 made a splash at the 79th British Academy Film Awards in London as she presented the award for Best Film Not in the English Language. In the spirit of the category, the actor began by greeting the audience with folded hands and speaking in Hindi. She mined the moment for comic effect before switching playfully to English. 

“Namaskar! Agla award ek aisi film ke liye hai, jo angrezi mein nahi hai (the next award is not a non-English film). Don’t reach for the subtitles just yet. I was only saying in Hindi that the next award is for a film not in the English language. Because while film speaks in countless voices, what we always celebrate is the language of cinema. And that one we all speak fluently," the actor said on stage. 

Alia Bhatt Speaks Hindi at BAFTAs 2026, Shares Excitement for ‘Alpha’ and ‘Love & War’ 

An industry gathering spotlighting the achievements of South Asian creatives took place in London on Friday evening, timed to coincide with the EE BAFTA Film Awards weekend. Hosted by Product of Culture in partnership with Society O, the event brought together filmmakers, executives, nominees and emerging voices from across the global screen industries.

Positioned as a dedicated meeting point within the awards-season calendar, the convening reflected the growing international presence of South Asian storytelling in this year’s nominations, while aiming to foster industry connections at the centre of BAFTA weekend.

Among the attendees were Aziz Ansari, Dame Meera Syal, Sanjeev Bhaskar OBE, Nina Wadia OBE, Kulvinder Ghir, Daniel Francis, Adeel Akhtar, Varada Sethu and Gurinder Chadha OBE. The evening also marked a reunion of the cast of 

 — Bhaskar, Syal, Ghir and Wadia — who appeared together publicly for the first time in a decade.

The inaugural gathering was spearheaded by Product of Culture — led by Archana Misra Jain and Monika Sharma Abbas — the US-based marketing-first strategy and distribution platform known for awards-season campaigns and cultural initiatives supporting South Asian entertainment globally. It was staged in partnership with Society O, a British events platform founded by filmmakers Sukki Menon and Parvinder Shergill and dedicated to amplifying Asian voices.

In a joint statement, Jain, Abbas, Menon and Shergill said the BAFTA weekend represented “a moment where global storytelling converges”, adding that this year’s nominations demonstrated the range and impact of South Asian creatives — from internationally distributed documentaries and British shorts to regional cinema reaching wider audiences.

“By bringing together nominees, collaborators and industry leaders, we aimed to create a meaningful space that celebrates artistic excellence while strengthening the connections shaping the future of the screen industries,” they said.

, directed by Lakshmipriya Devi which won the Children’s & Family Film; 

, Geeta Gandbhir’s BAFTA-nominated documentary feature; and 

, the British short film directed by Luís Hindman.

The event also drew a wider mix of producers, directors, executives and rising talent from the UK and international film and television sectors.

Exclusive | South Asian Creatives Gather in London for BAFTA Weekend Industry Event

This week spans historical drama, anime spectacle, political thriller and binge-worthy romance.  Whether you're headed to theatres, or parking yourself on your couch, there is much to choose from: whether it's the devastating grief of 

, this film follows the lives of young women across states—Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Kerala—who are forced into religious conversion in the name of love. Despite significant backlash, the film is expected to be a box office hit.

, a futuristic sci-fi thriller set in 2046 Kochi. Directed by Krishand and starring Rajisha Vijayan, the film mixes cyberpunk visuals with a compelling narrative, promising genre fans something fresh and ambitious in Indian cinema this week.

Radikaa Sarathkumar's highly-anticipated 

 follows a formidable matriarch who supports her family by acting as her village's moneylender. The story explores her bold, unapologetic persona, and her impact on her community. A blend of comedy, family drama, and suspense, this one's an entertaining family watch.

 is a quirky romantic-comedy that follows the eccentric Vishnu, who makes every single decision in his life based on astrology and 

. Much to his misfortune, he falls for a woman under unconventional circumstances, who is as unpredictable as he is superstitious. 

Directed by Chloé Zhao and featuring standout performances from Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, Hamnet reimagines the emotional heartbreak that may have shaped William Shakespeare’s masterpiece Hamlet. Based on Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel, the film centers on Shakespeare and his wife Agnes as they cope with the tragic death of their young son, Hamnet. Lauded by critics and carrying momentum from festivals and award circuits, this period drama is one to catch on the big screen.

