September 10, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Tag: bollywood

Saif Ali Khan Stabbing Case: Accused Shariful Islam Shehzad Seeks Bail, Claims Innocence

The Bangladeshi national accused of stabbing Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan has filed a bail application, claiming he has been falsely implicated in the case. The accused, Mohammad Shariful Islam Shehzad (30), was arrested two days after the brutal attack on Saif at his residence in Bandra, Mumbai, on January 16. Saif Ali Khan, 54, was stabbed multiple times by an intruder inside his upscale apartment, leading to his hospitalization and emergency surgery at Lilavati Hospital. Accused Claims Unlawful Arrest In his bail plea, filed through advocate Ajay Gawali before the sessions court on Friday, Shariful argued that his arrest was illegal and arbitrary. He alleged that the investigating agency violated Section 47 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which mandates informing an accused about the grounds of arrest and their right to bail. The plea also pointed out that even if the witnesses’ statements are presumed accurate, they fail to satisfy the criteria under Section 311 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with robbery or dacoity committed with intent to cause death or grievous hurt. Shariful contended that the investigation is almost complete, with all necessary recovery and discovery conducted. Since the only remaining step is the filing of the chargesheet, he argued that further detention would serve “no useful purpose”. CCTV Footage and Evidence The Mumbai Police claim that CCTV footage from January 9 — a week before the stabbing — helped identify Shariful. The footage allegedly shows him wandering around the Dadar railway station area, as well as parts of Prabhadevi and Worli Koliwada, near Saif’s home. Despite this, Shariful maintains his innocence and insists that his arrest was unwarranted. The plea will be heard on April 1. Public Reactions and Concerns Fans of Saif Ali Khan and the public at large have been following the case closely, expressing both outrage and shock over the incident. While many are calling for strict punishment, others are urging for a fair trial to ensure that justice prevails. What are your thoughts on this development? Should the court grant bail to the accused, or should he remain in custody given the severity of the charges?

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Editor04 mins

Asim Riaz and Rajat Dalal Clash at ‘Battleground’ Event, Shikhar Dhawan Intervenes

Former Bigg Boss and Khatron Ke Khiladi contestant Asim Riaz has once again made headlines after a heated altercation with fellow reality star and YouTuber Rajat Dalal during the promotion of the upcoming fitness reality show, Battleground. The incident took place during a press conference attended by cricketer Shikhar Dhawan and actress Rubina Dilaik. In a viral video shared on social media, Asim can be seen aggressively pushing and shoving Rajat while repeatedly telling him to “peeche ho” (move back). Both were visibly agitated, and the situation escalated quickly before Shikhar Dhawan intervened to separate them. Rubina, meanwhile, kept her distance, appearing uncomfortable with the confrontation. What Led to the Fight? The exact cause of the fight remains unclear, but both Asim and Rajat are known for their short tempers. This isn’t the first time Asim has made headlines for losing his cool. He previously walked out of Khatron Ke Khiladi 14 following a heated argument with fellow contestants. On the other hand, Rajat Dalal was involved in a widely publicized altercation with Bigg Boss 18 contestant Digvijay Rathee. About the Show ‘Battleground’ Battleground is a much-anticipated fitness reality show set to stream on Amazon MX Player. It features Indian cricket legend Shikhar Dhawan as the Supermentor, guiding contestants through rigorous training, strategy building, and competitive tasks. The show is structured around four regional teams: The contestants will compete under the guidance of fitness and lifestyle experts within the Battleground House, striving to prove their physical and mental prowess. Mixed Reactions from Fans Social media users are divided over the altercation, with some siding with Asim and others calling out his aggressive behavior. Fans of Rajat have also expressed their disappointment, criticizing Asim for “overreacting”. Meanwhile, Asim’s supporters argue that there might be “more to the story” than meets the eye. While the controversy has undoubtedly added to the buzz around Battleground, it has also raised questions about maintaining professionalism during public events. Neither Asim nor Rajat has issued an official statement addressing the incident. What do you think about the clash? Was Asim justified, or did he take it too far?

