Yash-starrer Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups has entered its third week with a noticeable slowdown at the box office. On Day 15, the film recorded an estimated ₹0.60 crore net collection in India, according to industry-tracking data, taking its India net total to around ₹247.85 crore. Its worldwide gross has reached approximately ₹339.32 crore. 

The film, directed by Geetu Mohandas, also stars Kiara Advani, Nayanthara and Tara Sutaria. Despite the scale of the project and Yash's strong fan following, Toxic has struggled to maintain the momentum of its opening phase.

Toxic Day 15 Box Office Collection

According to Sacnilk's latest tracking, Toxic earned around ₹0.60 crore net across 1,322 shows in India on its 15th day. The film's India gross stood at approximately ₹295.82 crore, while the overseas gross was estimated at ₹43.50 crore. Together, these figures put the worldwide gross at ₹339.32 crore. 

The Times of India also reported the ₹339.32 crore worldwide figure and noted that the film's Day 15 performance declined by about 20 per cent compared with the previous day. 

Third-Week Collection Trend Remains Weak

The latest numbers indicate that Toxic is finding it increasingly difficult to sustain theatrical momentum. The film had a much stronger opening, but collections dropped substantially as it moved beyond the initial days.

Reports tracking the film's third-week performance have highlighted its struggle to cross the ₹250 crore mark in India net. Competition from newer releases has also affected its theatrical presence. 

Mirzapur: The Movie Adds to Competition

One of the films putting additional pressure on Toxic is Mirzapur: The Movie. The film opened strongly in India, crossing ₹20 crore gross on its first day according to industry tracker Sacnilk data cited by The Indian Express. 

With audiences having more new theatrical options, Toxic has seen its collections fall sharply during its third week.

Yash's Big-Screen Comeback Faces Box Office Test

Toxic arrived with considerable expectations because of Yash's popularity following the KGF franchise. The film's ambitious scale and ensemble cast had generated substantial pre-release interest.

However, the theatrical response has been mixed, and the box-office trajectory has not matched the level of anticipation surrounding the project. Recent reports have also discussed the criticism faced by the film after its release. 

At this stage, the ₹339.32 crore worldwide gross represents the film's reported cumulative performance, but its slowing daily collections suggest that its remaining theatrical run could be increasingly dependent on sustaining shows and audience interest.

What Next for Toxic?

With Day 15 collections falling to around ₹60 lakh net in India, Toxic will need a significant improvement over the coming days to reverse its current trend.

For now, the film has crossed the ₹300 crore worldwide mark, but the much more closely watched milestone is its final theatrical total and whether it can substantially increase its India net collection before its run winds down.

The Movie is maintaining a strong run at the box office as it completes its first week in theatres. The Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal and Ravi Kishan-starrer has crossed ₹139 crore in estimated India net collections by Day 7 and is closing in on the ₹200 crore worldwide mark. 

According to the latest trade tracking cited by The Times of India, the film's India net collection stood at around ₹139.08 crore by the end of Day 7. Its worldwide gross had reached approximately ₹193.48 crore after six days, leaving it about ₹6.5 crore short of the ₹200 crore global milestone. 

Mirzapur The Movie Day 7 Collection

The film has shown considerable staying power during its opening week despite a gradual decline in daily collections.

The latest available figures put the domestic net total at ₹139.08 crore on Day 7. The movie had collected ₹137.90 crore net in India after six days, indicating an additional estimated ₹1.18 crore on the seventh day. 

Box-office figures can vary slightly between tracking platforms, so these numbers should be treated as estimates until official producers' figures are released.

Film Eyes ₹200 Crore Worldwide

The biggest immediate target for Mirzapur: The Movie is the ₹200 crore worldwide mark.

The film's reported worldwide gross stood at around ₹193.48 crore after Day 6. With only about ₹6.52 crore separating it from the milestone, the film could potentially cross the mark during the second weekend if its theatrical momentum remains strong. 

Its performance during the coming weekend will also determine whether the film can push substantially beyond the ₹150 crore India net mark.

Strong Start for the Mirzapur Franchise on the Big Screen

Mirzapur: The Movie arrived in cinemas on September 4, 2026, marking the franchise's move from the streaming space to theatrical exhibition. The film brings back several familiar faces, including Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal and Divyenndu, while Ravi Kishan is also part of the ensemble.

The franchise already had a substantial fan base through its three-season streaming run. Its opening-week numbers indicate that this audience has translated into significant theatrical footfall.

