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Kollywood

7 hrs ago

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Kara Box Office: Dhanush Starrer Records Over 2.5 Lakh Advance Ticket Sales; Check Early Reviews

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Kara has commenced its theatrical journey with a worldwide advance booking gross of over ₹4.00 crore. The film saw over 250,000 tickets sold across 5,450 shows in India before the first screening began. On its opening day, the advance occupancy stood at approximately 12 per cent on an all-India basis, though specific pockets like Chennai performed much stronger with 28 per cent occupancy. This sets a decent foundation for the Dhanush starrer as it enters the competitive weekend cycle. Early social media feedback for the film has been largely positive, with the narrative being described as a rooted and realistic heist thriller. Initial reactions highlight a slow-burn first half that prioritizes character-driven emotions before shifting into an intense heist zone. The pre-interval block and the overall technical presentation are being noted as major strengths, particularly the background score which helps maintain tension throughout the circumstantial plot developments. The general consensus points toward a confident cinematic outing that effectively balances its emotional core with engaging thriller elements. The narrative is being described as a slow-burn heist thriller that focuses on emotional depth before transitioning into an intense thriller zone. Reports from early shows suggest the first 15 minutes and the pre-interval block are the highlights, with GV Prakash’s background score acting as a major backbone for the film. Performances by Dhanush, KS Ravikumar, and Karunaas have been noted as standout elements, helping the film sustain interest despite a steady, slow-paced first half. From a box office perspective, the focus now remains on how the film converts the positive word-of-mouth into spot bookings. For a film of this genre, a jump in evening and night shows is essential to secure a strong Day 1 total. The current trend in Chennai suggests a solid urban hold, but the films final outcome will depend on its ability to draw audiences in the B and C centers over the next two days. If Kara manages to sustain these levels, it will be well on its way to a successful weekend run. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Check out the early reviews and social media reactions for Kara below. #Kara Interval : BANGER PRESENTATION 🔥Simple, Going Good 😊 What an insane presentation by director Vignesh Raja.Terrific with the way film handles the tension with the circumstantial happenings around the strongly built emotions 👍DHANUSH 🫡GV PRAKASH 🙌Well set &…— Venkatramanan (@VenkatRamanan_) April 30, 2026 இப்போது தான் “கர” பார்த்து முடித்தேன். சரியான சொற்களில் சொல்ல வேண்டுமென்றால் மிக சிறந்த திரை அனுபவத்தை, திரை சிலிர்ப்பை, திரை நெகிழ்வை , திரை சிந்தனையை, திரை விறுவிறுப்பை எனக்குள் தூண்டிவிட்ட ஒரு நம்பிக்கையான படமாக இருந்தது. நேற்று பார்த்து உலுக்கிய ஒடிசாவின் ஜித்து முண்டாவின்… pic.twitter.com/J0GiGkSvlG— Mari Selvaraj (@mari_selvaraj) April 29, 2026 #Kara 1st Half : Fantastic first half! An emotional slow burn heist thriller..@dhanushkraja at his acting best 🔥 #KSRavikumar best acting..@gvprakash fab work..Starts with a bang.. 1st Half ends with a thrilling episode..Both content + Mass! 👍A thrilling 2nd half…— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) April 30, 2026 #Kara Interval: Rooted and realistic thriller from Vignesh Raja that starts off on a very good note, moves into an emotional space and then fires up for a superb interval block. The film takes up the heist angle as a core element and rations it with the intent of the lead… pic.twitter.com/y85lig2ddK— Siddarth Srinivas (@sidhuwrites) April 30, 2026 #KARA First Half Review 🍿 - An Intense Rural Heist Thriller with Superb Heist Portions (Intro & Interval)- Terrific Performance from #Dhanush..💥 Good Support by KSRavikumar and Karunaas..⭐- #GvPrakash elevates the emotional scenes well..🤝- Visuals were Really Good..👌-… pic.twitter.com/AnhWmvN2Tv— Laxmi Kanth (@iammoviebuff007) April 30, 2026 #Kara first half has more emotional scenes between #KsRaviKumar & @dhanushkraja combo, who have given excellent performances as usual. Then the story takes a U-turn to heist and ends up wirh an engaging interval sequence. Expecting an engaging thriller in the second half as…— Sathish Kumar M (@sathishmsk) April 30, 2026 #Kara FIRST HALF - starts slow, but picks up big after a major demise. The heist sequences are brilliant particularly the pre-interval block is where #VigneshRaja pulls you to the edge of your seat with grounded, believable twists. 🔥@gvprakash background backbone of the first… pic.twitter.com/F3nhuw8hIz— VJ Santhosh (@VJSanthosh02) April 30, 2026 #Kara 1st Half: Good 👍 Slow and steady with a strong emotional connect 👍#Dhanush performance 👏 Karunas x D Combo 😂😅First 15 mins 💥 Intermission block peaked 🔥 BGM vera level 💯Kanamma song 👌#GVPrakash BGM and songs are the soul ♥️— Sugumar Srinivasan (@Sugumar_Tweetz) April 30, 2026

