Actor Vijay Deverakonda Appears Before ED in Illegal Betting App Promotion Case

Tollywood actor Vijay Deverakonda appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday in connection with an ongoing investigation into the promotion of illegal betting apps. The actor arrived at the ED’s regional office at Basheerbagh, Hyderabad, around 11 a.m. and is expected to be questioned regarding his contracts, endorsements, and payments received from betting platforms. Deverakonda is the second actor to be questioned by the ED in this case. Actor Prakash Raj had earlier appeared before the agency on July 30 and was questioned for nearly five hours. Prakash Raj clarified to officials that he had not accepted any payment for an endorsement he did back in 2016 for a gaming app. He stated that he later realized he should not have associated with it and acted purely on conscience. The ED has summoned four prominent actors so far — Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Manchu Lakshmi — as part of its investigation. Rana Daggubati, who was originally scheduled to appear on July 23, has been issued a fresh notice and is now expected to appear on August 11. Manchu Lakshmi has been asked to appear on August 13. These celebrities are among the 29 actors, YouTubers, and social media influencers named in the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) filed by the ED on July 10, following allegations of promoting illegal betting platforms in violation of the Public Gambling Act, 1867. The probe, which falls under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), is based on at least five FIRs registered in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, including at police stations in Panjagutta, Miyapur, Cyberabad, Suryapet, and Visakhapatnam. Other notable names booked in the case include Nidhi Agarwal, Pranitha Subhash, Ananya Nagella, and a host of TV actors and influencers, such as Sreemukhi, Shyamala, Varshini Sounderajan, Shoba Shetty, Amrutha Chowdary, Nayani Pavani, Neha Pathan, Pandu, Padhmavathi, Harsha Sai, and Bayya Sunny Yadav. In March 2025, Deverakonda and Daggubati, among others, were also booked by the Cyberabad Police for allegedly promoting betting apps. However, both actors have maintained that they endorsed only legally permitted online skill-based gaming platforms. The ED is now probing the nature of these contracts and whether any money laundering was involved through these promotional deals.

Aamir Khan Rents 4 Luxury Apartments in Bandra for ₹24.5 Lakh/Month Amid Redevelopment of His Home

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has reportedly rented four luxury apartments in Mumbai’s upscale Pali Hill area, according to property registration details accessed by Zapkey.com. The apartments are located in the Wilnomona Apartment on Nargis Dutt Road, one of Mumbai’s most sought-after and celebrity-dense neighborhoods. Why the Move? The move is said to be temporary, triggered by the redevelopment of Virgo Cooperative Housing Society (CHS)—Aamir Khan’s long-time residence, where he owns about 12 apartments. The redevelopment is being carried out by Atmosphere Realty, a joint venture involving Wadhwa Group, MICL, and Chandak Group. The new project is expected to feature ultra-luxury, sea-facing homes, with prices crossing ₹1 lakh per sq ft, and some units possibly valued at over ₹100 crore. Key Lease Details: Close to Shah Rukh Khan In a fascinating twist of Bollywood real estate musical chairs, the Wilnomona property is located just 750 metres from Puja Casa, where Shah Rukh Khan is currently staying during the renovation of Mannat, his iconic bungalow. This places two of Indian cinema’s biggest stars in temporary proximity, sparking fan curiosity. No Official Comment Yet As of now, neither Aamir Khan nor the property owner have publicly commented on the lease arrangement. The development has, however, stirred significant buzz in the real estate and entertainment circles.

Shehnaaz Gill Hospitalised Due to Health Scare; Actor on Glucose Drip, Fans Urged to Pray

Popular actress and Bigg Boss 13 alum Shehnaaz Gill has been hospitalised following a sudden health scare, although the exact medical cause has not been officially confirmed. On Monday, Bigg Boss 18 winner and fellow actor Karan Veer Mehra visited Shehnaaz and later shared a reassuring video update on social media. In the clip, Shehnaaz is seen lying on a hospital bed, smiling faintly despite being connected to an IV drip, and wearing a bandage on her hand. “Yeh dekho bechari… what has happened to her?” Karan Veer says, panning the camera toward her. Shehnaaz, maintaining her signature charm, responds, “Hasa rha hai mujhe,” and quips that she plans to “bounce back soon and maybe even party again.” While there’s no official word from her team, reports suggest Shehnaaz is being treated for low blood pressure and is currently on a glucose drip to stabilize her condition. Karan Veer, who is currently working on a pivotal role in Omung Kumar’s next film, ended the video with a heartfelt appeal: “I need you guys to pray really hard that this girl, with full energy, gets back as soon as possible.” Recent Projects Shehnaaz Gill, who won hearts on Bigg Boss 13, made her Bollywood debut opposite Salman Khan in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan. She was recently seen in Thank You For Coming, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). She also featured in the romantic track Sajna Ve Sajna alongside Rajkummar Rao. Fans and well-wishers have flooded social media with messages of love and prayers for her speedy recovery.

