TECH COMPARING

Salman Khan's brother, Sohail Khan, who has been staying away from films for several years, recently grabbed headlines with his participation in the television reality competition show Alliance. Although his journey on the Kunal Kemmu-hosted show came to an end ahead of its August 7 finale, Sohail is now looking to revive his filmmaking career. Bollywood Hungama has learned that Sohail is gearing up for his next directorial venture. The actor-filmmaker is working on a romantic comedy that will star Aayush Sharma and Sanjay Dutt in the lead roles. Sohail has been developing the project since last year and was actively working on the script before joining Alliance. He had initially planned to take the film on floors earlier this year, but it couldn't move forward due to budgetary challenges. Sources say Sohail is now reviving the project with renewed focus and aims to begin production by the end of this year. The yet-untitled film will mark Sohail's return to the director...

Filmmaker Atlee has reportedly added another landmark investment to his growing portfolio by purchasing a luxurious sea-facing apartment worth approximately Rs 38 crores in Mumbai's upscale Bandra locality. The reported acquisition comes at a time when the director is gearing up for his much-awaited action fantasy film Raaka, starring Allu Arjun and Deepika Padukone. According to a report by Filmibeat, the premium residence is situated in one of Bandra's most sought-after high-rise residential towers and offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The location is known for housing several celebrities from the entertainment industry, placing the Jawan director among some of Bollywood's biggest names. The report states that the lavish apartment is equipped with several high-end features and modern conveniences. These reportedly include advanced security systems, private elevator access, designer interiors with custom-made furniture, and expansive deck-style balconies overlook...

Actor Rajpal Yadav has reportedly suffered another setback in his long-running financial troubles. According to a report by NDTV, two of the actor's properties in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, are set to be auctioned by the Central Bank of India as part of efforts to recover outstanding loan dues of over Rs 16.61 crores. The latest development comes as the actor's cheque-bounce case remains unresolved. Bank initiates auction process As per the report, the Central Bank of India, Mumbai, has issued official auction notices for two properties owned by Rajpal Yadav. One property is located in Shahjahanpur city, while the other is situated in a nearby village. The auction is scheduled to take place online on September 9. The report states that the actor owes the bank Rs 16.61 crores and Rs 64,000, while the combined value of the two properties is estimated to be around Rs 3.19 crores. Loan linked to Aata Pata Lapata According to the report, Rajpal Yadav had taken the loan to finance...

Has the winner of Lock Upp Season 2 been accidentally revealed even before the finale streams? That is the question fans have been asking after a latest comment made by actor Harshad Chopda about finalist Shreya Kalra went viral on social media. Following the completion of the reality show's finale shoot, contestants and participants interacted with the media at a press conference. During one such interaction, Harshad Chopda was asked about Shreya Kalra and her journey on the show. While sharing his thoughts, the actor appeared to refer to her as the "winner", triggering widespread speculation that he may have inadvertently revealed the result ahead of the official finale. Speaking about Shreya, Harshad said, “Who am I to judge her. From the start I have only had one complaint with her. I have always told her ‘You are very passionate. The only thing I feel you lack is compassion.’ But winner is a winner is a winner.” Harshad accidentally revealed that Shreya is the winne...

Rumours have been swirling over the past few days that Shah Rukh Khan is set to feature in a cameo in Allu Arjun and Atlee's highly anticipated Raaka, with several reports even claiming that his portions would be shot overseas. However, these reports appear to be nothing more than speculation. Bollywood Hungama can confirm that Raaka does not feature a cameo by Shah Rukh Khan. Sources close to the project have clarified that SRK was never even approached, as there is no such cameo role in the film. "Atlee shares a great rapport with Shah Rukh, and he would certainly love to work with him again, but the reports about his cameo in Raaka are baseless," a source told us. The production of Raaka has been progressing in full swing across multiple short schedules. An action-packed schedule was completed just last week, and the next leg begins tomorrow in Mumbai, where Allu Arjun and Deepika Padukone will film some pivotal sequences. Atlee and the team are reportedly prioritizin...

