Richa Chadha BLASTS NFDC - "We were promised X amount for Girls Will Be Girls, got only half...my co-producer said, 'Sarkar se paisa nikalna bahut mushkil hai'"

Richa Chadha moderated an interesting session at Waterfront Indie Film Festival (WIFF) last week featuring Shoojit Sircar, Rajat Kapoor, Deepa Gehlot and Sridhar Rangayan where they spoke about the challenges of making an independent cinema.

At one point in the conversation, Richa Chadha told Shoojit Sircar, “You have a producer like Ronnie Lahiri, who is your sounding board and who (backs your vision) is so important. The need for such producers is very important, who believe in you and stand by you through and through.”

She then asked all the panelists, “Why is it that the biggest head honchos of global networks keep selecting some or the other MBA to be the deciding authority to select films? They are like ‘Yeh mere platform pe jaayegi’ or ‘This suits my algorithm’. We have access and we meet people from all over the world. Why is there not even one person from the industry who says, ‘I know VCs, I know hedge funds, this is the risk, this is the monetizable streams of revenue…here’s Rs. 100 crores, you can give 10 films or 3 films or 100 films. This is the money you have to return’. For instance, there’s a Chanel Grant that gives you Rs. 2 crores. You don’t even have to pay that money back. It's soft money. Where is that person? Why doesn’t that person exist?”

After a brief pause, Deepa Gehlot answered, “There is no person but an organization called NFDC (National Film Development Corporation). It was meant for this purpose. I don’t know where that purpose has gone now.”

Richa Chadha revealed, “The NFDC people would argue that they still exist. They even recently announced the line-up for their Film Bazaar. They would say that they are trying to do all that they can. However, I would like to inform on this note that the NFDC promised us X amount for Girls Will Be Girls (2024) and gave us only half of it! When I told my co-producers, they told me, ‘Sarkar se paisa nikalna bahut mushkil hai. Woh sab kuch pehle hi le leti hai’. (This is) just my little bit of frustration.”

Girls Will Be Girls starred Preeti Panigrahi, Kani Kusruti, and Kesav Binoy Kiron and was well received at more than 20 film festivals, including the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where it had its premiere. The coming-of-age finally premiered on Amazon Prime Video on December 18.

Also Read: Following the success of Girls Will Be Girls, Ali Fazal to back more women-led stories

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/21OF3S8

Vijay Deverakonda escapes injury after car accident near Hyderabad: Report

Actor Vijay Deverakonda escaped unharmed after his car was rear-ended on the Hyderabad-Bengaluru Highway in Telangana’s Jogulamba Gadwal district earlier today. The incident took place while the Liger star was travelling from Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, to Hyderabad in his Lexus LM350h. Reports indicate that the rear portion of his vehicle sustained damage in the collision.

As per reports, the other vehicle involved in the accident did not stop and continued towards Hyderabad. Deverakonda’s driver has lodged a police complaint, and authorities have launched an investigation into the hit-and-run incident.

Just a day before the incident, Vijay Deverakonda had visited Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s Prasanthi Nilayam Ashram in Puttaparthi along with his family. His visit followed reports of a private engagement with actor Rashmika Mandanna on October 3, which was said to have been attended only by close friends and family.

???? Vijay Deverakonda’s Car in Minor Accident — All Safe

A Lexus carrying Vijay Deverakonda and his family was involved in a small accident near Undavalli in Gadwal district after a Bolero reportedly took a sudden right turn. pic.twitter.com/bTyXyvNYrJ — Aristotle (@goLoko77) October 6, 2025

Fans also spotted a ring on Vijay’s finger during his visit, fueling further speculation about his relationship with Rashmika. Sources suggest that the couple plans to get married in February 2026, although neither Vijay nor Rashmika has officially confirmed their engagement.

Several videos purportedly showing the damaged vehicle have been circulating on social media, though their authenticity has not been verified. Police confirmed that Vijay Deverakonda switched to a friend’s car following the accident and reached Hyderabad safely.

His team has also lodged an official complaint concerning the incident. So far, neither the actor nor his family has released any public statement regarding the accident.

Also Read : Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna reportedly get engaged in private ceremony; wedding planned for February 2026?

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/SA2YUnX

Bharti Singh confirms second pregnancy with husband Haarsh Limbachiyaa: “We are pregnant again”

Comedian and television host Bharti Singh and her husband, TV writer Haarsh Limbachiyaa, have joyfully revealed that they are expecting their second child. The couple made the announcement via a shared Instagram post on Monday evening, much to the delight of their fans.

The announcement came from idyllic surroundings in Switzerland, where Bharti and Haarsh are currently vacationing. In the heartfelt post, Bharti is seen cradling her baby bump while Haarsh stands behind her, beaming with affection. The crisp alpine backdrop added charm to their big reveal.

Bharti captioned the post with a touching message, “We are pregnant again #blessed #ganpatibappamorya #thankyougod #babycomingsoon.”

