The second season of The Traitors has started with high drama, unexpected eliminations and accusations among the contestants. Hosted by Karan Johar, the reality show returned with its first three episodes, introducing viewers to a game filled with suspicion and betrayal. Comedian Munawar Faruqui became one of the biggest talking points after he was eliminated during the first Circle of Shaq.

During the first round, Munawar openly accused Mallika Sherawat of being a traitor. However, his strategy raised suspicions among several contestants, who felt that he was behaving like a traitor himself. As the voting began, Munawar received the highest number of votes and was eliminated from the game.

The actual traitors at that point were Kullu, Krystle D’Souza and Harman Singha, while Shahneel Gill was later recruited as the fourth traitor in the second episode.

After his elimination, Munawar addressed the contestants and said that he had expected to be targeted. He said, “I had expected this to happen to me. I knew I would have to face it. This often happens to me. It is not the first time. This is not the first time that I have been targeted.”

He further accused the contestants of acting out of insecurity, adding, “Call me a soft target or someone too good to be there. I can clearly see through the insecurities of other people, and you will see how end up looking. Because your insecurities will be visible.”

When Karan Johar asked Munawar to reveal whether he was a traitor or an innocent, the comedian appeared emotional and strongly reacted. “F*** off, guys! I was playing the game! I wanted to play it well! I am an innocent! F*** off, insecure bunch of people. They thought I would eat them up here. They are all scared. Now recognise who is the one amongst you,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dalip Tahil became the first contestant to leave the game after receiving the least number of gold coins, while Karan Singh Magic became the first contestant to be murdered by the traitors. The Traitors Season 2 is streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

Also Read : Samay Raina roasts Munawar Faruqui’s second marriage by comparing him with Aamir Khan: “Aamir sir jaise game toh Munawar ne khela hai”

In February, Bollywood Hungama exclusively revealed that Priyadarshan’s 2006 comedy Malamaal Weekly is getting a sequel. Since then, we have been regularly updating about the film and we recently also unveiled the leading female cast, which includes Parineeti Chopra, Raveena Tandon and Shilpa Shirodkar. Now, we can reveal the male leads of the project.

Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that Riteish Deshmukh, Elvish Yadav, Paresh Rawal and Rajpal Yadav have been locked for Malamaal Weekly 2. Though Riteish is leading the film, sources close to the production have said that he is still reading the script and is yet to sign on the dotted line. The sequel is moving ahead with the original trio of Riteish, Paresh and Rajpal returning for the leads, along with Elvish Yadav joining as a new casting addition to the principal cast. Yadav is a popular YouTube content creator and the winner of Big Boss OTT Season 2 (2023), and this film will mark his second Bollywood outing following his debut with Tiger Shroff and Remo D'Souza's upcoming action drama. All the actors have verbally been confirmed, with the formal paperwork currently underway.

Malamaal Weekly 2 will feature a completely new storyline. However, it will retain the core thematic flavour of the original — a group of ordinary people in a small town, driven by poverty, greed and the prospect of sudden wealth, finding themselves caught in an increasingly chaotic situation. Amit Joshi, who co-directed Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon's robotic rom-com Teri Baton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, has been brought on board to helm this film. He's currently fine-tuning the script, with plans to take it into production by November 2026.

Released in 2006, Malamaal Weekly was a box office success and was remade in three Southern languages, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam, with Priyadarshan himself directing the Malayalam adaptation. The comedy revolved around Lilaram, a lottery ticket seller and the only literate villager. After one of his customers dies from the shock of winning a lottery, he hatches a plan to have that money all for himself. However, others from the village have also got their eyes on the money, leading to chaotic greed and comedic rivalry among the villagers. Malamaal Weekly 2 is expected to retain the comic spirit of the original while delivering a full-fledged comedy of errors for audiences.

Also Read: MEGA EXCLUSIVE: Raveena Tandon and Parineeti Chopra join the cast of Malamaal Weekly 2

For newcomer Nitish Sharma, his journey to Nitesh Tiwari’s much-awaited Ramayana took an unexpected turn. After facing several rejections and being replaced in a major film, Sharma auditioned for the role of Lakshman. Although he did not eventually get the part, his performance impressed the filmmaker, who offered him the role of Shatrughn in the epic.

