Fans of Bollywood were thrilled when news surfaced that Aamir Khan’s blockbuster hit3 Idiots is gearing up for a sequel. The original film, released in December 2009 and directed by Rajkumar Hirani, remains one of the most beloved movies in Indian cinema, with its story of friendship, ambition, and life-changing lessons resonating with audiences even today. With the announcement of a follow-up, excitement among fans has reached a fever pitch, especially as the beloved characters Rancho, Raju, and Farhan are expected to make a comeback on the big screen.

However, the sequel is not just about reuniting the original trio. Reports suggest that the makers are looking to expand the iconic ensemble by introducing a fourth character, potentially played by a major Bollywood star. Tentatively titled 4 Idiots, the sequel aims to bring a fresh twist to the story while staying true to the essence that made 3 Idiots a cultural phenomenon. According to sources cited by Pinkvilla, the film is still in the scripting stage, and the title itself is subject to change as development progresses.

“The script is currently being developed under a tentative working title, 4 Idiots,” a source revealed. “The team is looking for a superstar who can be the fourth idiot and complement the original trio. The story will continue from where the first film left off but will also introduce new elements to justify this addition.” The source added that the writing team is focused on making the sequel “bigger and better” while retaining the heart and humor that audiences fell in love with in 2009.

The original 3 Idiots featured a stellar cast, including Aamir Khan as the eccentric yet wise Rancho, R. Madhavan as the responsible and anxious Farhan Qureshi, and Sharman Joshi as the comedic and loyal Raju Rastogi. Kareena Kapoor Khan played Pia, the love interest of Rancho, while Boman Irani essayed the role of the strict but ultimately caring college principal, Viru Sahastrabuddhe. Mona Singh, Omi Vaidya, and others contributed to the film’s memorable ensemble.

3 Idiots was celebrated not only for its humor and engaging storyline but also for the way it addressed real-life pressures faced by students in India’s academic system. The film’s narrative explored themes of friendship, ambition, personal growth, and the courage to follow one’s passions. Aamir Khan’s portrayal of Rancho became iconic, with his dialogues and philosophy leaving a lasting impact on audiences. The film went on to earn approximately Rs 400 crore worldwide and received critical acclaim, cementing its status as a landmark in Indian cinema.

With the sequel, the makers aim to retain the charm and warmth of the original while injecting fresh energy into the storyline. Introducing a fourth central character offers opportunities for new dynamics and comedic situations while allowing the original trio to continue their journeys in ways that reflect growth, change, and maturity. While details about the potential fourth actor remain under wraps, industry insiders suggest that the filmmakers are considering a “superstar” to create a perfect balance between the familiar and the new.

The return of the original cast is expected to be a major draw for audiences, with fans eagerly anticipating how Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, and Kareena Kapoor Khan will reprise their roles after more than a decade. The film’s makers are reportedly taking extra care to ensure that the sequel maintains the emotional depth and relatable storytelling that made the first film a massive hit while giving it a contemporary feel suitable for today’s audience.

4 Idiots promises to be a mix of nostalgia and novelty, honoring the legacy of 3 Idiots while exploring new themes and relationships. The project highlights the enduring popularity of the original story and the continued relevance of its messages about friendship, integrity, and the importance of following one’s dreams. While the release date has not yet been confirmed, anticipation is already high, and fans are closely watching for announcements about casting, plot details, and promotional campaigns.

In conclusion, the upcoming sequel to 3 Idiots, tentatively titled 4 Idiots, seeks to bring back the beloved characters of Rancho, Raju, and Farhan, while introducing a fourth key character played by a major Bollywood star. With the original cast returning and a promising new storyline in development, the film aims to capture the magic of the first installment while expanding the franchise in exciting new directions. Bollywood enthusiasts and longtime fans of 3 Idiots have every reason to be excited as the project progresses toward production and eventual release.

Actor Shilpa Shetty on Thursday strongly denied reports claiming that an Income-Tax raid had been conducted at her premises, calling the information misleading and incorrect. The clarification came after multiple media reports suggested that Income-Tax officials had carried out searches linked to businesses associated with Shetty and her husband, businessman Raj Kundra. Addressing the speculation, Shetty’s legal team issued a formal statement to set the record straight.

Advocate Prashant Patil, representing Shilpa Shetty Kundra, released an official clarification stating that no Income-Tax raid of any kind had taken place against the actor. “On behalf of my client, Mrs. Shilpa Shetty Kundra, I can confirm that there is no Income-Tax ‘raid’ of whatsoever nature against my client,” the statement read. According to the lawyer, what was being referred to as a raid was, in fact, a routine verification process carried out by Income-Tax officials.

Patil further explained that the verification pertained to standard follow-up procedures and should not be misconstrued as a search or raid. “There is only a routine verification by the Income-Tax officials pertaining to follow-up with my client, Mrs. Shilpa Shetty Kundra,” he added, emphasising that the situation had been exaggerated in public discourse.

The lawyer also issued a stern warning against attempts to link this routine verification to any other investigation or legal matter. He stated that any individual or organisation that “mischievously” connects the Income-Tax exercise with the alleged Economic Offence Wing (EOW) case would face legal consequences. “Whomsoever has mischievously claimed in the public domain that these developments have anything to do with the alleged Economic Offence Wing case shall face legal consequences before the appropriate court of law,” Patil said. Reiterating his client’s position, he stressed once again that “there is no Income-Tax ‘raid’ at her place.”

The clarification came amid widespread reports that Income-Tax searches were underway on entities owned or operated by Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra across multiple cities, including Mumbai, Pune and Bengaluru. According to sources cited in earlier reports, the focus of the Income-Tax department’s action was Bastian Hospitality, the company that operates Bastian-branded restaurants and clubs in cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru and Goa.

Some reports had claimed that officials conducted searches at certain outlets and at the residences of the promoters beginning Wednesday. These searches were reportedly linked to a case involving Bastian Garden City, a pub in Bengaluru. The outlet is co-owned by Shilpa Shetty and had recently come under scrutiny following police action.

The developments are connected to an earlier move by the Bengaluru police, who registered cases against two pubs—Bastian Garden City and Sourberry Pub—for allegedly operating beyond permitted hours. Bastian Garden City, which is partially owned by Shetty, was among the establishments named in the case. The police action followed the circulation of CCTV footage showing a late-night incident at Bastian Pub around 1:30 a.m. on December 11. The footage allegedly showed two groups of patrons engaged in a heated argument, though authorities clarified that no serious physical violence was reported.

In addition to the CCTV footage, videos circulating online allegedly suggested that both Bastian Garden City and Sourberry Pub were functioning beyond legally permitted hours, prompting authorities to register cases against the establishments. The investigations into these alleged violations are currently ongoing, and officials have stated that further details will emerge as the inquiry progresses.

Bastian Pub was founded by Bastian Hospitality, a company owned by businessman Ranjit Bindra. Shilpa Shetty acquired a 50 percent stake in the venture in 2019, becoming a co-owner of the brand. Since then, Bastian has expanded its presence across multiple Indian cities, positioning itself as a premium hospitality brand.

Shilpa Shetty has categorically denied all allegations related to the case involving the pub. In an earlier statement, the actor said the claims were baseless and legally untenable. She also confirmed that a petition challenging the proceedings had already been filed before the High Court and is currently awaiting adjudication.

“Having fully cooperated with the investigation, we are sanguine that justice will prevail and have complete faith in the law-enforcement authorities and the judicial system of our country,” Shetty stated. She also appealed to the media to act responsibly, noting that the matter is sub judice. “We respectfully urge the media to exercise restraint,” she added.

As of now, authorities have not released additional information regarding the Income-Tax verification or the police investigations into the pubs. With legal proceedings underway, all parties involved await further clarity as the cases continue to unfold.

