Vivek Agnihotri Appeals to Mamata Banerjee Not to Ban The Bengal Files

Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri has appealed to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee not to impose a ban on his upcoming film The Bengal Files. Stressing that the film should be judged on its artistic value rather than political implications, Agnihotri highlighted the importance of freedom of expression as a cornerstone of democracy. In a video message shared on social media, he directly addressed the West Bengal CM, urging her to see the film as part of a larger national conversation rather than through a regional lens. He insisted that audiences must have the freedom to form their own opinions about the film’s content. Alongside the video, Agnihotri wrote: “URGENT: An open appeal to Hon’ble CM @MamataOfficial. Please listen till the end and share widely as your protest against the banning of a film on Hindu Genocide. #TheBengalFiles In cinemas 05 September 2025 (sic).” His plea comes amid rising demands to ban the film in West Bengal, which also resulted in the cancellation of its trailer launch and press events in Kolkata. The Bengal Files depicts the events of the Great Calcutta Killings of 1946, including Direct Action Day and the Noakhali riots. The film features a prominent ensemble cast including Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, Darshan Kumar, Simrat Kaur, Namoshi Chakraborty, and Pallavi Joshi. Speaking to IndiaToday.in, Agnihotri said, “It’s very important that I make this film, make the younger generation aware, enlighten them. And also, the entire community gets to express a generational trauma.” Reflecting on his earlier work, The Kashmir Files, Agnihotri compared his role as a filmmaker to that of a psychiatrist for Indian society. “Acknowledgement of the trauma is the first step towards healing. With The Kashmir Files, Kashmiri Pandits told me my film started their healing. So yes, you can say I’m a filmmaker-psychiatrist,” he remarked with a laugh. The Bengal Files is scheduled for release on September 5, 2025.

Salman Khan Seeks Lord Ganesha’s Blessings Amid Tight Security

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan paid a special visit to the residence of Maharashtra’s Cultural Affairs Minister, Ashish Shelar, on Monday night to seek blessings from Lord Ganesha. Known for his heartfelt devotion to Ganesh Chaturthi, Salman arrived barefoot, dressed simply in a checkered shirt and blue pants. Despite the grandeur of the occasion, his humble presence stood out. Viral videos captured the Bajrangi Bhaijaan actor offering prayers with folded hands, exuding serenity even as a massive security detail surrounded him. Salman has been under Z+ security protection in recent months, with authorities closely monitoring his public and private movements. Yet, his calm and composed demeanor during the Ganpati Darshan highlighted his genuine spiritual connection. Just a few days earlier, Salman was seen participating in Ganpati Visarjan celebrations with his family and close friends. Videos from the event showed him dancing energetically alongside Arpita Khan Sharma, Sonakshi Sinha, Aayush Sharma, and Zaheer Iqbal. Fans widely praised his ability to remain grounded and fully enjoy the festivities despite the heavy security presence. On the professional front, Salman is currently working on Battle of Galwan, an action film directed by Apoorva Lakhia and co-starring Chitrangada Singh. The movie promises to showcase his action-packed persona once again. Alongside his film commitments, he continues to host Bigg Boss 19 Weekend Ka Vaar episodes, entertaining audiences with his trademark wit and charisma. Although his recent release Sikandar underperformed at the box office, Salman Khan remains one of Bollywood’s most beloved stars. His larger-than-life screen image, paired with moments of humility and faith during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, continues to win the hearts of millions.

Janhvi Kapoor Approached for Chaalbaaz Remake

Janhvi Kapoor has been making headlines lately, first with her performance in Param Sundari alongside Sidharth Malhotra, and then with the teaser of Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsikumari co-starring Varun Dhawan. Now, there’s another exciting update about the actress. If sources are to be believed, Janhvi Kapoor has been offered the lead role in the official remake of her mother Sridevi’s iconic film Chaalbaaz. A reliable insider revealed, “For Janhvi, Chaalbaaz is a lot more than just a film. It’s an emotion. She has jumped at the chance of playing the lead role, but is treading with utmost caution.” The source further added that Janhvi doesn’t want to simply rely on her mother’s legacy. “She is taking opinions from people around for the Chaalbaaz remake. She is excited, but also wary of the inevitable comparisons. She is expected to take a final call by the end of September,” the insider stated. While the details about the producers and directors are being kept under wraps, the possibility of Janhvi stepping into a role once immortalized by Sridevi has already created a buzz. If everything falls into place, audiences may soon see Janhvi Kapoor recreating the magic of Chaalbaaz for a new generation.

