EXCLUSIVE: Ravi Kishan to play antagonist in Kartik Aaryan-starrer Naagzilla

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Bollywood Hungama has been giving readers exclusive updates about one of the most-awaited films of 2026, Naagzilla. A few days ago, we reported that the comic caper might not be able to make it on Independence Day as planned. We now bring to you another exciting news from the sets of the film. Bollywood Hungama has learned that the role of the antagonist is being played by none other than Ravi Kishan.

A source told us, “Kartik Aaryan’s character is important and so is that of the villain in the story. The makers realized that Ravi Kishan fits the bill perfectly. He has always been a fine actor and has proved his worth in recent times with his performances in Laapataa Ladies (2024), Mamla Legal Hai (2024), Son Of Sardaar 2 (2025) etc. Ravi was quite excited to come on board this unique film and to play a very interesting and well-written character.”

The source further said, “The scenes between Kartik Aaryan and Ravi Kishan are expected to be something to watch out for.”

In Naagzilla, Kartik Aaryan plays a shape-shifting nag. The film was announced last year and was scheduled for a release on August 14 to take advantage of the Independence Day weekend and is now expected to release later this year.

Earlier, a source told Bollywood Hungama, “The shoot is expected to be wrapped up in a few months. Moreover, this is a film with heavy VFX. As a result, the post-production is going to take a lot of time. The makers of the film and lead actor Kartik Aaryan are very clear that they don’t want to rush through the process. They are aware that they have a special film in hand and want to nurture and fine-tune it properly before presenting it to the audience.”

Naagzilla is directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba of Fukrey fame and backed by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and Mahaveer Jain’s Mahaveer Jain Films. It marks the first association of Kartik Aaryan and Mahaveer Jain, Mahaveer Jain and Karan Johar and the second film for Kartik and KJo after Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri.

Also Read: SCOOP: Kartik Aaryan’s Naagzilla expected to be pushed ahead; might not meet the Independence Day deadline

REVEALED in Madras High Court order: Scenes in Vijay’s Jana Nayagan that triggered CBFC complaint – National Flag visuals, Army references, foreign powers provoking religious conflict

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On Friday, January 9, the Madras High Court ruled in favour of Jana Nayagan’s makers and asked the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) to grant the film a U/A 16+ certificate. The CBFC immediately challenged that decision and requested a fresh review. Following the appeal, the court put its earlier order on hold for now. It also noted that the producers of the Vijay-starrer appeared to have created an unnecessary sense of urgency about the film’s release date, which may have pressured the court, as reported by Live Law. The case will be heard again on January 21, which puts a question mark on whether the much-awaited flick would be able to make it in cinemas this month.

Bollywood Hungama has a copy of the court order, which revealed that the producer had applied for certification on December 18, 2025. The film was screened for the Examining Committee on December 19, and the committee unanimously recommended U/A 16+ subject to modifications. The makers carried out the cuts and submitted the required Form IX on December 24, with the record showing the excised portions were verified.

Then came the twist. On January 5, the CBFC informed the producers that the ‘competent authority’ had decided to send the film to a Revising Committee due to a complaint alleging content issues, specifically, claims of hurting religious sensibilities and portrayal of armed forces.

The complaint, reproduced in court, flagged allegations about the film’s scenes and dialogues. It claimed the movie shows ‘visuals and dialogues’ suggesting foreign powers stoking large-scale religious conflict in India. The complainant claimed that it might potentially disturb religious harmony. It also pointed to multiple Army-related references and alleged that no defence expert was included in the Examining Committee despite such content.

Another flashpoint mentioned in the order was visuals involving the National Flag, a portion that, the court notes, had already been asked to be excised during the original examination and was removed.

Crucially, the court observed that the complainant was himself a member of the Examining Committee, and that many of the points raised in his complaint overlapped with objections he had already recorded earlier, that is, objections that were subsequently complied with through cuts. The judge went on to call the grievance an ‘afterthought’ and ‘motivated’, warning that such reversals could erode the sanctity of the CBFC process.

Holding that the Chairperson’s power to refer a film to a Revising Committee ended once the Board accepted the Examining Committee recommendation (communicated on December 22), the court said the later referral decision uploaded on January 6 was without jurisdiction.

Also Read: Jana Nayagan censor row: Madras HC division bench stays single judge order granting UA certificate, hearing adjourned to January 21

Randeep Hooda comes on board STAGE as brand ambassador, backing stories rooted in Haryanvi, Bhojpuri and Rajasthani languages

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Randeep Hooda has always worn his roots with pride. From repeatedly speaking about where he comes from to choosing stories that reflect lived realities, the actor has consistently championed regional cultures, languages and identities on both Indian and global stages. Never one to dilute his origin in pursuit of scale, Hooda has long believed that authenticity is what gives storytelling its power. It is this deeply ingrained philosophy that now finds a natural extension as he comes on board STAGE as its brand ambassador.

At a time when India’s OTT landscape is rapidly redefining what “mainstream” looks like, Hooda’s association with a platform focused on Haryanvi, Rajasthani and Bhojpuri storytelling feels instinctive rather than transactional. The collaboration reflects a shared belief that stories rooted in one’s mother tongue can be aspirational, premium and globally resonant. With over 5.5 million paying subscribers across North India, STAGE’s growing audience underscores a cultural shift that Hooda himself has long stood for regional stories finding their rightful place in popular culture.

More than a celebrity association, the partnership is driven by a common commitment to preserving and celebrating linguistic identity. Founded in 2019 in Indore and now headquartered in Noida, STAGE has steadily built a content library spanning original films, series and micro-dramas, carving out space for voices and narratives often overlooked by mainstream entertainment ecosystems.

 

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Known as one of the true shapeshifters of Indian cinema, Randeep Hooda has built an enviable body of work across Highway, Sarbjit, CAT and Extraction, consistently choosing characters that are grounded, raw and reflective of real India. Speaking about the association, Hooda shared that the decision felt deeply personal. “I’ve always believed in embracing your roots as we move forward with times. For me, language and culture are not limitations, they are strengths that shape who we are and how we see the world. The stories that stay with us the longest are the ones that sound familiar, feel lived-in, and come from a place of truth. Associating with storytelling that honours regional languages and cultural identity feels deeply personal to me, because it reflects the values I’ve always carried with me”

As part of the association, Hooda will front integrated campaigns across digital, social, television and outdoor platforms, while also championing the platform’s TV app, reinforcing his belief that storytelling, especially in regional languages, thrives when experienced collectively in Indian homes.

Looking ahead to 2026, the platform’s upcoming slate includes titles such as Jaan Legi Sonam (Bhojpuri), Videshi Bahu (Haryanvi) and Kayantar (Rajasthani), alongside returning audience favourites like Punarjanam, Mahapunarjanam and Mokhan Vahini. Its two-minute micro-dramas continue to stand out as a unique format in the regional OTT space.

STAGE already has Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra associated with the platform, and with Randeep Hooda joining the fold, it brings together individuals who represent excellence without disconnecting from their origins. With over 200 million speakers across its core language markets, the platform’s growth mirrors a larger movement, one that Hooda has long embodied, where regional voices are no longer peripheral, but central to India’s evolving entertainment story.

Also Read: Randeep Hooda rings in New Year with a heartwarming dance with a little girl; wife Lin Laisharam drops this adorable video

BREAKING: The RajaSaab ends with the promise of a sequel titled RajaSaab 2: Circus 1935

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The Prabhas-starrer The RajaSaab has sprung a major surprise on audiences, with the film ending on a clear hint that the story is far from over. In a move that will set social media buzzing, the makers reveal in the final moments that the film will continue in a sequel titled RajaSaab 2: Circus 1935.

While The RajaSaab largely plays out as a horror-comedy mounted on a lavish scale, its closing stretch opens the doors to a much bigger universe. The title Circus 1935 suggests that the sequel will travel back in time, promising a blend of vintage aesthetics, mystery and spectacle, elements that align well with director Maruthi’s penchant for mixing genre thrills with mass entertainment.

With The RajaSaab already generating strong buzz for its scale, visuals and Prabhas’ larger-than-life presence, the announcement of RajaSaab 2: Circus 1935 has only amplified the excitement among fans.

Interestingly, the title hints at a darker, more enigmatic setting, with a circus backdrop from the 1930s. This is an era rarely explored in mainstream Indian cinema, especially within the horror-comedy space. If executed well, the sequel could significantly expand the mythology introduced in The RajaSaab, offering deeper backstories and new characters while retaining the core charm of the franchise.

As of now, the makers have kept details under tight wraps. There is no official confirmation on the timeline of production or whether the sequel will go on floors immediately.

