A.R. Rahman to compose music and co-produce Shekhar Kapur’s Masoom: The New Generation

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Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur and composer A.R. Rahman have announced a new collaboration titled Masoom: The New Generation, a contemporary film inspired by Kapur’s 1983 classic Masoom. The project marks another creative partnership between Kapur and Rahman, who have previously worked together on projects such as Elizabeth: The Golden Age, Bombay Dreams, and Why? The Musical. For the new film, Rahman will not only compose the music but will also serve as a co-producer.

According to the makers, Masoom: The New Generation will examine themes of family, identity, love, and migration in a contemporary setting while retaining the emotional foundation associated with the original film.

Speaking about the project, Shekhar Kapur said, “For a long time, I’ve felt that the themes of Masoom deserved to be revisited through the lens of today’s world. Families, relationships, identity; these ideas have evolved so much, and cinema must evolve with them. Rahman has always had the rare ability to create music that speaks directly to the soul of a story and its audience. Having him as both composer and creative partner on this journey makes it even more meaningful.”

A.R. Rahman also shared his thoughts on joining the film in multiple capacities. “Working with Shekhar has always been a deeply enriching experience, he has been a mentor and a creative force in many ways. When he shared the vision for this film, I felt compelled to be involved beyond the music. There’s something timeless about Masoom, and reinterpreting that emotional world for a new generation feels both exciting and necessary,” Rahman said.

The film will feature an ensemble cast that includes Naseeruddin Shah, Shabana Azmi, Manoj Bajpayee, Nithya Menen, and Kaveri Kapur.

Released in 1983, the original Masoom remains one of the most acclaimed films in Hindi cinema and is remembered for its portrayal of family relationships and emotional conflicts. With Masoom: The New Generation, the makers aim to revisit some of those themes while placing them in a contemporary social context.

The film is currently in pre-production and is expected to begin filming later this year. A worldwide theatrical release is planned for 2026.

Also Read: Shekhar Kapur describes an emotional airport encounter with a Masoom fan; the fan says, “Sir, they don’t make films from the heart anymore”

Deepak Tijori shuts down rumours surrounding Rahul Roy’s well-being: “He is perfectly safe and fine”

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Actor Deepak Tijori has spoken out in support of his longtime friend and Aashiqui co-star Rahul Roy, dismissing recent speculation surrounding the actor’s health and well-being.

Rahul Roy has been in the spotlight in recent weeks after several social media videos featuring him went viral. The clips sparked mixed reactions online, with some fans expressing concern about his physical condition and speech, while others criticized the content. The discussions gained momentum due to Rahul's history of a brain stroke in 2020, from which he has been recovering over the past few years.

Amid the ongoing conversation, Deepak Tijori has clarified that there is no cause for concern and that Rahul is doing well.

Speaking to IANS, Deepak said, “I am in regular touch with Roy. Roy is still my brother, my friend, and he is perfectly safe; he is perfectly fine. It's just people making news for no reason. There is no such thing that has been written about him.”

The statement comes shortly after Rahul himself addressed several rumours circulating online. In a detailed clarification shared on social media, the actor rejected claims that he had been abandoned or was facing severe personal difficulties.

Rahul explained that he currently lives with his sister and brother-in-law in Madh Island and receives their full support and care. He also clarified that his decision to travel by auto-rickshaw or avoid private security arrangements is a matter of personal preference rather than financial necessity.

 

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The actor further revealed that he continues to deal with legal expenses related to court cases that predate his 2020 stroke. At the same time, he stressed that he remains committed to working and staying professionally active.

 

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According to Rahul, continuing to work helps him maintain a sense of purpose while also supporting his recovery journey. He also responded to online criticism by encouraging those concerned about him to help him find meaningful work opportunities instead of spreading speculation.