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Editor04 mins

‘Empuraan’ Faces Modifications Amid Protests and Political Backlash

The Mohanlal-Prithviraj starrer Empuraan is set to undergo modifications following widespread protests and criticism, primarily from the RSS and its affiliated publications. The decision to make changes reportedly comes at the request of the film’s producers, and the revisions are expected to be completed by Monday. Meanwhile, the unmodified version will continue to run in theaters. What Are the Planned Changes? According to sources, more than 17 modifications will be made to the film, including: The modifications are being described as voluntary rather than a result of re-censorship. Interestingly, the Censor Board had initially suggested only two cuts—reducing the duration of scenes depicting violence against women and removing a dialogue that referenced the national flag. Political Controversy Surrounding ‘Empuraan’ The controversy erupted after the RSS and its mouthpiece accused Mohanlal of betraying his fans and Prithviraj of taking an anti-Hindu stance. A leaked document also revealed that the Censor Board’s nominated members did not intervene significantly during the review process, leading to criticism from RSS leaders like A Jayakumar and J Nandakumar. The RSS has labeled Empuraan as an “anti-India agenda movie”, and the debate has sparked a divide even within the BJP. While the BJP’s state leadership has distanced itself from any formal campaign against the film, national council member C Raghunath hinted at internal differences within the party over the issue. Box Office Success Despite Controversy Despite the uproar, Empuraan has been a box office juggernaut, raking in over ₹100 crore in just two days. The film’s success, however, has not dampened the political backlash it continues to face.

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Editor03 mins

David Warner Charges a Whopping Rs 2.5 Crores for 3-Minute Cameo in Robinhood

Australian cricketer David Warner has made his acting debut with the Telugu film Robinhood, starring Nithiin in the lead role. While fans were thrilled to catch a glimpse of their favorite cricketer on the silver screen, it’s his massive paycheque that has caught everyone’s attention. Hefty Fee for a Brief Appearance According to reports from India TV, Warner charged a staggering Rs 2.5 crores for his cameo, which lasted just 2 minutes and 50 seconds on screen. The cricketer was required to shoot for merely 2 days, effectively earning Rs 1.25 crores per day. With this jaw-dropping fee, Warner has joined the elite list of actors with some of the most expensive cameo appearances in Indian cinema. Fans React to Warner’s Debut Warner’s cameo, although brief, has sparked excitement among fans, who were eager to see the Australian cricketer venture into acting. The film, directed by Venky Kudumula, hit theaters recently and has already garnered attention for Warner’s unexpected yet entertaining appearance. Warner’s Connection with Telugu Cinema Warner has always shown his fondness for Telugu movies and culture, frequently posting videos on social media where he grooves to Tollywood songs or mimics iconic dialogues. His cameo in Robinhood seems like a natural extension of his affection for the Telugu film industry.

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Editor02 mins

Emraan Hashmi’s Ground Zero Teaser Unveiled: An Intense War Thriller on Real-Life Heroism

The much-awaited teaser of Emraan Hashmi’s upcoming film Ground Zero has finally been unveiled, giving a glimpse into a gripping war thriller inspired by real events. Directed by Tejas Deoskar, the film is set against the turbulent backdrop of Kashmir and is slated for a theatrical release on April 25, 2025. A Tale of Bravery and Sacrifice The teaser opens with a chilling warning from a terror group, immediately setting a tense atmosphere. The story revolves around a devastating attack on Indian soldiers, resulting in the loss of 70 lives. Enter Emraan Hashmi as BSF Deputy Commandant Narendra Nath Dubey, a real-life hero tasked with leading a high-stakes mission to hunt down the enemy and restore order. Hashmi’s commanding presence is evident as he delivers the powerful line:“Sirf Kashmir ki zameen humaari hai ya yahan ke log bhi?”(Does Kashmir’s land belong to us, or do its people also belong to us?) This thought-provoking dialogue hints at the film’s deeper message about unity and belonging, layered with themes of patriotism and sacrifice. A Stellar Production Team Produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, Ground Zero is backed by Excel Entertainment. It is co-produced by Kassim Jagmagia, Vishal Ramchandani, Sundeep C Sidhwani, Arhan Bagati, Talisman Films, Abhishek Kumar, and Nishikant Roy. The film promises to be an intense and immersive experience, with gritty action sequences, emotionally charged dialogues, and a performance-driven narrative. What’s Next for Emraan Hashmi? Besides Ground Zero, Emraan Hashmi is also set to headline Awarapan 2, the much-anticipated sequel to the cult classic Awarapan (2007). Directed by Mohit Suri, the film will continue the story of Shivam Pandit, a character that became iconic for Hashmi’s intense portrayal and powerful screen presence. Fans can expect another high-octane action drama filled with emotion and redemption. With Ground Zero and Awarapan 2, Emraan Hashmi seems poised for a major comeback, offering audiences both patriotic fervor and raw action. Get ready to witness his transformation on screen as he brings these impactful stories to life!

