Producer Nikhil Dwivedi is set to revitalize the iconic folklore of Naagin with his upcoming project, casting Shraddha Kapoor in the legendary role. In a recent interview with India Today Digital, Dwivedi revealed that Shraddha was his first choice for the character.

Dwivedi shared an update on the film. He said, “Finally, the script is ready now. It has taken us three years to script it. We have redone the entire script three times, and now I can say that it’s finally ready.”

Further discussing his decision to make Naagin, Dwivedi explained, “Firstly, it’s a completely brand-new subject. It has no connection with previous films. The reason for me making this film is that Indian folklore is actually very rich in ideas. We get very excited when a spider bites a man, and he becomes Spider-Man. But we kind of look down upon a woman turning into a snake. Give us a chance, and we’ll turn it on its head, and you will see quite a supernatural and different film.”

When asked about his casting decision, Dwivedi explained that Shraddha’s versatility and screen presence made her the perfect fit for Naagin. Dwivedi said, “It was decided from the beginning that only Shraddha Kapoor would play Naagin. We’re thrilled that she’s on board. She has an ethereal quality about her.”

Talking about Shraddha’s reaction to the film, Dwivedi said, ” She jumped at it. She was the first one to come on board. I approached her first with the idea, and she was sold. She can’t wait to start the shoot, now that the script is ready. We are just figuring out how to take it on floors as soon as possible. It will most likely go on floors next year.”

Naagin was announced a while ago but was reportedly put on hold. Shraddha recently experienced massive success with Stree 2, which broke several records upon its release and further solidified her standing in the industry.

Also Read : Shraddha Kapoor admits being “extremely obsessive and possessive” about her pet Small; says, “She’s a proper little baby, and I try to…”

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The Fable, directed by writer-director Raam Reddy, has made history as the first Indian film to win the prestigious Best Film award in the main international competition (Constellation Features Competition) at the Leeds International Film Festival 2024. This marks a milestone achievement for Indian cinema, as no Indian film has previously received this honor at the
festival since its inception in 1987. The award follows The Fable’s recent success, including its world premiere at the Berlinale Film Festival 2024, and the Special Jury Prize at the 2024 MAMI Mumbai Film Festival.

Director Raam Reddy said, “Leeds is an incredible festival, not just because of its amazing heartfelt curation but also because it is an Academy Award qualifying festival that screened nearly 250 amazing films this year! I got a chance to present The Fable in person in Leeds for the UK premiere and the audience reaction to the film was so engaging, it was amazing. This recognition of Best Film in such an important international platform makes me feel thankful and fulfilled as a filmmaker. I want to dedicate this award to my amazing team, whose sustained passion and effort over the years have brought The Fable to life!”

Actor Manoj Bajpayee said, “I am incredibly honored to be a part of The Fable and to see it resonate with audiences globally. Working with director Raam Reddy, whose thoughtful storytelling and unique blend of magical realism added such depth to this project, alongside Pratap Reddy, Juhi Agarwal, and later, Guneet Monga Kapoor and Achin Jain, has been a profound experience. My co-stars Priyanka Bose, Deepak Dobriyal, and Tillotama Shome brought extraordinary talent to this journey. Winning the Best Film award at Leeds is not just a triumph for our film but a proud moment for Indian cinema. I hope The Fable continues to inspire and touch people around the world.”

Executive Producer Guneet Monga Kapoor said, “I’m beyond thrilled that The Fable has won Best Film at the Leeds International Film Festival, a first for Indian cinema. This win is a testament to Raam Reddy’s vision and Manoj Bajpayee’s remarkable performance. We’re honoured to see our story resonate with global audiences on such a grand stage. The magic of ‘magic realism’ has just begun!”

Executive Producer Achin Jain said, “It’s a moment of immense pride for The Fable to become the first Indian film to win at the Leeds International Film Festival. It’s a testament to the story that no one left a 45-minute Q&A session after a midnight screening. This honour reaffirms the power of Indian storytelling to resonate globally. Congratulations to Raam Reddy and the entire team of the film for this incredible achievement!”

The Fable competed alongside acclaimed international films like Simon of the Mountain (Best Film at Cannes Critics Week from Argentina), Toxic (Best Film in Locarno Festival from Lithuania), and Lovable (Karlovy Vary Award Winner from Norway). The film’s recognition at Leeds comes on the heels of enthusiastic reception from Spanish audiences at the Seminci Festival, Brazilian audiences in Mostra Sao Paolo, and Irish audiences in the World Cinema section at the 69th Cork International Film Festival. Generating excitement as The Fable continues its global journey, with upcoming screenings in Nantes in France and a headlining Special Presentation at the Singapore International Film Festival that will be attended by Manoj Bajpayee and Raam Reddy.

