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  • Veteran actor Nana Patekar passes away at 75 following cardiac arrest

    Veteran actor Nana Patekar passes away at 75 following cardiac arrest

    The Indian film fraternity is in mourning today following the passing of legendary actor Nana Patekar. The 75-year-old actor breathed his last at 5:20 am on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest at his Mumbai residence. Dr. Shekhar Salkar, Chief of the Department of Oncology at Manipal Hospital, confirmed the news, stating that medical teams attempted to revive the actor with CPR for 45 minutes, though he remained in asystole throughout the process. A medico-legal case has been completed, and authorities have indicated that a post-mortem examination is required.

    Nana Patekar leaves behind a towering legacy in both Hindi and Marathi cinema. After making his debut in the 1978 film Gaman, he quickly rose to prominence as one of the most versatile and intense performers in the industry. He became a household name through iconic roles in celebrated films such as Parinda, Prahar, Angaar, Krantiveer, Tiranga, Khamoshi, and the cult classic Ab Tak Chhappan. His unique delivery and commanding screen presence set a benchmark for generations of actors who followed.

    Even in his later years, the veteran remained a vibrant part of the film industry, balancing major commercial projects with diverse roles. He was recently involved in the highly anticipated Housefull 5, featuring an ensemble cast including Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, and Riteish Deshmukh. Additionally, he had recently appeared as a police officer in Vishal Bhardwaj’s O’Romeo alongside Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri, and had also completed a cameo appearance in the Anil Kapoor and Radhika Madan starrer Subedar.

  • Veteran actor Nana Patekar passes away at the age of 75

    Veteran actor Nana Patekar passes away at the age of 75

    The Indian film industry is in mourning following the passing of legendary actor Nana Patekar. Born Vishwanath Patekar, the powerhouse performer died on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at the age of 75. The veteran actor reportedly suffered a severe cardiac arrest at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa, and was immediately rushed to Manipal Hospital for emergency treatment.

    Dr. Shekhar Salkar, the head of the oncology department at Manipal Hospital, confirmed the heartbreaking news. Despite the medical team’s best efforts to revive him, including performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for 45 minutes, the actor was declared dead at 5:20 a.m. His sudden departure has left fans and colleagues across the country in a state of shock, as tributes pour in for one of Bollywood’s most versatile and intense performers.

    Following the medical emergency, news agency ANI reported that the hospital has initiated a medico-legal case (MLC) as part of standard procedure. A post-mortem examination is currently scheduled to determine the exact circumstances surrounding his death. Authorities and medical personnel are continuing to process the incident as the film fraternity and the public grapple with the loss of a cinematic icon whose work defined generations of Hindi cinema.

  • Rashmika Mandanna shares her experience working with Vijay Deverakonda in Ranabaali

    Rashmika Mandanna shares her experience working with Vijay Deverakonda in Ranabaali

    Rashmika Mandanna is gearing up for her much-anticipated reunion with husband Vijay Deverakonda in their upcoming film, Ranabaali. During a recent interactive Q&A session on social media, the actress gave fans a sneak peek into their professional chemistry. When asked about her experience working alongside the actor, Rashmika admitted that the sets are always filled with fun, but highlighted his intense work ethic. She noted that while he is known for his dedication, she personally finds it rewarding to learn from him every time they share the screen.

    Addressing a fan who asked for her favorite collaboration with Vijay, Rashmika kept things playful, stating that it is impossible to pick just one from their filmography. Instead, she expressed her genuine excitement for the audience to finally witness their chemistry in this new period drama. This project marks their third collaboration, following the massive success of their previous hits, Geetha Govindam and Dear Comrade. Notably, this is their first film release together since the pair tied the knot in February 2026.

    Ranabaali promises to be a high-octane period action drama set between 1854 and 1878. The film revolves around a powerful narrative of resistance against British rule. The recently released teaser introduced Vijay as the titular character, a man from Rayalaseema standing up against the colonial forces. Rashmika portrays Jayamma, his wife and steadfast partner in his struggle, while international actor Arnold Vosloo joins the cast as the antagonist, Sir Theodore Hector.

