Amid Bhool Chuk Maaf two-week OTT window row, Kamal Haasan CONFIRMS that Thug Life to arrive on digital 8 weeks after theatrical release: “It'll make the industry healthy. It's not even an experiment. It's a pragmatic thing to do”

Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam, A R Rahman, Silambarasan T R, Trisha Krishnan, Abhirami and Ashok Selvan attended the press conference of their much-awaited Pan India film, Thug Life, at a multiplex in Mumbai. A few weeks ago, there were reports that this much-awaited film would arrive on a digital platform after completing 8 weeks in cinemas. This was a significant move as most Tamil biggies opt to arrive on OTT in just 4 weeks. The national chains, that is, PVR, Inox, and Cinepolis, have a strict rule of not releasing films that don’t adhere to the eight-week rule. As a result, the trade was excited over this development. With a release in the biggest multiplex chains, the chances of Thug Life scoring, especially in the Hindi version, will be significantly higher.

At the Thug Life Mumbai press conference, Kamal Haasan was asked about it and he confirmed that the reports were indeed true. He said, “It's not even an experiment. It's a pragmatic thing to do. I am glad the OTT platforms agreed and we sat together. It was not a negotiation. It's a plan which maybe others could follow. It'll make the industry healthy. We are glad that we are the first to be there to avail of that opportunity.”

The news comes at a time when Bhool Chuk Maaf, starring Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi, is all set to arrive on Amazon Prime Video within two weeks of its theatrical release. The national chains have made an exception with this film due to the intervention of the court.

Meanwhile, Kamal Haasan was also asked about the box office expectations for his upcoming film. He commented, “We are not looking at 'how big'. But it shouldn't be 'how small' (laughs). We have to look at break-even because it's a business. Mani is from a business school and I am from this business. I grew up in this business. So, you can't disrespect business and do business with the business.”

Thug Life releases in cinemas on June 5 worldwide.

Also Read: Kamal Haasan’s kiss scene with Abhirami from Thug Life to be removed from the film

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Randeep Hooda to star in war drama based on Operation Khukri

Following the critical and commercial success of Jaat, actor Randeep Hooda is set to lead his next feature — a military war drama based on one of the Indian Army’s most complex international operations. Titled Operation Khukri, the film will chronicle the daring 2000 rescue mission in Sierra Leone, West Africa, where 233 Indian soldiers were held hostage by rebel forces.

The upcoming film draws its narrative from the real-life operation carried out by the Indian Army as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission. At the centre of the story is Major General Raj Pal Punia, who, at the time, was a young Company Commander in the 14th Mechanised Infantry. The mission tested the limits of leadership and resilience, as the Indian contingent survived a 75-day siege in hostile territory before launching a successful counteroffensive.

Randeep Hooda, who will take on the role of Major General Punia, described the project as one that holds personal and national significance. “Operation Khukri is a story that moved me deeply. It’s not just a tale of guns and glory, but of sacrifice, brotherhood, and unyielding courage in the face of insurmountable odds. To step into the shoes of Major General Punia, a man who led his men out of a 75-day siege in an unknown land, is an honour and a responsibility. Our aim is to bring to life a chapter of Indian military history that deserves far more recognition — not just for the spectacle, but for the spirit of our soldiers who would rather die than surrender. I believe this story has the power to inspire every Indian,” Hooda said.

The rights to adapt the story have been officially secured by Rahul Mittra Films and Randeep Hooda Films. The film is based on the book Operation Khukri: The Untold Story of the Indian Army’s Bravest Peacekeeping Mission Abroad, published by Penguin Random House India.

The mission itself, intended initially as a peacekeeping effort, escalated into a tense standoff in the jungles of Kailahun. With limited resources and surrounded by hostile forces, the Indian soldiers’ survival and eventual escape is remembered as a significant military achievement. The film is expected to explore the strategy, endurance, and courage behind the operation, while highlighting a lesser-known chapter of India’s international military engagement.

Also Read: Randeep Hooda shares wildlife photos on Endangered Species Day: “Co-existing is the only truth we should know of”

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OMG 3 in early development as Akshay Kumar, Amit Rai discuss ideas: Report

Amidst wrapping up the shoot for Bhooth Bangla, actor Akshay Kumar spent the weekend in Kerala engaging in creative discussions with OMG 2 director Amit Rai. The duo reportedly used the final leg of the horror-comedy shoot as an opportunity to flesh out early ideas for the third installment in the Oh My God franchise.

According to a report by Pinkvilla, Amit Rai accompanied Akshay Kumar to Kerala during the three-day song shoot of Bhooth Bangla, where they extensively discussed potential narratives for OMG 3. The report quoted a source saying, “Amit Rai had multiple ideas for OMG 3, and he discussed all the plot points with Akshay Kumar throughout the stay. The duo brainstormed over various directions the story could take. The intent is to continue the most loved franchise, and take the third part on floors in 2026.”

