Bollywood
August 2025 Bollywood Movies: Top 10 Must-watch Hindi Film Releases
The enduring charm of Hindi cinema continues to shape the pulse of the Bollywood movie industry. August brings a compelling blend of drama, action, romance, thrillers, and comedy to theatres. With fresh talents stepping in beside fan-favourite stars, the slate promises to engage audiences nationwide. Let’s delve into the top 10 Bollywood releases that are set to release in August 2025, ablaze with storytelling brilliance.
10 Must-see Hindi Films Releasing this August
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Dhadak 2 / Romance Thriller / August 1, 2025
Directed by Shazia Iqbal, this stirring tale blends romance with realism. The screenplay, co-written with Rahul Badwelkar, picks up the thread from Dhadak (2018) but walks a more confronting path. The first instalment reimagined the 2018 Tamil movie ‘Pariyerum Perumal’ through a contemporary lens. This time, the narrative roots are in caste, love, and survival in modern India.
Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri headline the romantic saga with quiet intensity. Saurabh Sachdeva and Zakir Hussain lend depth to the supporting roles.
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The soundtrack features a diverse lineup, including Shreyas Puranik, Rochak Kohli, Javed-Mohsin, and Tanishk Bagchi.
Zee Studios, Cloud 9 Pictures, and Dharma Productions jointly back the project.
Ajey: The Untold Story of a Yogi / Political Drama / August 1, 2025
Produced by Ritu Mengi under the Samrat Cinematics banner, this political biopic boasts Ravindra Gautam as the director. The script, penned by Dilip Bachchan Jha and Priyank Dubey, draws directly from ‘The Monk Who Became Chief Minister’.
Anant Joshi takes on the challenging role of Yogi Adityanath with measured restraint. The ensemble, Paresh Rawal, Dinesh Lal Yadav, Pavan Malhotra, Garima Vikrant, Rajesh Khattar, and Sarwar Ahuja, brings layered performances.
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It maps the extraordinary rise of a boy from the hills to political power. Moments of solitude, spiritual awakening, and ideological clarity shape his path. The narrative explores the making of a public figure who reshaped governance in India’s most populous state.
Andaaz 2 / Romantic Drama / August 1, 2025
Veteran filmmaker Suneel Darshan makes a graceful comeback with a family-centric drama. Alongside Dipan Bhatt and Parasnath Gupta, he shapes a story built on emotion and timeless values.
The cast features fresh faces Aayush Kumar, Natasha Fernandez, and Akaisha Vats, backed by seasoned names like Jeetu Verma and Dolly Bindra.
The story revolves around a triangular love story, layered with sensitivity and human connection. Set in today’s world, the film balances youthful romance with an old-school soul.
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Nadeem and Sameer deliver a music album steeped in melody and meaning.
The project is produced under Shree Krishna International.
Toofan Ek Nasha / Mystery / August 2, 2025
A gripping tale of six lives consumed by drug addiction, each drawn in by pain, desperation, or fleeting joy. But their downfall doesn’t end with them; it shatters the lives of those who love them.
Director Prem Dhiraal handles the theme with raw honesty and also steers the score of the movie. Rahul Pahade's writing gives each character a unique, haunting reason for their downfall.
Prem Dhiraal leads a cast that includes Avinash Arora, Shakti Veer Dhiraal, Ashwin Thakur, and Dhanashree Gadge.
Read more: Top 10 Hindi Films Releasing in Bollywood in July 2025
The production credit goes to Dhanraj Harde under Dhiraal Entertainment.
Heer Express / Romantic Drama / August 8, 2025
Umesh Shukla directs this heartfelt journey with writing support from Sanjay Grover and Divyanshu Rawat.
At its centre is Heer, a young chef with big dreams and bold flavours. She leaves India behind to carve her path in London’s high-pressure kitchens. But chasing ambition in a foreign land brings more heat than expected.
Prit Kamani and Divita Juneja lead the ensemble, joined by Gulshan Grover and Ashutosh Rana. Meghna Malik and Sanjay Mishra add weight to this flavourful story.
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With a soundtrack crafted by Tanishk Bagchi, this drama is set to stream on Netflix.
Backed by Creative Strokes, Divisa, Indo-UK Film Co., and Merry Go Round Studios spearhead the film production.
3 days ago
Aditya Roy Kapur–Sara Ali Khan’s Metro... in Dino Off to an Uneven Box Office Run
Among the latest additions to Bollywood's mid-year cinema slate, the film Metro... in Dino (2025) quietly steps into the spotlight. With the theatrical debut on July 4, 2025, the musical romantic drama is headlined by Aditya Roy Kapur and Sara Ali Khan. Building on the legacy of a 2007 predecessor and recent musical buzz, this new release quietly gets underway. Let’s take a closer look at the team behind it and how it fares at the box office.
Creative Minds Behind the Frame
Directed and written by Anurag Basu, this musical movie boasts production by Anurag Basu Productions and T-Series Films. The dialogues are crafted by Sandeep Shrivastava and Samrat Chakravarthy.
Pritam reunites with Anurag Basu after nearly two decades of ‘Life in a... Metro’ (2007), reviving a long-standing musical bond. Aditya Roy Kapur and Anupam Kher each lend their voice to a song.
