Sonu Nigam performs through “needle-like” spine pain in Pune: “One of the most difficult days”

Renowned singer Sonu Nigam recently showcased his unwavering dedication to his craft by performing at a concert in Pune despite battling severe back pain. In an emotional video shared on Instagram, Nigam described the day as “one of the most difficult” of his life, revealing that the pain felt like “a needle stuck in his spine.” Despite the excruciating discomfort, he took the stage and delivered a memorable performance for his fans.

A Painful Struggle Backstage
The video shared by Nigam captures his struggle with back pain as he prepares for the concert. Seen twisting and squirming in discomfort, the singer was assisted by his team backstage. He explained, “While singing, we sometimes make sudden movements, and that can trigger a spasm. But I managed somehow. I never want to do less or give less when people expect so much from me.” His determination to perform, despite the agony, highlights his commitment to his audience.
The Agony of Performing
Nigam compared the pain to a needle piercing his spine, stating, “It felt like a needle was stuck in my spine. If I moved even a little, it would dig deeper. It was really bad.” Despite the physical toll, he expressed gratitude for being able to complete the concert, crediting divine intervention. “Sarasvati ji did hold my hand last night,” he captioned the video, acknowledging the support that helped him push through.

 

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Fans and Colleagues Rally Behind Him
Following the video, fans and colleagues flooded the comments section with messages of support and wishes for his speedy recovery. Actor Sudhanshu Pandey wrote, “Bhai please take care,” while veteran singer Sudesh Bhosle commented, “Those who have true love and blessings of #महादेवजी know how to fall and rise again / blessings to you dear.” A fan emotionally remarked, “Seeing you in so much pain makes me cry sir… Take some rest sir & take care of yourself.”

Also Read: Sonu Nigam reveals how A R Rahman is ‘not a trained singer’; says, “His voice might not be great, but he is always in sur”

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IIFA 2025 Nominations: Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies leads with 9 nominations, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 follows with 7; check out the complete list

The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend & Awards has announced the full list of Popular Category Nominations for its historic Silver Jubilee edition, set to take place from March 8 to 9, 2025, in the enchanting Pink City of Jaipur, Rajasthan.

A historic celebration in the Pink City, the spectacular NEXA IIFA Awards will unfold on Sunday, March 9, honoring cinematic excellence and celebrating Indian cinema’s significant impact on the global stage. Renowned for its unparalleled international reach and immense global appeal, IIFA’s highly anticipated Silver Jubilee Spectacle is set to bring together the brightest stars, visionary filmmakers, and industry leaders from India and around the globe to celebrate the magic of Indian cinema.

The NEXA Presents IIFA Awards Co-Presented by Sobha Realty 2025 nominations have now been revealed, igniting the race for cinematic excellence across categories, which are as follows:

Best Picture:

Aamir Khan, Kiran Rao, Jyoti Deshpande – Laapataa Ladies

Hiroo Yash Johar, Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, Guneet Monga Kapoor, Achin Jain – Kill

Jyoti Deshpande, Aditya Dhar, Lokesh Dhar – Article 370

Dinesh Vijan, Jyoti Deshpande – Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank

Jyoti Deshpande, Ajay Devgn, Abhishek Pathak, Kumar Mangat Pathak – Shaitaan

Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Murad Khetani – Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Best Direction:

Kiran Rao – Laapataa Ladies

Nikhil Nagesh Bhat – Kill

Amar Kaushik – Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank

Siddharth Anand – Fighter

Aditya Suhas Jhambale – Article 370

Anees Bazmee – Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Best Performance in a Leading Role (Female):

Nitanshi Goel – Laapataa Ladies

Alia Bhatt – Jigra

Yami Gautam – Article 370

Katrina Kaif – Merry Christmas

Shraddha Kapoor – Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank

Best Performance in a Leading Role (Male):

Sparsh Shrivastava – Laapataa Ladies

Rajkummar Rao – Srikanth

Kartik Aaryan – Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Abhishek A Bachchan – I Want To Talk

Ajay Devgn – Maidaan

Best Performance in a Supportive Role (Female):

