Alia Bhatt and Sharvari starrer YRF Spy Universe action drama titled Alpha, shoot commences

Alia Bhatt is on a roll. Fresh off wrapping her upcoming film Jigra, she’s diving headfirst into the high-octane world of espionage with a brand new project titled Alpha under Yash Raj Films’ (YRF) burgeoning spy universe. YRF’s spy universe is already a star-studded affair, boasting established names like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, and Katrina Kaif. Now, Alia is set to carve her niche in this action-packed franchise with a standalone film.  She will be joined by Sharvari Wagh, who is basking in the success of her Rs. 100 crore movie Munjya. And YRF made the official announcement on Friday, June 5.

Bhatt is taking her role as a super soldier very seriously. To portray this formidable character, she’s undergone a rigorous two-month training program with specialists. This dedication extends to the film’s production schedule, as YRF has confirmed that the shoot has officially commenced. The tweet read, “The #ALPHA girls are here.”

The #ALPHA girls are here. pic.twitter.com/shxaYG2h2S
— Yash Raj Films (@yrf) July 5, 2024

While plot details remain tightly guarded, a source revealed that director Shiv Rawail has meticulously planned several fight sequences for the initial leg of filming. The action doesn’t end in Mumbai. The two actresses’ spy mission will take them on a global adventure, with the United Kingdom as their next destination. There, they will be joined by veteran actor Anil Kapoor, who takes on the role of their mentor.

While Alpha promises to be a marquee project for Alia Bhatt, her journey doesn’t stop there. Her upcoming slate includes Vasan Bala’s Jigra releasing in October 2024 and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s much-awaited period drama Love & War slated for Christmas 2025.
ALSO READ: Chic in Denim: Alia Bhatt, Deepika Padukone, Kiara Advani, and Kriti Kharbanda nail the denim look

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Saqib Saleem reveals that Sonakshi Sinha featured in a song in the Salman Khan-starrer Race 3: “It never made it to the final cut”

Sonakshi Sinha was in the news extensively last month after she got married to her long-time boyfriend, Zaheer Iqbal. As expected, her wedding bash was a star-studded one and it kept the social media buzzing. A month before, in May, Sonakshi again hogged the limelight with the acclaim she received for her performance in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s grand web series, Heeramandi. And it seems like if all goes well, Sonakshi Sinha will also be the talking point in the month of July. Kakuda is her first release after marriage and her co-star Saqib Saleem, in an interview, shared some interesting information.

Saqib Saleem revealed that Kakuda was not her first film with Sonakshi Sinha. She had shot for a special dance number for the multi-starrer Race 3 (2018). However, it was axed by the makers.

Saqib Saleem told Mid-Day, “Technically, this is the first time we are sharing screen space, but we had done a song together for Race 3 that never made it to the final cut.” Interestingly, Bollywood Hungama, way back in March 2018, was the first one to break the news that Sonakshi will feature in a song in Race 3. As per our report, the grand number was filmed in the Middle East.

Saqib further said, “Sonakshi is a no-frills actor. She comes on set, performs the minute you say action, and when pack-up is called, she sits in her car and goes back home. She is the most professional actor I have come across. I have tremendous respect for her, even more now that I have worked with her.”

Besides Saqib Saleem and Sonakshi Sinha, Kakuda also stars Riteish Deshmukh. While Sonakshi plays Saqib’s fiancée, Riteish essays the role of a ghost hunter. Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar of Munjya (2024) fame, Kakuda will be released directly on Zee5 on July 12.

Also Read: Saqib Saleem excited for Kakuda amid expectations from Munjya director Aditya Sarpotdar

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Huma Qureshi to headline investigative drama Bayaan; to start filming in Rajasthan

Actor Huma Qureshi has come on board to headline the upcoming investigative police procedural drama Bayaan, award-winning producer Shiladitya Bora announced on Friday. Developed at Film Independent, Los Angeles, Bayaan will be helmed by writer-director Bikas Mishra, best known for his acclaimed feature film Chauranga.

