TECH COMPARING

Ganesh Acharya has announced his next directorial, Ganesh Dust To Stardust, unveiling the film’s first poster and an announcement video. The first glimpse introduces the film’s visual world while keeping details about its story and characters under wraps. Written and directed by Ganesh Acharya, the film marks his next project as a filmmaker. The announcement video offers an initial look at the scale and setting of Ganesh Dust To Stardust, using dramatic visuals and an expansive presentation to build curiosity around the project. The first poster also gives a glimpse into the film’s visual identity, while further details about its narrative and characters are yet to be revealed. The makers are expected to announce more information about the cast and the film in the coming days.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by GA (@ganeshacharyaa) Speaking about the film, Ganesh Acharya says, “Ganesh Dust To Stardust is a very special film for me. We have made it with a lot ...

A couple of weeks after the release and surprising box office performance of Haunted – Echoes Of The Past, director Vikram Bhatt and producer Anand Pandit announced that they would join hands for 1920: Cold Winter. A month later, in July 2026, it was reported that Ahan Shetty has signed the horror flick. And now, Bollywood Hungama has come across an interesting information about the film. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Anya Singh, who became widely known after The Ba***ds Of Bollywood, has come on board as the female lead of the film. The makers were impressed by Anya’s screen presence and talent, and felt that she would be apt for the part. Anya is also excited as she has never attempted horror before in Bollywood.” Interestingly, both Ahan Shetty and Anya Singh also shared screen space in this year’s super-hit war film, Border 2. While Ahan played the role of Lt Cdr Mahendra Singh Rawat, Anya was seen as his wife, Sudha Rawat. Hence, 1920: Cold Winter marks the second film in whi...

Sayani Gupta’s directorial debut Aasmani has been cleared of copyright infringement allegations by the Screenwriters Association’s (SWA) Dispute Settlement Committee (DSC). The complaint had been filed against Gupta and editor Paramita Ghosh, alleging similarities between the short film Aasmani and Prabha, an unfinished documentary. After examining the submissions from both sides and carrying out independent expert comparisons, the DSC observed that the two works shared only an underlying idea. According to the committee, the storytelling, character development, conflict and overall story arc were different in the two works. The DSC further noted that copyright law protects the expression of an idea rather than the idea itself. It also took into account that the complainant’s work is a documentary based on the publicly known life of a real person. The committee also referred to a separate defamation suit filed by Gupta against the complainant. The court has reportedly passed an order ...

In a significant development for the Indian film exhibition sector, PVR INOX Limited has proposed to completely discontinue the Virtual Print Fee (VPF) charged to film producers. The proposal has been submitted before the Competition Commission of India (CCI), which has now invited comments, objections and suggestions from the public and industry stakeholders until October 1, 2026. The matter relates to Case No. 42 of 2023 involving The Film and Television Producers’ Guild of India Limited and PVR INOX Limited. In September 2025, the CCI had directed an investigation into alleged contravention of Section 4 of the Competition Act. PVR INOX subsequently filed a commitment application under Section 48B of the Act. As per the non-confidential summary, the CCI had prima facie raised concerns over PVR INOX's continued levy of VPF. Among the allegations were that certain Hollywood and Hindi film producers were not required to pay VPF while others were, that the upfront payment could pose...

Ace still photographer Amit Ashar is working on a book on the life and legacy of legendary cinematographer Ashok Mehta, Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned. The coffee table book traces Mehta’s filmmaking journey and his phenomenal career through a remarkable collection of photographs captured by Ashar over the span of more than three decades. Set to release in late 2026, the book features exclusive, unseen photographs, complemented by personal write-ups from some of Indian cinema's most respected filmmakers and celebrities Mehta has closely worked with. Together, the visuals and words aim to celebrate Mehta’s enduring influence on Indian cinematography and the legacy he has left along. Mehta started off as a runway hooker and ended up as a National Award-winning cinematographer. He was one of the highest-paid technicians of his generation and worked with both art-house and mainstream commercial filmmakers, leaving a distinct visual signature on every project he touched. His...

