Entertainment

Sony Pictures Networks India Launches New Movie Channel, Sony MAX 1

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Sony MAX 1

Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) is bolstering its presence in the Hindi movie broadcasting arena with the launch of its brand-new channel, Sony MAX 1, scheduled to go live on May 1, 2025. This strategic move aims to enrich the cinematic experience for linear television viewers across the nation. Carrying the vibrant tagline, “Filmon ka aisa chaska, jo dekhe hakka bakka,” which roughly translates to “Such an addiction to movies, that viewers will be left stunned,” Sony MAX 1 promises an engaging mix of films carefully curated to captivate and entertain a diverse audience. The channel will be available across all major Direct-to-Home (DTH) and cable platforms. Sony MAX 1 joins SPNI’s already successful Hindi movie channel cluster, which includes the flagship channel Sony MAX, known for showcasing blockbuster hits, and Sony MAX 2, the destination for timeless classics. With the addition of Sony MAX 1, SPNI intends to offer a more curated movie-viewing experience tailored to the preferences of today’s viewers while staying rooted in family sensibilities and aiming for complete entertainment. The content lineup for Sony MAX 1 will span a wide spectrum of genres, featuring everything from the latest Bollywood blockbusters and beloved regional cinema to cult classic films and popular Hollywood movies dubbed in Hindi. This diverse selection is designed to appeal to viewers of all ages and cater to varied tastes within the household. Whether viewers are in the mood for thrilling action, heartwarming drama, or nostalgic favorites, Sony MAX 1 aims to be the go-to destination. Tushar Shah, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) & Business Head – Movies, Regional and Infotainment Channels at Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), expressed his enthusiasm about the launch, stating, “With a legacy of building impactful brands and a deep understanding of audience preferences, the launch of Sony MAX 1 is a step forward as we expand our Hindi Movies 1 Cluster. The channel is all set to offer a curated movie-viewing experience on linear television, relevant to today’s viewer, rooted in family sensibilities, and designed for delight.” 2   This launch comes at a significant time in the Indian media and entertainment landscape. While digital platforms continue to experience rapid growth, television remains a dominant force in media consumption in India. Experts predict that television will continue to be a cornerstone of media consumption, especially in regions where affordability and accessibility drive viewership. Free-to-air channels are expected to play a crucial role in this growth, particularly in rural areas. Furthermore, regional content is anticipated to remain a key driver, with increasing investments in localized storytelling across various languages. The introduction of Sony MAX 1 signifies SPNI’s commitment to catering to the enduring love for cinema in Indian households and further solidifies its position as a leading player in the country’s television entertainment sector. Viewers can look forward to rediscovering the magic of movies with the launch of Sony MAX 1 on May

Sex Position Video Row: NCW Cracks Down on ‘House Arrest,’ Ullu CEO Faces Summons

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Sex Position Video Row 'House Arrest Ullu CEO

