Ajay Devgn, Jio Studios, and Aanand L Rai collaboration on Chauhaan is among the most discussed of the year. The announcement video sparked reactions across the board and put the film on the Gen-Z conversation. The film goes on floors later this year, and Bollywood Hungama has exciting news for all Ajay Devgn fans.

According to reliable sources, Aanand L Rai has roped in Vikrant Massey to play a key role in the Ajay Devgn led action thriller. "Vikrant Massey will be seen like never before in this action thriller inspired by true events. He plays a layered grey character, and his tashan with Ajay Devgn will be among the major highlights of Chauhaan," a source told Bollywood Hungama.

According to sources close to Bollywood Hungama, Vikrant was blown away by the script of Chauhaan, and it was an instant yes from his side to play this layered role. "Ajay and Vikrant are like watching two powerhouses from different generations in the same film. The audiences are in for a treat," the source tells us further.

Chauhaan is all set to go on floors in the last quarter of 2026, for a Gandhi Jayanti 2027 release. The pre-production work is presently going on in full swing. The film is touted to be the Dhurandhar of 2027!

Also Read: Vikrant Massey recalls why he hesitated to star opposite Deepika Padukone in Chhapaak; says, “I thought Deepika is a big star and we won’t look good together”

With less than three weeks to go for its release, the promotions of Batwara 1947 will be taken to the next level this week, as the trailer of the much-awaited film will finally be unveiled in a few days. In a unique initiative, the launch will be held in two different cities on two consecutive days.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “On Tuesday, July 28, the trailer of Batwara 1947 will be unveiled in the iconic single-screen cinema, Raj Mandir in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Fans and local media will be invited to catch the trailer and also catch a glimpse of Sunny Deol and Rajkumar Santoshi.”

The source added, “Raj Mandir serves as the perfect venue for such events in Rajasthan. It has hosted several launches previously, so the management has experience handling fans and stars. Moreover, the single-screen is one-of-a-kind in the country in terms of ambience, screen and sound quality, etc. Also, it’s a theatre close to Sunny Deol’s heart. He promoted the re-release of his cult classic, Gadar – Ek Prem Katha (2001), as part of promotions of Gadar 2 (2023) and the response was extraordinary. He then returned to Raj Mandir to promote Jaat (2025) as well. Both films were successful and, in a way, promotional events at Raj Mandir have proved to be a lucky charm for the actor.”

The source then said, “The next day, July 29, a similar event will be held for media and fans in Mumbai.” Batwara 1947 is produced by superstar Aamir Khan, and he’s also expected to be present at both the events.

Besides Sunny Deol, Batwara 1947 also stars Shabana Azmi, Preity Zinta, Ali Fazal and Karan Deol. The film is highly awaited as it reunites Sunny Deol and Rajkumar Santoshi and moreover, it is produced by Aamir Khan.

Batwara 1947 is based on the play, ‘Jis Lahore Nai Dekhya’, by Syed Asghar Wajahat. The Partition-era story revolves around a Muslim family which migrates from Lucknow to Lahore and is allotted a haveli vacated by a Hindu family. The old Hindu matriarch refuses to leave her ancestral home and she also strikes a rare bond with the Muslim immigrants.

Also Read: BREAKING: Sunny Deol-starrer Batwara 1947 passed with an ‘A’ certificate by CBFC

The trailer of Bhai Tera Star Hai has caught attention thanks to its quirky content and Raghav Juyal’s promising performance. Interestingly, it’ll release on July 30 and thus clash with Spider-Man: Brand New Day. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, producer-director Vivek B Agarwal explained the strategy behind the release.

Vivek B Agarwal said, “Honestly speaking, there’s no strategy. I did my homework. After the July 30 weekend, I don’t know if I’ll get another opportunity to release my film until the end of February 2027. There are either a couple of big Bollywood films, a solo monster film or a combination of Bollywood and pan-India South films. There’s something happening every week or every second week.”

