Actor and Bigg Boss 19 winner Gaurav Khanna has finally reacted to the ongoing speculation surrounding his personal life after his wife, Akanksha Chamola, made a startling revelation on the stage of Lock Upp Season 2. Before entering the reality show's prison, Akanksha claimed that she and Gaurav have been living separately for over a year and are currently in the process of getting divorced, leaving fans surprised.

Amid the buzz surrounding their relationship, Gaurav has chosen to focus on extending his support to Akanksha and her participation in the reality show. The actor was recently spotted outside the sets of the comedy-cooking reality show Laughter Chefs, where paparazzi asked him about how he has been coping with the ongoing attention around his personal life. Responding to the questions, Gaurav said, “Bas yaar, wahi yaar jo pehle tha wahi haal hai abhi bhi. Pyaar abhi bhi utna hai, support abhi bhi utna hai… Main toh humesha support karunga Akanksha ko, meri biwi hai yaar. Pyaar kiya toh piche kyu hatu?(I'm the same as I was before. The love is still the same, and the support is still the same. I will always support Akanksha; she's my wife. If I've loved her, why would I step back now?)”

When a paparazzo further remarked, “Bhai lekin controversy bahut jyada hogayi hai (Brother, but the controversy has become too big),” Gaurav maintained his stance and replied, “All the very best to Akanksha for life. Main humesha uske sath khada hu aur usko support kar raha hu. Vo acha khele aur jeet ke aaye (I will always stand by her and support her. I hope she plays well and returns as the winner).”

Gaurav's comments come shortly after Akanksha's revelation on Lock Upp Season 2, where she stated that the couple has been living separately for more than a year and is heading towards a divorce after nearly a decade of marriage. Her statement quickly became a major talking point on social media, with fans expressing shock over the development.

The revelation has also led many to revisit the timeline of their relationship, particularly questioning whether the couple was already facing difficulties when Gaurav was inside the Bigg Boss house last year. Adding to the speculation, several social media users pointed out that despite Akanksha's claims of separation, the couple had shared multiple affectionate photos and videos together during the first few months of 2026. Their posts included romantic moments, playful proposal-themed videos, love confessions and kisses, prompting many to wonder whether the contrasting narratives were part of a publicity strategy or simply reflected a more complex personal situation.

While speculation around their relationship continues online, Gaurav Khanna has made it clear that he intends to support Akanksha publicly, wishing her well for her journey on Lock Upp Season 2 and reiterating that his support for her remains unchanged.

Also Read: Gaurav Khanna clarifies Bigg Boss 19 prize money confusion; says old vlog comment was ‘blown out of proportion’

Ranveer Singh's much-anticipated film Pralay is reportedly gearing up to begin production later than initially expected. While an earlier report published in May suggested that the actor would start shooting for the film in August 2026, a fresh update now claims that the project will go on floors in September, with a major portion of the shoot scheduled to take place in Australia.

Directed by Jai Mehta, Pralay is expected to be one of Ranveer Singh's most ambitious projects to date, introducing audiences to a large-scale post-apocalyptic zombie thriller set in a dystopian version of Mumbai. Ranveer Singh reportedly begins preparations According to a report by Pinkvilla, Ranveer Singh has already started preparing for the physically and emotionally demanding role. The actor is said to be undergoing extensive training ahead of the film's production.

A source told the entertainment portal, "Ranveer will start shooting for the Jai Mehta directorial in the second half of 2026. The shoot is planned in Australia, and he has already kick-started prep. This is a film that requires intense physical and emotional preparation, given the scale and genre."

The report suggests that the actor has been actively involved in the development process as the makers continue refining the project before cameras begin rolling. Pre-production underway in Australia The report further states that pre-production is currently underway in Australia, where director Jai Mehta and his team are collaborating with technicians who have previously worked on international productions. The makers are reportedly focusing on creating the film's expansive post-apocalyptic setting, with visual effects expected to play a major role in bringing the zombie world to life.

In addition to the technical preparations, the writing team is said to be fine-tuning the screenplay while continuing to develop the film's larger zombie universe. A survival story set in dystopian Mumbai As per reports, Pralay is set in a dystopian version of Mumbai and revolves around a married couple fighting to survive during a zombie outbreak. The film is expected to offer a fresh take on the zombie genre in Indian cinema, blending large-scale action with emotional storytelling.

The female lead, however, has not yet been officially announced. Earlier reports had suggested that actress Kalyani Priyadarshan, daughter of filmmaker Priyadarshan, could make her Bollywood debut opposite Ranveer Singh in the film. However, the makers are yet to confirm the casting.

Also Read: Ranveer Singh’s Pralay to begin filming in August amid FWICE non-cooperation directive: Report

Filmmaker Priyadarshan has confirmed that he is not associated with Hera Pheri 3, shortly after producer Firoz Nadiadwala clarified that the veteran director is not involved in the much-awaited comedy sequel. While Nadiadwala maintained that the project is progressing in the right direction, Priyadarshan offered a more cautious outlook, stating that the film's future remains uncertain due to legal and personal issues.

