Vaani Kapoor Says New Generation of Actresses Are Breaking Stereotypes with Action Roles
MUMBAI– Actress Vaani Kapoor says a new wave of Indian actresses is shattering long-held stereotypes by stepping into powerful, action-driven roles that blend strength with emotional depth.
“There’s a powerful shift happening,” said Kapoor. “Women are now leading the action genre, showing that raw intensity and heartfelt emotion can coexist on screen. It was long overdue.”
Kapoor, best known for her role in Shamshera, is set to make her OTT debut in Mandala Murders, a Netflix thriller. She credits streaming platforms for offering women meatier, more nuanced roles than traditional theatrical films.
“I wanted something truly special and challenging for my streaming debut,” she said. “Mandala Murders pushes me physically and psychologically. It’s a genre I’ve never explored before, and it’s helped me tap into new layers of grit and vulnerability.”
She added, “Streaming gives actresses more space to showcase our craft, which is often limited in male-centric theatrical releases.”
Directed by Gopi Puthran and produced by YRF Entertainment, Mandala Murders is a mythological crime thriller also starring Vaibhav Raj Gupta, Surveen Chawla, and Shriya Pilgaonkar. The series premieres July 25 on Netflix.
Rashmika Mandanna Praises Vijay Deverakonda’s ‘Kingdom’ Promo: ‘Have a Great Feeling About This One’
MUMBAI– Actress Rashmika Mandanna shared her excitement for Vijay Deverakonda’s upcoming film Kingdom, calling the promo “great” and predicting a big celebration when it hits theaters later this month.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Animal star wrote, “All the bestest to the whole team! Have a greaaaaaatttt feeling about this one. July 31st is going to be a big celebration!”
Kingdom, directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, will now release on July 31 after being delayed twice—originally scheduled for May 30, then July 4. The postponement followed India-Pakistan tensions in the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and Operation Sindoor.
Vijay Deverakonda announced the new date on Instagram, writing, “#KINGDOM July 31st. Worldwide. Let our destinies unfold. A @gowtam19 story that unfolds like a novel to @anirudhofficial’s genius score.”
The promo opens with Deverakonda in a police uniform, followed by intense action sequences choreographed by Yannick Ben, Chethan D’Souza, and Real Satish.
Kingdom also stars Bhagyashri Borse and Satyadev, and is presented by Srikara Studios. It’s produced by Naga Vamsi S and Sai Soujanya under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune 4 Cinemas, with music by Anirudh Ravichander and editing by Navin Nooli.
While dating rumors between Vijay and Rashmika have circulated for years, both actors have kept quiet about their relationship status.
Aamir Khan Moved to Tears by ‘Oho Endhan Baby,’ Says Vishnu Vishal
CHENNAI– Bollywood icon Aamir Khan was brought to tears after watching Oho Endhan Baby, revealed actor-producer Vishnu Vishal at the film’s recent pre-release event.
Vishal, who produced the romantic drama under his Vishnu Vishal Studioz banner, said, “Aamir Khan personally praised the film after an emotional viewing. It means the world to me. I feel proud to act as the hero in my brother’s debut film—something I’ll always cherish.”
Directed by Krishna Kumar Ramakumar and set to release on July 11, Oho Endhan Baby marks the acting debut of Vishnu Vishal’s younger brother, Rudra. The film is presented by Romeo Pictures.
Speaking at the event, Rudra said, “This film is about feeling light, laughing, and walking out with a smile. After everything we’ve all been through, this is the kind of joy we need.”
Vishal also spoke about his journey in cinema and commitment to supporting new talent: “When I started out, doors weren’t easily open. But now, I have the chance to open them for others. I believe new directors bring a unique magic—and this film reflects that.”
He confirmed that two sequels, Gatta Kusthi 2 and Ratsasan 2, are set to roll out next year under his banner.
Vishal also shared a personal moment on Instagram, thanking Aamir Khan for flying to Hyderabad to name his daughter Mira: “MIRA represents unconditional love and peace. Thank you, Aamir sir, for this beautiful gift.”
