THIS week marks three decades of something quite remarkable in Bollywood that is still hard to understand. That phenomenon also kickstarted a trend in Hindi cinema that has deeply divided audiences since then. It all started with slapstick comedy Aankhen releasing with zero expectations on April 9, 1993, and going onto become the highest grossing Hindi movie of that year.
The absolute stinker massively outperformed cult classics released in the same year, including Shah Rukh Khan’s star-making movies Darr and Baazigar. Other iconic films it bettered in 1993 included Khalnayak and multi-award-winning romantic comedy drama Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, along with mega-budget movie Roop Ki Rani, Choran Ka Raja, which was headlined by the two biggest stars of that time Anil Kapoor and Sridevi.
Even the greatest minds haven’t been able to figure out how a terrible film that made little sense, headlined by Govinda on a career slump, and a struggling Chunky Pandey clocked up the blockbuster success it did. Apart from hit song O Lal Dupattewali and a few funny scenes, there really wasn’t anything that suggested it would become so popular. It had borrowed heavily from multiple much better movies and kickstarted the ‘leave your brains at home’ comedy genre which would entertain some Bollywood fans and annoy others.
The film’s director David Dhawan and writer Anees Bazmee would be at the forefront of these slapstick comedy films powered by overacting and brain-deadening stories that made little sense.
Govinda and Shilpa Shirodkar
Aankhen reinvigorated Govinda’s career and turned him into the comedy king of the 1990s with similar such movies, with many of them being directed by Dhawan. (Unfortunately, for Chunky Pandey, Aankhen benefitted everyone involved except him and his career as a leading man quickly faded away). The comedy would give rise to successful franchises like the Golmaal and Housefull movies, along with turning other badly written films that made little sense into box-office sensations. But most in the genre failed at the box office, including recent Christmas disaster Cirkus, which like Aankhen was based on a mistaken identity premise. So, in many respects, it arguably did more damage to Hindi cinema in the long run.
While certain sections of the audiences who have greatly enjoyed these types of comedy films may look back with fondness and want to celebrate Aankhen turning 30 this week, cinema purists can blame it for infecting Bollywood with a mindless genre that continues to be virus like today. These foolish films have arguably given rise to bad writing in Bollywood, which has spilled over into other genres.
For me, Aankhen is a blight on the Bollywood landscape and can be directly blamed for torturing the brains of many, including mine, with similar movies that it inspired, powered by silly overacting and nonsense stories. Despite having a few mildly entertaining scenes, Aankhen remains impossible to sit through. 30 years later. I still don’t understand how it became the biggest Bollywood hit of 1993 and why it has been watched over 115 million times on YouTube. But it did become a landmark movie for many, and not always for the right reasons.
Advance bookings for They Call Him OG begin overseas with record sell-outs
Melbourne IMAX, the world’s second-largest screen, sold out in just 2 minutes
Additional shows added in Sydney and Coventry due to massive demand
Film marks Emraan Hashmi’s Telugu debut alongside Pawan Kalyan
The anticipation for Pawan Kalyan’s much-awaited action film They Call Him OG, popularly called OG, has reached unprecedented levels. Overseas advance bookings opened this week, and within minutes the buzz translated into packed theatres. At Melbourne IMAX, the world’s second-largest cinema screen with 461 seats, tickets sold out in just two minutes. The feat proves both the global demand for OG and the star power of Pawan Kalyan, whose fanbase stretches far beyond India.
Pawan Kalyan’s OG breaks overseas records with sold-out shows days before release Instagram/ogmovieofficial
Why did Pawan Kalyan’s OG sell out so fast?
The quick sell-out reflects the megastar’s enormous popularity among Telugu audiences abroad. Fans in Australia, the UK, and the US form a significant chunk of the overseas box office for big-budget Telugu films, and OG has already positioned itself as one of the biggest cinematic events of 2025.
Social media was flooded with screenshots of the Melbourne IMAX seating chart turning red within minutes of bookings opening. One fan club on X wrote:
“#TheyCallHimOG sets a record! The premiere at the world’s 2nd largest screen – @IMAX_Melbourne – SOLD OUT in less than 2 mins!”
