Life & Style

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.

Saif Ali Khan is looking forward to the release of his upcoming film Haiwaan, which brings him together with filmmaker Priyadarshan and actor Akshay Kumar. The film has generated interest not only because of its star-studded cast but also because of the unusual character Saif plays. In Haiwaan, Saif portrays a visually impaired musician and martial arts coach. The actor has described the role as one of the most interesting characters he has taken on in recent years, particularly because of the character’s layered past and the contrasting influences of his parents. Saif revealed that he discovered an unexpected personal connection between Priyadarshan and his late father, legendary cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, popularly known as Tiger Pataudi. Both Priyadarshan and Pataudi experienced the loss of an eye but continued to achieve success in their respective careers. For Saif, this similarity made his association with the director even more meaningful. The actor also spoke warmly about Priyadarshan’s personality and working methods. According to Saif, the director’s calm, disciplined and focused approach reminded him of his father. He admired the filmmaker for maintaining a fast pace on set and not giving actors too much time to overanalyse their scenes. Saif suggested that Priyadarshan’s efficient style can help performers remain natural because they have less opportunity to become overly conscious of their acting. Rather than spending too much time thinking about every detail, actors are encouraged to trust their instincts and deliver their performances. Haiwaan also marks the seventh collaboration between Saif and Akshay Kumar. The two actors share a long professional history, having first worked together in the 1994 romantic drama Yeh Dillagi. Looking back at their early days, Saif recalled how that film played an important role in bringing the two actors closer and developing their friendship. This time, however, their roles are expected to create a very different dynamic. Saif believes Akshay’s decision to take on the role of the villain has added another layer of excitement to the project. The actor feels that seeing Akshay in a negative role will make the film more intriguing for audiences. Saif also offered some insight into his character’s background. His character is shaped by two very different parental influences. While his mother encouraged him to pursue music, his father wanted him to develop skills in martial arts. These influences eventually become an important part of the character’s identity and journey. The actor has spoken highly of the film and described it as his best work in a long time. His comments suggest that he is particularly confident about the project and eager to see how audiences respond to it. Saif recently celebrated his 55th birthday on August 16. During his conversations, he also opened up about his family life and noted that his four children have distinctly different personalities. Despite sharing the same family, he said each of them has developed a unique character and identity. With its combination of action, music, drama and an unusual storyline, Haiwaan is shaping up to be an important project for Saif. His collaboration with Priyadarshan and Akshay has further raised expectations surrounding the film.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas has spoken candidly about her marriage to Nick Jonas, explaining why his respect for her Indian heritage and traditions has been an important part of their relationship. The actress highlighted the significance of understanding and appreciating a partner’s cultural background, particularly when two people come from different countries and traditions. Priyanka and Nick first attracted widespread attention as a couple after appearing together at the 2017 Met Gala. Although their appearance sparked dating rumours, their relationship quickly developed into something more serious. Nick proposed to Priyanka in July 2018, just two months after they began dating. The couple tied the knot later that year in India, celebrating their marriage through ceremonies that reflected both their backgrounds. Their wedding brought together Indian and Western traditions and became one of the most talked-about celebrity weddings of the year. Reflecting on their relationship, Priyanka said that respect for a partner’s roots is essential in a multicultural marriage. She explained that she could not imagine loving someone who did not understand or appreciate an important part of her identity. “I don’t know if I’d love him if he didn’t. That is a big part of any story or any relationship that is multicultural. I think it’s really important to have a sense of respect for your partner’s roots,” she said. For Priyanka, cultural understanding is not simply about participating in traditions but also about showing genuine respect for the person behind them. Over the years, Nick has frequently accompanied her on visits to India and has taken part in several Indian celebrations and customs, demonstrating his willingness to embrace her cultural background. The actress has previously spoken about some of the thoughtful ways Nick has connected with her traditions. One such romantic story is expected to feature during her upcoming appearance on The Great Indian Kapil Show. Priyanka is reportedly set to recall how Nick once took her above the clouds in his plane so she could see the moon and break her Karva Chauth fast. Beyond cultural compatibility, Priyanka also believes that simple kindness plays a major role in maintaining a healthy and lasting relationship. Sharing her thoughts on what keeps a partnership strong, she emphasised the importance of treating one’s partner with care and consideration. “Being kind to your partner. That’s something that’s really important,” she said. Priyanka and Nick have continued to balance their professional commitments with family life. The couple welcomed their daughter, Malti Marie, in 2022 and have often shared glimpses of their family life with fans. On the professional front, Priyanka has several major projects lined up. She will next appear in SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi, where she stars alongside Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran. She is also expected to return for Citadel Season 2 and has the upcoming science-fiction action thriller Bluefly in her lineup. As Priyanka continues to build her international career, her comments about marriage underline the importance she places on mutual respect, cultural understanding and kindness in her relationship with Nick.