Jujutsu Kaisen: Shibuya Incident × The Culling Game

For anime lovers, this unique theatrical event combines the intense “Shibuya Incident” arc from Jujutsu Kaisen with the first glimpse of the new “Culling Game” arc. While not a traditional feature film, it delivers intense battle sequences and a preview of Season 3’s storyline that fans have been eagerly awaiting.

This critically acclaimed Brazilian thriller by Kleber Mendonça Filho — which premiered at the 2025 Cannes Films Festival — is a neo-noir political thriller set against the backdrop of Brazil’s military dictatorship. Following a man on the run through political turmoil and personal peril, the film blends gripping tension with intelligent commentary on resistance, fear and survival.

 is a charged psychological drama starring Konkona Sensharma and Pratibha Ranta. The series follows the story of a surgeon whose life quickly unravels after allegations of sexual misconduct begin to surface against her. With performances that bring nuance to issues of justice, identity and accountability, this anthology promises gripping episodes that make you question how far you would go for truth.

Prime Video brings a tense period thriller that blends action, revenge and emotional stakes. 

stars Sam Worthington and Priyanka Chopra, who plays a fierce 19th-century pirate mother on a mission to protect her family from relentless bounty hunters.

to your watchlist. This electric sports drama explores the complex relationship between two rival hockey players whose public hatred hides a deeper, intense bond. The Canadian series has taken the world by storm, and audiences in India have been eagerly awaiting its release this week.

 continues with Part 2 of Season 4, focusing on Benedict Bridgerton and Sophie Baek’s evolving love against the dicta of Regency society. Expect high drama, scandal and sumptuous period romance as their story progresses toward its climax.

What to Watch This Week: 'Accused', 'Hamnet', and 'Thaai Kizhavi'

In what is among the first set of glimpses from 

, music composer Anirudh released around 30 seconds from the song ‘Aaya Sher’, which translates to ‘here comes the lion’. This suggests that it could be Nani’s introduction song in the film, adding to the film’s rustic setting and period backdrop. CH Sai’s visuals present extreme contrast as Nani is the only one sporting the red colour, with the backdrop and the dancers behind him, merging into one shade of brown. The song itself, with its punch line shouting the phrase Aaya Sher, also resembles the visuals of a lion roaring as he enters his den. The full song will be tomorrow on Tuesday, February 24. 

 marks his second collaboration with Nani following the commercial success of 

 in 2023. Expectations for the reunion have been high, particularly after 

performed strongly at the box office and expanded Nani’s action-hero image.  

In the upcoming film, Nani plays a character named Dhagad. When shooting commenced on June 21, 2025, the team unveiled a first-look image featuring the actor in a rugged avatar, complete with green leather shoes and a distinctive anklet — visual cues that hinted at the film’s rooted, raw setting. 

The film had been postponed from its initial March 26 release date, avoiding a clash with 

. The action thriller was initially slated to hit theatres on March 26 but will now arrive on August 21, 2026. The revised date was confirmed by SLV Cinemas and director Srikanth Odela on social media. The narrative centres on a marginalised tribal community long denied basic rights, with the story tracking the rise of a leader who challenges a deeply entrenched system of oppression. 

The ensemble cast includes Kayadu Lohar as the female lead, alongside Mohan Babu, Raghav Juyal as the antagonist, and Sampoornesh Babu in pivotal roles.

‘Aaya Sher’: Anirudh Ravichander Teases First Song from Nani's 'The Paradise' 

 is developing its next project. After tackling complex, reality-inspired narratives in their earlier outings, the makers are now turning their lens to the steady rise of the so-called “digital arrest” scam — a murky operation that siphoned thousands of crores from unsuspecting Indians and led investigators to sprawling cybercrime compounds in Cambodia and parts of Southeast Asia.

According to sources, the film traces the anatomy of these scams: fear-driven calls posing as law enforcement, financial intimidation, and the psychological warfare that left victims paralysed into compliance. But the story doesn’t end there. As the investigation deepens, it reportedly builds toward a dramatic, high-risk rescue of Indians trapped inside these compounds — an operation that exposed one of the region’s largest cybercrime networks.

