Last Man In Tower to hit theatres on September 11 starring Manoj Bajpayee, Divya Dutta and Boman Irani

Aravind Adiga’s bestselling novel Last Man in Tower is set to make its way to the big screen, with the film scheduled to release in Indian theatres on September 11, 2026. Directed by Ben Rekhi and produced by Rana Daggubati’s Spirit Media, the film stars Manoj Bajpayee, Boman Irani, Divya Dutta and Sukant Goel in key roles.

The film explores themes of personal conviction, changing relationships and the difficult choices people face when circumstances around them begin to change. At its centre is Masterji, a retired school teacher who finds himself standing alone as people in his community begin to make choices that differ from his own. His determination to remain firm in what he believes creates tension among the people he has known for years.

Among those whose decisions clash with Masterji’s is Mrs Puri, whose own aspirations and compromises are influenced by the possibility of a different future. As the situation develops, the story looks at the choices people make when an opportunity for a new life comes within their reach.

Manoj Bajpayee and Divya Dutta headline the central conflict, while Boman Irani takes on a pivotal role. The film also marks the first time Irani and Bajpayee will share the screen. Sooni Taraporevala has adapted Adiga’s bestselling novel for the film.

Speaking about the film, director Ben Rekhi said, “It’s been a deeply fulfilling experience bringing Last Man In Tower to life with an incredible team top to bottom, from Rana Daggubati producing, to Sooni Taraporevala scripting, all based on Aravind Adiga’s incredible book. The most rewarding part has been witnessing the power of Manoj and Boman - two giants of cinema - working together for the first time in this film. Divya brings an incredible depth and emotional strength to the ensemble, and the combination of these three actors makes the world of the film particularly special. Last Man In Tower is an urgent story about holding onto community and family through turbulent times… a story that has only become more relevant with time.”

Rana Daggubati, who is producing the film through Spirit Media, said, “Last Man in Tower is a deeply human story. What drew us to it was how naturally it finds something universal in the lives of a very specific group of people. There is something very compelling about the way it explores the choices we make and the things we hold on to. The entire ensemble of cast led by Manoj, Divya, and Boman bring an incredible depth to their characters. Last Man in Tower also marks an important milestone for Spirit Media as our first Hindi feature production, and our continued effort towards creating space for fresh new stories and voices for the big-screen audience.”

Last Man in Tower is expected to take audiences into a story where personal choices, relationships and community ties intersect. The film will release in Indian theatres on September 11, 2026.

Also Read : Manoj Bajpayee to play Mahatma Gandhi in Sudhir Mishra directorial backed by Anubhav Sinha

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/cV4dwYo
via IFTTT

Ramayana’s NEVER-before-seen 15-minute footage STUNS exhibitors at Big Cine Expo 2026 in Chennai: “VFX at par with a big-scale Hollywood film like The Lord Of The Rings”

An exhibition called Big Cine Expo is held every year, bringing together theatre owners, design consultants, equipment manufacturers, system integrators, project management professionals and other industry stakeholders to celebrate cinema and the exhibition sector. One of the major highlights of the expo is the presentation of exclusive footage from upcoming films. Two weeks ago, Bollywood Hungama reported that attendees at this year’s edition would get a chance to watch exclusive glimpses of arguably the most awaited film of the year – Ramayana. Big Cine Expo 2026 was held on August 18 and 19 in Chennai, with the much-awaited Ramayana footage being showcased on the first day. In this article, we reveal what was shown during the exclusive 15-minute presentation.

An exhibitor who attended the preview told Bollywood Hungama, “It lasted for 15 minutes and, as expected, visuals from the film that have not yet been revealed to the public were presented to us. Hence, we were strictly prohibited from using our mobile phones or recording any part of the presentation.”

When asked what the preview consisted of, the exhibitor replied, “The major highlights were the various creatures in the film, including the one-eyed daitya. A bear-like creature was also given prominence. We were amazed by the vision, imagination and VFX. Ramayana truly looks like a global Indian film. Its effects are at par with those of any Hollywood movie, like The Lord Of The Rings. The trailer had already excited the exhibitors, and this footage preview has added to the hype for us.”

