After proving his mettle with a series of blockbusters like Padmaavat (2018), Simmba (2018) and Gully Boy (2019), Ranveer Singh has become a hot property in Bollywood. Producers are literally queuing up in front of his door with bundles of scripts in their hands.
Singh already has some exciting projects in his hand, but that has not stopped him from signing a new one. Yes, you heard that right! According to reports, Ranveer Singh has signed yet another interesting project.
If reports are to be believed, the rising star has given his nod to headline well-known filmmaker Rajkumar Santoshi’s next directorial venture. "Ranveer has given his nod to the project," a source reveals, adding that the untitled film will start rolling towards the end of the year.
We also hear that Rajkumar Santoshi is currently hunting for the female lead of the project. Reportedly, the movie will have two heroines and the director is keen to launch a TV actress in his next offering.“He wants fresh faces and therefore, he is looking out for TV names."
The untitled movie will be produced by Eros International.
Kareena Kapoor Khan to star as a ghost in an upcoming genre-bending film
The 44-year-old actress will reportedly be paired with an actor in his early 20s
Script is penned by Hussain Dalal, known for Brahmāstra
The film explores a quirky new take on the ghost genre and is currently unannounced
Kareena Kapoor Khan is reportedly all set to headline a new supernatural film, but with an unconventional twist. The Bollywood star, who turned 44 this year, will be seen playing a ghost in the upcoming project, which is also said to feature a much younger male lead, an actor in his early 20s. If confirmed, this pairing will mark a rare age-reversal in Bollywood casting, where older male actors have long romanced much younger actresses on screen.
According to reports, the film is described as a genre-defying and humorous take on ghost stories. The story is said to be written by Hussain Dalal, known for co-writing Brahmāstra and frequently collaborating with director Ayan Mukerji. While Kareena’s role as a female ghost is being celebrated as bold and experimental, her reported romantic pairing with a 20-something actor is what has caught everyone’s attention.
Kareena Kapoor set to flip the script with a younger co-star and a ghost twistInstagram/kareenakapoorkhan
Kareena’s ghost character promises a genre shake-up
The yet-to-be-titled film is positioned as a quirky reinvention of the ghost genre. A source close to the production told Deccan Chronicle, “This quirky story featuring Kareena as a ghost has a refreshing script and will carve out a new space in the ghost genre. It’s a fun, genre-bending take, and Kareena is perfect for it.”
While details about the film’s production or release date remain under wraps, the concept has already sparked interest online for both its storyline and the unconventional casting. Kareena, who has consistently picked roles that challenge stereotypes, seems to be pushing boundaries once again.
Fans react to reports of Kareena being paired with a much younger co-starInstagram/kareenakapoorkhan
Reverse age-gap pairing fuels debate in Bollywood
The age difference between Kareena and her rumoured co-star, reportedly over 20 years, is already making headlines, especially at a time when Bollywood’s long history of older male stars being cast opposite teenage or much younger actresses is being widely criticised.
Recent examples include 38-year-old Ranveer Singh paired with 18-year-old Sara Arjun in Dhurandhar, and Salman Khan facing backlash for starring opposite Rashmika Mandanna in Sikandar. The shift in Kareena's upcoming role presents a fresh reversal, and possibly a new precedent in how gender and age are portrayed in mainstream cinema.
Kareena’s career longevity defies Bollywood norms
The Jab We Met star has often been a trendsetter, from being one of the few married actresses to continue headlining major films to starring in female-led projects like Veere Di Wedding post-motherhood. If this casting rumour is true, she would become one of the first A-list actresses to take on a romantic role opposite a significantly younger actor in mainstream Indian cinema.
Kareena has also been in the news recently for her Instagram photos from a beach vacation, where she confidently showed off her toned physique in a monokini.
Beyond the ghost film, Kareena is also set to appear in Daayra, a social crime drama directed by Meghna Gulzar. The film stars Prithviraj Sukumaran opposite her and is co-written by Meghna, Yash, and Sima. Daayra explores how social systems respond to justice and crime and is expected to release in late 2025 or early 2026.
After her ensemble role in Rohit Shetty’s Singham Again, all eyes are now on Kareena’s upcoming choices, especially this bold new ghost project that might redefine Bollywood’s age-gap narrative.
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Singer-actor behind viral hit Sadqay reflects on his breakout year
New track Dheema Dheema hits 170K views in just two weeks
Opens up about juggling acting and songwriting, and his 2025 plans
Stresses importance of enjoying the process and learning from early mistakes
Draws inspiration from iconic Pakistani music and Punjabi roots
From viral sensation to balancing dual careers
The young artist behind the runaway hit Sadqay, which has now clocked over 44 million views, says the song’s success took him completely by surprise. “We had no idea it would go global,” he shared in a candid conversation, adding that while he always believed in the track, the scale of its reception was “overwhelming”.
What followed was a year of fast-moving highs, with growing recognition both within his home country and internationally. “You work towards something, and when it happens, you almost don’t know how to react.”
- YouTube YouTube/ EasternEye
A lighter, dance-driven follow-up: 'Dheema Dheema'
His latest release, Dheema Dheema, has already picked up over 170,000 views within two weeks. In contrast to his more emotionally resonant previous work, the artist describes this new song as “pure vibe” — a carefree, dancey track born out of an in-studio jam session with friends.
“After doing a string of love songs post-Sadqay, I felt like going back to that Afrobeat-inspired, danceable sound,” he said. “This track gave me the chance to actually dance in a music video, which I really wanted to do.”
Writing music vs. acting: which feels more fulfilling?
Having grown up in front of the camera, transitioning into music might seem like a leap, but he sees both worlds as creatively rewarding. However, he admits that songwriting offers a different kind of fulfilment.
“With acting, you’re relying on the director, the edit, the audience’s perception. Music is more personal. When you write a song and get it right, you already feel like you’ve won,” he said.
Navigating fame, pressure, and shared responsibility
When asked whether he feels the weight of representing young South Asian creatives, he responded humbly: “If I were the only one, maybe I would. But the burden is shared. Artists like Hassan Rahim and Young Stunners are doing amazing work. That makes it lighter.”
He credits the current wave of South Asian talent for building a sense of community, rather than competition.
Looking ahead: acting projects, music collaborations, and live shows
With a busy 2025 already underway, the artist shared that he’s learning to balance both acting and music. A television drama featuring him is set to release next month, alongside plans for new music collaborations.
He also teased a full live show season later this year, with performances lined up for November and December, marking what could be his first proper tour in his home country.
Offstage, grounded and reflective
When asked what fans might not know about him, he pointed to a key lesson he’s learned the hard way: “Don’t take too much stress too early. It affects your decisions and journey. You need to enjoy what you’re doing — that joy is what others feel too.”
He also shared his deep connection with old Pakistani music, citing classics like Adat by Atif Aslam and Aitebar by Vital Signs as favourites. “Those songs shaped my sound,” he said, adding that he draws heavily from Punjabi influences as well.
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Emergency services respond quickly to contain the blaze at the Boom festival site
• A massive fire destroyed the Tomorrowland main stage in Boom, Belgium, just two days before the festival’s opening. • No injuries were reported; around 1,000 workers were evacuated safely from the site. • Organisers confirmed that the festival and DreamVille campsite will proceed as planned. • The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest it may have been accidental.
Tomorrowland opens gates despite stage fire as organisers stay committed to festival
Tomorrowland 2025 officially opened its doors on Thursday morning, even as the charred remains of its iconic Orbyz main stage stood in stark contrast to the festival’s usual vibrant spectacle. The massive fire, which erupted on Wednesday evening, destroyed the centrepiece structure ahead of opening day. Luckily, the site had not yet opened to the public, and all workers were safely evacuated. Organisers have confirmed that the festival will go on as planned across both weekends.
Flames tear through Tomorrowland’s main stage just two days before the eventGetty Images
Main stage fire at Tomorrowland halts final preparations
The fire erupted on Wednesday evening, around 6 pm local time, sending thick black smoke into the skies over the small Belgian town of Boom. Eyewitness videos quickly spread on social media, showing the stage consumed by flames as fireworks went off nearby. According to local reports, workers were putting finishing touches on the stage when the fire began.
One crew member told local newspaper Het Nieuwsblad, “We were just a day away from completion. Four weeks of effort, gone in half an hour.” Emergency services responded quickly, containing the blaze before it could spread to neighbouring woodland or residential areas.
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Organisers confirm DreamVille and festival weekend will go ahead
Despite the main stage’s destruction, Tomorrowland organisers reassured fans that the show will continue. In an official statement, they confirmed that DreamVille, the festival’s on-site campsite, will open on Thursday as scheduled. Approximately 38,000 visitors are expected at the site ahead of the weekend.
The team behind the event said, “Our beloved main stage has been severely damaged, but we are working tirelessly to ensure the festival can go ahead as planned. No one was injured, and safety remains our top priority.”
Tomorrowland, one of the world’s most prominent electronic dance music festivals, draws around 400,000 people annually over two weekends. This year’s lineup includes David Guetta, Martin Garrix, Swedish House Mafia, Armin van Buuren, and Charlotte de Witte. With less than 48 hours to go, organisers are actively reconfiguring performance spaces, likely reallocating shows to other stages such as the Freedom Stage.
Spokesperson Debby Wilmsen described the scene as “truly awful,” adding, “It’s a stage that took years to build, with so much love and passion. Everyone who worked on it is devastated.”
