EXCLUSIVE: Karan Johar expands Dharma Productions; enters film distribution business

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Karan Johar took a significant step in late 2024 by teaming up with Adar Poonawalla. The CEO of the Serum Institute of India picked up a 50% stake in Dharma Productions and Dharmatic Entertainment, for Rs 1000 crores and it was one of the major talking points of last year. And after this development, KJo is all set to take his business one level up - he’s all set to enter the film distribution business.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Until now, Dharma Productions had only produced films while a studio or major distributor would come on board to release these movies in cinemas. But now, Karan wants Dharma to be a complete studio, which would also release films in cinemas.”

The source continued, “Bhumika Tewari, who used to head distribution at Zee Studios, has joined Dharma Productions. She’ll be in charge of distributing in-house Dharma films. Karan has worked with her in the past for films made by Dharma and Zee like Good Newwz (2019), Kesari (2019) etc. She also has years of experience and is considered a big name in the distribution circuit. She has grand plans to ensure that films of Dharma Productions get the best possible release in cinemas across the country.”

An industry insider commented, “Karan Johar is following in the footsteps of Yash Chopra and Aditya Chopra’s Yash Raj Films (YRF). They also have a distribution wing; in fact, YRF has made a huge name for themselves not just for producing but also distributing films. KJo wants to follow suit. It was on his mind for many years and now with Adar Poonawalla’s support, he’s finally realizing his dream.”

Meanwhile, the source also revealed, “Just like YRF also distributes films made by other banners, Dharma’s distribution wing is also expected to do the same.” However, it’s not clear when that would happen. Also, the sources are not aware if Dharma would distribute films only in India and whether they’d also have presence Overseas.

On the film front, Karan Johar is expected to begin 2025 with Dhadak 2, starring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri followed by an untitled period legal drama, starring Akshay Kumar, R Madhavan and Ananya Panday.

Also Read: Karan Johar drops major appreciation post on Akshay Kumar, Sara Ali Khan starrer Sky Force trailer

Ektaa R Kapoor drops cryptic post calling out ‘unprofessional actors’ after Ram Kapoor comments on controversial kissing scene in Bade Achhe Lagte Hain

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Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, that received immense love from audience, featured the first controversial kissing scene on small screen. While the chemistry of Ram Kapoor and Sakshi Tanwar was highly appreciated, this risky move received quite a bit of attention and backlash from television viewing audience. While Ram made a few comments about the same during a recent interview, soon after the video went viral, Ektaa R Kapoor took to social media to share a note about ‘unprofessional actors’.

Ektaa R Kapoor drops cryptic note on social media

Known as the TV Czarina, Ektaa R Kapoor took to social media to share a note calling out ‘unprofessional actors’ without particularly naming anyone. However, having posted the note amid Ram’s remarks on BALH has left fans wondering if this was directed towards the actor. The note read, “Unprofessional actors giving interviews about my shows shud shut up! False information N skewed stories. Can only last till. I talk’...... but there is dignity in silence”.

Ram Kapoor on the kissing scene of Bade Achhe Lagte Hain

During an interaction with journalist-anchor Siddharth Kanan, Ram Kapoor opened up about Bade Achhe Lagte Hain wherein he said, “Ekta is the one who wrote the scene, wanted us to do the scene... I told Ekta, ‘Are you sure? Ye television mein pehle kabhi hua nahi hai (This never happened on television before); it was the first kiss of television, which is a big thing. And three generations watch (the show) together... but Ekta was very confident that we should do it.” The actor also mentioned how he sought permission from his wife Gautami and also ensured that his co-star Sakshi Tanwar is comfortable about it. “I said, okay, I’ll first get a go-ahead from my wife. Then I told Sakshi that, look, I will handle Ekta. If you have a problem, tell me," he added.

About Bade Achhe Lagte Hain

Bade Achhe Lagte Hain was a romantic drama that was based on the concept – love has no age bar. The show showcased two middle-aged people finding love in a marriage of compromise. The Sony Television series featured Ram Kapoor in his namesake role of a childlike, emotional but ruthless businessman, whereas Sakshi Tanwar played the strong-headed but soft-hearted Priya Sood.

Also Read: Ekta Kapoor teams up with Tumbbad director Rahi Anil Barve for new film, also plans Ragini MMS 3 in 2025: Report

Salman Khan increases security 8 months after attack as the actor installs bulletproof glass

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After the shocking firing incident outside the famous Galaxy Apartments in Bandra where Salman Khan resides, a recent renovation at the superstar’s residence has grabbed attention from many. Eight months after the bullet shots were fired, Khan is expected to have given his home a security upgrade by installing bulletproof glasses on the windows. This comes after the murder of famous politician Baba Siddiqui, who shared close relations with Khan and his family.

