Umesh Shukla has been a popular name among Gujarati audiences for several years and since 2012, he has also enjoyed nationwide popularity. That was the year when OMG Oh My God, an adaptation of his cult Gujarati play Kanji Viruddh Kanji, was made as a Bollywood film. Starring Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar, the devotional courtroom drama emerged as a sleeper super-hit. Six years later, he made 102 Not Out (2018), an adaptation of the Gujarati play of the same name. The film adaptation, starring Amitabh Bachchan and Rishi Kapoor, was also a success. And now, Umesh Shukla is all set to adapt yet another of his acclaimed plays for the big screen – Madhuri vs Dixit.

Madhuri vs Dixit is a Hindi play and its premiere took place on April 26 in Mumbai. Interestingly, it was earlier staged in Gujarati, with the title Madhuri Dixit. It stars Riddhi Shukla and Jaideep Shah in leading roles. Interestingly, the former is also the wife of Umesh Shukla. Unnati Gala and Harshad Patel feature in supporting parts. Umesh Shukla has penned the adapted screenplay and is also one of the producers of the play, along with Chetan Gandhi and Saumya Joshi. Madhuri vs Dixit as well as Madhuri Dixit is directed by Swapnil Baraskar.

Umesh Shukla spoke exclusively with Bollywood Hungama and began by revealing the premiere experience. He said, “Paresh Rawal, Dilip Joshi and many others gave very positive video bytes. The premiere yesterday was zabardast. Kya show tha; it was electrifying!”

Umesh then confirmed that the script is in its final stages. When asked if the film will feature the same cast or different actors, he replied, “I plan to have the same cast, mostly. I first plan to make it as a Gujarati film and then I’ll see whether I want to make it in Hindi. The other alternative is to make it bilingual in Hindi and Gujarati.” He also revealed, “This would be my first Gujarati film.”

Umesh Shukla continued, “We did 149 shows of Madhuri Dixit in Gujarati. For the landmark 150th show, we launched the Hindi version as Madhuri vs Dixit. Now, I’ll stage both the Hindi and Gujarati versions of the play parallelly. The Hindi version is far sharper.”

This reminds one of Kanji Viruddh Kanji, which also had versions in multiple languages. Umesh Shukla confirmed, “Yes. In fact, it used to run in three languages – Kanji Viruddh Kanji in Gujarati, Keshava Madhava in Marathi and Kishan vs Kanhaiya in Hindi.”

Will the film also be titled Madhuri vs Dixit? Umesh Shukla replied, “Indeed. That is what the title of the film would be.”

Lastly, when asked if noted actress Madhuri Dixit has seen the play, Umesh Shukla said, “She was busy shooting yesterday and couldn’t attend the premiere. Our next show is at ISKCON Auditorium, Mumbai on May 9. I’ll be inviting her again and I hope she can make it this time. I am in touch with her team and she’s aware of the play.”

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Bharat Kapoor, known for his extensive work in Hindi cinema across several decades, passed away in Mumbai on Monday at the age of 80. The veteran actor reportedly breathed his last at Sion Hospital in the afternoon after facing health complications in recent days.

Reportedly, Bharat Kapoor had been unwell for the last few days and was undergoing treatment. His condition worsened due to multiple organ-related complications. His last rites were held later in the evening in the presence of family members, friends, and members of the film fraternity.

Actor Avtar Gill confirmed the news and shared details about Kapoor’s final hours. Speaking about the loss, he told India Today, “I just came from the cremation, it was done at 6:30 pm. He died at 3pm today in Sion Hospital, Mumbai. He was not feeling well from last three days. From last three days his multiple organs started failing.”

Bharat Kapoor was a recognizable presence in Hindi films, particularly through the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. While he may not always have played central roles, he built a respected career with memorable supporting performances. He was often cast in authoritative characters such as police officers, lawyers, businessmen, and antagonists, bringing a distinct screen presence to each role.

Over the years, he appeared in several notable films that remain popular with audiences. His filmography includes Noorie, Ram Balram, Love Story, Bazaar, Ghulami, Aakhree Raasta, Satyamev Jayate, Swarg, Khuda Gawah and Rang.

