bhansali begin madhubala
|

Bhansali to begin Madhubala biopic work in September

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is expected to begin work on the much-anticipated Madhubala biopic in September after completing his ongoing film Love & War. The upcoming project will focus on the life and legacy of legendary Hindi cinema actress Madhubala, with Sara Arjun set to play the iconic role.

Bhansali is currently wrapping up the final schedule of Love & War, which features Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal in key roles. The film’s last song is reportedly scheduled to be filmed at Royal Palms in Goregaon by the end of August.

Once the Love & War shoot is completed, the same location is expected to be transformed for the Madhubala biopic. The production design team will reportedly begin working on the sets immediately after Bhansali finishes his current project. The location is expected to be redesigned to recreate the period associated with Madhubala’s life and career.

The biopic is expected to go on floors in September, marking the beginning of a new phase for the highly discussed project. Jasmeet K Reen, who previously directed Darlings, will helm the film. Bhansali is attached to the project as a producer, a development that helped the film move forward after facing delays.

The Madhubala biopic had reportedly been put on hold earlier because of financial difficulties. However, the project eventually gained momentum after Bhansali joined the production team. His involvement has further increased expectations surrounding the film, particularly given his reputation for creating visually elaborate period stories.

Sara Arjun has reportedly started preparing for the challenging role. The actress and the team are said to be working on Madhubala’s personality, mannerisms and expressions to ensure that her portrayal captures the essence of the legendary performer. The production will also focus on recreating the atmosphere and visual style of the era in which Madhubala rose to fame.

Sara recently received increased attention for her role in the Dhurandhar franchise, where she portrayed Yalina Jamali, the love interest of Ranveer Singh’s character. Taking on Madhubala will represent a major opportunity for the young actress, as she steps into the role of one of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable stars.

Madhubala remains an enduring figure in Indian cinema, remembered for her beauty, charm, screen presence and memorable performances. Her life and career have continued to attract public interest long after her passing, making her story a natural subject for a major biographical film.

As Love & War nears completion, Bhansali is expected to shift his focus towards the Madhubala project. The film will seek to explore the actress’s journey, career and lasting legacy while bringing the golden era of Hindi cinema back to life through its production design and storytelling.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    PPP alleges polling irregularities during second p…

    ISLAMABAD: The second phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections faced fresh controversy on Sunday after the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) alleged delays, administrative shortcomings and electoral irregularities in several constituencies. Meanwhile, the AJK Election Commission postponed polling in one constituency due to severe weather conditions. Polling continued in 21 constituencies, including nine seats in Muzaffarabad Division and 12 refugee constituencies across Pakistan. More than 1.2 million registered voters were eligible to cast their ballots under strict security arrangements. PPP AJK Election Cell In-charge Sardar Abdul Shakoor claimed that polling was delayed in several constituencies because polling staff failed to reach polling stations before voting began. He said dozens of polling stations remained without election officials at the scheduled opening time, causing inconvenience to voters and delaying the electoral process. According to the PPP, similar problems were reported in multiple constituencies where polling staff arrived late, preventing voters from exercising their right to vote on time. The party urged the Election Commission and local administration to ensure immediate deployment of staff and restore normal polling. Separately, the AJK Election Commission announced that polling in LA-27 Muzaffarabad-I had been postponed after heavy rainfall and landslides blocked key roads, making it impossible for polling teams and election material to reach several polling stations. Election authorities said efforts were made to reopen the affected routes, but worsening weather conditions prevented polling from taking place. The Commission said a new polling date would be announced later and apologised to voters for the inconvenience. The PPP questioned the decision to postpone polling across the entire constituency. Party leaders argued that if only certain polling stations were affected by landslides, polling should have continued in the remaining accessible areas. They called on the Election Commission to release a detailed report explaining the reasons behind the postponement. The party also alleged delays in additional constituencies, claiming that polling staff had not reached several stations even hours after voting officially began. It maintained that the delays affected voter participation and raised concerns over the smooth conduct of the election. PPP leaders further alleged that blocked roads prevented hundreds of voters from reaching polling stations. The party demanded the immediate reopening of affected routes and called for measures to ensure that voters could cast their ballots without obstruction. In another complaint, the PPP claimed that some of its polling agents were prevented from performing their duties at polling stations despite fulfilling legal requirements. The party urged election authorities to intervene and ensure equal treatment of all contesting candidates and their representatives. The PPP also accused rival political workers of violating election rules in certain constituencies and alleged that government employees were participating in election activities in violation of the code of conduct. The party demanded an immediate investigation and legal action wherever irregularities were confirmed. Separately, PPP leader Nadeem Afzal Chan criticised the conduct of the elections, describing reported delays in ballot paper distribution and administrative issues as unacceptable. He said the party wanted the electoral process to remain transparent and credible and warned that unresolved issues could undermine public confidence.

