Aryan Khan is finally opening up about what it was like to work alongside his father, superstar Shah Rukh Khan, as he reflects on the success of his directorial debut series, Ba**ds of Bollywood. The young filmmaker, often in the spotlight for being the son of India’s most famous actor, is now being recognised for his own creative voice—and he’s speaking candidly about the experience of creating something meaningful and original while having SRK appear in key cameo moments.

In an exclusive interview with GQ India, Aryan shared fresh insights into both the professional dynamic he shares with his father and the emotional journey that accompanied the release of his highly anticipated project. At 28, Aryan is navigating the delicate balance of carving an independent identity while also embracing the legacy he is inevitably a part of. And according to him, working with Shah Rukh Khan on set is far less intimidating than most people imagine.

“He’s the easiest person to work with,” Aryan said, describing SRK’s conduct on set as calm, professional, and incredibly efficient. “He knows exactly what to do and how to do it. And when he’s on set, everyone else behaves exceptionally well.” The remark wasn’t just playful—it highlighted the kind of effortless command and grace Shah Rukh carries even in brief cameo appearances. Aryan noted that his father’s presence tends to elevate the energy of an entire crew, influencing everyone to perform at their highest level.

For Aryan, directing his father—someone the world considers a cinematic giant—was a surreal but deeply rewarding experience. Working together, he said, came naturally. SRK, with decades of experience, offered both comfort and clarity, allowing Aryan the space to express his own vision as a first-time director. The collaboration served as a powerful reminder that while Shah Rukh Khan may be a global icon, he is also a parent who instinctively supports and uplifts his children.

Reflecting on the show’s spectacular reception, Aryan admitted he was overwhelmed by the emotional response from viewers. The project has been widely discussed for its sharp writing, stylish world-building, and refreshing take on the inner workings of the entertainment industry. For Aryan, whose creative journey has only just begun, the public’s enthusiasm feels like a validation of years of quiet preparation.

“I’m extremely grateful,” he said. “As a creator, the biggest reward is people enjoying what you’ve poured your heart into.” The sincerity of his words revealed just how personal the project was for him. Aryan acknowledged that he had expected the series to do well—not out of pride, he clarified, but out of conviction. “I did expect it to do well, and I’m not saying this out of arrogance but belief. If I don’t believe in the project as the director, who will?”

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This sense of grounded confidence has become a defining trait in Aryan’s public persona. While much of his early life unfolded under intense media scrutiny, he has recently shifted attention through his professional pursuits, whether in directing, writing, or leading his luxury lifestyle brand. What has particularly stood out in this phase of his journey is his determination to develop creative projects that carry depth, originality, and cultural relevance.

Aryan spoke about how storytelling has always been a silent passion for him—something he cultivated away from the media glare. The success of Ba**ds of Bollywood has only strengthened his desire to push forward with fresh ideas and narratives. As a filmmaker, he hopes to create stories that resonate long after the screen fades to black. His focus now, he said, is on crafting projects with emotional weight, visual ambition, and a point of view that reflects the evolving landscape of Indian entertainment.

On the professional front, Aryan is already looking ahead. He hinted at new stories in development, each inspired by the desire to leave a lasting impact. While he remained tight-lipped about the specifics, his excitement suggested that he is ready for a long-term creative career—one shaped by his own sensibilities rather than expectations tied to his family name.

As he continues to step into his identity as a storyteller, director, and entrepreneur, Aryan Khan stands at the beginning of a cinematic journey that promises growth, experimentation, and a voice uniquely his own. And if his debut is any indication, the young filmmaker is determined not just to follow in Shah Rukh Khan’s footsteps, but to carve out a path that carries his own signature.

Hema Malini shared a profoundly emotional message on Monday as she remembered her late husband, legendary actor Dharmendra, on what would have been his 90th birth anniversary. The occasion, which once would have been a day of celebration, arrived just weeks after his passing on November 24, leaving the veteran actress reflecting on memories, love, and loss.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Hema posted a series of old photographs featuring warm, intimate moments with Dharmendra. Along with these precious snapshots, she penned a heartfelt note that laid bare her grief and the depth of their bond. “Dharam ji, happy birthday my dear heart,” she began. “More than two weeks have passed since you left me heartbroken, slowly gathering up the pieces and trying to reconstruct my life, knowing that you will always be with me in spirit.”

Her words captured the quiet devastation of losing a lifelong companion. She wrote that the joyful memories of their life together were her greatest source of comfort. “The joyful memories of our life together can never be erased, and just reliving those moments brings me great solace and happiness,” she said. Expressing gratitude for the journey they had shared, she continued, “I thank God for our lovely times together, for our two beautiful girls who reaffirm our love for each other, and for all the beautiful, happy recollections that will remain with me in my heart.”