“This isn’t just about a scam call,” says a source close to the project. “It’s about an entire underground empire built on fear — and a daring rescue that very few people know the full story of.”

The film is being written by Bhavesh Mandalia and directed by Sejal Shah under the banner of Bombay Fables.

, was a socio-political drama inspired by true events that explored themes of national identity, institutional power and moral ambiguity. The series was noted for its crisp storytelling and research-led narrative approach. The team also created 

, an investigative drama based on the life of Goa customs officer Costao Fernandes. Starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui, the film delved into systemic corruption and the personal cost of whistleblowing.

Industry insiders suggest the new film is being mounted as a large-scale, meticulously researched thriller rooted firmly in reality. In an era where cybercrime headlines surface almost daily, this project promises not just edge-of-the-seat drama but a sobering reflection of our digital present. 

Exclusive | 'Saare Jahaan Se Achcha' Makers Mount Explosive Thriller on the ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam


 will be released on May 15. The makers of film, Tralala Moving Pictures, made this announcement on X.

 officially dropped earlier this January, offering a powerful look at Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s latest venture into both headlining and producing a project. Directed by Nandini Reddy, the teaser promises a cinematic experience that seamlessly weaves electric action with the warmth of a slice-of-life.

The teaser hints at a protagonist who is both a "girl next door" and a formidable force to be reckoned with. While the footage showcases intense, high-scale action sequences, it remains rooted in family dynamics, suggesting a balance between a gritty thriller and a heartfelt family drama. “

tells the story of a woman whose strength comes as much from her vulnerability as from her courage,” Samantha said in a statement. “Playing this character and nurturing this film as a producer has been an incredibly fulfilling journey for me… I’m truly excited for audiences to experience this story and connect with its spirit.”

The film is a significant creative reunion for Samantha and Nandini Reddy, who previously struck gold with the 2019 hit 

. Known for her emotionally intuitive storytelling and her ability to craft nuanced, strong female protagonists, Reddy appears to be pushing the envelope further with 

(translated as "The Gold of Our House"). The film is set against a raw, grounded backdrop, framing its protagonist as a fierce protector within a narrative that is as quirky as it is personal. Adding significant industry weight to the project is the production team.

is backed by Himank Duvvuru, Samantha, and her filmmaker-husband Raj Nidimoru, one half of the powerhouse duo Raj & DK. Raj also serves as a key creative force on the film, bringing the edge that has become signature to his collaborations with Samantha, including 

'Maa Inti Bangaaram': Samantha Ruth Prabhu's Film Gets A Release Date

 and produced by Mythri Movie Makers, was launched at Hanuman's birthplace, Anjanadri in Hampi, recently.

National Award-winning filmmaker Prasanth Varma, who delivered the pan-Indian blockbuster 

, is now gearing up for its highly anticipated sequel, 

, the next chapter in the expanding Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe. The film will be mounted on a massive scale by the banner Mythri Movie Makers, with T-Series presenting it. National Award-winner Rishab Shetty steps into the lead role, portraying Lord Hanuman in what is expected to be a powerful, immersive, and transformative performance.

Riding high on nationwide acclaim following the 

, Rishab Shetty’s casting continues his exploration of the genre. The film was officially launched today in a traditional ceremony at Anjanadri Betta, Hampi, Vijayanagara—a sacred location believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. T-Series head Bhushan Kumar sounded the clapboard, while Anil Thadani rolled the camera for the inaugural shot, which was directed by 

 star Teja Sajja. In a symbolic gesture, Anil Thadani, Bhushan Kumar, Naveen Yerneni, and Ravi Shankar handed over the script to director Prasanth Varma. With pre-production already underway, the film’s regular shoot will commence soon.

The makers earlier unveiled Rishab Shetty as Lord Hanuman with a first-look poster. "Jai Hanuman is designed as a high-octane action epic set in Kaliyug. The film highlights that Hanuman’s silence reflects purpose, not surrender, concealing a power destined to rise. Celebrating unshakeable devotion, loyalty, and timeless strength, Jai Hanuman stands as a tribute to an immortal spirit," reads a press note.

The film is produced by Naveen Yerneni and Y Ravi Shankar, mounted on a massive budget. The film boasts a top-tier technical team, with M.M. Keeravani composing the music, S. Thirunavukkarasu behind the lens as cinematographer, and Srinagendhra Thangala overseeing the production design.

'Jai Hanuman': The Rishab Shetty and Prasanth Varma Film Launched In Hampi

 has made history by winning Best Children’s and Family Film at the 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards, becoming the first Indian film to claim the honour in the category. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and backed by Farhan Akhtar, the film’s victory marks a significant milestone for Indian regional cinema on the global stage.

The award was presented during the ceremony by the fictional character Paddington Bear, who joked in his monologue, “I am the first-ever bear to present an award, and also the first presenter to get marmalade over a BAFTA.”

 was nominated alongside international titles including 

 in some markets). Its win follows a strong festival run that began with its world premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival.

Set in a Manipuri village, the film follows a young boy living with his single mother after the unexplained disappearance of his father, Joykumar. Determined to give his mother “the best gift ever”, the child sets out with a friend to search for his missing father. The emotional quest forms the core of the narrative, which has been widely praised for its sensitivity and cultural specificity.

In her acceptance speech, Devi reflected on the journey behind the film, saying, “To walk up till here felt like the last few steps to reach a summit of a mountain we never knew we were climbing in the first place.” She used the platform to highlight the ongoing unrest in Manipur, adding, “I just want to use this opportunity to say that we pray for peace to return to Manipur. We pray that all the internally displaced children, including the child actors in the film, regain their joy, their innocence, and their dream once again.”

Calling the film “a homage to my homeland,” she noted that Manipur remains “very much ignored and very unrepresented in India.”

Produced by Excel Entertainment, Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, 

 was also selected as the Spotlight Film at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025. On 18th February 

Indian representation at the BAFTAs also included Alia Bhatt, who attended as one of the evening’s presenters.

BAFTAs 2026: 'Boong' Wins Best Children’s and Family Film, Becomes First Indian Winner

Telugu actors Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna have finally made their relationship official. Ahead of speculations of a February 26 wedding, the duo put up a synchronised story on Instagram, confirming their wedding.

"Before we made any plans, before we chose anything for ourselves, you were already there. With so much love, you gave us a name. You called us VIROSH. So today, with full hearts, we name our coming together in your honour. We would like to name it 'The wedding of VIROSH'. Thank you for holding us with so much love. You are a part of us always," the note read. 

The power couple, who have acted in films like 

, have been reportedly dating for a while. In an earlier interview with 

to remain tight-lipped, especially on the subject everyone wanted her to address. When asked if she would confirm or deny her rumoured marriage to 

, she chose neither. “I wouldn’t like to do either; when it is to be spoken about, we shall,” she said with a smile.

Though she openly called herself a “workaholic,” Mandanna insisted she does not want to bring the industry into her living room. “At least 80 per cent of the time, I don’t discuss work at home,” she said. If something in the business bothers her, she will ask for “advice or help,” but otherwise she shuts the door on it. “Talking about work is still work.”

This boundary is intentional. “I’m someone who will give my 100 per cent. When I have a meeting, I will give my 100 per cent. But when I’m home, I’m home,” she explained. With family, she draws a hard line. “I take my personal life extremely seriously. At home, I won’t talk about work. We can start that conversation tomorrow at 9am.”

Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna Make Relationship Official, Make 'Virosh' Their Wedding Hashtag

In what has now become a great deal for a non-Malayalam film in Kerala, Yash’s upcoming magnum opus 

 will be distributed by E4 Entertainment, a popular production firm behind hits like 

 and more. The amount remains undisclosed by the E4 team. It is headed by Mukesh Mehta and C.V. Sarathi.  The upcoming film is directed by Geethu Mohandas, who had last directed 

 with Nivin Pauly and Roshan Mathew in the lead. Rajeev Ravi, the cinematographer of 

, has directed five films in Malayalam too, starring Dulquer Salman, Fahadh Faasil, Asif Ali and Nivin Pauly. E4 Entertainment have also distributed blockbusters like 

 is expected to release across 350 screens in the state. Yash’s 

 currently holds the record for the highest share by a non-Malayalam film in Kerala. 

 is said to have grossed nearly ₹70 crore from the Kerala state alone, eclipsing the record of 

, Mukesh R Mehta of E4 Entertainment says, “We are thankful to KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations for placing their trust in us to handle the Kerala distribution of Toxic — their magnum opus. It is an honour to collaborate on a project of such scale and ambition. Toxic represents a bold cinematic vision, and we are committed to ensuring that audiences across Kerala experience this landmark film in the grandest way possible.”

