From the past few months thanks to CAA and NRC, there are a lot of talks going on about secular India. Recently, Shah Rukh Khan came on a dance reality show and spoke about national integration.
He stated, “In our country, we speak of Hindu, Muslim, Sikhs, and Christians. But the best part is our young generation not just speaks of it, but also believes in the fact that nothing can take away this harmony from us, till the time we have people like all of you, and myself, as I consider myself also young (laughs). All of us, including me and Remo (D’Souza), have a personal inclination, where we never spoke of being a Hindu or a Muslim.”
“My wife (Gauri) is a Hindu, I am a Muslim and my kids are Hindustan (India). It’s a genuine fact. Once, when my daughter (Suhana) was small, she had to fill the religion column in a form. She came to me and asked which religion we belong to, and I told her we are Indian. There’s no one religion, and there shouldn’t be,” the actor added.
The video of the same has been doing the rounds of social media and SRK’s fans have been posting it.
— (@)
The actor also spoke about how Khans should not be called as the biggest superstars of India. He said, “I would like to share another personal thing. We see in our newspapers that India’s three biggest superstars are Khans. I believe even that difference shouldn’t be there. We are all Indians, be it Khans or Kumars or Kapoors. We shouldn’t feel even that.”
Talking about the actor’s films, he was last seen on the big screen in Zero. While there are several reports about his next project, there’s no official announcement about it.
Malayalam cinema’s first female superhero film blends tradition and modernity
Costume design by Melwy J. and Archana Akhil Rao praised for authenticity
Colour symbolism, especially red, drives character arcs and mythology
Costumes used as narrative devices rather than just visual styling
Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra has redefined how superhero cinema can be told in India. The Malayalam blockbuster, directed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan, does far more than just dress the characters; the costumes are a fundamental part of the film's narrative engine. Led by designers Melwy J. and Archana Akhil Rao, the costumes merge Kerala’s deep-rooted folklore with sleek contemporary aesthetics, giving India’s newest cinematic hero an identity that is both culturally authentic and powerfully modern.
Kalyani Priyadarshan’s Chandra embraces Kerala folklore with superhero strength in Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra Instagram/lokahofficial
How do Kalyani Priyadarshan's costumes tell a story?
From her first appearance, Chandra’s clothing communicates her mysterious nature and emotional state. Unlike the spandex or armour of Western superhero films, Chandra’s costumes draw from Kerala’s cultural heritage. Her everyday look in Bengaluru is minimal; dark jackets, boots, and layered outfits that reflect her need to stay unnoticed. Yet even here, the recurring maroon-red jacket hints at her hidden supernatural roots.
When she transforms into the yakshi-inspired protector, her wardrobe fuses red-bordered garments reminiscent of Kerala folk costumes with combat-ready gear. Importantly, the design avoids the sexualisation often associated with female superheroes, focusing instead on strength and cultural identity.
Kerala traditions inspire a superhero identity that breaks stereotypes in Indian cinemaInstagram/dqswayfarerfilms
Why is the colour red so important in Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra ?
The film uses colour as a deliberate storytelling tool, with red as its dominant motif. For Chandra, red symbolises her supernatural identity, appearing in her jackets, her striking hair streak, and even in the neon smoke of her powers.
In Kerala folklore, red is tied to the yakshi legend, carrying meanings of danger, fertility, and divine energy. The designers used a palette of maroons, crimsons, and earthy browns to ground the character in the cultural soil of Kerala, ensuring the colour choice feels organic to the story’s setting rather than just a generic superhero trope.
Supporting characters are given distinct palettes too. Sunny is framed in earthy yellows and greens to show his grounded reality, while antagonist Nachiyappa shifts from rigid police greys to sickly greens as he descends into corruption.
Red dominates Chandra’s costume symbolising power and mythology in India’s bold new superhero filmInstagram/kalyanipriyadarshan
How were the costumes designed for action scenes?
A paramount concern for the design team was functionality. The costume team conducted extensive research into tribal adornments, textiles, and folklore before modernising them for a superhero narrative. Fabrics had to work for stunts choreographed by action director Yannick Ben, including wire sequences and martial arts choreography, so flexibility was built into every piece.
Collaboration with the VFX team also mattered. Red threads, fabrics, and jewellery were designed to blend seamlessly with CGI, especially in transformation sequences where supernatural energy is heightened by colour and costume details.
Action-ready costumes in Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra balance cultural authenticity with modern stunt demandsInstagram/lokahofficial
Who designed the costumes for Lokah Chapter 1 ?
