, Yash's upcoming film with Geetu Mohandas, has now been pushed to June. The film, which was set to be released on March 19, will now hit the theatres on June 4, according to KVN Productions. The makers cited the current crisis in the Middle East as the reason for the rescheduling. 

"Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups is a film we conceptualized with the vision to create cinema for a global audience. Filmed in Kannada and English, it is built with the conviction to connect with viewers both at home and across the world. After years of dedicated labour, we were excited to share our film with you all on the 19th of March. However, the current uncertainty, especially in the Middle East, has created a situation that impacts our goal to reach and connect with the widest possible audience," the statement read. 

The makers added that the decision was made in the interest of their partners and their audience. "We thank you for your understanding and patience and look forward to your continued love and support. Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups will now be released in cinemas across the globe in English and Indian languages on 4th June 2026. See you at the movies."

The film’s recently released teaser — which features Yash in a clean-shaven look as the character Ticket — has drawn attention online and prompted speculation about the film’s narrative direction. The teaser has circulated widely on social media, though the makers have yet to outline story specifics. The new release date leaves way for Aditya Dhar's 

'Toxic': Release Of The Yash Film Pushed To June

When friendship overlaps with work, friction is almost inevitable. For Mithila Palkar and Prajakta Koli, years of camaraderie have also meant being viewed as a ready-made duo for brand partnerships and other projects. “It’s assumed that we’re a package deal,” Koli admits—an assumption that recently led to a professional mix-up.

Palkar explains that brands or agencies sometimes approach one of them for projects, expecting that the opportunity would be communicated by one to the other, informally. 

“Sometimes, it’s taken for granted that if they contact Prajakta, then Prajakta will [loop me in herself]… But that’s not how it works, professionally. She has an agency, I have an agency,” says Palkar. Behind the warmth of their public friendship lies a clear understanding of professional boundaries: separate teams, separate contracts, separate negotiations. However, not all brands operate in the same way.

The miscommunication arose from precisely this grey area. The team reached out to Koli for an opportunity involving her and Palkar, but never reached out to Palkar herself. Koli recalls assuming that a brand had already spoken to Palkar’s team. “I assumed that they had already informed her… so nobody actually communicated with her, and I went ahead and did the work that I was supposed to do.” On Palkar’s end, the silence from the team meant the collaboration simply never materialised. 

“It wasn’t a fight,” she clarifies, “it was one of those things where I needed to clear things out from my end [with Koli], that nobody came back to my team, which is why the project never happened.” The onus, they emphasise, was not on either of them to informally convey a professional opportunity—it was on any brand or agency initiating the collaboration in the first place.

What could have easily led to friction between the two, was handled with care and intent. Their approach is simple: remove the noise, and talk directly. “If there’s ever a miscommunication, I want to talk to [Koli] first,” says Palkar. That instinct—to prioritise the relationship over the rumour mill—is what safeguards their bond.

Watch the full interview on The Hollywood Reporter India’s YouTube channel at 8pm tonight. 

How Mithila Palkar and Prajakta Koli Set Professional Boundaries: ‘It’s Assumed We’re a Package Deal’


is back on set. The actor has begun filming his next feature, the comedy 

, with the film's schedule now underway in London.

has learnt that the film features an ensemble cast led by Juyal, with Sanjay Kapoor, Niki Aneja, Niharika NM, Barkha Singh, Vivaan Bhatena, Vikalp Mehta, The Jordindians, Parvathy Omanakuttan, Tina Desai and Chandan Roy Sanyal among those on board.

The film is being shot extensively across locations in London and is positioned as a fast-paced commercial comedy. Juyal, who has seen a steady rise over the past few years, said he has been navigating a range of scripts lately.

“I am being offered all kinds of scripts which I am really grateful for, but it also comes with the pressure of choosing the ones which I give my everything to. I felt that "Bhai Tera Star Hai" had something which I can add a little bit of my magic to, making it a complete entertainer. I hope audiences have as much fun watching this one, as much as I have had making it,” the actor said. 

Writer-director Vivek B Agrawal said the team is pumped to commence filming, calling it a “fun and energetic project” with a fantastic mix of actors. “London gives the film a great canvas, and we’re looking forward to bringing this story to audiences very soon.”

