Kannada period action entertainer KGF – Chapter 1 (2018), which was also dubbed in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam, emerged as a clear winner in the Hindi belt upon its release, what with over ₹ 40 crores coming in as its lifetime collection.
After the massive success of the film all over India, the makers are now gearing up two start work on its sequel titled KGF – Chapter 2. While Yash, who played the male lead in the first film, is set to return to reprise his role in the sequel, rumours are rife that several Bollywood actors are also in talks for some significant parts in the movie.
A couple of days ago, Yash confirmed that superstar Sanjay Dutt was approached to play an important character in the film. The latest we hear that ravishing Raveena Tandon is also in early talks with the makers for a prominent part in the flick.
Yash has confirmed that Sanjay Dutt and Raveena Tandon both are in talks for the sequel. He added that the two were being lined up for the first film also but things did not fall into place. “Their casting was planned in Part 1. The two actors were supposed to be a part of that film itself but it didn’t happen,” said the actor.
Yash went on to add that Bollywood actors are being signed because they suit the characters and not please the North Indian market. “It is definitely not to please the North Indian market. They fit into their roles well. We don’t need a boost from Bollywood to make KGF work at the box office. The first part has already proven that,” he signed off.
An official announcement is awaited.
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.