The overall costume vision was led by Melwy J., who is known for his work on the Malayalam superhero film Minnal Murali. He was joined by acclaimed designer Archana Akhil Rao, who collaborated specifically on crafting key looks for Kalyani Priyadarshan’s character. Their collaborative process involved extensive research into traditional Kerala attire and tribal adornments, which they then reinterpreted through a modern, functional lens to meet the demands of the action-heavy screenplay.
What impact could Lokah have on Indian superhero films?
The transformative costume design in Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra has been hailed as a benchmark for the genre, proving that culturally-rooted aesthetics can define a superhero's identity just as powerfully as Western-inspired spandex. By rooting its design language in Kerala culture while also catering to modern cinematic sensibilities, the film offers a fresh template for Indian superheroes.
The costumes are not merely an accessory but a foundational element of the film's world-building, setting a new, sophisticated template for how regional Indian cinema can visually claim the global superhero narrative without sacrificing its unique cultural soul.
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Laura Whitmore investigates the chilling reality of teenage killers in Britain
Laura Whitmore explores shocking cases of teenage killers in her new true crime series.
Series highlights disturbing crimes including Dexter copycat murders and fatal rejection rage incidents.
Whitmore issues a stark warning to parents about social media and teenage behaviour.
Crime+Investigation series premieres 8 September at 9pm.
Laura Whitmore is set to return to screens with her chilling new documentary, Laura Whitmore on Britain’s Killer Teens, tackling the dark world of teenage murderers. The Crime+Investigation series explores why some teenagers commit horrific crimes, with real-life testimonies from victims’ families and insights from forensic experts. Ahead of the premiere, Whitmore has shared a sobering warning for parents navigating social media and teenage influences.
Laura Whitmore investigates the chilling reality of teenage killers in Britain Instagram/thewhitmore
Why Laura Whitmore on Britain’s Killer Teens is a must watch
Each of the five episodes of Laura Whitmore on Britain’s Killer Teens focuses on a separate, shocking case. From a Dexter-inspired killer to teenagers driven by rejection rage, the series goes beyond sensational headlines to examine the factors behind these crimes. Experts and investigators provide forensic analysis, while family members recount personal experiences, offering a rare and harrowing look into these tragedies.
Unlike typical true crime shows, Whitmore highlights the victims’ voices as much as the perpetrators’ actions. She explains: “It angers me how long some families wait for justice, living with curtains drawn while perpetrators remain unnamed.” By emphasising closure and the human cost of teenage violence, the series aims to educate viewers about the legal system and the real-life consequences of these crimes.
Whitmore, a mother herself, stresses the importance of guiding children through today’s social media-driven world. She warns that platforms like TikTok can influence teenage behaviour, and parents must equip their children with the tools to make responsible choices. “At some point you have to let your children grow up, but it’s crucial to provide them with the right guidance,” she said.
Among the gripping stories is that of Brian Blackwell, an 18-year-old from a privileged background who murdered his parents before going on holiday with his girlfriend. Other cases include a young girl fatally stabbed by her ex-partner and incidents where rejection led teenagers to commit unthinkable acts. Each episode dissects motives, backgrounds, and investigative processes, creating a sobering and informative viewing experience.
Laura Whitmore on Britain’s Killer Teens airs Monday 8 September at 9pm on Crime+Investigation, offering a deep dive into the tragic and disturbing realities of teenage crime in the UK.
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7 moments that absolutely broke the Internet at the 2025 VMAs
Mariah Carey finally gets her long-overdue Video Vanguard Award and calls out MTV mid-speech.
Sabrina Carpenter turns her performance into a bold protest for trans rights, leaving the crowd stunned.
Lady Gaga ditches the venue for Madison Square Garden mid-night, sparking memes about her double life.
Ariana Grande’s on-stage struggle with her mic height and tiptoe stance becomes instant internet comedy.
Rosé makes K-pop history with a solo win, while Doja Cat’s lipstick-eating moment keeps TikTok in a chokehold.
Last night felt like pop culture grabbed us by the shoulders, shook us, and screamed, “STILL HERE, AND STILL MATTERS.” The VMAs were back, and they barged in like a loud cousin who knows the aux belongs to them. For three hours, pop culture felt alive again.
If you missed it, here’s what everyone is still talking about.
1. Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga’s sister act
Two women who once symbolised rivalry ended up dancing side by side. Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga hugged it out in the audience and celebrated each other’s wins, Ariana for Brighter Days Ahead and Gaga for Artist of the Year. Online, fans immediately branded them “sisters.” When Gaga won big and Ariana jumped up, beaming, it was the win we all needed.
