India paceman Ishant Sharma helped skittle out Bangladesh for 106 and Virat Kohli put the hosts in the lead on day one of the first day-night Test for both the teams.
Ishant returned figures of 5-22 in India's pink-ball debut to bowl out the tourists in the second session after they elected to bat first in Kolkata.
He was ably supported by fellow quicks Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Shami who shared the remaining five wickets between them.
"Pink ball was very different to red ball. When we started bowling at normal lengths the ball was not swinging that much. We then figured out the length," Ishant told reporters.
"We talked about it among ourselves, the three fast bowlers. We started hitting the right lengths after that."
The home side's batsmen then got going with the hosts reaching 174 for three at stumps, leading by 68 runs. Kohli, on 59, and Ajinkya Rahane, on 23, were at the crease.
The captain put on 94 runs with Cheteshwar Pujara for the third wicket after the early fall of openers Mayank Agarwal, for 14, and Rohit Sharma, for 21.
Pujara completed his half-century before falling to paceman Ebadat Hossian, who took two wickets, for 55.
But Kohli stayed firm to raise his 23rd Test fifty as he played the pink ball with ease as he hit eight boundaries in front of a sell-out crowd at Eden Gardens.
Bangladesh, who trail the two-match series 1-0, were dealt a double blow after Liton Das and Nayeem Hasan pulled out following hits on the helmet from Shami.
Mehidy Hasan and Taijul Islam returned to the XI as substitutes.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) approved the use of concussion substitutes for all internationals from August. This is the first time two subs have been used in a Test.
Mehidy, who made eight while batting, was replacing a batsman, so he can only bat. Taijul is a sub for an off-spinner, so he can bowl and bat.
Taijul bowled eight overs off his left-arm spin.
- Pink ball party -
India and Bangladesh joined the pink-ball party four years after the first day-night Test in Adelaide between Australia and New Zealand.
Ishant struck first to get Imrul Kayes trapped lbw for four, and the left-handed opener wasted a review with replays showing the ball would have hit leg stump.
Yadav joined forces in his second spell to send back skipper Mominul Haque, caught superbly by Rohit at second slip for nought, before bowling Mohammed Mithun two balls later.
Kolkata-based Shami, part of India's deadly pace trio in the series, received the loudest cheers after getting Mushfiqur Rahim bowled for nought.
Opener Shadman Islam top-scored with 29 in an innings that witnessed four batsmen getting out for zero. Liton was retired hurt on 24.
Bangladesh coach Russell Domingo said there is a big gap between India and Bangladesh in Test cricket.
"If you look at the level of performances, there is lot of differences at the moment. Whether it is batting or bowling, it's something we have to try to catch up," said Domingo.
"You look at the record of Virat Kohli who has 26 hundreds, all our batters (combined) made total 16 to 17 hundreds. So we are long way behind in terms of Test match cricket."
India's cricket chief Sourav Ganguly has put on a grand show at Eden Gardens, which is sold out for the first four days of the match.
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was in attendance along with a host of cricketing greats including batting icon Sachin Tendulkar.
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap criticised Vijay Subramaniam for backing the AI-made film Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal.
Kashyap said the project undermines creativity and betrays the artists represented by Subramaniam’s agency.
Vikramaditya Motwane also expressed disapproval, warning of AI sidelining writers and directors.
The AI film is produced by Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network, with a 2026 release planned.
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has sharply criticised the upcoming project Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal, promoted as India’s first fully AI-made film. The director targeted Vijay Subramaniam, head of Collective Artists Network, accusing him of betraying the very writers, actors and directors his agency represents. The backlash follows recent controversy over AI’s use in altering the Tamil release of Aanand L Rai’s Raanjhanaa.
Anurag Kashyap has condemned the AI film Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal for undermining artists Getty Images/ Instagram/abundantiaent
What is Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal ?
Earlier this week, production houses Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network unveiled the poster of Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal. Marketed as the country’s first “Made-in-AI, Made-in-India” film, it is scheduled to release on Hanuman Jayanti 2026.
Producers claim the project will combine mythology with modern innovation, reimagining Lord Hanuman’s story for global audiences. They described the initiative as a tribute to India’s cultural legacy, brought alive through technology.
However, the announcement triggered heated debate within the industry. While backers framed the film as innovation, critics argue it risks erasing the role of human storytellers in cinema.
Anurag Kashyap, known for outspoken views, voiced his anger on Instagram after the poster launch. Addressing Subramaniam directly, he wrote:
“Here is the man heading an agency representing artists, writers and directors, now producing a film made by AI. End of the day, all these agencies are only interested in making money off you. Any actor or anyone who calls themselves artists and has a spine should be questioning him or leaving the agency.”
The filmmaker went further, describing the project as “the future for the spineless and cowardly so-called artists in the Hindi film industry.” His remarks reflect wider concerns that agencies profit from talent while backing projects that remove creative workers from the process.
Kashyap has previously worked on films tackling issues of power, exploitation and authenticity in cinema. His latest outburst adds to growing resistance against AI in filmmaking.
Kashyap was not alone in condemning the move. Director Vikramaditya Motwane, who recently explored AI themes in his project CTRL, reposted the announcement on Instagram with the blunt caption: “And so it begins. Who TF needs writers and directors when it’s ‘Made in AI’?”
Motwane’s reaction highlights a fear shared by many in the industry: that studios may prioritise cost-cutting AI tools over human creativity. His remarks echo discontent following Raanjhanaa’s AI-altered ending, which led to protests from Aanand L Rai’s team.
The Chiranjeevi Hanuman backlash has therefore become symbolic of a larger struggle, of filmmakers fighting to safeguard artistic integrity in an era of technological disruption.
Filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane criticised the AI project and warned of the threat to writers and directors Instagram Screengrab/motwayne
What has the producer said in defence of AI films?
Vijay Subramaniam, head of Collective Artists Network and producer of Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal, defended the film at its launch. He argued that the project is not replacing tradition but enhancing it, describing it as “a unique opportunity to reimagine cultural storytelling for audiences who value both heritage and innovation.”
Supporters of the film insist that AI technology can make epic stories more accessible and visually ambitious without the usual budget constraints. Yet the criticism from Kashyap and Motwane shows strong resistance within Bollywood towards projects perceived as sidelining human talent.
The debate reflects a broader global conversation on AI’s role in creative industries, from Hollywood writers’ strikes to controversies in Indian cinema. With Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal set for release in 2026, the clash between technological innovation and artistic integrity is likely to intensify.
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Shah Rukh Khan supports son Aryan Khan during the Netflix launch of his debut series
Aryan Khan made his first public speech at the launch of his Netflix series The Ba**ds of Bollywood.
The debutant director admitted he was nervous and joked about keeping his father Shah Rukh Khan as backup.
The show stars Sahher Bambba, Lakshya, Bobby Deol, Mona Singh and Manoj Pahwa.
The Ba**ds of Bollywood will release on Netflix on 18 September.
Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan stepped into the spotlight at the preview launch of his directorial debut The Ba**ds of Bollywood. Delivering his first-ever public speech, Aryan openly admitted he was “extremely nervous,” a moment that has quickly drawn attention. Speaking with a mix of honesty and humour, Aryan said he had been rehearsing for days and even carried backup notes in case the teleprompter failed. The much-anticipated Netflix series marks his debut as a director after four years of preparation.
Aryan Khan makes his first public speech at The Ba**ds of Bollywood* preview in Mumbai Getty Images
What did Aryan Khan say in his first speech?
Aryan Khan confessed that facing the media for the first time left him anxious. “I’ve been practising this speech for two days and three nights,” he said, before joking that he had even written it down on paper in case of a power cut. He added, “Aur agar iss sab ke baad bhi mujhse galti ho jaaye toh papa hain na (And even then if I make a mistake, my dad is here).”
In a lighthearted moment, Shah Rukh Khan joined in by showing a copy of Aryan’s speech taped to his back, drawing laughter from the audience. Aryan ended his address by requesting forgiveness if he stumbled, saying, “This is my first time.”
The Netflix series The Ba**ds of Bollywood is described as a high-energy, stylised drama set against the backdrop of the film industry. It features Lakshya and Sahher Bambba in lead roles, with Bobby Deol, Mona Singh, Manoj Pahwa, Raghav Juyal, and Anya Singh in pivotal parts.
The series, produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, also features cameos from Salman Khan, Ranveer Singh and Karan Johar. According to Aryan, the project took four years of development, with “hundreds of discussions and thousands of takes” before reaching its final form.
Netflix has confirmed that The Ba**ds of Bollywood will begin streaming worldwide on 18 September. The platform has promoted it as a fresh take on the glitz and chaos of the industry, promising stylised visuals, sharp humour, and a look at ambition and rivalry in the world of cinema.
For Aryan, the series represents not just a professional debut but also the culmination of years of behind-the-scenes work. He said at the launch: “We’ve tried to bring entertainment to people everywhere, and I want to thank everyone who made this possible.”
— (@)
How did fans react to Aryan Khan’s speech?
