Saturday, May 17, 2025

Taapsee Pannu shoots emotional courtroom scenes for Mulk 2 in Bandra church: Report

Actor Taapsee Pannu is currently filming Mulk 2, the sequel to her 2018 courtroom drama Mulk. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the film focuses on important social issues like identity, faith, and civil rights.

Over the past two weeks, Taapsee has been shooting key scenes at a church in Bandra. The church has been turned into a courtroom set for the film. A report by Mid-Day quoted a source saying, “Taapsee has been shooting courtroom portions over the past few days. The emotionally charged sequences see her delivering lengthy monologues. She is fully prepped, and one can see how deeply she is invested in the material.”

It is not yet clear if she is playing the same character, lawyer Aarti Mohammed, from the first film. However, her courtroom scenes are said to be among the most powerful parts of the movie. The Mumbai schedule is expected to continue for four more days. After that, the team will move to Uttar Pradesh and Haryana for an outdoor shoot. This part of the schedule will last around 20 days.

An insider shared, “Anubhav’s past films are proof that he tells his stories in a gritty and realistic manner. He wants to root Mulk 2’s story in its social and geographical context. Locations have been finalised in Lucknow, Meerut, and Karnal, where the director will film some rally and courtroom scenes.”

The entire shoot is expected to be completed in another 20 to 25 days. After wrapping up Mulk 2, Taapsee is expected to begin work on Haseen Dillruba 3.

Also Read: Taapsee Pannu, along with sister Shagun Pannu, buys apartment in Mumbai for Rs. 4.33 crores



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BMC issues notice to Mithun Chakraborty over alleged illegal construction in Malad

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has sent a show cause notice to actor and BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty for allegedly building an illegal structure in Malad’s Madh area.

The notice says that a ground-floor structure was built on a plot in Erangle village without the required permission from the authorities. The BMC has asked Mithun Chakraborty to explain the changes made to the property. If he fails to give a proper explanation, the structure could be demolished. The BMC has also warned of possible legal action.

This action is part of a larger crackdown on unauthorised constructions in the Madh area. So far, the BMC has identified 101 illegal structures in the locality. These include bungalows built using fake documents. The civic body plans to demolish all illegal constructions by the end of May.

According to civic officials, during a recent inspection near the Hira Devi Mandir in Erangle village, they found two one-plus-mezzanine-storey buildings, one ground-floor structure, and three temporary units made of bricks, wood, glass, and AC sheets. These were all constructed without proper approval.

The show cause notice sent to Chakraborty is under Section 351(1A) of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MMC) Act. He has been given seven days from May 10 to explain why the structure should not be removed or demolished. Officials also said that such violations can lead to fines and even jail time under Section 475A of the MMC Act.

As per a report by Free Press Journal, when asked about the issue, Mithun Chakraborty said, “I have no unauthorised structures. Notices have been sent to many, and we are sending our replies.”

Also Read: Ayesha Jhulka laughs off link-up rumors with Akshay Kumar, Mithun Chakraborty and others: “How many affairs can one have at the same time?



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EXPLOSIVE: Andaz Apna Apna actor Shehzad Khan EXPOSES the real reason he’s missing from films: “Casting directors themselves act, cast same actors repeatedly; I can’t be expected to do CHAMCHAGIRI”

Shehzad Khan spoke exclusively to Bollywood Hungama last month, not just about Andaz Apna Apna (1994) and its re-release, but also about other aspects, including his father’s epic reaction to his character Bhalla, the sidekick of the villain, Teja (Paresh Rawal).

Shehzad Khan mimicked his father, Ajit, in the film. When asked how he reacted to it, the actor revealed, “He was very angry. He didn’t see the film for a very long time. When people informed him about my act in the film, he finally saw some portions of the film. Then he told me, ‘Dobara aisi himakat mat karna’ (impersonates Ajit)!”

Was Ajit not in favour of being mimicked? Shehzad Khan explained, “Yes, he had a very serious persona. Also, you need to understand that it’s not my doing entirely. A film is a director’s medium. Hum toh katputli hai. Agar director bolega ‘utho’, toh hum uthenge; agar director bolega ‘naacho’, toh hum naachenge. Agar director bolega ‘nange ho jaao’, toh hum nange ho jaayenge! Hence, it’s nothing in our hand.”

Shehzad Khan, at this point, shared an interesting trivia, “Andaz Apna Apna’s director Rajkumar Santoshi’s father K L Santoshi had worked with my father as a hero. (Ajit) had also worked with Salman Khan’s father, Salim Khan. That legacy continued with Andaz Apna Apna (smiles).” Salman was the leading actor of the comic caper along with Aamir Khan.

Nevertheless, Shehzad Khan is blessed with the fan following that Andaz Apna Apna enjoys, “People tell me that they have seen Andaz Apna Apna 50 times, 75 times and even 100 times. They also tell me that when they feel low, they watch this film. People have downloaded the film from OTT platforms on their phones and iPads. One person revealed that he watches Andaz Apna Apna daily!”

A lot of fans are hoping that Andaz Apna Apna 2 gets made. On this, he said, “If I were the film's producer, I would have been the right person to talk about it! Hum toh mazdoor aadmi hai. Hum gareeb actor hai. Apni dihaadi lete hai aur ghar chale jaate hai. Hum kya jawab denge (smiles).”

Shehzad Khan’s explosive claims

There was a point when Shehzad Khan was seen extensively in several films and it's not happening anymore. When asked the reason behind it, Shehzad Khan, who was having lunch while giving this interview explained, “Mera haath mein roti hai and I’ll answer you truthfully. There has been a community of casting directors which has now emerged. Woh khud acting kar rahe hai. Sab cheez woh log hi kar rahe hai. And they have certain selected actors whom they keep casting repeatedly. After doing so many films and working for so many years, I can’t be expected to do chamchagiri. Hum ek saaf suthre aadmi hai. Give me a role and I’ll perform with the best of my ability.”

He continued, “Through your medium, I’d like to make an appeal – Bhalla ko acche-acche characters do! He’s in a cult film and he’s a legend. I don’t usually tom-tom about myself. All I know is that main ek majdoor aadmi hoon. Until my last breath, I want to keep learning and keep acting. After working for so many years, I don’t even remember how many films I have done. I have lost count.”

However, he does have a few projects in his pipeline, “I have worked in a couple of web series. We are actors. Hum apna kaam karte hai, apni dihaadi lete hai aur ghar chale jaate hai. The producers and the OTT platform would know when it’ll be out. Until then, you can see me on news debates. Whenever the country needs me and whenever there is injustice, I always speak up. I talk without any bias. I don’t support any political party. I only support the people who do the right thing, where it is BJP government or any other government. I respect my Prime Minister and everybody should do the same.”

Also Read: “Andaz Apna Apna is our father’s legacy” – Priti Sinha on the cult comedy’s re-release and sequel plans; says, “IP rights belong entirely and exclusively to Vinay Pictures”



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Taapsee Pannu, along with sister Shagun Pannu, buys apartment in Mumbai for Rs. 4.33 crores

Bollywood actor Taapsee Pannu, along with her sister, has purchased an apartment in Goregaon West, Mumbai, for Rs. 4.33 crore, according to property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards on the website of the Inspector General of Registration (IGR) https://ift.tt/0S5eods. The transaction was registered in May 2025.

Strategically located between key commercial centres like Andheri and Malad, Goregaon West offers seamless access via the Western Express Highway, Link Road, SV Road, and the suburban railway, making it highly accessible for professionals and businesses alike. The area has emerged as a significant commercial and residential hub, with a vibrant mix of office spaces, IT parks, co-working environments, high-street retail, and malls.

According to the IGR property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards, the property is located in a ready-to-move-in residential project known as Imperial Heights. The purchased apartment features a carpet area of 1,390 sq. ft. (~129 sq. m.) and a built-up area of 155.02 sq.m. (~1,669 sq.ft.). It comes with a total of two car parking spaces. The transaction incurred a stamp duty payment of Rs. 21.65 lakh and registration charges of Rs. 30,000.

According to Square Yards Data Intelligence, a total of 47 transactions amounting to a gross transaction value of Rs. 168 crore were registered with IGR in Imperial Heights, between April 2024 to March 2025. Currently, the average registered transaction property price in the project stands at Rs. 32,170 per sq. ft.

