Zee Studios to collaborate with producer Prerna Arora for Jatadhara: “It’s a universal subject based on a folktale”

Producer Prerna Arora and Zee Studios have joined hands to co-produce Jatadhara. The action-horror opus which will be shot in Hyderabad will have a mythological twist.

Elaborating on the hush-hush subject, producer Prerna Arora said, “It is a fantasy film, but a universal subject and based on a folktale like Munjya, which was a folk tale based in Maharashtra. Our is based on a South Indian folk tale, so it is a very, very different kind of supernatural horror film. Something which audiences have never seen before.”

Like Mahesh Babu’s proposed film with SS Rajamouli, there will be a lot of jungle scenes in Jatadhara. As you read this, the Jatadhara leading man Sudheer Babu is going through intense training in jungle combat.

Jatadhara is a collaboration that promises to bring an exciting new cinematic experience to the audience.  The partnership between Zee Studios and Prerna Arora promises to bring a captivating cinematic supernatural thriller experience to audiences, one that blends history, myth, and science in a thrilling narrative.

Jatadhara will delve into the intrigue surrounding the Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, unravelling the story of its hidden treasures and the scientific and mystical phenomena that have baffled historians and researchers for years. The film will explore not just the treasure itself but the legends and theories about the temple’s unexplained forces, blending suspense, adventure, and mystery as the story unfolds. Jatadhara promises heart-pumping action scenes.

To prepare for the physically demanding role, Sudheer Babu has been undergoing rigorous training for the action sequences. Jatadhara prepares to take audiences on an unforgettable journey into the heart of one of India’s greatest mysteries. The collaboration between Zee Studios and Prerna Arora along with the vision oriented producers Umesh KR Bansal, Shivin Narang, Rajiv Agarwal, Arvind Agarwal, Nikhil Nanda, Monesh Manghnani, whose expertise is set to elevate the narrative of this captivating thriller and is poised to bring a fresh perspective to one of India’s most fascinating folktales, offering an exhilarating exploration of what lies beyond the known world. Filming for Jatadhara will begin in February in Hyderabad.

This is Prerna Arora’s second collaboration with Zee Studios after Rustom in 2016.

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Chhaava director Laxman Utekar assures removal of “lezim” scene in Vicky Kaushal starrer after meeting Raj Thackeray

In response to widespread protests over a ‘lezim’ dance scene in the film Chhaava, director Laxman Utekar met Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray. The protests had been sparked by the portrayal of the traditional Marathi dance form in the film’s trailer, which stars Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Amid these concerns, Utekar met with Thackeray at Shiv Teerth in Dadar, where he assured the MNS leader that the scene would be removed.

The Chhaava trailer, which was released earlier this week, features a sequence in which Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, playing Maharani Yesubai, are seen performing the ‘lezim’, a folk dance associated with Maharashtra’s cultural heritage. The scene quickly became the centre of controversy, with people questioning the appropriateness of including the dance form in a historical portrayal of the Maratha ruler.

Addressing these concerns, Utekar explained, “I met Raj Saheb to discuss the concerns raised by people regarding the lezim part in the trailer of Chhaava.” He further explained that Thackeray emphasized the importance of the film and the portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, suggesting that the lezim was not crucial to the narrative.
Raj Thackeray’s Perspective on the Issue
During their meeting, Raj Thackeray acknowledged the significance of the film and expressed that the lezim scene was unnecessary. Utekar shared that Thackeray assured him that while Chhaava and its portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj were important, the inclusion of the dance form was not central to the story. “I assured him that the lezim portion would be removed from the film,” Utekar stated in a chat with IANS.

The director also shared his initial perspective, noting that he had conceptualized the scene assuming that a king like Sambhaji Maharaj might have engaged in such a dance with his people. Despite this, Utekar expressed his understanding of the public’s sentiments and confirmed the removal of the scene.
Other Reactions and Historical Concerns
The controversy surrounding Chhaava has not only attracted political attention but also sparked debates within historical circles. Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, expressed his concerns, stating, “Historians and experts should deliberate on the appropriateness of this depiction.”

