WHILE most young actors in Hindi cinema choose a predictable and safe career path, Ishaan Khatter dared to do things differently from the beginning.
He made a winning debut in internationally acclaimed filmmaker Majid Majidi’s 2017 film Beyond The Clouds, and has since mixed up projects across diverse platforms, from commercial Hindi cinema to acclaimed BBC drama A Suitable Boy.
Staying out of the comfort zone, the star gave a worthy performance in Bollywood war drama Pippa (2023) and this week features in new Netflix series The Perfect Couple, which was premiered globally on Thursday (5).
With co-stars Nicole Kidman, Liev Schreiber and Dakota Fanning, Khatter’s foray into Hollywood is an adaptation of a 2018 novel of the same name. It is a mystery drama that revolves around a murder investigation that leads to dark, hidden secrets.
In an exclusive interview with Eastern Eye, Khatter spoke about The Perfect Couple, revealed what it was like working with Hollywood A-list star Kidman, his forthcoming Netflix series The Royals, his passions outside acting and future plans.
How do you reflect on your acting journey so far?
It’s been unexpected and full of enriching experiences that have shaped the person I am today. There is a feeling of having lived through many different lives that is at odds with the feeling of just having started a few years ago. Lots of gratitude and excitement for the road ahead.
You have been unpredictable with your choices, has that been a conscious decision?
(I think it has been) conscious, yes, but not strategised, per se. Every actor’s career is a product of the opportunities that come their way. Having said that, I do believe your choices define you.
From the outset, you have been looking globally – was it a deliberate choice?
I have been fortunate to have had opportunities on an international scale and stage. It was always as much my endeavour to push beyond boundaries and work in a diverse landscape as it was to make my mark in the Hindi film industry.
With the range of work you have done – from commercial Bollywood to international projects – you are very much in demand and a fan favourite. How does that feel?
It feels lovely to hear such things, of course. I work hard for the love. But I don’t want it to be a one-way street, so I like to think the love fuels me and I put it back double fold into the work.
Would you say you are a fearless actor?
Fearless, no; courageous, hopefully, yes. I think fear is a positive thing. You can kind of harness it and convert that energy into something positive. It fuels you. So, I don’t take fear as a negative factor in my experience. I think it’s very normal and natural to have fear. If you don’t have fear, you can find yourself in a lot of positions that are undesirable.
How did you feel landing a role in
The Perfect Couple? (I was) excited at first, and then oddly calm. I like to not blow things out of proportion before I have completed them. So, I treated it like any other assignment of a character that comes my way, and started the prep without assumption and preconceived notions.
What can you tell us about it?
It’s a big, sweeping, suspense thriller. It has a very exciting cast, helmed by a high calibre filmmaker such as Susanne Bier who has brought a very unique tone to it and it will engage the audience to solve the puzzle as it goes along.
Tell us about the character you play.
My character, Shooter Dival, was intriguing to me. He’s sort of like an insider-outsider and the way he’s involved in the story is quite distinct. There’s definitely more than meets the eye.
How does this Netflix adaptation compare to the novel it is based on?
Tonally, I think it’s different. But the bigger picture is the same. Some creative liberties will make it fun and surprising for the fans of the book, too. And, for the uninitiated, it delivers the goods.
What was the biggest challenge of playing this role?
(Laughs) Sticking out the off days. I enjoyed the process very much. There were challenges – it was a new setting, an American accent which I’ve not done before and shooting out of order over four months, living on location at Cape Cod. But much like any other film, the process was similar.
What was it like being in a show with Hollywood stars like Nicole Kidman?
It was great. They are all super professional, of course. Other than their popularity, they are fantastic actors and so many of us became good friends. I would say it was a big part of what made me comfortable and get through the long shooting schedule in a new environment. Nicole was generous as a co-actor and wonderful to converse with, too.
What do you most like about her as an actress?
I think she’s an exceptional dramatic actor. She has a very arresting aura about her; she’s able to hold tension in a beautiful way – she has these deep, hypnotic eyes. And she’s a very intelligent actor. Having worked with her, I can say she’s fully present, willing to try things and give different interpretations to the text. I was inspired by her.
Did you feel any pressure being part of such a big cast for Netflix?
(There was) no negative pressure.
What was it like to work with Susanne Bier?
Susanne Bier is a director I have admired. I have enjoyed her work. She was extremely professional and almost married to the work. She had a distinct vision for this show. And it was very interesting. She certainly backs her own vision. Everybody respected that and allowed her that freedom to make it the way she saw it. She is an individualistic, strong, visionary kind of filmmaker.
Ishaan Khatter with Meghann Fahy in The Perfect Couple
Did you learn anything new while working on this project?