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A Look into the Plot
This film serves as a spiritual follow-up to Anurag Basu’s 2007 drama ‘Life in a... Metro’. The concept traces back to the late Irrfan Khan, who once envisioned a continuation after starring in the original.
Set across Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune, it weaves four modern love stories rooted in urban life. Each tale gradually intersects, drawing the characters into a shared emotional arc.
Meet the Ensemble Cast
Konkona Sen Sharma stands as the sole returning actor from the original cast in this new instalment. Besides Sara and Aditya, the new ensemble talents include Neena Gupta, Anupam Kher, Pankaj Tripathi, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ali Fazal, Saswata Chatterjee, and Darshana Banik.
Read more: Ranbir Kapoor-Yash Starrer Ramayana: India's most expensive film franchise
A Sudden Turn in Box Office Ride
The film began its run with a promising weekend, drawing attention despite its modest Rs 100 crore budget. Over the first three days, it collected a total of Rs 16.75 crore. Friday set the pace with Rs 3.5 crore, which increased to Rs 6 crore on Saturday. Sunday proved to be the strongest day, bringing in Rs 7.25 crore.
However, momentum took a sharp turn soon after. On the fourth day, Monday, collections dropped drastically to just around Rs 0.03 crore. This sharp decline signals a challenging road ahead for the movie’s sustainability and potential long-term success.
Verdict
The Metro... in Dino (2025) film brings together a star-studded cast led by Aditya Roy Kapur and Sara Ali Khan. Anurag Basu directs, with music by Pritam, adding to the appeal. The legacy of ‘Life in a... Metro’ helped set expectations. Its concept draws inspiration from the late Irrfan Khan. However, the opening weekend showed steady growth. But the sharp drop on Day 4 casts uncertainty on its box office future. The coming weeks will reveal if it can regain momentum and leave a lasting mark.
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9 days ago
Ranbir Kapoor-Yash Starrer Ramayana: India's most expensive film franchise
In the heart of Indian cinematic evolution comes Ramayana, a project that redefines scale, vision, and storytelling. This epic fantasy is slated to arrive in two majestic chapters during Diwali 2026 and 2027. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Ranbir Kapoor, the film has sparked widespread buzz, resonating beyond Indian borders. Uniting acclaimed artists behind its making, the production sets a staggering new benchmark in Indian film budgets. Let’s take a concise yet insightful look at this recently buzzworthy and highly ambitious venture.
Ramayana’s Star-studded Cast
Ranbir Kapoor portrays Lord Rama, and Sai Pallavi assumes the role of Mata Sita. Yash embodies Ravan while Sunny Deol steps into the revered character of Hanuman. The ensemble cast also includes Lara Dutta, Kajal Aggarwal, Vivek Oberoi, Ravi Dubey, and Arun Govil.
World-class Team Crew
Directed by the renowned Nitesh Tiwari, this epic project is supported by Namit Malhotra, an eight-time Oscar-winning producer and the CEO of DNEG and Prime Focus Studios. Joining these two production houses is Yash’s Monster Mind Creations. DNEG is the global VFX powerhouse responsible for visual effects in acclaimed films like ‘Dune’, ‘Oppenheimer’, and ‘Interstellar’. Moreover, ‘Ramayana’ is being filmed specifically for IMAX.
Read more: Top 10 Hindi Films Releasing in Bollywood in July 2025
The soundtrack embodies a unique East-meets-West collaboration, featuring two Academy Award-winning composers. India’s legendary AR Rahman joins forces with Hans Zimmer, a legendary German composer. His iconic scores include ‘The Lion King’ (1994), ‘The Dark Knight’ (2008), ‘Inception’ (2010), and the recent work on the two-part ‘Dune’ series.
Adding to the film’s intensity, action sequences are crafted by Guy Norris, famed for his choreography in ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’.
Record-breaking Budget
The Ramayana franchise commands an unprecedented production budget of Rs 1600 crore. The initial instalment alone accounts for Rs 900 crore, with Rs 700 crore allocated for the sequel. The reduced budget for the second part stems from the extensive expenditure on world-building and asset creation in the first film. It leaves primarily action sequences to be filmed in the follow-up.
However, this colossal investment establishes the series as the most expensive in Indian cinema history.
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Campaign across Two Continents
‘Ramayana: The Introduction’ premiered simultaneously in nine major Indian cities on July 3. The cities are Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Kochi, and Pune. This groundbreaking launch marked an unprecedented moment in Indian movie history.
Just one day later, the mythological movie crossed continents, making a bold statement in New York’s Times Square. Its striking visuals illuminated one of the world’s most iconic digital billboards, capturing global attention.
Verdict
Buzz is surging around ‘Ramayana’, powered by the star trio – Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Yash. Namit Malhotra’s globally acclaimed production takes India’s most revered myth to new heights with cutting-edge technology. The collaboration of AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer on the soundtrack further elevates its stature. The eye-popping Rs 1600 crore budget marks a new pinnacle of Indian filmmaking. In essence, the fusion of exceptional talents firmly positions the project as India’s definitive answer to the Hollywood blockbuster.
