Malamaal Weekly 2 EXCLUSIVE: Riteish Deshmukh, Elvish Yadav, Paresh Rawal and Rajpal Yadav locked in leads, shoot begins in November

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In February, Bollywood Hungama exclusively revealed that Priyadarshan’s 2006 comedy Malamaal Weekly is getting a sequel. Since then, we have been regularly updating about the film and we recently also unveiled the leading female cast, which includes Parineeti Chopra, Raveena Tandon and Shilpa Shirodkar. Now, we can reveal the male leads of the project.

Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that Riteish Deshmukh, Elvish Yadav, Paresh Rawal and Rajpal Yadav have been locked for Malamaal Weekly 2. Though Riteish is leading the film, sources close to the production have said that he is still reading the script and is yet to sign on the dotted line. The sequel is moving ahead with the original trio of Riteish, Paresh and Rajpal returning for the leads, along with Elvish Yadav joining as a new casting addition to the principal cast. Yadav is a popular YouTube content creator and the winner of Big Boss OTT Season 2 (2023), and this film will mark his second Bollywood outing following his debut with Tiger Shroff and Remo D'Souza's upcoming action drama. All the actors have verbally been confirmed, with the formal paperwork currently underway.

Malamaal Weekly 2 will feature a completely new storyline. However, it will retain the core thematic flavour of the original — a group of ordinary people in a small town, driven by poverty, greed and the prospect of sudden wealth, finding themselves caught in an increasingly chaotic situation. Amit Joshi, who co-directed Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon's robotic rom-com Teri Baton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, has been brought on board to helm this film. He's currently fine-tuning the script, with plans to take it into production by November 2026.

Released in 2006, Malamaal Weekly was a box office success and was remade in three Southern languages, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam, with Priyadarshan himself directing the Malayalam adaptation. The comedy revolved around Lilaram, a lottery ticket seller and the only literate villager. After one of his customers dies from the shock of winning a lottery, he hatches a plan to have that money all for himself. However, others from the village have also got their eyes on the money, leading to chaotic greed and comedic rivalry among the villagers. Malamaal Weekly 2 is expected to retain the comic spirit of the original while delivering a full-fledged comedy of errors for audiences.

Also Read: MEGA EXCLUSIVE: Raveena Tandon and Parineeti Chopra join the cast of Malamaal Weekly 2

Nitish Sharma on being rejected as Lakshman in Ramayana; says, “It was clear there would be big stars”

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For newcomer Nitish Sharma, his journey to Nitesh Tiwari’s much-awaited Ramayana took an unexpected turn. After facing several rejections and being replaced in a major film, Sharma auditioned for the role of Lakshman. Although he did not eventually get the part, his performance impressed the filmmaker, who offered him the role of Shatrughn in the epic.

In an exclusive conversation with Mid-Day, Nitish opened up about his journey, working with Ranbir Kapoor and the criticism surrounding the film’s casting. Recalling the difficult phase that eventually led him to Ramayana, Nitish said that he had gone through hundreds of auditions before finally landing a major role in a big film in 2023. However, he was later replaced by a senior actor. The setback left him disappointed, but he found comfort in reading the Ramcharitmanas.

“I was trying to find peace by reading the sacred book. When I was reading the Bharat Milap scene, I received a call from Mukesh Chhabra's office saying that Nitesh Tiwari was making a pilot film of Ramayana and they wanted to test me for Lakshman. So I did,” he recalled.

During the audition, Nitish was asked to perform scenes as Lakshman before Nitesh Tiwari asked him to play Ram. His performance impressed the director, who assured him that he would be part of the main film. Nitish was eventually cast as Shatrughn, while Lakshman is being played by Ravie Dubey.

Explaining why he was not selected as Lakshman, Nitish said, “For the actual film, it was clear that in every character there would be big stars. And in such a big-scale movie, there are many things involved. But I have zero complaints about it.”

Nitish also spoke about his experience of working with Ranbir Kapoor, who plays Lord Ram. He praised the actor’s humility and professionalism, particularly the way he continued giving cues to co-stars even after finishing his own scenes.

“Whenever we were shooting together, the way he gave all the cues to me, even when his scene was over, was amazing. He always gives his cues by himself to every actor, no matter if it is 10 times, 12 times or 15 times. He treats everyone with humility,” he said.

