Vir Das to debut as author with memoir The Outsider

Comedian and actor-producer Vir Das is set to share his journey in his upcoming memoir, The Outsider. Known for his sharp wit and bold humor, Vir reflects on feeling like an outsider beyond just the comedy world. From being stranded on a beach in Mexico to navigating cultural identity and career ups and downs, the memoir explores his experiences of self-discovery, setbacks, and laughter.

Vir took to his social media to announce the book The Outsider - A Memoir for Misfits highlighting with a very deeply personal video showcasing the many chapters of his life, his identity, his career. The video announcement highlights his awkwardness, his global dominance, his lows as a comedian, his highs of being on world stage and to becoming the person he is today. In his words the book is guided from one idiot, fool, drifter, loser, dreamer and misfit to a world of such people.

In the book, amongst many incidents highlighted Vir recounts a memorable moment when, stranded on a pier in Cozumel, Mexico, with his cruise ship sailing away due to visa issues, he realized that being an outsider isn’t just something he experiences—it’s who he is. That moment, he says, perfectly encapsulates his life: “I was broke, hungover, dumped, jobless, and my trousers were full of sand. But, you know, when life gets absurd, the only way forward is to laugh.”

 

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The Outsider is more than just a memoir—it’s a journey through the highs and lows of a life spent between cultures. Born in India, Vir Das moved frequently between India and Lagos, Nigeria, never fully fitting into one identity. He was the Indian kid in Africa and the African kid in India. His outsider experience continued as he performed in Illinois, worked in Chicago, and eventually made his mark in Bollywood and global stand-up. With a career that defies convention, Vir has broken barriers and built a name for himself from New York to Mumbai.

Being an outsider hasn’t been all bad for Vir Das—it’s shaped him into who he is today. His memoir celebrates resilience, humor, and the power of embracing the unconventional. He shares how failure and rejection played a role in his success, how being different became his strength, and how he learned to thrive in situations where others might walk away.

Vir’s message is simple: being an outsider isn’t a setback—it’s something to embrace. He has turned challenges into opportunities, building a successful international career while staying true to himself.

Reflecting on his globe-trotting life, Vir says: “I’ve had a strange life that took me across the world more than anyone I know. I don’t know how one ends up being the Indian kid in Nigeria, the African kid in boarding school, the boarding school kid in Delhi Public School, the Delhi kid in Galesburg, Illinois, the Chicago guy in Alabama, the America-return in Mumbai, the Bollywood guy in comedy, the stand-up comedy guy in Bollywood, the Bollywood guy in Indie Music, and the Indian in American comedy. All I know is, when you are blessed enough to step into all those worlds, you write a book about it. I hope to take you across the world through the eyes of a fortunate fool.”

Also Read : From Shahid Kapoor to Vir Das to Anshuman Jha: Bollywood actors taking behind-the-scenes roles in 2025

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Shiv Sena and MNS raise objections to the return of Fawad Khan to Indian cinema with Abir Gulaal

Fawad Khan returning to Bollywood with Abir Gulaal has drawn reactions from political parties in Maharashtra, particularly the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and Shiv Sena. The upcoming film, also starring Vaani Kapoor, recently unveiled its trailer, bringing the Pakistani actor back to the Indian film industry after nearly a decade. The ban on Pakistani artists in Indian films has been in place since 2016. While the Bombay High Court dismissed a petition regarding the ban in 2023, tensions regarding their involvement in Bollywood remain.

Reacting to the trailer of Abir Gulaal, MNS leader Ameya Khopkar expressed the party’s opposition to the film’s release in Maharashtra. "We only learned about this film's release today when the makers announced it. But we are making it clear that we will not allow this film to release in Maharashtra because it features a Pakistani actor. Under no circumstances will we permit such films to be released in the state. We are gathering more information about the film and will soon issue a full statement," Khopkar told Dainik Bhaskar.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam (from Eknath Shinde faction) also addressed the issue, emphasizing the general sentiment towards Pakistani artists in India. Speaking to ETimes, he shared, "There is widespread hatred for Pakistan in India. When a film from Pakistan is released, Indian audiences do not prefer watching it. Even if a few people watch it out of curiosity, Pakistani artists have never been able to gain widespread success in India. If the central government has a policy on this, it should be implemented. The decision on whether Pakistani films should be released in India or if their artists should be allowed to work here must be made by the government."

The controversy surrounding Fawad Khan’s return highlights the ongoing debate over cultural exchanges between India and Pakistan, with political parties and industry stakeholders holding differing views. Meanwhile, Abir Gulaal is a romantic drama that is scheduled hit cinemas on May 9, 2025. It remains to be seen whether if these objections will impact the release of the entertainer.

Also Read: Fawad Khan makes comeback with Abir Gulaal; teaser unveils a dreamy romance with Vaani Kapoor

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Fatima Sana Shaikh reveals her casting couch experience in the South; says, “Casting director kept asking if I would ‘do anything’ for the role”

Fatima Sana Shaikh has once again ignited a crucial conversation on the existence of casting couch in the film industry. In a clip from an older interaction, that has recently surfaced on social media, the Dangal actress candidly spoke about her experiences in the South Indian film industry, revealing how certain filmmakers and producers exploit aspiring actors under the guise of offering roles.