Bollywood

9 hrs ago

336 views

Bookings For May 1 Still Closed? Here Is The Real Reason Behind The Massive Screen Sharing War

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The cinema exhibition sector in India is currently facing a significant programming hurdle as bookings for the May 1 holiday weekend remain largely closed in several key locations. According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, exhibitors are finding it difficult to manage show-sharing arrangements due to a high volume of new releases and existing holdover films. This situation has led to a delay in opening advance ticket sales, even as the industry moves within the final 24-hour window before the scheduled releases. The impact is particularly visible in Mumbai, where several prominent theatres had not opened plans for May 1 as of April 30 morning. This list includes Regal, MovieTime Suburbia, PVR Le Reve, Roxy, Eros IMAX, Kasturba, and Nazrana. Notably, even Sterling, a three-screen multiplex, had yet to finalize its schedule. Other properties such as Devgn CineX in Mulund and Thane, Topiwala, MovieTime Malad, Tilak, and Rajhans Ghatkopar are also yet to open bookings in a full-fledged manner. The primary reason for this deadlock is the sheer number of titles across different languages. Exhibitors are currently tasked with allocating shows for Raja Shivaji (Hindi and Marathi), Ek Din (Hindi), The Devil Wears Prada 2 (English), Patriot (Malayalam), Kara (Tamil), Dhabkaaro (Gujarati), and KD - The Devil (Kannada). Sources within the exhibition sector describe the current scenario as an agni pariksha, as programming teams must balance the demands of multiple distributors in a diverse market like Mumbai while also maintaining shows for holdover hits Michael and Bhooth Bangla. The screen requirements for the weeks biggest release, Raja Shivaji, have added another layer of complexity. Its distributor, Jio Studios, has reportedly sought a wide release with specific demands. For single-screen cinemas, the studio has requested all shows. In multiplexes, the requirement includes 7 shows for 2-screen properties, 10 shows for 3-screen properties, and 14 shows for 4-screen halls. In cinemas with 5 screens or more, the demand stands at 16 shows daily, covering both Hindi and Marathi versions. Furthermore, there is a push to play the film in premium formats such as 4DX and EPIQ. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) In addition to these demands, Patriot and KD - The Devil are also scheduled for Hindi dubbed releases. However, bookings for these versions have faced delays across the country, likely due to the ongoing negotiations over screen space. While the logistical issues persist, the overall outlook for the weekend remains positive from a commercial standpoint. The Devil Wears Prada 2 is showing better-than-expected advance interest, and films like Patriot and Kara are expected to perform well in their respective regional markets. Raja Shivaji is also anticipated to draw significant numbers in the Maharashtra belt once the scheduling issues are resolved. The challenge for programmers is not limited to new releases as holdover films like Michael and Bhooth Bangla are still maintaining a steady pace at the box office. These films continue to draw audiences, making it difficult for exhibitors to reduce their show counts to make room for the incoming titles. Since both movies have demonstrated consistent footfalls, theatre owners are reluctant to cut their screenings entirely, which further complicates the negotiations with distributors of the upcoming films. According to sources mentioned by Bollywood Hungama, the need to accommodate these performing holdovers alongside a crowded slate of new releases is a major reason why many cinemas have reached a standstill in their programming schedules.

Bollywood

23 hrs ago

343 views

Pati Patni Aur Woh Do Trailer: T-Series To Host Unique Jungle-Themed Launch At Mumbai's National Park

