Bhumi Pednekar reunites with Akshay Kumar for Priyadarshan’s next comedy

Bhumi Pednekar is set to reunite with Akshay Kumar for an upcoming comedy directed by Priyadarshan. The project will mark their third collaboration and comes four years after the duo was last seen together in Raksha Bandhan.

According to a report by Hindustan Times, Bhumi has been signed as the leading lady of the film. Priyadarshan has also confirmed her casting to HT City. The upcoming project is Priyadarshan’s 99th film as a director and is expected to go on floors in the last week of November 2026. Akshay Kumar to play tiger hunter in 1970s-set comedy The film is reportedly set in the 1970s, with Akshay Kumar playing a tiger hunter. While details about the story are currently being kept under wraps, the project is being described as a comedy set against the period.

Earlier reports had suggested that the film could incorporate elements related to wildlife conservation alongside comedy and thriller elements. However, the makers have not revealed detailed plot information yet.

The film is being produced by Ramesh Taurani. Reports have also suggested that Annu Kapoor and Rajpal Yadav could be part of the cast, although further details about their roles have not been officially disclosed. Bhumi Pednekar and Akshay Kumar to reunite after Raksha Bandhan Bhumi and Akshay have previously shared screen space in Toilet: Ek Prem Katha and Raksha Bandhan. Their upcoming collaboration will therefore mark their third film together.

Raksha Bandhan, directed by Aanand L Rai, was released in 2022 and featured Bhumi as Akshay’s co-star. The upcoming Priyadarshan project will bring the pair together in a different setting, with the story reportedly taking place several decades in the past. Priyadarshan’s 99th film to begin shooting in November The film is expected to begin production in the last week of November 2026. The shooting schedule is likely to span around three months, with Rajasthan and Mumbai among the locations. Bhopal is also being considered as a possible shooting location.

Also Read: Bhumi Pednekar recalls Shah Rukh Khan’s warm hospitality and Akshay Kumar’s lasting advice

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/OUvxuCY
via IFTTT

Varun Sharma and makers of Naam – To Live Is War part ways amid scheduling commitments

Actor Varun Sharma, who was all set to star in the upcoming action thriller Naam – To Live Is War, and the makers Utsav Entertainment have arrived at a mutual understanding regarding the collaboration, keeping in view existing professional commitments and scheduling considerations.

Due to Varun’s existing professional commitments and scheduling considerations, accommodating the project at this time has become challenging. Following thoughtful discussions and careful consideration, both the actor and the makers have mutually agreed on a practical course of action, keeping their respective professional commitments in mind.

The actor and the makers share, “We were genuinely looking forward to this collaboration and exploring the opportunity to work together. However, given the existing professional commitments and scheduling considerations, we felt it was best to take a considered and practical decision at this stage. While things may not align this time, we hope to find an opportunity to collaborate in the future when circumstances are more conducive. We wish the entire team the very best and hope the film receives immense love and success.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Himesh Reshammiya to compose music for Veer Pahariya’s Naam – To Live Is War; reunites with Mahesh Bhatt after 16 years

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/lEcpavH
via IFTTT

Salim Merchant buys commercial property in Mumbai for Rs 12.85 crores: Report

Music composer and singer Salim Merchant has purchased a commercial property in Mumbai’s Santacruz West for Rs 12.85 crores, according to property registration documents accessed by CRE Matrix. The transaction was registered on October 7, 2026, with Salim Merchant among five buyers involved in the deal. The buyers paid Rs 77.10 lakhs in stamp duty, which amounts to 6% of the stated transaction value.

Salim Merchant holds 50% stake in property According to the registration documents, Salim Merchant holds a 50% ownership share in the property. The remaining four buyers each hold a 12.5% stake. The property was purchased from Shreeja Devcon Private Limited and comprises commercial premises spread across the ground and first floors of DLH Mangal Murti in Santacruz West.