It’s the year of adult films, it seems. After Dhurandhar The Revenge, Mirzapur, Cocktail 2, Batwara 1947, O'Romeo, Assi, Bandar etc. the two big Hindi releases next week have also received an ‘A’ rating from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Daayra, starring Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran, was passed today, that is, September 11, by the CBFC, with an ‘A’ rating. The length of the film, as per the censor certificate, is 143,16 minutes. In other words, Daayra is 2 hours, 23 minutes and 16 seconds long. The investigative thriller is directed by Meghna Gulzar. Daayra marks Kareena Kapoor Khan's tenth film that will be for adults only. The other 9 films were Ajnabee (2001), Chameli (2003), Dev (2004), Omkara (2006), Kurbaan (2009), Heroine (2012), Udta Punjab (2016), Veere Di Wedding (2018) and The Buckingham Murders (2024). Meanwhile, Vibe was also passed by the CBFC today. The comic caper also received an ‘adults only’ rating from the Censor Board. Acc...

Ameesha Patel’s parents’ residence in Mumbai’s Churchgate area was allegedly targeted in a jewellery theft, with valuables worth around Rs 5 lakh reported missing. Mumbai Police have arrested a 40-year-old domestic worker in connection with the case following a complaint filed by the actress’s mother, Asha Patel. According to IANS, the accused has been identified as 40-year-old Seema Ghate, a resident of Palghar. Ghate had reportedly been working as a domestic helper at the residence of Ameesha’s mother, Asha Patel, for around one and a half years. The alleged theft came to light after Asha Patel approached the Marine Drive police and filed a complaint. According to the police, a bangle was allegedly stolen from the residence in January 2026. Asha reportedly suspected Ghate of being involved in the incident and had allegedly been asking her for around five to six months to admit to the crime and return the jewellery. However, the bangle was allegedly not returned, following which Asha...

The Bombay High Court has passed an interim order in a matter involving Saffron Magicworks Private Limited and the Indian Motion Picture Producers Association (IMPPA). The order was passed by Justice Arif S. Doctor on September 9, 2026, in Interim Application (L) No. 30223 of 2026 in Suit (L) No. 30222 of 2026. The matter came up before the court with lawyers representing the parties. At the outset, Saffron Magicworks’ counsel tendered a draft amendment. The court perused the same and permitted the plaint and Interim Application to be amended in terms of the draft amendment within one week. During the hearing, the counsel appearing for Defendant sought time, stating that he had received instructions to appear in the matter only that morning. However, on instructions, he made a statement before the court that the Defendant would not act on the impugned Award dated July 3, 2026, for a period of two weeks from September 9. The court accepted this statement. Following this, the Bombay Hig...

Punjabi singer and actor Ammy Virk has addressed reports claiming that his convoy came under fire in Canada after returning from a concert in Abbotsford, British Columbia. The reports, which circulated widely on social media, suggested that shots had been fired at a car believed to be part of the actor-singer’s convoy. However, the Abbotsford Police Department clarified that the shooting incident was unrelated to Ammy Virk. According to the police, a vehicle travelling in the 2500 block of McCallum Road was targeted on September 5. Preliminary information indicated that individuals travelling in a dark-coloured SUV fired multiple shots at the victim vehicle. Sharing further details about the incident, the police stated, “AbbyPD patrol officers responded and confirmed that a shooting had occurred. Fortunately, no one was injured in this incident. Shortly after the shooting, AbbyPD officers responded to a report of a vehicle fire in the 2400 block of Sunnyside Place. Upon arrival, offic...

A landmark and exclusive launch, crafted as a tribute to dedication, brought together two big icons in New Delhi today — one at the pinnacle of modern luxury and the other at the pinnacle of cinematic excellence. On this occasion, Ranveer Singh, known as the Ultimate Showman Of India, was introduced as the Brand Ambassador for BMW India — a collaboration that brings a powerful, contemporary resonance to the commanding authority of the 7 Series, true to its ethos of dedication. At the grand event, BMW India launched the much-awaited new BMW 7 Series range in the country, with its Brand Ambassador, Ranveer Singh, unveiling the new range — an iconic coming together of two legends in their respective fields. With his unmistakable aura and magnetic presence, Brand Ambassador Ranveer Singh’s arrival marked a defining moment at the exclusive launch, bringing together his larger-than-life persona and the commanding presence of BMW’s flagship 7 Series. His presence added a prestigious yet elec...

