Himesh Reshammiya makes a BIG revelation: “I have written, sung and composed 15 songs in English; they don’t sound WANNABE at all”; adds, “There’s one song which is ABSOLUTELY right for Rihanna”

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Himesh Reshammiya recently had a conversation with Komal Nahta and revealed that he has already composed 15 songs for his international English-language album. He further stated that once he is free from his prior commitments, he would like to launch the album on a grand scale.

Himesh Reshammiya was asked if there was any international singer with whom he would like to collaborate. Before answering the question, the singer-composer made an interesting revelation. He said, “Nobody knows that I have composed 15 songs in the international language, which absolutely do not sound wannabe in any manner whatsoever. I have written, sung and composed those 15 songs in English. They are going to be launched on a very, very big scale. I am waiting to plan for it because I have been tied up with so many things and films.”

Himesh Reshammiya continued, “I’ll launch the album internationally the way I was launched as a singer here. Now that I have entered Bloomberg’s list of top pop stars of the world, this is the right time to present my album. Its first single will be unveiled in a grand fashion globally. So, it’s not like I sang a small part in a global song. It purely targets the universal audience who listens to English music.”

Himesh added, “It’ll be very different. At one point, no one was able to imagine how I would sound when I sang Aashiq Banaya Aapne (2005). The same will happen here. It’s so good and yet again, it has a romantic connection. I am very excited about it.”

Finally, answering the original question about his dream international collaboration, Himesh Reshammiya revealed, “If I get a chance to collaborate, then there’s one song which is absolutely right for Rihanna.”

Also Read: Gunmaaster G9 song ‘Dard-E-Dil Dard-E-Jigar’ to drop on October 30; Himesh Reshammiya and Akasa Singh reunite for new track

R Madhavan reunites with horror genre after 13B and Shaitaan; joins hands with Vishal Furia

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R Madhavan is set to return to the horror genre with an untitled feature film directed by Vishal Furia. The collaboration brings together the actor, known for his performances in films such as 13B and Shaitaan, and a filmmaker who has worked across several horror projects, including Lapachhapi, Chhorii and Maa.

Madhavan’s association with horror dates back to 13B, which developed a cult following for its unsettling premise. He later appeared in Shaitaan, further adding to his filmography in the genre. Over the years, the actor has also worked across a range of roles and languages, with credits including Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein, Tanu Weds Manu, 3 Idiots, Vikram Vedha and Rocketry: The Nambi Effect. He was also recently seen in Dhurandhar.

Furia, meanwhile, has established a presence in the horror space, beginning with the Marathi film Lapachhapi and subsequently developing the Chhorii franchise. His recent directorial work includes Maa, in which Madhavan made a surprise cameo. The upcoming project marks their first collaboration as actor and director on a feature film.

Speaking about casting Madhavan, Furia said, “Madhavan sir was always my first and only choice. I’m stoked that he has come on board and has already started getting into the world of the film. He is the true OG horror star of the cult classic Indian horror '13B' - one of my favourite films of all times. His conviction, his experience and his understanding of serious horror are very rare, and I couldn’t think of anyone better for this film,” he said.

The filmmaker also spoke about the creative direction he hopes to explore with the actor. “Madhavan sir has years of experience as a writer, director and producer, so it’s really special to have him with us on this film. Together, we want to create something audiences have never seen before in Indian horror - the kind of fear they will feel in their bones! (smiles)”

The film will be produced by Rohit Ranjan under the banner of Frostlit Production Limited. Further details about the project, including its title, supporting cast and release timeline, have not yet been announced.

Also Read: R. Madhavan set to host Game Changers featuring startup founders and global investors; details inside!

Mohit Malik on playing Birju Lohar in Mirzapur The Movie: “We cannot approach a character by simply deciding whether he is good or bad”

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With Mirzapur: The Movie now streaming on Prime Video India following its theatrical run, actor Mohit Malik has opened up about playing Birju Lohar in the crime drama. Reflecting on his experience, the actor discussed the challenge of portraying a character whose actions and motivations exist in shades of grey, making him an intriguing addition to the Mirzapur universe.

