Mrunal Thakur joins EBG Group as ambassador for Carlton Wellness platform

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EBG Group, a fast-growing Indian conglomerate with diversified interests spanning mobility, health, realty, lifestyle, food, services, technology, and education, today announced the onboarding of acclaimed Indian actor Mrunal Thakur as brand ambassador for its project, Carlton Wellness. The association marks a key milestone in EBG Group’s vision to build India’s most credible, regulated, and premium wellness-hospitality ecosystem. Effective from FY 2025–26, the partnership will see Mrunal Thakur headline Carlton Wellness’s brand films, digital storytelling initiatives, experiential wellness campaigns, flagship property launches, and brand programs, to be rolled out in a phased manner across India.

Commenting on the announcement, Dr Irfan Khan, Chairman & Founder, EBG Group, said, “Mrunal Thakur was chosen for her authentic alignment with wellness, balance, and mindful living. Known for her modern grace, discipline, emotional strength, and understated luxury, she embodies values that closely mirror Carlton Wellness’s philosophy of holistic, preventive, and longevity-focused wellbeing. This partnership aims to position Carlton as an aspirational yet credible wellness brand for the modern Indian consumer.”

He added, “Carlton is built on the idea of conscious luxury and long-term wellbeing. Mrunal reflects the calm confidence, balance, and authenticity that our brand stands for. This association reinforces our commitment to building a meaningful and scalable wellness ecosystem in India.”

Speaking on the partnership, Mrunal Thakur said, “Wellness is deeply personal to me. Carlton’s approach goes beyond luxury—it focuses on balance, healing, and inner wellbeing. I’m excited to associate with a brand that encourages people to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and prioritise holistic health.”

Under its strategic partnership with EBG Group, Carlton Wellness Group is being developed as a premium, integrated wellness-hospitality platform spanning wellness resorts, destination retreats, city and hotel-based wellness spas, and wellness-oriented vacation homes and residences. The platform’s differentiated model integrates clinical and experiential wellness offerings—including Ayurveda, naturopathy, mindfulness, and hydrotherapy—while adapting global wellness standards to Indian lifestyles, with a strong focus on longevity, preventive care, and enhanced quality of life.

Currently, multiple Carlton Wellness Spa formats are set to be operational across select partner locations, with licensed spa projects already live within premium hospitality and real estate developments. In parallel, flagship Carlton Wellness retreat and resort projects are at advanced stages of development and will soon be operational in Ahmedabad, Indore, and Manipal.

In addition, Carlton Wellness has confirmed expansion plans across key markets, including Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar, Surat, Lucknow, Bangalore, and Manipal, strengthening its footprint across major metro and Tier-1 cities.

Looking ahead to 2026, the partnership is charting a more ambitious growth phase, targeting expansion across Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and select NCR and metro hubs. The roadmap includes 20-30 new wellness spas in metros and Tier-1 cities, 4-6 destination wellness retreats, 2-3 boutique wellness resorts in nature-led or coastal locations, and 1-2 luxury wellness residential or vacation home projects.

Backed by this robust expansion pipeline, the EBG-Carlton platform is projecting revenues of Rs 80-120 crores in FY 2025-26, scaling to Rs 180-250 crores in FY 2026-27. Revenue streams will be driven by spa operations and memberships, retreat and resort bookings, licensing and revenue-share models, managed wellness vacation homes, and curated brand collaborations and wellness programs.

Over the next 5 years, the alliance aims to establish flagship assets and urban spa leadership by 2025-26, expand to over 50 wellness touchpoints nationwide by 2027-28, and emerge by 2029-30 as India’s largest regulated wellness network, with plans for international expansion into GCC and Southeast Asian markets.

With Mrunal Thakur as the face of the brand, EBG Group and Carlton Wellness are positioning themselves at the intersection of longevity science, conscious luxury, and scalable wellness, with the ambition of becoming India’s most trusted and globally respected wellness-hospitality brand.

Also Read: Mrunal Thakur drops photos from her ‘much needed break’; wins hearts as she recharges ahead of packed 2026 line-up

Salman Khan in talks with Raj & DK for action-comedy, reveal reports

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Salman Khan, who is currently occupied with the upcoming war drama Battle of Galwan, is reportedly in discussions with filmmaker duo Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK for a potential new project. While details remain tightly under wraps, industry buzz suggests that the film being discussed is an action-comedy — a genre Salman is expected to revisit after several years.

According to a report by Pinkvilla, the collaboration is still in its early stages, but the prospect itself has generated significant interest. Raj and DK, known for blending sharp humour with stylised action, are said to be keen on mounting a large-scale entertainer if the alignment works out. If finalised, the project would mark Salman Khan’s first-ever association with the director duo, making it a notable collaboration in Bollywood’s commercial space.

A source was quoted telling in these reports, “Salman Khan has heard the basic idea and has shown interest in it. It’s an action-comedy, but it will also present Khan in a slightly different space. However, he is yet to give his final nod to the project.” The source also added, “If everything falls into place and Salman comes on board, the makers are looking to take the film on floors by the end of 2026. At the moment, it’s all about aligning creatively and locking the script.”

Given that discussions are still preliminary, no official announcement is expected until the script and creative vision are fully locked. Both parties are reportedly focused on ensuring the material offers something fresh while staying true to the mass appeal associated with Salman Khan.

On the work front, Salman is gearing up for the release of Battle of Galwan, which is based on the real-life events that unfolded on June 15, 2020, in the Galwan Valley. The film chronicles the clash between Indian and Chinese troops, where around 200 Indian soldiers defended their territory against a force of 1200 Chinese Liberation Army soldiers. Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the film also stars Chitrangda Singh in a key role and is slated for an April release this year.

Meanwhile, Raj and DK continue to ride high on the success of The Family Man Season 3. The duo is expected to return with the next season soon, which will serve as a continuation of the third instalment, retaining the same characters while amplifying the action and drama quotient.

While fans await official confirmation, the possibility of Salman Khan teaming up with Raj and DK for an action-comedy has already sparked curiosity, promising a blend of mass entertainment and contemporary storytelling if it materialises.

Also Read: Salman Khan, Iulia Vantur, Suryakumar Yadav and other stars off to Jamnagar to celebrate New Year at Reliance Township

Shraddha Kapoor to start Naagin shoot in April after Eetha wraps: Report

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Bollywood actor Shraddha Kapoor is gearing up for a packed and varied year in her film career, with back-to-back projects lined up for 2026. After completing work on the biographical drama Eetha, she is set to begin shooting the much-anticipated fantasy film Naagin in April.

Final Stretch of Eetha Production

Kapoor is currently in the final phase of filming Eetha, directed by Laxman Utekar, in which she portrays legendary Tamasha and Lavani performer Vithabai Narayangaonkar. The role has demanded intense physical preparation and emotional depth, with the actress undergoing months of training.

A production source told Mid-Day: “Shraddha has been deeply invested in Eetha. The role is physically gruelling and emotionally intense, but she is keen to finish the film within the schedule. The makers are confident of wrapping by March.”

The shoot experienced a brief pause after Kapoor sustained an injury during a dance sequence, but insiders say this did not significantly derail the schedule.

Shraddha Kapoor’s Transition to Naagin

Immediately after completing Eetha, Kapoor will switch genres and begin work on Naagin, a high-concept fantasy film slated to go on floors in April 2026. According to the report, the project has been in development for some time, with efforts focused on finalising visual design and casting ahead of principal photography.

The report quoted a production insider saying: “Naagin has been in development for a long time, and the team wanted to get everything right — from the VFX design to the casting. With Shraddha locked in, the rest of the cast has fallen into place. The plan is to start shooting by April.”

The film is expected to explore supernatural and mythological themes, marking a distinct shift from Kapoor’s recent performance-driven role in Eetha.

