The strong run of Bhooth Bangla at the box office has triggered reactions across the industry, with actor Sonam Bajwa publicly congratulating Akshay Kumar for the film’s early success. Speaking during a promotional event in New Delhi, Bajwa acknowledged the film’s performance and credited Kumar’s mass appeal for its strong opening numbers.

Box Office Surge

Trade estimates indicate that Bhooth Bangla is nearing the ₹100 crore mark worldwide within its first week. The film reportedly crossed significant milestones within six days of release, with steady footfall in both urban and mass circuits.

Early figures from Day 7 suggest continued momentum, reinforcing its status as one of the latest trending releases in India. Industry trackers describe the performance as consistent, particularly in northern markets.

Sonam Bajwa Reacts

Addressing media queries, Sonam Bajwa said she was “extremely happy” for Akshay Kumar and the team. She highlighted Kumar’s reputation as a dependable box office performer, stating that his films often attract strong audience turnout.

Bajwa’s remarks came during promotions for her upcoming Punjabi film Pitt Siyapa, where she appeared alongside co-actor Paramvir Singh Cheema. According to sources present at the event, the actor maintained a balanced tone, focusing on industry camaraderie rather than competition.

Industry Background

The collaboration between Sonam Bajwa and Akshay Kumar dates back to Housefull 5, where the duo shared screen space. The film had received attention for its ensemble cast and comedic narrative, contributing to Bajwa’s growing presence in Hindi cinema.

Akshay Kumar, often referred to as a consistent performer in commercial cinema, has delivered multiple box office successes across genres. His latest release continues that trend amid a competitive theatrical landscape.

Promotional Push Continues

Bajwa is currently focused on promoting Pitt Siyapa, scheduled for theatrical release on May 1. The film marks another significant project in her Punjabi cinema portfolio.

During interactions, Paramvir Singh Cheema expressed enthusiasm about working with Bajwa, noting her popularity and professional approach on set. Promotional activities are expected to intensify in the coming days across major cities.

Audience Response Trend

Box office analysts suggest that Bhooth Bangla has benefited from positive word-of-mouth and holiday-season footfall. The film’s genre appeal and Akshay Kumar’s established fan base have contributed to its steady collections.

As per reports, multiplex occupancy rates have remained stable, while single-screen theatres have shown growth in select regions. This trend reflects broader patterns in India News Update cycles, where content-driven films gain traction quickly.

What Lies Ahead

With the weekend approaching, trade experts expect Bhooth Bangla to either cross or come close to the ₹100 crore milestone globally. The film’s second-week performance will be crucial in determining its long-term box office standing.

The 2019 Telugu thriller V1 Murder Case has re-emerged as a trending watch on OTT platforms, with audiences revisiting its gripping narrative and forensic-driven investigation. The film, now accessible on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube, is gaining traction among viewers seeking tightly packed suspense dramas comparable to Drishyam.

Rising OTT Popularity

According to viewer trends and platform data, V1 Murder Case has witnessed a steady rise in online searches and watchlists. The renewed interest comes amid a surge in demand for compact thriller films with strong narratives.

Industry observers note that the film’s runtime of under two hours makes it an accessible option for audiences looking for engaging yet concise storytelling. This trend aligns with broader consumption patterns in the OTT space, where shorter, high-impact films are gaining traction.

Plot and Premise

The story revolves around the murder of a young woman living with her partner. What initially appears to be a straightforward crime soon evolves into a complex investigation filled with unexpected developments.

As per reports, the narrative takes a dramatic turn when the primary suspect the victim’s boyfriend dies under mysterious circumstances. This twist shifts the investigation into uncharted territory, raising critical questions about the real perpetrator.

Forensic Investigation Angle

Unlike conventional crime dramas, the film places a forensic officer at the centre of the investigation. The protagonist, dealing with personal psychological challenges, relies heavily on scientific analysis and evidence-based reasoning.

Sources indicate that this approach has resonated with viewers who prefer logical storytelling over exaggerated action sequences. The film’s focus on forensic details adds a layer of authenticity, distinguishing it from mainstream crime thrillers.

Comparison With Drishyam

Audience discussions across digital platforms frequently compare V1 Murder Case with Drishyam, known for its intricate plot and suspenseful climax.

