If you are a diehard fan of Shaheer Sheikh and Rhea Sharma’s superhit show Yeh Rishtey Hain Pyaar Ke, here is an interesting piece of news you would not mind reading. According to reports, actor Ritvik Arora, who played the second lead on the show, has been shown the exit door because of his unprofessional behaviour.
Reports emerged earlier this week that Arora had demanded a huge pay hike for returning to Mumbai from his hometown and continue the shoot with the team. His unreasonable demand did not go down too well with producer Rajan Shahi who decided to replace the actor.
Rajan had said earlier, “A few weeks ago our supervising producer Vivek Jain called Ritvik. He said he could start shooting from July 1, but we should first speak to his father. That itself was unprofessional because he is the actor who has signed a contract with us. Yet, Vivek called his father who asked for a raise in his remuneration, almost double of what he was being paid, and also a minimum 25-day work guarantee. What was really wrong is the way he communicated it saying, ‘Don’t even think of calling back if you want to negotiate’. After this, Vivek reached out to Ritvik again, and even this time, he told us to speak to his father. When they were asked to send an e-mail on this, they started dilly-dallying. A few days later, Ritvik’s father started sending apology messages for laying down those conditions and tried to blame things on the COVID-19 situation. However, we have a record of all communication exchanged.”
If fresh reports are to be believed, Ritvik Arora has been replaced by actor Avinash Mishra on Yeh Rishtey Hain Pyaar Ke. Mishra, who was last seen in Yeh Teri Galliyan on ZEE TV, has even started shooting and will soon be seen on the show. His look is going to be a little different from that of Ritvik. While Ritvik sported a clean-shaven look, Avinash will be seen sporting a beard. Avinash and Ritvik both have green eyes and that is one of the reasons he was chosen for the show, according to reports.
Apart from Avinash Mishra, other actors who were in talks to replace Ritvik were Kinshuk Mahajan, Rohit Suchanti, and Rohit Purohit. However, the makers found Avinash suitable for the role after going through his look test and decided to get him on board to play Kunal Rajvansh.
Produced by Rajan Shahi, Yeh Rishtey Hain Pyaar Ke is a spin-off of Star Plus’ another hit show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.
When music runs in your veins, it is only a matter of time before the world hears your song. For Gxrnoor, born Gurnoor Anand, music was both a calling and a legacy.
The daughter of acclaimed music director Harry Anand, she grew up surrounded by melody and rhythm, but her sound is entirely her own. Blending sleek pop hooks with the swagger of hip hop, the soul of r’n’b and the spirit of Punjabi beats, Gxrnoor represents a bold new wave of Indian artists unafraid to mix styles and shatter expectations.
From scribbling down Rihanna lyrics as a child to releasing her debut single Relive in 2024, she has been winning hearts with a boss girl energy.
Eastern Eye caught up with the rising music star you will be hearing more about to discuss her songs, inspirations and hopes.
What first connected you to music?
I used to listen to a lot of pop and hip hop as a child – artists like Rihanna, Shakira and Nicki Minaj. Seeing their music videos and performances always intrigued me. They reflected a boss girl energy, and I wanted to be like them someday. I started writing down their lyrics in my notebook, and one day, I thought of writing a song of my own. That is how my journey began. I was only 12 when I wrote my first song and eventually started playing instruments, becoming more inclined towards this path.
How do you reflect on your music journey?
So far, I am grateful. God has been kind. I have received immense love and support in just one year of starting out, and I am eternally thankful for it. There is so much more to come and do – so many things I am yet to achieve. I believe hard work and consistency can get me exactly where I hope to be one day.
What has been your most memorable moment so far?
Seeing people make reels using my songs felt emotional. Watching real people add my songs to their playlists and listen to them daily is a beautiful feeling. Every artist can relate to that. It feels amazing when someone appreciates your craft and connects to it.
Which of your songs is closest to your heart and why?
Relive and Darham. Relive is my debut single, so it will always be closest to my heart. I have achieved a lot and been discovered because of that song. Darham was composed in two minutes – it just flowed out, raw and unfiltered. I love the simplicity and airiness of it. Plus, the word itself is unique. Darham means ‘confused’ in Persian.
Tell us about your next song.
I am working on a summer track with a house feel. It is a great melody – very easy listening. I love its vibe and, hopefully, the audience will too. Fingers crossed! Who are you hoping this song connects with most? It is a light, feel-good song that anyone can relate to. You could play it while driving, chilling at the beach, sitting in the park or just going about your day. It has a good, summery vibe.