Produced by Eastwood Pictures and Indian Stories2, 

 is targeting a 2026 release. Juyal won hearts and earned widespread acclaim for his act in 

The Netflix series, which marked the directorial debut of Aryan Khan, was produced by Shah Rukh Khan, who also made a special appearance. 

the mega Christmas release featuring Khan. 

Exclusive | Raghav Juyal-Led Comedy ‘Bhai Tera Star Hai’ Goes on Floors in London

It has been a decade since Mithila Palkar and Prajakta Koli first entered the entertainment industry. Both have charted unconventional journeys, starting out as familiar faces on the internet, and then, on the big screen. As they continue to contend with the ups and downs of working in the entertainment industry, they have found, in each other, a constant source of support and companionship.

“I think it helped that we met at a very vulnerable time in our careers, in an industry that was so unknown to the both of us,” shares Palkar. The two first met in their early twenties on a photo-shoot titled ‘Viral Queens’ (a title that now makes the two laugh out loud), after which they developed an instant closeness. It is that friendship, they say, which has buoyed them through an ever-evolving, increasingly volatile industry.

“We had to hold on to each other as we explored, we would falter, but we were there for each other,” says Palkar. “Sometimes, it’s just [about] knowing that you have someone in your corner, without hang-ups, with no judgement,” adds Koli. The two have never shied away from difficult conversations, whether it’s about work, pay, or miscommunication.

“There has never been a time where I feel like I can’t discuss something with her, or I don’t know how she’s going to react,” says Koli. Having had very similar, almost overlapping career trajectories, the two are often seen as competitors, rather than companions.

“You never know what you hear about each other, professionally, especially,” says Palkar, candidly. “Because we’re so similar, we’re often pitted against each other, and I never want that to come in the way, ever. So, we discuss everything, numbers, auditions… we aren’t shy about it,” she shares.

“There are multiple projects which we both auditioned for, some [roles] she ended up getting, some [roles] I ended up getting,” reveals Koli. “We’re happy no matter who gets the role, we’re cheerleaders for each other,” adds Palkar, to which Koli responds, with a laugh: “I know, it sounds so media trained.”

Yet, it is clear that the two continue to lean on each other, despite the supposed competition. “There is nothing that I can’t talk to her about,” says Koli with a smile.

Exclusive | Mithila Palkar and Prajakta Koli On Navigating the Industry Together: ‘We’re Often Pitted Against Each Other’

has revealed that he underwent an extremely painful surgery following a snowmobile accident that left him with a shoulder subluxation. The injury occurred after the release of his debut film, 

, and he spent months in a cast recovering.

Speaking to Esquire India, Panday said he had to focus on healing before getting back into shape for his upcoming action film with Ali Abbas Zafar.

"I don’t know if I should say this. I actually got a whole surgery done after the release of 

last year,” he reveals. “And it’s one of the most painful surgeries you can do, with the longest recovery time," he told the publication.

Panday said the doctor had warned him that after the procedure, his body would “go back to zero”, making it “nearly impossible” to achieve the desired physique for the feature, which begins filming on March 30.

“I used to feel motivated by actors who had dramatic gym transformations. But that was usually from a certain unhealthy body type to a healthy one. This was different; I went from being injured to not being able to move, to not being able to lift, to being able to lift,” he says. 

The actor recalled how his fans sensed something was off and started asking his mother on social media about him. "Since I’m not online too much they started asking her because she’s into fitness and all. They were like, why is he losing so much weight?"

Produced by Yash Raj Films, Panday will begin filming the feature on March 30 in Mumbai and then head to the UK to shoot for about 60 days. The film also stars Sharvari. 

which emerged as the highest grossing roamntic film of all time, was directed by Mohit Suri and co-starred Aneet Padda.

Ahaan Panday Says He Was ‘Unable to Move’ After Painful Post-'Saiyaara' Surgery

Numerous celebrities were in attendance at Telugu actor Allu Sirish's pre-wedding festivities with Nayanika. Actors including Basil Joseph, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Ram Charan, Ravi Teja, Nani, Nandamuri Balakrishna, Nagarjuna, and Naga Chaitanya, among others, were spotted. 

The couple is set to tie the knot on March 6 in an intimate wedding ceremony with close family and loved ones in attendance.