The first look of Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal has been unveiled, offering audiences a visually arresting preview of what promises to be one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious mythological projects. Scheduled for a theatrical release in 2026, the film is inspired by the legendary tale of Lord Hanuman and is being described as India’s first theatrical feature created using generative AI technology. With its blend of ancient storytelling and cutting-edge innovation, the film aims to redefine how mythological narratives are presented on the big screen.

Sharing the first-look video on social media, the makers captioned it, “Bhakti ka roop, shakti ka swaroop, Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal in cinemas 2026.” The brief glimpse immediately captured attention for its scale, mood and visual grandeur. The video showcases Lord Hanuman soaring through the skies, set against an expansive golden-hued landscape. Mountains, valleys and vast open skies form the backdrop as the powerful figure leaps effortlessly across terrain, symbolising his immense strength, devotion and divine energy.

भक्ति का रूप, शक्ति का स्वरूप, #ChiranjeeviHanuman – The Eternal in cinemas 2026.@mapuskar_rajesh #AlokJain @andhare_ajit @vikramix @vijaysubs @starstudio18_ @Abundantia_Ent #CollectiveMediaNetwork #SanataniItihaas #TrilokIndia pic.twitter.com/7HxaVuj7bk

— Abundantia Entertainment (@Abundantia_Ent) December 18, 2025

The visuals highlight Hanuman not only as a warrior of extraordinary power but also as a spiritual force driven by faith and purpose. The imagery is designed to evoke awe and reverence, drawing viewers into a mythological world that feels both timeless and technologically advanced. With dramatic lighting and sweeping cinematic frames, the first look hints at an immersive theatrical experience rooted in devotion and heroism.

According to the makers, Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal is envisioned as an “awe-inspiring, visual odyssey designed to be enjoyed as a shared theatrical experience.” The film’s most distinctive feature lies in its use of generative AI, marking a first for Indian cinema at this scale. Reportedly, a dedicated team of over 50 engineers from Galleri5, the technology arm of Collective Artists Network, is working on the AI-driven production. This approach aims to push creative boundaries while maintaining cultural authenticity.

The integration of artificial intelligence is expected to play a significant role in world-building, visual design and storytelling, allowing the filmmakers to create expansive mythological settings with unprecedented detail. While the technical specifics remain under wraps, the project is being positioned as a landmark moment for Indian filmmaking — one that merges tradition with innovation in a meaningful way.

The film is directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rajesh Mapuskar, known for his emotionally resonant narratives and strong visual sensibility. With Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal, Mapuskar takes on the challenge of retelling the story of Pawan Putra Hanuman, a figure deeply revered across generations. The first look suggests that the director aims to strike a balance between spectacle and soul, celebrating India’s rich mythological and storytelling heritage.

Mapuskar’s earlier work has been praised for its emotional depth and thoughtful execution, and expectations are high that he will bring the same sensitivity to this epic retelling. Rather than merely focusing on visual grandeur, the film appears poised to explore the values of devotion, courage and selflessness that define Lord Hanuman’s legacy.

Earlier, while announcing the project on Instagram, Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Artists Network expressed their pride in bringing this story to audiences in a new format. Their statement read, “Proud and honoured to bring the timeless story of Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal to theatres, in a first-of-its-kind, ‘Made-In-AI’, ‘Made-In-India’ avatar. With deep reverence for our culture, heritage and history, we are set to release this innovative spectacle in theatres on Hanuman Jayanti 2026.”

The film is presented by Star Studio18 in association with Collective Studios Historyverse and Abundantia Entertainment. It is produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Vijay Subramaniam and Vikram Malhotra, a team known for backing content-driven and large-scale projects. Their involvement further strengthens confidence in the film’s vision and execution.

At this stage, details regarding the cast, specific plot points and the full scope of visual effects have not been revealed. The makers have chosen to keep these aspects under wraps, allowing anticipation to build gradually. As the release date draws closer, more information about the film’s narrative approach, character design and technological innovations is expected to be unveiled.