  • Shehzad Khan believes the success of Dhurandhar is bringing back iconic 90s and 2000s characters

    Shehzad Khan believes the success of Dhurandhar is bringing back iconic 90s and 2000s characters

    The massive success of the Dhurandhar franchise has sparked a significant shift in how filmmakers perceive talent from the 1990s and 2000s. Actor Shehzad Khan, son of the legendary Ajit Khan, recently shared his thoughts on how the film’s performance has paved the way for veteran stars to make a powerful return to the big screen. According to Khan, directors are now actively seeking out the hit characters and familiar faces that defined the cinema of previous decades, a trend highlighted by the celebrated comebacks of Akshaye Khanna and Rakesh Bedi in the franchise.

    Reflecting on the industry’s changing landscape, Shehzad noted that the Dhurandhar phenomenon has fundamentally altered the mindset of contemporary filmmakers. He believes that the industry operates in cycles, and the current demand for established actors from the 90s and 2000s proves that audiences are eager to see these seasoned performers back in action. The actor emphasized that the system is evolving, as creators look to tap into the nostalgia and proven screen presence of these veteran artists to elevate their modern projects.

    However, Khan was quick to draw a line when comparing generations of cinematic villains. While discussing Arjun Rampal’s performance in the film, he maintained that the iconic antagonists of the 1970s—such as Prem Chopra, Ranjeet, and Pran—belong to an entirely different league. He shared a lighthearted anecdote about how impactful those legendary actors were, noting that people once avoided naming their children after them for fear they might emulate their villainous personas on screen.

    The Dhurandhar franchise, directed by National Award winner Aditya Dhar and headlined by Ranveer Singh, has become a historic force at the box office. With a star-studded ensemble cast that includes R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, and Rakesh Bedi, the films have reportedly grossed over Rs 3,000 crore worldwide. This monumental success has not only solidified the franchise’s place in cinema history but has also reignited a conversation about the enduring value of veteran Bollywood actors.

  • Rajpal Yadav faces Supreme Court scrutiny over long-standing check bounce case

    Rajpal Yadav faces Supreme Court scrutiny over long-standing check bounce case

    Beloved Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav appeared in person before the Supreme Court of India on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, to address a protracted legal battle involving a check bounce case with Murli Projects Private Limited. During the tense proceedings, the actor stood before a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana. Yadav, visibly distressed, explained that his financial woes began with his 2010 directorial venture, ‘Ata Pata Lapaata.’ He claimed that the project resulted in a staggering loss of 17 crore rupees, noting that the film failed to secure a theatrical release or generate any commercial revenue, contributing to a total loss of 22 crore rupees.

    The legal dispute, which involves seven separate check bounce cases, stems from a loan originally taken for the film’s production. While the initial loan amount was 1.05 crore rupees, mounting interest has ballooned the total liability to approximately 9 crore rupees. In a moment of grim irony, Chief Justice Surya Kant remarked that the actor’s money had indeed gone ‘Ata Pata Lapaata,’ a play on the film’s title. The court expressed stern disapproval of the actor’s conduct, warning that any further display of his current attitude could lead to an increased prison sentence.

    To demonstrate his intent to settle, Yadav presented a demand draft for 1.15 crore rupees directly in court. The Supreme Court has granted him until October 13, 2026, to deposit the remaining 85 lakh rupees. Yadav informed the bench that a buyer for his property was present at the hearing and is expected to provide the necessary funds by the deadline. The court clarified that his petition challenging the Delhi High Court’s ruling, which upheld a three-month jail sentence in July 2026, will only be considered once the full payment is processed. Yadav previously served time in Tihar Jail in February 2026 before receiving interim relief. Beyond this current matter, the actor is also scheduled to appear before a court in Mhow, Indore, on October 13, 2026, regarding a separate check bounce case involving 25 lakh rupees.