What is the music masterplan going forward for your career?
India still has a limited number of female artists. If you look internationally, the music scene is largely dominated by women. My masterplan is to bring that change to India – to inspire more women to step forward and chase their dreams without hesitation. Confidence and belief are key. And if I can make it to the top, they will know they can too.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
Shubh is a great artist. I would love to collaborate with him someday.
What music genres dominate your personal playlist these days?
(Laughs) There is no in-between. It is either extreme hip hop or extreme melody – the best of both worlds.
Who is your music hero?
My father. I have seen him at his peak, and he inspires me to aim that high. He has sold out stadiums and ruled India’s pop music scene in the 1990s and 2000s. I hope I can follow in his footsteps and make him proud.
If you could master something new in music, what would it be?
I would love to master advanced music production. I only know the basics for now, but if I had more time, I would love to make beats just for fun. It is something that really fascinates me.
What inspires you?
Nature inspires me. If you leave me in the hills or by the sea for hours, I will come back with ten compositions. It opens up my creativity. I also love stargazing – just staring at the vastness of the universe. That inspires me too. And I admire other artists and their creativity. We should always support each other in this community.
Why do you love music?
I love music! I breathe music! Imagine how empty the world would be without it. Music heals your soul. It connects you to yourself. You do not need company when you are listening to music. It helps you enjoy life.
The Cannes Film Festival is about films. But it’s also about the stories that walk the red carpet when the cameras flash. This year was no cookie-cutter glamour, no borrowed Hollywood poses. Instead, our stars stormed, blessed, questioned, and, in some cases, completely redefined what it meant to “represent India” on a global stage. Forget the overused phrases about “making heads turn” or “serving looks.” These artists and icons came with messages stitched into every pleat, petal, and pearl. Some brought politics. Some brought poetry. All brought power.
Here are 10 moments that prove India didn’t just attend Cannes 2025. We hijacked it.
1. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: The queen didn’t return, she reclaimed
In a sea of plunging necklines and sheer gowns, Aishwarya chose ivory silk, sindoor, and rubies that looked like they’d been mined from a queen’s treasury. Swathed in an ivory Banarasi masterpiece by Manish Malhotra, she reintroduced the red carpet to what Indian opulence really means. With sindoor glowing under camera flashes and rubies big enough to fund a film worth over £2 million, her look was unapologetically Indian. Not a throwback but more like a takeover.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan stuns in an ivory Banarasi silk saree by Manish Malhotra Getty Images
2. Sharmila Tagore: Grace walked in, time stood still
When Sharmila Tagore walked the Cannes carpet in emerald silk, something magical happened: the noise dimmed, and elegance took centre stage. No sequins, no theatrics. Just a green saree so rich it could’ve been woven from the forests of Aranyer Din Ratri. She simply stood there all radiant, calm, and proud, and Cannes remembered what a real star looks like.
Sharmila Tagore exudes timeless grace in a rich emerald silk sareeInstagram/sabapataudi
Janhvi’s Cannes debut paid homage to her mother with a soft pink Tarun Tahiliani saree look, handwoven in Banaras and accessorised with Chopard pearls worth £50,000. For the second look, she stunned in a green and gold backless Anamika Khanna gown with intricate embroidery, a dramatic long train, and traditional gold jewellery that elegantly draped down her back. From princess-core to regal desi drama, Janhvi served a dual wardrobe win on the Croisette.
Janhvi Kapoor in a soft pink Tarun Tahiliani Banarasi saree and wows in a green and gold backless Anamika Khanna gownInstagram/janhvikapoor/Getty Images
4. Karan Johar: Florals, but make it fearless
If anyone can make a rose controversial, it’s Karan. While others played it safe in black tuxedos, Karan marched in like a Bollywood maximalist dream in a Rohit Bal rose-embroidered coat priced at £10,000. Producing a serious film like Homebound and still showing up dripping in drama? That’s the duality only KJo can serve.
Karan Johar breaks the mold in a bold rose-embroidered coat by Rohit BalGetty Images
5. Simi Garewal: White isn’t a colour. It’s a command
In a snow-white Karleo gown with clean cuts and zero fuss, Simi proved style doesn’t need sparkle. With her trademark open hair and clutch, she looked like she’d walked straight out of a vintage film reel. Her presence was a quiet answer to anyone who thinks Cannes is only for the young. Legends, she reminded us, don’t fade; they refine.
