Anil Kapoor has had an illustrious career and has delivered several memorable films. One film that stands out in his filmography is Nayak (2001). The political drama didn’t work in cinemas but became a cult film later on. Fans have long demanded a sequel to Nayak and Bollywood Hungama has learned that the plan might finally materialize.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Producer Deepak Mukut of Sanam Teri Kasam (2016) fame held the rights to Nayak. It is said that Anil Kapoor has bought the rights from him. He plans to hold the rights as it’s a film close to his heart. Also, he aspires to make a sequel to it. He is fully aware of the love he has garnered for the film over the years and he also is of the belief that the subject of Nayak has tremendous potential for a second part.”

We contacted Deepak Mukut to find out if he has sold the rights of Nayak to Anil Kapoor but he was unavailable for comment.

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama in March 2024, Deepak Mukut told Bollywood Hungama, “I got the rights from Nayak’s producer, Mr A S Rathnam. I also have the negative rights to his other films like Tejasvini (1994), Dil Hi Dil Mein (1999), etc. It was 10 years ago that I procured these rights.”

Besides Anil Kapoor, Nayak also starred Rani Mukerji, the late Amrish Puri, Paresh Rawal, Saurabh Shukla, Johny Lever, Shivaji Satam, Neena Kulkarni and others. Pooja Batra appeared in a cameo while Sushmita Sen was seen in a song. Written and directed by Shankar, it told the story of a fearless reporter who becomes the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for a day. The changes he brings about in the state in 24 hours make him a national hero.

Also Read: FICCI Frames 2025: Anil Kapoor reacts to Devendra Fadnavis’ comment “Aap Nayak aur hum Nalayak”; also says, “The timing couldn’t be BETTER for Nayak 2”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/4N69bir
via

Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s production powerhouse Excel Entertainment has entered into a strategic partnership with Hollywood giant Universal Studios, signalling a new phase of global collaboration and scale-up for Indian content. Universal Studios has acquired a minority stake in Excel, while the larger share remains with the Indian banner, according to a report by Mid-Day.

What the Partnership Means

Insiders tell Mid-Day that Universal’s minority acquisition is aimed at scaling up Excel’s production capabilities and bringing “big ideas” to life with broader global reach. “Excel wants to expand the scale of its productions going ahead,” shared a source. “There are big ideas in the pipeline.”

Excel Entertainment’s 2025 slate included a diverse mix of films such as 120 Bahadur, Ground Zero, Superboys of Malegaon, and the digital release Songs of Paradise. While these projects garnered critical acclaim, several did not see major box-office success — prompting strategic reassessment and expansion efforts via partnerships like this one.

This collaboration follows a trend of major studios investing in Indian entertainment. Earlier, Adar Poonawalla’s acquisition of a 50% stake in Dharma Productions demonstrated international interest in India’s film powerhouses.

For Akhtar and Sidhwani — whose banner has backed films like Dil Chahta Hai, Don, and acclaimed web series (Inside Edge, Mirzapur) — the Universal tie-up underscores a forward-looking approach to storytelling that blends Indian narratives with global ambitions. The collaboration may also unlock new opportunities for cross-border co-productions and innovative cinematic ventures that appeal to both domestic and international audiences.

Also Read: Kill director Nikhil Bhat makes Hollywood debut with Universal Studios, plans to cast a leading Hollywood star in the action film

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/wzO3N9n
via

A political storm is brewing around Shah Rukh Khan’s IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) after the franchise signed Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The controversial decision has drawn sharp criticism not only from political leaders but also from the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) — which warned that the player’s IPL earnings could potentially be diverted to fund terrorism.

The issue erupted after KKR selected Mustafizur Rahman, the only Bangladeshi cricketer picked in the 2026 IPL auction for Rs 9.2 crores. While some commentators have framed the move as a purely sporting decision, it quickly became a political flashpoint, with critics linking the signing to broader concerns about national security and religious sentiments.

Mumbai, Maharashtra: On KKR buying a Bangladeshi player, Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey says, "...If Shah Rukh Khan removes him from his team, we will all respect him, honor him, and give him due recognition. But if Shah Rukh Khan plays him and earns money, that money… pic.twitter.com/o5s1bAhyYV — IANS (@ians_india) January 1, 2026

On January 1, 2026, Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey issued a warning aimed at Khan — who co-owns KKR — saying that if the club allows Mustafizur Rahman to participate, the earnings he receives in the IPL might be used “to fund terrorism.” Dubey suggested that removing the player from the team could earn respect, but alleged that permitting him to play would pose potential risks.

