2019 was a good year for Bollywood. We got to see some really good content-driven entertaining films as well as big-budget movies that made a mark at the box office. Well, there were many films that impressed us a lot.
So, today let’s look at the list of best films of 2019…
Uri: The Surgical Strike
Aditya Dhar’s Uri: The Surgical Strike was based on the real-life incident of Uri attacks that took place in the year 2016. The movie showcased the surgical strike that the Indian Army did on terrorist camps in Pakistan. The film was so well narrated that it kept us on the edge of the seat till the end.
Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga
Shelly Chopra Dhar’s Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga is clearly one of the most underrated films of the year. The movie showcased a love story between two girls and how a family finds it difficult to accept their daughter’s sexuality. Shelly Chopra Dhar narrated the film in a very simple yet beautiful way.
Gully Boy
When a film directed by Zoya Akhtar, starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt hits the screens we know that it is going to be a special film. Gully Boy is clearly one of the best films of the year and Zoya totally tried something new this time.
Article 15
We all had read and heard about Article 15 of the Indian constitution, but Anubhav Sinha had to make a film to remind us about it. Article 15 was a fantastic film showcasing the harsh reality of the rural areas of India.
Super 30
Vikas Bahl’s Super 30 released after a lot of controversies and multiple changes in the release date. But well, the wait was worth as the film turned out to be damn good. Bahl got the inspiring story of Anand Kumar on the big screen in a very entertaining manner.
Judgementall Hai Kya
People always blame that Bollywood films don’t offer something new, but Prakash Kovelamudi’s Judgementall Hai Kya was a totally different film. It was clearly a brilliant piece of cinema. The film did a decent business at the box office, but it surely deserved to be a blockbuster. Also, we cannot forget the exceptional performance that Kangana Ranaut gave in the film.
Mission Mangal
We had seen on TV and had also read about the ISRO’s Mars Orbiter Mission. But Jagan Shakti got the story of the mission on the big screen with his film Mission Mangal. It is one of the best content-driven entertaining films of the year.
The Sky Is Pink
Shonali Bose’s The Sky Is Pink is one of the most beautiful films of 2019. It made us smile, laugh and even cry. Based on the life of motivational speaker Aisha Chaudhary, the film inspired us in many ways.
Saand Ki Aankh
Tann buddha hove hai, mann buddha nahi hota… Well, Tushar Hiranandani’s Saand Ki Aankh got the story of Shooter dadis, Chandro Tomar and Prakashi Tomar on the big screen. In a very entertaining manner, we got to see their inspiring journey, and not to forget, Bhumi Pednekar and Taapsee Pannu performed wonderfully in the film.
Mardaani 2
In 2014 release Mardaani, we came to know about the child trafficking that happens in India. After five years, the makers came up with the sequel to the film titled Mardaani 2. The movie tackled the issue of rapes that happen in India and it was clearly the most relevant film of 2019.
Good Newwz
The year 2019 ended with a bang. Raj Mehta’s Good Newwz as expected made us laugh out loud and even made our eyes teary with the perfect emotional quotient in the film. Also, it was amazing to watch Akshay Kumar and Kareena Kapoor Khan on the big screen after a long gap.
Saaniya Abbas is going to hell – and she is taking us with her.
Well, not literally. But in Hellarious, her blisteringly bold stand-up debut at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Dubai-based comedian dives headfirst into the kind of topics that might make more cautious comics sweat. These include divorce, cultural taboos, internet fame, and the eternal question of whether your mother was right about that fiery afterlife.
In a groundbreaking moment for the UAE comedy scene, Saaniya becomes the first local stand-up to present a full solo hour at the Fringe – bringing her signature mix of sharp storytelling, cheeky irreverence, and personal confession to the world’s biggest stage. From a convent school in New Delhi to going viral post-divorce, her life has been filled with contradictions – and punchlines.
Eastern Eye caught up with Saaniya ahead of her history-making run to talk comedy, chaos, her new show, being fearless on stage, and crafting jokes in a colonoscopy waiting room.
Saaniya Abbasgetty images
What first connected you to comedy?
After a painful post-pandemic divorce, I randomly signed up for a comedy workshop (mostly to break up the daily routine of staring at my wall). I started writing jokes about everything I was going through. Watching that pain turn into laughter was easily the best high I have ever had. After that, I was hooked. Now, the worse life gets, the better the material.
Did you ever imagine becoming so popular?
