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Showing posts from October, 2024

No more Nandu! End of an era as CBFC discontinues Akshay Kumar’s anti-smoking ad after more than 6 years

In 2012, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare along with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting mandated that films depicting smoking scenes need to play anti-smoking ads before the beginning of the film and after the intermission point. The first ad that came into play involved a man named Mukesh Harane who died at a young age due to cancer caused by tobacco consumption. The ads changed at regular intervals and in 2018, the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) instructed that an ad, featuring Akshay Kumar and Ajay Singh Pal, be shown in films with smoking scenes. This ad proved to be an exception as unlike other previous ads, this ad wasn’t taken down after a certain point in time. Sadly, after six years, the much popular ad has been replaced. Bollywood Hungama has learned that last month, a decision was taken to discontinue Akshay Kumar’s anti-smoking ad by CBFC. It was replaced by a new ad, showing how quitting tobacco can lead to positive changes in your body with

What Reliance Industries Limited’s interest means for Dharma Productions – A look at the financial Ups and Downs at the production house

Dharma Productions, one of India's leading film production houses, has caught the attention of Reliance Industries Limited, which is reportedly in talks to take a stake in the company. This possible acquisition comes at a time when Dharma Productions has experienced significant financial fluctuations over the past few years. In FY 2021-22, the company faced a sharp decline in net profits, down by 59% to Rs. 11 crores. This drop was largely driven by high operational expenses, which reached Rs. 1,028 crores. Despite this, the company managed to generate Rs. 19 crores from distribution, Rs. 167 crores from the sale of digital rights, Rs. 34 crores from satellite rights, and Rs. 21 crores from music rights, making up a total revenue of Rs. 278 crores. Fast forward to FY 2022-23, Dharma Productions saw a substantial recovery. Its revenues soared to Rs. 1,044 crores, driven by Rs. 656 crores from distribution rights, Rs. 140 crores from digital rights, Rs. 83 crores from satellite rig

Dia Mirza appointed as Jury to Champion Environmental Cinema with ALT EFF 2024: "The power of cinema to evoke empathy..."

The All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALT EFF) is back with its 2024 edition, scheduled to take place from November 22 to December 8. A total of 72 films will be showcased this year, with 38 making their India premieres. The festival, which has quickly become one of the most anticipated events for environmentally conscious cinema, promises a diverse selection of films highlighting critical environmental issues, ranging from climate change to wildlife conservation. What makes this year’s edition truly special is ALT EFF’s mission to take these thought-provoking films beyond traditional venues. For the first time, screenings will be held in metro cities and 55 locations in small towns and villages across India over the festival period. This will be in addition to 45 screenings taking place in 14 tier-1 cities. This effort aims to bring environmental awareness at various grassroots levels, ensuring that conversations around environmental protection and sustainability reach e

Alia Bhatt drops major update on Jee Le Zaraa as she confirms Priyanka Chopra, Katrina Kaif starrer is NOT shelved; says, “Everybody wants the film to happen”

Alia Bhatt, Priyanka Chopra, and Katrina Kaif announced a first-of-its-kind collaboration with Excel Entertainment titled Jee Le Zaraa, sparking much excitement among fans. Although this film was announced about three years ago, there has been no progress on it, leaving many to believe that it may possibly be shelved permanently. But let us tell you that Alia has dropped a major update on the movie recently during Jigra promotions and has maintained a positive approach asserting that the film will be made eventually. Alia Bhatt confirmed in a statement that everyone involved in the project is striving to make it happen and eventually when the schedules of all actors come together, the film will definitely take off. In an interaction with Lallantop, Alia said, “There is no schedule right now, no shoot day. Definitely hogi (it will happen). It’s a film that everybody, jo bhi key players hai uss film mein (whoever are the key players in the film) - actors, producers, directors - everybod

Baba Siddique Shot Dead: Lawrence Bishnoi's gang claims responsibility for Baba Siddique's murder; security tightened outside Salman Khan's residence following the viral threat post