Also Read: Deepak Tijori criticises CBFC over inconsistent censorship in Dhurandhar 2

MEGA EXCLUSIVE: Vashu Bhagnani faces fresh heat; PVR Inox Pictures likely to initiate legal proceedings over alleged dues from Rs. 100 crore three-film deal

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Vashu Bhagnani has been in the news over the past few weeks after initiating legal proceedings against the makers of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai over the alleged unauthorised use of the songs Chunari Chunari and Ishq Sona Hai from Biwi No. 1. The producer has claimed that the iconic tracks have been used without his authorisation, allegedly amounting to copyright infringement. Now, Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that the veteran producer may be staring at another major legal flashpoint this time involving PVR Inox Ltd.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “PVR Inox Ltd, which also has a distribution arm PVR Inox Pictures, had entered into a three-film arrangement with Vashu Bhagnani’s production house, Puja Entertainment. As part of the understanding, PVR Inox Pictures had reportedly paid around Rs. 100 crores as a refundable advance to Puja Entertainment and agreed to release Mission Raniganj, Ganapath and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. The understanding was that if the films failed to generate the expected results, Puja Entertainment would refund the outstanding balance.”

The source continued, “However, all three films failed to meet box office expectations, folding around Rs. 100 cr. at the India box office. Following this, PVR Inox Pictures is said to have made repeated follow-ups for recovery of the alleged outstanding amount. As per unofficial industry sources, the amount due is believed to be in the range of around Rs. 50 crores, though this figure could not be independently verified. Despite repeated follow-ups, the recovery efforts apparently did not yield any positive or impactful result.”

As a result, PVR Inox Pictures is now believed to be seriously considering initiating legal proceedings to recover the alleged dues. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The matter has not yet reached court, but given that the follow-ups have not led to any meaningful recovery, PVR Inox Pictures is likely to take the legal route if a settlement is not reached soon.”

What makes the matter even more dramatic is the alleged settlement proposal that was explored. The source revealed, “The Bhagnanis have said to have offered around two to three flats in Mumbai in lieu of the alleged dues. However, the proposal has apparently not resolved the issue. The value of the flats, even if considered, is believed to fall short of the total claim, especially once the interest due over the principal amount is taken into account.”

The source further added, “The issue is no longer only about the principal amount. The interest component has also become significant. Hence, even a property based settlement may not fully cover the alleged dues unless both sides arrive at a revised understanding.”

This development comes at a time when Vashu Bhagnani and Puja Entertainment are already under the spotlight. With one legal battle over song rights already making noise and another possible recovery dispute now brewing, the coming weeks could prove crucial for the producer and his banner.

While no court proceedings are understood to have been initiated yet in this matter, the dispute has certainly created a stir in trade circles.

Also Read: Team Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai BREAKS SILENCE on Vashu Bhagnani row: “This is a smear campaign”

Don 3 controversy: Ram Gopal Varma SLAMS “kangaroo court” FWICE over non-cooperation directive against Ranveer Singh; calls the decision “a massive PR Disaster”

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Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has weighed in on the ongoing controversy involving Ranveer Singh, Excel Entertainment, and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) over Don 3. The director took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his views on the dispute, expressing support for Ranveer Singh and questioning FWICE's decision to issue a non-cooperation directive against the actor.

The controversy began after reports emerged that Ranveer Singh had exited Don 3, leading to a dispute with producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani's Excel Entertainment. According to reports, the production house alleged that the actor's withdrawal resulted in losses of nearly Rs 45 crores due to pre-production work, location scouting, and other development expenses.

Following the disagreement, FWICE reportedly issued multiple notices to Ranveer Singh, asking him to present his side of the matter. After the actor's legal team questioned the federation's jurisdiction over a private commercial agreement, FWICE announced a non-cooperation directive against him.

Reacting to the development, Ram Gopal Varma strongly criticized the federation's involvement in the dispute. In a lengthy post on X, Varma wrote, “BAN ‘FWICE’ and not @RanveerOfficial.”

The filmmaker argued that the issue was essentially a contractual disagreement between two parties and should not be treated as an industry-wide matter. “At the heart of this whole matter is a producer claiming massive pre-production losses, but that is just a private contractual dispute between two parties like it happens in millions of cases all the time and all over India in all businesses,” he wrote.

Varma further questioned FWICE's authority to intervene in such disputes, stating, “FWICE is neither a court of legal justice nor a government authorised regulatory body.”

He also claimed that only the parties directly involved were aware of the full circumstances surrounding the disagreement and suggested that any legal issues should be resolved through appropriate judicial channels. “Only the disputing parties will know the intricacies about what happened, and so the matter should be between them like any other civil matter, and in case one or both appeal to a court, the judge decides the matter,” he added.