Also Read: Asha Bhosle dies at 92; last rites to be held tomorrow

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The Karnataka High Court has accepted Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh’s unconditional apology in the controversy linked to his alleged mimicry of a character from Kantara: Chapter 1 during a public event last year. The court orally indicated that it is likely to dispose of the matter after taking note of the revised affidavit filed by the actor.

The case was heard before Justice M. Nagaprasanna, where senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, appearing for Ranveer Singh, informed the court that a fresh affidavit had been submitted without any conditions attached. According to the counsel, the actor had also undertaken to visit the concerned temple as a mark of respect.

The controversy began after an FIR was registered against Singh over remarks made during the 56th International Film Festival of India held in Goa. During the event, the actor was accused of mimicking a character associated with Kantara: Chapter 1 and allegedly referring to the Chamundeshwari temple deity in an objectionable manner. The complaint claimed that the remarks hurt religious sentiments and offended a deeply held belief system.

During the hearing, complainant Prashant Methel reportedly told the court that the issue was not just a legal dispute but one involving faith and community sentiment. Responding to this, the court observed that this was one reason it had not stayed the FIR earlier.

The bench also indicated that while closing the case, it may record Singh’s commitment to visit the temple within the next four weeks. The complainant further argued that public figures should treat such matters seriously and that celebrities should not take faith-related sensitivities lightly.

The court noted that it would issue an order while recording the contents of the affidavit. It also remarked that a cautionary observation may be made in the matter.

Earlier this month, Ranveer Singh had informed the court that he was willing to coordinate with the complainant regarding the language of his apology after concerns were raised that his previous affidavit did not reflect genuine remorse. The actor had approached the High Court seeking quashing of the FIR filed under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to promoting disharmony and hurting religious feelings.

With the court now taking note of the unconditional apology, the matter appears to be heading toward closure.

Also Read: Ranveer Singh teams up with adidas Originals to launch India-inspired Superstar sneaker

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Actor Riteish Deshmukh has strongly reacted to controversial remarks made by spiritual leader Bageshwar Baba about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The statement triggered backlash online, with many expressing anger over the portrayal of the revered Maratha warrior king. Riteish, who is set to portray Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in his upcoming historical film Raja Shivaji, also joined the criticism and shared a powerful response on social media.

The controversy began after Bageshwar Baba claimed in a speech that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had grown tired of fighting wars and once placed his crown before Ramdas Swami, asking him to take charge of the kingdom while he rested. The remarks were widely criticised by many who felt they misrepresented history and undermined Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy.

Responding to the issue, Riteish took to X, formerly Twitter, and posted a message in Marathi. Expressing his views as a devotee and admirer of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the actor strongly objected to what he described as distorted statements.

Translated into English, Riteish wrote that when someone spreads false and twisted claims about a beloved figure like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, it is unacceptable and deeply angering for every Shiv-bhakt and Shiv-premi. He added that attempts to diminish such a towering legacy would never succeed.

He further stated that just as the Sahyadri mountain ranges have stood strong for millions of years, the name of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj would continue to inspire generations for crores of years to come. He described the Maratha ruler as the pride of the Kshatriya lineage, the Lord of the Throne, and the Emperor of Emperors.

कोणीतरी येतो आणि आपल्या आराध्य दैवताबद्दल काहीतरी विकृत बरळतो, एक शिवप्रेमी-शिवभक्त म्हणून हे अमान्य आणि संतापजनक आहे. असले चौकटीत अडकवण्याचे फोल प्रयत्न काळाच्या उदरात गडप होतील. पण सह्याद्रीच्या पर्वतरांगा जशा लाखो वर्ष आधी होत्या तसंच ‘ते’ एकच नाव करोडो वर्ष भविष्यातही राहील.… — Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) April 26, 2026

Meanwhile, the actor is preparing for the release of Raja Shivaji, one of the most anticipated historical dramas of the year. In the film, Riteish essays the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The project is backed by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under the Mumbai Film Company banner and presented by Jio Studios.