  • | |

    Three-day curfew imposed in Nushki

    A three-day curfew has been imposed in Nushki district of Balochistan due to the deteriorating law and order situation. The curfew has been enforced to maintain peace and prevent further unrest in the district. Residents have been directed to remain inside their homes during the curfew period. Movement in the district will remain restricted. According to a notification issued by the Balochistan Home Department, the curfew will remain in force until 8pm on July 31. The notification said the decision was taken because of the prevailing security situation in Nushki. Under the curfew restrictions, residents will not be allowed to leave their homes without permission. Unnecessary movement and travel will also be prohibited. Public gatherings will not be permitted during the curfew. Processions and other activities involving large groups of people will also remain banned. The restrictions are aimed at controlling the situation and ensuring public safety. The notification further stated that the deputy commissioner has the authority to grant exemptions to certain categories of people. Government employees may be allowed to move during the curfew if their duties require it. Medical staff will also be exempted from the restrictions. Rescue personnel and utility workers will also be permitted to perform essential duties. The authorities have warned residents against violating the curfew. According to the notification, strict legal action will be taken against anyone found violating the restrictions. The administration has urged citizens to cooperate with the authorities and remain indoors until the curfew is lifted. The development comes amid heightened concerns over law and order in Nushki. Authorities have imposed the restrictions as a precautionary measure to prevent further incidents and maintain stability. Officials are expected to monitor the situation closely during the curfew period. The restrictions could help security personnel maintain control and ensure the safety of residents.

  • | |

    Punjab launches ‘Naya Aaghaz’ programme for pr…

    LAHORE: In a major step towards prison reform and prisoner rehabilitation, the Punjab government has launched the “Naya Aaghaz” (New Beginning) Programme, an initiative designed to provide interest-free loans to eligible inmates after their release, enabling them to start small businesses and successfully reintegrate into society. The programme, introduced under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s prison reform agenda, is being implemented through a partnership between the Punjab Home Department and Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance. The agreement aims to support former prisoners by helping them achieve financial independence using vocational skills acquired during their imprisonment. Under the initiative, eligible released prisoners will be able to obtain interest-free loans of up to Rs200,000 to either establish a new business or expand an existing one. The loans will be repaid in equal monthly instalments over 36 months, while recovered funds will be recycled to support future beneficiaries. An initial revolving fund of Rs5 million has been allocated by Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance to launch the programme. All administrative and operational costs will be borne by Akhuwat, ensuring that neither the Punjab Home Department nor the Punjab Prisons Department faces any financial burden. The Punjab Prisons Department will identify inmates expected to be released within the next three months and assess their eligibility based on their conduct in prison and the vocational training they have successfully completed. Final verification of loan applications will be carried out independently by Akhuwat in accordance with its lending policies. Officials said Punjab’s prisons currently offer certified vocational training programmes across all correctional facilities, with inmates receiving technical education in 23 different trades. More than 28,000 prisoners have already earned vocational certificates through TEVTA and PVTC training centres, while approximately 6,500 inmates are presently undergoing skills training. Additionally, 74 psychologists are working in Punjab prisons to encourage rehabilitation through counselling and positive engagement. The agreement was signed by DIG Prisons Ahmed Naveed Gondal and Akhuwat CEO Dr Kamran Shams in the presence of Chairman of the Chief Minister’s Task Force on Prisons Rana Manan Khan, Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi, Akhuwat Foundation Chairman Dr Amjad Saqib, Inspector General Prisons Mian Salik Jalal, senior Home Department officials and other representatives. Speaking at the ceremony, Rana Manan Khan said the programme would enable released prisoners to become financially self-reliant and lead respectable lives after completing their sentences. He described prison reforms as one of the Punjab government’s highest priorities and said the administration was committed to transforming prisons into genuine rehabilitation centres. Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to reducing poverty, promoting social reintegration and ensuring that former prisoners return to society as productive and self-sufficient citizens. He added that education, vocational training and discipline were central to the government’s vision of modern prison reforms. Akhuwat Foundation Chairman Dr Amjad Saqib said the programme is entirely based on the principle of Qarz-e-Hasna (benevolent, interest-free loans) and will provide released inmates with a dignified opportunity to rebuild their lives. He noted that Akhuwat has so far disbursed over Rs500 billion in interest-free loans to around 4.5 million families across Pakistan. Officials also clarified that individuals listed under the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) or designated under United Nations Security Council sanctions will not qualify for the scheme. They further stated that the Punjab government and the Prisons Department will not be responsible for loan defaults, business losses or repayment issues, as all lending decisions and monitoring will remain the responsibility of Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance.

