Filmmaker Hansal Mehta has publicly criticized the Film Federation of India (FFI) after Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies, India’s official entry for Best International Feature at the 97th Academy Awards, failed to make the Oscars shortlist. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Mehta expressed his disappointment, questioning the selection process and the track record of the FFI.

Mehta shared a screenshot of the shortlisted films in the Best International Feature category and remarked sarcastically, “Film Federation of India does it again! Their strike rate and selection of films year after year is impeccable.”

Film Federation of India does it again! Their strike rate and selection of films year after year is impeccable. pic.twitter.com/hiwmatzDbW
— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) December 17, 2024

Ricky Kej Joins the Criticism: ‘Wrong Choice’ for India’s Oscars Entry

Grammy-winning composer Ricky Kej also weighed in on the issue, calling Laapataa Ladies the “wrong choice” to represent India at the Oscars. Kej took to X to express his views, stating, “When are we going to realise… year after year… we are choosing the wrong films? There are so many excellent movies made, and we should be winning the #InternationalFeatureFilm category every year!”

He added, “Unfortunately, we live in a ‘Mainstream Bollywood’ bubble, where we cannot look beyond films that we ourselves find entertaining. Instead, we should just look for good films made by filmmakers who are uncompromising in their art… low budget or big budget… star or no star… just great artistic cinema.”

Laapataa Ladies Out of the Race: India’s Selection Process Under Scrutiny

In September 2023, the Film Federation of India, led by Jahnu Barua, selected Laapataa Ladies as India’s official entry for the Best International Feature category. However, despite its selection from a list of 29 films, including Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light and the National Award-winning Aattam, Laapataa Ladies did not make it to the Oscars shortlist.

While Laapataa Ladies is now out of the race, there is still some hope for India at the Oscars. Shahana Goswami-starrer Santosh, directed by British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri, remains in contention as the United Kingdom’s official entry. Additionally, Guneet Monga’s live-action short film Anuja has made it to the Oscars shortlist, offering a glimmer of hope for India’s representation in 2025.

Also Read: Laapataa Ladies out from Oscars 2025 race: Grammy-award winner Ricky Tej calls Aamir Khan-backed film “wrong choice”; says, “We live in a ‘Mainstream Bollywood’ bubble”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films – Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/9CoRsNU

Netflix has announced the launch date of The Roshans, a compelling four-part docu-series that offers an intimate look into the extraordinary legacy of one of Indian cinema’s most iconic film families. Set to premiere on January 17 2025, this series unravels the multi-generational journey of the Roshans, showcasing their extraordinary contributions to Indian cinema.

At its core is the late Roshan Lal Nagrath, lovingly known as Roshan Saab, whose musical brilliance laid the foundation of this artistic dynasty. His legacy lives on through the soulful compositions of Rajesh Roshan, the visionary direction of Rakesh Roshan, and Hrithik Roshan’s meteoric rise as a global icon.

Packed with never-seen-before archival footage, heartfelt personal anecdotes, and candid interviews with family members and industry legends, The Roshans offers a rare glimpse into the resilience and creative excellence that have defined this family’s journey. It’s a tribute to the spirit of Roshan Saab’s song Rahen Na Rahen Hum—a celebration of their timeless melodies, unforgettable stories, and enduring impact on Indian Cinema.

Mark your calendars for January 17 2025, only on Netflix, to witness this legacy come to life!

Also Read: Hrithik Roshan shares excitement as Karan Arjun re-release emerges 2nd highest opener

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films – Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/ngUBoRv

Taapsee Pannu has firmly cemented her place as the undisputed queen of Indian cinema, carving out a niche that few can claim. She has repeatedly challenged norms and delivered performances that stay etched in the audience’s minds. What truly sets her apart is her ability to lead her own franchise—Haseen Dilruba—a feat rarely achieved by actresses in Indian cinema.

Today marks another milestone in Taapsee’s illustrious career as she begins shooting for Gandhari, a project that reunites her with acclaimed writer Kanika Dhillon after the massive success of the Haseen Dilruba franchise.

Taapsee took to her instagram and posted images from the first day of her shoot at Gandhari, the actress wrote, “Dear God, grant my request so that I may never deviate from doing good deeds. That, I shall have no fear of the enemy when I go into battle and with determination I will be victorious. That, I may teach my mind to only sing your praises. And when the time comes, I should die fighting heroically on the field of battle ||231|| Let the war begin! #Gandhari”

 

View this post on Instagram

 
A post shared by Taapsee Pannu (@taapsee)

The combination of Taapsee And Kanika are all set to bring another action banger. This also raises the possibility of if Gandhari will be another franchise film of Taapsee Pannu?

