Dia Mirza reacts to PM Narendra Modi’s statement on Jantar Mantar protest; says “It took 47 days for you to say something”

Actress and environmental activist Dia Mirza has once again voiced her support for the students protesting at Jantar Mantar, this time responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first public statement on the ongoing agitation over the alleged NEET paper leak.

A day after the Prime Minister shared a video message on social media addressing the issue, Dia took to Instagram to express her disappointment with his remarks. In his video, PM Modi assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the alleged paper leak. However, his message did not touch upon several issues that have remained at the centre of the protests, including the students injured during the lathi charge, Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike, and the families who have reportedly lost their children during the ongoing crisis.

Reacting to the Prime Minister’s statement, Dia Mirza shared a strongly worded note on Instagram that read, “Not one word of empathy for the parents who have lost their children, for the children who have died, for the incredible resilience of students demanding their rights, for Sonamji and the students who were on a hunger strike for weeks. How hard can it be Sir? It took 47 days for you to say something. And now that you have, you have said nothing. Nothing that can heal the millions of hearts that are broken.”

 

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The actress has consistently been among the most vocal members of the film fraternity supporting the ongoing protest. Since the demonstrations began, Dia has frequently used her social media platforms to amplify the concerns of students, encourage peaceful democratic participation, and call for accountability from those in power.

Her latest post also reiterates her support for education reform activist Sonam Wangchuk, whose prolonged hunger strike has become one of the defining aspects of the movement. Over the past several weeks, Dia has repeatedly shared updates on the protest while urging authorities to engage with the concerns raised by students.

Dia Mirza remains one of the few prominent celebrities to consistently comment on the developments surrounding the Jantar Mantar protest from its initial stages. Her social media has reflected her continued advocacy for democratic values, transparency, and dialogue, while standing in solidarity with students seeking answers over the alleged examination paper leak.

Her latest reaction has further fuelled online conversations on the matter. As the demonstrations continue, voices from across the entertainment industry continue to add momentum to the public discourse surrounding the issue.

Also Read: Operation Safed Sagar: Dia Mirza says Kamalpreet Kaur Dhanoa held Air Force families together during the 1999 Kargil War

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Ahaan Panday and Sharvari’s next with Ali Abbas Zafar to release on March 26, 2027

Yash Raj Films has officially locked March 26, 2027, which falls on Good Friday, as the theatrical release date for director Ali Abbas Zafar’s upcoming untitled romantic action drama. The announcement marks a major calendar slot for the project produced by Aditya Chopra. The film features Ahaan Panday and Sharvari in the lead roles, alongside Aaishvary Thackeray and Bobby Deol. It continues the successful working relationship between Chopra and Zafar.

Fifth Collaboration Between Aditya Chopra and Ali Abbas Zafar

This marks the fifth producer-director pairing for Aditya Chopra and Ali Abbas Zafar. Their earlier films together include Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, Gunday, Sultan and Tiger Zinda Hai. The new project returns Zafar to the YRF banner for a large-scale romantic action drama after a gap.

Ahaan Panday, who recently gained attention with Saiyaara, takes on a central role that reports describe as carrying strong intensity. Sharvari joins him as the female lead in what is positioned as a major YRF outing for her. Aaishvary Thackeray and Bobby Deol complete the principal cast, bringing additional weight to the ensemble. While the exact title and full plot details remain under wraps, the film is being described as a romantic action drama.

A significant portion of the film has been extensively shot in the United Kingdom. Production schedules also included work at Yash Raj Film Studios in India. The overseas locations are expected to lend a distinct visual scale to the project.

Also Read: Yash Raj Films appoints Usha Rachael Thomas as Head of Communications Strategy

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Amol Palekar offers legal and financial support to students protesting over NEET paper leak: “Do not allow anger to harden into hatred”

Veteran actor and filmmaker Amol Palekar has voiced his support for students protesting over the NEET paper leak by writing an open letter expressing solidarity with the youth-led movement. As demonstrations continue in Delhi demanding accountability and education reforms, the actor praised the courage of students and said they are carrying forward the unfinished work of democracy.

Addressing the protesters as "Dear brave students," Palekar wrote that he was writing not only in solidarity but also with gratitude. "Every generation inherits the unfinished work of democracy. Yours has accepted both the burden and the privilege of carrying it forward," he wrote. Draws parallels with history and literature In his letter, Palekar referred to Albert Camus' Caligula, saying the play reflects how unchecked power can become detached from moral responsibility. He added that the recent developments in Delhi reminded him of those themes.

The veteran actor also cited historical student movements and struggles across the world, including the Paris student protests of 1968, the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, Tiananmen Square and the Navnirman Andolan in Gujarat, arguing that attempts to silence young voices have never succeeded in suppressing the desire for freedom. "The images filled us with anguish and anger" Reacting to the reported police action against protesters, Palekar said the visuals left him deeply disturbed. "The images of the brutality inflicted upon you have filled us with anguish and anger," he wrote.