Mark Ruffalo has strongly rejected allegations of antisemitism made by Paramount after the actor criticised the company’s proposed merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. The actor said his comments were directed at the business and political activities connected to the deal, rather than Jewish people or the Jewish community. He argued that criticising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, military technology contracts, or executives involved in such agreements should not be equated with antisemitism. “The accusation that I am antisemitic is appalling and fundamentally dishonest,” Ruffalo said in a statement shared on X. He maintained that his remarks were based on his political beliefs and concerns about the proposed merger. Ruffalo also stressed that he has “deep love and respect” for Jewish people, pointing to the important role Jewish friends, colleagues and loved ones have played in his life. His response came after he criticised the proposed Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery deal and raised questions about Oracle’s involvement in supplying technology used by the Israeli military. Paramount had previously criticised Ruffalo’s remarks, saying it was concerned that antisemitic tropes were being used in connection with a business dispute. A company spokesperson said Paramount did not tolerate prejudice against anyone but argued that Ruffalo’s comments warranted criticism. The dispute is part of a wider debate surrounding Paramount’s proposed $111 billion merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. Ruffalo has argued that the transaction could have major consequences for the entertainment industry, particularly in areas such as editorial independence, employment and corporate influence. The actor has also questioned Oracle’s business interests in data, surveillance technology and government contracts. He raised concerns about the possible influence of foreign money and powerful technology companies on media organisations and editorial decisions. Ruffalo has called for greater scrutiny of the proposed transaction, arguing that regulators should provide clearer answers about potential national security concerns before the merger is allowed to proceed. “Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have called for serious national security review,” Ruffalo said, arguing that the deal should not move forward until those concerns are properly addressed. His opposition to the merger is not new. In April, Ruffalo joined attorney Norm Eisen in urging state officials to challenge the takeover through antitrust measures. An open letter opposing the transaction has also attracted more than 5,000 signatures, with support from several entertainment industry and advocacy organisations. The proposed deal gained momentum after Paramount Skydance made a $31-per-share offer for Warner Bros. Discovery following Netflix’s withdrawal from its own proposed agreement with the company. As discussions over the merger continue, Ruffalo’s comments have added another layer to the controversy, bringing questions about corporate ownership, political influence, technology contracts and editorial freedom into the wider debate over the future of the entertainment industry.

Tamasha 5 continues to attract significant attention from viewers as the latest season of ARY Digital’s popular reality show brings new friendships, rivalries and emotional moments to the screen. Since its launch in 2022, the Big Brother-style reality series has developed a strong following across Pakistan and the wider Subcontinent. The show is produced by Salman Iqbal and Jarjees Seja and is hosted by Adnan Siddiqui. This season, several contestants have formed close bonds inside the Tamasha house, but the friendship between Samiya Hijab and Yasir Alam has become one of the most discussed relationships among viewers. Their growing connection has sparked interest, particularly after Samiya openly spoke about her feelings for Yasir during a recent episode. While having a conversation with Yasir, Samiya admitted that his success in one of the tasks made her genuinely happy. She recalled watching him thank the audience after winning and asking viewers to continue supporting him so that he could eventually take the Tamasha trophy home. Samiya revealed that she immediately responded by saying “In Sha Allah,” explaining that she normally does not use the phrase when talking about someone else’s success. Her reaction appeared to show just how strongly she has begun to care about Yasir and his journey on the show. She also acknowledged that both of them are competing for the same trophy and that, ideally, neither contestant wants to lose. However, Samiya said she had reached a point where Yasir’s victory would make her happy even if she could not achieve the same result herself. The Tamasha contestant also asked Yasir not to simply respond to her feelings because she tends to overthink such situations. Her comments reflected the emotional confusion she has been experiencing while trying to balance her personal feelings with the competitive nature of the reality show. Yasir, meanwhile, thanked Samiya for the unconditional support she had shown him during his task. In response, Samiya casually said that this was what friends were for, although her earlier comments suggested that their bond may have become more meaningful to her. Samiya later expressed her frustration about the situation and spoke about how difficult it has been for her to deal with her feelings for Yasir while living inside the Tamasha house. With contestants constantly surrounded by cameras, competition and emotional pressure, personal relationships can quickly become complicated. The growing bond between Samiya and Yasir has now become one of the season’s most talked-about dynamics. Whether their relationship remains a close friendship or develops into something more remains to be seen as Tamasha 5 progresses. For now, Samiya’s candid confession has given viewers another emotional storyline to follow, while Yasir’s response and their continued interactions are likely to receive even more attention in upcoming episodes.