He highlighted the importance of respecting the dignity and historical accuracy of the portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, particularly when using cultural symbols like the lezim. Furthermore, Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, commented on the issue, reinforcing the sentiment that while creativity in filmmaking is important, it should be balanced with sensitivity toward historical figures and cultural symbols.

Chhaava: A Period Drama Focused on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
Produced under the banner of Maddock Films, Chhaava is a period drama that brings to life the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The film aims to depict the courageous reign of the Maratha king, starting with his coronation in 1681. Along with Kaushal and Mandanna, the film also stars Akshaye Khanna. It is set to release on February 14

Also Read: Chhaava faces criticism: Maharashtra Minister raises objection to Vicky Kaushal scene; asks the director to cut the part where “Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is dancing”

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Kajal Aggarwal shares excitement as she begins shooting for The India Story in Pune

Kajal Aggarwal has officially kicked off the first schedule of her upcoming drama, The India Story, in Pune. Directed by Chetan DK, the film also stars Shreyas Talpade and Murali Sharma in pivotal roles. Produced by Sagar B. Shinde under MIG Production and Studios, the film promises to be a gripping narrative that sheds light on an untold yet impactful story.

The team’s first schedule is taking place in Pune, with further filming slated for Kolhapur in the coming weeks. Kajal took to social media to share her excitement, posting a photo from the set. She wrote, “Kick starting our first schedule in Pune, for The India Story. Excited to bring this untold, impactful story to life. Mark your calendars- 15th August 2025 – see you in the cinemas.”

The India Story is a gripping and intense drama that explores the dark and controversial world of major scandals involving pesticide companies.

With a compelling narrative and powerhouse performances, The India Story promises to shed light on a critical issue while keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.

Produced by MIG Production and Studios, The India Story is slated to release on 15th August 2025.

Also Read : Kajal Aggarwal, Shreyas Talpade starrer The India Story goes on floors

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Dhoom Dhaam trailer out: Yami Gautam Dhar and Pratik Gandhi starrer promises a wedding adventure like no other, watch

She’s feisty, he’s shy – when they get married, chaos awaits their wedding night! Netflix India unveils the highly anticipated trailer of Dhoom Dhaam, a rollercoaster action, romantic comedy starring Yami Gautam Dhar and Pratik Gandhi. When an arranged marriage leads to a chaotic shaadi ke din, sparks – and twists – fly. Packed with mischief, mayhem, and unexpected romance, this madcap love story is your perfect Valentine’s binge. Buckle up, because this wedding’s about to go off the mandap!

Directed by Rishab Seth, produced by Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar of B62 Studios, and Jyoti Deshpande of Jio Studios, Dhoom Dhaam follows the story of newlyweds Koyal and Veer and their first night together takes an unexpected turn when a seemingly perfect evening unravels into a night full of deceptive identities, surprise guests and some seriously awkward situations. With mysterious goons hot on their trail and challenges around every corner, one question lingers in the air: Charlie kaun hai, aur sab log iske peeche kyun pade hain?

Making her come back to our screens after a year, Yami Gautam Dhar shares, “Koyal defies the usual ‘bride’ stereotypes without being brash or bullish or anything you have watched on screen before. I am sure a lot of girls today will connect with her . I thoroughly enjoyed donning this role for Dhoom Dhaam. This film is a wild, unpredictable ride and I can’t wait for audiences to join us on this journey on Netflix this Valentine’s Day.”

Essaying the role of Veer, actor Pratik Gandhi adds, “Playing Veer was a refreshing experience for me. I loved playing the role because it’s not your typical rom-com hero—he is relatable, vulnerable, and ends up in the most unexpected situations. Expect some serious laughs, chaos, and some moments that’ll tug at your heartstrings and I’m excited for viewers to experience it all on February 14th on Netflix.”

Director Rishab Seth shares, “With Dhoom Dhaam, we wanted to explore love in all its messy, chaotic glory. This isn’t just a story about two people coming together—it’s about discovering how love can survive, and even flourish, in the most unexpected and unpredictable situations. Yami and Pratik bring such an effortless charm to their roles, making Koyal and Veer’s journey all the more delightful. We had an incredible time bringing this madcap adventure to life, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it on Netflix as the perfect celebration of love.”