In an exclusive conversation with Mid-Day, Nitish opened up about his journey, working with Ranbir Kapoor and the criticism surrounding the film’s casting. Recalling the difficult phase that eventually led him to Ramayana, Nitish said that he had gone through hundreds of auditions before finally landing a major role in a big film in 2023. However, he was later replaced by a senior actor. The setback left him disappointed, but he found comfort in reading the Ramcharitmanas.

“I was trying to find peace by reading the sacred book. When I was reading the Bharat Milap scene, I received a call from Mukesh Chhabra's office saying that Nitesh Tiwari was making a pilot film of Ramayana and they wanted to test me for Lakshman. So I did,” he recalled.

During the audition, Nitish was asked to perform scenes as Lakshman before Nitesh Tiwari asked him to play Ram. His performance impressed the director, who assured him that he would be part of the main film. Nitish was eventually cast as Shatrughn, while Lakshman is being played by Ravie Dubey.

Explaining why he was not selected as Lakshman, Nitish said, “For the actual film, it was clear that in every character there would be big stars. And in such a big-scale movie, there are many things involved. But I have zero complaints about it.”

Nitish also spoke about his experience of working with Ranbir Kapoor, who plays Lord Ram. He praised the actor’s humility and professionalism, particularly the way he continued giving cues to co-stars even after finishing his own scenes.

“Whenever we were shooting together, the way he gave all the cues to me, even when his scene was over, was amazing. He always gives his cues by himself to every actor, no matter if it is 10 times, 12 times or 15 times. He treats everyone with humility,” he said.

Addressing criticism of Ranbir’s casting, Nitish said, “It is actually very sad that people judge someone by just one look. Ranbir is the greatest actor we have in this industry right now. After watching the movie, I am telling you, they will praise Ranbir as Ram. No one could have done it better than RK.”

He also defended Sai Pallavi, who plays Sita, amid criticism of her appearance and casting. “Sai, she looks divine in real life. She is the best casting for Sita. There are many trolls about her as well. But that is how a 99 per cent Indian beauty looks like,” he said.

Nitish remains confident that Ramayana will connect strongly with audiences. “I am very sure that Ramayana will create magic once again, just like it did in 1987 with Ramanand Sagar,” he concluded.

Also Read : BREAKING: EXCLUSIVE footage of Ramayana to be screened at Big Cine Expo 2026, Chennai; Rakesh Roshan to receive Special Achievement Award

As Sara Ali Khan celebrates her birthday, it is the perfect moment to revisit the sartorial choices that continue to define her fashion identity. She carries a poise, a refined synthesis of classic lineage and a sharp contemporary focus. In her recent style choices, Khan moves beyond traditional fashion tropes, embracing structural silhouettes, precise proportions and an intentional balance between restraint and high-octane glamour. Across five defining looks, her wardrobe emerges as a masterclass in modern sartorial authority, seamlessly transitioning from cool architectural minimalism to fiery, tailored statements.

Diana’s Revenge Dress Constructed with an off-the-shoulder, structured boat neckline, this architectural gown features short capped sleeves resting just below the collarbone, revealing an exposed neck and shoulder line. The fitted bodice extends past the hip into a draped peplum accent before falling into an asymmetrical high-low hemline that flows into a subtle rear train, all rendered in an ink-black satin weave. The strength lies in the interplay between structured weight and liquid movement; by pairing the heavy satin frame with a statement diamond-and-sapphire choker, pointed black pumps, and a sleek low-slung chignon, the ensemble creates a strong vertical line that echoes classic European high-fashion codes.

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Sculpted Monochromatic Layering A three-piece tailored study in warm ivory, cream, and champagne nude accents, featuring a high, mandarin-collar jacket worn open over a textured high-neck top constructed with horizontal sheer and pearl-beaded striping. The sleeveless inner turtleneck offers coverage up to the chin, counterbalanced by a fitted, high-waisted mini skirt and long, slim-cut sleeves on the outerwear to complete the clean geometric lines. Monochrome works best when textures collide, and here, the soft weave of the outer jacket plays against the linear, pearl-encrusted inner mesh, while pointed embellished heels and a high ponytail elongate the frame for an effortless, sharp aesthetic.

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Modern Noir & Drapery A floor-length column gown defined by a draped cowl high neckline and sheer mesh short sleeves, finished in a matte black canvas with pops of silver and a muted blue watch strap. The top bodice combines delicate, semi-transparent paneling with draped jersey fabric that gathers tightly around the waist, falling into a straight, fluid floor-length skirt. The contrast between sheer technical mesh and soft, heavy draping creates an intriguing tactile balance, while keeping the neckline high and the silhouette extended down to the floor allows the texture play on the torso to take center stage alongside an undone updo and subtle drop earrings.