Nag Ashwin Shares Major Update on Kalki 2

Kalki 2898 AD, starring pan-India icons Prabhas and Deepika Padukone in lead roles, hit theatres in June 2024 and went on to collect nearly ₹1,050 crore worldwide. Directed by Nag Ashwin, the sci-fi mythological thriller emerged as a global blockbuster, leaving fans eagerly awaiting its sequel. Following the massive success of the first part, all eyes have been on Kalki 2. Nag Ashwin had earlier announced that the sequel would begin filming towards the end of 2025. Recently, during a podcast appearance, the director dropped a significant update about the much-anticipated project. Ashwin revealed that while he hopes to start shooting by late 2025, several factors will determine the timeline. “The actors have to come together. Some of the pre-visualized sequences and action sequences are much bigger. So it will take some time. I don’t have an exact answer. Everyone is busy,” he explained. He further added that while filming itself will take time, the real challenge lies in post-production. “Hopefully in another two or three years, that’s what I think,” he said, hinting that fans may have to wait longer to witness the next chapter on the big screen. Kalki 2898 AD also featured Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan and Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan in pivotal roles. The film’s epic soundtrack was composed by Santhosh Narayanan, and it was produced by Ashwini Dutt.

Actress Priya Marathe of Pavitra Rishta Fame Passes Away at 38

Television actress Priya Marathe, best known for her role as Varsha in the popular TV show Pavitra Rishta, passed away at the age of 38 on Sunday. According to media reports, Marathe breathed her last at her residence in Mira Road, Mumbai, on August 31, 2025. She had been battling cancer for the past year and despite treatment, she could not recover. Born on April 23, 1987, in Mumbai, Marathe began her artistic journey as a stand-up comedian before moving into television. She made her debut with the Marathi serial Ya Sukhanoya and later appeared in Char Divas Sasuche. Her portrayal of Varsha in Pavitra Rishta earned her widespread recognition. She also featured in Bade Achhe Lagte Hain as Jyoti Malhotra, essayed a negative role in the Marathi serial Tu Tithe Me, and in 2017 joined Saath Nibhaana Saathiya as Bhavani Rathod. In her personal life, she married actor Shantanu Moghe on April 24, 2012. Moghe is known for his role in the historical series Swarajya Rakshak Sambhaji. Colleagues and fans have expressed grief at her untimely demise, remembering her as a talented performer and a warm, kind-hearted individual. Priya Marathe’s passing marks a significant loss to both the Marathi and Hindi television industries. Her contribution and legacy in entertainment will be fondly remembered.

Tara Sutaria and Veer Pahariya Make Their Relationship Instagram Official

If there’s one Bollywood couple that has long been the subject of speculation, it’s actors Veer Pahariya and Tara Sutaria. Fresh from his debut in Sky Force alongside Akshay Kumar, Veer—the younger of the Pahariya brothers—has often been spotted supporting Tara at her fashion week appearances. The two were also seen together at the airport, though nothing was confirmed at the time. Now, however, the whispers seem to have found their answer, as the pair appear to have made their relationship Instagram official. Tara shared glimpses of her Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations on Instagram, where she looked elegant in a sage-and-gold saree with her hair neatly styled. Standing beside her was Veer, who, despite looking a little casual, made for a dashing partner. Tara captioned the post: “Devotion, faith and celebration.. 🪷🕉️🪷 Ganpati Bappa Morya ✨.” Rumours about their relationship had already been making rounds. During her appearance on Ranveer Allahbadia’s (BeerBiceps) podcast, Tara spoke about love without naming anyone. “I’m very happy right now! Yes! I’m elated, over the moon,” she said. When asked if she ever indulged in moon-gazing with her partner, she playfully admitted, “Yeah, it’s actually a fun experience. Chaudhvin Ka Chand vibes.” She went on to add, “I’m lucky in that department. Because if I didn’t love love as much as I do, and did, and always will… I mean, anyone who loves it as much as I do will be a good partner because you prioritise that above all. It’s the important thing for me, undoubtedly.” The dating buzz grew stronger earlier this month when both Tara and Veer posted pictures from what seemed like the same Italian vacation. Their first public Instagram exchange further fueled the talk—when Tara shared a picture with singer AP Dhillon, Veer commented, “My 🌟❤️,” to which Tara replied, “@veerpahariya Mine🧿❤️.” On the professional front, Tara is rumoured to be shooting for Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups, a bilingual film in Kannada and English slated for release in 2026. She has previously starred in Student of the Year 2 (2019) and Heropanti 2 (2022). Veer, meanwhile, recently made his silver screen debut with the action-thriller Sky Force, alongside Akshay Kumar.