He added, “Moreover, I realized that apart from Dhamaal 4 in July, there was no substantial Hindi release until the middle of August. It was either a choice of clashing with a big Hindi film or releasing alongside Spider-Man. Hence, this was the only viable option. I felt that since there was no Hindi film releasing for nearly a month, I’d rather release my film in the middle of this dry period and attract audiences who might prefer watching a Hindi film over an English one.”

When asked about the screen count, Vivek replied, “PVR Inox Pictures is distributing the film in India. We are targeting 900 to 1000 screens.”

Bhai Tera Star Hai’s promo reminds one of the small-budget-high-concept films that production houses like UTV and Phantom (that Vivek B Agarwal was a part of) regularly churned out in the 2000s and early 2010s. Moreover, such films can surprise with theatrical performance, as proven by Main Vaapas Aaunga, a film which was probably seen as a digital film before it surprised at the box office. Hence, how important was it for Vivek to give Bhai Tera Star Hai a theatrical release instead of going straight to OTT?

Vivek B Agarwal explained, “I kind of agree with you that there has been a change of mindset. At the end of the day, if the film is good, people do come to the theatres. Raghav and I were very keen that Bhai Tera Star Hai should have a theatrical release. We decided to go all out and indulge in a marketing campaign where he’s interacting with people and asking them to watch the film in theatres. Accordingly, he’s been doing city tours continuously and communicating with the potential audience.”

He continued, “Also, at the end of the day, the content has to work. People have to like the trailers and songs and then decide whether or not they want to see it in cinemas. I think we are achieving that balance. People are liking the trailer and humour quotient. It’s rare to have a film of this kind with such humour and ensemble cast.”

He added, “Moreover, I feel that people are tired of sitting at home and watching dark, serious thrillers, which make up nearly 80% of OTT content. Aisa nahin hai ki OTT pe bhasad comedy ban rahi hai. Majorly, sirf dark, serious aur toxic content hi ban raha hai. Hence, if a film offers them something fresh, I feel that they would love to give it a chance.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: “Salman Khan called Raghav Juyal and told him, ‘I saw Bhai Tera Star Hai trailer TWICE and the Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan joke was FABULOUS’” – Vivek B Agarwal

With just five days to go for the release of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the excitement is tremendous, to say the least. Advance ticket sales are extremely strong, indicating that the superhero film is set to record one of the biggest opening-day collections ever in India. Given the extraordinary buzz, the studio has decided to position the film in the highest ticket-pricing category.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “The studio has sent an email to exhibitors stating that Spider-Man: Brand New Day is the most anticipated film of the year, and not merely of the season. Hence, ‘keeping with the scale, legacy and premium positioning of this release’, it has decided to implement mega-blockbuster pricing bands for the film.”

The mega-blockbuster pricing category is a relatively recent phenomenon and has previously been implemented for films that generated tremendous pre-release buzz, such as Pushpa 2 – The Rule, War 2 and Dhurandhar The Revenge.

In accordance with this directive, the theatres have started advance booking, and, as expected, the rates are sky-high. Most cinemas are selling tickets for Rs. 300+, and in some, the rates have even reached four digits. For 3D and premium formats, the prices are obviously higher. The source noticed, “In a few cinemas, the rates are at par with Dhurandhar The Revenge, but in most theatres and multiplexes, the rates are lower than the Ranveer Singh-starrer. This is because Dhurandhar sequel’s buzz was historic and one-of-a-kind.”

In Mumbai, G7 multiplex, also popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy, is one of the few cinemas where one can catch Spider-Man: Brand New Day at reasonable rates. The stall tickets are sold for Rs. 180 and balcony for Rs. 200. The same price slab exists in Maratha Mandir; both these cinemas are managed by Manoj Desai and will screen the film’s 2D version in Hindi. Also, Gaiety-Galaxy and Maratha Mandir are the only cinemas in Mumbai and one of the few ones in the country to sell tickets of the film at less than Rs. 200 (this does not include certain centres in South where the rates are cheap as per the government rules).