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Striated Crimson Tailoring A strapless, wide-leg jumpsuit engineered with a structured sweetheart neckline and built-in boning through the bodice, set in a deep crimson red with fine vertical white pinstripes. The sleeveless cut leaves the shoulders bare, balancing the dramatic volume of the relaxed, wide-leg trousers that sweep down over strappy sandals. Pinstripes are traditionally anchored in menswear, but applying them to a strapless, sweetheart-neck jumpsuit reclaims the motif with a feminine edge, where vertical lines elongate the body while a bold red backdrop matched with classic red lip and gold statement wristwear injects high-energy confidence into a precision-tailored silhouette.

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The Imperial Power Suit A tailored suit crafted in crisp polar white accented with polished gold hardware, featuring wide, sharp peak lapels and a deep V-neckline. The structural blazer showcases structured shoulders and full-length fitted sleeves anchored by six gold crest buttons, paired alongside mid-rise, wide-leg trousers tailored with a sharp center crease and a substantial hem fold. Tailoring in all-white demands precise execution, and this suit delivers as the fitted cut draws inward at the waist to emphasize structure while the flared trousers balance the broadness of the shoulder pads, elevated by gold buttons and matching metallic heels for effortless red-carpet presence.

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Sara Ali Khan’s wardrobe demonstrates high fashion impact. Whether adapting classic floor-length gowns or sharply cut power suits, her wardrobe proves that true sartorial authority doesn't require over-styling just impeccably tailored lines, confident proportions, and a clear understanding of personal presence.

Also Read: Sara Ali Khan continues her Delhi tradition with visit to Gurdwara Bangla Sahib

On August 10, Bollywood Hungama reported that PVR Inox Pictures, the distributors of Batwara 1947, have demanded all the shows in single-screen cinemas. This added to the exhibitors' woes, as Awarapan 2 also releases this Friday, August 14. On top of it, the Batwara 1947 distributors asked for seven shows a day in two-screen theatres, 10 shows in three-screen multiplexes, 12 shows a day in four-screen cinemas and 15 shows a day in five-screen multiplexes. However, as per the latest reports from exhibitors, the demand has now undergone a change.

An exhibition source told Bollywood Hungama, “Earlier, their requirement was that 60% to 70% of the shows should be allotted to Batwara 1947. However, they have now taken note of the exhibitors’ concerns. As a result, they have agreed to a 50-50 showcasing arrangement for both films.”

As per some exhibitors, the 50-50 arrangement will also apply to single-screen cinemas. However, most single-screen theatres across the country are yet to open bookings. One of the rare exceptions is the iconic Raj Mandir Cinema in Jaipur, which has allotted two shows each to Awarapan 2 and Batwara 1947.

Spider-Man adds to exhibitors’ woes

But even as one issue appears to have been resolved, exhibitors are now faced with another challenge. On Tuesday, the distributors of Spider-Man: Brand New Day sent an email to cinemas, asking them to continue playing the film with a substantial number of shows.

A trade source revealed, “In single-screen cinemas, they have asked for a minimum of two shows a day, while in two-screen theatres, the requirement is at least three shows daily. In three-screen cinemas, they have asked exhibitors to allot one full screen, comprising five shows a day, to Spider-Man: Brand New Day. In four-screen properties, the demand is for seven to eight shows, including at least one evening and one night show. In five-screen cinemas, they have asked for nine shows, while properties with six screens or more have been asked to allot 11 to 12 shows. They have also specified that at least two screens should be allotted to the film in six-screen plexes.”

The source further said, “Sony’s directive has once again left exhibitors anxious as they are unsure how to divide the shows between the three films. Of course, Sony feels justified in making these demands as Spider-Man: Brand New Day continues to remain rock-solid at the box office. It collected around Rs. 9 crores on Tuesday, and it is clear that the film will continue to perform strongly over the Independence Day weekend. But for exhibitors, the challenge will be to divide the available shows in a way that satisfies all three distributors.”

