Veteran actor Kajol was honoured with the ‘Pride of Indian Cinema’ award at a prestigious awards ceremony in Chennai, recognising her contribution to Hindi cinema across more than three decades. The evening also saw a warm exchange between Kajol and actor Vijay Sethupathi, who spoke about his admiration for her work while addressing the audience at the event.

Praising Kajol’s performances over the years, Sethupathi said he has long enjoyed watching her on screen. Keeping his remarks brief and heartfelt, the actor said, “All your performances, I just love to see onscreen. Nothing more I can say, we are great fans madam.”

Responding to the appreciation, Kajol thanked him for his kind words and spoke about the process of performance and transformation as an actor. “I think when you perform, you become a completely different person. I don’t have that yet, but I will strive towards it,” she said.

Kajol remains one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring and widely loved performers. She made a strong mark early in her career with films such as Baazigar and went on to deliver one of the most iconic performances of the 1990s with Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, a film that continues to be celebrated decades after its release.

Over the years, the actor has balanced mainstream success with experimentation. In Gupt: The Hidden Truth, she surprised audiences by stepping away from her girl-next-door image to play an antagonist, a performance that remains one of the film’s most talked-about elements. She later delivered another widely appreciated performance in My Name Is Khan, bringing emotional depth to a story that resonated strongly with audiences.

In recent years, Kajol has continued to explore varied roles across formats. Her projects include the courtroom drama series The Trial: Pyaar, Kaanoon, Dhokha, the thriller Do Patti, and the mythological horror film Maa. The choices reflect her willingness to experiment with new genres while maintaining a strong connection with audiences.

The honour at the Chennai event acknowledged not just her longevity but also her lasting influence on Hindi cinema, where Kajol’s performances have remained part of the industry’s cultural memory for more than three decades.

Tips Films has postponed the theatrical release of its upcoming Hindi feature ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’ by one week. The film, which was earlier scheduled to arrive in cinemas on June 5, 2026, will now release worldwide on June 12, 2026. Directed by David Dhawan, the film stars Varun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde in the lead roles. The project marks another collaboration between the filmmaker and Varun Dhawan, who have previously delivered several commercial entertainers together.

Confirming the shift in release plans, Tips Films managing director Ramesh Taurani said the decision was taken after recent developments and considering the prevailing situation around the date. Taurani noted that the makers felt it would be more appropriate to move the release rather than arrive in cinemas alongside another film on the same weekend.

He also indicated that the decision was taken keeping in mind what he described as a healthier approach for the industry, where filmmakers support each other rather than compete directly on the same date.

Despite the change in the release calendar, promotional activities for the film, including the launch of its music and trailer, are expected to continue as scheduled in the run-up to the revised release date.

Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai is now set to release in cinemas worldwide on June 12, 2026.

More than a decade after the release of the iconic Hindi film Rockstar, director Imtiaz Ali has shared a surprising revelation about the film’s emotional climax—one that has sparked fresh discussion among fans of the cult classic. The filmmaker recently spoke about the creative process behind the film during a fan meet-up in Mumbai hosted by digital creator Laksh Maheshwari. During the candid conversation, Imtiaz disclosed that the tragic ending audiences remember so vividly was not part of his original plan when he first conceived the story. According to the director, the earliest draft of the film had a very different direction, and the fate of Heer—the female protagonist played by Nargis Fakhri—was originally meant to be quite different.

In fact, he initially envisioned a version of the story in which her character would remain alive. However, an unexpected setback dramatically altered the course of the narrative. Imtiaz revealed that he had once completed a full script for the film long before it went into production, but that script was eventually lost. When he later got the opportunity to finally make the movie, he attempted to retrieve the earlier draft but discovered that it had completely disappeared. The file was not saved on his computer, and despite searching for it, he could not recover the document. As a result, he had to start writing the screenplay again from scratch, a process that ultimately led the story down a different and more tragic path.

When Imtiaz began rewriting the script years later, he said the narrative evolved naturally in ways he had not originally planned. During this new writing process, the emotional arc of Heer’s character gradually shifted, eventually leading to the heartbreaking ending that audiences saw in the final film. The director explained that one of the major influences shaping this revised storyline was the legendary Punjabi folk tale of Heer Ranjha, one of the most famous tragic love stories from South Asian literature. Drawing inspiration from that timeless narrative, Imtiaz found himself reimagining the film’s characters and their destinies in a way that echoed the themes of the traditional tale.