Firoz Nadiadwala says Priyadarshan is not part of the film During an interview with Variety India, producer Firoz Nadiadwala was asked about Priyadarshan's reported association with Hera Pheri 3. Dismissing the speculation, he said, "No, Priyadarshan is not part of it." Sharing an update on the film's progress, the producer added, "Things are on track and moving in the right direction."

Hera Pheri 3 has witnessed several delays and changes in direction over the years, leading to frequent speculation surrounding its development. While Nadiadwala's remarks suggest that the project is moving ahead, the makers are yet to announce details regarding the shooting schedule or release date. Priyadarshan confirms his exit Reacting to Nadiadwala's statement, Priyadarshan confirmed that he is currently not involved with the film. Speaking to Hindustan Times, the filmmaker said, "What Feroze has said, is true. I am not associated with Hera Pheri 3 at the present."

He further expressed doubts about whether the film would eventually be made. "To the best of my knowledge, Hera Pheri 3 will never hit the screen due to lots of legal issues and personal conflicts. Whether I am involved or not is unimportant," Priyadarshan said.

The Hera Pheri franchise has undergone several creative shifts over the years. The original Hera Pheri, released in 2000, was directed by Priyadarshan and went on to become one of Hindi cinema's most loved comedy films. Its sequel, Phir Hera Pheri (2006), was directed by the late Neeraj Vora.

In 2018, filmmaker Indra Kumar was officially announced as the director of Hera Pheri 3. However, he later exited the project. This was followed by reports suggesting that Priyadarshan would return to direct the third instalment, sparking excitement among fans of the franchise.

Also Read: Firoz Nadiadwala confirms Hera Pheri 3 is happening ‘very soon’; opens up about Welcome To The Jungle, “We can guarantee effort, not result”

Actor Kareena Kapoor Khan has entered into a new association with luxury automobile brand MINI. The company announced that the Bollywood star has joined the MINI family and become a part of the MINI Inner Circle, marking the beginning of her journey with the MINI Countryman C.

The announcement brings together one of India's most recognised film personalities with a brand known for its distinctive design and driving experience. According to MINI, the partnership reflects a shared identity built around confidence, individuality and style. Sharing the news on social media, MINI wrote, "What happens when two icons with a bold personality share one frame? The real fun begins.”

Their caption further read, “We're thrilled to welcome @KareenaKapoorKhan into the MINI inner circle as she finds her perfect companion in the MINI Countryman C, the SUV of MINI. More space. More character. Unmistakable MINI attitude 👏 / A partnership built on individuality.”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by MINI (@mini)

The newly released campaign images feature Kareena posing alongside the green MINI Countryman C in a tailored monochrome outfit, reflecting the premium positioning of both the actor and the vehicle. Kareena Kapoor Khan gears up for Daayra On the professional front, Kareena Kapoor Khan is preparing for the release of her upcoming film Daayra. The makers recently announced that the Meghna Gulzar directorial will arrive in cinemas on September 18, 2026. The film also stars Prithviraj Sukumaran and is backed by Junglee Pictures and Pen Studios.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Kareena Kapoor Khan (@kareenakapoorkhan)

Daayra marks Meghna Gulzar's third collaboration with Junglee Pictures after the critically acclaimed films Talvar and Raazi.

Also Read: Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, Kiara Advani, and Bhumi Pednekkar show how to ace the corset look

CineNow, the pioneering film and entertainment investment platform, today announced that acclaimed media entrepreneur, producer and industry leader Siddharth Roy Kapur has associated with the company as Principal Advisor to the Founding Team.

As CineNow advances its Rs 1,350-crores structured Film IP investment platform, Siddharth Roy Kapur will provide strategic guidance on content investment opportunities, industry partnerships, platform expansion and long-term value creation. His association with CineNow marks an important milestone in the company’s journey to establish film and content intellectual property as a credible institutional asset class while building the financial infrastructure for the next phase of growth in India’s entertainment industry.

Commenting on the development, Rohit Dalmia, Chairman and Managing Director, CineNow, said: "India’s media and entertainment industry is entering a defining decade. Consumption has scaled dramatically, content is increasingly becoming a global asset, and intellectual property is emerging as one of the most valuable forms of long-term value creation. However, the financial infrastructure around content remains underdeveloped. CineNow was created to bridge that gap by bringing transparency, governance, institutional capital and disciplined investment frameworks to the sector."

He further added, "We are privileged to have Siddharth Roy Kapur associated with CineNow as Principal Advisor to our Founding Team. His unparalleled experience across content creation, studio leadership and media entrepreneurship, combined with his deep understanding of audience behaviour and industry evolution, makes him one of the most respected voices in Indian entertainment. His strategic counsel will be invaluable as we continue building India’s most credible platform for entertainment investments."

