CineNow, the pioneering film and entertainment investment platform, today announced that acclaimed media entrepreneur, producer and industry leader Siddharth Roy Kapur has associated with the company as Principal Advisor to the Founding Team.

As CineNow advances its Rs 1,350-crores structured Film IP investment platform, Siddharth Roy Kapur will provide strategic guidance on content investment opportunities, industry partnerships, platform expansion and long-term value creation. His association with CineNow marks an important milestone in the company’s journey to establish film and content intellectual property as a credible institutional asset class while building the financial infrastructure for the next phase of growth in India’s entertainment industry.

Commenting on the development, Rohit Dalmia, Chairman and Managing Director, CineNow, said: "India’s media and entertainment industry is entering a defining decade. Consumption has scaled dramatically, content is increasingly becoming a global asset, and intellectual property is emerging as one of the most valuable forms of long-term value creation. However, the financial infrastructure around content remains underdeveloped. CineNow was created to bridge that gap by bringing transparency, governance, institutional capital and disciplined investment frameworks to the sector."

He further added, "We are privileged to have Siddharth Roy Kapur associated with CineNow as Principal Advisor to our Founding Team. His unparalleled experience across content creation, studio leadership and media entrepreneurship, combined with his deep understanding of audience behaviour and industry evolution, makes him one of the most respected voices in Indian entertainment. His strategic counsel will be invaluable as we continue building India’s most credible platform for entertainment investments."

Speaking on his association with CineNow, Siddharth Roy Kapur said: "The Indian entertainment industry is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by expanding audiences, multiple distribution platforms and the increasing strategic importance of intellectual property. As the sector matures, innovative and well-governed capital solutions will play an important role in unlocking its next phase of growth. CineNow is building a unique platform at the intersection of content, capital and technology, and I am pleased to support the Founding Team as Principal Advisor and contribute to the company’s long-term vision."

Siddharth Roy Kapur brings decades of leadership experience across content creation, studio management and media entrepreneurship. Widely recognised for building and backing some of India’s most successful entertainment ventures, he is regarded as one of the foremost leaders in India’s media and entertainment industry. His insights into content economics, audience evolution and industry transformation will help guide CineNow’s strategic thinking as the company expands its engagement with creators, producers, investors and rights holders.

Also Read: Siddharth Roy Kapur credits Nagraj Manjule for Matka King’s authentic period detailing

Acclaimed filmmaker SS Rajamouli is gearing up to resume shooting for Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran. As per the latest buzz, the production is scheduled to intensify starting July 7 in Hyderabad. The upcoming schedule will focus on filming one of the most demanding and significant segments of the movie: a massive war set-piece.

Hyderabad set to host a Varanasi battle sequence According to a report by Mid-Day, the scale of this specific sequence is completely unprecedented, surpassing even the grand standards previously established by Rajamouli. The sequence will feature the film's leading man, Mahesh Babu, alongside a massive crowd of 3,500 junior artists. Preparations for this complex shoot have already been underway for several weeks to ensure everything runs smoothly.

The reports of resuming the shoot come after the filmmaker captivated global audiences at La Cinémathèque Française in Paris. On June 27, he showcased the very first glimpse of the highly anticipated film. The exclusive preview of Varanasi marked the movie's debut presentation to a European audience, earning widespread applause and raising anticipation to new heights.

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Digital expansion to create an epic Vanar army While the physical shoot involving thousands of performers is a massive undertaking, it is only the foundation for what will eventually appear on the big screen. The report stated that the true ambition of the sequence will be realized during post-production.

The thousands of live-action performers filmed on set will be digitally expanded using advanced visual effects. Through VFX technology, the on-screen army will be multiplied significantly to create a battle of epic proportions. The production team aims to deliver one of the largest battle spectacles ever attempted in the history of Indian cinema, with plans to showcase an astonishing 50,000 vanars on screen simultaneously.