Rana Daggubati, Ravi Teja, Gopichand, Jagapati Babu, Naveen Polishetty, Lakshmi Manchu, Vaishnav Tej, among many others, were also present at the event. Members of the Allu family were present in full force, including producer Allu Aravind, Allu Arjun with wife Sneha Reddy, and other close relatives. "The venue was transformed into a sophisticated celebration space, reflecting the family’s signature warmth and grandeur while maintaining an intimate, personal atmosphere for guests," read a press note. The event took place at Allu Studios in Hyderabad. 

Sirish has, over the years, carved out a career marked by variety rather than predictability, working across 

 and balancing commercial projects with more content-driven films. While he has remained less high-profile than his older brother, his choices have earned him a reputation for persistence. Nayanika Reddy, meanwhile, is a well-known professional in the construction and real estate sector. Friends of the couple have described the pairing as complementary.

The March 6 ceremony is set to remain intimate, while also coinciding with a significant family milestone: Allu Arjun will be marking 15 years of marriage on the same day, celebrating alongside his brother and new sister-in-law. In a statement, Sirish explained that the coincidence emerged only after logistical considerations were settled. “When our wedding dates were being arrived at as per charts and kundalis, we were given two favourable dates,” he said. “The deciding factor became venue availability, which led us to March 6. It was only later that we realised we would be sharing the date with Bunny and Sneha.”

From Atlee to Basil Joseph: Stars Spotted at Allu Sirish’s Wedding Celebrations

, the upcoming psychological thriller headlined by Jitendra Kumar, was unveiled on Holi, signalling a marked tonal shift for the actor best known for his understated comic roles.

The project places Kumar in a darker, more layered space than audiences have come to associate with him through shows such as 

. According to the makers, the film will explore the instability of memory and truth, and the porous boundaries between love, loss and illusion — themes that position the film squarely within the psychological thriller space.

Streaming platform Zee5 unveiled the first-look poster as part of a Holi campaign, teasing a premiere later in 2026. The project is mounted as a collaboration between Zee5 Hindi and Ellipsis Entertainment, which has previously backed a range of streaming originals and mid-budget features.

In a social media post accompanying the reveal, the makers wrote: “Rangon ke beech ek aisa rahasya jo kabhi dikhta nahin. This Holi, the colour isn’t celebration — it’s a warning. #DALIMB – The myth is watching,” framing the film’s mood as ominous rather than festive.

Kumar, who plays a character named Suraaj, said he was drawn to the material during the initial narration. He described the role as emotionally layered and distinct from his previous work, adding that he expects viewers to respond to the character’s internal graph. The actor also characterised his collaboration with the creative team as smooth and creatively satisfying.

 is written and directed by Priya Aven, marking her feature directorial debut. Dialogues are credited to Varad Bhatnagar, with additional contributions from Tanuj Garg.

The film also features Priya Bapat, Kshitish Date, Kavin Dave, Sai Prasad, Harish Kulkarni and Sagar Yadav in supporting roles. The makers have yet to announce a specific release date or further plot details.

'Dalimb' First Look: Jitendra Kumar's Chilling Dark Turn in Psychological Thriller Unveiled

Telugu stars Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna recently got married in a beautiful ceremony in Udaipur. The couple, on March 2, posted pictures from their pre-wedding festivities, showing fans a glimpse of their sangeet event.

"The night filled with love, tears of joy, laughter, music, singing, glitters and us dancing through the night. It was really the most fun night ever!! From Vijju and I wanting to surprise each other.. to family wanting to surprise us.. to being fully excited and surprised to see our families dance so freely and so so well! 24.2.26! The night Vijay and I danced as one, surrounded by the love of our families and friends!" Mandanna wrote on Instagram, along with pictures from the evening. The couple also recently 

announced scholarships for class IX and X students in Telangana following their wedding.

The couple got married as per Telugu Hindu traditions on February 26, dazzling fans with their refreshing wedding couture choices. "One day, I missed her. Missed her in a way that made me feel like my day would’ve been better if she were around. Like my meals would’ve felt more wholesome if she were sitting across from me. Like my workouts would’ve been more fun and less of a punishment if she were doing them with me. Like I needed her - just to feel that sense of home and calm, no matter where I was. So, I made my best friend… my wife. 😀❤️26.02.2026," Deverakonda wrote on Instagram. 