With its bold use of generative AI, reverence for mythology and promise of a grand theatrical experience, Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal positions itself as a pioneering project in Indian cinema. The first look has already sparked curiosity and excitement, suggesting that the film could mark a new chapter in how epic stories are told for modern audiences.

In Aditya Dhar’s recent hit film Dhurandhar, veteran actor Rakesh Bedi took on the role of the sharp and manipulative politician Jameel Jamali. At 71, Bedi delivered a performance that stood out, earning praise for his layered portrayal of power and cunning. Playing his on-screen daughter was 20-year-old actor Sara Arjun, who essayed the role of Yalina Jamali — a spirited, strong-willed young woman whose presence added emotional depth to the narrative. While the film has enjoyed commercial and critical success, a moment involving the two actors at the trailer launch event in November has continued to spark controversy online, even more than a month later.

The incident in question occurred during the Dhurandhar trailer launch, when Rakesh Bedi leaned in to greet Sara Arjun on stage. A short clip from the event circulated on social media, with some users claiming that the gesture appeared inappropriate and that it looked like Bedi was kissing Sara’s shoulder. The moment quickly became a subject of online scrutiny, prompting speculation and criticism, despite no complaint from Sara or her family.

Addressing the controversy in an interview with Hindustan Times, Rakesh Bedi dismissed the allegations outright, calling the reaction “stupid.” Clearly upset by the interpretation of the incident, the actor stressed that the moment had been taken completely out of context. He explained that he shares a warm, fatherly bond with Sara, both on and off screen, which many online viewers failed to understand.

“Sara is less than half my age and plays my daughter,” Bedi said. “Whenever we met during the shoot, she would greet me with a hug, just as a daughter would with her father. We share a nice rapport and camaraderie, which is also reflected on screen.” According to the actor, the interaction at the trailer launch was no different from their usual greetings during filming.

Rakesh emphasised that the affection he showed was that of an elder toward a younger co-actor, not something that should be viewed through a negative or sensational lens. “It was no different that day, but people are not seeing the affection there. The affection of an elderly man towards a young girl,” he said, adding pointedly, “Dekhne wale ki aankh mein gadbad hai to kya kar sakte ho (What can you do when people perceive it wrongly)?”

Further countering the claims, Rakesh Bedi pointed out a crucial detail that many critics seemed to overlook — Sara Arjun’s parents were present at the event. Sara is the daughter of actor Raj Arjun and his wife Sanya, both of whom attended the Dhurandhar teaser launch. “Why would I kiss her with ill intent publicly on a stage?” Bedi questioned. “Her parents were there. People are just crazy when they claim these things. They just need to create an issue out of nothing on social media.”

While a section of the internet continued to criticise the actor, many fans came forward in his defence. Viewers who grew up watching Rakesh Bedi in iconic television shows like Shrimaan Shrimati and Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai! expressed disbelief at the allegations. For them, Bedi has long been associated with clean humour, warmth and relatable performances, making the accusations difficult to reconcile with his decades-long public image.

Reflecting on the support he has received, Rakesh made it clear that he does not feel the need to justify himself excessively. “I tell you, I am not safeguarding myself,” he said. “My voluminous body of work, which has touched people, is doing it for me.” He shared a personal anecdote to underline how meaningful that connection with audiences has been for him over the years.

The actor recalled a recent dinner outing with friends, during which a woman approached him to share her story. “Her son is physically and mentally challenged, but he loves my work and can comprehend it,” Bedi said. “That speaks more for me than anything will.” For him, such moments reaffirm his belief that his legacy and conduct over the years speak louder than fleeting social media outrage.

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As discussions around the incident continue online, Rakesh Bedi remains firm that the controversy is a case of misinterpretation amplified by social media. For the veteran actor, the episode highlights how easily genuine gestures can be misconstrued in the public eye — and how quickly narratives can spiral when stripped of context.