Varanasi is being shaped as a grand mythological action epic. The narrative explores the thrilling adventures of its protagonist as he travels across different timelines. Alongside Mahesh Babu, the film features a stellar ensemble cast including Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj in pivotal roles. Audiences will have to wait a bit longer to see the final visual spectacle, as the movie is currently slated to hit theatres in April 2027.

Also Read: S.S. Rajamouli shares Varanasi update: “We have completed major portions, all the important big spectacle action sequences are done”

On June 29, 2026, Yash Raj Films (YRF) announced a strategic investment in Rusk Media, one of India’s leading digital-first entertainment companies that specialises in original vertical storytelling IPs for Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences. The investment backs Rusk Media’s vision to build the next generation of enduring digital IP for India and the world.

Under the partnership, YRF will oversee the creative direction of original animation and vertical micro-drama IP, while Rusk Media will produce and distribute the content through its proprietary Alright! TV platform and global digital channels.

The collaboration aims at fuelling YRF & Rusk Media’s shared ambition of establishing India as a creative force in the vertical entertainment economy through original IPs across animation and vertical micro-drama, distributed across Rusk Media’s proprietary Alright! TV platform and global digital channels.

Akshaye Widhani, CEO, Yash Raj Films, said: “The instinct to evolve has always been central to YRF’s DNA. Platforms are infrastructure, content and IP are culture. Mayank and his team at Rusk Media have built a deep understanding of how the next generation discovers and inhabits stories, and that is exactly the kind of vision we want to invest in . Together, the aspiration is to build worlds, not just content.”

Mayank Yadav, Co-Founder and CEO, Rusk Media, said: “Vertical entertainment in India has produced extraordinary reach, but not the enduring IP that defines a category. That is the gap this collaboration is designed to close. We bring a native understanding of how digitally native audiences discover and build community around content, and with YRF’s backing, we are building for longevity, not the algorithm.”

As the boundaries between cinema, digital, and mobile entertainment continue to dissolve, the franchises that will define the next decade will be those built with both creative depth and digital fluency, and Rusk Media is building for exactly that future. ‎

Also Read: Yash Raj Films Box Office Report Card 2025: Rs. 522.91 cr. India nett, $29.18M overseas and Rs. 882.45 cr. worldwide – Saiyaara saves the scorecard while War 2 turns spoiler

Shraddha Kapoor's upcoming film Eetha has landed in controversy even before its theatrical release. While the recently unveiled teaser drew appreciation for the actress's transformation into legendary Lavani and Tamasha artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar, the film's title has now become the subject of criticism.

After the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) questioned why the biographical drama was not named after Vithabai Narayangaonkar, members of the late folk icon's family have also urged the makers to reconsider the title and rename the film in her honour. NCP questions the choice of title According to a report by TV9 Marathi, the NCP's Film and Cultural Department has objected to the title Eetha, arguing that a film based on the life of Vithabai Narayangaonkar should carry her name. The party has suggested that titles such as Vitha or Vithabai would be more appropriate and would acknowledge her immense contribution to Maharashtra's Lavani and Tamasha traditions.

Babasaheb Patil, Maharashtra State President of the NCP's Film and Cultural Department, reportedly said the organisation considers it its responsibility to preserve and honour Vithabai's legacy. He questioned why the filmmakers chose not to name the biopic after the celebrated artist despite her lasting impact on Maharashtra's folk art. Vithabai Narayangaonkar's family backs the demand The demand has now found support within Vithabai Narayangaonkar's family. As per the report, her sons Kailash and Rajesh Narayangaonkar, along with her grandson Mohit Narayangaonkar, have expressed disappointment over the title and appealed to the makers to change it.

For the family, the concern extends beyond the name of the film. They believe a biopic celebrating Vithabai's extraordinary life and achievements should bear her name so that future generations continue to recognise the woman who played a defining role in shaping Maharashtra's Lavani and Tamasha heritage.