2. Sabrina Carpenter crashes through the floor — and the noise
Sabrina literally rose out of a manhole surrounded by drag queens holding “Protect Trans Rights” signs. The crowd roared. Later, clutching her Best Album award, she dropped the line: “The world is your f**in’ oyster” and Ariana Grande shot to her feet in a standing ovation. That’s the kind of moment that defines an era. It was pop music with a spine.
Only Gaga. ONLY GAGA. Wins Artist of the Year, cracks a joke about having to get to Madison Square Garden, and literally dips out to perform a sold-out arena show. Her performance was pre-taped from MSG because the VMAs crowd was too small. One fan summed it up best: “Only Lady Gaga can leave an award show for a bigger crowd.” Icon behaviour.
She opened the show by teleporting us directly to a 1989 high school pep rally. Neon, Kenny G on the sax, the whole thing. It was ridiculous and perfect, and you couldn't look away. You saw Ariana in the crowd losing her mind to it and knew exactly how she felt. It was pure, unadulterated fun. No deeper meaning. Just vibes. And sometimes, that’s everything.
Mariah Carey, after forty years of hits, finally won her first VMA. The fact that she had never won a VMA before felt like a crime. Last night, we finally got to right that wrong. The look on her face, the weight of the moment, it was historic! Mariah looked down at the Moonperson, laughed, and said, “What were you waiting for?” The internet had been asking the same thing for hours. It was a long-overdue victory for a legend who has given us everything.
Summer Walker dressed as Pamela Anderson circa 1999. Ariana Grande channelled Audrey Hepburn in custom Fendi. Seeing Jessica Simpson back after 20 years felt like welcoming an old friend home. The carpet was less about new looks than ghosts of VMA past. Instagram feeds looked like a timeline collapsing in real time.
Yes, Gaga and Ariana dominated. But it was the unexpected wins that kept people talking. Rosé scored her first solo Moonperson with Apt. Megan Moroney walked away with the VMAs’ first-ever country award. Meanwhile, Billie Eilish and Kendrick Lamar went home without wins. Love it or hate it, the show proved the VMAs still know how to rattle expectations.
So, what are we left with this morning? A hangover from the glitter bomb!
It wasn't a perfect show. It was better than that. It was human. It was protest signs and friendship hugs, legends getting their flowers, and a superstar literally running out the door to sing for her real fans. Exactly what the VMAs are supposed to be.
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Kamal Haasan confirms Rajinikanth reunion after 46 years with cryptic biscuit remark at SIIMA Awards 2025
Kamal Haasan announced the long-awaited collaboration at the SIIMA Awards 2025 in Dubai
The reunion marks their first film together since 1979’s Alavuddinum Athbutha Vilakkum
Speculation points to Lokesh Kanagaraj as director, having worked with both actors before
The two stars, once pitched as rivals, emphasised they were never competitors
Indian cinema will witness a landmark moment as Kamal Haasan has confirmed his reunion with Rajinikanth on screen after 46 years. The Thug Life actor revealed the news during the SIIMA Awards 2025 in Dubai, ending weeks of buzz around the project. The pairing of the two superstars, both introduced to audiences by mentor K Balachander, is one of the most interesting pieces of news in Tamil cinema this decade.
Kamal Haasan confirms Rajinikanth reunion after 46 years with cryptic biscuit remark at SIIMA Awards 2025 Instagram/ikamalhaasan
What did Kamal Haasan say about reuniting with Rajinikanth?
Haasan confirmed the reunion when host Sathish asked him directly on stage. “We were united long ago but chose to remain apart because they kept splitting a biscuit and giving us only half each. We wanted a full biscuit each, and we got it and relished it well. Now we are content with just half a biscuit again, so we have come together,” he said.
The 70-year-old star emphasised that their so-called rivalry was a narrative created by fans and the industry, not by the actors themselves. “That we got such opportunities is a huge deal. We had decided long ago to be like this and to set an example,” he added.
— (@)
Which was the last Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth film together?
The two legends last played lead roles together in Alavuddinum Athbutha Vilakkum (1979), a fantasy drama based on the tale of Aladdin. Before that, they shared screen space in several films, including Apoorva Raagangal (1975), Moondru Mudichu (1976), 16 Vayathinile (1977), Avargal (1977), and Ninaithale Inikkum (1979).
They often appeared in love triangles or contrasting roles, with Haasan typically essaying layered protagonists and Rajinikanth taking on intense, often antagonistic parts. Despite their divergent on-screen personas, both actors went on to become the biggest stars of Tamil cinema in the decades that followed.
Alavuddinum Athbutha Vilakkum poster IMDB
Will Lokesh Kanagaraj direct Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth’s new film?