A lot of things. Other than learning about a whole new industry and their ways and protocols, it was the first murder mystery I was a part of. From that standpoint, it was a completely new genre, character and territory for me. It was also the first Americanised character I played. So, it was a lot of new ground. I don’t think I could apply most of the things I had (previously) learned. I had to unlearn most of what I did (before) to get the assignment right. I enjoyed it very much.
How do you feel ahead of the show premiering globally on Netflix?
I am very excited with anticipation of how it’ll be received. It’ll be premiering globally on Netflix in many languages, so it’s a big-scale release, along with being an exciting and entertaining offering for the audiences, so fingers crossed.
Is the plan going forward to mix up projects in India with international ones?
(Laughs) Even if I were that meticulously planned, I’d rather act in the projects first than declare them beforehand.
Do you have a dream role you would love to play?
Sure, I do. There are many.
You have beautifully balanced film and TV serials. Does your approach change between the two as an actor?
The approach remains largely the same. But I do believe it’s important to have a sense of the format and the larger picture, which does inform your choices along the process, to some degree.
What inspires you the most as an actor?
Music, dance and other art forms, films, actors, stories – but, most of all, real life.
What are your biggest passions away from work?
Travelling and music, for sure. But music does play a large part in my work.
What can we expect from your forthcoming Netflix series, The Royals?
The Royals is one of the most fun scripts I’ve read recently. It has a lot of surprises, with exciting action in the episodes and audiences will see me in a new light. Again, it’s a new playground and setting for me as an artist. It is a very new character. It is a fictitious show and a modern take on the royal families of India – a lovely marriage of culture, heritage and tradition.
Why should we watch The Perfect Couple on Netflix?
You should watch the show as you will have a good time. I think (director) Susanne (Bier) described it very well when she said, ‘it’s kind of like elegant popcorn’.
Why do you love being an actor?
Acting is the most wholesome profession I can think of. It rests on the act of empathy, and every role enriches your own outlook towards the world. And you get to do the coolest things for a living. Meryl Streep said something to the effect of ‘you get to live a whole new life (with every role), but not really’. From where I stand, you can’t ask for anything more – it is a wonderful gift.
The Perfect Couple series is now available on Netflix
The sudden death of billionaire businessman Sunjay Kapur at the age of 53 has raised questions over the future of his vast wealth and who stands to inherit it. Best known in the public eye for his marriage to Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor, Kapur leaves behind a family spread across three marriages — including two children with Kapoor.
Global business, personal fortune
Kapur was the chairman of Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd, commonly known as Sona Comstar, a global automotive components firm headquartered in Gurugram, India. He took charge of the company after the death of his father Dr Surinder Kapur in 2015 and steered it to significant success, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. The company was listed on the Indian stock exchange in 2021 and is now valued at approximately £2.95 billion, according to Bloomberg.
At the time of his death on 13 June in London, Kapur's personal net worth was estimated at around £980 million ($1.2 billion), with most of it tied to his stake in the company.
Family and children
Kapur was married three times. His first marriage, to designer Nandita Mahtani, ended in 2000. From 2003 to 2016, he was married to actress Karisma Kapoor, with whom he had two children — Samaira, now 20, and Kiaan, 14. He later married entrepreneur Priya Sachdev in 2017, and the couple have a six-year-old son, Azarias.
Inheritance and past settlements
There has been no official word from the family or company about the contents of Kapur’s will or the structure of his estate. However, reports suggest that under Indian inheritance law, his current wife Priya Sachdev would manage the estate unless otherwise specified in a will.
According to earlier reports from ANI in 2016, during divorce proceedings with Karisma Kapoor, Kapur had purchased bonds worth around £1.3 million (₹14 crore) each for Samaira and Kiaan. These bonds reportedly generate a monthly income of around £9,400 (₹10 lakh) for each child — a move seen as part of his legacy planning.
As part of the divorce settlement, a family property in Mumbai was also transferred to Karisma Kapoor, who retains full custody of the two children.
Uncertain future
While the details of Kapur’s current estate plan are not public, Indian media reports suggest his sisters may take on management roles within Sona Comstar. The company has said that business operations remain unaffected and pledged to uphold his legacy.
For now, it remains unclear how his estimated £980 million fortune will be distributed among his heirs.
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Aamir Khan addresses love jihad allegations and shares rare details about his family
In the lead-up to his upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par, Aamir Khan has addressed a long-standing controversy that has trailed him for years: allegations that his 2014 film PK promoted ‘love jihad’ and disrespected religion. Speaking on Aap Ki Adalat, the actor finally offered his side of the story, calling the accusations “baseless” and “misinformed”.