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The anticipation surrounding Pati Patni Aur Woh Do has become strong following the response to its teaser released on April 20. Capitalizing on this momentum and the specific setting of the comic caper, the makers have planned an unconventional marketing move. T-Series, in collaboration with B R Studios, is set to host a first-of-its-kind trailer launch event at Mumbai's Sanjay Gandhi National Park on Saturday, May 2. According to an exclusive report by Bollywood Hungama, this marks the first time the National Park has been utilized for a major film event, blending cinema with nature for an immersive experience. The event is designed to be visually striking and immersive, featuring the principal star cast and the director. To make the launch memorable for the media and attendees, the organizers have curated specific activities, including a ride on the famous Van Rani Toy Train and boating sessions alongside the film’s talent. This jungle-themed concept aims to mirror the vibrant and chaotic energy of the film, providing a unique backdrop for the unveiling of the trailer. With preparations currently in full swing, the industry is looking at this as a significant step in the evolution of film promotional events in Mumbai. Directed by Mudassar Aziz, the film is a spiritual successor to the 2019 hit that grossed over 100 crore in India. Aziz, who is considered the architect of the modern franchise, is expected to bring his signature blend of situational comedy and sharp relationship drama back to the big screen. The sequel expands the conflict by featuring three female leads instead of two, creating what fans are calling a more chaotic Pativerse. For Ayushmann Khurrana, this project is a crucial addition to his comedy-drama portfolio as he looks to maintain his streak of theatrical successes. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The film boasts a fresh and buzzy ensemble cast including Sara Ali Khan, Rakul Preet Singh, and Wamiqa Gabbi. The pairing of Ayushmann and Sara is a major talking point, as they have also collaborated on the spy-comedy Udta Teer, scheduled for later this year. Additionally, the film marks a reunion for Ayushmann with Rakul Preet after their 2022 project Doctor G, and brings back his popular dynamic with Wamiqa Gabbi. This combination of fresh chemistry and proven on-screen partnerships is expected to be a major draw for the family audience when the film arrives in theaters. From a box office perspective, Pati Patni Aur Woh Do comes at a time when Ayushmann Khurrana has reclaimed his commercial mojo. After the success of Dream Girl 2, which netted over 100 crore, the actor delivered another winner in late 2025 with the supernatural horror-comedy Thamma. By officially joining the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, Ayushmann has built significant momentum heading into 2026. Pati Patni Aur Woh Do is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 15, 2026. Produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishnan Kumar, and Renu Ravi Chopra, the film is being positioned as a premier summer entertainer. With a unique trailer launch on the horizon and a cast that balances established stardom with rising talent, the production is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the film grabs maximum eyeballs. Following the trailer reveal on May 2, the team is expected to embark on a multi-city promotional tour ahead of the mid-May release.

Bollywood

1 day ago

471 views

Love and War Starrer Vicky Kaushal Blocks 18 Months For Amar Kaushik's Mahavatar; Check The Massive Prep And Shoot Timeline

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Vicky Kaushal is currently navigating one of the most significant phases of his career, lining up back-to-back large-scale spectacles. Following the immense anticipation surrounding Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love and War, the actor is now gearing up for another ambitious project in the form of Maddock Films' upcoming mythological epic, Mahavatar. Directed by Amar Kaushik, the film is set to see Vicky in a role that demands an unprecedented level of commitment and physical transformation. According to an exclusive report by Pinkvilla, the actor has blocked a total of 18 months exclusively for this project, signaling the massive scale and depth of the upcoming production. The timeline for Mahavatar begins immediately after Vicky concludes his work on Bhansali's Love and War. The Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial, which also stars Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, is preparing for a crucial 50-day schedule starting in May 2026. Bhansali aims to wrap the film by the end of June 2026, targeting a high-profile theatrical release on January 21, 2027. Once the cameras stop rolling for Love and War, Vicky is slated to dive straight into an intensive six-month preparatory module for Mahavatar starting in June 2026. This preparatory phase is designed to be a comprehensive training program. It includes a rigorous physical transformation aimed at bulking up the actor's physique to match the mythological scale of the character, alongside a series of acting workshops. Amar Kaushik has reportedly designed a detailed module that focuses not only on the physical aspects but also on the psychological and emotional journey of the character. This deep-dive preparation is essential as Vicky is set to portray Chiranjeevi Parashurama, a figure known for immense strength and spiritual depth in Indian history. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The actual filming of Mahavatar is slated to commence in January 2027. The production is looking at an extensive one-year shooting schedule that is expected to wrap up by December 2027. During this entire period, Vicky Kaushal has consciously decided not to take up any other professional assignments. By dedicating his full attention to Mahavatar, the actor aims to maintain consistency in his performance and look, treating the film as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. While there is a slight possibility of a small project being squeezed in before January 2027, it remains contingent on his prep timeline and physical state. The buzz around Mahavatar has been exceptionally high since the release of its first-look poster, which showcased a fierce and unrecognizable Vicky Kaushal as Parashurama. Coming from the stable of Maddock Films, which has recently found immense success with its supernatural and horror-comedy universe through films like Stree and Munjya, this foray into the mythological space represents a bold new direction for the studio and director Amar Kaushik. With Vicky’s total immersion into the role and the backing of a proven director-producer duo, Mahavatar is being positioned as one of the most significant cinematic events of 2027.