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Bharti Siingh (@bharti.laughterqueen)

Within hours, the post went viral. Many prominent names in the entertainment industry flooded the comments section with congratulatory wishes. Among those sending their love were Parineeti Chopra, Esha Gupta, Drashti Dhami, Jannat Zubair, Abhishek Malhan, Anjali Anand, and Gauahar Khan.

Bharti and Haarsh’s relationship dates back to 2017, when they tied the knot in a traditional Hindu ceremony. Their son, Laksh (affectionately known as Golla), was born on April 3, 2022. Over the years, the couple has maintained a strong social media presence, giving fans glimpses of their family life. Their YouTube channel often features Laksh in adorable cameos.

In a fun behind-the-scenes tease from one of their Switzerland vlogs, the pair joked about expanding their family. Haarsh had playfully declared that he wanted “five babies.”

Bharti’s career spans stand-up comedy, hosting reality shows, and a stint on The Kapil Sharma Show. Recently, she co-hosted Laughter Chefs: Unlimited Entertainment Season 2 and runs a podcast with Haarsh, where they interview television personalities about their journeys in showbiz.

She has also spoken candidly about her early career challenges. In a conversation with Raj Shamani, she remarked, “Kitne logo ne mere paise khaye,” and added that she “never could ask money from people who didn’t pay after her performance.”

Also Read : Bharti Singh responds to criticism for being in Thailand amid India-Pakistan tensions: “I don’t get angry, I just feel aap log bahot bhole ho”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/McK9TuC

Saiyami Kher becomes official face of Ironman India after completing two triathlons in under a year

Actor and athlete Saiyami Kher has been named the official face of Ironman India. This follows her completion of the Ironman 70.3 triathlon twice in under a year, making her the only Indian actor to achieve this feat.

Saiyami Kher completed her first Ironman 70.3 in September 2024 and her second in July 2025, demonstrating remarkable discipline and endurance. The Ironman 70.3, or Half Ironman, covers a total of 70.3 miles 1.9 km of swimming, 90 km of cycling, and 21.1 km of running completed consecutively in a single day.

Her dedication and perseverance have inspired many, leading the Ironman International Committee to name her the official face of Ironman India an honour given to those who exemplify the spirit of endurance and strength.

Expressing her gratitude and excitement, Saiyami Kher said, “I’m truly honored and excited to be the face of Ironman India, which takes place in Goa on the 9th of November. This journey represents everything I believe in passion, consistency, and the refusal to give up. Completing the Ironman 70.3 twice in less than a year wasn’t about chasing records; it was about challenging my own limits. Every swim stroke, every uphill ride, every step of the run reminded me of how much the human body and mind are capable of.”

She added, “For me, Ironman isn’t just a race, it’s a mindset, a way of life. I’ve always loved pushing boundaries whether in sport or as an actor and I hope my journey can inspire more Indians, especially women, to embrace endurance sports. It makes me so happy to see the growth in participation from Indians each year, and it’s heartening to watch this community grow stronger. The joy, resilience, and self-belief that come with it are life-changing. Representing Ironman India feels like a full-circle moment, and I’m deeply grateful to be part of a community that celebrates strength, determination, and perseverance.”

As the newly appointed brand ambassador, Saiyami Kher aims to inspire more Indians to take up endurance sports and embrace fitness and mental resilience. Ironman India hopes her journey will encourage a growing number of participants.

Also Read : Navratri Ashtami 2025: Neha Dhupia, Saiee Manjrekar and other Bollywood actresses Shine in pink festive looks

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

REVEALED: Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions merges Dharmatic Entertainment to simplify operations

Dharmatic Entertainment, the digital arm of Dharma Productions, has now officially merged with its parent company, as per a recent article in The Economic Times. The story says that the move is part of Dharma’s plan “to consolidate operations amid the changing entertainment landscape”. It also said that the merger application was fast-tracked and has already been approved by both companies’ shareholders and creditors, according to official filings.

This is one of Dharma Productions’ first big steps since entrepreneur Adar Poonawalla bought a 50% stake in the company for Rs. 1,000 crores last year, valuing Dharma at Rs. 2,000 crores. Another significant decision taken by Dharma head-honcho after the merger was to start a distribution arm. In a recent interview with Komal Nahta, KJo confessed that the partnership with Adar Poonawalla gave him the impetus to get into distribution.

The Economic Times article further revealed that the amalgamation of Dharmatic Entertainment and Dharma Productions is effective from April 1, 2025, and is expected to make the company’s structure simpler by reducing the number of subsidiaries, cutting costs, and easing legal work.

Since Dharmatic was already fully owned by Dharma, no money was exchanged as part of the deal. The shares that Dharma held in Dharmatic will now be cancelled. The article carried a statement by a company official who said, “Dharmatic was envisioned as a digital-first creative studio, but the industry has evolved in ways that make integrated operations more impactful. This merger allows us to optimize resources and run a leaner, more efficient organization while continuing to tell powerful stories across platforms.”

