Rajkumar Santoshi questions audience hesitation over Sunny Deol playing a Muslim in Batwara 1947; asks, “If Spiderman’s name was Aslam Sheikh, would they reject him?”

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Rajkumar Santoshi directorial Batwara 1947, starring Sunny Deol in a Muslim character for the first time, has been receiving positive feedback from audiences who have watched the film. However, director Rajkumar Santoshi says he is surprised that the appreciation has not translated into stronger box office numbers. The filmmaker has now urged audiences to come to theatres, watch the film and then form their own opinion.

Speaking to a portal/publication, Santoshi said, “It is important that people come out and watch the film.” He went on to highlight the response from those who have already seen the Partition drama. “The people who have seen the film Batwara are liking it a lot.”

According to Santoshi, the film has also prompted viewers to reach out to the team. “They are appreciating it a lot. They are sending so many fan mails. They are getting so many bookings.” The filmmaker further described the emotional response from audiences emerging from theatres. “People are calling and appreciating it. And when people who have come out of the theatres are asked how it is – their eyes are tearful.”

Santoshi also revealed that some viewers have compared Batwara 1947 with Sunny Deol’s blockbuster Gadar, which remains one of the actor’s biggest commercial successes. He said, “Everyone is saying that ‘it is a bigger film than Gadar. It is a better film than Gadar’. Gadar is one of the biggest hits of Sunny's career.”

Despite the positive word of mouth, Santoshi expressed his surprise over the film’s box office performance. “They are appreciating it so much. But they are not showing the box office numbers. I am surprised about the people who are not coming.”

The director believes that Sunny Deol’s Muslim character could potentially be one of the reasons why some audiences are staying away from the film. “I wonder why are they not coming? Either they have heard that Sunny is doing a Muslim character. Sunny has played a Muslim in the film for the first time. So why are they not watching the film?”

Rajkumar Santoshi Calls Out Hate Against #Batwara1947 🔥🚨

Rajkumar Santoshi slammed those spreading hate and said some people are refusing to watch Batwara 1947 because #SunnyDeol plays a Muslim character.

He questioned: If #SpiderMan were named “Aslam Sheikh” and came from… pic.twitter.com/2SHfueMr01 — Rahul Gupta (@RahulGupta25376) August 21, 2026

Santoshi stressed that viewers should experience the film before making a judgement. “I want people to come and watch the film. After watching it, they are entitled for their opinion. They can criticize me. I will never feel bad. But they should come and watch the film. What is it? Do they think – ‘Sunny is doing a Muslim role. That is why we will not watch the film?’”

The filmmaker then used the example of the globally popular superhero Spider-Man to question whether a character’s name or geographical setting should influence the audience’s perception. “If tomorrow we come to know that Spiderman's name is Aslam Sheikh. And it was going to be in Pakistan. Then will they reject Spiderman?” He added, “It was such a big hit in India. Just because of the name and the region. Will Spiderman lose all his qualities? Will he not exist only in that case? What is this?” Santoshi concluded by praising Sunny Deol’s work in Batwara 1947. “Sunny has done a good role. Batwara is the best performance of his career.”

Batwara 1947 is a period drama co-written and directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and produced by Aamir Khan under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions. Set in Lahore against the backdrop of the 1947 Partition of British India and the division of Punjab, the film stars Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta, Shabana Azmi, Karan Deol, Ali Fazal, Abhimanyu Singh, Khushi Hajare, Kanikka Kapur, Waseem Rajput and Isha Sandhir. The film is based on Asghar Wajahat’s drama ‘Jis Lahore Nai Vekhya, O Jamya E Nai’ and released on August 14, 2026, coinciding with Pakistan’s Independence Day.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Batwara 1947 director Rajkumar Santoshi to host special screening for spiritual leaders; says, "This film does not divide people-it unites them"

7 Dogs Directors praise Salman Khan’s screen presence, compare him to Will Smith: “That’s what a superstar looks like”

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Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt have left a strong impression on 7 Dogs directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah. The filmmakers, known for directing the Bad Boys franchise, spoke about their experience of working with the Bollywood actors and praised their screen presence, instincts and understanding of action cinema.

Salman and Sanjay play important roles in 7 Dogs, an international action film featuring actors from Indian, Egyptian, Italian and American cinema. The film stars Ahmed Ezz and Karim Abdel Aziz in the lead roles, alongside Monica Bellucci and Giancarlo Esposito.

Adil El Arbi compares Salman Khan with Will Smith

Adil El Arbi said Salman’s impact became apparent as soon as the camera started rolling. Comparing his presence to that of Will Smith, with whom the directors worked on the Bad Boys franchise, Adil described Salman’s ability to elevate even simple scenes.