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique was shot and killed on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Lawrence Bishnoi's gang has since claimed responsibility for the murder. A viral Facebook post by a gang member indicated that the killing was linked to Siddique’s associations with Bollywood actor Salman Khan and underworld figures Dawood Ibrahim and Anuj Thapan. The post mentioned, “Salman Khan hum ye jung nahi chahate they, parantu tumne humare bhai ka nuksan karaya hai.” The post read, “Om Jai Shri Ram, Jai Bharat. I understand the essence of life; I consider the body and wealth as mere dust. The only good deed was fulfilling my duty of friendship. Salman Khan, we did not want this war, but you harmed our brother... Today, Baba Siddique's so-called decency is silent, though at one time he was linked to Dawood under the MCOCA Act. His death is tied to his connections between Anuj Thapan, Dawood, Bollywood, politics, and property dealings.”

Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Shilpa Shetty mourn the demise of Baba Siddiqui; Riteish Deshmukh, Shamita Shetty pen heartfelt notes

Baba Siddique, one of the most respected political figures in Maharashtra who has served as the MLA in the suburban Bandra constituency in Mumbai for three years along with being the Minister of Food and Civil Supplies, and Labour, passed away in a shocking incident on Saturday, October 12. The 66-year-old politician succumbed to gun shot wounds fired by three attackers on the eve of Saturday outside the office of his son Zeeshan, who is also the MLA of Bandra East. Meanwhile, many Bollywood celebrities and politicians who were shocked to hear the news expressed their grief on social media. Riteish Deshmukh took to the social media platform to express his condolences and also demanded justice for Siddique’s family. Readers would be aware that Riteish’s late father and former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Vilasrao Deshmukh has shared a great bond with the late Siddiqui. Riteish penned a note saying, “Extremely saddened and shocked beyond words to learn about the tragic demise of Shri

Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Vala Video director Raaj Shaandilyaa apologizes for ‘unauthorized’ use of content from Stree 2 after being heavily trolled

The recently released Rajkummar Rao, Triptii Dimri starrer Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Vala Video, despite its 90s ‘clean’ comedy entertainment, came under the scanner for a completely different reason. The film faced backlash after picking up content from the highly successful horror comedy Stree 2 which also featured Rao along with Shraddha Kapoor. Now, after trolls started heavily targeting the comedy set in the 90s, filmmaker Raaj Shaandilyaa have taken to social media to issue a statement of apology. On October 12, Saturday, Raaj Shaandilyaa along with the entire team of producers of Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Vala Video took to the social media platform X to share a note where they have apologized for ‘unauthorized’ use of content from Stree 2. “I Raaj Shaandilyaa the director of the film “Vicky Vidya ka Woh Wala Video” on behalf of myself and on behalf of Super Cassettes Ind. Pvt. Ltd., Balaji Motion Pictures and Wakaoo Films, the producers of the film, extend our sincere and unconditional apol

Sharvari set to make her debut as a showstopper for Pankaj and Nidhi at Lakme Fashion Week

Sharvari has had quite the year in 2024 after receiving after the stupendous success of Munjya. The actress also received appreciation for her power-packed role as the titular character in Vedaa as well as for her brief but impactful performance in Maharaj.  With the actress also having several big entertainers up in the pipeline, the new star is now keen on making a grand ramp debut. Recent buzz is that Sharvari is all set to sashay down the ramp for one of India’s much respected fashion designers Pankaj and Nidhi on Day 4 of the Lakme Fashion Week in Delhi. On October 12, Saturday, the actress is expected to turn showstopper for the popular designers and she couldn’t be more excited as she expressed, “I‘m truly thrilled to be walking as the showstopper for India’s favourite couture designers Pankaj & Nidhi. To debut on the runway of one of the biggest fashion shows of India for these two iconic names is a dream come true moment for me. Celebrated for their fresh & crisp sens

