Taapsee Pannu has reunited with acclaimed filmmaker Anubhav Sinha for an upcoming anthology film set against the coronavirus pandemic. The duo has previously worked together on such critically and commercially successful films as Mulk (2018) and Thappad (2020).
Sinha had earlier announced that he was bringing together ace filmmakers Sudhir Mishra, Hansal Mehta, Ketan Mehta, and Subhash Kapoor for an anthology film set against the backdrop of the pandemic. Among the first segment that has been locked will be helmed by Sudhir Mishra. Pannu will lead this segment, marking her maiden collaboration with the writer-director.
Pannu, known for delivering several notable films ever since beginning her acting career, is excited about working with Mishra. She said in a statement, “It is a socio-political drama that spans across two generations. I could not be more thrilled to be working with Sudhir sir who is solid with his craft.”
Working under Sinha’s banner is a homecoming of sorts for the versatile actress. “Anubhav sir knows how to channel the best in me. Being surrounded by such masterful filmmakers is a blessed experience,” she added.
Calling Pannu one of the finest artistes of today’s times, Mishra said, “Personally, this is one of those stories that leave an indelible mark. I could not have asked for a better team to bring it to life with. Taapsee is one of the finest artistes of today’s times. Her spirit will elevate the film.”
For the uninitiated, Sinha and Mishra are also collaborating on a film titled Afwaah. It stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Bhumi Pednekar in lead roles. The upcoming anthology will mark the filmmakers’ second collaboration after Afwaah.
Sinha is co-producing the anthology in association with T-Series. Talking about the same, he said, “It’s a layered narrative about human relationships. Taapsee is perceptive; she infuses a lived-in experience into her roles, making the story even more relatable,” he says.
Producer Bhushan Kumar describes Mishra’s directorial venture as “one of the most stirring stories I have read in recent times.”
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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.