EXCLUSIVE: Bombay High Court sets aside IMPPA’s award against Nikhil Dwivedi’s Saffron Magicworks

In a significant legal victory for producer Nikhil Dwivedi’s Saffron Magicworks, the Bombay High Court has set aside an award dated July 3, 2026, passed by the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) against the production house, bringing the proceedings in the present suit to an end.

According to a statement issued by Saffron Magicworks, the court set aside the impugned award passed by IMPPA’s Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC), with the court recording that the suit stood disposed of and nothing further survived for consideration in the pending applications.

The development follows an interim order dated September 9, 2026, passed by Justice Arif S Doctor, under which the court had restrained IMPPA from declaring Saffron Magicworks a defaulter consequent to the disputed award until further orders.

The September order had also recorded a statement made on instructions by counsel for Defendant No. 2 that the party would not act upon the impugned award.

Saffron Magicworks had approached the High Court challenging the award passed through IMPPA’s dispute resolution mechanism and seeking protection against its implementation and the consequences that could follow from it.

In its latest order dated October 23, 2026, Justice Arif S Doctor specifically addressed IMPPA’s position, observing that since the association’s own committee had passed the purported award, IMPPA could not be aggrieved by its setting aside.

The Court further recorded that IMPPA, despite having been served, had not entered an appearance on any date during the proceedings.

The latest development assumes significance against the backdrop of the disagreement between the parties over the interpretation of the court’s earlier directions.

Saffron Magicworks has alleged that IMPPA’s public statement on the proceedings was materially misleading on the central question of whether the association had been restrained by the court. The production house’s position was that the September 9 order expressly prohibited IMPPA from declaring it a defaulter on the basis of the July 3 award.

The production house further maintained that any suggestion that the court had imposed no such restraint was inconsistent with the wording of paragraph four of the order.

The dispute had thus extended beyond the award itself to the interpretation and public representation of the court’s directions. With the award now set aside, the latest order marks a decisive development in Saffron Magicworks’ challenge to the proceedings initiated through IMPPA’s dispute resolution mechanism.

The Court disposed of the suit and pending applications, leaving open the rights, contentions and remedies available to the parties under law.

Advocates Rashmin Khandekar, Dhruva Gandhi, Madhu Gadodia, Vivek Dwivedi, Vinita Dandekar and Aryan Garg, instructed by Anand and Naik, appeared for Saffron Magicworks, along with the production house’s Chief Legal Officer, Kartikeya Desai.

Also Read: BREAKING: Nikhil Dwivedi’s Saffron Magicworks secures a Bombay High Court restraining order against IMPPA

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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

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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'.

 

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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

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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

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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

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Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s team files cyber crime complaint in Hyderabad over alleged fake claims and online harassment

The team representing Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna has submitted a formal complaint to the Cyber Crime authorities in Hyderabad, seeking an investigation into specific online content concerning the actors. The complaint reportedly identifies alleged fabricated claims, manipulated digital material, impersonation and targeted online harassment that surfaced following the couple’s appearance on Koffee With Karan Season 9.

In a statement, the Virosh team confirmed that its representative had physically submitted the complaint, along with relevant links and supporting evidence, for examination by the authorities. The team has clarified that its request is not intended to restrict freedom of speech or genuine criticism but seeks accountability in cases where potentially unlawful conduct or demonstrably false information may be involved.

The complaint has been filed by P. Nishanth Kumar, who is identified as the manager of both actors. According to the excerpts shared by the team, the representation seeks an impartial, evidence-led examination of specifically identified online publications and digital material. It asks the authorities to verify whether any of the material contains materially false factual representations, fabricated quotations or screenshots, deceptively altered images or videos, false attribution, impersonation or other conduct that could attract legal consequences.

The complaint also refers to online claims concerning events allegedly occurring during the television programme, purported emotional distress or harassment, changes in social media following activity, and statements presenting a breakup, separation or divorce as fact. However, the complainant has stated that the authorities should not presume that any allegation is false or that any individual has committed an offence. Each instance, the representation says, should be examined against the available primary material, its origin and context.