The filmmaker further argued that the actor's professional standing would remain unaffected despite the controversy. “And here we arrive at the main point that everyone in their heart knows, including the disputing company, and for that matter even FWICE, that if @RanveerOfficial simply nods a yes, there will be a one kilometre long queue of producers outside his house tomorrow morning with cheques ready,” Varma wrote.

He concluded his statement by urging all parties to avoid unnecessary interference in what he described as a civil dispute. “Let’s not poke our unwanted noses into a civil dispute between 2 parties,” he stated.

BAN “FWICE” and not @RanveerOfficial The so called “BAN” or non co operation in the style of Gandhiji , will eventually become a BIG FAT JOKE on FWICE

This isn’t industry or worker protection, like they are claiming. It is just a pure performative muscle flexing , by an…

— Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) May 29, 2026

The comments come at a time when the Don 3 controversy continues to generate discussion across the film industry. Earlier, CINTAA Vice-President Padmini Kolhapure publicly voiced support for Ranveer Singh, while CINTAA president Poonam Dhillon suggested that the matter may have been resolved differently had the association been approached earlier.

Meanwhile, Ranveer Singh's representatives have remained silent on the issue, stating that professional disagreements are best handled with maturity rather than through public speculation. Readers may recall that Bollywood Hungama recently reported that Salman Khan has been attempting to mediate between the parties privately in an effort to find an amicable resolution.

As of now, neither Excel Entertainment nor Ranveer Singh has officially commented on the future of Don 3.

Also read: BREAKING: Ashoke Pandit CONFIRMS, “Farhan Akhtar has asked for Rs. 45 crores from Ranveer Singh after his walkout”; FWICE issues non-cooperative directive against the actor

“Maatrubhumi is truly a must-watch”: Subhash Ghai, Kabir Khan, Riteish Deshmukh and others watch rough cut of Salman Khan-starrer

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Amid ongoing discussions surrounding Salman Khan’s upcoming war drama Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace, filmmaker Subhash Ghai has now shared his reaction after watching a rough cut of the film alongside several members of the film industry.

Late on May 28, 2026, Subhash Ghai took to social media and posted a picture featuring Salman Khan, Chitrangda Singh, director Apoorva Lakhia, Kabir Khan, Sooraj Barjatya, Rumy Jafry, Riteish Deshmukh, and producer Siddharth Roy Kapur. The gathering came together to watch an early version of the film.

Sharing his thoughts, Ghai wrote, “It was so beautiful to see my favourite directors together at food square today to watch a rough cut of Apoorva lakhiya film MAATRU BHUMI with lead stars salman khan n Chitrangada based on a touching story of soldiers of india n china with their respective emotions for their nations n their families with a theme of mutual peace n respect.”

His statement comes at a time when the film continues to remain in the spotlight due to delays and controversy linked to its subject matter.

 

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Originally titled Battle of Galwan, the film was reportedly inspired by the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops. However, after the teaser release attracted criticism from Chinese state-backed media outlet Global Times, reports suggested that the makers were asked to soften the film’s political tone and reduce direct references that could escalate diplomatic sensitivities.

The Salman Khan-starrer was initially expected to release on April 17, 2026. However, the film is yet to receive a confirmed release date as it continues to navigate multiple approval stages, including defence-related clearances and certification procedures.

Meanwhile, writer-director Rumy Jafry also shared the same photograph from the screening and praised the project. In his social media caption, he wrote, “Watched Salman Khan’s Matrabhumi first cut 🎥🎬with the most amazing friends — @subhashghai1 @beingsalmankhan @kabirkhankk @riteishd @chitrangda @lakhiaapoorva , and Sooraj Barjatya. What an experience! ✨ The film is truly a must watch.”

 

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The latest reactions from filmmakers and industry members indicate that Maatrubhumi may be positioning itself as an emotional war drama focused not only on conflict, but also on the human side of soldiers and their families across borders. The makers are yet to officially announce the revised release plans.

Also Read: Salman Khan shot for five days for Maatrubhumi song featuring 200 dancers, reveals Mudassar Khan

Aneet Padda starrer Shakti Shalini wrapped up in Mumbai: Report

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The Maddock Horror Comedy Universe is all set to expand further with its upcoming film Shakti Shalini, which promises a unique blend of horror, folklore, revenge, and comedy. The film stars Aneet Padda and Vishal Jethwa in lead roles and is already generating buzz for its intriguing storyline and supernatural backdrop. Adding to the excitement, recent reports suggest that the film has officially wrapped up its shoot.