Both Akshay and Amit reportedly shared a strong creative rapport over the weekend. As of now, Amit Rai is working on developing a draft that could shape the third chapter of the courtroom social dramedy series. “Following the success of OMG and OMG 2, the stakes are high. The makers are in no hurry to rush through the process. They want the story to carry the franchise’s legacy while introducing fresh elements,” the source added.

If everything falls into place, OMG 3 is likely to go on floors in the second half of 2026. The casting will be finalised once the script is locked, but the tone of the film is expected to remain consistent with the earlier parts, tackling social themes through a courtroom setting with a touch of satire.

Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar has officially completed the shoot for Bhooth Bangla, a horror-comedy directed by Priyadarshan. The actor filmed a song with Wamiqa Gabbi over a three-day schedule in Kerala, marking the wrap of the film. The film is scheduled to release on April 2, 2026. Next on Akshay’s calendar is a thriller directed by Priyadarshan, co-starring Saif Ali Khan, which is scheduled to go on floors in August 2025. He will also be seen in Housefull 5, which will be released on June 6, 2025.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar announces wrap of Bhooth Bangla with a bts video: “Grateful for the madness, the magic, and the memories”

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Rahul Vaidya rejects Rs 50 lakh offer from Turkey amid row over country’s support to Pakistan

Singer and reality TV personality Rahul Vaidya has made headlines after revealing that he turned down a lucrative professional offer from Turkey, citing the country’s stance post Operation Sindoor. His decision comes days after actress Rupali Ganguly publicly called for a boycott of Turkey, criticizing the country’s support to Pakistan following the Indian military operation.

In an interview with Bombay Times, Vaidya opened up about his choice and said that no amount of money could sway him when it came to prioritizing national interest. “The offer was lucrative—they were paying me Rs 50 lakh. But I told them that no work, no money, and no fame is bigger than the interest of the country. They even offered me more, but I made it clear that it wasn’t about the money. This issue is far more important than that. It’s not about me as an individual; it’s about the nation. And we have to stand by our nation," he said.

Rahul, who gained immense popularity after his stint in Indian Idol and Bigg Boss, made it clear that patriotism holds greater value to him than international exposure or financial gain. “I have no interest in going to a country that is an enemy of my country and does not respect it. Whatever I am today is because of my country and my fellow countrymen. Anyone who goes against the interests of my country and countrymen will not be entertained,” he added.

Vaidya further highlighted how Indian citizens have significantly contributed to Turkey’s tourism and hospitality industry in recent years, especially through high-end destination weddings and luxury vacations. Expressing his disappointment, he said, “Indians spend so much money in Turkey and give them enormous business by hosting weddings there. We give them revenue worth crores and this is how they respond? How can we continue spending money in a country that isn’t even loyal to us?"

Rahul Vaidya’s stance has garnered attention on social media as more public figures express concern over geopolitical ties and national dignity igniting conversations around responsible global engagement and cultural diplomacy continue to intensify in the entertainment industry.

Also Read: Rahul Vaidya to paparazzi, “Unhone block kyun kiya uska jawab toh mile na mujhe” amid Virat Kohli row

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Rahi Anil Barve BREAKS SILENCE on Shraddha Kapoor’s exit from Ektaa Kapoor’s film over Rs 17 crores fee demand

Reports are doing the rounds that Shraddha Kapoor is no longer a part of Ekta Kapoor’s upcoming thriller. However, filmmaker Rahi Anil Barve, who is said to be directing the film, has seemingly dismissed the rumours. “These are all rumours. Everything is a rumor,” Barve told Bombay Times when asked about Shraddha’s exit. He did not confirm or deny her departure but added a cryptic note: “Right now all I can say is that I'm finishing Rakt Brahmand. I am working on my next. That's it.”

Readers may recall that Bollywood Hungama reported that Shraddha reportedly asked for a fee of Rs 17 crores, along with a share in the film’s profits. This would have made her one of the highest-paid actresses in Bollywood. However, the latest PeepingMoon report stated that Ekta Kapoor found the amount too high, especially considering the challenges faced by women-led films at the box office.

Due to this, the film’s budget may have been impacted, and the producers have now started looking for a new lead. The report added that the makers are in talks with several top actresses to step in.

Meanwhile, Shraddha is said to be exploring multiple projects. She is reportedly in talks with Dinesh Vijan, Boney Kapoor, and Bhushan Kumar. A formal announcement about her next project is expected within the next two months.

While there has been no official confirmation from Shraddha Kapoor or Ekta Kapoor's team, director Rahi Anil Barve has resumed work on his upcoming web series Rakt Brahmand. The fantasy drama stars Aditya Roy Kapur, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Ali Fazal. It was earlier delayed due to financial issues but is now set to begin filming in Mumbai next month. Barve is expected to focus on Ekta’s thriller only after finishing this project.