Chhaya Kadam – Laapataa Ladies

Vidya Balan – Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Janki Bodiwala – Shaitaan

Priyamani – Article 370

Jyotika – Srikanth

Best Performance in a Supportive Role (Male):

Ravi Kishan – Laapataa Ladies

Abhishek Banerjee – Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank

Fardeen Khan – Khel Khel Mein

Rajpal Yadav – Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Manoj Pahwa – Jigra

Performance in a Negative Role:

Raghav Juyal – Kill

Madhavan – Shaitaan

Gajraj Rao – Maidaan

Vivek Gomber – Jigra

Arjun Kapoor – Singham Again

Music Direction:

Ram Sampath – Laapataa Ladies

Sachin – Jigar – Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank

Sachin – Jigar, Tanishk Bagchi, Mitraz, Raghav, Talwiinder, Nds, Mc Square – Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya

A.R. Rahman – Maidaan

Pritam, Lijo George, Sachet – Parampara, Dj Chetas, Adiya Rikhari, Tanishk Bagchi, Amaal Malik – Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Playback Singer Male:

Arijit Singh for ‘Sajni’ – Laapataa Ladies

Karan Aujla for ‘Tauba Tauba’ – Bad Newz

Diljit Dosanjh, Baadshah for ‘Naina’ – Crew

Jubin Nautiyal for ‘Dua’ – Article 370

Mitraz for ‘Akhiyaan Gulaab’ – Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya

Playback Singer Female:

Madhubanti Baghchi for ‘Aaj ki Raat’ – Stree 2 – Sarkate Ka Aatank

Shreya Ghoshal for ‘Ami Je Tomar 3.O’ – Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Shreya Ghoshal for ‘Dheeme Dheeme’ – Laapataa Ladies

Rekha Bhardwaj for ‘Nikat’ – Kill

Shilpa Rao for ‘Ishq Jaisa Kuch’ – Fighter

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Abhijeet Bhattacharya backs Udit Narayan amid kiss controversy: “Let him enjoy his success! He’s a romantic singer”

Renowned singer Udit Narayan recently found himself at the centre of a controversy after videos of him kissing female fans during a live performance went viral. The incident sparked widespread debate, with many criticizing the singer’s actions. However, Udit’s close friend and fellow singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya has come to his defence, calling the act “consensual” and praising Udit as a “romantic singer.”

Abhijeet Bhattacharya’s Take on the Controversy
Speaking to News18, Abhijeet Bhattacharya stated that such incidents are not uncommon in the world of live performances. He explained that the female fans willingly approached Udit Narayan for selfies and that the kisses were consensual. “He’s Udit Narayan! Ladkiyaan unke peeche padhi thi. He didn’t pull anyone close to him. I’m sure that every time Udit performs, his wife accompanies him as a co-singer. Let him enjoy his success! He’s a romantic singer,” Abhijeet said.
A Common Occurrence, Says Abhijeet
Abhijeet further explained that singers often face overwhelming attention from fans during live shows. He recalled an incident from his own career when female fans kissed him on the cheek during a concert in South Africa. “Teen-chaar ladkiyon ne mere gaal pe itna khatarnak kiss kiya ki main stage pe jaa hi nahin pa raha tha. And all of this happened right in front of Lata (Mangeshkar) ji. I had lipstick marks on my cheeks,” he shared.
Udit Narayan’s Response to the Controversy
Udit Narayan, in an interview with Bollywood Hungama, addressed the controversy head-on. He stated that he is not ashamed of his actions and called them a “manifestation of love between him and his fans.” The singer clarified that his intentions were pure and that the video was in the public domain. “If some people want to see something dirty in my act of pure affection, then I feel sorry for them,” he said.

Also Read: Udit Narayan on the kissing controversy, “I am not at all embarrassed or ashamed”

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Kaveri Kapoor’s debut film Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story gets release date!

Kaveri Kapur is all set to make her foray into films and OTT space with Kunal Kohli’s next film Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story. While this will be her first Bollywood venture, Kaveri is not new to facing the camera, having already 4 music videos under her belt. And now, the daughter of Shekhar Kapur and Suchitra Krishnamoorthi, is all set to make her acting debut.