In the North, Anil Thadani’s AA Films has reunited with Yash, while in the Telugu states, Sri Venkateswara Creations (SVC), led by Dil Raju, will steer the film. On Sunday, we reported that the film had sealed another major deal. Zee Music Company has boarded the film in a landmark music rights acquisition, among the label’s most significant in recent years. The film’s music will feature a high-impact, multi-composer soundtrack with composers such as Ravi Basrur, Vishal Mishra, and Tanishk Bagchi bringing together diverse musical styles.  While Mishra has composed four songs, Bagchi contributes one track co-composed with Arslan Nizami and Faheem Abdullah (of Saiyaara fame), and Basrur delivers one song along with the film’s background score.

Produced by KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, the film is written by Yash and Geetu Mohandas, who has also directed it. According to the makers, the album will aim to blend "emotion, mass energy, and cinematic scale". The film has signed record-breaking deal for its Telugu dub too. Headed by veteran producer Dil Raju, SVC acquired the Andhra Pradesh and Telangana distribution rights for ₹120 crore on an advance commission basis, making it the biggest-ever acquisition for a non-Telugu origin film in the region. The film also secured a ₹105 crore overseas advance for its Indian-language editions, marking one of the biggest pre-release international deals for an Indian film.

Also starring Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, Rukmini Vasanth, and Tara Sutaria, 

has been shot in Kannada and English, with dubbed versions across Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and other languages. The film is scheduled to hit theatres on March 19, when it will clash with Ranveer Singh-led 

Exclusive | Kerala Distribution Rights Of Yash’s 'Toxic' Picked Up By E4 Entertainment

Internationally acclaimed filmmaker Rima Das’ latest feature, 

, has been honoured with the Crystal Bear Special Mention at the 

The film was selected in the Generation Kplus Competition section, a category that highlights films for children and young audiences and celebrates works that deeply connect with them. This marks Das’ third film at the Berlinale; her previous film, 

, received a Special Mention in the Generation 14plus section in 2019.

Members of the Generation Kplus Children’s Jury—Walter Moritz Arndt, Gustav Arnz, Thabani Dabulamanzi, Rosa Sophie Krasznahorkai, Vera Marsh, Emir Efe Özeren und Alma Sofia Villanueva Bullemer—who chose the recipients of the Crystal Bears, gave the following statement for the film: A normal boy from the city suddenly has to find his way in the countryside. There, he discovers life, finds new friends, and himself. A funny film with great actors that takes us on an emotional adventure.

Reflecting on the achievement, Das stated, "This recognition is deeply meaningful to me. 

was made by listening closely and trusting children, their quiet strength, their courage, and their right to choose who they want to become. I’m grateful to the Generation jury, the Generation team, and the audiences who received the film with such openness and care."

Exiled from city comforts to his ancestral village, a boy encounters a distant aunt, befriends a horse, and joins wild local children on untamed adventures — discovering the beauty of life offline and a courage he never knew he possessed, the film's official synopsis reads.

Lead actor Bhuman Bhargav Das, who plays the central character of Mivan, expressed his excitement and said, "We had amazing screenings with so many people watching and a lot of children like me too came to watch. They were sharing their thoughts, appreciating the film. Some came to take an autograph and asked for photos! It was the first time I saw such a big theatre. This win feels beautiful because it means that people are listening to children like me and caring about what we feel.”

Debutant Sukanya Boruah, who plays another important character, Pahi, also shared her joy, stating that it was her first time at Berlinale, and it "still feels like a dream." 

is produced by Flying River Films in association with Akanga Film Asia and TrainTripper Films, with world sales handled by Paris-based MMM Sales. Additionally, Das’ acclaimed film 

, India’s official entry to the Academy Awards in 2019, is scheduled for theatrical release on March 6.

