Ankit Baliyan, a 32‑year‑old Haryanvi singer and YouTuber, was gunned down outside a gym in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, on a Wednesday evening. Police say he was hit by at least 18 bullets, sustaining five injuries before dying. The All Indian Cine Workers Association has called for a high‑level investigation and action against those responsible.
Netflix launches ‘Alpha’, the seventh YRF spy saga starring Alia Bhatt as a kidnapped assassin, on August 28. Zee5 streams ‘Bandar’, a courtroom drama featuring Bobby Deol as a disgraced TV star, also debuting August 28. Both films join a weekend slate that includes new releases across Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil and English languages.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu confirmed she is 11 kilos heavier as she embraces motherhood with husband Raj Nidimoru. The actress thanked fans for their support during an Instagram AMA and expressed excitement for the journey ahead. Her babymoon photos from Vietnam have fans cheering her glowing pregnancy.
The film earned ₹11.78 crore net on Friday, bringing its three‑day total to ₹150.53 crore. After a 62.8% drop on day two, the movie’s occupancy hovered around 20%. It remains ahead of other top‑grossing releases and is set to test its weekend potential.
Ida Ali, daughter of filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, has released two independent short films with friend Kareema Barry, choosing to work without industry backing. She founded Blue Curtain Films to maintain creative control and avoid favours from established names. The duo’s work has resonated with a younger audience for its relatable humor and fresh storytelling.
Salman Khan celebrated Raksha Bandhan by visiting his sister Alvira’s home, proudly displaying colorful rakhis on his wrist. He was photographed in a casual maroon tee, blue jeans, and a cowboy hat, adding a festive touch to his look. The actor also hugged veteran actress Helen and was spotted alongside his nephew Nirvaan Khan.
A Bengaluru court granted Toxic’s makers a temporary injunction against defamation, prompting a YouTuber to say he received a legal notice. Another YouTuber echoed the claim, calling the star Yash a “rich and influential person.” The court order remains in force until September 28 and only applies to the stated purpose.
The Odyssey has been reinstated on all IMAX screens across India, except Bengaluru, after its 40‑day run was cut to make room for Toxic. The film had pulled in Rs. 90 crore from just 34 IMAX venues, maintaining strong occupancy until its removal.
Akshay Kumar says he chose Haiwaan to play a pure, unapologetic villain, finding the role more exciting than hero parts. He and Saif Ali Khan, who have often teamed up, now play opposing sides, adding tension to their long‑standing partnership. The director Priyadarshan, known for comedy, has successfully steered the film into a darker psychological tone.
The film follows ASI Babita Singh, played by Nimisha Sajayan, as she investigates her friend Bansi’s murder after a personal setback. Director Ambiecka Pandit crafts a steady pace that highlights character depth over action. The story is available on Amazon Prime Video, offering a new take on women‑centered crime procedurals.