Advance Booking

1 day ago

735 views

Kara Day 1 Advance Booking: Dhanush's 1991 Gulf War Thriller Records A Slow Start; Will The Unique Gulf War Backdrop Pull In Crowds?

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Dhanush's 54th project, Kara, is approaching its theatrical debut with a steady build-up in its advance bookings for the opening day. As of now, the film's worldwide real-time pre-sales have reached the 3 crore mark, with the home territory of Tamil Nadu contributing a major share of 2 crore. While these numbers suggest a reliable start for the heist action-thriller, the film is currently in its final day of pre-sales, where a significant jump in momentum will be required to ensure a high-impact opening total at the box office. The ticket sales on BookMyShow have shown a positive trajectory over the last 48 hours. After recording 5,410 tickets on April 27, the volume saw a healthy increase on April 28 to reach 15,990 tickets, bringing the cumulative total on the platform to 21,400. The hourly momentum has also witnessed a spike, with 2,300 tickets sold in the 1-2 pm window today, contributing to a total of 7,710 tickets since 9 am. This recent surge indicates that audience interest is intensifying as the release window narrows. In the national cinema chains involving PVR, INOX, and Cinepolis, the film has recorded approximately 21,900 ticket sales for its opening day across 809 shows. PVR leads the contribution with 15,700 tickets, followed by INOX with 4,900 tickets and Cinepolis with 1,300 tickets. The gross collection from these chains currently stands at 34 lakh with an average occupancy rate of 13 percent. These figures reflect a balanced distribution across major multiplexes, though the primary volume remains centered around PVR venues in key urban centers. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Directed by Vignesh Raja, Kara is a heist action-thriller with a confirmed runtime of 161 minutes or 2 hours and 41 minutes. The film has been granted a UA 16+ certificate by the censors due to its intense action themes and survival sequences. Set against the unique backdrop of the 1991 Gulf War, the narrative specifically explores the fuel crisis in Tamil Nadu triggered by the Iraq-American conflict. The story follows the protagonist's 16-day journey of survival and redemption, a concept that the director revealed was sparked by a mix of real-world events, including a crime report from Northern India and an emotional piece set near Vellore. As the film prepares to hit the screens on April 30, the final phase of bookings will be crucial. While the current pre-sales are trending at an average level, the historical performance of Dhanush's films often shows a strong reliance on late-day bookings and walk-in audiences. With its lengthy runtime and specific historical setting, the film is positioned as a detailed survival drama. The upcoming 24 hours will determine if Kara can convert this steady interest into a significant opening day benchmark in both domestic and overseas markets.

Sandalwood

1 day ago

535 views

Yash's Toxic Release Date To Be Rescheduled; Makers Reveal Reason

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Bengaluru, April 29 - Superstar Yash-fronted much-anticipated action drama Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups has officially been postponed from its previously announced release date. The makers confirmed that the film will no longer arrive in theatres on June 4, opting instead for a later, globally aligned release window. The movie is directed by Geethu Mohandas and also stars Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, Rukmini Vasanth, and Tara Sutaria, among others in key roles. Film Complete, But Release Strategy Reworked In a heartfelt note shared by the team, it was revealed that Toxic is already complete. However, the decision to delay the release stems from a larger vision - ensuring the film reaches its full potential on a global scale. The statement highlights that after presenting the film at CinemaCon and witnessing an overwhelming international response, the team felt confident that the film deserved a wider and more impactful worldwide rollout. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Focus on Global Distribution & Partnerships The makers are currently working on aligning international distribution and strategic partnerships, which requires additional time. Instead of rushing the release, the team has chosen to recalibrate the timeline to ensure a synchronised global launch. This approach signals a growing trend in Indian cinema - films being positioned not just for domestic success but as global cinematic events. Yash, who is also involved as a producer, emphasised the importance of patience and responsibility during this phase. In the note, he expressed his commitment to delivering a film that stands as a proud moment for Indian cinema on the world stage. He acknowledged the unwavering support of fans and assured them that the delay is aimed at enhancing the overall impact of the film. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Not a Setback, But a Strategic Move This isn't the first time Toxic has been delayed. The movie was earlier scheduled for March 19 but was pushed to June due to external factors, like global uncertainties, that affected its schedule. However, the current postponement is purely strategic, with the goal of maximising reach, scale, and audience experience. While a new release date is yet to be announced, the makers have confirmed that Toxic will hit theatres soon across the world. Given the scale and ambition behind the project, expectations are now even higher for what could be one of the biggest Indian releases on the global stage. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Some stories ask for patience.Some journeys demand it. #Toxic #ToxicTheMovie pic.twitter.com/zKZ1Tmba79— TOXIC (@Toxic_themovie) April 29, 2026