Also starring actors Chandrachur Singh and Sachin Khedekar, Bayaan is set to begin production in Rajasthan, this month. The film is jointly produced by Shiladitya Bora (Platoon One Films), Madhu Sharma (Summit Studios), Kunal Kumar, and Anshuman Singh.

The drama is set against the ravishing landscape of Rajasthan and follows the story of a father-daughter duo. “Roohi, a female detective, is sent to a small town in Rajasthan to probe the first case of her career as a lead investigator. She is, however, doomed to fail as her opponent’s influence runs deep within the system. Roohi must strive to live up to her father’s legacy, who is a legend in the world of law enforcement,” the logline reads.

The film is supported by the International Film Festival Rotterdam’s Hubert Bals Fund and was developed at LA Residency, a part of the Global Media Makers (GMM) program of Film Independent, Los Angeles. During the course of the residency, Bikas was mentored by Craig Mazin (creator of HBO’s Chernobyl, The Last of Us, Hangover 2 and 3) and received advice on the script from writer Jeff Stockwell and story editor Ruth Atkinson.

“The sheer passion of the director-producer duo, Bikas and Shiladitya, moved me,” actor Huma Qureshi said about signing Bayaan.

“Collaborating with such dedicated professionals, who care deeply about filmmaking, is truly exciting. It’s a rare combination: a fantastic script, a talented crew, and their complete dedication to their work. Their energy is infectious. I’m excited about Bayaan!” said Qureshi, known for titles like Anurag Kashyap’s Gangs of Wasseypur and the Netflix Original Monica O My Darling.

Bikas Mishra, known for his debut feature Chauranga, which won the Grand Jury Prize at the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles in 2015 and was declared Best Indian Feature at the Mumbai Film Festival (MAMI) in 2014, said, “I feel humbled by the unconditional support Bayaan has received from Shiladitya and Huma. Having assembled the best cast and crew, there is no stopping now. We are going to make a film that will speak to the world, to tell a story we care a great deal about.”

Producer Shiladitya Bora said a film like Bayaan perfectly aligned with the vision of his production house. “As a producer, I’m always looking for that one script that will be a breakout film for everyone involved. My job is to back the director’s vision and empower him to create a film that will take us places. Huma’s backing reaffirms my faith in the project.”

Producer Shiladitya Bora has earlier backed projects such as Newton (India’s Official Entry to the 2018 Oscars), and Picasso (Prime Video India’s first Marathi direct-to-digital acquisition). His banner, Platoon One Films, is a leading Indian independent film production house that was behind last year’s Berlin Panorama selection Ghaath.

Bayaan boasts a talented crew; three of them, the director, producer, and cinematographer, are alumni of the prestigious Berlinale Talents. Udit Khurana (Ghaath, Netflix’s Hunt for Veerappan) will shoot the film, while Vinay Vishwakarma (Disney-Hotstar’s Candy) will serve as the production designer, and Shilpi Agarwal (Prasanna Vithanage’s Paradise, Netflix’s Indian Predator: Murder in a Courtroom) will serve as the costume designer. Location sound will be done by Amala Popuri (Ghajini, Trial By Fire). The casting is put together by Casting Director Rahul Tanwar. Ashok Sen (Newton, Raazi) will be the First AD, Ratan Sil Sarma will be the Head of Production, with Himanshu Malik as Executive Producer.

The film will also showcase many acclaimed actors in pivotal roles, including Avijit Dutt (Piku), Shampa Mandal (Sonchiriya, Sherni), Priti Shukla, Vibhor Mayank and Aditi Kanchan Singh.

Also Read: Huma Qureshi pens heartfelt note for her Double XL co-stars Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal after their wedding

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BREAKING: Ajay Devgn-Tabu starrer Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha to now release on August 2; CBFC passes two new teasers

On Monday, July 1, Bollywood Hungama was one of the first ones to inform that the Ajay Devgn-Tabu starrer Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, which was all set to release on Friday, July 5, has been postponed. A day later, on July 3, the makers officially announced that they pushed the film’s release at the request of the exhibitors and distribution fraternity. And now, we bring to you the new release date of the musical love story.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha will now be released on August 2. The makers were contemplating to release the film in the second week of July but then, they settled for August 2.” Bollywood Hungama in its Monday article also mentioned that August 2 is one of the dates that the makers are eyeing.