With tickets snapped up instantly, distributors have already added extra shows in Sydney and Coventry to meet demand.
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What is Pawan Kalyan’s OG about?
Directed by Sujeeth, They Call Him OG is an action gangster drama. The story follows Ojas Gambheera, played by Pawan Kalyan, who resurfaces in Mumbai after a decade-long disappearance to confront rival crime boss Omi Bhau, played by Emraan Hashmi. For Hashmi, the film marks his Telugu debut. Priyanka Arul Mohan, Prakash Raj, and Sriya Reddy also play key roles.
The film’s production house, DVV Entertainment, the same banner behind RRR, recently released a glimpse on Kalyan’s birthday, giving fans their first look at the blood-soaked action. A soundtrack titled Guns N Roses also dropped on 15 September, further fuelling the excitement.
How has Pawan Kalyan’s political career affected OG?
Pawan Kalyan was recently elected to the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly and sworn in as the state’s Deputy Chief Minister. His new role has meant limited time for acting, but he assured fans that he would complete OG before taking a break to focus on his political career. This could make the film his last release for some time, adding to the sense of urgency among fans to catch it on the big screen.
Despite political commitments, Kalyan prioritised finishing the shoot so that his fans worldwide could experience OG as intended.
When is OG releasing and what to expect at the box office?
They Call Him OG is set for a global release on 25 September 2025. With advance bookings overseas already breaking records, industry trackers expect the film to post massive opening day numbers internationally. The buzz in Australia and the UK indicates that demand may outstrip supply in some markets, with more shows likely to be added before release day.
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The sold-out Melbourne IMAX premiere, achieved nine days ahead of release, shows the film’s blockbuster status even before it hits theatres. For the Telugu diaspora and fans of Indian cinema worldwide, OG is shaping up as the must-watch spectacle of the year.
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Sony typically announces its events only a few days in advance
Leaker NateTheHate claims a PS5 livestream could take place next week.
Confirmation may arrive around 23 September, lining up with the Tokyo Game Show.
Event expected to be a State of Play livestream rather than a PlayStation Showcase.
Potential first-party reveals include Marvel’s Wolverine, Saros, and a rumoured 2.5D God of War game.
Third-party announcements are also expected during the showcase.
Leaker NateTheHate has reinforced earlier reports of an imminent PS5 livestream, now suggesting that the digital showcase could take place next week.
Sony typically announces its events only a few days in advance, so confirmation may arrive as soon as Tuesday, 23 September. If accurate, the showcase would coincide with the Tokyo Game Show, which is also scheduled for next week.
Background
Sony has hosted either a major State of Play or a PlayStation Showcase every September for the past six years, and indications are that this pattern will continue in 2025. Recent reports have hinted that the company has plans for a presentation before the end of the month. NateTheHate, a leaker regarded as reliable, recently confirmed this, responding to a social media query with: "Sony has a presentation soon."
Industry sources, including Giant Bomb member Jeff Grubb, have suggested that the event is likely to be a State of Play livestream, rather than using the PlayStation Showcase branding.
— (@)
Potential announcements
Rumours indicate that the long-awaited Marvel's Wolverine game could be the highlight of the showcase. The title is reportedly set for release in 2026, with a proper unveiling expected soon.
Other potential first-party reveals include Saros from Housemarque, a PS5 exclusive confirmed to appear before the end of the year, and a rumoured 2.5D God of War title, reportedly a smaller-scale project.
As usual, any first-party announcements would likely be accompanied by updates from third-party developers.
