Supreme Court allows Mahaprabhu Jagannath release after Rath Yatra, issues notices on Odisha HC ban

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The Supreme Court has refused to allow the immediate release of the animated film Mahaprabhu Jagannath during the ongoing Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra. However, the court permitted the filmmakers to release the movie on or after July 28, once the annual festival concludes.

The apex court also issued notices to the Centre, the Odisha government, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration and other respondents while hearing an appeal challenging the Orissa High Court's interim order that stayed the film's release. High Court had stayed the film's release The Orissa High Court had earlier stayed the nationwide release of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, observing that the film did not strictly adhere to the religious text of the Skanda Purana. The interim order came just a day before the film's scheduled theatrical release.

Challenging the decision, the makers moved the Supreme Court seeking urgent relief. Makers cite financial losses, CBFC certification Appearing for the filmmakers, Senior Advocate Devadatt Kamat urged the Supreme Court to hear the matter on an urgent basis. He submitted that Mahaprabhu Jagannath is an animated film primarily aimed at children and is based on the life and legacy of Lord Jagannath.

Kamat argued that the High Court stayed the release solely on the ground that the film was not made in strict accordance with the Skanda Purana. He also informed the court that the CBFC had already granted the film a U certificate under Section 5 of the Cinematograph Act, clearing it for release in Hindi, Odia and Telugu.

The senior advocate further pointed out that the High Court's order was uploaded only at 9 pm on the eve of the scheduled release, leaving the producers with very little time to seek legal remedies.

According to the submissions, the makers have invested crores of rupees in the project and had planned screenings in more than 300 theatres across the country. Kamat also argued that the Public Interest Litigation leading to the stay was heard shortly before the release date, describing the High Court's order as a hurried decision. Supreme Court issues notices While declining to permit the film's release during the Rath Yatra, the Supreme Court issued notices to the Centre, the Odisha government, the CBFC, the temple administration and other concerned parties on the appeal against the High Court's interim order.

With the latest direction, Mahaprabhu Jagannath can now be released in theatres on or after July 28, subject to any further orders in the case.

Also Read: Mahaprabhu Jagannath makers move Supreme Court after Orissa HC halts film release 

MEGA EXCLUSIVE: After Vikrant Massey’s White, Narcos cinematographer Juan Carlos Gil signs Ranveer Singh’s Pralay

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In an exciting development for Bollywood, two major upcoming films will share the same international cinematographer. Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learnt that Juan Carlos Gil, the acclaimed DOP of Netflix’s global series Narcos and who has shot Vikrant Massey’s big-scale political drama White, has come on board for Ranveer Singh’s upcoming mega-budget film Pralay.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The team of Pralay is mounting the film on a lavish scale and wants it to have a Hollywood-style visual treatment. Juan Carlos Gil fits the bill perfectly. He is equally excited to come on board, while the team is thrilled to have him shoot this ambitious zombie film.”

About Pralay

Pralay is highly awaited not just because it’s a mega-budget zombie thriller but also because its Ranveer Singh’s immediate next after the all-time blockbuster, Dhurandhar. It is directed by Jai Mehta and produced by Birla Studios and Hansal Mehta.

About White

Vikrant Massey’s White is a big-scale human political drama inspired by a real-life episode from the life of global spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The film is based on the fascinating story of how the world’s longest internal conflict – the war in Colombia – was resolved without firing a single bullet, through ancient Indian philosophies and Gurudev’s intervention.

Vikrant Massey will be seen essaying the role of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Major portions of the film have been shot in South America with an international cast and crew.

White is backed by Siddharth Anand of War, Pathaan and King fame, producer Mahaveer Jain, and PeaceCraft Pictures. The film is directed by ace ad filmmaker Montoo Bassi. It will be released in over 100 countries and in multiple languages, with the aim of reaching audiences across the globe.

With two vastly different genres - a zombie actioner and a political drama - both Pralay and White are set to bring a distinct, global visual language to Indian cinema, thanks to Juan Carlos Gil.

Also Read: Vikrant Massey leaves everyone in splits at Musafir Cafe trailer launch: “Sab zinda hai yahan pe; koi kisi ko maar nahin raha!”

