Stories from Hindi cinema’s legendary Kapoor family have always fascinated fans, but rarely have they been shared with such warmth and detail. In a recent podcast conversation with actor-filmmaker Pooja Bhatt, Kunal Kapoor, son of the late Shashi Kapoor, opened a window into the extraordinary, unconventional life within the Kapoor household and the boundless generosity that defined his grandfather, theatre icon Prithviraj Kapoor.

Kunal revealed that during the Partition, the Kapoor home functioned less like a private residence and more like a public shelter. Doors were never locked, and refugees freely entered and exited the house. Many slept wherever space allowed — in corridors, on staircases, and even on the terrace. At a time of immense turmoil, the Kapoor home became a sanctuary, embodying Prithviraj Kapoor’s belief in shared humanity.

One of the most memorable anecdotes Kunal shared involved his parents’ wedding night. Shashi Kapoor had just married British actor Jennifer Kendal when she walked into their bedroom only to find two complete strangers calmly sitting and drinking coffee. Shocked, she asked who they were. For the Kapoor family, however, this was entirely normal. Their home was always open to guests, acquaintances, and people in need, often blurring the line between family and strangers.

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Kunal also fondly recalled Tara Bai, a cook who arrived at Prithviraj Kapoor’s home after losing her entire family during Partition. With nothing but determination, she built her own tandoor in the Kapoor courtyard and began cooking naan. Soon, she wasn’t just feeding the household but the entire neighbourhood. Kunal affectionately described her as a pioneer of portable tandoors, whose food became legendary in the area.

The conversation also touched upon Shashi Kapoor’s deep connection with Kolkata’s iconic Fairlawn Hotel. It was there that he first met Jennifer Kendal, who was staying with her parents. The hotel became a recurring chapter in their love story, eventually witnessing their marriage in July 1958. Kunal joked that he might have been conceived at Fairlawn, adding that the hotel later reserved a permanent suite for his father. During the filming of 36 Chowringhee Lane, the entire crew stayed there, and to this day, the staff fondly remember Shashi Kapoor as “Shashi Baba.”

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Shashi Kapoor and Jennifer Kendal had three children — Kunal, Karan, and Sanjana. After Jennifer’s untimely death in 1984, Shashi was heartbroken, but her artistic legacy lives on through Prithvi Theatre in Mumbai. Today, Kunal and Sanjana continue to run the iconic space, preserving a family tradition rooted in theatre, generosity, and an open door to the world.

The passing of veteran actor Dharmendra on November 24 left Indian cinema mourning the loss of a true legend. With a career spanning decades, the beloved star created timeless memories on screen. Now, his final film Ikkis is set to release on January 1, 2026, serving as a poignant swan song to an extraordinary life in cinema. Ahead of the film’s theatrical release, director Sriram Raghavan has shared emotional insights into how Dharmendra’s personal experiences deeply shaped his final performance.

In an interview with The Hindu, Raghavan spoke about the actor’s natural presence and emotional depth. “With Dharamji, there was no acting,” the filmmaker said. “His walk, his gait — everything was part of the character.” According to Raghavan, Dharmendra connected instinctively with the story, drawing from his own life experiences. The emotional weight of leaving his homeland in Punjab years ago had settled into his being, making the idea of revisiting one’s roots profoundly personal for him. “He was totally into the character,” Raghavan added.

The director also highlighted Dharmendra’s sharp understanding of dialogue and his appreciation for restraint. While Raghavan provided the written lines, he often invited the actor to interpret them in his own way. Dharmendra’s improvisations made such an impact that many of his spontaneous lines were retained in the final cut. Beyond acting, the late star’s love for poetry also found space during filming. Raghavan revealed that Dharmendra often shared his poems on set, and though encouraged to publish them, the actor preferred to take his time. One of his compositions was eventually recited in the film, adding a deeply intimate touch to the narrative.

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Ikkis is a biographical war drama based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was martyred at the age of 21 during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 India-Pakistan War. Agastya Nanda plays the role of the young war hero, while Simar Bhatia appears as Kiran. Dharmendra portrays Brigadier ML Khetarpal (Retd.), Arun’s father — a role that now carries even greater emotional weight as his final on-screen appearance.

The film also stars Jaideep Ahlawat, Suhasini Mulay, Sikander Kher, Rahul Dev, Vivaan Shah, and Shree Bishnoi. A special screening held in Mumbai ahead of the release saw several film industry stalwarts in attendance, including Rekha, Salman Khan, Fardeen Khan, Riteish Deshmukh, and Genelia D’Souza.

As Ikkis prepares to hit theatres, it stands not only as a tribute to a fallen war hero but also as a heartfelt farewell to Dharmendra — an icon whose legacy will live on forever.

Bollywood actresses continue to redefine motherhood by proving that having a child doesn’t mean stepping away from ambition—it simply means evolving with intention. Alia Bhatt, who welcomed her daughter Raha in November 2022, is the latest star to speak candidly about how becoming a mother has reshaped her professional choices without dimming her passion for cinema.

