Vithabai Narayangaonkar's daughter clarifies family's stand on Shraddha Kapoor's Eetha after title row: “We have no objection”

https://ift.tt/vy3iPYH

The debate surrounding the title of Shraddha Kapoor's upcoming film Eetha has taken a fresh turn after Vithabai Narayangaonkar's eldest daughter, Mangala Bansode Karavadikar, publicly expressed her support for the title. Mangala's clarification follows objections reportedly raised by Vithabai's sons, Kailash and Rajesh Narayangaonkar, along with her grandson Mohit Narayangaonkar, who were said to have questioned the makers' choice of title. However, Mangala has now stated that the family has no objection and explained the significance of the name.

Speaking to The Times of India, the 75-year-old Tamasha artiste and President's Award recipient said, "We have no objection to the film's title. I have spoken with Mohit and have requested him to not give out any further statements on the same. The title is appropriate because in those days, people from the villages where my mother performed would often call her Eetha."

She further revealed that she had already shared this detail with director Laxman Utekar during his research for the film. According to Mangala, the filmmaker had met the family extensively while preparing to bring Vithabai Narayangaonkar's life to the big screen.

"I have been performing on stage since I was seven years old and have heard people address my mother by that name. We are happy that through this film people will come to know about my mother and how dedicated she was to her craft," she added.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Shraddha ✶ (@shraddhakapoor)

The clarification comes amid an ongoing discussion over the film's title. Soon after the teaser of Eetha was unveiled, several political leaders, including members of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), objected to the title, arguing that a biopic on the legendary artiste should have been named after Vithabai Narayangaonkar. Reports also suggested that some members of her family shared similar concerns, further fuelling the controversy.

However, Mangala's latest remarks indicate that at least one of Vithabai's closest family members supports the makers' creative decision and believes the title carries historical significance. According to her, "Eetha" was a name by which audiences in villages affectionately addressed Vithabai during her performances, making it closely associated with the celebrated artiste.

Directed by Laxman Utekar, Eetha stars Shraddha Kapoor in the role of the iconic Lavani performer. Produced by Dinesh Vijan under the Maddock Films banner, the biographical drama also features Randeep Hooda and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub in pivotal roles.

The film is scheduled to release in theatres on August 28, coinciding with the Raksha Bandhan festive weekend. The recently released teaser has already generated significant buzz, with Shraddha Kapoor's transformation into Vithabai Narayangaonkar earning praise from audiences.

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

Priyadarshan says “Hera Pheri 3 will be dead" days after exiting Akshay Kumar-starrer; alleges repeated insults by Firoz Nadiadwala

https://ift.tt/Yl6AfcK

After confirming that he is no longer associated with Hera Pheri 3, filmmaker Priyadarshan has now shared fresh details about his decision to walk away from the much-awaited comedy franchise. The director has alleged that repeated insults from producer Firoz Nadiadwala, along with a long-running copyright dispute surrounding the franchise, convinced him that the film may never be made.

The development comes shortly after Nadiadwala revealed that Priyadarshan was no longer directing Hera Pheri 3. The filmmaker later confirmed the news, telling Hindustan Times, "To the best of my knowledge, Hera Pheri 3 will never hit the screen due to lots of legal issues and personal conflicts. Whether I am involved or not is unimportant."

Now, in an exclusive conversation with Mid-Day, Priyadarshan elaborated on what led to his exit and spoke candidly about his differences with the producer.

Recalling his conversations with Akshay Kumar, the director said, "Firoz told Akshay, 'You have the rights to make Hera Pheri 3, but never make it with Priyadarshan. That's my only request.' He has insulted me so many times. He told me that my cut of Hera Pheri [2000] looked like a poor man's version, that he had to edit my five-hour movie. I initially agreed to do the third part with Akshay because I thought I could make one of this country's biggest franchises. If I had directed it, I could've made it bigger than Dhurandhar. Akshay, Suniel, and Paresh requested me to make Hera Pheri 3. When I narrated the story to them, they were all excited."