With franchises becoming increasingly important in Indian cinema, The RajaSaab positioning itself as the first chapter of a larger saga seems like a calculated and confident move. If RajaSaab 2: Circus 1935 lives up to the promise of its intriguing title, audiences could be in for an even more ambitious and thrilling cinematic experience.

Besides Prabhas, The RajaSaab also stars Sanjay Dutt, Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, Riddhi Kumar and others.

Also Read: The RajaSaab makers withhold a song and few scenes, to add them later as future incentives

Salman Khan to star in Telugu director Vamshi Paidipally’s Hindi debut

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The popular Telugu director Vamshi Paidipally is all set to make his debut in Hindi, and that too with a project starring Salman Khan.

Sources reveal that Salman has given his nod to Vamshi’s project, said to be a fusion of action and drama, and the shooting begins after the release of Salman’s war film Battle Of Galwan.

“Salman was looking for a change of pace and mood after the intense Galwan experience. It has left him emotionally drained. He is now looking for a fun film with a touch of drama. Vamshi’s project is just that blues-chaser that Salman needs,” friend of the superstar offered.

The film will be produced by Dil Raju.

Also Read: SCOOP: Salman Khan partners with Raj-DK and Mythri on “Sultan meets Pushpa” action comedy; to go on floors in August 2026

Shukla Kumar, wife of Rajendra Kumar and mother of Kumar Gaurav, passes away; prayer meet to be held on January 10

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Shukla Kumar, wife of legendary actor Rajendra Kumar and mother of actor Kumar Gaurav, passed away recently. The news has left the Hindi film fraternity and admirers of the Kumar family in mourning. A prayer meet in her remembrance will be held on January 10, as confirmed by close sources.

While Shukla Kumar largely stayed away from the public eye, she was a central pillar in one of Bollywood’s most respected film families. Married to Rajendra Kumar, fondly remembered as “Jubilee Kumar” for his unmatched box-office streak, she witnessed the rise and transitions of Hindi cinema from close quarters. Her quiet presence remained constant through the highs of stardom and the inevitable shifts that followed.

Her son, Kumar Gaurav, entered the film industry with one of the most sensational debuts Bollywood had seen. His 1981 film Love Story, opposite Vijeta Pandit, turned him into an overnight star and remains one of the most successful debut films in Hindi cinema. The actor was briefly hailed as the industry’s next big thing, with his popularity peaking at a time when stardom was measured by theatre footfalls and fan frenzy rather than media visibility.

However, unlike many of his contemporaries, Kumar Gaurav chose a path that did not prioritise relentless visibility. Despite working with leading filmmakers and actors of the time, his career gradually slowed, shaped by personal choices, changing audience tastes, and an evolving industry. Over the years, he stepped away from the limelight, maintaining a low profile while remaining a figure of enduring curiosity for cinema enthusiasts.

Bollywood Hungama offers sincere condolences to Kumar Gaurav and his family on the passing of Shukla Kumar.

Also Read: Salman Khan says “I’ve JUST started signing cheques”; also opens up on his childhood SCAM: “I used to Xerox donation forms; Rajendra Kumar, Sunil Dutt used to donate Rs. 100; earned Rs. 400 every quarter…”

Jana Nayagan makers CONFIRM postponement of Thalapathy Vijay’s final film; issue statement

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Widely regarded as Thalapathy Vijay’s last film, Jana Nayagan (Jana Neta in Hindi) has been one of the most keenly awaited films in Indian cinema, with fans tracking every update since its announcement. The makers, KVN Productions, have now officially confirmed that the film’s release has been postponed.

Originally slated to hit theatres on January 9, 2026, the release has been delayed due to unforeseen circumstances. The production house shared the update through an official statement, assuring audiences that a new release date will be announced once finalised.

Sharing the statement on their official handle, the makers wrote: “It is with a heavy heart that we share this update with our valued stakeholders and audiences. The release of Jana Nayagan, eagerly awaited on January 9, has been postponed due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control. We deeply understand the anticipation, excitement, and emotions surrounding this film, and this decision has not been an easy one for any of us. The new release date will be announced at the earliest. Until then, we humbly request your patience and continued love. Your unwavering support is our greatest strength and means everything to the entire Jana Nayagan team.”

Also Read: SCOOP: Prabhas starrer The Raja Saab to release solo; Vijay starrer Jana Nayagan postponed after CBFC refers film to Revising Committee