With its hilarious blend of romance, humor, and action, Dhoom Dhaam shows that love isn’t just about candlelit dinners—it’s about surviving a life full of chaos together.

Dhoom Dhaam premieres exclusively on Netflix on February 14 – after all, what’s love without a little madness?

Also Read: Yami Gautam Dhar and Pratik Gandhi starrer Dhoom Dhaam to start streaming on Netflix from February 14

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Parambrata Chatterjee REACTS to Anurag Kashyap calling Bengali cinema “ghatiya,” calls out “poor South remakes”

Actor Parambrata Chatterjee has responded to filmmaker Anurag Kashyap’s criticism of the declining quality of Bengali cinema while calling it “ghatiya”. In 2024, Kashyap had commented that the fall in quality of Bengali films was more evident than the decline in Hindi cinema. Chatterjee, a prominent figure in both Bengali and Hindi cinema, attributed this decline to a shift away from mainstream commercial films and an over-reliance on poorly executed South Indian remakes.

Shift Away From Mainstream

Chatterjee pointed out that Bengali cinema has moved away from producing mainstream commercial films, which has significantly impacted the industry. “We have stopped focusing on mainstream commercial Bengali cinema,” he stated. He explained that the success of mainstream films is crucial for the industry’s overall health, as it provides a larger audience base and financial stability for other types of cinema. “If mainstream cinema in any industry doesn’t work, then it is very difficult to make any other kind of film. Because the audience size should be that big that you can eat out of that,” he added.
Impact of Poor Remakes
Chatterjee also criticized the trend of producing low-quality remakes of South Indian films. “Loosely and carelessly made South remakes were dished out to the masses,” he said. “Audience didn’t react to that very well as they found the same films being dubbed in Hindi and being aired on national channels, so they didn’t want to go back and watch these cheap Bengali remakes of South films.” This, he believes, has further alienated the audience from Bengali cinema.
Alienation of the Audience
Chatterjee highlighted the growing disconnect between Bengali cinema and its audience. “Big chunk of West Bengal doesn’t watch Bengali cinema because they feel nobody cares about them,” he stated. He spoke about the importance of producing successful mass entertainers to regain the audience’s interest and support the growth of other forms of Bengali cinema.

Speaking of the professional front, Parambrata Chatterjee is currently promoting his Bengali thriller Shotyi Bole Shotyi Kichhu Nei, directed by Srijit Mukherji.

Also Read: Nushrratt Bharuchha to headline Anurag Kashyap and Vishal Rana’s next thriller film: “Bucket list tick!”

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Chhaava faces criticism: Maharashtra Minister raises objection to Vicky Kaushal scene; asks the director to cut the part where “Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is dancing”

Facing inaccuracy accusations is another historical drama titled Chhaava coming from the house of Maddock Films. Starring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, the film has garnered attention from the Maratha community with many are demanding a screening prior to its release. Recently, Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant showcased his support towards them reasoning that it is better to screen the film for this kind of audience, ahead of its release, in order to avoid any challenges post the release.

Maharashtra Minister expresses displeasure over ‘dancing scene’

It is a known fact that the film’s trailer, which recently released, was followed by criticism from the Maratha community who believe that some historical facts have been distorted. Joining them, now Uday Samant too has raised objection over a scene showcased in the trailer where Vicky Kaushal is seen dancing as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. He is seen performing lezim alongside Rashmika Mandanna, who plays his wife Yesubai. The scene has come under scrutiny already with Maratha wings expressing their dislike towards the same.

He was recently quoted saying, “The movie shows Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj dancing. The director should cut this part. This movie should be shown to historians and scholars. If they raise objections, we will not let it be released.”

Uday Samant advises screening for Maratha wings ahead of the release

Last week, the politician decided to take to social media after he received multiple requests regarding the scenes portrayed in the Chhaava trailer, wherein he asked the makers to hold a special screening for the community, in order to pacify their inhibitions, ahead of the film’s theatrical release.