Clips of Aryan Khan’s speech quickly spread online, with many fans pointing out his striking resemblance to his father’s manner of speaking. Comments like “Sounds just like SRK” and “Aryan’s voice = SRK’s voice” dominated social media reactions.
The warm reception suggests that Aryan’s entry into filmmaking has sparked high curiosity, both because of his family legacy and the scale of the project. With his directorial debut soon arriving on Netflix, expectations are running high.
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Charli XCX confirms her next chapter with upcoming A24 film The Moment
Charli XCX ends her Brat era with a South Korean festival performance
Pop star leaves fans emotional with farewell message on stage screen
Teases upcoming A24 film The Moment based on her own concept
Singer shifts focus from music to film after blockbuster success
Charli XCX has officially closed the chapter on her acclaimed Brat era with an emotional final performance at South Korea’s One Universe Festival, where she also teased her next project. The British pop star, who dominated global charts with Brat, used her farewell show to surprise fans with a teaser for her upcoming A24 film The Moment.
Charli XCX confirms her next chapter with upcoming A24 film The Moment Getty Images
What happened at Charli XCX’s final Brat concert?
On 15 August, Charli XCX took the stage in Gwacheon-si for her last headlining performance linked to Brat, the album that turned her from cult favourite to mainstream force. As she wrapped her set, a huge screen behind her displayed the words: “Please don’t let it be over.”
The message struck a chord with fans, who had been following her whirlwind year of success. Shortly after, she posted a clip on Instagram showing a film slate marked The Moment, confirming her move towards cinema.
Why is the Brat era significant in Charli XCX’s career?
Released in June 2024, Brat became Charli’s most successful album to date, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. Its lime-green cover, hyperpop energy, and cultural reach made it more than just a record. From influencing U.S. political campaigns to dominating TikTok trends, Brat marked a turning point in the perception of experimental pop.
Charli herself admitted she never expected the record’s impact. Speaking earlier this year, she said: “I don’t really feel the pressure because you can never do the same thing twice. My next record will probably be a flop, which I’m down for to be honest.”
What do we know about Charli XCX’s new film The Moment ?
The most talked-about reveal from her farewell concert was her upcoming A24 project The Moment. The film, based on her own concept, signals a bold shift into storytelling on screen. While details remain under wraps, fans online are already speculating about its potential to capture the same disruptive energy that made Brat so influential.
This is not Charli’s first step into acting. She is also set to appear in several upcoming films including I Want Your Sex with Olivia Wilde and Cooper Hoffman, the satire Sacrifice with Chris Evans and Anya Taylor-Joy, and a fantasy adaptation of 100 Nights of Hero.
Charli XCX closes Brat era with final show and teases new film ‘The Moment’Getty Images
What’s next for Charli XCX after Brat ?
With music milestones behind her, Charli XCX is turning her attention to film while still maintaining her reputation as an artist. She recently collaborated with Japanese horror director Takashi Miike for a new project and continues to expand her acting portfolio.
On a personal note, the singer also married The 1975’s drummer George Daniel in London last month. The wedding was a private ceremony at Hackney Town Hall, attended by close friends and family.
Charli XCX and George Daniel’s wedding photos spark a new alt-pop moodboard Instagram/charli_xcx
As she steps into a new creative phase, fans may have to wait before hearing another record, but Charli’s latest pivot suggests she is just as committed to breaking boundaries in cinema as she has been in music.
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Quentin Tarantino confirms his first West End play debut in London
Quentin Tarantino says his first-ever play will premiere in London’s West End.
The director confirmed the script is complete and work begins in January 2026.
He plans to relocate with his family to the UK during the production.
Tarantino hinted the play could also become his final film if it succeeds.
Hollywood filmmaker Quentin Tarantino has confirmed he is bringing his West End play debut to London, marking his first step into theatre. Speaking on The Church of Tarantino podcast, the Oscar-winning director of Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill revealed that the script is finished and that he will begin work on the project in early 2026. The move signals a new chapter for the 62-year-old, who said he intends to spend two years on the production and even relocate to the UK with his wife, singer Daniella Pick, and their two children.
Quentin Tarantino confirms his first West End play debut in London Getty Images
What has Quentin Tarantino said about his West End play?
Tarantino told the podcast that the untitled play is “all written” and confirmed it will be his next project. He explained that rehearsals and production will begin in January 2026, with the expectation that the show could premiere by 2027.
“It’ll probably be a year before it’s in front of an audience,” he said, adding that he is preparing for the play to be a success. “If it’s a flop, then I will be done very quickly.”
The filmmaker also suggested that if the West End production is well received, it could later be adapted into a film, potentially serving as the tenth and final movie of his career.