Independence Day Weekend Showdown: “War 2” vs. “Coolie” Kick Off Advance Sales in the U.S.

As the Independence Day 2025 weekend approaches, two high-octane blockbusters—“War 2” (starring Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani) and South superstar Rajinikanth’s “Coolie”—are gearing up for a head-to-head clash on August 14. Advance booking figures from North America reveal a fierce contest for the hearts (and wallets) of cinephiles abroad. “War 2” U.S. Advance Sales: “Coolie” U.S. Advance Sales: In-Conversation: Shruti Haasan on the ClashActress Shruti Haasan—who appears in “Coolie”—told Zoom that theatrical date clashes are part of industry dynamics: “Nothing can be done about it. Filmmakers choose slots, and sometimes two big films coincide. Audiences will decide which film they want to see—it’s how the business operates.” What to Expect on August 14 With two very different cinematic universes vying for the same holiday audience, the Independence Day weekend box office is poised for an electrifying battle—both on screen and at the ticket window.

Dhanush, Anand L. Rai Condemn Unauthorized AI-Altered “Raanjhanaa” Re-Release

Veteran actor Dhanush and director Aanand L. Rai have publicly denounced the unsanctioned re-release of their 2013 hit “Raanjhanaa”, which was secretly re-edited using artificial intelligence to feature a “happy ending.” Both creators assert that the AI-generated climax undermines the film’s original soul and intent. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Dhanush, who portrayed the lead character, lamented that the altered version “has completely disturbed me” and “stripped the film of its very soul.” He revealed that the re-release proceeded despite his explicit objections and warned that such AI manipulation threatens the integrity of storytelling and cinema itself. Dhanush called for stricter regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future. Director Anand L. Rai echoed these sentiments on Instagram, describing the situation as “surreal and deeply upsetting.” He criticized the “reckless takeover” of his work—“altered, repackaged and re-released without my knowledge or consent”—and stressed that the AI version invalidates the collaborative risks and emotional truths at the heart of “Raanjhanaa.” Rai expressed gratitude for the wave of support from fellow filmmakers, critics, and fans who have rallied behind the original vision. Several industry figures, including Neeraj Pandey, Kanika Dhillon, and Tanuj Garg, have also condemned the unauthorized AI edit as unethical and harmful to artistic integrity. “Raanjhanaa,” starring Dhanush and Sonam Kapoor, remains a beloved cult classic—acclaimed for its emotional depth and its bittersweet resolution, which the AI-altered cut now seeks to erase.

Box Office Shocker: ‘Mahavatar Narsimha’ Crushes Biggies, Soars to ₹91.25 Cr—1007% Jump Surprises Industry

In one of the most astonishing box office turnarounds in recent memory, ‘Mahavatar Narsimha’, an animated devotional action drama, has stormed the Hindi box office, collecting a massive ₹34.80 crore in its second weekend—a jaw-dropping 1007% jump from its debut. Directed by Ashwin Kumar, the film has now amassed a domestic net of ₹91.25 crore, with its Hindi version alone contributing ₹67.25 crore. Its second-weekend haul not only dwarfed its opening weekend (₹15.85 crore) but also overshadowed major star-driven films. 🆚 Clashes Crushed: 🔥 Why Mahavatar Narsimha Is Winning: 📊 Weekend Collection Comparison: Film Weekend Collection Remarks Mahavatar Narsimha (2nd weekend) ₹34.80 Cr 219% jump from Wk1 Son of Sardaar 2 ₹24.75 Cr Moderate start Saiyaara (3rd weekend) ₹19.25 Cr Total: ₹300 Cr Kingdom ₹22.50 Cr Dropped after Thursday 🎬 Verdict: Mahavatar Narsimha is not just a box office winner—it’s a phenomenon, redefining what’s possible for animated and devotional cinema in India. In an era where VFX-heavy star vehicles struggle to hold momentum, this film’s storytelling strength and mythological gravitas have made it the dark horse blockbuster of 2025. 👀 All eyes now are on whether it can cross the ₹150 crore mark domestically and possibly challenge the year’s top grosser titles.