Pakistani television actress Mashal Khan has spoken candidly about her thoughts on marriage, revealing that while she believes the special moment will eventually come, she has some clear concerns about how she wants her married life to be. Mashal Khan became widely known after making her acting debut in Hum TV’s popular drama serial Suno Chanda. The drama became a major success and helped establish her as a familiar face among Pakistani television audiences. Her performance also contributed to her growing popularity beyond Pakistan. Over the years, Mashal Khan has appeared in several well-known television projects, including Khuwab Nagar Ki Shehzadi, Saya 2, Kacha Dhaga, Thora Sa Haq, Qissa Meherbano Ka and Pyari Mona. She also earned praise for her performance in Parizaad, where her role was appreciated by viewers. The actress was last seen on television in ARY Digital’s Ehsaan Faramosh, which aired in 2023. Since then, she has taken a different professional direction and moved into hosting a finance-focused show on a news channel. Recently, Mashal Khan appeared on a podcast where she discussed her personal views about marriage and explained why the idea of keeping her wedding and married life private is particularly important to her. Speaking about marriage, Mashal said she has not experienced that special moment yet, but believes it could happen unexpectedly in the future. She explained that if she gets married, she would prefer to keep the occasion and her relationship away from unnecessary public attention. The actress questioned how she could make sure that people would respect her privacy after she announces her marriage. According to Mashal, she would be comfortable informing the public that she is married, but would not want her personal relationship to become a subject of constant discussion, blogs or speculation. For Mashal, privacy is not the only important aspect of marriage. She also shared her firm views about her future husband having a second marriage. The actress made it clear that she does not want to be in a relationship where her husband marries another woman. Mashal explained that she wants her future husband to be the only man in her life and wants to be the only woman in his life as well. She stressed that her concern is not about being someone’s first wife, but about being his only wife. At the same time, Mashal clarified that she does not judge a man simply because he has a past. She said she would have no issue marrying a divorced man, as long as he is single when they decide to marry. Her comments highlighted her straightforward approach to relationships and marriage. Rather than focusing on whether a potential partner has been married before, Mashal appears more concerned about commitment, exclusivity and mutual respect within the relationship. The actress’s honest discussion has given fans a glimpse into her personal expectations for marriage, particularly her desire for a private relationship built on loyalty and a strong commitment between two people.

Asma Abbas is a well-known Pakistani television actress who has earned praise for her performances in several popular dramas, including Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, Khumaar, Akbari Asghari, GT Road, Baby Baji Ki Bahuwain, and Radd. She is also the mother of actress Zara Noor Abbas. Asma Abbas is married to retired Colonel Ghulam Abbas, who was previously married. The actress has spoken openly about their relationship and revealed that her husband fell in love with her and wanted to have children with her, which eventually led to their marriage. She has also maintained that she shared a good relationship with his first wife and lived peacefully with her until her death. Recently, Asma Abbas appeared on the television show Zabardast, hosted by Wasi Shah, alongside her husband. During the conversation, retired Colonel Ghulam Abbas shared details about what happened after he married Asma. He explained that his first wife initially moved to the United States after his second marriage. According to him, she told him that she wanted to visit her sister in America, and he helped arrange her visa. She left their child behind and returned to Pakistan around six months later. The retired army officer said that after her return, she continued to have an important place in their household. He recalled that the bedroom remained hers while he moved to Quetta for work. He also praised both women for staying with him despite the difficulties associated with his postings and career. Ghulam Abbas expressed gratitude toward his first wife and Asma, saying that they supported him through difficult periods and made his life easier. He further credited his first wife for accepting the situation and revealed that the two women eventually became close friends. According to him, there was even a point when Asma and his first wife would join forces against him during disagreements, turning their relationship into an unexpected friendship. However, the couple’s comments did not receive a positive response from everyone. Several social media users criticized Asma Abbas and her husband, arguing that the discussion appeared to overlook the emotional impact of a second marriage on the first wife. One commenter accused the couple of glorifying the second marriage and questioned why a married man would be pursued in the first place. Another described Asma as a “homewrecker” and argued that the first wife was the one who ultimately had to bear the consequences. Some users also challenged the narrative surrounding the first wife, particularly claims about her family life and children. Others questioned the decision to publicly discuss the circumstances of the marriage in a celebratory manner. While Asma Abbas and her husband presented their relationship as one that eventually became peaceful and respectful, the interview sparked a wider debate online about second marriages, the rights and emotions of first wives, and the complicated dynamics that can arise within families.