Filmmaker Siddharth P. Malhotra’s upcoming Meena Kumari biopic Kamal Aur Meena has once again drawn attention amid reports about its casting. Saif Ali Khan and Triptii Dimri are reportedly in advanced discussions to play filmmaker Kamal Amrohi and legendary actress Meena Kumari, respectively. However, Malhotra has clarified that the casting details should not be considered official at this stage. Reacting to the reports, the filmmaker acknowledged the interest surrounding the project but asked the media and audiences to wait for a formal announcement. He said the team is currently working on finalising the cast and other aspects of the film. “Absolutely touched and delighted by the love and interest around Kamal Aur Meena. But a humble request to the media: please stop the speculation and unconfirmed reports,” Malhotra said. The director further explained that the team will announce the cast, studio and other details once the necessary agreements have been completed. He also stressed ...

Parineeti Chopra, Anup Soni, Soni Razdan, Jennifer Winget, Tahir Raj Bhasin, Harleen Sethi, Tanya Bami of Netflix, director Rensil D'Silva and producer Siddharth P Malhotra attended the trailer launch of Shaque: Trust No One in Mumbai. The launch started very late, inconveniencing the media. However, Parineeti made up for it with her ever-bubbly appearance and quotes. She revealed how the makers took care of her when she learned, while shooting for the show, that she was pregnant. As a follow-up, Parineeti was asked whether her approach to the show, which is about a mother searching for her child, would have been different had she known beforehand that she was expecting. The actress began by saying, “That’s a great question. To answer your question, maybe. I know there’s been a lot of debate in the industry about women being mothers and how that impacts projects. So, I do want to answer this question responsibly.” Parineeti continued, “Women actors are ‘women humans’. I don’t know...

Netflix has unveiled the trailer of its upcoming mystery thriller Shaque: Trust No One, promising a layered story built around a mother’s nine-year search for her missing child. Starring Parineeti Chopra in her series debut, the show explores trust, suspicion and the secrets that can exist within the closest of relationships. The series will premiere on September 24. At the centre of the story is a mother who refuses to give up on finding her missing child. Driven by instinct and the belief that her child is still out there, her prolonged search gradually leads her towards a truth that appears to have been hidden in plain sight. As the mystery deepens, she is forced to question not only what she knows, but also whether she can trust the people closest to her. Created by Rensil D'Silva and Siddharth P. Malhotra and directed by Rensil D'Silva, Shaque: Trust No One is produced by Sapna Malhotra and Siddharth P. Malhotra and backed by Alchemy Filmz. The series features an ensemble...

Rani Mukerji was honoured with the Raj Kapoor Special Contribution Award at the 62nd Maharashtra State Film Awards ceremony held in Mumbai on Wednesday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis presented the award to the actor in the presence of Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar and members of the film fraternity. The award recognises Rani’s contribution to Indian cinema and her long-standing association with Mumbai and Maharashtra. Born and brought up in Mumbai, the actor has built a career spanning several decades, with films including Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Hum Tum, Bunty Aur Babli, Black, Talaash, Hichki and Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway among her credits. While accepting the honour, Rani spoke about her connection with Maharashtra and described the state as an important part of both her personal and professional journey. She said, "Majhyasathi Maharashtra fakt ek rajya nahi. "Maharashtra majhi janmabhoomi aahe. Majhi karmabhoomi aahe. Ani majhya ayushyacha ek avibhaj...

Akshay Kumar and Vipul Amrutlal Shah’s upcoming sci-fi alien survival-action thriller Samuk is gradually bringing together an interesting ensemble. The latest name reportedly associated with the project is actor Viineet Kumar Siingh. According to sources close to the development, the Mukkabaaz and Gangs of Wasseypur actor is said to be playing a key role in Kanishk Varma’s directorial. While details about the characters and storyline are being kept under wraps, Singh’s reported inclusion adds another intense performer to the film’s cast. “Viineet has a certain rawness and physicality and the director felt he was the perfect choice for this character. His presence brings a different energy to the ensemble, and the part requires an actor who can bring intensity without overplaying it,” reveals a source. The source further adds, “The casting of Samuk is being shaped by a clear creative vision. The makers aren't simply looking at conventional choices; they want performers who can bri...

