Entertainment

Sarkeet Box Office Collections Day 1: Asif Ali’s Emotional Drama Opens to ₹41 Lakhs Worldwide

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Sarkeet Box Office Collections Day 1

Asif Ali’s latest Malayalam offering, ‘Sarkeet’, has marked its entry into the box office with a modest but promising start. The film, directed by Thamar K V, who previously helmed ‘1001 Nunakal’, hit the silver screens on May 8, 2025, and has garnered ₹41 lakhs in worldwide collections on its opening day. According to reports from Sacnilk, the movie registered a net collection of ₹37 lakhs solely from the Malayalam market in India. This decent opening suggests a potential for growth, especially given the positive initial response from both critics and audiences who are appreciating the film’s emotionally resonant narrative. ‘Sarkeet’ delves into the poignant journey of a couple residing in the UAE as they navigate the challenges of raising their child who is diagnosed with ADHD. The film is being lauded for its sensitive portrayal of familial bonds and the nuanced performances of its cast, particularly Asif Ali in the lead role. Child actor Orhan Hyder has also received special mention for his portrayal of a complex character. While the chemistry between the lead characters played by Asif Ali and Divya Prabha has received some mixed feedback, with a few critics noting a slight lack of special connection, the overall emotional depth of the story and the commendable performances seem to be resonating with viewers. The cinematography by Aeyaz has also been praised for capturing the UAE in a fresh and unique light. Following Asif Ali’s recent success with ‘Rekhachithram’, ‘Sarkeet’ signifies a deliberate move towards more profound emotional narratives, distinguishing itself from typical mainstream entertainers. This shift in focus appears to be finding an audience that appreciates heartfelt storytelling. The film also stars Deepak Parambol and Swathi Das Prabhu in pivotal roles. With positive word-of-mouth spreading, ‘Sarkeet’ is expected to maintain a steady performance in the coming days. It remains to be seen how it fares against other releases and holds its ground in the long run. General Information on Malayalam Film Industry Box Office Trends: The Malayalam film industry, often referred to as Mollywood, has witnessed significant growth in recent years, both domestically and internationally. In 2024, Mollywood’s box office share reportedly doubled, surpassing the ₹1000 crore mark for the first time. This indicates a growing audience and appreciation for Malayalam cinema. Key trends in the Malayalam film industry include: The opening day collection of ₹41 lakhs for ‘Sarkeet’ suggests a steady start for this emotional drama. The coming days will be crucial in determining its overall box office success based on audience reception and sustained interest.

Kollywood Box Office Collection & Verdicts 2025: A Mid-Year Report

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Kollywood Box Office Collection & Verdicts 2025

The Tamil film industry, fondly known as Kollywood, has had a dynamic run at the box office in the first half of 2025. With a mix of big-budget spectacles and smaller, content-driven films, the industry has witnessed both roaring successes and disappointing failures. As we move past the initial months, it’s time to take a closer look at the collections and verdicts of some key releases. The Big Winners Several films have managed to strike gold at the box office, showcasing the audience’s diverse tastes and the star power that continues to draw crowds. Other Notable Mentions Several other films released in 2025 have had varying degrees of success. Films like Nilavuku En Mel Ennadi Kobam and Tourist Family have performed moderately. Meanwhile, some smaller films have struggled to make a mark against the bigger releases. Trends and Observations The Kollywood box office in 2025 so far reflects a few key trends: Looking Ahead The rest of 2025 promises an exciting lineup of Tamil films. With several highly anticipated projects in the pipeline, it will be interesting to see if these trends continue and if new benchmarks will be set at the Kollywood box office. The industry will be keen to learn from the successes and failures of the first half of the year to deliver content that captivates audiences and ensures a healthy and thriving cinematic landscape. Disclaimer: The box office figures and verdicts mentioned in this report are based on estimates from various sources and are subject to change. Final figures may vary.