He added that universities are places where society learns to question itself and said asking those in power difficult questions is a democratic responsibility rather than a privilege. "When questions are answered with batons instead of reason, it is not the students who stand diminished. It is the State," the actor wrote. Explains why he did not join the protest Palekar also explained why he did not attend the demonstrations in person. He said advancing age has imposed physical limitations, even though his convictions remain unchanged. He also noted that he deliberately chose not to participate physically because he did not want public attention to shift away from the students.

"This is your movement, your voice, your moment of moral courage. You do not need celebrity validation. Democratic movements derive their legitimacy from the courage of those at their centre, not from the visibility of those who stand beside them," he wrote. Offers support to students The actor concluded his letter by assuring students that he and his wife, Sandhya, would continue supporting them in every way possible. He even offered legal, medical and financial assistance within their means if required. Encouraging students to remain hopeful, he wrote, "Today you may be called students. Tomorrow you will be known as the generation that chose courage over silence. The future belongs to those who refuse to surrender their humanity."

The ongoing demonstrations began over the alleged NEET paper leak and demands for systemic reforms in the education sector. The movement has received support from several members of the film industry, with many celebrities calling for accountability, dialogue and peaceful resolution while expressing solidarity with students.

Also Read: Kamal Haasan backs Jantar Mantar protest, questions system in powerful note: “A nation has failed when its children are met with barricades and batons”

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Ramayana trailer postponed as Sony Pictures comes on board for global release outside India; Namit Malhotra calls it historic moment

Prime Focus Studios has announced a landmark partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment, which will distribute Ramayana across international markets outside India. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the ambitious mythological epic, even as the makers confirmed that the film's much-awaited trailer launch has been postponed to a later date.

Producer Namit Malhotra shared the update through a detailed note on social media, revealing that the global partnership prompted the decision to reschedule the trailer launch. “Today is a very special moment for our "Ramayana", my dream of taking Ramayana to the world is now a reality with our partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment. In light of the above we will be launching our trailer now globally at a later date. In over 100+ years of Indian Cinema this will become a moment of great pride where Ramayana will be shown to the entire world like any major global Hollywood film. This is special as it opens the door for people of the world to discover the richness of our culture and our stories with renewed pride and enthusiasm. I thank all the fans and the believers of Ramayana to help make this happen. The youth of our country are our future, let's all do the best we can to protect our future. Jai Hind,” the note read.

 

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Headlined by Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi, Ramayana is envisioned as a global cinematic spectacle that will be released internationally in multiple languages, including a premium English-language version. The film seeks to introduce one of India's most celebrated epics to audiences across cultures while staying rooted in its timeless themes of duty, courage, compassion, sacrifice and righteousness.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the fantasy action-adventure film brings together an extensive international crew. The project features music by Academy Award winners Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, action choreography by Terry Notary and Guy Norris, and production design by Ramsey Avery and Ravi Bansal. The film is produced by Prime Focus Studios' Namit Malhotra, who also serves as the Global CEO of the Academy Award-winning visual effects company DNEG.

Sharing his vision for the project, Malhotra said, "For generations, the Ramayana has inspired people through its timeless humanity and enduring values. Our ambition has always been to honor that legacy while creating a cinematic experience worthy of audiences everywhere. Through DNEG, we have spent decades helping filmmakers realize some of the world's most ambitious cinematic visions. With Prime Focus Studios, we are now bringing that same commitment to storytelling to one of the world's greatest epics. Collaborating with Sony Pictures gives Ramayana an extraordinary opportunity to connect with international audiences and introduce this timeless story to moviegoers around the world."

The collaboration with Sony Pictures marks one of the biggest international distribution deals for an Indian film, positioning Ramayana for a large-scale worldwide release comparable to major Hollywood tentpole productions. With the trailer now set to debut globally at a later date, anticipation surrounding the film continues to grow ahead of its release.

Also Read: Ramayana makers unveil behind-the-scenes glimpse from Pratham Sankalp event; Sunny Deol surprise appearance steals attention

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Alia Bhatt backs students amid NEET protest in heartfelt note: “Their courage humbles me”

Actor Alia Bhatt has become the latest celebrity to speak out on the ongoing protests over the alleged NEET paper leak and the violence reported during demonstrations at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. In an emotional note shared on Instagram, the actor expressed solidarity with the students and praised their courage and determination.

Reflecting on the developments over the past few days, Alia wrote that the events had left her heartbroken while also giving her hope. "The last few days have broken my heart and then mended it, again and again, with hope," she wrote. Alia Bhatt says students represent hope and sacrifice The actor said every student participating in the movement represents years of hard work, sacrifice, and the aspirations of their families. She added that their fight extends beyond their own future and could create a better path for generations to come: "Behind every student standing their ground is a dream, a family's hope, a journey of countless sacrifices. They represent not just themselves but everyone who has supported them, while creating a better path for those who will come after them." Alia Bhatt urges the nation to listen to the voices of young people Calling the students' determination inspiring, Alia said their actions should encourage society to reflect on whether it is truly listening to the voices of young people. She added, "Their courage humbles me. Their resolve is a mirror held up to all of us, asking whether we are truly listening to the very people who will inherit and shape this country's tomorrow."