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12 days ago
Top 10 Hindi Films Releasing in Bollywood in July 2025
The Bollywood film industry continues to capture imaginations with its dynamic storytelling and cultural resonance. July 2025 unveils a vivid spectrum of new Hindi releases, spanning action, comedy, thriller, horror, romance, and drama. The slate features promising newcomers and rising talents alongside celebrated names. Let’s explore the 10 most anticipated Bollywood movies offering a compelling blend of star power and fresh narratives this month.
10 Most-hyped Hindi Movies Lighting Up Bollywood This July
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Metro... In Dino / Musical Romance / July 4, 2025
Filmmaker Anurag Basu returns to the pulse of the metropolis with this musical romance woven through the lives of modern couples. Positioned as a spiritual successor to ‘Life in a... Metro’ (2007), the film offers four distinct yet interlinked narratives. Each tale unfolds in a different city- Bangalore, Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai.
The ensemble cast features Neena Gupta, Anupam Kher, Pankaj Tripathi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Aditya Roy Kapur, Ali Fazal, Sara Ali Khan, and Fatima Sana Shaikh.
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Music plays a central role, with Pritam composing a contemporary score that echoes the spirit of the original. The soundtrack includes soulful renditions sung by Anupam Kher and Aditya Roy Kapur.
The produced credit goes to T-Series Films and Anurag Basu Productions.
Maalik / Action thriller / July 11, 2024
This thriller flourishes under the direction of Pulkit, who also co-wrote it with Jyotsana Nath. The plot carves out a fierce journey through the underbelly of organised crime. Set against a backdrop of societal unrest, the narrative tracks one man's ascent in the criminal hierarchy. Rooted in realism, the movie confronts issues of power, morality, and survival.
Rajkummar Rao leads with commanding intensity in the titular role. His co-artists are Medha Shankr, Prosenjit Chatterjee, and Manushi Chhillar. Huma Qureshi adds fire with a special appearance in the track ‘Dil Thaam Ke’.
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The music by Sachin-Jigar blends sharp rhythms with evocative lyrics penned by Amitabh Bhattacharya. Ketan Sodha’s background score deepens the grit of every turning point.
The action movie is backed by Tips Industries and Northern Lights Films.
Aap Jaisa Koi / Romantic Drama / July 11, 2025
Two strangers. One unpredictable journey. Shrirenu Tripathi and Madhu Bose cross paths in a story layered with emotion and chance. Moments shift from laughter to silence. Bonds form in places least expected.
Directed by Vivek Soni, the film charts a course through detours of joy, conflict, and reflection. Radhika Anand and Jehan Handa shape the storyline with lightness and depth. The cast includes Madhavan and Fatima Sana Shaikh, alongside Manish Chaudhari, Sachin Kavetham, Namit Das, and Ayesha Raza Mishra.
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Music finds two voices: Rochak Kohli and Justin Prabhakaran, offering contrasting tones that meet in harmony. This Dharmatic Entertainment production brings together Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, Somen Mishra, and Adar Poonawalla as producers.
Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan / Romantic Drama / July 11, 2024
Starring Vikrant Massey and debutant Shanaya Kapoor, this romantic film boasts Santosh Singh as its director.
Adapted from Ruskin Bond’s ‘The Eyes Have It’, the movie is guided by a script from Mansi Bagla. It all starts with a train journey, where Silence speaks. A visually impaired musician meets a theater artist. Then words bloom in the dark. The whole ambient captures fleeting connection and the mystery of perception.
Vishal Mishra composes the songs; Joel Joe Crasto builds the score around stillness and sound. Zee Studios and Mini Films oversee the production, with Open Window Films joining in.
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Tanvi the Great / Drama / July 18, 2024
Directed by Anupam Kher, this film marks a deeply personal story penned by Kher himself, along with Ankur Suman and Abhishek Dixit.
The story focuses on Tanvi Raina, a young woman with autism, who discovers her late father's unfulfilled dream. His wish was to salute the Indian flag at Siachen. Raina’s resolve is to carry it forward, step by step.
Shubhangi Dutt embodies the titular character, with Anupam Kher and Iain Glen portraying key roles. The drama film also stars Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff, Arvind Swami, Pallavi Joshi, Karan Tacker, and Nassar.
The music, composed by Academy Award winner M. M. Keeravani, adds weight to every pause and promise. Anupam Kher Studio and NFDC steer the production.
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17 days ago
Housefull 5 Review: Akshay Kumar’s Comedy Thriller Hits Box Office Milestone
Amidst a season brimming with high-profile releases, ‘Housefull 5’ arrives as a fresh entry that promises laughter with a twist. Released on June 6, 2025, this Akshay Kumar-starring comedy thriller adds a new flavour to the well-known franchise. As audiences and critics turn their attention to its performance and reception, all eyes are on its impact. Let’s explore how the movie measures up in both entertainment and box office numbers.
A Premise with Two Different Prints
Set on a lavish cruise, the story kicks off with the mysterious murder of billionaire Ranjeet Dobriyal at the hands of a masked assailant. Chaos follows, staying true to the franchise’s signature blend of slapstick humour and comic confusion.
Police officers Bhidu and Baba dive into the investigation, while Julius joins forces with other passengers to uncover the truth. The suspense deepens with a twist- two alternate versions of the film, ‘Housefull 5A’ and ‘Housefull 5B’. Collectively, the story offers different killer reveals, leaving viewers guessing until the final frame.