Punjabi singer and actor Ammy Virk was reportedly caught up in a shooting incident in Canada after his concert in Abbotsford, British Columbia, on September 5. According to a report by Voice Online, multiple shots were fired at a vehicle linked to his convoy. The report, citing Abbotsford Police, stated that initial information suggested people travelling in a dark-coloured SUV fired several shots at the targeted vehicle. Police patrol officers confirmed that a shooting had taken place, although no one was injured in the incident. According to sources cited by the portal, the vehicle that came under fire was bullet-proof. The report further stated that Ammy Virk and the show's promoter were travelling in the vehicle at the time of the incident. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear. The reason for the alleged attack has not been established so far, and there has been no official information linking any individual or group to the incident. Ammy Virk Yet to Comme...

Over the years, Drishyam has grown beyond blockbuster films to become one of Indian cinema’s most loved and celebrated family thriller franchises. Vijay Salgaonkar’s world has kept audiences hooked, sparked endless theories and conversations, and had millions rooting for him every step of the way. Now, with anticipation for the final chapter at an all-time high, the wait is finally over! The much-awaited trailer of Drishyam The Conclusion is here, setting the stage for the biggest battle yet. Ajay Devgn returns as the iconic Vijay Salgaonkar,but this time, Jaideep Ahlawat stands firmly in his way as SP Crime Branch Rajveer Singh Tomar, a formidable new force determined to uncover the truth once and for all. Picking up from where Drishyam 2 left off, Drishyam The Conclusion takes the franchise into thrilling new territory with a fresh story and an entirely new screenplay. As Rajveer Singh Tomar takes charge of the seemingly impossible case, Vijay finds himself facing one of his most re...

Bigg Boss 20 began with an unexpected twist as Rhiya Ahir was eliminated on the grand premiere stage itself on September 6, before she could enter the main house. The elimination was part of the show's special “Fans Ka Faisla” twist, which allowed viewers to decide which of the two contestants would continue their journey. Host Salman Khan announced the result of a live audience poll conducted through the JioHotstar app. Love Gill emerged as the winner, reportedly securing around five lakh more votes than Rhiya. His victory earned him a permanent place in the Bigg Boss 20 house, while Rhiya's journey came to an end before it had even begun. Rhiya Ahir and Love Gill clash on stage Before the voting results were announced, Rhiya and Love Gill engaged in a heated discussion on the premiere stage. Love questioned Rhiya's viral popularity and challenged the narrative surrounding one of her widely discussed incidents.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by JioHotstar...

Filmmaker and actor Tigmanshu Dhulia has shared his views on the storytelling in Dhurandhar duology, questioning the film's plot while discussing what he sees as a growing dependence on familiar templates in the Hindi film industry. Speaking at an event organised by the Editors Guild of India, Dhulia also linked the trend to what he described as “extreme capitalism”. Without commenting on the film's box-office performance, Dhulia questioned whether the basic premise of Dhurandhar qualifies as a story. The Ranveer Singh-led action thriller revolves around an undercover spy who travels to Pakistan and takes on its networks. “But if you ask about his story, you won't be able to tell the story of Dhurandhar. There is a man who is an undercover spy, he goes to Pakistan and creates a ruckus there. This is not a story,” Dhulia said. Tigmanshu Dhulia on changing film templates Dhulia went on to discuss what he believes is a larger problem with contemporary filmmaking. According to...

The controversy surrounding the use of Rajasthani rapper Rapperiya Baalam’s song ‘Shoorveer’ in Mirzapur: The Movie has been addressed after the track’s label, Trouper Records, confirmed that the song was officially licensed to Excel Entertainment for use in the film. The clarification comes shortly after Rapperiya Baalam raised concerns over the song’s inclusion in a sequence featuring gangsters. The artist had alleged that ‘Shoorveer’, which he created as a tribute to Maharana Pratap, was used without his permission or credit.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Trouper Records (@trouper_records) Trouper Records confirms official licensing Amid the questions surrounding the song’s usage and copyright, Trouper Records has clarified that the track was officially licensed to Excel Entertainment for in-film use in Mirzapur: The Movie. The label also congratulated the team behind the film, effectively putting the licensing matter to rest. The clarification address...