United News of Bangladesh

Composer Amaal Mallik opened up about the hurdles he faced to bring Sonu Nigam on board for the reprised song “Mere Dholna 3.0” from Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, citing restrictive practices in the Hindi music industry. In a conversation with Pinkvilla, Amaal said composers often lack freedom to choose singers and may be replaced if their choices conflict with production or label decisions. He recalled how Sonu Nigam, despite being a legendary singer, had to “prove” himself before being confirmed for the track. “They weren’t sure about someone like Sonu Nigam. Yet he finished the toughest song I’ve recomposed in just 45 minutes,” Amaal said, adding that the final sargam at the song’s end is extremely challenging. Grammys fuel celebrity pushback against Trump’s immigration drive Amaal also highlighted the industry’s arbitrary decisions, noting that teams frequently suggest popular singers like Arijit Singh or Vishal Mishra over classical talents. He said Sonu Nigam was the only singer capable of delivering the classical depth he wanted. The composer further revealed the financial imbalance in the industry, citing his party hit “Sooraj Dooba Hain,” which earned Rs 60–70 crore for the label, while he only received minimal publishing rights.  #With inputs from NDTV

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has stirred controversy online by criticising acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan amid casting debates for his upcoming epic film The Odyssey. Musk responded on X (formerly Twitter) to a post questioning reports that Lupita Nyong’o might portray Helen of Troy in the movie. The post argued that casting Nyong’o could be "an insult" to the ancient Greek poet Homer, who described Helen as fair-skinned and blonde in The Odyssey, famously dubbing her “the face that launched a thousand ships.” Reacting to the post, Musk tweeted, “Chris Nolan has lost his integrity.” Nyong’o’s potential involvement was first reported by Variety in November 2024, with the film’s title officially revealed in December. Her role in the production remains unconfirmed. The Odyssey features a star-studded ensemble including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal, Benny Safdie, and Elliot Page. Rapper Travis Scott, a ten-time Grammy nominee, has also joined the cast, appearing in a promotional TV spot aired during Fox’s broadcast of the NFL AFC Championship game. The film is being hailed as a technical milestone, marking the first narrative feature to be shot entirely on IMAX cameras. Nolan revealed that a new “blimp” casing system now allows intimate scenes to capture usable sound despite IMAX cameras’ previously loud operation. Details regarding Nyong’o’s character and the official release date for The Odyssey have yet to be announced.   With inputs from NDTV

At 90, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, has won his first-ever Grammy Award, adding a new milestone to his long list of global honours. The Tibetan spiritual leader received the accolade in the Best Audio Book, Narration & Storytelling Recording category for his spoken-word album Meditations: The Reflections of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The award was accepted on his behalf by musician Rufus Wainwright, who collaborated on the project. Meditations combines the Dalai Lama’s reflections on peace, compassion, mindfulness, and humanity’s interconnectedness with musical elements influenced by Hindustani classical traditions. In a statement shared by his office, the Dalai Lama said the recognition was not a personal triumph but “a recognition of shared universal responsibility.” He added, “I receive this recognition with gratitude and humility. Peace, compassion, care for our environment, and understanding the oneness of humanity are essential for the collective well-being of all eight billion human beings. I hope this Grammy helps spread these messages more widely.” The album’s nomination in late 2025 had already drawn global attention, highlighting the Dalai Lama’s work beyond spiritual and philosophical circles. Although this is his first Grammy, he has previously been honoured with numerous prestigious awards, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 for his lifelong nonviolent struggle for Tibet and advocacy of peace and human values. Other accolades include the Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion in 2012, academic honours such as Doctor Honoris Causa degrees from institutions in the United States, Italy, and India, as well as the Liberty Medal in the U.S. and the Syedna Qutbuddin Harmony Prize in India. These recognitions reflect his enduring influence as a moral and spiritual leader worldwide.   With inputs from The Indian EXPRESS