The franchise has built its narrative around characters who frequently blur the lines between right and wrong. Birju Lohar fits into this morally complex world, with his flaws, questionable decisions and unpredictable nature shaping his character. For Mohit, the challenge was to understand Birju’s motivations without judging him through the lens of his own personal beliefs.

Rather than categorising Birju as either good or bad, the actor approached the role by examining the circumstances and emotions that influence his decisions. According to Mohit, portraying such characters requires an actor to understand the reasoning behind their actions, even when those choices may be difficult to justify.

Speaking about playing Birju Lohar, Mohit Malik said, “Birju is a flawed character who makes choices that may not always be right, and that is what makes him interesting to play. As actors, we cannot approach a character by simply deciding whether he is good or bad. We have to understand his mindset, his circumstances and what drives him to make certain decisions. Even when you don't agree with a character's actions, you have to find the reasoning behind them and make them believable. The challenge is to portray the character honestly without judging him. I believe audiences connect with characters who feel human, with their flaws, contradictions and complexities. With Birju, I wanted to understand the person behind his actions and bring that truth to the screen.”

Mohit’s comments highlight an important aspect of his approach to the role: understanding a character beyond the choices he makes. By exploring Birju’s mindset and the circumstances surrounding his decisions, the actor sought to present a layered portrayal while leaving audiences to form their own opinions.

The digital release of Mirzapur: The Movie gives viewers another opportunity to explore the franchise’s familiar world of power struggles, rivalries and morally ambiguous characters. Mohit’s portrayal of Birju Lohar adds to that landscape, reflecting the complexity that has remained central to the crime drama’s storytelling.

Mirzapur: The Movie is now streaming exclusively on Prime Video India.

Also Read: Photos: Ali Fazal and Divyenndu host a special daawat for the entire team of Mirzapur: The Movie at Bandra

Abundantia Entertainment, invideo begin production on AI-assisted film Beta Builder, starring Mayur More and Ashlesha Thakur

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Abundantia Entertainment and video creation platform invideo have begun production on Beta Builder, the first film under their partnership to develop AI-driven feature films. Directed by Hridaye A Nagpal, the film went on floors in Mumbai on October 29, 2026, and will combine live-action filming with generative AI technology.

The project is part of a collaboration announced in February 2026, under which invideo committed Rs 100 crore over three years towards a slate of five AI-driven feature films. The partnership brings together Abundantia Entertainment’s production experience and invideo’s generative AI technology. Mayur More and Ashlesha Thakur lead Beta Builder Beta Builder follows Jai, a self-taught architect from Dharavi who gets an opportunity to pursue his ambitions in the world of virtual reality. As he attempts to establish himself, he must also challenge the system holding him back, fight for the person he loves and ensure that his community has a say in shaping its future.

The film explores themes of ambition, belonging and community, bringing together the realities of Dharavi and the possibilities of a virtual world.

The cast is led by Mayur More, known for Kota Factory and Black, White & Gray: Love Kills, and Ashlesha Thakur, who appeared in The Family Man.

Commenting on the first film to roll out under the slate, Vikram Malhotra, Founder and CEO, Abundantia Entertainment, said: “In our partnership with invideo and Sanket, our focus is to leverage AI and tell stories that are unique, impactful and entertaining. I am delighted that the first film in our slate is one that tells a story set in a relatable, young world and explores aspirational possibilities beyond. And in Hridaye, we have a filmmaker who combines a strong creative vision with a deep command over technology, which makes him the ideal person to lead and bring Beta Builder to life. I am excited about how aiON is enabling unique stories and storytellers to come to the fore and bring their best to fans all over the world.”

Sharing his vision for the partnership, Sanket Shah, CEO, invideo, said: “At InVideo, our mission has always been to put powerful tools in the hands of storytellers. Beta Builder is where that mission takes the form of a full-length film, made with a partner of Abundantia’s calibre. It is a story about building something that lasts, which makes it the right film to begin this slate with.”

