Magazine

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    Jacob Batalon recalls iconic handshake with Tom Holland

    LOS ANGELES: Actor Jacob Batalon has opened up about the memorable handshake he shares with Tom Holland in the Spider-Man films, revealing that the fan-favourite moment was created spontaneously and has remained unforgettable over the years. Batalon, who has portrayed Ned Leeds since Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2017, said the signature handshake returned naturally while filming Spider-Man: Brand New Day. He explained that after performing it throughout several films, it had become second nature whenever the cameras started rolling. The actor recalled that the handshake was invented just minutes before filming one of their early scenes together. According to Batalon, the script simply required the characters to have a unique “best friends” handshake, leaving the two actors to create one on the spot. He said the quick improvisation unexpectedly became one of the most memorable moments of the franchise and has remained popular among fans ever since. Speaking about his relationship with Holland and the rest of the Spider-Man cast, Batalon described them as hardworking, humble and highly professional. He said spending years together on the film series had created a close bond that felt more like family than colleagues. Batalon added that watching his co-stars grow in their careers has been rewarding and expressed gratitude for being part of the successful superhero franchise. Spider-Man: Brand New Day, released in July 2026, continues its successful run in cinemas, with audiences embracing the return of the beloved characters and their on-screen chemistry.

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    Spider-Man tops Endgame box office record

    Avengers directors Joe and Anthony Russo have congratulated the team behind Spider-Man: Brand New Day after the film surpassed one of Avengers: Endgame’s biggest domestic box office records. The filmmakers shared a public message on social media, praising the cast and crew after the latest Spider-Man film crossed the $1 billion mark globally and achieved the highest domestic opening weekend in box office history, overtaking the long-standing record previously held by Avengers: Endgame. In their message, the Russo brothers congratulated director Destin Daniel Cretton, lead actors Tom Holland, Zendaya and Jacob Batalon, along with producers and the entire production team. They described the achievement as a historic moment and declared that “the gauntlet has been passed,” referencing Marvel’s iconic Infinity Gauntlet. Although Spider-Man: Brand New Day has broken several records set by Endgame, it has not yet become the fastest film to earn $1 billion worldwide, leaving that milestone intact. Industry observers believe the competition could intensify later this year when Marvel releases Avengers: Doomsday, directed by the Russo brothers. The highly anticipated superhero film is expected to arrive in cinemas in December and is already being viewed as a potential record-breaking blockbuster. The success of Spider-Man: Brand New Day has further strengthened the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with strong audience turnout and impressive global ticket sales continuing to drive its performance at the box office.

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    India television actress Aditi Sharma files domestic violence case against husband and in-laws in Mumbai

    Indian television actress Aditi Sharma has filed a domestic violence complaint against her husband and in-laws in Mumbai, alleging that she was subjected to physical and mental abuse, harassment, and mistreatment after her marriage. The actress has accused her husband, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law of involvement in repeated incidents of domestic violence and emotional distress. According to police officials, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered on July 31 at the Goregaon Police Station in Mumbai against Aditi Sharma’s husband, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law. The police have started an investigation into the allegations and are examining the details provided in the complaint. In her complaint, Aditi Sharma alleged that she faced continuous physical and psychological abuse, including beatings, verbal harassment, character assassination, and domestic intimidation. She also accused her in-laws of misusing the jewelry and valuables that she had brought with her as part of her wedding belongings. The actress explained that she first met her husband, Abhinay, in June 2021 during an online acting class. Their initial friendship gradually developed into a romantic relationship, and the couple eventually decided to get married with the consent of both families. According to Sharma, the relationship appeared positive in the beginning, but problems started shortly after their marriage. She stated that the couple began living together in a flat in Goregaon West in September 2024 and got married on November 12, 2024, in the presence of their families. However, she alleged that her husband’s behavior changed soon after the wedding. According to her complaint, disagreements began over minor issues, including her clothing choices and everyday household matters. Sharma further alleged that instead of contributing to household expenses, her husband frequently took money from her. She claimed that she had to bear financial responsibilities while also facing emotional and mental pressure within the marriage. The actress stated that a dispute on January 1, 2025, regarding drinking coffee turned into a serious argument. Following that incident, she alleged that her husband began questioning her character, accusing her of having inappropriate relationships, and repeatedly checking her mobile phone. She claimed that these actions created an atmosphere of suspicion and control, eventually leading her husband to move to a separate room and stop maintaining normal marital relations. Aditi Sharma also alleged that she was prevented from communicating freely with her parents. She claimed that restrictions were placed on her interactions with her family, which caused her additional emotional suffering and isolation. In another serious allegation, Sharma accused her mother-in-law of keeping her wedding jewelry and refusing to return it despite repeated requests. She claimed that her jewelry was retained without her consent and that her efforts to recover her belongings were ignored. The actress further alleged that whenever attempts were made to resolve disputes within the family, her mother-in-law and sister-in-law consistently supported her husband and contributed to her continued harassment. The police have registered the case and initiated further investigation into the allegations. The matter will now proceed according to the legal process, with authorities expected to examine evidence and statements from all parties involved.