As of now, director Laxman Utekar and production house Maddock Films have not issued any statement regarding the controversy or the demand to rename the film. Eetha teaser showcases Shraddha Kapoor in an intense new avatar The teaser of Eetha offers a glimpse into what appears to be one of Shraddha Kapoor's most emotionally demanding performances to date. It opens with a packed Lavani performance as the audience eagerly chants for Eetha to take the stage.

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Backstage, Shraddha's character is shown preparing for her performance despite being heavily pregnant. Soon after, she goes into labour and is seen enduring severe pain. Even as a voice warns her that performing could cost her life, she refuses to step away from the stage. Moments after giving birth, she returns to complete her performance, highlighting the character's unwavering dedication to her art.

Also Read:Eetha co-star Anant Joshi lauds Shraddha Kapoor’s professionalism; says, “She is phenomenal”

One of the most prominent composers of the film industry, Tanishk Bagchi, is now engaged. Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that the engagement took place yesterday, Friday, June 26.

Tanishk Bagchi's engagement took place with Payal Dangodra, a prominent fashion, beauty, food, travel and lifestyle content creator.

The engagement ceremony was a close knit one and took place in the Mumbai residence of producer Mahaveer Jain. Only close friends and family members were present to indulge in the celebrations and bless the couple.

As per inside sources, Amruta Fadnavis, wife of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, was one of the guests and she even sang songs.

Interestingly, Tanishk Bagchi has now turned producer along with dynamic young producer Divyansh Jain under 'MJF NXT', a platform by Mahaveer Jain Films to present a platform for emerging creative talents in the entertainment industry landscape.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Tanishk Bagchi of Saiyaara fame turns producer with ‘MJF NXT’ initiative of Mahaveer Jain Films along with Divyansh Jain

The wait is finally over for fans eager to see Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan share screen space once again. The makers of Haiwaan have officially announced that the much-anticipated thriller, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Priyadarshan, will hit cinemas worldwide on September 11, 2026.

Backed by KVN Productions in association with Thespian Films, Haiwaan is being positioned as an edge-of-the-seat thriller that promises suspense, gripping drama and high-stakes storytelling. The film marks a significant collaboration as Priyadarshan reunites with Akshay Kumar while also bringing together Akshay and Saif Ali Khan for a much-awaited on-screen reunion.

Announcing the release date on social media, KVN Productions shared an intriguing poster along with the caption, “One obsession. One relentless pursuit. One date you’ll want to remember. #Haiwaan - A Priyadarshan Film starring Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar… In cinemas 11th September 2026. Mark your calendars”.

The announcement has already generated considerable excitement among moviegoers, with fans looking forward to watching Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan together once again. Over the years, the duo has delivered memorable performances and has been appreciated for their effortless camaraderie on screen. With Haiwaan, audiences can expect to see the two actors in a completely different cinematic space, headlining what is being described as an intense and gripping thriller.

One obsession. One relentless pursuit. One date you’ll want to remember.#Haiwaan - A Priyadarshan Film starring Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar ✨ In cinemas 11th September 2026. Mark your calendars 🗓️ #SaifAliKhan @akshaykumar@priyadarshandir @ipritamofficial… pic.twitter.com/cAuIDV7sTR

— KVN Productions (@KvnProductions) June 27, 2026

Apart from the leading pair, Haiwaan also boasts a strong supporting cast featuring Shriya Pilgaonkar and Saiyami Kher in key roles. While the makers have chosen to keep the storyline tightly under wraps, the film is expected to revolve around themes of obsession, pursuit and suspense, adding to the intrigue surrounding the project.

Directed by Priyadarshan, who is known for crafting films across genres with equal finesse, Haiwaan is expected to blend psychological tension with edge-of-the-seat drama. With an accomplished filmmaker at the helm and a star-studded cast leading the narrative, the film is already being counted among the most anticipated theatrical releases of 2026.