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognizance of a contentious video clip circulating online from the reality show ‘House Arrest,’ prompting them to summon actor and host Ajaz Khan and the CEO of the over-the-top (OTT) platform Ullu, Vibhu Agarwal. The viral clip allegedly depicts the host coercing female participants into enacting explicit sexual positions on camera, disregarding their apparent discomfort and reluctance. The NCW, led by Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, has expressed grave concern over the show’s content, labeling it as “deeply disturbing” and a blatant violation of women’s dignity. The commission emphasized that such content blurs the lines between entertainment and abuse, potentially promoting sexual coercion under the guise of reality programming. “Any media content that promotes misogyny, coerces women into compromising situations, or disregards ethical boundaries will not be tolerated,” 1 stated Rahatkar. The NCW has demanded the personal appearance of both Ajaz Khan and Vibhu Agarwal before the commission on May 9, 2025, to provide an explanation regarding the objectionable content.   The controversy erupted after a short video from the show, reportedly dated April 29, went viral across social media platforms. The clip allegedly shows Ajaz Khan pressuring female contestants to perform intimate and inappropriate acts for the camera, despite their visible hesitation and refusal. Furthermore, allegations have surfaced suggesting that the women were also asked to undress on set, raising serious questions about consent, safety, and the potential exploitation of individuals within the digital entertainment industry. Following the widespread outrage, Ullu has reportedly removed all episodes of ‘House Arrest’ from its platform. However, the repercussions continue to mount. Legal experts suggest that if the allegations are substantiated, the involved parties could face penal provisions under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Information Technology Act, 2000. Several political figures have also voiced their concerns. Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi (Shiv Sena UBT) shared the viral clip and criticized the lack of action against platforms like Ullu and Alt Balaji, which she claims have previously evaded bans despite featuring obscene content. She questioned why these platforms were excluded from a list of 18 OTT apps blocked by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in March 2024 for streaming explicit material. The NCW has urged all digital media platforms to act responsibly and ensure that their content adheres to legal guidelines and does not exploit women in the name of entertainment. The commission’s swift action underscores the growing concern over the regulation of content on OTT platforms and the need to safeguard the dignity and safety of individuals involved in their productions. The summons issued to Ajaz Khan and the Ullu CEO signifies a firm stance against the dissemination of coercive and vulgar content in the digital spa

‘It’s Amrit’: After Paresh Rawal, Aashiqui Actor Anu Aggarwal Claims She Drinks Her Urine

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Paresh Rawal,

Following veteran actor Paresh Rawal’s recent revelation about drinking his own urine to heal a knee injury, 90s sensation Anu Aggarwal, best known for her role in Aashiqui, has come forward with a similar claim. In a recent interaction with Instant Bollywood, Aggarwal stated that she also practices urine therapy, referring to it as “amrit” (elixir) and highlighting its purported anti-aging benefits.   Aggarwal explained that the practice, known as “Aamroli” in Yoga, is an important mudra (gesture or practice). “Many people don’t know this… whether it’s ignorance or just a lack of awareness, but drinking urine… is actually a mudra in Yoga. I’ve practiced it myself. I have tried it, and it’s a very important practice,” she asserted. The actress further elaborated on the method, emphasizing that only a specific part of the urine stream is consumed. “One crucial thing to remember is that you don’t drink the entire urine. Only a specific part of it is consumed. That portion is considered amrit. It’s known to help with anti-aging, keeping your skin wrinkle-free; it’s truly amazing not just for health, but overall well-being. I’ve personally experienced its benefits.”   When questioned about the lack of scientific evidence supporting such claims, Aggarwal dismissed the relevance of modern science in this context. “How old is science? 200 years. Yog is 10,000 years old, so who would you listen to?” she questioned, firmly stating, “I definitely support this.”   Anu Aggarwal’s statements come just days after Paresh Rawal shared his experience of drinking his urine to recover from a knee injury he sustained during the filming of his earlier movie Ghatak. Rawal claimed that the unconventional advice came from the late action director Veeru Devgan, actor Ajay Devgn’s father. According to Rawal, following this practice for 15 days led to a surprisingly rapid recovery, astonishing his doctors. However, Paresh Rawal’s claims were met with skepticism and strong warnings from the medical community. Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, a well-known liver specialist on social media, urged the public not to follow such practices, emphasizing the lack of scientific evidence and the potential health risks associated with consuming urine. He pointed out that urine is a waste product containing toxins and bacteria that the body eliminates. Similarly, other health experts have echoed these concerns, stating that there is no scientific basis for the purported benefits of urine therapy and that it could potentially lead to infections and other health complications. Nephrologists have explained that drinking urine reintroduces waste products into the body, putting unnecessary strain on the kidneys. Despite the medical skepticism, both Paresh Rawal and Anu Aggarwal stand by their experiences and beliefs in the potential benefits of urine therapy, citing traditional practices and personal anecdotes as evidence. Their statements have undoubtedly ignited a debate on the validity and safety of such alternative health practices.