In a recent interview with ETimes, Alia reflected on how her work rhythm has changed since embracing motherhood. “Of course, the volume and the speed at which I work now are different because I have a child,” she shared. “But it’s a comfortable pace, and I’m happy with it. I like doing one film at a time and giving it all my energy.” The actress admitted that earlier in her career she would juggle multiple projects simultaneously, but that approach no longer feels right for her.

Motherhood, Alia explained, has helped her prioritise presence and balance. Rather than slowing down creatively, she feels more focused and fulfilled. This new phase has also allowed her to develop a deeper respect for her body, especially after shooting an action-heavy film post-pregnancy.

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Speaking about filming Alpha, Alia described the experience as transformative. “Doing action after having a baby was very interesting because it allowed me to see what my body is capable of. It was such a learning experience, and it gave me a lot of respect for my body,” she said. The film marks a significant shift for the actress as she steps into a physically demanding role while navigating life as a new mother.

Alia often shares heartfelt anecdotes about Raha, describing her as “naughty and chatty” in an interview with Allure. She has also spoken about Raha’s close bond with Ranbir Kapoor and her occasional shyness. Filmmaker Mukesh Bhatt previously revealed that Alia frequently takes her daughter to work, even arranging a separate vanity van for the toddler—highlighting how seamlessly she blends motherhood with her professional life.

On the work front, Alia has an exciting lineup ahead. She will star in YRF’s Alpha, part of the Spy Universe, alongside Sharvari and Bobby Deol, slated for release in 2026. Additionally, she is working on Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War, co-starring Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal, also scheduled for a 2026 release.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s much-anticipated film Love and War has remained in the spotlight ever since its announcement, but ongoing delays have continued to fuel speculation around its release. Now, fresh reports suggest that the film may finally be eyeing a Diwali 2026 release, pushing it far beyond its initially planned timeline.

Amid the uncertainty, lead actress Alia Bhatt has spoken fondly about the project, calling Love and War a deeply meaningful experience. In a recent interaction with The Economic Times, Alia described the film as “very special,” revealing that despite shooting for it throughout the year, the experience never feels complete. “You always want one more day, one more moment, one more scene where you’re just jamming the energy,” she said.

The actress also opened up about her creative collaboration with director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, with whom she previously worked in Gangubai Kathiawadi. Calling the filmmaker’s process magical yet collaborative, Alia shared that the atmosphere on Bhansali’s sets is quiet, disciplined, and intensely focused. “Everyone brings something different to the table, but the final magic wand is always in Sanjay sir’s hands,” she added, calling it one of the most fulfilling creative experiences of her career.

However, behind the scenes, the production appears to be facing challenges. According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, Love and War has been delayed yet again due to an extended shooting schedule. While the film was initially expected to release around Eid 2026, the shoot is now reportedly set to continue until May 2026. As a result, stars Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal have allegedly blocked their calendars until then, pushing back other professional commitments.

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The report also suggests that Ranbir Kapoor had requested a June 2026 release, but that option is no longer viable. With limited post-production time, Bhansali is now said to be considering an August or September release, with Diwali emerging as the most likely window. The delays have reportedly led to an increase in the film’s budget and have also impacted the schedules of other projects, including Ramayana, whose team was hoping for a substantial gap between the two releases.

Despite the hurdles, Love and War remains one of the most eagerly awaited films in recent years, bringing together a powerhouse cast under Bhansali’s visionary direction. As fans await an official announcement, expectations continue to soar for what promises to be an epic cinematic experience.

Krystle D’Souza is once again grabbing headlines, this time amid growing speculation about her possible involvement in Dhurandhar 2. The buzz intensified after the massive success of the song “Shararat” from Dhurandhar, which featured Krystle and quickly became a fan favorite, racking up impressive views and widespread appreciation across social media platforms.

Fueling the excitement further, Krystle recently addressed the rumors during a chat with Galatta. When asked directly about her chances of being part of the sequel, the actress responded with a playful yet intriguing remark: “Well, well… I mean, not a bad idea. Batate hai, batate hai. Jaldi.” Her coy answer instantly sparked curiosity among fans, who took it as a subtle hint rather than a denial.

Adding a fun twist to the conversation, Krystle jokingly referred to the secretive nature of film projects, saying, “Spy ka kaam hota hai cheezein chhupake rakhna.” The statement not only amused audiences but also aligned perfectly with the film’s spy-action theme, leaving fans hopeful that she may indeed have a bigger role to play in the upcoming installment.

However, despite the growing online chatter, there has been no official confirmation from the filmmakers or the actress herself. No casting announcements or promotional materials related to Dhurandhar Part 2 have been released so far. Speaking candidly to IANS, Krystle maintained a grounded perspective, emphasizing that everything ultimately depends on destiny. “What’s meant to be, will be,” she said.