The source also said, “The asset was also like a making-of video. In between, quotes from producer Namit Malhotra were incorporated, in which he spoke about his ambitious endeavour. Finally, the Ramayana trailer, which has been out since July 30, formed the last part of the 15-minute preview.”

Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sunny Deol, Sai Pallavi, Ravie Dubey, Rakul Preet Singh, Lara Dutta and others. The period epic’s first part will release on Diwali 2026 while the sequel will arrive in cinemas on Diwali 2027.

Also Read: Inside Rakul Preet Singh’s regal Surpanakha transformation for Ramayana

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/5JqBEa4
via IFTTT

Wamiqa Gabbi joins Everlite as first national brand ambassador for Senco Gold & Diamonds

Everlite, the lightweight jewellery brand from Senco Gold & Diamonds, has appointed actor Wamiqa Gabbi as its first-ever national brand ambassador. The association marks a new phase in the brand’s growth as it looks to expand its retail footprint across India and strengthen its connection with younger, fashion-conscious consumers.

Everlite currently has a presence across six states and eight cities, with 17 stores across the country. The appointment of Gabbi is part of the brand’s wider expansion strategy, which focuses on building its identity and increasing awareness around lightweight jewellery as an option for everyday styling.

Gabbi’s contemporary fashion sense and individual style align with Everlite’s focus on younger consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z. Her association with the brand comes as lightweight jewellery continues to gain relevance among consumers looking for pieces that can easily transition between different occasions.

Speaking about the partnership, Wamiqa Gabbi said, "I've always been drawn to jewellery that I can actually live in, pieces I can put on in the morning and forget I'm wearing, but that still make a look feel considered. That is what I love about Everlite. The designs have the detail and beauty of fine jewellery, but they feel incredibly easy and natural to wear. Whether I'm dressing up for an evening out or keeping it simple during the day, I like jewellery that moves with me rather than dictates the look. That sense of freedom is something I really connect with, and it's what makes being part of Everlite feel so natural," said Wamiqa Gabbi.

Joita Sen, Whole-Time Director & Head of Marketing and Design, Senco Gold & Diamonds, also spoke about the association. "Wamiqa represents the way jewellery is evolving today, more personal, more versatile and more effortless. She has a very distinct sense of style and the confidence to make every look her own, which makes her a natural fit for Everlite. She embodies the modern Everlite woman, someone who wants jewellery to be part of her everyday wardrobe, rather than something reserved only for special occasions. We are delighted to have her represent the brand as we take the lightweight jewellery conversation to a new generation."

Everlite offers jewellery in 9K, 14K and 18K gold, along with diamond pieces across earrings, rings, pendants, bracelets, bangles and more. The brand operates compact and strategically located stores, including transit-led outlets, to improve accessibility.

Backed by Senco Gold & Diamonds, which operates more than 198 showrooms across 17 states in India and two international showrooms in Dubai, Everlite aims to further expand its presence while catering to changing preferences around everyday jewellery.

Also Read : Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi starrer Prahaar – The Untold Story of Ujjwal Nikam to release on October 16

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

GIVA pulls down Kriti Sanon Raksha Bandhan ad after backlash; jewellery brand issues apology

GIVA has withdrawn its recent jewellery advertisement featuring Kriti Sanon following criticism and backlash on social media. The campaign, which was released around Rakshabandhan, has now been pulled down from all platforms. The jewellery brand has also issued an apology on its official Instagram handle, clarifying that hurting anyone’s sentiments was not the intention behind the campaign.

In its statement, GIVA said, “We have the highest regard and deep respect for Indian culture, traditions and festivals. As a brand, we have always believed in celebrating these joyous moments with the entire family and this time we wanted to extend the love and celebration to our pets. If our recent advertisement has inadvertently hurt the sentiments of some segments of society, that was not our intent at all. Out of respect, we have withdrawn the said advertisement from all media. Wish you all the love & positivity this festive season!”

The advertisement featured Kriti Sanon tying a rakhi to her onscreen brother. For the campaign, the actor was seen wearing a white bralette-style top with a sheer matching cape and a traditional-style skirt. The styling became a point of discussion online, with several social media users questioning the choice of outfit for a festival associated with family traditions.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by GIVA - Silver-Gold-Lab Grown Diamonds (@giva.co)

The campaign also drew criticism from Kangana Ranaut, who, without directly naming Kriti or the jewellery brand, questioned the styling and described the commercial as ‘creepy’.