While Drishyam explored how an individual manipulates circumstances to evade the law, V1 Murder Case takes a different route by emphasising investigative depth and psychological complexity. Analysts suggest that the comparison stems from both films’ ability to keep viewers guessing until the final moments.

Audience Response Trends

Viewers have highlighted the film’s unpredictable climax as a key factor behind its growing popularity. Online reviews suggest that the narrative avoids conventional tropes, offering a more layered resolution.

According to available ratings data, the film holds a moderate yet stable score on major review platforms, indicating consistent audience appreciation over time. The absence of excessive commercial elements has also been cited as a strength.

Industry Context

The resurgence of V1 Murder Case reflects a broader shift in audience preferences towards content-driven cinema. With OTT platforms expanding their regional libraries, films that previously had limited theatrical reach are finding new life among digital audiences.

Experts believe that such trends are reshaping the Indian entertainment landscape, enabling regional films to gain national visibility without traditional marketing pushes.

What Lies Ahead

With continued interest in suspense and crime genres, films like V1 Murder Case are expected to remain relevant in the OTT ecosystem. Industry insiders indicate that similar content-driven projects may see increased production and distribution in the coming months.

The Bhooth Bangla Box Office Worldwide performance has emerged as one of the biggest talking points in recent Latest News Today, with the film clocking an estimated ₹127.37 crore globally within six days of release. Led by Akshay Kumar, the horror-comedy has shown consistent momentum at the ticket window despite mid-week slowdowns.

Trade estimates suggest the film is now on track to enter the ₹100 crore net club in India within its first week, a benchmark often used to gauge commercial success in the Hindi film industry.

India Collection Growth

Domestically, the film has amassed approximately ₹78.90 crore net, with gross figures touching ₹93.87 crore. On Day 6 alone, Bhooth Bangla added ₹6.15 crore to its tally, maintaining a steady hold across urban and tier-2 markets.

According to industry tracking portals, the film recorded over 11,500 shows nationwide, reflecting sustained exhibitor confidence. Cinema chains have continued to allocate screens due to consistent occupancy levels, particularly in evening and late-night slots.

Overseas Performance

Internationally, Bhooth Bangla has contributed significantly to the overall Bhooth Bangla Box Office Worldwide numbers. Markets such as North America, the Middle East, and parts of Europe have reported encouraging collections.

Sources in distribution circles indicated that the film’s genre appeal and Akshay Kumar’s established overseas fan base have played a key role in driving footfall beyond India.

Clash With Dhurandhar 2

The box office clash with Dhurandhar 2 has added a competitive edge to the current theatrical landscape. While both films belong to different genres, their simultaneous run has split audience attention.

In recent India News Update reports, exhibitors noted fluctuating trends, with both films taking the lead on different days. Bhooth Bangla has largely dominated urban circuits, whereas Dhurandhar 2 continues to perform strongly in select regions.

Midweek Stability

Despite the usual weekday dip, Bhooth Bangla has managed to maintain stability, which trade analysts consider a positive indicator. The film’s performance during non-weekend days suggests favourable word-of-mouth and repeat viewership.

As per reports, occupancy rates have remained consistent, especially in multiplex chains. This trend has helped the film sustain collections even without major holiday support.

Industry Perspective

Film trade experts view Bhooth Bangla’s performance as a significant boost for the Hindi film industry, which has been navigating an unpredictable box office phase.

According to analysts, the film’s blend of comedy and horror has widened its audience reach. “The genre has worked in its favour. It appeals to both family audiences and younger viewers,” a trade observer noted, as cited in English News Portal India coverage.

Weekend Expectations

Looking ahead, the upcoming weekend is expected to play a decisive role in shaping the film’s trajectory. With no major releases lined up, Bhooth Bangla is likely to benefit from minimal competition.

Trade projections indicate that the film could comfortably cross the ₹100 crore net mark in India within days, further strengthening its Bhooth Bangla Box Office Worldwide position.

Market Outlook

The current box office scenario reflects a balanced competition between Bhooth Bangla and Dhurandhar 2, offering audiences diverse choices.

Dhurandhar 2 Box Office Worldwide Day 35 continues to dominate headlines as the film maintains a strong global run even after over a month in theatres. The action drama, directed by Aditya Dhar, has emerged as one of the highest-grossing Indian films in recent times, crossing ₹1,764 crore in worldwide gross collections by Day 35, according to trade estimates.