Also Read: Shraddha Kapoor slams “negative PR and manufactured controversies” around Dhurandhar; urges Aditya Dhar to prepone sequel

Farhad Samji switches gears; writes screenplay and dialogues for film adaptation of Safed Khaki; based on police inspector Subhash Shinde and his cricket achievements

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Farhad Samji is known for directing mass-appealing and often comical films like Bachchhan Paandey (2022), Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan (2023), Housefull 4 (2019), etc. and writing (along with brother Sajid) memorable films like Singham (2011), Bol Bachchan (2012), Housefull 2 (2012), Chennai Express (2013), etc. However, with his next project, he is all set to switch genres. It has come to light that Farhad has written a film on Senior Inspector Subhash Shinde who contributed to cricket.

The film in question is an adaptation of the book 'Safed Khaki' written by Atharwa Shinde, daughter of Subhash Shinde. In an interview to Mid-Day in November 2025, she revealed that Nishikant Kamat of Mumbai Meri Jaan (2008) and Drishyam (2015) fame was impressed by the story and wanted to make a film at one point. But the project was stalled after his demise in 2020.

But later, Farhad Samji came on board and he, along with Piyush Singh, has now written the screenplay and dialogues. Atharwa told Mid-Day, “I feel immense joy and deep gratitude that Farhad Samji is writing the screenplay and dialogues for my story.”

Moreover, Nitin Ramesh Tendulkar, elder brother of Sachin Tendulkar and a respected lyricist in Marathi cinema, will pen the songs of the film.

About Subhash Shinde

As per the Mid-Day article, Subhash Shinde spent over four decades with the Maharashtra Police, mostly in the Crime Branch. In his younger days, he also trained under the Bombay Cricket Association–Mafatlal Bowling Scheme, which began in 1990. On November 11, 2011, he built a police cricket team from scratch in Navi Mumbai Rural. Few expected much from it, but the team went on to win several tournaments on the MCA (Mumbai Cricket Association) and state circuits, including the Times Shield, Government Shield, DY Patil Tournament, Kanga League, Kurla Bapat Tournament, Thane Vaibhav Tournament, and many other MCA-affiliated office and corporate events.

Also Read: SCOOP: Farhad Samji is still a part of Akshay Kumar-starrer Hera Pheri 3; all set to direct the much-awaited comic caper

Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij confirm separation after weeks of rumours: “We choose peace over drama”

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After weeks of speculation surrounding their marriage, popular television actors Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij have officially confirmed that they are going their separate ways. The couple, who tied the knot in 2011 and share three children, addressed the ongoing rumours by issuing a detailed and heartfelt note on social media, putting an end to conjecture around their relationship status.

Taking to their Instagram Stories, Jay and Mahhi clarified that while they have decided to part ways as partners, they will continue to remain united as co-parents. Stressing that their decision is rooted in peace, maturity and mutual understanding, the duo urged fans and the media to refrain from attaching negativity or assigning blame to their separation.

“Today, we choose to part ways on a journey called life, yet we continue to have each other's back. Peace, growth, kindness, and humanity have always been our guiding values. For the sake of our children Tara, Khushi, Rajveer, we commit to being the best parents, the best friends, and whatever else it takes to do what is right for them,” read a part of their statement.

They further added, “Though we walk separate paths, there is no villain in this story and no negativity attached to this decision. Before any conclusions are drawn, please know that we choose peace over drama and sanity above all else. We continue to respect one another, support one another, and remain friends, as we always have been. With mutual respect, we ask for your respect, love, and kindness as we move forward.”

Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij have long been regarded as one of television’s most admired couples. Over the years, they have frequently spoken about family and togetherness, often sharing glimpses of their personal life with fans. The couple are parents to Tara, their biological daughter born in 2019, and Khushi and Rajveer, whom they raised and supported from a very young age.