Simi Garewal commands attention in a crisp white Karleo gownInstagram/simigarewalofficial
6. Jacqueline Fernandez: Red hot and regal at Women in Cinema
While others posed, Jacqueline was honoured, picked by the Red Sea Film Foundation as a Woman in Cinema. She stunned at the Women in Cinema Gala in a strapless red Nicole + Felicia gown worth £30,000 with a corseted bodice and fishtail skirt. The rose-floret drape added drama, while diamond jewellery and a bold red lip sealed this show-stopping look.
Jacqueline Fernandez captivates at the Women In Cinema gala in a strapless red Nicole + Felicia gownGetty Images
7. Vishal Jethwa: Dandy debut done right
Vishal made a strong first impression at Cannes in a sculpted black Kaushik Velendra pantsuit with shimmering shoulders and a golden bird brooch worth £5,000 . Sleek rings, glossy shoes, and a backswept hairdo completed his quietly flamboyant fashion win. It was a refreshing break from the usual red carpet formula, earning him instant sartorial cred.
Vishal Jethwa makes a stylish debut in a black embellished Kaushik Velendra pantsuit with a golden bird brooch Instagram/vishaljethwa06
8. Aditi Rao Hydari: The bride and the starlet in one
One night: a futuristic Rahul Mishra gown. The next? A red Raw Mango saree, sindoor, and all. Aditi didn’t just switch looks; she switched identities. Tradition and modernity, worn like two sides of the same coin. She wore her heritage like armour, proving tradition can outshine trend.
Aditi Rao Hydari transitions seamlessly between a futuristic Rahul Mishra gown and a traditional red Raw Mango saree Instagram/aditiraohydari
9. Mouni Roy: From primetime to prime carpet
She may be a Cannes freshman, but Mouni dressed like royalty. Midnight-blue couture, Chopard diamonds worth £100,000 and a pose that said, “I belong here.” No awkward debut jitters, just a woman who knew exactly when to step into the light.
Mouni Roy shines in midnight-blue couture and Chopard diamondsInstagram/imouniroy
10. Sonam C. Chhabra: The red carpet got political and personal
While others wore sequins, Sonam wore a cape etched with names of terror attack sites: Mumbai, Pulwama, Uri. It wasn’t subtle. It wasn’t supposed to be. Wrapped in white, she turned the carpet into a canvas for grief, pride, and resistance. Fashion can flirt or fight. She chose the latter.
Sonam C. Chhabra delivers a powerful political statement in a white cape etched with names of terror attack sitesInstagram/sonamcchhabra
So, what did India really do at Cannes 2025?
We didn’t just attend. We arrived. With every saree, every scene-stealing moment, and every cinematic victory, India’s stars reclaimed the narrative. This year, it wasn’t about who wore what. It was about who said something with fabric, with film, with fierce intent.
The Riviera might have the sunset, but this year, India owned the light.
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Justin Bieber’s deleted post fuels rumours after Hailey’s Vogue feature
Hailey Bieber’s solo Vogue cover was meant to mark a celebratory milestone, her first since becoming a mother. But instead of basking in the spotlight, the moment quickly devolved into digital chaos, thanks to a now-deleted caption posted by her husband, Justin Bieber.
The pop star shared Hailey’s cover image with an unexpected confession: he once told her she’d never make it to Vogue during a past argument. While Justin tried to frame the post as a heartfelt apology and testament to her growth, fans didn’t see it that way. The caption struck many as tone-deaf, with critics accusing him of overshadowing Hailey’s achievement with an unnecessary anecdote that placed the focus back on him.
The post read like an awkward mix of self-awareness and self-centring. While Justin did express regret, admitting he was “clearly wrong” and calling the moment “humbling”, the damage was already done. His words, meant to uplift, were quickly interpreted as a reminder of past disrespect rather than present support.
The backlash was swift. Fans and followers flooded the comments, calling the post inappropriate and poorly timed. Many asked why Justin chose to bring up a private fight during what should have been Hailey’s big moment. Others noted that the caption turned an empowering achievement into an emotional flashback, once again making her success about their marriage and, more specifically, his role in it.
In response to the backlash, Justin deleted the original caption and replaced it with a string of emojis. That move too drew criticism, with some calling it a passive dismissal of valid concerns and others viewing it as a way to quietly dodge accountability.