Arijit Singh POSTPONES Abu Dhabi Concert Amid Rising India-Pakistan Tensions

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Arijit Singh

Renowned Indian playback singer Arijit Singh has postponed his highly anticipated live concert in Abu Dhabi, scheduled for today, May 9, 2025, at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island. The decision comes in the wake of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The announcement was made on Thursday, May 8, through a note shared by Arijit Singh’s team on his official Instagram account. The statement conveyed the difficult decision to postpone the event due to “recent events,” alluding to the heightened geopolitical situation in the region. The official statement read: “Dear Fans, due to recent events, we have made the difficult decision to postpone the Arijit Singh live concert in Abu Dhabi, originally scheduled for 9 May 2025, at the Etihad Arena, Yas Island. We deeply appreciate your patience, support, and understanding during this time. We are working closely with the venue and the new date will be announced soon.”   The team also addressed the concerns of ticket holders, assuring them that “All purchased tickets will remain valid for the rescheduled date, or you may opt for a full refund within 7 days, starting 12 May 2025 (Monday). Thank you for your continued love and support, we look forward to creating unforgettable memories with you soon. With love, Team Arijit Singh Live.”   This postponement follows closely on the heels of India’s recent retaliatory actions, dubbed “Operation Sindoor,” where Indian armed forces reportedly struck nine terror sites within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. These actions were a response to a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 individuals. Notably, Arijit Singh had also cancelled his scheduled concert in Chennai last month as a mark of respect and solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam attack. The decision by Arijit Singh to postpone his Abu Dhabi concert underscores the impact of the prevailing geopolitical climate on cultural events and public gatherings. While a new date for the Abu Dhabi concert is yet to be announced, fans are hopeful that they will soon have the opportunity to experience the magic of his music. This is not an isolated incident, as other Indian artists, including Shreya Ghoshal, have also recently postponed concerts citing similar reasons. Ghoshal had called off her Surat concert, which was part of her ‘All Hearts Tour,’ following the Pahalgam terror attack. On the professional front, despite the concert postponements, Arijit Singh remains active. He is reportedly collaborating with Sonu Nigam to recreate the iconic song “Sandese Aate Hai” for the upcoming film Border 2, a spiritual sequel to the 1997 hit movie Border. Fans who have purchased tickets for the Abu Dhabi concert are advised to either hold on to their tickets for the rescheduled date or avail the refund option starting from May 12, 2025. Further updates regarding the new concert date are expected to be announced by Arijit Singh’s team in due course.

Kantara Makers Issue Clarification on Junior Artiste’s Untimely Demise, Offer Condolences

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Kantara Makers Issue Clarification

The makers of the highly anticipated film Kantara: Chapter 1 have issued a statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the recent tragic death of a junior artiste, MF Kapil. The production house, Hombale Films, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and friends of the deceased. Initial reports had indicated that the 33-year-old artiste tragically drowned on May 6th while swimming in a river near Kollur, where the film’s shooting was underway. However, Hombale Films has explicitly stated that the unfortunate incident did not occur on the film set or during any film-related activity. In their official statement released on Thursday, the production house emphasized that no filming was scheduled for that particular day, and the incident took place during Kapil’s personal time, entirely outside the scope of his work on the movie. “We are deeply saddened by the untimely passing of junior artist M.F. Kapil. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” 1 the statement read. “In light of recent discussions, we would like to respectfully clarify that the incident did not occur on the sets of Kantara. No filming was scheduled on that day, and the unfortunate event took place during his personal engagement, outside the scope of any film-related activit. The makers further appealed to the public and media to refrain from drawing any unverified connections between the tragic event and the film or its crew. “We sincerely request everyone to refrain from drawing unverified associations with the film or its crew,” they concluded. This clarification comes in the wake of a statement from the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA), which expressed deep sorrow over Kapil’s death and called for a thorough investigation into the matter. The AICWA also demanded an FIR against actor-director Rishab Shetty and the production house, along with financial compensation for the deceased’s family. While the police have registered a case of unnatural death and are currently investigating the incident, the Kantara production team has maintained that the tragedy was unrelated to the film’s shooting schedule or location. Kantara: Chapter 1 is a prequel to the critically acclaimed and commercially successful 2022 film Kantara, also starring and directed by Rishab Shetty. The prequel is slated for a theatrical release on October 2nd, 2025. The production team has faced several challenges during the making of the film, including previous incidents like a bus accident involving junior artistes and damage to sets due to adverse weather conditions. This latest tragedy has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the production. As the investigation into the unfortunate demise of MF Kapil continues, the makers of Kantara: Chapter 1 have reiterated their deepest condolences to his family, hoping they find strength and peace during this difficult time.

Virat Kohli’s Brother Vikas Slams Rahul Vaidya, Calling Him a ‘Loser’ Amidst Avneet Kaur Controversy

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Virat Kohli's Brother Vikas Slams Rahul Vaidya

The ongoing social media feud involving cricketer Virat Kohli and singer Rahul Vaidya has escalated, with Kohli’s brother, Vikas Kohli, publicly criticizing Vaidya. This comes after Vaidya took a dig at Virat Kohli’s explanation for accidentally liking a photo of actress Avneet Kaur on Instagram, further calling Kohli’s fans ‘jokers’. The controversy began when Virat Kohli liked a picture on Avneet Kaur’s fan page. Following this, Kohli issued a clarification stating, “I’d like to clarify that while clearing my feed, it appears the algorithm may have mistakenly registered an interaction. There was absolutely no intent behind it. I request that no unnecessary assumptions be made. Thank you for your understanding.”   Rahul Vaidya then jumped into the fray, posting a sarcastic video mocking Kohli’s explanation and claiming that Kohli had blocked him on Instagram. Vaidya quipped that this block might also be due to an “Instagram glitch.” This led to a barrage of criticism from Virat Kohli’s fans, with Vaidya alleging that he and his family received online abuse. In response, Vaidya called Kohli’s fans “2 kaudi ke jokers” (two-bit jokers). Now, Virat Kohli’s brother, Vikas Kohli, has entered the dispute, taking to social media platform Threads to defend his brother. Vikas Kohli strongly condemned Rahul Vaidya’s actions, labeling him a “loser.” He wrote, “Bache itni mehnat agar apni singing pai karle to shayad apni mehnat se famous ho jaaye….While the whole nation is focused on the current situation of what’s going on… this idiot is on a mission to gain followers and become famous taking Virat’s name….WHAT A LOSER.”   Vikas Kohli’s reference to the “current situation” alludes to the tense situation at the Indo-Pakistan border following the recent attack in Pahalgam and the subsequent Operation Sindoor. His statement suggests that Rahul Vaidya’s pursuit of attention through this controversy is ill-timed and inappropriate given the national focus on security matters. Neither Virat Kohli nor his wife, actress Anushka Sharma, have directly responded to Rahul Vaidya’s comments or the ensuing online backlash. Meanwhile, the online debate continues to draw reactions from fans and other celebrities, highlighting the intense scrutiny and rapid escalation that social media interactions can bring to public figures.

The Meaningful Melody: Deepika Padukone Unveils the Story Behind Daughter Dua’s Name

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Deepika Padukone Story Behind Daughter Dua's Name

Bollywood power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh have enchanted fans not just with their on-screen chemistry and off-screen camaraderie, but also with the arrival of their daughter, Dua Padukone Singh, in September 2024. While the couple has largely shielded their little one from the public eye, Deepika recently offered a heartwarming glimpse into the thoughtful process behind choosing her name. In a candid interview with Marie Claire, the Jawan actress revealed that the decision wasn’t rushed. Instead, she and Ranveer waited nearly two months after Dua’s birth before officially naming her in November. This deliberate pause allowed them to connect with their newborn and observe her nascent personality. “I think what was more important for us was to first hold the baby in our arms, allow her to sort of see this new world she’s come into, allow her personality to start developing a little bit,” 1 Deepika explained.   The name “Dua,” an Arabic word signifying “prayer,” resonated deeply with the couple. Deepika shared that the inspiration struck her from the realms of poetry and music. “It felt like a beautiful summary of what she means to us and why she means what she means to us,” she elaborated, her words reflecting the profound joy and gratitude they feel towards their daughter. The moment of finalization was surprisingly simple and intimate. Deepika recalled texting Ranveer, who was away on a film set, late one night with just the name: “Dua?” His response was an immediate and heartfelt “Yes,” sealing the name that held such significance for them. The meaning of Dua as “prayer” beautifully aligns with the couple’s initial announcement of their daughter’s name on social media, where they described her as “the answer to our prayers.” This sentiment underscores the deep emotional connection and spiritual significance the name holds for Deepika and Ranveer. Since Dua’s arrival, Deepika’s world has undoubtedly shifted. In the same interview, she touchingly mentioned that her “centre has shifted,” a sentiment any new parent can surely relate to. Ranveer has also been vocal about Deepika’s dedication to their daughter, acknowledging that “everything in Deepika’s life now revolves around Dua.” Deepika and Ranveer’s choice of “Dua” reflects a beautiful blend of cultural appreciation and personal meaning. It’s a name that carries a universal resonance, signifying hope, devotion, and the profound connection between parent and child. As they continue to navigate the joys of parenthood, the name Dua will undoubtedly serve as a constant reminder of the precious gift they have received.

‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’ Goes OTT: Security Situation Cited

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'Bhool Chuk Maaf' Goes OTT

In a surprising turn of events, the upcoming Bollywood romantic comedy, “Bhool Chuk Maaf,” starring the talented Wamiqa Gabbi alongside Rajkummar Rao, has opted for a direct-to-OTT release, bypassing its scheduled theatrical debut. The film, which was initially slated to hit cinema screens on May 9, 2025, will now premiere exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on May 16, 2025. The decision to forgo a theatrical release was officially announced by the production house, Maddock Films, citing the heightened security situation across the nation as the primary reason. In a statement released earlier today, the makers conveyed their sensitivity to the current environment, emphasizing that the safety and well-being of the public are of utmost importance. The statement read, “In light of recent events and the heightened security drills across the nation, we at Maddock Films and Amazon MGM Studios have decided to bring our family entertainer, ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf,’ directly to your homes on May 16 – only on Prime 1 Video, worldwide. While we were eagerly looking forward to celebrating this film with you in theatres, the spirit of the nation comes first. Jai Hind.” This decision comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor, a series of targeted actions by the Indian armed forces, which has led to increased security measures and a state of heightened alert across the country. Sources close to the production suggest that the makers were concerned about potential disruptions and wanted to ensure the film reaches its audience without any compromise to public safety. “Bhool Chuk Maaf” marks the first on-screen collaboration between Wamiqa Gabbi and Rajkummar Rao and is directed by Karan Sharma. The film promises a delightful blend of comedy and romance, with a unique storyline centered around a would-be groom who finds himself trapped in a time loop on the day before his wedding. The ensemble cast also includes seasoned actors like Seema Pahwa, Sanjay Mishra, and Raghubir Yadav, adding to the film’s appeal. While the decision may disappoint some fans who were looking forward to the cinematic experience, the move to OTT ensures that “Bhool Chuk Maaf” will be accessible to a wider audience globally from the comfort of their homes. This strategic shift echoes a trend seen during the pandemic, where filmmakers opted for digital releases to navigate uncertainties and reach viewers directly. Wamiqa Gabbi, who has been garnering praise for her recent performances in the OTT space, will now see another project directly reaching digital screens. Her chemistry with Rajkummar Rao in the trailer has already generated buzz, and audiences are eagerly anticipating this family entertainer. The film’s music, composed by Tanishk Bagchi, and the background score by Ketan Sodha are also expected to be highlights. With its quirky premise and talented cast, “Bhool Chuk Maaf” is now poised to capture the attention of a global audience on Prime Video starting May 16, 2025. This move by Maddock Films underscores the sensitivity of the entertainment industry to prevailing national circumstances and highlights the growing prominence of OTT platforms as a primary avenue for film releases. Fans will now have to wait a little longer, but can soon enjoy the comedic and romantic journey of “Bhool Chuk Maaf” from the comfort and safety of their homes.

Raveena, Preity Cheer Women Officers in Operation Sindoor Briefing

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Preity Cheer Women Officers

Bollywood actresses Raveena Tandon and Preity Zinta have expressed immense pride and admiration for Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, the two accomplished women officers who led the media briefing on the successful Operation Sindoor. Operation Sindoor, India’s decisive response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, saw the armed forces neutralizing multiple terrorist camps across the border. The subsequent press conference in New Delhi was notably fronted by Colonel Qureshi and Wing Commander Singh, a powerful image of women leading from the front in a domain traditionally dominated by men. Raveena Tandon, known for her strong roles and equally strong voice on social issues, took to her social media platform to share her feelings. She lauded the two officers, using the hashtag “#proudindianwomen” and resharing images of the briefing. Her message resonated with many, highlighting the breaking of stereotypes and the growing role of women in India’s defense forces. Preity Zinta, another prominent actress, echoed these sentiments with an evocative post on her social media. She specifically mentioned both officers by name, celebrating their strength and representing the power of Indian women. Her words, “Col. Sofiya Qureshi Wg. Cdr. Vyomika Singh नारी शक्ति ! भारतीय शक्ति ! Ye hai Bharat ! Jai Hind ! Operation Sindhoor !” beautifully encapsulated the national pride and the celebration of female leadership. The fact that two women officers from different religious backgrounds jointly addressed the nation underscored the unity and inclusivity within the Indian armed forces. This representation has been widely praised across the country, with many viewing it as a testament to the progressive strides India is making in empowering women in all sectors. The briefing itself provided crucial details about Operation Sindoor, which was executed with precision and aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure responsible for the attack in Pahalgam. Colonel Qureshi articulated the strategic importance of the operation and its success in achieving its objectives, while Wing Commander Singh provided insights into the operational aspects. The public display of women in such pivotal roles during a significant national event has not only garnered praise from celebrities like Tandon and Zinta but has also inspired countless citizens. It serves as a powerful message of women’s capabilities and their integral contribution to national security. This show of solidarity and pride from leading Bollywood figures further amplifies the significance of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh’s leadership in the Operation Sindoor briefing. Their poise, confidence, and articulation have left a lasting impression, reinforcing the image of a strong and capable India where women are at the forefront of progress and defense.

Bigg Boss 17 Fame Soniya Bansal Quits Acting, Cites Lack of Peace

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Bigg Boss 17 Fame Soniya Bansal

In a surprising turn of events, Soniya Bansal, the actress who gained significant recognition through her participation in Bigg Boss 17, has announced her decision to quit acting. At the age of 28, Bansal, who has worked in both Hindi and Telugu films, stated that despite achieving money and popularity, she was missing peace in her life. Speaking to a leading entertainment portal, Bansal revealed her inner turmoil, saying, “We are so much into doing everything for others that we forget ourselves. I realized I don’t even know what my true purpose is anymore. In this race to be perfect, to stay relevant, and to earn more, I lost myself.”   Bansal further elaborated on her decision, emphasizing the importance of inner peace over material success. “Money, fame, popularity – I had it all. But what I didn’t have was peace. And what will you do with the money if you’re not at peace? You may have everything externally, but if you’re empty inside, it’s a very dark place to be,” she expressed.   Having made her Bollywood debut in 2019 with “Naughty Gang,” Soniya Bansal went on to feature in films like “Dubki” (2021), “Game 100 Crore Ka” (2022), and the Telugu movie “Dheera” (2023). She also appeared in the action drama web series “Shoorveer” (2022) which streams on Disney+ Hotstar. Currently, she is working on a project titled “Yes Boss,” which might be her last in the acting industry. Looking ahead, Bansal shared her aspirations to become a life coach and spiritual healer. “I want to deeply study what I really want in life. This industry gave me recognition, but it didn’t give me stillness. It didn’t allow me to breathe. I don’t want to pretend anymore. I want to live authentically, for myself and be a Life Coach & Spiritual Healer,” she stated.   Her journey in Bigg Boss 17 brought her widespread fame, and now, she is choosing a different path focused on self-discovery and helping others find peace. She concluded her statement with a profound thought: “You never know when your life will change. You never know when death might knock. And if we haven’t lived truthfully by then, what’s the point of this entire journey?”   Soniya Bansal’s decision highlights the often-unseen struggles behind the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry and emphasizes the significance of mental well-being and finding one’s true purpose.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu Embarks on New Chapter, But Her Timeless Grace Steals Hearts

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Samantha Ruth Prabhu

Samantha Ruth Prabhu, a name synonymous with captivating performances and an undeniable on-screen presence, is stepping into a new realm of the film industry. While the details of this fresh venture are generating buzz, it was her radiant appearance and infectious laughter at a recent event that truly captured the hearts of fans, reminding everyone of the enduring charm that makes her so beloved. The actress, known for her powerful portrayals in both Telugu and Tamil cinema, graced a pre-release event looking every bit the epitome of elegance. Donning a beautifully draped saree, the fabric a canvas of vibrant hues or perhaps a testament to classic sophistication, Samantha effortlessly blended tradition with contemporary grace. The intricate details of the saree, be it delicate embroidery or a rich weave, spoke volumes of her refined taste. However, it wasn’t just her sartorial choice that set the internet abuzz. It was the sheer joy radiating from her that proved to be truly magnetic. Photographers and fans alike captured moments of Samantha laughing freely, her smile illuminating the venue. This display of uninhibited happiness resonated deeply, particularly given her well-documented journey through personal challenges. For many, these glimpses of Samantha’s genuine happiness were a heartwarming sight. Her laughter seemed to symbolize resilience and a renewed zest for life, qualities that her admirers have long admired. In a world often saturated with carefully curated public images, her authentic display of emotion struck a chord, reminding everyone of the human behind the star. While the specifics of Samantha’s new career path remain eagerly anticipated, this recent appearance served as a powerful reminder of her enduring appeal. Her ability to command attention with both her grace and her genuine spirit has once again solidified her position not just as a talented actress, but as a figure who connects with her audience on a deeply personal level. Fans took to social media platforms to express their adoration, showering her with compliments on her elegance and, more importantly, celebrating her infectious joy. Comments poured in, praising her saree choice and expressing delight at seeing her happy and vibrant. It’s clear that for Samantha’s fans, her talent is matched only by her inner strength and the warmth she exudes. As Samantha Ruth Prabhu embarks on this new chapter, whatever it may entail, she does so with the unwavering support and affection of an audience that has once again been captivated not just by her professional endeavors, but by the timeless grace and heartwarming laughter of a true icon. Her saree and her smile have, once again, won the day, reaffirming the enduring love and admiration she commands.