As per sources, Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha was pushed ahead as Kalki 2898 AD, starring Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan, is super-strong and the makers of the former, hence, would have struggled to get sufficient shows.

An exhibitor commented, “August 2 is a good date. Deadpool & Wolverine releases on July 26. Two big films releasing on that day again would not have been ideal.” Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha now clashes with Janhvi Kapoor-starrer Ulajh and Vikrant Massey-starrer The Sabarmati Report.

Meanwhile, Bollywood Hungama has also learned that on July 3, the makers got two teasers certified by the Central Board of Film Certification. It is said that these new promos would carry the revised release date. While one teaser is 45 seconds long, the other has a run time of 46 seconds. Interestingly, the former has been awarded a U/A certificate while the latter received a clean ‘U’ certificate.

Besides Ajay Devgn and Tabu, Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha also stars Jimmy Shergill, Saiee Manjrekar and Shantanu Maheshwari. It is written and directed by Neeraj Pandey and its music is by Oscar-winning music composer M M Kreem.

Also Read: Tabu on her easy equation with Ajay Devgn ahead of Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha release: “Neither of us take each other for granted”

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Maa Kaali teaser: Raima Sen starrer unveils the horrors of Bengal’s past, marking 78 years of Direct Action Day

After nearly eight decades, Karthikeya2 Makers People Media Factory and director Vijay Yelakanti are set to present the erased history of the Direct Action Day, and Naokhali Massacres with Maa Kaali, starring Raima Sen and Abhishek Singh. The makers dropped the teaser for the film, taking the audience back of the Direct Action Day, revealing the brutalities of the massacre in Bengal and how the fire of partition of India was spread from Bengal to the entire British India.

Releasing this year, marking the 78th year of the unfortunate event, Maa Kaali pays homage to the lives sacrificed in the ruthless genocide and uncovers the conspiracy of divide, riots and politics that led to the biggest human crisis of the 20th century, highlighting its lasting effects.

Aiming to present the truth through the lens of a Hindu family reliving the atrocities of the monstrous tragedy, the teaser sheds light on the motive, process and aftermath of the demand for partition of India. The Makers Boldly claim to ‘Unplug the earphones. Let the Truth be Heard, LOUD and CLEAR’ as the teaser starts to play.

Depicting the communal turmoil in the nation and especially in Bengal, the teaser engages the audience with its storyline, impactful dialogues and poignant visuals. From wiping the tikka off little Hindu girls’ foreheads to crashing the idol of Maa Kaali are striking memorable.

Raima Sen said, “Being a Bengali, the story deeply resonates with the atrocities our people faced in the massacre. However, despite being a Bengali, even I was unaware of many details of the heart-rendering event, hence when this film came to me, it became a moral responsibility to narrate the truth of the Direct Action Day.”

IAS turned actor Abhishek Singh shared, “Maa Kaali shares the ordeal of one of the most important and relevant events of our history, yet the details of the monstrous tragedy stay unknown till date. With the film, we aim to create awareness of the genocide that shook the nation.”

Written and directed by Vijay Yelakanti, Maa Kaali is produced by TG Vishwa Prasad, co-produced by Vivek Kuchibhotla and presented by makers of Karthikeya 2 People Media Factory. The pan-Indian film shot in Hindi and will release in Bengali and Telugu as well in theatres in 2024.

Also Read : Bengal’s Darkest Hour: Maa Kaali brings to light the untold story of the 1946 Calcutta Killings

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Karan Johar calls Kill “deep-rooted genre film” ahead of release; pens heartwarming note to express gratitude

Karan Johar’s highly anticipated action film, Kill, is gearing up for its theatrical release on July 5, 2024. Ahead of the release, Karan took to social media to express his appreciation for everyone involved in the project’s journey.

A Thank You Note and Genre Exploration
Through an Instagram story, KJo extended his gratitude on behalf of both Dharma Productions and Sikhya Entertainment. He acknowledged the positive reception the film received online and highlighted his pride in venturing into a new genre.