Reddy’s second feature blends magical realism with a powerful political allegory. Set in the
Indian Himalayas, The Fable tells the story of a family living on an orchard estate whose peaceful life is upended by mysterious events. The film stars Manoj Bajpayee as Dev, with notable performances by Priyanka Bose, Deepak Dobriyal, Tillotama Shome, and Hiral Sidhu.

The Fable is an India-US co-production between Prspctvs Productions and Maxmedia and has Academy Award-winning producers Guneet Monga Kapoor and Achin Jain of Sikhya Entertainment serving as Executive Producers.

Also Read: Manoj Bajpayee delighted as The Fable wins Special Jury Prize at MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024: “It reflects the film’s power and the dedication of everyone who made it possible”

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If you are planning to watch Kanguva in theatres this weekend, make sure you put cotton in your ears before entering the auditorium. Or carry over-the-counter medication for headache. This is because the film is too loud, with many calling it the loudest film that they have seen in their lives.

As per reports gathered by Bollywood Hungama, moviegoers across the country and also the world have complained of the high volume and it has affected the overall experience for the film. A manager at a multiplex spoke to us on condition of anonymity, “During the intermission of every show of Kanguva on its release day, irate moviegoers requested our staff to do something about the volume. Some of them even blasted our team, assuming that it’s us who have kept the volume high. But it’s not our fault. And I spoke to my counterparts and it’s happening in other theatres as well.”

Many moviegoers have taken to social media to speak about their unpleasant experiences. An industry member, currently abroad, told us, “When I watched Kanguva, I felt like someone pierced my ears with a sharp knife. 70% of the film is ruined because of an irritating sound design that forces you to feel emotions for characters whereas you end up feeling forced to go and punch the soundbox in the auditorium.”

 

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Yesterday, Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty took to Instagram to talk about this aspect. He wrote, “High time our fraternity to put your foot down and say things loud and clear. No film will have a repeat value if the audience walk out with headache (sic).”

Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report of a similar instance which happened with KGF – Chapter 2 (2022). A few days after its release, makers rectified the issue and sent revised prints.

The exhibitors across the country are hoping that Kanguva makers also follow suit. An exhibitor from North India rued, “Some people suffer from high blood pressure or migraine. What if something happens to them when they are watching the film in my cinema hall? Hence, we hope the makers of the film listen to our plea.”

Kanguva stars Suriya and Bobby Deol and is directed by Siva.

Also Read: Suriya embraces “calm before the storm” approach ahead on Kanguva release; producer reveals director Siva “didn’t sleep for the last 90 days”

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Mukesh Khanna has been gaining attention on social media for sharing his conventional opinions about films and Indian film industry. From commenting on the Pathaan controversy on ‘Besharam Rang’ to Ranveer Singh going naked for a magazine cover photoshoot, the actor has shared several videos expressing his views on such matters, which are supported by some whereas a few others have trolled. Similarly, at an event, Mukesh Khanna expressed his thoughts on Akshay Kumar playing Prithviraj Chauhan in the YRF film Samrat Prithviraj.

At a recent event, Mukesh Khanna made an appearance in the Shaktimaan costume sparking rumours about the comeback of the show. While speaking to the press, he made a remark about Akshay Kumar donning the role of the respected King as he said, “Prithviraj Chauhaan kyun nahi lage Akshay Kumar? Sirf muche aur wig lagaake thodi na ban sakte hai? Ek gait chahiye (Why did Akshay Kumar not look the part? By only donning the moustache and the wig, no one can become a king. You need to have that gait).”

While the video found its way on social media, many netizens reacted to it. While some supported his statement, a few others age-shamed Mukesh and trolled him for making this remark about an experienced and senior actor, who is also a renowned Bollywood star. “Khud ko dekh le baloda budhape mai jawani foot rahi h bkl ki (Look at yourself, trying to pretend you when you are old)”, “Ye kyon Ghoom raha ha joker ban ke (why is he walking around like a joker)” were a few other comments made by some users who were upset with this comment.

