Prakash Raj begins shooting for Drishyam 3, quips he is “not replacing anyone” after Akshaye Khanna’s exit from Ajay Devgn-starrer

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Veteran actor Prakash Raj has officially started shooting for the much-anticipated Hindi thriller Drishyam 3. The actor confirmed his participation through a social media post, while also addressing speculation surrounding the film’s casting after Akshaye Khanna’s reported exit from the project.

Taking to X, Prakash Raj shared an update from the sets and wrote: “Started shooting for this engaging franchise #Drishyam3 in Hindi. With a wonderful team and a scintillating role to play. I’m sure you will love it. (And yes, I’m not replacing anyone..)”

Started shooting for this engaging franchise #Drishyam3 in hindi. With a wonderful team and a scintillating role to play . Im sure you will love it . ❤️❤️❤️( and yes im not replacing anyone..) 😛😛😛 — Prakash Raj (@prakashraaj) February 10, 2026

The post appeared to directly respond to ongoing assumptions that he might be stepping into a role earlier associated with Khanna. His clarification suggests that his character is a new addition rather than a replacement.

Notably, Bollywood Hungama was the first to report that Prakash Raj would be joining the cast of Drishyam 3, hours before the actor confirmed the development himself.

The third instalment of the franchise continues the story of Vijay Salgaonkar and his family, with Ajay Devgn expected to reprise his lead role. The earlier films were both commercial successes and built a strong following, raising expectations for the upcoming chapter. Recent clarification on Spirit rumours The development comes shortly after Prakash Raj addressed separate reports claiming that he had been dropped from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s upcoming film Spirit due to creative differences. The Prabhas and Triptii Dimri-starrer is currently in production and has been generating steady buzz since its announcement.

Earlier reports had suggested that Prakash Raj, who was initially announced as a key cast member, was removed from the project while the film was already being shot in Hyderabad. According to these claims, issues allegedly arose on set, leading to an unexpected casting change at that stage of production.

However, Prakash Raj strongly refuted these reports. Taking to his X handle (formerly Twitter), the actor wrote, “To all the toxic #Fakenews peddlers…. On #Spirit the movie. We have not even started shooting for my scenes, and you whatsup factories speculate stories. Grow up and have a life. #justasking.”

As Drishyam 3 moves forward in production and Spirit remains in active development, Prakash Raj has now publicly clarified his association with both projects, putting recent speculation on record.

Also Read: Prakash Raj slams National Film Awards: “When files and piles are getting awards! They don’t deserve Mammukka”

Ranveer Singh receives threat; security heightened at Mumbai residence as police launch probe

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Actor Ranveer Singh has received a threat, prompting a police probe and heightened security at his Mumbai residence. According to a report by PTI, the actor was sent a threatening voice message, following which the authorities initiated an investigation.

Police sources confirmed that the Crime Branch is currently examining the voice note and attempting to trace the sender. A search operation has been launched as part of the inquiry.

In the wake of the threat, security arrangements at the residence shared by Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone have reportedly been strengthened. According to a letter circulating online and attributed to the society managing committee of the residential complex, six armed private security guards have been stationed at the premises along with one uniformed police personnel. The letter notes that such deployment was not in place earlier.

The society has raised concerns about the movement of armed guards through common areas, including the lobby, gymnasium and children’s play area. Residents have expressed discomfort and flagged safety concerns over the presence of weapons in shared spaces.

In a letter dated February 10 addressed to Dadar Police, the Society Managing Committee sought clarification on multiple points. These include whether the private security guards are carrying licensed firearms within the residential premises, whether Dadar Police Station has granted permission for such deployment, and details regarding the police personnel stationed at the flat — including the department responsible and the nature of the assignment.

While acknowledging and appreciating the police department’s prompt action in sending an officer to verify the security arrangements, the society has requested official clarification to address concerns among residents. Police officials have not yet disclosed further details about the content of the threatening message. The investigation remains ongoing.

Also Read: “Ranveer Singh is absolutely beautiful to watch on screen,” says ‘Shararat’ song fame Ayesha Khan

EXCLUSIVE: Paresh Rawal to play double role in Akshay Kumar-Manoj Bajpayee starrer Bhagam Bhag 2

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Paresh Rawal is one of the most versatile performers in Bollywood, excelling in roles across genres, be it comic, villainous or emotional. His comic timing is impeccable, as proved by his work in several comic capers, some of which are fondly remembered even today. One such film is Bhagam Bhag (2006) and moviegoers were excited to learn that Bhagam Bhag 2 is in the offing. Bollywood Hungama has learned of an exciting development – Paresh Rawal will be seen in a double role in this highly awaited flick.

Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke with Paresh Rawal. When asked if he has a double role in Bhagam Bhag 2, he replied, “Yes, I do.” He further said, “I am excited. Maza aayega. Dhamaal hoga!”