I was a Harry Potter-obsessed nerd in school with thick glasses that covered most of my face. I was bullied relentlessly. It has always been hard for me to make friends, as I am socially awkward. So no, I never imagined being associated with the word ‘popular’.
How do you reflect on your action-packed comedy journey?
From the outside, it probably looks more glamorous than it really is. In truth, it has been a constant juggle – balancing a full-time job, stand-up, and content creation. It feels like I am working three jobs at once. On top of that, I am managing relationships and a dog who needs to poop at the worst possible times. It is a lot! A lot of hard work, late nights, and sacrifices. The grind is the hard part. But the moment I step on stage, everything else melts away. That is when it all makes sense.
Saaniya Abbasgetty images
How much are you looking forward to the Edinburgh Fringe?
I spent four days at the Fringe last year just to get a feel for it. It was the wildest, most overwhelming four days of my life – in the best way possible! I left knowing I had to be part of it. I have been manifesting this moment ever since.
Tell us about your show.
Hellarious is the culmination of the past four years of my life. It began as a tight 10 minutes of divorce jokes, and then I built the story around it – backwards and forwards. Who was I before it all? Why does that make what happened even funnier? What came after? It explores how the identity I was born into shaped my story, and how that story is now shaping the identity I want to create. It is a cathartic confession filled with tongue-in-cheek observations, cultural chaos, and some good old-fashioned oversharing.
Does being at such a huge festival with countless shows put pressure on you?
It is the no-breaks part that is intimidating. I have toured all over the UK before, but I always had some lovely rest days in between to catch my breath. The Fringe is a whole different beast: daily shows for a month, no days off. What if I get sick? I am basically overdosing on vitamins at this point, trying to build an immune system that can survive both the Scottish weather and my own anxiety.
How would you describe your brand of comedy?
My comedy is deeply personal. It is my story. Most of my jokes are so specific to my experience that nobody else can tell them. It is narrative-driven, with cheeky observations, and if you listen carefully, there is a quiet point simmering underneath it all. I want people to laugh, yes, but I also want them to see me. To realise they are part of my story too.
Is it fair to say that you are a fearless comedian?
The word ‘fearless’ is subjective. I am scared of unpredictable things – like tripping over a mic cord or confronting a heckler only to realise it is my ex-boyfriend’s mum from Year 7. Anything can happen. But when it comes to saying what I want on stage, I am not afraid. I trust my voice, and I trust my jokes. That said, I live in the Middle East, so there are things I cannot say. I may be brave, but I am not an idiot. I do not want to go to jail or get deported. But at the Fringe? Oh, those jokes are absolutely coming out.
But do you ever get nervous before going on stage?
No, I feel excited.
Do you know if a joke will work beforehand or only after you have performed it live?
A joke can feel hilarious in my head, kill in conversation, and then absolutely flop on stage. On the flip side, I have pitched jokes to friends who gave me the blankest expressions imaginable. But something in my gut says, ‘No, this will land.’ And more often than not, I am right. It is an instinct you develop – like a muscle, one awkward silence at a time.
Saaniya Abbasgetty images
Have you ever felt like you are revealing too much about yourself on stage?
Such a great question! When you do personal, narrative-style comedy, everything in your life starts to feel like fair game, especially when you are pulling from pain. But then one day, you try a new joke on stage and something just feels off. Maybe it is too soon. Maybe it is never going to be funny. You only find out by doing it. It is all trial and error. Everything in my show is something I have sat with, processed, and chosen to share. I will not say it if I am not ready to own it.
Has being funny ever got you out of trouble?
Not yet. Believe me, I have tried. Sadly, the cops at Dubai airport did not share my sense of humour. But hey, that story made a great bit. So, silver lining!
Who is your own comedy hero?
I adore Ricky Gervais. I think he is just so funny and real. He does not give a sh*t. I hope I am like him when I am old.
Where is the strangest place you have come up with a joke?
In the waiting room, right before my first colonoscopy.
What do you not find funny as a comedian?
I think some people are quite mean on stage. There is a big difference between being cheeky and just being cruel. I do not like that energy. It feels bitter and lazy, and it is not for me.
What inspires you creatively?
I am an art director by profession, so I have always lived in the world of art, design, books, music, and poetry. I grew up immersed in all of it, and those influences still fuel me. When it comes to comedy, I do not just see it as joke-telling. I see it as a performance. There is rhythm, wordplay, aesthetic, and even a bit of quiet poetry woven through the chaos.
Why should we all come to your Edinburgh Fringe show?
