Ninad Kamat reveals he lost a “big film” role after a four-round audition, says social media and lobbying have killed the art: “Very different ball game today”

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Veteran actor and voice artist Ninad Kamat, known for his extensive work across films, advertising, and dubbing, opened up about the emotional toll of constant auditions and rejections—even after spending over three decades in the entertainment industry. In a conversation with Digital Commentary, he revealed that the struggle for roles persists even with experience.

Sharing a recent incident, Kamat said he had auditioned just a week ago for a major film. Despite being called four times for the same character, he was eventually told he did not cut.

“Even after 31 years, you still have to audition,” he said. “Just a week ago, I gave an audition. And then came a heartbreaking rejection. It was a very big film—I can’t name it. I auditioned four times for one of the three main characters, travelling from Mahim to Andheri Versova each time. Three days ago, I was told, ‘Sorry, sir.’”

Kamat added that he had worked extensively on fine-tuning the character. “I picked a slight North Indian accent, worked on the humour the role required… all of that I kept practising at home. When they tell you three days before that it’s not happening—especially for a main character—it really hurts.”

Talking about the changing dynamics of casting, the actor said the landscape has shifted dramatically. “It’s a very different ball game today. Whether it’s social media, lobbying, or marketing… an actor’s follower count has started deciding things. I feel that’s what has killed the art.”

Kamat’s comments come at a time when several senior actors have been speaking up about how the audition culture often disregards years of experience.

Just a few months ago, veteran Marathi and television actor Usha Nadkarni recalled turning down an audition for Zoya Akhtar’s Gully Boy. She revealed that she was offended when a young assistant director asked her to test for a role without having checked her decades-long body of work.

Nadkarni had said in an interview with Pinkvilla that she refused the offer immediately: “I asked him how old he is—he said 25. I told him I’ve been working longer than his mother has been alive. I don’t do such pointless auditions. When he told me who the director is, I said, ‘She’s the daughter of a big man, isn’t she? Ask her to look up my name on the computer, then she’ll know the work I’ve done.’”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Pranutan Behl reveals that she auditioned for Rajshri’s Dono; fondly recalls interacting with Rani Mukerji on Kahin Pyaar Na Ho Jaaye sets: “When I reminded her, she caught my cheeks in her typical loving way and gave me a small kiss”

EXCLUSIVE: CBFC changes Rose-mary Marlow to Rose-mary Carlow in Mastiii 4; asks for THIS modification in the Aftab Shivdasani-old man sex joke

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The sex comedy Mastiii 4 hit cinemas today and has already grabbed eyeballs thanks to its popular franchise and naughty trailer. Even before its release, there was apprehension that the Central Board of Film Certification would insist on multiple cuts. Bollywood Hungama had exclusively revealed two days ago that the board had asked for six dialogues to be altered. We can now share the detailed breakdown of some of these changes.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “One of the lines from the trailer that drew both laughs and criticism was the exchange between Aftab Shivdasani and an elderly patient. The old man tells Aftab, ‘Mujhe jawan ladki ke saath sex karna hai’. When a worried Aftab warns, ‘Lekin aisa karne se maut ho jaayegi’, the patient quips, ‘Marti hai toh mar jaaye saali’. In the theatrical version, this entire bit has been toned down. In the film, the patient now says, ‘Mujhe jawan ladki ke saath masti karni hai’. Aftab still cautions, ‘Lekin aisa karne se maut ho jaayegi’, to which the patient replies, ‘Main marne ke liye tayyar hoon’.”

The source continued, “That is not all. The three women with whom the trio have an affair in Grand Masti (2013) are named Rose, Mary and Marlow. Read together, their names form a cheeky double meaning in Hindi. In Mastiii 4, a glamorous character is introduced as Rose-mary Marlow. Her name has now been changed to Rose-mary Carlow. It is surprising that the censors had no issue with the gag in the second film, released 12 years ago, but have objected to it this time.”

Directed by Milap Zaveri, Mastiii 4 stars Riteish Deshmukh, Vivek Oberoi and Aftab Shivdasani, who have always featured in the previous parts of the franchise as well – Masti (2004), Grand Masti and Great Grand Masti (2016). This time, they are joined by Ruhii Singh, Shreya Sharma, Elnaaz Norouzi, Natalia Janoszek, Shaad Randhawa and Nishant Singh Malkani, along with Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor and Nargis Fakhri.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Milap Zaveri talks about Mastiii 4: “Riteish Deshmukh, Vivek Oberoi, Aftab Shivdasani are Amar, Akbar, Anthony of comedy!” BREAKS silence on CBFC cuts: “Film has got very few cuts; Kudos to Censor Board…”

Vivek Oberoi reveals he received death threats while shooting Kurbaan: “We know you are here, khatam kar denge”

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Vivek Oberoi has revisited one of the most unsettling incidents of his career — the time he received death threats while filming the Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan-starrer Kurbaan. In a recent interview with Pinkvilla, the actor shared that he was caught off guard by a threatening message left on the answering machine during the film’s shoot in the United States.

Recalling the moment, Vivek said, “I was shooting for Kurbaan in the US and they left a threat on the (answering machine) system and as per law, I had to report it to the authorities there.”

He revealed that authorities questioned him immediately, but he had no context for the menacing message. “I told them, ‘I don’t know anything’. I just landed up in this, where they were saying, ‘We know you are here, khatam kar denge, uda denge (we will finish you, we will shoot you).’ They were saying such things. And they traced that number back to Pakistan. And they said it’s a real number which has been flagged, that’s when I got scared,” he added.

Released in 2009, Kurbaan was set against the backdrop of global terrorism, unfolding across New York and Delhi. The thriller followed Avantika Ahuja, a psychology professor whose life spirals after she unknowingly marries a member of a terrorist sleeper cell. Vivek played a man seeking revenge for the death of his partner Rehana, portrayed by Dia Mirza. His character infiltrates the sleeper cell, becoming a crucial piece of the narrative’s tense and emotionally charged conflict.

While Kurbaan remains one of his more intense films, Vivek is currently in a completely different zone professionally. The actor is gearing up for the release of Mastiii 4, the latest installment in the popular adult comedy franchise. The film reunites him with Riteish Deshmukh and Aftab Shivdasani, while also expanding the cast to include Tusshar Kapoor, Arshad Warsi, Nargis Fakhri, Elnaaz Norouzi, Shreya Sharma, Ruhi Singh, Nishant Malkani, and Shaad Randhawa, among others.

With Mastiii 4 expected to deliver the franchise’s trademark humour and chaos, Vivek’s anecdote about Kurbaan serves as a stark reminder of the unexpected challenges actors sometimes face behind the scenes — moments far removed from the laughter and entertainment they bring to the screen.

Also Read: Vivek Oberoi says even Shah Rukh Khan may be forgotten by 2050: “History relegates you into nothingness”

Web Series Review: THE FAMILY MAN SEASON 3 proves to be a satisfying and engaging new chapter

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Star Cast: Manoj Bajpayee, Priyamani, Jaideep Ahlawat, Nimrat Kaur, Ashlesha Thakur, Vedant Sinha