धर्मरक्षक,स्वराज्यरक्षक छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज यांच्या जीवनावर आधारित हिंदी चित्रपट बनणे ही आनंदाची गोष्ट आहे, छत्रपतींचा इतिहास जगाला समजावा यासाठी असे प्रयत्न आवश्यक आहे. मात्र या चित्रपटात काही आक्षेपार्ह दृश्ये असल्याबाबत अनेकांनी मते व्यक्त केली आहेत. हा चित्रपट तज्ज्ञ आणि…
— Uday Samant (@samant_uday) January 25, 2025

About Chhaava

Based on the novel by the same name written by Shivaji Sawant, the film also stars Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb and is directed by Laxman Utekar. It is slated to release on February 14.

Also Read: Chhaava: Vicky Kaushal starrer faces criticism from former Rajya Sabha MP; Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant asks makers to hold screening

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Nushrratt Bharuchha to headline Anurag Kashyap and Vishal Rana’s next thriller film; actress says, “Bucket list tick!”

Vishal Rana, the visionary behind Echelon Productions, has joined forces with the acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap for an upcoming thriller. This exciting project will see Nushrratt Bharuchha in the lead role, with the talented Akshat Ajay Sharma as the director.

Talking about the film and this new collaboration, Vishal Rana, founder of Echelon Productions, said, “We are thrilled to have Nushrratt Bharuchha lead this project, guided by the visionary Anurag Kashyap as Creative Producer, and skillfully directed by Akshat Ajay Sharma. This collaboration reflects our ambition to create high-quality, compelling cinema that pushes boundaries and resonates deeply with audiences.”

Expressing her enthusiasm, Nushrratt Bharuchha shared, “This film is a bucket list tick! Working with Anurag sir is a dream come true! That too on this intense, gripping thriller film, where we are all aligned to push the boundaries and create something that will be etched in the minds of the audiences for a long time to come. I am very happy to join hands with the ambitious and very passionate Vishal Rana. I am also looking forward to working with Akshat, a promising storyteller. It’s my first with all three, but as they say firsts are always the most magical!!”

Anurag Kashyap, the Creative Producer for the film, commented, “Nushrratt, a very fine actor, who I have never had the chance to collaborate with, finally working with Vishal Rana after trying to, for over three years and Akshat Ajay, who I have known since he was the second unit director of Sacred Games and had the opportunity to work with him closely. I also admire the way the script is now and pushing the boundaries of storytelling.”

“This story is a bold leap into unchartered narrative territories which makes it such an incredible opportunity,” shared Director, Akshat Ajay Singh, “working alongside Vishal, the genius behind Echelon Productions, with Nushrratt, a powerhouse of talent and with Anurag Sir, a visionary is a treat. I’m looking forward to creating a cinematic experience that resonates with all of us”

Filming for this thrilling project is set to commence soon. This exciting collaboration between Echelon Productions, Nushrratt Bharuchha, Anurag Kashyap, and Akshat Ajay Sharma brings together a formidable team of creative minds. Audiences can anticipate a thrilling and unforgettable cinematic experience.

Also Read: Bhushan Kumar’s T-Series unveils Yo Yo Honey Singh and Nushrratt Bharuccha’s sizzling single ‘Rooh’

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Is Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia joining Kapil Sharma in Kis Kis Ko Pyar Karoon 2 ?

After being in the news for her big screen debut with her Punjabi film, Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia is now believed to be stepping into Bollywood with the much-awaited sequel to Kapil Sharma’s blockbuster comedy Kis Kis Ko Pyar Karoon 2. Her fans have long awaited Nimrit’s Bollywood debut.

A source from the industry says about this development, “There have been discussions about Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia joining the cast of Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2. While nothing has been finalized yet, her name has certainly come up as a strong contender. Given her popularity and charm, she would be a great addition to the film’s ensemble cast.” If this is true, Nimrit may join the much-awaited sequel, which promises to be a laughter-filled ride with an ensemble cast. Fans are excited about the possibility of seeing Nimrit in a new avatar, especially in a comedy genre.

While nothing is official just yet, the buzz surrounding Nimrit’s involvement in the sequel has created anticipation for what could be a major milestone in her career. Fans will surely be keeping a close eye on any updates as they await her Bollywood debut with bated breath.

Kis Kisko Pyar Karoon was Kapil Sharma’s debut film and was loved by the masses. With its light-hearted humour, catchy music, and entertaining performances, it became a family favourite.