Despite facing fresh competition from new releases, the film has managed to sustain its momentum, particularly in overseas markets.

India Vs Overseas

The film’s domestic performance remains robust, contributing ₹1,121.09 crore to the overall tally. Overseas markets have added ₹422.25 crore, reflecting sustained interest among international audiences. Trade analysts note that while growth has slowed in India, global markets especially North America continue to drive numbers.

USA Record Milestone

A key highlight of Dhurandhar 2 Box Office Worldwide Day 35 is its record-breaking performance in the United States. The film has crossed $25 million (approximately ₹200 crore) in the US and North American markets within 35 days.

This milestone places it ahead of previous benchmarks set by major Indian releases. Industry trackers indicate that such figures have not been recorded in nearly a decade, signalling a shift in global audience reception towards large-scale Indian productions.

Daily Earnings Trend

The film’s daily earnings have shown a gradual decline, which is typical after an extended theatrical run. On Day 35, the film earned approximately ₹1.70 crore, marking a 13 per cent drop compared to the previous day.

Recent figures show:

Day 32: ₹5.20 crore

Day 33: ₹1.62 crore

Day 34: ₹2.00 crore

Day 35: ₹1.70 crore

While the downward trend is evident, the film continues to add steady numbers to its overall collection.

Competition Impact

The release of Akshay Kumar’s Bhoot Bangla has slightly impacted footfall for Dhurandhar 2. Exhibitors report that the new release has captured a significant share of screens and audience attention, particularly in urban centres.

However, Dhurandhar 2 has retained a loyal viewer base, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 markets, where repeat viewership remains a key factor.

Star Cast Factor

Featuring a multi-starrer cast including Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan and Arjun Rampal, the film has benefited from strong performances and mass appeal. Industry observers attribute its sustained run to a combination of star power, high production value and word-of-mouth publicity. The film’s action-driven narrative and large-scale visuals have also contributed to its long theatrical run.

Industry Significance

From a broader perspective, Dhurandhar 2 Box Office Worldwide Day 35 reflects the growing global footprint of Indian cinema. Trade experts suggest that the film’s success in North America highlights expanding overseas markets for Hindi films.

The strong overseas numbers are seen as a positive indicator for future big-budget releases targeting international audiences.

What Lies Ahead

With collections stabilising, the film is expected to continue its theatrical run for a few more weeks, though at a slower pace. Its lifetime business will depend on sustained occupancy in smaller centres and limited competition in the coming weeks. As per reports, digital release plans may also influence its final box office trajectory.

Dacoit: A Love Story Hits Theatres, Opens to Strong Buzz

The action-thriller Dacoit: A Love Story released on April 10 and is drawing attention for its intense narrative and performances, becoming part of the Latest News Today cycle in Indian cinema.

Film Opens Nationwide

The much-awaited Dacoit: A Love Story hit theatres across India on April 10, marking a significant bilingual release in Telugu and Hindi. Starring Adivi Sesh, Mrunal Thakur, and Anurag Kashyap, the film entered cinemas with strong pre-release buzz.

Opening Weekend Response

Early audience reactions indicate that the film has generated curiosity, especially in urban centres. According to initial reports, theatres in key cities recorded steady footfall over the opening weekend.

Story And Narrative

The film follows a wrongly convicted man who escapes prison and sets out to confront his past, including a former romantic relationship. The narrative blends emotional depth with action-driven storytelling.

Cast Performance Focus

Adivi Sesh has been noted for his restrained performance, while Mrunal Thakur brings emotional complexity to the story. Anurag Kashyap, known for his filmmaking, appears in a darker role that adds tension to the plot.

Industry And Trade View

Trade analysts suggest the film is performing steadily in multiplex circuits. As per early estimates, the film may witness growth through word-of-mouth over the coming week.

Public And Market Impact

With its mix of action and emotional conflict, the film is being discussed across social media platforms, making it a Trending News India topic in the entertainment segment.

What Next For Film

As the week progresses, box office trends will determine the film’s long-term performance. Dacoit: A Love Story is expected to remain in focus within India News Update coverage if audience momentum sustains.

Asha Bhosle Funeral Today With Full State Honours

Legendary Voice Falls Silent

India’s beloved playback singer Asha Bhosle passed away on Sunday at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. She was 92. The legendary vocalist, who sang over 12,000 songs in a career spanning eight decades, breathed her last due to multi-organ failure. Her funeral will be held today at 4 PM at Shivaji Park Crematorium with full state honours.