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Editor03 mins

“L2: Empuraan” Review: Style Over Substance

A Grand Canvas with a Hollow Core L2: Empuraan bursts onto the screen with gunshots, helicopters, and opulent sets, capturing the larger-than-life presence of Mohanlal’s character — the enigmatic “L” who goes by many names: Stephen Nedumpally, Esthappan, Khureshi Ab’raam, and his most iconic title, Lucifer. Directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, the sequel to Lucifer (2019) is both a continuation and a prequel, delving deeper into the past while expanding the saga’s grandiosity. But grandeur does not always translate to substance. Empuraan often feels like an exercise in style, with sweeping shots and pulsating music trying to fill the void left by a script that struggles to strike a balance between plot and spectacle. A Tale of Two Halves The film ambitiously merges real-life political undertones with fictional grandeur, particularly drawing parallels to the Gujarat riots of 2002, depicted through disturbing and provocative visuals. However, while it handles the communal violence with some gravitas, its portrayal of Kerala politics feels almost parodic, with caricatured leaders and a lack of nuance. The plot itself gets lost in its own complexity. Prithviraj’s Zayed Masood takes center stage with an extended role, but his backstory — rooted in communal violence — feels both overly dramatized and underexplored. Meanwhile, Mohanlal’s Lucifer remains an enigma, shrouded in shadow and delivered with stoic grandeur, but his limited dialogues, mostly cryptic and metaphorical, leave the audience yearning for more substance. A Galaxy of Stars, Yet Few Shine Bright The ensemble cast is vast and varied, with actors tumbling in and out of the narrative with little to do. Even Manju Warrier’s strong presence feels undercut by a one-note character. Tovino Thomas’s role as the rebellious heir of a political dynasty shows promise but lacks depth. International faces like Jerome Flynn (Game of Thrones) and Eriq Ebouaney add flair but not much substance. Amidst the sea of faces, Baiju’s portrayal of a cunning politician stands out as refreshingly natural, breaking the monotony of grandeur with some much-needed realism. Technical Brilliance with a Purpose? Deepak Dev’s music and Sujith Vasudev’s cinematography are undeniably impressive, setting the stage with intensity and grandeur. The visual language of Empuraan is undeniably cinematic, designed to be larger-than-life. But the style often overshadows the story, making the film feel more like a showcase of technical prowess than a compelling narrative. Final Verdict L2: Empuraan is a film made for the die-hard fans who revel in every slow-motion walk and dramatic entry. While the mass moments and action set pieces will undoubtedly draw cheers, the film’s narrative coherence suffers under the weight of its ambition. If you’re in for the spectacle and iconic moments, Empuraan delivers. But for those seeking a nuanced and substantial story, the film’s dazzling visuals might feel like an elaborate distraction from an otherwise hollow core.

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Editor05 mins

Hrithik Roshan to Direct and Star in “Krrish 4”

In a groundbreaking move for Bollywood’s iconic superhero franchise, Hrithik Roshan is set to make his directorial debut with Krrish 4. The megastar, who headlined all three previous installments of the blockbuster series, will take on the dual role of director and lead actor in the highly anticipated sequel. Production Details The film will be produced by Yash Raj Films in collaboration with franchise creator Rakesh Roshan’s FilmKraft Productions. Aditya Chopra, head of YRF, reportedly played a crucial role in convincing Hrithik to step behind the camera, marking a new creative era for the franchise. Rakesh Roshan Passes the Baton Speaking about the transition, Rakesh Roshan expressed his pride in Hrithik’s vision and ambition for the project. “I’m passing the baton to my son, Hrithik Roshan, who has lived and dreamt about this franchise since its inception. I couldn’t be prouder to see him wear the director’s hat for a film that means the world to us as a family,” he said. The collaboration between YRF and FilmKraft Productions brings together two of Bollywood’s most powerful filmmaking families. Rakesh Roshan praised Aditya Chopra’s involvement, highlighting YRF’s technological capabilities and expertise as invaluable assets to the project. A New Era for India’s Superhero The Krrish franchise began in 2003 with Koi… Mil Gaya, a sci-fi drama that struck an emotional chord with audiences. It was followed by Krrish (2006) and Krrish 3 (2013), cementing Hrithik’s masked crusader as India’s answer to Superman. Known for its spectacular VFX, shape-shifting villains, and mythological undertones, the franchise remains one of Bollywood’s most successful and enduring cinematic ventures. Global Aspirations Rakesh Roshan expressed his confidence in the new director-producer duo, saying, “Hrithik and Adi coming together as a producer-director pair with me behind them is a rare and creatively potent combination. We aim to make Krrish 4 a global cinematic experience like never before.” Production Timeline Filming for Krrish 4 is expected to begin in early 2026, but an official release date has yet to be announced. Fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally powerful chapter in India’s premier superhero saga.