OTT

1 day ago

3.2K views

Ustaad Bhagat Singh Netflix Viewership: Pawan Kalyan Starrer Becomes Number 1 Indian Release Of 2026

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The digital journey of Pawan Kalyan's Ustaad Bhagat Singh has provided a contrasting narrative to its theatrical run. Despite being produced on a reported budget of 150 crore, the film was declared a flop at the box office after netting 72.34 crore in India. Its domestic gross stood at 84.91 crore, and with an overseas contribution of 11.85 crore, the worldwide total concluded at 96.76 crore. While these numbers fell short of theatrical recovery, the film's premiere on Netflix has unlocked a significant global audience, turning it into a notable digital success story for the year. In its debut window from April 16 to April 19, the Harish Shankar directorial made a strong entry, clocking 2.5 million views and 6.2 million viewing hours. This performance allowed it to secure the number 3 spot globally in the non-English films category during its first week. The mass entertainer trended in the Top 10 across 14 countries during this period, finding traction in major markets like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the UAE, and Malaysia. This initial surge indicated that the star power of Pawan Kalyan remained a significant draw for the streaming audience despite the earlier theatrical outcome. The film showed stability in its second week on the platform. Between April 20 and April 26, it added 1.9 million views and 4.7 million viewing hours to its tally. This brought the cumulative two-week performance to 4.4 million views and approximately 10.9 million total viewing hours. Although it moved to the number 4 spot worldwide in the second week, it continued to trend in the Top 10 across 10 countries. This global reach extended beyond Asia into Africa, where it maintained a presence in the Top 10 lists of Mauritius and Nigeria for two consecutive weeks. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) When looking at the competitive landscape of 2026 releases on Netflix, Ustaad Bhagat Singh currently holds the number 1 rank for the year. Below is the 2-week viewership comparison for the top 2026 releases: Ustaad Bhagat Singh: 4.4 Million Views (10.9M Hours) Youth (Tamil/Telugu): 3.8 Million Views (9.2M Hours) Akhanda 2: Thaandavam: 3.4 Million Views (8.8M Hours) Anaganaga Oka Raju: 3.1 Million Views (7.9M Hours) Mrithyunjay: 2.5 Million Views (6.4M Hours) In the broader context of Tollywood films on Netflix from 2024 onwards, Ustaad Bhagat Singh has secured the ninth spot on the list. Below are the top 5 Tollywood performers on the platform based on their viewership at the end of the second weekend: Lucky Baskhar: 11.7M Views Pushpa 2: 9.4M Views Kalki 2898 AD (Hindi): 7.1M Views Hit 3: 6.9M Views Saripodhaa Sanivaaram / OG: 5.3M Views From a financial standpoint, the producers, Mythri Movie Makers, found themselves in a protected position despite the box office result. A reported digital rights deal with Netflix, valued at a substantial 80 crore, acted as a critical safety net for the producers. This trend underscores the growing importance of OTT revenue streams for big-budget productions. While the film may have struggled at the physical box office, its performance on Netflix confirms that Ustaad Bhagat Singh found a wider calling in the digital space, reaching millions of households across multiple continents within its first fortnight of streaming.

Kollywood

2 days ago

360 views

Is Basil Joseph Joining Rajinikanth's Thalaivar 173? Actor Hints At A Massive Collaboration