Family Confirms Final Rites

The singer was admitted to hospital on Saturday night following multiple age-related medical complications. Doctors could not revive her as several organs had stopped functioning. Her son, Anand Bhosle, has appealed to fans to avoid overcrowding at the crematorium. Final darshan is allowed from 10:30 AM to 2 PM at her Casa Grande residence in Lower Parel.

State Honours Accorded

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis paid tribute at her home late Sunday evening. The state government swiftly announced ceremonial honours given her monumental contribution to Indian music. Asha Bhosle was a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, the country’s second-highest civilian award, along with nine Filmfare awards and over 100 other accolades.

Amitabh Mourns Era’s End

Veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan described her passing as the end of “an entire era” of Indian music. Writing on his blog, he called her a “phenomenal and prodigious presence” who left behind an “encyclopedia of eternal music.” Bollywood’s megastar added that while her body has departed, her voice remains immortal.

Tendulkar Breaks Down

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar was visibly inconsolable while paying his last respects at her residence. The former batsman broke down in tears as he bid farewell to the singing legend. Actress Tabu was also seen emotional, embracing Asha’s granddaughter Zanai Bhosle. Riteish Deshmukh, Shaan, and Nitin Mukesh with his father arrived to offer condolences.

PM Modi, Global Icons Grieve

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was “deeply saddened” by the demise of one of India’s “most iconic and versatile voices.” Shah Rukh Khan stated that her voice “will resonate across the world for centuries.” British singer Boy George recalled her “silk-like” voice from their 1991 collaboration. Shatrughan Sinha posted that “Music Thy Name is Asha Bhosle.”

Preparations Underway at Shivaji Park

Security has been tightened at Shivaji Park Crematorium ahead of the 4 PM funeral. The hearse is being decorated with white flowers as celebrities continue to arrive at her residence. Maharashtra Governor, Uddhav Thackeray, Supriya Sule, and Asha Parekh have all paid their respects. The nation bids farewell to a voice that defined generations of Indian cinema.

Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma Hail Dhurandhar: The Revenge as Cinematic Masterpiece

Power couple praises Ranveer Singh's film and director Aditya Dhar ahead of IPL clash, sparking fresh buzz for blockbuster

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma watched Ranveer Singh's 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge' ahead of Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL 2026 match against Rajasthan Royals. The couple showered praise on the film, its director Aditya Dhar, and lead actor Ranveer Singh via Instagram Stories. Kohli called it an unmatched cinematic experience in Indian cinema.

Key Details

Kohli shared his reaction post-screening, writing he had "never seen a cinematic experience like this made in India." He noted the nearly four-hour runtime gripped him without a flinch, stirring every emotion. Anushka lauded the film's immersive storytelling and conviction in its length.

Both highlighted Ranveer Singh's "flawless" and "beyond brilliant" performance. Anushka also commended supporting cast including R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, and Rakesh Bedi. The posts quickly went viral, amplifying the film's nationwide buzz.

Screening Context

The couple caught the film just before RCB's high-stakes IPL encounter. Sources close to Kohli indicated they prioritised the outing amid a packed cricket schedule. 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge', released recently, blends intense action with gripping narrative.

Director Responds

Aditya Dhar, who wrote, directed, and produced the film, replied promptly on Instagram. To Kohli, he expressed disbelief and fandom since the cricketer's Under-19 World Cup days. "Watching a once-in-a-generation legend show love like this just hits different," Dhar wrote, adding a Jai Hind salute.

For Anushka, Dhar called her praise "truly overwhelming" from an "exceptional talent." He vowed to aim higher with honest, heartfelt stories. Officials from the production house confirmed the exchanges boosted team morale.

Box Office Surge

The film raked in ₹1,021 crore in 19 days, with housefull shows nationwide. Dubbed versions expanded its reach across regions. As per reports, strong word-of-mouth and star power drove occupancy rates above 80% in key circuits.

Celebrity Endorsement Impact

Praise from Kohli, a national icon, and Anushka, a Bollywood stalwart, underscores the film's crossover appeal. Industry trackers noted a 15% spike in weekend bookings post their posts. Fans flooded social media, terming it a "public interest story" blending cinema and sports stardom.