Addressing criticism of Ranbir’s casting, Nitish said, “It is actually very sad that people judge someone by just one look. Ranbir is the greatest actor we have in this industry right now. After watching the movie, I am telling you, they will praise Ranbir as Ram. No one could have done it better than RK.”

He also defended Sai Pallavi, who plays Sita, amid criticism of her appearance and casting. “Sai, she looks divine in real life. She is the best casting for Sita. There are many trolls about her as well. But that is how a 99 per cent Indian beauty looks like,” he said.

Nitish remains confident that Ramayana will connect strongly with audiences. “I am very sure that Ramayana will create magic once again, just like it did in 1987 with Ramanand Sagar,” he concluded.

Also Read : BREAKING: EXCLUSIVE footage of Ramayana to be screened at Big Cine Expo 2026, Chennai; Rakesh Roshan to receive Special Achievement Award

Happy birthday Sara Ali Khan: 5 Fashion moments that define her evolving style

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As Sara Ali Khan celebrates her birthday, it is the perfect moment to revisit the sartorial choices that continue to define her fashion identity. She carries a poise, a refined synthesis of classic lineage and a sharp contemporary focus. In her recent style choices, Khan moves beyond traditional fashion tropes, embracing structural silhouettes, precise proportions and an intentional balance between restraint and high-octane glamour. Across five defining looks, her wardrobe emerges as a masterclass in modern sartorial authority, seamlessly transitioning from cool architectural minimalism to fiery, tailored statements.

Diana’s Revenge Dress Constructed with an off-the-shoulder, structured boat neckline, this architectural gown features short capped sleeves resting just below the collarbone, revealing an exposed neck and shoulder line. The fitted bodice extends past the hip into a draped peplum accent before falling into an asymmetrical high-low hemline that flows into a subtle rear train, all rendered in an ink-black satin weave. The strength lies in the interplay between structured weight and liquid movement; by pairing the heavy satin frame with a statement diamond-and-sapphire choker, pointed black pumps, and a sleek low-slung chignon, the ensemble creates a strong vertical line that echoes classic European high-fashion codes.

 

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Sculpted Monochromatic Layering A three-piece tailored study in warm ivory, cream, and champagne nude accents, featuring a high, mandarin-collar jacket worn open over a textured high-neck top constructed with horizontal sheer and pearl-beaded striping. The sleeveless inner turtleneck offers coverage up to the chin, counterbalanced by a fitted, high-waisted mini skirt and long, slim-cut sleeves on the outerwear to complete the clean geometric lines. Monochrome works best when textures collide, and here, the soft weave of the outer jacket plays against the linear, pearl-encrusted inner mesh, while pointed embellished heels and a high ponytail elongate the frame for an effortless, sharp aesthetic.

 

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Modern Noir & Drapery A floor-length column gown defined by a draped cowl high neckline and sheer mesh short sleeves, finished in a matte black canvas with pops of silver and a muted blue watch strap. The top bodice combines delicate, semi-transparent paneling with draped jersey fabric that gathers tightly around the waist, falling into a straight, fluid floor-length skirt. The contrast between sheer technical mesh and soft, heavy draping creates an intriguing tactile balance, while keeping the neckline high and the silhouette extended down to the floor allows the texture play on the torso to take center stage alongside an undone updo and subtle drop earrings.

 

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Striated Crimson Tailoring A strapless, wide-leg jumpsuit engineered with a structured sweetheart neckline and built-in boning through the bodice, set in a deep crimson red with fine vertical white pinstripes. The sleeveless cut leaves the shoulders bare, balancing the dramatic volume of the relaxed, wide-leg trousers that sweep down over strappy sandals. Pinstripes are traditionally anchored in menswear, but applying them to a strapless, sweetheart-neck jumpsuit reclaims the motif with a feminine edge, where vertical lines elongate the body while a bold red backdrop matched with classic red lip and gold statement wristwear injects high-energy confidence into a precision-tailored silhouette.