Neat Humour but Slow-Paced Storyline
The movie kicks off with promise, striking a lively balance between comedy and suspense. In the first half, Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, and Riteish Deshmukh shine through. Their timing, expressions, and witty one-liners carry the narrative with ease. Nostalgia is woven cleverly, recalling iconic bits like ‘Prada ka beta Gucci’ and even reviving the monkey from earlier instalments, much to fans’ delight.
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Adult humour finds its place too, handled with restraint and smart writing. The early segments remain crisp and engaging. But as the interval approaches, things begin to slip. The plot feels stretched. After the break, the grip loosens. Momentum fades as the screenplay struggles to manage the massive cast. The attempt to give each character a share of the spotlight leads to bloat, pushing the runtime to 165 minutes.
Despite all the effort, several characters end up feeling like fillers, appearing briefly with minimal impact. Just before the twist, the pace picks up again. The twist lands well, and Bobby Deol’s late appearance injects some freshness. A smart reveal involving Abhishek Bachchan adds to the intrigue.
The climax manages to be both unexpected and amusing. The franchise’s usual tone, fun beyond logic, remains intact, though this time a touch of logic joins the party. Still, the overstuffed cast and excessive length dilute the overall experience. If the pre-climax stretch had been tighter, the film could have truly lived up to the makers’ tall claims.
A Huge Star-Studded Cast in the Lead
With a staggering ensemble of 17 lead actors, ‘Housefull 5’ carries a weighty cast. Yet, it is Sanjay Dutt and Jackie Shroff who leave the strongest impression. Both are offered well-crafted scenes and deliver them with seasoned flair. Akshay maintains his dominance with effortless humour, driven largely by his eccentric expressions. Riteish Deshmukh and Abhishek Bachchan also make their presence felt through sharp comic timing.
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The female leads – Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, and Jacqueline Fernandez – serve primarily as visual highlights. While they contribute a few amusing moments in the first half, their roles gradually fade as the narrative progresses. Their impact remains confined to their glamour appeal.
Among the supporting cast, Johnny Lever stands out as the sole performer with well-written scenes and effective punchlines. Others, including Fardeen Khan, Dino Morea, Shreyas Talpade, Nikitin Dheer, Chitrangada Singh, and Chunky Pandey, are largely under-utilised. Shreyas Talpade is nearly invisible. Fardeen Khan manages a few decent moments, though without lasting effect.
Nana Patekar’s cameo is a clear standout. His entry is impactful, commanding attention despite limited screen time. Even in a serious tone, he introduces a fresh layer of humour. Bobby Deol, appearing towards the end, adds an unexpected twist to close the character lineup.
Music, Screenplay, and Direction
Sajid Nadiadwala handles the story and screenplay, while Tarun Mansukhani takes charge of direction. Their collaboration shows strength in the first half, maintaining a light, engaging rhythm. However, the second half struggles with consistency.
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Balancing a murder mystery within a comic framework proves challenging. The narrative loses its grip as it tries to manage both genres.
Music, a trademark of the ‘Housefull’ series, falls short this time. Unlike past chart-toppers like ‘Aapka Kya Hoga (Dhanno)’ or, ‘Anarkali Disco Chali’ only ‘Laal Pari’ leaves a lasting impression. The remaining tracks are enjoyable but forgettable.
Box Office Earnings: Akshay’s Historical Achievement
Backed by Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, ‘Housefull 5’ was made on a budget of Rs 225 crore. It opened with a robust global earning of Rs 37.25 crore, securing the third-highest opening for a Bollywood film in 2025. Over the first weekend, the film collected between Rs 130.50 crore and Rs 131.50 crore worldwide. The figure surpasses ‘Sooryavanshi’ (Rs 118 crore) to mark Akshay Kumar’s biggest weekend yet.
Within four days, the comedy thriller entered the Rs 100 crore club domestically. After drawing Rs 32.5 crore on Sunday, it maintained momentum with Rs 13.5 crore on Monday, taking the total India box office tally to Rs 101 crore.
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On the international front, the Indian film crossed the USD 1 million mark at the North American box office. This milestone marks Akshay’s 28th film to do so, further strengthening his overseas track record.
According to trade analyst Nishit Shaw, Akshay stands just behind Shah Rukh Khan in the million-dollar club rankings. While Shah Rukh leads with 32 films, Akshay holds second with 28, edging past Salman Khan, who has 25 films on the list.
Verdict
Akshay Kumar starrer ‘Housefull 5’ features two alternate versions, subtitled 5A and 5B. Though the film delivers neat humour, it suffers from a sluggish story pace. The amazing blend of comedy and thriller boasts a massive star-studded ensemble in this film. However, not all are meaningfully utilised. Despite narrative flaws, the Nadiadwala production has struck gold at the box office, crossing INR 100 crore domestically and USD 1 million in North America. Marking Akshay’s 28th entry in the million-dollar club, the movie stands as both a significant highlight in his career and a gem for Indian cinema.
