EXCLUSIVE: Salman Khan to make cameo in Arbaaz Khan’s son Arhaan Khan’s debut film

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A new star kid is ready to enter the Bollywood fold. Arbaaz Khan and Malaika Arora’s son Arhaan Khan is set to make his big-screen debut with an action love story, and Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that Salman Khan also features in a cameo role in this film.

Details of the plot are kept closely guarded, but sources reveal that Salman will play a small but crucial role in the narrative, supporting his nephew’s first film to get more visibility with his star power. Salman is expected to shoot for 10 days for his extended cameo appearance.

The yet-untitled film will be directed by Anirudh Iyer, who previously helmed Ayushmann Khurrana and Jaideep Ahlawat-starrer An Action Hero (2022). Ashwin Varde, whose previous producing credits include Kabir Singh, OMG 2, Khel Khel Mein and The Diplomat, will produce this project.

Arhaan has been preparing for his film debut for several years now. He studied filmmaking in the United States and later worked with Vikram Phadnis and also assisted Karan Johar on Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani. He currently hosts a podcast on his YouTube channel, Dumb Biryani. “Arhaan has been preparing himself for cinema for a while. When Ashwin Varde approached Arbaaz with this project to launch Arhaan on the big screen, it felt like the right film at the right time. Arhaan is happy to have found the kind of debut he was looking for and is excited to face the camera as a leading man,” a source close to the development told us.

The makers are currently casting for the female lead and are said to be looking for a fresh face to complement Arhaan and bring a sense of freshness to the young romantic drama. Shooting is being planned for early next year, though the exact shooting timelines will be locked only after the remaining logistical details are sorted.

The project will mark Anirudh Iyer’s second directorial project following An Action Hero. Although he was also supposed to helm Lakshya and Rasha Thadani in an action romance last year, the film was shelved for reasons unknown. He has since been developing multiple projects and is finally set to return to the director’s chair with this new-age love story. As for Ashwin Varde, his next production is an untitled Johnny Lever film directed by Farhad Samji.

Also Read: Before Karna with Salman Khan, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra to direct Vikrant Massey in a Love Story

REVEALED: Arshad Warsi’s Jeevan Bheema Yojana retitled Jeevan Ya Bheema Con on CBFC’s instruction over similarity to Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana; CBFC also censors 'obscene' visuals and dialogues

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Jeevan Ya Bheema Con, featuring Arshad Warsi in a double role, releases in cinemas today, that is, September 4. Interestingly, the film was earlier titled Jeevan Bheema Yojana. The name was changed just three days before the film was released. It has now come to light that the film had to undergo a title change due to a directive from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

The CBFC passed Jeevan Ya Bheema Con with a U/A 16+ certificate. However, the film had to undergo certain changes. To begin with, 'inappropriate' references were suitably modified in four places. An 'obscene' hand gesture and visual were asked to be replaced in two places. One more 'obscene' visual was asked to be suitably modified in the second half. Similarly, an 'obscene dialogue' was suitably modified, again in the film's post-interval portion.

Lastly, the CBFC's Examining Committee instructed the makers to replace the film's title from Jeevan Bheema Yojana to Jeevan Ya Bheema Con.

According to trade sources and an article in News9Live, the makers were asked to alter the title to eliminate its phonetic similarity to the government-backed life insurance scheme, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana.

Once the changes were made, the CBFC passed Jeevan Ya Bheema Con on September 1. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 119.56 minutes. In other words, the quirky comic caper is 1 hours, 59 minutes and 56 minutes long. Besides Arshad Warsi, Jeevan Ya Bheema Con stars Sanjeeda Shaikh, Vijay Raaz, Brijendra Kala, Pooja Chopra, Madhu Anand Chandhock, Atul Parchure, Jaywant Wadkar and Dimple Srivastava. It is directed by Abhishek Dogra of Dolly Ki Doli (2015) fame.

Also Read: Arshad Warsi’s Jeevan Bheema Yojana gets a twist as its official title is revealed as Jeevan Ya Bheema Con?

