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‘Cutest’: Vijay Deverakonda Reacts Adorably to Rumoured Girlfriend Rashmika Mandanna’s Birthday Wish

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‘Cutest’ Vijay Deverakonda

Tollywood heartthrob Vijay Deverakonda, who turned 36 on Friday, May 9th, has received a heartwarming birthday wish from his rumoured girlfriend and co-star, Rashmika Mandanna. The actress took to her Instagram Stories to share a candid picture of Vijay, sporting a heavy beard and a charming smile, adorned with a traditional red ‘tika’ on his forehead. Calling him by his affectionate nickname, Rashmika wrote, “I am super late yet again but rumoured girlfriend and co-star, Rashmika Mandanna,” followed by a white heart and a flower emoji. In another slide, she penned a more heartfelt message: “I hope your days are filled with all the blessings and love, joy, health, wealth, peace, and everything else.” Vijay, known for his down-to-earth persona, was quick to respond to Rashmika’s sweet gesture. He reposted her story on his own Instagram, adding a reply that has fans swooning: “Cutest ❤️ May all your wishes and blessings come true!” This adorable exchange has once again ignited the long-standing rumours of a romantic relationship between the two popular actors. Despite being spotted together on numerous occasions and their undeniable on-screen chemistry in films like ‘Geetha Govindam’ and ‘Dear Comrade’, Vijay and Rashmika have neither confirmed nor denied their relationship, often maintaining that they are just close friends. However, eagle-eyed fans often find clues in their social media activities. Just last month, when Rashmika celebrated her 29th birthday in Oman, many noticed striking similarities in the backgrounds of their respective vacation pictures, leading to speculation that they might have celebrated together. On the professional front, Vijay Deverakonda marked his birthday by offering a treat to his fans, unveiling the first look posters of his upcoming projects, ‘Kingdom’, ‘VD14’, and ‘SVC59’. Meanwhile, Rashmika has a busy slate of films lined up, including ‘Kuberaa’, ‘The Girlfriend’, ‘Thama’, and ‘Rainbow’. The endearing social media interaction between Vijay and Rashmika has undoubtedly brought a smile to their fans’ faces, further fueling the speculation and admiration for their off-screen bond. While they continue to keep their personal lives private, their sweet exchanges like this one keep the rumour mill buzzing and their fans hoping for an official confirmation someday.

‘The Royals’ on Twitter: Netizens Divided, Chemistry Praised, Writing Criticized

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'The Royals

The new Hindi-language romantic comedy-drama series, ‘The Royals’, starring Ishaan Khatter and Bhumi Pednekar, has officially premiered on Netflix, igniting a flurry of reactions across social media. While the lead duo’s on-screen chemistry and the show’s aesthetic appeal have garnered praise, a significant portion of viewers have expressed disappointment with the writing and narrative execution. Netizens took to Twitter to share their immediate reactions, resulting in a mixed bag of opinions. Many lauded the fresh pairing of Ishaan Khatter and Bhumi Pednekar, highlighting their palpable chemistry as a major draw. Several users specifically mentioned the actors’ individual performances, with some calling Ishaan “unforgettable” and Bhumi’s portrayal as having “depth and agency.” The music and the overall visual presentation of the series, set against the backdrop of opulent palaces, also received positive nods. However, the praise largely ended there. A dominant sentiment among the Twitterati was the criticism aimed at the show’s writing. Many viewers found the plot to be confusing, lacking substance, and riddled with tonal inconsistencies. Some described the narrative as “disappointing” and a “waste of talent,” despite the glamorous visuals and the star power involved. “Had a lot of expectations but the ending and writing ruined it all,” one user tweeted, echoing the sentiments of several others who felt let down by the storyline. Another user pointed out the misdirection in the trailer, stating that the show felt neither like a thriller nor a coherent romantic comedy. Comparisons to other series like ‘Bridgerton’ for its royal setting and ‘Schitt’s Creek’ for its humor were also made, but not always favorably. Adding to the criticism, some viewers called out specific aspects of the writing, such as forced banter, predictable plot arcs, and superficial character development. The introduction of subplots and character traits sometimes felt abrupt and lacked sufficient exploration, leaving viewers feeling disconnected from the narrative. Despite the flak for its writing, ‘The Royals’ seems to have struck a chord with some viewers who appreciated the lightheartedness and the lead actors’ performances. The chemistry between Ishaan and Bhumi is consistently cited as a reason to watch, even if the story itself falls short for many. In conclusion, ‘The Royals’ has sparked a debate on Twitter, with netizens appreciating the fresh pairing and visual appeal but largely criticizing the writing for its lack of depth and confusing execution. Whether the charm of the lead cast and the royal aesthetics are enough to overcome the narrative shortcomings remains to be seen as more viewers binge-watch the series.

