Imtiaz Ali reveals he had thought of casting Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in Highway; reveals how he signed Alia Bhatt for the coveted role

Alia Bhatt had a decent debut with Student Of The Year (2012) but she got accepted as a fine performer with her second film Highway (2014), directed by Imtiaz Ali. During an interaction with Mayank Shekhar of Mid-Day, the acclaimed director revealed how Alia was not the first choice and that the character of Veera was of a different age.

Imtiaz said that he was looking to cast a woman in her 30s and that he was looking to cast “Aishwarya Rai, without the make-up, maybe. It was that kinda film.”

He explained how he changed his mind, “I met Alia at the screening of Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana (2012). Alia’s film had been released by then but I had not seen it. I started talking to her and realized that there’s a lot of warmth in her and her emotional quotient was high.”

He continued, “I stirred the conversation towards Highway. I started talking to her about home, society etc. I started to then hear her true voice. This is the voice that doesn’t change that much with age.”

He also said, “I wanted to cast a woman in her 30s who was more mature and who had had experiences in life that she was going to talk about in the film. But after meeting her, I realized that this is the emotional depth I was looking for.”

Imtiaz Ali added, “I gave her the 20-30 pager script. It was written like a novella. She didn’t call me for a day. Later, I realized that she was actually hesitant. I asked her if she liked it. She said, ‘I loved it’. The way she said ‘loved’ had a very hard feeling to it. When I asked her if she would do it, she replied, ‘Can we talk about it?’. This usually means that the actor doesn’t want to do it.”

But Imtiaz decided to speak to her, “I went to her house. Bhatt saab (father Mahesh Bhatt) told her, ‘You should do it. He’s a nice director (smiles)’!”

He also explained, “She was hesitant as she was not sure if she’d be able to do whatever was written in the script. She said, ‘There’s no scene in which I am not there’. I assured her not to worry.”

Also Read: Imtiaz Ali recalls feeling “Strange melancholy” after Jab Harry Met Sejal debacle: “I was trying to make a light, easy film”

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Prabhas starrer Kalki 2898 AD to stream on both Amazon Prime Video and Netflix from August 22

Produced by Priyanka Dutt, C. Aswani Dutt, and Swapna Dutt under the banner of Vyjayanthi Movies and directed by Nag Ashwin, Kalki 2989 AD features Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani in leading roles.

The film will be available for Prime members in India and over 240 countries and territories in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam, with English subtitles, on August 22.

Prime Video has announced the Telugu action-adventure Kalki 2989 AD will premiere globally on August 22, 2024. After a successful theatrical run, it will be available for streaming in its original Telugu, with dubs in Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam, and English subtitles, for Prime members in India and over 240 countries and territories.

 

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Whereas, Kalki 2989 AD - Hindi will stream globally on Netflix on August 22, 2024. Directed by Nag Ashwin and produced by Priyanka Dutt, C. Aswani Dutt, and Swapna Dutt under Vyjayanthi Movies, the film features Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani.

 

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Kalki 2989 AD has captivated audiences with its portrayal of a post-apocalyptic future. The film's and its depiction of a dystopian world have resonated with viewers, contributing to its success at the box office,” said Manish Menghani, Director – Content Licensing, Prime Video India.

Applauded for his powerful performance as Bhairava, a bounty hunter, Prabhas shared, "Working on Kalki 2989 AD with a visionary director like Naga and an exceptional cast has been truly exhilarating. The film not only pushes the boundaries of storytelling with its blend of mythology and futuristic elements but also delves deep into the complexities of human nature. Portraying Bhairava, a character driven by strength and conviction, has been incredibly rewarding. After all the love that Kalki 2989 AD has received from audiences in theaters, I cannot wait for its global premiere on Prime Video. I hope viewers will enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed making it."

Sharing his thoughts on the global streaming premiere C. Ashwani Dutt, producer of Kalki 2989 AD said, “Following a triumphant box office run and an overwhelming response from audiences of all ages, Vyjayanthi Movies couldn't have asked for a more special way to celebrate its 50th year. Kalki 2989 AD will be streaming on Prime Video for a worldwide audience in its original language Telugu and with dubs in Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam. We are thrilled for viewers to experience the Kalki universe, with its impactful performances and a narrative that is both visually stunning and deeply gripping, leaving the audience eager for more.”