Also Read: From strength training to aerial yoga, dive into Taapsee Pannu’s prep for action film Gandhari

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films – Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/56LSZAY

Bollywood actress Elli AvrRam is all set to make her Marathi film debut as a lead in Ilu Ilu. The film is produced by Phalke Films Entertainment and directed by Ajinkya Bapu Phalke. The story and dialogue are contributed by Nitin Vijay Supekar. As per the title, it’s a romantic film, which is set to hit the theatres on January 31, 2025. The teaser for the movie was recently released at an event, where star Elli AvrRam swayed and awed the crowd, as she performed on the film’s romantic title song.

Ilu Ilu will see Elli essay the character called Ms. Pinto, who is the central protagonist of the story. It is said that the actress has given her heart and soul for the role. Despite being unfamiliar with the language, she took up the challenge audaciously and confidently, to play the lead in a Marathi film.

Speaking about her Marathi debut, Elli said, “I’ve always had a liking to learn new things. After working in Swedish, Hindi, Tamil and Kannada language films, I now have the exciting opportunity to explore the sensibilities of Marathi as language through the film Ilu Ilu. The character I play in this film is quite different from the roles that I have embodied in the past. I’m going to present myself to the audience with a newer, refashioned look. When I was first offered the part for this film, I was a bit nervous, but after reading the script and absorbing the character, it struck me that this is the perfect opportunity to make a breakthrough and that realization led to an affirmative response.”

Along with Elli AvrRam, Ilu Ilu also stars Veena Jamkar, Aaroha Velankar, Meera Jagannath, Vanita Kharat, Shreekant Yadav, Kamlakar Satpute, Ananda Karekar, Nishant Bhavsar, Ankita Lande, Gaurav Kaluste, Yash Sanas, Soham Kalokhe, Aarya Kakde Joshi, Siddhest Lingayat among others.

Also Read: Prateik Patil Babbar talks about bringing fresh twist to 90s Classic ‘Tere Dar Pe Sanam’ with Elli AvrRam; says, “The recall value is so special and nostalgic”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films – Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/3fK1yzE

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has revealed the shortlist for the Oscars 2025, with 15 films making the cut in the Best International Feature Film category. Among them is Santosh, a Hindi-language film submitted by the United Kingdom, marking a proud moment for Indian and international cinema.

A Remarkable Achievement for Santosh
Directed by Sandhya Suri, Santosh is a compelling narrative set in rural north India. The film premiered at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, where it garnered praise from critics for its nuanced storytelling and impactful performances. Representing the UK at the Oscars 2025, Santosh stands out among 85 entries submitted by countries worldwide.

Shahana Goswami, who stars in the film, expressed her excitement on Instagram, saying, “So happy for the team, especially our writer-director Sandhya Suri, for this little glory of recognition for our film Santosh! How incredible to be shortlisted from amongst 85 films. Thank you to everyone who loved it, supported it, and voted for it.”
Storyline and Critical Acclaim
The film revolves around a driven young Hindu widow (played by Shahana Goswami) who inherits her late husband’s job as a police constable under a government scheme. As she navigates her new role, she confronts institutional corruption while investigating a brutal murder involving a Dalit teenage girl, alongside veteran detective Inspector Sharma, portrayed by Sunita Rajwar.

Critics have lauded the film for its thought-provoking exploration of caste, gender, and systemic issues in rural India. Shahana’s gripping performance adds depth to the story, making Santosh a standout contender in the Oscars 2025 race.

Also Read: Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar-starrer Santosh selected as UK’s official entry for Oscars 

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films – Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/sT7zGyv

Shahid Kapoor and acclaimed filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj are set to reunite for an action-packed entertainer. The much-anticipated film, produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, has been scheduled to release on December 5, 2025. Filming for the untitled project is set to commence on January 6, 2025, promising to be a cinematic treat for audiences.

