Nandamuri Balakrishna Joins Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2 for ₹50 Crore; Nelson Finally Realizes Long-Pending Dream

Telugu superstar Nandamuri Balakrishna will play a significant guest role in Nelson Dilipkumar’s much-anticipated sequel, Jailer 2, starring Rajinikanth in the lead. According to a report by IndiaGlitz, Balakrishna—often referred to as NBK—has allotted a 20-day schedule for the film and will be paid a staggering ₹50 crore for his appearance. The report adds that Sun Pictures, the film’s producer, agreed to NBK’s fee without hesitation, indicating the weight his presence brings to the project. Balakrishna, known for his mass appeal in Telugu cinema, had reportedly been on Nelson’s wishlist since the original Jailer was in development. A source close to the production told Hindustan Times, “It is true that NBK has said yes to a powerful role in Jailer 2. He loved what Nelson pitched to him and looks forward to shooting for the film soon. He plays more of a guest role in the film than a cameo because he wanted something solid, and Nelson delivered. Fans are going to love it.” Director Nelson had earlier revealed in a 2023 interview with Cinema Vikatan that he originally wanted to cast Balakrishna in Jailer but couldn’t properly integrate his character into the script. With the sequel, Nelson finally fulfills that vision, reportedly crafting a “powerful” role tailor-made for the Tollywood veteran. About Jailer 2 The sequel brings back Rajinikanth as ‘Tiger’ Muthuvel Pandian, the retired jailer, and Ramya Krishnan as his wife Vijaya. Mirnaa Menon plays their daughter-in-law, while Yogi Babu returns as the humorous taxi driver Vimal. Shiva Rajkumar, whose cameo in the first film received massive praise, is also expected to make a return. While fans are eager to see if Mohanlal, who had a special appearance in Jailer (2023), reprises his role, all eyes are now on NBK’s grand entry into the Jailer universe.

Renowned National Award-Winning Make-Up Artist Vikram Gaikwad Passes Away at 61

Veteran and highly respected make-up artist Vikram Gaikwad passed away on Sunday morning in Mumbai at the age of 61, following a prolonged illness. He had been admitted to Hiranandani Hospital, where he breathed his last at 8:40 AM. His last rites will be held at Shivaji Park, Dadar at 5 PM today. Gaikwad is survived by his wife Jyotsna and daughter Tanvi. A Legend in Make-Up Artistry Gaikwad’s career, which began with the film Sardar (based on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel), spanned decades and showcased his extraordinary talent in transforming actors into historical and iconic characters. His precision and subtle artistry earned him a National Film Award and deep respect across the film fraternity. Some of his most celebrated work includes: Health and Legacy Vikram Gaikwad had been in fragile health ever since he suffered a paralytic attack during the COVID-19 pandemic. His condition had worsened in recent days, leading to his hospitalization. His passing has led to an outpouring of grief in the entertainment industry. Tributes Pour In Shirur MP Amol Kolhe mourned his loss on social media, writing: “The news of the passing of National Award-winning makeup artist Vikram Gaikwad, who brought many characters to life on stage and screen with his art, is deeply saddening. He created unforgettable characters in films like Balgandharva, Sanju, and 83.” Many film personalities, industry veterans, and cinephiles have hailed Gaikwad as a master craftsman who elevated character creation through make-up to an art form.

Salman Khan Deletes Ceasefire Tweet Amid Backlash Over Silence on Operation Sindoor