According to Priyadarshan, the problems surrounding the project began much earlier. He revealed that in 2025, he received a call from Seven Arts Films' GP Vijayakumar, warning him about possible legal complications if the film moved ahead.

"When Hera Pheri 3 was announced, I got a call from Seven Arts Films' GP Vijayakumar that if we ever do the film, it will be a violation. I didn't know what to do. This is why I said that Hera Pheri 3 may never see the screens with the same characters. You will never see them again as it has too many legal issues. According to me, Hera Pheri [2000] was born, Hera Pheri 2 [2006] became sick, and Hera Pheri 3 will be dead," the filmmaker said.

Meanwhile, despite his exit from Hera Pheri 3, Priyadarshan's professional association with Akshay Kumar remains strong. Days after confirming his departure from the franchise, the filmmaker also confirmed his ninth collaboration with the actor.

Readers may recall that Bollywood Hungama was the first to report that the duo had reunited for another project. In April this year, a source told the publication, "Priyadarshan is putting together an exciting film and has signed Akshay Kumar for it. It'll be a typical Priyan entertainer that'll appeal to the youth and families alike." The source further revealed that the untitled comic entertainer will be produced by Tips Films, marking the banner's first collaboration with Priyadarshan and the second film together for Akshay Kumar and Tips after Entertainment (2014).

The confirmation also came ahead of the release of their eighth collaboration, Haiwaan, which is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on September 11, 2026. The film also stars Saif Ali Khan in a pivotal role.

Also Read: Priyadarshan confirms ninth film with Akshay Kumar after Hera Pheri 3 exit

SCOOP: After Lagaan, Aamir Khan and Ashutosh Gowarikar's next is titled Lalkaar

https://ift.tt/smr7yPf

25 years after Lagaan, Aamir Khan and Ashutosh Gowarikar are reuniting on another sports drama, which is scheduled to go on floors in October 2026. The film is based on the life of Lala Amarnath, and set against the backdrop of the 1947 Partition between India and Pakistan.

While the prep work is going on in full swing, Bollywood Hungama has learnt from industry sources that the reunion of Aamir and Ashu has got a title, and it's sure to blow away the minds of audiences. According to reliable sources, the duo have decided to call their film Lalkaar. "After Lagaan, it's time for Lalkaar. The title instils instant recall to their cult, and also promises something new. Much like Lagaan, this one too is a strong emotional saga set against the backdrop of cricket," a source told Bollywood Hungama.

Apart from Aamir, the makers are on the lookout to cast another actor as the second lead, and the announcement of the same will be made soon. The film is written by Rajkumar Hirani and Abhijat Joshi, with Excel Entertainment as the producer.

Stay tuned for more updates on Lalkaar only on Bollywood Hungama.

Also Read: 25 Years Of Lagaan: Aamir Khan and Gracy Singh bring film’s nostalgia alive; watch

Shah Rukh Khan inaugurates Knight Riders Cricket Ground in Los Angeles as venue hosts first Major League Cricket match

https://ift.tt/0JSmOYg

Shah Rukh Khan and the Knight Riders Group have marked a historic milestone in global cricket with the inauguration of the Knight Riders Cricket Ground, Los Angeles, which officially hosted its first-ever Major League Cricket (MLC) fixture. The venue welcomed the Los Angeles Knight Riders as they took on Washington Freedom, signalling a significant step in the expansion of cricket in the United States.

The newly built stadium is the first international cricket venue established by a global cricket franchise, reflecting the Knight Riders Group's long-term commitment to growing the sport through investment in world-class infrastructure.

Constructed to international standards, the Knight Riders Cricket Ground features eight wickets on the main square, ICC-standard playing dimensions and six floodlight towers standing 120 feet tall. More than 32,000 metric tonnes of earth were moved during construction to develop the venue into a world-class cricketing arena designed to offer an elite experience for both players and fans.