Khloe Kardashian ‘Loved Seeing King Khan’ at Met Gala, Calls SRK ‘Amazing’

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Khloe Kardashian 'Loved Seeing King

In a delightful turn of events that highlights the global appeal of Bollywood’s megastar Shah Rukh Khan, reality television personality Khloe Kardashian has expressed her admiration for the actor’s recent appearance at the Met Gala 2025. Taking to her Snapchat, Khloe shared her excitement at seeing SRK, referring to him endearingly as “King Khan.” Khloe, who did not attend the prestigious fashion event this year, made sure to acknowledge Shah Rukh Khan’s debut. She posted a photo of the actor from the Met Gala, accompanied by the caption, “I loved seeing King Khan at The Met. He’s the first male Bollywood actor to ever attend.” This statement underscores the historical significance of SRK’s presence at the event, marking a new milestone for Indian representation on the global fashion stage. The “Keeping Up With The Kardashians” star also showed appreciation for SRK’s attire, a bespoke all-black ensemble crafted by renowned Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. Khloe specifically pointed out the cultural elements incorporated into the design, noting, “He looked amazing, and it’s so great to see how the talented designers incorporate elements of their own culture and fashion from around the world with the theme of the event. 1 His look by Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee incorporated design elements of Indian menswear.” 2   1. www.hindustantimes.com www.hindustantimes.com 2. timesofindia.indiatimes.com timesofindia.indiatimes.com Adding a touch of personal connection, Khloe revealed how she first came to know about the iconic actor. “I first learned about him when I visited India with Kim last year,” she shared, referencing her trip to India in July 2024 with her sister Kim Kardashian to attend the pre-wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. This visit seemingly left a lasting impression and introduced her to the phenomenon that is Shah Rukh Khan. Khloe also expressed her fondness for the striking “K” necklace that SRK sported, a custom piece designed by Sabyasachi featuring his initial. “And of course I’m a fan of the K necklace (wink face emoji),” she wrote, acknowledging the signature accessory that added a personal touch to the superstar’s look. Shah Rukh Khan’s Met Gala debut has been a widely discussed topic, with his elegant black coat, tailored trousers, and the symbolic Bengal Tiger Head Cane garnering attention. His attire perfectly aligned with the event’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” while also subtly nodding to his iconic status and Indian heritage. SRK himself acknowledged the experience on social media, thanking Sabyasachi for making him feel comfortable at an event that he initially felt was not his “space.” He wrote, “Style & Fashion…is just being who you are. And all of u made me feel like a ‘K’!” Khloe Kardashian’s appreciation adds to the chorus of voices celebrating Shah Rukh Khan’s impactful debut at the Met Gala, further solidifying his position as a global icon whose influence transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. Her heartfelt words highlight the “amazing” impression King Khan has made on the world stage.

From Battlefields to Bollywood: 7 Celebrities Who Served India

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From Battlefields to Bollywood