“When two people fall in love and decide to marry, it’s not a conspiracy. It’s a human connection,” Aamir said, firmly rejecting the label of ‘love jihad’.
‘PK’ wasn’t against religion, it warned against blind faith: Aamir clarifies intent
Back in 2014, PK sparked debate for showing a Hindu woman in love with a Pakistani Muslim man. Critics accused the film of mocking religious beliefs. Responding to this, Aamir said the film respected all faiths and was never intended to ridicule anyone’s beliefs.
“We respect every religion deeply. PK was about being cautious of those who misuse religion to exploit people. This kind of manipulation exists in all communities,” he explained. He stressed the film’s core message: don’t fall for those who use faith as a tool for fear or financial gain.
Aamir Khan defends PK and calls out misuse of religion to create divisionGetty Images
Aamir also addressed questions about his children’s names. Despite being married to Hindu women Reena Dutta and Kiran Rao, his children carry Muslim names like Ira, Junaid, and Azad. “My wives chose the names. There was no pressure from me,” he said, adding with a smile, “Husbands don’t always get their way.”
‘Humanity over headlines’: Aamir gives personal examples to challenge narrative
To further break down the ‘love jihad’ myth, Aamir pointed to his own family. “My sister Nikhat is married to Santosh Hegde, Farhat to Rajeev Dutta, and my daughter Ira to Nupur Shikhare, all Hindu men. Will you call that love jihad too?” he asked.
He urged people to look beyond religion when it comes to relationships, calling love a personal choice that transcends labels. “When two minds connect, it’s above any religion. It’s about humanity,” he said.
Aamir says real love is a human bond not a conspiracy Getty Images
Aamir also addressed criticism for delaying his response to a recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The actor clarified that he isn’t active on social media and said the timing of his statement and the trailer release of Sitaare Zameen Par was purely coincidental.
Sitaare Zameen Par hits cinemas on 20 June.
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5 moments from the Kantara 2 shoot that shocked fans and halted filming
The shoot of Kantara 2 has been anything but smooth. What was meant to be a spiritual sequel to one of Kannada cinema’s biggest hits has instead been plagued by a series of disturbing incidents, including a drowning, a boat capsizing with Rishab Shetty on board, and even environmental fines. While the production team insists filming is on track, the number of on-set mishaps has left fans concerned and questioning the safety standards behind the camera. Here's a timeline of five serious events that disrupted the shoot.
A minibus ferrying around 20 junior artists back from set rolled over near Jadkal, Karnataka. Initial reports pointed to injuries. Hombale Films quickly countered, insisting it wasn’t their official transport and no one was seriously hurt. Filming pushed ahead almost immediately. The conflicting accounts left questions hanging about crew safety during transit.
A lunch break tragedy (7–8 May 2025)
The shoot took its darkest turn during a break at the Kollur Souparnika River location. Junior artist M.F. Kapil, just 24, went for a swim off-duty. Strong currents swept him away. Hours later, his body was recovered. Production halted. While the makers stressed this happened off-set and was a "personal accident," the death of a young crew member cast a long shadow over the production. A police probe followed.
Off-set losses (May–June 2025)
Within weeks, two more deaths struck, though not directly tied to set conditions. Comedian Rakesh Pujare succumbed to a cardiac arrest in May. Then, in June, mimicry artist Kalabhavan Niju collapsed on set with chest pain, dying en route to the hospital. While health-related, each incident highlighted the importance of on-call medical support.
Massive set destruction & environmental fines (Early 2025)
Months before the drownings and boat capsize, the team faced a different kind of blow. A massive, expensive set built for the film was utterly destroyed by fierce, unexpected storms and relentless rain. To compound the problem, the crew later drew flak and fines from forest officials, accused of disrupting habitats and illegally dumping waste during their work.
Boat capsize at Mani Reservoir (16 June 2025)
The most recent jolt came with the boat capsizing incident at the Mani Dam reservoir. While filming a scene, the vessel, overloaded with Shetty and crew, overturned, plunging everyone into the water. Shallow depths prevented fatalities, but equipment was lost, production stopped, and safety protocols came under intense scrutiny. Police are investigating overloading as a likely cause.
Each setback, from overturned vehicles to environmental pushback and sudden fatalities, has tested Kantara 2’s planners and crew. While no further fatalities have occurred since 15 June, production delays and budget increases are almost inevitable. The team now faces the dual task of maintaining its ambitious 2 October 2025 release date while ensuring every member can work without fearing for their safety.