Saiyaara Becomes First YRF Theatrical Hit to Premiere on Netflix

Yash Raj Films’ latest blockbuster Saiyaara has made history by becoming the first theatrical release from the prestigious studio to secure a post–box office streaming deal with Netflix. The Netflix logo appears during Saiyaara’s end–credit song, signaling a new partnership between the Bollywood powerhouse and the global streaming giant. Until now, YRF’s theatrical slate—including mega–hits spanning decades—has exclusively premiered on Amazon Prime Video after their cinema runs concluded. Saiyaara’s Netflix debut ushers in a fresh era, aligning with YRF Entertainment’s broader digital ambitions. YRF Entertainment—established as YRF’s digital arm—has previously collaborated with Netflix on several non–theatrical projects. Their Valentine’s Day docu–series The Romantics (2023) celebrated Yash Chopra’s legacy, followed by The Railway Men, a mini–series honoring Bhopal station workers. In 2024, the courtroom drama Maharaj and the sports slice–of–life film Vijay 69 also joined Netflix’s library. Most recently, the mystery series Mandala Murders, starring Vaani Kapoor, premiered on the platform. At a Netflix launch event earlier this year, YRF announced the upcoming series Akka, featuring Keerthy Suresh, Radhika Apte, and Tanvi Azmi. These collaborations underscore YRF’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the digital space. Meanwhile, Saiyaara, starring Ahaan Pandey and Aneet Padda, continues its unstoppable run in cinemas, on track to surpass ₹300 crore by the end of its third weekend. Given its box office dominance, Netflix’s premiere date for the film remains under wraps—but, as with all major Hindi releases, viewers can expect a significant theatrical window before it lands on the streaming service.

“Full Circle Moment”: Karan Johar Hails Shah Rukh Khan & Rani Mukerji on National Awards Wins

Filmmaker Karan Johar took to Instagram on Saturday to congratulate his longtime friends and collaborators Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji for being honoured at the 71st National Film Awards. Johar described their victories as a “full circle moment,” recalling that his very first National Award was won alongside the two stars for his directorial debut, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. Shah Rukh Khan, celebrated for his role in Atlee Kumar’s blockbuster Jawan, was named Best Actor. Johar praised SRK’s “swag, charm and just… SRK-ness,” noting that this recognition represents 33 years in the making for the superstar. He lauded Khan’s ability to “redefine Indian cinema with every role” and cheered on “picture abhi baaki hai, mere dost.” In the Best Actress category, Rani Mukerji earned the top honour for her powerful performance in Ashima Chibber’s Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway. Johar called Mukerji “the queen of every screen,” applauding her gift for making audiences “feel every last feeling” and expressing excitement for her future projects. Johar also acknowledged Emmay Entertainment and producers Madhubhojwani, Nikkhil Advani, and Emma Thapa for backing Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, and sent “the biggest shoutout” to the team behind the film. This year’s edition of the National Awards was particularly special for Johar, as his own film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani won Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment—the same category in which Kuch Kuch Hota Hai triumphed in 1998. “If this is not full circle, what is?” he quipped, celebrating a journey that began and now continues with the same two co-stars by his side. Jawan, which crossed the ₹1,000 crore mark at the global box office, sees Shah Rukh in dual roles as Army officer Vikram Rathore and his jailed son Azad, alongside Vijay Sethupathi and Nayanthara. Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway tells the true story of Debika Chatterjee (Mukerji), who battles the Norwegian authorities to retain custody of her children; the film also features Jim Sarbh. Both films have been widely praised for their storytelling and performances, making this year’s National Awards a fitting tribute to two of Bollywood’s most beloved actors.

Aamir Khan’s Surprise at ‘Coolie’ Trailer Launch Seals Moment of Mutual Respect with Rajinikanth