The combined carpet area of the two floors is 1,285 sq ft. The ground floor accounts for 575 sq ft, while the first floor has a carpet area of 710 sq ft. The agreement also includes one car parking space. Property deal works out to around Rs 1 lakh per sq ft Based on the reported transaction value of Rs 12.85 crores and the total carpet area of 1,285 sq ft, the property was acquired at approximately Rs 1 lakh per sq ft of carpet area. The deal adds to the list of high-value property transactions involving celebrities in Mumbai, where commercial and residential real estate continues to see significant activity in premium neighbourhoods.

The registration documents state that the agreement was executed with Shreeja Devcon Private Limited and formally registered on October 7.

Also Read: Salim Merchant reacts to A.R. Rahman’s ‘communal bias’ remark: “If he’s composing for Ramayana, I don’t think there is any problem”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/A0PbTVc
via IFTTT

Ramayana producer Namit Malhotra calls Los Angeles premiere his “Oscar moment” ahead of November 5 release

Producer Namit Malhotra spoke about his journey of bringing Ramayana to an international audience as the film held its Los Angeles premiere at the David Geffen Theater inside the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. Addressing the gathering, Malhotra described the screening as a significant moment in his career and reflected on his journey from starting a post-production company to producing an ambitious adaptation of the Indian epic. He also introduced director Nitesh Tiwari and the film’s lead cast, including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash.

“I wanted to host this evening at the Academy Theatre because this is my Oscar moment,” Malhotra said during his address. Namit Malhotra reflects on his journey Malhotra also spoke about his association with Los Angeles and his work in visual effects through DNEG. He noted that the company has won eight Academy Awards, including seven over the past 11 years, for its collaborations with filmmakers such as Christopher Nolan and Denis Villeneuve.

Reflecting on his beginnings, he said, “For a third generation film family background, garage startup kid at 19 with an Apple computer working with three of his teachers who are all of 21, Merzin, Prakash and Josefa, this is what dreams are made of and what better place to share this moment than the city of Angels, Los Angeles.”

Malhotra also recalled moving to Los Angeles in 2007 as part of his efforts to build a company that could connect Indian and international film industries. “In my pursuit of building a global company and connecting the east and the west I set foot in LA in 2007 and haven't looked back since,” he said.

He further spoke about the financial difficulties he faced during the 2008 crisis and how the experience shaped his journey. “An immigrant who lost 90% of his wealth with the fun times in 2008 as I'm sure some of you may remember to bounce back today and being able to bring the biggest independent production in the world the Ramayana, I can't even tell you what it feels like to stand here today,” he said. Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash introduced at premiere During his address, Malhotra brought the film's key collaborators on stage. He introduced Nitesh Tiwari as the director, Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and Sai Pallavi as Sita. “As you all can see Ram without Sita does not work. So please welcome Sai Pallavi,” he said.

He then introduced Yash, who plays Ravana in the film, saying, “And the reason that you know this film happened or the conflict happened is because they have to fight Raavan, and that is the rocking star Yash.” Malhotra also acknowledged the contribution of international and Indian talent involved in the project, including composer Hans Zimmer and choreographer Terry Notary. Namit Malhotra calls it a collaboration between India and the West Speaking about the larger vision behind Ramayana, Malhotra said the film brought together talent from both India and the West. “I stand here to showcase the best of India and the best of the west working together to create a motion picture that means more to billions of people around the world than you all can imagine,” he said.

He also thanked his family, collaborators, backers and the Sony Pictures team for supporting the project. The Los Angeles premiere reportedly drew a large gathering of guests, with the primary screening at the 945-seat David Geffen Theater described by the makers as oversubscribed. The team also arranged an additional screening space to accommodate guests.

Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the film is being produced by Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus Studios in collaboration with DNEG and Yash's Monster Mind Creations.

The two-part film is scheduled to begin with Part 1 on November 5, 2026, followed by Part 2 in Diwali 2027. The film is planned for release in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam, with Sony Pictures handling its international distribution.