This is not the first time that Paresh Rawal will play dual roles in a film. His portrayals of the uptight and disciplined Ram Gopal Bajaj and the buffoon antagonist Shyam Gopal Bajaj aka Teja in Andaz Apna Apna (1994) have achieved cult status. Then, in Oye Lucky Lucky Oye (2008), he played not double but triple roles of Jani Singh, Gogi Arora and Dr B D Handa. The other films of Paresh Rawal in which he had double roles were Platform (1993), Janam Kundli (1995) and Chor Machaye Shor (2002).

Besides Paresh Rawal, Bhagam Bhag 2 also stars Akshay Kumar and Manoj Bajpayee. It marks the Hindi theatrical film debut of Meenakshi Chaudhary; her other Hindi film Upstarts (2019) was directly released on Netflix. While the original 2006 film was directed by Priyadarshan, Bhagam Bhag 2 will be helmed by Raaj Shaandilyaa of Dream Girl (2019) fame.

Meanwhile, in 2026 and 2027, Paresh Rawal will be seen in multiple comic films. On April 10, he’ll appear in the horror comedy, Bhooth Bangla, while on June 26, his other highly awaited flick, Welcome To The Jungle, will be out. 2027 will see the release of Bhagam Bhag 2 and also Hera Pheri 3. Incidentally, all these films co-star Akshay Kumar.

Also Read: Manoj Bajpayee replaces Govinda in Bhagam Bhag 2: Report

Ranveer Singh and Excel Entertainment clash over Rs 40 crores after Don 3 exit: Report

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A financial dispute has emerged between Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh and Don 3 producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s Excel Entertainment following Singh’s reported exit from the much-anticipated action thriller. The production house is seeking compensation of Rs 40 crores for alleged losses incurred after the actor stepped away from the project.

The conflict has taken an industry spotlight not over box office performance, but over costs associated with pre-production. Sources cited in a report by Variety India indicate that Excel Entertainment claims it invested heavily in early stages of development — including scheduling, location planning and hiring crew — based on Ranveer Singh’s commitment to play the lead role.

Ranveer Singh is said to strongly contest the demand. According to the report, he argues he should not be held financially responsible for leaving the project. “Ranveer claims he left the project because he wasn’t happy with the script. He kept asking for changes to be made and didn’t like what the final draft read,” the report quoted, while noting that Excel maintained pre-production moved ahead only after Singh had given his approval.

The report further stated that several heads of departments were released from their roles and asked to seek alternative work, a move the production house attributes to the financial setback. This element of the dispute underscores the broader impact such disagreements can have on film crews and production timelines.

A two-hour meeting between representatives of Ranveer Singh and Excel was held last Friday to resolve differences, but sources told reporters that no agreement was reached. With tensions persisting, the Producers Guild of India (PGI) has stepped in to mediate between the parties in hopes of finding common ground and preventing further escalation.

Neither Ranveer Singh nor Excel Entertainment has issued an official statement on the matter as of this writing. The dispute comes at a time when Singh is preparing for the release of Dhurandhar: Part 2, while Excel still evaluates its slate following delays to Don 3.

Also Read: Suniel Shetty praises Aditya Dhar and Ranveer Singh after watching Dhurandhar; calls it ‘mind-blowing film’

FWICE demands withdrawal of Ghooskhor Pandat title, warns of strict action

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The controversy around the upcoming Netflix film Ghooskhor Pandat, produced by Neeraj Pandey and starring Manoj Bajpayee, grew more intense this week after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) formally objected to its title and urged the makers to withdraw it, warning of significant industry action if the demand is not met.

The dispute began soon after the film’s announcement and teaser release, with many viewers and various organisations criticising the title Ghooskhor Pandat as offensive and potentially derogatory toward a specific community. The title combines ghooskhor — a colloquial Hindi term for someone who takes bribes — with Pandat, commonly associated with the Brahmin community. Critics argued that this linkage could perpetuate stereotypes and hurt sentiments. FWICE’s Objection and Warning FWICE, a body representing workers, technicians and artists across more than three dozen affiliated associations, sent a letter to producers’ bodies and major OTT platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Zee5 and SonyLIV. The organisation, according to a PTI report, stated: “FWICE and all its affiliated associations strongly object to the use of this title, as it appears to single out and target a particular community and its traditional means of livelihood in a derogatory and offensive manner.”

The letter added, “Such a title has the potential to hurt sentiments, provoke misunderstanding, and disturb social harmony… We therefore appeal to all producer bodies to refrain from allowing the registration or continuation of film titles that are provocative in nature and capable of creating unrest among Indians.” The federation emphasised that the film industry, as a platform of influence, has a responsibility to avoid promoting disrespect or division.

FWICE also warned that if the title is not withdrawn promptly, it may advise its associations and members to distance themselves from any project associated with the film’s production house. This could translate into a boycott of technicians and crew working on future films by the same producers. Government, Legal and Public Reaction to Ghooskhor Pandat The controversy crossed into legal and political arenas. In Lucknow, an FIR was lodged against the film’s creators for allegedly hurting caste sentiments, and a writ petition has been filed in the Delhi High Court seeking a stay on the film’s release on grounds that the title is “communally offensive.”