“There’s a lot of charisma. You get the same feeling when Will Smith is on set. It’s like, ‘Oh, that’s what a superstar looks like.’ From the moment you put the camera on him, something magical happens,” El Arbi told PTI in an interview.

He added that Salman quickly understands what a scene requires and then brings his own interpretation to it.

“He knows right away what the scene is. And he will do it perfectly. And then he will create, he will give you so much more. And that is like going to film school. You’re really witnessing cinema happening before your eyes,” he said.

Bilall Fallah also recalled noticing Salman’s spontaneous contributions while reviewing footage during editing. According to him, the actor would sometimes add elements, including one-liners, that the directors only noticed later.

“During editing, when I was looking at the takes, there was always something new that he put in that I didn’t even realise when I was on set. He just makes a scene memorable. Even if it’s just a short moment, he creates something that is pure cinema,” he added.

Sanjay Dutt also impresses the filmmakers

The directors also praised Sanjay Dutt, who plays Ranjeet, the Indian member of the Seven Dogs alliance responsible for distributing the fictional synthetic drug Pink Lady in India.

Adil said the team recently began watching Dutt’s two-part spy thriller Dhurandhar after noticing the attention surrounding its success.

“We started to watch the ‘Dhurandhar’ series, because everybody’s talking about what a huge success it is,” he said.

He further highlighted Dutt’s experience with action films and pointed to the scale and complexity of Bollywood action filmmaking.

“He’s (Sanjay) so experienced. And the action movies are so complex in Bollywood, and so elaborate, even more than Hollywood,” he said.

Bilall also spoke warmly about his time with Sanjay in Mumbai and said the actor introduced him to several authentic places in the city.

“He’s just like a brother. When I was in Mumbai with him, I just fell in love. He showed and took me to the authentic places, and I just fell in love. And I just want to keep on going back to India and just keep on making movies. And hopefully we can create a movie or series together. Sanjay is just unbelievably creative and is a real artist,” Bilall added.

Directors want to work with Shah Rukh Khan and Will Smith

Adil and Bilall also revealed their admiration for Shah Rukh Khan. Their first exposure to Indian cinema came through My Name Is Khan, which resonated with them because of its themes of identity and Islamophobia after the September 11 attacks.

“It was such an important movie, it was after 9-11. For us, being Moroccans, being Muslim in Europe, that story really resonated with us a lot,” Adil said.

Bilall expressed interest in collaborating with Shah Rukh Khan in the future.

“It would be great to work with him. It would be awesome to make a movie with Will Smith and SRK,” Bilall said.

7 Dogs follows Interpol officer Khalid Al-Azzazi, played by Ahmed Ezz, as he joins forces with Ghali Abu Dawood, portrayed by Karim Abdel Aziz, to take down an international criminal network. Salman plays Johar, a former Interpol officer who becomes an ally to the central characters.

7 Dogs is set to release in Indian theatres in Hindi and English on August 21.

Also Read : Salman Khan talks about 7 Dogs; says, “It’s the kind of film you want to experience in a theatre

Batwara 1947 vs Awarapan 2 screen-sharing fight Round 2 begins: Distributor of Sunny Deol starrer asks for one show in single screens; Toxic’s Wednesday release complicates matters

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Bollywood Hungama had reported last week about the screen-sharing issues faced during the release of Batwara 1947 and Awarapan 2. The issue has cropped up in the second week of these films as well.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “PVR Inox Pictures, the distributors of Batwara 1947, have asked several single-screen cinemas to play one show of their film from tomorrow, August 21. However, the single-screen exhibitors are bewildered by this demand. Batwara 1947 has underperformed, more so at single screens. Moreover, Awarapan 2 continues to do huge business. The single screens wish to play all shows of Awarapan 2 to meet the demand. However, they won’t be able to cater to that demand fully due to the directive to allot shows to Batwara 1947.”

The source also said, “On the other hand, Awarapan 2’s distributor has put forth two conditions. One is that they want all shows in single screens. The theatres have no problem with this demand. However, they have also asked for all shows of Awarapan 2 until next Thursday, August 27. This demand has caused an issue as Toxic releases on Wednesday, August 26. That film also carries huge buzz and deserves sufficient showcasing.”

