Salman Khan to kick of AR Murugadoss’ Sikandar in May 2024: Report

Salman Khan fans, rejoice! Though the superstar didn't have a release for Eid this year, he announced his next big project, titled Sikandar, to make up for it. This action entertainer marks Khan's first collaboration with director AR Murugadoss, and filming is set to begin in May. Murugadoss is currently directing an action film, tentatively called SK23, starring Tamil star Sivakarthikeyan. This project is scheduled to continue until June. To ensure a smooth shooting schedule for Sikandar, Murugadoss will be juggling both films for the next two months.

“Before Sikandar goes on floors, Murugadoss wants to wrap up as much of SK23 as possible,” an insider revealed, as per a report in Mid-day. “He will shoot the first schedule of Sikandar in May and then return to finish Sivakarthikeyan's movie in June. From July onwards, he will be completely dedicated to the Salman Khan starrer.”

With an Eid 2025 release target, the team is working diligently to meet the deadline despite the director's busy schedule. “To avoid any delays, Murugadoss has assembled a dedicated team to help him finish SK23 quickly,” the source added.

Sikandar marks Murugadoss's return to Hindi cinema after an eight-year hiatus following Akira (2016). This project reunites Khan with producer Sajid Nadiadwala, the duo behind blockbuster hits like Kick, Judwaa, and Mujhse Shaadi Karogi.

The title Sikandar itself has sparked a wave of excitement and curiosity among audiences. Fans are eager to witness the magic that unfolds on screen with this dream team collaboration. Eid 2025 is about to get a whole lot more thrilling! ALSO READ: Sikandar: Salman Khan, Sajid Nadiadwala, and A.R. Murugadoss to join hands with musician Pritam Chakraborty

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World Artisans Day: Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal launch their fashion venture Ehaab Couture

Actors Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal are joining hands with renowned designer Yasmin Saeed from Lucknow, to announce the launch of Ehaab Couture, a fashion venture dedicated to celebrating and preserving India's revered art of Chikankari embroidery.

Inspired by the cultural richness of Lucknow, Ehaab Couture encapsulates the essence of tradition, nostalgia, and old-world charm. The name "Ehaab" means the art of gifting and ties in with who Richa and Ali are as people having always backed the right kind of causes. With this, their motive is to help preserve an art form and empower an entire community of artisans from Lucknow.

"Chikankari is Lucknow's gift to the world," says Ali Fazal. "With this venture, we envision fashion as a medium of love, where each piece is crafted by hand, carrying the soulful essence of the artisans who meticulously weave every thread."

This venture is a commitment to honouring the legacy of artisans who have safeguarded India's handcrafted heritage for generations. "Our collaboration with the artisans of Lucknow is rooted in compassion and respect," adds Richa Chadha. "Ehaab Couture invites you to experience the magic of handmade craftsmanship and join us in our mission to preserve one of India's many culturally significant art forms”. ALSO READ: Richa Chadha reveals she drew inspiration from Meena Kumari for her role in Heeramandi – The Diamond Bazaar

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Ravi Kishan's wife Preeti Shukla files FIR against Aparna Thakur claiming to be a second wife of the actor with a daughter; demands Rs. 20 crore: Report

Bollywood actor and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Ravi Kishan is embroiled in a major controversy. The drama began when Aparna Soni, also known as Aparna Thakur, a resident of Mumbai, held a press conference in Lucknow, claiming that Kishan is the father of her 25-year-old daughter, Shinova. Allegations of denial of parental rights were hurled at the actor-turned-politician, igniting a firestorm of controversy.

According to a report in India Today, in response, Ravi Kishan's wife, Preeti Shukla, took swift action, complaining to the Hazratganj police station in Lucknow. The complaint, which triggered the lodging of an FIR against six individuals including Aparna Soni, her family members, a Samajwadi Party leader, and a journalist, alleges a conspiracy to defame her husband and influence the ongoing elections.

Preeti Shukla's complaint reveals intimidation and extortion from Aparna Soni who allegedly demanded a staggering sum of Rs. 20 crore, under threat of framing false rape charges against Ravi Kishan. The FIR, lodged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, outlines a web of deceit and coercion aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the Laapataa Ladies actor.

Aparna Soni aka Aparna Thakur countered the allegations, asserting that she had sent a legal notice to Ravi Kishan ten months prior, seeking financial support for her daughter's education, marriage, and future. Denying any association with criminal elements, Thakur expressed dismay at being embroiled in a legal quagmire. She claimed harassment and vehemently denied involvement in any extortion plot.

Amidst the legal battle, questions loom over the veracity of the allegations and the motives driving the protagonists. ALSO READ: Ravi Kishan on the appreciation for his role in Laapataa Ladies, “Took 33 years for people to realize I am worth something”

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Alia Bhatt and Dev Patel recognized in TIME's 100 Most Influential List; Tom Harper and Daniel Kaluuya praise their work

South Asian stars in global cinema are celebrating a double win as two of its brightest stars, Indian actress Alia Bhatt and British-Indian actor Dev Patel, have secured a coveted spot on Time magazine's prestigious “100 Most Influential People of 2024” list. This recognition highlights the global impact of Indian actors and the immense talent they bring to the world stage.

