The month of June 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting time for Indian cinema lovers, with a diverse lineup of films set to hit the big screens. While some of these films feature established stars like Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone, others have newcomers leading the cast. Here are some of the most anticipated releases:
Kalki 2898 AD
Director: Nag Ashwin
Cast: Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Disha Patani
Genre: Sci-Fi, Fantasy
Release Date: June 27
Synopsis: Set in a futuristic world, Kalki 2898 AD is a high-concept sci-fi fantasy film that promises to transport audiences to a dystopian future. The film is expected to feature stunning visual effects and an intriguing storyline revolving around the fight between good and evil.
Why Watch: With a stellar cast and a visionary director, Kalki 2898 AD is one of the most awaited films of the year. Its unique premise, ensemble cast, and the scale of production make it a must-watch.
Chandu Champion
Director: Kabir Khan
Cast: Kartik Aaryan
Genre: Sports Drama
Release Date: June 14
Synopsis:Chandu Champion is a biographical sports drama based on the life of an extraordinary athlete who overcame numerous obstacles to achieve greatness. The film aims to inspire and entertain with its heartwarming story and powerful performances.
Why Watch: Directed by Kabir Khan, known for his impactful storytelling, and featuring Kartik Aaryan in a challenging role, this film is expected to be both motivational and engaging.
3. Munjya
Director: Aditya Sarpotdar
Cast: Sharvari, Abhay Verma
Genre: Supernatural Horror Comedy
Release Date: June 7
Synopsis: The film is helmed by Aditya Sarpotdar, and explores the legendary creature from Indian folklore, according to a statement from the makers. The teaser was released on 21 May 2024 and the trailer was released on 24 May 2024.
Why Watch:Munyai is acclaimed as an inaugural CGI film starring an animated character.
4. Ishq Vishk Rebound
Director: Nipun Dharmadhikari
Cast: Rohit Saraf, Jibraan Khan, Pashmina Roshan, and Naila Grewal
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Release Date: June 21
Synopsis: A modern take on the 2003 hit Ishq Vishk, this film follows a group of young college students navigating the complexities of love and relationships in the digital age. It's a refreshing and youthful romantic comedy that aims to resonate with today's generation.
Why Watch:Ishq Vishk Rebound brings a nostalgic touch for fans of the original while appealing to new audiences with its contemporary twist and relatable characters.
5. Maharaj
Director: Siddharth P Malhotra
Cast: Junaid Khan, Sharvari
Genre: Historical Drama
Release Date: June 14
Synopsis: Maharaj is said to be inspired by the 1862 Maharaja Libel Case. It revolves around a religious leader who sued a newspaper for alleging inappropriate relationships with his female followers. Junaid reportedly portrays a journalist in the movie.
Why Watch: Directed by Siddharth P Malhotra, the film marks the acting debut of Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan’s son Junaid Khan. It is expected to be a powerful and poignant historical drama that brings an important chapter of Indian history to life.
A scene from The Thursday Murder Club, where four retirees turn amateur detectives in a quiet British village shaken by a real murderInstagram/NetflixUK
Stills from Andaz Apna Apna
Stills from Andaz Apna Apna
Vinay Kumar Sinha
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.