Salman Khan increases massive security around his home

The Bollywood superstar has added bulletproof glasses on his balcony where he often comes to greet his fans. Apart from that, we hear that the surroundings of the Galaxy apartment too have undergone some minor changes in terms of security. It has been reported that some hi-tech equipment including an upgraded CCTV system has been installed around the actor’s home in order to understand any mysterious activity around the residence, and thus prevent any more attacks on the superstar.

Attacks on Salman Khan

It is a known fact that Khan has been receiving threats which seem to have fueled up further in the past few years with anonymous notes also being sent to the actor’s father and renowned writer Salim Khan. Adding to it, Salman’s residence was attacked in April by two bikers who fired gunshots at his residence. While fortunately there were no casualties in the firing, the actor’s personal security was increased by the Mumbai police, with the Chief Minister also assuring complete protection for Khan and his family. In fact, the events also prompted the actor to apply for weapon’s license in order to ensure the safety of his loved ones.

For the unversed, the attacks have been linked to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi who has been threatening Khan ever since the latter’s name was involved in the blackbuck case. Adding fuel to the fire, Bishnoi’s brother Anmol too have been detained in the US in relation to ongoing case of Baba Siddiqui’s murder.

Also Read: Salman Khan to begin shooting for Sikandar’s last schedule from January 10 in Mumbai: Report

Pushpa 2 – The Rule: Makers drop major announcement about adding 20 minutes of new footage

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Pushpa 2 – The Rule, which has been setting new benchmarks and box office records, will be having a new addition as per a recent announcement. While fans have been flocking theatres to get a glimpse of Allu Arjun as Pushparaj, it seems that they can rejoice as the new update is that the makers are planning to extend the length of the film and the Telugu superstar’s fans will now get to see more of the actor on the big screen!

 Pushpa 2 – The Reloaded Version

On Tuesday, producers of Pushpa, Mythri Movie Makers took to social media to share all about the ‘reloaded version’ wherein they revealed that they will be adding 20 minutes of extra footage in Pushpa 2 – The Rule, from this weekend onwards. Sharing the announcement with a menacing poster of Pushparaj, the caption on the post read, “#Pushpa2TheRule RELOADED VERSION with 20 minutes of added footage will play in cinemas from 11th January. The WILDFIRE gets extra FIERY”.

 

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More about Pushpa 2 – The Rule

Pushpa franchise traces the journey of small-time sandalwood smuggler Pushparaj who goes on to become one of the most feared gangsters. The movie features Rashmika Mandanna as his wife Srivalli and the second instalment Pushpa 2 – The Rule stars Fahadh Faasil as the main antagonist, SP Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, who is out to seek revenge from Pushparaj for humiliating him. While the first instalment received immense love with Allu Arjun also becoming the first Telugu star to win a National Film Award, the second instalment has created history at the box office.

Meanwhile, the makers have also hinted at a third instalment being in the pipeline in the finale of Pushpa 2. Titled Pushpa 3 – The Rampage, the actioner too will be directed by filmmaker Sukumar.

Also Read: Pushpa 2 stampede controversy: Hyderabad police asks Allu Arjun to maintain confidentiality about visiting the victim

Divyenndu on Munna Bhaiya’s return in Mirzapur the film, “I am doing this for the people who love this character”

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Although Divyenndu has done notable work in several big and small screen projects, it is his menacing Munna in Mirzapur series that he is identified with in the audiences’ mind. Divyenndu said that he doesn’t mind that. “No, I don't mind it at all,” he said. “Because I really love and cherish how much people loved me in this character. Yes, at times it's beyond my comprehension that, you know, they actually think that a character like Munna Tripathi exists in a parallel world.”

He added, “Me not being there in the latest season when he dies, more than anything, I think the audiences were just very angry and hurt. It's a very raw and a very pure emotion. So that is really humbling. For me as an actor, I totally understand that there is a journey of a character, it begins and you know, it ends at some point of time. But for them, I think they were just not ready to give up on Munna. So, it's, it's something which is very touching, and I really value it and, you know, cherish it.”

Seldom has a character in a web series received such adulation. Divyenndu is overwhelmed by the fanatical fan following for Munna. He said, “What can I say? I just feel that I'm blessed to get so much love from my fans, from friends, you know, from audiences, from critics, from a lot of people. Yeah, it's just a very big thank you in my heart. And yes, now Munna Tripathi is coming back in Mirzapur the film we are making. I'm really looking forward to it. Yes, there is no denying it.