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    Madonna surprises fans with Kylie duet

    Madonna thrilled thousands of fans with a surprise performance alongside Kylie Minogue during the 2026 World Pride celebrations in Amsterdam, creating one of the festival’s most memorable moments. The unexpected collaboration took place during Madonna’s late-night concert, where the global pop icon delivered a high-energy performance before inviting Kylie Minogue to join her on stage. The announcement sparked loud cheers from the audience as fans welcomed the surprise reunion of two legendary artists. Madonna appeared on stage wearing a purple leotard, corset and matching skirt, a look inspired by her Confessions on a Dance Floor era. The outfit reflected the visual style she has embraced while promoting her latest album, Confessions II. During the concert, Madonna paused her performance to introduce her special guest. She warmly welcomed Kylie Minogue to the stage and expressed her happiness at sharing the performance with her. The crowd responded with excitement as the two singers embraced before beginning their duet. The pair performed Love Sensation, a track from Madonna’s newly released album Confessions II. Their energetic performance featured choreographed dance moves, vibrant stage lighting and confetti effects, turning the concert into one of the highlights of the World Pride celebrations. Audience members captured the performance on their mobile phones, and videos quickly spread across social media platforms. The clips attracted widespread attention and generated enthusiastic reactions from fans around the world. Kylie Minogue later shared behind-the-scenes footage on her social media accounts. The videos showed her preparing backstage before stepping onto the stage with Madonna. The footage also captured the excitement among the performers before the surprise appearance. Fans praised the collaboration online, describing it as a major pop culture moment. Many celebrated the reunion of the two music icons, calling it one of the most exciting live performances of the year. The Amsterdam performance came only weeks after Madonna released Confessions II, her fifteenth studio album. Since its release, the singer has been promoting the project through appearances and performances at major international events. Madonna and Kylie Minogue previously performed together during Madonna’s Celebration Tour in Los Angeles in 2024. Their latest reunion delighted long-time fans and demonstrated the lasting popularity of both artists.

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    Quranic moments steal spotlight in dramas

    Acclaimed Pakistani writer Umera Ahmed is once again receiving widespread appreciation from television audiences as her latest dramas have drawn praise for incorporating Quranic recitation and Islamic values into their storylines. Known for blending spirituality with emotional storytelling, Umera Ahmed has returned to television with new projects that have quickly captured viewers’ attention. Audiences have particularly appreciated the way faith has been woven naturally into the narratives. In one of the dramas, the opening scene features a character reciting verses from the Holy Quran, setting a reflective and spiritual tone for the story. In another production, a character asks her mother to recite Surah Ar-Rahman, believing that listening to the Quran will bring comfort and peace during a difficult emotional period. These scenes have resonated strongly with viewers, many of whom praised the meaningful portrayal of Islamic teachings in mainstream entertainment. Social media platforms were filled with positive reactions, with users describing the moments as touching, inspiring and emotionally powerful. Several viewers said the Quranic recitation added depth to the stories and distinguished the dramas from conventional television productions. Others commented that such scenes encouraged positive values while remaining relevant to modern audiences. Fans also appreciated Umera Ahmed’s consistent approach to writing stories that explore faith, morality, patience and personal growth. Many described her work as a refreshing alternative that combines strong storytelling with meaningful religious themes. The positive response reflects growing appreciation among audiences for television content that addresses spiritual and ethical values without compromising on entertainment. Viewers expressed hope that more writers and producers would include similar themes in future productions.

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    Sistrology ignored? Ahad sparks buzz

    Pakistani actor Ahad Raza Mir has become the centre of attention on social media after a behind-the-scenes video from a recent award ceremony sparked widespread discussion among fans. The actor, who is currently receiving praise for his latest television role, attended the Pakistan Influencer Awards as a guest alongside several celebrities and digital content creators. A video from the event, which later circulated across social media platforms, showed Ahad Raza Mir standing near a group of well-known influencers while remaining focused on the stage during the programme. The clip appeared to show the actor keeping to himself without engaging in conversation, a moment that quickly caught the attention of internet users. The footage generated mixed reactions online, with many fans sharing humorous comments and opinions about the brief interaction. Some social media users viewed the actor’s reserved behaviour as a reflection of his quiet personality, while others interpreted it as him choosing to remain focused on the event. Several fans praised Ahad for maintaining a low profile during the ceremony, describing his calm and composed attitude as one of the reasons he continues to enjoy a strong fan following. Others pointed out that short video clips can often be taken out of context and may not accurately represent what happened throughout the event. The discussion quickly gained momentum, with users sharing memes, comments and reactions across various social media platforms. While opinions differed, the viral clip further highlighted the actor’s popularity and the public interest surrounding his appearances. Ahad Raza Mir remains one of Pakistan’s leading television stars, with a successful career built on several acclaimed drama serials. His latest performance has also received positive reviews from viewers, adding to his continued presence in the entertainment industry.