Details for the film, which was shot completely in the UK, have been kept tightly under wraps. The first look of the project dropped today and has been receiving rave reviews. Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story will be released online on February 11.

It was earlier speculated that Kaveri will be making her film debut with Shekhar Kapur’s ‘Masoom- the next generation’. However, the honor of launching her will now go to Kunal Kohli.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Suchitra Krishnamoorthi’s daughter Kaveri Kapur talks about debuting with Kunal Kohli’s Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story; opens up on why she rejected Aamir Khan’s Secret Superstar

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EXCLUSIVE: Akshay Kumar-R Madhavan-Ananya Panday’s next gets a title – Kesari Chapter 2

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar is set to return with another high-profile historical drama as his upcoming film, previously titled Shankara, has now been renamed Kesari Chapter 2, as per sources. Co-starring R Madhavan and Ananya Panday, the film is produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, Cape Of Good Films and Leo Media Collective and will release theatrically on March 14, 2025, coinciding with the Holi festival.

Interestingly, this announcement carries an uncanny resemblance to Kesari (2019), another Dharma-backed period drama that starred Akshay Kumar in the lead role and was also released on Holi. While the 2019 film was based on the Battle of Saragarhi, Kesari Chapter 2 delves into an entirely different historical event.

Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, Kesari Chapter 2 chronicles the compelling story of C Sankaran Nair, a renowned lawyer and freedom fighter who took on the British Raj in his relentless pursuit of justice for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre victims. The film is inspired by the book ‘The Case That Shook The Empire’ by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat.

While the film was initially titled Shankara, the name change to Kesari Chapter 2 suggests a thematic connection to the earlier blockbuster. This move is also expected to generate immense curiosity among audiences, particularly Akshay’s fans who fondly remember Kesari as one of his most impactful performances.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Kesari, an emotional action film, was about the sacrifice of Sikhs during the pre-Independence era. The C Sankaran Nair film is a courtroom drama and, in that regard, it is very different from the 2019 film. However, since it also deals with the brave Sikh community’s contribution and sacrifice against the British and stars Akshay Kumar, the makers felt that Kesari Chapter 2 is an apt title. Coincidentally, just like Kesari, Kesari Chapter 2 also releases on the Festival of Colours.”

With an intriguing historical backdrop, a stellar cast, and a festival release, Kesari Chapter 2 is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated films of 2025. The anticipation is palpable as fans await another cinematic spectacle infused with the bravura performance of Akshay Kumar, history and nationalistic pride.

Also Read: Confirmed: Akshay Kumar-R Madhavan-Ananya Panday starrer, produced by Karan Johar, is titled Shankara

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Lisa Mishra to perform with Ed Sheeran in Delhi on February 15

Singing sensation and actress Lisa Mishra is set to create history as she joins global music icon Ed Sheeran on stage in Delhi on February 15. This marks the biggest international show ever in the capital, with Lisa sharing the spotlight alongside one of the world’s most celebrated artists.

Lisa is ready to make the most of this milestone moment. While she has captivated audiences with her chart-topping tracks and acting prowess, this performance solidifies her place in the global music arena. One can expect a special treat as Lisa might also unveil some of her unreleased music during the event.

Expressing her excitement, Lisa Mishra shares, “Performing with Ed Sheeran is nothing short of a dream come true. He has been one of my biggest inspirations, and to share the same stage with him is surreal. This is a defining moment in my career—one that reinforces my belief in the power of music and hard work. I’ve always wanted to push boundaries, and this opportunity is a huge step forward in that journey. I’m incredibly grateful for the love and support I’ve received, and I can’t wait to bring my heart and soul to this performance. I might even surprise the audience with some unreleased music, which makes this even more special. Music has been my passion since day one, and this experience is only fueling my fire to go bigger and bolder in my artistic journey.”

As the countdown to the historic concert begins, fans eagerly anticipate Lisa Mishra’s electrifying performance alongside Ed Sheeran, making February 15 a night to remember.