Suriya’s ‘Retro’ Dominates Chennai Box Office on Opening Day, Surpasses Nani’s ‘HIT 3’

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Suriya Surpasses Nani's 'HIT 3'

Suriya’s highly anticipated action-drama ‘Retro’ has taken a phenomenal start at the box office, particularly in Chennai, on its opening day, Thursday, May 1st. The film, directed by Karthik Subbaraj, has reportedly registered massive footfalls in the Tamil Nadu capital, outperforming Nani’s latest thriller, ‘HIT: The Third Case’. According to early estimates from trade analysts, ‘Retro’ has raked in an impressive ₹19.25 crore net across India on its opening day. A significant portion of this collection, a staggering ₹17.25 crore, comes from the Tamil Nadu market, highlighting Suriya’s strong fan base and the film’s pre-release buzz in the state. Chennai, in particular, witnessed an exceptional response, with an overall Tamil occupancy of 87.25% across a high number of shows (around 517). Many shows in the city ran close to full capacity, especially during the afternoon and evening. In comparison, Nani’s ‘HIT: The Third Case’ has also had a strong opening day, collecting an estimated ₹18 crore net across India. While the Telugu film dominated the Andhra Pradesh and Telangana market with ₹17.25 crore, its performance in the Tamil Nadu region, including Chennai, was considerably lower at around ₹0.35 crore. This clearly indicates the strong preference of the Chennai audience for Suriya’s ‘Retro’ on its opening day. ‘Retro’ marks the first collaboration between Suriya and the acclaimed director Karthik Subbaraj, adding to the anticipation surrounding the film. The movie, which also stars Pooja Hegde in a significant role, is a blend of action, drama, and romance, with Suriya portraying a local gangster. Initial reports suggest that the film has been well-received by the audience, with praise directed towards Suriya’s performance and Subbaraj’s directorial style, including a much-talked-about 15-minute single-shot sequence. While ‘Retro’ has clearly taken the lead on its opening day in Chennai and Tamil Nadu overall, both films have shown strong performances in their respective home territories. It remains to be seen how both films fare over the extended weekend and in the long run, especially with mixed reviews for ‘Retro’ suggesting that its sustainability will depend on word-of-mouth. The strong opening of both ‘Retro’ and ‘HIT: The Third Case’ indicates a positive trend for the South Indian film industry, with audiences returning to theaters in large numbers for compelling stories and star power. For now, Suriya and ‘Retro’ can celebrate a dominant opening day in Chennai, setting a positive tone for its box office journey.

‘To Hania Aamir, From India’: Water Gift Sparks Mixed Reactions Online

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To Hania Aamir

Amidst heightened tensions following India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, a video has surfaced showing an Indian fan sending packaged drinking water to Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. The gesture, labeled “To Hania Aamir, Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan. From India,” has elicited a range of reactions online, from amusement to criticism. The Indus Waters Treaty was suspended by India on April 23rd, a day after a terror attack near Pahalgam. The treaty, which has survived several wars, governs the sharing of water from the Indus basin, with India controlling the eastern rivers and Pakistan relying on the western rivers. Pakistan has strongly condemned the suspension. In the now-viral video, a group of young men are seen packing water bottles into a box addressed to the popular Pakistani actress. The act appears to be a symbolic, albeit perhaps satirical, response to the treaty suspension and its potential implications for water resources in Pakistan. Hania Aamir, known for her roles in popular dramas, had earlier expressed her condolences for the victims of the Pahalgam attack on her social media, emphasizing that “tragedy anywhere is a tragedy for all of us.” The online reaction to the video has been mixed. Some users found the gesture humorous, while others deemed it insensitive given the backdrop of the terror attack and the strained relations between the two countries. One user commented, “Bro really cares about Hania,” while another criticized the act, suggesting a boycott of Pakistani dramas in India. This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing friction. Following the Pahalgam attack, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) imposed a complete ban on Pakistani artists working in Indian projects. Additionally, social media accounts of several Pakistani celebrities, including Hania Aamir, were reportedly blocked for users in India. Hania Aamir herself recently addressed a fake statement attributed to her online, clarifying that she had not made any such remarks and urging empathy and truth during this sensitive time. She emphasized that extremists’ actions do not represent an entire nation. While the intent behind the packaged water remains open to interpretation, it serves as a stark reminder of the complex and often intertwined relationship between the people of India and Pakistan, even amidst political tensions.

