Gayathri Kallukaran is a Junior Journalist with Eastern Eye. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from St. Paul’s College, Bengaluru, and brings over five years of experience in content creation, including two years in digital journalism. She covers stories across culture, lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, with a creative yet fact-driven approach to reporting. Known for her sensitivity towards human interest narratives, Gayathri’s storytelling often aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Her journey began as a layout designer and reporter for her college’s daily newsletter, where she also contributed short films and editorial features. Since then, she has worked with platforms like FWD Media, Pepper Content, and Petrons.com, where several of her interviews and features have gained spotlight recognition. Fluent in English, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi, she writes in English and Malayalam, continuing to explore inclusive, people-focused storytelling in the digital space.
BollywoodMasala, a new channel dedicated to Bollywood content, is now live in the UK.
Available on Freeview channel 271, it offers short-form, Hinglish content from the Hindi film industry.
The launch coincides with South Asia Heritage Month, celebrating cultural storytelling and diversity.
In celebration of South Asia Heritage Month, Channelbox has launched BollywoodMasala, a high-definition entertainment channel dedicated to the Hindi film industry. Now available on Freeview channel 271, the new addition marks a vibrant expansion of South Asian content for UK viewers.
Produced by SMG Studios Pvt Ltd, part of the Satellite Media Group, BollywoodMasala airs 24/7 and focuses on fast-paced, short-format programming — including red carpet coverage, celebrity interviews, film trailers, industry gossip, and behind-the-scenes exclusives. The content is presented in a mix of Hindi and English, catering to modern, bilingual audiences.
Designed for a modern viewer
Tanya Kronfli, Head of Business Development at Channelbox, described the channel as “a fresh addition to our South Asian content line-up,” noting that BollywoodMasala is well-suited for younger audiences seeking quick, engaging updates from the world of Bollywood.
Sudeep Malhotra, Founder of Satellite Media Group and CEO of SMG Studios, added: “There’s a strong appetite among UK-based South Asian viewers for dynamic, behind-the-scenes content from the Hindi film world — and we deliver just that.”
The channel aims to provide an authentic, real-time experience of Indian cinema’s cultural pulse. The launch video was filmed in Llandudno, Wales, reflecting BollywoodMasala’s global reach and local engagement.
Part of a wider Asian content push
The channel joins a growing number of Asian networks on Channelbox, which include Zoom, BollywoodHD, and The Filipino Channel. Channelbox, a UK-based Freeview streaming platform, distributes Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) channels and is also available via Freely (channel 561) and mobile apps.
The addition of BollywoodMasala is part of Channelbox’s broader effort to reflect the UK’s cultural diversity and the evolving media consumption habits of diaspora communities.
Already accessible to over 400 million screens in India via platforms such as JioTV and TataPlay, BollywoodMasala’s UK launch signals a significant step in expanding the global footprint of Indian entertainment.
Where to watch
BollywoodMasala is now streaming on Freeview channel 271.
Dhanush has spoken out against the AI-altered re-release of Raanjhanaa, calling it deeply disturbing.
The modified version replaces the film’s tragic climax with a scene showing Kundan’s survival.
Dhanush said the change was made despite his objections and “stripped the film of its very soul”.
Director Aanand L Rai also condemned the use of AI, saying machines cannot replace real filmmaking.
Both artists raised concerns about the growing use of AI to alter completed films without consent.
On Sunday, actor and director Dhanush released a statement across his social media platforms, criticising the decision to re-release his 2013 film Raanjhanaa with an AI-generated alternate climax.
The updated version, released on Friday, featured a significant narrative change — Dhanush’s character, Kundan, is shown waking up in hospital, altering the original tragic ending. Clips from the new version, which was created using artificial intelligence, quickly went viral on social media.
In his statement, Dhanush said: “The re-release of Raanjhanaa with an AI-altered climax has completely disturbed me. This alternate ending has stripped the film of its very soul, and the concerned parties went ahead with it despite my clear objection. This is not the film I committed to 12 years ago.”
He added that the use of AI in this way sets a “deeply concerning precedent” for both artists and the art of storytelling, and called for stronger regulations to prevent similar future interventions.
Criticising the decision to re-release his 2013 film Raanjhanaa X/ Dhanushkraja
Aanand L Rai: “Machines can’t create films”
The film’s director, Aanand L Rai, also spoke out against the AI re-edit in an earlier interview with THR India. He said the change undermines the creative process and artistic intent behind the original film.
“Fourteen years ago, we had no idea you wouldn’t even require actors to alter something like this,” Rai said. “Now, you think your machines can create films. Tomorrow, if somebody says that legally they can alter a film before it reaches the audience, what will happen?”
Rai said his concern was not limited to himself but for filmmakers across the industry. While he acknowledged that intellectual property rights may belong to production companies, he questioned the purpose of making such changes.
“They can release it, they can make more money out of it — not a problem. But why tamper?”
He added that the original climax had not been rejected by audiences and remains one of the film’s most memorable elements, highlighting Kundan’s inner journey and emotional rebirth in Varanasi.