Taapsee Pannu is a celebrated Indian actress known for her impactful work across Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil cinema. Beginning her career as a model, she transitioned to acting with her debut in the 2010 Telugu film Jhummandi Naadam, followed by acclaimed roles in Tamil and Hindi films. Pannu is known for her roles in movies such as Pink, Mulk, Badla, and Thappad.

Also Read: Taapsee Pannu on influencer Misha Agrawal’s suicide, “It’s heartbreaking to see this”



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Friday, May 16, 2025

Kajal Aggarwal joins cast of Ramayana as Ravana's wife Mandodari opposite Yash: Report

Recent reports reveal that Kajal Aggarwal may have officially joined the cast of Ramayana, the much-anticipated mythological epic directed by Nitesh Tiwari. The actress is said to be seen portraying the role of Mandodari, the noble and wise queen who is the first wife of Ravana — a role essayed by Kannada superstar Yash in the film. If this holds true, this will be the first time Kajal and Yash will be seen sharing screen space.

A source confirmed Kajal’s casting to ETimes, stating, “Kajal just did her look test last week, and will be playing the character of Mandodari opposite Yash. She has started shooting for the bit recently. The makers are currently shooting Ravana’s Lanka bits.”

Mandodari, a lesser-explored but significant figure in the Ramayana, is often portrayed as a deeply intelligent and virtuous woman. According to the original epic, she is known for her wisdom, devotion, and moral compass, which stands in contrast to Ravana’s eventual downfall. Her presence in the narrative often serves as the voice of reason in Lanka, urging peace and righteousness.

Kajal’s addition to the cast adds another layer of gravitas to the already star-studded project. Earlier reports had suggested that actress Sakshi Tanwar, who previously collaborated with Tiwari in the critically acclaimed Dangal, was being considered for the role. However, the makers have now locked Kajal for the part, and the actress has already begun filming for her portions.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is expected to be a multiple parts saga based on the ancient Indian epic. While official announcements are still awaited, the reported ensemble includes Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Ravi Dubey as Laxman, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi. The film is being produced on a grand scale and aims to re-tell the story of Ramayana with cinematic richness and emotional depth.

For Kajal Aggarwal, this role marks another exciting addition to her diverse filmography. She was last seen in Sikandar, alongside Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna. With Ramayana, she steps into an iconic mythological universe, taking on a role that promises both substance and emotional complexity.

Also Read: WAVES 2025: Bhumi Pednekar hopes that Ranbir Kapoor-Sai Pallavi-Yash starrer Ramayana can be a game-changer: “It’ll be a visual spectacle; will bring a lot of business to our country”



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Vijay Raaz found NOT guilty in 2020 sexual harassment case, court cites lack of evidence

Actor Vijay Raaz has been cleared of all charges in a sexual harassment case. The case was filed by a female colleague during the shooting of Sherni, which also starred Vidya Balan. On Wednesday, the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate's Court in Gondia, Maharashtra, declared the actor innocent after completing the trial. The court ruled that there was not enough evidence to prove that Raaz was guilty. Judge Mahendra Keshao Sorte said the prosecution failed to establish the charges under Sections 354-A (sexual harassment) and 354-D (stalking) of the Indian Penal Code. As a result, the actor has been acquitted.

The case goes back to November 2020. According to the complaint, the actor allegedly touched the woman without her consent, adjusted her mask, and made comments about her appearance. She later informed her seniors and filed an FIR at Ramnagar Police Station. Vijay Raaz was arrested in Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh, on November 4, 2020, and was released on bail the same day. During the investigation, police collected CCTV footage and recorded witness statements. However, the court found that:

No witnesses saw the incident directly. The CCTV footage did not clearly support the claims. The main complainant passed away before the trial ended. Other witnesses either changed their statements or could not support the evidence.

Because of these reasons, the court ruled that the case was not strong enough to convict the actor. Raaz's lawyer, Saveena Bedi Sachar, said the actor had to leave the film shoot and lost work due to the allegations. She added that this case shows why it is important to wait for the court’s decision before judging someone.

