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Collective Artists Network launches AI avatar of Amish Tripathi for digital storytelling slate

Collective Artists Network, on May 4, 2026, announced the launch of an AI-powered avatar of one of India’s most celebrated contemporary authors, Amish Tripathi, marking a significant step in the evolution of culturally-rooted digital storytelling. Amish, who is the fastest-selling author in Indian publishing history, and whose oeuvre has been immersed in Indian traditions and ancient culture, makes an ideal partner for Collective Artists Network content slate. The avatar will anchor a premium short-form content slate for an AI Amish Tripathi channel, developed in collaboration with Collective Artists Network. The slate will focus on history, legends, philosophy, and immersive storytelling, designed to build a distinct, modern content universe that brings timeless Indian narratives to life for today’s audiences. At its core, the initiative aims to create culturally rich, highly watchable intellectual properties that move beyond simple retellings. With Amish Tripathi as the central voic...

Varun Dhawan’s Dugout Dishoom clocks 36.4 million views on Dream11

Actor Varun Dhawan’s cricket-based quiz show Dugout Dishoom has recorded significant viewership during the ongoing Indian Premier League season. Streaming on Dream11, the show has attracted a wide audience, reflecting strong engagement among cricket fans. According to available data, Dugout Dishoom has garnered close to 4 million views per hour across its six episodes so far, taking the cumulative viewership to approximately 36.4 million. The show has also seen peak viewership reach around 7.8 million for an episode, indicating steady interest among viewers tuning in alongside live cricket action. The format of Dugout Dishoom blends cricket trivia with interactive elements, positioning itself as a companion watch during the IPL. Varun Dhawan’s hosting style, which leans towards a conversational and energetic approach, has been a key part of the show’s appeal. The tone of the show aims to recreate a casual viewing experience, connecting with audiences who follow cricket as both sport a...

Jacqueline Fernandez set to return to Cannes Film Festival 2026

Actor Jacqueline Fernandez is expected to attend the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, scheduled to take place from May 12 to May 23, 2026, in France. The actor, who has been a recurring presence at the festival in recent years, is preparing for her appearance on the international red carpet. According to sources, Jacqueline has already begun preparations, which include styling sessions and finalising her wardrobe for the event. Her Cannes outings have often drawn attention for their fashion choices, and similar expectations surround her appearance this year as well. A source close to the development said, “Jacqueline’s Cannes appearances have consistently reflected her evolution as a global personality. Every year, she ensures her presence goes beyond fashion and glamour, carrying India’s representation onto an international stage with elegance and confidence. This year too, she is carefully finalising multiple looks that align with her global image while celebrating her root...

EXCLUSIVE: Awarapan 2 sparks distributor frenzy; Dharma, Zee Studios, AA Films and others meet Mukesh Bhatt for theatrical rights

Awarapan (2007) underperformed at the box office during its theatrical run but went on to achieve cult status over the years, thanks to its unforgettable soundtrack, touching storyline, memorable dramatic and action moments and, of course, Emraan Hashmi in an intense, never-seen-before avatar. As a result, the trade and industry are confident about the prospects of Awarapan 2. Last week, some of the biggest distributors in the Hindi film industry were seen at the Vishesh Films office, keen to acquire the film’s all-India theatrical rights. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “You name it and that distributor was seen at the Vishesh Films office last week – be it Zee Studios, Anil Thadani’s AA Films, Pen Marudhar, Jio Studios, Star Studio18, Cinepolis, etc. That’s not all. Dharma Productions, which now has its own distribution arm, also met Mukesh Bhatt. Lastly, Ananya Birla’s Birla Studios plans to not only produce but also distribute films in the future. Their representative also ...

Janhvi Kapoor receives support from Amaha; company issues strong statement clarifying addiction remarks after podcast clip goes viral

Actor Janhvi Kapoor recently found herself at the centre of online speculation after a segment from her appearance on Raj Shamani’s podcast was circulated out of context. The edited clips led to misleading assumptions that the actress was speaking from personal experience about alcohol addiction. Addressing the growing confusion, mental health organisation Amaha, in collaboration with Off The Rocks, issued an official clarification regarding Kapoor’s role in the conversation. The statement firmly refuted claims that the actress had any personal history of addiction. “We at Off The Rocks & Amaha have noticed certain media pages misrepresenting content associated with this initiative and Janhvi Kapoor. This is deeply concerning. We want to be clear, Janhvi Kapoor is part of this conversation as a caregiver and ally, not as someone who has had any personal experience of addiction or alcohol dependence”, the statement read. It further emphasised the impact of such misinformation, addi...

Diljit Dosanjh calls out Pro-Khalistani group at Canada concert

Diljit Dosanjh recently made headlines during his concert in Calgary, Canada, after addressing a group of attendees waving Khalistani flags at the venue. The singer-actor reportedly asked the group to leave, expressing his discomfort with the display and distancing himself from pro-Khalistani elements during the live performance. The incident unfolded amid ongoing criticism from a section of people who had questioned Diljit for showing respect towards veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan. Responding to these allegations during the concert, Diljit clarified his stance while emphasizing his continued efforts to highlight issues related to Punjab on global platforms. “My job is not to do charity. But whichever platform I go on, I always talk about Punjab”, he said and continued, “We often say national media doesn’t talk about Punjab enough. I went everywhere, including on that channel for the sake of Punjab. I put forth Punjab’s issues there. I’ve even donated generously to my state whenever n...

SHOCKING: India is the ONLY country in the world to award an ‘A’ rating to The Devil Wears Prada 2

Many viewers who ventured to watch The Devil Wears Prada 2 on Friday, May 1, and Saturday, May 2, expected an abundance of skin show, intimacy or violence. This is because the film has been certified ‘A’. However, all such fears were put to rest once patrons exited the theatre; after all, there’s nothing even remotely adult in the film, be it in terms of dialogues, scenes or even theme. Almost everyone is unanimous that The Devil Wears Prada 2 is a family-friendly flick and that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) should have awarded it a U/A, if not a ‘U’, rating. Bollywood Hungama went through the ratings awarded by censor boards across various countries and found that India is the only country where The Devil Wears Prada 2 is restricted to audiences aged 18 and above. In Switzerland, the film is permitted for anyone above the age of 6. Finland, Denmark and Spain permit anyone over 7 to catch the comedy drama. In Ireland, one has to be above 8, while in Belgium and the Ne...