Community interest
Gamers and fans are already speculating about what might appear at the next PS5 livestream. What would you like to see revealed? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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Sabrina Carpenter, Karol G and a long-awaited Bieber debut — Coachella 2026 rewrites the pop playbook
Coachella confirms 2026 lineup with Justin Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, Karol G and Anyma headlining
Festival runs 10–12 April and 17–19 April at the Empire Polo Club in California
Bieber headlines Coachella for the first time after years of guest spots
Ticket prices range from £445 (₹47,300) for general entry to over £970 (₹1.03 lakh) for VIP passes
The Coachella 2026 lineup has been released, placing Justin Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, Karol G and Anyma at the top of the bill. For Bieber, it marks a long-delayed first full set at the desert festival after years of cameo appearances, while Carpenter returns in a headline role following her recent chart run. Karol G leads Sunday with her Latin pop power, and Anyma brings a high-tech electronic show to close the circle.
Sabrina Carpenter, Karol G and a long-awaited Bieber debut — Coachella 2026 rewrites the pop playbook Instagram Screengrab/coachella
When is Coachella 2026 happening?
Coachella will return over two weekends: 10 to 12 April and 17 to 19 April, at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. The festival, now in its third decade, has built a reputation not just for music but also for its large-scale art installations and star-studded crowds. With the 2026 edition, organisers are focusing on variety, placing mainstream pop acts alongside experimental projects and veteran names.
Coachella Instagram Story Instagram Screengrab/coachella
Who are the headliners for Coachella 2026?
The Coachella 2026 lineup puts four different sounds at the forefront.
Justin Bieber headlines Saturday nights. He has previously joined Ariana Grande, Tems and Wizkid onstage at Coachella but never performed his own set. His appearance follows the release of two albums in 2025, Swag and Swag II.
Sabrina Carpenter leads the Friday programme. Her album Man’s Best Friend has dominated pop charts, and she steps up after playing a sunset set in 2024.
Karol G closes both Sundays. The Colombian singer made her Coachella debut in 2022 and returns with songs from her recent record Tropicoqueta.
Anyma, the solo project of Italian producer Matteo Milleri, offers an electronic-visual spectacle that has already sold out Las Vegas residencies.
Beyond the headliners, Coachella 2026 gathers a wide mix of names. Friday brings The xx, Disclosure, Central Cee, Ethel Cain, Teddy Swims, Sexyy Red, and rising girl groups BINI and Katseye. Saturday features The Strokes, Addison Rae, David Byrne, Sombr, Labrinth, Interpol, and PinkPantheress. Sunday includes Young Thug, FKA Twigs, Iggy Pop, Laufey, Kaskade, and Interpol.
A teaser appears at the bottom of the poster: “The Bunker Debut of Radiohead Kid A Mnesia,” fuelling interest in what could be a rare group appearance.
Tickets are already on sale. General admission passes begin at £445 (₹47,300) for the second weekend, with the first weekend priced slightly higher at £525 (₹55,800). VIP options range from £970 (₹1.03 lakh) to £1,070 (₹1.13 lakh), offering priority access and exclusive viewing areas.
Coachella Instagram Story Instagram Screengrab/coachella
Why is Bieber’s appearance significant?
For years, Justin Bieber has been a presence at Coachella without ever being an official part of the bill. His headline slot in 2026 changes that. Fans can expect his first major festival set in more than three years, making it one of the most anticipated performances of the season.
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Developers can also tap into Apple Intelligence for privacy-protected, on-device features, even offline
New “Liquid Glass” design unifies iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS.
Apple Intelligence expands with Live Translation, visual search, and fitness features.
iOS 26 introduces call screening, message polls, and Apple Games app.
iPadOS 26 brings a new windowing system and productivity tools.
macOS Tahoe includes the biggest Spotlight update to date.
watchOS 26 adds sleep score and FDA-cleared hypertension notifications.
visionOS 26 enhances spatial experiences with widgets, Personas, and 3D content.
Apple unveils updates across its ecosystem
Apple has released significant updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS, each now available as a free software update. The releases introduce a new design language called Liquid Glass, alongside expanded Apple Intelligence features, and a wide range of enhancements to apps and services.
A new design with Liquid Glass
For the first time, Apple’s operating systems share a unified design. Liquid Glass, a translucent material that reflects surroundings and refracts light, is now integrated across apps, icons, and widgets. The design aims to deliver consistency across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV, while maintaining unique elements of each platform.