Shahid Kapoor Hints at a New Role

Ahead of the official announcement, Shahid Kapoor shared an intriguing Instagram story, dropping hints about his upcoming role. “Prep time … Naya saal naya maal ….. Next character next film what can I do that I haven’t before ……. lost in the woods…. Sliding into the edgy nasty gangster 90s,” he wrote. Shahid’s last role in Bloody Daddy showcased his dark, intense side, and fans are eager to see how he reinvents himself in this new project.

A Power-Packed Collaboration

The film marks a reunion for Shahid Kapoor and Vishal Bhardwaj, who previously delivered critically acclaimed films like Haider and Kaminey. Adding to the excitement, actress Triptii Dimri has been roped in for the film, which is touted as a big commercial action entertainer.

Speaking about the project, Sajid Nadiadwala expressed his excitement about bringing together the dynamic duo of Shahid Kapoor and Vishal Bhardwaj. Known for his creative storytelling, Bhardwaj is expected to craft an engaging narrative that combines action, drama, and memorable performances.

Also Read: Shahid Kapoor describes his character in Deva as “Dark, menacing, and vulnerable”; begins prep for his next

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films – Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/oFkMdTV

Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna has reacted to actress Sonakshi Sinha’s recent remarks criticizing his comments about her upbringing. The debate stems from Khanna’s criticism of Sonakshi’s inability to answer a Ramayana-related question on Kaun Banega Crorepati 11 (KBC 11) in 2019.

Mukesh Khanna Clarifies Intent
In a statement, Khanna stated he was “surprised” it took Sonakshi nearly four years to respond to his comments. “I knew I was antagonising her by taking her name from that incident,” Khanna admitted, adding, “But I had no malicious intention to malign her or her father, who is my senior, and I have a very cordial relationship with him.”

Khanna further clarified that his remarks were meant as a general observation about today’s youth, whom he believes are overly reliant on Google and Wikipedia. “We have a huge and vast knowledge preserved in our culture, Sanskriti and history which every youth of today should know. And not only know but also feel proud about it. That’s all,” he concluded.

 

View this post on Instagram

 
A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani)

Sonakshi’s Strong Response

Sonakshi Sinha, in turn, criticized Khanna’s repeated reference to the KBC 11 incident in public forums. Addressing him through a note shared on Instagram Stories, she wrote, “Dear Sir, Mukesh Khanna ji… I recently read a statement you made saying it’s my father’s fault I did not answer a question about the Ramayana correctly… Firstly, let me remind you there were two women on the hot seat that day who did not know the answer to the same question, but you choose to keep taking my name.”

Sonakshi also pointed out that her lapse was momentary and unrelated to her upbringing. “I blanked out on the show… I respectfully request you to forget the incident that you keep on touching upon in public to be back in the news,” she wrote.

Background on the KBC 11 Incident

The controversy dates back to 2019 when Sonakshi Sinha, appearing on KBC 11, was unable to answer a question about Ramayana. Mukesh Khanna later commented on the incident, saying, “It’s not Sonakshi’s fault; it’s her father’s fault. Why did you not tell your kids? Why did you let them be so modern?”

Also Read: Sonakshi Sinha CALLS OUT Mukesh Khanna for “Distasteful statements” over Shatrughan Sinha’s upbringing: “Stop bringing up the same incident time and again to be back in the news”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films – Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/u6QnJBy

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the shortlist of 15 films for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2025 Oscars on Tuesday. While global favorites such as Emilia Perez and From Ground Zero secured spots, India’s official entry, Laapataa Ladies, was conspicuously absent. The exclusion of the Aamir Khan-produced Hindi film, directed by Kiran Rao, has reignited debates on India’s Oscars strategy.

Backlash Over Film Federation of India’s Selection
The decision to send Laapataa Ladies as India’s official entry had sparked controversy earlier this year, with many arguing that Payal Kapadia’s Cannes-winning All We Imagine As Light was a stronger contender. Following the failure of Laapataa Ladies to make the shortlist, criticism of the Film Federation of India (FFI) has intensified.

One social media user expressed frustration, writing, “FFI snubbed AWIAL, destroying our chances to be on the list. The Film Federation of India requires a full revamp.” Another added, “A shattering humiliation for India. If the only measure of success is to make choices that make you competitive, they have utterly failed.”

Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies received critical acclaim for its portrayal of two brides interchanged in rural India during the 1990s. The cast featured newcomers Sparsh Srivastava, Pratibha Ranta, and Nitanshi Goel alongside seasoned actors Ravi Kishen and Chhaya Kadam.