Meanwhile, the tickets for the 10:30 am 2D Hindi show at MovieTime Dahisar are available for Rs. 220. As for the English 2D version, Funcity Big Cinema, Ulhasnagar is among the cheapest in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. One needs to shell out just Rs. 240 to watch the 2:15 pm show on July 30. Next comes the iconic Regal cinema in South Mumbai, where the ticket rates are Rs. 250 for stall and Rs. 300 for balcony.

If you enjoy English films more in the 3D version in Hindi, then Gold Thane, Gold Borivali and Tilak Dombivali is where you should head to in order to enjoy Spider-Man: Brand New Day without burning a hole in your pocket. The 10:00 am shows in these cinemas are priced at Rs. 200.

As for the English 3D version, the rates are slightly higher, but some cinemas have made an exception. Ajanta Cinex Borivali's 10:00 am show tickets are being sold for Rs. 200, the cheapest in this category and format in the region. This is followed by MovieTime Malad, where one needs to pay Rs. 230 to watch the 10:55 am show. The ticket price of the 8:30 am show in MovieTime Star City Matunga is Rs. 240. In BMX Cinemas Koparkhairane, the price is Rs. 250 for the 11:30 am show, while it is Rs. 260 for the 8:30 am show in PVR Odeon Ghatkopar. In Sun City, one can pay Rs. 270 in order to catch the 8:00 am show of the movie.

The source added, “Many cinemas, especially national chains, follow dynamic pricing. Hence, as demand rises, ticket prices will also increase.”

Also Read: Spider-Man: Brand New Day director explains why Sadie Sink’s role is being kept secret as final trailer drops

After days of nationwide protests over the alleged NEET paper leak and demands for education reforms, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from his post.

The development has prompted fresh reactions from several members of the film fraternity, many of whom had voiced support for the student-led movement over the past week. Several actors described the resignation as proof that peaceful, democratic protests can bring about change, while others urged the government to focus on long-term reforms in the education system.

Take a look below:

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Fatima Sana Shaikh (@fatimasanashaikh)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Vijay Varma (@itsvijayvarma)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Aditi Rao Hydari (@aditiraohydari)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Ishaan (@ishaankhatter)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Dia Mirza Rekhi (@diamirzaofficial)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Vir Das (@virdas)

Also Read: “Step down Dharmendra Pradhan”: Jyotika backs students amid NEET protest, calls for accountability

Veteran actor Shabana Azmi has revealed that she has been diagnosed with H1N1 (swine flu), forcing her to miss the student protest held at Mumbai's Shivaji Park on Friday. The actor shared the health update on social media, saying she has been advised to remain in isolation for the next five days.

Azmi has been one of the most prominent public figures supporting the student-led protests over the alleged NEET paper leak. Over the past three days, she actively participated in demonstrations at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, where she marched alongside students, joined the "Chalo Sansad" rally and extended support to those on hunger strike. Shabana Azmi shares health update Informing her followers about her absence from the Mumbai protest, Azmi wrote that she had planned to join demonstrators but was unable to do so after being diagnosed with H1N1. She wrote, “"My dear Mumbaikars, I was meant to join your protest yesterday, but I've come down with H1N1 and need to remain in isolation for the next five days."

Despite her illness, the actor said she remains closely connected with the movement and continues to receive updates from those participating on the ground. Actor praises students' courage Azmi also lauded the determination shown by young protesters, many of whom, she said, were taking part in a demonstration for the first time: "I want to express my solidarity and appreciation. I'm receiving first-hand reports from the young people on the ground. Many of them have taken part in a protest for the first time and have experienced how much their voice counts."

She added that their commitment continues to inspire her: "I continue to be inspired by your courage and commitment and stand by you in solidarity."

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Shabana Azmi (@azmishabana18)

The veteran actor concluded her post by sharing a poem written by her late father, renowned poet Kaifi Azmi.