In the classic story of Heer and Ranjha, the lovers are separated by fate and social circumstances, and the narrative ends in tragedy. This influence gradually seeped into the script of Rockstar, particularly in the character of Heer. The director explained that even the decision to name the female protagonist Heer was partly inspired by the legendary romance. As he continued writing, the story began to mirror the tragic structure of the folk tale, eventually leading to the moment where Heer dies before the film’s protagonist Jordan. This narrative choice ultimately shaped the emotional climax of the film, which concludes before the death of Jordan himself, leaving audiences with a powerful sense of unresolved longing and heartbreak.

Released in 2011, Rockstar went on to become one of the most talked-about love stories in contemporary Hindi cinema. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor in the role of Jordan, a passionate but troubled musician whose journey through love, heartbreak and fame forms the core of the narrative.

Jordan’s intense relationship with Heer becomes the emotional driving force of the story, transforming him from a naive college student into a celebrated rock star haunted by personal loss. Kapoor’s performance received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising the depth and vulnerability he brought to the character. The film also became memorable for its music, composed by A. R. Rahman, which played a crucial role in expressing the emotional turmoil of the protagonist. Songs from the soundtrack remain popular among fans even years after the film’s release, further strengthening its status as a modern classic.

Imtiaz Ali’s recent revelation about the lost script adds an intriguing new layer to the story behind Rockstar. It shows how creative processes can sometimes be shaped by unexpected circumstances, leading artists to explore directions they had not originally intended. What began as an unplanned change eventually became one of the most defining aspects of the film. For many viewers, Heer’s tragic fate is what gives the story its emotional intensity and lasting impact.

The revelation that the ending emerged only after the original script was lost highlights the unpredictable nature of storytelling, where even accidents can lead to creative breakthroughs. Today, Rockstar continues to be revisited and analysed by fans and critics alike, not only for its performances and music but also for the depth of emotion that defines its narrative. Imtiaz Ali’s candid reflection reminds audiences that behind every memorable film lies a creative journey filled with unexpected twists—sometimes even before the story reaches the screen.

Being born into one of India’s most iconic film families often comes with its own set of expectations, but Navya Naveli Nanda believes true empowerment lies in choosing one’s own path rather than living according to public perception. The young entrepreneur and podcast host recently spoke about the pressures young women face in modern society, sharing her thoughts during an interview with Variety India.

While many people associate the Bachchan name with fame and influence, Navya explained that empowerment is not about legacy or privilege but about the freedom to make independent choices. According to her, many young women today experience constant pressure related to how they look, how they behave, and the roles they are expected to play both at home and in professional life.

She noted that society often creates rigid expectations that can shape how women see themselves and the decisions they make. Navya believes that these pressures can make it difficult for individuals to focus on what they truly want in life. Instead of chasing perfection or approval, she encourages young women to listen to their own aspirations and build their identity based on personal values rather than external judgment. For her, empowerment means having the confidence to define success on one’s own terms, even when those choices differ from what society expects.

Navya also revealed that much of her perspective on empowerment has been influenced by advice she received from her grandmother, veteran actress and parliamentarian Jaya Bachchan. Reflecting on that guidance, she explained that constantly focusing on what others expect can make people forget what they truly want from themselves. According to Navya, empowerment begins when individuals stop measuring their lives against societal expectations and instead focus on their own goals and values.

This outlook has shaped the way she approaches her personal and professional life. She emphasised that it is impossible to satisfy every expectation placed upon a person, especially in a world where different roles often compete for attention and energy. Instead of trying to live up to every demand at once, Navya believes people should learn to prioritise what matters most to them at a given moment. Her approach reflects a practical understanding of modern life, where balancing family, career and personal growth can often feel overwhelming.

Another issue Navya highlighted during the conversation was the impact of social media on the mental well-being and self-image of young people. Platforms like Instagram, she explained, often present highly curated versions of reality that can make users feel pressured to imitate lifestyles that may not be genuine. According to Navya, this environment can blur the line between authenticity and performance, making it harder for individuals to recognise what is real and what is simply an online persona. She pointed out that many young people feel compelled to shape themselves according to what they see on social media, which can lead to a loss of personal identity. In her view, the healthiest response to this culture is to focus on authenticity rather than comparison. By embracing one’s true self instead of trying to fit into predefined molds, individuals can develop stronger self-confidence and a clearer sense of purpose.