Also Read: Armaan Malik to open for Ed Sheeran at Hyderabad’s first-ever international concert

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Salman Khan starrer Sikandar to feature four action sequences in aircraft, train, jail and hospital: Report

Salman Khan is set to deliver yet another adrenaline-pumping spectacle in Sikandar, directed by AR Murugadoss. The film, also starring Rashmika Mandanna, will feature four ambitious action sequences set in an aircraft, a train, a jail, and a hospital. With the Eid 2025 release date approaching, the team is working tirelessly to ensure these sequences stand out as highlights of the movie.

Sikandar to Feature Ambitious Action Blocks
The train sequence, shot last month at a central Mumbai railway station, involved Salman Khan and his on-screen bodyguards racing to locate a villain. A report by Mid-Day quoted a source saying, “The superstar had his real-life bodyguards present due to the crowd, but the scene culminates in a fierce fight inside the train.” Similarly, the jail sequence, filmed at Film City and Matunga, showcases Khan’s character taking on gangsters in a brutal, no-holds-barred fight. Action director Kevin Kumar has ensured these sequences are both visually stunning and emotionally gripping.

In Sikandar, Salman Khan plays a wealthy man who transforms into a commoner to fight corruption after witnessing the struggles of the poor. The film’s narrative is complemented by its high-octane action, including a hospital sequence that promises to be equally intense. The final leg of shooting is currently underway in Mumbai, with a club scene at Atria Mall, Worli, recently completed.

Sikandar to Wrap Up with a Song
One song remains to be shot, pending Rashmika Mandanna’s recovery from a leg injury. If all goes as planned, director AR Murugadoss aims to wrap up filming by February-end. Salman Khan is expected to begin promotions in early March, building anticipation for the Eid 2025 release.

Also Read: Sikandar actors Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna to reunite for another film: Report

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EXCLUSIVE: Mohanlal’s magnum opus Vrusshabha to release on Diwali 2025; shoot wrapped up

The highly anticipated pan-Indian epic action entertainer Vrusshabha made on a mega budget, starring Mohanlal, has officially wrapped filming. The final schedule, which took place in Mumbai, marked the completion of this ambitious project, and the cast and crew commemorated the occasion with a grand cake-cutting ceremony. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and emotion as the team celebrated months of hard work, dedication, and creative collaboration.

Written and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Nanda Kishore and presented by Connekkt Media and Balaji Telefilms, Vrusshabha has generated immense buzz for its grandeur, compelling storytelling, and stellar performances. With a unique blend of action, emotion, and mythology, the film aims to transport audiences into a world of intense drama and breathtaking visuals.

The film has been shot simultaneously in Malayalam and Telugu, ensuring an authentic experience for audiences at a pan-Indian and global level. Alongside Mohanlal, the cast features powerhouse performers whose roles are poised to leave a lasting impact. The technical brilliance of the film, from massive fight sequences to mesmerizing cinematography, promises a spectacular viewing experience.

With production now complete, the film enters post-production, with industry leading visual effects, editing, and sound design. The film has been made on a mega budget to ensure that Vrusshabha pushes the boundary on cinematic excellence.

Scheduled for a grand Diwali 2025 release, Vrusshabha will hit screens in five languages—Telugu, Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, and Kannada. The film is expected to set the box office on fire across India and overseas markets.

Vrusshabha is produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, C K Padma Kumar, Varun Mathur, Saurabh Mishra, Abhishek Vyas, Vishal Gurnani, and Juhi Parekh Mehta. This larger-than-life saga is set to redefine epic storytelling in Indian cinema. Every aspect of the film, from its screenplay to its larger-than-life sets, has been meticulously crafted to ensure an unforgettable cinematic journey.

As the post-production gears up, fans can look forward to exclusive glimpses, behind-the-scenes content, and a thrilling promotional campaign leading up to the film’s release. The journey of Vrusshabha has just begun, and audiences can expect an epic spectacle unlike anything seen before.