A KVN Productions and Thespian Films production, Haiwaan is produced by Venkat K Narayana and Shailaja Desai Fenn. The thriller is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on September 11, 2026.

Also Read: Saiyami Kher celebrates a full circle moment as she reunites with Saif Ali Khan in Haiwaan after 12 years

Director Nitesh Tiwari's much-awaited film Ramayana may have a grand international premiere in Dubai if ongoing plans materialise. According to a report by Mid-Day, the makers have resumed discussions about hosting the film's premiere in the UAE after earlier putting the idea on hold.

The event is reportedly being planned for October 28 and is internally being referred to as the "Desert Premiere." Ramayana premiere plans revived after earlier pause As per the report, director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra had initially considered Dubai as the venue for the film's premiere. However, those plans were paused earlier this year due to the conflict in West Asia.

The report states that discussions have now resumed following the easing of the regional situation, with the team once again exploring the feasibility of hosting the event in Dubai. Location scouting reportedly underway According to Mid-Day, preliminary groundwork has already begun, with location scouts evaluating multiple venues across Dubai.

A source quoted in the report said, "In April, the idea was put on hold because the timing didn't feel right. Now that the situation has eased considerably, the team is again exploring the feasibility of taking Ramayana to Dubai. The city was always the preferred choice because of its ability to stage large-scale events and the Indian diaspora."

If the plans go ahead, the premiere is expected to be attended by the film's lead cast, including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash.

Ramayana is among the biggest Indian film projects currently in production. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and backed by producer Namit Malhotra, the epic stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana.

While the makers have not officially confirmed the reported Dubai premiere, the film continues to generate significant buzz ahead of its release.

Also Read: Ravi Dubey urges fans to trust the process as anticipation around Ramayana continues to grow: “You wait with faith”

Actor Jacqueline Fernandez has withdrawn her special leave petition before the Supreme Court that challenged proceedings initiated against her in the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Rs 200 crore money laundering case linked to alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. As per an IANS report, a Bench comprising Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Joymalya Bagchi on Thursday allowed the actor to withdraw her petition after the matter was taken up for hearing.

Petition challenged Delhi High Court and trial court orders Jacqueline had approached the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court refused to quash the ED's prosecution complaint and the trial court's order framing charges against her under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). With the withdrawal of the petition, the legal proceedings against the actor will continue before the trial court. Matter was reassigned after judge recused himself The case was initially listed before a Bench of Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Atul S. Chandurkar on June 11. However, Justice Mishra recused himself from hearing the matter after informing the parties that his son had appeared for the government in a connected case.

The judge stated that since his son had represented the government in one of the related matters, the case should be heard by another Bench. Following the recusal, the matter was reassigned to Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Joymalya Bagchi. Jacqueline has pleaded not guilty Earlier this month, Jacqueline appeared before the Patiala House Court and pleaded not guilty to the charges framed against her under the PMLA. She informed the court that she intended to contest the allegations during trial.

The trial court also framed money laundering charges against Sukesh Chandrashekhar, his wife Leena Maria Paul, and 14 others. All the accused denied the charges and opted to face trial.

The matter is now scheduled to come up before the trial court on July 16 for further proceedings.

The latest development comes weeks after Jacqueline withdrew her application seeking to become an approver in the case. The ED had opposed her request, arguing that her conduct during the investigation was not satisfactory. The agency also claimed that she failed to make a full and truthful disclosure in statements recorded under Section 50 of the PMLA. According to the ED, Jacqueline remained in contact with Chandrashekhar even after learning about his alleged criminal background and did not fully cooperate during the investigation.

The Enforcement Directorate has alleged that Chandrashekhar gifted Jacqueline luxury items and valuables worth around Rs 7 crore using proceeds of crime generated through the alleged money laundering operation. Jacqueline, however, has consistently denied any involvement in the alleged offences. She has maintained that she was unaware of Chandrashekhar's alleged criminal activities and did not know the source of the funds used to purchase the gifts.

