Category: Exclusive

The much-anticipated comedy sequel Hera Pheri 3 has landed in controversy after veteran actor Paresh Rawal reportedly exited the film midway through its shoot. In response, Akshay Kumar’s production house, Cape Of Good Films, has allegedly sent a legal notice to Rawal, seeking ₹25 crore in damages. The news, which broke on May 20, has left the film’s cast and crew stunned. Suniel Shetty, who reprises his beloved role as Shyam in the franchise, expressed complete shock over the development. While promoting his new film Kesari Veer in Delhi, he told India Today, “I have no clue about this. This is absolutely shocking. I first thought about texting him, and then I thought I’d meet him and would discuss it. I have had no word about it with anybody as to what happened.” Shetty revealed that he learned about Rawal’s abrupt exit from his children, Athiya and Ahaan Shetty. “They both sent it to me within 15 minutes, asking, ‘Papa, what is this?’ And I was here doing interviews. I felt like—holy s***,” he said, highlighting how blindsided he felt. Calling the situation a “crisis,” Shetty added, “We are in the middle of this film, and this is the biggest shock. We had already started, in fact. We shot a promo. It’s a big thing. This is so shocking. I can’t make sense of this.” Reports suggest that even Akshay Kumar is “clueless” about the reason for Paresh Rawal’s departure, as confirmed by Shetty. Director Priyadarshan, who returned to helm the third part of the franchise, also expressed dismay, stating that Rawal did not inform the team about his decision. Akshay Kumar had bought the rights to Hera Pheri 3 from producer Feroz Nadiadwala, making him one of the key producers of the sequel. The film had officially begun its promotional shoot earlier this year and was expected to go into full production in 2025. The Hera Pheri franchise, launched in 2000, became a cult classic in Indian cinema, especially due to the character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, portrayed by Paresh Rawal. The sequel Phir Hera Pheri was released in 2006, and the third installment has been in the works for nearly two years. Reflecting on the importance of the film, Suniel Shetty emotionally stated, “You know, this film is important for our mental health. I don’t know what’s going to happen.” As fans await clarity on the future of Hera Pheri 3, the controversy has cast a shadow over what was one of the most eagerly awaited reunions in Bollywood comedy history.

Janhvi Kapoor made a graceful debut on the red carpet of the Cannes Film Festival 2025, ahead of the premiere of her film Homebound. The young actress chose a delicate rose-coloured ensemble designed by Tarun Tahiliani for the occasion. Featuring a metallic sheen and a flowing veil draped over her low bun, the look was widely interpreted as a heartfelt tribute to her late mother, legendary actress Sridevi. According to fashion watchdog Diet Sabya, Janhvi’s look intentionally paid homage to Sridevi’s iconic elegance. Their post read, “Janhvi channeling mother Sri for first Cannes red carpet Lewk,” sparking similar sentiments among followers who commented, “It’s giving Sridevi” and “Reminded me of Sridevi.” Known for her timeless charm and love for Indian heritage, Sridevi often appeared in traditional ensembles with a modern flair — a signature her daughter beautifully echoed at Cannes. Janhvi’s outfit was a custom-made corset and skirt crafted from real tissue fabric, specially woven in Benaras. The texture was enhanced using a hand-crushed technique, adding depth and richness to the attire. She completed the look with simple yet elegant pearl jewellery, further enhancing the traditional aesthetic with sophistication. The actress was accompanied on the red carpet by her Homebound co-stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, director Neeraj Ghaywan, and producer Karan Johar. The film, which tells the story of two childhood friends from a North Indian village whose bond is tested when they join the police force, was screened in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section at Cannes. Adding to the film’s global appeal, legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese has joined the project as executive producer. Homebound is produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra, with Marijke de Souza and Melita Toscan du Plantier serving as co-producers. Janhvi Kapoor’s appearance at Cannes 2025 not only marked a significant milestone in her career but also served as a touching tribute to her mother’s legacy, blending cultural pride with cinematic ambition on an international stage.

Akshay Kumar’s 2025 Film Lineup and OMG 3 Developments Akshay Kumar kicked off 2025 with Kesari Chapter 2, starring alongside R. Madhavan and Ananya Panday. Recently, he wrapped up shooting Bhoot Bangla, a horror-comedy directed by Priyadarshan. A song sequence featuring Akshay and Wamiqa Gabbi was shot in Kerala over three days, with a sneak peek shared on social media. Interestingly, Amit Rai, director of OMG 2, joined Akshay on set. According to sources, the two had extensive brainstorming sessions about the upcoming OMG 3. Amit Rai shared multiple story ideas and discussed new narrative directions with Akshay during the shoot. The team is committed to continuing the beloved franchise but is taking its time to develop a strong script. The plan is to start filming OMG 3 in the latter half of 2026, depending on when the final draft is locked. The makers are cautious about rushing the project, given the high expectations after the success of OMG and OMG 2. Apart from OMG 3, Akshay has Housefull 5 scheduled for release later this year. He is also set to begin work on Priyadarshan’s next thriller, co-starring Saif Ali Khan, starting August 2025.