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1 month ago
June 2025 Bollywood Movie Lineup: Top 10 Most-Anticipated Hindi Films
With the enduring charm of Hindi cinema captivating global audiences, Bollywood continues to be the heart of India’s film legacy. June 2025 brings a cinematic feast across horror, comedy, thriller, mystery, and drama. Each promises visual spectacle featuring newcomers, rising talents, and beloved stars. Let’s explore the top 10 Bollywood movies lighting up screens this June, each promising a story worth watching.
10 Most Anticipated Hindi Movies Releasing This June
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Main Bhi Arjun: Parv / Biography / June 3, 2025
The narrative traces the extraordinary life of child prodigy Parv Thacker, who was born with clubfoot. He overcomes adversity to become the Global Ambassador of ‘Global Clubfoot Awareness Parv’. Not only that, he is also up for India's youngest singer, entrepreneur, and Bhagavad Gita Bharat Ambassador. His inspiring path draws strength from Indian cultural wisdom, rooted in Indian legendary icons like the Bhagavad Gita and Ramayana.
Besides directing the movie and crafting its script, Krupesh Thacker and Pooja Thacker assume the pivotal roles along with Parv Thacker in the lead.
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The production is spearheaded by Esy ID and Krup Productions.
Housefull 5 / Comedy Thriller / June 6, 2025
The fifth chapter of the Housefull series, this movie takes shape under the direction of Tarun Mansukhani, who co-wrote it with Farhad Samji.
Firuzi Khan, Sajid Nadiadwala, and Warda Nadiadwala of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment steer the production.
The ensemble cast includes Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Jacqueline Fernandez, Jackie Shroff, Shreyas Talpade, Fardeen Khan, Nana Patekar, Dino Morea, Nargis Fakhri, Chitrangada Singh, Johnny Lever, Sonam Bajwa, Chunky Pandey, Soundarya Sharma, and Nikitin Dheer.
Read more: Sardaarji 3: First Look of the Horror Comedy Echoes ‘Stree’
The plotline unfolds aboard a luxury cruise where a billionaire's mysterious death spirals into a frantic whodunit laced with the franchise’s hallmark slapstick chaos. Akshay Kumar’s character leads a hilariously unorthodox investigation. Meanwhile, Sanjay Dutt and Jackie Shroff appear as baffled officers navigating layers of nautical nonsense.
Shraap 3D / Horror / June 19, 2025
Backed by Neelam Sharma Entertainment, this horror film boasts Faisal Saif as its writer and director. With a script written in both Tamil and Hindi, this movie’s plot unfolds with a CBI officer who has experience with a ghost.
Rajpal Yadav and Kavita Radheshyam portray the lead characters with a supporting cast of Mythriya Gowda, Nishant Pandey, Dev Sharma, Yashpal Sharma, and Himani Shivpuri.
Sitaare Zameen Par / Sports Comedy / June 20, 2025
Positioned as a spiritual heir to ‘Taare Zameen Par’ (2007), this emotionally charged sports drama reinterprets the 2018 Spanish film, ‘Champions’. This time, Aamir Khan shares the screen with Genelia Deshmukh. R. S. Prasanna takes the director’s seat, and Divy Nidhi Sharma serves as the writer. Aparna Purohit, along with Aamir Khan, drives the production.
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The story begins with a disgraced basketball coach sentenced to community service after a DUI, tasked with training a team of neurodivergent adults. What starts as resistance slowly gives way to revelation. His assumptions crumble under the weight of empathy, growth, and newfound understanding.
The trio, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, is behind the song composition with lyrics of Amitabh Bhattacharya. Ram Sampath takes charge of the film’s background score.
Detective Sherdil / Comedy Mystery / June 20, 2025
Directed by Ravi Chhabriya, this mystery comedy thrives with Ali Abbas Zafar as its writer.
Diana Penty, Diljit Dosanjh, and Boman Irani embody the key characters.
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The premise centres on an amateur sleuth whose overzealous antics fuel a simulated comedy woven through a criminal case.
The production credit goes to AAZ Films, Maurya Entertainment, and Offside Entertainment.
1 month ago
Sardaarji 3: First Look of the Horror Comedy Echoes ‘Stree’
Chart-topper punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh continues to expand his cinematic journey. Known for his landmark appearance at Coachella, this globally recognised actor remains a defining figure in contemporary entertainment. He now returns with the next installment of his widely popular horror comedy franchise. Titled ‘Sardaarji 3,’ the upcoming film is slated for release on June 27, 2025. The recently revealed first look has already sparked comparisons to a well-known genre hit. Let’s break down the poster and its nationwide fans' reaction.
‘Sardaarji 3’ Poster Teases Vibes of ‘Stree’
Diljit Dosanjh took to Instagram to announce his next big-screen outing with a motion poster reveal. At the centre stands Diljit, wearing his signature grin, while a circle of veiled women surrounds him. Their faces hidden under traditional ghoonghats add an eerie stillness to the otherwise vibrant frame. The setup hints at an offbeat ride packed with energy, humour, and a fantastical edge.
Viewers were quick to pick up on the familiarity. The imagery sparked instant comparisons with ‘Stree’ (2018), known for blending supernatural suspense with quirky charm. From the veiled female figures to the comedic undertone, the parallels felt unmistakable.