Shaktiman slams #AkshayKumar by saying muchein aur wig laga kar thodi na Prithviraj ban sakta hai acting aur intensity bhi honi chahiye ???? ..
Har koi pel ke chala jata hai chote star Akki ko ..abhi toh #VijayThalapathy Fans pel rahe hain .. pic.twitter.com/aqJoqFEWw8
— IamSameer (@iamsrksoldier) November 13, 2024

Speaking of Mukesh Khanna, the veteran actor earned fame with his role as the superhero character Shaktimaan in the namesake Doordarshan serial. Apart from that, the actor has also been a part of several films and shows as well.

Also Read: Shaktimaan 2 teaser out: Mukesh Khanna brings back India’s first superhero for today’s generation, watch 

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Prime Video, in collaboration with Excel Entertainment, today announced the global premiere date of its upcoming Hindi film, Agni. An Excel Entertainment production, the film is written and directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rahul Dholakia and is helmed by Pratik Gandhi and Divyenndu, in addition to Saiyami Kher, Sai Tamhankar, Jitendra Joshi, Udit Arora, and Kabir Shah playing pivotal roles. The much-anticipated film is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and across more than 240 countries and territories worldwide on December 6.

Being India’s first film on firefighters, Agni is a cinematic salute to the fearless spirit, honor, and sacrifices of firefighters. In the film, a city is engulfed by a mysterious surge in fires, Vitthal [Pratik Gandhi] and his brother-in-law, Samit [Divyenndu], a hotshot policeman, begrudgingly join forces to unravel the escalating crisis. Amidst the flames, the film beautifully explores Vithal’s emotional journey in his fight for respect—from the world around him and within his own family—ultimately showcasing the unyielding spirit of those who risk everything to protect others.

Sharing his thoughts on the film, Manish Menghani, Director of content Licensing, at Prime Video India, says, “With Agni, we are thrilled to present an inspiring story that seamlessly blends high-stakes drama with powerful themes of courage, unity and resilience. This film is a unique portrayal of first responders, where the human drama unfolds amid life and death situations, all seen through a cinematic and visually stunning narrative. This is a story about firefighters who not only face external fires but also fight heart-wrenching personal battles. Agni is part of our ongoing commitment to delivering impactful and relatable stories that foster a much deeper connection with audiences at large. We are also excited about our long-term collaboration with Excel Entertainment, as we continue to drive our mission of bringing compelling content to viewers worldwide.”

Producers Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, share, “We are incredibly proud to present a film that not only celebrates the unwavering courage of firefighters but also highlights the profound collaboration between those who serve and protect our communities. The film goes much beyond action, exploring the bonds and conflicts that emerge when lives are on the line. This groundbreaking project has been masterfully helmed by the genius Rahul Dholakia and our prime stars Pratik and Divyenndu, who will surely leave audiences worldwide intrigued. There couldn’t have been a better partner than our long-time collaborator Prime Video to bring this film on a global stage.”

Also Read: Saiyami Kher expresses gratitude for portraying diverse female characters ahead of Special Ops and Agni: “It’s a privilege”

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R. Madhavan’s gripping social drama Hisaab Barabar, produced by Jio Studios and SP Cinecorp, will have its world premiere at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on November 26, 2024. Directed by Ashwni Dhir, Hisaab Barabar blends humour, satire, and intense emotions, and boldly confronts the pervasive issue of financial fraud, following a common man’s courageous fight to expose a corporate bank’s billion-dollar scam.

In this highly anticipated narrative, Madhavan plays Radhe Mohan Sharma, a meticulous railway ticket checker who discovers a small yet inexplicable discrepancy in his bank account. What starts as a minor issue soon spirals into a larger investigation, leading him to uncover a massive financial fraud orchestrated by a powerful banker, Micky Mehta (Neil Nitin Mukesh). As Radhe battles against systemic corruption, he also faces the complexities of his own life, realizing that relationships, unlike balance sheets, cannot be fixed with numbers alone.

Adding further depth to this intense story is Kirti Kulhari, who plays a pivotal role as the film explores themes of justice, integrity, and the personal cost of standing up for what’s right.

Speaking about the film, R. Madhavan shared: “Hisaab Barabar is not just a battle against corruption—it’s about confronting personal flaws and understanding that justice isn’t always as simple as balancing a ledger. It’s a story of moral accountability, and I’m excited for audiences to experience it at IFFI.”