The power couple, who have acted in films like 

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

, when Mandanna chose 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.

Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna Offer a Glimpse into Their Sangeet Festivities

Sunny Deol's upcoming thriller backed by Excel Entertainment has gone on floors, with principal photography commencing on Friday, 27 February 2026. The project marks the first collaboration between Excel Entertainment’s Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar and filmmaker A.R. Murugadoss.

The film also features Jyotika in a pivotal role opposite Deol. Production is currently underway, with Deol expected to complete his portions during the summer of 2026. The makers describe the project as a suspense-driven action thriller bringing together several industry figures for the first time.

The as-yet untitled film is directed by Balaji Ganesh, a Chennai-based filmmaker who has previously worked extensively as a long-time co-director to A.R. Murugadoss. Ganesh has been involved in story development, direction, and large-scale productions over the years. This project marks his feature directorial debut.

The film is produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar and A.R. Murugadoss under the Excel Entertainment banner. It is co-produced by Kassim Jagmagia, Vishal Ramchandani, Aditya Joshi, Sunnil Jain and Yusuf Shaikh.

Sunny Deol is currently riding the success of 

. The film also featured Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh and Ahan Shetty. Up next, Deol will be seen in the Aamir Khan-produced patriotic drama Lahore 1947, which has been directed by Rajkumar Santoshi. He is also a part of the Netflix legal thriller 

 The Nitesh Tiwari directorial is set for a Diwali 2026 release and also stars Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi. According to prior reports, Deol is essaying the role of Lord Hanuman in the adaptation.

Excel Entertainment's last theatrical offering was 

, a Manipuri-language drama backed by the banner, recently won a BAFTA for Best Children's & Family Film. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, it is the first Indian film to claim the honour in the category. 

Sunny Deol, Jyotika-led Untitled Action Thriller Goes on Floors

Siddhant Chaturvedi is going back to his roots. 

 has confirmed that he will be collaborating with filmmaker Abhishek Chaubey for a new project. 

Chaturvedi, who was born in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh and moved to Mumbai at the age of five, said the new film is being mounted on a story rooted in his hometown

"It’s not official yet, but I want to return to my roots. I want to tell a story from Ballia. I’ve seen life there, I’ve lived it, and I want to bring those experiences to the screen," Chaturvedi said in a statement. "I’m working with Abhishek Chaubey on a story set in Ballia. It’s a remarkable story, there’s been a lot of discussion around it, and I think it will come out in front of everyone very soon,” the actor added. 

Chaubey, who started his career working with filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj on titles like 

. He went on to direct two highly acclaimed theatrical films, 

Chaturvedi, meanwhile, started his career with titles like Prime Video's 

before landing a bigger breakthrough with Ranveer Singh-led

The actor has since then starred in a wide-ranging set of films: From YRF's crime comedy 

co-starring Deepika Padukone, Ananya Panday and Dhairya Karwa and Excel Entertainment-backed 

He also dabbled in horror-comedy and action with titles like 

, headlined by Katrina Kaif, and Malavika Mohanan starrer 

Last year, the actor won praise for his performance in Shazia Iqbal's 

directed by Mari Selvaraj. He was recently seen in the romantic drama 

Siddhant Chaturvedi Teams Up With Abhishek Chaubey for New Film

Hombale Films, the popular production giant behind landmark films such as Yash's 

, recently announced its official entry into overseas distribution. Founder of Hombale Films, 

 in an exclusive chat that the move is a natural extension of the production company's ethos. 

"As the maker of some of the biggest franchises, we have witnessed how powerful Indian stories can transcend language and geography. Stepping into overseas distribution is a natural extension of that journey to personally carry our cinema to global audiences and strengthen the bridge between India and the world," Kiragandur tells 

"This is not just expansion; it is responsibility, vision, and belief in the universality of our storytelling."

The movie isn't surprising for Hombale Films, which has been 

home to some of the biggest pan-Indian blockbusters to come out of Indian cinema in recent years, including the recent Kannada title 

a prequel to Shetty's 2022 film that intertwined Bhoota Kola tradition with a land conflict drama. In an earlier interview with 

, Kiragandur touched upon the importance of taking our films to the world. 

“Entertainment will persist forever,” he said, speaking about the growing potential in entertaining a country with a population of 140 crore people. But the driving force of Hombale has been to take our cinema to the world, according to Kiragandur. “When everyone is getting attracted to western stories, we want to tell our story.”

The strategic expansion marks a significant new chapter in the company’s journey. The initiative will not be limited to films produced by Hombale Films. The company is said to collaborate with filmmakers and production houses across India to ensure diverse Indian stories reach audiences worldwide.

Exclusive | Vijay Kiragandur On Hombale Films' Overseas Distribution: 'This Isn't Just Expansion, But Responsibility'

, the sequel to the acclaimed 2018 folklore horror led by Sohum Shah. While details about Siddiqui’s character remain undisclosed, he is expected to play a pivotal role in the sequel’s narrative arc, with an emphasis on psychological and moral complexity. The original film, released in 2018, has attained cult status in Indian popular culture for its atmospheric storytelling and mythic themes.

is being developed under Sohum Shah Films in collaboration with Pen Studios. Pen Studios has previously backed and presented titles including 

Kahaani, Gangubai Kathiawadi, RRR, Jawan, Stree 2 

has always been a film I admired for its originality and atmospheric storytelling. When Sohum shared the vision for the sequel, I liked the story and I joined them in their journey. Collaborating with Sohum Shah and Pen Studios on a project of this scale is truly exciting. The character I’ll be portraying has many layers, and I’m looking forward to exploring this immersive universe with such a passionate team.”

Sohum Shah, who returns as actor and producer for 

, said, “Bringing Nawaz Sir on board Tumbbad 2 feels incredibly exciting for us. He is an actor who brings an unmatched intensity and authenticity to every role he takes on. The character he will portray plays a very crucial part in expanding the emotional and psychological landscape of the sequel. With Nawaz Sir joining the team, we believe the narrative will reach a whole new level of depth and impact.”

Producer Jayantilal Gada said the sequel takes the cinematic experience to a much grander level. "Bringing Nawazuddin Siddiqui on board aligns perfectly with that vision. His craft, versatility, and powerful screen presence will significantly elevate the film," he said.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui Joins 'Tumbbad 2', Production To Begin Soon

In the perplexing new teaser of the Jio Hotstar special 

, we see a young boy running away in fear after he notices something shocking. We soon learn that he has seen a corpse, and as he runs to inform the people in his village, the severed head begins to talk to him. It is Vijay Sethupathi’s character Muthu doing all the talking, and he instructs this boy to help him find his missing body. The townsfolk come together to help in this search as the teaser cuts back to a portion in which we see Muthu in his “full bodied” avatar. As it ends, we see the smiling severed head in different backdrops, including on a hill and as a part of a glass fixture in what appears to be an office building, further adding to the madness and the intrigue. 

The series is is created and co-directed by M Manikandan, who had last made the much-loved 

, which also starred Vijay Sethupathi in a smaller role. With Ajith Kumar sharing directing duties, 

 is a gritty, layered character saga told through the eyes of people around the protagonist — revealing different versions, different truths, and different scars. A man becomes a myth, a monster, or a miracle… depending on who tells the story.

Meanwhile, Vijay Sethupathi’s next outing 

 with director Puri Jagannadh was officially announced alongside the release of its first poster, marking Sethupathi’s birthday with a flourish of grit and provocation. Its poster offers a clear statement of tone. Sethupathi stands amid crates of cash, a blood-smeared machete in hand, sunglasses firmly in place—a visual that leans unapologetically into menace and moral ambiguity. It is an image designed to announce a character forged in violence and survival, aligning neatly with Jagannadh’s long-standing fascination with outsiders, rage and power structures.

'Kaattaan' Teaser: Vijay Sethupathi’s Severed Head Searches For Its Body in JioHotstar Series

, published by Westland Books, is a collection of observed and documented ground reports, lived experience and cultural critique, that explores identity, power, politics, class, gender, grief, beauty and agency through clothing. The book highlights how fashion is not frivolous but a language, armour, memory, performance, rebellion and self-definition. Following is an excerpt from the book about the growth and evolution of the “airport look” and what it represents for glamour and cinema.