The money laundering investigation originates from allegations that Chandrashekhar cheated the wives of former Ranbaxy promoters Shivinder Singh and Malvinder Singh of nearly Rs 200 crore.

Also Read: Jacqueliene Fernandez to face trial as Delhi court orders framing of charges in ED’s Rs 200 crores money laundering case

This week will see the release of not just one of the most-awaited Hindi films of the year, Welcome To The Jungle, but also the Hollywood superhero entertainer, Supergirl. Both films will be released on Friday, June 26. However, as of 7:00 pm on June 24, the bookings for Supergirl have yet to begin.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “There’s tremendous excitement in the exhibition sector for Welcome To The Jungle. Moreover, the distributor of the comic caper has also requested extensive promotion. As a result, theatres have decided to adhere to it.”

The source continued, “Consequently, Supergirl is unable to get the desired number of shows. Warner Bros is clear that they are not asking for excessive showcasing. They have asked for 2 prime shows in 4-screen multiplexes and 3 prime shows in multiplexes with more than 4 screens. Yet, they are facing difficulty in securing showcasing. The negotiations are on and a solution is expected to be reached by Wednesday night or Thursday morning.”

As of 7:00 pm on June 24, Supergirl’s bookings had commenced only in Devgn CineX in The Walk in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The same multiplex chain has started bookings in Delhi and Ahmedabad as well. Smaller chains have taken the initiative in other cities. In Pune, not a single cinema hall has begun selling tickets. Similarly, the national chains, that is PVR Inox and Cinepolis, have not opened bookings in a single property in the entire North, Eastern and Western belt.

The source said, “Warner feels its demand is reasonable and that it is not asking for too many shows. They were among the few studios that released their films during the Covid period when Hindi filmmakers were shying away from theatrical releases. Hence, they feel they shouldn’t be given step-motherly treatment now that things have improved. The studio is hopeful that the issue will be resolved amicably and that Supergirl gets a fair showcasing.”

Also Read: Arshad Warsi teasing Rajkumar Hirani over son Vir Hirani’s acting debut with Pritam Aur Pedro will leave you in splits; watch

Ahead of the teaser launch tomorrow, the makers have just dropped a striking new poster featuring Ali Fazal, from the much-awaited Mirzapur: The Movie, and it is everything fans have been waiting for. With the teaser set to drop tomorrow, the buzz around the film has officially hit fever pitch.

The poster showcases Ali Fazal in his iconic avatar, radiating intensity and power. With a fierce expression and commanding presence, the character's look hints at the high-stakes drama, revenge, and power battles that have become synonymous with the Mirzapur franchise. While the poster offers no clues about the storyline, it successfully reignites excitement among fans eager to witness the return of one of the most loved characters from the Mirzapur universe. The visual serves as a reminder that the battle for power is far from over and that the world of Mirzapur is gearing up for an even grander cinematic experience. As excitement builds, all eyes are now on the teaser, which promises to offer the first glimpse into the film's action-packed narrative and larger-than-life scale. Presented by Amazon MGM Studios and Excel Entertainment, Mirzapur: The Movie is directed by Gurmeet Singh, written by Puneet Krishna, and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under the banner of Excel Entertainment. The film is co-produced by Kassim Jagmagia and Vishal Ramchandani and will release in Hindi and Telugu and is set for a worldwide theatrical release on September 4, 2026.

Also Read : Father’s Day special: Hottest new dads in B-town – Bollywood’s leading men embracing fatherhood

The month of June is expected to end on a comic note thanks to the release of Welcome To The Jungle. It is arguably the biggest multi-starrer of Hindi cinema and hence, the excitement is expected to be tremendous. Accordingly, the distributing partner, Star Studio18, has gone all out with the release strategy.