Mithun Chakraborty Impressed by “Well-Organised” WAVES 2025

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Mithun Chakraborty Well-Organised WAVES 2025

Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty has showered praise on the organizers of WAVES 2025, lauding the event for its impeccable organization and seamless execution. The Bollywood icon, known for his charismatic presence and impactful performances, expressed his admiration during his recent appearance at the highly anticipated event.   WAVES 2025, which has garnered significant attention for its diverse programming and star-studded lineup, appears to have exceeded expectations, particularly in terms of its logistical management. Chakraborty, who has attended numerous high-profile events throughout his illustrious career, highlighted the smooth flow of activities and the efficient handling of the large crowds.   “It’s truly a fantastic event,” Chakraborty remarked during an interview. “The level of organization is commendable. Everything is so well-coordinated, from the stage management to the audience handling. It’s clear that a lot of effort has gone into making this a successful and enjoyable experience for everyone.” The actor’s words carry significant weight, given his extensive experience in the entertainment industry and his keen observation of event management. His endorsement serves as a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the WAVES 2025 organizing committee. Attendees have also echoed Chakraborty’s sentiments, praising the event’s meticulous planning and execution. The seamless transitions between performances, the well-managed crowd flow, and the overall atmosphere of the event have contributed to a positive and memorable experience for all. WAVES 2025 has been designed to showcase a blend of artistic expressions, cultural performances, and interactive sessions, attracting a diverse audience. The event’s success in delivering a high-quality experience has not gone unnoticed, with Chakraborty’s praise adding to the growing acclaim.   The actor’s presence at WAVES 2025 has undoubtedly added to the event’s star power, drawing attention from fans and media alike. His appreciation for the event’s organization underscores the importance of meticulous planning and execution in ensuring the success of large-scale gatherings. The organizers of WAVES 2025 have expressed their gratitude for Chakraborty’s kind words, emphasizing their commitment to delivering a world-class experience for all attendees. They have also acknowledged the hard work and dedication of their team, whose efforts have contributed to the event’s resounding success. As WAVES 2025 continues to unfold, Chakraborty’s endorsement is expected to further enhance its reputation and solidify its position as a premier event in the cultural calendar. His praise highlights the dedication of the organizers, and the positive experience of all attendees.

Meet Vikram Khajuria, Making a Mark in the Digital Sphere

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Vikram Khajuria

New Delhi: Vikram Khajuria has carved a niche for himself as a prominent figure in the digital landscape, particularly as a fashion, lifestyle, fitness, tech, and travel influencer. His online presence resonates with a broad audience, evident in his substantial following of over 865,000 on Instagram. This popularity positions him as a key opinion leader for brands seeking to connect with a diverse demographic interested in these trending categories. Collaborations with well-known brands like Wrangler, Flying Machine, Shein, and Big Muscle Nutrition underscore his influence and appeal within the fashion and fitness industries. His consistent engagement rate of 2.87% and an average of 24,700 likes per post highlight his ability to captivate and interact with his audience effectively, making his profile an attractive platform for influencer marketing campaigns. Vikram Khajuria’s content strategy effectively blends various lifestyle elements, appealing to a wide range of interests. His frequent posts, averaging around 2-3 per week, cover topics from the latest fashion trends and travel experiences to fitness routines and technology updates. This versatility not only keeps his content fresh and engaging but also attracts a diverse follower base. His work as an athlete associated with AS-IT-IS Nutrition further solidifies his credibility in the health and fitness domain. By offering discount codes like “VIKRAM2ASITIS,” he directly incentivizes engagement and provides value to his followers, fostering a stronger connection and potentially driving sales for his partners. This multi-faceted approach enhances his appeal to brands looking for comprehensive lifestyle marketing reach.