Sharing his excitement on the film’s premiere, director Ashwni Dhir shares: “I’m honored to present Hisaab Barabar at the 55th IFFI. This film is more than a thriller—it’s a statement on the uphill fight for truth in a world clouded by deception. Through Radhe’s journey, we explore the complexities of a common man trying to make sense of a world where justice often feels out of reach. I’m incredibly proud of our collaboration with Jio Studios and SP Cinecorp, and I hope Hisaab Barabar leaves audiences entertained, yet reflecting on the battle between right and wrong.”

With its timely themes and strong performances, Hisaab Barabar is set to make a lasting impression at IFFI 2024 and beyond, sparking conversations and shining a light on one man’s fight for truth. Jio Studio presents an SP Cinecorp Production, Hisaab Barabar. Directed by Ashwni Dhir and produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Sharad Patel, and Shreyanshi Patel.

Also Read: Birthday Special: R Madhavan opens up on his idol Kamal Haasan; says, “I’d be happy if I achieve even a fraction of what he has”

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Bollywood actress Jacqueline Fernandez, through her counsel, has asserted before the Delhi High Court on Wednesday, November 13, that she was unaware of the illegal origins of the lavish gifts she received from alleged conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar. Fernandez has been implicated in a Rs 200 crores money laundering investigation involving Chandrasekhar, a case that has attracted substantial public and media attention.

Unaware of Illicit Origins, Says Jacqueline’s Counsel
Representing Fernandez, senior advocates Siddharth Agrawal, Prashant Patil, and Shakti Pandey argued that the actress did not know the gifts she received were allegedly part of Chandrasekhar’s criminal proceeds. “She was not involved in money laundering nor was she aware of the source of the gifts,” argued Agrawal. The legal team stressed that the actress believed the gifts to be personal and was not informed that they were purchased through fraudulent means.

Justice Anish Dayal, who presided over the hearing, raised an inquiry into personal responsibility, asking, “Whether there is a duty upon an adult person to know the source of the gift one receives.” The case is scheduled for further arguments on November 26.
ED’s Allegations Against Jacqueline Fernandez
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleged that Fernandez received costly gifts from Chandrasekhar, funded through money extorted from Aditi Singh, the wife of a prominent businessman. The ED’s charge sheet states that Fernandez did not verify news reports connecting Chandrasekhar to illicit activities when she encountered them in 2019. Agrawal argued that while Fernandez became aware of these reports, there is no legal basis to assume she knowingly accepted “proceeds of crime.”
Trust in Co-Accused Pinky Irani Misplaced, Claims Fernandez’s Counsel
Further complicating the case, Fernandez’s counsel highlighted her interactions with co-accused Pinky Irani, who allegedly convinced Fernandez of Chandrasekhar’s credibility by portraying him as a well-connected “political fixer” with ties to government officials. According to the counsel, Irani assured Fernandez of Chandrasekhar’s legitimate status, convincing her that he had high-level connections within the Home Ministry.

The counsel further contended that after encountering the news article, Fernandez stopped all communication with Chandrasekhar, displaying her reluctance to associate further upon learning of his potential connections to crime. “She stopped communication once doubts arose but had no knowledge of the gifts being proceeds of crime,” her counsel argued.
Case to Continue in High Court
As the case progresses, Fernandez’s legal team maintains that any failure on her part to scrutinise Chandrasekhar’s wealth origins was a mere oversight, not an offence. They argue that her lack of intent exempts her from charges of money laundering. The court will resume discussions on November 26 to further examine the charges against Fernandez, her relationship with Chandrasekhar, and her responsibility under the law.

Also Read: Jacqueline Fernandez appears absolutely enchanting in a dazzling, sequined blue outfit, exuding a dreamlike aura

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After his Bollywood debut in Maharaj this June, Junaid Khan is gearing up for a potential double release around Valentine’s Day 2025. Trade insiders report that both of his upcoming films—one co-starring Sai Pallavi and produced by his father, Aamir Khan, and another romantic drama with Khushi Kapoor—are eyeing February release dates.

Aamir Khan’s Production Targets Valentine’s Day
Junaid’s untitled film with Sai Pallavi, produced by Aamir Khan, is tentatively set for a February 14 release. “Aamir has been eyeing February 14 for months,” a source told Mid-Day. “They have planned promotions and distribution channels around this date. So, changing it now is difficult.”