Abeer Asad Khan and Suleiman Hussain are among the Pakistani fashion models who have built recognition through stylish campaigns, editorial shoots, and collaborations with some of the country’s prominent designers. Both have remained visible in the fashion industry through lawn, bridal, and high-fashion projects, while Abeer Asad Khan has also gained attention through major magazine features and industry recognition. The two models recently became the center of an online debate after appearing together in a new photoshoot for designer Malik Yasir. Inspired by the visual style of the Bollywood classic Raam Leela, the shoot features Abeer Asad and Suleiman Hussain in an intimate and dramatic setting. The project was styled and directed by Nabia Saqib and Abdullah Siddiqui and has attracted considerable attention across social media. While fashion enthusiasts appreciated the styling, photography, and cinematic presentation, the shoot also received strong criticism from a section of social media users. Several commenters objected to what they considered the intimate nature of the shoot and argued that such fashion campaigns do not reflect the cultural and religious values they expect from Pakistani celebrities. One social media user criticized the shoot by claiming that obscenity was becoming increasingly common in Pakistan and questioned why people were not speaking against it. Another commenter made a personal remark about Abeer Asad Khan’s past, while someone else pointed out that she had recently performed Umrah and questioned her choice of participating in such a photoshoot afterward. The Bollywood-inspired theme also became a major point of discussion. One user said the visuals appeared heavily influenced by Indian cinema and questioned why Pakistani fashion creatives could not develop concepts that were more closely connected to Islamic and local cultural traditions. Others used humor and sarcasm to compare the models with Bollywood stars Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone, describing them as the “poor man’s Ranveer and Deepika.” The criticism did not stop at the models themselves. Some social media users argued that provocative fashion campaigns were becoming increasingly common in Pakistan and claimed that the industry was gradually moving away from traditional cultural boundaries. A few commenters also questioned why fashion models were not criticized as heavily as family vloggers when controversial content appeared online. There were also accusations that celebrities and models sometimes participate in such shoots primarily for financial gain and publicity. However, supporters of the fashion industry may view such projects as artistic expressions that experiment with international cinema, contemporary styling, and visual storytelling. The photoshoot has therefore sparked a wider discussion about the balance between artistic freedom, fashion trends, cultural identity, and social expectations in Pakistan. As the images continue circulating online, Abeer Asad Khan and Suleiman Hussain remain at the center of the debate, with social media users expressing sharply divided opinions about the controversial campaign.

Bobby Deol is opening up about being typecast as a villain following his career resurgence. His comeback gained major momentum after hit roles in “Aashram” and “Animal.” Speaking at the Jagran Film Festival, the 57-year-old actor revealed he’s been offered several negative roles recently. He admitted he’s now consciously turning many of them down to avoid getting boxed into a single image. Deol explained that actors often keep getting offered similar roles once a particular type of character brings them major success. He said that’s simply how the industry tends to operate. His post-comeback career has largely centred around dark, morally grey characters. It began with his role as a fraudulent godman in “Aashram” and continued with his widely praised villainous turn in “Animal.” Since then, he’s taken on similar roles in projects including “Hari Har Veera Mallu,” “Kanguva,” “Daaku Maharaj,” “Alpha” and “Jana Nayagan.” The pattern has left him closely associated with antagonist roles across recent years. Despite that string of successes, Deol said he is actively working to branch out into different kinds of projects. He explained that he understands why actors get pulled toward roles tied to their biggest hits, but he is determined to keep experimenting further. He revealed he recently wrapped a film called “Bandar,” describing it as a distinctly different kind of project from his recent work. Deol added that even within villain roles, there’s plenty of range to explore, since antagonists can carry very different tones and shades. He said he genuinely enjoys playing those varied versions of darker characters. Deol also confirmed he is set to appear in a few upcoming web series, which he says will offer something noticeably different from his recent filmography. On the work front, Deol is next set to appear in “Teen Kauwe,” a Hindi spy thriller series co-starring Ishaan Gupta, Fatima Sana Shaikh and Pavail Gulati. The show is currently in production and is scheduled to premiere on Amazon Prime Video on October 2, 2026.