After 6 years of Tumbbad, Sohum Shah announces his next titled CRAZXY

The re-release of Sohum Shah's Tumbbad has left everyone astonished with its phenomenal success at the box office. The film received appreciation for seamlessly bringing together a thrilling mix of folklore and intrigue along with cutting-edge storyline and it was known for being a grand visual spectacle. Remarkably, on its 6th anniversary, the makers have made an exciting announcement of their next project, titled CRAZXY, starring Sohum Shah. Taking to social media, the makers of Tumbbad including Sohum Shah, shared the new motion poster of their upcoming film, CRAZXY on the occasion of Dussehra, on October 12. Directed and written by Girish Kohli, featuring Sohum Shah as the protagonist, the makers unveiled an impressive and intriguing poster which once promises to be another visual spectacle. The makers, we hear, have moved to the other end of the spectrum and were keen on presenting a film whose poster is thrilling, edgy, new age and something incredibly innovative. They capt

Anil Sharma announces his next film Vanvaas on Dussehra, after of Gadar success

Zee Studios and Anil Sharma have produced films such as Gadar: Ek Prem Katha and Gadar 2, and now they are set to release a new film titled Vanvaas. Director Anil Sharma announced this project following the success of Gadar 2. The announcement was made on Dussehra, providing a glimpse into the story that explores themes of duty, honor, and the consequences of one’s actions. Taking to social media, the makers shared an announcement video, offering a first glimpse of  ‘Apne Hi Apno Ko Dete Hai: Vanvaas,’ capturing the film's fervor with enthralling visuals and a mind-blowing BGM. The video also captured the Ram Ram song that further takes us in it's divine world and is sure sure to rule the hearts of the audience with it's release. They further added the caption, “Kahani zindagi ki..... Kahani jazbaat ki. Kahani apno ke vishwaas ki! Pure parivaar ke sang dekhiye parivaar ki film, #Vanvaas, coming soon in theatres near you. Aap sabhi ko Dussehra ki hardik shubhkamnayein.”  

REVEALED: Ajay Singh Pal aka Nandu of Akshay Kumar’s popular anti-smoking ad CONFESSES that he smokes in real life occasionally over drinks

He’s an actor who appears the maximum time on screen throughout the year. We are talking about Ajay Singh Pal, who plays Nandu, in the famous anti-smoking ad that also features Akshay Kumar. He made some interesting remarks when he interacted recently with Mayank Shekhar of Mid-Day. Ajay Singh Pal revealed that women recognize him instantly more than men. The reason why the latter doesn't recognize him easily, he said that's because "men are always stuck in zindagi ke kashmakash". He further said that people also get confused seeing him and they wonder if he's Nandu. And if indeed he is, why is he in Bhopal. In the same interview, he was asked whether he smokes in real life. Interestingly, he replied that he does. He said, "(I smoke) Very, very occasionally, with close friends, over jaam. I will never do it in public." The other interesting bit revealed by Ajay is that he hates shooting reels and being made to repeat his lines from the iconic ad. In 2

70th National Film Awards: Mithun Chakraborty honoured with Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recalls his journey: “I was told ‘film industry meing kaala rang nahin chalega’”

Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, on Tuesday, was presented with the esteemed Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the film industry. This prestigious accolade, regarded as the highest honour in Indian cinema, was bestowed upon him by President Droupadi Murmu during the 70th National Film Awards ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan. Mithun Chakraborty shared a heartfelt reflection on his journey in the entertainment sector. The veteran star, who has also received the Padma Bhushan for his significant impact on the arts, opened up about the challenges he faced, particularly regarding the prejudice he experienced as a person with darker skin. Recalling those difficult moments, he stated, “I was told 'film industry meing kaala rang nahin chalega'. Jitna apmaan ho sakta tha, hua [I was told there's no place for dark-skinned actors like me in the film industry. They humiliated me as much as they could],” he said. Despite the negativity, Mithun found s

Jigra Advance Booking: Alia Bhatt starrer sells approx. 20,000 tickets for Day 1

The Vasan Bala-directed Jigra led by Alia Bhatt and Vedang Raina is headed to take a slow start at the box office in India. As of Thursday at 7 PM, Jigra has sold around 20,000 tickets across the top three national chains - PVRInox and Cinepolis - and is looking at a final advance booking in the range of 27,000 tickets to 30,000 tickets. With this advance, the first-day business of Jigra is looking in the range of Rs. 5 to 6 crore, which is low for an action film with Alia Bhatt in the lead. However, Jigra seems to be a high-on-content film, and with a positive word of mouth, the tables can turn over the weekend with big jumps on Saturday and Sunday. Jigra is directed by Vasan Bala, who is making a big film for the big screen for the first time. His last release was Monica O My Darling for Netflix. The advance booking of Jigra will be in the same range as Bhediya, Cirkus, and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya to name some in the national chains, however, it's not a good story in t

Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video Advance Booking: Rajkummar Rao film sells approx. 16,000 tickets for Day 1

The Rajkummar Rao and Triptii Dimri film, Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa and produced by Bhushan Kumar has sold around 16,000 tickets across the national multiplex chains for Day 1. As per estimates, the film will be looking to close with advance booking of around 23,000 tickets by mid-night. The first-day business of Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video is expected to be around Rs. 4.50 crore to 5.50 crore, and the mass belt business is expected to be better than the urban areas due to the genre. Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video will benefit from the Dussehra holiday on Saturday, and then jump further on Sunday. Being a mass comedy, the scope to grow in the holiday season is higher than the competition, however, it's a must for the content to land in the right direction. from Box Office Special Features - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/PqEN2wS https://ift.tt/xlOZN0R

Box Office Predictions: Jigra and Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video to see combined opening of around Rs. 15 cr

Two absolutely distinct films release this Friday - Jigra and Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video. Former is a serious escape drama with action whereas latter is a fun film, albeit with a naughty subject. The Alia Bhatt starrer has a more upscale theme and target audience whereas Rajkummar Rao led film is catering to aam junta in smaller towns and cities. Vasan Bala has seemingly made a film which focuses on performance and intensity whereas Raaj Shaandilyaa is aiming at fun and laughter. All of this means that at premium multiplexes at major urban centres, Jigra will take a lead. On the other hand, at major single screens and in the interiors, Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video will have an edge. Alia Bhatt is of course a major star and that will fetch her quite some eyeballs. As for Rajkummar Rao, he is on a winning run after Srikanth & Stree 2 and would be aiming at scoring a hattrick. Presence of Tripti Dimri and a couple of popular songs does help the film’s cause as well. As a result,

SCOOP: Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 trailer to be out on October 9

Bollywood Hungama was one of the first ones to inform fans that the teaser of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 would be unveiled on September 27. And now, we bring you an update on when the much-awaited trailer of the horror comedy will be out. As per the latest update, the theatrical trailer will be released in a few days from now. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Initially, the plan was to bring the trailer on Sunday, October 6. But now, the makers have decided to launch the promo on October 9. It will have the ingredients to excite the audience – horror, comedy, drama, romance and grandeur. It’s a well-mounted film, fit for a theatrical viewing and that will be reflected in the trailer.” There are also murmurs that the theatrical trailer will be launched in a grand fashion in the city of Jaipur, Rajasthan but there’s no clarity on this aspect as yet. Reports, meanwhile, also state that the trailer of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is more than 3 minutes long. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 brings back Kartik Aaryan and

Govinda discharged from hospital after bullet injury, leaves on wheelchair: “Aisa laga ki yeh kya ho gaya”

Actor Govinda found himself hospitalized after sustaining a gunshot injury early Tuesday morning. On October 4, the actor was discharged and was recently spotted leaving the medical facility, much to the relief of his fans. His wife, Sunita Ahuja, provided an update on his condition, addressing reporters gathered outside the hospital in Juhu, Mumbai. Speaking to the media, Sunita expressed gratitude for the support and well-wishes from fans, stating, “With everyone's blessings, he has completely recovered. He has a lot of fans everywhere. We are praying for him everywhere, in the temple, in the dargah. With everyone's blessings, he is completely fine. I would like to say to the fans, don't panic. He is completely fine. After a few months, he will start dancing again. Thank you so much.” The unfortunate accident reportedly occurred while Govinda was tidying up his closet. While cleaning, he accidentally discharged his firearm, which led to the injury to his foot. According