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    Pakistani celebrities and Kashmir debate: Who spok…

    The role of celebrities in social and political discussions has become a major topic of debate in Pakistan, especially during times of public concern and unrest. With the rise of social media, fans increasingly expect public figures to comment on important national and humanitarian issues, including developments related to Kashmir. Following reports of tensions and protests in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), discussions emerged online about whether Pakistani celebrities should use their platforms to raise awareness. Some actors and public figures shared messages of support, while others remained less visible or did not publicly comment, leading to debates among social media users. Several celebrities used Instagram stories, posts, and videos to express solidarity and share information related to the situation. Their supporters appreciated their willingness to highlight public concerns and use their large online audiences for awareness. For many fans, celebrity voices can help bring attention to issues that might otherwise receive limited coverage. At the same time, some public figures chose not to make public statements. The reasons behind an individual’s decision to speak or remain silent can vary, including personal views, privacy considerations, professional concerns, or a preference to avoid political discussions. Without direct statements from celebrities themselves, assumptions about their motivations remain speculative. The debate has also highlighted changing expectations from audiences. In the digital age, celebrities are no longer viewed only as entertainers; many fans see them as influencers with the ability to shape conversations. As a result, public figures often face pressure to respond quickly to social and political events. However, opinions remain divided on whether celebrities should be expected to take positions on every issue. Some believe influential personalities have a responsibility to speak about humanitarian matters, while others argue that individuals should have the freedom to decide when and how they engage with political topics. The discussion around celebrities and Kashmir reflects a broader global trend where social media has transformed the relationship between public figures and their audiences. Whether celebrities choose to speak out or remain private, their actions are increasingly examined by millions of followers. As online conversations continue, the issue raises important questions about activism, influence, responsibility, and the role of entertainment personalities in society.

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    Social Media influencer Abhinav Bisht’s viral style gains attention

    Indian social media influencer Abhinav Bisht, who gained overnight fame after a viral Instagram reel filmed during a protest at Jantar Mantar, has become an internet sensation. His unique style and entertaining approach have attracted widespread attention, with even Bollywood actor Anupam Kher joining the trend by recreating a reel inspired by Bisht’s popular style. The viral moment originated during a protest organized by the “Cockroach Janta Party” at Jantar Mantar in India. The demonstration was held over allegations of examination irregularities and paper leaks, with protesters demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. A large number of young people participated in the protest, which later gained significant public attention. Following the controversy and widespread discussions surrounding the issue, the protest became a major talking point on social media. Amid the demonstrations, a young participant named Abhinav Bisht recorded a humorous and entertaining Instagram reel at the protest venue. The video unexpectedly went viral, giving him a new identity in the digital world. Bisht’s creative style, expressions, and unconventional way of presenting content quickly caught the attention of social media users. Thousands of people shared and appreciated his reel, turning him from an ordinary participant at a protest into a widely recognized internet personality. The popularity of his content also reached Bollywood, where veteran actor Anupam Kher recreated a similar reel with his fellow artists. Kher shared the video on Instagram, adopting elements of Bisht’s style, and the recreation received significant appreciation from viewers. The response highlighted how social media trends can quickly influence mainstream entertainment and popular culture. Speaking about his sudden rise to fame, Abhinav Bisht said that he had attended the protest mainly for entertainment and did not expect the videos he created there to receive such a massive response. He explained that his intention was simply to capture a fun moment, but the content connected with a large audience and spread rapidly across social media platforms. Bisht revealed that before the viral videos, he had around 5,000 followers on Instagram. However, after his reels gained popularity, his follower count increased dramatically and reached nearly 900,000. He described the growth as an unexpected turning point in his social media journey. According to Bisht, the unique and humorous content he created at Jantar Mantar resonated strongly with viewers. He said that the positive response not only increased his popularity but also gave his social media career a major boost. The incident reflects the growing influence of social media platforms, where ordinary moments can transform into viral sensations within hours. In recent years, several individuals have gained fame through short videos, creative expressions, and relatable content shared online. Abhinav Bisht’s experience demonstrates how digital platforms can create new opportunities for emerging creators. A simple reel recorded during a public event helped him build a large online following and attract attention from celebrities. As his popularity continues to grow, Bisht has become an example of how creativity, timing, and audience engagement can turn an unexpected moment into a major online success story.