While Bollywood often portrays tales of heroism on screen, few know that some of its brightest stars and talents have lived those roles in real life, serving the nation with pride and dedication. From defending our borders to contributing during times of conflict, these seven celebrities have donned the uniform, embodying the spirit of service before their successful careers in the entertainment industry. 1. Nana Patekar: The Actor Who Stood on the Frontlines Known for his intense performances and powerful dialogue delivery, Nana Patekar‘s patriotism isn’t just limited to the silver screen. This three-time National Award winner served with the Indian Army during the 1999 Kargil War. Despite initial resistance from military officials, Patekar’s determination led him to the frontlines in August 1999 after personally reaching out to the then Defence Minister George Fernandes. For over two weeks, he served as an honorary captain, stationed in conflict-prone areas near the Line of Control (LoC) such as Dras, Kupwara, Baramulla, Sopore, and Mughalpura. He not only patrolled alongside the soldiers but also assisted in base hospitals, experiencing firsthand the harsh realities of war. Patekar’s weight reportedly dropped significantly during his time in service, a testament to the demanding conditions. His commitment and service during the Kargil War remain an inspiring tale of a Bollywood star who lived the values he often portrayed on screen. He later retired from the Territorial Army as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2013. 2. Anand Bakshi: The Lyricist Who Sailed for the Nation Before his words graced countless iconic Bollywood songs, Anand Bakshi served in the Royal Indian Navy. Born in Rawalpindi, Bakshi joined the Navy in Karachi in 1944 at a young age. He served on various ships until his dismissal in 1946. Following this, he joined the Indian Army in the Corps of Signals in Jabalpur in 1947 and served until 1950. These formative years instilled in him discipline and a deep sense of patriotism, which arguably influenced his later work as one of Bollywood’s most successful and prolific lyricists. His experiences in the armed forces provided him with a unique perspective and resilience that likely contributed to his enduring success in the film industry. 3. Bikramjeet Kanwarpal: From Major to Movie Sets The late actor Bikramjeet Kanwarpal, known for his roles in films like “Page 3,” “2 States,” and the TV series “24,” had a distinguished career in the Indian Army before entering Bollywood. He served as an officer in the army, retiring in 2002 as a Major. His father, a Lieutenant Colonel, instilled in him the values of service and dedication. Kanwarpal’s transition from the armed forces to acting showcased his versatility and commitment to both his country and his craft. Sadly, he passed away in 2021 due to COVID-19. 4. Achyut Potdar: The “3 Idiots” Actor Who Was an Army Officer Achyut Potdar, famously known for his role in “3 Idiots,” also served the nation as an officer in the Indian Army. He retired from his post in 1967 and later embarked on his acting journey. Potdar’s career in both the military and the film industry highlights a life dedicated to service in different forms. 5. Gufi Paintal: “Shakuni Mama” Who Served During Wartime Gufi Paintal, best remembered for his iconic role as Shakuni Mama in the epic television series “Mahabharata,” also has a connection to the Indian armed forces. He reportedly served the nation during the 1962 Indo-China War. This lesser-known fact adds another dimension to the life of the veteran actor. 6. Rehman: The Pilot Who Soared in Cinema Rehman, a prominent actor who ruled the Hindi film industry for several decades, was a pilot in the Royal Indian Air Force before venturing into acting. He later left his Air Force career to pursue his passion for cinema, where he achieved considerable success. 7. Rudrashish Majumder: From the Barracks to Bollywood Rudrashish Majumder, seen in recent films like “Chhichhore” and “Jersey,” is another actor who traded his army uniform for the arc lights. He served as an officer in the Indian Army for nearly seven years before transitioning to the entertainment industry. His background in the military likely brings a unique discipline and perspective to his acting career. These seven individuals exemplify that patriotism and a commitment to service can extend beyond the battlefield and into the creative fields. Their dedication to the nation, whether in uniform or on screen, serves as an inspiring reminder of the diverse ways one can contribute to India.

Anupamaa Spoilers: Raahi vs. Mother, Vasundhara vs. Anupamaa

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Raahi vs. Mother, Vasundhara vs. Anupamaa

In the latest riveting episodes of the popular television drama “Anupamaa,” the complexities of relationships and family dynamics take center stage, keeping viewers glued to their screens. The unfolding drama sees Raahi, deeply concerned, directly question her mother’s increasingly close bond with Raghav. Simultaneously, Vasundhara unleashes a torrent of disapproval upon Anupama for reasons yet to be fully revealed, creating a tense atmosphere within the household. Raahi, who has always shared a close relationship with her mother, has been observing the growing camaraderie between her mother and Raghav with a mixture of curiosity and unease. Raghav’s presence in their lives has become more frequent, and the easygoing comfort they seem to share hasn’t gone unnoticed by Raahi. Driven by a need to understand the changing dynamics, Raahi finally confronts her mother, seeking clarity about the nature of her connection with Raghav. This confrontation is expected to bring forth some emotional moments and potentially reveal underlying truths that could impact the family’s equations. Meanwhile, the usually composed Vasundhara’s sudden and harsh criticism of Anupama has sent shockwaves through the family. The reasons behind Vasundhara’s outburst remain shrouded in mystery, leaving everyone bewildered and anxious. Vasundhara’s words, laced with disapproval, are aimed squarely at Anupama, creating a palpable tension in the household. This unexpected animosity from Vasundhara is set to add another layer of conflict to Anupama’s already complicated life, leaving viewers eager to know what could have triggered such a strong reaction. The interactions between Raahi and her mother, coupled with Vasundhara’s unexpected slamming of Anupama, promise a series of intense and revealing moments in the upcoming episodes. How will Anupama respond to Raahi’s questions and Vasundhara’s accusations? What secrets or misunderstandings lie beneath the surface of these confrontations? Viewers can anticipate a rollercoaster of emotions and significant developments that will further deepen the intricate web of relationships in “Anupamaa.” Stay tuned to find out how these pivotal events unfold and the impact they will have on the lives of the beloved characters.