  • Farah Khan treats fans to rare throwback photos of Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji

    Farah Khan treats fans to rare throwback photos of Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji

    Farah Khan is giving us major nostalgia this week. The celebrated filmmaker and choreographer recently opened her personal archives to share a series of rare behind-the-scenes photographs from some of her most iconic film sets. The carousel of images features a star-studded lineup of Bollywood legends, including Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Preity Zinta, and Manisha Koirala, capturing the actors in candid, off-camera moments that we rarely get to see.

    Taking to Instagram, Farah turned the post into an interactive game for her followers, challenging them to identify the specific films based on the clues hidden in the snapshots. The post immediately sparked a wave of excitement across social media, with fans and industry insiders alike flooding the comments section. Notable celebrities, including Shilpa Shetty, Malaika Arora, Tahira Kashyap, and Sunita Kapoor, were quick to shower the post with love, proving that these golden-era memories remain fan favorites.

    Beyond her trip down memory lane, Farah is gearing up for a major professional comeback as she prepares to return for the second season of the hit show Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa. She will be joined by Riteish Deshmukh for this upcoming installment, which follows a highly successful first season that reportedly pulled in over 5 billion views across social media. While the showrunner, Malaya Pradhan, has confirmed that the new season will stream on Netflix, the production house has yet to reveal the official premiere date or the lineup of contestants who will enter the jail this time around.

  • Japanese Ambassador Ono Keiichi explores the magic of Bollywood at Mumbai Film City

    Japanese Ambassador Ono Keiichi explores the magic of Bollywood at Mumbai Film City

    Mumbai’s iconic Film City played host to a special guest this week as Japanese Ambassador to India, Ono Keiichi, took a tour of the legendary studio complex. Immersing himself in the heart of Indian cinema, the Ambassador got a firsthand look at the bustling production sets that bring our favorite Bollywood stories to life. He appeared to be in high spirits during his visit, even stopping to pose for photos near the famous ‘Wall of Fame,’ which celebrates the iconic characters and legendary personalities who have defined the industry for decades.

    Taking to his official X handle to share his excitement, Ambassador Ono expressed his genuine fascination with the essence of Indian filmmaking. Beyond just sightseeing, the visit carries significant diplomatic weight. As both nations gear up to celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2027, the Ambassador highlighted his keen interest in strengthening cooperation between India and Japan within the entertainment sector.

    This diplomatic outreach is part of a larger initiative to bolster cultural ties between the two countries. The Ministry of External Affairs has already announced that 2027 will be observed as the ‘India-Japan Year of Shared Horizons.’ The upcoming year-long celebration is set to feature a variety of collaborative programs, with a special focus on engaging the youth from both nations. The festivities will culminate in a dedicated ‘India-Japan Week’ starting April 28, 2027, designed to showcase the deep-rooted partnership between the two countries through coordinated outreach and cultural exchange.

  • Shehzad Khan reveals he never received payment for Andaz Apna Apna and Shaka Laka Boom Boom

    Shehzad Khan reveals he never received payment for Andaz Apna Apna and Shaka Laka Boom Boom

    Shehzad Khan, the son of legendary actor Ajit, has revealed a bitter truth behind his most iconic roles. The actor, who became a household name for his portrayal of Bhalla in the cult classic Andaz Apna Apna and his memorable stint in the hit kids show Shaka Laka Boom Boom, claims he is still waiting for his dues from both projects. Reflecting on the irony of his success, Shehzad noted that the projects that failed to pay him are the ones that eventually turned into massive hits, leaving a permanent mark on his memory.

    Opening up about his experience on the sets of Shaka Laka Boom Boom, Shehzad shared that he never saw a single rupee from the production. He philosophically noted that while people tend to forget those who pay them, the ones who withhold payment remain etched in one’s mind until death. The situation was allegedly even more bizarre during the filming of Andaz Apna Apna. Shehzad quipped that his own staff members ended up earning more than he did on the film, as they were paid on a daily basis while he was stuck on a fixed contract.