Oho Endhan Baby hits theatres July 11.
Raveena Tandon Slams Crew Member for Filming Shraddha Kapoor Without Consent
MUMBAI– Actress Raveena Tandon has publicly criticized an airline crew member for secretly recording Shraddha Kapoor during a flight, calling the act a serious invasion of privacy.
Shraddha was spotted traveling with rumored boyfriend and film writer Rahul Mody when the crew member filmed a video showing the couple chatting and looking at something on Shraddha’s phone. The video, which ended with a close-up of the actress, quickly went viral on social media.
Reacting in the comments of one such video, Raveena wrote, “This is a breach of privacy. The crew should know better than to do this. Consent must be taken. Not expected from crew members to do this.”
The incident sparked debate online, with some calling it a harmless fan moment and others agreeing with Raveena that it crossed a line.
Meanwhile, Shraddha recently shared a lighthearted dance video on Instagram, where fans also spotted Rahul Mody filming her in the background. She captioned it, “Who maykal can stop my bhankas (Who can stop my nonsense)???”
Shraddha and Rahul were first seen together at Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding festivities in Jamnagar. Mody, known for writing Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, and Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar, reportedly grew close to Shraddha during the making of Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar.
Bhumi Pednekar Honors Guruji Nirmal Singh Maharaj’s Birthday with Devotion
MUMBAI– Actress Bhumi Pednekar marked the birthday of her spiritual guide, Guruji Nirmal Singh Maharaj, with heartfelt devotion at a puja ceremony held at her home.
Sharing photos on Monday, Pednekar wrote, “With his blessings,” alongside images of herself seated beside Guruji’s portrait, surrounded by flower arrangements. Family and friends joined in the prayer ceremony, celebrating the revered spiritual leader’s legacy.
Known as Guruji Chattarpur Wale or Dugri Wale Guruji, Nirmal Singh Maharaj was born on July 7, 1952, in Punjab. He is considered by many devotees to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Over the years, he has garnered a large following, including Bollywood celebrities like Jacqueline Fernandez, Hema Malini, and the Kapoor family. His Delhi-based Shiv Temple and home satsangs have been attended by figures such as the late Rishi Kapoor and politician Amrik Singh.
On the professional front, Bhumi recently starred in Netflix’s The Royals as Sophia, a startup CEO, and in Bhakshak, a crime thriller inspired by the Muzaffarpur shelter home case. She will next appear in the crime drama Daldal as a police officer, and in Karan Johar’s historical epic Takht.
Reflecting on her career choices, the Dum Laga Ke Haisha actress told IANS, “I want to be part of meaningful stories that push my thinking. As humans, our perspectives are limited—cinema helps expand my world.”
Sanjay Dutt Recalls the Bond Between Sunil Dutt and Kishore Kumar During ‘Padosan’ Shoot
MUMBA– A resurfaced clip from Indian Idol shows Sanjay Dutt fondly reminiscing about the friendship between his father, Sunil Dutt, and legendary singer Kishore Kumar during the making of the classic film Padosan.
“There was such a deep friendship—they called each other Guru and Bhola,” Sanjay shared in the video. “They even started learning music together. The sets were full of energy and improvisation—it was madness, in the best way.”
Recalling a moment from the shoot, Sanjay added, “One day, Kishore Dada read a scene and told my father, ‘Pack up.’ My father was stunned. Kishore left that night, recorded a song, and came back the next morning saying, ‘These won’t be dialogues anymore—this will be a song.’”
Sanjay also recently paid tribute to his mother, iconic actress Nargis, on her birth anniversary. Sharing two throwback photos on Instagram—one a solo portrait and another featuring his parents together—he wrote, “Happy birthday maa, I miss you everyday and love you more.”
Nargis, celebrated for her powerful performances and pioneering roles, was one of the highest-paid actresses of the 1950s and 1960s, known for portraying sophisticated, independent women across genres.
Sanjay Dutt was last seen in Housefull 5. (Source: IANS)