“We are indebted to everyone for posting and sharing our excitement and energy on this deep-rooted genre film that we are all so proud of! We are grateful to all the outstanding actors and the amazing crew of KILL! We can’t wait for the audience to discover the madness on this midnight express,” Karan wrote.

Having said that, it is worth mentioning here that Dharma Productions, known for its heartwarming family dramas and romantic comedies, has taken a bold step with Kill. This action-packed thriller clocks in at 99 minutes. The film introduces newcomer Lakshya in the lead role and features actors Raghav Juyal and Tanya Maniktala alongside him. Kill’s intense action sequences and focus on violence showcase Dharma Productions’ willingness to experiment with diverse storytelling formats.

Kill follows the story of a commando on a mission to reunite with his girlfriend before her forced marriage. However, his train journey takes a drastic turn when it’s hijacked by a group of criminals, forcing him into a fight for survival.

This project marks the first-ever foray into action for Guneet Monga Kapoor’s Sikhya Entertainment, collaborating with Dharma Productions on the film’s production. Directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, Kill has not only garnered positive buzz for its trailer but has also achieved a notable feat for a Bollywood film. It is estimated to be screened on over 1000 screens across North America, a first for a Hindi movie.

Also Read: Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor steal the show at Kill premiere with ‘Bawaal’ reunion

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Javed Akhtar buys property in Juhu for Rs 7.76 crores: Report

Veteran screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar has further expanded his property holdings in Mumbai’s affluent Juhu neighbourhood. According to documents accessed by SquareYards.com, Akhtar recently acquired a ready-to-move-in apartment for Rs 7.76 crore.

Details of Javed Akhtar’s New Property
The newly purchased apartment offers approximately 1199.42 square feet of living space. The transaction, finalised on July 2, included a stamp duty of Rs 46.02 lakh and a registration fee of Rs 30,000. The specific location of the property is the Sagar Samrat Building, a well-known complex in Juhu known for its high-end residences and celebrity residents.
A Peek Into Javed Akhtar’s Properties
This purchase marks Akhtar’s second property acquisition in Juhu within the past two years. In 2021, he reportedly purchased an adjoining apartment within the same cooperative housing society for Rs 7 crores. Interestingly, Akhtar currently resides in a separate apartment on a different floor within this same society.
Javed Akhtar Put His Dream House Plans on Hold
In a previous interview with Mojo Story, Akhtar discussed his Juhu properties and his ongoing project to build his dream house in the area. However, due to the lengthy construction process, he revealed that he currently resides in a smaller two-room apartment with his wife, actress Shabana Azmi. Akhtar jokingly mentioned that while disagreements over home decor could potentially cause marital strain, they have a knack for resolving such issues.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Chandu Champion writer Sumit Arora talks about Javed Akhtar’s touching feedback: “I’ve taken a screenshot of this message and will cherish it for the rest of my life”

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Shah Rukh Khan starrer action extravaganza Jawan set to take Japan by storm on November 29, 2024; Hideo Kojima shares poster

Nearly a year after captivating audiences worldwide, Shah Rukh Khan’s action film Jawan is poised for a grand release in Japan. The movie, directed by Atlee, will premiere on November 29, 2024, distributed by Twin, a company well-versed in bringing Indian cinema to Japanese audiences.

The excitement for Jawan’s Japanese debut is evident in the announcement of early ticket sales. Starting July 5, a full five months before the premiere, fans can secure their spots to witness the action unfold. Adding to the excitement, reports suggest that those who purchase tickets in advance will receive exclusive posters featuring Shah Rukh Khan from the popular song ‘Chaleya’. Japanese game designer Hideo Kojima also shared the poster of the film.

pic.twitter.com/i0KyrluOI7
— HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) July 3, 2024

Jawan marks a significant milestone for both Shah Rukh Khan and director Atlee. It stands as Atlee’s directorial debut in Bollywood, and his first-time collaboration with the King of Romance himself. The film is a visual spectacle, boasting action sequences choreographed by a team from Hollywood, ensuring a high-octane experience.

The news of Jawan’s Japan premiere comes amidst the echoes of Shah Rukh Khan’s previous blockbuster, Pathaan. The film garnered immense praise from Japanese game designer Hideo Kojima, who lauded it as “pure entertainment” and a high-octane experience.