    Describing the financial struggle during the production of the Aamir Khan and Salman Khan starrer, Shehzad explained that he had to borrow small amounts from his own staff just to get by. He eventually developed a close, family-like relationship with producer Vinay Kumar Sinha, which made it harder to pursue the unpaid dues. He humorously recalled how he spent time on outdoor shoots in Ooty, enjoying the location, even though many of his scenes were never actually filmed. Despite the film’s modest performance at the time of its release, Andaz Apna Apna has since evolved into a piece of Indian pop culture history, though for Shehzad, the nostalgia remains bittersweet.

  • Shehzad Khan recalls how father Ajit Khan refused to help his Bollywood career

    Shehzad Khan recalls how father Ajit Khan refused to help his Bollywood career

    Coming from a legendary film family often sounds like a golden ticket in Bollywood, but for actor Shehzad Khan, the reality was quite the opposite. The son of the iconic villain Ajit Khan, Shehzad recently opened up about the tough-love approach his father took when he expressed his desire to join the film industry. Far from handing him a career on a silver platter, the veteran actor set strict ground rules that would have sent most aspiring stars into a spiral of self-doubt.

    Shehzad recalled that when he finally mustered the courage to ask his father for help in launching his career, he was met with a stark set of conditions. Ajit Khan made it clear that he would not produce a film for his son, he would not put in a single recommendation call to any directors, and he even explicitly asked Shehzad not to tell people whose son he was. The elder Khan, who famously carved his own path in the industry without any support, insisted that his son had to struggle and work hard to prove his mettle.

    Thinking his son would eventually tire of the grind and return to the luxuries of their home, Ajit Khan initially remained skeptical of Shehzad’s resolve. However, the younger actor proved his mettle by staying the course. He eventually debuted in the 1988 classic Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and went on to carve out a memorable career for himself. Fans fondly remember him for his iconic portrayal of Bhalla in the cult comedy Andaz Apna Apna, alongside his notable turns in films like Barsaat and The Legend of Bhagat Singh, as well as his popular stint as Tiger in the hit children’s series Shaka Laka Boom Boom.

  • Shehzad Khan reveals why legendary actor Ajit changed his name from Hamid Ali Khan

    Shehzad Khan reveals why legendary actor Ajit changed his name from Hamid Ali Khan

    The iconic villain of Hindi cinema, Ajit Khan, remains a legend for his style and unforgettable screen presence. However, many fans might not know that the actor originally went by his birth name, Hamid Ali Khan. In a recent conversation, his son, actor Shehzad Khan, shed light on the fascinating backstory behind his father’s transition to the screen name ‘Ajit’, revealing that it was a suggestion made by the late filmmaker K Amarnath.

    Shehzad recalled that during his father’s early career, he was credited as Hamid Ali Khan while working as a lead actor in black-and-white films. According to Shehzad, filmmaker K Amarnath felt the name was simply too long for a film credit. Amarnath reportedly suggested a few shorter alternatives, including ‘Jit’, ‘Ajit’, ‘Ranjit’, and ‘Sujit’. Ultimately, the actor felt that ‘Ajit’ was the perfect fit for his persona.

    Addressing potential misconceptions, Shehzad firmly clarified that his father’s decision to adopt the name had absolutely nothing to do with religious identity. He emphasized that the name change was purely practical, intended to make the moniker punchier and more memorable for the audience. Beyond its brevity, the name carried a powerful resonance for the actor, as it translates to someone who is always victorious and never defeated.

    Filmmaker K Amarnath and Ajit Khan shared a long-standing professional relationship, working together on several notable projects such as Beqasoor, Sarkar, Bada Bhai, Baraat, and Kabli Khan. The switch to ‘Ajit’ proved to be a defining moment in the actor’s journey, helping him cement his legacy as one of the most recognizable and formidable faces in Bollywood history.