 

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She concluded her note by reaffirming that the movement belongs to the students and expressing confidence in the generation that will shape India's future: "For the students. By the students. The future is theirs. Jai Hind." Celebrities continue to voice support Alia joins a growing list of film personalities who have reacted to the protests and the reported violence. Veteran actors Shabana Azmi and Prakash Raj participated in the demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, while Hanumankind also joined students on the ground. Salman Khan, Preity Zinta, Imran Khan, Dulquer Salmaan, Sonu Sood, Vir Das, Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh, Bhumi Pednekar, Sonakshi Sinha, Dia Mirza, Aditi Rao Hydari, Soha Ali Khan, Huma Qureshi, Pa Ranjith, Diljit Dosanjh, Yo Yo Honey Singh and filmmaker Anurag Kashyap have also expressed support for students, condemned the violence, or called for dialogue and reforms in the education system.

Also Read: Dulquer Salmaan REACTS to NEET protest violence, calls for ‘meaningful dialogue’ and empathy for students

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Ahan Shetty joins Vikram Bhatt's 1920: Cold Winter; shoot expected to begin in November: Report

Actor Ahan Shetty may soon be seen exploring the horror genre for the first time. According to the latest reports, the Border 2 actor has reportedly come on board for filmmaker Vikram Bhatt's 1920: Cold Winter, the sixth instalment in the long-running 1920 franchise.

As per a Mid-Day report, the film is currently in the scripting stage. A source quoted by the publication claimed that Ahan was looking to diversify his filmography after making his debut with Tadap and recently returning to the big screen with Border 2.

"This will be Ahan's first brush with the supernatural genre. He wants to do a variety of roles, after being launched in the romantic action drama Tadap. That's why he is carefully choosing movies that belong to different genres," the source said.

The report further stated that Vikram Bhatt and producer Anand Pandit are currently searching for the film's female lead. They are reportedly looking to cast a reasonably well-known actress rather than a newcomer.

If everything goes according to plan, filming is expected to begin in November. Before that, the producer-director duo is said to travel to Scotland for a location recce. Some portions of the film are also expected to be shot in Shimla.

The 1920 franchise began with the 2008 film 1920 and has since expanded with 1920: Evil Returns, 1920: London, 1921, and 1920: Horrors of the Heart. 1920: Cold Winter will mark the sixth chapter in the supernatural horror series.

Neither Ahan Shetty nor the makers have officially confirmed or denied the report so far.

Meanwhile, Ahan will next be seen in director Tinu Desai's Sanki.

Also Read: Ahan Shetty secures title Sanki for next film after personally approaching Sajid Nadiadwala

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Naseeruddin Shah SLAMS PM Narendra Modi over NEET protests, says, "Has he accepted responsibility for any blunders?"

Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has once again spoken out on the ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged NEET paper leak and the police action against students protesting at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Days after sharing an emotional video condemning the crackdown, the actor criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's handling of the issue during an interview with The Wire.

Naseeruddin Shah says he is “not surprised” by government's response When asked how he viewed the Prime Minister's response to what was described as one of the most serious issues of his tenure, Shah said he was not surprised. "I'm not surprised at all. When has he spoken honestly about anything? Has he accepted responsibility for any of his blunders? Has he ever accepted the fact that he was perhaps wrong? No. He's divine, and this supposed divinity of his has affected all his followers," Shah said.

The actor went on to question what he described as a lack of accountability, while referring to several statements made by the Prime Minister in the past. "It's amazing to hear and see the magic he seems to have performed. He talks about gutter gas to a group of scientists who applaud. He talks about Lord Ganesha's head being the result of plastic surgery, Karna and the Kauravas being IVF-born, and he's applauded by doctors. What is happening to us? Is there no one who is ever going to question this man?" he said.

Shah also criticised the Prime Minister for not holding press conferences, claiming he avoids difficult questions. "He never speaks to the press because he's scared. He'll be asked about 2002. He'll be asked about his supposed 35 years of begging, meditating in the Himalayas, and travelling abroad before he entered politics," he alleged.

Continuing his criticism, the veteran actor questioned the Prime Minister's public messaging and actions. "He tells us to save petrol and drives around in a convoy of SUVs. He tells us not to travel abroad and then leaves on foreign tours. I find it difficult to take anything he says seriously," Shah said.

When the interviewer remarked that, in his view, the Prime Minister appeared to be "a fraud," Shah responded, "Well, he's very close to being one, but I find it difficult to take anything he says seriously."

Shah's latest remarks come shortly after he shared an emotional Instagram video expressing anger over the police action against students protesting over the alleged NEET paper leak. In that video, he said he was "boiling with anger" after watching footage of security personnel using force on demonstrators and compared the masked officers to American ICE agents.

 

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Also Read: Naseeruddin Shah joins Dhanush and Mammootty’s Om, returns to Tamil cinema after 26 years

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