milestone stands as proof that Siddharth Anand’s Marflix will always have something intriguing to offer to its audience.

Also Read: Jewel Thief actor Kunal Kapoor on breaking language barriers in Indian Cinema: “The whole country is our playground, every story worth telling is our story”

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Novex Communications Private Limited has secured a significant victory in the High Court of Judicature at Bombay, presided over by Hon’ble Justice Manish Pitale, in a music copyright case against the National Sports Club of India. The court has ordered NSCI to obtain proper licenses before playing copyrighted music and to ensure that third-party operators do the same.

This ruling underscores the importance of respecting music copyrights. Novex’s relentless efforts to safeguard and promote the rights of musical artists and companies have paid off, ensuring they earn rightful royalties from their work.

Novex Communications was represented by Rashmin Khandekar and Dua Associates, while NSCI was represented by Tushad Kakalia and Mulla & Mulla and Craigie Blunt & Caroe.

Novex Communications remains committed to protecting music copyrights and supporting the welfare of artists and music companies.

Also Read: Novex Communications wins landmark copyright case: Madras High Court sets precedent for licensing freedom

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Global superstar Karan Aujla today announced his 2025 ‘It Was All A Dream’ tour across North America and Europe this summer. Produced by Live Nation, the ten-city run kicks off on Thursday, July 10 at Oakland Arena in Oakland, CA, with additional stops in Los Angeles, Newark, Montreal, Dublin, Paris, and more before wrapping up on Tuesday, September 4 in Amsterdam, Netherlands at AFAS Live. Aujla will bring his acclaimed live show to U.S. arenas and new markets in Europe for the first time, following a sold-out tour across Canada, India and the UK last year.

This year, Aujla has already earned multiple JUNO Award nominations, including Single of the Year for “Winning Speech,” and teamed up with GRAMMY-nominated chart-toppers OneRepublic on “Tell Me,” produced by leading South Asian producer Ikky, with even more on the horizon this year.

TICKETS: Tickets for all shows will be available starting with artist presales and a Mastercard presale (in select markets) beginning Wednesday, May 7 at 11am local time. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning Friday, May 9 at 11am local time at livenation.com.

MASTERCARD PRESALE: Mastercard cardholders have special access to presale tickets in France, Italy and Netherlands. Mastercard Presale starts Wednesday May 7 AT 11am local. Preferred ticket access to some of the best tickets are available in the countries listed from Friday 9 May at 11am local. Check out priceless.com/music for details.

VIP: The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include general admission tickets with priority access to the floor, Meet & Greet and photo op with Karan Aujla, autographed tour poster, VIP exclusive gift item & more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com.
KARAN AUJLA ‘IT WAS ALL A DREAM’ 2025 TOUR DATES:

Thu Jul 10 – Oakland, CA – Oakland Arena
Sun Jul 13 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum
Fri Jul 18 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center
Sat Jul 19 – Fairfax, VA – EagleBank Arena
Sat Jul 26 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre
Tue Aug 26 – Dublin, IE – 3Arena
Thu Aug 28 – Dusseldorf, DE – Mitsubishi Electric Halle
Sat Aug 30 – Paris, FR – Zenith
Tue Sep 02 – Milan, IT – Fabrique
Thu Sep 04 – Amsterdam, NL – AFAS Live

Also Read: Disha Patani dazzles in ‘Tell Me’ music video with Karan Aujla and Ryan Tedder

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