Director Nag Ashwin said, “With Kalki 2989 AD I was keen to create a cinematic experience that breaks new ground, transcends traditional boundaries, and shares our cultural mythology on a global scale. The overwhelming success of the film at box offices worldwide is truly humbling. It signifies the universal appeal of films that are deeply rooted in Indian mythology. While it has received immense love in theaters, I am thrilled for Kalki 2989 AD to now stream on Prime Video, reaching an even larger audience worldwide.”

Kamal Haasan, portraying Supreme Yaskin in Kalki 2989 AD, reflects, “Being part of this grand cinematic endeavor has been both memorable and humbling. The film represents a significant leap forward for Indian cinema. It's been a privilege to contribute to such an ambitious project, and I look forward to its streaming premiere on Prime Video, where it can captivate new audiences worldwide.”

Also Read : Kalki 2898 AD to premiere on Amazon Prime Video and Netflix on August 23: Reports

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Jackie Shroff stars in Zee TV’s Sahi Jagah Judge Karo campaign for Sa Re Ga Ma Pa

We all make judgments, whether it's a quick remark about someone's outfit or a comment on a couple's dynamics. Recognizing this human tendency, Zee TV has launched a new campaign for the upcoming season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, titled "Sahi Jagah Judge Karo." The series of videos is led by Jackie Shroff, who brings attention to how these instincts can be redirected in a positive way. The campaign encourages viewers to channel their judgment toward selecting the most deserving contestants from the show's audition videos, integrating them into the decision-making process from the outset.

This videos encourage people to channel their natural judgmental tendencies toward something positive. Audiences are invited to help select the most deserving contestants from over 50 audition videos posted on the show's official Instagram page, making them an integral part of the show right from the beginning.

 

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In the first video, Jackie Shroff is seen confronting two aunties gossiping about a mismatched couple in a restaurant. He surprises them by joining their table and encouraging them to put their judging instincts to better use by choosing contestants on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’s Instagram page. In another video, Jackie brushes off unsolicited singing critiques from his neighbors, reminding them to focus their judging skills on the audition videos posted online instead. These moments highlight the key message of directing judgment toward something constructive.

Jackie Shroff said, “Arre, yaar, we all judge—whether it’s someone’s singing, dressing, or even their chai-sipping style! It's human nature. When Zee TV came to me with this idea of channeling that judgment into something useful, like picking the best voices for Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, I thought, kya mast thought hai! The audience now gets to be a part of the action, selecting the most deserving singers from 50+ audition videos. It’s a fun and fab way to get viewers involved, and I loved that.”

These videos reflect Zee TV’s focus on creating interactive content that resonates the audience, ensuring their voice plays a crucial role in the show’s journey. Follow Sa Re Ga Ma Pa's Instagram page to participate in selecting the next big singing sensation.

Also Read : Vidya Balan receives sweet gift from Jackie Shroff

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Saif Ali Khan on turning 54, "I'm in a place where I feel very happy"

As Saif Ali Khan turned 54, he shared his earliest birthday memories. “My earliest birthday memories are in my Mum’s flat in Carmichael Road in town where I grew up. I remember my fifth birthday… magicians and balloons and cake … and cartoons on the screen … lots of people would come … I remember my father looking very lean and handsome … quietly smoking a cigarette in the background and then participating in some tricks … someone gave me a toy car with 007 on it,” he said.

Now it is his sons who get excited on Saif’s birthday. “They wake me up with cards that I’ve seen them making them but pretend I haven’t,” he said. “And they’ve told me my present: a batman action figure. I will never open the box. Then we have breakfast together and god willing a lovely day. My priorities in life have always been what they are. I am committed to work, and I want to make more money and invest it well to support my lifestyle and my ideas for celebration. I also love doing interesting work. And not missing out on too much precious family time is paramount to me. So it’s a balance… and I think we do it well.”

Saif has plans. “I now want to do some things … take my mum on the Orient Express to Venice. She wants to go to Florence …dinners and travels with good friends … wine and chats in lovely places … The mantra now is ‘Do good work and bounce! Take a fab holiday … travel to new places and eat well and laugh with friends’. I would like my sons Taimur and Jeh to be aware of things and exposed to the world. They have been swimming in cold waterholes abroad and been farming and hiking in their own country… We teach them that the most important thing is to be a good person ... and we value that quality. They have been presented a way of living and seeing things with us. Now they must choose,” he said.