Second Weekend Holds the Key

With the first week largely complete, the second weekend will be crucial for Mirzapur: The Movie. A strong Saturday and Sunday could give the film enough momentum to move well beyond the ₹150 crore domestic net milestone.

At the same time, the arrival of new theatrical competition could affect show counts and occupancy in the coming days. The film's ability to maintain audience interest beyond its core fan base will therefore be important for its final box-office outcome.

Can Mirzapur The Movie Reach ₹200 Crore?

The film is already within striking distance of ₹200 crore worldwide. Based on the latest reported figures, it needs roughly ₹6.5 crore more to cross that mark. 

For now, Mirzapur: The Movie has delivered a strong first-week theatrical performance. The focus will shift to its second-weekend collections and whether the film can convert its early momentum into a longer-running box-office success.

Hanuman Ansh, the spiritual drama based on the life of Neem Karoli Baba, has crossed the ₹150 crore mark in India net collection after an unusually strong theatrical run. The film achieved the milestone on its 34th day, continuing to attract audiences more than a month after its release.

According to Sacnilk figures cited by The Times of India and India Today, the film earned an estimated ₹10.25 crore net on Day 34, taking its cumulative India net collection to ₹153.13 crore. Its India gross collection has reached approximately ₹180.95 crore. 

The milestone comes shortly after the film's team met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow.

Hanuman Ansh Team Meets Yogi Adityanath

The film's producer-director Vishal Chaturvedi and members of the cast met Yogi Adityanath at his official residence in Lucknow on September 8.

According to reports, the team discussed the film's subject and its spiritual themes with the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister. The meeting also focused on Neem Karoli Baba and the film's depiction of his spiritual journey and links with the Nath tradition. 

The Chief Minister's office also shared photographs from the meeting, describing it as a courtesy interaction with the makers and cast of Hanuman Ansh.

Day 34 Collection Shows Strong Hold

The film's latest box-office performance is notable because it came after more than four weeks in theatres.

Hanuman Ansh reportedly collected ₹10.25 crore net on its 34th day from around 7,810 shows. That was a 4.7% decline from the estimated ₹10.75 crore collected on Day 33. Despite the day-on-day drop, the film added another substantial amount to its cumulative total. 

Its current India net figure of ₹153.13 crore puts the film well beyond the ₹150 crore milestone, while its gross domestic collection has moved close to ₹181 crore.

From Slow Opening to Box Office Success

The most striking aspect of Hanuman Ansh's theatrical journey has been its transformation from a slow starter into a major box-office performer.

The film reportedly opened with only around ₹10 lakh on its first day. Its initial performance was modest, but collections began gaining momentum in subsequent weeks as audience interest and word-of-mouth reportedly strengthened. 

The film's extended theatrical run has consequently produced a very different outcome from its opening-week numbers.

Film Based on Neem Karoli Baba's Life

Directed by Vishal Chaturvedi, Hanuman Ansh revolves around the early life and spiritual transformation of Neem Karoli Baba.

Shobhinaw Satyaa plays Neem Karoli Baba, while Chandan K. Anand is also part of the principal cast. The story is set in pre-Independence India and follows Lakshmi Narayan after he leaves home following the death of his mother in search of spiritual answers.

The narrative traces his journey across northern India and his eventual transformation into the spiritual figure known as Neem Karoli Baba.

₹200 Crore Gross Now in Sight

With its India gross collection already at approximately ₹180.95 crore, the film is now within striking distance of another major milestone.

Based on the latest reported figures, Hanuman Ansh needs roughly ₹19 crore more in India gross to reach ₹200 crore.

Whether it reaches that level will depend on how strongly the film holds during its fifth week and beyond. However, its ability to generate more than ₹10 crore on Day 34 has already extended its theatrical run well beyond expectations.

For now, Hanuman Ansh stands out as one of the year's most unusual box-office stories: a film that started with a modest opening but built momentum over several weeks to cross the ₹150 crore India net milestone.

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh have given fans a glimpse of their family life with a new maternity photoshoot featuring their daughter Dua. Shared on Instagram on September 8, the pictures quickly drew attention, not only for the family's appearance but also for Deepika's understated yet distinctive white lace ensemble.

The actor's outfit has reportedly been identified as the Kianna Set by Deme by Gabriella, with the brand's website listing the ensemble at Rs 48,643. The look combines a lace top with matching trousers, creating a contemporary silhouette while retaining a soft, romantic aesthetic.

The couple shared the photographs on the occasion of Dua's birthday, with their post accompanied by a message about their growing family and a request for blessings.

Deepika's white lace ensemble

For the photoshoot, Deepika chose an all-white lace outfit featuring intricate detailing and cutwork. The top includes a front cut-out and an open section around the waist, extending into a more dramatic silhouette.

She paired the top with matching floral lace trousers, keeping the overall look monochromatic. According to the brand description cited in reports, the set is designed for statement-making occasions and elevated evening dressing.

Rather than adding heavy accessories, Deepika kept the styling relatively minimal. She wore her hair in loose, open waves and appeared without prominent jewellery, allowing the lace outfit to remain the central element of the look.

Ranveer and Dua complement the look

Ranveer Singh opted for a simple white shirt and matching trousers for the family photographs, coordinating with Deepika's monochrome outfit.

Their daughter Dua also featured prominently in the pictures. She was dressed in a shirt and trousers, with her hair styled in two ponytails finished with ribbon bows.

The family-focused photographs offered a departure from the more heavily styled celebrity photoshoots often associated with Bollywood appearances.

Couple announces second pregnancy

Deepika and Ranveer had announced their second pregnancy earlier this year. The couple shared the news on social media on April 19, using a photograph featuring Dua and a positive pregnancy test.

Instead of a conventional announcement message, the post used two evil-eye emojis, a detail that immediately attracted attention from their followers.

The couple welcomed Dua in September 2024, making the current pregnancy their second since their marriage in 2018.

Deepika has spoken about motherhood

Deepika has previously spoken about the challenges of pregnancy and her transition into motherhood.

In an earlier interview, she described her first pregnancy as a difficult period and spoke about the physical and emotional experience of carrying and delivering her first child.

She has also discussed the broader challenges faced by women returning to work after becoming mothers. Deepika has said that new mothers need greater support when they resume their professional responsibilities.

Her comments have added another dimension to her public conversations about balancing motherhood and a career in the film industry.

What Deepika and Ranveer are working on

The couple continue to have several film projects in their professional line-up.

Ranveer Singh is set to appear in Pralay, described as a post-apocalyptic survival thriller. Deepika, meanwhile, has King, featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Suhana Khan and Abhishek Bachchan, among the projects associated with her upcoming slate. She is also set to appear in the Telugu film Raaka.

For now, however, the couple's latest social-media appearance has shifted attention back to their family, with Deepika's Rs 48,643 lace ensemble becoming one of the talking points from the maternity shoot.

Streaming platforms are bringing a mix of crime thrillers, historical dramas, reality shows and international series this week, giving viewers several new options across genres.

The second week of September is set to bring a fresh lineup of movies and web series across major OTT platforms including Netflix, JioHotstar, ZEE5 and Prime Video. From crime dramas and political thrillers to international shows, viewers will have several new titles to choose from between September 7 and September 13. 

Among the most awaited releases is Ghamasaan, a crime drama directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia. The film features Pratik Gandhi and Arshad Warsi in key roles and is scheduled to stream on ZEE5. The story is expected to bring a clash between crime and law enforcement against the backdrop of a gritty narrative. Another major release this week is The Revolutionaries, which arrives on Prime Video. The series follows the story of young revolutionaries linked to India's freedom struggle and stars actors including Bhuvan Bam, Rohit Saraf, Pratibha Ranta and Gurfateh Pirzada. 

International audiences will also get new content, with Fauda Season 5 arriving on Netflix on September 8. The popular political-action thriller returns with another season after building a global fan baseNetflix is also adding other titles during the week, including comedy and drama-based content. Meanwhile, JioHotstar will bring shows such as Ali Baba Aur 40 Bhoot and Prince of Mollywood, expanding its catalogue with a mix of Indian and regional entertainment. 

OTT Releases This Week (September 7-13)

Fauda Season 5

• Platform: Netflix

• Release Date: September 8

• Genre: Political thriller/action 

Ghamasaan

• Platform: ZEE5

• Release Date: September 11

• Cast: Pratik Gandhi, Arshad Warsi

• Genre: Crime drama 

The Revolutionaries

• Platform: Prime Video

• Release Date: September 11

• Genre: Historical drama 

Ali Baba Aur 40 Bhoot

• Platform: JioHotstar

• Release Date: September 11

• Genre: Horror comedy 

Prince of Mollywood

• Platform: JioHotstar

• Release Date: September 11

• Genre: Comedy/drama 

Apart from these titles, several regional films and international shows are also making their digital premieres during the week, offering viewers options across Hindi, South Indian and global content categories. With theatrical releases and OTT platforms competing for audience attention, streaming services are increasingly focusing on diverse genres to attract viewers looking for fresh weekend entertainment

Sunny Deol-starrer Batwara 1947 did not meet box office expectations, but Preity Zinta said she remains proud of the film and believes an actor can only control the effort put into a project. 

Actor Preity Zinta has opened up about the box office performance of Batwara 1947, saying that while an artist can give their best to a film, the final outcome is not always in their control. The film, starring Sunny Deol and directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, received a disappointing response at the box office after release. 

Speaking about the film's journey, Preity said she remains proud of the project and follows the belief of putting maximum effort into her work before accepting whatever result follows. She said she gives her “1000 per cent” to every film and leaves the rest to God. The actress added that an actor can focus on their performance and dedication but cannot completely control audience response, business results or other factors that decide a film's theatrical journey. 

Batwara 1947, which marked Preity Zinta's return to acting after an eight-year gap, brought together Sunny Deol and director Rajkumar Santoshi once again. Despite the reunion of the popular duo and expectations around the period drama, the film struggled to achieve the expected box office numbers. The film opened with a reported collection of around ₹5.75 crore, according to trade reports.  The movie also features actors including Shabana Azmi, Karan Deol, Ali Fazal and others in key roles. 

Preity Zinta is now preparing for her next project Vibe, directed by Kunal Kemmu. She has also spoken about the physical preparation required for the role, including training for action sequences. The actress' comments highlight the unpredictable nature of the film business, where extensive preparation and commitment do not always guarantee commercial success.

Mirzapur The Movie Box Office Collection Day 5: Ali Fazal's Film Crosses ₹125 Crore in India, Worldwide Gross Nears ₹177 Crore

Gurmeet Singh's directorial continued its strong theatrical run on the fifth day, earning ₹15.85 crore in India and maintaining momentum after a successful opening weekend.

Mirzapur The Movie has continued its strong performance at the box office, with the film crossing the ₹125 crore mark in India within five days of its theatrical release. The Ali Fazal-starrer recorded a collection of ₹15.85 crore on Day 5, according to trade tracker Sacnilk.The film's India net collection now stands at ₹125.60 crore, while its India gross collection has reached ₹149.97 crore. Including overseas earnings, the film's worldwide gross collection has climbed to around ₹176.97 crore.Released in theatres on September 4, the film maintained steady momentum after a strong opening weekend.

The movie earned ₹25.75 crore on Friday, followed by ₹32 crore on Saturday, ₹36 crore on Sunday, and around ₹16 crore on Monday, before adding ₹15.85 crore on Tuesday.The overseas market has also contributed to the film's overall performance. The movie collected ₹3.50 crore overseas on Day 5, taking its total overseas gross collection to approximately ₹27 crore.Trade analyst Taran Adarsh has described the film's box office run as a "super-hit", pointing to its strong performance after the crucial first Monday test. According to his assessment, the film has managed to attract audiences despite competition from other releases

The film is the theatrical continuation of the popular Mirzapur franchise and brings back several familiar faces along with new additions. Ali Fazal returns as Guddu Bhaiya, while Pankaj Tripathi, Divyenndu, Shweta Tripathi Sharma and Sheeba Chaddha are among the returning cast members.Directed by Gurmeet Singh, the film also features new additions including Ravi Kishan and Jitendra Kumar. The story continues the power struggle and crime drama associated with the franchise while introducing new conflicts and character dynamics.With its first five days delivering strong numbers, the next challenge for Mirzapur The Movie will be maintaining its pace during the weekday run and converting the initial audience response into a sustained theatrical performance.

The trailer of Drishyam The Conclusion introduces a bigger challenge for Ajay Devgn’s Vijay Salgaonkar as he faces pressure from Tabu’s Meera Deshmukh along with new opponents played by Jaideep Ahlawat and Prakash Raj.

The makers of Drishyam The Conclusion have released the trailer of the much-awaited third instalment of the franchise, bringing back Ajay Devgn as Vijay Salgaonkar in another intense battle of strategy, secrets and survival.The film’s trailer shows Vijay facing a new set of challenges as he tries to protect his family while dealing with powerful opponents. Along with the returning character of Meera Deshmukh, played by Tabu, Vijay now finds himself up against new threats portrayed by Jaideep Ahlawat and Prakash Raj.The film is scheduled to release in theatres on October 2.

Vijay Salgaonkar’s biggest challenge yet

The trailer continues the story of Vijay Salgaonkar, a family man known for using his intelligence to protect his loved ones.This time, the character faces a three-way challenge involving a crime branch officer played by Jaideep Ahlawat, lawyer Prakash Raj and Tabu’s Meera Deshmukh, who returns with her pursuit for answers.The central question remains — how far will Vijay go to save his family and protect the truth he believes in?

Ajay Devgn returns as the mastermind

The makers had earlier revealed the first poster of the film featuring a close-up of Ajay Devgn’s eye, along with the line reflecting Vijay’s belief that his family remains his ultimate priority.The teaser released earlier also hinted at Vijay’s mindset and his complicated relationship with truth, justice and morality.The franchise revolves around Vijay Salgaonkar, who uses his presence of mind and planning to protect his family after they become involved in a criminal investigation.

New faces join returning cast

Along with Ajay Devgn and Tabu, Shriya Saran will reprise her role from the earlier films.The third part introduces Prakash Raj and Jaideep Ahlawat in new roles, adding another layer of conflict to Vijay’s story.Drishyam The Conclusion is directed by Abhishek Pathak and backed by Star Studio18 and Panorama Studios.

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh shared new maternity shoot pictures featuring their daughter Dua. Deepika’s lace outfit became a talking point after details of the designer ensemble surfaced.

Deepika Padukone’s latest maternity shoot pictures with husband Ranveer Singh and daughter Dua have caught attention online, with fans praising the family photos and the actress’s elegant styling.The couple shared the pictures on social media as they celebrated their daughter Dua’s birthday. In the photos, Deepika is seen flaunting her baby bump in a white lace ensemble, while Ranveer Singh opted for an all-white outfit.The couple captioned the post, “Baby Dua and our hearts are getting bigger! Thank you for your blessings.”

Deepika’s ₹48,643 lace outfit

Deepika’s maternity shoot outfit was identified as the Kianna Set by Deme by Gabriella. According to the designer’s official website, the ensemble is priced at around ₹48,643.The outfit features detailed lace work, cut-out detailing and matching floral lace pants. The actress completed the look with open beach waves and chose to skip jewellery for a minimal appearance.Ranveer Singh was seen wearing a white shirt paired with matching trousers, complementing Deepika’s monochrome look.

Daughter Dua steals the spotlight

The couple’s daughter Dua became the centre of attention in the family portraits. She was dressed in a shirt and trousers, with her hair styled in ponytails tied with ribbons.The pictures received reactions from several celebrities and fans, who congratulated the couple and sent their wishes.

Deepika’s second pregnancy announcement

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh had announced their second pregnancy earlier through a social media post.The couple had welcomed their first child, daughter Dua, before sharing the news of their second addition to the family.Deepika has previously spoken about her motherhood journey and the challenges she faced during her first pregnancy. She has also highlighted the need for greater support for new mothers returning to work.

Upcoming projects

On the work front, Ranveer Singh is set to appear in the survival thriller Pralay, while Deepika Padukone will next be seen in King, alongside Shah Rukh Khan, Suhana Khan and Abhishek Bachchan.She is also part of the Telugu pan-India film Raaka.

Nora Fatehi Faces ₹3 Crore Defamation Suit Over ‘Toy Plane’ Remarks

Bollywood actor Nora Fatehi is facing a ₹3 crore civil defamation suit filed by aviation company Dunes Aviation in a Gandhinagar court over her alleged social media comments about one of its chartered aircraft.

The company has alleged that Fatehi described the aircraft as a “toy” and a “Lego airplane” after travelling on it, and claimed that the remarks harmed its reputation and commercial operations. The matter is scheduled to come up before Senior Civil Judge R. Agarwal on September 25. (Business Today)

Dispute dates back to December 2025 flight

According to the lawsuit, Fatehi recorded videos inside a Cessna Citation CJ2 aircraft during a Mumbai-Jaipur flight in December 2025 and later shared the footage on Instagram.

The aviation company alleges that she referred to the aircraft as “miniature”, a “toy” and a “Lego airplane”. Dunes Aviation has described these comments as derogatory, reckless and irresponsible, arguing that they were made without adequate technical knowledge or verification. (Business Today)

Company claims business was affected

Dunes Aviation has linked the social media posts to an alleged decline in its business. According to the company's claims in the suit, bookings fell by around 15–20% and cancellations increased following the controversy.

The firm has argued that Fatehi's large social media following amplified the comments and contributed to reputational damage, loss of goodwill and an adverse commercial impact. These are allegations made by the company in its civil suit and have not been established by the court. (The Economic Times)

Dunes Aviation says aircraft was certified

The company has also disputed any suggestion that the aircraft was unsuitable for the journey. Dunes Aviation has maintained that the Cessna Citation CJ2 was a standard aircraft, airworthy and operated legally.

According to the company's case, the aircraft was DGCA-certified and being operated under a valid Non-Scheduled Operator's Permit (NSOP). (Hungama Express)

₹3 crore damages sought

Apart from seeking ₹3 crore in damages, Dunes Aviation has asked for the removal of social media content containing the alleged statements or references to the aircraft.

The company has also sought a public clarification from Fatehi over the remarks. The court will consider the matter at its upcoming hearing on September 25. (Business Today)

No response from Nora Fatehi reported so far

As of the latest reports, no detailed response from Nora Fatehi to the civil suit has been reported. The legal proceedings are at an early stage, and the company's allegations should not be treated as findings of fact.

The case also raises a broader question about the legal consequences of comments made by high-profile personalities on social media, particularly when companies claim that such statements have caused measurable reputational or financial losses.

What happens next?

The Gandhinagar court's September 25 hearing will be an important next step in the dispute. Among the issues likely to arise are the nature of Fatehi's statements, whether they constitute actionable defamation, and whether Dunes Aviation can establish a direct connection between the posts and the financial losses it claims.

The ₹3 crore compensation demand, alleged 15–20% booking decline and claims about reputational damage are part of Dunes Aviation's case. They have not been established as court findings, and any response from Nora Fatehi could alter the context as proceedings develop.

The casting of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming two-part film ‘Ramayana’ has come under fresh scrutiny after Shiv Sagar, grandson of the late filmmaker Ramanand Sagar, said he personally finds it difficult to accept the actor in the role.

Shiv Sagar, who is also a producer-director, said Ranbir’s previous screen image—particularly his role in Animal—creates what he described as “baggage” for a character as culturally and spiritually significant as Lord Ram. He said a relatively new face would, in his view, have been a better choice. 

Shiv Sagar prefers a fresh face for Ram

Speaking to ANI, Shiv Sagar said he liked most of the film’s casting but disagreed with the choice of Ranbir Kapoor for Lord Ram.

He explained that when he thinks of Ram, he finds it difficult to separate Ranbir from the image created by his earlier roles. According to Shiv, a fresh actor without a strong association with previous characters could have allowed audiences to approach the role differently.

His comments were specifically about his personal perception of the casting, rather than a statement about Ranbir Kapoor’s acting ability. 

‘Animal’ image cited as the main concern

Shiv Sagar’s objection centres on Ranbir’s portrayal of Ranvijay Singh Balbir in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal, a character that was markedly different from the traditional image associated with Lord Ram.

He argued that actors portraying revered mythological figures can carry the weight of their earlier screen identities into such roles. Shiv said this is why his family has generally preferred new faces for characters in their television productions.

The debate is particularly sensitive because Ramayana is not being treated merely as another fictional adaptation by many Indian viewers. Shiv stressed that Lord Ram is worshipped by millions and occupies a significant place in Indian cultural and religious life.

Yash and Sai Pallavi receive praise

While questioning Ranbir’s casting, Shiv Sagar praised the choices of Yash and Sai Pallavi.

Yash plays Ravana, while Sai Pallavi portrays Sita in Nitesh Tiwari’s adaptation. Shiv said both actors appeared suitable to him because, in his assessment, they did not carry the same kind of previous-role association that he believes Ranbir brings to the project. 

His comments come as the film’s casting continues to attract considerable public discussion ahead of its theatrical release.

Costume choices also questioned

Shiv Sagar also expressed reservations about some of the film’s costumes and other creative decisions.

He said that certain aspects of the casting and costume design could have been handled differently, while emphasising that ultimately the audience would determine whether the filmmakers’ choices worked.

