BORN in Afghanistan and brought up in various countries across the world, model turned
actress Warina Hussain is ready to set foot in Bollywood with the forthcoming film, LoveYatri.
The comedy drama, which also marks the acting debut of megastar Salman Khan’s brother-in-law Aayush Sharma, is a musical romance set during the festival of Navratri.
As LoveYatri races towards its theatrical release next Friday (5), Warina is looking forward to the next chapter of her life with excitement. She spoke to Eastern Eye about the debut dream role, what drew her towards Hindi cinema, favourite actresses and much more.
Your debut film LoveYatri is about to be released globally. Are you nervous or excited ahead of it arriving in cinemas?
I am nervous and excited at the same time. I have that feeling you have during your final exams. What will be the result? You hope for good things. I still can’t believe it’s happening. And October is so close. There are all this mixed feelings.
How did you land the role?
I was auditioning for a couple of films and one day, at 3am in the morning, I was informed that I have to make a selfie video and send it to a casting coordinator. I then got a message from the coordinator to upload my introduction video on the Being In Touch app. So, I did that and after a month, I got a call from Mukesh Chabbra, the casting director. I went there and auditioned for my role. After that I met Aayush Sharma and director
Abhiraj Minawala.
Did you know you were auditioning for LoveYatri, a film to be produced by
superstar Salman Khan?
No, I didn’t, because when I got the script, it was blank and had no mention of the production house. Generally, when we get a script, we are told about the production house and entire details of the project. But as I said, this was a blank script.
So how did you feel when you found out that Salman Khan would be producing the film?
I still can’t believe that I am debuting with such a big banner. Everything is there in this movie. This is the perfect debut anybody could have ever wished for. You are getting a chance to work with all the best people and obviously, I am still very grateful and sometimes I feel this is not real.
Have you seen any of his films?
Of course I have seen them. My mom is a big Salman Khan fan and she made me watch numerous films. Since I am an only child, I never had any option but to watch movies with her. My favourite of his films is Andaz Apna Apna (1994).
What was it like working with your LoveYatrico-star Aayush?
I think he is very hard working. We started as complete strangers, and me being an introvert, it took us some time to open up and talk. We did our readings together and Abhiraj sir made sure that he provided us with an environment where we would do one hour of reading and two hours of chatting, talking about the film, sharing our ideas, and then we became friends.
Did you watch Bollywood films when you were growing up?
In Afghanistan, everybody is inspired by Bollywood. They follow Hindi films like anything. My grandfather used to rent a VCR and watch Hindi films and follow the fashion trends from the movies he would see.
The love for Bollywood has always been there. I grew up travelling around the world, so I
watched both Hollywood and Bollywood. I have watched Indian television also. I have grown up watching Sonpari and Shararat.
How did you get into acting?
I started with modelling six years back. At that time, modelling was a job for me. I have always been a creative person, but modelling started just as a job. But then looking back, I realised I had given way too much time to modelling. I had come far enough. But since I had no other qualification for any other career, this became my professional journey. Then I decided, why not polish myself and grow in this line only? After that, I started doing commercials and opted for some acting workshops.
How would you describe your life in Mumbai?
It’s tough because modelling has always been my bread and butter, it is my profession. Living alone in Bombay is not easy. You don’t get apartments. There is a lot of struggle.
Then comes the main part – whom to trust? Which audition to go for? Which meeting to avoid? Whom to meet? And every month, you have to make sure you save money from the work you did. But I am not complaining. I would say I am a self-made person. I am proud of what I have achieved today because I have achieved the best and that doesn’t happen every day.
Which are some of your favourite Hindi films and who are you inspired by in Bollywood?
I have a couple of favourite films like Margarita With A Straw (2014), and Gangs Of Wasseypur (2012). I love Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s films because he makes his movies with such perfection, and then there is Zoya Akhtar, who is my favourite. Talking about who I am inspired by, Hindi cinema is an institution in itself. My favourite actresses are Rekhaji and Srideviji. I watch their videos and dance. I try to learn their expressions. I always look back to them for inspiration.
Finally, do you believe in destiny?
Yes, I am here today just because of destiny and better things will be in store in my future. No matter how much I say I was modelling, doing this and doing that, it’s all destiny, it’s all written.
