Kiran Rao REACTS as Laapataa Ladies becomes India’s official entry for Oscars 2025: “Great privilege to be selected”

Presented by Jio Studios, Laapataa Ladies has generated immense excitement and received a positive reception from both audiences and critics alike. The film continues to earn recognition and has been picked as India’s official entry to the 97th Academy Awards, set to take place next year in March. The rural set drama beat 29 other movies from India to enter the Oscars 2025 race.

The Film Federation of India (FFI) on Monday confirmed that Kiran Rao-directorial Laapataa Ladies is India’s official entry for Oscars 2025. The film, co-produced by Aamir Khan along with Rao, garnered positive reviews upon its release from audiences and critics due to its different story.

Overjoyed Kiran Rao, Director, said, “I am deeply honoured and beyond delighted that our film Laapataa Ladies has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards. This recognition is a testament to the tireless work of my entire team, whose dedication and passion brought this story to life. Cinema has always been a powerful medium to connect hearts, transcend boundaries, and ignite meaningful conversations. I hope that this film will resonate with audiences across the world, just as it has in India. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the selection committee and to everyone who believed in this film. It is indeed a great privilege to be selected from among such amazing Indian films this year – who are equally worthy contenders for this honour.”

She added, “My deepest thanks go to Aamir Khan Productions and Jio Studios for their unwavering support and faith in this vision. It has been a privilege to work alongside such a passionate and talented team of professionals who shared my commitment to telling this story. I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire cast and crew, whose immense talent, dedication, and hard work made this film possible. This journey has been one of incredible collaboration and growth. “

She concluded, “To the audience, your love and support mean the world to us, and it is your belief in this film that continues to inspire us as filmmakers to push creative boundaries. Thank you once again for this incredible honour. We look forward to taking this journey ahead with great enthusiasm.”

The film, a delightful comedy about the misadventures of two young brides who become separated on the same train, is a blend of mistaken identities and laugh-out-loud escapades. Featuring Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, and Ravi Kishan, Laapataa Ladies is set to bring its unique charm and humour to a new territory.

Presented by Jio Studios, Laapataa Ladies is directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan, Kiran Rao and Jyoti Deshpande. The film has been made under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Productions, with the script based on an award-winning story by Biplab Goswami. The screenplay & dialogues are written by Sneha Desai, with additional dialogues penned by Divya Nidhi Sharma.
ALSO READ: Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies is India’s official entry for Oscars 2025

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Tumbbad director Rahi Anil Barve CONFIRMS he won’t return for sequel, teases “insane trilogy”: “I wish Sohum Shah and Adesh Prasad all the best”

Rahi Anil Barve, director of the critically acclaimed Tumbbad, has confirmed that he will not be involved in the upcoming sequel to the 2018 horror fantasy film. The announcement comes shortly after lead actor and producer Sohum Shah revealed that a sequel to Tumbbad is in development. Barve’s statement follows the re-release of Tumbbad in theatres on September 13, 2023.

Rahi Anil Barve’s Vision: A Trilogy Spanning Tumbbad, Pahadpangira, and Pakshitirtha
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Barve explained his decision to step away from the sequel, revealing that he is working on a much larger project: a trilogy of films that started with Tumbbad and will be followed by Pahadpangira and Pakshitirtha.

“For decades, I worked on this insane trilogy with many producers changing in between. First was the greed of patriarchy. My personal and much darker version of father, son, and the holy ghost,” he wrote.

According to Barve, the next film, Pahadpangira, will explore the dawn of feminism and delve into themes related to the oppressive practice of satipratha. The final chapter, Pakshitirtha, will conclude the trilogy. However, Barve didn’t share further details about the storyline or characters for these upcoming projects.

pic.twitter.com/nkXvJgMZWe
— rahi anil barve (@BarveRahi) September 21, 2024

Barve’s Departure from Tumbbad Sequel
Despite his departure from the Tumbbad sequel, Barve wished the team luck. “I wish Sohum and Adesh all the best for Tumbbad II; I have no doubt it will be an outstanding success,” he said. Sohum Shah, who played the lead role in the original film, congratulated Barve on his upcoming projects, writing: “Congratulations mere bhai for Gulkanda and Raktabramhand or jaldi Sai shuru kar de Pahadpangira. Maza aayega (sic).”

