Star Plus to feature Bigg Boss-scale reality show? Endemol, mystery Bollywood host and a never-seen-before format spark buzz

Star Plus may be gearing up to make a grand return to the reality television space with what is being described as one of its most ambitious non-fiction projects in recent years. While the channel has delivered several successful reality properties in the past, including Dance Plus and Nach Baliye, industry sources indicate that a brand-new format could soon be heading to television screens.

According to sources close to the development, the broadcaster is planning a large-scale reality show that could rival the stature and scale of popular formats such as Bigg Boss. Interestingly, insiders claim that the concept may also draw comparisons with some of the newer reality formats that have recently gained attention on streaming platforms, including The 50. What makes the project particularly intriguing is its reported format. While official details remain tightly under wraps, sources suggest that the show may feature a fresh set of participants in every episode, offering viewers a constantly evolving narrative and a unique viewing experience unlike traditional reality competitions. Adding further weight to the speculation is the reported involvement of Endemol Shine India, the production house behind Bigg Boss and several other successful unscripted formats. Industry insiders believe that the collaboration signals the channel's intent to mount the project on a significant scale. The mystery surrounding the show has only intensified with reports that the first promotional shoot is currently underway in Mumbai. Sources reveal that the host has already begun filming the inaugural promo, although the identity of the face leading the show has not been officially confirmed. Meanwhile, industry chatter suggests that a major Bollywood name could be associated with the project. Among the names doing the rounds is Anil Kapoor, who has previously showcased his flair for hosting and television appearances. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding his involvement at the time of writing. With the channel maintaining complete secrecy around the project, fans and industry observers alike are eagerly awaiting an official announcement. If the reports hold true, Star Plus could be preparing to re-enter the reality entertainment arena in a big way, with a format that promises both scale and novelty. Also Read: Star Plus to launch its newest jodi from Sairaab at Fashion Ke Rang, Rishton Ke Sang

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Varun Dhawan CONFIRMS he said no to Andhadhun; says, “Original cast was me and Kangana Ranaut”

Sriram Raghavan's Andhadhun continues to be regarded as one of the most acclaimed thrillers in modern Hindi cinema. Starring Ayushmann Khurrana, Tabu, and Radhika Apte, the 2018 film won both critical and commercial success. However, years after its release, actor Varun Dhawan has revealed that the film almost had a very different cast.

During a recent appearance on comedian and content creator Tanmay Bhat's YouTube channel, Varun opened up about one of the biggest films he passed on during his career. The conversation began when Tanmay asked if there was a major film that Varun had rejected and later regretted after seeing its success.

Responding to the question, Varun admitted that there was indeed a film he could not take up. "I think a good movie. I think I said no to a good film," he said.

When Tanmay asked him to name the project, Varun revealed, "Andhadhun. I was filming for something else. So I couldn't do it. And the original cast of the film was supposed to be me and Kangana."

The revelation has reignited discussions around the film's early development. For years, reports had suggested that director Sriram Raghavan had initially discussed the concept of Andhadhun with Varun Dhawan. The two had previously collaborated on the critically acclaimed thriller Badlapur in 2015.

According to reports at the time, Varun was impressed by the idea behind Andhadhun. However, he and Raghavan decided to prioritize Badlapur first. As the actor's schedule became increasingly packed with other commitments, Raghavan reportedly began searching for a new lead actor.

The role eventually went to Ayushmann Khurrana. The film also earned widespread praise for Tabu's layered performance and its unpredictable screenplay. Released in 2018, Andhadhun emerged as both a critical and box office success. The thriller won multiple awards and is still considered one of Raghavan's finest works.

Meanwhile, Varun Dhawan is currently seen in Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, directed by his father David Dhawan. The romantic comedy, which also stars Pooja Hegde and Mrunal Thakur, released in theatres on June 5. Despite generating pre-release buzz, the film recorded a modest opening at the box office.

Also Read: Here’s what happened when Sui Dhaaga actor Varun Dhawan meets Andhadhun star Ayushmann Khurrana

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Rakesh Roshan shuts down reports of Hrithik Roshan-YRF budget clash over Krrish 4: “There are no issues”

The development of Krrish 4 has been under intense scrutiny ever since reports surfaced claiming there were disagreements between Hrithik Roshan and Yash Raj Films over the film's budget. However, filmmaker Rakesh Roshan has now firmly dismissed such speculation, calling the reports baseless and reiterating that the ambitious superhero project is progressing smoothly.

Over the past few months, industry chatter suggested that Hrithik Roshan, who is set to make his directorial debut with Krrish 4, was keen on mounting the film on a massive scale with world-class visual effects and action sequences. Reports further claimed that while Hrithik envisioned a budget of around Rs 500 crores, Yash Raj Films preferred to keep production costs closer to Rs 350 crores to ensure commercial viability.

Addressing these rumours, Rakesh Roshan told Mid-Day, “It’s all nonsense that Hrithik has asked for a Rs 500 crore budget for top-tier VFX and world-class action for his directorial debut, while YRF wants to cap costs at Rs 350 crores. Making a good film catering to a [wide] audience takes time. Even I have taken time for each of my Krrish offerings.”

The filmmaker also shed light on why the much-awaited superhero sequel has yet to go on floors despite being announced some time ago. According to him, the delay has more to do with scheduling than any creative or financial differences. “Krrish is on another planet and we are all waiting for his dates,” Rakesh Roshan joked, referring to Hrithik's packed professional commitments.

He further clarified that there are no issues between the stakeholders involved in the project. “There are no issues; all is smooth. It’s teamwork between Adi, Hrithik, and me,” he said.

Krrish 4 has undergone several changes over the years. Earlier, director Karan Malhotra and filmmaker-producer Siddharth Anand were reportedly associated with the project. However, the film eventually took a new direction, with Hrithik Roshan stepping into the director's chair. The upcoming installment is being jointly backed by Rakesh Roshan's Filmkraft and Aditya Chopra's Yash Raj Films.

While Rakesh Roshan refrained from sharing a definitive timeline for production, he revealed that the script is nearly finalized and the makers are hoping to begin filming by the end of the year. “I will update you when everything is ready,” he concluded.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra Jonas cast as female lead in Hrithik Roshan’s Krrish 4

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EXCLUSIVE: As Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai hits theatres, Tips Films wraps its next starring Pulkit Samrat

As Tips Films celebrated the release of David Dhawan’s Varun Dhawan-Mrunal Thakur-Pooja Hegde starrer Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai yesterday, June 5, the production house has already completed filming an exciting upcoming project. The banner’s next film, starring Pulkit Samrat and directed by Sneha Taurani, has officially wrapped principal photography.

According to sources, the film has completed its shoot, with only a song sequence remaining to be filmed. The project has now entered its final phase of production, bringing it one step closer to audiences.

The development highlights Tips Films’ busy and ambitious slate. Even as Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai arrives in theatres, the banner has quietly wrapped another significant project, ensuring its momentum continues well beyond its latest release.

The film also marks an exciting collaboration between Pulkit Samrat, director Sneha Taurani and producer Ramesh Taurani. Though the makers have yet to officially unveil the project, industry circles have been closely tracking its progress ever since reports surfaced that Pulkit would be headlining the film.

For Pulkit, the wrap comes at a particularly exciting time. The actor recently earned appreciation for his performance in Netflix’s sports-cum-mystery web series, Glory, where he impressed audiences with a strikingly different avatar. The positive response has further strengthened anticipation around his upcoming projects, including this collaboration with Tips Films.

With Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai now playing in theatres and Pulkit Samrat’s film wrapped, Tips Films appears to be seamlessly transitioning from one major project to the next, reinforcing its position as one of the industry’s most active production houses.

Also Read: “Count the tyres”: Pulkit Samrat drops BTS glimpse from Netflix’s sports thriller Glory

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Peddi filmmaker Buchi Babu Sana issues apology after viewers call out Janhvi Kapoor’s hypersexualisation; promises to make changes in “concerned portions”

Filmmaker Buchi Babu Sana has issued a public apology after sections of the audience criticised certain scenes in Peddi, the recently released Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor starrer. The director said the feedback had been taken seriously and confirmed that changes would be made to the portions that have drawn objections. The statement came on June 6, two days after the film's release. Taking to social media, Buchi Babu addressed the growing debate surrounding the portrayal of Janhvi Kapoor’s character and the treatment of women in the film.

"As a filmmaker, I believe cinema should entertain, inspire, and connect with audiences. It should never make anyone feel uncomfortable or disrespected. We have heard the feedback regarding certain scenes in Peddi and have taken it seriously," he wrote on X.

The film has faced criticism from viewers and commentators who argued that Janhvi Kapoor’s character lacked depth despite being one of the central figures in the story. Several social media users also questioned the way certain scenes were filmed, alleging that the camera repeatedly focused on parts of the actor's body rather than the emotional context of the scenes.

Another major point of criticism involved the romantic track between the lead characters. Some viewers objected to scenes that appeared to portray non-consensual behaviour as romance, sparking discussions online about representation and storytelling in mainstream cinema.

Addressing these concerns, Buchi Babu clarified that disrespecting women was never the intention behind the film. "I have always had immense respect for women, both on and off screen, and it was never our intention to objectify or disrespect any female character. If any part of the film has been perceived that way, we respect those sentiments, understand the concerns being raised, and sincerely apologize," he stated.

The director further revealed that the team had reviewed the feedback and decided to make changes. "After reviewing the feedback, we have decided to make changes to the concerned portions," he wrote.

Buchi Babu also reflected on the evolving relationship between filmmakers and audiences. He acknowledged that audience responses play an important role in shaping cinema and stressed the responsibility storytellers carry. "Cinema grows through its connection with audiences, and as storytellers, we have a responsibility to be mindful of evolving perspectives and sensitivities."

As a filmmaker, I believe cinema should entertain, inspire, and connect with audiences. It should never make anyone feel uncomfortable or disrespected. We have heard the feedback regarding certain scenes in Peddi and have taken it seriously. I have always had immense respect for…

— BuchiBabuSana (@BuchiBabuSana) June 6, 2026

He concluded his note by reiterating his commitment to respectful representation. "Every woman deserves to be respected, valued, and represented with dignity. We remain committed to telling stories that celebrate strong characters and uphold those values."

Peddi, which stars Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor in the lead roles, opened to strong curiosity among audiences. However, the debate surrounding its portrayal of women has now become one of the most discussed aspects of the film. With the makers confirming edits, attention will be on how the revised version addresses the concerns raised by viewers.

Also Read: Peddi (Hindi) Opening Day Box Office Estimate: Ram Charan starrer opens at Rs. 3 crores

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Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey to open IMAX ticket sales in India from June 8

On June 8, Indian fans will be amongst the first in the world to secure their seats for The Odyssey. Shot across the world using brand new IMAX® film technology, The Odyssey is the first feature film shot entirely with IMAX® cameras, opening in cinemas worldwide and across India on July 17, 2026.

Written and directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Christopher Nolan, the film brings Homer's foundational epic to the screen in a way that has never been attempted before. The story of Odysseus, King of Ithaca, and his perilous journey home after the fall of Troy is brought to life by Matt Damon as Odysseus, Tom Holland as Telemachus, and Anne Hathaway as Penelope, alongside Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Charlize Theron, and Jon Bernthal. The Odyssey opens in cinemas across India in all formats on July 17, 2026.

Speaking about the opening of IMAX ticket bookings for The Odyssey in India, Denzil Dias, Vice President and Managing Director, Warner Bros. Discovery India, said, "The Odyssey is the first film in cinema history to be shot entirely on IMAX cameras, a milestone Warner Bros. Discovery Indiaspent nearly twenty years working toward. On June 8, for the first time in India, Nolan fans will be amongst the first in the world to be able to book their favorite seats alongside their fellow Christopher Nolan fans around the world. For Nolan fans in India, this is a moment worth marking. For the first time, they book their seats alongside the rest of the world, for the first film in history made entirely on IMAX cameras."

IMAX tickets for The Odyssey are on sale from June 8, 2026. The Odyssey opens in cinemas across India from July 17, 2026. Written and directed by Christopher Nolan. Produced by Emma Thomas and Christopher Nolan for Syncopy. Universal Pictures India, distributed by Warner Bros. Discovery. In cinemas worldwide July 17, 2026.

Also Read: IMAX returns to Hyderabad after a decade with three new AMB Cinemas locations

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Celina Jaitly BREAKS SILENCE after Peter Haag and father-in-law sent legal notices; calls it “an attempt to divert attention”

Actress Celina Jaitly has issued a detailed statement in response to legal notices sent by her estranged husband Peter Haag and his father, Wolfgang Haag, who have threatened to initiate defamation proceedings against her. The development comes days after Semwal & Co., acting on behalf of Peter Haag and Wolfgang Haag, confirmed that two separate legal notices had been served to the actress. The notices alleged that Celina had circulated false, defamatory and misleading statements through social media, interviews and media interactions while matrimonial and child custody proceedings remain pending before courts in Austria.

Responding publicly, Celina said her legal team at Karanjawala & Co. has already submitted a formal reply. "Two legal notices have recently been sent to me by my estranged husband Peter & his father Wolfgang Haag, threatening to sue me for defamation. A response has aptly been submitted through my legal representatives, advocates at Karanjawala & Co.," she stated.

The actress alleged that the notices were intended to shift focus away from issues she has raised before authorities. "In my view, these notices are an attempt to divert attention from police complaints, lookout notices, allegations of violence, documented evidence before the competent authorities & pending before the courts," she wrote.

Celina also asserted that discussing her personal experiences and seeking legal remedies should not be considered defamatory. "Speaking about my lived experiences & pursuing lawful remedies is not defamation," she said. Referring to her family's past public appearances, the actress claimed that media visibility had previously been welcomed. "For years, publicity involving our family was actively embraced, including Peter's participation in magazine covers, interviews, articles featuring our children & me until it suited his own interests."

She further questioned why legal notices were issued after she began speaking publicly about her experiences. "It is therefore ironic that when I began speaking about my own experiences, legal battles, concerns as a mother & pursuit of justice, I was met with legal notices instead of answers." The actress emphasized her relationship with her children and said they remain central to her ongoing legal fight. "These are my children too. I am their mother & they are the reason I continue this fight."

Celina maintained that she has consistently supported joint custody and an amicable divorce. However, she claimed that despite court orders, she remains unable to contact her children. "I have consistently supported joint custody & amicable divorce. Yet despite court orders, I remain without contact with my children just because I chose to fight for my rights."

According to Celina, her public appeals stemmed from concerns regarding her children's whereabouts and possible relocation outside the jurisdiction of Austrian and Indian courts. "As a mother with joint custody, I believed it is both my right & responsibility to raise those concerns," she stated.

The actress further alleged that she has faced pressure and intimidation while living in Austria and claimed that efforts are being made to silence her. "What appears to trouble some is not that I have spoken, but that I have refused to remain silent."

 

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  A post shared by Celina Jaitly (@celinajaitlyofficial)

Concluding her statement, Celina said she would continue pursuing legal remedies and expressed confidence in the judicial systems of both countries. "I will not be intimidated into silence for speaking about my experiences or seeking the legal remedies available to me. I am fighting with evidence & have full faith in the judicial systems of India & Austria."

The dispute remains the subject of ongoing legal proceedings, with both sides presenting differing accounts of the matter sharply.

Also Read: Preity Zinta launches jewellery brand Jacarti; Celina Jaitly, Bobby Deol and Iulia Vantur join celebrations: “Mother of all selfies”

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