An exhibitor from Nawalgarh, Rajasthan, speaking on the condition of anonymity, sighed, “We always face this problem of doing ‘batwara’ of shows while making sure that none of the distributors is upset with us. We just wonder when this ‘awarapan’ will end.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Batwara 1947 vs Awarapan 2 show-sharing TUSSLE begins; distributor of Sunny Deol-starrer asks for ALL shows in single-screens; Spider-Man’s rock-steady run complicates the battle

Priyanka Chopra is currently in India with her daughter Malti Marie as she spends time with her family. During her stay in Mumbai, the actor visited the city's famous Siddhivinayak Temple to seek blessings. She was accompanied by her sister Mannara Chopra, while Malti did not join them for the temple visit.

Priyanka was spotted outside the Siddhivinayak Temple dressed in a traditional pink salwar suit with a blue dupatta. Keeping her look simple, the actor made her way through the premises amid tight security. A number of fans had gathered outside to catch a glimpse of the actor. Before leaving, Priyanka waved to the crowd and then got into her car.

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The actor has frequently visited religious places during her trips to India. On one of her recent visits, she was seen at a Durga Puja pandal. During an earlier trip, Priyanka made headlines after performing seva and washing utensils at the Golden Temple. She also visited the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya with husband Nick Jonas and daughter Malti, where the family sought blessings.

Priyanka's latest India visit also comes at a time when there is considerable anticipation around her upcoming projects. She will next be seen in SS Rajamouli's much-awaited film Varanasi, which also stars Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The makers recently unveiled Priyanka's look as Mandakini along with a behind-the-scenes glimpse on the occasion of her 44th birthday. Mahesh Babu's character Rudhra was also introduced on his birthday. Varanasi is scheduled to release on April 7, 2027.

Meanwhile, Priyanka has also joined Oscar winner Russell Crowe for the sci-fi action thriller Bluefly. Directed by Nimrod Antal, the film revolves around a covert mission in the Congo following the discovery of a mysterious crashed aircraft. Priyanka announced her association with the project on Instagram on Thursday with a brief message: “On to the next.”

Also Read : Mahesh Babu thanks fans on birthday; says Varanasi is ‘very close to his heart’

The Cine and TV Artistes Association (CINTAA) is facing an internal dispute after eight elected members of its Executive Committee resigned from their respective offices and the Executive Committee with immediate effect. The members cited a loss of confidence in the present manner of functioning and called for fresh elections. They also alleged that the association’s functioning had increasingly become concentrated around CINTAA President Poonam Dhillon, Senior Vice President Padmini Kolhapure and a section of other Executive Committee members.

Responding to Hindustan Times, Poonam Dhillon has defended her and Padmini’s work for the organisation. Speaking to us, Poonam says, “Padmini and I are working hard to bring goodwill to CINTAA by using our resources and contacts; it is not for personal gain. No one else was taking initiatives to do anything for members of the organisation, so I’m shocked by their allegations.”

Poonam also addressed the controversy surrounding CAWT (Cine Artistes’ Welfare Trust), which was formed by senior actors including late Dilip Kumar, Amrish Puri and Amjad Khan. She claimed that the trust had not fulfilled its responsibility of providing medical facilities to members and said that no one from the current committee had raised funds for CAWT in the past few decades.

She pointed to a recent fundraising event, where artistes including Kavita Krishnamurthy, Madhushree and Nitin Mukesh performed without charging CINTAA. Gifts were presented to the artistes following their performances. “We raised 1 crore through these performances, so how is it a problem if we spend 1 lakh on gifts for them?” Poonam questions.

The actor further alleged that some of the members who resigned had been promised positions if a new committee came to power. Referring to Puneet Issar, she says, “Puneet (Issar) has barely attended two meetings in two years, but the day they wanted to dissolve the committee, they were beckoned just to vote us out.” She also alleged that certain members were pressured into resigning. “We still have the majority and the committee still stands," says Poonam.

Addressing General Secretary Upasana Singh’s claim that the EGM called by Poonam and her team was illegal, the actor explained her position on the process. “The resignation of former members was received by the General Secretary and not accepted by EC (Executive Committee). Meanwhile we held an EGM with a member who had withdrawn her resignation and inducted in seven new members on top of the elected list. Only after that resignations were accepted. So the EC stands. This process was vetted by our legal team.”

Poonam also said that she and Padmini have been paying some CINTAA expenses from their own pockets. She added that they have been conducting regular checks on television sets and educating members about labour codes. According to Poonam, several more initiatives are planned for the organisation as the dispute over its functioning continues.

Also Read : Rajeev Khandelwal recalls college romance on Tum Ho Naa – Ghar Ki Superstar; reveals the Poonam Dhillon song he played on loop