Choreographer Vijay Ganguly has cleared the air surrounding headlines and titles that state Tamannaah Bhatia was rejected for Shararat song from Dhurandhar. The choreographer took to his social media handle to reveal that the actress was never under consideration for the part. He stated that Tamannaah carries a star power so significant that it might have overwhelmed the needs of the sequence. Therefore, the makers opted for two performers to let the narrative be the hero of the sequence.

He highlighted how words can get sensationalised to serve headlines, with terms like ‘rejections’ being used. “I genuinely enjoy conversations around cinema and the many layers that go into making a film. That said, I’ve often refrained from putting myself out there because, at times, words get selectively lifted, misquoted or sensationalised to serve headlines rather than the craft. It’s unfortunate that instead of the conversation staying on the song and the creative intent behind Shararat, the focus has shifted to comparisons between two wonderful artists, with strong and reductive terms like “rejections” being used – something that was never the spirit of what was shared,” he wrote.

Further, he revealed why Tamannaah Bhatia was not under consideration for Shararat song. “Cinema is collaborative. It thrives on respect, nuance and context. I hope we can keep the spotlight where it belongs – on the work and the many people who pour their hearts into it. To clarify: Tamannaah Bhatia was never under consideration because her star power is so significant it might have overwhelmed the specific needs of this scene. In Dhurandhar, the music is woven into a high-stakes moment where the tension is key. The makers opted for two performers to keep the focus on the story’s progression. This choice was about protecting the film’s atmosphere and ensuring the narrative remains the hero of the sequence,” he stated.

Vijay Ganguly’s clarifications puts an end to headlines that state Tamannaah was ‘rejected’ for the song. Instead, it emphasises the need to focus on the intent of a filmmaker behind taking creative decisions rather than focus on misplaced chatter. His words underscore a crucial aspect of filmmaking: that casting decisions are driven by narrative balance and vision, not by notions of acceptance of rejections.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended a special screening of the upcoming war film Ikkis in the national capital, marking a significant moment ahead of the film’s theatrical release. The screening was not only a cinematic preview but also a solemn tribute to one of India’s youngest and bravest war heroes, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, whose life and sacrifice form the emotional core of the film.

During the event, Rajnath Singh met actors Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat, who play pivotal roles in Ikkis. He also honoured the family members of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, along with the next of kin of his tank crew, acknowledging their immense sacrifice for the nation. The occasion underscored the film’s intent to go beyond storytelling and serve as a heartfelt homage to the courage and dedication of India’s Armed Forces.

Taking to social media after the screening, the Defence Minister shared his thoughts on the film and the experience. In his post, he wrote that he had felicitated the family members of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal and the relatives of his tank crew during the special screening in New Delhi. He highlighted Khetarpal’s extraordinary bravery during the 1971 India–Pakistan war, noting that the young officer fought valiantly and made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. Rajnath Singh further praised Ikkis for showcasing Khetarpal’s heroism and celebrating the indomitable courage of India’s Armed Forces. He also mentioned having a warm interaction with the actors and extended his best wishes for their future endeavours.

Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal’s story remains one of the most inspiring chapters in India’s military history. He was just 21 years old when he lost his life during the 1971 war, displaying exceptional bravery in the face of overwhelming odds. His actions earned him the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military decoration for valour, making him one of the youngest recipients of the honour. Decades later, his legacy continues to inspire generations, and Ikkis seeks to bring his story to the big screen with sensitivity, respect, and emotional depth.

The film boasts a powerful cast, including the late Dharmendra Ji, Agastya Nanda, Simar Bhatia, and Jaideep Ahlawat. Dharmendra’s presence adds gravitas to the narrative, making Ikkis one of his most emotionally resonant projects in recent years. The recently released final trailer has already generated strong reactions from audiences and critics alike, drawing praise for its restrained yet impactful portrayal of patriotism and sacrifice.