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    Charli XCX celebrates birthday week with electrifying Lollapalooza 2026 performance

    Charli XCX wrapped up her birthday celebrations in spectacular fashion with a high-energy performance at the 2026 Lollapalooza music festival in Chicago’s Grant Park. The British pop star, who turned 34 on August 2, treated thousands of fans to one of the festival’s standout performances, further cementing her reputation as one of pop music’s most dynamic live performers. Following the show, Charli shared a collection of behind-the-scenes moments and performance highlights on Instagram, giving fans an exclusive look at the memorable night. The post featured striking images from her set, showcasing elaborate stage production, vibrant visuals, and the enthusiastic response from the crowd. Reflecting on the experience, the singer expressed her gratitude to fans for their support and described the performance as a special milestone. “The first Music, Fashion, Film show at Lollapalooza. I had the best time, and I’m so proud of this show. Thank you for watching,” she wrote alongside the photos. The performance marked the Lollapalooza debut of songs from her newly released album, Music, Fashion, Film which arrived on July 24, 2026. The 11-track studio album has received widespread praise from critics, with many applauding its bold production, creative direction, and Charli’s continued evolution as an artist. One of the biggest surprises of the evening came when New Zealand singer-songwriter Lorde joined Charli on stage. The pair reunited to perform their fan-favourite collaboration, Girl, so confusing, drawing loud cheers from the audience. Before Charli appeared, Lorde teased the surprise by writing the word “Girl” on the palm of her hand and showing it to fans, sparking excitement throughout the crowd. In addition to Girl, so confusing, Charli performed several of her biggest hits, includin 360 and Track 10, delivering an energetic set that kept festivalgoers singing along from start to finish. The collaboration with Lorde also brought back memories of previous live performances, including their appearance together at Coachella and Charli’s 2024 co-headlining tour with Troye Sivan. Fans quickly took to social media to praise the performance, with many describing it as one of the highlights of this year’s festival. One attendee wrote that watching Charli’s artistic journey from her 2022 Lollapalooza appearance to her 2026 performance had been “sensational,” adding that her growth as a performer was impossible to ignore. Others described her as “the coolest person ever,” while many also wished her a happy birthday and congratulated her on an unforgettable show. The celebration carried extra significance as it marked Charli’s first birthday since marrying musician George Daniel. Fans flooded her social media pages with birthday messages while celebrating both her personal milestone and the success of her latest musical era. Meanwhile, Lorde is also celebrating career achievements of her own. The singer has been named a finalist for the 2026 APRA Silver Scroll Award | Kaitito Kaiaka for her song David, which she co-wrote with James Stack. With a successful new album, a memorable Lollapalooza performance, and an overwhelming response from fans, Charli XCX continues to enjoy one of the biggest moments of her career, proving that her influence on modern pop music remains stronger than ever.

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    Ariana Grande to step back from public life after tour

    Pop superstar Ariana Grande has announced that she will take a break from public appearances after completing her Eternal Sunshine world tour next month, citing the constant public attention and scrutiny surrounding her personal life and appearance. According to her representatives, the singer has decided to step away from the spotlight to focus on her wellbeing after months of demanding performances and continuous media attention. They said Grande hopes to finish the tour in good health before taking a well-earned break from public-facing work. Her decision also means she will no longer appear in the upcoming London revival of Stephen Sondheim’s acclaimed musical Sunday in the Park with George, which is scheduled to open at the Barbican Theatre in 2027. The production company confirmed her withdrawal and expressed full support for her decision, saying it respects her choice and wishes her the very best. Grande was originally set to star alongside British actor Jonathan Bailey, her co-star in Wicked. Producers have confirmed that the production will continue as planned, although a replacement for her role has not yet been announced. The singer has faced growing public discussion about her appearance in recent years, with speculation intensifying following the release of her new album Petal and its promotional campaign. Her team emphasized that she remains healthy and continues to deliver physically demanding performances throughout her tour. Grande’s latest music video also appears to reflect the pressure she has experienced. In the video, she portrays a performer who is repeatedly criticized over her appearance and talent before ultimately confronting those judgments in a symbolic act against her critics. The final concert of the Eternal Sunshine tour is scheduled to take place in London on September 1. After that performance, Grande plans to step away from the public eye for an unspecified period to focus on her personal wellbeing and life away from constant media attention.