United News of Bangladesh

Hollywood star Blake Lively was reportedly offered a $1.75 million package to lead It Ends With Us, complete with a private jet, family travel coverage, and other luxury perks, according to a draft contract obtained by Us Weekly. The proposed deal, though never finalized, detailed a base salary close to $2 million along with a 10% share of the film’s gross proceeds and multiple bonus clauses tied to box office milestones and award nominations. Lively would have reportedly earned $250,000 if the film’s revenue tripled its production cost, with additional rewards for surpassing higher targets. Beyond direct pay, the contract included extensive travel and lifestyle provisions — private jet trips to Las Vegas, expenses for her four children, two nannies, a personal assistant, and a security team. It also offered a private driver, on-location assistant, and weekly allowances for meals and fitness. While It Ends With Us—based on Colleen Hoover’s best-selling novel—has achieved box office success, Lively’s final compensation remains undisclosed as the draft agreement was never officially signed.   Source: NDTV

Actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut has claimed that her journey to success in Bollywood was far more difficult than that of superstar Shah Rukh Khan, pointing to her humble beginnings in a remote village compared to his urban upbringing in Delhi. Speaking at a PHDCCI event in the capital, Kangana said, “Why did I get so much success? There is probably nobody else who came from a village and achieved such recognition in the mainstream. You talk about Shah Rukh Khan—he is from Delhi, convent-educated. I was from a village that nobody would have even heard of—Bhamla. Maybe others may disagree, but I feel it’s because I am brutally honest, not just with people but with myself too.” Leaving her hometown Bhamla in Himachal Pradesh at just 15, Kangana debuted in Gangster at 19 and went on to win four National Film Awards. Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan, who began his career on television before moving to Mumbai in 1991, rose to become one of India’s biggest film icons. Kangana recently directed and starred in Emergency, portraying former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. She will next appear in a Tamil psychological thriller opposite R Madhavan and in Bharat Bhagya Vidhata. Shah Rukh, on the other hand, will be seen in King, alongside Suhana Khan and Deepika Padukone, directed by Siddharth Anand.   Source: NDTV

Actor Kartik Aaryan had an emotional moment as he accepted his first Filmfare Best Actor Award, made even more special by the presence of his parents in the audience. Clearly moved, the Dhamaka star took to Instagram to share a video from the night along with a heartfelt message. He wrote, “This hits different when you remember where you started that night… every emotion I'd ever felt found its voice. From the small town boy who only dreamt of this stage, to the man living it — thank you, universe. I didn't just speak that night, I felt every word. This speech wasn't prepared. It was live.” In his acceptance speech, Kartik expressed disbelief and deep gratitude. “There are moments in life where you wonder if it’s all real — and this is one of those nights,” he said. Speaking about Chandu Champion, the film that earned him the honour, he praised director Kabir Khan and said the story of Murlikant Petkar — India’s first Paralympic gold medalist — deeply resonated with him. “When others stopped believing in Murlikant, he didn’t give up. That felt very personal to me. It wasn’t just a film; it was the most meaningful journey of my career,” Kartik shared. He credited Kabir Khan for his vision, saying, “You don’t just create films, you create worlds.” He also thanked producers Sajid Nadiadwala and Vardha Nadiadwala for their unwavering support during the making of the film, which brought Petkar’s story to the spotlight after nearly five decades. Kartik also noted the symbolic timing — shortly after the film's release, Petkar received the Lifetime Arjuna Award. The actor became visibly emotional as he acknowledged his parents, who were present during the ceremony. “Growing up, I remember watching award shows on TV, dreaming of holding that trophy. And now, it’s happening in front of them,” he said. Kartik also thanked Filmfare, his fans, and dedicated his award to dreamers everywhere: “My Godfathers are my fans… To everyone chasing a dream — even when you feel like giving up — remember, there’s a champion in you. A champion may fall, but never stops.” Kartik Aaryan won the Filmfare Best Actor Award for his powerful performance in Chandu Champion, marking a major milestone in his career. Source: NDTV

Singer and actor Lady Gaga has reportedly joined the cast of Disney’s upcoming sequel to the 2006 hit film The Devil Wears Prada. Variety reported that Gaga was spotted at the filming location, confirming her involvement. Details about her role are yet to be revealed. The sequel will see the return of Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci. Filming began in June, and the movie is scheduled for release on May 1, 2026. Directed again by David Frankel, the story continues from the original film, which followed Andy (Hathaway) as she navigates her role at the prestigious Runway magazine under editor Miranda Priestly (Streep). Other actors joining the sequel include Kenneth Branagh, Lucy Liu, Justin Theroux, B J Novak, Pauline Chalamet, and Simone Ashley. The film is produced by Wendy Finerman and Karen Rosenfelt and written by Aline Brosh McKenna.   Source: NDTV