“There was some casting happening in the South and I sent my profile. After he received it, he asked, ‘If I was ready to do anything’ and I responded on message saying that ‘I will be working hard and whatever is required for the role’, I will do that. But he kept repeating the same thing – ‘You can do anything for your casting’—again and again. I was playing dumb. I was getting irritated but I also wanted to see how long he would continue. Eventually, he too got irritated and left it there,” she shared.

Fatima further revealed the harsh realities of navigating the industry, highlighting how many aspiring actors, especially women, are often placed in uncomfortable situations. “When I was in South, there were a lot of small-time producers. At that point of time, we would think, ‘You will get a chance in Bollywood after establishing yourself in the South industry.’ There used to be so many ways to approach this. We were in a room where the producers would openly state that you would get a chance there only when ‘you meet people’ and things like that. They would not address it (casting couch) directly but would speak in a vague manner, but they would ask you to ‘do things’ for a role.”

once Fatima Sana Shaikh reveals shocking Encounters with the casting couch In the South film industry

harsh reality of the film industry . pic.twitter.com/6V1lsGPjAn — Kapil`ॐ (@iAKsSaviour) April 1, 2025

The actress also acknowledged that such incidents aren’t limited to the South but exist in every industry, including Bollywood and modelling. “Not everyone is like that but we have also heard such incidents from many actresses and even actors – there is abuse of every kind in every industry, even modelling. But you can’t help it, wherever there is power….”

As Fatima Sana Shaikh’s statements continue to gain traction, her courage in addressing the issue publicly has once again put a spotlight on the long-standing problem of exploitation in the film industry.

Also Read: Fatima Sana Shaikh shares passion for painting, reflecting on artistic journey: “I’ve always been wanting to have the freedom to paint”

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SCOOP: Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt's next titled Ganga Ram; debutant Krish Ahir to direct

In the last 2 weeks, both Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt independently confirmed that they are coming together on a rustic action film. Post that, we did our due diligence trying to collate information from industry sources. And we have some exciting, good news for all Bhai fans. Reliable sources confirm that Salman Khan is indeed teaming up with Sanjay Dutt on an action film.

"Salman and Sanju are coming together for a rustic action film titled Ganga Ram, with the duo in the titular role. It's a film developed by Salman and his SKF team in-house, and everyone is very excited to get back the OG's on the big screen in the action set-up. When Salman's team told the one-line to Sanjay, he was also more than excited to partner and join forces with Salman on a two-hero film," a source shared with Bollywood Hungama.

The film will be directed by debutant Krish Ahir, who has been an associate on multiple films produced by Salman Khan over the last 5 years. "Ganga Ram aims to bring in the mass audience to the big screen like never before, as it would celebrate the two giants - Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt - together. The tale is loaded with macho elements, and both of them have Alpha Male characteristics," the source told us further.

Ganga Ram is slated to go on floors around June / July 2025. It will be produced by SKF, however, Salman and his team are on the hunt to partner with another studio, to ensure that there is lavish spend and no compromise on the visuals.

Also Read: Amit Mishra on singing ‘Sikandar Naache’, “Always an honor to collaborate with Salman Khan”

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EXCLUSIVE: Sunny Deol and Arshad Warsi starrer Bhaiyaji Superhit set for re-release on this date

Sunny Deol’s high-energy entertainer Bhaiyaji Superhit is all set to return to the big screens on April 10, 2025. The film is an action-comedy with an ensemble star cast.

Directed by Neeraj Pathak, Bhaiyaji Superhit also starred Preity Zinta, Arshad Warsi, Ameesha Patel, Shreyas Talpade, Pankaj Tripathi, Sanjay Mishra, Jaideep Ahlawat, Raftaar, Vijay Raaz, and Manoj Joshi. The film is a mix of action, comedy, and drama.

Produced by Mahendra Dhariwal under the Metro Movies Productions banner and presented by Om Shanti Creations and Hanwant Khatri, Bhaiyaji Superhit brings back the hit pair of Sunny Deol and Ameesha Patel once again. Sunny has also been paired with Preity Zinta before this movie. The movie is also known for the unique casting of Sunny with Arshad Warsi.

Producer Mahendra Dhariwal expressed his excitement at the film’s re-release, stated, “The re-release of Bhaiyaji Superhit is a tribute to the fans who have loved and supported this film over the years. Sunny Deol’s powerful screen presence, combined with a gripping storyline, guarantees an action-packed experience that audiences won’t want to miss.”