Azmi has been among the few celebrities who chose to participate in the protests in person instead of limiting their support to social media. During the demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, she marched alongside students, rode atop a protest vehicle with actor Prakash Raj, addressed the gathering and was also seen serving food to students observing a hunger strike.

Also Read: Shabana Azmi suffers asthma attack at Delhi protest; says, “I got an attack because of the tear gas”

PVR INOX reported a strong turnaround in the first quarter of FY27, posting a profit after tax (PAT) of Rs 56.5 crore, compared to a Rs 54 crore loss during the same period last year. The multiplex operator also recorded a 10.4 percent increase in consolidated revenue, which rose to Rs 1,622.2 crore from Rs 1,469 crore a year ago.

The company's performance comes alongside a robust recovery in the theatrical business, with India's total box office collections growing 20 percent year-on-year during the quarter. Strong film slate boosts admissions PVR INOX credited the quarter's performance to a healthy mix of Hindi, regional and Hollywood films. Among Hindi releases, Bhoot Bangla, Cocktail 2 and Main Wapas Aunga emerged as strong performers. Regional cinema also delivered impressive growth, led by films such as Raja Shivaji (Marathi), Drishyam 3 (Malayalam) and Karuppu (Tamil).

Hollywood titles also contributed significantly, with non-franchise films including Project Hail Mary, Michael and Obsession drawing audiences to cinemas. Admissions, ticket prices and F&B sales rise The multiplex chain recorded 36.6 million admissions during the quarter, reflecting an 8 percent year-on-year increase. Its Average Ticket Price (ATP) stood at Rs 273, up 8 percent from the previous year, while Spend Per Head (SPH) increased 9 percent to Rs 161. As a result, ticket revenue rose 16 percent, while food and beverage sales registered a 17 percent increase compared to the same quarter last year. EBITDA nearly doubles, company turns net cash positive PVR INOX also reported a sharp improvement in profitability. EBITDA climbed 90 percent to Rs 229.6 crore, with EBITDA margins expanding from 8.2 percent to 14 percent, driven by stronger operating leverage.

The company also achieved a key financial milestone by turning net cash positive, ending the quarter with Rs 80.7 crore in net cash as of June 30, 2026. Ajay Bijli on the quarter's performance Commenting on the results, PVR INOX Managing Director Ajay Bijli said the company's operational performance improved across key parameters: "The industry delivered broad-based growth, our operating metrics improved across the board, and the company is now net cash positive. With a diverse content slate ahead and a capital-light expansion model, our focus remains on delighting consumers, driving footfalls and creating enduring value for our shareholders."

Following the announcement of the quarterly results, PVR INOX shares climbed 5.5 per cent to Rs 1,047.85 on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), reflecting positive investor sentiment after the company's return to profitability.

Also Read: Main Vaapas Aaunga Box Office: PVR INOX-Cinepolis Week 2 collections jump 89.8% over Week 1

Yash Raj Films has officially locked March 26, 2027, which falls on Good Friday, as the theatrical release date for director Ali Abbas Zafar’s upcoming untitled romantic action drama. The announcement marks a major calendar slot for the project produced by Aditya Chopra. The film features Ahaan Panday and Sharvari in the lead roles, alongside Aaishvary Thackeray and Bobby Deol. It continues the successful working relationship between Chopra and Zafar.

Fifth Collaboration Between Aditya Chopra and Ali Abbas Zafar

This marks the fifth producer-director pairing for Aditya Chopra and Ali Abbas Zafar. Their earlier films together include Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, Gunday, Sultan and Tiger Zinda Hai. The new project returns Zafar to the YRF banner for a large-scale romantic action drama after a gap.

Ahaan Panday, who recently gained attention with Saiyaara, takes on a central role that reports describe as carrying strong intensity. Sharvari joins him as the female lead in what is positioned as a major YRF outing for her. Aaishvary Thackeray and Bobby Deol complete the principal cast, bringing additional weight to the ensemble. While the exact title and full plot details remain under wraps, the film is being described as a romantic action drama.