The paid preview trend has significantly picked up for Bollywood this year. It began with Dhurandhar The Revenge, which did record business in the previews. This was followed by Bhooth Bangla. The other Akshay Kumar release, Welcome To The Jungle, also had paid previews; both films earned well in the pre-release screenings. Last month saw Baby Do Die Do having paid previews on Thursday, July 2, a day before its full-fledged release. And now, the next film to jump into the bandwagon in Ohh My Dog. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “The distributors informed the theatres across the country today that they can schedule paid previews of Ohh My Dog on the night of Thursday, August 6, that is, a day before its full-fledged release on Friday, August 7. The cinemas have been asked to make sure that the shows are held between 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm. Accordingly, certain cinemas have already commenced the bookings for the previews.” Interestingly, tickets for paid previews are usually on the...

Malaika Arora has expanded her luxury car collection with the addition of a brand-new Mahindra Thar Roxx, a premium SUV priced at nearly Rs. 28 lakhs for its higher variants. A video of the actress taking delivery of the vehicle has surfaced on social media, capturing the special moment as she welcomed the SUV with a traditional puja ceremony outside her Mumbai residence. The clip, which has been widely shared by paparazzi accounts on Instagram, shows the Mahindra Thar Roxx arriving at Malaika's home. Surrounded by a small gathering, the actress is seen performing customary rituals before taking possession of the vehicle. The puja, a common practice followed during the purchase of new vehicles in India, is believed to seek blessings and protect against the evil eye before the vehicle is driven for the first time. The Mahindra Thar Roxx has emerged as one of the most sought-after SUVs in the country since its launch in 2024. Introduced as the five-door version of the iconic Thar, t...

Yash Raj Films (YRF), one of India's leading entertainment studios, today announced the launch of Raah Records, a new music company and incubator created to discover, develop and support original artists while helping them build long-term creative careers beyond film music. For over five decades, YRF has helped shape Indian music through some of cinema's most enduring soundtracks. Raah Records extends that legacy into India's rapidly evolving music ecosystem by bringing together artist development, original music creation and long-term career building under one dedicated platform. Speaking about the launch, Akshaye Widhani, CEO, Yash Raj Films, said: "Raah Records represents an important strategic expansion of Yash Raj Films' music business. For over five decades, we have believed in identifying exceptional talent and creating platforms where creativity can thrive. As India's independent music ecosystem enters a defining phase of growth, we believe great artis...

Optimystix Entertainment is ready to enter a new phase as it is set to come up with its public issue on August 7. For Vipul D Shah, Founder and Chairman, Optimystix Entertainment, this represents both a moment of pride and a much larger responsibility. “Optimystix has been built over more than 25 years, from producing some of India’s most successful television programmes to expanding into Films, OTT, animation and digital content. Personally, it is gratifying to see a company that we started with a strong creative ambition now preparing to enter the public markets. At the same time, a public listing is not a destination; it is the beginning of a new phase. It brings greater accountability, transparency and responsibility towards a much wider group of stakeholders,” he said. Rajesh Bahl, Co-Founder and Group CEO, Optimystix Entertainment, said, “The milestone gives us an opportunity to unlock the capability, credibility and relationships we have built over the last two-and-a-half decad...

Punjabi singer-songwriter Guru Randhawa has contributed Rs 5 lakhs from his personal funds towards emergency relief efforts for flood-affected communities in Upper Assam. The contribution has been channelled through digital creator Dimpu Baruah, who is currently leading on-ground relief operations in some of the state's worst-hit regions. The donation comes as Assam continues to recover from devastating floods. According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority, the floods had claimed 82 lives as of August 2, 2026, while around 1.78 lakh people remained affected across seven districts. Guru Randhawa appeals for nationwide support for Assam Speaking about the humanitarian crisis, Guru Randhawa urged people across the country to extend support to those impacted by the floods: "The devastation in Assam is heartbreaking, and we cannot let our brothers and sisters fight this crisis alone. While rescue teams and administrative authorities are doing their best, I appeal to e...

The promotional campaign for Batwara 1947 is in full swing, with the cast travelling across multiple cities ahead of the film's theatrical release on August 14, 2026. As part of the ongoing tour, Sunny Deol and his son Karan Deol are scheduled to visit Takht Sri Patna Sahib, one of the holiest Sikh pilgrimage sites, during their stop in Patna. According to the makers, the actors will offer prayers and seek blessings for the success of the film at the revered shrine, which is among the five Takhts—the highest seats of authority in Sikhism. The visit forms part of the film's promotional activities as the team continues to engage with audiences across the country in the lead-up to the release. The Patna leg of the tour has already witnessed enthusiastic participation from fans. During their visit to the city, Sunny Deol and Karan Deol were greeted by large crowds, reflecting the anticipation surrounding the upcoming period drama. The actors are expected to interact with audiences...

The promotional campaign for Batwara 1947 is underway, with the film's cast travelling across multiple cities ahead of its theatrical release on August 14, 2026. Now, a new report suggests that the makers have planned a unique initiative during the city tour, with lead actor Sunny Deol expected to honour individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to society. Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and produced under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions, Batwara 1947 stars Shabana Azmi, Sunny Deol and Preity G Zinta in leading roles. Set against the backdrop of the Partition of India, the film explores the human stories that emerged during one of the most defining moments in the subcontinent's history. According to a source associated with the project, the promotional campaign will go beyond conventional film events by recognising real-life changemakers in every city the team visits. “Makers has planned a very special initiative during the Batwara 1947 promotional city tour. In e...

On the occasion of Friendship Day, actor Varun Sharma has exclusively spoken about his upcoming film, Side Heroes, a promising story celebrating friendship and centred on three friends. He assured audiences that it is not merely a maddening comedy but also explores important aspects of life. He further drew parallels with the iconic friendship film Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011). Varun Sharma said, “Side Heroes is not just a hilarious friendship film. It’s like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara – it makes us realize what truly matters in life, success and views happiness with a fresh lens.” Side Heroes is backed by Imtiaz Ali, Mahaveer Jain and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. Besides Varun Sharma, the film also stars Abhishek Banerjee and Aparshakti Khurana. A few days ago, Bollywood Hungama exclusively revealed that a fresh face has been cast as the female lead in this coming-of-age friendship film. Set in the heartland of India, Side Heroes tells the poignant yet comical story of three childhood fri...

The cast of Remo D'Souza's upcoming untitled action entertainer has become even more exciting. Now it is being said that Nushrratt Bharuccha and Pashmina Roshan have come on board the film, joining an ensemble led by Tiger Shroff, Abhishek Banerjee, and Elvish Yadav. The film, which is being co-produced by Neeraj Tiwari and Viccky Jain, is expected to have gone on floors on August 1. While the makers are yet to officially announce the complete cast, sources indicate that the project is envisioned as a high-octane commercial action entertainer and will feature multiple first-time collaborations. One of the biggest highlights of the project is the fresh casting combinations. Nushrratt Bharuccha and Pashmina Roshan will be sharing screen space for the first time, while both actresses will also be seen opposite Tiger Shroff for the very first time in their careers. The film also marks the first collaboration between Tiger Shroff, Abhishek Banerjee and Elvish Yadav, making it an un...

Producer and entrepreneur Viccky Jain has announced the launch of his production house, VJ Frames, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career as a filmmaker. Making the announcement on his birthday, Jain also revealed the banner's maiden project—an ambitious action franchise that will be directed by choreographer-filmmaker Remo D'Souza and feature Tiger Shroff, Abhishek Banerjee, and Elvish Yadav in lead roles. The newly launched banner aims to back commercial entertainers across genres, with its debut project expected to combine action, spectacle and mainstream storytelling. While the makers have kept plot details under wraps, the announcement has already generated curiosity owing to the unusual casting combination of Tiger Shroff, known for his action-packed performances, alongside versatile actor Abhishek Banerjee and content creator-turned-actor Elvish Yadav. Speaking about the launch of VJ Frames, Viccky Jain described the occasion as the fulfilment of a long-ch...

