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.

Suniel Shetty Confirms Hera Pheri 3 Teaser Around IPL; Original Trio Reunites for a Nostalgic Ride

In an exciting update for fans of one of Bollywood’s most iconic comedy franchises, Suniel Shetty has confirmed that shooting for Hera Pheri 3 has begun, with the teaser expected to drop around the Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Speaking to Amar Ujala, Shetty shared, “We have just started shooting and have shot the teaser. I think it is expected to release around the IPL. Of course, I am excited, because we are the same team and it has always been a different film.” The return of the original trio — Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal — as Raju, Shyam, and Baburao, respectively, has reignited hope among fans longing for a true sequel to Hera Pheri (2000) and Phir Hera Pheri (2006). The third installment is being helmed by Priyadarshan, who directed the first film, raising expectations for a return to the roots of the franchise’s comedic brilliance. Sharing insights into the on-set camaraderie, Shetty added, “When the three of us met, it is so masti-bhara (super fun). To tell you the truth, there should be a danger sign. Because when the three of us come together, the people around us go crazy trying to keep us in line. Priyan sir keeps telling us whatever fun you guys wanna have, do it after the shot.” He emphasized that despite the laughter and chaos, the team has returned with the same sincerity and dedication they had in 2000. After years of rumors, casting shake-ups, and production delays, Hera Pheri 3 is finally on track, with a teaser lined up to drop during one of India’s biggest entertainment windows — the IPL. This move is likely to generate massive buzz and reintroduce the trio to a new generation of audiences while rewarding longtime fans with the chaos and heart they’ve missed. With nostalgia, impeccable timing, and a director who knows the pulse of the franchise, Hera Pheri 3 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated comedy films in recent memory.

Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana Title Announcement Video Gets CBFC Nod, Release Imminent

One of the most eagerly awaited films in Bollywood, Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari and reportedly starring Ranbir Kapoor, has taken a major step forward with the clearance of its title announcement video. According to a report by Pinkvilla, the short video has been approved by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), receiving a ‘U’ certificate from its Mumbai Regional Office on May 5. The video runs for 2 minutes and 36 seconds, and while it hasn’t been officially unveiled yet, the certification has significantly heightened excitement among fans and cinephiles. The film is being positioned as a two-part cinematic epic. Ramayana Part 1 is slated for a grand theatrical release during Diwali 2026, with Part 2 expected to follow a year later during Diwali 2027. The story, rooted in the ancient Indian scripture, is expected to be a visually rich and immersive spectacle, blending mythology with cutting-edge technology and storytelling. The project is being spearheaded by Namit Malhotra of Prime Focus and DNEG, who shared his vision in November 2024 via Instagram. He wrote, “More than a decade ago, I embarked on a noble quest to bring this epic that has ruled billions of hearts for over 5,000 years to the big screen. And today, I am thrilled to see it taking shape beautifully… Join us as we fulfil our dream of bringing our greatest epic to life with pride and reverence.” While the official cast is yet to be formally announced, strong industry buzz and leaked set photos suggest that Ranbir Kapoor will be seen as Lord Ram, with Sai Pallavi playing Sita, and Yash taking on the role of Ravana. Yash, who is also co-producing the film, had earlier stated in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India that Ravana is one of the “most fascinating” characters he’s ever had the opportunity to portray. With the title reveal video now certified, fans are eagerly waiting for its public release, which is expected to offer the first glimpse into the tone, aesthetics, and vision of what may become one of Indian cinema’s most iconic mythological adaptations.

Aamir Khan Unveils First Poster of Sitaare Zameen Par, Sequel to His Iconic Taare Zameen Par

Aamir Khan has officially set the stage for one of the most anticipated films of the year — Sitaare Zameen Par, the spiritual sequel to his 2007 classic Taare Zameen Par. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on June 20, 2025, and marks the return of both Aamir and TZP child actor Darsheel Safary, along with Genelia Deshmukh in a key role. Unveiling the first poster, Aamir gave fans a peek into the world of Sitaare Zameen Par, which features him as a basketball coach leading a team of 10 debutant actors, including Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Vedant Sharma, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, Ayush Bhansali, Samvit Desai, and Simran Mangeshkar. The tagline, “Sabka Apna Apna Normal,” suggests a continuation of the original’s empathetic and inclusive spirit, this time shifting its focus toward individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The poster shows a close-up of Aamir Khan’s face at the top, with another image of him resting his head on a basketball in the lower section, flanked by his young team — a setup that has drawn mixed reactions. While many fans were overwhelmed with nostalgia and praised the message, others were critical of the poster design, saying it leaned too heavily on the aesthetics of Taare Zameen Par without delivering a fresh visual impact. Social media reactions were divided: While some netizens worry that Sitaare Zameen Par may not match up to the emotional depth of its predecessor, many remain hopeful. Based on the critically acclaimed Spanish film Champions (2018), the story is expected to blend humor, heart, and sensitivity in a way that highlights the dignity and individuality of people with disabilities, much like TZP did for children with dyslexia. With Aamir Khan back both in front of and behind the camera, anticipation is sky-high.