Reports claim Ajith opted for no-salary model in AK64
Actor allegedly set to earn from OTT and satellite rights instead
Srinidhi Shetty and GV Prakash linked to the film’s team
Production to begin in November under director Adhik Ravichandran
Ajith Kumar’s upcoming film AK64 has created a stir after reports suggested the actor has signed a unique “no-salary” deal, making AK64 a hot topic in Tamil cinema. The move has attracted attention not only for its scale but also for Ajith’s decision to forgo a traditional fee, instead securing rights revenue. The news follows the mixed response to Vidaamuyarchi and the blockbuster success of Good Bad Ugly, directed by Adhik Ravichandran.
Ajith Kumar’s AK64 has become the most discussed Tamil film of the year Instagram
What is Ajith Kumar’s AK64 salary deal?
According to industry sources, Ajith Kumar initially demanded a staggering £19 million (₹200 crore) salary for AK64. This figure reportedly prompted several major studios to withdraw from talks, raising doubts about the film’s financial viability. Eventually, Rahul of Romeo Pictures, who had earlier distributed Ajith’s films, stepped in as producer.
To make the project feasible, reports suggest Ajith agreed to waive his upfront salary. Instead, the actor would pocket revenue from OTT and satellite rights, while the producer would retain theatrical earnings. If true, this marks the first time Ajith has agreed to a no-salary arrangement in his career.
Ajith Kumar AK64 production sparks buzz over salary claim www.easterneye.biz
Has the AK64 salary deal been confirmed?
While the story has been widely circulated, Ajith’s team has not officially confirmed the details. Sources close to the actor have also denied that a final agreement has been signed. The ambiguity has kept fans and trade circles guessing, especially given the size of the numbers involved.
Nevertheless, the unusual arrangement has generated debate within the industry, with many calling it a bold step that could change how star-led films are financed in future.
Ajith Kumar AK64 salary deal raises new questions in Tamil cinema www.easterneye.biz
Who is in the cast and crew of AK64 ?
Director Adhik Ravichandran, who helmed Ajith’s hit Good Bad Ugly, is set to lead AK64. The actor was reportedly impressed by Ravichandran’s approach and wanted him to direct again.
Srinidhi Shetty, best known for her role in KGF, is said to be the frontrunner for the female lead, though no official announcement has been made. Music will be composed by GV Prakash Kumar, adding to the buzz around the project.
Production work has begun, with filming expected to start in November. Industry insiders suggest the movie could be a gangster drama, though details remain tightly under wraps.
Ajith Kumar returns to full mass mode in Good Bad Ugly, a high-octane action drama Mythri Movie Makers
Why is AK64 significant for Ajith Kumar’s career?
Ajith has had an eventful year, with two contrasting releases. Vidaamuyarchi failed to live up to expectations in February, but the April release Good Bad Ugly became a major commercial success. Fans now see AK64 as a crucial film that could consolidate the actor’s position after mixed results at the box office.
Ajith’s car reportedly collided with a stationary vehicle on the racetrack Instagram/ ajithkumarracing
Away from films, Ajith has been pursuing his passion for motorsport, competing in international racing events. This balance between cinema and racing has further heightened curiosity about his career moves, making AK64 one of the most anticipated Tamil films of the year.
By clicking the 'Subscribe’, you agree to receive our newsletter, marketing communications and industry
partners/sponsors sharing promotional product information via email and print communication from Garavi Gujarat
Publications Ltd and subsidiaries. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the
unsubscribe link in our emails. We will use your email address to personalize our communications and send you
relevant offers. Your data will be stored up to 30 days after unsubscribing.
Contact us at data@amg.biz to see how we manage and store your data.
Thama marks the first love story in Maddock Films’ hit horror comedy universe
Maddock Films unveils teaser for Thama, the first love story in its horror-comedy universe
Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna star as star-crossed lovers in a tale of passion and horror
Nawazuddin Siddiqui introduced as Yakshasan, the “King of Darkness”
Malaika Arora, Paresh Rawal and Faisal Malik add glamour and humour to the dark saga
The much-anticipated Thama teaser is finally out, and it has given audiences a chilling glimpse into Maddock Films’ next addition to its successful horror-comedy universe. Starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna, the film has been pitched as Bollywood’s first “bloody love story”, bringing together romance with gothic horror. With Nawazuddin Siddiqui stepping in as a vampire overlord, and a surprise cameo from Malaika Arora, the teaser has set social media abuzz with excitement.