Shoot of Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 in Prayagraj Hit by On-Set Drama

The shoot of Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 has officially kicked off in Prayagraj, but the film is already making headlines for unexpected reasons. Viral videos circulating online show members of the film’s crew getting into a heated clash with locals, followed by a scuffle. Viral Videos Spark Controversy One clip shows two men from the city approaching a crew member during the filming of a car sequence. The argument quickly escalates, with locals seen beating up a man, whom some online posts even claim to be the director. While a few bystanders attempted to diffuse the situation, others reportedly joined in, intensifying the fight. Another video doing the rounds shows lead actors Sara Ali Khan and Ayushmann Khurrana in what appears to be a heated exchange inside a car. Ayushmann can be seen animatedly gesturing while Sara eventually storms off. However, sources suggest this was most likely a scripted sequence and not a real altercation between the actors. Cast and Crew Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 is the sequel to the 2019 rom-com starring Kartik Aaryan, Bhumi Pednekar, and Ananya Panday. This time, Ayushmann Khurrana steps into the lead role, with Sara Ali Khan and Wamiqa Gabbi playing the female leads. Reports indicate that director Mudassar Aziz, known for Happy Bhaag Jayegi and Pati Patni Aur Woh, is helming the project again. However, Aziz has not yet commented on the alleged clash with locals or confirmed his involvement in the viral incident. Fresh Pairings, Same Comic Spirit A source earlier told Pinkvilla: “Sara and Ayushmann are a fresh combo in the comic space, and the actress fits the T for the character’s brief. She heard the script, and it was an instant yes from her side for the film.” Industry insiders suggest that the triangular dynamic of Ayushmann–Sara–Wamiqa promises a refreshing spin, combining proven comic timing with new on-screen chemistry. Awaiting Official Statement So far, the makers have not released any statement regarding the alleged assault on the crew. Whether the incident will disrupt the Prayagraj schedule remains to be seen.

Param Sundari Review — Love Beyond Algorithms

In an age where love is reduced to swipes, filters, and compatibility scores, Param Sundari arrives like a breath of fresh air — a heartfelt reminder that no app or AI can replicate the magic of human connection. Directed by Tushar Jalota and produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, this swooning romantic drama is both contemporary and old-school. It acknowledges the digital era we live in but never lets us forget that true love is about eye contact, smiles that change your day, and the breathtaking feeling of being seen. From its very first scene, the film feels special. There’s a warmth and harmony to the storytelling — dazzling in moments, soothing in others — that makes time stand still. Unlike many formulaic romances, Param Sundari doesn’t rush; it unfolds gently, layering its emotions until they overwhelm you with authenticity. At its heart, the film follows Param (Sidharth Malhotra), a slick Delhi entrepreneur building a soulmate-detection app. For him, love is about data. But when his father (a pitch-perfect Sanjay Kapoor) challenges him to use his own app to find love in 30 days, Param’s life takes a turn. Enter Sundari (Janhvi Kapoor) — a grounded, firecracker Malayali woman who doesn’t fit into any algorithmic box. She’s real, unfiltered, and magnetic, and she upends everything Param thought he knew about love. What begins as a digital match becomes a soulful journey. The romance is neither forced nor formulaic; it grows from awkward banter into something raw and irresistible. Their chemistry crackles — playful at first, then achingly tender. Performances elevate the film. Sidharth Malhotra balances charm with surprising vulnerability, but the show belongs to Janhvi Kapoor, delivering her most assured performance yet. Her Sundari is confident, earthy, and dignified, never slipping into cliché. The supporting cast sparkles: Sanjay Kapoor provides some of the film’s funniest moments, Manjot Singh is endearing, Inayat Verma steals every scene she’s in, and Renji Panicker and Siddhartha Shankar ground the story with emotional heft. Visually, the film shifts beautifully between Delhi’s glossy tech world and Kerala’s serene backwaters, captured with elegance. Costumes stay understated yet striking, reflecting the authenticity of the characters. And then there’s the music — the soul of Param Sundari. From playful tracks like Pardesiya and Danger to the heartfelt Sun Mere Yaar Ve and Chand Kagaz Ka, the album is a six-song powerhouse. The title track Sundari Ke Pyar Mein has already become a chartbuster, but every song is memorable in its own right. Ultimately, Param Sundari is not just a film but a feeling — a reminder of what it’s like to fall in love, messily and beautifully, in a world obsessed with perfection and data. Whether you’re single, swiping endlessly, or happily paired, this film will touch something real in you. Verdict: Honest, funny, emotional, and full of heart, Param Sundari is a modern love story with timeless charm. A must-watch.

Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra Review — A Sincere Beginning for Malayalam’s First Female Superhero

Among this year’s Onam releases, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra stands out as the most ambitious — and rightly so, being Malayalam cinema’s first female superhero film. But director Dominic Arun, co-writing with Santhy Balachandran, ensures the film’s weight doesn’t rest on that milestone alone. Instead, they craft a world that blends folklore, myth, and modern struggles, anchored by the conviction that “all legends have an element of truth.” The film’s choices — from symbolic names like Sunny and Chandra to the grounding of folklore in everyday contexts — lend authenticity. The cast excels across the board: Sandy makes a chilling impression as ruthless cop Nachiyappa, while Vijayaraghavan’s narration of Chandra’s origin, paired with evocative visuals, creates one of the film’s most powerful sequences. At the centre is Kalyani Priyadarshan, bringing both strength and humanity to Chandra, a role far removed from her earlier outings. Naslen, meanwhile, delivers effortless spontaneity, elevating even the simplest lines. Cameos — often distractions in other films — are integrated thoughtfully here, though a few feel stretched. Still, their narrative arcs seem poised for bigger payoffs in upcoming installments. If the “good people” in Lokah are written with nuance and dignity, the grey characters suffer from being one-dimensional. The film also takes a while to settle, with some comedy in the first half falling flat, and the dialogues occasionally lacking a natural flow. Yet, these are minor stumbles in a film with so many strengths: Nimish Ravi’s striking cinematography, Jakes Bejoy’s soaring background score, and above all, the sincerity of its world-building. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra may not deliver instant gratification, but it lays the foundation for a Malayalam superhero universe with care, ambition, and heart. Verdict: A promising, sincere first step into uncharted cinematic territory.

Hrithik Roshan Rents Out His Sea-Facing Juhu Apartment to Girlfriend Saba Azad

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan has leased out his luxury sea-facing apartment in Juhu to girlfriend Saba Azad for ₹75,000 per month for a year, according to property documents accessed via Zapkey. The sprawling 12,000 sq. ft. property, located in Mannat Apartments (Vartamaan) on the Juhu-Versova Link Road, is part of Roshan’s ₹97.5 crore real-estate purchase in October 2020. The actor had acquired three floors in the building, including the 18th floor and a duplex on the 19th and 20th floors. As per the leave-and-license agreement dated August 4, 2025, a security deposit of ₹1.25 lakh was paid. Hrithik’s Real Estate Moves The Roshan family’s property dealings often make headlines. In May 2025, Hrithik and his father, Rakesh Roshan, sold three apartments in Andheri for ₹6.75 crore. Earlier this year, the actor also rented out a 2,727 sq. ft. office space in Goregaon for ₹5.62 lakh per month, and in February he renewed the lease for a 9,209 sq. ft. commercial property in Pune’s Kharadi for ₹6.08 lakh monthly. Hrithik & Saba’s Relationship Hrithik and singer-actor Saba Azad made their relationship public in 2022 when they appeared together at Karan Johar’s 50th birthday bash. Since then, Saba has been a regular at family gatherings and holidays with the Roshans. She will next be seen in the Amazon Prime film Songs of Paradise, which recently unveiled its teaser to positive response. Hrithik, who was last seen in War 2, was among the first to cheer her on.

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