Navya also spoke candidly about her own experiences with balancing multiple responsibilities. She admitted that she once felt pressure to excel in every role simultaneously, whether as a professional, a family member or a public figure. Over time, however, she realised that expecting perfection in every area of life is unrealistic. Instead, she now begins each day by deciding which role requires her attention the most and focuses on giving that responsibility her full effort.

This approach, she explained, helps her remain productive without feeling overwhelmed by unrealistic expectations. Beyond her public conversations about empowerment, Navya continues to pursue her own professional and academic journey. She is currently enrolled in the Blended Post Graduate Programme (BPGP) in Management at Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, a two-year hybrid programme that combines on-campus learning with online modules. The course allows her to deepen her understanding of business while continuing her entrepreneurial and professional commitments.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Navya has also created a unique platform for intergenerational conversations through her podcast What The Hell Navya. The show features discussions between Navya, her mother Shweta Bachchan Nanda, and her grandmother Jaya Bachchan, offering candid perspectives on modern relationships, societal expectations and women’s issues.

Through these conversations, Navya has gradually built an identity that stands apart from the legacy of her famous family. Rather than relying solely on inherited recognition, she is carving her own path as an entrepreneur, student and public voice advocating for authenticity and empowerment.

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East following the recent conflict between Israel and Iran, several Indian celebrities found themselves caught in the uncertainty caused by flight disruptions and temporary airspace closures across the region. Among them was Bollywood actor Urvashi Rautela, who recently left Kuwait City and shared an emotional message with fans about her experience.

Taking to Instagram Stories, Urvashi opened up about the sudden fear she felt while boarding her flight out of Kuwait. According to the actor, she had been managing the situation calmly until the moment she settled into her seat on the plane. However, a wave of anxiety unexpectedly overwhelmed her as the flight prepared for departure.

In her post, Urvashi wrote that she was initially feeling fine but began to feel frightened once she sat down on the aircraft. She described experiencing a sudden surge of fear that caused her heart to race. The actor admitted she could not explain why the feeling came over her so suddenly but said the situation made her feel vulnerable and anxious.

She requested prayers and support from her followers, explaining that she hoped for a safe journey. Urvashi also apologized to fans if her emotional message caused concern, saying she simply wanted to share her feelings honestly during the stressful moment. The actor added that the encouragement and prayers from her supporters meant a lot to her.

Sources close to the situation revealed that Urvashi had traveled to Kuwait for professional work when regional tensions escalated, creating uncertainty for many travelers in the Gulf region. In one of her Instagram clips, the actor appeared visibly emotional and was seen wiping away tears as she prepared to board the flight. She reportedly expressed gratitude to airport authorities and local officials for helping ensure safe departures despite the tense circumstances.

Urvashi was not the only Indian celebrity affected by the situation. Actor Sonal Chauhan shared on social media that she was stranded at Dubai International Airport due to flight disruptions. Chauhan reached out publicly for assistance and tagged Narendra Modi along with the Indian government, requesting help in returning safely to India.

Meanwhile, actor Esha Gupta confirmed that she had managed to return safely to India after facing tense moments at an airport in Abu Dhabi. Sharing her experience on social media, Gupta recalled how the situation unfolded rapidly.

She explained that airport operations suddenly came to a halt around early afternoon, leaving passengers confused about what had happened. Soon afterward, news reports began circulating about missile attacks in the region, increasing the anxiety among travelers.

Gupta described the atmosphere at the airport as chaotic, with passengers struggling to understand the situation and attempting to contact their families. She noted that many people comforted each other during the tense hours of uncertainty. The actor also praised the response of authorities in the United Arab Emirates, stating that airport staff and security personnel remained calm and worked efficiently to manage the crowd and maintain order.

Another Bollywood actor, Lara Dutta, is currently in Dubai with her daughter Saira. Through social media updates, Dutta shared details about the unsettling experience she faced while staying in the city.

In an emotional video, she recounted hearing loud explosions while she was at a film studio on February 28. Later, she reportedly witnessed missiles being intercepted in the sky. The actor described the experience as deeply unnerving, explaining that the sound of fighter jets and air defense systems caused the windows and doors of her residence to shake.