Also Read: Malavika Mohanan joins Mohanlal and Sathyan Anthikad for Hridayapoorvam; shooting to begin in Kochi from Feb 10

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Mamta Kulkarni denies rumours of bribing Rs. 10 crores to become Mahamandaleshwar; says, “I have no money. I had to borrow Rs. 2 lakh to offer as ‘dakshina’”

In a surprising post, Mamta Kulkarni, who recently returned to her hometown India after several years, decided to quit the film industry and become Mahamandaleshwar at the Kinnar Akhada which sparked a major controversy among the community groups. Following allegations that she bribed the Akhada leaders Rs. 1 crore, the actress addressed the same in the India TV show Aap Ki Adalat where she opened up about her bank accounts being frozen after she was alleged of being involved in a drug cartel ring with bae Vicky Goswami.

However, insisting that she has been observing penance for the past 23 years, Mamta Kulkarni revealed that she was always keen on taking the spiritual route and had decided to not return to films. In the interaction with host Rajat Sharma, Mamta insisted that she has no money and said, “Mere pass Rs.10 crore kya Rs.1 crore bhi nahi hai. Mere bank accounts seize kar diye hai government ne. Aapko malum nahi hai main kis tarah se reh rahi hun. Mere pass paise nahi hai, kisi se udhar leke Rs.2 lakh, voh bhi jo guru ko dakshina deni hoti hai (What Rs. 10 crore, I don’t even have Rs. 1 crore. My bank accounts have been seized by the government. You have no idea how I have been living. I don’t have any money. I had to borrow Rs. 2 lakh to offer ‘guru dakshina’)”.

Three of my apartments are in a state of disrepair, infested with termites, because they have remained closed for the past 23 years. I cannot even begin to describe the financial crisis I am going through,” she shared keeping deeper insight into her financial woes. She also addressed the remarks made by Ramdev Baba about her offering money and added, “I leave that to Ramdev Baba. What should I say?”

“He is a young Dhirendra Shastri. I have performed penance for 23 years, which is longer than his age. I did not want to become Mahamandaleshwar, but it was the Acharya of the Kinnar Akhara, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, who compelled me,” Mamta stated as she also opened up about the comments of Bageshwar Dham Baba Dhirendra Shastri.

Also Read: Mamta Kulkarni gets removed from Kinnar Akhada; Head Rishi Ajay Das says, “This is not Bigg Boss”

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Armaan Malik to open for Ed Sheeran at Hyderabad’s first-ever international concert

Hyderabad is set to witness a historic moment as it hosts its first-ever international concert, with global music icon Ed Sheeran taking the stage. Adding to the excitement, Indian pop sensation Armaan Malik will be opening for Ed as a special act, marking their second collaboration after their memorable performance in Mumbai.

Armaan, known for chart-topping hits like ‘You’, ‘Control’, and ‘Butta Bomma’, has been at the forefront of taking Indian music to a global audience. His ability to blend Indian and international sounds has earned him recognition worldwide. Ed Sheeran, a global star musician with smash hits like ‘Shape of You’, ‘Perfect’, and ‘Bad Habits’, continues to captivate audiences across the world with his soulful melodies and powerful performances.

The two artists previously collaborated on ‘2Step’, a special Indian remix of Ed Sheeran’s hit track, which highlighted their seamless musical synergy. Now, with Armaan setting the stage for Ed in Hyderabad, fans can expect an electrifying evening filled with incredible music, marking a milestone for India’s live concert scene.

As for the event, for the unversed, this is a part of Sheeran’s 2025 + – = ÷ x India tour where he will be travelling across six cities. While the musician has already marked the beginning of the tour in Pune on Thursday on January 30 at Yash Lawns, it will be followed by performances in Hyderabad on February 2 at Ramoji Film City, Chennai on February 5 at YMCA Ground, and Bengaluru on February 8 at NICE Grounds. Sheeran will then head to Shillong for a show on February 12 at JN Stadium, before concluding in Delhi NCR on February 15 at Leisure Valley Ground.

Ed Sheeran: + – = ÷ x Tour 2025 in India is promoted by AEG Presents Asia and BookMyShow Live, the live entertainment experiential division of BookMyShow.

Also Read: Dot. set to take the stage for Ed Sheeran in Pune, tonight

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