Kriti subsequently responded to the criticism and defended her choice of attire. Addressing the broader conversation around women and clothing, she wrote, “Also, when will we stop telling women what to wear?? Ethnic fashion has evolved over the years, but still a woman's respect for her culture is measured with just her clothes!! Culture & Traditions are in her heart, not in her neckline!”

The controversy also saw Kriti’s sister Nupur Sanon extend her support to the actor. Nupur had earlier taken to Instagram Stories and questioned the criticism directed at her sister’s outfit.

With GIVA now withdrawing the campaign and issuing an apology, the advertisement has become the centre of a wider conversation around fashion, cultural traditions and the expectations placed on women’s clothing during festive occasions.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon GIVA Ad controversy: Nupur Sanon defends sister over ongoing criticism of the festive campaign

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/MYFaAW3
via IFTTT

Kriti Sanon GIVA Ad controversy: Nupur Sanon defends sister over ongoing criticism of the festive campaign

Kriti Sanon has found support from her sister Nupur Sanon after a recent GIVA jewellery advertisement featuring the actor sparked a debate on social media over traditional dressing and the idea of an ‘appropriate’ outfit for family occasions. The campaign, which features Kriti in a bralette-style blouse paired with a cape and a draped skirt, has drawn mixed reactions from netizens, particularly in the context of Rakshabandhan celebrations.

Now, Nupur has joined the conversation, extending her support to Kriti. Taking to her Instagram Stories, she questioned why another woman’s clothing choice should become a matter of concern for others. “Imagine being this bothered by what another woman chooses to wear. Respectfully EVOLVE!” Nupur wrote. She further added, “I'm the one she ties the rakhi to, and if I don't have a problem, why do you?”

Responding to the criticism, Kriti previously shared her perspective on the festival and the importance of its emotions and traditions over clothing choices. “The essence of festivals is not in the clothes you wear, it is in the emotions and meaning you hold for the traditions. Rakshabandhan is a bond of protection. My sister and I tie rakhi to each other. We know we can protect each other no less than a brother would have. We pray for each other's health, happiness & long life,” she said.

The debate also saw Kangana Ranaut express her disapproval of the commercial. While she did not name Kriti or GIVA directly, Kangana appeared to take aim at the styling of the advertisement and questioned the choice of outfit in the context of Rakshabandhan. “Why would you tie your brother a rakhi in your bikini/undergarments?” she wrote, while also describing the commercial as ‘creepy’ and questioning the styling choices featured in it.

The contrasting reactions have since added another layer to the ongoing social media discussion around fashion, traditional occasions and individual choice. While Kriti has emphasised the emotional significance of Rakshabandhan, Nupur has defended her sister’s freedom to choose what she wears. Meanwhile, Kangana’s comments have further fuelled the conversation surrounding the campaign.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon hits back at outfit criticism over Raksha Bandhan Ad: “When will we stop telling women what to wear?”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/2n4VTad
via IFTTT

SHOCKING: The Odyssey FORCED out of IMAX despite HISTORIC Rs. 90 cr collections from 34 IMAX screens and 43% occupancy on Day 40; Toxic takes over ALL shows

For 40 days, The Odyssey had a historic performance at the 34 IMAX cinemas of India. The film performed strongly even in the normal theatres but in IMAX, the earnings were rock-solid even after the film entered its sixth week. Sadly, this unbelievable run will now come to a halt, thanks to the release of Toxic, starring Yash, on August 26.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Toxic is carrying tremendous buzz and moreover, it is an IMAX release. Hence, its distributors asked for all the IMAX shows. However, the performance of The Odyssey is at another level. Even after so many days and weeks, several shows across the country are going house-full. In fact, on Tuesday, August 25, the last day of the film in IMAX, the shows were running with huge occupancy. Of course, the discounted rates played a part. But when viewers are turning up in such large numbers on the 40th day, it is a feat.”

The source continued, “This proves that there’s a lot of gas left in the tank. Warner Bros, which distributed The Odyssey, asked for just one show in IMAX, considering the continued demand, from August 26. Sadly, the demand was not accepted as the distributors of Toxic were clear that they wanted all shows in IMAX.”