Also Read: Randeep Hooda calls Jaat co-star Sunny Deol ‘a childhood inspiration’; says, “I still remember having his posters in our school hostel cupboards”

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Fawad Khan makes comeback with Abir Gulaal; teaser unveils a dreamy romance with Vaani Kapoor

Love is in the air, and so is excitement! The teaser of Abir Gulaal has just dropped, offering a glimpse into a heartwarming love story led by the charismatic Fawad Khan and the radiant Vaani Kapoor. Marking Fawad Khan’s long-awaited Bollywood comeback after Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016), the film is set to release on May 9, 2025, bringing back the era of sweet, nostalgic romance to theaters.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of London, Abir Gulaal blends humor and heartfelt romance, creating a story that is as delightful as it is moving. The teaser showcases glimpses of Fawad and Vaani’s sizzling chemistry, light hearted banter, and an emotionally rich storyline that promises to strike a chord with audiences.

According to a source statement given exclusively to Bollywood Hungama, the film follows the story of two emotionally scarred individuals who meet by chance, leading to a journey of unintentional healing and eventual romance. The source said, “This rom-com tells the story of how two broken people come together by a stroke of luck and end up helping each other unintentionally… falling in love is an eventual byproduct of their electric connection.”

 

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Produced by Indian Stories Limited and A Richer Lens Entertainment, in association with Aarjay Pictures, Abir Gulaal is directed by Aarti S Bagdi. The film’s production team includes noted names like Vivek B. Agrawal (Queen, Udta Punjab, Sacred Games), Avantika Hari, and Rakesh Sippy.

With its refreshing take on romance and an irresistible lead pair, Abir Gulaal is shaping up to be the perfect cinematic escape. As the teaser hints at a journey filled with love, laughter, and longing, fans eagerly await the film’s theatrical release. The countdown begins! Mark your calendars for May 9, 2025, and get ready to lose yourself in the magic of Abir Gulaal.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor to wrap cross-border romantic comedy Abir Gulaal in London on November 11

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Sikandar’s shows CANCELLED in several cinemas; replaced with All The Best Pandya, L2 Empuraan, The Diplomat; Gaiety-Galaxy INCREASES shows due to INSANE public demand

The Salman Khan-starrer Sikandar has failed to entice the viewers as intended. The word of mouth is very poor and though there was growth on the second day of release, the trend has made it clear that the film will suffer a fall once the holiday season gets over. Realizing this aspect, the theatres have begun to reduce the showcasing of Sikandar and replace its shows with successful holdover releases.

There were reports that Sikandar’s shows were being cancelled due to no audience. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “We didn’t find any instance of the show getting cancelled in Mumbai. There were shows where the number of viewers was in single digits but on the first two days, no show got cancelled due to no audience. However, the same happened in Surat, Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Indore etc., especially in areas where there was little or no Eid effect.”

Kiritbhai T Vaghasia, who runs The Friday Cinema multiplex in Surat, said, “Not a single ticket was sold for the 9:00 am and 10:00 am shows on Monday. I was hoping there would be more audience for this film on Eid. Instead, we sold more tickets on Sunday, the day of the release. I guess the word of mouth spread faster, resulting in such dismal numbers on Monday.”

Due to such a response to Sikandar in his cinema hall, he had to reduce the number of shows of Sikandar. Kirtibhai revealed, “I replaced two-night shows with All The Best Pandya and Umbarro. Both these Gujarati films are getting decent footfalls. Surprisingly, Umbarro is in its ninth week and is still attracting an audience.”

All The Best Pandya, which was released on March 14, has been running successfully across Gujarat and also Mumbai. In Inox Raghuleela Kandivali in Mumbai, Sikandar’s 9:30 pm show has been replaced from April 1 with the Gujarati movie. From April 2, the cinema hall has removed 5:30 pm of the Salman Khan film and will play Umbarro instead.

Mohanlal’s L2 Empuraan is also getting steady footfalls in several cinemas. In Cinepolis Seawoods and PVR Orion Mall Panvel, the 9:40 pm and 5:30 pm shows of Sikandar were axed and replaced with this Malayalam film. Meanwhile, in South Mumbai’s elite Inox Nariman Point and Metro Inox, the John Abraham-starrer The Diplomat will be played at 8:00 pm and 8:30 pm respectively instead of Sikandar.

Amid all these cancellations and replacements, Mumbai’s iconic Gaiety-Galaxy or G7 multiplex stands as an exception. Since Sunday, March 30, Sikandar has been playing in its two biggest cinema halls – the 991-seater Gaiety and 818-seater Galaxy. From March 31, the Salman Khan-starrer’s shows were also accommodated in the 105-seater Gossip. L2 Empuraan’s Hindi version was earlier playing in both Gossip as well as the 255-seater Gemini. The Mohanlal film will now be showcased only in Gemini.

Despite so many shows, Sikandar still managed to run house-full on the day of Eid in this cinema complex. Salman Khan’s films have always worked big time in Gaiety-Galaxy but for Sikandar to do so well, despite its underperformance in other areas, once again indicates that Salman Khan’s stardom is intact, especially among the mass audience.

Also Read: Salman Khan promises action and emotions in Sikandar; says, “When you see the film, you will understand that this trailer was nothing”

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