Unlike couture, airport fashion is performable. Unlike highly priced streetwear, it offers style cues that feed directly into shopping lists. In no other country is the act of catching a flight so invested with style symbolism—as if stepping into an aircraft is also stepping into a better version of yourself. 

As more and more passengers choose—and can afford—air travel, the airport look has become a proxy for class mobility. Everyone who travels can perform as a product of the influencer era. For VIPs and celebrities, it comes lined with privilege: first-class lounges, protective entourages, private security and the top brands wanting to ‘dress’ them for instant visibility. 

Yet, despite the parallel theatres of economy class and VIP lounges for those with high-priced membership and Priority Pass credit cards, there is now a visible fatigue. As well as an aesthetic one. 

‘Many celebs I’ve worked with don’t even like the concept of airport fashion anymore—especially after twelve-hour flights. But the pressure to “serve looks” has become part of the job. There’s no such thing as a day off when you’re in the public eye. Especially for rising stars, who can’t afford to miss a chance to be spotted.’ 

That’s Maddie Amrutkar, founder and CEO of Glad U Came, a Mumbai-based celebrity management agency. In his anecdotes is an insight into hierarchy—top stars can shrug off airport looks, styled as product placements. But the rising ones can’t afford to miss the opportunity of being in the surveillance zone of style. 

‘Airport terminals,’ Maddie says, are the ‘unofficial red carpets’ for emerging celebrities trying to climb onto the attention carousel. For big-league actors, the same spaces can feel like pressure cookers—stalked by photographers, shadowed by fatigue. 

Because what had begun as a sartorial wink to the paparazzi has hardened into obligation for many of his clients. 

‘I’ve seen celebrities go from sleep mode to glam mode just before reaching the airport entrance, because someone’s texted them that the paps are waiting,’ he adds. Never mind the hour—day or night. 

‘The game shifted after the pandemic,’ says Maddie. Some A-listers now demand space and offer only a brisk wave, sometimes grudgingly. Others can’t wait to be papped. Since launching Glad U Came, Maddie has coordinated airport looks for a range of actors—working with stylists, make-up artists and brands eager for visibility. ‘Everything is planned down to the last detail—even what goes into the security tray for X-ray,’ he says. Accessories that will be taken off and then put back on are staged strategically—feeding the gaze of onlookers hoping to emulate film stars. 

‘But managing the drama behind those looks isn’t easy. You have to read the room, gauge an actor’s mood, decide whether to channel candid vibes or high-logo statements and style accordingly.’ 

Netting influence through the airport look is never a solo act, says Maddie. ‘It’s a six-person production. Celebrity managers, stylists, publicists—and even drivers or spot boys—tip off photographers with flight schedules and location updates.’ Some Mumbai paps have built successful careers on such behind-the-scenes networking. 

Bollywood actors and pop stars usually draw the most attention. Cricketers are more reserved. Yet, their body language—poised, bored or weary—speaks volumes. Actors are a lot more rehearsed. Shah Rukh Khan’s practised respect for fans, and for CISF officers as we learnt, mixed with his insouciance, contrasts sharply with Diljit Dosanjh’s flamboyance. Dosanjh has been spotted at airports in full Loewe looks, Chanel pearls, Prada boots and diamond chains. 

The airport look is now a catalogue — a style genre with its own stars, subplots and signature accessories. Here are a few snapshots from this runway. 

In real life, the veteran Rekha—once called the siren—dazzles in gold zari Kanjeevaram saris, mogra gajras and temple jewellery. But her airport look is a shift: ripped jeans, oversized scarves, bandanas and reflector sunglasses. Footwear of choice? Bedazzled Crocs or slip-ons. Plus-sized handbags with loud logos complete the ensemble. A Reddit thread once summed up Rekha’s airport looks as giving ‘gangster’ or ‘gangu’ energy. 

Hrithik Roshan, founder of the athleisure brand HRX, keeps it crisp in sports casuals. Vijay Varma, ever the dandy, travels in lace, leather and sneakers—sometimes adding chains and pendants for flair. Karan Johar, who has been ‘performing’ style at airports, doesn’t seem to tire of playing to the gallery. This year, besides his bags and boots, he has been showing off his weight loss and effortful cool without looking bashful or fatigued. In May, when he was departing from the Mumbai international airport for the Cannes Film Festival, where 

, the film he produced, was being shown as part of Un Certain Regard category, he wore a large, neon green Hermes bag, pirouetting and pouting like a model from the 1990s. 

But it is the genre of famous newlyweds returning from honeymoons or destination weddings that net the most attention at airports. Their arrivals get pasted on Instagram in frenzied celebration. 

Anushka Sharma wore a Jaipur block-printed set, black nail polish, a Gucci handbag, aviators and, of course, the wedding trinity—mangalsutra, chooda and sindoor. Virat Kohli complemented her in black separates and white sneakers. 

Priyanka Chopra—often credited with starting India’s airport fashion wave—touched down in a teal embroidered sari and retro cat-eye sunglasses after her extravagant nuptials at Jodhpur’s Umaid Bhawan Palace. Nick Jonas held her hand, wearing a camel co-ord set with white sneakers. 

Katrina Kaif wore a blush churidar set with embroidery, chooda and an embellished dupatta when she arrived back in Mumbai after her wedding to Vicky Kaushal in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan. The groom was in ivory trousers and a tucked-in shirt, his look anchored by camel-toned leather brogues by Sabyasachi. 

But it was Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh’s post-wedding arrival from Italy styled and stitched by couturier Sabyasachi Mukherjee that turned the dial. Ranveer’s raw silk churidar–kurta and red brocade bandi mirrored Deepika’s ensemble—an ivory churidar set paired with a lavish red Banarasi brocade dupatta. The dupatta, with large woven motifs in gold, sparked a frenzy. For months, red brocade dupattas fluttered through Indian wedding wardrobes and Instagram posts like flags. ‘Deepika bridal’ was everywhere. ‘Bridal by Sabyasachi’ was everywhere too. 

In comment sections, fans wonder and openly ask if stars slip into these perfect styled looks at airline lounges or glam up mid-air with hair and make-up squads on standby. Both guesses are correct. When Gen Z actor Khushi Kapoor flew to Jamnagar for Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding gala with her boyfriend and actor Vedang Raina, she was clicked holding her dog while he pushed the trolley. ‘Best boyfriend’ memes took flight immediately.

‘It is the stylists who are really tired of airport looks now. It’s hard to get them excited about planning yet another variation of sweat-pants, sunglasses and tote bags,’ says Maddie. 

One such tote—the Dior Book Tote—became a symbol of airport glamour. Since its launch in 2018, Dior’s former creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri’s creation sold like (luxury) cupcakes. Made from untreated canvas and inspired by Marc Bohan’s archival sketches, it was spotted on celebrity arms in almost every departures terminal. 

Many stars happily collaborate with brands for airport exposure—some even scheduling fittings just for the walk from curb to check-in. But every performance needs an intermission. For some, the airport look has gone from thrill to overkill. A few, like Anushka and Virat, now shield their children from airport cameras. Others, like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, lean into the spectacle. Her daughter Aaradhya often accompanies her, picking up on her mother’s self-conscious body language. Husband Abhishek Bachchan is unfailingly polite but aloof. Aishwarya may be trolled for her style (or lack of it), but she continues to wear plus-sized Gucci, Dior and Louis Vuitton bags, holding them well in view of the paps. 

Industry gossip—rarely confirmed on record—suggests that Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan too are now weary of the constant flashbulbs. Their social media fatigue shows: Saif’s guarded smiles, Kareena’s clipped waves. Selfies at the gate? Not really. Ranbir Kapoor too has grown visibly irritable when papped at airports. Saif and Kareena must partly blame themselves for what began to be called the ‘Taimur beat’. As a toddler, they exposed their cherubic son to the paps, indulging in the spectacle. Taimur’s face became one of India’s most photographed—including with his nannies at airports. There was media gossip—not entirely untrue—that some reporters had been assigned the ‘Taimur beat’ by their editors.  

At the other end of this performance runway is Urfi Javed—once Oorfi, now Urfi again. She treats the airport like a stage, not a stopover. Her outfits have included cut-out bodysuits, bandage dresses and, in March this year, a safety-pin ensemble accessorised with a see-through ‘ice bag’. 

Liz Hurley may not envy it—but maybe she’d notice? 