Also Read : Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia’s debut film Shaunki Sardar gets a release date, the actress shares excitement to make her big screen debut in 2025

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Saif Ali Khan attack case: Police reveal ‘awaiting CID report’ amid reports about fingerprint mismatch of the accused

With the investigation taking a new turn every day in the Saif Ali Khan case, latest reports suggested an alleged mismatch between the fingerprint samples collected by the police as evidence from Khan’s Mumbai residence and the accused. For the unversed, three days after the incident on January 16, the police detained a man named Sharif Muhammad – a Bangladeshi national in relation to the case. While the evidence is currently being investigated, shutting down reports of a mismatch, the Mumbai and Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has revealed that they are yet to receive reports of fingerprints match.

CID confirms that reports are yet to be submitted

In a report published by Hindustan Times, Deputy Commissioner Dikshit Gedam opened up about them awaiting the report. “The fingerprint department is yet to submit their report to the Bandra police. We’ll wait for the report before commenting further,” he was quoted saying. Meanwhile, an unnamed official from the CID team too has confirmed the details asserting that they are yet to send across the report. Meanwhile, according to these reports, one of the IPS officers has addressed the ongoing buzz about fingerprints mismatch stating that it is a ‘premature’ assumption, insisting that the investigation of the evidence is currently underway.

Police registers statement from Saif Ali Khan and the house help

As per the recent reports, Saif Ali Khan and house staff, Jeh’s nanny Elyimma Philips have been registered as key witnesses in the case. Philip in her statement revealed that on the early morning hours of January 16, she spotted an intruder while on her way to her room near one of the bathrooms of the apartment. She immediately reacted by screaming for help, but the intruder tried to subdue her voice by attacking her with a knife. Meanwhile, Khan was awakened by her cry for help and immediately jumped into action in a bid to protect his house staff. However, the scuffle that followed resulted in the actor sustaining multiple severe and mild injuries across many parts of his body, following which he was immediately taken into surgery at the Lilavati Hospital in Bandra.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan Stabbing Case: Mumbai Police suspects involvement of multiple individuals behind attack

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Ajay Devgn opens up on Singham Again debacle; says, “We’ll keep in mind that going ahead Singham is definitely going to beat up more villains”

Marking the return of one of the most beloved characters of Indian Cinema – Rohit Shetty and Ajay Devgn had promised audiences to take on another action-packed adventure of Bajirao Singham during Diwali last year. While the film, titled Singham Again, garnered a decent response at the box office, it failed to meet the expectations of being an extravaganza treat. Although not many opened about this matter, now, months after the release, the leading man Devgn decided to address the same during an interview.

A clip of Ajay Devgn talking on mistakes made in Singham Again goes viral

One of the social media users have taken to the platform X aka Twitter, to share a clip from a recent interview of Ajay Devgn where he is seen candidly answering the host regarding the feedback he received for Singham Again. After the host politely points out that the Bajirao Singham, who was known for his grand action sequences who would take on the villains alone in his bulky avatar, was missing from the recent 2024 release, Ajay agreed to the statement saying, “I think yeh reaction mujhe kaafi logon se aaya hai. toh aage dhyaan rakhenge ki woh jo Singham ka feel tha – guss guss ke maarne ka – woh aage zaroor rahega (I think I received a similar reaction from many. So, we are going to ensure that the next time – the authentic feel of Singham where he does intense action – will definitely be a part of the film)”.

Ajay Devgan Accepting his Mistakes regarding SINGHAM ????
Best ????????pic.twitter.com/ZAV2ZY6Yji

— POSITIVE FAN (@imashishsrk) January 26, 2025

About Singham Again

Directed by Rohit Shetty and produced under the banner Jio Studios, the film was the third movie in the Singham franchise and fifth one in the world of Rohit Shetty’s ambitious copverse. The film featured Kareena Kapoor Khan reprising her character of Avni Bajirao Singham along with a host of celebrities like Arjun Kapoor who played the lead antagonist with Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Tiger Shroff, and Akshay Kumar in key cameos. The film released during Diwali, on November 1.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn ‘honored’ as he becomes the official face for Bhamla Foundation’s World Environment Day 2025 Campaign

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