Also Read: “Please don’t try to find small faults in VFX”: Yash makes an EMOTIONAL appeal at Ramayana event; urges fans to “PROTECT” Namit Malhotra

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/yWJv1Dr
via IFTTT

SCOOP: Godzilla Minus Zero's India release likely to be PUSHED to November 20 due to Ramayana's two-week IMAX exclusivity

Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront of reporting developments surrounding Godzilla Minus Zero. Last month, we spoke exclusively to Kamal Gianchandani, Chief Business Planning & Strategy at PVR INOX Limited and CEO of PVR INOX Pictures Limited, who confirmed that the much-awaited film would release in India. Earlier this month, we informed readers that Godzilla Minus Zero was expected to release in India in the same week as the rest of the world, on November 6. However, there has now been a change of plans.

Yesterday, October 27, the social media handle of PVR INOX Pictures shared the poster of Godzilla Minus Zero. This marks the first official communication from the distribution company confirming that the film will indeed be released in India. Moreover, the poster mentions 'Filmed for IMAX', hinting that the film will also get an IMAX release in the country. However, the exact release date is yet to be announced. The poster simply mentions 'Only in theatres this November'.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by PVRINOX Pictures (@pvrpictures)

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, "Godzilla Minus Zero is a film made for IMAX. So is Ramayana. Ramayana is a local film and has a two-week exclusivity window on IMAX screens in India. Hence, if PVR INOX has mentioned IMAX on the poster and in the caption of its social media post, one can assume that Godzilla Minus Zero will most likely release in India two weeks later, on November 20 as Ramayana arrives on the big screen on November 5. However, they are still discussing whether they can release the film on November 20 or somehow bring the film to cinemas on November 13. An official announcement should arrive soon."

Bollywood Hungama had earlier reported that Godzilla Minus Zero would get limited showcasing in India's IMAX properties. This means that at most IMAX cinemas, it is likely to get just one show, while the remaining shows will be allotted to Ramayana. When asked about this, the trade source replied, "Yes, that's what is expected to happen, though a final call will be taken closer to the release."

Nevertheless, fans are overjoyed with the announcement by PVR INOX Pictures. The source remarked, "For almost two weeks, fans in India were speculating whether Godzilla Minus Zero would even release in India. As a result, this update was much needed."

Meanwhile, an industry insider pointed out, "The Hunger Games: Sunrise On The Reaping is also scheduled for release on November 20. This is also an IMAX film and is expected to release in the premium format in India. Moreover, Ramayana will be running very successfully in its third week, if all goes well. So, it'll be a challenge to divide shows between these three films in the third week of November, should The Hunger Games: Sunrise On The Reaping also release in IMAX."

Also Read: SCOOP: Ramayana expected to have paid previews on November 4; Godzilla Minus Zero to get limited showcasing in IMAX in India

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/xOGyo8s
via IFTTT

Saif Ali Khan and Vidya Balan reunite for Ritesh Batra’s Long Years Ago; Mélanie Laurent joins cast

Saif Ali Khan and Vidya Balan are set to reunite on screen after Parineeta and Eklavya, with the two actors coming together for filmmaker Ritesh Batra’s upcoming project, Long Years Ago. The comedy drama also features international actor Mélanie Laurent and has begun shooting in Mumbai. The film is being produced by Jio Studios in association with Good Chaos.

The project marks another collaboration between Saif and Vidya, whose first film together was Parineeta. Their reunion also brings them into the world of Batra, known for his personal, character-driven storytelling. Speaking to Deadline, the filmmaker expressed his excitement about bringing the cast together, “I am tremendously honored to be working with Saif, Vidya and Melanie, and to see these great actors bring characters that are so close to my heart to life.”