 

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The Imperial Power Suit A tailored suit crafted in crisp polar white accented with polished gold hardware, featuring wide, sharp peak lapels and a deep V-neckline. The structural blazer showcases structured shoulders and full-length fitted sleeves anchored by six gold crest buttons, paired alongside mid-rise, wide-leg trousers tailored with a sharp center crease and a substantial hem fold. Tailoring in all-white demands precise execution, and this suit delivers as the fitted cut draws inward at the waist to emphasize structure while the flared trousers balance the broadness of the shoulder pads, elevated by gold buttons and matching metallic heels for effortless red-carpet presence.

 

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Sara Ali Khan’s wardrobe demonstrates high fashion impact. Whether adapting classic floor-length gowns or sharply cut power suits, her wardrobe proves that true sartorial authority doesn't require over-styling just impeccably tailored lines, confident proportions, and a clear understanding of personal presence.

Also Read: Sara Ali Khan continues her Delhi tradition with visit to Gurdwara Bangla Sahib

Priyanka Chopra Jonas seeks blessings at Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai with sister Mannara Chopra

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Priyanka Chopra is currently in India with her daughter Malti Marie as she spends time with her family. During her stay in Mumbai, the actor visited the city's famous Siddhivinayak Temple to seek blessings. She was accompanied by her sister Mannara Chopra, while Malti did not join them for the temple visit.

Priyanka was spotted outside the Siddhivinayak Temple dressed in a traditional pink salwar suit with a blue dupatta. Keeping her look simple, the actor made her way through the premises amid tight security. A number of fans had gathered outside to catch a glimpse of the actor. Before leaving, Priyanka waved to the crowd and then got into her car.

 

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The actor has frequently visited religious places during her trips to India. On one of her recent visits, she was seen at a Durga Puja pandal. During an earlier trip, Priyanka made headlines after performing seva and washing utensils at the Golden Temple. She also visited the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya with husband Nick Jonas and daughter Malti, where the family sought blessings.

Priyanka's latest India visit also comes at a time when there is considerable anticipation around her upcoming projects. She will next be seen in SS Rajamouli's much-awaited film Varanasi, which also stars Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The makers recently unveiled Priyanka's look as Mandakini along with a behind-the-scenes glimpse on the occasion of her 44th birthday. Mahesh Babu's character Rudhra was also introduced on his birthday. Varanasi is scheduled to release on April 7, 2027.

Meanwhile, Priyanka has also joined Oscar winner Russell Crowe for the sci-fi action thriller Bluefly. Directed by Nimrod Antal, the film revolves around a covert mission in the Congo following the discovery of a mysterious crashed aircraft. Priyanka announced her association with the project on Instagram on Thursday with a brief message: “On to the next.”

Also Read : Mahesh Babu thanks fans on birthday; says Varanasi is ‘very close to his heart’

Sidharth Malhotra calls raising daughter Saraayah the ‘most amazing experience’ of his life: “I hope this wonderful relationship only flourishes”

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Sidharth Malhotra has opened up about his experience of fatherhood, describing raising his daughter Saraayah as the “most amazing experience” of his life. The actor revealed that becoming a parent has brought a new sense of meaning, value and learning to his life, while also changing the way he looks at his priorities.

Sidharth spoke about fatherhood at the IAA Leadership Awards 2026, where he was honoured with the Brand Endorser of the Year award. The Shershaah actor and his wife, actress Kiara Advani, welcomed their daughter Saraayah in July last year. Their daughter recently turned one, marking an important milestone for the couple.

Reflecting on the experience, Sidharth said, “We have been fortunate enough to be the parents of a young baby girl, who just turned one year old last month. It's been the most amazing experience of my life, and so many learnings.”

The actor also explained how watching his daughter grow has added a new dimension to his life. “It adds so much more content to your life; it adds so much more value to what you do in this world that we live in. It is very tough to describe,” he said.

Sidharth further shared that he and Saraayah are discovering each other as she grows and develops her own personality. “We are exploring each other every month, and I hope this wonderful relationship only flourishes, and I get to learn so much from my little daughter,” he added.

Talking about his approach to parenting, Sidharth compared raising a child to nurturing a plant. “I am trying to be a good gardener so she can flourish into a wonderful human being,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sidharth continues to balance fatherhood with his busy professional schedule. He will next be seen in The Vvaan, co-starring Tamannaah Bhatia. The film, earlier scheduled for August 28, has been postponed to September to avoid a box-office clash with Yash-starrer Toxic. The Vvaan is now scheduled to release in theatres on September 25, 2026.