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Krystle also took a moment to praise Tamannaah, reflecting on how opportunities align naturally. She shared that she deeply admires Tamannaah’s beauty and talent, adding that what is written in someone’s destiny eventually finds its way to them. According to her, the role she played felt destined for her and her character Ayesha, without diminishing Tamannaah’s excellence as a performer.

Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar is a high-octane, two-part spy action film set against the gritty underworld of Karachi’s Lyari area. The film stars Ranveer Singh in the lead, alongside Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, Rakesh Bedi, and Sara Arjun. While the first part missed a Middle East release, it performed exceptionally well in India, Europe, and North America.

With Dhurandhar Part 2 slated for an Eid 2026 release, expectations are already soaring—especially with fans eagerly waiting to see if Krystle D’Souza will make a powerful return.

An act rooted in devotion has unexpectedly ignited a wider conversation around faith, belief and personal choice. Actor Nushrratt Bharuccha recently visited the Shri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple in Ujjain, where she participated in the sacred Bhasma Aarti to seek blessings ahead of the New Year 2026. What began as a spiritual visit soon became a major talking point across social media platforms.

Nushrratt attended the early morning ritual, during which she was warmly received by temple priests and honoured with a traditional stole. Pictures and videos from the ceremony quickly went viral online, drawing a mix of admiration and criticism. While many users applauded her for exercising spiritual freedom and embracing India’s pluralistic traditions, others questioned her presence at a Hindu temple due to her Muslim identity.

The debate intensified after Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, National President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, publicly criticised the actress. As reported by NDTV, the cleric stated that participating in Hindu rituals, performing puja and applying sandalwood at a temple amounts to a “grave sin” under Sharia law. He claimed such actions go against Islamic principles and urged Nushrratt to repent and recite the Kalma.

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This is not the first time Nushrratt Bharuccha has spoken candidly about her relationship with faith. In a previous interview with journalist Shubhankar Mishra, the actress emphasised that her belief system is deeply personal and centred on peace rather than religious labels. “For me, my faith is real. Unreal things happen and that’s what strengthens my belief,” she shared, explaining that her spiritual connection gives her strength and clarity.

Nushrratt also spoke openly about finding solace across different places of worship and practising her faith in her own way. “Wherever you find peace—be it a mandir, a gurudwara or a church—you should go there,” she said. She added that she prays namaz regularly, even carrying her prayer mat while travelling, and believes in one God with multiple paths leading to Him. According to her, exploring these paths brings the same sense of calm and connection.

On the professional front, Nushrratt was last seen in the silent film Ufff Yeh Siyapaa. She is next set to appear in Bun Tikki, which is scheduled for a 2026 release.

As the debate continues, Nushrratt Bharuccha’s temple visit has once again highlighted ongoing conversations around faith, inclusivity and the right to spiritual self-expression in contemporary India.

As 2025 comes to a close, Kareena Kapoor Khan has shared a deeply emotional reflection on what she calls one of the most difficult years of her life. On the final day of the year, the actor took to Instagram to open up about the traumatic knife attack on her husband, Saif Ali Khan, and how the incident profoundly affected their family.

Posting a warm picture with Saif, Kareena spoke candidly about pain, resilience, and the strength it took to move forward. Her note revealed how the family endured fear and uncertainty but chose hope and gratitude over despair. “As we sit down and reflect on the fact that we made it to the last day of the year… we walked this far,” she wrote, acknowledging the emotional toll 2025 had taken on them, their children, and their loved ones.

Kareena described the year as one filled with tears, prayers, and moments of vulnerability, yet also one that reinforced powerful life lessons. She shared that the experience taught them how fearless human nature can be, how love ultimately triumphs, and how children often display more courage than adults expect. Despite everything, the family chose to hold on, laugh when they could, and face life with dignity.

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Expressing heartfelt gratitude, Kareena thanked fans, friends, and well-wishers who stood by them through the ordeal. She also acknowledged her faith, crediting divine grace for helping them heal and move ahead. Looking toward the future, she wrote that the family is entering 2026 with renewed energy, positivity, and an unwavering passion for cinema, signing off with her signature optimism: “Char Di Kala.”

The emotional post was met with an overwhelming response from fans and members of the film fraternity, many praising Kareena for her honesty, courage, and strength in the face of adversity.

Saif Ali Khan was attacked in the early hours of January 16 at his Bandra residence in Mumbai. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where doctors revealed he was leaking spinal fluid upon arrival. Saif underwent a five-hour-long spinal and plastic surgery, during which a piece of the knife was removed from his body. He was later shifted to the ICU and discharged on January 21 after his condition stabilised.

The intruder was later identified as Mohd Shariful Islam Shehzad, who allegedly entered the house with the intent to commit theft. While the incident shook the industry, Saif’s recovery and Kareena’s heartfelt message stand as a testament to the family’s resilience as they step into 2026 with hope and strength.