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Jay Sean is confirmed as the headline act for Middlesbrough Mela 2025
Chart-topping singer Jay Sean has been announced as the headline performer for this year’s Middlesbrough Mela, and he’s set to bring the party after dark. In a historic first, the 2025 edition of the UK’s longest-running multicultural festival will introduce a Saturday evening concert headlined by the Down hitmaker, marking a major moment in the Mela’s 35-year legacy.
The festival, which takes place on 16 and 17 August at Middlesbrough’s Albert Park, expects over 50,000 visitors across the weekend. But all eyes will be on Saturday night, when the park transforms into a concert-style arena from 6pm onwards, with Jay Sean taking the stage in a ticketed evening slot curated by BBC Asian Network presenters.
Fans are expected to travel nationwide for Jay Sean’s UK exclusive performance
South Asian trailblazer returns to UK stage
Jay Sean, widely regarded as one of the most successful British Asian artists of all time, made history by becoming the first South Asian artist to top the US Billboard Hot 100. His chart dominance in both the UK and US in the late 2000s helped redefine South Asian representation in mainstream pop.
In 2024, he launched his own record label, 3AM Entertainment, under Virgin Music Group to champion emerging South Asian talent. Now, his return to UK stages for this exclusive Middlesbrough Mela performance has created major buzz, with organisers expecting fans to travel from all corners of the country.
The 35th edition of Middlesbrough Mela promises music food and cultural festivities
Festival Director Kash Patel called Jay Sean’s appearance “a game-changer” and said it reflects the energy and cultural pride that the Mela has come to represent. “Jay Sean’s legacy goes beyond music. He’s inspired generations of British Asians. Having him here is a proud moment for Middlesbrough,” he added.
The first wave of discounted tickets, priced at £15 (₹1,600) plus booking fee, is now live exclusively for Tees Valley residents, with general sales to follow. VIP Golden Circle packages, offering perks like fast-track entry, priority viewing, and complimentary food and fairground rides, are also available via the official Middlesbrough Mela website and Skiddle.
Jay Sean is confirmed as the headline act for Middlesbrough Mela 2025
The Mela’s free daytime programme remains packed with live music, dance, street food, shopping stalls, a funfair, and activities for all ages. Community members, performers, and local businesses are also invited to get involved through stalls, advertising, or volunteering.
US singer Chris Brown launched the UK leg of his Breezy Bowl XX tour in Manchester on Sunday, just days before he is due in court over a grievous bodily harm (GBH) charge. The 36-year-old artist performed at the Co-op Live arena, marking his 20th year in the music industry.
Brown was arrested in Greater Manchester last month in connection with an alleged assault during a previous visit to the UK in 2023. He is accused of attacking a music producer with a tequila bottle at a nightclub in London. The incident is said to have taken place during his last UK tour. Brown has been charged with GBH and is currently on bail.
‘Thank you to the jail’, singer jokes on stage
Addressing fans during Sunday’s performance, Brown joked about his recent time in custody. “Thank you for coming and supporting me,” he said, before adding, “And thank you to the jail. It was really nice.” The comment was met with cheers from the audience, who had earlier watched a montage of Brown’s career highlights — including footage from outside Manchester Crown Court during his arrest.
The video package, which showed both his achievements and controversies, appeared to be a deliberate acknowledgement of his legal troubles. The singer has previously faced legal issues in the United States, but continues to maintain a large fan base internationally.
Bail set at £5 million
Brown was released after agreeing to a £5 million security fee. He had been held in custody for nearly a week before the court granted bail. A security fee serves as a financial guarantee to ensure a defendant returns to court, and can be forfeited if bail conditions are breached.
As part of his bail terms, the judge permitted Brown to continue with his scheduled performances. He resumed his tour with a show in Amsterdam before heading to the UK.
Upcoming court appearance in London
Brown is due to appear at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court in London on Friday, 21 June, alongside co-defendant Omololu Akinlolu, a 38-year-old US artist known as HoodyBaby. Both are facing charges in connection with the alleged nightclub assault.
So far, no plea has been entered by Brown or Akinlolu.
Tour continues across UK stadiums
Following his Manchester shows, Brown will perform in Cardiff at the Principality Stadium on Thursday. After his court hearing on Friday, he is scheduled to appear at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday and Sunday.
The tour will continue with stadium shows in Birmingham and Glasgow, followed by two additional arena dates in Manchester. The Breezy Bowl XX tour celebrates two decades of Brown’s career, which began with his debut single Run It! at age 16. On Sunday, he opened the Manchester show with the hit and went on to perform several of his UK top 10 singles, including Turn Up The Music, With You, and Don’t Wake Me Up.
Brown recently won Best Male R&B/Pop Artist at the 2025 BET Awards, held in Los Angeles.