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Diljit’s caption deepened that impression. He playfully hinted that ghosts might shiver and witches could demand kisses. He sums it all up with three simple cues: goosebumps, laughter, and love. His words suggest a chaotic mix of romance, comedy, and spooky fun, much like Stree’s winning formula.
Audience Reaction
The unveiled poster has stirred anticipation across social media. Its eerie composition hints at more than just light-hearted fun. Shadows, mystery, and hidden identities suggest a darker twist woven into the familiar comic framework.
The poster marks a significant moment for the beloved Punjabi franchise’s third chapter. The announcement came with the promise of an upcoming teaser, further intensifying the buzz.
Read more: Aditya Roy Kapur on reuniting with Anurag Basu for Metro In Dino: "Every Day Brings Something New"
With visuals pointing to a ghostly edge, audiences are now awaiting what appears to be a bold return to the genre’s spooky roots.
A Brief Journey to the Sardaarji franchise
The franchise began its journey in 2015 with a mix of fantasy, horror, and comedy, an unusual blend for Punjabi cinema at the time. Directed by Rohit Jugraj, the first installment starred Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa, and Mandy Takhar in key roles. Its imaginative storyline and genre-defying tone marked it as one of the pioneering fantasy ventures in the regional film industry.
The second chapter arrived just a year later, in 2016. Though set in the same universe, it functioned as a standalone sequel. Dosanjh took on a triple role, showcasing his comic timing and screen presence with support from Monica Gill and Sonam Bajwa. Rohit Jugraj Chauhan returned to direct, continuing the blend of absurdity and thrill that defined the original.
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The upcoming third part signals a new chapter with director Amar Hundal taking the reins. The cast expands to include familiar and fresh faces: Neeru, Manav Vij, Saleem Albela, Nasir Chinyoti, and Monica Sharma.
Initial speculation surrounded the involvement of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. Dosanjh later addressed it quietly, indicating her absence from the project.
Adding to the anticipation is the reunion of Dosanjh and Neeru, coming on the heels of their recent success ‘Jatt & Juliet 3’ (2024). Their dynamic has consistently drawn audiences, and their return promises yet another engaging on-screen pairing.
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Wrap Up
‘Sardaarji 3’ first look vibing Stree's horror comedy sparked instant excitement. Audiences responded with enthusiasm as the poster teased suspense and humour. While Hania Aamir’s rumoured role was ruled out, Neeru Bajwa returns, reprising her part from the original film. With Diljit Dosanjh at the centre, the franchise gears up for another thrilling entry. The film series is poised to bear an influential imprint on the Punjabi film industry.
1 month ago
Paresh Rawal Quits Hera Pheri 3, Leaving Franchise Fans Shocked
Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has officially confirmed his exit from ‘Hera Pheri 3’ during the early stages of its production. This new installment continues the iconic Bollywood film series that has long featured him as the beloved character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte. This unexpected turn of events has sent waves of disappointment across the fanbase. Let’s take a look at what led to this surprising decision and the reactions of fans.
Makers of the Hera Pheri Film Series
This Indian comedy movie series debuted in 2000 and was directed by Priyadarshan and produced by A.G. Nadiadwala. Backed by the same producer, the second film was released in 2006 with Neeraj Vora directing. Now the third edition boasts Farhad Samji as its director and Firoz A. Nadiadwala as its producer. Over the years since its debut, this series has cultivated a devoted cult following.
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Paresh Rawal Throughout the Franchise
Rawal’s portrayal of Baburao is legendary in Bollywood. From the very first film, Baburao, affectionately known as Babu Bhaiya, quickly won over audiences. His character is a bumbling yet kind-hearted landlord, often seen in a perpetually inebriated state. Despite his flaws, Baburao forms an unlikely but effective partnership with Raju, played by Akshay Kumar, and Shyam, portrayed by Suniel Shetty.
The chemistry between the three iconic characters surpassed all expectations of the comic-film lovers. Baburao has a unique way of delivering dialogue. Portraying eccentric activities with impeccable comic timing, this veteran actor claimed his place among the most popular cult figures in Bollywood. Memorable lines such as “Utha le re baba” and “Ye Babu Rao ka style hai” have transcended the screen. These phrases have become staples in online culture, inspiring countless memes and GIFs. These remain popular on social media platforms even today.
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Reason Behind the Exit
The iconic actor confirmed his departure in a statement with Bollywood Hungama, simply acknowledging it as fact. Most importantly, creative disagreements between Rawal and the makers led to his decision to leave the project.
In a separate conversation with Lallantop, Rawal opened up about deeper reasons behind his choice. He admitted feeling creatively stifled, describing the experience of being typecast as suffocating, likening it to a noose. He recalled approaching filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj back in 2007, soon after the second installment was released. Rawal had expressed his urge to break free from the Baburao image. He wanted to play a fresh character while retaining the familiar getup, hoping Bhardwaj could shape something new.
However, he noted that most directors continued to view him solely through the lens of ‘Baburao’. As an actor, he felt the need to explore beyond that comfort zone.
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Interestingly, Akshay Kumar had once stepped away from the project too, before eventually returning. Fans of the franchise now hold onto the same hope that Rawal might also find his way back.