Barve replied warmly, saying, “I am always there for you. Thanks for everything,” with Shah responding, “Likewise.”

Likewise ????
— Sohum Shah (@s0humshah) September 21, 2024

Barve revealed in his post that he plans to start production on Pahadpangira in March 2025, after completing his work on Gulkanda Tales and Raktabramhand. Both of these projects are also highly anticipated, though details remain scarce for now.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Himanshu Malik ECSTATIC about Tum Bin’s re-release: “I hope it collects Rs. 10 crores; it can, considering how Tumbbad has performed”; raises laughs as he reveals how he gets free meals from fans across the world thanks to the musical

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Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies is India’s official entry for Oscars 2025

Kiran Rao’s latest film, Laapataa Ladies, has been chosen to represent India at the 97th Academy Awards. The announcement was made by the Film Federation of India (FFI), which is the governing body for Indian cinema.

The film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, tells the story of two women who embark on a journey to find their missing husbands. The film’s selection as India’s official entry for the Oscars is a significant achievement for Rao and the Indian film industry.

Laapataa Ladies stars Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Chhaya Kadam and Ravi Kishan in pivotal roles. “My dream would be fulfilled if it was chosen to go to the Oscars,” Rao told PTI last week. “But it’s a process, and I’m hoping Laapataa Ladies will be considered. I’m sure the best film will be selected, whoever they choose in the scheme of things,” the director said.

The 97th Academy Awards will be held on March 9, 2025. A total of five films will be shortlisted for the Best International Feature Film award. The winner will be announced at the Oscars ceremony.

The announcement was made at an event in Chennai, where Ravi Kottarakara, President of the Film Federation of India, introduced the jury members to the media.

Sharing her excitement Jyoti Deshpande, President Media and Content business RIL shares “Laapataa Ladies being selected as India’s entry for Oscar is a true testimony of our vision and commitment to Make in India and Show the world…this film has got unlimited love from audiences all over the world already and is one of the most watched films globally on OTT after its unusually long and resilient theatrical run…Jio Studios will do everything in our power to make India proud on a global stage and I thank the Film Federation of India for this honor and privilege.”

The film, a delightful comedy about the misadventures of two young brides who become separated on the same train, is a blend of mistaken identities and laugh-out-loud escapades. Presented by Jio Studios, Laapataa Ladies is directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan, Kiran Rao and Jyoti Deshpande. The film has been made under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Productions, with the script based on an award-winning story by Biplab Goswami. The screenplay & dialogues are written by Sneha Desai, with additional dialogues penned by Divyanidhi Sharma.

Last year, India’s 2018 fell short of making the shortlist, but the country’s cinematic achievements were celebrated with the wins of ‘Naatu Naatu’ from RRR for Best Original Song and The Elephant Whisperers for Best Documentary (Short).
ALSO READ: Kiran Rao enthusiastic about Laapataa Ladies release in Japan: Im thrilled that Laapataa Ladies is releasing in Japan

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Ayushmann Khurrana and Pashmina Roshan unveil the poster for their new Garba song ‘Jachdi’

Experience the vibrant spirit of Navratri with Ayushmann Khurrana and Pashmina Roshan as they unveil the vibrant poster for their upcoming song, ‘Jachdi’. This electrifying garba track is set to be the perfect anthem for the upcoming Navratri festivities.

The song, sung by the versatile Ayushmann Khurrana, also features the talented actress Pashmina Roshan who made her debut this year in Nipun Dharmadhikari’s film Ishq Vishk Rebound earlier this year. The song promises to be a foot-tapping number that will leave listeners wanting more.

The poster for ‘Jachdi’ beautifully captures the essence of the song, featuring vibrant colors and festive elements that perfectly reflect the spirit of garba. Ayushmann and Pashmina’s chemistry shines through in the poster, adding to the anticipation. This song is expected to not only dominate the dance floors but also become a staple in Navratri playlists. As the poster is released today, fans can eagerly await the song’s official launch soon.