A significant portion of the film has been extensively shot in the United Kingdom. Production schedules also included work at Yash Raj Film Studios in India. The overseas locations are expected to lend a distinct visual scale to the project.

Also Read: Yash Raj Films appoints Usha Rachael Thomas as Head of Communications Strategy

Veteran actor and filmmaker Amol Palekar has voiced his support for students protesting over the NEET paper leak by writing an open letter expressing solidarity with the youth-led movement. As demonstrations continue in Delhi demanding accountability and education reforms, the actor praised the courage of students and said they are carrying forward the unfinished work of democracy.

Addressing the protesters as "Dear brave students," Palekar wrote that he was writing not only in solidarity but also with gratitude. "Every generation inherits the unfinished work of democracy. Yours has accepted both the burden and the privilege of carrying it forward," he wrote. Draws parallels with history and literature In his letter, Palekar referred to Albert Camus' Caligula, saying the play reflects how unchecked power can become detached from moral responsibility. He added that the recent developments in Delhi reminded him of those themes.

The veteran actor also cited historical student movements and struggles across the world, including the Paris student protests of 1968, the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, Tiananmen Square and the Navnirman Andolan in Gujarat, arguing that attempts to silence young voices have never succeeded in suppressing the desire for freedom. "The images filled us with anguish and anger" Reacting to the reported police action against protesters, Palekar said the visuals left him deeply disturbed. "The images of the brutality inflicted upon you have filled us with anguish and anger," he wrote.

He added that universities are places where society learns to question itself and said asking those in power difficult questions is a democratic responsibility rather than a privilege. "When questions are answered with batons instead of reason, it is not the students who stand diminished. It is the State," the actor wrote. Explains why he did not join the protest Palekar also explained why he did not attend the demonstrations in person. He said advancing age has imposed physical limitations, even though his convictions remain unchanged. He also noted that he deliberately chose not to participate physically because he did not want public attention to shift away from the students.

"This is your movement, your voice, your moment of moral courage. You do not need celebrity validation. Democratic movements derive their legitimacy from the courage of those at their centre, not from the visibility of those who stand beside them," he wrote. Offers support to students The actor concluded his letter by assuring students that he and his wife, Sandhya, would continue supporting them in every way possible. He even offered legal, medical and financial assistance within their means if required. Encouraging students to remain hopeful, he wrote, "Today you may be called students. Tomorrow you will be known as the generation that chose courage over silence. The future belongs to those who refuse to surrender their humanity."

The ongoing demonstrations began over the alleged NEET paper leak and demands for systemic reforms in the education sector. The movement has received support from several members of the film industry, with many celebrities calling for accountability, dialogue and peaceful resolution while expressing solidarity with students.

Also Read: Kamal Haasan backs Jantar Mantar protest, questions system in powerful note: “A nation has failed when its children are met with barricades and batons”

Prime Focus Studios has announced a landmark partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment, which will distribute Ramayana across international markets outside India. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the ambitious mythological epic, even as the makers confirmed that the film's much-awaited trailer launch has been postponed to a later date.

Producer Namit Malhotra shared the update through a detailed note on social media, revealing that the global partnership prompted the decision to reschedule the trailer launch. “Today is a very special moment for our "Ramayana", my dream of taking Ramayana to the world is now a reality with our partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment. In light of the above we will be launching our trailer now globally at a later date. In over 100+ years of Indian Cinema this will become a moment of great pride where Ramayana will be shown to the entire world like any major global Hollywood film. This is special as it opens the door for people of the world to discover the richness of our culture and our stories with renewed pride and enthusiasm. I thank all the fans and the believers of Ramayana to help make this happen. The youth of our country are our future, let's all do the best we can to protect our future. Jai Hind,” the note read.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Namit Malhotra (@iamnamitmalhotra)