Professionally, Jay remains one of Indian television’s most recognisable and loved reality show hosts, having fronted several high-profile programs. Mahhi, on the other hand, is widely known for her impactful performances in popular shows such as Laagi Tujhse Lagan and Balika Vadhu.

While the confirmation of their separation marks the end of a significant chapter, Jay and Mahhi’s statement makes it clear that their priority remains their children and maintaining a respectful bond moving forward.

Also Read: Photos: Celebs snapped attending Mahi Vij and Jay Bhanushali’s daughter Tara’s birthday party

SCOOP: Anil Kapoor buys rights to his cult film Nayak; aspires to make its sequel

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Anil Kapoor has had an illustrious career and has delivered several memorable films. One film that stands out in his filmography is Nayak (2001). The political drama didn’t work in cinemas but became a cult film later on. Fans have long demanded a sequel to Nayak and Bollywood Hungama has learned that the plan might finally materialize.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Producer Deepak Mukut of Sanam Teri Kasam (2016) fame held the rights to Nayak. It is said that Anil Kapoor has bought the rights from him. He plans to hold the rights as it’s a film close to his heart. Also, he aspires to make a sequel to it. He is fully aware of the love he has garnered for the film over the years and he also is of the belief that the subject of Nayak has tremendous potential for a second part.”

We contacted Deepak Mukut to find out if he has sold the rights of Nayak to Anil Kapoor but he was unavailable for comment.

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama in March 2024, Deepak Mukut told Bollywood Hungama, “I got the rights from Nayak’s producer, Mr A S Rathnam. I also have the negative rights to his other films like Tejasvini (1994), Dil Hi Dil Mein (1999), etc. It was 10 years ago that I procured these rights.”

Besides Anil Kapoor, Nayak also starred Rani Mukerji, the late Amrish Puri, Paresh Rawal, Saurabh Shukla, Johny Lever, Shivaji Satam, Neena Kulkarni and others. Pooja Batra appeared in a cameo while Sushmita Sen was seen in a song. Written and directed by Shankar, it told the story of a fearless reporter who becomes the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for a day. The changes he brings about in the state in 24 hours make him a national hero.

Also Read: FICCI Frames 2025: Anil Kapoor reacts to Devendra Fadnavis’ comment “Aap Nayak aur hum Nalayak”; also says, “The timing couldn’t be BETTER for Nayak 2”

Universal Studios invests in Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment to scale up Indian productions: Report

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Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s production powerhouse Excel Entertainment has entered into a strategic partnership with Hollywood giant Universal Studios, signalling a new phase of global collaboration and scale-up for Indian content. Universal Studios has acquired a minority stake in Excel, while the larger share remains with the Indian banner, according to a report by Mid-Day.

What the Partnership Means

Insiders tell Mid-Day that Universal’s minority acquisition is aimed at scaling up Excel’s production capabilities and bringing “big ideas” to life with broader global reach. “Excel wants to expand the scale of its productions going ahead,” shared a source. “There are big ideas in the pipeline.”

Excel Entertainment’s 2025 slate included a diverse mix of films such as 120 Bahadur, Ground Zero, Superboys of Malegaon, and the digital release Songs of Paradise. While these projects garnered critical acclaim, several did not see major box-office success — prompting strategic reassessment and expansion efforts via partnerships like this one.

This collaboration follows a trend of major studios investing in Indian entertainment. Earlier, Adar Poonawalla’s acquisition of a 50% stake in Dharma Productions demonstrated international interest in India’s film powerhouses.

For Akhtar and Sidhwani — whose banner has backed films like Dil Chahta Hai, Don, and acclaimed web series (Inside Edge, Mirzapur) — the Universal tie-up underscores a forward-looking approach to storytelling that blends Indian narratives with global ambitions. The collaboration may also unlock new opportunities for cross-border co-productions and innovative cinematic ventures that appeal to both domestic and international audiences.

Also Read: Kill director Nikhil Bhat makes Hollywood debut with Universal Studios, plans to cast a leading Hollywood star in the action film