People queue to enter the DreamVille camping site of the Tomorrowland electronic music festival a day after its main stage was totally destroyed by fireGetty Images
Investigation underway, no signs of foul play
Belgian authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. Initial assessments suggest it may have been accidental, though a formal report is pending. Local residents were advised to keep windows shut due to smoke, and some nearby homes were temporarily evacuated as a precaution.
Organisers have dismissed online rumours suggesting a festival cancellation. In a social media post, Tomorrowland labelled the claims as “fake news” and reiterated their commitment to holding the event.
Workers and locals devastated after years of planning lost in under an hourGetty Images
In a detailed statement shared on social media, organisers acknowledged the emotional loss of the Orbyz stage, calling it a creation "born from pure passion, imagination, and dedication." They confirmed that DreamVille campsite officially opened at 10 am on Thursday, and all Global Journey activities in Brussels and Antwerp were proceeding. While they are still working on alternatives for the main stage area, organisers reassured fans that no other parts of the venue were affected and that updated details about performances would be announced shortly.
The festival has a long-standing reputation for its immersive stage designs and imaginative themes. This year’s now-destroyed main stage, named Orbyz, was crafted as an icy wonderland filled with mythical creatures. The loss of such a major production element is a significant blow, but the resilience of the team and the enthusiasm of fans suggest the spirit of Tomorrowland remains intact.
When Bajrangi Bhaijaan hit cinemas on 17 July 2015, it broke barriers and box office records, while also bringing people together. In a Bollywood industry known for spectacle, this unexpected gem stood out for its simplicity, sincerity and unshakeable belief in the goodness of people.
At its heart was the story of a devout Hindu man in India who embarks on a dangerous journey to reunite a lost, mute Pakistani girl with her family across the border. A plot that could have courted controversy instead won hearts in both countries. With India and Pakistan once again locked in conflict, the film’s message of harmony feels more relevant than ever. It reminds us of a softer truth – that empathy and the human spirit can triumph over enmity and division.
Eastern Eye marks the Salman Khan starrer’s 10th anniversary with 20 fascinating facts about the beloved Hindi cinema entertainer.
Bajrangi Bhaijaan
1. The film’s writer, V Vijayendra Prasad, also wrote Baahubali: The Beginning, the pan-Indian blockbuster released the same year. Although he claimed Bajrangi Bhaijaan was influenced by a real story, the plot closely resembles the 2006 Kannada film Kallarali Hoovagi, which follows a man from a Hindu kingdom who escorts a girl safely to a neighbouring enemy Muslim kingdom.
2. Reports say Hrithik Roshan and Aamir Khan were considered for the lead by other filmmakers. Director Kabir Khan explained why he chose Salman Khan: “First, I saw an intensity in him that hadn’t been articulated before. Second, Salman’s chemistry with children is sheer and pure magic – and it is not for show.”
3. Although a large portion of the story is set in Pakistan, all of the filming took place in India, including locations in New Delhi, Kashmir, Rajasthan and Mumbai.
4. AR Rahman was initially approached to compose the music but did not sign on. Pritam was then brought in to create the songs.
5. The hit song Bhar Do Jholi Meri is an adaptation of a qawwali originally sung by the legendary Sabri Brothers. It also marked Adnan Sami’s return to the screen after 20 years. His previous appearance was in the 1995 Pakistani film Sargam, where he played the lead.
Kareena Kapoor
6. Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s character, Chand Nawab, was not part of the original script. He was added after a video of the real Pakistani journalist of the same name went viral. The comical real Chand Nawab enjoyed renewed fame after the film's release.
7. Emraan Hashmi was originally considered for the Chand Nawab role but opted out.
8. More than 1,000 girls auditioned for the role of the mute child. Six-year-old Harshaali Malhotra was eventually selected. She earned critical acclaim and became the youngest-ever nominee for Filmfare’s Best Female Debut award.
9. Salman Khan was initially only attached to the film as an actor but later decided to produce it. It became the first commercial blockbuster he headlined as a credited producer.
10. Kangana Ranaut claimed she turned down the film because the role was not substantial enough, though this was never confirmed by the producers. Kareena Kapoor Khan accepted the part readily, stating that the story was the true hero of the film.
Bajrangi Bhaijaan
11. After filming wrapped, Salman Khan bought two horses and named them Bajrangi and Bhaijaan as a tribute.
12. The film was released on 4,500 screens in India and nearly 1,000 overseas – including in 50 countries. A 19-minute shorter version was released in China in 2017, where it became a huge box office success.
13. In Pakistan, the film was released with multiple cuts but still proved popular. Kabir Khan said, “I’m told people there really liked the film because we didn’t talk down to them or patronise them.”