Thama marks the first love story in Maddock Films’ hit horror comedy universe Instagram/maddockfilms
What is shown in the Thama teaser?
The teaser begins on a romantic note, with Ayushmann’s Alok asking Rashmika’s Tadaka if she can live without him for a hundred years. Her reply: “Not even for a moment” sets the stage for a tender love story. But within seconds, the tone darkens with flashes of supernatural forces, blood-soaked chaos and Rashmika screaming in fury.
Malaika Arora makes a striking appearance in what appears to be a special dance sequence, while Paresh Rawal and Faisal Malik provide lighter moments to balance the horror. The final frame delivers the biggest punch: Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s entry as Yakshasan, menacingly introduced as the “Andhere ka Badshah” (King of Darkness).
Character posters released earlier revealed that Ayushmann plays Alok, described as “Insaaniyat ki aakhri umeed” (the last hope for humanity). Rashmika steps into the role of Tadaka, “Roshni ki pehli kiran” (the first ray of light), symbolising strength and resilience.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Yakshasan represents the opposing force, the king of darkness who threatens their love. Veteran actor Paresh Rawal plays Ram Bajaj Goyal, a character designed to bring humour to the otherwise chilling narrative. The supporting cast also features Faisal Malik, while Malaika Arora’s cameo adds glamour to the supernatural tale.
Thama is the fourth instalment in Maddock’s expanding horror-comedy universe, which began with Stree (2018), followed by Bhediya (2022), Munjya (2024) and Stree 2 (2024). Each film has explored folklore-inspired horror with a comic twist, and Thama continues this tradition by introducing a desi vampire romance.
Director Aditya Sarpotdar, who also helmed Munjya, alternates the story between modern-day India and the ancient kingdom of Vijayanagar. This layered narrative hints at mythological roots of vampirism while presenting a love story that crosses timelines.
Produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, Thama is scheduled for a grand theatrical release this Diwali 2025. The studio has confirmed a worldwide rollout, with expectations of a large-scale box office opening. Given the success of earlier films in the horror-comedy universe, many of which grossed over £12 million (₹12 crore), industry insiders anticipate that Thama could emerge as one of the biggest releases of the festive season.
Keep ReadingShow less
Zakir Khan performs to a sold-out crowd of 6,000 at Madison Square Garden in New York
• Zakir Khan becomes first Indian comedian to headline a Hindi stand-up show at Madison Square Garden • Performed to a sold-out audience of 6,000 in New York City • Hasan Minhaj praised the performance as a “historic night for comedy worldwide” • Stars including Tabu, Vir Das and Arjun Kapoor congratulated him on social media
Zakir Khan has created history by headlining the first-ever Hindi stand-up comedy show at New York’s Madison Square Garden. Performing to a packed house of 6,000 fans, the Indore-born comic redefined the reach of Hindi comedy on the global stage. Fellow comedian Hasan Minhaj, who attended the show, called it a “historic night for comedy worldwide,” underlining the significance of the achievement.
Zakir Khan performing to a sold-out crowd of 6,000 at Madison Square Garden in New YorkInstagram/ hasanminhaj
Why is Zakir Khan’s Madison Square Garden show historic?
Madison Square Garden is one of the world’s most iconic venues, having hosted legends from The Beatles to Beyoncé. On 17 August 2025, Zakir Khan broke new ground by performing his set entirely in Hindi, a first in the arena’s history. The milestone wasn’t just a personal triumph but also cultural, as it introduced mainstream American audiences to Indian storytelling and humour in their original language.
The comedian, known for weaving poetry and shayari into his sets, received a standing ovation at the end of the performance. Ahead of the gig, his promotional poster lit up billboards at Times Square, marking how far Hindi stand-up has come from intimate clubs in India to global arenas.
What did Hasan Minhaj say about Zakir Khan’s show?