Bollywood star Salman Khan has clarified his long-rumoured fallout with singer Arijit Singh, calling it a misunderstanding from his side. Speaking on a recent episode of Bigg Boss 19, Salman said there was never any real enmity between him and Arijit. He said, “Arijit and I are very good friends. That misunderstanding happened from my side. After that, he even sang songs for me — in Tiger 3 and now in Galwan.” The rumours about a rift began after the 2014 Star Guild Awards, when a light-hearted exchange between Salman and Arijit was reportedly misinterpreted. Following this, reports suggested Arijit was replaced on songs in films like Kick, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, and Sultan. In 2016, Arijit had also addressed the speculation on social media, asking Salman for forgiveness and clarifying that there was no intention to offend. Salman’s latest statement finally confirms that the issue was a personal misunderstanding and that both continue to share a friendly relationship.   Source: NDTV

Comedian and podcaster Marc Maron has wrapped up his long-running show WTF With Marc Maron after 16 years and nearly 1,700 episodes, with former US President Barack Obama joining him as his final guest. Obama, who famously appeared on Maron’s podcast a decade ago while still in office, helped close the show by interviewing Maron at his Washington office. It was a fitting full circle moment for the podcast that once brought global attention to the medium. “How are you feeling about this whole thing — the transition, moving on from something that’s been such a defining part of your life?” Obama asked at the start. “I feel OK,” Maron replied. “I’m ready for a break, but there’s also some fear — like, what do I do now? I’ve got a lot of people who’ve come to rely on me.” Maron laughed as he compared ending his podcast to leaving the presidency. “I think it’s pretty similar,” Obama quipped. The former president’s identity was kept secret until the episode was released on Monday, though many fans had correctly guessed it. In July, Maron had told Variety that Obama would be his ideal final guest. “It became clear the guest had to be someone singular,” Maron said in his brief introduction. “Someone who could speak to the importance of this being our final episode — and how we move through a frightening world.” Offering advice, Obama told Maron not to rush into his next chapter: “Take a beat. Take some satisfaction looking backward. You’ve still got a few chapters left.” Reflecting on Maron’s legacy, Obama said, “Part of the reason you had such a big fan base is because there was a core decency to you and to the conversations you had. I think that speaks to who we are.” Maron avoided overtly sentimental goodbyes during the episode, having shared an emotional farewell with listeners in the previous one. “I’m grateful to have been part of your lives,” he had said then. “We’ve been through a lot — breakups, death, cats, the world.” The final episode, No. 1,686, marked the end of a pioneering podcast that began in 2009 in Maron’s Los Angeles garage — affectionately called The Cat Ranch. Over the years, WTF featured an array of cultural figures, including Robin Williams, Paul McCartney, and countless comedians and artists. Maron signed off with a tribute to his beloved pets: “Cat angels everywhere.” Earlier this year, Maron and longtime producer Brendan McDonald announced their decision to end the show, citing no specific reason other than exhaustion and satisfaction. As he wrapped up, Maron humorously read a mock legal document for Obama to sign, releasing McDonald “from the professional responsibility of listening to me talk.”  

Dhallywood megastar Shakib Khan has expressed his heartfelt support and prayers for veteran actor and 'Nirapad Sarak Chai' activist Ilias Kanchan, who has recently been diagnosed with a brain tumor and is currently undergoing treatment at Harley Street Clinic in London. In a Facebook post on Sunday, Shakib described Kanchan as a “beloved elder brother, whose life has been a symbol of activism and a journey of light.” He praised Kanchan for his dual role as a beloved hero on the silver screen and as a humanitarian in real life. “Today, Kanchan Bhai is battling silently in London. Millions of people in the country are praying for him to return healthy, energetic, and inspiring as always." "I pray to Almighty Allah to grant him speedy recovery and a peaceful, healthy life. We all stand with Kanchan Bhai in love and prayers,” Shakib wrote. Recently, another Dhallywood superstar actress Rozina, who shared the silver screen in numerous films with Kanchan as the lead duo, met him during his treatment in London. Known for his longstanding contributions to Bangladeshi cinema and his activism for road safety, Ilias Kanchan has earned admiration both on and off screen, making him one of the most respected figures in the entertainment industry.