Exclusive | Berlinale 2026: Rima Das’ 'Not a Hero' Wins Crystal Bear Special Mention; Filmmaker Says ‘Recognition is Deeply Meaningful’

has sealed another major deal. Zee Music Company has boarded the film in a landmark music rights acquisition, among the label’s most significant in recent years, 

The film’s music will feature a high-impact, multi-composer soundtrack with composers such as Ravi Basrur, Vishal Mishra, and Tanishk Bagchi bringing together diverse musical styles. 

While Mishra has composed four songs, Bagchi contributes one track co-composed with Arslan Nizami and 

fame), and Basrur delivers one song along with the film’s background score. 

Produced by KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, the film is written by Yash and Geetu Mohandas, who has also directed it.  According to the makers, the album will aim to blend "emotion, mass energy, and cinematic scale". 

Sujal Parekh, CBO, Zee Music Company, said 

represents the spirit of pan-India cinema with a story, scale, and vision that "transcend language and regional boundaries."

“We are proud to bring its entire soundtrack across Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam under one unified platform, ensuring a seamless and powerful nationwide musical rollout. The album has been crafted to connect emotionally across markets while retaining a contemporary, mass appeal that resonates strongly in today’s streaming-driven ecosystem.”

Venkat K. Narayana, Chairman of KVN Productions, said 

demands a soundscape that’s "bold, disruptive, and truly unforgettable" and added, "This collaboration is the start of a long-term relationship between KVN and Zee — built on shared ambition and a collective hunger to push cinematic music into uncharted territories. Together, we want to redefine how music travels with cinema — not just as a soundtrack, but as an experience that lives far beyond the screen.”

Exclusive | ‘Toxic’: Zee Music Company, KVN Productions and Yash Strike Landmark Music Rights Deal

Two of the biggest icons of Tamil cinema, Superstar Rajinikanth and Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan, are reuniting on screen after over four decades for 

The makers dropped a promotional video asset featuring the stars on Saturday, February 21. Released in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi, the comic promo confirms Nelson Dilipkumar as the film’s director and Anirudh Ravichander as the composer. 

(tentative title) has been in the works for several months now, since both the actors announced their intention to team up again. The film is bankrolled by Red Giant Movies.

Speaking about reuniting with Rajikinath, Kamal Haasan had said earlier, “We’ve been itching to work together for a long time. Like how a biscuit was being split into two, we had then demanded that we each be given a whole biscuit each. Now we’ve found the joy again to realise that we are both happy with just that half biscuit again. So we’ll come together.”

Nelson is at least the third director to have been associated with this high-profile reunion. Before him, reports had suggested that Lokesh Kanagaraj would be making the film. Meanwhile, it was earlier announced that filmmaker Cibi Chakaravarthi has replaced Sundar C. as the director of 

. Fronted by Rajinikanth, the film is produced by Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International along with R Mahendran.

 (tentative title) is one of the biggest Tamil films under production this year, creatively reuniting Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth after years.

 in 2026, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, reprising the character of "Tiger" Muthuvel Pandian in the sequel. He is joined by SJ Suryah, Ramya Krishnan, Mithun Chakraborty and others in the cast.

Kamal Haasan's upcoming film, tentatively titled 

, marks the directorial debut of the acclaimed stunt choreographer duo Anbariv, known for their work in films such as 

'KHxRK' Glimpse: Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth Team Up With Nelson Dilipkumar and Anirudh Ravichander in Stylish Reunion

Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company have unveiled the first poster of the upcoming historical epic 

, marking the occasion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. Actor-filmmaker Riteish Deshmukh shared the first look on social media, offering audiences an initial glimpse of the film’s scale and tone.

The poster features Deshmukh in the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in a stern side profile, sword in hand and expression set, signalling the film’s focus on the Maratha warrior king’s rise and legacy. The makers position the project as a large-scale historical action drama aimed at both domestic and global audiences.

Conceived as a bilingual production in Marathi and Hindi, 

 brings together a notable technical team. The film’s music is composed by the celebrated duo Ajay–Atul, while cinematography is handled by internationally recognised filmmaker Santosh Sivan. The combination signals an emphasis on visual sweep and orchestral scale, in keeping with the genre’s recent theatrical ambitions.