Dharmatic Entertainment was launched in 2018 with the aim of producing digital shows and films. They produced non-fiction shows like Koffee With Karan, Fabulous Lives Of Bollywood Wives, The Tribe and Love Storiyaan and fictional titles like The Fame Game, Showtime, Gyaarah Gyaarah and Do You Wanna Partner. The web films made by Dharmatic are Guilty (2020), Ajeeb Daastaans (2021), Searching For Sheela (2021; non-fiction), Meenakshi Sundareshwar (2021), Ae Watan Mere Watan (2024), Nadaaniyan (2025) and Aap Jaisa Koi (2025). Interestingly, Sarzameen (2025) was released directly on JioHotstar but it was produced under Dharma Productions.

Also Read: How Yash Johar’s generosity during Agneepath shoot came back to Karan Johar as a land offer in Goa: “He was giving HUGE parcel of land to me for FREE…sometimes I SLAP myself for declining the offer”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/q6Bd2ZY

It's a girl! Arbaaz Khan and Sshura Khan welcome their first child

Actor-filmmaker Arbaaz Khan and his wife, celebrity makeup artist Sshura Khan, have reportedly welcomed a baby girl. While the couple is yet to make an official announcement, several media outlets have confirmed the news, citing sources close to the family.

Sshura gave birth on Sunday at Mumbai's PD Hinduja Hospital, where she had been admitted on Thursday, October 4. The news was confirmed to Hindustan Times by a member of Arbaaz's team, who stated, “Both the mom and the baby are fine. It’s an emotional moment for the whole family and they are just happy.”

The family celebrations are already in full swing. Arbaaz’s elder brother, superstar Salman Khan, who was reportedly out of town for work, is said to have rushed back to Mumbai to be with the family for the special occasion. Several other family members were seen visiting the hospital throughout Saturday, and Arbaaz was spotted making frequent visits to check on his wife.

This is Arbaaz’s second child. He is already father to 22-year-old Arhaan Khan, his son from his previous marriage to actor and television personality Malaika Arora. Arbaaz and Malaika separated in 2016 and were officially divorced in 2017.

Arbaaz and Sshura, who tied the knot in an intimate nikah ceremony on December 24, 2023, at Arpita Khan Sharma’s Mumbai residence, had recently hosted a low-key baby shower. The event, held in the last week of September, was attended by close friends and family members, including Salman Khan and Arhaan Khan. The couple arrived at the venue twinning in yellow, and were all smiles as they posed for the paparazzi before the celebration began.

Arbaaz, who was previously in a long-term relationship with Giorgia Andriani before marrying Sshura, has largely kept his personal life private in recent years. The couple’s wedding announcement in December had come as a surprise to many, with Arbaaz sharing a heartfelt message on Instagram: "In the presence of our loved ones, me and mine begin a lifetime of love and togetherness from this day on! Need all your blessings and good wishes on our special day!"

Also Read: Arbaaz Khan and Sshura Khan celebrate baby shower ahead of birth of their first child: “It’s a fresh new feeling”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/A04ujLR

Rhea Chakraborty gets her passport back after 5 years; says “Patience was my only passport” in emotional post

Actress Rhea Chakraborty has finally received her passport back after nearly five years, marking a significant moment in her long legal journey following the Sushant Singh Rajput death case. Taking to social media, the actress shared an emotional post, reflecting on the struggles and resilience that defined this period of her life.

Sharing a picture of herself holding the passport, Rhea wrote, “Patience was my only passport for the past 5 years. Countless battles. Endless hope. Today, I hold my passport again. Ready for my Chapter 2! Satyameva Jayate.” The post has since gone viral, with fans and well-wishers flooding the comments section, expressing support and happiness over the actress finally reclaiming her travel documents.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Rhea Chakraborty (@rhea_chakraborty)

Rhea’s passport was confiscated in 2020 after her name surfaced in the investigation into Sushant Singh Rajput’s death, which became one of the most widely covered and polarizing cases in recent memory. The actor was found dead at his Mumbai residence in June 2020, leading to multiple probes by the Mumbai Police, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Enforcement Directorate (ED), and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).

Rhea, who was in a relationship with Sushant at the time, faced intense media scrutiny and was accused of abetment to suicide and involvement in a drug-related angle linked to the case. She was arrested by the NCB in September 2020 under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act but was granted bail a month later by the Bombay High Court.

Since then, the actress has largely stayed away from the spotlight, maintaining a low profile while occasionally sharing motivational and reflective posts on social media. In 2023, she made her television comeback as a gang leader on MTV Roadies 19, signaling a gradual return to the entertainment industry.

Now, with her passport back, Rhea appears ready to move forward. Her post has been interpreted by many as a message of renewal and resilience after enduring one of the most challenging phases of her life.

Rhea Chakraborty, who has previously appeared in films like Jalebi, Mere Dad Ki Maruti, and Chehre, is reportedly in talks for a few upcoming projects, hinting that her professional comeback may be just around the corner.

Also Read: Rhea Chakraborty shares emotional moment of dancing in jail after bail in Sushant Singh Rajput case; says, “I did naagin dance on the day of my bail”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/dVI56hn