After impressing audiences with her performance in Brown and her stint on India's Best Dancer Season 5, Karisma Kapoor is taking on a new television role. The actor has joined Fevicreate Idea Labs Season 3 as a judge for the competition's grand finale, where she will mentor and celebrate some of India's most creative young minds. The four-episode finale will air over two weekends starting tomorrow on Nickelodeon and JioHotstar. The competition received more than 3 lakh applications, with only 12 finalists making it to the grand finale. The finalists have been shortlisted across two age groups, 5 to 8 years and 9 to 14 years, and will present innovative ideas centred on art, science and well-being. As part of the judging panel, Karisma will encourage participants to think creatively while celebrating originality, curiosity and problem-solving. While Karisma has long been associated with hit films, dance and glamour, her latest television appearance highlights another dimens...

Director Ahmed Khan has confirmed that his next directorial venture will reunite him with Akshay Kumar following the success of Welcome to the Jungle. The filmmaker revealed that the positive response to the film has encouraged the long-time collaborators to team up once again, adding another chapter to their friendship that spans over three decades. Speaking about the upcoming project, Khan shared that discussions are currently underway and that the duo is exploring multiple ideas before locking one. “With Welcome to the Jungle becoming a success, we had to work together again. I am so happy that the film has done well, and the cast is happy too. Akshay and I are planning something soon. We are in talks regarding two-three different genres — action comedy, romantic action drama, and an out-and-out action movie. Even Akshay has a script that he has told me about. We have to finalise one of our ideas. Once that and the dates are finalised, we’ll announce it.” The announcement also puts...

The countdown for Mirzapur: The Movie has officially begun. After generating considerable excitement with its teaser, the makers are now preparing to unveil the film's official trailer on August 11, offering fans a deeper look into the much-awaited cinematic adaptation of one of India's most popular crime franchises. The teaser, which marked the franchise's transition from streaming to the big screen, introduced audiences to the return of several fan-favourite characters while hinting at an all-new chapter packed with action, drama and power struggles. With the trailer launch now around the corner, anticipation surrounding the film has only grown stronger. According to sources, the trailer will be launched at a special event in the presence of the film's principal cast. It is expected to provide audiences with their most comprehensive glimpse yet into the scale, conflicts and cinematic treatment of the Mirzapur universe before the film arrives in theatres. A source clo...

Shah Rukh Khan's upcoming action thriller King continues to generate buzz, with fresh rumours about its storyline and characters surfacing almost every week. The latest speculation claimed that actor Raghav Juyal would portray the younger version of one of the film's principal antagonists. However, the actor has now dismissed the reports, calling them "completely false." Raghav, who is currently seen in Bhai Tera Star Hai and is also part of King, addressed the rumours during a recent interview while teasing that the film's story is unlike anything audiences have been speculating. Raghav Juyal calls the reports “absolutely false” Speaking to Movie Talkies, Raghav was asked about rumours surrounding his character in the Siddharth Anand directorial. Without revealing details about his role, the actor made it clear that the circulating reports were inaccurate. Responding to claims that he would play a younger version of a villain, Raghav said, "Yeh bilkul, sara...

The Bombay High Court has restrained media organisations and online platforms from referring to Aashirwad, the iconic bungalow once owned by late superstar Rajesh Khanna, as "haunted", "cursed" or "unlucky". The interim order came after businessman Shashi Shetty, the current owner of the property, argued that such descriptions were defamatory and affected his right to live peacefully. Justice Arif S Doctor passed the ad-interim order on July 24, observing that the allegations made against the property were, at first glance, defamatory and infringed upon the plaintiff's fundamental right to live with dignity. The case was filed by businessman Shashi Shetty, who now owns the property where Aashirwad once stood. Although the original bungalow was demolished nearly a decade ago, Shetty retained the name Aashirwad after constructing a new four-storey family residence on the same plot. According to court proceedings, Shetty approached the High Court after c...