One of the most talked-about moments in the trailer is a poignant line delivered by Dharmendra’s character, who says that Arun will “always be 21.” The dialogue has struck a chord with viewers, encapsulating the idea that while Khetarpal’s life was tragically cut short, his courage and legacy remain timeless. The line has quickly become symbolic of the film’s central theme—that true heroes live on through their actions and the values they leave behind.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan and produced by Dinesh Vijan, Ikkis promises a grounded and emotionally compelling portrayal of war, focusing not just on the battlefield but also on the human spirit behind the uniform. Known for his meticulous storytelling, Raghavan brings a nuanced approach to the genre, ensuring that the film balances realism with reverence.

With its release scheduled for January 1, 2026, Ikkis is positioned as one of the most anticipated films of the year. The special screening attended by the Defence Minister has further amplified interest in the project, reinforcing its national significance. As audiences prepare to witness the story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal on the big screen, Ikkis stands as a tribute not only to one brave soldier but to the countless individuals who have laid down their lives in service of the nation.

Few films in Indian cinema transcend the boundaries of box-office success to become part of everyday pop culture. Drishyam is one such phenomenon. What began as a gripping thriller evolved into a defining cinematic universe that reshaped how audiences viewed suspense-driven storytelling within a family setting. The franchise didn’t just break records—it carved out an entirely new space, now widely referred to as the “family thriller” genre. At the heart of this universe stands Vijay Salgaonkar, a character who has grown from a simple cable operator into one of Hindi cinema’s most iconic fathers.

Vijay Salgaonkar is not a conventional hero. He does not rely on brute force, flashy dialogue, or violence. Instead, his power lies in his intelligence, quiet determination, and unconditional love for his family. Across the Drishyam films, audiences witnessed how an ordinary man stood firm against extraordinary odds—law enforcement, social pressure, and moral dilemmas—armed only with his sharp mind and unwavering will. This portrayal resonated deeply, turning Vijay into a symbol of how far a parent can go to protect their loved ones.

The impact of Drishyam extends well beyond the cinema halls. Every year, on 2nd October, the internet lights up with memes, jokes, and conversations referencing the film’s most iconic moment. The date has become synonymous with Drishyam, embedded in popular memory as a cultural cue instantly understood by fans across generations. What started as a plot device has transformed into an annual pop-culture event, reaffirming the franchise’s enduring relevance.

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Now, that date is poised to take on even greater significance. Come 2nd October 2026, Ajay Devgn returns to the big screen as Vijay Salgaonkar in Drishyam 3, set for a worldwide theatrical release. The announcement has already sparked excitement, as audiences prepare to revisit a character and world that have consistently delivered suspense, emotion, and unforgettable twists.

Shooting for Drishyam 3 is currently in full swing, unfolding across multiple cities and locations. The makers are crafting the film on a grander, more intense canvas, promising a scale that surpasses its predecessors. With higher stakes, deeper conflicts, and a broader narrative scope, the third installment aims to elevate the franchise while staying true to its grounded, realistic tone.

One of the franchise’s greatest strengths has always been its ensemble cast, and Drishyam 3 proudly brings back the original team. Alongside Ajay Devgn, acclaimed actors Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor reprise their roles, joined once again by other celebrated performers who have been integral to the series’ emotional and dramatic depth. Their return ensures continuity in the storytelling, allowing the characters’ journeys to progress organically within the familiar Drishyam timeline.

What makes Drishyam 3 particularly intriguing is its promise of a completely new and unexpected twist. As the story moves forward, the lives of the Salgaonkars are set to change in ways they cannot foresee. The central question remains as compelling as ever: will this simple family manage to outwit the system once again, or will circumstances finally present a challenge beyond their imagination? The film teases a future filled with moral complexity, emotional tension, and edge-of-the-seat suspense.

Presented by Star Studio18, Drishyam 3 is a Panorama Studios production directed by Abhishek Pathak, who also co-writes the film alongside Aamil Keeyan Khan and Parveez Shaikh. The project is produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Kumar Mangat Pathak, and Abhishek Pathak. With a strong creative team at the helm, the film aims not just to continue the legacy but to redefine benchmarks within the family thriller genre.

As audiences count down to what is now being dubbed “Drishyam Day,” anticipation continues to build. Drishyam 3 promises to reignite the emotional connect, intellectual thrill, and cultural impact that made the franchise legendary—proving once again that sometimes, the strongest weapon is a sharp mind and an unbreakable bond called family.