The court has also ordered the cancellation of Raaz’s bail bond, the return of the surety amount, and the destruction of the seized CCTV footage. However, Raaz has been asked to provide a bond of ₹7,000 to ensure his presence if an appeal is filed.

Also Read: Vijay Raaz fired from Son of Sardaar 2 after alleged unprofessional behaviour, says Kumar Mangat Pathak



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Thursday, May 15, 2025

Bhool Chuk Maaf's 'Zero VPF' buzz SHAKES the industry; likely to spark FURY among struggling, independent producers

Yesterday, on May 15, Maddock Films, the producers of Bhool Chuk Maaf and PVR Inox, in a joint statement, announced that the Rajkummar Rao-Wamiqa Gabbi starrer Bhool Chuk Maaf will arrive in cinemas on May 23. The official statement did not answer the question that was on the minds of several people in the industry and trade – is the romcom arriving on OTT in two weeks, as reported by a section of the media? Some stakeholders in the industry believed that one should wait for an answer from either of the two parties before jumping to conclusions. However, some believe that since both the producer and multiplex chain didn’t choose to address this aspect, it confirms the speculations. There’s also a claim that the OTT-theatrical window might be more than two weeks and a clear answer would emerge in a few days. While everyone was trying to process this development, another aspect of the release of Bhool Chuk Maaf has also come to light – the clause of the VPF waiver.

Some sources in the trade maintain that Bhool Chuk Maaf makers will have to pay the Virtual Print Fee (VPF) only if it crosses a certain number. If it fails to do so, then VPF will be waived off. However, certain experts have said that the producers have a complete waiver-off regarding VPF, regardless of its theatrical business. This aspect is significant considering the controversies that have rocked the industry over VPF in the past.

What is VPF? Virtual Print Fee (VPF) is a charge that big multiplex chains in India take from producers or distributors to help cover the cost of upgrading their technology, which is meant to give audiences a better movie experience. On average, this fee is around Rs. 20,000 per screen. For smaller cinema chains and non-2K theatres, this fee is collected by companies like UFO, Scrabble, Qube etc., which provide digital cinema services.

For a long time, producers have argued that the VPF shouldn’t be charged indefinitely and it was supposed to have been imposed only for a certain time. The exhibitors, on the other hand, feel that VPF is necessary as it helps bear the cost of playing the film using the latest technology and has many advantages.

In 2019, the matter became widely known and discussed after producer Ronnie Screwvala filed a case with the Competition Commission of India (CCI) against PVR, Inox, Cinepolis and Carnival Cinemas over VPF. One of the points raised in this complaint was that this fee is charged only from Indian films and that Hollywood movies are exempted. Interestingly, Dangal (2016), a Bollywood film starring Aamir Khan, was exempted from VPF as UTV had released it under the branding of Disney, a Hollywood studio! This led to immense opposition and was included in the complaint to the CCI by Ronnie.

However, the CCI ruled in favour of the multiplexes. Ronnie Screwvala, in an interview with Bombay Times, had then said, “I am disappointed, though not surprised, at the complete lack of support from all colleagues, producers, distributors and the creative community who in private commended the action. But not one individual, company or association supported my complaint as that would have gone a long way to endorse with the CCI the apparent practices that is common knowledge to all.”

The VPF was back in the news a year later, in 2020, when the fee was exempted temporarily due to pandemic-related uncertainties and a reduction in footfalls in cinemas. That was the last time VPF made news until Bhool Chuk Maaf brought it back into the limelight.

Cut to the present day… Thus, the history behind VPF has already led to raised eyebrows and even disbelief over the Bhool Chuk Maaf case outcome. An industry insider told Bollywood Hungama, “Already, there was a fear that if Bhool Chuk Maaf appears on OTT two weeks after its release in cinemas, other producers would also demand a similar arrangement. Now, the VPF waiver can also set a precedent. So many producers have claimed that they have suffered and had to pay more than Rs. 1.50-2.50 crores as VPF for releasing a film in 1000-1500 screens. Independent filmmakers also grouse about increased costs due to this fee. All of them can now rightfully ask the multiplexes, ‘If Bhool Chuk Maaf can have a VPF-free release, why not our film?’.”

Also Read: Maddock Films announces theatrical release of Bhool Chuk Maaf on May 23 starring Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi



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