Bhagyashri Borse: From Kingdom to Prabhas’ Film?

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Bhagyashri Borse Prabhas Film

The Telugu film industry is abuzz with speculation that the success of the upcoming action thriller “Kingdom” might pave the way for its lead actress, Bhagyashri Borse, to star opposite pan-Indian superstar Prabhas in his next project. Bhagyashri Borse, who made her debut in “Mr Bachchan,” is highly regarded for her talent in both performance and dance. However, she is yet to achieve significant commercial success. All eyes are now on “Kingdom,” where she stars alongside Vijay Deverakonda and Satyadev, with the film slated for release on May 30, 2025. Industry insiders believe that the film’s performance at the box office could be a turning point for her career. One of Bhagyashri’s notable advantages is her height, which would make her a compatible on-screen partner for tall actors like Prabhas, Mahesh Babu, and Dulquer Salmaan. Rumors suggest that the makers of Prabhas’ next film are considering her for the lead female role. However, these are still early speculations, and no official confirmation has been made. A strong performance in “Kingdom” would not only increase Bhagyashri’s chances of landing a role in Prabhas’ film but could also open doors to numerous other opportunities in the industry. Starring alongside Prabhas, who enjoys a massive fan following across India, would undoubtedly be a significant boost to any actress’s career. Bhagyashri is also part of Dulquer Salmaan’s upcoming film “Kaantha,” further highlighting her potential and the industry’s growing interest in her. While “Kaantha” will also be a crucial film for her, the possibility of sharing screen space with Prabhas has generated considerable excitement among her fans and industry observers. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the “Kingdom” proves to be the key to unlocking a major opportunity for Bhagyashri Borse and potentially pairing her with one of India’s biggest stars. The success of “Kingdom” could indeed land her in the highly anticipated next film of Prabhas, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.

Power Couple Meets Insta King: Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh Dine with Adam Mosseri

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Power Couple Meets Insta King: Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh Dine with Adam Mosseri

Mumbai buzzed with excitement as Bollywood’s beloved power couple, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, were spotted enjoying a sophisticated dinner alongside Instagram’s head honcho, Adam Mosseri. The meeting, which took place at the upscale Mumbai restaurant Papa’s Bombay, has set social media ablaze, with fans and media outlets alike speculating about the nature of this high-profile gathering. Adam Mosseri himself added fuel to the fire by sharing a delightful selfie on his Instagram account featuring himself beaming alongside Deepika and Ranveer. The caption accompanying the photo read, “I got to meet the amazing and charismatic power couple that is @deepikapadukone and @ranveersingh this evening in Bombay, and enjoy some unreal food at @papasbombay.” 1 The picture, reportedly captured by Ranveer himself, quickly went viral, garnering thousands of likes and comments within minutes.   The playful banter in the comments section only amplified the buzz. Deepika responded with a cheeky, “@mosseri @ranveersingh. What happens at @papasbombay stays at @papasbombay!” punctuated with a string of lighthearted emojis. Ranveer echoed the sentiment, adding, “Good times!” along with heart emojis and a spirited “COYG!”, a known cheer for his favorite football club, Arsenal. For the evening, Deepika exuded effortless chic in a white t-shirt layered under a stylish beige blazer, paired with classic denim jeans and her hair left casually open. Ranveer complemented her look with a suave black blazer worn over a white t-shirt and matching black trousers. Mosseri opted for a timeless look in a crisp white shirt and a black suit. The timing of this dinner is particularly interesting as Adam Mosseri is currently in Mumbai to participate in the WAVES Summit 2025, a significant event commencing today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to inaugurate the summit, which boasts an impressive lineup of speakers, including prominent figures from various industries, such as Shah Rukh Khan, Hema Malini, Mithun Chakraborty, and Mukesh Ambani, with Deepika Padukone also among the esteemed speakers. Mosseri is scheduled to deliver a keynote session on May 2nd, where he will delve into the topic of “How Gen Z Consumes Content” in a conversation with Bollywood actress Shraddha Kapoor. While the exact agenda of the dinner remains under wraps, the meeting between one of the most influential figures in social media and Bollywood’s reigning couple has sparked considerable speculation. Possibilities range from potential collaborations and initiatives to simply a friendly get-together. Given Deepika and Ranveer’s massive influence and engagement on Instagram, a partnership of some sort wouldn’t be entirely surprising. On the personal front, Deepika and Ranveer have been cherishing their new roles as parents after welcoming their daughter, Dua Padukone Singh, in September 2024. Despite their busy schedules, the couple continues to make headlines both for their professional endeavors and their endearing public appearances. As the pictures and snippets from their dinner date continue to circulate online, fans are eagerly awaiting further details about this intriguing meeting between Bollywood royalty and the head of the global social media giant. Whatever the reason, this viral dinner has undoubtedly become the talk of the town, further cementing Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh’s status as a power couple who effortlessly command attention, both on and off the silver screen.

Balakrishna Set to Ignite Screen Alongside Rajinikanth in “Jailer 2”

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Balakrishna Jailer 2

The Indian film industry is abuzz with electrifying news: Nandamuri Balakrishna, the powerhouse actor known for his dynamic performances and mass appeal, is reportedly being brought on board for a pivotal role in “Jailer 2,” the highly anticipated sequel to Rajinikanth’s blockbuster hit. This development has sent ripples of excitement through fan circles, promising a cinematic spectacle of epic proportions.   Nelson Dilipkumar, the director who masterfully crafted the gritty and engaging narrative of “Jailer,” is set to helm the sequel, aiming to amplify the film’s already phenomenal success. The first installment, starring Rajinikanth as the formidable Muthuvel Pandian, shattered box office records, captivating audiences with its blend of action, suspense, and compelling character portrayals. Now, with the addition of Balakrishna, the sequel is poised to reach new heights of cinematic grandeur.   Sources close to the production suggest that Balakrishna’s character will be integral to the storyline, adding a potent layer of conflict and intrigue. While specific details about his role remain shrouded in secrecy, it is speculated that he will portray a powerful antagonist or a character with significant impact on Muthuvel Pandian’s journey. This casting choice is seen as a masterstroke, capitalizing on the immense star power and on-screen charisma of both Rajinikanth and Balakrishna. Balakrishna, fondly known as “NBK,” has carved a niche for himself with his distinctive acting style and larger-than-life persona. His ability to command the screen with intensity and deliver powerful dialogues has garnered him a massive following. His inclusion in “Jailer 2” is expected to create a thrilling dynamic, pitting two titans of the Indian film industry against each other.   The collaboration between Rajinikanth and Balakrishna is particularly noteworthy, as it brings together two actors with distinct regional fan bases and iconic legacies. This pan-Indian appeal is anticipated to broaden the film’s reach, attracting audiences from across the country and beyond. Nelson Dilipkumar’s reputation for crafting stylish and engaging thrillers further elevates expectations for “Jailer 2.” His meticulous attention to detail, coupled with his ability to extract powerful performances from his cast, makes him the ideal director to navigate this high-profile project. The production team is reportedly working diligently to ensure that “Jailer 2” surpasses the success of its predecessor. The screenplay is being fine-tuned to incorporate Balakrishna’s character seamlessly, while maintaining the essence of the original film’s narrative. As anticipation mounts, fans are eagerly awaiting official announcements and updates from the production house. The prospect of witnessing Rajinikanth and Balakrishna share screen space is undeniably exhilarating, promising a cinematic experience that will resonate with audiences for years to come. “Jailer 2” is shaping up to be a landmark film, blending the best of action, drama, and star power, and solidifying its place in the annals of Indian cinema.