Director: Raj-DK, Tusshar Seyth, Suman Kumar

Synopsis: THE FAMILY MAN SEASON 3 is the story of a spy facing the biggest challenge of his career. Few years have passed since the events of SEASON 2. Suchitra (Priyamani) has bought a bigger flat where she and her family - husband Srikant Tiwari (Manoj Bajpayee), daughter Dhriti (Ashlesha Thakur) and son Atharv (Vedant Sinha) - have shifted. Suchitra and Srikant are not on talking terms and are contemplating a divorce. Meanwhile, Srikant and his boss, Gautam Kulkarni (Dalip Tahil), leave for Kohima, Nagaland. There have been blasts in 6 cities in the Northeast in 48 hours, threatening Prime Minister Basu's (Seema Biswas) pet project, named Project Sahakar. It involves bringing rebel groups together with the aim of providing peace and stability in the region. The project has been possible, thanks to the highly respected local leader, David Khuzou (Sunil Thapa). Srikant and Kulkarni meet David a day before the deal is to be signed. David's grandson, Stephen Khuzou (Paalin Kabak), who runs a faction called MCA-S, is against the deal and makes it clear to David. On the day the deal is to be signed, the convoy of David, Srikant and Kulkarni is ambushed by a dreaded drug lord, Rukma (Jaideep Ahlawat). Rukma kills David and Kulkarni. He spares Srikant, presumably assuming that he's dead. Srikant survives and is able to identify Rukma. Stephen is assumed to be the one behind the attack and he goes into hiding. In a sudden turn of events, the NIA has a suspicion that Srikant could be behind the attack as well, since he survived and also because very few knew about the route of the convoy. Suchitra, meanwhile, is also facing a tough time, as the government bans 69 Chinese apps, one of which is her app, ShrinkMe. She tries to defend the app on a news channel debate but it backfires. A troll campaign starts against Suchitra and Dhruti is also dragged into it. An arrest warrant is issued against Srikant and he decides to run away with his family. The NIA, TASC and TASC's new chief, Yatish Chawla (Harman Singha) are behind him, but he outsmarts them and leaves Mumbai. What happens next forms the rest of the series.

The Family Man Season 3 Story Review: Raj-DK, Tusshar Seyth and Suman Kumar's story is promising and the obstacles in front of Srikant this time are many notches higher. Raj-DK, Tusshar Seyth, Nikhil Gonsalves, Sudhish Kamath and Suman Kumar's screenplay is captivating and neatly incorporates humour, which is a USP of the show. But as it happens, when the previous seasons have formed a benchmark, the writing feels underwhelming. Sumit Arora's dialogues are hilarious, sharp and one of the best things about the show, without doubt.

Raj-DK, Tusshar Seyth and Suman Kumar's direction is exemplary. The beauty of their execution is that amid the chaos and nail-biting moments, they make sure that viewers also laugh their guts out. This is no easy task, as often, this might not land properly. But every joke or every line, intended to raise laughs, works bang-on. Two scenes which stand out in this regard are when Srikant tells his son that he’s a spy, and the TC enquiring about JK Talpade (Sharib Hashmi), with Srikant cooking up a howlarious story. On the other hand, David and Stephen’s confrontation is significant. The scenes of Rukma and how he strategizes also makes for a nice watch. Meanwhile, the geopolitical angle also has its charm as it's soaked in realism. The makers borrow from real-life happenings like banning of Chinese apps, organized trolling, news channels being used, or rather misused, by vested interests, etc. Lastly, Raj-DK’s shows are known for one-take shots. Here, they tweak the technique a bit in the scene of the attack at Rukma’s farmhouse, and it's praiseworthy.

On the flipside, though the makers try their best, the new season doesn’t match up to Season 1 and 2, especially in terms of humour. The earlier 2 parts had jokes and moments that became meme-worthy and are remembered even today. The humour quotient in Season 3 is there but doesn't go into the cult zone, which will be the demand. The track of Meera (Nimrat Kaur) is unconvincing; a smart and careful person like her blows her cover and this whole bit is unconvincing. The show ends on a chilling cliffhanger but at the same time, several tracks are left abruptly. Lastly, the character of Chellam Sir (Uday Mahesh), who became a sensation after Season 2, gets a raw deal this time.

The Family Man Season 3 Performances: Manoj Bajpayee yet again slips into the ‘Family Man’ character effortlessly. This is his most adorable performance and the way he essays it with perfection adds a lot to the show. Priyamani makes her presence felt and this time, her equation with her hubby is different; it provides a nice touch though questions still remain. Ashlesha Thakur and Vedant Sinha are very impressive and even they get to try something novel in this season. Sharib Hashmi is adorable as always. Jaideep Ahlawat is terrific and his long-hair-look is dashing. Nimrat Kaur is a bit let down by the writing but performance has no complaints. Shreya Dhanwanthary (Zoya) returns in a major role and is damn good. Jugal Hansraj (Dwaraknath), Harman Singha, Jason Tham (Colonel Zhulong) and Andrea Kevichüsa (Nima) are aptly cast. Sunil Thapa and Dalip Tahil leave huge marks despite limited screen time. Seema Biswas, Paalin Kabak, Gul Panag (Saloni), Vipin Sharma (Sambit) and Aritro Rudraneil Banerjee (Punit) are dependable. Vijay Vikram Singh (Ajit) and Aditya Srivastava (Yashwant Kumar) get a limited scope. Riyan Mipi (Bobby) is cute. Uday Mahesh is forced.