Paresh Rawal claims OMG 2 was based on his original idea; says he walked away after script changes: “There was no need for a divine character”

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Paresh Rawal has claimed that the original idea behind OMG 2 came from him, adding that the film underwent significant changes after Akshay Kumar came on board. Speaking to Vickey Lalwani, the veteran actor also alleged that he did not receive credit for the story or concept despite being closely involved in its early development.

Paresh Rawal recalls developing the original concept Rawal said he first approached filmmaker Amit Rai with the idea after watching Road to Sangam. He asserted, "I had approached Amit Rai, the director of Road to Sangam, and asked him if he was planning another film. I admire him a lot. I told him, 'I have an idea. Let's sit and write it.' I told him I wasn't a writer, but I could contribute ideas and help identify where we were going wrong because I understand screenplay to some extent."

He went on to reveal, "The story was about a boy who gets caught masturbating, and a video of the incident goes viral, making his life miserable. His father was a tourist guide at the Khajuraho temple. Amit suggested making him a part-time priest at the Mahakal Temple. We developed the script together and even brought sexologist Dr Prakash Kothari on board. We had several meetings because our intention was to make the film educational, entertaining and not vulgar. We were deeply involved in the process." 'There was no need for a divine character' According to Rawal, the project was never conceived as a sequel to OMG and did not feature a godly figure. He said, "Our main idea was to have a biker guiding the father, not God. In the first OMG, God appeared because the case was against God. But this film was about a father's fight to get justice for his son. There was no need for a divine character. We wanted someone like Kader Khan's character in Muqaddar Ka Sikandar."

He further revealed that he had initially considered Ajay Devgn and Salman Khan for the biker's role: "I didn't approach Akshay because people would have assumed it was OMG 2, whereas that wasn't the plan." How Akshay Kumar came on board Rawal said he later learnt that Akshay Kumar wanted to do the film after the script reached him through producer Ashwin Varde. He continued, "I was under the impression that we were still figuring things out. We even had a meeting with Vipul Shah of Optimystix. They also asked about Akshay, and I said if I wanted to make it with him, I would have approached him directly. Akshay and I were partners in OMG. I didn't need anyone to bridge the gap. A few days later, Amit Rai called and told me Akshay wanted to do the film. The issue was that Amit had tentatively written 'OMG 2' on the script because the genre was similar."

He added, "In one of our meetings, Ashwin Varde was present. That's when they decided they wanted to do it with Akshay." Why Paresh Rawal declined the film Rawal said Akshay later requested him to be a part of the project, but he declined because he no longer recognised the story: "I spoke to Akshay. He asked me to do the film. I told him, 'No. This isn't the film I had envisioned. There is no role of God in this story.' He tried to convince me, but I had lived with the script from the beginning. I knew exactly what it was supposed to be. That's why I walked away."

The actor also claimed he did not receive any acknowledgement for his contribution to the original concept: "The saddest part is that I wasn't even given credit for the story or the concept. My name wasn't mentioned anywhere."

He further said, "Amit, Akshay, Ashwin, Ajay Devgn, Karan Johar and Salman Khan... all know it was my idea and my story. Ajay and Salman probably said no because of the subject. They thought it could become controversial. I tried explaining the concept to them."

Neither Akshay Kumar, director Amit Rai nor the producers of OMG 2 have publicly responded to Paresh Rawal's claims at the time of writing.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Paresh Rawal reveals, “We’ll miss Govinda in Bhagam Bhag 2”; opens up on Akshay Kumar-Manoj Bajpayee casting: “It’ll make for a different and unique combination”

Is Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4 happening? Here’s what we know!

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The Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise could soon be expanding with a fourth instalment. According to a report by Mid-Day, producer Bhushan Kumar has begun work on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4, with Kartik Aaryan expected to reprise his role as Rooh Baba after the commercial success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 (2024).

The report states that the screenplay is currently under development, with the makers focusing on finalising a strong script before locking the film's director. It further claims that if everything proceeds as planned, the horror-comedy could go on floors in the second half of 2027.

However, it is important to note that the production house has not made any official announcement regarding the project, and the report has not been independently confirmed by the makers or any other publication. Anees Bazmee to return as director The report also suggests that filmmaker Anees Bazmee, who directed Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, is expected to return to helm the fourth film. Priyadarshan directed the original Bhool Bhulaiyaa, while Bazmee successfully revived the franchise with its recent instalments.