Cultural Buzz

'Dhurandhar: The Revenge' has sparked discussions on long-format storytelling in Indian films. Sources indicated theatre chains extended runs due to demand. It marks Ranveer Singh's career high, with critics hailing his transformation.

Future Outlook

Producers eye international markets next, leveraging the endorsement. Dhar hinted at expanding the franchise. For Kohli and Anushka, their nod positions 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge' as trending news India watches. Expect more celebrity reactions as IPL 2026 heats up—this latest news today from India news update cements its blockbuster status.

Arjun Rampal Witnessed 26/11 on His Birthday

Actor Arjun Rampal made a deeply personal revelation at the Hello! Hall of Fame Awards in Mumbai on March 22, 2026. His birthday falls on November 26 — the exact date the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks shook the nation. What was meant to be a night of celebration turned into one of the most traumatic experiences of his life, and as per reports, that memory never left him.

The actor's candid account quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the evening, drawing attention across India news updates and entertainment portals alike.

Rampal Was at Hotel That Night

Rampal had originally planned to ring in his birthday at the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Colaba — one of the primary targets of the coordinated terror siege. However, circumstances placed him at the Four Seasons Hotel in Worli when the first explosion tore through the city.

What began as a festive evening shifted dramatically within moments. Sources indicated that Rampal, like hundreds of others across Mumbai that night, had no immediate understanding of what was unfolding outside.

Glass Shook, Chaos Followed

"I heard that sound and the whole glass kind of shook and rattled," Rampal recalled, describing the moment the blast reverberated through the hotel. Initial information circulating on the ground pointed to a gang war in Colaba, with no one yet grasping the coordinated scale of the attack.

Within minutes, reports of gunfire, hostage situations, and multiple simultaneous strikes began filtering through. The atmosphere inside the hotel shifted from confusion to controlled alarm as staff scrambled to secure the premises.

Hotel Locked Down Within Minutes

Hotel management moved quickly. Within 20 to 30 minutes, the Four Seasons was fully cordoned off and guests were informed it was unsafe to leave. Rampal was moved to a suite for the night as Mumbai braced for what would become a 60-hour siege across multiple locations.

He spent his birthday — a date that should have carried celebration — watching the horrors of the 26/11 attacks unfold in real time through news broadcasts and the sounds filtering in from the city outside. As per reports, the experience left a permanent mark on him.

Morning After Left Him Shaken

The following morning brought little relief. As Rampal made his way home through a city still reeling from the carnage, the emotional weight of the previous night caught up with him fully.

According to the actor, he was forced to stop his car at least three times during the drive. The physical toll of what he had witnessed — the sounds, the fear, the scale of the tragedy — left him unable to continue without pausing to collect himself. It was, by his own account, one of the hardest mornings of his life.

Dhurandhar Role Felt Personal

Years later, when filmmaker Aditya Dhar sat down with Rampal to narrate the 26/11 sequence in Dhurandhar: The Revenge, something clicked immediately. The actor did not approach the role as a craft exercise — he approached it as unfinished emotional business.

"When Aditya Dhar narrated to me the 26/11 scene, I knew I was going to have my revenge," Rampal said, with visible conviction. He described channelling years of suppressed grief and anger into every scene, determined to do justice to the victims and survivors of that night.

The statement resonated widely, with audiences and industry insiders alike recognising the rare authenticity behind his words. This was not a promotional soundbite — it was a public interest story rooted in lived experience.

Rampal Plays ISI Handler in Film

In Dhurandhar: The Revenge, Arjun Rampal plays Major Iqbal, an ISI operative portrayed as one of the key architects and coordinators of the 26/11 attacks. The character is shown actively communicating with the attackers during the siege, celebrating as the carnage unfolds.

It is a deeply unsettling role — and one that Rampal, given his personal history with that night, clearly did not take lightly. According to sources close to the production, his preparation for the character went well beyond conventional research, drawing directly from emotional memory.

The contrast between his real-life trauma as a bystander and his on-screen portrayal of a perpetrator gives the performance an edge that critics have taken note of since the film's release.

Film Crosses ₹761 Crore Globally

Released on March 19, Dhurandhar: The Revenge crossed ₹761 crore at the global box office within its opening weekend alone, as per trade reports. The film is firmly on course to breach the ₹1,000 crore mark, placing it among the biggest Bollywood openings in recent memory.

