Ramayana FIRST LOOK Teaser introduces Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama; sets stage for epic Diwali 2026 release

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The much-anticipated magnum opus Ramayana has finally revealed its most crucial element — the first glimpse of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama. Backed by filmmaker and producer Namit Malhotra and directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the two-part cinematic franchise is being mounted on a global scale, with the teaser offering audiences their first look at the iconic character.

Positioned as a landmark cinematic moment, the ‘Rama’ teaser introduces one of mythology’s most enduring figures to a worldwide audience. The film aims to present the story with a fresh perspective while retaining the emotional depth that has made it timeless across generations.

Speaking about the essence of the story, Nitesh Tiwari said, “Ramayana’s greatness lies in its emotional richness. At its heart, it is not just about good and evil, but about choices, consequences, and the weight of doing what is right. Rama’s journey is deeply human and that is what we have tried to stay true to.”

Sharing his experience of stepping into the role, Ranbir Kapoor added, “I don’t think I’m here to represent Rama. I’m here to learn from him. There is a simplicity and purity to him that is very rare; and trying to understand and imbibe that has been a deeply humbling experience.”

Producer Namit Malhotra further elaborated on the significance of the character, stating, “The power of Rama’s story is not in what he conquers, but in what he lets go of. He represents a standard that is not easy, not convenient; but necessary. He chooses duty over desire, truth over comfort, and sacrifice over self. That is why his story has endured for thousands of years, and why it continues to matter today.”

 

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The film boasts of a massive ensemble cast, with Yash portraying Ravana, while Sai Pallavi plays Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey essaying Lakshman. Apart from them, Rakul Preet Singh, Lara Dutta, Bobby Deol, among others are also expected to be a part of this venture.

Adding to its global appeal, the project brings together international heavyweights, including Oscar-winning composers Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman for the music. The film is produced by Prime Focus Studios in association with the eight-time Academy Award-winning VFX studio DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations.

Mounted as one of the most ambitious films in Indian cinema, Ramayana will release in two parts. The first instalment is slated for a global theatrical release during Diwali 2026, with the second part expected to follow in Diwali 2027.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor cites “Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah” as he shares his approach to playing Lord Ram in Ramayana: “My Dharma is to do my job”

Salman Khan – Vamshi Paidipally’s film gets a new addition in cast: Arvind Swamy comes on board, reveals report

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A major collaboration is taking shape in Indian cinema as Salman Khan teams up with filmmaker Vamshi Paidipally for the first time in a film produced by noted South producer Dil Raju. The yet-untitled project has already generated significant buzz, especially after the recent announcement of Nayanthara as the female lead. The film marks her first collaboration with Salman Khan and her second Hindi outing after Jawan alongside Shah Rukh Khan.

The casting momentum continues, with reports suggesting that Arvind Swamy is likely to join the ensemble. Known for his iconic roles in films like Roja and Bombay, Swamy is expected to play a key role in the film. While initial speculation hinted at him taking on an antagonist’s part, reports clarify that his character will instead be portrayed in a positive light, steering clear of negative shades.

Interestingly, the makers are still on the lookout for a strong antagonist to face Salman Khan on screen, indicating that a major casting announcement could be on the horizon. Additionally, there are ongoing discussions with Anil Kapoor for an important role, although details regarding his character remain tightly under wraps.

Providing insight into the film’s timeline, a source told Bollywood Hungama, "Salman Khan is in talks with Dil Raju and Vamshi Padilpally to plan their schedules in a way that an Eid 2027 release becomes a reality. The producer - director duo is contemplating the option, and plan to get back to Salman with a plan soon."

The source further informs that the film in question is an action-packed entertainer with a strong emotional core.

"It's a pure commercial entertainer with Salman Khan playing to the gallery. Vamshi plans to present Salman in a way audiences like to see him. The pre-production is going on in full swing, and the makers aim to take the film on floors in April," the source added.

The film is expected to go on floors in April and will be shot extensively across multiple locations in India. With substantial VFX work also involved, the team is currently focusing on locking all aspects before making an official announcement. While several details are still under wraps, the makers are committed to bringing the film to theatres in the first half of 2027, with an Eid release firmly in consideration.

Also Read: It’s Official! Salman Khan joins hands with Nayanthara for the first time for Vamshi Paidipally’s next

Fact Check: John Abraham has NOT spoken against Dhurandhar franchise

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One major disadvantage of social media is that it can become a tool for spreading fake news. This mostly happens through memes and image posts that go viral and are considered the Gospel Truth. There are times when a celebrity is attributed with a quote he or she never said in memes. The same is happening with John Abraham right now.

