After bankrolling unconventional films such as Vicky Donor (2012) and Madras Cafe (2013), actor-producer John Abraham is now bringing Parmanu: The Story Of Pokharan, a film based on a series of nuclear tests which India conducted in 1998 right under the nose of the CIA spy satellites to become a nuclear state. The film has faced a lot of issues in its release, including several delays. Earlier, KriArj Entertainment, a popular moviemaking banner run by Prernaa Arora and Arjun N Kapoor, was the co-producer on the project along with Abraham’s JA Entertainment. However, as the movie drew to its release, KriArj backed out of the project after JA Entertainment dragged them to court over alleged delay in payments and non-payments which delayed the release of the film several times. Recently, our Mumbai correspondent, Mohnish Singh, met John at his office and tried to know more about the film, what made the actor-producer back it and much more.
After facing a lot of hurdles, your film Parmanu: The Story Of Pokhran is finally releasing. How are you feeling right now?
Well, right now, we are feeling very relieved. Usually, at this point of time, we should feel nervous about the reactions to the film, but we have not even reached that stage. We are just very relieved that the film is releasing and we are thankful to the honourable High Court and the honourable judge for exactly putting out a verdict that I was trying to save for so long. So, we are very thankful.
What made you back this project in the first place?
It was a matter of great pride to tell a story such as this. The story, I feel, that everybody should know but doesn’t know the details about. Lot of us only know the surface information about what happened in India but we don’t know the details, we don’t know the obstacles they faced, we don’t know that how the CIA was involved. There was a lot of information I found out only when I was brought for the film and that made me want to tell the story even more.
Does the film revolve around any particular person who was a part of the mission in 1998?
In this film, there are 6 characters but there are no heroes in it, the story of the film in itself is a hero. The hero is the screenplay, the hero is the dialogues, the hero is the director. So, we were clear as to how we wanted to project this film and all the people who made this mission happen are the heroes of the film. We are very clear about that.
How did this project come to you?
Abhishek Sharma (director) narrated the idea to me, a 10-page idea. Then I looked at him and he looked at me and I asked that how in 20 years nobody decided to make a film on this? This is one of the biggest events in Indian history. After he narrated the idea to me, I thought that it’s a very difficult film and then I thought how will I pull it off? After that, I smiled and said ‘I will do it’ because it’s so difficult that I would want to do it.
How was it to work with the cast and crew of Parmanu?
Wonderful! All credit to Abhishek and the entire team. And honestly, to Diana first of all for doing this and the entire cast to making this in record time. We finished two days ahead of schedule. So not only we pulled it off, we pulled it off in record time.
What are the key points to keep in mind when a filmmaker sets out to make a true-event-based film?
Parmanu is based on a true story. The key point to keep in mind is the research. We have to do the research right; you can’t rest with research. Then the most important is the plot of the film, you can’t mess with that. Our plot is 85% to 90% accurate, we fictionalised certain characters. We obviously could not use real names, we had to change them. Other than that, the only fictional character was my character because you have to tell the story from someone’s shoulder. When you see the film at the end if you wait for the end credits, then you will realize how accurate we were.
How were the facts of the event translated for silver screen adaptation?
Because there is so much information in the film, and this is for all to know, we have to establish that information with our audience first, so the first 20-25 minutes (of the film) were concentrated on establishing that. The director did a fantastic job by simplifying that information. Meaning, not only you and me, but the guy serving me tea should also know what happened. How did it happen? That is very important.
Do you think it’s fair to blame directors if the film does not go well?
There are so many elements and aspects of filmmaking; there is promotion for example. If the film is not well promoted, I feel that’s like a huge negative because a lot of people aren’t even aware of it, or how you distribute the film. If you ask me, I think you can have the best set-up ever but if your story is not on point, intriguing and revealing enough, it doesn’t matter because you can’t really fool the audience.
Do you think it’s really important to promote a film even if you have a strong content?
I think you have to be smart at promoting the film, you have to understand what you really need to push. If you want to give the film a digital push, you want it to go all out to different malls or if you want to go for 50,000 different shows. The answer is a yes and a no depending on the genre. If I was doing Welcome Back (2015) I would go out and do all the shows but if I was doing Parmanu, I will stick to a different kind of marketing positioning. This film is a word-of-mouth film but that’s not enough. For a word-of-mouth film, you have to go up from a certain benchmark and to reach that benchmark on a Friday, you have to work hard through marketing.
How come John Abraham as a producer backs a different type of cinema, but when it comes to John, the actor, he stars in completely different kinds of films altogether?
Very honestly, if you ask me my favourite genre, it is comedy. I love comedy and I love films like Welcome Back because I love making people laugh. For me, the biggest high is when people laugh. As a producer am I equipped to do a full-on comedy at this point? I haven’t chanced upon a script yet so I don’t know. I think differently as a producer but as an actor people love to see me in a certain way. That is why I try and balance both out.
Wireless Festival 2025 runs from 11–13 July in Finsbury Park, London
Drake to headline all three nights of the sold-out event
New acts include ODUMODUBLVCK, SahBabii, Darkoo and Uncle Waffles
Up to 150,000 attendees expected across the weekend
Final line-up revealed ahead of 20th anniversary festival
Further acts have been confirmed for the 2025 edition of Wireless Festival, as Finsbury Park prepares to host the three-day music event from Friday 11 July to Sunday 13 July. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the UK’s biggest urban music festival, which has evolved into a major platform for rap, R&B, afrobeats and grime.
The 2025 event made headlines after it was announced that Canadian rapper Drake would headline all three nights — a first for the festival — sparking record-breaking ticket sales. The festival sold out within minutes.
Who's performing this year?
The full line-up now includes a mix of global headliners and emerging talent. Previously announced artists include:
Burna Boy
PARTYNEXTDOOR
Summer Walker
Vybz Kartel
Boy Better Know
Popcaan
Leon Thomas
BigXThaPlug
Lancey Foux
Nemzzz
Spice
Masicka
Newly added names to the roster include Nigerian rapper ODUMODUBLVCK, Atlanta’s SahBabii, and UK-based artists Darkoo and Odeal. Saturday’s Old Spice Stage will be headlined by Fimiguerrero, while Uncle Waffles, a leading figure in the amapiano scene, will close the festival on Sunday.
Also joining the line-up are rising R&B artists SAILORR and Nippa, along with a wave of homegrown UK talent including Chy Cartier, kwn, Len, YT, and Skeete.
New experiences and installations
In addition to live performances, festival goers can engage with Pass the Aux, a music-sharing installation on site. The setup allows attendees to print Polaroid song recommendations, inspired by West African studio photography. The project is a collaboration between the V&A Museum and artist-in-residence Michael Akuagwu.
Festival background and impact
Wireless began in Hyde Park as a rock and pop festival, but since relocating to Finsbury Park in 2019, it has cemented its reputation as a leading celebration of hip-hop, afrobeats, and youth culture.
Despite ongoing opposition from local campaigners, Festival Republic signed a five-year deal with Haringey Council in 2023 to continue hosting Wireless at the site. The council has defended the partnership, noting that the event generates significant income for park maintenance.
Last weekend, the park hosted major rock gigs, and further electronic music events are scheduled in August featuring Honey Dijon, CamelPhat, and ANOTR.
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This film marks the first cinematic release under the new unified DC Universe banner
First reactions to Superman (2025) praise its action, humour and emotional tone
Directed by James Gunn and starring David Corenswet as Superman
Premiered in Los Angeles ahead of 11 July theatrical release
Fans and critics call it a strong launch for the new DC Studios era
Superman early reviews call it “exciting” and “hopeful”
Following its premiere in Los Angeles on Monday night, the first social media reactions to Superman have begun to emerge — and they are largely positive. Though full reviews will be published closer to the 11 July release date, critics, journalists and early viewers have shared their first impressions online.
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What fans and critics are saying
“A terrific start for the new DC Studios,” – Erik Davis, Fandango Film journalist Erik Davis praised Superman as a promising launchpad for DC Studios under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran.
“Loaded with exhilarating action set pieces and well-placed humour and levity,” – Perri Nemiroff, Collider Collider’s Perri Nemiroff highlighted the film’s balance of action and character-driven storytelling.
“Superman delivers on heart, humour and heroism. David Corenswet is perfectly cast,” – @TheNerdyCritic on X A fan reaction emphasised the emotional tone of the film, calling it a “Superman story we’ve been waiting for”.
“Hopeful, fun, and visually impressive — Superman is back!” – @FilmFanCentral Another viewer on social media described the reboot as a return to form for the character and the franchise.
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Meet the new Superman cast
Superman stars David Corenswet as Clark Kent / Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. The cast also includes:
Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen
Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl
Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner
Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho
Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific
Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard
James Gunn’s first film under new DC Studios
Directed by James Gunn, this film marks the first cinematic release under the new unified DC Universe banner, co-led by Gunn and Peter Safran since their appointment in October 2022.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Gunn said:
“People are looking for heroes right now... Superman is that.”
Safran added earlier this year that Superman is intended to bring clarity and cohesion to the DC brand, following years of fragmented storytelling by different creative teams.
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What’s next for DC Studios?
Superman launches the new DC Universe (DCU), with upcoming projects including:
Lanterns, an HBO Max series focused on Green Lantern
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, set to release in 2026
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Superman releases in cinemas worldwide on 11 July 2025.
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The brand’s use of a traditional Indian design without acknowledgement
Neena Gupta posts a video wearing Kolhapuri chappals gifted by late actor Laxmikant Berde
Joins Kareena Kapoor in highlighting resemblance to a Prada sandal design
Luxury brand showcased similar footwear at Milan Fashion Week without reference to Indian origins
Both actresses emphasised the value of original handmade designs
Neena Gupta backs Kolhapuri chappals after Prada controversy
Veteran Indian actress Neena Gupta has weighed in on the ongoing conversation around Prada’s recent footwear collection after actress Kareena Kapoor earlier pointed out the brand’s use of a traditional Indian design without acknowledgement.
In a video shared on Instagram, Gupta showcased a pair of handmade Kolhapuri chappals gifted to her by the late actor Laxmikant Berde. Sharing the story behind the slippers, she said, “So, these Kolhapur slippers are in great demand these days. Once I did something with Laxmikant Berde—I don't remember what it was—so I asked him, can you get me these slippers from Kolhapur? He said yes. So he got them for me. This is the most beautiful slippers I have ever had. Most beautiful and handmade. I love them. Thank you, Laxmikant. You are not there anymore, but love you.”
Gupta concluded her post with a caption that read, “Real toh real hota hai..”, praising the authenticity and craftsmanship of traditional Indian footwear.
Gupta’s post comes shortly after Kareena Kapoor’s Instagram story where she posted a photo of her Kolhapuri chappals with the caption, “Sorry not Prada…but my OG Kolhapuri.” The comment was interpreted as a subtle response to Prada’s new sandal design, which many users online noted bore a strong resemblance to the traditional Indian style.
Prada presented the footwear at its Men’s Spring/Summer 2026 show in Milan on 22 June. The design, referred to as ‘Toe Ring Sandals’, did not include any reference to its resemblance to the Indian Kolhapuri chappals, sparking debate over cultural appropriation and lack of credit to traditional artisans.
Current projects
Kareena Kapoor was last seen in Singham Again, alongside Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Tiger Shroff.
Neena Gupta recently appeared in Metro In Dino, which was released on 4 July.
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Katy Perry relaxes on deck in a black bikini as she chats with friends
Katy Perry seen for the first time since confirming split with Orlando Bloom.
The singer relaxed on a yacht in Capri with daughter Daisy and close friends.
Representatives say the couple has shifted focus to co-parenting after months of changes.
Bloom shared cryptic quotes on loneliness while Perry broke down on stage in Australia.
Katy Perry appears to be embracing single life with warmth and grace after confirming her split from actor Orlando Bloom. Just days after their breakup statement, the pop star was seen enjoying a yacht holiday in Capri with her daughter Daisy and longtime friends.
Perry looked composed and at ease as she spent time on the water, marking her first public appearance since the relationship announcement. Dressed in a black bikini, with her hair tied back in a sleek bun, the singer was photographed laughing, hugging friends, and sharing moments with her 4½-year-old daughter.
Katy Perry with longtime friend Michael Kives during her getawayTwitter/info katy perry
Katy Perry seen in good spirits on yacht holiday
While the news of her separation from Bloom was still fresh, Perry looked relaxed and comfortable aboard the luxury yacht in Italy. She was spotted embracing former Hollywood agent Michael Kives, now a well-known investor, who is a close friend. Also on board was venture capitalist Ben Schwerin.
Photos showed Perry bonding with Daisy, holding her in her arms and smiling. The mother-daughter duo wore coordinated floral outfits earlier during the trip. Fans online praised Perry’s appearance and her apparent strength through the transition, with one user writing, “She hasn’t aged at all. Absolute queen energy.”
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Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom breakup confirmed
The outing came just days after Perry and Bloom issued a joint statement confirming their breakup. Their representatives shared that the couple had been "shifting their relationship over the past many months" and would now focus on co-parenting. They added, “Orlando and Katy will continue to be seen together as a family, as their shared priority is, and always will be raising their daughter with love, stability, and mutual respect.”
The pair had been together for nearly nine years, first meeting in 2016 at a Golden Globes afterparty. Their on-off romance included a brief breakup in 2017, a Valentine’s Day engagement in 2019, and the birth of their daughter in August 2020. Their wedding plans were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and were never rescheduled.
Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom focus on raising their daughter with love and respect Getty Images
Orlando Bloom reflects on loneliness post-split
While Perry vacationed in Italy, Bloom made headlines of his own, attending the high-profile wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez solo. He later posted cryptic quotes about loneliness and emotional darkness to Instagram, including lines from Carl Jung: “Even a happy life cannot be without a measure of darkness…”
Sources told Us Weekly that while the breakup wasn’t contentious, it had been a long time coming. “There was tension for months,” one insider noted, adding that Katy felt a sense of relief not having to face another divorce, referring to her previous marriage to comedian Russell Brand, which ended in 2012.
Orlando Bloom to attend Jeff Bezos wedding alone as split rumours with Katy Perry grow Getty Images
Perry breaks down during final Australia show
In the days leading up to the yacht trip, Perry concluded her Australia leg of the Lifetimes tour. At her final show in Adelaide, she reportedly became emotional, holding her hands in the shape of a heart and thanking fans: “Thank you, Australia, for always being there for me.”
Her absence from the Bezos-Sánchez wedding was initially chalked up to a scheduling conflict, but it added to speculation about the status of her relationship with Bloom. The couple’s recent decision to rent out their Montecito home to Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger further fuelled separation rumours before the announcement was made official.
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Despite the personal changes, Perry seems to be navigating the transition surrounded by loved ones, doing it with strength, clarity, and a sense of calm.
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Mia Regan, Romeo Beckham, Cruz Beckham, Harper Beckham, David Beckham, Victoria Beckham, Brooklyn Peltz Beckham and Nicola Peltz Beckham attend the Netflix 'Beckham' UK Premiere
Brooklyn Beckham is unlikely to attend Harper’s 14th birthday amid ongoing family tensions.
He recently skipped David Beckham’s 50th celebration to attend Nicola Peltz’s father’s birthday in the US.
Insiders say Harper is especially hurt as she shares a close bond with Brooklyn.
Brooklyn reportedly feels distant from the Beckham family and more connected to Nicola’s side.
The Beckham family is preparing to mark Harper’s 14th birthday this week, but the occasion is expected to be bittersweet. Brooklyn Beckham is not expected to join the celebrations, sparking concerns about a deepening rift between him and the rest of his family.
Once a close-knit unit, tensions reportedly began brewing after Brooklyn married American heiress and actress Nicola Peltz in 2022. Since then, his growing bond with Nicola’s family and increasing distance from his own has been a source of strain, insiders claim.
An old Instagram story of Victoria BeckhamInstagram Screengrab
Harper Beckham affected by Brooklyn’s absence
Among those most affected by Brooklyn’s ongoing estrangement is his youngest sibling, Harper. According to a source close to the family, the two shared a special relationship growing up, with Harper often looking up to Brooklyn as more than just a big brother.
“Harper’s really felt the shift,” the insider said. “She’s always adored Brooklyn. The family hoped Nicola would naturally bond with Harper too, but it hasn’t worked out that way. Now, the thought of Brooklyn missing her birthday is genuinely upsetting for Harper.”
David Beckham, Victoria Beckham and Brooklyn Beckham attend the Louis Vuitton Menswear Fall/Winter 2018-2019 showGetty Images
Prioritising the Peltz family over Beckham milestones
Brooklyn’s decision to attend the 83rd birthday celebration of Nicola’s billionaire father, Nelson Peltz, instead of joining his father David’s 50th birthday bash in London raised eyebrows and stirred speculation. While Victoria and David celebrated with close friends like Tom Cruise, Eva Longoria, and Guy Ritchie, Brooklyn was thousands of miles away in New York, posing for photos with Nicola and her father.
Nicola posted a heartfelt tribute to her dad on Instagram, calling him “the most loving and supportive father,” in a post that made no mention of the Beckhams. That same month, Brooklyn also marked the fifth anniversary of his proposal to Nicola, again with no public nod to his own family.
Victoria and David still hopeful for reconciliation
While David and Victoria are reportedly hurt, they have not given up hope of a reunion. They are said to be especially saddened by the emotional toll the situation is taking on Harper. “For Victoria, it’s not even about the drama anymore, it’s about family,” the source added. “She’d love nothing more than for Brooklyn to be there for Harper. But it’s just not looking likely.”
Past efforts to bring the family back together have faltered. Brooklyn and Nicola have missed several key family gatherings, and his absence on social media during those occasions has not gone unnoticed.
Brooklyn feels he ‘doesn’t fit’ with the Beckhams anymore
Sources close to Brooklyn suggest his growing alignment with Nicola’s family is not just about proximity but emotional comfort. “He doesn’t feel his family ever truly accepted Nicola,” one insider said. “Now that he’s become so close with her parents, especially Nelson, it’s like he’s found a new place to belong.”
Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz attend the Mugler Womenswear Fall/Winter 2024-2025 show Getty Images
The source added that Brooklyn did not set out to distance himself, but that marriage changed his priorities. “He still loves his siblings, but he’s a husband now, and that comes first.”