On helming the film, Hridaye A Nagpal, Global Creative Lead invideo, and Director of Beta Builder, said: “We are about to see a wave of fascinating films. With AI-assisted filmmaking, storytellers can dream much bigger, and backing a bold idea finally feels possible. The partnership between Abundantia and invideo gives filmmakers the scale and creative support to take on ideas like this. Beta Builder is our bet on that future, with a live-action shoot and AI working side by side.”

Also Read: Vikram Malhotra on Abundantia Entertainment evolving their AI division aiOn into a standalone studio, “It is being shaped as a fully-integrated, total capability movie studio”

Scotland First Minister John Swinney visits Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions to explore Bollywood collaborations

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Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney recently visited the Mumbai office of Dharma Productions, where he met filmmaker-producer Karan Johar and the banner’s CEO, Apoorva Mehta, to discuss potential collaborations between Scotland and the Indian film industry. The meeting focused on exploring long-term opportunities for Indian productions to shoot in Scotland and strengthening the cinematic ties between the two regions.

Accompanied by delegates from Screen Scotland, Swinney highlighted Scotland’s filming infrastructure, skilled technical crews and financial incentives aimed at attracting international productions. The discussions also explored the country’s potential as a filming destination for upcoming Indian films and streaming projects.

The meeting held particular significance for Karan Johar, given his long-standing association with Scotland through his directorial debut, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998). The film’s iconic title track featured picturesque Scottish locations, including Eilean Donan Castle, Blackrock Cottage and Tantallon Castle, which became part of the film’s visual identity.

Sharing photographs from the meeting on social media, Karan expressed his happiness at hosting the Scottish First Minister at Dharma Productions and recalled his experience of shooting in the country. He wrote, “It was such an honour to have the First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney (@john_swinney_snp) visit our home, our office and our world at @dharmamovies! It took me back to shooting my first film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai where we shot some iconic sequences and scenes in the beautiful backdrop of Scotland. We spoke avidly about my memories and experience and conversed about how we could deepen the friendship between the two countries in the cinematic field. It was a pleasure and more, thank you for gracing us with your presence.”

 

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Beyond the Dharma Productions visit, the diplomatic tour included an industry roundtable organised in partnership with the Producers Guild of India. The meeting brought together senior Indian film producers, studio representatives and members of Scotland’s screen sector to discuss co-production opportunities, creative exchange programmes and logistical support for Indian productions filming overseas.

The initiative reflects efforts to strengthen international collaboration as Indian filmmakers increasingly explore overseas locations for theatrical releases and streaming projects. With Scotland looking to attract more international productions, the discussions could open up further opportunities for Indian filmmakers to explore its landscapes and production facilities for future projects.

Also Read: Koffee With Karan 9: Janhvi Kapoor says she lost 6 kg after fallout with Karan Johar, Varun Dhawan recalls calling him a ‘child’; says, “You became Amitabh Bachchan from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham”

Ranbir Kapoor reveals how three lions nearly stole the spotlight during his proposal to Alia Bhatt in Kenya

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Ranbir Kapoor recently revisited one of the most memorable moments of his personal life, recalling how he proposed to Alia Bhatt during their trip to Kenya in 2022. Appearing on Sony Entertainment Television’s Kaun Banega Crorepati as a part of the promotions of his upcoming film Ramayana Part 1, the actor shared a humorous account of how his carefully planned romantic gesture in the wilderness of Maasai Mara turned into an extraordinary experience, with three lions just about 100 feet away.

Recounting how he had arranged the proposal, Ranbir revealed that he had already spoken to his guide and driver to ensure that everything went according to plan. He had also brought a ring along and wanted photographs of the special moment.