Though Hailey did not address the post directly, she acknowledged the toll public scrutiny has taken on her in her Vogue interview. She mentioned how online commentary often labels her a liar whenever she attempts to clarify anything, prompting her to adopt a more silent stance, a coping mechanism she credits to Justin, who advised her early on that engaging with trolls is a losing game.
Fans call out Justin Bieber over caption that hijacked Hailey’s Vogue momentGetty Images
While the couple have recently welcomed their first child, Jack Blues, and have publicly spoken about how parenthood has deepened their bond, this incident proves that even joyful milestones come with complications when you’re living life in a digital fishbowl.
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The Stranger Things cast prepares for one last adventure in Hawkins
The countdown to the last season of Stranger Things has officially begun, but fans might be waiting longer than expected to see how it all ends. Though Netflix has confirmed the show will return in 2025, a new rumour suggests the final season could be released in three waves, with the concluding episodes potentially dropping in 2026.
According to an unverified leak circulating on Twitter, Stranger Things 5 could be split into three volumes: one in October 2025, another in November 2025, and a third sometime in 2026. If this is true, the finale might not land until well into next year, stretching the goodbye even further.
— (@)
So far, Netflix hasn’t confirmed this staggered release. More clarity may come on 31 May, when Netflix’s annual Tudum event goes live. The streaming giant is expected to reveal updates on several big titles, including Emily in Paris, Squid Game Season 3, and possibly the official timeline for Stranger Things Season 5.
Here’s what we do know: filming wrapped up in December 2024, and the new season will have eight episodes set in the autumn of 1987, about six months after Season 4. Netflix has already released the episode titles, which include The Crawl, The Turnbow Trap, Escape from Camazotz, and The Rightside Up, all titles that hint at returning themes from earlier seasons.
Stranger Things season 4 poster Wikipedia
The core cast will be back for one last mission in Hawkins, including Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Sadie Sink, and Gaten Matarazzo. Veteran actress Linda Hamilton is also joining the final chapter, although her role remains under wraps.
Behind the scenes, the mood has been emotional. At the final table read, several cast members reportedly broke down in tears. David Harbour (Hopper) described it as “waves of people crying,” while Millie Bobby Brown shared a heartfelt message on social media, reflecting on her journey from child actor to global star.
Once Season 5 wraps, the Stranger Things universe won’t close entirely. An animated series titled Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 is in the works. Details are scarce, but it promises to explore new corners of the show’s world, whether or not the original cast returns.
For now, fans will have to hold tight as Netflix prepares to bring one of its biggest shows to a dramatic, and possibly drawn-out, conclusion.
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Deepika Padukone was expected to lead Spirit opposite Prabhas before exiting the project
Deepika Padukone is no longer part of Spirit, the high-profile film directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and starring Prabhas. The news comes amid reports of rising tensions between the actress and the filmmaker over working terms that didn’t quite align.
Initially, Deepika was expected to headline the film and take home a career-best paycheck of £1.9 million (₹20 crore). Her presence in the project had created early excitement among fans of both the actress and Prabhas. However, things reportedly soured during early discussions.
Industry buzz grows as Deepika walks away from SpiritGetty Images
According to several industry reports, disagreements began when Deepika reportedly requested fixed work hours for an 8-hour workday with approximately 6 hours spent filming. She also wanted a share in the film’s profits, in addition to her fee. Further, there were claims that she was unwilling to deliver her lines in Telugu, which became a sticking point in a multilingual project.
While none of these details have been officially confirmed by Deepika or Vanga, sources close to the film suggest that the director was not on board with the terms and decided to part ways. The production team is now said to be on the lookout for a new lead actress.
Earlier, Deepika had already stepped back from the film due to her pregnancy. The film’s shooting schedule, initially set for late 2024, had to be adjusted. When the filmmaker returned with a revised timeline, she was reportedly back on board. But the situation appears to have shifted again.
This development has sparked chatter on social media, with fans and insiders weighing in. Some question whether the actress was ever keen on doing the film, while others point out that Vanga’s films haven’t offered substantial roles for women. The debate has only intensified in the absence of any official statement from either party.
Deepika Padukone’s Spirit exit fuels debate on demands and director controlGetty Images
Meanwhile, Spirit remains a highly anticipated release, with plans for a global rollout in multiple languages, including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Korean. The film is still in its early stages, and casting updates are expected soon.
For now, what could’ve been a major collaboration has ended before it began, not with a bang, but with a breakdown in expectations.