Alia Bhatt, a household name in India, has been steadily carving her niche as a leading actress with critically acclaimed performances and immense audience popularity. Her dedication and talent haven't gone unnoticed internationally. Tom Harper, the director of her Hollywood debut film Heart of Stone, penned a glowing tribute for the magazine. Harper described Bhatt as a focused and collaborative artist, praising her willingness to embrace creative risks. He wrote, “I met Alia on Heart of Stone, her English-language film debut. Despite her fame, on set she is self-effacing and funny. There is a grace to the way she goes about her work: focused, open to ideas, and willing to take creative risks. One of my favourite moments in the film came from an improvisation at the end of a take where she took the emotional thread and ran with it.” Harper concluded his piece by calling Bhatt an "international star" whose magnetism resonates with audiences worldwide. He added, “Alia’s superpower is her ability to mix movie-star magnetism with authenticity and sensitivity. As an actor, she is luminous, and as a person, she brings the grounded assurance and creativity that make a truly international star.”

Meanwhile, Dev Patel, who made his directorial debut with Monkey Man, is also included in the TIME 100 list. Actor Daniel Kaluuya, Patel's co-star in the British teen drama Skins, penned a heartfelt tribute acknowledging their journey together. Kaluuya reminisced about their early days, filled with youthful enthusiasm and the shared joy of pursuing their acting dreams. He wrote, “He was so full of life, and we both couldn’t believe we were missing school to do this. After Slumdog Millionaire, I went from getting food with him in Wetherspoons to watching him at the Golden Globes, within a month—and he still checked in when he got back.” Kaluuya specifically praised Patel's performance in his action-drama Monkey Man, calling it his favorite. He commended Patel's ability to portray characters with depth and complexity, evoking empathy from viewers even in challenging roles. Additionally, Kaluuya lauded Patel's directorial debut with Monkey Man, marking a significant milestone in his multifaceted career. The other Indians who have been included on the list are World Bank President Ajay Banga, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, and Olympic wrestler Sakshi Malik. ALSO READ: Sharvari is eager to collaborate with Alia Bhatt and Madhuri Dixit; says, “I don’t just want to do films which have men in it”

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Salim Khan REACTS to gun firing at Salman Khan’s residence: “He will continue his schedule as usual”

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan's residence in Mumbai's Bandra neighbourhood witnessed a disturbing security breach on April 14. Two unidentified individuals on a motorcycle fired multiple rounds outside Galaxy Apartments, where Khan resides. No injuries were reported. However, the incident sent shockwaves through the industry and raised concerns about the actor's safety. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde personally contacted Khan and assured him of heightened security measures and met the Khan family after the two assailants were arrested and brought back to Mumbai.

Days later, his father, veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, who lives in the same building, acknowledged the ongoing police investigation and the state government's assurances. He spoke to India Today and said in Hindi, “What’s there to talk about? Yeh jaahil log joh kehte hain maar denge tab pata lagega na (These illiterate people say you’ll learn your lesson when we’ll kill you). We’ve been given extra police protection. They’ve (Mumbai Police) assured protection for us and our friends. If they’ve arrested two people today, that means they’re on it.”

He added, “There is nothing to fear. The matter is now with the police. The Maharashtra government has assured full protection. Salman will continue his schedule as usual.”

Salman Khan has been provided Y-plus category security, a high level of security detail reserved for high-profile individuals facing serious threats, for almost a year. Following the incident, authorities further bolstered security around Khan and his family. Media captured Salman exiting the apartment complex for the first time on Tuesday since the incident, surrounded by significant police protection.

Chief Minister Shinde made a visit on Tuesday to Salman Khan’s residence. Following his meeting, he spoke to the media and reiterated the government's commitment to Khan's safety, emphasizing that such acts would not be tolerated.  “I have assured Salman Khan that the government stands behind him, and his safety is the government’s responsibility. The government will ensure that no one dares to do such an act in Mumbai,” as reported by PTI.

He also went on to add, “This is Maharashtra, no gang is left here. Be it Lawrence Bishnoi or anyone else, we will eliminate him. Any kind of bullying by anyone will not work in Maharashtra. We will uproot all the gangs and goons. Hooliganism will not be allowed to continue. If any gang is to be found involved in this, they will not be spared. The accused are being interrogated. Strict actions will be taken. I don’t want to comment on what happened in the past government, but we will uproot all the gangs and goons who will try to harm any person of the state.”

MNS chief Raj Thackeray and Salman's sister Arpita Sharma also visited the family, offering their support. Taking to social media, Salman's brother Arbaaz Khan called the incident "unnerving" and expressed the family's shock. He emphasized their full cooperation with the police investigation and their faith in the authorities to ensure their safety.  The family refrained from further media statements, prioritizing the investigation.