Ranbir shared, “Maine pehle se hi apna jo guide hai, jo driver hai, maine unko ek tip de di thi ki aap kahin jaake rok dena beech jungle mein... main main ek angoothi laya tha ki main apne ghutno mein jaunga aur aap door se photograph khichna kyunki ladkiyon ko photographs ka bahut shauk hai.. Instagram pe dalne ka, toh maine socha ki yeh bahut zaroori tha Alia ke liye..” (I had already tipped my guide and driver and asked them to stop somewhere in the middle of the jungle. I had brought a ring and planned to get down on one knee, while asking them to take a photograph from a distance, because girls love posting photographs on Instagram. I thought it was very important for Alia)

His account prompted an amusing response from Amitabh Bachchan, who pointed out the importance of documenting such a special occasion. The megastar quipped, “Par sir ek... proof hona chahiye..” (There had to be proof, sir)

Agreeing with the observation, Ranbir went on to describe the rather intimidating surroundings in which he popped the question. While he had imagined a romantic moment on one knee, the presence of the big cats added an unexpected dimension to the experience.

He recalled, “Proof hona chahiye... Nahi angooti toh thi, main ghar se laya tha, par sir mahaul aisa tha ki... teen babbar sher is taraf the, kuch 100 feet ki doori par, meri sherni mere aage khadi thi, aur main chuha bankar apne ghutno mein khada tha ki baby will you marry me? So I think that was a very, very... ek jaise ek adbhut experience raha tha meri zindagi ka, I'll always remember..” (I had brought the ring from home, but the atmosphere was such that there were three lions about 100 feet away on one side, and my lioness was standing in front of me. I was like a mouse, down on my knees, asking, ‘Baby, will you marry me?’ It was an extraordinary experience of my life, and I will always remember it)."

 

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Ranbir’s candid storytelling had the audience laughing, with his comparison of Alia to a lioness and himself to a mouse adding a humorous twist to the romantic anecdote.

The couple’s engagement moment in Maasai Mara was followed by their wedding in April 2022. The actors, who have since welcomed their daughter, Raha, continue to be among Bollywood’s most closely followed celebrity couples.

The special appearance will be part of Kaun Banega Crorepati Diwali Special, which is scheduled to air on October 29 and 30 at 9 PM on Sony Entertainment Television.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor reveals the secret to a lasting relationship as he opens up about his marriage with Alia Bhatt

Nitesh Tiwari clarifies AI use in Ranbir Kapoor starrer Ramayana; says, “It is only being used for lip sync”

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As anticipation builds for Ramayana: Part 1, director Nitesh Tiwari has clarified how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used in the ambitious mythological epic. While interacting with international media in Los Angeles, the filmmaker explained that the technology is being employed specifically to synchronise characters’ lip movements with dubbed dialogue, allowing audiences across the world to experience the film in their native languages.

Addressing the use of AI in the film, Nitesh Tiwari said, “As far as AI is being concerned, it is only being used to get the lip sync. So that we can present the film to the world in their language. So all the voices are dubbed by the artists. There is no AI out there. AI is only being used to get the lip movement right so that audience can enjoy it in their native language.”

A video of the filmmaker explaining the process has generated considerable buzz on social media, bringing attention to the role of technology in the film’s international presentation. His clarification distinguishes the use of AI for lip synchronisation from voice generation, with the dubbed performances being provided by artists.

The comments came during the film’s high-profile promotional event and international premiere in Los Angeles on October 27, 2026. Ahead of its worldwide release, the makers brought together key members of the team that is Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi along with producers Namit Malhotra and Yash, alongside cast members, to present exclusive footage and discuss the film’s scale and visual ambition with international media. The event, designed around a traditional Indian aesthetic, marked an important step in the project’s global promotional campaign.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part 1 adapts the ancient epic attributed to Sage Valmiki. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana, with Sunny Deol playing Hanuman and Ravi Dubey portraying Laxman. The ensemble also includes Arun Govil, Lara Dutta and Rakul Preet Singh.

Produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in collaboration with Monster Mind Creations, the film features visual effects spearheaded by DNEG, music by A. R. Rahman and an original background score by Hans Zimmer. Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled to release worldwide in cinemas on November 5, 2026, in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.

Also Read: AR Rahman calls Ramayana his biggest film yet, says soundtrack took 3.5 years to develop; speaks on collaborating with Hans Zimmer