EXCLUSIVE: Shailaja Desai Fenn says Haiwaan is a thriller and also a “family entertainer”; reveals it has been shot in challenging conditions: “CSMT-Churchgate shoot had 500 extras, rain machines and both Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan…It was QUITE a sight!”

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The much-awaited thriller Haiwaan releases next Friday, September 11, and has already caught attention with its intriguing trailer and impressive star cast. Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to Shailaja Desai Fenn, one of the film’s producers, about its casting, the challenges of mounting the film and a lot more. At the very outset, she made it clear that Haiwaan offers much more than just thrills. She said, “Haiwaan is a thriller, but it’s also a Priyadarshan film. Hence, it has all the elements – emotions, humour, etc. – in place. It’s like a family entertainer.”

How did you get associated with Haiwaan? My husband, Satish Fenn, and I have been in the industry for more than 20-25 years. I started my career as a talent manager and continue to run that business successfully. We also produce ad films, so film production seemed like a natural progression for us.

In 2024, we were shooting an ad for Kalyan Jewellers, which was directed by Priyan sir (director Priyadarshan). That’s how it all started. Priyan sir was very keen to make this film, and we joined hands to put it together. KVN Productions then came on board as the studio for the film, and we are very grateful to them. Later, Akshay sir and Saif sir also joined the project.

Along the way, we also made a Malayalam film called Balan: The Boy, which released earlier this year.

 

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Your production house is called Thespian Films. How did you finalize that name for your banner? It was Satish’s idea. ‘Thespian’ is a term used to describe someone accomplished in theatre or cinema. We are here to make good films and back the kind of cinema we truly believe in. Hence, Thespian Films seemed like the right name for our banner.

Haiwaan stars Boman Irani, whom you have managed for a long time. Was it easy to convince him to sign the film? I have been with Boman sir since 2005. I just told him, ‘Sir, you have to be me in my film’! That’s all (laughs). Boman sir was gracious enough to say, ‘Yes, of course’. No questions asked (smiles). He’s family.

How was it working with a talent like Akshay Kumar? It was an absolute pleasure. Akshay sir is somebody you really look up to when it comes to commitment. He’s always on time and knows exactly what he’s there for. He goes all out whenever he’s attached to a project.

It’s been fabulous working with Saif Ali Khan sir as well. He has never played a blind man before, and the preparation that has gone into the role has been phenomenal.

Moreover, some of the locations where we shot were not the easiest in terms of accessibility. But it’s been a wonderful ride with these actors, who have stood by us and given their all throughout.

 

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Last year, it was reported that a crucial sequence of Haiwaan was shot in CSMT (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and Churchgate in South Mumbai. Both areas are perennially crowded… Yes. And yet, we had rain machines, 500 extras and both our actors shooting there. It was quite a sight!

You are in the business of cinema. Hence, what are your expectations in terms of box office? As I said earlier, we are here to make good cinema and give our all to the films that we are making. Everyone has excellent expectations from their film. You don’t expect a single producer who would say, ‘I don’t expect my film to do well’! All I can is that from my side, I am giving my 500% to the film. After that, what happens is not in my control. That’s in the hands of who is above all of us.

Making films is more difficult due to budget issues. Moreover, many producers have complained about entourages that add to the costs. How do you tackle these challenges? To each their own. Every film is different and today, even actors understand that. If a film can afford it, then yes, why not? But when it can’t, I’m sure actors are understanding about it as well. At the end of the day, everyone needs to operate within the framework of what the film can afford.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan hosts first Instagram Live session ahead of Haiwaan premiere; reveals why he thought his character was ‘really cool’

Amitabh Bachchan reveals Saif Ali Khan’s family connection with him on KBC, Kareena Kapoor is the link: “Raj Kapoor’s daughter Ritu Kapoor’s son, Nikhil Nanda, is married to my daughter, Shweta Bachchan”

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The Hindi film industry is known for its interconnected film families, with several prominent surnames sharing both professional and personal ties. From the Kapoors and Bachchans to the Salim Khan, Allu, Konidela, Akkineni and Daggubati families, relationships between members of different film clans have often brought them closer. A similar connection between Amitabh Bachchan and Saif Ali Khan came to light during a recent episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC).

Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar appeared together on the popular quiz show to promote their upcoming crime thriller Haiwaan, directed by Priyadarshan. During the episode, host Amitabh Bachchan revealed a family connection between himself and Saif, leaving both actors surprised.

Amitabh Bachchan explains his connection with Saif Ali Khan

While speaking to Saif, Amitabh Bachchan said, “Many people don’t know this, but he is related to me.” Saif appeared surprised and responded, “Me?” Akshay Kumar was also taken aback by the revelation.

Explaining the connection, Amitabh said, “Raj Kapoor’s daughter Ritu Kapoor’s son, Nikhil Nanda, is married to my daughter, Shweta Bachchan.”

The connection stems from Saif’s marriage to Kareena Kapoor Khan. Kareena is the daughter of Randhir Kapoor and Babita, and Randhir is Raj Kapoor’s son. This makes Kareena and Nikhil Nanda first cousins, linking Saif’s family with the Kapoor family through marriage and, consequently, creating a connection with the Bachchan family.

Amitabh then added a humorous question, saying, “So, now I want to know, how should I address Kareena? What will Kareena call me?” Saif responded with a witty remark: “Thank god that’s not a question (on KBC screen),” leaving Amitabh and Akshay laughing.

Amitabh and Kareena have previously worked together in films including Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001), Dev (2004) and Satyagraha (2013). He has also shared the screen with Saif in Eklavya: The Royal Guard (2007) and Aarakshan (2011).

About Haiwaan

Directed by Priyadarshan, Haiwaan also stars Boman Irani, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Saiyami Kher, Rajpal Yadav, Sharib Hashmi, Rajesh Sharma, Pahal Chaudhary and Manoj Joshi in key roles. The film is a remake of Priyadarshan’s 2016 Malayalam film Oppam, which starred Mohanlal in the lead role.

The upcoming crime thriller features music by Pritam, cinematography by Divakar Mani, production design by Sabu Cyril and editing by Aiyappan Nair MS. Haiwaan is scheduled to release worldwide on Friday, September 11.

Also Read : Adnan Sami shares WILD Amitabh Bachchan studio story: “We got bedsheets, kept the speakers on and recorded him live…this was NEVER done before”

Arshad Warsi on his small role in Shah Rukh Khan’s King: “I love the Khan family, so I did it”

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Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film King continues to generate considerable buzz, with the Siddharth Anand directorial bringing together an impressive ensemble cast. The action entertainer stars Shah Rukh Khan in the lead and features Deepika Padukone, Rani Mukerji, Abhishek Bachchan, Suhana Khan, Raghav Juyal and Arshad Warsi, among others. In an exclusive conversation with Filmfare, Warsi opened up about his association with the highly anticipated project and revealed details about his role.

According to Warsi, his part in King is relatively small. However, the limited screen time was never a concern for the actor when he was approached for the film. Instead, his fondness for Shah Rukh Khan and his family played a major role in his decision to come on board.

Warsi has already shared a professional connection with the Khan family. He previously worked with Shah Rukh’s son Aryan Khan on his debut show, The Ba**ds of Bollywood*. Recalling how he responded when both Aryan and Shah Rukh approached him for their respective projects, Warsi explained that his affection for the family made the decision easy.

“In King, I have just got a little role. I love the Khan family. When Aryan called me up for The Ba***ds of Bollywood, I did it. When Shah Rukh called me up for King, I did it. It is a small bit that I have done. I just like them. So I did it,” Arshad told Filmfare.

Directed by Siddharth Anand, King is produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and Marflix Pictures. The film is scheduled to hit theatres on December 24, 2026.