Also Read : The Vvaan: Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia starrer locks September 25, 2026 release; makers unveil intriguing new poster

Poonam Dhillon hits back at CINTAA members after mass resignations: "I’m shocked by their allegations"

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The Cine and TV Artistes Association (CINTAA) is facing an internal dispute after eight elected members of its Executive Committee resigned from their respective offices and the Executive Committee with immediate effect. The members cited a loss of confidence in the present manner of functioning and called for fresh elections. They also alleged that the association’s functioning had increasingly become concentrated around CINTAA President Poonam Dhillon, Senior Vice President Padmini Kolhapure and a section of other Executive Committee members.

Responding to Hindustan Times, Poonam Dhillon has defended her and Padmini’s work for the organisation. Speaking to us, Poonam says, “Padmini and I are working hard to bring goodwill to CINTAA by using our resources and contacts; it is not for personal gain. No one else was taking initiatives to do anything for members of the organisation, so I’m shocked by their allegations.”

Poonam also addressed the controversy surrounding CAWT (Cine Artistes’ Welfare Trust), which was formed by senior actors including late Dilip Kumar, Amrish Puri and Amjad Khan. She claimed that the trust had not fulfilled its responsibility of providing medical facilities to members and said that no one from the current committee had raised funds for CAWT in the past few decades.

She pointed to a recent fundraising event, where artistes including Kavita Krishnamurthy, Madhushree and Nitin Mukesh performed without charging CINTAA. Gifts were presented to the artistes following their performances. “We raised 1 crore through these performances, so how is it a problem if we spend 1 lakh on gifts for them?” Poonam questions.

The actor further alleged that some of the members who resigned had been promised positions if a new committee came to power. Referring to Puneet Issar, she says, “Puneet (Issar) has barely attended two meetings in two years, but the day they wanted to dissolve the committee, they were beckoned just to vote us out.” She also alleged that certain members were pressured into resigning. “We still have the majority and the committee still stands," says Poonam.

Addressing General Secretary Upasana Singh’s claim that the EGM called by Poonam and her team was illegal, the actor explained her position on the process. “The resignation of former members was received by the General Secretary and not accepted by EC (Executive Committee). Meanwhile we held an EGM with a member who had withdrawn her resignation and inducted in seven new members on top of the elected list. Only after that resignations were accepted. So the EC stands. This process was vetted by our legal team.”

Poonam also said that she and Padmini have been paying some CINTAA expenses from their own pockets. She added that they have been conducting regular checks on television sets and educating members about labour codes. According to Poonam, several more initiatives are planned for the organisation as the dispute over its functioning continues.

Also Read : Rajeev Khandelwal recalls college romance on Tum Ho Naa – Ghar Ki Superstar; reveals the Poonam Dhillon song he played on loop

73 year old Director Shakeel Noorani arrested over alleged rape of 33 year old actor in Mumbai

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Film director Shakeel Noorani, 73, has been arrested in Mumbai following a complaint filed by a 33-year-old actor, who has alleged that she was raped after being called to his residence in Malwani. According to the police complaint, Noorani allegedly invited the actor to his house on the pretext of discussing an upcoming film project.

The actor has alleged that after she reached the director's residence, she was allegedly drugged and sexually assaulted. The complaint further states that Noorani allegedly threatened her following the incident. Police subsequently registered a case based on the actor's allegations and arrested the filmmaker.

Following his arrest, Noorani was produced before the Borivali Holiday Court. The court has reportedly remanded him to police custody until August 12, during which the police are expected to investigate the allegations and gather further evidence in the case.

The allegations are currently part of an ongoing investigation, and the charges against Noorani have not been established in court.

Shakeel Noorani has been associated with Hindi cinema as a writer, producer and director. He is known for films including Bade Dilwala, released in 1999, and Joru Ka Ghulam, which came out in 2000.

The latest case has brought the veteran filmmaker into the spotlight as Mumbai Police continue their investigation into the actor's allegations. Further details regarding the case are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses and the police record statements and examine other evidence connected to the complaint.

Noorani's police custody is scheduled to continue until August 12, following which he is expected to be produced before the court again. The investigation will determine the circumstances surrounding the allegations and the events that allegedly took place at his Malwani residence.