SCOOP: Theatrical trailer of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 to be unveiled on October 6

Bollywood Hungama was one of the first ones to inform fans that the teaser of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 would be unveiled on September 27. And now, we bring to you an update on when the much-awaited trailer of the horror comedy will be out. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The trailer will be out on Sunday, October 6. It will be unveiled at a grand event, which will be graced by the entire cast of the film, comprising Kartik Aaryan, Triptii Dimri, Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit along with director Anees Bazmee and the producers. The star cast of the film is exciting and to see all of them together would add to the hype for the film. Since it’s a fun-filled entertainer, the event will also have the actors indulging in a lot of fun and masti.” On Wednesday, September 25 and Thursday, September 26, the makers unveiled teaser posters of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 followed by the teaser on September 27. The source added, “Once the trailer is out, the promotions exercise will hit top gear and soon, the mak

Shefali Shah, Huma Qureshi, and Rasika Dugal begin shooting for Delhi Crime 3: Report

The production of Delhi Crime 3 has officially commenced, as per a report in Hindustan Times. The show features a stellar cast that includes Shefali Shah, Huma Qureshi, and Rasika Dugal. Following reports of Huma joining the ensemble, insiders have confirmed that filming began in Greater Noida about ten days ago. This marks a significant milestone for the series, which has garnered critical acclaim in its previous seasons. Filming locations and schedule According to Hindustan Times source, the decision to kick off shooting in the capital was deliberate. Although the initial plan was to start in early September, the team awaited Huma's availability. Currently, the cast is working on a variety of scenes, capturing dynamic shots in police stations, havelis, and local roads in Greater Noida. Notably, the previous seasons featured similar locations, which helps maintain continuity in the series’ gritty narrative. Following the Greater Noida schedule, the team plans to transition to va

Govinda REACTS after misfire accident: “I was hit by a bullet, but it has been extracted”

Veteran Bollywood actor Govinda was rushed to a Mumbai hospital after suffering a bullet wound early this morning. The 60-year-old actor sustained the injury below his knee when his licensed revolver was accidentally discharged. The incident occurred around 4:45 am at his Juhu residence as he was preparing to leave for the airport to catch a flight to Kolkata for a scheduled performance. According to his manager, Shashi Sinha, Govinda was alone at the time of the incident. He was placing his revolver in a cupboard when it slipped, causing the firearm to misfire and injure his leg. The actor immediately contacted his wife, Sunita Ahuja, who was in Kolkata, and his manager. Police were informed and quickly arrived at his home to transport him to Criticare Hospital, where he is currently being treated. Govinda’s Condition Stable, Fans Receive Reassurance Following the incident, Govinda recorded an audio message from his hospital bed, thanking his fans for their support and prayers. Speak

Govinda suffers bullet injury; gets admitted to the hospital

Actor-politician Govinda, who has been dabbling with several films recently, was shot in his leg, as per latest reports. The actor, who is known for his impeccable comic timing, sustained bullet injuries on Tuesday morning and is currently admitted to a private hospital in Mumbai. However, these reports suggest that it was an accident that occurred in his residence when he was cleaning his weapons. The actor was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital where he has been undergoing treatment currently. Reports reveal that  the actor was supposed to take a flight in the wee hours of October 1 and the incident occurred in dawn. He was said to be taken to the hospital around 5:15 am. In an ANI report, the incident was described in detail wherein it said that the actor was prepping to leave Kolkata. After cleaning, he was placing his licensed revolver in its case but it accidentally slipped and discharged a bullet which ended up wounding his leg. Confirming the details, his manager Shashi