On the other hand, All We Imagine As Light, an exploration of Mumbai’s working class, has consistently been a presence at international awards shows. It won the Grand Prize at Cannes and was nominated for the Golden Globes and Critics’ Choice Awards.

While Laapataa Ladies failed to advance, there was some good news for Indian cinema. Santosh, a UK-based Hindi film by Sandhya Suri, featuring Indian actors Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar, made it to the Oscars shortlist as the UK’s official entry.

Also Read: Laapataa Ladies actor Pratibha Ranta hopes for Oscars shortlist on her birthday: “It would be the biggest gift”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films – Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/wROZ6QX

Ajay Devgn was all set to extend his collaboration with Luv Ranjan after De De Pyaar De and De De Pyaar De 2 by teaming up with him on a jungle adventure titled Ranger. The film was all ready to go on floors in December 2024, but in a shocking turn of events, the film has been delayed by at-least 6 months as thing stands today. According to our very reliable sources, Ranger is presently in the restructuring stage due to budget constraints.

“Ranger is a big-budget jungle adventure, but due to the not-so-good market scenario for feature films at the moment, the film is not getting the required monies from satellite and digital players. This is putting a huge risk on the producer – Luv Ranjan – pushing him to get back at the drawing table again to rework on the budgets,” a trade source shared with Bollywood Hungama.

The source further revealed that Ajay is leveraging his contacts to secure a favorable deal with digital platforms. However, it hasn’t materialized yet, as the platforms are holding off on increasing their offers, waiting for market conditions to improve. “Most of the films were overvalued by digital players and it’s now the time for market course correction. Ranger is one of the many casualties of this scenario.”

Ajay Devgn will now be completing the shoot for De De Pyaar De 2 and then start his work on Dhamaal 4.

Also Read: Kumar Mangat Pathak and Panorama Studios start a new chapter on his birthday with PROUD Ajay Devgn by his side

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films – Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/G3zKrtp

Akshay Kumar has launched a compassionate initiative in collaboration with the Anjaneya Sewa Trust to address the growing monkey population in Ayodhya, providing them with clean, nutritious food. With Ayodhya’s monkey population on the rise, the actor recognized the need for a sustainable solution that supports both the animals and the environment. The initiative feeds over 1,250 monkeys, offering them a balanced diet to promote their health and well-being.

In addition to feeding the monkeys, the program also supports local cows by ensuring that food waste is utilized responsibly. Banana peels, a common leftover from the monkeys’ diet, are fed to the cows, promoting a zero-waste approach. This thoughtful exchange between the species not only reduces waste but also fosters a harmonious balance in the ecosystem.

 

View this post on Instagram

 
A post shared by Bollywood Hungama???? (@realbollywoodhungama)

He took to his X account and posted the video with caption, “Ek chhoti si koshish…”

By combining kindness with sustainability, Akshay Kumar’s collaboration with the Anjaneya Sewa Trust serves as a model for responsible animal welfare practices. It highlights the importance of taking care of both wildlife and farm animals while ensuring minimal environmental impact. This initiative is a step towards creating a better, more sustainable world for animals in Ayodhya.

Earlier, founder trustee of Anjaneya Sewa Trust, Priya Gupta had said, “I have always known Akshay Kumar to be an extremely kind and generous man be it his staff, his crew or co-actors that work with him or each of his family members. He not only donated instantly and generously, but also he dedicated this great sewa in the name of both his parents Hari Om and Aruna Bhatia and his father-in-law Rajesh Khanna. Akshay is not just a generous donor but also an equally socially conscious citizen of India. He was equally concerned about the citizens and city of Ayodhya and thus we will ensure that no citizen gets inconvenienced while we feed the monkeys and there is no littering on the streets of Ayodhya as a result of feeding the monkeys.”

On the work front, Akshay Kumar is busy shooting for Housefull 5, which is set to release in theatres on June 6, 2025. He is also preparing for the release of his highly awaited horror-comedy, Bhooth Bangla. The film marks his reunion with veteran director Priyadarshan and is set to hit theatres on April 2, 2026.

Also Read : Akshay Kumar rocks the show at Pintu Ki Pappi trailer launch; applauds Ganesh Acharya for releasing the film on Ik-kiss Feb; talks about the song ‘Bala’: “Mehnat iski thi, steps iske the. Faayda mujhe hua”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films – Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/cJl4NiA