This is not the first politically charged reaction to KKR’s signing. Earlier, BJP leaders and other figures voiced opposition over Mustafizur’s inclusion, linking it to minority persecution in Bangladesh and broader national sentiments. Some have even called Shah Rukh Khan a “traitor” for supporting foreign players after the killing of Deepu Chandra Das in Bangladesh.

While calling Shahrukh Khan a traitor, UP BJP leader Sangeet Som in a statement said," If a player like Rahman come to India, he will not be able to step out of the airport." pic.twitter.com/4RuhsGYWzJ — Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) December 31, 2025

As the IPL 2026 season approaches, KKR’s roster choice remains a talking point, and reactions from both critics and supporters indicate that discussions will continue on and off the field.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan spotted at Mumbai dubbing studio, fans speculate major King update ahead

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/SmYU7RJ
via

PVR INOX, in association with Yash Raj Films, will re-release Band Baaja Baaraat on January 16, 2026—15 years after its original release on December 10, 2010. Directed by Maneesh Sharma, the film marked the debut of Ranveer Singh and starred Anushka Sharma in a sparkling story of ambition, love, and friendship, set against the vibrant world of Delhi weddings. Produced by Yash Raj Films, Band Baaja Baaraat went on to become a cultural phenomenon, earning both critical acclaim and immense audience love for its youthful, infectious energy, memorable music, and refreshingly new storytelling.

Band Baaja Baaraat reimagined both romance and friendship by situating its protagonists within the frenetic, lived-in world of Delhi weddings. Deeply rooted in local culture and everyday reality, the film had quietly reset the rules of the modern Bollywood love story. It captured an aspirational, entrepreneurial India—young, ambitious, and unapologetically middle-class—with rare warmth and authenticity. Its cultural impact lay in normalising the idea that love could grow out of partnership, equality, and conflict rather than grand destiny alone, while also turning the Indian wedding from a glossy backdrop into a lived-in social ecosystem. Cinematically, it ushered in a new wave of rom-coms grounded in rooted settings, colloquial dialogue, and flawed characters.

Speaking about the re-release, Niharika Bijli, Lead Strategist, PVR INOX, said, “Band Baaja Baaraat is one of those rare films that never loses its charm. It remains fun and immensely relatable, no matter when—or with whom—you watch it. Re-releasing the film is our way of celebrating modern storytelling that continues to resonate across generations. With its timeless music, sharp humour, and deeply lived-in performances, the film captures the spirit of friendship, love, ambition, and life just as it is. We’re excited to bring it back for a new generation to discover its magic on the big screen."

Director of the film, Maneesh Sharma, said, “Band Baaja Baaraat was born from a very simple idea. I had read a magazine piece about young Indian entrepreneurs, and something stayed with me—people with limited resources still stepping out, taking risks, and trying to build something of their own, even on a small scale. That became the seed of the story. It eventually grew into a film about love, friendship, and ambition—authentic, messy, and deeply rooted in the streets we know. Over the years, the film has found a life of its own with audiences across generations, geographies, and different moments in their lives. I am really looking forward to see people loving our film that was made with a lot of heart again on the big screen.”

The re-release of Band Baaja Baaraat is part of PVR INOX’s ongoing initiative to honour exceptional talents and landmark films from India and around the world. By bringing timeless films back to the big screen, PVR INOX not only revives the magic of great cinema but also creates a rare opportunity—for a new generation to discover these cinematic masterpieces and for the generation that grew up with them to relive their nostalgia and charm.

Audiences can experience the joy, music, romance, and celebration of Band Baaja Baaraat once again at PVR INOX cinemas starting January 16, 2026. Booking details and theatre listings will be available soon on the official PVR INOX app and website.

Also Read: 14 Years Of Ranveer Singh: Actor gets nostalgic as he completes 14 years in Bollywood with Band Baaja Baaraat: “When my dreams became a reality”

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/bIohker
via

Bollywood Hungama was one of the first ones to break the news that Sidharth Malhotra has bagged an out-and-out commercial entertainer, which will be produced by Mahaveer Jain's Mahaveer Jain Films. Now, Bollywood Hungama brings to you another exciting update about this film. We have learned that none other than Rajkumar Santoshi is expected to come on board for this film as a director.