Since recent times, a meme where John has been quoted criticizing Dhurandhar has gone viral in no time. It quotes the actor saying, “Movies like Dhurandhar and The Kashmir Files can sometimes lead people in the wrong direction, and it’s scary to see them being welcomed by so many. I would never produce films like that.”

Once the post got viral, the supporters of Dhurandhar have been slamming John while those who are against the movie are hailing him for showing guts to speak his mind.

However, the truth is that John hasn’t made any such comment against Dhurandhar. In fact, he hasn’t said anything about Dhurandhar in the media or any public space. If you search for his statement on the internet, you won’t find a single news publication to have reported this. Apart from memes on various social media pages, you won’t find this comment anywhere. It is clear that this meme is created by someone who wanted to make a post viral or maybe malign Dhurandhar.

Just imagine – in case John had slammed Dhurandhar in real, almost every news publication would have carried the quote as breaking news. Which publication would not want to capitalize on such a comment?

One needs to note that last year in August in an interview with veteran journalist Rajdeep Sardesai on India Today, John did say that he would never produce films like The Kashmir Files and Chhaava and expressed his concern on these films finding mass acceptance. At that time, his comment had gone viral and was covered by a number of publications.

But there is no instance where he has spoken against Dhurandhar. In fact, these comments were made four months before the first Dhurandhar released.

Also Read: Rs. 1240 cr, Rs. 1310 cr or Rs. 1400 cr: where will Dhurandhar 2 finally land?

Rupali Ganguly writes to Narendra Modi urging ban on elephant rides after pink elephant photoshoot row

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Following public outrage over images of a captive elephant painted bright pink for a photoshoot in Rajasthan, Anupamaa star and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India supporter Rupali Ganguly who officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2024 has written to Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi ji, urging an end to elephant rides and encouraging the use of robot elephants and other non-animal means instead of animal performances. In her letter, Ganguly mourns Chanchal, the elephant featured in the photoshoot, who is reported to have died, and expresses her shared respect for wildlife with the Prime Minister.

Ganguly notes that the owner quoted in news reports — Saddik/Shadik Khan — is also associated with Malti, an elephant who was used for rides at Amer Fort, violently beaten and later transferred to a sanctuary after efforts by PETA India. She stresses that while the photoshoot shocked the public, elephants used for rides at sites such as Amer Fort are routinely kept chained when not in use and controlled using weapons, conditions that can cause severe physical and psychological distress.

“This incident has upset people across India and beyond, reflecting how strongly the public now feels against elephant exploitation,” Ganguly wrote. She appealed, “On World Wildlife Day, you shared the importance of wildlife protection. It is in this spirit, I respectfully urge that India end all elephant rides as Indonesia has now done, and that robotic elephants, decorated electric vehicles, and other non-animal alternatives be encouraged for use to protect our national heritage animal from use in cruel spectacles.”

PETA India notes that frustrated elephants forced into close contact with humans can become unpredictable, and attacks involving elephants used for rides and other performances are regular occurrences. For elephant and human welfare, the Kerala Tourism Department is promoting a mechanical elephant safari experience at Thamboormozhi Butterfly Garden near the iconic Athirapilly waterfalls, instead of a live elephant.

Also Read: Actress-turned-politician Rupali Ganguly writes letter to West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee to stop horse-drawn carriages: Reports 

Akshay Kumar visits Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain with Dimple Kapadia ahead of Bhooth Bangla release: “I prayed for the entire country"

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Actor Akshay Kumar visited the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain on April 1 along with his mother-in-law and veteran actor Dimple Kapadia. The visit comes days ahead of the release of his upcoming film Bhooth Bangla.

After offering prayers at the temple, Akshay spoke about the significance of the visit and shared that he prayed not only for his family but also for the country. He said, “It was really good...I prayed for the entire country and my family. I prayed that may our country always excel and progress.”

#WATCH | Madhya Pradesh: Actor Akshay Kumar, along with his mother-in-law and veteran actor Dimple Kapadia, visited Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain and offered prayers today. pic.twitter.com/Q21mMHWmZy — ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2026

#WATCH | Ujjain, MP: After the prayers, actor Akshay Kumar says, "It was really good...I prayed for the entire country and my family. I prayed that may our country always excel and progress." https://t.co/xUwoYsIfWl pic.twitter.com/rpZMgroK1E — ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2026

Visit comes ahead of Bhooth Bangla release Akshay’s visit to the Mahakaleshwar Temple takes place shortly before the theatrical release of Bhooth Bangla, which marks his reunion with director Priyadarshan after several successful collaborations in the past.

The film is scheduled to release on April 17 after its earlier release date of April 10 was revised. The change in schedule came amid strong theatrical buzz surrounding Dhurandhar The Revenge, prompting the makers to push the release slightly.

Apart from Akshay Kumar, the film also stars Wamiqa Gabbi, Tabu, Rajpal Yadav, Paresh Rawal and late actor Asrani in key roles. Akshay Kumar’s long-standing devotion to Lord Shiva Akshay Kumar has often spoken publicly about his devotion to Lord Shiva. In February last year, he released the devotional track ‘Mahakal Chalo,’ which reflected his spiritual connection with Mahakal. The actor has also portrayed Lord Shiva on screen in films such as Oh My God 2 and Kannappa, further highlighting his association with the deity in his cinematic work as well.

Also Read: Ahmed Khan reveals ambitious new plan for Akshay Kumar starrer Welcome To The Jungle; shift grand sets to Mumbai

Mona Singh credits authentic roles for building two decades of audience trust: “It’s also my approach of being the anti-diva on screen”

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Actor Mona Singh says the phrase “Mona Ka Magic,” often used by audiences to describe her screen presence, comes from years of building trust through honest performances and carefully chosen roles. Speaking at the India Today conclave, the actor reflected on what the label means to her after more than two decades in the industry. She said she believes her connection with viewers has grown from her willingness to prioritise authenticity over glamour on screen.

“I honestly feel that I’ve managed to build a two-decade-long bridge of trust with the viewers. So it’s also my approach of being the anti-diva on screen. I’m ready, I’m willing to look raw, I’m willing to look fatigued and tired, and whatever the character demands,” she said.

“I’m ready to look raw, fatigued or tired—whatever the character demands. That honesty gives a gut punch that feels stronger than something overly scripted,” she explained. Choosing stories that stay with audiences Singh also spoke about how her project choices have shaped her reputation. According to her, she has consistently tried to balance commercial storytelling with narratives that spark discussion.

“Most of the projects I’ve picked are not only commercially viable but also conversation starters,” she said, suggesting that this balance may be one reason audiences associate her work with the phrase “Mona Ka Magic.”

Her recent and upcoming slate reflects that direction. The actor is set to appear in projects including Happy Patel, Border 2, Kohrra Season 2, and Subedaar. Across genres and formats, Singh’s selections continue to emphasise character-driven storytelling rather than conventional screen positioning.

Also Read: Maa Ka Sum trailer introduces Mihir Ahuja as math prodigy on mission to find love for his mother, played by Mona Singh

Zack Snyder calls Huma Qureshi “one of the most amazing actors” after Army of the Dead

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Acclaimed Hollywood filmmaker Zack Snyder has praised Indian actor Huma Qureshi, describing her as “one of the most amazing actors” he has worked with. The filmmaker shared the appreciation on social media while revisiting their collaboration on Army of the Dead.

Taking to Instagram, Snyder posted a still of Qureshi from the film and wrote that she brought “talent, presence, and pure brilliance on screen,” recalling his experience working with her on the 2021 zombie heist drama. The actor, who played Geeta Ranjan in the film, responded warmly in the comments, writing, “You the best… boss man.”

Filmmaker-choreographer Farah Khan also reacted to the post with an enthusiastic response, while actor Saqib Saleem joined in congratulating Qureshi.

 

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Huma Qureshi’s Hollywood debut with Army of the Dead Directed by Snyder, Army of the Dead marked Qureshi’s Hollywood debut. The film featured an ensemble cast including Dave Bautista, Ella Purnell, Omari Hardwick, Ana de la Reguera, Theo Rossi, Matthias Schweighöfer, Nora Arnezeder, Hiroyuki Sanada, Tig Notaro, Raúl Castillo and Garret Dillahunt.

Set in a zombie-infested Las Vegas, the film follows a group of mercenaries attempting a high-risk casino heist during a post-apocalyptic outbreak. Snyder conceived the project as a spiritual successor to his 2004 directorial debut, Dawn of the Dead. Upcoming projects: Huma Qureshi set for Toxic On the work front, Qureshi will next be seen in Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, headlined by Yash and directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film also features Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Rukmini Vasanth and Tara Sutaria. Shot simultaneously in Kannada and English, the film is set in 1980s Goa and revolves around a powerful drug cartel operating beneath the region’s picturesque exterior.

Qureshi’s recent releases include Maharani Season 4 and Delhi Crime Season 3.

Also Read: Red Lorry Film Festival 2026: Huma Qureshi-starrer Bayaan director questions lack of support for female-led stories: “To all those women in positions of power, why don’t they support such a story? Ek certain female-led films se kya pareshaani hai?”