Audience Reaction
For the audience, his absence felt like a blow to the very spirit of the film series. The character of Babu Rao isn’t just a part of the story; he’s the pulse of the series. Without him, a large section of the audience believes the film simply won’t carry the same charm.
Social media quickly reflected this wave of dismay. One user wondered aloud if all the fun had exited along with Rawal. Another firmly stated that without him, there’s no ‘Hera Pheri 3’ worth watching. Some fans urged the makers to reconsider, fearing the series might lose its legacy if pushed forward without its iconic face. One even pleaded not to ruin what had already become a cult classic for the sake of profit.
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Amid the disappointment, a few held on to hope. One fan expressed belief that Akshay Kumar might somehow bring Rawal back. According to fans, the movie just isn’t imaginable without Baburao.
Bottom Line
Paresh Rawal’s exit from ‘Hera Pheri 3’ marks a major shift in the franchise. His role as Baburao had long defined the series, blending comedy and heart in equal measure. Fans see his absence as a void that the upcoming installment may not fill. Social media is flooded with calls for his return, echoing his unmatched impact. While disappointment runs deep, many still hope Akshay Kumar can persuade Rawal to return and complete the beloved trio once again.
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1 month ago
Bhool Chuk Maaf Movie Update: New Theatrical and OTT Release Dates
Buzz continues to build around the much-anticipated Bollywood feature as ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’ prepares for its big-screen and digital arrivals. The theatrical debut is now scheduled for May 23, 2025, while its OTT premiere shifts from May 16 to June 6, 2025. Let’s unpack the full slate of updates, including the cast, team, and theme.
The Team Behind Bhool Chuk Maaf: Movie Makers and Cast
This science fiction film has been produced under the collaboration of Maddock Films and world-renowned film house Amazon MGM Studios. It marks Amazon’s Indian film debut. The distribution rights go to PVR INOX Pictures, Pen Marudhar, and Yash Raj Films.
Directed and penned by Karan Sharma, the romantic comedy movie stars Wamiqa Gabbi, Rajkummar Rao, and Seema Pahwa in lead roles.
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The supporting cast comprises Sanjay Mishra, Zakir Hussain, Raghubir Yadav, Ishtiyak Khan, Anubha Fatehpuria, and Jay Thakkar.
Dhanashree Verma makes a special appearance in the track ‘Ting Ling Sajna’.
A refreshed version of the 2009 hit ‘Chor Bazaari Phir Se’ finds new life in this film’s soundtrack. The song was originally voiced by Sunidhi Chauhan and Neeraj Shridhar in the film ‘Love Aaj Kal’.
Tanishk Bagchi scores the soundtrack with lyrics by Irshad Kamil, while Ketan Sodha handles the background music.
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Storyline Based on Sci-fi Comedy Theme
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Varanasi, the movie explores the charm of small-town romance. At its heart is Ranjan, played by Rajkummar, a sincere dreamer who lands a government job to win the hand of his beloved.
Wamiqa portrays Titli Mishra, his spirited fiancee. Just as their wedding approaches, something strange begins. A time loop traps Ranjan in a never-ending rewind to their Haldi ceremony. Titli, unaware of the loop, leaves him battling the bizarre repetition alone.
Controversy Surrounding Theatrical and OTT Releases
The film’s journey to release has been anything but smooth. With over 5,000 tickets already sold through box offices and online platforms, generating more than Rs. 3 crore in revenue. However, a last-minute decision by Maddock Films to cancel the theatrical release sparked immediate backlash.
This sudden shift to a digital launch triggered legal action. PVR INOX, citing major financial setbacks and breach of contract, filed a lawsuit seeking Rs. 60 crore in damages. They argued that the eleventh-hour cancellation had caused irreversible losses across distribution and exhibition networks.
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On May 9, 2025, the Bombay High Court stepped in. It granted ad-interim relief to PVR INOX, prohibiting Maddock Films from releasing the movie on any digital or non-theatrical platform. This restriction remains in place until the mandatory eight-week holdback period has passed following a theatrical premiere.
Just days later, on 14 May, both parties reached a compromise. The film will now hit theatres on May 23, 2025. Hindi films typically follow an eight-week gap before reaching OTT platforms. However, this title will stream on Prime Video in just two weeks, on June 6, 2025. This rare exception was ordered by the court and will not serve as precedent for future releases.
In a final turn, PVR INOX has chosen to drop its Rs. 60 crore compensation claim. Maddock Films will not owe any financial settlement. A formal joint statement from both sides is expected to clarify the resolution and terms of this agreement.
Bottom Line
New release dates for ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’ are set for May 23, 2025, in theatres and June 6, 2025, on Prime Video. Karan Sharma’s direction and the cast led by Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi signify Amazon’s maiden Hindi-language production. This sci-fi romantic comedy unfolds around a time loop trapping the protagonist during a wedding ceremony. The release faced legal hurdles after a last-minute shift from theatres to digital. However, the dispute was resolved with a delayed theatrical release and a shortened OTT window.
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2 months ago
Kesari Chapter 2 Review: Akshay Kumar Fronts a Bold Patriotic Courtroom Saga
Breaking away from the war-soaked legacy of its predecessor, Kesari Chapter 2 carves its path through the high-stakes world of courtroom drama. Released on April 18, 2025, this Akshay Kumar-led film places its strength in sharp dialogues, layered emotions, and legal confrontations. Let’s evaluate the filmmaking finesse, star appeal, and box office trajectory of the Bollywood historical drama Kesari Chapter 2.