Also Read: Shraddha Kapoor backs out of Ektaa Kapoor’s next with Rahi Anil Barve? Fee dispute sparks exit: Report

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Salman Khan to play Colonel Bikumalla Santosh Babu in his next: Report

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is set to step into the shoes of a national hero for his next film, as reports confirm that he will portray Colonel Bikumalla Santosh Babu, the brave heart who laid down his life during the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops. The film will be directed by Shootout at Lokhandwala and Mission Istaanbul director Apoorva Lakhia and is scheduled to go on floors in July 2025.

The project is said to be based on the real-life story of Colonel Bikumalla Santosh Babu MVC, who served as the commanding officer of the 16 Bihar Regiment. He was killed in action during the 2020 China–India skirmishes in the Galwan Valley, becoming the first Indian Army officer to be KIA against the PLA since 1967. His heroic actions, despite being outnumbered, are chronicled in the acclaimed book ‘India’s Most Fearless 3’ by Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh.

“Colonel Babu’s character is heroic. He had proved his mettle in several counterinsurgency and infiltration operations. The director has acquired the rights to the first chapter called I Had Never Seen Such Fierce Fighting — The Galwan clash of June 2020. It is a first-hand account of the 2020 clash at the Galwan Valley,” a source told Mid-Day. The screenplay has been adapted by Suresh Nair, in collaboration with Chintan Gandhi and Chintan Shah, with Shah also writing the dialogues. “Salman loved the story and will begin his prep from the end of May. He has already begun physical training for his role at his farmhouse in Panvel,” the source added.

This collaboration marks Salman Khan’s first project with Apoorva Lakhia. A source close to the production earlier confirmed, “Salman Khan has locked Apoorva Lakhia as his next film, and it is confirmed to go on floors in July 2025.”

In earlier report by Bollywood Hungama, sources stated, “Salman Khan will be shooting at high-altitude Ladakh for director Apoorva Lakhia's next. He has begun the training process and will be appearing in a lean physique for the film. It's a 20-day schedule in Ladakh, followed by 50 days in Mumbai, calling it a wrap. The film will release in the first half of 2026.”

With a tight 70-day schedule split between the rugged terrain of Ladakh and urban settings in Mumbai, the film is expected to offer a gripping and respectful portrayal of bravery, sacrifice, and national pride.

Also Read: SCOOP: Jio Studios in talks to come on board for Salman Khan – Apoorva Lakhia film

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Ram Gopal Varma slams Indian filmmakers in scathing post; says, "We push their dumbness further down"

Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has once again sparked a debate with his unapologetically blunt take on the state of Indian cinema. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Varma compared Indian filmmakers to Hollywood’s approach, specifically praising Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning, which marks the last chapter in the globally popular spy franchise led by Tom Cruise.

In his post, Varma wrote, “The difference between them and us is they assume the audience to be intelligent and push their intelligence further up, by making films like #MissionImpossibleTheFinalReckoning. On the contrary, we assume the audience to be dumb and we push their dumbness further down in the hope of even reaching the dumbest of the audience by making films like ____________.”

While he left the last bit open-ended, many followers shared their disappointment over the filmmaker’s attitude—especially given his own track record in recent years. Social media users were quick to “fill in the blank” with titles from Varma’s own filmography, including Agyaat, Aag, D Company, Department, and even Sarkar 3, all of which failed to strike a chord with audiences or critics. Some also took issue with Varma’s tendency to praise Hollywood while mocking Indian cinema. “We Indians have habit of downgrading our things and hyping average stuff coming from International market....” read one of the comments.

The difference between them and us is they assume the audience to be intelligent and push their intelligence further up, by making films like #MissionImpossibleTheFinalReckoning On the contrary we assume the audience to be dumb and we push their dumbness further down in the hope… — Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) May 18, 2025

Known for speaking out against the film industry on multiple occasions, Varma has never shied away from shocking statements including his recent comments on over-the-top commercial entertainers and the increasing trend of relying on CGI-heavy action without strong screenwriting or character arcs. His latest statement, however, directly pits Indian filmmakers against Hollywood’s legacy franchises, particularly praising Mission Impossible. Whether Varma’s comments lead to serious introspection or just more online noise, that remains to be seen!

Meanwhile, speaking of Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning, it is expected to be Tom Cruise’s swan song in the role of IMF agent Ethan Hunt. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, the film is the concluding part of the two-part finale, following Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023). The new instalment also starring Hayley Atwell, Vanessa Kirby, and Ving Rhames, released on May 17 in India.

Also Read: Ram Gopal Varma opens up on his unique style; says, “If you see Satya, it had no script at all”

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