Bigg Boss 18 Contestant Blasts Mahira Khan: “Don’t Come Begging for Work in India”

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Mahira Khan

In a fiery outburst that has quickly gone viral, a contestant from the upcoming season of Bigg Boss 18 has strongly criticized Pakistani actress Mahira Khan, warning her against seeking work in India. The controversy erupted following Mahira Khan’s social media activity, where she reportedly made remarks critical of India in the wake of “Operation Sindoor,” the Indian Army’s recent action against terrorist hideouts. Avinash Mishra, known for his outspoken nature and participation in the highly anticipated reality show, took to his social media to voice his displeasure. Sharing a screenshot of Mahira Khan’s alleged post, Mishra didn’t mince words, directly addressing the actress and cautioning her against any future professional endeavors in India. “O Mahira Didi,” Mishra’s post read, “we don’t need to blame Pakistanis, the whole world has seen the evidence. Now, after the situation improves, don’t come to India to ask for work. But 1 kudos to you for supporting your country.” He further took a dig at some Indian celebrities, labeling them “traitors” for not taking a firm stance in support of their nation.   Mishra didn’t stop there. In a subsequent post, he expressed his disappointment with celebrities from across the border who gained fame in India but are now allegedly calling India’s counter-terrorism efforts “shameful” and “cowardly.” He questioned the silence of Indian celebrities on the matter, suggesting that their reluctance to speak up for their country, possibly to protect their brand or follower count, is a form of “cowardice.” This strong reaction from the Bigg Boss 18 contestant comes at a time of heightened tensions and a renewed call within India to distance from Pakistani artists. Earlier, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) also issued a statement condemning Mahira Khan and actor Fawad Khan for their reported anti-India remarks, reiterating their stance against allowing Pakistani talent to work in the Indian film and media industry. AICWA emphasized that such statements disrespect the nation and insult the sacrifices of soldiers who have fought against terrorism. Mahira Khan, who made her Bollywood debut in the 2017 film “Raees” opposite Shah Rukh Khan, has faced scrutiny in India previously due to political tensions between the two countries. While there have been instances where Pakistani films have seen limited releases in India, the overall climate for cross-border collaborations remains sensitive, particularly in light of recent events. The strong words from Avinash Mishra are likely to fuel further debate regarding the involvement of Pakistani artists in the Indian entertainment industry. As Bigg Boss 18 approaches, this controversy has already put one of its contestants in the spotlight, highlighting the intersection of entertainment, national sentiment, and current affairs. It remains to be seen how this will impact Mahira Khan’s future prospects in India and the broader discourse surrounding cultural exchange amidst political complexities.

Shahid Kapoor’s Social Media U-Turn on Operation Sindoor Sparks Speculation

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Shahid Kapoor's Social Media

Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor has stirred a buzz on social media after deleting his initial post lauding “Operation Sindoor” and subsequently disabling comments on the revised post. The operation, conducted by the Indian Armed Forces in the early hours of May 7th, targeted alleged terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in response to a recent terror attack in South Kashmir’s Pahalgam. Kapoor had initially shared an image of a fighter jet on his Instagram account with a powerful caption that read, “India doesn’t provoke. But India never forgets. #operationsindoor” along with the Indian flag emoji. This message resonated with many online, reflecting a sentiment of national pride and a firm stance against terrorism. However, within a few hours, the original post underwent a significant change. The caption was entirely removed, leaving only the Indian flag emoji and the hashtag “#operationsindoor”. Furthermore, the comment section of the post was disabled, preventing any interaction from his followers. This sudden alteration has left netizens speculating about the reasons behind Kapoor’s actions. While the actor has not issued any official statement, several theories are circulating. Some suggest that the initial assertive tone of his post might have invited unwanted attention or even criticism, leading to the decision to soften the message and limit engagement. Others believe it could be a personal choice to avoid getting drawn into potentially sensitive discussions on social media. Shahid Kapoor’s initial post was part of a larger wave of reactions from Bollywood celebrities who voiced their support for the armed forces following Operation Sindoor. Actors like Kangana Ranaut and Akshay Kumar also took to social media to express their solidarity. Kapoor’s subsequent actions, however, stand out due to the unexplained deletion of his original statement and the disabling of comments. This incident highlights the delicate balance public figures often navigate when commenting on national events on social media platforms. The reasons behind Shahid Kapoor’s edited post remain unconfirmed, leaving his fans and the wider internet community to ponder the possible motivations.

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.