Despite the tense circumstances, Dutta praised UAE authorities for their quick response and effective management of the situation. She said residents of various nationalities living in the country feel protected and supported by local authorities. The actor also mentioned that she is currently trying to secure available flights back to Mumbai as services gradually resume.

As flight operations slowly return to normal across parts of the Gulf, relief is growing among thousands of Indian travelers hoping to return home safely.

On the diplomatic front, Indian missions across the Gulf region have increased their efforts to assist stranded passengers. The Embassy of India in Kuwait confirmed that officials are actively working to support affected Indian nationals.

In a statement shared on X, the embassy said it remains fully engaged in helping passengers stranded in Kuwait due to the temporary closure of airspace. Officials are maintaining regular contact with affected travelers and coordinating closely with Kuwaiti authorities, airlines and hotel managements.

Authorities and airline operators across the region continue to closely monitor the evolving security situation, with safety assessments guiding the gradual restoration of flight operations and travel routes.

Producer Ekta Kapoor recently experienced a memorable first when she watched a cricket match for the very first time—and it happened to be the grand final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 between the India national cricket team and the New Zealand national cricket team. The high-stakes match turned out to be an exciting introduction to the sport for the celebrated television and film producer.

Ekta documented her experience on Instagram Stories on Sunday, sharing a series of lively clips from the evening. The producer was joined by several close friends and colleagues, turning the match into a fun social gathering filled with laughter, cheering and plenty of entertainment.

Among those seen with her was television actor Urvashi Dholakia, who appeared in a few of the videos shared by Ekta. The group seemed to be thoroughly enjoying the electric atmosphere as they watched the much-anticipated final. Later in the evening, Ekta’s longtime friend, interior designer Sussanne Khan, also joined the celebration along with her boyfriend Arslan Goni.

In one candid video clip from the night, Ekta admitted that cricket had never really been her favourite sport. However, surrounded by enthusiastic fans and the buzz of the World Cup final, she decided to give it a chance. Laughing while recording the video, she confessed that she was watching cricket for the very first time in her life.

While sharing her thoughts in the clip, Ekta humorously explained that she had started watching the match mainly because everyone around her loved cricket. She also joked that although the group was hoping for India to win, viewers could also use the match breaks to catch an episode of her popular television show Naagin.

“First time in my life I am watching cricket, because other people in this world like cricket, not me. Of course, we are hoping India wins. India should win. But agar break me tumlog ne Naagin bhi dekh liya toh maza ajaega,” she said playfully in the video, leaving her friends laughing.

The match itself turned out to be a spectacular display of cricket. India dominated the game with a powerful batting performance, putting up an impressive total of 255 runs. New Zealand struggled to keep pace with the challenging target and were eventually bowled out for 159 runs, handing India a convincing victory and another historic World Cup triumph.

Apart from enjoying the thrilling match, Ekta is currently busy preparing for the release of her upcoming film project Bhooth Bangla. The film stars Akshay Kumar in the lead role and is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Priyadarshan. Scheduled to release in theatres on April 10, the horror comedy has already generated significant buzz among movie lovers.

The film is presented by Ekta’s production banner Balaji Motion Pictures, which operates under Balaji Telefilms Ltd, in collaboration with Akshay Kumar’s production house Cape of Good Films.

In addition to Akshay Kumar, the film features an ensemble cast including Wamiqa Gabbi, Paresh Rawal, Tabu and Rajpal Yadav. The film will also feature a special posthumous appearance by veteran actor Asrani, who passed away in October 2025.

Recently, Ekta also spoke about the strategic timing of the film’s release. She revealed that it was a conscious decision to schedule Bhooth Bangla shortly after the release of Dhurandhar 2, directed by Aditya Dhar. The sequel to the blockbuster Dhurandhar, which released in December 2025 and reportedly earned more than ₹1300 crore globally, is set to hit theatres on March 19.

According to Ekta, the release window for Bhooth Bangla was carefully planned to coincide with a time when many students would have completed their exams and families would be looking for entertainment options. She also emphasised the importance of offering audiences a variety of films to choose from.

Speaking during a media interaction with PTI, Ekta explained that family audiences often enjoy light-hearted films, especially during holiday periods. She added that the goal behind Bhooth Bangla is to provide a different kind of cinematic experience and bring diverse entertainment choices to viewers.

With India celebrating a memorable cricket victory and Ekta gearing up for a major film release, the producer’s playful introduction to cricket added a fun and relatable moment to the excitement surrounding the World Cup final.