The numbers reflect not just the film's star power but also the strong public appetite for stories rooted in national memory and real events. Trending news India searches around the film spiked sharply following its release weekend.

Cast Includes Bollywood Heavyweights

Dhurandhar: The Revenge brings together one of the strongest ensemble casts assembled for an Indian action thriller in recent years. The film stars Ranveer Singh, R. Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Rakesh Bedi, and Sara Arjun alongside Rampal.

Each casting choice carries weight within the narrative, and early audience response has pointed to strong performances across the board. The film's release has sparked renewed national conversation around the 26/11 attacks and their lasting impact on India's security and collective psyche.

Arjun Rampal's firsthand account of witnessing the attacks adds a dimension few Bollywood releases can claim — a direct human connection between the artist, the event, and the story being told on screen.

Disha Patani, Tamannaah Bhatia, Khushi Kapoor, and Shanaya Kapoor lit up Lakme Fashion Week Day 3, turning the ramp into a spectacle of couture and celebrity glamour at Mumbai's Jio World Convention Centre.

Star Power on the Ramp

Mumbai's Jio World Convention Centre turned into a runway spectacle on Saturday as Lakme Fashion Week 2026 entered its third day, with Bollywood and OTT celebrities stepping out as showstoppers for some of the country's most prominent fashion designers. Disha Patani headlined the evening, walking as the face of designer Amit Aggarwal's highly anticipated 'Origin' collection — a role that cemented her standing as one of the most sought-after runway personalities in India.

Disha Patani Commands the Ramp

Patani's appearance drew immediate attention as she walked out in a sculpted black outfit featuring a structured blouse and a statement dupatta — pieces that anchored Aggarwal's exploration of elemental design. She wore her hair swept into a loose bun with stray strands framing her face, complemented by a diamond necklace set with an emerald pendant. The ensemble struck a balance between architectural precision and traditional elegance, reflecting the 'Origin' collection's thematic premise.

Tamannaah and Shanaya Take the Stage

Actress Tamannaah Bhatia walked for designer Bhumika Sharma's 'Afterglow' collection, bringing a warm, luminous energy to the runway that resonated with the collection's visual mood. Earlier in the day, Shanaya Kapoor had represented designer Ritika Mirchandani as her showstopper, marking another high-profile outing for the actress who has been steadily building her presence both on and off screen.

Khushi Kapoor's Floral Moment

Khushi Kapoor walked for designer Aisha Rao, wearing a floral embellished crop top paired with a matching lehenga. Speaking about the outfit after the show, Kapoor appreciated the collection's use of colour, intricate pattern work, and detailing — elements she described as both contemporary and deeply rooted in craft. Her appearance came amid growing public interest in her rising profile across the entertainment industry.

Diana Penty and Nimrat Kaur Join the Lineup

Model-actress Diana Penty walked the ramp for designer Anjali Patel Mehta, while Nimrat Kaur appeared for the label 'Jajabor'. Both performances added depth to a day that reinforced Lakme Fashion Week's standing as a platform bridging commercial appeal with genuine design credibility. Each designer used their showstopper to present a distinct visual identity, reflecting the varied creative directions at play across the event.

Malavika Mohanan Closes Day 3

Actress Malavika Mohanan closed out the day's proceedings with an all-white ensemble for designer Anurag Gupta's collection. Dressed in a cropped jacket, a crisp white shirt, and an asymmetric skirt, Mohanan delivered a restrained but visually sharp final note to the evening — a fitting conclusion to what organisers described as one of the edition's most star-studded days.

About Lakme Fashion Week

Lakme Fashion Week is a flagship Indian fashion event jointly organised by Lakme and RISE Worldwide, now held in formal partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI). Held twice annually, the event presents summer-resort and fall-winter collections in March, and winter-festive lines in October. The March 2026 edition ran from March 19 to 22 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, offering designers a high-visibility platform to reach domestic and international audiences. For the latest news today on India's trending fashion events, this edition of Lakme Fashion Week stands out as a key cultural touchpoint on the national calendar.

TV Industry Struggles Come Under Spotlight

After Bollywood’s debate on work-life balance, the TV industry struggles have now taken center stage. Popular actors including Arjun Bijlani, Aamir Ali and Nakuul Mehta have opened up about the harsh realities of working in Indian television — from exhausting schedules to delayed payments and the stigma of being labelled “just a TV actor.”