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Rajinikanth's upcoming project, Thalaivar 173, is currently generating significant buzz due to a series of casting hints and directorial shifts. According to a report by Cinema Express, Malayalam actor Basil Joseph recently hinted at his involvement in a major film during an event for the YouTube channel Behindwoods. While he did not explicitly name the project, trade circles suggest he has been roped in to play a crucial role, potentially as Rajinikanth's son. Basil mentioned that he is part of a very big film but cannot disclose further details at this stage, leading to speculation that the casting for the project is finalizing. The actor also shared updates regarding his Tamil cinema debut, Raawadi, which is scheduled for release in either May or June. While he clarified that he is not playing the lead in Raawadi, he described his role as very crucial to the narrative. His hint about the big film comes at a time when the directorial seat for Thalaivar 173 has seen multiple changes. The production, headed by Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International (RKFI), has undergone a musical chairs game with its directors over the past few months, creating a wave of speculation in the industry. To put the directorial timeline in perspective, Sundar C was the first official director announced for the project in November 2025. Pitching it as a vintage Rajini comedy, the collaboration was short-lived as Sundar C stepped down just days later, citing unforeseen circumstances and creative differences. In early January 2026, Cibi Chakravarthy, known for the hit film Don, was brought on board as the official replacement. However, current reports suggest that Cibi has also exited the project, with director Ashwath Marimuthu now being the leading choice to take over the directorial responsibilities. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Ashwath Marimuthu, who gained acclaim for Oh My Kadavule and Dragon, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the commercial entertainer. Despite the changes in the directorial department, Rajinikanth has previously confirmed that the film will be a high-quality commercial venture designed to entertain the masses. The project remains a high-profile one for RKFI, with composer Anirudh Ravichander already confirmed to handle the musical score. The potential inclusion of Basil Joseph suggests that while the director may have changed, certain core casting elements from previous drafts might still be intact. As the production team works toward stabilizing the creative leadership, the focus remains on delivering a pan-India spectacle. With Ashwath Marimuthu reportedly entering the fray and Basil Joseph hinting at a massive outing, Thalaivar 173 continues to be one of the most talked-about upcoming releases in South Indian cinema.

Bollywood

2 days ago

3K views

Vedat Marathe Veer Daudle Saat Release Date: Akshay Kumar's Marathi Historical Drama Shoot Wrapped As Makers Eye January 2027 Release

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, April 28 - Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar's Marathi film debut Vedat Marathe Veer Daudle Saat is back on track amid continued delay. The film was officially announced in November 2022, with Akshay Kumar in the extended role as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It was initially planned for the Diwali 2023 release, but the movie faced major production hurdles, which pushed the timeline indefinitely. Now, according to the latest report by Bollywood Hungama, the shoot of Veer Daudle Saat has been completed. After facing multiple delays and production hurdles over the past few years, the historical epic is now moving steadily into post-production, with the team eyeing a grand theatrical release on January 1, 2027. Akshay Kumar's Marathi Debut (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Directed by Mahesh Manjrekar, the film marks Akshay Kumar's Marathi cinema debut, where he essays the role of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film revolves around the bravery of seven Maratha warriors and their contribution to the vision of Swarajya, making it a large-scale period drama rooted in history and valour. The project had earlier been stuck due to financial constraints and scheduling issues, which led to significant delays and uncertainty around its completion. However, with the shoot now wrapped, the makers have resumed momentum and are focusing on extensive post-production work, including VFX and scale enhancements required for a film of this magnitude. The ensemble cast features actors like Pravin Tarde, Vishal Nikam, Jay Dudhane, and Utkarsha Shinde in key roles, portraying the valiant warriors at the heart of the story. The film is being planned as a pan-India release, with versions in multiple languages to reach a wider audience.

Bollywood

2 days ago

365 views

Sanjay Leela Bhansali And Dhanush Join Forces For Mythological Jungle Drama; Deets Inside

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Sanjay Leela Bhansali has signed Tamil superstar Dhanush for a large-scale mythological jungle drama, according to an exclusive report by Variety. The film will be produced under the Bhansali Productions banner with P.S. Mithran set to direct. Mithran, who is known for helming Tamil hits like Sardar and Irumbu Thirai, will make his Hindi cinema debut with this project. This collaboration brings together the cinematic scale of Bhansali with the performance caliber of Dhanush for an ambitious saga rooted in mythology. The project originated after initial plans for a Rowdy Rathore sequel between Mithran and Bhansali Productions did not materialize. Following several months of script refinement, the team settled on a mythological narrative set against a jungle backdrop. While Telugu star Ram Charan was reportedly in initial discussions for the lead role, the collaboration eventually moved toward Dhanush. For the actor, this marks his most expansive Bollywood venture following his successful track record with films like Raanjhanaa and Tere Ishk Mein. The filming for this untitled saga is scheduled to commence in early 2027. This timeline allows Dhanush to complete his extensive commitments in the South, which include Rajkumar Periyasamy's D55, a project with Mari Selvaraj, and the highly anticipated Vada Chennai 2. Meanwhile, the actor is also preparing for the immediate release of his period action thriller, Kara, which hits theaters this Friday. While there were earlier discussions regarding a biopic of APJ Abdul Kalam, the status of that production remains uncertain at this stage. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Sanjay Leela Bhansali is currently in the final stages of his most anticipated contemporary project, Love & War, which is officially set for a worldwide release on January 21, 2027. Positioned for the lucrative Republic Day holiday weekend, the film marks a massive reunion, bringing together Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal. This project is a significant milestone as it reunites Ranbir with Bhansali eighteen years after his debut in Saawariya and follows Alia's successful stint in Gangubai Kathiawadi. Departing from his signature period epics, Bhansali has described this triangular love story as a contemporary film with no pillars, period costumes, or horses. Instead, the narrative reportedly features Ranbir and Vicky as Air Force officers caught in a conflict of love and duty. While trade speculation initially suggested it might be a remake of the 1964 classic Sangam, the filmmaker has clarified it is an original story that serves as an homage to that era of storytelling. The production of Love & War is nearing completion, with over 90% of the principal photography already finished as of April 2026. Alia Bhatt has reportedly wrapped her portions, while the leading men have undergone intense physical transformations; Ranbir shed 12 kgs and Vicky dropped 15 kgs to portray disciplined military officers. Despite its modern setting, the film remains a magnum opus featuring high-end VFX for its aerial and war sequences. The movie is planned for a pan-India release in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, ensuring a massive footprint across the domestic box office. With Bhansali completing this schedule by mid-2026, the stage is set for him to transition into his mythological jungle drama with Dhanush by early 2027. Bhansali Productions is currently expanding its portfolio with several high-budget projects, including the Madhubala biopic starring Sara Arjun and the historical drama Jai Somnath, which is set against the events of 1025-1026 CE. The newly announced mythological drama with Dhanush adds another major prospect to the studio's 2027 calendar. This partnership aims to leverage Bhansali's production scale with Dhanush’s appeal across markets, making it a key theatrical title for the pan-India box office.