Having shattered box office records upon its global release in 2023, it secured the coveted title of the year’s highest-grossing Indian movie, accumulating a staggering Rs. 1,148 crore worldwide.

Produced under the banner of Red Chillies Entertainment by Gauri Khan and Gaurav Verma, Jawan boasts a star-studded cast alongside Shah Rukh Khan.  Nayanthara, Vijay Sethupathi, Deepika Padukone, Priyamani, and Sanya Malhotra. Shah Rukh Khan plays a dual role, essaying both father and son united in their fight against corruption.
ALSO READ: Shah Rukh Khan to receive Honorary Leopard Achievement Award at Locarno Film Festival 2024; Devdas to be screened & actor to attend a panel

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Justin Bieber arrives in Mumbai for Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s wedding festivities

Pop sensation Justin Bieber has arrived in Mumbai to perform at the wedding festivities of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. The Canadian singer, known for hits like  ‘Baby’ and ‘Sorry’, was spotted by paparazzi as he touched down in the city, ready to join the star-studded celebrations.

Excitement builds for Bieber’s performance

Reports suggest that Bieber will be performing at the couple’s Sangeet ceremony, alongside Indian rapper Badshah and other renowned artists. The anticipation for his performance is palpable, adding a global flair to the already extravagant event.

Traditional pre-wedding festivities begin

The pre-wedding festivities kicked off with the traditional mameru ceremony at Antilia, the Ambani family’s luxurious Mumbai residence. This Gujarati tradition involves the maternal uncle of the bride visiting with sweets and gifts. Bollywood celebrities, including Janhvi Kapoor and Manushi Chhillar, were seen attending the event, adding to the glamour.

Global stars rumoured to perform

Following performances by Rihanna, Diljit Dosanjh, and Katy Perry at earlier pre-wedding events, an India Today report hints at the possibility of Adele, Drake, and Lana Del Rey also being in talks to perform during the wedding festivities. This lineup, if confirmed, would make Anant and Radhika’s wedding one of the most star-studded events of the year.

The excitement surrounding the wedding continues to build, with fans eagerly awaiting more details and performances from their favourite global artists.

Also Read: Justin Bieber shares wife Hailey Bieber’s pregnancy photos, shows off her baby bump

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Rajkummar Rao and Medha Shankar to star in action flick Maalik from Bhakshak director Pulkit; film goes on floors in September: Report

Rajkummar Rao is known for taking on nuanced and often challenging roles. However, his filmography has so far lacked a full-fledged action thriller.  That’s all set to change with his upcoming movie, Maalik. His sole foray into the action genre so far was the 2022 film Hit: The First Case. Maalik marks a significant departure from his usual territory, presenting him in a “hardcore action fare” helmed by director Pulkit, known for his work on Bhakshak. Medha Shankar, who garnered critical acclaim for her role in the 2023 film 12th Fail, has been cast as the female lead opposite Rao.

According to a report in Mid-day, sources revealed that Rao has enthusiastically agreed to take on the lead role in Maalik. The film is described as a “natural extension” of Rao’s desire to experiment with a new image. A source close to the project explains, “While Raj has carved a niche for himself with his solid performances, he hasn’t developed the image of a hero of the masses. With his next few films, he wants to explore that space.”

The report further revealed that Maalik is an “emotion-driven, action entertainer” who will showcase Rao in a completely new light. The role will require him to perform “high-octane stunts,” a stark contrast to his usual dramatic performances. To prepare for the physical demands of the character, Rao has reportedly begun working on building a more muscular physique.

As for Medha Shankar, the report describes the character as “a soft, intelligent and sensitive actor who would be the perfect foil to Raj’s character.”

Shooting for Maalik is expected to begin in September and will take place in Lucknow and Varanasi, as the story unfolds in those locations. Director Pulkit aims to complete filming within a “three-month start-to-finish schedule.”
ALSO READ: Bad Newz trailer has Katrina Kaif, Tiger Shroff, Rajkummar Rao, Ayushmann Khurrana, Ranbir Kapoor, but not how you think

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