Narrative Depth of Kesari Chapter 2
Subtitled ‘The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh,’ this chapter revisits one of colonial India’s darkest hours, seldom explored on screen. Inspired by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat’s The Case That Shook The Empire, the film leans into its charting of familiar territory with dignity rather than daring.
Anchored by the tireless resolve of C. Sankaran Nair, it delves deep into his courtroom quest for justice following the brutal Jallianwala Bagh massacre. As legal proceedings unmask imperial deceit and media manipulation, Nair’s defiance ignites both a legal and emotional uprising.
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Filmmaking: Direction and Screenplay in Harmony
When storytelling meets sincerity, it leaves a lasting imprint, and this film does just that under the assured vision of Karan Singh Tyagi. His approach isn’t weighed down by the need to sensationalise history but rather to let the gravity of its truth speak for itself. Each frame feels like it was carved with both reverence and restraint. It offers a cinematic experience that balances commercial storytelling with historical depth.
Even the few dramatised moments stay rooted in emotional honesty, never tipping into artificiality. What’s especially refreshing is its resistance to the typical post-interval slump; the pacing remains taut and engaging throughout.
The dialogues, shaped meticulously by Sumit Saxena, feel less like scripted lines, deliberate truths waiting to strike. Credit also flows to Tyagi and Amritpal Singh Bindra’s subtle strength in co-shaping the screenplay. With this creative collaboration, the drama avoids overblown patriotism, opting instead for quiet, piercing dignity.
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Star Cast Led by Akshay Kumar
Akshay delivers a performance that transcends his usual action-packed persona. Stepping into the shoes of C. Sankaran Nair, he masterfully portrays the transformation of a British loyalist into a passionate truth-seeker. His ability to channel the inner conflict of a man torn between loyalty and morality introduces a unique depth to his character. Every monologue, carefully crafted and executed, is a moment of defiance and a raw human reaction to the forces of manipulation.
In contrast, R. Madhavan, as Neville McKinley, serves as the perfect foil to Akshay’s stoic intensity. His portrayal of an eloquent, somewhat eccentric opposing counsel presents a refined complexity to their courtroom clashes. These verbal duels are poised as ideological battlegrounds, where each word carries the weight of colonial repression and personal belief.
Ananya Panday shines as Dilreet Kaur, a co-counsel whose quiet determination adds gravitas to her role. She navigates her character’s legal prowess and personal pain with remarkable maturity.
Meanwhile, Regina Cassandra’s portrayal of Nair’s wife, Palat Kunhimalu Amma, anchors much-needed support to Nair's tumultuous journey.
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Finally, Simon Paisley Day brings a chilling presence as General Dyer, whose backstory adds a layer of tragic complexity to his villainous role. His portrayal sheds light on the dark psychology driving colonial violence.
Visual Brilliance and Score: Production Set, Cinematography, and Music
The production design by Rita Ghosh flawlessly brings the pre-Independence era to life. It extends from the bustling streets of Amritsar to the bloodied grounds of Jallianwala Bagh. The colonial courts, the grandeur of the Viceroy’s parties feels genuine yet not overly staged. Every single detail is meticulously crafted to evoke the period’s oppressive atmosphere.
Debojeet Ray’s cinematography, paired with Tyagi's direction, adds a visual depth that enhances the emotional weight of the story.
The music elevates the experience further with Shashwat Sachdev’s stirring compositions, like ‘O Shera’ and ‘Kithe Gaya.’ Azeem Dayani’s background score underscores the tension and drama. A poignant moment arrives with the nostalgic revisit of ‘Teri Mitti,’ an emotional callback to the first film, binding the narrative together beautifully.
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Box Office Strength and Audience Verdict
Bankrolled by the collaborative strength of Dharma Productions, Leo Media Collective, and Cape of Good Films, the film’s box office journey began with steady momentum. Its opening day pulled in Rs 7.75 crore, which is around BDT 11.02 crore (Rs. 1 = BDT 1.42); a respectable start. The second day witnessed a healthy uplift, recording Rs 9.5 crore (BDT 13.51 crore), 22.58 percent growth from day 1.
As of midday on April 20, the third-day earnings stood at Rs. 0.6 crore (BDT 0.8 crore), pushing the total to Rs. 17.85 crore (BDT 25.38 crore).
Despite stiff competition from Sunny Deol’s roaring comeback in Jaat, the movie’s hold remains promising. Audience reception shines brightly too, with an IMDB rating of 8.6- a testament to its impact beyond mere numbers.
Verdict
Kesari Chapter 2 Movie Review reflects a gripping courtroom journey wrapped in patriotic depth and emotional weight. Akshay Kumar’s compelling portrayal of C. Sankaran Nair marks one of his most restrained yet stirring performances. The historical drama arrived with an impressive box office turnout, holding audience attention despite its creatively mixed echoes. A fine blend of storytelling and purpose, Karan Singh’s direction emerges as a dignified sequel worth watching.
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2 months ago