14. An action-adventure mobile video game based on the film was released.
15.Bajrangi Bhaijaan was the highest-grossing Bollywood film globally in 2015. It earned more than double the collections of major releases that year, including Dilwale, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo and Bajirao Mastani.
16. The film won multiple awards, including the National Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.
Bajrangi Bhaijaan
17. Aamir Khan said he cried while watching Bajrangi Bhaijaan, calling it the best performance and film of Salman Khan’s career. Rishi Kapoor also admitted to crying after seeing the actor’s performance.
18. Salman Khan has often referred to Bajrangi Bhaijaan as one of his favourite films and the role he is proudest of.
19. Talks of a sequel have surfaced multiple times, with the writer, director and lead actor all expressing interest. However, they have yet to find a story strong enough. The working title is reportedly Pawan Putra Bhaijaan.
20. Director Kabir Khan collaborated with Salman Khan on three films – Ek Tha Tiger (2012), Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015) and Tubelight (2017). Of the three, Bajrangi Bhaijaan remains their most successful critically and commercially. Kabir said: “It’s been 10 years. It’s a film that never stops giving. I’ve just seen love for that film growing with each passing year, and I’m really happy that it continues to get the kind of love from people.”
Ten years on, Bajrangi Bhaijaan remains a rare Bollywood gem – a film that combined a megastar’s charisma with a story full of innocence, integrity and interfaith empathy. It was not just a box office triumph, but a cultural moment that reminded audiences of the power of kindness, even in divided times. In today’s fractured world, the story of a man crossing borders just to return a little girl home feels more urgent and moving than ever.
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Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth dressed as Zelda and Link in the first official look
Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth have been cast as Princess Zelda and Link in the upcoming Legend of Zelda live-action movie.
Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto confirmed the casting via X on 16 July.
Directed by Wes Ball (Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes), the film is set to release on 7 May 2027.
The project is co-produced by Nintendo and Sony Pictures, marking a major push into cinematic adaptations for the gaming franchise.
Nintendo has officially announced the lead cast for its long-anticipated Legend of Zelda live-action adaptation. British actors Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth will step into the iconic roles of Princess Zelda and Link, respectively, in a film set to release on 7 May 2027.
The casting was confirmed on Wednesday morning by Shigeru Miyamoto, Nintendo’s legendary game designer, who shared the news via Nintendo’s X account, alongside first-look images of the duo in costume. The announcement marks a major milestone in the development of the fantasy adventure film, which has been in the works for years.
First glimpse of the young actors in costume from the upcoming Legend of Zelda movieInstagram/zeldanintendo
Bo Bragason and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth tapped as Zelda and Link
Relative newcomers to Hollywood blockbusters, both Bragason and Ainsworth bring youthful energy to two of gaming’s most enduring characters. Bragason, best known for her work in Renegade Nell and Three Girls, will portray Princess Zelda. Ainsworth, who voiced Pinocchio in Disney’s 2022 remake and starred in The Haunting of Bly Manor, takes on the role of Link, the courageous warrior from the land of Hyrule.
Casting speculation had been widespread, with fans campaigning online for actors like Hunter Schafer to be considered. Ultimately, Miyamoto expressed confidence in the final selection, stating, “I am very much looking forward to seeing both of them on the big screen.”
Legend of Zelda movie release date and production team
The live-action Legend of Zelda movie will hit cinemas on 7 May 2027. Directed by Wes Ball, known for The Maze Runner trilogy and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, the film is gearing up to be a cinematic retelling of the beloved game series.
Sony Pictures is set to distribute the film, with production shared between Nintendo and Avi Arad’s Arad Productions. The script was most recently updated by T.S. Nowlin. Miyamoto and Arad will co-produce, continuing their collaboration from earlier projects.
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Plot expectations and franchise history
While official plot details remain under wraps, the film is expected to follow Link and Princess Zelda as they battle the dark forces threatening the kingdom of Hyrule, most notably the demonic warlord Ganon. The Legend of Zelda games often explore themes of power, wisdom, and courage through an ever-evolving timeline of reincarnated characters.
Originally launched in 1986, the Zelda franchise has sold over 150 million units worldwide. Notable entries like Ocarina of Time (1998), Breath of the Wild (2017), and Tears of the Kingdom (2023) have helped define the action-adventure genre in gaming.
The upcoming movie follows the box office success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, another Nintendo franchise adaptation that grossed over £1.04 billion (₹10,800 crore) globally.
Reactions to the casting have been mixed but largely curious, with many gamers excited to see fresh faces taking on the legendary roles. Some fans expressed disappointment that more established names were not chosen, while others welcomed the studio’s bold decision to prioritise performance potential over star power.
Meanwhile, early costume reveals of the two leads have already begun circulating online, fuelling discussions about the tone, aesthetic, and faithfulness of the adaptation.