The Grammy Awards on Sunday became the latest high-profile stage for growing celebrity criticism of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, as musicians and activists used the red carpet and acceptance speeches to denounce US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The awards season has coincided with an intensified deportation campaign, particularly in Minneapolis, prompting artists to weigh whether and how to publicly oppose immigration enforcement. In the days leading up to the Grammys, activists urged celebrities to wear protest pins calling for ICE to leave US cities, coordinating with artists’ teams and distributing the pins at multiple industry events. Organisers said the response at the Grammys appeared stronger than at last month’s Golden Globes, reflecting rising public anger after a series of high-profile incidents, including the fatal shooting of nurse Alex Pretti by a Border Patrol officer, the detention of a five-year-old child, Liam Conejo Ramos, and the recent arrest of journalist Don Lemon. Jess Morales Rocketto, executive director of Latino advocacy group Maremoto, said the music industry’s culture made artists more willing to take visible stands than their Hollywood counterparts. “These are folks known for big, rebellious performances and bold self-expression,” she said. “The pins are about much more than a red carpet moment. They’re about taking a stand and showing that ICE should be out of our communities.” Several artists wore protest messages on the Grammys red carpet, including Jason Isbell, Margo Price, Kehlani and Rhiannon Giddens. Kehlani also used her acceptance speech for best R&B performance to condemn ICE. Justin Vernon of Bon Iver said he wore a whistle to honour legal observers documenting federal agents’ actions on the streets. “I think music exists to heal and bring people together,” Vernon told the Associated Press. “But the real work is being done by those observers on the ground.” The protests echoed similar demonstrations at last week’s Sundance Film Festival, where actors including Natalie Portman, Olivia Wilde and Zoey Deutch wore “ICE OUT” pins. Deutch also displayed a “BE GOOD” pin in memory of Renee Good, who was killed by an ICE officer last month. Wilde said she was disturbed by what she described as a growing normalisation of deadly enforcement actions. Portman, speaking at the premiere of her film The Gallerist, became emotional as she described the difficulty of celebrating creative achievements amid widespread fear in immigrant communities. Activists acknowledged that not all artists are able or willing to speak out publicly. Morales Rocketto said opposition can come from record labels, managers, fashion sponsors or corporate partners, while others may fear personal consequences. She also noted that Latino artists, regardless of fame or wealth, may face particular risks, including concerns over immigration status within their families, amid heightened enforcement under the Trump administration. Despite those pressures, organisers said the visible protest at the Grammys signaled a growing cultural revolt against immigration policies, with artists increasingly using their platforms to express solidarity with affected communities.

Tollywood stars Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda are reportedly set to tie the knot on February 26, 2026, in a private ceremony at a heritage palace in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The couple had earlier celebrated a private engagement at Vijay’s Hyderabad residence in October last year. Now, a viral video claims that preparations for their wedding are underway at the City Palace in Udaipur. In the video shared on Instagram, two women said they were at the same palace where the wedding is expected to take place. They added that palace staff confirmed the wedding date as February 26. The clip also shows glimpses of the ongoing preparations at the venue. Rashmika and Vijay have largely kept their engagement and wedding plans private. During a recent promotional event, Rashmika subtly acknowledged their engagement, saying, “Everyone is aware of it.” Read More: Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda engaged, wedding set for February 2026 In another light-hearted interaction with Galatta Plus, Rashmika was congratulated on her perfume line, and when asked if there was something else to celebrate, she smiled and said, “No, no. Actually, there’s quite a lot, because so many things are happening. But I’ll take your congratulations on all of them.” The couple’s relationship has drawn attention for some time, fueled by their on-screen chemistry in films like ‘Geetha Govindam’ and ‘ Dear Comrade’. Sources close to the couple confirmed to NDTV that they got engaged on October 3, 2025, in a private ceremony. Source: NDTV

Rasha Thadani has shared the first glimpse of her character Manga from her Telugu debut film Srinivasa Mangapuram, following the positive response to the previously released Laikey Laikaa first look. The film is directed by Ajay Bhupathi and features Rasha opposite Jaya Krishna Ghattamaneni, nephew of superstar Mahesh Babu. Rasha Thadani’s Announcement Rasha took to Instagram to announce the project, expressing gratitude as she steps into Telugu cinema. In her post, she introduced Manga and spoke about beginning her journey in an industry that celebrates rooted storytelling. She described the experience as one that has instilled humility, patience and faith, while thanking the team for trusting her with her debut. She also highlighted that the film is directed by Ajay Bhupathi and features music composed by GV Prakash Kumar. In a follow-up post, Rasha elaborated on her character, calling Manga the emotional anchor of Srinu’s life—his comfort, pain and peace. She described the debut as a moment she will always cherish and thanked director Ajay Bhupathi for his guidance and belief in her. She also appreciated her co-star Jaya Krishna Ghattamaneni for being supportive, adding that this marks just the beginning of an exciting journey ahead.   Source: NDTV

India’s Central Board for Film Certification (CBFC) has asked the Supreme Court to hear its views if filmmakers challenge the Madras High Court order on the release of actor Vijay’s film Jana Nayagan. The Madras High Court had earlier set aside a single judge’s order that directed the board to give the movie a U/A 16+ certificate. The division bench allowed the filmmakers to revise their petition and have it heard again by the single judge if they wish. The court said the single judge acted without giving the CBFC a chance to respond. It also ruled that the petition was not maintainable, as it asked the board to issue a certificate instead of challenging its earlier order. Earlier, the Supreme Court had refused to hear the case and told the high court to decide it by January 20. By filing a caveat, the CBFC wants to ensure it can present its position if the filmmakers move the top court. The case shows ongoing disputes in India over film certification and the rights of producers and regulators.   With inputs from NDTV