The source continued, “The single screens are in touch with the distributors of both films to find a solution. The issue is expected to be resolved in a few hours, after which the plans for the second week of Batwara 1947 and Awarapan 2 will commence.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Preeta Mathur of Jis Lahore Nahin Dekhya fame describes Batwara 1947 as a nice and engaging watch; but raises concerns over Shabana Azmi’s character dragged out: “This doesn’t give a good impression of Lahore”

Sonu Nigam reacts to impersonator case settlement; says, “Saste mein chhoot gaya bahut”

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Sonu Nigam has opened up about his legal battle with Bihar-based criminal lawyer Sonu Nigam Singh, whose social media account was allegedly mistaken for that of the singer. The dispute, which involved alleged misuse of the singer’s identity and personality rights, has now been settled following an amicable agreement between the two parties.

The Bombay High Court recently disposed of the commercial intellectual property suit after the singer and the lawyer reached a settlement. However, Sonu Nigam has said that he is not completely satisfied with the outcome and believes that cases involving digital impersonation and identity rights require stricter legal action.

Speaking about the issue, the singer said, “I quit X in 2017 but this person kept impersonating me. If I met President Droupadi Murmu, he would post a photo as if I am posting it. It is cruel to put someone’s name, reputation and life at risk.”

Nigam further claimed that the alleged impersonation had consequences for him and his family. “My family and I started receiving threats for posts this guy had made. He would post something and people would hurl abuses at me,” he said.

The singer said he was relieved that the court had issued a strict warning to the lawyer, but felt that the consequences should have been more severe. “Such people should be put in prison. He may have not murdered me physically but he harmed me and my reputation. Saste mein chhoot gaya bahut. Even the PM (@narendramodi) follows him thinking that is my account,” Nigam said.

Sonu Nigam had filed the suit before the Bombay High Court in July last year, alleging violations of his personality rights and digital impersonation. The account in question was allegedly used to share politically charged and communally sensitive posts. Since Nigam had left X in 2017, the account was allegedly mistaken by some users for the singer’s official account.

While the legal dispute has now been resolved, Nigam’s comments highlight his concerns over the impact of social media impersonation on a public figure’s reputation and personal life.

Also Read : Sonu Nigam reveals he uses auto-tune in certain songs; says, “It can’t replace singers”

Ayesha Khan flaunts diamond ring with mystery man, sparks engagement speculation; see pics

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Ayesha Khan has sparked engagement rumours after sharing a series of dreamy pictures featuring a mystery man and a striking diamond ring. The actress, who recently gained attention for her appearance in the popular song ‘Shararat’ from Dhurandhar, left fans wondering whether she had secretly taken the next step in her personal life.

In the pictures, Ayesha has kept the identity of the mystery man under wraps, adding to the curiosity surrounding the post. The diamond ring visible in the photos further fuelled speculation that the actress may have got engaged. However, there appears to be another explanation behind the pictures.

Ayesha has not officially confirmed any engagement. Her caption, “A dream,” has only added to the mystery. The photographs appear to be connected to a jewellery brand photoshoot, suggesting that the ring may have been part of the campaign rather than an indication of a real-life engagement. For now, the actress has chosen to leave fans guessing about the true meaning behind the post.

 

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Ayesha Khan rose to wider popularity after featuring in Dhurandhar’s chartbuster song ‘Shararat’, alongside Krystle D’Souza. The song, set against the backdrop of a grand Karachi wedding, features the two actresses as wedding dancers.

In an earlier interview with Pinkvilla, Ayesha opened up about the demanding experience of filming the song. She said, “It was two days of shoot. It was so hectic, I was on my period during the shoot, and you know you’re not looking your best because you’re bloated and you’re not at your best. Kaash, I was at my best. It was so much of work for two days… We were running short on time. We were so tired, our bones were aching after dancing so much. I was feeling so overwhelmed, and it was also because I was on my period, so maybe my emotions were hitting me too much. So, I just couldn’t control and I just cried. It was Khushi ke aansu (tears of joy).”

‘Shararat’ was composed by Shashwat Sachdev and sung by Madhubanti Bagchi and Jasmine Sandlas, with choreography by Vijay Ganguly.

Also Read : Dhurandhar fame Ayesha Khan detained by Mumbai Police during student protest, shares video asking, “Just a simple why?”

Did you know: Before Namit Malhotra mounted Ramayana, his father produced Amitabh Bachchan’s iconic Shahenshah

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Less than three months are left for the release of Ramayana and the excitement is tremendous thanks to its casting, subject and never-before-seen visuals. The film is produced by Namit Malhotra and not many are aware that he belongs to an illustrious film family.

As per a post by senior industry member Rajesh Vasani of Paras Publicity, Namit Malhotra is the son of producer Naresh Malhotra, who in turn was the son of ace cinematographer and National Film Award winner Mahendra Nath Malhotra. Rajesh Vasani wrote, “Having worked with the legendary B R Chopra, Naresh ji has also served as an assistant director to the acclaimed filmmaker Asit Sen, Naresh Malhotra developed a profound understanding of filmmaking from both the creative and business perspectives.”