  • |

    Carlos Brathwaite applauds Babar Azam’s captaincy

    Former West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite has praised Pakistan captain Babar Azam for his outstanding leadership, describing his captaincy as a tactical masterclass during the ongoing Test against the Caribbean side. Speaking during his analysis of the match, Brathwaite highlighted Babar’s calm decision-making and ability to read the game under pressure. He said the Pakistan skipper showed excellent awareness by slowing the pace of play at key moments and making smart field changes that unsettled the West Indies batters. According to Brathwaite, one of Babar’s best tactical moves was the field placement against experienced batter Roston Chase. The carefully designed field forced Chase to rethink his natural game and prevented him from scoring freely. “Babar’s field settings kept Roston Chase under constant pressure,” Brathwaite noted. “He had to keep adjusting his approach, and eventually that pressure led to a mistake.” The former all-rounder added that Babar’s leadership reflected a high standard of captaincy, saying every move appeared to be planned according to the match situation rather than following a fixed strategy. Brathwaite believes the Pakistan captain demonstrated maturity, patience and tactical intelligence, qualities that helped his team remain competitive during crucial stages of the contest. Meanwhile, the Test match remains finely balanced. West Indies reached 103-6 in their second innings and currently hold a lead of 60 runs, setting up an intriguing finish over the remaining sessions. Pakistan will now look to capitalize on any opportunity to wrap up the innings quickly, while the West Indies hope to extend their advantage with the lower order. Brathwaite’s glowing assessment has once again placed the spotlight on Babar Azam’s leadership, with many cricket fans praising the Pakistan captain for his strategic approach and composure in high-pressure situations.

  • |

    13 migrants missing after boat sinks off Tunisia

    TUNIS: At least 13 Tunisians are missing after a migrant boat sank off the country’s coast while attempting to reach Italy, according to a migrant rights official. Two people were rescued following the incident, but one of them was reported to be in critical condition. The head of the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights, Mostafa Abdelkebir, said the boat had departed early Thursday. One of the survivors told rescuers that the passengers had spent hours stranded at sea after the vessel overturned. Rescue efforts were launched after the boat sank, but the whereabouts of the missing migrants remained unknown. The incident highlights the continuing dangers faced by migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean in overcrowded or poorly equipped vessels. Tunisia has been a major departure point for migrants seeking to reach Europe, particularly Italy. However, the number of departures from the country has declined significantly over the past two years as authorities have strengthened maritime surveillance and border controls. The tighter measures have received financial and technical support from European countries, particularly Italy, as part of efforts to curb irregular migration across the Mediterranean. The European Union’s migration cooperation with Tunisia has also faced criticism from international rights organisations. Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and other humanitarian groups recently accused the EU-Tunisia arrangement of contributing to serious abuses against migrants and asylum seekers. The organisations have urged the EU to suspend funding for migration and border-control operations involving Tunisian security forces. Tunisian authorities have defended their position, saying the country is facing intense pressure from the growing number of migrants attempting to use its territory as a route towards Europe. The central Mediterranean remains one of the most dangerous migration routes in the world. Migrants from African and Middle Eastern countries frequently attempt the journey in boats that can be overcrowded, poorly maintained or unsuitable for long sea crossings.

  • | |

    Former Pakistan test cricketer Basit Ali hospitali…

      Former Pakistan Test cricketer Basit Ali has been hospitalized after experiencing a heart-related health issue. The 55-year-old former international cricketer was taken to a private hospital, where doctors are currently treating him. According to Basit Ali’s wife, the former cricketer was brought to the hospital for an angioplasty procedure. She said that Basit Ali is currently under medical care and that doctors are monitoring his condition. Further details about his health are expected to emerge following the treatment. Basit Ali is a well-known former Pakistani cricketer who represented the national team during the 1990s. He was regarded as a talented middle-order batsman and became known for his aggressive approach at the crease. During his international career, he represented Pakistan in both Test and One Day International cricket. Basit Ali played 19 Test matches for Pakistan, scoring 858 runs. In the longer format, he was part of the national side during a period when Pakistan had a highly competitive cricket team and several established international batsmen. In One Day International cricket, Basit Ali represented Pakistan in 50 matches and scored 1,265 runs. His ability to score quickly and play attacking strokes made him a notable member of Pakistan’s limited-overs squad. The former cricketer’s hospitalization has drawn attention from the Pakistani cricket community, with fans and former players expressing concern over his health. His family has confirmed that he is receiving treatment at the private hospital. Angioplasty is a medical procedure commonly used to restore blood flow through narrowed or blocked arteries. During the procedure, doctors generally open the affected blood vessel to improve circulation. The decision to perform angioplasty depends on the patient’s medical condition and the assessment of the treating doctors. Basit Ali’s illness comes as a reminder of the importance of timely medical attention when symptoms related to the heart occur. His family brought him to the hospital for treatment, where specialists are currently attending to him. Born in Karachi, Basit Ali made his international debut for Pakistan in the early 1990s. Although his international career was relatively short, he remained a familiar figure in Pakistani cricket. Following his playing career, he continued to remain associated with the sport through cricket-related activities and analysis. His experience as a former international player has also allowed him to remain connected with Pakistan’s cricketing circles. Over the years, he has regularly shared his views on Pakistan cricket and the performances of national players. The cricket fraternity is now awaiting further updates regarding his condition. His family has requested prayers and good wishes as he undergoes treatment. At present, Basit Ali remains under medical supervision at the private hospital. His wife has confirmed that he was admitted for angioplasty and that treatment is underway. Fans and cricket supporters across Pakistan are hoping for his speedy recovery and a return to good health.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *