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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Jr NTR to play a character that extends beyond War 2 in YRF spy universe: Report

Telugu superstar Jr NTR is all set to make his much-anticipated Hindi film debut in War 2, and recent reports suggest his character is not just a one-time appearance. According to a source quoted by ETimes, the actor's role has been crafted as a key player in the YRF Spy Universe, with plans extending far beyond the upcoming action film.

“His character won’t just be limited to War 2. Expect standalone films, spin-offs, and major crossover appearances,” the insider revealed to ETimes, hinting at the studio’s larger plans to integrate him across multiple projects which are a part of the franchise. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, War 2 stars Hrithik Roshan reprising his role as RAW agent Kabir, with Jr NTR playing an antagonist.

The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on August 14, 2025, and is being pitched as one of the biggest face-offs in Indian cinema. With this sequel, YRF is not only expanding the narrative of War (2019) but also strengthening the interconnected web of its espionage universe.

The YRF Spy Universe began with Salman Khan’s Ek Tha Tiger (2012) and has since grown to include Tiger Zinda Hai, War, Pathaan, and Tiger 3. Each instalment has introduced high-octane action, international missions, and larger-than-life characters. Shah Rukh Khan’s character Pathaan and Salman Khan’s Tiger have already crossed paths in Tiger 3, while Pathaan 2 and a rumored Tiger vs Pathaan film are in the works. Joining this world will also be Alia Bhatt starrer Alpha which will also star Sharvari in a key role.

With Jr NTR’s entry, the universe is getting its first major South Indian star, signalling a strategic move to appeal to Pan-India audiences. This aligns with Aditya Chopra’s long-term vision to build a Marvel-style spy-verse rooted in Indian cinema where characters cross paths across storylines and timelines.

Sources close to the development say that Jr NTR’s character is layered, morally complex, and could straddle the line between heroism and grey shades. Now with the new update on the Telugu superstar’s role, it seems that War 2 will not only be an explosive action spectacle but it will also lay the foundation of a much larger cinematic ecosystem.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: War 2 teaser to drop as a birthday treat for Jr NTR fans

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

After the huge success of Stree 2, fans have been eagerly waiting to know about Shraddha Kapoor’s next film. There were recent reports that she was in talks to star in filmmaker Rahi Anil Barve’s next, backed by producer Ektaa Kapoor.

Readers may recall that Bollywood Hungama had reported that Shraddha had charged a fee of Rs 17 crore along with a profit share for the project. A well-placed industry source told us, “This is among the highest upfront fees received by Shraddha Kapoor, as also one of the highest pay cheques in today's time for a female lead in Hindi. Ekta Kapoor was more than happy to splurge Rs. 17 crore to sign Shraddha, as the Rahi Anil Barve film will be Shraddha's follow-up to the highest-grossing film of Hindi Cinema - Stree 2.”

However, as per the latest report by PeepingMoon, the actress has now reportedly walked out of the film due to a disagreement over payment. A source told the portal, “Shraddha is no longer doing Ektaa’s upcoming film.” The report adds that the actress and producer could not agree on the financial terms. Ektaa Kapoor reportedly found Shraddha’s fee too high for a women-led film, and it would have raised the overall budget of the movie.

With Shraddha said to be out of the project, the makers are now looking for another lead actress. “The producers are already in talks with a leading actress for the role,” the report states.

As of now, Shraddha Kapoor only has Stree 3 officially lined up. The film is set to release in theatres on August 13, 2027. It will be the third part of Maddock Films’ hit horror-comedy franchise. In Stree 2, Shraddha starred alongside Rajkummar Rao, Aparshakti Khurana, Pankaj Tripathi, and Abhishek Banerjee. The film turned out to be a major box office hit.

Also Read: Shraddha Kapoor bags Rs. 17 crore remuneration plus profit share for Ekta Kapoor’s next with Rahi Anil Barve

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Taapsee Pannu shoots emotional courtroom scenes for Mulk 2 in Bandra church: Report

Actor Taapsee Pannu is currently filming Mulk 2, the sequel to her 2018 courtroom drama Mulk. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the film focuses on important social issues like identity, faith, and civil rights.

Over the past two weeks, Taapsee has been shooting key scenes at a church in Bandra. The church has been turned into a courtroom set for the film. A report by Mid-Day quoted a source saying, “Taapsee has been shooting courtroom portions over the past few days. The emotionally charged sequences see her delivering lengthy monologues. She is fully prepped, and one can see how deeply she is invested in the material.”

It is not yet clear if she is playing the same character, lawyer Aarti Mohammed, from the first film. However, her courtroom scenes are said to be among the most powerful parts of the movie. The Mumbai schedule is expected to continue for four more days. After that, the team will move to Uttar Pradesh and Haryana for an outdoor shoot. This part of the schedule will last around 20 days.

An insider shared, “Anubhav’s past films are proof that he tells his stories in a gritty and realistic manner. He wants to root Mulk 2’s story in its social and geographical context. Locations have been finalised in Lucknow, Meerut, and Karnal, where the director will film some rally and courtroom scenes.”

The entire shoot is expected to be completed in another 20 to 25 days. After wrapping up Mulk 2, Taapsee is expected to begin work on Haseen Dillruba 3.

Also Read: Taapsee Pannu, along with sister Shagun Pannu, buys apartment in Mumbai for Rs. 4.33 crores

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BMC issues notice to Mithun Chakraborty over alleged illegal construction in Malad

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has sent a show cause notice to actor and BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty for allegedly building an illegal structure in Malad’s Madh area.

The notice says that a ground-floor structure was built on a plot in Erangle village without the required permission from the authorities. The BMC has asked Mithun Chakraborty to explain the changes made to the property. If he fails to give a proper explanation, the structure could be demolished. The BMC has also warned of possible legal action.

This action is part of a larger crackdown on unauthorised constructions in the Madh area. So far, the BMC has identified 101 illegal structures in the locality. These include bungalows built using fake documents. The civic body plans to demolish all illegal constructions by the end of May.

According to civic officials, during a recent inspection near the Hira Devi Mandir in Erangle village, they found two one-plus-mezzanine-storey buildings, one ground-floor structure, and three temporary units made of bricks, wood, glass, and AC sheets. These were all constructed without proper approval.

The show cause notice sent to Chakraborty is under Section 351(1A) of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MMC) Act. He has been given seven days from May 10 to explain why the structure should not be removed or demolished. Officials also said that such violations can lead to fines and even jail time under Section 475A of the MMC Act.

As per a report by Free Press Journal, when asked about the issue, Mithun Chakraborty said, “I have no unauthorised structures. Notices have been sent to many, and we are sending our replies.”

Also Read: Ayesha Jhulka laughs off link-up rumors with Akshay Kumar, Mithun Chakraborty and others: “How many affairs can one have at the same time?

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EXPLOSIVE: Andaz Apna Apna actor Shehzad Khan EXPOSES the real reason he’s missing from films: “Casting directors themselves act, cast same actors repeatedly; I can’t be expected to do CHAMCHAGIRI”

Shehzad Khan spoke exclusively to Bollywood Hungama last month, not just about Andaz Apna Apna (1994) and its re-release, but also about other aspects, including his father’s epic reaction to his character Bhalla, the sidekick of the villain, Teja (Paresh Rawal).

Shehzad Khan mimicked his father, Ajit, in the film. When asked how he reacted to it, the actor revealed, “He was very angry. He didn’t see the film for a very long time. When people informed him about my act in the film, he finally saw some portions of the film. Then he told me, ‘Dobara aisi himakat mat karna’ (impersonates Ajit)!”

Was Ajit not in favour of being mimicked? Shehzad Khan explained, “Yes, he had a very serious persona. Also, you need to understand that it’s not my doing entirely. A film is a director’s medium. Hum toh katputli hai. Agar director bolega ‘utho’, toh hum uthenge; agar director bolega ‘naacho’, toh hum naachenge. Agar director bolega ‘nange ho jaao’, toh hum nange ho jaayenge! Hence, it’s nothing in our hand.”

Shehzad Khan, at this point, shared an interesting trivia, “Andaz Apna Apna’s director Rajkumar Santoshi’s father K L Santoshi had worked with my father as a hero. (Ajit) had also worked with Salman Khan’s father, Salim Khan. That legacy continued with Andaz Apna Apna (smiles).” Salman was the leading actor of the comic caper along with Aamir Khan.

Nevertheless, Shehzad Khan is blessed with the fan following that Andaz Apna Apna enjoys, “People tell me that they have seen Andaz Apna Apna 50 times, 75 times and even 100 times. They also tell me that when they feel low, they watch this film. People have downloaded the film from OTT platforms on their phones and iPads. One person revealed that he watches Andaz Apna Apna daily!”

A lot of fans are hoping that Andaz Apna Apna 2 gets made. On this, he said, “If I were the film's producer, I would have been the right person to talk about it! Hum toh mazdoor aadmi hai. Hum gareeb actor hai. Apni dihaadi lete hai aur ghar chale jaate hai. Hum kya jawab denge (smiles).”

Shehzad Khan’s explosive claims

There was a point when Shehzad Khan was seen extensively in several films and it's not happening anymore. When asked the reason behind it, Shehzad Khan, who was having lunch while giving this interview explained, “Mera haath mein roti hai and I’ll answer you truthfully. There has been a community of casting directors which has now emerged. Woh khud acting kar rahe hai. Sab cheez woh log hi kar rahe hai. And they have certain selected actors whom they keep casting repeatedly. After doing so many films and working for so many years, I can’t be expected to do chamchagiri. Hum ek saaf suthre aadmi hai. Give me a role and I’ll perform with the best of my ability.”

He continued, “Through your medium, I’d like to make an appeal – Bhalla ko acche-acche characters do! He’s in a cult film and he’s a legend. I don’t usually tom-tom about myself. All I know is that main ek majdoor aadmi hoon. Until my last breath, I want to keep learning and keep acting. After working for so many years, I don’t even remember how many films I have done. I have lost count.”

However, he does have a few projects in his pipeline, “I have worked in a couple of web series. We are actors. Hum apna kaam karte hai, apni dihaadi lete hai aur ghar chale jaate hai. The producers and the OTT platform would know when it’ll be out. Until then, you can see me on news debates. Whenever the country needs me and whenever there is injustice, I always speak up. I talk without any bias. I don’t support any political party. I only support the people who do the right thing, where it is BJP government or any other government. I respect my Prime Minister and everybody should do the same.”

Also Read: “Andaz Apna Apna is our father’s legacy” – Priti Sinha on the cult comedy’s re-release and sequel plans; says, “IP rights belong entirely and exclusively to Vinay Pictures”

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