Because if all goes to plan, I will make you laugh. Or at the very least, smile. Maybe even cry a little. You will definitely leave feeling less alone. Also, I spent an absurd amount of money on these posters, so honestly, I really need you to come.
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Govinda confirms comeback with Duniyadari after 6-year break
Govinda announces his film Duniyadari, marking his return after a 6-year break.
The actor posted a dance rehearsal video on Instagram teasing his next project.
Fans flooded the comments with support as the video crossed 11 million views.
His earlier Avatar casting claim resurfaced after wife Sunita Ahuja’s recent remarks.
Govinda is gearing up for a big-screen comeback with his next film Duniyadari, six years after his last cinematic outing. The actor shared a short video on Instagram where he’s seen rehearsing a dance routine, sparking excitement among fans who grew up watching his energetic performances.
Govinda’s new film Duniyadari begins with dance rehearsals
On Wednesday, Govinda posted a behind-the-scenes rehearsal clip with the caption, “Doing rehearsal for my forthcoming film Duniyadari.” Though the plot and team details remain under wraps, this glimpse alone has generated over 11 million views. In the video, he performs a smooth dance step, hinting at the signature moves fans associate with his earlier films.
The video received an overwhelming response, with fans calling him the “real superstar” and “Hero No. 1 forever.” Govinda was last seen in Rangeela Raja in 2019, directed by Sikander Bharti. His return marks a long-awaited moment for audiences who have missed his distinct style on screen.
Old Avatar claim resurfaces after Sunita Ahuja's YouTube remarks
Amid buzz around Duniyadari, an old controversy involving Govinda has made a comeback. Years ago, the actor claimed he had been offered the lead in James Cameron’s Avatar but turned it down. This topic came up again recently when his wife, Sunita Ahuja, appeared on Uorfi Javed’s YouTube channel.
Bollywood actor Govinda with his daughter Tina and wife Sunita at the Pinkvilla Style AwardsGetty Images
When asked about the claim, Sunita appeared surprised, saying she had never heard of such an offer. “I’ve been with Govinda for 40 years and I don’t know when this supposed meeting with the Avatar director happened,” she said. “I don’t lie and I don’t support what isn’t true.”
Whether true or not, the Avatar conversation has once again drawn attention to Govinda just as he begins his new chapter in Duniyadari.
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Lila Moss steps out in a sheer top and ruffled skirt at Paris Fashion Week
• Lila Moss, 22, wore a see-through black top to the Saint Laurent menswear show in Paris on 24 June • She styled the daring piece with a ruffled high-low skirt, stilettos, and a brown belt • The model has followed in her mum Kate Moss’s footsteps since her runway debut in 2021 • She’s set to raid Kate’s wardrobe for Glastonbury Festival, which begins tomorrow
Lila Moss made a bold appearance at Paris Fashion Week, wearing a sheer black top that turned heads at the Saint Laurent Spring/Summer 2026 menswear show. The 22-year-old model, daughter of Kate Moss and Jefferson Hack, paired the see-through top with a dramatic ruffled hem skirt, showing off both her legs and fashion confidence.
Lila Moss poses in a bold Saint Laurent ensemble at the menswear showcaseGetty Images
Lila Moss channels fearless fashion at Saint Laurent show
At the Paris Fashion Week event on 24 June, Lila opted for a look that was both risk and refinement. Her outfit featured a sheer, long-sleeved top worn without a bra, at times partially covered by her blonde hair and a mullet-style skirt that added texture and movement. Completing the outfit were sharp black stilettos and a wide brown belt that cinched the look together.
Lila’s style choice, in fact, resembles the fearless fashion moments once made iconic by her mother Kate Moss, who herself appeared in a similar sheer Saint Laurent outfit in March this year. The resemblance between the two, both in fashion sense and features, has not gone unnoticed by fans.
Lila Moss strikes a pose in stilettos and a dramatic high-low skirtGetty Images
Model reflects on Kate’s influence and Glastonbury plans
As Lila carves her own path in fashion, she’s still closely connected to her mum’s legacy. She’s graced runways for Miu Miu, covered British Vogue, and starred in campaigns for Marc Jacobs and Victoria’s Secret. But away from the catwalk, she’s just as likely to be raiding Kate’s wardrobe.
Speaking to Vogue Australia, Lila admitted she’s already picked out pieces from her mother’s closet for Glastonbury Festival, which kicks off tomorrow. “I’ll borrow a T-shirt months in advance,” she said, adding that she enjoys experimenting with styles she wouldn’t wear elsewhere.