Hasan Minhaj, celebrated for his Netflix specials and political satire, shared pictures from the evening and praised Zakir for elevating the genre. He wrote: “A historic night for comedy around the world. Zakir Bhai combines storytelling and poetry in ways that take comedy to places I’ve never seen before. I also think my parents love him more than me (I’m okay with that).” Minhaj later joined Zakir on stage, congratulating him in front of the roaring audience.
The landmark moment drew applause from India’s entertainment industry and beyond. Tabu, Vir Das, Arjun Kapoor, Zareen Khan, Kritika Kamra, and Ahsaas Channa were among those who posted congratulatory messages. Actor Gajraj Rao, designer Manish Malhotra, entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath, and mentalist Suhani Shah also celebrated the achievement.
Vir Das, one of the pioneers of English-language Indian comedy, lauded Zakir’s feat, while Arjun Kapoor called it a “fantastic achievement making all of us proud.” Fellow comedians Munawar Faruqui, Harsh Gujral and Rahul Dua echoed the sentiment, showing how the entire comedy fraternity rallied behind him.
Born in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Zakir Khan first rose to prominence in 2012 after winning Comedy Central India’s Best Stand-Up. His “sakth launda” persona, rooted in the experiences of an everyday Indian, made him an instant favourite. Over the years, his specials Haq Se Single, Kaksha Gyarvi and Tathastu cemented his reputation as one of India’s leading comics.
He also created and starred in the Amazon Prime Video hit Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare, and judged the stand-up competition Comicstaan. With a diploma in sitar and a family background in music, his performances often combine humour, rhythm and poetry, a style that has helped him stand out globally.
Zakir Khan became the first Indian comedian to headline a Hindi stand-up show at the iconic arenaInstagram /zakirkhan_208
What’s next for Zakir Khan?
The Madison Square Garden show was part of Zakir’s North American arena tour, produced by Outback Presents, with stops across the US and Canada. Earlier in the tour, he collaborated with celebrity chef Vikas Khanna for a cooking session in New York, adding another cultural crossover element to the journey.
For Zakir, the milestone was deeply personal. Speaking to Fox 5 before the show, he said: “Madison Square Garden was never part of the plan. It felt like a place for big movie stars, not for boys from Indore. But sometimes life goes beyond your dreams.”
With this landmark achievement, Zakir Khan has not only raised the profile of Hindi comedy internationally but also carved a path for more South Asian performers to bring their languages and stories to the world’s grandest stages.
Keep ReadingShow less
Tyler West drops to one knee to propose to Molly Rainford in Mykonos
Tyler West proposed to Molly Rainford during a sunset holiday in Mykonos
The couple met on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022 and began dating the following year
Molly’s EastEnders co-stars and celebrity friends flooded social media with congratulations
Strictly returns to BBC One this autumn with its 2025 line-up
BBC Strictly Come Dancing stars Molly Rainford and Tyler West have confirmed their engagement after a romantic sunset proposal in Mykonos, Greece. The announcement delighted fans, with the news spreading quickly across social media and drawing support from celebrity friends and Molly’s EastEnders castmates. The engagement marks a milestone for the couple, who first met on the BBC dance competition three years ago.
Tyler West drops to one knee to propose to Molly Rainford in Mykonos Instagram Screengrab/tylerwestt/mollyrainford
How did Tyler West propose to Molly Rainford?
The engagement took place during a trip to Mykonos, where Tyler got down on one knee on a windy balcony at sunset. Posting a video of the moment online, he told Molly: “I don’t know where to start, so I’m hoping you can continue making me the luckiest man on this Earth, like you do every single day. So baby, will you marry me?”
Molly, emotional and in tears, accepted immediately, with Tyler exclaiming: “Yes! Get in! That’s what I’m talking about.” Their joint Instagram caption read: “Found our forever. 10.8.2025.”
The pair first crossed paths on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022. Tyler, who competed with Dianne Buswell, was eliminated in week seven, while Molly reached the grand finale with professional partner Carlos Gu. Although romance did not begin on the show itself, they grew close during the Strictly live tour.