Bollywood

2 days ago

7.6K views

Jio Studios' Box Office Momentum: From Dhurandhar Success To Riteish Deshmukh's Historical Epic Raja Shivaji

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Jio Studios is currently navigating a high-stakes transition at the box office as it moves from the action-heavy success of the Dhurandhar franchise to its most ambitious historical project, Raja Shivaji. The Dhurandhar duology, which peaked with its sequel in March 2026, set a massive benchmark by grossing over ₹3,000 crore worldwide. To maintain this momentum, the studio utilized the theatrical run of Dhurandhar: The Revenge to aggressively promote Raja Shivaji, ensuring the film reached a massive, captive audience well before its May release. The comparison between these two films highlights the evolving strategy of the studio. While Dhurandhar dominated the spy-thriller genre, Raja Shivaji is being positioned as a cultural landmark. With a reported budget of ₹100 crore, it stands as the most expensive Marathi film ever produced. Directed by and starring Riteish Deshmukh, the project is backed by high-profile technical names like cinematographer Santosh Sivan and the music duo Ajay-Atul. This project follows the studio's successful pattern of scaling regional content, much like how Stree 2 was elevated to cross the ₹600 crore mark in the Hindi market. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The studio's ability to turn diverse stories into box office gold is evident from their recent filmography. By balancing massive commercial entertainers with grounded, content-driven cinema, Jio Studios has created a portfolio that appeals to every segment of the audience. Their recent track record includes everything from record-breaking horror-comedies to international award contenders, showcasing a highly successful selection process. 2026 Releases (Current & Upcoming) Dhurandhar: The Revenge (Released 19 March 2026) – The massive spy sequel currently dominating the box office. Raja Shivaji (Releasing 1 May 2026) – The historical epic directed by and starring Riteish Deshmukh. Khashaba (Upcoming 2026) – A biopic on India's first individual Olympic medalist, Khashaba Dadasaheb Jadhav. 2025 Releases Dhurandhar (December 2025) – The first part of the spy franchise that became a global blockbuster. Baramulla (November 2025) – A supernatural thriller set in Kashmir (direct OTT release). Thamma (October 2025) – A gothic romance set in the Maddock Horror-Comedy Universe. Mrs. (Early 2025) – A critically acclaimed social drama released directly on OTT. Major 2024 Hits Stree 2 – The record-breaking horror-comedy that crossed ₹600 crore in India. Article 370 – A political drama starring Yami Gautam. Laapataa Ladies – The satirical comedy that became India's official entry for the 2025 Oscars. Munjya – A surprise box-office hit based on Indian folklore. Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya – A sci-fi romantic comedy starring Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. The ground-level interest is beginning to reflect in the numbers with a decent start in initial advance booking trends. On April 27, 2026, the film recorded 22,410 tickets sold on BookMyShow within a 24-hour window, showing a steady buildup of momentum. With the official release slated for May 1 to coincide with the Maharashtra Day holiday, the film is looking to leverage this early interest into a productive opening weekend, particularly across the Maharashtra circuit. This calculated move to release a high-budget historical project on a public holiday is designed to maximize footfalls by aligning the cultural narrative with a significant festive window. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Beyond Raja Shivaji, the studio is actively building a diversified slate that spans multiple genres and languages. This includes the recently announced reboot of the cult classic Khal Nayak with Sanjay Dutt and a biopic on Olympic wrestler Khashaba Jadhav. The studio is also pushing technological boundaries with the AI-native film Krishna, directed by Manu Anand. By managing a portfolio that includes prestigious projects like India's official Oscar entry Laapataa Ladies alongside mass entertainers, the studio has created a balanced ecosystem that appeals to both critics and the masses. The financial framework for these ambitious productions is supported by a platform-agnostic distribution strategy. Jio Studios has locked in substantial digital deals between ₹150 crore and ₹285 crore to integrate its blockbuster content into the JioHotstar platform. Furthermore, the 50.1% stake in Sikhya Entertainment reflects a long-term goal of fostering creator-driven content with international appeal. While Raja Shivaji operates in a different space than the action-heavy Dhurandhar, its production underscores Jio Studios' broader commitment to backing culturally rooted narratives with high-end technical resources.

