Entertainment

Dharma Productions is set to reinvigorate its beloved franchise with Dostana 2, scheduled for theatrical release in late 2026. Nearly two decades after the original’s immense success, the sequel promises a fresh yet respectful continuation, starring Vikrant Massey and Lakshya alongside a yet-to-be-revealed debutante actress. The production house has finalized a progressive script balancing nostalgia with contemporary sensibilities and is actively searching for a director to bring the project to life.

India’s global cultural influence was on full display this week, with high-profile appearances at the 78th Cannes Film Festival and noteworthy developments in international entertainment. The Bharat Pavilion at Cannes was inaugurated in the presence of stalwarts Anupam Kher and Shekhar Kapur, while Jacqueline Fernandez was honored for her contributions to cinema under the Red Sea Film Festival’s “Women in Cinema” initiative. Simultaneously, rising Indian star Avneet Kaur sparked speculation about her involvement in Mission: Impossible – Final Reckoning.

Saregama India, the flagship music and content company of the RPSG Group, reported an 11.1% year-on-year increase in net profit for the fourth quarter of FY25, reaching Rs. 59.8 crore. Although revenue from operations dipped slightly to Rs. 240.8 crore, the company posted a significant improvement in operational efficiency, with adjusted EBITDA margins rising to 42%. For the full fiscal year, net profit stood at Rs. 204.2 crore. Notably, content investment surged 62% to Rs. 316 crore, reflecting the company’s aggressive commitment to its long-term Rs.

Renowned filmmaker Karan Johar has delivered a sharp rebuttal to ongoing criticisms branding actress Alia Bhatt as a product of nepotism. In a recent interview, Johar ardently defended Bhatt’s craft, pointing to her acclaimed performances in films like Raazi, Udta Punjab, and Gangubai Kathiawadi as evidence of her formidable talent. As the nepotism discourse resurfaces with every new season of Koffee With Karan, Johar insists his admiration for Bhatt is rooted not in industry connections but in genuine respect for her work.

Popular Indian television actress Dipika Kakar, known for her roles in daily soaps and reality TV, has been diagnosed with a liver tumor, her husband Shoaib Ibrahim revealed in a recent video blog. The tumor, reportedly the size of a tennis ball, was discovered following a series of medical consultations and diagnostic tests prompted by persistent abdominal pain. While early assessments suggest the mass may be benign, additional tests are pending to determine the final diagnosis and treatment strategy.

The Bollywood grapevine is abuzz with speculation that Naomika Saran, granddaughter of screen legends Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia, may soon be stepping into the spotlight. Spotted outside Maddock Films' office and making stylish public appearances alongside her grandmother, the 20-year-old has reignited curiosity about a potential debut in the film industry. Despite her low-key online presence, Naomika has managed to capture the public imagination.

The much-anticipated action drama Kingdom, starring Vijay Deverakonda and helmed by director Gowtham Tinnanuri, will now debut on July 4 instead of its initial May 30 release. The postponement, announced by the production houses Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas, comes in light of recent national events that have impacted the promotional climate. The delay follows India’s retaliatory military operation—Operation Sindoor—prompted by the Pahalgam terror attack.

Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan recently marked the wrap of a major schedule for his upcoming romantic film alongside co-star Sreeleela, helmed by celebrated director Anurag Basu. The untitled project, expected to hit cinemas during Diwali 2025, has been generating buzz for Aaryan’s striking transformation—featuring long hair and a rugged beard. The actor shared a cheerful behind-the-scenes image with Sreeleela to commemorate the moment.

In a heartwarming intersection of legacy and debut, Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn and his 14-year-old son Yug Devgan have come together to voice the Hindi adaptation of the upcoming Hollywood film Karate Kid: Legends. While Ajay lends his seasoned voice to Jackie Chan’s character, young Yug steps into the limelight by voicing Ben Wang’s role—marking his entry into the film industry.

Celebrated actor NTR Jr. is in advanced discussions to take on one of the most iconic roles of his career—portraying Dadasaheb Phalke, widely revered as the Father of Indian Cinema. The forthcoming biopic, titled Made in India, is being presented by acclaimed filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli and will be helmed by National Award-winning director Nitin Kakkar. While an official announcement is yet to be made, sources close to the production confirm that the final script has been locked and NTR Jr. is deeply impressed by the storytelling.