Saif continued, “Tim says the idea of speaking lines to a crowd is petrifying. I will support that. He wants to be footballer! I think he can be a teacher … a photographer … whatever he wants. He is lucky. He can choose. The same for Jeh. After a good education, you must choose your own path. And it needn’t be the golden road to millions. It can be a peaceful quiet job! An art dealer, perhaps? There must be options beyond our own jobs. But our job is amazing. But you have to feel it, and you have to know how to be happy within the limits you set for yourself.”

That said Sif is happy with his life. “I’m in a place where I feel very happy,” he said. “I could be a bit more organised in what I read and how I learn. My French is still at basic level. I should have been fluent by now. The same with my guitar playing. I’m feeling good … a lot of people have faith in my work… I know what I want to do … how to live … where I want to travel… really good friends and good basic food in a lovely place with atmosphere is a heaven … So I’m excited about the year … pray it continues well, please. Because that’s the main thing. I’m incredibly lucky.”

Also Read: Sara Ali Khan shares heartwarming moments from Saif Ali Khan’s 54th Birthday celebration with family

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Shah Rukh Khan celebrates Independence Day with family at Mannat: “Let’s celebrate our beautiful country India with pride in our hearts”

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan marked India’s 78th Independence Day with a traditional flag-hoisting ceremony at his iconic Mumbai residence, Mannat. Joined by his wife Gauri Khan, daughter Suhana Khan, and son AbRam Khan, the actor celebrated the occasion with patriotic fervor.

A Family Affair Shah Rukh Khan who recently returned from the Locarno Film Festival where he was honored with a prestigious award, was seen sporting a casual yet stylish look for the occasion.

Suhana and Gauri complemented the actor's attire with elegant all-white traditional ensembles, adding to the festive spirit. The family posed for a heartwarming picture with the Indian flag as the backdrop, which Shah Rukh later shared on social media, extending Independence Day wishes to his fans.

 

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As expected, the presence of Shah Rukh Khan at his residence drew a large crowd of eager fans hoping to catch a glimpse of their beloved superstar. The actor graciously acknowledged the crowd's enthusiasm by waving and expressing his gratitude.

 

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Shah Rukh Khan’s Upcoming Projects Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan is currently busy with multiple projects. He is producing the action-drama film King, which also stars his daughter Suhana Khan and Abhishek Bachchan. The actor has described the Sujoy Ghosh directorial as a "massy, emotional film."

Additionally, Shah Rukh has lent his voice to the Hindi version of Disney's live-action film Mufasa: The Lion King. He portrays the adult Mufasa, while his sons Aryan and AbRam voice Simba and young Mufasa, respectively. The film is scheduled for release on December 20.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan reveals why he backed out after Zero flopped; says, “I just didn’t want to act”

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Sushant Singh Rajput case: Mumbai court acquits Australian national in drug probe

A Mumbai court has discharged Australian national Paul Bartels from a drug case linked to the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput. The decision comes as a significant development in the ongoing investigations surrounding the high-profile case.

Insufficient Evidence Leads to Acquittal As per a report by PTI, Bartels, a friend of Agisilaos Demetriades, was arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in November 2020 as part of its probe into alleged drug use within Bollywood. However, after a thorough examination of the case, Special Judge Mahesh Jadhav found insufficient evidence to link Bartels to the drug-related offenses.

The court's order, released recently, highlighted the fact that the primary basis for Bartels' arrest was the statements of co-accused individuals, which are not considered admissible evidence unless corroborated by independent material. Since no such evidence was presented, the court concluded that there were no grounds to proceed with the case against Bartels. Ongoing Investigations It is important to note that this development does not impact the overall investigation into the death of Sushant Singh Rajput. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) continues to probe the circumstances surrounding the actor's demise, which was initially reported as suicide.

The drug angle of the case, which gained significant media attention, has seen several arrests and developments. For the unversed, SSR was found hanging in his apartment in Bandra on June 14, 2020. The CBI is probing the case of his alleged suicide.

Also Read: Adah Sharma opens up on staying in Sushant Singh Rajput’s flat: “I took that flat on rent. Rs. 378 crores earned by The Kerala Story are not mine”

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Stree 2’s mid-night shows added in Mumbai, Thane, Pune and Delhi

The horror-comedy sequel, Stree 2, has taken the box office by storm, with its release on Independence Day. The film, starring Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, has not only opened to a phenomenal response but has also shattered a long-standing box office record.