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Editor04 mins

Salman Khan Confirms Films with Sanjay Dutt and Sooraj Barjatya; ‘Tiger Vs Pathaan’ Not Happening Soon

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has confirmed that he is reuniting with Sanjay Dutt for an upcoming film. While keeping the details under wraps, Salman revealed that the film will be “rustic and next level,” hinting at a grand-scale action entertainer. An official announcement is expected soon. Salman to Reunite with Sooraj Barjatya In addition to his film with Sanjay Dutt, Salman also confirmed that he is set to collaborate once again with filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya. Known for delivering classics like Maine Pyar Kiya, Hum Aapke Hain Koun…!, and Hum Saath Saath Hain, this reunion has already generated excitement among fans. The film is expected to go on floors after the release of Sikandar. ‘Tiger Vs Pathaan’ Put on Hold Amid speculation about the highly anticipated crossover Tiger Vs Pathaan, Salman clarified that the project is not happening at the moment. Fans had been eagerly awaiting this face-off between Salman and Shah Rukh Khan in the YRF Spy Universe, but it appears they’ll have to wait longer. ‘Sikandar’ Set for Eid 2025 Release Before these upcoming projects, Salman Khan will be seen in Sikandar, which is set to release on March 30, 2025, on the occasion of Eid. Directed by A.R. Murugadoss, the film features Rashmika Mandanna as the female lead and promises to be a high-octane action thriller.

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Editor02 mins

Indian Censors Block Acclaimed Film Santosh Over Portrayal of Police and Social Issues

Indian film censors have refused to approve the release of Santosh, a critically acclaimed film by British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri, citing concerns over its depiction of misogyny, Islamophobia, and police brutality. Set in North India, Santosh follows a young widow who joins the police force and investigates the murder of a Dalit girl. The film, which debuted at Cannes and was the UK’s official Oscar entry, has won widespread praise for its bold storytelling. However, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has blocked its release, demanding extensive cuts that the filmmakers deemed “impossible” to implement without compromising the film’s essence. Suri expressed disappointment, calling the decision “heartbreaking,” especially since the script was initially approved for filming in India without objections. Despite support from major Indian distributors, the film now faces an uncertain future in its home country.

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Editor01 mins

Sonu Sood’s wife Sonali injured in car accident

In an unfortunate turn of events, Sonu Sood’s wife, Sonali Sood, and her nephew were injured in a late-night car accident on the Nagpur Highway on Monday. The incident took place while Sonali was traveling with her sister and nephew. Her nephew, who was behind the wheel, was driving when the accident occurred. Both Sonali and her nephew were rushed to Max Hospital in Nagpur, where they are currently receiving treatment. Hospital staff confirmed that both individuals are under observation, and they are expected to receive full care over the next 48 to 72 hours. Fortunately, Sonali’s sister, who was also in the car, only suffered minor injuries. Upon hearing the news, Sonu Sood, known for his philanthropic efforts and selfless acts, immediately rushed to Nagpur to be by his wife’s side. A representative of the actor confirmed the incident and mentioned that Sonu was currently unavailable due to the situation. In a statement to Media, Sonu shared a sense of relief, saying, “She’s doing fine now. Had a miraculous escape.” The actor’s quick response to the crisis and his constant concern for his loved ones reflect his caring nature, which he is widely recognized for both on and off the screen. Sonu Sood, who is celebrated for his humanitarian work, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, is a beacon of kindness in an often indifferent world. However, despite his numerous good deeds and efforts to help those in need, this time, the kindness he’s known for didn’t come back to him when he needed it most. The actor’s personal life, particularly his devotion to his family, is something his fans cherish. Sonu and Sonali tied the knot in 1996 and are the proud parents of two sons, Ayaan and Ishant. While he continues to juggle his professional commitments, including his most recent action thriller Fateh alongside Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonu has never shied away from prioritizing his family in moments of need. Though the details of the accident remain unclear, it is heartening to know that Sonali’s escape was miraculous. Fans and well-wishers will no doubt continue to send their prayers and support to Sonu Sood and his family, hoping for a swift recovery for his wife and nephew. For someone who has always gone above and beyond to help others, it’s evident that Sonu Sood’s family has a strong pillar of support in him during their time of need. We wish Sonali and her nephew a speedy recovery and hope this difficult time passes soon for the Sood family.

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Editor04 mins
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