Headlined by Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi, Ramayana is envisioned as a global cinematic spectacle that will be released internationally in multiple languages, including a premium English-language version. The film seeks to introduce one of India's most celebrated epics to audiences across cultures while staying rooted in its timeless themes of duty, courage, compassion, sacrifice and righteousness.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the fantasy action-adventure film brings together an extensive international crew. The project features music by Academy Award winners Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, action choreography by Terry Notary and Guy Norris, and production design by Ramsey Avery and Ravi Bansal. The film is produced by Prime Focus Studios' Namit Malhotra, who also serves as the Global CEO of the Academy Award-winning visual effects company DNEG.

Sharing his vision for the project, Malhotra said, "For generations, the Ramayana has inspired people through its timeless humanity and enduring values. Our ambition has always been to honor that legacy while creating a cinematic experience worthy of audiences everywhere. Through DNEG, we have spent decades helping filmmakers realize some of the world's most ambitious cinematic visions. With Prime Focus Studios, we are now bringing that same commitment to storytelling to one of the world's greatest epics. Collaborating with Sony Pictures gives Ramayana an extraordinary opportunity to connect with international audiences and introduce this timeless story to moviegoers around the world."

The collaboration with Sony Pictures marks one of the biggest international distribution deals for an Indian film, positioning Ramayana for a large-scale worldwide release comparable to major Hollywood tentpole productions. With the trailer now set to debut globally at a later date, anticipation surrounding the film continues to grow ahead of its release.

Also Read: Ramayana makers unveil behind-the-scenes glimpse from Pratham Sankalp event; Sunny Deol surprise appearance steals attention

Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has once again spoken out on the ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged NEET paper leak and the police action against students protesting at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Days after sharing an emotional video condemning the crackdown, the actor criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's handling of the issue during an interview with The Wire.

Naseeruddin Shah says he is “not surprised” by government's response When asked how he viewed the Prime Minister's response to what was described as one of the most serious issues of his tenure, Shah said he was not surprised. "I'm not surprised at all. When has he spoken honestly about anything? Has he accepted responsibility for any of his blunders? Has he ever accepted the fact that he was perhaps wrong? No. He's divine, and this supposed divinity of his has affected all his followers," Shah said.

The actor went on to question what he described as a lack of accountability, while referring to several statements made by the Prime Minister in the past. "It's amazing to hear and see the magic he seems to have performed. He talks about gutter gas to a group of scientists who applaud. He talks about Lord Ganesha's head being the result of plastic surgery, Karna and the Kauravas being IVF-born, and he's applauded by doctors. What is happening to us? Is there no one who is ever going to question this man?" he said.

Shah also criticised the Prime Minister for not holding press conferences, claiming he avoids difficult questions. "He never speaks to the press because he's scared. He'll be asked about 2002. He'll be asked about his supposed 35 years of begging, meditating in the Himalayas, and travelling abroad before he entered politics," he alleged.

Continuing his criticism, the veteran actor questioned the Prime Minister's public messaging and actions. "He tells us to save petrol and drives around in a convoy of SUVs. He tells us not to travel abroad and then leaves on foreign tours. I find it difficult to take anything he says seriously," Shah said.

When the interviewer remarked that, in his view, the Prime Minister appeared to be "a fraud," Shah responded, "Well, he's very close to being one, but I find it difficult to take anything he says seriously."

Shah's latest remarks come shortly after he shared an emotional Instagram video expressing anger over the police action against students protesting over the alleged NEET paper leak. In that video, he said he was "boiling with anger" after watching footage of security personnel using force on demonstrators and compared the masked officers to American ICE agents.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Naseeruddin Shah (@naseeruddin49)

Also Read: Naseeruddin Shah joins Dhanush and Mammootty’s Om, returns to Tamil cinema after 26 years

Actor Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub has issued a public clarification distancing himself from the upcoming Ajay Devgn-starrer Chauhaan, stating that he has no association with the film despite his voice featuring in its teaser. The actor shared a detailed note on social media, explaining that he had recorded a line for the makers in good faith without being informed about the context in which it would eventually be used.