The Family Man Season 3 music and other technical aspects: Sachin-Jigar's original title music sets the mood instantly. Ketan Sodha's background score is exhilarating. Jay Charola's cinematography is gritty as well as breathtaking. Parichit Paralkar's production design is superior, while Neha R Bajaj's costumes are straight out of life. Yannick Ben and Aejaz Gulab's action adds to the fun. Sumeet Kotian's editing is slick.

The Family Man Season 3 Review Conclusion: On the whole, THE FAMILY MAN SEASON 3 proves to be a satisfying and engaging new chapter, serving a potent mix of action, drama, tension and situational humour that fans of the franchise expect. The writing stumbles at places and a few tracks feel undercooked. Nevertheless, powered by the insane popularity of the brand and the enduring affection for Srikant Tiwari and his world, this season is poised to attract massive viewership and keep audiences eagerly waiting for what comes next.

Rating – 4 stars

Dharmendra health update: He is in a better condition, reveal reports

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The health of veteran actor Dharmendra has been at the centre of intense public attention ever since he was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital earlier this month following age-related complications. While early reports speculated that his condition had worsened, a reassuring update has now emerged from an insider source, who told NDTV, “He is fine, better than earlier.” The positive update comes as a major relief to fans who have been anxiously tracking the actor’s recovery.

Dharmendra’s hospitalisation triggered a wave of concern across the film fraternity, with several prominent personalities visiting him over the course of his stay. However, mixed information soon began circulating. Some portals alarmingly claimed the actor was in critical condition, giving rise to panic among fans. Matters escalated further when hoax reports falsely declared the actor had passed away, a move that drew strong criticism from the Deol family, who condemned the irresponsible and insensitive reportage.

To counter the speculation, members of the Deol clan issued multiple statements, urging the public to rely only on verified updates. When Dharmendra was finally discharged, the family shared a detailed note expressing gratitude while appealing for privacy. “Mr. Dharmendra has been discharged from the hospital and will continue his recovery at home. We kindly request the media and the public to refrain from any further speculation and to respect his and the family’s privacy during this time. We appreciate everyone’s love, prayers, and good wishes for his continued recovery, good health, and long life. Please respect him because he loves you."

Amid the emotional turbulence, another controversy surfaced when a video from the actor’s hospital room went viral online. The clip—which appeared to be recorded by a hospital staff member—showed Dharmendra surrounded by family members. The breach of privacy sparked outrage, and strict action is expected to have been taken against the individual responsible for the leak.

With the worst now seemingly behind him, the Deol family is focusing on positive developments. As previously reported by Bollywood Hungama, they have already begun planning celebrations for Dharmendra’s milestone 90th birthday on December 8. The recent insider reassurance, paired with the family’s growing optimism, suggests that the beloved star is firmly on the path to recovery—comforting news for millions who continue to hold him close to their hearts.

Also Read: Dharmendra’s health improves; family prepares for his 90th birthday with Esha Deol

Why India Can’t Stop Watching Crime: The new dark obsession of OTT

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The Bollywood Hungama OTT India Fest and India Entertainment Awards are just around the corner. The two-day event is all set to take place on December 3 and 4 in Mumbai. One can expect some of the biggest names from Indian OTT sphere to assemble under the same roof. Before that happens, here’s looking at an interesting trend on OTT in recent times.