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Holland’s name is among several being floated as potential replacements for Daniel Craig
Tom Holland responds to James Bond casting rumours, saying, “We’ll get there one day.”
The Spider-Man star called the role the "pinnacle" for any young British actor.
Holland is one of several names linked to 007 following Amazon’s takeover of the franchise.
Denis Villeneuve is set to direct the next Bond film, with a new, younger actor expected to take the lead.
Meanwhile, Holland is filming the next Spider-Man movie in Glasgow.
British actor Tom Holland has addressed growing speculation that he may take on the role of James Bond, telling celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay: “We’ll get there one day.”
The 29-year-old Spider-Man star made the comment during a conversation on Ramsay’s YouTube channel this week. When asked if he would welcome the opportunity, Holland responded: “Dude, I mean every young British actor, it’s the pinnacle of working in our industry. I already consider myself to be the luckiest kid alive. I could never have dreamed to have the career that I have.”
Bond casting buzz grows around young British actors
Holland’s name is among several being floated as potential replacements for Daniel Craig, who portrayed Bond from Casino Royale (2006) to No Time to Die (2021). Others reportedly in the running include Jacob Elordi (Euphoria, Saltburn), Aaron Pierre (Rebel Ridge), and Harris Dickinson (Babygirl).
Amazon, which now holds creative control of the Bond franchise, is expected to cast a younger actor for the 26th instalment. Industry reports suggest the studio is particularly interested in a British actor under 30. Variety magazine recently noted that producers are leaning towards casting from within the UK, despite earlier concerns that the next 007 could be American.
Denis Villeneuve confirmed as new Bond director
The upcoming Bond film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve, best known for his work on Dune and Blade Runner 2049. Amy Pascal, who has worked closely with Holland on the Spider-Man franchise, is among the producers attached to the project. The lead role has yet to be officially cast.
Spider-Man filming underway in Glasgow
While Bond rumours swirl, Holland is currently filming the fourth Spider-Man film in Glasgow. The Scottish city has been transformed into New York City for the Marvel production, with American-style vehicles, NYPD-branded cars, and US flags seen throughout the area.
The film, set for release next year, stars Holland as Peter Parker and Zendaya as MJ. It marks the next chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Spider-Man series, following Homecoming (2017), Far From Home (2019), and No Way Home (2021). Filming is expected to continue until mid-August, with the new instalment said to explore a shift in tone from its predecessors.
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Tamannaah Bhatia has spoken publicly about a long-debated scene from Baahubali: The Beginning
Tamannaah Bhatia has responded to ongoing criticism of a controversial scene in Baahubali: The Beginning.
Some viewers labelled the scene between her character Avantika and Prabhas's Shivudu as problematic.
The actress clarified that the scene was about emotional healing, not violence or coercion.
She emphasised that interpretations are shaped by individual mindsets and cultural shame around intimacy.
Tamannaah said it’s essential to look at the filmmaker’s intent rather than impose judgement.
Tamannaah Bhatia has spoken publicly about a long-debated scene from Baahubali: The Beginning, where her character Avantika is romantically approached by Prabhas’s character, Shivudu. The scene had sparked controversy upon release, with some critics referring to it as “The Rape of Avantika.”
In a recent interview with The Lallantop, Tamannaah pushed back against that interpretation, calling the moment a “misunderstood” part of the film. She explained that rather than being about assault, the scene reflected a journey of self-discovery for her character.
Director's intent and character arc
Tamannaah revealed that director S.S. Rajamouli had discussed the scene with her during filming. According to his vision, Avantika had built emotional walls after years of hardship, losing connection with her softer, more vulnerable side. Shivudu’s gestures in the scene were intended as an attempt to help her rediscover that side of herself.
“It was about reminding her she’s still beautiful, still capable of love,” she said. “It wasn’t about control. It wasn’t about disrespect.”
- YouTube YouTube/ Faltu Movieclips
Cultural perception and misinterpretation
Tamannaah highlighted how audience interpretation often stems from personal beliefs or cultural conditioning. Speaking in Hindi during the interview, she said, “A filmmaker may want to show you something beautiful, but if you already believe love or your own body is something shameful, you will only see it that way.”
She believes that natural expressions of love and intimacy are still seen as taboo in Indian society, which leads to such misreadings.
- YouTube YouTube/ T-Series Telugu
“I won’t carry the burden”
Concluding her remarks, Tamannaah said she does not accept the label placed on the scene. “As creative people, I don’t think it was the rape of Avantika,” she stated. “It was Avantika finding herself through a young man who was wooing her.”
She urged viewers to go beyond surface-level reactions and engage with the emotional and narrative context of such moments.
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Oasis released a statement expressing their condolences
A man in his 40s died after falling from a height at Wembley Stadium during Oasis’s reunion concert.
The incident occurred at around 22:19 BST on Saturday, shortly after the concert ended.
Oasis said they were "shocked and saddened" by the news and extended condolences.