According to the makers, the film will trace the journey of Shivaji Maharaj from oath to uprising, framing the narrative around the founding of Swarajya and the resistance against dominant powers of the time. Positioned as more than a conventional biographical retelling, the project aims to foreground the emotional and political stakes behind the historical figure’s rise.

The film is presented by Jio Studios and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under the banner of Mumbai Film Company. The producers describe the film as a cultural spectacle intended to travel beyond linguistic markets.

Historical epics rooted in regional history have increasingly sought pan-India positioning, and 

 appears calibrated for that model, with its bilingual strategy and emphasis on theatrical scale. The first-look launch, timed to Shivaji Jayanti, underscores the film’s attempt to anchor itself in cultural sentiment while building early audience awareness.

The film is currently slated for a worldwide theatrical release on May 1, 2026. Further details regarding the supporting cast and production timeline are expected to be announced in the coming months

'Raja Shivaji' First Poster Unveiled on Shivaji Jayanti; Riteish Deshmukh Leads Historical Epic

Latin superstar Shakira is set to return to India after 18 years for the third edition of Feeding India with District by Zomato. The Colombian artist will perform in Mumbai on April 10 at Mahalaxmi Racecourse and in Delhi on April 15 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The shows will be produced and exclusively ticketed by District, along with presenting partner HSBC India.

Shakira last performed in India in March 2007, with her Oral Fixation Tour in Mumbai. At the time, large-format international pop concerts were still sporadic in the country, and her show drew one of the biggest audiences for a global female artist then touring India. Since that visit, the domestic live entertainment business has expanded significantly, from audience demand and ticketing ecosystems to the frequency of international bookings.

Shakira’s pull is undeniable and is a big entry to India’s 2026 live music lineup. Across three decades, she has sold more than 80 million records worldwide and collected multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy awards. Songs such as “Whenever, Wherever,” “Hips Don’t Lie” and the 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem “Waka Waka” helped cement her evergreen status.

In a statement announcing the shows, Shakira said, “Performing in India has always been special to me, and I'm excited to connect with my fans across Mumbai and Delhi. The Feeding India Concert is about more than music; it's about standing together to ensure every child has access to the nutrition they need to thrive.”

While the concerts align with the initiative’s broader social mission, the headline is unmistakable: Shakira’s return is both a moment and an industry marker. Multi-city stadium plays by global female pop acts remains relatively rare in the Indian market. If 2007 introduced Indian audiences to a Shakira live set, 2026 positions her return within a far more evolved touring economy, and for a fan base that has been waiting 18 years for a second act.

Shakira Set to Headline Multi-City India Concert in 2026

is set for her second theatrical release of the year: 

. Led by Akshay Kumar, the horror-comedy is directed by Priyadarshan and will open in cinemas on April 10. 

Kumar welcomed the actor on the sets of his TV show, which he is hosting, and noted how Palkar transitioned from the internet to the big screen. She was last seen in Vir Das' comedy 

Officially speaking about their collaboration, Kumar added, "In 

, Mithila will be seen playing the role not of the 'bhoot', but of my sister. Mithila has done an extraordinary job and portrayed her role with a lot of love." The duo reunited on the sets of the game show, 

has generated considerable buzz as it marks the reunion of director Priyadarshan and Kumar after 14 years. Their legendary partnership has previously yielded cult classics like 

Notably, their upcoming film will also feature the late veteran actor Asrani in one of his last on-screen appearances. A fixture throughout Priyadarshan’s filmography, the veteran actor passed away in 2025. The film also stars Tabu and Wamiqa Gabbi.

Priyadarshan and Kumar are also collaborating on 

, which also features Saif Ali Khan. The film brings back the of actors after a gap of 17 years. Their last film together was Yash Raj Films' action-drama 

remains their most iconic outing together.

will be the first release of Kumar for 2026. The actor had a packed 2025 with four theatrical releases: aerial actioner 

Kesari Chapter 2, Sajid Nadiadwala-backed 

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Alia Bhatt Speaks Hindi at BAFTAs 2026, Shares Excitement for ‘Alpha’ and ‘Love & War’

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