Their candid revelations have sparked fresh conversations about working conditions in the entertainment industry, especially at a time when many actors are transitioning to OTT platforms and films.

Arjun Bijlani on Grueling 12-Hour Shifts

In a recent interaction with IANS, Arjun Bijlani described television shoots as “very tough and challenging.” According to him, a standard 12-hour shift rarely ends on time. Preparation, retakes, overtime and travel often stretch the day far beyond scheduled hours.

Reflecting on his early days, the actor revealed that he once worked “35 days in a 30-day month” due to continuous overtime. The physically and mentally draining routine left little room for rest.

Bijlani, known for shows like:

 Left Right Left

 Miley Jab Hum Tum

 Naagin

He admitted that while conditions have improved slightly, an 8-hour shift model remains impractical for daily soaps. “To deliver quality content, you need those 12 hours,” he explained.

Nakuul Mehta on Typecasting in Television

Another major aspect of TV industry struggles is typecasting. Nakuul Mehta highlighted the prejudice TV actors face when moving to films or OTT platforms.

Currently seen in the web series Space Gen: Chandrayaan, Nakuul said actors often battle the “TV actor” tag, which limits opportunities beyond the small screen.

He rose to fame with:

 Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara

 Ishqbaaaz

Nakuul emphasized that many television stars have successfully transitioned to films and OTT, yet the bias continues. According to him, even the television fraternity sometimes lacks pride in its own talent.

Aamir Ali’s Emotional Confession

For Aamir Ali, the struggle was deeply personal. Best known for his role in F.I.R., Aamir admitted that shifting from films to television initially felt like a setback.

After leaving his job to pursue films, projects failed to release and payments were delayed. Financial pressure forced him back to television.

“I used to cry in my vanity van every day,” he revealed in a recent interview. He felt embarrassed when film colleagues questioned his move to TV. His story underlines the financial instability actors often face and the unpredictable nature of showbiz careers.

 Why This Debate Matters Now

The conversation around TV industry struggles is especially relevant today as:

 OTT platforms are redefining content consumption.

 Actors are demanding better work-life balance.

 Audiences are becoming more aware of behind-the-scenes realities.

Industry observers suggest that structured working hours, timely payments, and equal respect across mediums are essential reforms.

The Road Ahead for Indian Television

The experiences shared by Arjun Bijlani, Nakuul Mehta and Aamir Ali shed light on systemic issues within Indian television. While the glamour of the small screen continues to attract millions, the challenges behind the camera remain significant.

As the entertainment industry evolves, these conversations could pave the way for healthier working conditions, greater financial security, and equal recognition for television actors.

The spotlight is no longer just on-screen — it’s now firmly on the system itself.

Named in the title of Manoj Bajpayee's new Netflix film Ghooskhor Pandat, rapper and singer Santy Sharma made strong protests against this title when he made public his opinion about it as being offensive. Sharma believes that using an association between the terms of caste and your community, with money (corruption) gives a very negative connotation. He felt that there was a need for greater responsibility on the part of producers as they chose a name for their film; one that would cause damage to social harmony;

Additionally, Santy has taken issue with the professionalism of those behind the film's production, claiming there was no registration for the title prior to the release of promotion on the internet. He further stated that this evidence shows there has been no personal or professional thought or planning given to the ramifications that could occur from having previously targeted the same group of people under the guise of creative license; especially considering the consequences should the film be successful in any manner! He expressed the sentiment that targeting specific groups of people for such reasons will lead to further division within society and hopes there will be guidelines established by the governing body of film so as to prevent similar actions in the future.

In addition to questioning whether or not there was a professional basis for promoting this film (specifically, that the title had not been properly registered prior to releasing the teaser), Santy also believes that it was a major oversight and the result of poor planning. Furthermore, he states that such practices decrease public confidence in the entertainment business and clearly indicate the need for better regulation regarding both film names and contents. He called upon the Government and regulators to issue stronger guidelines for future use of sensitive words in relation to film titles and content.

As for Santy Sharma’s very bold position, numbers of his supporters, along with other social media users, have posted their support for him as someone willing to voice an issue that many do not talk about. His statements have gained such a large amount of attention on social media that they constitute a nationwide discussion about the issues of respect, identity, and accountability in cinema. Many people believe that Santy’s willingness to take a stand has helped bring attention to issues that many other people have not had the opportunity to express.