A trade source told us, “Rajkumar Santoshi’s forte is not just hard-hitting flicks like Ghayal (1990), Damini (1993), Ghatak (1996), Khakee (2004) etc., but also entertainers like Andaz Apna Apna (1994), Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani (2009) etc. He knows how to make a wholesome entertainer and this film is right up his alley. The discussions are going on with him at an advanced stage.”

Rajkumar Santoshi is currently providing finishing touches to his dream project, Lahore 1947, starring Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta, Shabana Azmi and Ali Fazal. Aamir Khan serves as the film’s producer and he would also feature in the film in a cameo.

Earlier, it was reported that Raaj Shaandilyaa of Dream Girl (2019) fame was expected to come on board as a director. The source further said, “The pre-production is going on in full swing on this film. The makers expect to lock the director soon and they hope Raj ji can don the director’s hat for this film. There’s also a requirement for a senior actor for a crucial role and the makers are in talks for the same.”

The film is written by Sanjeev. Mrighdeep Singh Lamba serves as a producer, being a partner in Mahaveer Jain Films (MJF). Earlier, a source told Bollywood Hungama, “The film has loads of comedy and also has a thrill element. Sidharth excitedly came on board as he knows that it’s a film that’ll present him in a never-before-seen avatar and also expand his fan base. As a result, he’s giving his hundred per cent towards prepping for the role.”

Also Read: SCOOP: Rajkumar Santoshi to direct Sunny Deol in Jaat 2; director paid whopping Rs. 15 cr. as fees

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/gqYXDI9
via

Birthday girl Vidya Balan gets an unexpected gift from Anees Bazmee. She begins shooting for the filmmaker’s next, which also stars Akshay Kumar, from January 15. The shooting will continue till January 20.

After Bhool Bhulaiyaa and Heyy Babyy in 2007, Thank You in 2011 and Mission Mangal in 2019, Vidya Balan and Akshay Kumar are coming together again. Anees Bazmee earlier directed the pair in the comedy Thank You.

On probing the captivating casting, one came to know that Anees would be tapping into Vidya-Akshay’s combined comic capabilities. Everyone knows of Akshay’s impeccable comic timing. But Vidya, who has flaunted a fleeting flair for the funnies in Anees’ Bhool Bhulaiya 3, would be exposing her humour fangs like never before.

Also Read: REVEALED: Akshay Kumar-Vidya Balan-Anees Bazmee film to go on floors on January 19 in Mumbai; Dil Raju clarifies on Sankranthiki Vasthunam remake reports

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/EGgqvMe
via

The year 2026 will begin on a thrilling and erotic note for Indian cinegoers, thanks to the release of The Housemaid. The film released in the West on December 19 and has been appreciated for its subject, twists and turns and performances, especially that of Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried. However, Indian audiences may be disappointed to learn that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has edited out a significant portion of the film’s intimate scenes.

The CBFC awarded The Housemaid an ‘A’ certificate on December 4 after asking for some modifications. The words ‘b***h’, ‘c**t’ and ‘motherf****r’ were muted, as per the recommendations of the Examining Committee. Secondly, the studio partner was asked to delete ‘nudity visuals of women's breasts…whenever it occurs’. As a result, a whopping 8 minutes of screen time have been axed, the longest cut due to censor diktats in recent times.

Bollywood Hungama has learned that a long, intense lovemaking scene involving Sydney Sweeney won’t be available in India. Another similar sequence has also faced cuts. A scene of Amanda Seyfried using a breast pump was also asked to be removed. However, a brief shot showing the buttocks of the male lead, Brandon Sklenar, has been retained.

Despite the cuts, the film’s narrative and erotic nature remain largely unaffected, according to those who saw the censored version. The original run time of The Housemaid was 131.46 minutes, that is, 2 hours, 11 minutes and 46 seconds. After the cuts and inclusion of the anti-smoking ad in the beginning and after the interval, the revised duration of the film in India is 125.46 minutes. In other words, The Housemaid is now 2 hours, 5 minutes and 46 seconds long.

The Housemaid tells the story of a woman on parole who’s desperate to find work. She lands a job as a housemaid at the palatial residence of a wealthy family. All seems well at first, but she slowly realizes that her life could be in danger while working for them.

from Latest Bollywood News | Hindi Movie News | Hindi Cinema News | Indian Movies | Films - Bollywood Hungama https://ift.tt/QI25v1N
via