Hema ended her emotional birthday tribute with a prayer for Dharmendra’s peace: “On your birthday, my prayers for God to grant you the wealth of peace and happiness that you richly deserve for your humility, goodness of heart and your love for humanity. Happy birthday, dear love. Our happy ‘together’ moments.”

Her tribute comes as fans across the country continue to mourn the loss of one of Hindi cinema’s most iconic stars. Dharmendra, adored for his charm, versatility, and larger-than-life screen presence, leaves behind an immeasurable legacy that has touched generations. But for Hema, beyond the icon and the superstar, he was her anchor, confidant, and soulmate.

Dharam ji

Happy birthday my dear heart
More than two weeks have passed since you left me heartbroken, slowly gathering up the pieces and trying to reconstruct my life, knowing that you will always be with me in spirit. The joyful memories of our life together can never be… pic.twitter.com/zY3QBJN0YE

— Hema Malini (@dreamgirlhema) December 8, 2025

Hema Malini and Dharmendra were one of Bollywood’s most beloved on-screen pairs in the 1970s. Their chemistry lit up films such as Sharafat, Tum Haseen Main Jawan, Naya Zamana, Seeta Aur Geeta, and the evergreen classic Sholay. Their reel-life partnership eventually blossomed into real-life companionship. After years of knowing and working with each other, they married in 1980 and became parents to two daughters, Esha and Ahana, whom both adored deeply.

Earlier, Hema had shared another long, introspective note on X, reflecting further on her bond with Dharmendra and the many roles he played in her life. “Dharam ji, he was many things to me,” she wrote. “Loving husband, adoring father of our two girls, Esha & Ahaana, friend, philosopher, guide, poet, my ‘go to’ person in all times of need — in fact, he was everything to me! And always has been through good times and bad.”

Her message underscored the profound and multifaceted connection they shared—not just as partners, but as two people who found deep friendship and emotional refuge in each other. She also spoke of Dharmendra’s bond with her family: “He endeared himself to all my family members with his easy, friendly ways, always showing affection and interest in all of them.”

Hema paid tribute not just to the man she loved, but also to the towering cultural figure Dharmendra had become. “As a public personality, his talent, his humility in spite of his popularity, and his universal appeal set him apart as a unique icon unequalled among legends,” she said. She added that his enduring fame, body of work, and contributions to cinema “will last forever.”

Dharmendra’s passing has left a void for countless fans, but Hema’s words offer a deeply personal glimpse into the life they built together—marked by affection, companionship, resilience, and decades of shared experiences. On what would have been his milestone birthday, Hema Malini’s tribute stands as both a celebration of his remarkable life and an intimate testament to an extraordinary love story.

Fifteen years after 3 Idiots became one of Indian cinema’s most beloved cultural touchstones, the iconic team behind the film is finally preparing to bring its world back to the big screen. According to a new report from Pinkvilla, the long-discussed sequel is officially moving forward, with Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, R. Madhavan and Sharman Joshi expected to reunite in their unforgettable roles. The film will once again be helmed by celebrated director Rajkumar Hirani, with Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Hirani, and Aamir Khan returning as producers—recreating the powerful combination that first brought the story to life.

A source close to the development revealed that the team has reached a major milestone: the script has been locked. “The team is extremely excited. They feel the magic of the first film has returned, and the sequel is as funny, as emotional, and as meaningful as the original,” the insider said. This sense of renewed enthusiasm marks a significant shift, as fans had long wondered whether a continuation of the story would ever materialise.

The source added that the sequel’s narrative will not be a reimagining but a true continuation. Picking up nearly 15 years after the memorable climax of the first film, the story will explore where Rancho, Farhan, Raju, and Pia’s lives have taken them. It will delve into the choices they’ve made as adults—both personally and professionally—and bring them back together for a brand-new adventure. While details remain tightly guarded, insiders say the tone will preserve the warmth and sincerity that made the original so universally resonant.

According to those involved, the humour of the sequel will evolve to reflect the characters’ growth. Rancho’s infectious curiosity, Farhan’s creative soul, Raju’s resilience, and Pia’s grace will all return, but filtered through the lens of adulthood, responsibility, and the unexpected twists life brings. It promises to be a reunion that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

People familiar with the project revealed that Hirani has been contemplating a sequel for many years. However, he never felt the timing or concept was right—until recently. After his planned Dadasaheb Phalke biopic was put on hold, Hirani shifted his focus back to the world of 3 Idiots. That pause in his schedule gave him the space to revisit the characters and themes, and gradually he began shaping the idea into a script.

One source explained that Hirani always had a basic concept in mind but refused to move forward until he had something that could “stand up to the legacy” of the iconic first film. Given how deeply 3 Idiots impacted audiences—both emotionally and socially—there was significant pressure to get the sequel right. The original film was more than a blockbuster; it started conversations across the country about academic pressure, parental expectations, mental health, and the meaning of success.

Released in 2009, 3 Idiots became an instant phenomenon and went on to achieve cult status. Its witty commentary on India’s education system, delivered through humour and heart, struck a powerful chord with audiences of all ages. The performances of Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, and Kareena Kapoor Khan were widely praised, and its memorable dialogues and emotional scenes remain deeply embedded in pop culture. Songs from the film continue to be played, referenced, and fondly remembered more than a decade later.

Given this legacy, the news of a sequel has ignited immense anticipation. Social media has already erupted with excitement, with fans sharing their hopes, theories, and nostalgic memories. Many believe that bringing the original cast back together is the only way a sequel could work—and early signs suggest the creators agree wholeheartedly.

With the script completed, pre-production is expected to begin soon, though an official announcement from the makers is still awaited. Industry watchers believe the sequel is poised to become one of the most eagerly awaited films of the coming years, both for nostalgic viewers who grew up with the original and younger audiences discovering it for the first time.

If the early buzz is any indication, the return of Rancho, Farhan, Raju, and Pia may once again unite moviegoers in theatres—bringing laughter, emotion, and meaningful storytelling back to the forefront of Bollywood cinema. And after fifteen years of waiting, fans appear more than ready to return to the world that changed the way an entire generation thought about learning, friendship, and life.

What was meant to be one of Indian cricket’s most anticipated off-field celebrations has instead become one of the year’s most discussed heartbreaks. Composer-director Palaash Muchhal andIndia women’s cricket vice-captain Smriti Mandhana were expected to tie the knot on November 23 in Sangli. The event was supposed to be a grand union of sports and entertainment, and fans had eagerly awaited the ceremony. But as the weekend arrived, the narrative took a sharp and unexpected turn one filled with postponements, rumours, alleged screenshots, and ultimately, a public confirmation that the wedding had been called off.

The first signs of trouble emerged when reports surfaced that the wedding had been postponed due to “health issues” in both families. While the explanation appeared straightforward, online speculation surged almost immediately. Social media flooded with unverified theories, and matters escalated further when several women shared alleged chat exchanges with Palaash Muchhal. These posts fuelled suggestions of a deeper rift between the couple, although none of the claims were independently verified. With the rumour mill in overdrive, all eyes turned to Smriti Mandhana, who until then had chosen silence over participation in the online frenzy.

On Sunday, the Indian cricket star finally addressed the situation. Breaking her silence through an Instagram story, Smriti confirmed what many had already suspected: the wedding was officially off. In a measured and heartfelt message, she wrote, “Over the past few weeks there has been plenty of speculation around my life, and I feel it is important for me to speak out at this time.” Describing herself as a “very private person,” she admitted that the speculation had grown to a point where it was no longer possible to remain quiet.

Her statement was clear, direct, and free of ambiguity: “I need to clarify that the wedding is called off. I would like to close this matter here and implore all of you to do the same.” She urged fans, media outlets, and online spectators to step back from the chaos, requesting, “Respect the privacy of both families and allow them the space to process and move on.” Her appeal was a reminder that behind trending topics and viral posts are real people dealing with real emotions.

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While the public dissected every detail and turned the situation into a digital spectacle, one person’s steady presence has stood out throughout the turmoil—Smriti’s close friend and Indian teammate Jemimah Rodrigues. Known for their strong friendship on and off the field, Jemimah appears to have been offering quiet support during what has clearly been a difficult period for Smriti.

Earlier, when the first postponement was announced, Jemimah withdrew from the Women’s Big Bash League in Australia. Though no official explanation was provided, reports suggested she did so to remain close to Smriti during her time of distress. After Smriti’s public confirmation that the wedding was off, Jemimah sent another message—this time in the form of music.

On Sunday, Jemimah posted an Instagram story featuring a live performance of Olivia Dean’s popular track Man I Need. The specific lyric highlighted in her story read: “Looks like we’re making up for lost time. Need you to spell it out for me.” The post quickly became the subject of online speculation, with many users connecting the lyric to the alleged behaviour attributed to Palaash Muchhal. Though Jemimah did not mention anyone by name, the timing and tone of the post sparked fresh conversations about her solidarity with Smriti.

In the aftermath of Smriti’s official announcement, Palaash Muchhal finally responded publicly as well. He removed his elaborate proposal video from Instagram, a clip that had previously gone viral and been widely celebrated. Observers also noticed that Smriti and Palaash no longer follow each other on social media a digital confirmation of a very real breakup.

Palaash issued a statement of his own, saying, “I have decided to move on in my life and step back from my personal relationship. It’s been very difficult for me to see people react so easily on baseless rumours about something which has been most sacred to me.” Though he did not address any of the online allegations directly, his message suggested emotional strain amid the scrutiny.

After weeks of uncertainty, shifting narratives, and relentless speculation, both Smriti Mandhana and Palaash Muchhal have now confirmed the same truth: their wedding has been called off. What should have been a joyous celebration has instead unfolded in the harsh spotlight of public attention, offering a sobering look at how deeply the digital world can intrude into personal lives.