The Virosh team has further stated that every identified instance of publishing, reposting or amplifying potentially unlawful content may be examined on its own merits. It has indicated that appropriate legal remedies will be pursued wherever warranted, in accordance with due process. The statement also calls for responsibility while sharing unverified claims and cautions against presenting speculation as established fact.

What Triggered the Online Debate?

The complaint follows the online scrutiny surrounding Vijay and Rashmika’s joint appearance on Koffee With Karan Season 9, during which the couple shared details about their relationship and journey towards marriage.

During the conversation, Vijay spoke about Rashmika expressing her feelings first and recalled asking her to ask him “100 times” before he agreed. Rashmika subsequently explained that the remark needed to be understood in the context of the time they took to understand each other before making a commitment.

Their comments and interactions became subjects of discussion across social media, with some users interpreting their remarks and body language critically. Older interviews and promotional clips featuring the actors also resurfaced, while details of their social media activity became part of the online debate.

Both actors subsequently responded to the criticism. Rashmika addressed the interpretation of Vijay’s remark and defended her relationship, while Vijay posted a statement affirming that the couple were “gloriously happy” and expressing his displeasure with the commentary surrounding their marriage.

The latest complaint brings the matter to the authorities, with the team seeking verification of specific online material and appropriate action wherever warranted under the law. The allegations outlined in the complaint remain subject to examination, and no finding of wrongdoing has been established against any individual or account at this stage.

Also Read: Vijay Deverakonda hits back at trolls targeting his marriage to Rashmika Mandanna; says, “If it’s me and her against the world – so be it”

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Fardeen Khan buys his first Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Apex: “One of the most fun bikes I’ve ever ridden”

Actor Fardeen Khan has added a Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Apex to his collection, marking his first purchase from the Indian motorcycle brand. The actor shared the news on Instagram, expressing his excitement about the bike and explaining how childhood memories of the iconic Bullet 350 influenced his appreciation for Royal Enfield motorcycles.

In his post, Fardeen revealed that the Guerrilla 450 Apex immediately caught his attention. He also praised the brand for producing motorcycles that, in his view, compete with international offerings. “Proudly taking delivery of my first ever Royal Enfield, the Guerrilla 450 Apex!” he wrote. Fardeen Khan recalls childhood memories of the Bullet 350 Reflecting on his long-standing familiarity with Royal Enfield motorcycles, Fardeen recalled growing up hearing the distinctive sound of the Bullet 350. He said the motorcycles ridden by older boys and Mumbai Police personnel left a lasting impression on him.

“I’ve grown up hearing the unmistakable thump of the old Bullet 350, with its single-cylinder, four-stroke engine. From the older boys who looked so cool riding them to the inspectors of the Mumbai Police Force on their Bullets, that sound was always something else. It’s stayed with me over the years,” he shared.

Explaining his choice, the actor said the Guerrilla 450 Apex stood out to him as soon as he saw it. “So when I saw the Guerrilla 450 Apex, I knew this was the bike for me. I just had to have it. Having ridden a lot of motorcycles over the years, I can honestly say this is one of the most fun bikes I’ve ever ridden,” Fardeen wrote.

 

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Actor clarifies there is no brand affiliation Fardeen further added, “Just to be clear, I have no affiliation with the brand whatsoever. This post comes purely out of the joy and pride of owning an Indian motorcycle that meets world standards, competes with the big boys, and puts Indian motorcycling firmly on the world map,” he stated.

He went on to acknowledge the work of the Royal Enfield team, writing, “A personal acknowledgement of the wonderful work being done by the boys and girls at @royalenfield. You make India proud!” Fardeen Khan’s return to acting Fardeen stepped away from acting for more than a decade before returning to the screen in 2024 with Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Netflix series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, in which he played Wali Mohammad. Since his return, he has appeared in films including Khel Khel Mein and Visfot in 2024, followed by Housefull 5 in 2025. He is also set to appear in the upcoming film Raja Shivaji.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Fardeen Khan and Mahesh Manjrekar join the Malamaal Weekly 2 cast

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