Police have appealed for witnesses or mobile footage of the incident.
The Health and Safety Executive will take over the investigation.
A man has died after falling from an upper tier during Oasis’s sold-out reunion concert at Wembley Stadium on Saturday night, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Emergency services, including police, on-site medics and the London Ambulance Service, responded to reports that a man had been seriously injured at 22:19 BST. He was found with injuries “consistent with a fall” and was pronounced dead at the scene. The man was believed to be in his 40s.
In a statement, Wembley Stadium said, “Despite the efforts of medics and emergency personnel, the fan very sadly died. Our thoughts go out to his family, who have been informed and are being supported by specially trained police officers.”
Oasis and authorities respond to tragedy
Oasis released a statement expressing their condolences: “We are shocked and saddened to hear of the death of a fan. Oasis would like to extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the person involved.”
The incident occurred shortly after the band had concluded their set, scheduled to run from 20:15 to 22:15 BST. The show was part of Oasis’s 'Live 25' reunion tour, their first performances together in nearly 16 years. Saturday's event was one of seven sold-out nights at the 90,000-capacity stadium.
Police said the stadium was crowded at the time and it is likely that many concertgoers witnessed the fall or may have inadvertently recorded it on their phones. They urged anyone with relevant information or footage to contact them on 101.
Investigation to be passed to safety regulators
While the Metropolitan Police are currently handling the case, they confirmed that the investigation would be passed to the Health and Safety Executive in the coming days.
The band is due to continue their tour with three upcoming shows in Edinburgh on 8, 9 and 12 August, followed by performances in Ireland, North America, and a return to Wembley on 27 and 28 September.
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Jr NTR's ‘War 2’ sparks UK fan frenzy with real World War II tank rally on battlefield
Jr NTR’s War 2 sparks massive fan celebration in the UK with real WWII tanks
Fans organised a ‘World War 2’ rally ahead of the 14 August release
The event went viral, marking one of the grandest overseas fan tributes
War 2, starring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, releases in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu
The excitement around War 2 has reached new heights as Jr NTR fans in the UK pulled off an extraordinary celebration using real World War II tanks. Ahead of the film’s 14 August release, the actor’s British fanbase organised a full-fledged rally on a battlefield, securing all official permissions to roll out functioning historic military tanks, turning fan enthusiasm into a global talking point.
The event, dubbed the “World War 2 Rally,” quickly became a viral sensation across social platforms, with video clips showing tanks emblazoned with Jr NTR posters and flags. The celebration was more than just grand; it was a tribute to the superstar’s rising global appeal and the immense anticipation surrounding his Bollywood debut.
Posters and flags featuring Jr NTR adorn vintage military tanks at fan event
Why did Jr NTR fans use real tanks for the War 2 rally?
The idea stemmed from aligning the film’s core theme, military action with a fan tribute that reflected its magnitude. Fans of Jr NTR, often referred to as “Tiger Nation,” wanted something historic and symbolic to honour their favourite actor’s first Hindi film appearance. By recreating a war-like setup with real tanks from WWII, they created a visual spectacle that echoed War 2’s scale and drama.
This isn’t the first time NTR’s international fans have gone above and beyond. In Melbourne, fans famously hired jets to skywrite “NTR” across the sky. But the UK rally may just have outdone every tribute before it.
Tiger Nation gathers on a British battlefield with restored tanks for War 2 celebrations
What is War 2 about and when is it releasing?
Directed by Ayan Mukerji and produced by YRF, War 2 is a high-stakes action thriller that brings together two powerhouse actors—Hrithik Roshan, reprising his role as Kabir, and Jr NTR, making his Bollywood debut as Kamanthan, a lethal scout. The film continues YRF’s Spy Universe legacy and promises to be one of the biggest releases of 2025.
War 2 will hit cinemas globally on 14 August, releasing in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, making it a true pan-India release with international reach.
Hrithik Roshan drops Aavan Jaavan hookstep challenge for fans
Adding to the pre-release excitement, Hrithik Roshan launched a global dance challenge for War 2’s first song, Aavan Jaavan. The upbeat track features him alongside Kiara Advani, showcasing their sizzling chemistry. In a special message, Hrithik urged fans worldwide to try out the song’s hookstep, post it online, and tag YRF for a chance to meet him in person.
“Create some fun reels on Aavan Jaavan and join the movement,” he said, inviting fans to be part of the film’s musical buzz. The track’s infectious energy and the actor’s invitation have already sparked a wave of user-generated content online.
Why the UK tank rally is being called a fan celebration like no other
From the scale of planning to the use of real war equipment, the UK’s World War 2 Rally has been hailed as one of the most unique overseas fan celebrations for any Indian actor. It reflects the kind of grassroots enthusiasm that Jr NTR commands internationally. The visual of tanks that once fought real wars now rolling out for a cinematic celebration of War 2 perfectly captures the larger-than-life aura surrounding the film and its lead star.
With the countdown to 14 August underway, fan activities are likely to grow even more intense, especially with War 2 shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of the year.