In a sensational twist to a star-studded evening, Bollywood icon Aamir Khan made an unexpected appearance at the trailer launch of Rajinikanth’s upcoming action thriller Coolie, stealing the spotlight alongside the Tamil superstar. A Grand, High-Octane Affair Held at a packed Chennai auditorium on Saturday, the launch ceremony pulsated with anticipation as fans clamored for a first glimpse of the film’s trailer. The venue, decked out in black-and-gold décor, reverberated with thunderous applause when Aamir Khan strode in wearing the same rugged avatar he sports in Coolie: a black tank top, distressed jeans, and a leather jacket slung casually over his shoulder. Shraddha, Nagarjuna, Sathyaraj Pay Homage Superstar Rajinikanth made his entrance shortly thereafter in a classic black kurta and blue denims. The entire cast—including Shruti Haasan, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, and Sathyaraj—rose to their feet in reverence. Shruti Haasan was seen bending to touch Rajini’s feet, while Nagarjuna and Sathyaraj exchanged warm handshakes. Composer Anirudh Ravichander and director Lokesh Kanagaraj also performed the customary foot-touch before embracing the legend. The Foot-Touch That Became a Hug The evening’s most memorable moment came when Aamir Khan, in a gesture of profound respect, bent down to touch Rajinikanth’s feet. In a heartwarming reversal, Rajini gently stopped him and drew him into a brotherly hug. The two superstars then shook hands, shared a broad smile, and soaked in the roaring approval of the audience—an image of mutual admiration that left fans ecstatic. About Coolie Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and produced by Kalanithi Maran under Sun Pictures, Coolie promises to be a high-voltage entertainer. The film features an ensemble cast led by Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, Sathyaraj, and Shruti Haasan, with Aamir Khan making a special appearance as “Dahaa.” Music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander, whose score is expected to be another chart-topper. Release and Box-Office Clash Coolie is set to hit theatres on 14 August 2025, coinciding with the festive season. It will go head-to-head with the Hrithik Roshan–starrer War 2, featuring Kiara Advani and Jr NTR, setting up one of the most eagerly awaited box-office clashes of the year.

सामय रैना का तूफानी कमबैक: ‘स्टिल अलाइव एंड अनफिल्टर्ड’ टूर ने तोड़े सारे रिकॉर्ड

कमेडी की दुनिया में लौटे सामय रैनास्टैंड-अप कॉमेडियन सामय रैना ने यह साबित कर दिया है कि दर्शकों से उनका जुड़ाव आज भी उतना ही मजबूत है, चाहे कितनी भी आलोचनाएं या विवाद क्यों न झेले हों। हाल ही में विवादों में घिरे अपने यूट्यूब शो India’s Got Latent को हटाने के बाद अब रैना ने अपने नए अखिल भारतीय टूर ‘Samay Raina is Still Alive and Unfiltered’ के साथ धमाकेदार वापसी की है। घंटे भर में 40,000 टिकट्स की बिक्रीइस टूर की टिकट बिक्री किसी चमत्कार से कम नहीं रही—महज एक घंटे में 40,000 टिकट्स बिक गए। यह सामय रैना की फैन फॉलोइंग और उनकी अटूट लोकप्रियता का स्पष्ट प्रमाण है। देशभर के प्रशंसकों ने उनके समर्थन में जबरदस्त उत्साह दिखाया है। यह सात शहरों का टूर भारतीय स्टैंड-अप कॉमेडी के इतिहास में मील का पत्थर साबित हो सकता है। टूर शेड्यूल और दर्शकों की प्रतिक्रियायह बहुप्रतीक्षित टूर 15 अगस्त को बेंगलुरु से शुरू होगा और इसके बाद हैदराबाद, मुंबई, कोलकाता, चेन्नई, पुणे होते हुए 5 अक्टूबर को दिल्ली में समाप्त होगा। ऑनलाइन टिकट बुकिंग की रफ्तार ने आयोजकों को भी चौंका दिया है, जो दर्शाता है कि रैना के प्रशंसक उन्हें मंच पर देखने के लिए कितने उत्साहित हैं। अंतरराष्ट्रीय सफलता और आलोचना के बाद वापसीइस टूर की घोषणा सामय के न्यूजीलैंड, ऑस्ट्रेलिया, यूके और यूरोप में सफल अंतरराष्ट्रीय टूर के बाद हुई है, जिसकी शुरुआत मई में हुई थी। टूर की जबरदस्त प्रतिक्रिया ने आलोचकों को चुप करा दिया है और एक बार फिर साबित कर दिया है कि वह भारतीय कॉमेडी के शीर्ष कलाकारों में से एक हैं। विवाद और उसका असरगौरतलब है कि India’s Got Latent शो के एक एपिसोड में अतिथि द्वारा की गई विवादास्पद टिप्पणी को लेकर काफी विरोध हुआ था। कई पुलिस शिकायतें दर्ज हुईं और सार्वजनिक आक्रोश के चलते रैना ने शो के सारे वीडियो अपने यूट्यूब चैनल से हटा दिए थे और जांच में सहयोग किया था। फिर भी, “स्टिल अलाइव” टूर की रिकॉर्डतोड़ सफलता यह दर्शाती है कि दर्शकों का भरोसा और समर्थन उनके साथ बना हुआ है। टूर का नाम भी उसी अनुभव का व्यंग्यपूर्ण और भावनात्मक प्रतिबिंब है—यह एक कलाकार की दृढ़ता और पुनः आरंभ करने की इच्छा को बयां करता है।

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