Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub clarifies he is not part of Ajay Devgn starrer Chauhaan after teaser voice controversy

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Actor Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub has issued a public clarification distancing himself from the upcoming Ajay Devgn-starrer Chauhaan, stating that he has no association with the film despite his voice featuring in its teaser. The actor shared a detailed note on social media, explaining that he had recorded a line for the makers in good faith without being informed about the context in which it would eventually be used.

Zeeshan's statement comes around 10 days after reports suggested that his voice had been removed from the Chauhaan teaser. While he did not mention the film by name in his note, it was widely understood that he was referring to Chauhaan, whose teaser had initially opened with a narration in his voice.

Sharing his statement, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub wrote, “Few weeks back, a film teaser released with the opening line in my voice. I wish to put on record that I am not part of the film in any capacity. I was asked to dub a line without any reference a few months back. I did that in good faith without asking for more as I knew the makers personally. As soon as the teaser was released and I saw the context in which it was (mis)used, I asked the filmmakers to remove my voice from the teaser as I have nothing to do with the film. After my strong objection, the makers removed my voice from the teaser fifteen days ago.”

The clarification comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding Chauhaan. The film has already been facing resistance over its alleged depiction of people in Kashmir confronting the armed forces, sparking debate on social media. Zeeshan Ayub, too, found himself at the receiving end of online trolling after viewers noticed his voice in the teaser, prompting speculation about his involvement in the project.

The actor concluded his note by reiterating his position and drawing attention to the ongoing student protests in the country. “Though this will clarify my position as an artist who would never be a part of any such project, our entire attention should be on the present situation of the country where our young relentless students are on the streets putting up a brave fight. Kudos to their inspiring spirit. JAI HIND, JAI SAMVIDHAN.”

Few weeks back, a film teaser released with the opening line in my voice.

I wish to put on record that I am not part of the film in any capacity.

I was asked to dub a line without any reference a few months back. I did that in good faith without asking for more as I knew the… — Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub (@Mdzeeshanayyub) July 21, 2026

Produced by Jio Studios and directed by Neeraj Yadav, Chauhaan features Ajay Devgn in a never-seen-before avatar. While the film has generated considerable buzz since its announcement, it has also remained at the centre of public discourse following the teaser's release and the controversy surrounding its subject matter.

Also Read: Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub’s voice removed from updated Chauhaan teaser? Here’s what we know!

Mohammed Zeeshan Ayub distances himself from Shraddha Kapoor starrer Eetha; says his voice was used without context

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Actor Mohammed Zeeshan Ayub has publicly distanced himself from the upcoming Shraddha Kapoor-starrer Eetha, claiming that his voice was used in the film's teaser without his knowledge of the context. The actor took to social media to issue a detailed clarification, asserting that he has no association with the project and had objected to the use of his voice immediately after the teaser was released.

Although Zeeshan Ayub did not explicitly mention the name of the film in his note, it was widely inferred that he was referring to Eetha, whose teaser had opened with a narration in his voice. According to the actor, he had agreed to dub a single line months ago after being approached by people he knew personally, without being informed about the larger context in which it would eventually be used.

Sharing his statement on X aka Twitter, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayub wrote, “Few weeks back, a film teaser released with the opening line in my voice. I wish to put on record that I am not part of the film in any capacity. I was asked to dub a line without any reference a few months back. I did that in good faith without asking for more as I knew the makers personally. As soon as the teaser was released and I saw the context in which it was (mis)used, I asked the filmmakers to remove my voice from the teaser as I have nothing to do with the film. After my strong objection, the makers removed my voice from the teaser fifteen days ago.”

Few weeks back, a film teaser released with the opening line in my voice. I wish to put on record that I am not part of the film in any capacity.

I was asked to dub a line without any reference a few months back. I did that in good faith without asking for more as I knew the…

— Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub (@Mdzeeshanayyub) July 21, 2026

The actor further used the opportunity to reiterate his stand while shifting focus to the ongoing student protests in the country. “Though this will clarify my position as an artist who would never be a part of any such project, our entire attention should be on the present situation of the country where our young relentless students are on the streets putting up a brave fight. Kudos to their inspiring spirit. JAI HIND, JAI SAMVIDHAN.”