Kannada Film Chamber Boycotts Sonu Nigam Over Controversial Remarks; Bengaluru Police Summon Singer

Popular playback singer Sonu Nigam has come under fire in Karnataka after making controversial remarks during a live concert in Bengaluru on April 25, prompting the Kannada Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) to impose a boycott against him. The chamber has demanded an unconditional apology, stating they would sever all professional ties with the singer until the issue is resolved. At the concert, when a fan persistently asked Nigam to sing a Kannada song, the visibly irritated singer snapped, saying, “I always sing Kannada songs when requested. I had been singing in Kannada before that young man was born. But I did not like how he shouted ‘Kannada, Kannada’. Such behaviour leads to incidents such as the Pahalgam attack.” The comment—seen as comparing linguistic assertiveness to terrorism—sparked outrage among pro-Kannada groups and citizens alike. KFCC President M. Narasimhulu announced the boycott publicly, stating, “From today, whoever is calling him for a song … we have decided that we would not have any activities with him.” The chamber emphasized that Nigam’s words were disrespectful and hurtful to the sentiments of Kannadigas, demanding a formal apology before reconsidering the boycott. The controversy arrives at a sensitive time in Karnataka, following a recent claim by an Indian Air Force officer who alleged he was assaulted for not knowing Kannada. This, coupled with the growing tension between Kannada-speaking locals and migrants perceived to be indifferent to the regional language, has inflamed public sentiment. In response to the backlash, Sonu Nigam issued a clarification on social media, expressing his respect for the Kannada language and culture. “I have given unprecedented love to the language, culture, music, musicians, state, and people… I revere my Kannada songs way more than songs in other languages, including Hindi,” he stated. Despite his clarification, Bengaluru Police have summoned Nigam for further questioning, citing a complaint filed for hurting Kannada sentiments. Legal proceedings are underway, and the issue has reignited conversations around language sensitivity and regional pride. Prominent figures in Karnataka’s music industry, including Karnataka Film Musicians’ Association’s general secretary Dharma Vish, have acknowledged Nigam’s talent but condemned his statement. “You compare a person or people from a state to terrorists—it is very damaging,” Vish said, stressing that the issue is not about talent but about respecting cultural identities. The controversy remains a flashpoint in ongoing debates about Hindi imposition, regional identity, and cultural respect in India.

Ajaz Khan on the Run After R*pe FIR; Faces Backlash Over Controversial Reality Show

Actor Ajaz Khan, best known for his appearance on Bigg Boss 7 and roles in films like Rakhta Charitra and Allah Ke Banday, has found himself at the center of a serious criminal investigation. A rape complaint has been filed against him by a woman, prompting the Mumbai Police to launch a search for the actor, who has allegedly been untraceable since the FIR was lodged at Charkop Police Station. According to Mumbai Police, Ajaz’s phone has been switched off, and repeated attempts to contact or locate him have failed. When officers visited his known residence, he was not present. “Case registered at Charkop Police Station against actor Ajaz Khan for allegedly raping an actress. Police tried to contact him after registering the FIR, but his number has been switched off since then,” said a police official, as reported by ANI. In addition to the criminal allegations, Ajaz Khan is also embroiled in controversy surrounding the Ullu app’s new reality show House Arrest, which he hosts. The show, promoted as an uncensored version of Bigg Boss and Lock Upp, began streaming on April 11, 2025, featuring 12 contestants locked in a villa performing provocative tasks. The show sparked public outrage when a viral video clip showed Ajaz asking participants to enact Kamasutra positions. The clip drew backlash on social media and from political groups, with many accusing the show of promoting vulgarity under the guise of entertainment. Following a complaint by a Bajrang Dal member, Mumbai’s Amboli Police filed an FIR last week against Ajaz Khan and producer Rajkumar Pandey, citing sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the IT Act, and the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act. These charges pertain to obscene acts and violations of decency in online content. The National Commission for Women (NCW) also condemned the show, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “Viral clips show women being bullied into intimate activities on camera. NCW denounces the platform for encouraging vulgarity & violating consent.” With both legal and public pressure mounting, Ajaz Khan is now under scrutiny from multiple angles, and efforts to trace his whereabouts are ongoing.

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