Popular Bangladesh rock band Aurthohin unveiled a new chapter in their musical journey with a ‘Secret Listening Party’ on Friday at the Mercedes-Benz Bangladesh showroom on Tejgaon–Gulshan Link Road in the capital. The exclusive event marked a special preview of their new upcoming album 'Phoenixer Diary 2'. The gathering was a vibrant celebration of music, attended by leading musicians and close friends of the band, including Hamin Ahmed and Iqbal Asif Jewel from Miles, Sakib Chowdhury of Cryptic Fate, Alif Alauddin, Kazi Faisal Ahmed, Gibran from Bhoutist, and Sumon’s son Ahnaf Salehin. Fans were treated to a first listen of tracks from the album such as Phoenix 2, Shikari, Cactus featuring Ahnaf Salehin, Ichchhe, Bedonar Chorabali 2 featuring Frank Gambale and Bob Franceschini, Unmad, Brishtir Gaan, and the highly anticipated sequel Nikrishto 4. With this release, Aurthohin introduces their new musical style, Bangla Nu Metal, to listeners for the first time. Bassbaba Sumon introduced his son to the audience, saying, “We’re really lucky to have Gen Alpha among us today. Aurthohin is evolving with time and will continue to do so.” Aurthohin set to unleash darkness, vengeance with new album ‘Phonixer Diary 2’ The event also carried a heartfelt tribute to the late A K Ratul, sound engineer and bassist of the band Owned, with the album dedicated to his memory. 'Phoenixer Diary 2' is scheduled for a global release on October 17, across streaming platforms including YouTube Music, Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and Qobuz. The first single, Unmad, was released on October 2 by Aurthohin’s official YouTube channel. Aurthohin extended gratitude to their main sponsor Mercedes-Benz Bangladesh, along with supporting partners Shell, Framework Finance Limited, Get Set Rock, Verse Imagine, and contributors Heavy Metal T-Shirt, Music Castle, SP Rhythm, Skyfall, Universal Medical College & Hospital Ltd., and Cool Exposure for their support in the album’s promotion.  

Music legend AR Rahman is set to perform for the first time in Varanasi, the sacred city on the banks of the Ganga, as part of NDTV Good Times Soundscape—a new platform blending live concerts with immersive cultural experiences. In a conversation with actor and musician Shruti Haasan, Rahman shared his excitement and deep sense of connection with the city. “I missed the opportunity to visit Varanasi many times. I was supposed to go around 1997 but couldn’t make it. Later, Aanand L Rai called me for Raanjhanaa and asked me to come to Banaras, but again something happened. I think it was meant to be this way. I even wanted to meet Ustad Bismillah Khan’s family but couldn’t. I think the opportunity has come now—the call has come,” Rahman said. The Oscar-winning composer said he is eager to experience “the energy and the million stories” that define Varanasi. “Even just walking through the streets will be inspiring,” he added. Rahman will perform with his raga-based ensemble Jhaala, originally formed for the WAVES Summit 2025. “We curated Jhaala from 500 entries and selected the best 12 musicians. My goal is to take Indian classical music global with a fresh perspective—something immersive and modern,” Rahman explained. The maestro also spoke about his admiration for the late shehnai legend Ustad Bismillah Khan, whose music remains synonymous with Varanasi’s heritage. “After Jhaala, we’ll perform Sufi songs that transcend religion. Bismillah Khan Sahib’s legacy brings a sense of friendship and shared spirituality between communities. Hopefully, this will be the peace concert people long for,” Rahman said. Source: Agency

Aryan Khan has clarified that his Netflix directorial debut The Ba***ds of Bollywood was meant to be “self-deprecating, not disrespectful,” as controversy grows over a defamation suit filed by former NCB officer Sameer Wankhede. In an interview with Variety published Friday, Aryan said the creative team set clear limits to keep the show respectful toward the industry. “We wanted to be self-deprecating, but not disrespectful anywhere. I think we maintained that line correctly,” he said. Wankhede recently filed a ₹2 crore defamation suit against Shah Rukh Khan and Red Chillies Entertainment, alleging the series defames him through a character resembling him. The Delhi High Court has issued summons to the production company and others in the case. The satirical Netflix series, released on September 18, offers a humorous look at Bollywood’s behind-the-scenes realities and features Bobby Deol, Mona Singh, and Raghav Juyal in key roles.   Source: NDTV