Directed by Laxman Utekar, Eetha is based on the life of legendary Marathi Tamasha and Lavani performer Vithabai Narayangaonkar, fondly known as Eethabai. The biographical drama stars Shraddha Kapoor in the titular role, alongside Randeep Hooda and Nana Patekar in pivotal roles, and traces the inspiring journey of the celebrated folk theatre icon from humble beginnings to becoming one of Maharashtra's most revered cultural figures.

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

SCOOP: Aamir Khan opts out of Ashneer Grover biopic over creative differences; Rahul Mody and Shraddha Kapoor on hunt for a new actor

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Earlier in the year, there were reports about Aamir Khan teaming up with debutant director Rahul Mody for a film based on the life of controversial start-up king, Ashneer Grover. The news spread like wildfire, leading to all sorts of conversations in the digital world. Soon after, it was revealed that Shraddha Kapoor will play the female lead in the film alongside Aamir and it would go on floors in March 2027, once Aamir is done shooting for a period-drama with Ashutosh Gowarikar.

But the latest we learnt that Aamir Khan has decided to opt out of the Ashneer Grover film due to creative differences. "Aamir is fascinated by the world of start-ups, and was keen to get into the zone with the Ashneer Grover biopic. He sat on the script and developed it to the best of his sensibilities. But eventually, he ended up having creative differences with Rahul Mody, leading to the duo parting ways," a source told Bollywood Hungama.

The source also informs that Rahul Mody and Shraddha Kapoor are however committed to make the film. "The real life couple is now looking to recast the film, and get a relatively younger name to play the part of Ashneer Grover. The conversations are on with two - three top names, and the cast is expected to be locked soon," the source tells us further.

The film will be produced by Shraddha Kapoor with a leading studio, and the actress will also be playing the key character of Ashneer's wife in the film.

Also Read: Aamir Khan’s 10-year-old video proves his stand on Sonam Wangchuk hasn’t changed; superstar had then said, “3 Idiots is based on Five Point Someone, not on any real-life person”

Akshay Kumar trips while walking with Saif Ali Khan and Taimur in London; leaves fans wondering if it was a prank: WATCH

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Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan are all set to reunite on the big screen with Priyadarshan’s Haiwaan, and fans are already looking forward to seeing the beloved Main Khiladi Tu Anari duo share screen space once again. Ahead of the film’s release later this year, the two actors were recently spotted spending some quality time together in London, where a candid moment involving Saif’s son Taimur Ali Khan has now gone viral on social media.

Saif Ali Khan, who frequently visits London with his family, was in the city with his nine-year-old son Taimur to watch the India vs England Test match at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. Joining the father-son duo was Akshay Kumar, making for a delightful reunion that quickly caught the attention of fans online.

For the outing, Akshay kept it casual in joggers, a printed white shirt, and sneakers, opting for a relaxed look that contrasted with Saif Ali Khan’s more polished appearance. Several videos and pictures from their stroll through the streets of London have surfaced on social media, but one particular clip has become the talking point among fans.

The video shows Saif, Taimur, Akshay, and their security entourage walking together when Akshay suddenly appears to trip while walking down the street. The unexpected moment leaves both Saif and Taimur laughing instantly, and Akshay soon joins in with a smile himself. The clip has sparked speculation online, with many wondering whether the actor deliberately pretended to trip to make Taimur laugh or whether it was simply an accidental yet amusing moment.

akshay kumar is looking like an Italian lothario with that white beard pic.twitter.com/HrBgQL829Q — . (@diljaaneyaa) July 20, 2026

On the professional front, Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan are gearing up for the release of Haiwaan, directed by Priyadarshan. The recently unveiled first-look poster has generated considerable buzz among Bollywood fans.

The film is the official Hindi remake of the 2016 Malayalam thriller Oppam, starring Mohanlal. Priyadarshan has previously revealed that adapting the acclaimed film into Hindi had been a long-cherished ambition ever since the original was released.