Scheduled to release in theatres on May 1, Raja Shivaji will focus on the early life of the legendary ruler, tracing his dream of Swarajya and his resistance against powerful empires. The film also features an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Bhagyashree, Mahesh Manjrekar, and Boman Irani.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Riteish Deshmukh explains cinema cannot be limited to one format after Dhurandhar success; says, “You cannot blind yourself to the changes”

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Actor Shanaya Kapoor, who made an impressive debut with Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan, followed it up with yet another standout performance this year—this time in a role vastly different from her first. Teaming up with director Bejoy Nambiar for Tu Yaa Main opposite Adarsh Gourav, Shanaya earned widespread appreciation for her portrayal of influencer Avnee, with audiences particularly praising her screen presence, performance range, and crackling chemistry with Adarsh.

One of her dialogues from the film—“Tu yedi ho gayi kya, bachi?”—has especially struck a chord online, quickly turning into a fan-favourite pop culture moment and finding its way into memes, reels, and internet conversations.

Following its theatrical run, Tu Yaa Main premiered on Netflix a few days ago and has continued to build momentum ever since. The film has been trending strongly on the platform, even reaching the No. 1 spot in India, while also charting in several international markets. Clips featuring Shanaya’s scenes have been widely shared across social media, resonating with both pop culture audiences and cinema enthusiasts alike, and drawing consistently positive reactions.

Even two weeks after its streaming debut, Tu Yaa Main remains in the Top 10 films across 12 countries, with love for the film—and especially for its lead performances—only continuing to grow.

What stands out most, however, is Shanaya Kapoor’s unconventional script journey. From the romantic intensity of Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan to the edgy, contemporary world of Tu Yaa Main, her choices reflect a willingness to experiment rather than follow a predictable launch blueprint. In an industry often driven by safe debut vehicles and formulaic career moves, Shanaya appears to be carving her own lane—breaking the launch playbook and choosing the road less travelled.

Also Read: Shanaya Kapoor shuts down age, height difference talk: “It’s not about proving anyone wrong”

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Actor-entrepreneur Kriti Sanon is no longer serving as the Chief Customer Officer of her skincare brand Hyphen, the company confirmed in a recent statement. The development comes nearly three years after the brand’s launch in 2023, during which Kriti had been closely associated with its positioning and outreach.

The announcement was made through Hyphen’s official social media handle on April 24. In its statement, the brand acknowledged the significance of the decision and described it as part of a broader transition. “This is not a statement we make lightly. After careful study, we believe that this should be addressed honestly. The road ahead represents a tremendous transition. Certain painful but important decisions were taken. With that, we publicly announce that Kriti Sanon is no longer functioning as our Chief Customer Officer,” the statement read.

The update quickly gained traction online, with users expressing a mix of surprise and curiosity about the move. Given Kriti Sanon’s visible involvement in the brand since its inception, the change has raised questions about what it could mean for the company’s future direction.

 

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Among those reacting to the news was entrepreneur Parul Gulati, who shared her perspective in support of the actor. “She was never a customer officer.... She is the brand herself…. 😍 we love @kritisanon way too much,” she commented, echoing sentiments expressed by several fans across social media platforms.

While the company has confirmed the leadership change, it has not provided additional details about the reasons behind the decision or what Kriti Sanon’s role, if any, will be going forward. The term “transition” mentioned in the statement suggests internal restructuring, though specifics remain undisclosed at this stage.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon opens up on success formula: “It’s always a combination of hard work, talent and destiny”

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Sunny Deol is set to collaborate with Excel Entertainment for a new film that is currently in development. While the makers have not officially shared details about the project, early information suggests that it is being planned on a notable scale.

According to a source close to the development, “Sunny Deol is gearing up for a massive with Excel Entertainment, high-concept project that could redefine his big-screen presence. While the makers are keeping details tightly under wraps, insiders hint at an ambitious scale and powerful backing already in motion. The film has the potential to become one of his most impactful and talked-about ventures yet."

At present, the nature of the film, including its genre, storyline, and supporting cast, remains undisclosed. The production house is known for backing a range of projects across genres, and this collaboration adds another title to its upcoming slate.

Sunny Deol, who has continued to maintain a strong presence in Hindi cinema, is expected to bring his established screen persona to the project. Meanwhile, Excel Entertainment has built a reputation for producing films and series that balance commercial appeal with distinct storytelling.

Also Read: SCOOP: Sunny Deol-Aamir Khan-Rajkumar Santoshi’s Lahore 1947 likely to be renamed Batwara 1947

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