Actor Salman Khan found himself at the center of controversy after sharing, and later deleting, a tweet on the recent India-Pakistan ceasefire. His original post read, “Thank God for the ceasefire….” However, the tweet drew criticism from several users who questioned his silence over Operation Sindoor, India’s military response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack. One user wrote, “No tweets about Operation Sindoor. Why?” while another added, “You didn’t say anything about India’s Operation Sindoor against Pakistan.” Following the backlash, Salman promptly deleted the tweet. A fan defended the actor, pointing out the timing: “Just after his tweet, the news came that Pakistan violated the ceasefire. So he deleted that tweet. Now tell me what is Salman Khan’s mistake here?” Indeed, reports emerged that Pakistan violated the ceasefire agreement only hours after it was announced, intensifying public reactions. Salman had earlier expressed grief over the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people were killed. In a heartfelt post, he tweeted, “Kashmir, heaven on planet earth, turning into hell. Innocent people being targeted, my heart goes out to their families. Ek bhi innocent ko marna puri kainath ko marne ke barabar hai (Killing one innocent person is equivalent to killing the entire universe).” The ceasefire, which came into effect on May 11 at 5 p.m., was formally announced by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, covering land, sea, and air operations. Several Bollywood celebrities reacted positively to the news. Kareena Kapoor shared “Rab rakha” with folded hands and “Jai Hind” accompanied by the Indian tricolour emoji. Karan Johar responded with folded hands and orange heart emojis, while Raveena Tandon and others also expressed cautious optimism. The backdrop to this development includes Operation Sindoor, launched by India on May 7 in response to the deadly Pahalgam attack. The cross-border operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan, and was followed by rising tensions, which eventually led to the ceasefire agreement.

Allu Arjun Spotted at Aamir Khan’s Residence, Sparks Buzz About Potential Bollywood Debut

South superstar Allu Arjun has sent fans and industry circles into a speculative frenzy after being spotted at Aamir Khan’s Mumbai residence, igniting fresh rumours of a big-ticket pan-India collaboration. The stylish star reportedly managed a low-key visit, but a photo of the two posing together has since surfaced online, stoking excitement and intrigue about what could be brewing between the two cinematic powerhouses. While official details remain under wraps, speculation is rife that this could mark Allu Arjun’s much-anticipated Bollywood debut, potentially under Aamir Khan’s production banner. This unexpected meeting has reignited whispers that first started circulating in 2023, when the duo were seen engaging warmly at a wedding reception, sparking initial chatter of a possible collaboration. Industry insiders are said to be closely tracking the development, though neither Aamir nor Allu has issued any statements confirming a joint project. Currently, Aamir Khan is in the spotlight for his upcoming film Sitare Zameen Par and is reportedly deep in planning for an epic adaptation of the Mahabharat, a dream project he’s been carefully curating for years. Aamir has stated that he is seeking actors who authentically fit their mythological roles, and Allu’s visit has only intensified speculation around that casting search. As for Allu Arjun, he is busy with his high-octane sci-fi film AA22, directed by Atlee, and boasting global appeal with Hollywood VFX experts on board. He also has Pushpa 3 in the pipeline, expected to go on floors after he wraps up his current commitments.

India’s Film Industry Faces Uncertainty Over Trump’s Threat to Impose 100% Tariff on Foreign Films

India’s film industry, which generates approximately 40% of its overseas revenue from the United States, is grappling with uncertainty following a recent threat by President Donald Trump to impose a 100% tariff on all movies produced outside of the U.S. The announcement has sparked alarm among filmmakers, producers, and distributors in one of the world’s largest film industries, as they struggle to comprehend the potential impact of such a levy. While details surrounding the tariff remain scarce, the lack of clarity has only fueled concerns. Anubhav Sinha, a filmmaker known for his Netflix series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, expressed the uncertainty surrounding the tariff, particularly regarding the definition of “foreign-produced” films. “The real question is how the term ‘foreign produced’ will be defined,” he said, adding that the possible impact on services like post-production remains unclear. The Indian film industry employs 272,000 people and generated approximately 20 billion rupees ($237 million) in overseas box office earnings in fiscal 2024. These earnings account for about a tenth of the total revenue. Key Hollywood films featuring scenes shot in India include Slumdog Millionaire, Zero Dark Thirty, Eat, Pray Love, and The Dark Knight Rises. The United States, with its large Indian diaspora of around 5.2 million people, remains a crucial market for Indian cinema. Film producers are particularly concerned about the economic implications of such tariffs. Madhu Bhojwani, a producer known for the hit film Airlift, pointed out that any increase in ticket prices due to the tariff could significantly affect audience turnout, especially at a time when the industry is already facing challenges related to evolving consumer behavior and broader economic factors. India’s cost-effective production infrastructure, especially in visual effects and post-production, has made it an attractive hub for Hollywood films. According to Komal Nahta, a film trade analyst, approximately 10 to 15 foreign films are shot in India each year. He warned that the proposed tariffs could severely disrupt these collaborations, adversely impacting both the Indian film industry and Hollywood’s production costs. Without clear guidance on the specifics of the tariff, the Indian film industry is left in a state of uncertainty, unsure of how the potential policy change will affect the critical U.S. market and its growing role in international film production and post-production.