Touted to be a neo-noir crime thriller, Haiwaan will feature Saif Ali Khan as a visually impaired man, while Akshay Kumar plays a pivotal role. The film is slated to hit theatres on September 11, marking one of the most anticipated Bollywood releases of the year.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan makes an attention grabbing appearance at Lord’s Stadium; heritage-inspired Winchester College tie becomes the highlight of his look

Jimmy Shergill reveals he COMPLETELY gave up his phone while shooting Operation Safed Sagar; urges everyone to try a digital detox: “You will also NOT miss your phone”

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Actors Jimmy Shergill, Siddharth, Dia Mirza, Prajakta Koli Abhay Verma, Mihir Ahuja, Taaruk Raina, Arnav Bhasin and Amrita Bagchi, director Oni Sen, producers Sanjay Routray, Sarita Patil and Mehboob Pal Singh Brar, executive producers Abhijeet Singh Parmar (also the writer) and Kushal Srivastava, and Monika Shergill and Tanya Bami of Netflix attended the trailer launch of Operation Safed Sagar in Mumbai. The launch was memorable for many reasons. To begin with, several real-life personalities connected with the story, including Group Captain Amit Gupta, Group Captain Alok Chaudhry, Group Captain Tarun Kumar Singha, former Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, and Alka Ahuja, wife of the late Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja, were felicitated.

During the Q-and-A session with the media, Jimmy Shergill was asked about going on a digital detox while playing the role. The journalist even heard that Jimmy used a basic feature phone from Nokia while shooting the series.

Jimmy Shergill revealed, “Main waise bhi bahut khush hota hoon jab mere paas phone nahin hota hai (laughs). So, I was very happy. Haan, mera staff dikkat mein aa gaya tha! They were a bit hassled.”

He clarified, “I didn’t even carry the old Nokia phone. Main phone bhi chod ke aa jaata tha. I used to get a lot of peace and whenever I would be free, I would take a nap.”

Jimmy Shergill added, “I never missed my phone. All of you will also not miss it if you try to give it up. I think we lived much better in those times. That’s what I believe in.”

The event ended with an explosive answer from Jimmy Shergill, where he remarked that the youth today is not interested in joining the Armed Forces. He thundered, “If I talk about my time and especially those who were in public schools, 99.99% of us wanted to join the armed forces. I had scored over 90%, yet I still fell short of the cut-off marks. Therefore, even though I had applied, I didn't qualify. There was so much competition. In today's day and age, it seems like no one is interested. Sabko filmein karni hai. Everyone has been handed a phone and they are encouraged to (shoot Reels). Har aadmi bas filmein hi bana raha hai. Toh desh ke liye kaun ladega bhai? Ya apne andar hi ladte rahoge?”

Operation Safed Sagar releases on Netflix on August 7.

Also Read: Operation Safed Sagar trailer launch: Siddharth CRIES as martyr’s wife says, “At least, I have an image of Ajay Ahuja now”; then raises laughs while talking about hand injury: “Old age bolte hai isko!”

Mrunal Thakur and Huma Qureshi starrer Pooja Meri Jaan set to stream on ZEE5 after four-year delay

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After remaining unreleased for nearly four years, Pooja Meri Jaan, starring Mrunal Thakur and Huma Qureshi, is finally set to reach audiences through streaming. The thriller has officially found a platform on ZEE5, bringing an end to years of uncertainty surrounding its release. While the streaming service has announced the film as part of its upcoming content slate, the official premiere date is yet to be revealed.

Directed by Navjot Gulati and produced under Dinesh Vijan's Maddock Films banner, Pooja Meri Jaan was originally planned as a direct-to-digital release on JioCinema. However, following the merger of JioCinema with Disney+ Hotstar, the film's release plans were stalled, leaving its future uncertain for an extended period. The prolonged delay reportedly left both the cast and makers frustrated as the project remained in limbo.

Alongside Pooja Meri Jaan, ZEE5 also announced an extensive Hindi content slate featuring several new films and series. Upcoming shows include Kambli, inspired by the life of former cricketer Vinod Kambli, The Scam: Leaked, Coffee King, Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai 2.0 hosted by R. Madhavan, and the return of the classic Zee Horror Show. Popular franchises such as Rangbaaz, Janaawar, and Bakaiti are also returning with new seasons.