Zeeshan's statement comes around 10 days after reports suggested that his voice had been removed from the Chauhaan teaser. While he did not mention the film by name in his note, it was widely understood that he was referring to Chauhaan, whose teaser had initially opened with a narration in his voice.

Sharing his statement, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub wrote, “Few weeks back, a film teaser released with the opening line in my voice. I wish to put on record that I am not part of the film in any capacity. I was asked to dub a line without any reference a few months back. I did that in good faith without asking for more as I knew the makers personally. As soon as the teaser was released and I saw the context in which it was (mis)used, I asked the filmmakers to remove my voice from the teaser as I have nothing to do with the film. After my strong objection, the makers removed my voice from the teaser fifteen days ago.”

The clarification comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding Chauhaan. The film has already been facing resistance over its alleged depiction of people in Kashmir confronting the armed forces, sparking debate on social media. Zeeshan Ayub, too, found himself at the receiving end of online trolling after viewers noticed his voice in the teaser, prompting speculation about his involvement in the project.

The actor concluded his note by reiterating his position and drawing attention to the ongoing student protests in the country. “Though this will clarify my position as an artist who would never be a part of any such project, our entire attention should be on the present situation of the country where our young relentless students are on the streets putting up a brave fight. Kudos to their inspiring spirit. JAI HIND, JAI SAMVIDHAN.”

Few weeks back, a film teaser released with the opening line in my voice.

I wish to put on record that I am not part of the film in any capacity.

I was asked to dub a line without any reference a few months back. I did that in good faith without asking for more as I knew the… — Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub (@Mdzeeshanayyub) July 21, 2026

Produced by Jio Studios and directed by Neeraj Yadav, Chauhaan features Ajay Devgn in a never-seen-before avatar. While the film has generated considerable buzz since its announcement, it has also remained at the centre of public discourse following the teaser's release and the controversy surrounding its subject matter.

Also Read: Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub’s voice removed from updated Chauhaan teaser? Here’s what we know!

Actor Mohammed Zeeshan Ayub has publicly distanced himself from the upcoming Shraddha Kapoor-starrer Eetha, claiming that his voice was used in the film's teaser without his knowledge of the context. The actor took to social media to issue a detailed clarification, asserting that he has no association with the project and had objected to the use of his voice immediately after the teaser was released.

Although Zeeshan Ayub did not explicitly mention the name of the film in his note, it was widely inferred that he was referring to Eetha, whose teaser had opened with a narration in his voice. According to the actor, he had agreed to dub a single line months ago after being approached by people he knew personally, without being informed about the larger context in which it would eventually be used.

Sharing his statement on X aka Twitter, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayub wrote, “Few weeks back, a film teaser released with the opening line in my voice. I wish to put on record that I am not part of the film in any capacity. I was asked to dub a line without any reference a few months back. I did that in good faith without asking for more as I knew the makers personally. As soon as the teaser was released and I saw the context in which it was (mis)used, I asked the filmmakers to remove my voice from the teaser as I have nothing to do with the film. After my strong objection, the makers removed my voice from the teaser fifteen days ago.”

Few weeks back, a film teaser released with the opening line in my voice. I wish to put on record that I am not part of the film in any capacity.

I was asked to dub a line without any reference a few months back. I did that in good faith without asking for more as I knew the…

— Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub (@Mdzeeshanayyub) July 21, 2026

The actor further used the opportunity to reiterate his stand while shifting focus to the ongoing student protests in the country. “Though this will clarify my position as an artist who would never be a part of any such project, our entire attention should be on the present situation of the country where our young relentless students are on the streets putting up a brave fight. Kudos to their inspiring spirit. JAI HIND, JAI SAMVIDHAN.”