According to a Mid-Day report, on May 27, Shakti Shalini completed filming at Chitrath Studio in Powai after an extensive shooting schedule across picturesque locations in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The film reportedly went on floors in March and has now concluded production after months of elaborate filming.

Speaking about the climax portions and large-scale setup created for the film, a source was quoted as saying, “Massive sets depicting a Rajasthani village and the interiors of a house were built. The sequence shows the village people, especially women, celebrating the defeat of evil.”

One of the major highlights of the film is expected to be Aneet Padda’s double role. Reports suggest that the actress will portray two entirely contrasting characters — one symbolising divine goodness and another embodying a vengeful evil spirit. The narrative is believed to revolve around a supernatural battle between these two powerful personas.

The report further stated, “Viineet, who portrays the antagonist, and Aneet shot the climax across Chambal, Datia, Antri, Panihar, Gwalior, and Morena in Madhya Pradesh. They filmed significant portions in Dholpur and Barkhandi in Rajasthan. Nana Patekar and Seema Biswas joined the unit in May.”

Interestingly, Shakti Shalini is reportedly inspired by a Bengali folklore about a woman who returns as a vengeful spirit after being brutally killed. The supernatural entity is said to target men as part of her revenge-driven mission. The film is expected to combine elements of folklore horror with the signature entertainment style associated with the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe.

Over the years, Maddock Films has successfully built a dedicated fanbase for its horror-comedy franchise with films like Stree, Bhediya, and Munjya. With Shakti Shalini, the makers appear to be exploring darker and more emotionally layered territory while still retaining commercial appeal.

While an official release date is yet to be announced, the film has already emerged as one of the most anticipated additions to the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. Fans are now eagerly waiting to see Aneet Padda’s transformation in the supernatural drama and the intense showdown that lies at the heart of the story.

Also Read: Aneet Padda’s Shakti Shalini may shift to 2027 to avoid Shah Rukh Khan’s King clash: Report

Rs. 400 crore SHOCKER! Vashu Bhagnani's Puja Entertainment sues Tips, Tauranis and David Dhawan; seeks Rs. 100 crore more over Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai song row

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Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront in reporting the feud between producer Vashu Bhagnani and the makers of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai over the use of the songs ‘Chunari Chunari’ and ‘Ishq Sona Hai’ from Biwi No 1 (1999). Now, it has come to light that Vashu’s production house, Puja Entertainment (India) Ltd, has filed a whopping Rs. Rs. 400 crore suit before Bombay High Court against Tips Industries Limited, Ramesh Taurani, Kumar S Taurani and filmmaker David Dhawan over the alleged unauthorized use and alleged exploitation of iconic aforementioned songs in the upcoming Varun Dhawan-starrer, slated for a release on June 5.

As per the press statement, the suit, filed through Counsels V K Dubey Associates, seeks urgent and sweeping injunctive relief restraining the release, distribution, exhibition, streaming and further commercial exploitation of the film and its promotional material containing the disputed songs, including 'Chunnari Chunnari' and 'Ishq Sona Hai'. The Court has reportedly permitted the filing of the proceedings and has kept it for hearing soon. As per the press statement, it could be ‘one of the most explosive copyright battles in recent Bollywood history’.

Apart from seeking a complete injunction against the alleged infringing use of the songs, Puja Entertainment has also sought directions for the removal of the songs ‘Chunnari Chunnari’ and ‘Ishq Sona Hai’ from the film and its promotional material, along with a demand for a change of the title, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai. The production house has further demanded an additional Rs. 100 crores as damages in the event that Tips Industries Limited and David Dhawan fail to comply with the said demands and continue exploiting the disputed works. Puja Entertainment (India) Ltd has further alleged that the defendants have unlawfully exploited valuable intellectual property rights despite allegedly having no authority, assignment or licence to commercially use the original audio-visual works. The production house contended that the alleged infringement strikes at the very foundation of proprietary and commercial rights vested in the original cinematographic works associated with the late 1990s blockbuster banner.

The press statement also said that leading Counsel V K Dubey, representing Puja Entertainment, confirmed that after considering the entire scenario, the Honourable Court has decided to list the matter for hearing shortly, and the matter is presently sub judice.

Also Read: Team Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai BREAKS SILENCE on Vashu Bhagnani row: “This is a smear campaign”