As do CISF officers. They are not awed by brands, logos or influencer style. Not anymore, says Sub-Inspector Sonam; the attraction has dwindled. ‘How many bags and shoes can you like after all.’ Yet, they admit they can spot a stylish person from afar—and understand the codes of celebrity fashion. ‘Sometimes when I see paparazzi coverage the following day especially in a newspaper supplement, I realise we had screened those celebs during our duty—I point it out to my family too,’ says Tripathi. 

But celebrities, for all their flashbulb choreography, are only a sliver of the drama that unfolds at airports. 

The excerpt has been carried with permission from Westland Books. Introductory text by Prathyush Parasuraman.

To read more exclusive stories from The Hollywood Reporter India's February 2026 print issue, pick up a copy of the magazine from your nearest book store or newspaper stand.

Fashion Takes Flight: The Evolution of the 'Airport Look' and What It Represents Today

Over the past month, a series of quiet but significant meetings among some of Hindi cinema’s most influential producers and filmmakers have been attempting to address the growing concerns within the industry. The latest of these gatherings — held at Excel Entertainment’s office — was attended by Aamir Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Rajkumar Hirani, Farhan Akhtar and Zoya Akhtar, among others.

Those present, including Sajid Nadiadwala, Ramesh Taurani, Kumar Mangat and Amritpal Bindra, are understood to have discussed a range of structural issues, from the sharp spike in entourage costs to the need for stronger internal mechanisms for dispute resolution.  

has learnt that the ongoing disagreement between Ranveer Singh and Excel Entertainment, following his exit from 

is also believed to have come up for conversation, though there is no official word on the specifics.

Trade chatter in recent weeks has suggested that the production house — led by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar — had communicated significant financial losses after the project’s reshuffle.

There were also unverified murmurs that Singh had been informally offered access to the company’s books if there were concerns regarding the figures being discussed. Members of the Producers Guild are learnt to have informally advised that any prolonged deadlock should follow a formal legal route.

While it remains unclear whether the meeting has led to any immediate breakthroughs, those in the know suggest that early conversations around a possible reconciliation between Singh and Excel have at least begun, with the broader intent being to de-escalate rather than litigate.

"What seems to be emerging from these closed-door conversations is a larger attempt to avoid such situations escalating in the future," a source shared. Insiders indicate that there is a growing push to further empower the Producers Guild of India with clearer guidelines, faster arbitration processes and more binding frameworks for collaboration between talent and producers.

Exclusive | Aamir Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Rajkumar Hirani Attend Key Industry Meeting; Ranveer Singh–Excel Standoff May See Truce

Indian comedian, writer and actor Sumukhi Suresh has been announced as part of the lineup for Netflix Is a Joke Fest 2026, where she will perform as the only Indian female comedian featured in this year’s edition of the global showcase.

Set to take place across Los Angeles from May 4–10, the festival returns for its third outing as one of the world’s largest comedy gatherings. Produced by Netflix in partnership with Live Nation, the citywide event will host more than 350 live performances spanning stand-up shows, variety acts, podcast tapings, screenings and exclusive events.

Sumukhi will perform in Los Angeles on May 5, marking a significant milestone in her international trajectory. Reflecting on the announcement, the comedian shared, “If you would've asked teenager Sumukhi from Nagpur who was shy and underconfident that she would be performing at one of the most prestigious international comedy festivals, she wouldn’t have laughed at you — but would have 100% been in disbelief."

“This is a milestone. A core memory. The fact that I watched lineups being announced at Netflix Is a Joke Fest and now I am on the lineup is thrilling. I can’t wait to bring my Indian multilingual madness in a stand-up bit for the audience in LA,” she added. The 2026 lineup also includes international comedians such as Zainab Johnson, Molly Kearny, Liza Treyger, Aurie Styla, Michael Longfellow, Chris Redd, and filmmaker-comedian Kevin Smith.

The festival appearance arrives amid an expansive international run for Suresh. She is set to take her stand-up special Hoemonal on a multi-city United States tour from April 24 through May 17, following an international performance in  Dubai on March 28. Hoemonal, which explores identity, relationships and gender expectations through Suresh’s candid, conversational humour, reflects her journey from India’s digital comedy boom to global live stages. 

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