Midnight Madness Pays Off In an unprecedented move, additional midnight shows for Stree 2 were added in major cities like Mumbai, Thane, Pune, and Delhi just a day after its release. The response to these shows has been nothing short of electric, contributing significantly to the film's overall opening-day collection.

According to early estimates, Stree 2 has raked in a staggering Rs. 42 to 44 crores on its first day. When combined with the paid previews that garnered Rs. 8.50 crore, the film's total opening day collection stands at a monumental Rs. 52.50 crores. Breaking Records This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it surpasses the previous record held by Shah Rukh Khan's Chennai Express. The 2013 blockbuster had created waves by conducting paid preview shows a day before its official release, amassing Rs. 6.75 crores. Stree 2 has not only eclipsed this record but has done so by a considerable margin.

The film's success can be attributed to several factors, including strong word-of-mouth, a loyal fan base, and the effective marketing campaign. Additionally, the decision to introduce midnight shows has proven to be a masterstroke, as it capitalised on the audience's enthusiasm for the film.

With its impressive opening, Stree 2 has positioned itself as one of the biggest hits of the year. The film's box office journey is sure to be closely watched by industry insiders and fans alike.

Also Read: Stree 2 Box Office: Rajkummar Rao – Shraddha Kapoor starrer has record breaking paid previews night, goes past even Chennai Express to emerge as the biggest ever

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Twinkle Khanna joins voices against Kolkata rape and murder: "Don’t go alone because you may never come back”

Former Bollywood actress and author Twinkle Khanna has expressed her deep anguish over the horrific rape and murder of a young woman in Kolkata. The incident has sparked widespread outrage across the country, with celebrities from all walks of life condemning the heinous crime.

A Cry for Justice In a poignant Instagram post, Twinkle Khanna shared her pain and frustration over the prevailing situation for women in India. The author revealed that she has been teaching her daughter the same precautions she herself was taught as a child: to avoid going out alone under any circumstances. Khanna’s heartfelt words highlighted the alarming reality that women continue to face immense fear and insecurity in their daily lives.

“Fifty years on this planet, in this country, and I am teaching my daughter the same things I was taught as a child. Don’t go alone – to the park, to school, to the beach,” read Twinkle’s note. 

 

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Bollywood Stands United Joining Twinkle Khanna in demanding justice, several other Bollywood celebrities have voiced their anger and disappointment over the Kolkata rape and murder case. Kareena Kapoor Khan expressed frustration over the recurring cycle of such incidents and the lack of substantial change. Preity Zinta also condemned the crime, emphasizing the urgent need for stricter laws to protect women.

Kangana Ranaut, known for her outspoken views, called for a CBI probe into the case, highlighting the severity of the crime and the demand for a thorough investigation. Other actresses like Alia Bhatt, Swara Bhasker, and Richa Chadha also joined the chorus of voices calling for justice for the victim.

Also Read: Bollywood stars outraged over Kolkata doctor’s rape and murder: Kareena Kapoor Khan draws parallels to Nirbhaya case

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EXCLUSIVE: Here's why Ananya Panday, Arjun Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, Jimmy Shergill, Aparshakti Khurana, Sunny Singh have been thanked in Khel Khel Mein

Today, as many as three major films have released in cinemas – Stree 2, Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein. All three are of diverse and mass appealing genres and moreover, they have a lot of surprises as well. Yesterday, Bollywood Hungama broke the story that Akshay Kumar has a rocking cameo in Rajkummar Rao-Shraddha Kapoor’s horror comedy Stree 2. In this article, we’ll disclose a pleasantly surprising aspect of the multi-starrer comedy Khel Khel Mein.

In the opening slate, the names of Ananya Panday, Arjun Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, Jimmy Shergill, Aparshakti Khurana and Sunny Singh are mentioned under ‘We Love You’. Many moviegoers would automatically assume that these six actors have special appearances in the film. But that’s not the case. It turns out that these actors have given their voiceovers.

Khel Khel Mein stars Akshay Kumar, Taapsee Pannu, Vaani Kapoor, Fardeen Khan, Ammy Virk, Aditya Seal and Pragya Jaiswal. It is the story of seven friends who play a dangerous game one night – they decide to keep their phones on the table and whoever gets any message or email should be read aloud in front of everyone. And if there's a phone call, it should be answered in speaker mode.

During the course of the film, these protagonists get several phone calls at significant junctures which are answered in such a way that everyone can listen to them. These phone calls add to the drama, humour and tension. And it’s Ananya Panday, Arjun Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, Jimmy Shergill, Aparshakti Khurana and Sunny Singh who have provided voiceovers for these callers.