The platform's film lineup includes Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai starring Varun Dhawan, Pooja Hegde and Mouni Roy, Bandar featuring Bobby Deol and Sanya Malhotra, Kangana Ranaut's Bharat Bhagya Vidhata, Vaani Kapoor's Sarvgunn Sampann, as well as Ghamasaan, Ikroop, and Dalimb.

Earlier this year, director Navjot Gulati spoke about the emotional and professional impact of the prolonged delay. He revealed that his father, who passed away in 2024, spent the final months of his life asking when the film would be released. The filmmaker also alleged that co-producer Amar Kaushik stopped responding to his calls and messages after October 2025. Navjot claimed the film was held back due to a pricing dispute, alleging that Maddock Films was unwilling to sell it below its expected valuation. He further questioned why a theatrical release was never explored, citing Vadh 2 as an example of an OTT-backed film that eventually made it to cinemas.

According to Navjot, the delay has adversely affected his career, as producers have become hesitant to collaborate with him while his completed debut film remained unreleased. He even expressed willingness to buy back the film himself if the producers chose not to move forward. Pooja Meri Jaan explores the themes of stalking and cybercrime and also stars Vikram Singh Chauhan and Vijay Raaz in pivotal roles. The film completed shooting and post-production by the end of 2022.

Also Read: Navjot Gulati SLAMS Maddock Films over delay of Pooja Meri Jaan release: “They don’t care about the small films”

BREAKING: Kunal Kohli follows Shekhar Kapur’s footsteps; makes international debut with haunting English film All About Her

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Kunal Kohli, who made a mark with films like Hum Tum (2004) and Fanaa (2006), has now taken a leap, graduating to making international films. In June, he wrapped up the shoot of a British English feature film, All About Her. It stars Hollywood actor Nick Sagar, best known for his role in The Princess Switch film franchise. The female lead is played by British actress Amelia Gething, who caught attention with her performances in Emily and The Spanish Princess.

Kunal Kohli opened up about All About Her in an interview with Bombay Times last month. He said, “Directing an English film and working with a full British and international crew is a whole new chapter in my life. Shekhar Kapur has always been my inspiration, and I am hoping this starts a trend of more Indian filmmakers working globally. Though English is not my first language, the experience of directing a film in English has been incredibly rewarding.”

He also said, “Shooting a film in the UK with British actors and crew gave me a great deal of creative freedom. Direct interaction with the actors helped bring the characters to life on screen exactly as I had envisioned, in complete sync with Amelia and Nick. Although I was new to their industry, the actors placed their trust in me and together we created an incredible cinematic journey that we are excited to share with audiences across the world.”

All About Her is produced by Sheetal Parab. An intriguing first-look teaser poster was dropped on June 5 and the caption with the picture read, ‘A haunting psychological drama where love, guilt and identity blur into one dangerous truth’. According to a Bombay Times report, the makers plan to premiere the film at various film festivals before its release.

About Kunal Kohli

Kunal Kohli began as a film critic in the 90s and then hosted the TV show 'Chalo Cinema'. After making several music videos, he debuted as a feature film director with Mujhse Dosti Karoge (2002), starring Hrithik Roshan, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Rani Mukerji. However, it was his second film, Hum Tum (2004), which made him a director to watch out for. The Saif Ali Khan-Rani Mukerji starrer was loved for its performances, music and fresh treatment, which resonated big time with the emerging multiplex audience.

Kunal’s next directorial, Fanaa (2006), starring Aamir Khan and Kajol, emerged as a major box-office success. He later directed Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic (2008) and Teri Meri Kahaani (2012), while also producing Break Ke Baad (2010). In 2018, he ventured into Telugu cinema with Next Enti, starring Tamannaah Bhatia. The same year, 2018, he turned actor with his production, Phir Se, co-starring Jennifer Winget and Sumona Chakravarti. It was one of the first Indian films to release directly on Netflix.

In the post-pandemic era, Kunal Kohli directed Lahore Confidential (2021) and Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story (2025), both of which had a direct release on OTT.

Also Read: Kunal Kohli says “biggest directors” expected Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar to slow down after Monday