 

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As far as films are concerned, Ayushmann was last seen last year in Dream Girl 2, which was the sequel of his successful comedy Dream Girl (2019). He is now all set to enter Dinesh Vijan’s horror-comedy universe with a film on vampire. The movie will join other films from the universe – Stree, Bhediya and Munjya.

Also Read: Amar Kaushik reveals Ayushmann Khurrana starrer vampire film is titled Thamba: “We’ll be starting production within the next two months”

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EXCLUSIVE: ‘Tauba Tauba’ singer Karan Aujla announces three new dates for his India tour; over Rs. 75 crores earned amidst overwhelming demand

Pop sensation Karan Aujla’s highly anticipated India tour, presented and produced by Team Innovation, has become a cultural phenomenon. The tour, which initially sold out two lac tickets and three arenas in record time and raked in over Rs. 75 crores in collections, has now been expanded to include eleven shows across eight cities. In response to unprecedented public demand, Aujla will be performing in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Jaipur, and Kolkata in addition to his previously announced shows in Chandigarh, Bengaluru, New Delhi, and Mumbai.

Speaking about the tour expansion, Karan Aujla said, “The love and support I’ve received from my Indian fans has been overwhelming. This tour is a dream come true, and I’m honored and grateful. I’m looking forward to seeing you all soon!”

Elaborating further Siddhesh Kudtarkar, Co-Founder, Team Innovation adds on, “Karan Aujla’s India tour has been nothing short of a phenomenon. It’s a testament to his incredible talent and the growing global appeal of Punjabi music. What started off as a four show-three city trek has turned out to be the most monumental event of the year. We’re excited to expand the tour and bring this incredible experience to even more fans and non-Punjabi markets across the country.”

The It Was All A Dream World Tour will showcase Aujla’s unique blend of Punjabi folk and contemporary sounds. With his chart-topping hits and captivating performances, the tour is expected to be a highlight of the Indian music scene. The India leg of the world tour will mark Aujla’s maiden arena tour in the country. Billed as a culture-shifting mission to take modern Punjabi sound forward and make it a part of global music conversations, the tour is already selling out record-breaking tickets across territories such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand.

Presented and produced by Team Innovation and supported by Live Nation, Aujla will be joined by long-time collaborator and Toronto-based producer Ikky in all cities. The tour follows the release of his billboard-charting records ‘Making Memories’ and ‘Street Dreams’.

Indian fans can expect a dynamic and electrifying performance filled with crowd pleasers such as ‘Admiring You,’ ‘Tauba Tauba,’ and ‘Softly.’ A few weeks ago, Bollywood Hungama also reported that Vicky Kaushal is expected to be guest during Mumbai show along with an international artist.

The It Was All A Dream India Tour 2024 is set to kick off on December 7 in Chandigarh and will span several cities across the country. Following the Chandigarh show, the tour will move to Bengaluru on December 13, and then New Delhi for a series of performances on December 15, 18, and 19. Mumbai will host two shows on December 21 and 22, followed by Kolkata on December 24. The tour will conclude with performances in Jaipur on December 29 and Ahmedabad on December 31, wrapping up with a final show in Hyderabad on January 5, 2025.
ALSO READ: Karan Aujla announces third New Delhi show after two concert shows get sold out with record-breaking 50,000 in ticket sales

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“Salman Khan is done with Chulbul Pandey and Dabangg,” says a source about the superstar’s cameo in Singham Again

Hot rumours masquerading as authentic news, insist that Salman Khan will reprise his role as the mischievous cop Chulbul Pandey from the Dabangg series in Rohit Shetty’s Singham Returns.

But a very close friend of Salman completely debunked the rumours. “Where did that come from? Salman Khan as Chulbul Pandey in Singham Returns, sounds like someone’s idea of click-baiting. There is ABSOLUTELY no truth to it. Singham is far removed from Dabangg. For now, Salman is done with Chulbul Pandey and Dabangg. He is not doing the fourth part of Dabangg unless he finds the right script and director. Prabhu Deva, who directed Dabangg 3, refused the offer to carry the franchise forward. So, where and why would Salman play Chulbul Pandey in someone else’s franchise? This is one of the funniest rumours in recent times,” said the source.

We have it from reliable sources that the other stars from Rohit Shetty’s cops’ universe would be joining Ajay Devgan in Singham Again. But Chulbul Pandey? No way.

Also Read: Salman Khan to NOT reprise Chulbul Pandey’s character in Ajay Devgn’s Singham Again: Reports

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“The Maharashtra protests against the release of Maula Jat are absurd,” says actor Imran Zahid

Uddhav Thackeray has tweeted that he won’t “allow” Fawad Khan’s Pakistani blockbuster The Legend Of Maula Jat to release in Maharashtra. The threat makes no sense, as Maharashtra is not on the release map in India at all for this handsomely mounted hugely entertaining costume drama.

Delhi-based theatre and film actor Imran Zahid who has been battling to renew cultural ties between India and Pakistan, is baffled by the threats against the film’s release. “The film’s distributors in India (Zee Studios) have made it clear that the film is being released in Punjab only then what is this, ‘Mooh tod denge, sheesha phod denge.’ Arrey bhai, The Legend Of Maula Jat is not releasing in Maharashtra. Then what are these threats? It is like, you are not invited to my home and you are not coming. Lekin aa kar toh dekho.”

Imran feels peace should be given a chance. “All these threats and bullying tactics are driving us away from peace. Art and culture should always be above politics. By depriving our country of a fine film like Maula Jat, what signal are you sending to the rest of the world?”

Also Read: Pakistani film The Legend of Maula Jatt faces opposition in India from MNS ahead of release

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Bigg Boss 18 Promo: Salman Khan returns to play ‘Time Ka Tandav’ with contestants

Carrying forward the unparalleled legacy of entertainment, India’s popular reality show Bigg Boss gears to return to COLORS, promising a mind-blowing 18th season. Bollywood superstar Salman Khan too will be returning as the host and he was seen introducing Bigg Boss 18 along with its new theme in the promo unveiled by the makers on September 22. The promo packs a mysterious twist of time warping, with Salman promising that the Bigg Boss eye will look at the future. The promo features a sci-fi vibe with Khan revealing that it will take audiences ahead of its time as he questions contestants if they are ready to rewrite the rules of reality television.

Host of the show and megastar Salman Khan vouches that Bigg Boss will have insight into the contestants’ futures, which will leave contestants racing against the clock. Iss bar Bigg Boss dekhenge ghar walo ka future. Toh kon kab kaise badlega apni written kismat?  Sharing his take on the 18th season of Bigg Boss, Salman Khan said, “Returning to Bigg Boss for its 18th season feels like coming home to a grand legacy we’ve built together over the years. Each season, we re-write the definition of entertainment, and this year is no exception. With the theme ‘Time ka Tandav,’ Bigg Boss isn’t just keeping an eye on the present—he’s peeking into the future of the housemates. Get ready for a thrilling journey as our housemates race against the clock, with every decision rippling through the past, present, and future. Bigg Boss dekhenge ghar walon ka kal, and trust me, you won’t want to miss a single moment!”

 

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Watch BIGG BOSS 18, SPECIAL PARTNER Ching’s  Chutney & BEAUTY PARTNER Blue Heaven, as it premiers on October 6 at 9 pm only on Colors and it will also be available for streaming on JioCinema.

Also Read: Salman Khan set to return as Bigg Boss Season 18 host, teaser reveals new season’s exciting details

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Parvin Dabas to be out of ICU soon after accident, says Preeti Jhangiani: “He hasn’t been able to talk much”

Parvin Dabas has been hospitalized following a car accident in Mumbai. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, leaving the actor with serious injuries. His wife, Preeti Jhangiani, has spoken out about the ordeal, sharing details of the accident and her husband’s condition.

“It’s been a shock for all of us,” Jhangiani revealed to Hindustan Times. “Parvin is usually so full of life, always talking about work. To see him lying there, quiet and inactive, is incredibly distressing.”