Global football icon Lionel Messi’s recent visit to India has been making headlines for multiple reasons, from his high-profile interactions to his quiet moments away from the spotlight. One such moment occurred on Tuesday when the Argentine superstar visited Vantara, the ambitious wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and conservation centre located in Jamnagar. While the visit itself drew immense attention, it was an unexpected detail that truly captivated fashion and luxury watch enthusiasts worldwide — the ultra-rare timepiece spotted on Messi’s wrist.

Messi’s appearance at Vantara was hosted by Anant Ambani, and videos and photographs from the visit quickly surfaced online. Observers initially noted that Messi did not appear to be wearing a watch when he arrived at the conservation centre. However, during the course of the meeting, eagle-eyed fans and luxury watch trackers noticed a striking addition to his look: an exclusive Richard Mille watch that had not been seen on him earlier. This sudden appearance sparked speculation that the watch may have been a special gift presented to Messi during his visit.

The luxury watch sighting was first highlighted by the popular Instagram account Celebrity Watch Spotter, which closely follows high-end timepieces worn by global celebrities. Sharing a photograph of Messi wearing the watch, the page captioned the post: “During his visit to India this week, Anant Ambani hosted Lionel Messi at the Vantara wildlife conservation centre! Messi didn’t appear to be wearing a watch when he first arrived, but mid-meeting, he was spotted wearing the carbon Richard Mille RM 003 GMT Tourbillon ‘Asia Edition,’ limited to just 12 pieces.”

The watch in question, the Richard Mille RM 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon “Asia Edition,” is considered one of the brand’s most iconic and defining creations. Introduced during Richard Mille’s early years, the RM 003 played a crucial role in shaping the brand’s identity, blending cutting-edge engineering with bold, avant-garde design. Over the years, it has become one of the most sought-after models among elite collectors.

Crafted using an ultra-lightweight black carbon case, the RM 003-V2 stands out for its technical brilliance and futuristic aesthetic. The skeletonised dial offers a clear view of the intricate internal mechanisms, allowing wearers to admire the complexity of its movement. Among its standout features is a tourbillon, a highly sophisticated mechanism designed to improve accuracy by counteracting the effects of gravity. The watch also includes a GMT function, enabling the wearer to track multiple time zones — a fitting feature for a global icon like Messi.

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What truly elevates the RM 003-V2 “Asia Edition” into the realm of horological legend is its extreme rarity. Only 12 pieces of this particular edition were produced worldwide, making it one of the most exclusive Richard Mille watches ever created. Its limited availability, combined with the brand’s reputation for innovation and luxury, has made it a prized possession among collectors and connoisseurs.

According to luxury watch marketplace Chrono24, the estimated value of Messi’s Richard Mille RM 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon stands at a staggering ₹1,17,424,941. This eye-watering price tag places it firmly among the most expensive watches in the world and reflects its rarity, craftsmanship and historical significance within the Richard Mille catalogue.

Messi now joins an elite group of high-profile individuals who own this ultra-rare timepiece. Notable owners of the RM 003-V2 include Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah, Formula 1 driver Mick Schumacher, former FIA president and Ferrari team principal Jean Todt, Crown Prince of Johor Tunku Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, and renowned independent watchmaker Kari Voutilainen. Ownership of such a watch is often seen as a symbol of refined taste and access to the highest echelons of luxury.

While neither Messi nor Anant Ambani has publicly commented on the watch or the speculation surrounding its appearance, the moment has added another layer of intrigue to Messi’s India visit. Known for his understated personal style, Messi is often seen wearing Richard Mille watches, a brand with which he has shared a long-standing association. However, the sudden appearance of such a rare piece during his time at Vantara has only fuelled curiosity among fans and luxury watchers alike.

Beyond the watch, Messi’s visit to Vantara highlighted the growing global attention on wildlife conservation initiatives in India. Yet, for many, the image of the football legend wearing one of the rarest watches ever made remains the most talked-about takeaway — a perfect blend of sport, luxury and exclusivity that only Lionel Messi can effortlessly pull off.