Tarantino plans to relocate with his wife Daniella Pick and children to the UKGetty Images
Why is Tarantino moving to the UK?
The director revealed he is planning to move to England with his family for the duration of the play’s production. Tarantino, who currently lives in Tel Aviv, said the relocation would allow him to closely oversee the project.
He explained that he intends to spend the rest of 2025 with his family before shifting focus entirely to his West End debut. “We’ll start the ball rolling on it in January… it’s going to take a year and a half to two years of my life,” he told the podcast.
Reports have also pointed out that staging a production in London is more financially viable than Broadway, where higher costs often limit new works.
Rehearsals for Tarantino’s West End debut are set to begin in January 2026Getty Images
Has Quentin Tarantino worked in theatre before?
Although this will be Tarantino’s official West End play debut, it is not his first experience with theatre. In 2015, following a script leak, he staged The Hateful Eight as a live reading. He also adapted his 2019 film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood into a play, showing his interest in moving stories from screen to stage.
His new project is expected to be a comedy, although no storyline or cast details have been announced yet.
Quentin Tarantino says the play could also be adapted into his final filmGetty Images
What else is Tarantino working on?
Alongside the play, Tarantino has been busy with film projects. He wrote the script for The Adventures of Cliff Booth, a Netflix sequel to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood centred on Brad Pitt’s stuntman character. The film is being directed by David Fincher, whom Tarantino praised as “one of the two best directors working today.”
He also revealed why he abandoned his planned project The Movie Critic, saying: “Every Tarantino title promises so much, except The Movie Critic. Who wants to see a movie about a critic?”
Quentin Tarantino revealed his theatre script is already completeGetty Images
Tarantino has long maintained he intends to retire after making ten films, counting Kill Bill Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 as a single entry. With nine films already completed, the success of his West End debut could shape how he closes his directing career.
Bans are a significant aspect of the digital era. They change how people work, relate to each other, and utilize technology. There are several reasons why they could be placed in place, including as safety, the law, or the need to keep certain types of information under control. Some restrictions are supposed to protect individuals, but they may be bad for businesses, communities, and people who require unfettered access. You need to know how bans affect daily life in order to come up with meaningful and effective ways to cope with them.
A lot of individuals are finding that the free VPN is becoming more and more important. A VPN, which stands for Virtual Private Network, allows people access to the internet safely. It keeps what you do secret and allows you see stuff that is normally off-limits. Free versions of these services are a good place for those who wish to learn about privacy protection without having to pay for it. Modern solutions are easy to use and helpful. You can get apps for both Android and iOS. This lets people be private and get information directly from their phones.
Restrictions have a big influence on businesses and communities, among other things. Limitations on online tools can slow communication. They can also hinder collaboration and block access to essential services for organizations. Bans can get in the way of people's education, enjoyment, and socializing. The break might be a short time or a long period, but the results are always obvious. These problems seem more personal than ever in a world that is getting more and more digital, where so much of life happens online.
You should also think about the economic side of things. Bans can make business prospects unequal, with some groups getting ahead and others having trouble. Restrictions may be a problem for business owners, especially those that work with clients or marketplaces throughout the world. These problems can make it hard for businesses to develop and stay in business. In today's corporate world, having access to information and services is really important. If you can't use digital technologies, you might lose your edge over your competitors.
Privacy is another big thing to think about. In a culture that is linked, personal and work-related information is always moving. When bans happen, people typically worry about who has access to sensitive information and how it is being utilized. This is a big deal for anyone who care about privacy and safety. VPN technology solves these problems by encrypting internet traffic. It makes it harder for anyone to watch you and helps you protect your online identity. This way, they can keep working.
Bans can affect cultural expression and social connectedness from a community point of view. People routinely express their voices, tell tales, and commemorate traditions over the internet. When constraints make it hard or impossible for people to get to each other, communities may feel like they're not linked. VPNs and other technologies help keep connections alive. They help users interact with social and cultural platforms, even when things get in the way.
There are other effects on education and career growth. There are various ways to study online, such taking classes or going to group seminars. Some services might not be available to students, which could make it harder for them to acquire the aid they need to go ahead. For professionals, this might mean losing access to venues where they can learn new things and meet individuals who can help them go up in their jobs.VPNs help keep these options open by keeping the digital road secure and open.
The rise in bans is part of a larger shift in how digital spaces are administered. People and corporations need to change as societies try to find a balance between openness and control. They have to achieve this without giving up their values or aspirations. Privacy-protecting tools and tools that restore access are ways to go forward that let individuals keep their digital lives safe and free.