Meanwhile, Warsi has several projects in the pipeline. He will next be seen in Jeevan Bheema Yojana, a dark comedy in which he plays a double role. He will also feature in Tigmanshu Dhulia’s Ghamasaan, which is set to premiere on ZEE5 on September 11. Additionally, the actor has Golmaal 5 lined up, although its release date is yet to be announced.

Also Read : Jeevan Bheema Yojana Trailer: Arshad Warsi plays a double role as Sanjeeda Shaikh starrer dark comedy promises crime, chaos and suspense

Sunita Ahuja urges Bollywood to contribute to Nepal flood relief; says, “Nepal is my matrabhoomi”

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Govinda’s wife Sunita Ahuja has expressed concern over the devastating floods in Nepal and urged members of the Bollywood fraternity to come forward and support those affected by the disaster. Although Sunita was born in India, she shares a close connection with Nepal through her family, as her mother and grandmother are from Kathmandu.

Speaking to Bombay Times, Sunita opened up about her emotional ties to the neighbouring country and the impact of the recent flash floods in the Nepal-Tibet region. She also recalled her family’s annual tradition of visiting Nepal during the New Year and seeking blessings at the Pashupatinath Temple.

She said, “It is heartbreaking to see such devastating floods hit Nepal. I wasn’t born there, but my mother and grandmother are from Kathmandu. I visit Nepal every year with my daughter for the New Year. On January 1, we make it a point to visit the Pashupatinath temple and begin the year with his blessings.”

Sunita further revealed that she is trying to find a reliable channel through which her financial contribution can reach people directly affected by the floods. She said, “I am trying to connect with someone who can ensure that my donation reaches the right people. I would like to donate as much as I can because they are very close to me, and Nepal is my matrabhoomi. I request everyone in the industry to come forward and contribute towards helping the people of Nepal.”

Sunita also spoke about actor Manisha Koirala, whom she considers a sister. She expressed confidence that Koirala is also doing her part to help people affected by the devastation.

Meanwhile, Manisha Koirala recently addressed Sadhguru’s ‘In Solidarity with Nepal’ event in Kathmandu. She appealed to the international community to support Nepal by visiting the country and helping revive tourism, which she described as essential for local livelihoods.

According to reports, Nepal’s death toll had risen to at least 904, while more than 4,000 people were still reported missing.

Also Read : Sunita Ahuja withdraws divorce case against Govinda, visits Mumbai family court with son Yashvardhan

Hunkkaar - The Roar: Old project, new moment; how Aneet Padda's post-Saiyaara stardom greenlit an archived show

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Before she became an overnight sensation with Mohit Suri’s romantic blockbuster Saiyaara (2025), actor Aneet Padda had already quietly wrapped another project—the socio-thriller Hunkkaar. Long delayed behind studio doors, the series is now finally gearing up for a high-profile digital release, with its official teaser slated to drop today.

Industry sources reveal that Hunkkaar was shot and completed well before Saiyaara vaulted Padda into mainstream stardom. However, the decision to hold the project was purely strategic. Studios waited until the actor’s box-office clout and market appeal surged, transforming a shelved project into a commercially viable, headline-worthy event release.

Contrary to the perception that Hunkkaar was offered to Padda following her breakout, the project was actually born out of her long-standing professional proximity to directors Nitya Mehra and Karan Kapadia. It was Padda’s deep-rooted creative trust with the duo—combined with her post-Saiyaara box-office heat—that ultimately catalyzed the show’s revival and distribution path.

With the teaser landing today, Hunkkaar represents an intriguing career milestone for Aneet Padda. Besides Aneet, the show will also star Fatima Sana Shaikh, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, and Arjun Mathur in the lead.

The socio-thriller brings together a formidable lineup of backing studios: it is produced by Birla Studios and Applause Entertainment, in association with Purple Pebble Pictures, while Mangata Films serves as the primary production house. The highly anticipated series is set to premiere globally on JioHotstar.

Also Read: Aneet Padda approached for crucial role opposite Ranbir Kapoor in Brahmastra 2