Speaking previously, Molly revealed: “It developed towards the end of the tour because we’d spent so much time together and we were really good friends. Everyone on Strictly was so excited for us.” By March 2023, the couple made their relationship public, later moving in together in London in early 2024.
Celebrity friends and colleagues were quick to respond. EastEnders actress Patsy Palmer called it “so beautiful, perfect,” while co-star Aaron Thiara commented: “The sunset, the wind, the music. I’m not crying…” Jacqueline Jossa added: “Omg I can’t breathe,” and Louisa Lytton said: “MOLLYYYYY, congratulations guys xxxxx.”
Meanwhile, fellow radio presenters and Strictly alumni Fleur East and Melvin Odoom congratulated Tyler, with JLS singer Marvin Humes describing the pair as “two incredible people who are just perfect for each other.”
Instagram comments under the proposal videoInstagram Screengrab/tylerwestt/mollyrainford
What’s next for Molly Rainford and Tyler West?
The couple are now preparing for married life while continuing with their individual careers. Molly remains a regular on EastEnders, where she plays Anna Knight, a role she took on in 2023. Tyler continues his work as a Kiss FM presenter and television personality, also appearing on Lorraine to discuss the proposal.
He revealed he had bought the engagement ring “a very long time ago,” adding: “We cry and laugh every single day. She genuinely is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”
With Strictly Come Dancing set to return to BBC One later this year, the couple’s engagement has brought a rare romantic twist to a show often known for its so-called “Strictly curse.”
Keep ReadingShow less
Faissal Khan reveals shocking details about his feud with Aamir Khan and family
• Faissal Khan, brother of Aamir Khan, says his family forced him to marry his mother’s cousin after his divorce in 2002 • He alleges Aamir Khan had an affair with British journalist Jessica Hines and fathered her son Jaan • Faissal claims his family branded him mentally ill after he resisted their pressure to marry • He has now cut ties with Aamir Khan and issued a public notice declaring independence • Aamir Khan’s family earlier dismissed Faissal’s statements as “hurtful and misleading”
Bollywood actor Aamir Khan’s brother Faissal Khan has once again stirred controversy with explosive revelations about his strained relationship with the family. Speaking at a recent press interaction, Faissal not only alleged that he was pressured to marry his aunt after his divorce but also revived long-standing rumours about Aamir’s alleged relationship with journalist Jessica Hines.
According to Faissal, the Khan family turned against him after he separated from his wife in 2002, just four months into the marriage. He claimed relatives insisted he marry his mother’s first cousin, a proposal he refused. “My family was pressuring me to marry my aunt. When I refused, my mother and others became angry, and soon after they started calling me mad,” he said, adding that repeated arguments eventually led him to leave the family home.
Faissal’s controversial letter and Jessica Hines claims
Faissal revealed that his fallout deepened after he wrote a letter criticising family member, including his elder sister Nikhat. In the same letter, he alleged that Aamir Khan had an affair with British journalist Jessica Hines and secretly fathered her son Jaan.
The explosive claim reignited decades-old gossip surrounding Aamir’s personal life, though the superstar has never confirmed or denied such reports. Faissal said the letter led his relatives to brand him mentally unstable, worsening his isolation from the family.
Faissal Khan accuses his family of calling him mentally unstable after his refusalInstagram/faissal.khan
How Aamir Khan’s family responded
The Khan household has repeatedly refuted Faissal’s statements. In an earlier joint response signed by Aamir’s ex-wife Reena Datta, his children Junaid and Ira, filmmaker Mansoor Khan, Imran Khan and others, the family said his remarks were “hurtful and misleading.”
They maintained that every decision regarding Faissal’s wellbeing had been made “with love, concern, and medical consultation.”
The rift between Aamir Khan and brother Faissal deepens as shocking family secrets come to lightGetty Images
Cutting ties with the Khans
Last week, Faissal formally announced via Instagram that he had severed all ties with his famous brother and the rest of the family. He declared in a public notice that he would no longer live in Aamir Khan’s residence, accept any allowance, or claim rights to the family estate.
“With a heavy heart yet renewed courage, I wish to share that I have severed all family ties,” Faissal wrote. “This step is essential for my healing and growth. Life now enters a new chapter of freedom, dignity, and self-discovery.”