According to a report in NDTV, sources revealed that two gunmen are reportedly affiliated with gangster Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang. Anmol Bishnoi, Lawrence Bishnoi's brother, claimed responsibility in an online post, describing the attack as a "preview" and issuing a warning to the Bollywood actor. However, the authenticity of the claim is yet to be verified independently. ALSO READ: Salman Khan Gunshots Firing: Salim Khan breaks silence on the attack: “They just want publicity”

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Rasika Dugal and Arjun Mathur starrer Lord Curzon Ki Haveli selected as Closing Night Film at the UK-Asian Film Festival

A film making waves around the film festival circuit for the past 6 months, Lord Curzon Ki Haveli, actor Anshuman Jha's directorial debut about Asians in the UK will have its British Premiere at the UK-Asian Film Festival 2024, at Regent Cinema on May 11th. Anshuman Jha with his leading lady Rasika Dugal are expected to walk the red carpet in London.

The film had its World Premiere at IFFM Australia, its North American Premiere at CSAFF Chicago, its Canadian Premiere at ISAFF Vancouver, its European Premiere at the biggest genre film festival in Europe 'Razor Reel' & its Indian Premiere at WENCH&Red Lorry - will finally go back to Britain where it has been shot. The jury has called it "a really inventive film. And a zany homage to Alfred Hitchcock with a very desi twist. With its postcolonial subtext (couched in dark humour) it will be a great watch for British Asian and cross-over audiences."

Says the debutant director Anshuman Jha "Feels like a full circle. Lord Curzon Ki Haveli is a film about Asians in the UK. We shot it in Yorkshire - 4 hours from London. And I feel the festival journey of the film over the past 9 months through IFFM Australia, CSAFF North America, ISAFF Canada, Razor Reel Europe, Wench & Red Lorry in India - is now rightfully culminating at the UK-Asian Film Festival 2024. We are excited to screen our black comedy thriller as the closing night film to audiences in the UK before its worldwide release later this year"

Says the lead actor Arjun Mathur "I found the script of this film to be wacky & weird - from the outset. I think that's what initially attracted me, the fact that I did not get to categorise into any one particular genre & in a good way - is it a thriller, a black comedy, a mystery? I feel that's the experience the audiences around the world are having with the film & liking it. We are excited to have our British Premiere in London at the UK-ASIAN Film Festival 2024"

The film starring Rasika Dugal, Arjun Mathur, Zoha Rahman, Paresh Pahuja & Tanmay Dhanania is a black comedy thriller and is produced by Golden Ratio Films & First Ray Films. ALSO READ: Rasika Dugal’s Lord Curzon Ki Haveli to have its European premiere at Razors Reel Flanders at Belgium

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Singham Again: Rohit Shetty to shoot elaborate dance number with Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Arjun Kapoor, Tiger Shroff; Deepika Padukone may not participate: Report

Rohit Shetty's Singham Again boasts a star-studded cast including Ajay Devgn, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Deepika Padukone, Arjun Kapoor and Tiger Shroff with Akshay Kumar and Ranveer Singh also reprising their previous roles from Sooryavanshi and Simmba.  Now, Shetty is set to shoot a mega dance number featuring all of these stars. While Ajay Devgn, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Arjun Kapoor and Tiger Shroff are set for the dance number, Akshay Kumar and Ranveer Singh will also make cameo appearances. The filmmaker is filming an elaborate song at a Vile Parle set starting today, April 17.

Rohit Shetty has been filming the action sequences for the film's last leg at Golden Tobacco Factory. A separate grand set has been built for this song. The shoot was originally scheduled for April 15 but has been pushed back to today. Ganesh Acharya is choreographing the song with 400 background dancers. The main cast will film the number over the next four days. However, Deepika Padukone might not be able to participate, as the actress is currently expecting her first child.

According to a report in Mid-day, the source revealed, “Ganesh Acharya is choreographing it, and has hired 400 background dancers. The primary cast will film the vibrant number over the next four days. However, Deepika, who is among the newest entrants in the cop verse, might give it a miss.”

Meanwhile, Bollywood Hungama recently reported that Shetty is now eyeing Diwali 2024 release date and will push from Independence Day 2024 release, making way for Pushpa 2: The Rule. "Rohit Shetty, Ajay Devgn, and the team have been shooting day and night for Singham Again with the will to bring it during the August 15, 2024 weekend. However, the shoot is taking longer than expected as a film like Singham Again requires a lot of attention. Rohit and Ajay don't want to rush through the proceedings only to make it to a certain release date. They want the scale and vision to come out exactly as fleshed on the paper without any compromise," a trade source told Bollywood Hungama.

Rohit and Ajay have already conveyed their idea of delaying the film to Jio Studios and the date of August 15 is now vacant. "Jio has suggested a Diwali 2024 release to Rohit and Ajay, and the duo is also considering the date. The timelines of VFX and background score are now being reworked keeping the Diwali 2024 deadline in mind. Diwali has also proved to be lucky for Ajay and Rohit combo," the source told us.

An official announcement about the new release date of Singham Again is expected to be made shortly, but at the moment, the film is 100% pushed from the already announced date of August 15, 2024. ALSO READ: No clash with Pushpa – The Rule: Singham Again likely to miss Independence Day release; Rohit Shetty’s Blockbuster sets sight on Diwali 2024 release

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