Meanwhile, Junaid’s romantic drama with Khushi Kapoor, produced by Boney Kapoor and Phantom Studios, has already been slated for release a week earlier on February 7. Directed by Advait Chandan, the film is an official Hindi remake of the Tamil hit Love Today (2022). “In September, the makers had announced the release date,” says a source close to Boney Kapoor’s production team. “Keeping the film’s theme of young romance in mind, they want to stick to the February window.”
Producers Consider Options to Avoid Box-Office Clash
With both films catering to a young audience and capitalizing on Valentine’s Day, a back-to-back release could impact each film’s box-office performance. However, the release dates may still change as both production teams look to avoid direct competition. According to a source, “Aamir is currently promoting Laapataa Ladies in the U.S. for the Oscars but plans to meet with the producers of the Love Today remake later this month. An announcement of new dates is expected by December.”

If no adjustments are made, Junaid Khan could see two of his films releasing just a week apart. 

Also Read: Aamir Khan speaks on almost quitting acting after Laal Singh Chaddha debacle, reveals son Junaid Khan changed his mind: “I was going from one extreme to another”

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Rohit Shetty discussed bringing together two iconic characters, Chulbul Pandey and Bajirao Singham, explaining that they come from different worlds. In an interview with India Today Digital, he noted that their collaboration would create a distinct film, separate from his existing cop universe.

Rohit Shetty said, “We were creating our own characters, and they were coming into each other’s stories. That’s how we created a universe. But these are two IPs (intellectual properties) that have never met. If all goes well, and the audience likes what we make…This has never been done before, and it’s something new for everyone. Also, Chulbul is not in the universe, nor is Singham going there. It will be two IPs and two universes meeting for one individual film.”

Rohit Shetty also mentioned that it would take time for the film to go on floors. He added, “This will be a standalone film, not where everyone comes together. It will definitely take a lot of time to make.”

Salman Khan made a brief appearance in the post-credits scene of Singham Again, delivering his iconic line, “Swagat nahi karoge humara?” The scene then teased the upcoming film Mission Chulbul Singham, leaving many fans disappointed by the blink-and-miss cameo.

Explaining the creative decision behind Salman Khan’s cameo, Rohit Shetty said, “We followed the international format where, at the end, you see a photo or a phone call. The story had already concluded, and adding Salman just because we have him… We couldn’t waste him like that. It’s better to have him in a small appearance rather than a full-fledged sequence, where people think, ‘Why him, zarurat nahi thi (it wasn’t needed)?’ That would have gone majorly wrong.”

Shetty also revealed that he had been toying with the idea for many years and, when he reached out to Salman Khan, the actor immediately agreed to be a part of the film.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Singham Again writer Kshitij Patwardhan on Singham being less angry this time, “His anger is subdued because…”

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Kartik Aaryan recently shared a heartfelt post dedicated to Sonu Nigam, crediting him for the powerful climax sequence of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Kartik praised Sonu’s soulful singing in the film. In response, Sonu described Kartik as a “secured soul” and praised his versatility as an actor.

Kartik Aaryan shared a photo of himself embracing Sonu Nigam and expressed his admiration for the singer, who performed ‘Mere Dholna 3.0.’ In his caption, Kartik wrote, “The Entire Climax that everyone has been raving about was a combination of many forces coming together.. out of which a Big Big credit goes to @sonunigamofficial sir and his heart wrenching voice…I may have performed in front of the camera but it was his voice that CREATED THE HEART TOUCHING MAGIC…(heart emojis)…#BhoolBhulaiyaa3 In Theatres…(Call me and heart emojis).”

 

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Sonu Nigam responded to Kartik’s post, commenting, “It takes a very very secured and loving soul to share credits.. Only goes on to show how gracious you are my dear Kartik.. Love you.. So happy to see so much love being showered upon you. What you have done in Bhool Bhullaiyya 3 is a mark of a very intelligent and deep actor. From comedy to tragedy in one film…. Marvellous. Thank you so much for your love..(smiling emojis).”

Reacting to Kartik’s post, singer Harshdeep Kaur commented, “Thank you for crediting the Artist! shows how much you respect their work!” One fan wrote, “This duo made me cry in the climax.” Another fan shared, “The climax was beautiful, but @sonunigamofficial sir’s voice took it to the next level!” A user also commented, “The climax was enough to make even grown-ups cry.”

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, directed by Anees Bazmee, stars Triptii Dimri, Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit, Rajpal Yadav, Vijay Raaz, and others in key roles. The horror-comedy hit theaters on November 1.

Also Read : Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Box Office: Kartik Aaryan starrer continues its good run on weekdays

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