Speaking on his association with CineNow, Siddharth Roy Kapur said: "The Indian entertainment industry is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by expanding audiences, multiple distribution platforms and the increasing strategic importance of intellectual property. As the sector matures, innovative and well-governed capital solutions will play an important role in unlocking its next phase of growth. CineNow is building a unique platform at the intersection of content, capital and technology, and I am pleased to support the Founding Team as Principal Advisor and contribute to the company’s long-term vision."

Siddharth Roy Kapur brings decades of leadership experience across content creation, studio management and media entrepreneurship. Widely recognised for building and backing some of India’s most successful entertainment ventures, he is regarded as one of the foremost leaders in India’s media and entertainment industry. His insights into content economics, audience evolution and industry transformation will help guide CineNow’s strategic thinking as the company expands its engagement with creators, producers, investors and rights holders.

Also Read: Siddharth Roy Kapur credits Nagraj Manjule for Matka King’s authentic period detailing

Acclaimed filmmaker SS Rajamouli is gearing up to resume shooting for Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran. As per the latest buzz, the production is scheduled to intensify starting July 7 in Hyderabad. The upcoming schedule will focus on filming one of the most demanding and significant segments of the movie: a massive war set-piece.

Hyderabad set to host a Varanasi battle sequence According to a report by Mid-Day, the scale of this specific sequence is completely unprecedented, surpassing even the grand standards previously established by Rajamouli. The sequence will feature the film's leading man, Mahesh Babu, alongside a massive crowd of 3,500 junior artists. Preparations for this complex shoot have already been underway for several weeks to ensure everything runs smoothly.

The reports of resuming the shoot come after the filmmaker captivated global audiences at La Cinémathèque Française in Paris. On June 27, he showcased the very first glimpse of the highly anticipated film. The exclusive preview of Varanasi marked the movie's debut presentation to a European audience, earning widespread applause and raising anticipation to new heights.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by SS Rajamouli (@ssrajamouli)

Digital expansion to create an epic Vanar army While the physical shoot involving thousands of performers is a massive undertaking, it is only the foundation for what will eventually appear on the big screen. The report stated that the true ambition of the sequence will be realized during post-production.

The thousands of live-action performers filmed on set will be digitally expanded using advanced visual effects. Through VFX technology, the on-screen army will be multiplied significantly to create a battle of epic proportions. The production team aims to deliver one of the largest battle spectacles ever attempted in the history of Indian cinema, with plans to showcase an astonishing 50,000 vanars on screen simultaneously.

Varanasi is being shaped as a grand mythological action epic. The narrative explores the thrilling adventures of its protagonist as he travels across different timelines. Alongside Mahesh Babu, the film features a stellar ensemble cast including Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj in pivotal roles. Audiences will have to wait a bit longer to see the final visual spectacle, as the movie is currently slated to hit theatres in April 2027.

Also Read: S.S. Rajamouli shares Varanasi update: “We have completed major portions, all the important big spectacle action sequences are done”

On June 29, 2026, Yash Raj Films (YRF) announced a strategic investment in Rusk Media, one of India’s leading digital-first entertainment companies that specialises in original vertical storytelling IPs for Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences. The investment backs Rusk Media’s vision to build the next generation of enduring digital IP for India and the world.

Under the partnership, YRF will oversee the creative direction of original animation and vertical micro-drama IP, while Rusk Media will produce and distribute the content through its proprietary Alright! TV platform and global digital channels.

The collaboration aims at fuelling YRF & Rusk Media’s shared ambition of establishing India as a creative force in the vertical entertainment economy through original IPs across animation and vertical micro-drama, distributed across Rusk Media’s proprietary Alright! TV platform and global digital channels.

Akshaye Widhani, CEO, Yash Raj Films, said: “The instinct to evolve has always been central to YRF’s DNA. Platforms are infrastructure, content and IP are culture. Mayank and his team at Rusk Media have built a deep understanding of how the next generation discovers and inhabits stories, and that is exactly the kind of vision we want to invest in . Together, the aspiration is to build worlds, not just content.”

Mayank Yadav, Co-Founder and CEO, Rusk Media, said: “Vertical entertainment in India has produced extraordinary reach, but not the enduring IP that defines a category. That is the gap this collaboration is designed to close. We bring a native understanding of how digitally native audiences discover and build community around content, and with YRF’s backing, we are building for longevity, not the algorithm.”

As the boundaries between cinema, digital, and mobile entertainment continue to dissolve, the franchises that will define the next decade will be those built with both creative depth and digital fluency, and Rusk Media is building for exactly that future. ‎

Also Read: Yash Raj Films Box Office Report Card 2025: Rs. 522.91 cr. India nett, $29.18M overseas and Rs. 882.45 cr. worldwide – Saiyaara saves the scorecard while War 2 turns spoiler