According to the publication, an official announcement is likely only after the screenplay is completed and the director is formally locked.

For now, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4 remains the subject of industry speculation. Until the makers issue an official statement, details regarding the film's cast, director and production timeline should be treated as unconfirmed.

While fans await clarity on the future of the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise, Kartik Aaryan already has several films lined up. The actor will next be seen in Naagzilla: Naag Lok Ka Pehla Kaand, which is slated for release in 2026. He also has Anurag Basu's untitled romantic drama opposite Sreeleela in the pipeline. Apart from these, Kartik is attached to Captain India, directed by Shimit Amin, and an untitled sports drama with Kabir Khan.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar reveals son Aarav was scared of Vidya Balan for six years after watching Bhool Bhulaiyaa: “He had developed a problem with her”

Ramayana creates HISTORY at San Diego Comic-Con: 'International superstars' Ranbir Kapoor and Yash to unveil trailer with live performances and exclusive surprises in MASSIVE 4,800-seater Ballroom 20

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A few days remain before the release of the Ramayana trailer, and excitement is tremendous. Yesterday, we reported that a 4-minute-15-second-long trailer of Ramayana was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on July 15 with a 'U' certificate. Now, we bring to you some exciting details of the trailer launch event that would take place at San Diego Comic-Con.

San Diego Comic-Con is the world’s largest annual pop culture and comic book convention. On July 23, the trailer of Ramayana will be screened at the prestigious event in the presence of the film’s team. The panel will be held from 3:15 pm to 4:15 pm PDT (Pacific Daylight Time), which translates to 3:45 am to 4:45 am IST (Indian Standard Time) on Friday, July 24.

According to the official website of San Diego Comic-Con, producer Namit Malhotra and director Nitesh Tiwari will be joined by 'international superstars Ranbir Kapoor (Rama) and Yash (Ravana)'. The website further states that 'The panel includes never-before-seen footage, exclusive reveals, live performances, and special giveaways'.

Another major highlight is that the Ramayana event will be held in Ballroom 20, the second-largest panel venue at the San Diego Convention Center. The massive, column-free hall can accommodate nearly 4,800 people.

Other major attractions at San Diego Comic-Con 2026

On Saturday, July 25, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige will reveal what lies ahead for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It is expected to be one of the most anticipated panels of the convention, with the trailer of the much-awaited Avengers: Doomsday likely to be unveiled at the event. The session will be held in Hall H, the convention’s largest venue, which can accommodate around 6,500 attendees.

Meanwhile, Stan Lee: The Final Chapter, a documentary on the legendary co-creator of several iconic Marvel characters, will premiere on July 23. On the same day, indie powerhouse A24 will make a rare appearance in a prime Comic-Con slot with Adam Wingard’s upcoming sci-fi action film, Onslaught. Adam Wingard (of Godzilla vs. Kong and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire fame), Adria Arjona, Drew Starkey, Rebecca Hall and Dan Stevens will attend the panel and also showcase 'never-before-seen footage that will not be shown again until the fall'.

Also Read: BREAKING: 4-minute-15-second-long trailer of Ramayana passed by CBFC with a ‘U’ certificate

SCOOP: Shraddha Kapoor-starrer Eetha won’t arrive on August 28; likely to be preponed or postponed

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The teaser of Eetha, which was attached with Cocktail 2, has got a rocking response and it has significantly enhanced the hype for the Shraddha Kapoor-starrer. The film was scheduled for a release on August 28 but it seems like the much-awaited period flick might not arrive that day, Bollywood Hungama has learned.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The producers – Maddock Films – are wondering whether to prepone the release or postpone. However, it is clear that they don’t plan to bring the film on the original release date – August 28. In a few days, they are expected to make an official announcement on the change of release date.”

Until last week, as many as 4 films were scheduled to release in the last week of August. The first film to book the coveted slot was Khosla Ka Ghosla 2. Like the much-loved first part, the sequel stars Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, Ranvir Shorey, Parvin Dabas, Tara Sharma and others. Later, makers of The Vvan also announced that they would arrive on the same date – August 28. Last week, the makers of the Sidharth Malhotra-Tamannaah Bhatia starrer announced that the jungle adventure flick will now arrive in cinemas on September 25.