Expanding Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence continues to integrate across devices, supporting:
Live Translation in Messages, FaceTime, Phone, and with AirPods.
Visual intelligence that allows screenshots to be queried using ChatGPT or searched across platforms like Google and Etsy.
Genmoji creation by blending emoji.
Workout Buddy, offering motivational audio insights during workouts.
Developers can also tap into Apple Intelligence for privacy-protected, on-device features, even offline.
iOS 26: New tools for everyday use
iOS 26 introduces:
Lock Screen customisation with adaptive time display and 3D spatial scenes.
Call Screening for unknown numbers and Hold Assist for queueing calls.
Message polls, backgrounds, and message screening from unknown senders.
New features in Apple Music, Maps, Wallet, and AirPods.
The launch of Apple Games, a central hub for discovering and playing games.
iPadOS 26: The biggest update yet
The new iPadOS adds:
An entirely new windowing system for multitasking.
A menu bar for streamlined access to app commands.
A redesigned Files app and support for folders in the Dock.
The Preview app for PDF editing with Apple Pencil.
Journal app integration and pro-level tools for creative workflows.
MacOS Tahoe: Productivity boosted
MacOS Tahoe introduces:
Transparent menu bar and more folder and widget customisation.
Spotlight’s largest update, adding browsing views, enhanced search, and action shortcuts.
Intelligent Shortcuts powered by Apple Intelligence.
A new Phone app that syncs iPhone features like Call Screening and Hold Assist.
Live Activities from iPhone displayed on Mac.
WatchOS 26: Health and fitness focus
The Apple Watch now offers:
Sleep score to track rest quality.
Hypertension notifications, FDA-cleared, powered by machine learning.
A redesigned Workout app and new Flow and Exactograph watch faces.
Workout Buddy motivational audio.
Accessibility and interaction updates including wrist gestures and automatic message translation.
TVOS 26: Enhancing home entertainment
Updates for Apple TV include:
Sing in Apple Music, turning iPhones into microphones.
Contact Posters in FaceTime.
Improved profiles for quicker access to personalised recommendations.
VisionOS 26: Deeper spatial computing
Apple Vision Pro gains:
Widgets that reappear when the headset is worn.
More natural Personas and lifelike spatial photo scenes.
Spatial browsing in Safari with embedded 3D objects.
Support for immersive content from GoPro, Insta360, and Canon.
New Jupiter environment showing real-time planetary storms.
Accessibility improvements
New features include:
Accessibility Nutrition Labels on the App Store.
Magnifier app for Mac with external camera support.
Accessibility Reader with font and colour customisation.
Braille Access for advanced braille display use.
Live Listen controls and real-time captions on Apple Watch.
Availability
iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 are now available as free updates. Feature availability varies by region and language, with hypertension notifications cleared by regulators in the US and EU.
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Donald Trump and Narendra Modi shake hands as they attend a joint press conference at the White House on February 13, 2025.
INDIA and the United States will hold trade discussions in New Delhi on Tuesday, officials and Indian media reports said, as the two countries look to resolve a tariff dispute.
India currently faces high US tariffs on most of its exports and has not yet been able to reach a trade deal that would ease the pressure.
Trump has sought to increase pressure on Moscow over the war in Ukraine. The move has added to tensions between Washington and New Delhi.
Both governments, however, have said they remain committed to talks.
Commerce ministry official Rajesh Agarwal said on Monday that officials would meet in person on Tuesday for discussions, The Indian Express reported.
According to broadcaster NDTV, Brendan Lynch, assistant trade representative for South and Central Asia, will be part of the US delegation. The report said the discussions would be a “precursor” to a later full round of negotiations.
The talks come a week after Trump said discussions would continue between the two sides to address trade barriers.
“I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our Great Countries!,” Trump posted on Truth Social last week, without providing details.
Indian prime minister Narendra Modi responded by calling India and the United States “close friends and natural partners” and said teams from both sides were working to conclude discussions “at the earliest”.