Bollywood

2 days ago

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Deepika Padukone To Use Body Double For Action In Allu Arjun And Atlees Raka; Latest Updates On SRK's King

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Deepika Padukone recently sparked a wave of excitement across the film industry by announcing that she is expecting her second child with husband Ranveer Singh. While the news brought immense joy to fans, it also led to significant speculation within trade circles regarding her professional commitments. The actress reportedly has around 50 days of shooting left for Atlee's high-profile project, Raka, which features Telugu superstar Allu Arjun in the lead role. Despite the potential logistical challenges, director Atlee has shown incredible support for the actress. According to an exclusive report by Bollywood Hungama, the filmmaker was overjoyed by the news and immediately sat down with his creative team to draft a strategic Plan B. To ensure the project remains on track without compromising the actress's health, the production has decided to utilize a body double for the majority of the key action sequences featuring Deepika. The dedication of the global icon is further evidenced by her recent activity on the sets of King, featuring Shah Rukh Khan. Despite her pregnancy announcement on April 19, 2026, Deepika was back on the grind within forty-eight hours. On April 21 and 22, she reportedly filmed an intense two-day action sequence at the Golden Tobacco Studio in Vile Parle, Mumbai. Trade sources suggest the sequence is a highly stylised combat scene where she and Shah Rukh Khan take on a group of eight fighters, promising a visual treat for action aficionados. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) While the Mumbai leg has been physically demanding, the schedule for King is far from over. Deepika is expected to join the international unit in South Africa for a crucial climax setpiece that is slated to last approximately one week. Following the overseas schedule, director Siddharth Anand has planned another elaborate sequence involving a massive sandy backdrop, which will be mounted at a specialized studio in Mira Road. This proactive approach ensures that her most strenuous scenes are captured while she is still in the early stages of her pregnancy. The production timeline for King has been meticulously calibrated to accommodate the actress's health and comfort. The team aims to wrap up all major climactic sequences involving Deepika by mid-May 2026. While her individual portions will be completed ahead of schedule, the principal photography for the entire film is expected to reach the finish line by September 2026. This professional synergy between the actress and the production house reflects the high level of respect she commands in the industry. The report suggests that Deepika has already filmed several close-up sequences for the movie. These shots will be integrated with the stunt footage using advanced VFX technology during the final edit. This allows the high-octane vision of the film to remain uncompromised while allowing the expectant mother to focus on the more dramatic aspects of her role. It is confirmed that her character stays fully intact, with no deletions or changes made to the script due to the pregnancy. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Deepika's role in Raka is described as a key protagonist with a significant impact on the narrative. Her character is set to have a stellar entry sequence and a major action-packed moment alongside Allu Arjun. By using a double for the physically demanding stunts, the makers are ensuring that the scale of the film remains massive while prioritizing the safety of their leading lady. In addition to the Allu Arjun starrer, Deepika is also involved in the highly anticipated film King, featuring Shah Rukh Khan. To manage her schedule effectively, the production team of King has reportedly fast-tracked her portions. The goal is to complete all major action and song sequences during the early stages of her pregnancy, ensuring she does not have to push herself too hard later on. This proactive planning highlights the industry's evolving and supportive nature toward its top stars. Deepika Padukone continues to prove her status as a top-tier professional by balancing her personal milestones with her massive box office ventures. From the gritty action of Raka to the cinematic scale of King, she remains unstoppable. With the support of visionary directors like Atlee and co-stars like Allu Arjun and Shah Rukh Khan, the actress is set to deliver another round of blockbuster performances while embracing this new chapter of her life.