As per the mail sent to the exhibitors, the distributor has asked for all shows in single-screen cinemas. In two-screen cinemas, they have asked for 7 or 8 shows, while they require 9 or 10 shows in three-screen cinemas. In 4-screen multiplexes, the requirement is 11 or 12 shows, while 13 or 14 shows are required in 5-screen plexes. For cinema halls with 6 screens, Welcome To The Jungle needs to be played in 15 or 16 shows. Finally, in multiplexes with more than 6 screens, the studio has asked them to play 3 shows of the comic caper per screen.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Welcome To The Jungle is a grand film meant for the big screen. Due to the humour quotient and sprawling star cast, the film should open with a bang and hence, the studio is intending for a wide release.”

It now remains to be seen whether the demand for all shows in single-screens and 7-8 shows in two-screen cinemas causes any issue, especially regarding the holdover releases. The trade source explained, “Cocktail 2 has a decent hold while Main Vaapas Aaunga refuses to slow down. Some Gujarati and Marathi releases have also put up fair numbers. Also, Hollywood superhero flick Supergirl and the much-awaited Punjabi film, Carry On Jatta 4, are up for release this Friday as well. These films will also require sufficient shows and hence, let’s see how things unfold in the next 48 hours.”

Welcome To The Jungle stars Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Jackie Shroff, Paresh Rawal, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Farida Jalal, Johny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Rajpal Yadav, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Daler Mehndi, Aftab Shivdasani, Mukesh Tiwari, Yashpal Sharma, Kiran Kumar, Zakir Hussain, Vindu Dara Singh, Urvashi Rautela, Hemant Pandey, Brijendra Kala, Feroze Khan (Arjun), Late Pankaj Dheer Ji, Puneet Issar, Sudesh Berry, Jeetu Verma, Vrihi Kodvara, Adityaa Singgh and Bhagya Bhanushali.

Also Read: BREAKING: Welcome To The Jungle goes Dhurandhar and Bhooth Bangla way; to have paid previews from Thursday, June 25

Riding on the box office returns of Border 2, producer Nidhi Dutta has unveiled an ambitious five-title slate at JP Films, the banner founded by her father, filmmaker JP Dutta. The projects span military dramas, a war hero biopic, a digital series on her grandfather, and a treasure-hunt franchise rooted in Indian history and mythology. She revealed her plans during an interview with Variety India.

Border 3 and the military slate The most prominent title on the slate is Border 3, currently in early development in partnership with Bhushan Kumar. Dutta said the third instalment “represents our continued commitment to telling stories of bravery and national pride on the biggest possible canvas.”

Alongside the franchise, JP Films is also developing a biopic on war hero General Harbaksh Singh, who commanded the Indian Army during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 and was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1966. “The film aims to bring an important chapter of Indian military history to a new generation while telling the story of a man whose courage shaped history,” Dutta said.

The third military project is a contemporary Air Force drama set during and after Operation Sindoor, focused on the personal and emotional costs of service. “While it delivers scale and action, it is ultimately a deeply human story about duty, family, and sacrifice,” she said. A franchise and a family legacy Marking a different direction for the banner, Dutta is also developing a large-scale treasure-hunt action-adventure film conceived as the first entry in a three-part franchise. “We expect it to be among the first projects to move into production. It’s the first time I’ve written something like this and it’s a franchise film, so it will have two more parts,” she said.

Rounding out the slate is a long-form digital series on her grandfather, filmmaker OP Dutta, described by Nidhi as the studio’s most personal project. She said the series would tell a story about “perseverance, passion, family, and an unwavering belief in cinema despite immense challenges, and the journey of my family legacy.”

Dutta confirmed that production timelines are being finalised and that some titles from the slate are expected to begin shooting over the next couple of months, with individual announcements to follow.

Also Read: Main Vaapas Aaunga, Border 2, Dhurandhar The Revenge: The FASCINATING Sardar connection in 2026’s most-loved Hindi films