Excited for this year’s line-up, highlighting artists like Neil Young and Fontaines D.C., Lila’s hoping to avoid the festival’s famously muddy grounds. “I’ve never experienced a super-muddy Glastonbury,” she confessed. “I’m praying I don’t this year.”
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Lana Del Rey sparks fan backlash over delayed Cardiff show with shortened setlist
• Lana Del Rey arrived 20+ minutes late for her Cardiff gig, upsetting fans. • Her first UK stadium show lasted 90 minutes with only 15 songs, including two covers. • Fans paid up to £420 (₹44,800) for tickets, calling the show “abysmal” and “underwhelming”. • Some songs were performed via projection with pre-recorded vocals.
Lana Del Rey’s return to the UK stage on Monday (24 June) was met with backlash, as fans criticised her for a late start and a short setlist during her Cardiff performance. The gig at the Principality Stadium was the opening night of her 2025 UK and Ireland stadium tour but left many attendees frustrated and disappointed.
The Video Games singer walked on stage more than 20 minutes late, leaving her just enough time to perform 15 songs due to the venue’s strict 10:30 pm curfew. Some of those were covers, while others like Norman F**ing Rockwell and Arcadia were played as shortened studio tracks with Lana appearing only via projection.
Fans react to Lana Del Rey's delayed start and shortened set at Principality StadiumGetty Images
Fans call out short set and high ticket prices
Social media was flooded with criticism following the show, with many pointing out the steep ticket prices that ranged from £78.40 (₹8,350) to £420 (₹44,800). “I paid £300 (₹31,900) and she gave us 90 minutes with covers and projections,” wrote one fan on Twitter. Another added, “I love her, but she looked disinterested. No energy, no urgency, and honestly, not worth the price.”
One fan claimed Lana spent nearly 20 minutes off-stage, hiding behind set pieces, while another said she sang lyrics off an iPhone during an impromptu performance of Salvatore. Several fans also felt the setlist had not evolved much from her previous tours.
Mixed reactions as critics praise vocals and visuals
Despite the backlash, some defended Lana’s performance. “She sounded amazing live,” one attendee wrote on Reddit, praising the singer’s emotive delivery and the elaborate stage design. Publications awarded the show four stars, describing it as “visually stunning” and “emotionally charged”.
This isn’t the first time Lana has faced criticism for her timing. She previously blamed her lateness at Glastonbury 2023 on her hair routine. Still, with her next stops in Glasgow, Liverpool, and two nights at Wembley, fans are hoping for a more polished experience going forward.
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Drishyam 3 marks the return of Georgekutty and his secrets
Jeethu Joseph confirmed Drishyam 3 will have the same plot in Malayalam, Hindi, and Telugu.
Shooting begins in October 2025; the script is nearly complete.
Ajay Devgn, Mohanlal, and Venkatesh will reprise their roles in their respective versions.
Makers are discussing a simultaneous theatrical release across all languages.
The suspense thriller Drishyam 3 will tell the same story in all its language versions, director Jeethu Joseph has confirmed. Quashing speculation about the Hindi adaptation having a different plot, Joseph said the film’s core narrative will be consistent across Malayalam, Hindi, and Telugu, with only regional adjustments.
Jeethu Joseph clears the air on script changes for the Hindi version
Jeethu Joseph clarified that the ongoing rumours about divergent plots for each version were inaccurate. “The Hindi film will also be based on my story. Once I complete the script, it will be handed over to their team, who will adapt it culturally, but the story remains the same,” he said.
While the Malayalam version continues with Mohanlal as Georgekutty, the Hindi and Telugu versions will see Ajay Devgn and Venkatesh return to their respective lead roles. The script is nearing completion, and pre-production is expected to pick up speed in the coming months, with cameras set to roll in October 2025.
The director also addressed growing curiosity about whether the films would release together. “There’s been a request for a simultaneous release,” Joseph revealed, adding that the team is seriously considering it due to how OTT culture impacts multilingual viewership.
Although it’s uncertain whether all three versions will be shot at the same time due to scheduling constraints of the lead actors, the idea of releasing the film on the same date across languages is gaining momentum.
Drishyam Malaylam movie poster Wordpress
The Drishyam franchise, which began in 2013, follows a man protecting his family after an accidental death. The second film, released directly on OTT in 2021, escalated the tension with a new witness. The plot for the third film is still under wraps, but excitement is mounting across fanbases in all three languages.