Directed by Laxman Utekar, Eetha is based on the life of legendary Marathi Tamasha and Lavani performer Vithabai Narayangaonkar, fondly known as Eethabai. The biographical drama stars Shraddha Kapoor in the titular role, alongside Randeep Hooda and Nana Patekar in pivotal roles, and traces the inspiring journey of the celebrated folk theatre icon from humble beginnings to becoming one of Maharashtra's most revered cultural figures.

Also Read: SCOOP: Shraddha Kapoor-starrer Eetha won’t arrive on August 28; likely to be preponed or postponed

Earlier in the year, there were reports about Aamir Khan teaming up with debutant director Rahul Mody for a film based on the life of controversial start-up king, Ashneer Grover. The news spread like wildfire, leading to all sorts of conversations in the digital world. Soon after, it was revealed that Shraddha Kapoor will play the female lead in the film alongside Aamir and it would go on floors in March 2027, once Aamir is done shooting for a period-drama with Ashutosh Gowarikar.

But the latest we learnt that Aamir Khan has decided to opt out of the Ashneer Grover film due to creative differences. "Aamir is fascinated by the world of start-ups, and was keen to get into the zone with the Ashneer Grover biopic. He sat on the script and developed it to the best of his sensibilities. But eventually, he ended up having creative differences with Rahul Mody, leading to the duo parting ways," a source told Bollywood Hungama.

The source also informs that Rahul Mody and Shraddha Kapoor are however committed to make the film. "The real life couple is now looking to recast the film, and get a relatively younger name to play the part of Ashneer Grover. The conversations are on with two - three top names, and the cast is expected to be locked soon," the source tells us further.

The film will be produced by Shraddha Kapoor with a leading studio, and the actress will also be playing the key character of Ashneer's wife in the film.

Also Read: Aamir Khan’s 10-year-old video proves his stand on Sonam Wangchuk hasn’t changed; superstar had then said, “3 Idiots is based on Five Point Someone, not on any real-life person”

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest near Parliament in Delhi, which reportedly turned violent and has triggered a political debate across the country. Known for speaking candidly on social and political issues, Kashyap took to Instagram to express his views through a strongly-worded note, adding his voice to the growing reactions surrounding the incident.

Sharing a post on his Instagram Stories, the filmmaker wrote in Hindi, “Wardi pehenne ke liye aatma ka, aatmiyta ka, sabka sauda karna padta hai. Maloom nahi tha. Kya ek police wala hai is desh mein jo khada ho ke bol sake main iss aadesh ka palan nahin karoonga kyonki ye galat hai (I did not know that wearing a uniform requires one to sell their soul, compassion, and everything else. Is there even one police officer in this country who can stand up and say, ‘I will not follow this order because it is wrong).”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap10)

This is not the first time Kashyap has spoken about up. Earlier this week, he had shared another cryptic message that read, “Ab hadd ho rahi hai (This has crossed all limits).” In the caption accompanying that post, he wrote, “Behre bhi itne behre nahin hotey, aur andhe bhi itne andhe nahin hotey. Jaanwar aur rakshason ke dil bhi itne patthar nahin hotey. Ye unse bhi badtar aadamkhor hain. Chup rehne mein sharam aaney lagi hai (Even the deaf are not this deaf, and even the blind are not this blind. Even animals and demons do not have hearts this hardened. They are worse than them. Remaining silent has started to feel shameful).”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap10)

For the unversed, the Cockroach Janata Party has been staging protests over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak. In a recent turn of events, a demonstration near Parliament turned violent, with injuries reported among both police personnel and protesters. While authorities have maintained that protesters became aggressive despite repeated warnings, students and demonstrators have alleged that police used force without provocation. As investigations and political exchanges continue, Kashyap's posts have added another prominent voice to the ongoing public discourse.

Also Read: Anurag Kashyap showers praise on Rao Bahadur; says, “It’s not a film, it’s an opera”