Though no official details have been released, strong speculation suggests Lokesh Kanagaraj is set to helm the project. Kanagaraj directed Haasan in the 2022 blockbuster Vikram and Rajinikanth in this year’s Coolie.
The filmmaker has openly spoken about his desire to bring the two icons together, even revealing in earlier interviews that he had once planned a Rajinikanth film produced by Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International before the pandemic halted it.
Given his track record with ensemble thrillers and star-driven films, fans believe Kanagaraj is the natural choice to direct this historic collaboration.
Lokesh Kanagaraj directing the Rajnikanth-Kamal Haasan starrer heat up Instagram/\u00a0lokesh.kanagaraj
Why is this reunion significant for Tamil cinema?
The pairing of Haasan and Rajinikanth represents more than nostalgia. Both actors shaped modern Tamil cinema, commanding audiences across India and overseas for decades. Their reunion is not just about two stars coming together; it is a rare moment of unity at the very top of the industry.
With global audiences for South Indian cinema growing rapidly, the collaboration could also set new box office benchmarks. Distributors and exhibitors are already predicting record-breaking numbers when the film eventually releases, both in India and internationally.
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‘Dabangg’ director Abhinav Kashyap says Salman Khan stopped caring about acting 25 years ago and calls him a goon
Dabangg director Abhinav Kashyap has reignited his feud with Salman Khan
He accused the actor of being “not interested in acting for 25 years”
Kashyap also labelled the Khan family “vindictive” and controlling in Bollywood
His remarks come days before Dabangg’s 15th anniversary
Filmmaker Abhinav Kashyap has once again targeted Bollywood star Salman Khan, this time using strong words ahead of the 15th anniversary of Dabangg. The director alleged that Salman, despite his superstardom, has shown little interest in acting for decades and only “does a favour by turning up to work.” He further claimed the Khan family operates vindictively in the industry, echoing past allegations that they derailed his career.
‘Dabangg’ director Abhinav Kashyap says Salman Khan stopped caring about acting 25 years ago and calls him a goon Getty Images/ IMDB
What did Abhinav Kashyap say about Salman Khan?
In a new interview, Abhinav Kashyap did not hold back when describing his former leading man. He called Salman Khan a “gunda, badtameez, ganda insaan” (a goon, ill-mannered and bad person). The director alleged that the actor has not been involved in his craft for the past 25 years.
“Salman is never interested in acting. He does a favour by turning up. He is more into the power of being a celebrity than the art of cinema,” Kashyap said. He added that he only realised the extent of this behaviour during the making of Dabangg in 2010.
Abhinav Kashyap alleges Salman Khan has lost interest in acting for more than two decadesIMDB
Why did Abhinav Kashyap clash with the Khan family?
Kashyap also spoke about his fraught relationship with the Khan family, claiming they use their influence to control Bollywood. “He (Salman) is the father of the star system. The family has been in the industry for 50 years. They are vindictive people. If you don’t agree with them, they come after you,” he said.
The filmmaker walked away from Dabangg 2 and has long maintained that the Khans tried to block his opportunities afterwards. In 2020, he posted on social media accusing Salman, Arbaaz, Sohail, and veteran writer Salim Khan of sabotaging his career.
Salman Khan, mother Salma, father Salim Khan, sister Arpita and Arbaaz Khan stand on the balcony on arrival at his house in Galaxy Apartment Getty Images
What role did Anurag Kashyap play in the fallout?
Abhinav Kashyap recalled how his brother, acclaimed director Anurag Kashyap, had faced a similar situation years earlier. Anurag was initially attached to Tere Naam (2003), written by him and starring Salman Khan. He eventually left the project after clashes with producer Boney Kapoor, and his contribution allegedly went uncredited.
“Anurag told me before Dabangg that I wouldn’t be able to make a film with Salman. He thought I’d get easily bullied. The same thing happened with him on Tere Naam. They misbehaved, and he had to leave,” Abhinav said.
Abhinav Kashyap says Anurag warned him never to work with the Salman Khan Getty Images
Where does Salman Khan stand now?
While Abhinav Kashyap continues to criticise him, Salman Khan has remained publicly silent on the matter. His father, Salim Khan, previously dismissed the director as “a frustrated person” and said the industry knows the truth about his family’s work.
Salman Khan silent as Abhinav Kashyap calls him a goon during a recent interviewGetty Images
Professionally, Salman was last seen in AR Murugadoss’ Sikandar, opposite Rashmika Mandanna. He is now preparing for Apoorva Lakhia’s Battle of Galwan, in which he plays an Indian Army soldier. He also continues his long-running stint as host of Bigg Boss 19.