Speaking about the landmark achievement, Shah Rukh Khan, Co-owner of the Knight Riders Group, said, “What started as a dream has become a reality today. Bringing cricket, the second most-watched sport in the world, to Los Angeles is a landmark moment for all of us. Through this long-term partnership between Fairplex and Knight Riders, we are creating much more than a cricket venue. We are building a space that celebrates community, togetherness, energy and entertainment.

“It is a place built not just for sport, but also for entertainment, for families, and for memories that will last forever. We hope this becomes a home for cricket in Los Angeles and inspires generations of fans and players alike. This is for Los Angeles, for cricket fans across the globe, and for the Knight Riders family. Believe in Purple and Gold,” he added.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk)

Venky Mysore, CEO of Knight Riders Sports, also highlighted the significance of the project, saying, "The Knight Riders Cricket Ground, LA is much more than a stadium; it is a statement of intent for the future of cricket. Becoming the first global cricket brand to establish an international cricket stadium is a proud milestone for the Knight Riders Group and reflects our belief that the growth of the game must be supported by world-class infrastructure. We wanted to create a venue that players would love competing at, fans would cherish visiting, and the local community could proudly call its cricketing home."

Adding to the celebrations, NBA champion Ron Artest, popularly known as Metta World Peace, was invited to bowl the ceremonial first ball at the inaugural MLC match. His participation underscored the growing connection between cricket and mainstream American sports while highlighting the Knight Riders Group's efforts to integrate the game into Los Angeles' sporting culture.

The Knight Riders Cricket Ground will host Major League Cricket matches from July 1 to July 5, further strengthening cricket's expanding footprint in the United States and reinforcing the Knight Riders Group's vision of making the sport more accessible to new audiences across the globe.

Also Read: Farah Khan praises Shah Rukh Khan’s generosity towards his film crew: “He took 50 people to Dubai for Happy New Year premiere”

Delhi High Court restrains Ilaiyaraaja from streaming songs from 134 films in copyright case filed by Saregama

https://ift.tt/kxwUluc

In a significant development in a long-running copyright dispute, the Delhi High Court has passed an interim order in favour of music label Saregama India Ltd., restraining legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja from broadcasting or communicating songs from 134 films until further orders.

The order was passed by Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, who observed that while Ilaiyaraaja continues to hold rights over his original musical compositions, those rights do not automatically extend to the sound recordings incorporated into cinematograph films. According to the court, the copyright in such sound recordings rests with the producer and, where assigned, with Saregama.

As per the court's observations, Ilaiyaraaja's rights under the Copyright Act are limited to the musical work itself, which refers to the composition independent of the lyrics and the sound recording. The court noted that these rights cannot be interpreted as ownership over the complete film soundtrack.

The dispute arose after Saregama claimed that it had acquired copyright ownership through assignment agreements signed with producers of several films between 1976 and 2001. The company argued that these agreements transferred the rights in the sound recordings, along with the underlying musical and literary works featured in those films.

Saregama further alleged that it recently discovered the songs being made available on multiple digital streaming platforms, including Amazon Music, Apple iTunes and JioSaavn, and claimed that Ilaiyaraaja had also asserted ownership over the content available on these services.

While considering the matter, the High Court observed that there was no dispute regarding the broadcasting of songs forming part of the films listed in the suit. The court stated that, on a prima facie basis, such use appeared to amount to copyright infringement in relation to the disputed sound recordings.

The interim order applies to 134 films spanning several decades of Ilaiyaraaja's celebrated career. Among the notable titles covered are Annakkili (1976), 16 Vayathiniley (1977), Mullum Malarum (1978), Netrikkann (1981) and Raaja Paarvai (1981).

The matter will now proceed before the Delhi High Court, where the copyright claims of both parties will be examined further before a final decision is reached.