Bollywood Shifts into Full Franchise Mode with Six Major Sequels

Bollywood filmmakers are doubling down on franchises, eyeing sequels and “threequels” as surefire box‑office triumphs. Riding a wave of nostalgia and proven IP, the industry now has nearly half a dozen follow‑ups in active development, ensuring audiences get more of their beloved characters and worlds. Among the titles already confirmed are Mujhse Shaadi Karogi 2, Queen 2, and Kahaani 3—continuations of three of the last decade’s most talked‑about films. To these have now been added the sequels to Luka Chuppi, Garam Masala, and the fantasy blockbuster Brahmāstra. Fans have clamored for these follow‑ups for years, and studios are finally moving from rumor to writing room. Brahmāstra Part 2 – Dev, the next chapter in Ayan Mukerji’s epic trilogy, was one of the first to be confirmed. Mukerji, who is currently wrapping production on War 2 (starring Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR), has assembled a fresh team of writers—veteran dialogue writer Rajat Arora is on board alongside a separate group polishing the screenplay. Filming is slated to begin in the second half of 2026, once Mukerji completes War 2 and preps his upcoming Dhoom 4, which is rumored to reteam him with Ranbir Kapoor. Casting details for Brahmāstra 2 remain under wraps beyond the return of Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Amitabh Bachchan. The roles of Dev and Amrita—central to the sequel’s mythic love story—will be announced once the script is locked and the creative team finalizes character arcs. As Bollywood leans heavily into franchise filmmaking, these six sequels mark a strategic shift toward building long‑running cinematic universes. From quirky comedies to grand mythological sagas, producers are banking on established IP to drive both domestic returns and pan‑India appeal. With Ayan Mukerji juggling three massive projects back‑to‑back, the next few years promise to redefine how Hindi cinema tells its biggest stories.

Rajinikanth’s ‘Coolie’ Set for August 14, 2025 Release — A ₹400 Crore Spectacle Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj

Superstar Rajinikanth is set to return in explosive style with Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, which will hit screens worldwide on August 14, 2025. Timed perfectly for the Independence Day weekend, the film is already one of the most awaited Indian releases of the year, with a staggering ₹400 crore budget — making it one of the costliest Indian films ever made. The action-packed thriller promises slick set pieces, intense storytelling, and a star-studded cast, including Nayanthara in a prominent role. While early reports confusingly attributed the direction to AR Murugadoss, it is confirmed that Lokesh Kanagaraj is at the helm, marking his most ambitious project yet. In fact, Lokesh is reportedly being paid ₹60 crore, the highest remuneration of his career so far. Adding to the excitement, Rajinikanth has once again asserted his dominance as Asia’s highest-paid actor, reportedly taking home a massive fee for the film, though exact figures remain under wraps. With Hollywood-level action, raw emotional depth, and a gripping narrative, Coolie is shaping up to be a pan-India cinematic spectacle, combining the best of mass appeal with high-end production.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu Turns Producer with ‘Subham,’ Champions Equal Pay in the Industry

Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu is stepping into a new phase of her career with her maiden production venture, Subham, which is set to release on May 9, 2025. Directed by Praveen Kandregula of Cinema Bandi fame, Subham is a quirky horror-comedy that introduces a cast of fresh faces, including Harshith Reddy, Gavireddy Srinivas, Charan Peri, and Shriya Kontham. The film is penned by Vasanth Maringanti, with music by Shor Police and a background score by Vivek Sagar. Produced under her new banner Tralala Productions, Samantha is taking a bold stand for equality in remuneration. Known for her outspoken views on gender equity, Samantha emphasized that she wants every project under her banner to reflect fairness — ensuring equal pay for equal skill and experience, regardless of gender or star power. While it was easier to maintain this approach with Subham, given the ensemble of newcomers, Samantha is open to producing films with established actors in the future. She clarified, “I never say never. Under Tralala Productions, I want to be very careful about every aspect. I believe in equal skill, equal remuneration, and equal experience. As much as possible, I want to make sure that this principle is upheld.” In addition to her producer role, Samantha continues to stay active in front of the camera. She is currently working on her upcoming web series Rakht Brahmand, and will star in Bangaram, a much-anticipated film that was officially announced with a striking poster on her 37th birthday.

‘Operation Sindoor’: Bollywood and Citizens Laud Indian Armed Forces After Major Strike on Terror Bases

In a bold and swift response to the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Armed Forces executed a high-precision, tri-service strike codenamed ‘Operation Sindoor’. Conducted at midnight on Wednesday, the operation targeted 9 terror camps inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), eliminating over 70 terrorists, including 10 family members and 4 close aides of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar. The strikes were launched entirely from Indian soil, demonstrating deep coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Bollywood Unites in Support As news of the successful operation broke, celebrities from the film and music industries expressed solidarity and admiration for the Indian Armed Forces: The Impact of the Operation According to defense sources, the 25-minute strike was surgically planned, targeting key infrastructure and safe houses used by terrorist operatives. The operation is being seen as a firm message to terror groups and their handlers across the border following the loss of Indian lives in the Pahalgam attack. With public sentiment riding high, and support pouring in from citizens and celebrities alike, Operation Sindoor marks one of the most significant retaliatory strikes in recent years, reaffirming India’s zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism.

Shah Rukh Khan Steals the Spotlight at Met Gala 2025 with a Rs 21 Crore Watch and Dazzling Accessories

Shah Rukh Khan turned heads and stole the show at the Met Gala 2025, not just with his sartorial elegance but with a jaw-dropping display of opulence and style. Attending the prestigious event themed “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” SRK made a powerful statement in a custom all-black ensemble by Sabyasachi. His outfit featured a sleek black silk shirt, a sharply tailored tailcoat, and high-waisted trousers — a look that exuded regal charisma. But it was his accessories that truly elevated his appearance into fashion history. The crown jewel of SRK’s look was undoubtedly the Rs 21 crore Patek Philippe Grand Complication watch. Crafted from 18K white gold and embedded with 118 emeralds and 291 diamonds in an invisible setting, the watch boasted a patented reversible swivel mechanism. One side featured a transparent dial with black hands, making it both a technological marvel and a visual spectacle. It was more than a timepiece — it was a statement of precision, luxury, and status. Adding another layer of sophistication was the Bengal tiger cane, designed by Sabyasachi. The handcrafted cane featured an 18K gold tiger head adorned with sapphires, tourmalines, and a mix of old mine cut and brilliant-cut diamonds. Equal parts fashion and function, the cane complemented SRK’s tailored look while paying tribute to his heritage and strength. SRK’s accessory game didn’t stop there. Around his neck hung a bespoke dandy stack necklace, also designed by Sabyasachi. Composed of 18K gold with sapphires, tourmalines, and diamonds, the necklace stood out with a “K” initial at the center and “SRK” engraved at the top — a bold personal touch that only King Khan could carry with such effortless flair. Together, these elements made for one of the most unforgettable appearances at the Met Gala 2025. Shah Rukh Khan didn’t just attend the event — he owned it with a blend of classic tailoring, royal charisma, and breathtaking accessories that redefined red carpet fashion.

Switch Language »