Have you seen Khel Khel Mein and were you able to guess which actor, out of the aforementioned six names, voiced which character? Do let us know in the comments section!

Khel Khel Mein is directed by Mudassar Aziz of Pati Patni Aur Woh (2019) fame.

Also Read: Khel Khel Mein vs Vedaa: Akshay Kumar on clashing with John Abraham at the box office: “It’s not a big deal”

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Alia Bhatt shares powerful note on prioritizing women's safety in the workplace

The Kolkata rape case of a medical trainee has left the country question workspace safety measures for women, especially for the ones who are required to do late night shifts as a part of their jobs. As many celebrities have taken a stand for the victim and are batting for the improvement of safety measures for women, Alia Bhatt has shared a series of notes wherein she has not only taken a firm stand against rape but has shared data research on the increasing cases of sexual assault in the country.

In the first note she shared on social media, Alia Bhatt said, “Another brutal rape. Another day of realisation that women are not safe, anywhere. Another horrific atrocity to remind us that it's been over a decade since the Nirbhaya tragedy, but still nothing much has changed.” The second note spoke about the statistics and it read, “Let the statistics speak: 30% of India's doctors and 80% of our nursing staff are women. In an environment of growing violence against medical personnel, it's the women who are more vulnerable. Since 2022, there has been a 4% increase in crimes against women, over 20% of which involve rape and assault. Nearly 90 rapes a day were reported in India in 2022. Sources include the National Crime Records Bureau report 2022”.

She further went on to question the safety of women and asked, “How are all of us as women supposed to feel? How are we supposed to go to work or go about our daily lives with this playing on our minds. This horrific incident has once again reminded us that women disproportionately bear the weight of ensuring their own safety.”  “Despite the many crimes and all the women who have suffered, there is no real recourse or hope that things will change. We could not save this young woman, but we can try to prevent it from happening again. My request to the powers that be... - FOCUS on the safety of women. FOCUS on creating safe spaces and increase all avenues of protection. FOCUS on the why. The writing is on the wall, that there is something fundamentally wrong with the way our society currently functions. These repeated inhuman acts towards women prove that there is something wrong at a root level and unless we dig deep and uproot the cause, nothing is going to change!” she added.

She signed off with a concluding statement, “Don't tell women to change their path - change the terrain. Every woman deserves better.” Many of her fans and even industry insiders showcased support to the actress as well as expressed their concerns over the incident.

 

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For the unversed, a second-year medical trainee in Kolkata who decided to take a nap to rest before she gets on with her shift, was found raped and murdered in her workspace and the case continues to be under investigation. This incident sparked a nationwide outrage with many doctors coming on streets to protest this crime and demanding strict action against the criminals, whereas many across the country have raised questions regarding the safety measures given to women at their workspace.

Also Read: Vikram Bhatt on never working with Alia Bhatt: “Our relationship is exclusive and doesn’t involve….”

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BREAKING: Akshay Kumar has a rocking cameo in Stree 2

The much awaited Stree 2 had paid previews from August 14 and has opened to a thunderous response. The word of mouth is unanimously positive and the combination of humour and horror has got thumbs up. At the same time, the film also has some surprises. One of the surprise is that Akshay Kumar has a rocking special appearance.

Without giving out any more details, we can say that Akshay Kumar’s scene is one of the highlights of the film and would be loved by the audience. It is written brilliantly by Niren Bhatt and executed deftly by director Amar Kaushik.

This also means that Akshay Kumar would have two releases this Independence Day. He also plays the lead role in Khel Khel Mein.

Interestingly, two more actors feature in more than one release this Independence Day. Tamannaah Bhatia has lovely special appearance in both Stree 2 as well as Vedaa. As for Abhishek Banerjee, he will be seen as the antagonist in Vedaa while in Stree 2, he plays the funny sidekick.

Stree 2 stars Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, Pankaj Tripathi, Aparshakti Khurana and Abhishek Banerjee in principal roles. It is a sequel to Stree (2018) and is also a part of Maffock Horror Comedy Universe. The other films of this cinematic universe are Bhediya (2022) and Munjya (2024). Varun Dhawan is the lead in Bhediya and its common knowledge by now that he also features in Stree 2.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar starrer Sky Force release postponed; promo not attached to Stree 2

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