The remarks add another layer to the ongoing discussion around the visual interpretation of the epic, particularly after promotional material and the trailer generated debate over character looks and costumes.

Why the casting debate matters

The casting discussion reflects a larger challenge faced by filmmakers adapting culturally revered stories for contemporary cinema: balancing star power and commercial reach with the expectations audiences attach to familiar religious and cultural figures.

Shiv Sagar acknowledged that casting a major star such as Ranbir could have commercial advantages, including helping the film’s marketing. However, he maintained that his personal preference would still be for a new face in the role of Ram.

Similar concerns about Ranbir’s Animal image have also been raised publicly by veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, who recently argued that the association could affect how children and audiences perceive the character of Ram. 

‘Ramayana’ set for November 2026 release

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part 1 stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. The film is planned as the first instalment of a two-part adaptation.

The makers have announced November 6, 2026 as the global theatrical release date for the first part. 

As the release approaches, the response to the casting, costumes, visual effects and overall interpretation is likely to remain an important part of the film’s public conversation.

Ranveer Singh’s first glimpses from the sets of his upcoming film ‘Pralay’ have surfaced online, giving fans a closer look at his rugged new appearance. The actor is seen with long hair and stubble, while one of the circulating videos shows him carrying a child on his back during a scene with co-star Kalyani Priyadarshan.

The leaked set visuals have quickly triggered comparisons with Ranveer’s look in Dhurandhar, with some fans joking that his character Jaskeerat Singh Rangi has returned. However, there is currently no indication from the filmmakers that the two characters are connected. (The Times of India)

Ranveer sports rugged, long-haired look

The pictures and videos emerging from the Mumbai shoot show Ranveer in a markedly different appearance. He has longer, unkempt hair, facial hair and a weathered look that appears suited to the film’s post-apocalyptic setting.

In one video, Ranveer is seen walking alongside Kalyani Priyadarshan and other people while carrying a child on his back. The visuals also feature a dusty environment, damaged-looking roads and abandoned vehicles, adding to the survival-thriller atmosphere. (Moneycontrol)

The identity of the child and the relationship between the character and the child have not been revealed by the makers.

Fans connect the look with ‘Dhurandhar’

Ranveer’s long hairstyle immediately reminded several social media users of his appearance as Jaskeerat Singh Rangi in Dhurandhar.

In the film, Ranveer initially appears as undercover Indian operative Hamza Ali Mazari before the character’s real identity is revealed as Jaskeerat Singh Rangi. The similarity in hairstyle has led to fan speculation, but the comparison remains just that—a fan theory.

There is no reported official connection between Dhurandhar and Pralay, and the latter is being developed as a separate post-apocalyptic survival story.

Kalyani Priyadarshan spotted alongside Ranveer

Malayalam actor Kalyani Priyadarshan is also visible in the newly surfaced footage. The project marks her Hindi film debut after her recent recognition for Lokah. She had previously shared an update from the Pralay sets, confirming her involvement in the production. (Cinema Express)

Her appearance alongside Ranveer in the leaked footage has further increased curiosity around their characters and their role in the film's survival narrative.

‘Pralay’ set in a post-apocalyptic world

Directed by Jai Mehta, Pralay is being described as a post-apocalyptic zombie action or survival thriller. Reports indicate that the story is set in a dystopian version of Mumbai following a catastrophic outbreak.

The film is expected to combine survival drama with large-scale action and VFX-heavy sequences. Earlier reports had indicated plans for extensive shooting outside India, although production has already been underway in Mumbai. (The Hollywood Reporter India)

The first set visuals now offer audiences an early glimpse of the world the filmmakers are attempting to create.

Film went on floors in Mumbai

Pralay officially began filming in Mumbai in August, with Ranveer and Kalyani among the principal cast members. Kalyani had also confirmed her involvement through a social media update from the sets in late August. (Cinema Express)

The newly leaked footage appears to have come from the ongoing Mumbai schedule. The makers have yet to officially release a full first look or detailed character information.

Ranveer’s next major departure after ‘Dhurandhar’

The project comes after Ranveer’s recent work in the Dhurandhar franchise and represents a move into a different genre. Instead of a conventional action setting, Pralay is built around a world where characters are fighting to survive amid a post-apocalyptic crisis.

For now, the leaked look has done exactly what early set footage often does—it has generated speculation without revealing the central story. Whether Ranveer’s character is a survivor, protector or something else will become clearer only when the filmmakers release more official information.