Over the past few years, Hindi crime shows on OTT platforms have emerged as one of the most-watched genres across the country. Whether it’s gritty police procedurals, dark psychological dramas, or real-life-inspired investigations, Indian audiences appear more hooked to crime narratives than ever before. The surge is not just a passing trend—it reflects a deeper shift in viewing habits, storytelling preferences, and the impact of streaming culture. One major reason behind this growing fascination is the freedom OTT platforms offer. Without the restrictions of traditional television or cinema, creators can explore crime in a more layered and realistic manner. The shows delve into complex motives, flawed characters, and morally ambiguous situations, providing viewers with a far more immersive experience. From small-town crime sagas to narratives based on high-stakes corporate frauds, the range is wider than what mainstream entertainment offered earlier. Another factor is the audience’s appetite for fast-paced, unpredictable content. Crime shows are inherently built on suspense, investigation, and twists—elements that encourage binge-watching. In a digital era driven by the need for constant engagement, this genre perfectly fits the mood. Viewers often finish an entire series over a weekend, drawn by cliffhangers and the urge to solve the mystery alongside the characters. There is also a growing curiosity about the darker side of society. Many shows highlight issues like political corruption, cybercrime, law enforcement challenges, and rising social tensions. This blend of fictional drama and real-world relevance makes crime shows both entertaining and thought-provoking. For many viewers, it feels like getting an insider’s view of the world that headlines often skim over. Additionally, the rise of strong performances and sharp writing has elevated the genre. Actors known for nuanced roles, along with fresh talent from theatre and indie cinema, have brought authenticity to characters—cops, criminals, victims, and investigators alike. High production values and cinematic storytelling have further made these shows visually compelling. Ultimately, Hindi crime shows have become the new obsession because they offer escapism and realism simultaneously. They satisfy the thrill-seeker in audiences while holding up a mirror to society. As OTT platforms continue to expand, crime dramas are likely to remain at the forefront—darker, sharper, and more addictive than ever. The Bollywood Hungama OTT India Fest and India Entertainment Awards is presented by SleepZ by Raymond, co-powered by Fima, Carlo Frattini, and Amante in association with Helios, Style Partner Rare Rabbit, Lovestory Patner Truly Madly, Stylish Furniture Partner Uraban Ladder, with healthcare partner HCG, skincare partner Fixferma, Spirituality partner Satvik, conversation partner Bevzilla, gourmet dessert partner Smoor, nutrition partner The Naturik Co., radio partner Radio City and celebration partner Heineken Silver. Also Read: Tabu backs the buzz around Huma Qureshi’s commanding performance in Delhi Crime 3

Shalini Pandey promises ‘madness & mayhem’ in Rahu Ketu: “Every day on set felt fun!”

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Shalini Pandey is on an impressive run, moving from one exciting project to the next with effortless momentum. After sharing screen space with Dhanush in his directorial venture Idli Kadai, the actress has now shifted her focus to Rahu Ketu, her next big release directed by Vipul Vig. The film pairs her with the widely loved Fukrey duo, Varun Sharma and Pulkit Samrat, setting the stage for a comedy steeped in mischief, charm, and cosmic madness.

At the centre of the buzz is Shalini’s own enthusiasm for the project. Reflecting on her experience, she said, “Rahu Ketu is the kind of film where every day on set felt fun. Varun and Pulkit are a riot, and Vipul brings this quirky world alive in the coolest way. I can’t wait for people to see the madness we’ve created!”. Her excitement hints that audiences can expect the same infectious energy when the film hits screens.

The actress recently wrapped up the schedule of Rahu Ketu in the scenic locations of Himachal Pradesh. While shooting for the film, Shalini had taken to social media to reveal that her character in the film is named Meenu, and she even shared behind-the-scenes glimpses that offered an early look at her onscreen avatar. Her updates have helped build anticipation for the film, particularly among fans who have followed her journey closely.

Back in June, Shalini had also informed her fans about wrapping the schedule in Manali, where she documented her experiences in a heartfelt note. From forming bonds with Himachali dogs and spending time in local cafés and pottery studios to highlighting the meaningful work done by Manali Strays, her reflections showed how deeply the environment had affected her. It was a shoot that doubled as a personal transformation, something that continues to shape her connection to the project.

With Idli Kadai adding fresh momentum to her filmography and Rahu Ketu promising a high-spirited entertainer, Shalini Pandey is excited to see what more is in store for her. As for the film, it is slated to release on January 16 next year.

Also Read: Shalini Pandey’s FANTASTIC Rapid Fire on Arjun Reddy, Kareena Kapoor, Salman Khan, Zoya Akhtar