Saif Ali Khan also spoke about his response to the film’s subject and the opportunity to work with the ensemble. Describing Batra’s storytelling as something that connects with audiences across cultures, the actor said, “Ritesh has an extraordinary gift for telling deeply personal stories that resonate across cultures. Long Years Ago is a film about love, family, and the things we often struggle to say to one another, and I felt an immediate connection to it. Collaborating with Melanie, Vidya, and this exceptional team is exciting, and I can’t wait for audiences around the world to experience this deeply moving story.”

For Vidya Balan, the film offers an opportunity to work with Batra for the first time and reunite with Saif. The actress revealed how she had followed the filmmaker’s work since The Lunchbox and had been hoping to collaborate with him. “I’m absolutely thrilled to be a part of Ritesh Batra’s next film. I’ve been a huge admirer of his work ever since The Lunchbox, and have been hoping to collaborate with him for the longest time. There’s such a beautiful sensitivity and honesty to his storytelling. What makes this even more special is that I get to reunite with Saif after Parineeta, my very first film! I can’t wait to experience the magic of working with both Ritesh and Saif,” added Balan.

Laurent also recalled meeting Batra at the Marrakech Film Festival 15 years ago, describing the project as a long-awaited collaboration. She went on to share, “I met Ritesh fifteen years ago at the Marrakech Film Festival, and we shared this dream to meet in Mumbai one day. I immediately loved this new project, and I am more than honored and happy to be a part of it”

Jyoti Deshpande is producing Long Years Ago for Jio Studios. Good Chaos’s Mike Goodridge and Teresa Moneo, along with Siddharth Mehra, serve as executive producers. Further details about the film’s storyline and release date have not yet been announced.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan plays electric guitar with his balcony band, Kareena Kapoor Khan reacts with a romantic comment

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/wuv0jHL
via IFTTT

EXCLUSIVE: Rajiv Rai CLARIFIES Mohra’s Diwali re-release plans: “I’m NOT coming against Ramayana”; reveals why Akshay Kumar-Suniel Shetty starrer won't release in multiplexes

Yesterday, October 26, Bollywood Hungama reported that the much-loved Mohra (1994), starring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Raveena Tandon, would re-release in cinemas on Diwali, thereby arriving in the same week as the much-awaited Ramayana. Mohra’s director, Rajiv Rai, spoke exclusively to Bollywood Hungama while he is in Koh Samui, Thailand, for a function and made some important clarifications regarding the re-release plans.

Rajiv Rai said, “Yes, it is true that Mohra is being re-released, but in a very, very limited and small way on single screens around the country. It will continue taking the rounds of different centres over a period of six months or so. So, will my latest film Zora (which re-released on October 23). Maybe my other old films might follow suit.”

Rajiv Rai also revealed, “These films are not going to release in PVR or other multiplex chains where ticket prices are steep and also because the VPF (Virtual Print Fee) charged by cinemas is high. Old films have been watched a million times and, in reality, the business is negligible. I am just doing this as an exercise. Of course, sometimes repeat-run films do very well, but it’s rare. You have to continuously move the films around India. If you do that, the collections can add up to a respectable total over time.”

As for reports that Mohra is clashing with Ramayana, Rajiv Rai clarified, “I’m not coming against Ramayana. Because everyone has moved away from Diwali, there’s an opening in small centres and I’m trying to take advantage of that. Also, it’s an auspicious date to start something. Anyway, Ramayana cannot book all the cinemas in the country.”

He further emphasized, “There may not even be a cinema for Mohra in Mumbai and hence, there’s no clash with any film. These old films are exhausted, but there’s always an interest among a certain class of audience. There are people who want to visit big screens for old films and for them, we are going to re-release Mohra.”

Also Read: BREAKING: Akshay Kumar’s Mohra to CLASH with Ranbir Kapoor-Yash’s Ramayana this Diwali; Gupt, Tridev, Yudh and Vidhaata re-releases also planned

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/Iu8FNV9
via IFTTT