The accident occurred when Dabas was driving home after a late-night work session. A sudden flash of headlights caused him to lose control of his vehicle, resulting in a collision with a divider. Fortunately, he was close to a hospital, and two passersby rushed to his aid and brought him in.

Dabas is currently being treated for a concussion, which has left him with symptoms such as dizziness, double vision, drowsiness, and nausea. “He hasn’t been able to talk much,” Jhangiani explained. “Thankfully, his medical tests, including an MRI and CT scan, have come back clear. We expect him to be out of the ICU soon and will continue to monitor his progress.”

Jhangiani has confirmed that Dabas was not under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. “He’s always been very strict about driving safely and never drinks and drives,” she stated.

The Pro Panja League, an organization co-founded by Dabas, released a statement expressing their concern and support for the actor. It read, “We regret to inform that Parvin Dabas, co-founder of the Pro Panja League, has been hospitalized and is in the ICU at Holy Family Hospital in Bandra following an unfortunate car accident in the early hours of Saturday morning. Details of the incident are still emerging, but we can confirm that Mr. Dabas is currently receiving medical attention. Our thoughts are with Parvin and his family during this challenging time. The Pro Panja League management is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as appropriate. We kindly request privacy for Mr. Dabas and his loved ones. We wish Parvin a swift and complete recovery.”

Parvin Dabas has worked in several films such as Khosla Ka Ghosla, My Name is Khan, and Ragini MMS 2. He has also been seen in the popular web series Made In Heaven.
ALSO READ: My Name Is Khan actor Parvin Dabas in ICU after car accident; wife Preeti Jhangiani by his side in hospital: Reports

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Fawad Khan to return to Bollywood with Ridhi Dogra in romcom drama: Report

After a hiatus from Bollywood since his appearance in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016), Pakistani actor Fawad Khan is set to make a notable return to Indian cinema. Recent reports confirm that Khan will star in a new theatrical project alongside actor Ridhi Dogra. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting development.

Fawad Khan and Ridhi Dogra’s New Project
According to Hindustan Times, Fawad Khan and Ridhi Dogra will appear together in an upcoming romantic comedy-drama. The project is still in its preliminary stages, with key details yet to be finalized. An insider revealed, “The two will be cast in a romcom drama; the supporting actors are yet to be cast.” The source also noted that the paperwork for the film has been completed, and Khan and Dogra will play romantic interests in the film.

The director’s identity remains undisclosed, and filming has not yet begun. Both Fawad Khan and Ridhi Dogra are currently engaged in other commitments. “The shoot will begin by the end of this year. The makers plan to release the film by next year’s end or the beginning of 2026,” the insider added. The film will not be shot in India but will be filmed in various international locations, including New York and London, to align with the theme of the romcom.

Fawad Khan made his Bollywood debut in 2014 with Khoobsurat, opposite Sonam Kapoor, a role that earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut. He followed this with roles in Kapoor & Sons (2016) and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016).
Upcoming Release of The Legend Of Maula Jatt
In addition to his Bollywood comeback, Fawad Khan’s film The Legend Of Maula Jatt is set to release in India on October 2. This Pakistani blockbuster, which also stars Mahira Khan, became the highest-grossing Pakistani film of 2022. However, its release in India has faced some opposition. Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) supremo Raj Thackeray and leader Amey Khopkar has warned theatre owners in Maharashtra against screening the film, threatening severe consequences if they do. However, the film is set to release only in Punjab.

फवाद खान नावाच्या पाकिस्तानी अभिनेत्याचा, ‘लिजेंड ऑफ मौला जट’ नावाचा सिनेमा लवकरच भारतात प्रदर्शित होणार आहे. महाराष्ट्र नवनिर्माण सेना हा सिनेमा कुठल्याही परिस्थितीत महाराष्ट्रात प्रदर्शित होऊ देणार नाही. पाकिस्तानी कलाकारांचे सिनेमे मुळात भारतात प्रदर्शित का होऊ दिले जातात?…
— Raj Thackeray (@RajThackeray) September 22, 2024

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Fawad Khan’s Pakistani film The Legend Of Maula Jatt to release only in the state of Punjab in India

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