On June 21, it was announced that one of the year’s most-awaited films, Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups, would arrive in cinemas on Wednesday, August 26. With four films scheduled for the same week, it was widely expected that at least one or two of them would move, as such a crowded clash was unlikely.

The source said, “There is chatter in the trade that the producers of Eetha want to avoid a clash with Toxic, and it may be a sensible decision. Both films are expected to be major box-office performers, while Eetha has the potential to enjoy an exceptional run in Maharashtra. In the event of a clash, the business of both films could get divided in this crucial market.”

Eetha features Shraddha Kapoor in the role of legendary Marathi Tamasha artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar. Directed by Laxman Utekar of Chhaava (2025) fame, the film also stars Randeep Hooda and Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub. It is produced by Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films.

It now remains to be seen whether Eetha’s release will be advanced or pushed. If preponed, could it arrive during the Independence Day weekend? Another possibility is August 7, though Maddock Films’ Prahaar is currently scheduled for that date and may have to move to accommodate Eetha. If postponed, the film could arrive sometime in September. For now, only time will tell which date the makers eventually choose.

Also Read: Shraddha Kapoor’s Eetha sparks title row: NCP and Vithabai Narayangaonkar’s family seek title change

Rani Mukerji to receive Honorary Doctor of Letters from La Trobe University at IFFM 2026

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The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne is proud to announce that acclaimed actor and humanitarian Rani Mukerji will be conferred the prestigious Honorary Doctor of Letters by La Trobe University during the 2026 edition of the festival.

The honorary degree will be presented at a special ceremony on August 14, 2026, at Federation Square in Melbourne, as part of the festival celebrations. The recognition honours Rani Mukerji’s extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema, along with her longstanding commitment to social causes supporting women, children and marginalised communities.

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, which will take place from 13 to 23 August 2026, has, over the years, established itself as one of the world’s leading celebrations of Indian cinema. Bringing together some of the finest voices from the Indian film industry, the festival continues to strengthen cultural ties between India and Australia while celebrating stories and artists that have left a lasting impact on audiences across the world.

With a career spanning nearly three decades, Rani Mukerji remains one of India’s most respected and accomplished actors. Through powerful performances in films such as Black, No One Killed Jessica, Hichki, the Mardaani franchise and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, she has consistently championed stories that have brought conversations around women’s rights, gender justice, disability inclusion and social change into mainstream cinema.

Beyond her work on screen, Rani has supported humanitarian initiatives focused on children’s healthcare, education and community development, a reflection of her commitment to meaningful social impact.

Expressing her gratitude, Rani Mukerji said, “I am deeply humbled to receive this Honorary Doctor of Letters from La Trobe University. Cinema has been the greatest teacher in my life’s journey, and I have always believed in the power of storytelling to inspire empathy, spark conversations and bring about positive change. To receive this honour during the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, which has consistently celebrated Indian cinema on a global stage, makes it even more special. I am grateful to La Trobe University and to IFFM for this incredible recognition. I have been fortunate to have been able to do so many inspiring movies that have allowed me to tell stories of resilience, passion and undying courage of human beings to rise against all odds. Human stories have always moved me, and I’m grateful that I have lived so many lives because of cinema. I dedicate this special honour from Australia and IFFM to my motherland India and to everyone around the world whose love has empowered me to be an actor and made me live such a full life.”

La Trobe University Chancellor, The Hon John Brumby AO, said, “Rani Mukerji’s remarkable body of work has transcended entertainment to spark important conversations around social justice, equality and inclusion. Her enduring impact on cinema, coupled with her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes, makes her an exceptional recipient of this honorary doctorate. We are delighted to recognise her achievements and welcome her into the La Trobe University community.”

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, Festival Director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, said, “The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne has always celebrated artists whose work has shaped Indian cinema and inspired audiences across the world. Rani Mukerji is one of the finest actors of her generation, someone whose performances have consistently combined artistic excellence with powerful storytelling. We are honoured that this recognition from La Trobe University will be presented during IFFM. It is a proud moment not only for the festival but also for everyone who has admired Rani’s remarkable contribution to Indian cinema over the years.”

The 2026 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne promises another landmark edition celebrating the very best of Indian cinema through film screenings, premieres, conversations and special events, bringing together filmmakers, artists and audiences from across the world.

Also Read: Rani Mukerji recalls childhood meet with Aamir Khan as a fan; says, “My heart broke”