Political organisations and leaders have also joined the criticism. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) labelled the title as “offensive” and has urged appropriate measures against the film. Amid the backlash, authorities reportedly directed Netflix India to remove the teaser and related promotional content from official channels.

Responding to the uproar, Neeraj Pandey issued a statement acknowledging that the title had “hurt” some viewers and announced that all promotional material for the project would be taken down for the moment. He clarified: “Our film is a fictional cop drama… the term ‘Pandat’ is used simply as a colloquial name for a character. The story focuses on an individual’s actions and choices and does not comment on or represent any caste, religion or community.”

Manoj Bajpayee also addressed the controversy on his official social media, writing: “I respect the emotions and concerns people have shared, and I take them seriously… For me, this was about portraying a flawed individual and his journey of self-realisation. This was not meant to be a statement about any community.”

Beyond FWICE, the Film Makers Combine (FMC) — another industry body — has objected to the title on procedural grounds, noting that Ghooskhor Pandat had not been formally approved under standard title registration processes. The organisation has cautioned the production and Netflix against using an unauthorized title.

Also Read: After Neeraj Pandey, Manoj Bajpayee addresses backlash over Ghooskhor Pandat title: “Not meant to be a statement about any community”

“Disappointing”: Vikrant Massey BREAKS SILENCE on being replaced by Raghav Juyal in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana

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Actor Vikrant Massey addressed widespread rumours surrounding his alleged role in Ramayana, a two-part film directed by Nitesh Tiwari, and reports that he was replaced by Raghav Juyal. The speculation began earlier this week, triggering reactions across social media and entertainment outlets.

In a post shared on his Instagram Stories, Massey firmly denied being part of the project. “Ok. To put the rumours to rest. I never was a part of Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayan,” he wrote, reflecting on the coverage that suggested he had lost a role in the film. “The many media portals reporting about my supposed ‘replacement’ should’ve done the requisite background check. Disappointing. Nonetheless, wishing everyone a part of the movie all the very best. Love.”

The actor later deleted the post from his Instagram Story, though no explanation was given for its removal.

The controversy stemmed from a report by Variety India mentioning that Raghav Juyal had been cast as Meghanad (also called Indrajit) — the eldest son of Ravana and a key warrior in the Ramayana narrative — for Ramayana: Part 2. The same report indicated that the role was once linked to Massey before the filmmakers made a different casting choice. The publication quoted a source saying, “The role was initially supposed to be played by Vikrant Massey, but things apparently didn't work out. Raghav was subsequently approached, and he immediately came on board.”

Despite the buzz, Massey made it clear he had no official involvement with the project at any stage. The deleted clarification post was his way of countering the growing speculation.

Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is being produced as a two-part cinematic adaptation of the ancient Indian epic and is expected to be among the biggest live-action films in Indian cinema. Ranbir Kapoor headlines as Lord Ram, while Sai Pallavi plays Goddess Sita. Yash embodies Ravana, with Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. The ensemble cast also includes several other prominent actors in key roles.

The first part of Ramayana is scheduled for a Diwali 2026 release, while the second installment is expected around Diwali 2027.

Also Read: Musafir Café on Netflix: Vikrant Massey, Vedika Pinto and Mahima Makwana lead a soulful love story

EXCLUSIVE: Salman Khan’s Battle Of Galwan to release on Independence Day 2026

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Earlier in the day, Bollywood Hungama announced that the much-awaited film, Battle Of Galwan, might not be able to make it on April 17, as scheduled. The news went viral as soon as it went live. We now bring to you another exciting update – the new release date of the Salman Khan-starrer.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Battle Of Galwan has indeed been postponed and it’ll now release on August 14, 2026. Salman Khan and the makers are of the opinion that it would be a better date since India’s Independence Day falls on August 15. The patriotic sentiment will be at an all-time high and Battle Of Galwan would be an ideal flick to watch in this period.”

The source further said, “The makers are expected to shortly announce the new release date of Battle Of Galwan officially.”

Earlier, Bollywood Hungama, in its article, carried a quote from a source who explained the reason for the delay, “The shoot is not yet over and the reshoot is taking more time than expected. From Monday, February 9, a one-week schedule will commence in the Golden Tobacco Factory in Mumbai. After this schedule gets over, a few more days of shooting are left and by February-end, it’ll be a wrap.”

The source further said, “Director Apoorva Lakhia will begin editing the reshot portions. And that’s not all. As per the rules, Battle Of Galwan needs to be shown to the Ministry of Defence and this process might also take time. Due to these two reasons, the makers feel that they would not be able to meet the April 17 deadline. Salman Khan is clear that such a special, patriotic film needs to be nurtured well. He has told the team of the film that they should not rush through the process and take their time in ensuring that the final product looks appealing, compelling and cinematic.”

Interestingly, Battle Of Galwan will now clash with Kartik Aaryan-starrer Naagzilla.

Also Read: Salman Khan back on Battle Of Galwan sets for 15-day additional shoot and patchwork; action scene added