The silver lining is that the IMAX screen at Broadway Cinemas in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, has proved to be an exception. From August 26, it will continue to play two shows of The Odyssey, at 11:30 am and 11:00 pm. Toxic, meanwhile, will be showcased at 7:40 am, 3:10 pm and 7:05 pm.

The Odyssey box office performance in India

The Odyssey has collected around Rs. 184.23 crores in 40 days in India. Interestingly, its collections from IMAX alone stand at nearly Rs. 90-91 crores. In other words, nearly 50% of the film’s India collections have come from the IMAX format.

Out of its 40-day run so far, The Odyssey collected more than Rs. 1 crore on as many as 33 days. On August 25, the last day of its full-fledged IMAX run, the film collected Rs. 71 lakhs from IMAX alone, while its collections across all formats stood at around Rs. 83 lakhs. The occupancy across IMAX screens on August 25 was an impressive 43%.

An industry insider commented, “Had The Odyssey been allowed even one show on each IMAX screen, it had the potential to cross the Rs. 100 crore mark from IMAX alone. It would have been a record difficult to beat for years to come.”

The insider also revealed, “Maybe, after a week or two, The Odyssey may make a comeback in IMAX. In that case, it still has a shot at earning Rs. 100 crores. At the same time, once a film goes out of IMAX, there is always a risk of its momentum getting broken.”

The 40-day collections of The Odyssey

Week 1 - Rs. 85.65 cr

Week 2 - Rs. 45.67 cr

Week 3 - Rs. 24.15 cr

Week 4 - Rs. 15.65 cr

Week 5 - Rs. 7.74 cr

Week 6 [5 days] - Rs. 5.39 cr

 

The 40-day collections of The Odyssey in the IMAX format

Week 1 - Rs. 27.97 cr

Week 2 - Rs. 22.45 cr

Week 3 - Rs. 16.10 cr

Week 4 - Rs. 12.11 cr

Week 5 - Rs. 6.53 cr

Week 6 [5 days] - Rs. 5.11 cr

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/D4tERIi
via IFTTT

Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia suffers deadlift injury; says, “I will bounce back, but I also want to bounce back the right way”

Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia has opened up about a recent injury she suffered during a workout session. The actor reportedly injured herself while performing a deadlift and was subsequently required to take complete bed rest. Sharing an update on social media, Nimrit spoke about the experience and emphasised the need to prioritise recovery while training.

For Nimrit, who maintains an active fitness routine, the injury has meant temporarily stepping away from her regular workouts. However, the actor said she is viewing the break as an opportunity to allow her body to recover rather than treating it as a setback. She said, “This has honestly been one of the most painful experiences for me, and it has made me realise once again that no matter how strong or experienced you think you are, you can never take your body or a workout movement lightly. I injured myself while doing a deadlift, and it was serious enough that I had to take complete bed rest. For someone who loves being active and enjoys training, being forced to pause is not easy, but I have realised that sometimes you have to stop, rest and allow your body to recover. I don’t mind pausing right now because I know I am preparing myself for the battle that comes ahead. I will bounce back, but I also want to bounce back the right way.”

Nimrit also used the experience to underline the importance of paying attention to physical fatigue, sleep and nutrition while exercising. She urged those who train regularly to give recovery the same importance as their workouts. “I would genuinely urge everyone to be mindful whilst training & listening to your body. If your body feels fatigued, if you are under slept, if your nutrition isn’t proper; take active measures to fix it. Recovery is as important as training. And we often miss out on balancing between the two. I have had to acknowledge & learn this the hard way, you shouldn’t have to,” Nimrit added.

The actor is currently focusing on rest and recuperation as she works towards returning to her fitness routine. Rather than rushing her comeback, Nimrit has indicated that she intends to give herself the time required to recover properly.

Her latest update also highlights a more measured approach to fitness, with the actor acknowledging that pushing physical limits needs to be balanced with adequate rest and recovery. For now, Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia is taking a pause before preparing to resume her training and other professional commitments.

Also Read: Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia recalls shooting Ab Hoga Hisaab in Punjab: “It truly felt like a homecoming”

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