He continued, “He later became actively involved with the renowned Mushir-Riaz banner and ventured into film production. Along with Rishi Kapoor and Bittu Anand, the son of celebrated writer Inder Raj Anand, brother of filmmaker Tinu Anand, and father of director Siddharth Anand, he co-produced films such as Duniya Meri Jeb Mein (1979) and Yeh Ishq Nahin Aasan (1984). While these films did not achieve the desired commercial success, history has often shown that setbacks are merely stepping stones to greater achievements.”

Naresh Malhotra then got the opportunity to produce the much-remembered Amitabh Bachchan-starrer Shahenshah (1988). As per the post, “The film emerged as a blockbuster, restoring confidence and momentum to the team. Shri Naresh Malhotra would thereafter be widely recognized as the producer of this iconic Amitabh Bachchan starrer, a film that remains a milestone in Indian cinema.”

Interestingly, Naresh Malhotra worked from modest office operating out of a building garage in Santacruz, Mumbai. It was given on rent by producer-director Naresh Kumar Tuli, brother of Rajendra Kumar aka Jubilee Kumar. Rajesh Vasani said, “Always ahead of the curve, Naresh Malhotra ventured into post-production and, together with filmmaker Rahul Rawail and associates, established a dubbing studio at Pali Hill, Bandra. Close friends of Rishi Kapoor, they were among the early visionaries who recognized the immense potential of professional post-production services in India.”

Then, in 1997, Namit Malhotra founded Prime Focus from the same garage in Mumbai, “carrying forward the family’s cinematic legacy while embracing the future through technology and innovation.”

The Facebook post reveals, “He was supported by a dedicated team, including professionals such as Anshul Doshi, who would later play a significant role in the company’s international expansion, Prime Focus steadily broadened its horizons beyond India. What began as a modest post-production venture evolved into India’s first listed visual entertainment services company and eventually one of the world’s most respected integrated media services groups. The acquisition and integration of DNEG transformed the enterprise into a global leader in visual effects, animation, and creative technology, contributing to multiple Academy Award-winning productions and some of the most celebrated films in the world. Today, Prime Focus and DNEG stand as symbols of Indian excellence on the global stage.”

He continued, “And now, Namit Malhotra’s dream has come full circle. From a garage in Mumbai to spearheading one of the most ambitious cinematic spectacles ever attempted in Indian filmmaking Ramayana, his journey embodies the belief that imagination, determination, and perseverance can transform the impossible into reality.”

Also Read: Ramayana English trailer: Namit Malhotra DECODES DNEG’s AI-powered lip-sync technology!

Zoya Akhtar confirms Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara sequel is in works

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Filmmaker Zoya Akhtar has confirmed that work on a sequel to the 2011 hit Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara is underway. The update comes as the film marks 15 years since its release and follows renewed excitement among fans after Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol and Farhan Akhtar reunited for a 2025 advertisement for Yas Island.

The trio’s reunion in the campaign brought back memories of their much-loved characters Arjun, Kabir and Imran. The commercial sparked speculation that the actors could be returning for Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara 2, with several fans even assuming that the advertisement was connected to an upcoming sequel.

Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter at the Monsoon Film Festival, Zoya addressed the possibility of revisiting the characters and confirmed that discussions are taking place. “We are on it,” she said. However, the filmmaker made it clear that the project is still being developed and that there is no certainty about what shape it will eventually take.

“We don’t know what will happen and what won’t… if we will get to a place where it feels correct, in catching up with these characters today. But it will be nice,” Zoya added.

She also recalled the strong reaction to the 2025 advertisement featuring Hrithik, Abhay and Farhan. “People thought it was a trailer,” she said. According to Zoya, fans initially celebrated the reunion, only to express their disappointment when they realised it was not a film teaser. “First, they were like, ‘YEAH!’ But then I got abused in my DMs saying, ‘This was not funny.'”

Zoya also responded to criticism that her films often focus on the “angst of posh people.” She said the criticism does not bother her and maintained that filmmakers should be able to tell stories about different kinds of people.

“It still comes up, but it does not bother me now,” she said. “These are stories and, as a filmmaker, I get to tell stories of all kinds of people.”

Released in 2011, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara starred Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Abhay Deol, Katrina Kaif, Kalki Koechlin and Naseeruddin Shah. Shot across Spain, India and the United Kingdom, the film was reportedly made on a budget of Rs 45 crores and earned around Rs 153 crores worldwide.

Also Read : Zoya Akhtar’s Turtle Walker to release on Animal Planet as part of India: Epic Wild Stories documentary anthology