Bollywood producer Shailendra Singh has praised Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra, calling them “like-minded personalities” with similar approaches to their careers. Shailendra said many fans wished the two stars had appeared together more on screen. He added that despite taking different career paths, they share a focused and professional attitude. Speaking about Priyanka Chopra, Shailendra said the industry did not value her properly. “Priyanka should have been the voice of Bollywood, but we treated her so badly that she left the country. She could have carried Bollywood’s reputation globally,” he said. Priyanka later moved to the United States and built a successful career in Hollywood. Shailendra also highlighted Shah Rukh Khan’s understanding of cinema and business. “He is a thorough professional, knows his work, and never puts anyone down. Both Priyanka and Shah Rukh should be ambassadors of our industry,” he said. The producer said the two stars have a no-nonsense attitude and are very similar in the way they handle their careers. He described them as supremely talented and focused on their work. Shailendra’s remarks come amid ongoing fan interest in collaborations between Bollywood’s top stars and recognition of Priyanka Chopra’s international success.   With inputs from NDTV

Breakout star Ahaan Panday has revealed that neither he nor his Saiyaara co star Aneet Padda expected audiences to turn up in large numbers to watch a film led by two newcomers, even as the movie went on to become one of the biggest hits of 2025. In an interview with Grazia India, Ahaan said he and Aneet had realistic expectations while shooting the film, directed by Mohit Suri and produced by Yash Raj Films. “Aneet and I even discussed this on set that even if only two people walked out of the theatre feeling something, we would have done our job,” he said. “We knew we could not expect audiences to flock to watch two newcomers on the big screen.” Ahaan, who made his acting debut as struggling musician Krish Kapoor, said he worked deeply on shaping the emotional arc of his character. He revealed that he kept a diary throughout the shoot, noting Krish’s inner thoughts and emotions before every scene. Madonna hails Margate and Tracey Emin as creative haven “When I read the script, I felt there was no softness in Krish initially. There was more duality,” he said, adding that he consciously brought vulnerability and emotional depth to the character in the second half of the film. Recalling a quiet moment on set, Ahaan said he and Aneet once sat together on a beach discussing their anonymity at the time. “I told her that nobody knows my face, and nobody really knows hers either,” he said, noting that both remained grounded by focusing on emotional impact rather than fame. “That’s our job as artists, to move even one person,” Ahaan said, adding that the overwhelming audience response far exceeded their expectations. By the end of 2025, Saiyaara topped IMDb’s list of the Top 10 Most Popular Indian Movies of the year. Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda also claimed the top two spots among IMDb’s Most Popular Indian Actors, while Mohit Suri led the platform’s inaugural Most Popular Indian Directors list. Fans pay tribute as Arijit Singh quits Bollywood playback singing Ahaan was later named Best Debutant Actor of the Year at the NDTV Indian of the Year awards in December 2025. Saiyaara explores themes of love, loss and heartbreak, with Ahaan starring opposite Aneet Padda, who plays a young writer diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease. #With inputs from NDTV

Global pop icon Madonna has praised the English seaside town of Margate and her long-time friend, celebrated artist Tracey Emin, calling the resort “her idea of heaven” in a recent Instagram post. Madonna shared photographs from an art exhibition and highlighted Emin, who has been her friend for over 25 years, as a “pearl” for championing the town’s cultural revival. Emin, known for her provocative and personal artwork, has spent decades promoting Margate as a hub for creativity, drawing artists, writers, photographers, and performers to the coastal town. In her post, Madonna lauded Emin’s residency programme, which provides young artists space to live and work, describing it as “quite remarkable” and vital for those who otherwise would lack opportunities to develop their talents. “Whenever I go there, I feel like I’ve entered a dream,” Madonna wrote, noting that the town seemed “energized by creativity.” Emin responded to Madonna’s tribute, expressing gratitude for the visit and noting that Margate has attracted “so many cool, creative, interesting people” in recent years. She recalled the town’s decline during the 1970s and 1980s, when empty streets, derelict arcades, and boarded-up shops left it largely abandoned. According to Emin, the past decade has seen a major transformation of Margate, driven by a new wave of artists, writers, and musicians. “The town has come back to life, and both new and old Margatonians are making it a positive and uplifting place,” she said. Madonna concluded that sharing experiences like Margate, which celebrate human connection through art rather than conflict, was meaningful. Emin echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the town’s growing cultural and artistic significance.   With inputs from BBC