Also Read: Ilayaraja sends legal notice to makers of Good Bad Ugly over alleged unauthorised use of iconic songs

Ranveer Singh starrer Dhurandhar heads to Japan after blockbuster run; actor shares special message ahead of July 10 release

https://ift.tt/Gj0J4gQ

After emerging as one of the biggest theatrical successes in Hindi cinema, Dhurandhar is now set to continue its global journey. The Ranveer Singh-starrer will release in theatres across Japan on July 10, 2026, marking another milestone in the film's successful international run.

Ahead of the release, Ranveer Singh recorded a special video message for Japanese audiences, inviting them to experience the action-packed entertainer on the big screen. Calling Dhurandhar an immersive cinematic spectacle, the actor highlighted the film's blend of drama, intensity, scale and emotion while expressing his excitement about the movie reaching a new audience.

The Japan release comes months after the film enjoyed a phenomenal worldwide run following its theatrical release in India on December 5, 2025. Backed by strong box office numbers and positive audience response, Dhurandhar went on to establish itself as one of the biggest commercial successes in recent Hindi cinema.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Jio Studios (@officialjiostudios)

Written, directed and produced by Aditya Dhar, the spy action thriller is also produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Lokesh Dhar. Presented by Jio Studios and produced under the banner of B62 Studios, the film has been mounted on a large scale and has been praised for its action sequences, emotional storytelling and high production values.

Featuring an ensemble cast, Dhurandhar stars Ranveer Singh in the lead alongside Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, R. Madhavan, Sara Arjun, Rakesh Bedi, Gaurav Gera and Danish Pandor in pivotal roles. The film follows the journey of an undercover Indian intelligence agent who infiltrates Karachi's criminal syndicates and Pakistani political circles while pursuing a mission linked to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Loosely inspired by true events, the story blends espionage, action and emotion against the backdrop of high-stakes national security operations.

With its July 10 release, the makers are aiming to introduce the film's larger-than-life cinematic experience to audiences in Japan, further extending the international reach of one of Hindi cinema's biggest blockbusters.

Also Read: Rakesh Bedi showers praise on Ranveer Singh: “Ranveer mein ek bahot khaas quality hai”

Amit Trivedi replaces Pritam as composer for Rishab Shetty starrer The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

https://ift.tt/4yleRTQ

The makers of The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj have announced a key creative change, with National Award-winning composer Amit Trivedi coming on board to compose the music for the upcoming historical film. The development follows composer Pritam's recent announcement that he is taking a break from mainstream films.

Directed by Sandeep Singh, the two-part historical saga stars Rishab Shetty in the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. With Amit Trivedi now joining the project, lyricist Prasoon Joshi, who has been associated with the film since its early stages, will continue to write the songs.

According to sources close to the development, the makers decided to bring Amit Trivedi on board after Pritam stepped away from the project following his decision to take a break from commercial cinema. The film also marks a first for Trivedi, as it will be his first Hindi historical feature based on the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

A source close to the production said, “The team firmly believes Amit Trivedi is the perfect creative force to bring this epic to life musically. His ability to blend powerful orchestration with deeply rooted Indian melodies, combined with Prasoon Joshi’s powerful writing, makes for an exceptional creative partnership. The music has to reflect the courage, vision, emotion and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and we are confident this soundtrack will become one of the defining highlights of the film.”

The film is being planned as a two-part cinematic project and features Rishab Shetty in the lead role, alongside Arjun Rampal, Vivek Oberoi and an ensemble cast. The makers have mounted the project on a large scale, with production expected to begin later this year.

While plot details have largely been kept under wraps, the film is expected to chronicle the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The addition of Amit Trivedi and the continuation of Prasoon Joshi's association complete an important part of the film's creative team ahead of the commencement of production.

The announcement comes shortly after Pritam informed fans that he would be taking a break from mainstream films, prompting changes to his upcoming commitments. With Amit Trivedi now taking over music duties, The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj moves forward with a revised musical team as preparations continue for its shoot later this year.

Also Read: Rishab Shetty’s film on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj expands into two-part saga with over Rs. 500 crores budget: Report