Divyenndu added, “But you know, to be really candid with you, I must say a few things. I always say an artist is a very selfish being. Whatever I do, firstly, I do it for my happiness. I should get happiness from a character, playing a character or a film. And that is what matters to me the most. But in this case, for the very first time in Mirzapur, I know it's not about me. It's beyond me. It's about people who love this character so much that it's for them that I'm doing this, for the audience and I'm very, very happy that Munna is coming back. It's truly for my fans this time. It's truly for them. And I'm very happy that we can give them their, this beloved character Munna once again. Even better this time because it's coming on the big screen.”

Also Read: Mirzapur 3 Bonus Episode: Divyenndu’s Munna Bhaiya makes a return but in deleted scenes

Sana Khan welcomes second child with Mufti Anas Sayed; shares post on social media

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Although Sana Khan has officially announced her exit from the entertainment industry, the former actress-reality show star, continues to earn followers on social media. The former actress, who is already a mother to a year-old boy, decided to embrace motherhood once again as she and her husband, cleric Mufti Anas Sayed welcomed their second child and took to social media to share this good news with her fans on Monday.

Sana Khan welcomes another baby boy

Taking to her Instagram page, Sana Khan shared a sweet video announcing the arrival of her second son. The cute clip featured elements like balloons, a castle, a parachute, ribbons and other décor items in blue and white hues. Revealing that their little one was born on January 5, 2025, Sana shared the news with a note in the video that read, “We are overjoyed to share the beautiful news of the arrival of our little prince! Overflowing with joy big brother Tariq Jamil welcomes his baby brother!” Referring to themselves as ‘proud parents’, Sana further added in the video, “Bless us to raise him with kindness and righteousness, and make him among Your faithful servants”.

Meanwhile, the former actress also expressed her happiness in the caption and wrote, “Allah Taala Ne Har Chiz Mukaddar Me Likhe Hai Waqt Aane Par Allah Usko Atta Karta He Aur Jab Atta Karta He To Jholiya Khushiyon Se Bhar Deta Hai. Happy Parents #sanakhan #anassaiyad #saiyadtariqjamil.” Followed by the post, many of her friends and well-wishers dropped congratulatory messages.

 

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About Sana Khan

After gaining momentum over a controversial advertisement and later establishing herself, Sana Khan received a lot of attention and fame for her stint in Bigg Boss 6 where she became the second runner-up. However, in 2020, she announced her permanent retirement from Bollywood and the entertainment industry. She married Muslim cleric Mufti Anas Sayed on November 21, 2020, and the couple welcomed their first child, Saiyad Tariq Jamil on July 5, 2023.

Also Read: Sana Khan recalls being hesitant to marry Mufti Anas because of seven years age gap: “My husband is almost seven years younger than me” 

Salman Khan to begin shooting for Sikandar’s last schedule from January 10 in Mumbai: Report

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Salman Khan is set to begin the final schedule of his much-anticipated film, Sikandar, starting January 10 in Mumbai. With co-star Rashmika Mandanna joining him, the team is working against the clock to complete the shoot and post-production in time for its scheduled Eid 2025 release. Directed by AR Murugadoss and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, the film promises to deliver high-octane action and a compelling storyline.

According to a report by Mid-Day, the team is confident about wrapping up on time despite the tight timeline. “The last schedule will start on January 10 in Mumbai. Salman and Rashmika Mandanna will be back on set. Even though the film is due for release in March, the team is confident of comfortably completing it in time,” the source revealed. The simultaneous handling of filming and post-production by director AR Murugadoss has been pivotal in ensuring the film stays on schedule. High Expectations from Sikandar’s Music and Storyline The teaser for Sikandar, unveiled on Salman Khan’s birthday last month, garnered praise for its visual appeal and background score composed by Tamil musician Santhosh Narayanan, who is making his Bollywood debut. According to the source, the film’s music, composed by Pritam, will play a significant role in amplifying the cinematic experience. “The music album is vibrant and celebratory, while the background score strikes an emotional chord,” the insider added.

Set against the backdrop of corruption, Khan plays a ruthless businessman who transforms witnessing the injustices around him. The film also features Sathyaraj and Kajal Aggarwal in pivotal roles, adding depth to the narrative. With AR Murugadoss at the helm, the film aims to cater to both mass and family audiences. Sajid Nadiadwala’s production is banking on the festive season of Eid 2025 to ensure maximum reach and box-office success.

Also Read: “Salman Khan bhai aapka Sikandar bhi dekhna hai humko,” says Ram Charan expressing his excitement for Sajid Nadiadwala backed film