ZEE5 Global, which prides itself on being the largest streaming platform for South Asian content in the world, will be streaming a slew of Originals, films, webseries and popular TV shows across different languages this month. From Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and Nitesh Tiwari’s first-ever co-directed sports docudrama series Break Point to Taapsee Pannu’s drama film Rashmi Rocket, here is all that’s streaming on the platform in the month of October.
Released on 1st October, ZEE5 Original Break Point revolves around the journey of the legendary tennis doubles team of Mahesh Bhupathi and Leander Paes. The seven-part web series narrates the on-court and off-court journey of the duo from the late 1990s and has been co-directed for the first time ever by national award-winning filmmaker couple Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and Nitesh Tiwari. The series is available in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu dubbed versions as well.
Toplined by talented Tapsee Pannu, ZEE5 Original Rashmi Rocket is set to premiere on ZEE5 on 15th October. The sports drama film has been directed by Akarsh Khurana and revolves around the struggles of a National-level sports person whose achievements, medals and fame are snatched away from her when she is accused of lying about her gender. From undergoing a streak of archaic gender identification tests to encountering unsolicited public opinion, Rashmi fights through it all and rises stronger than ever.
ZEE5 Original Aafat-e-Ishq is a dark humour romance movie, starring Neha Sharma in the lead role. A Hindi remake of the award-winning Hungarian film Liza-The Fox Fairy, Aafat-e-Ishq narrates the story of a woman who is in search of her one true love. However, a strange force keeps her away from romance and men. Aafat-e-Ishq releases this October, only on ZEE5.
From primetime TV lovers, the ZEE TV show Agar Tum Na Hote is coming soon on ZEE5, while Sa Re Ga Ma Pa will be streaming from 16th October.
For Bengali viewers, ZEE5 Global brings SOS Kolkata from 1st October. Written and directed by Anshuman Pratyush, the action thriller film stars Yash Dasgupta, Mimi Chakraborty, Nusrat Jahan, and Sabyasachi Chakraborty amongst others. The story revolves around a terrorist attack that takes place in Kolkata and ends in a hostage situation in a well-known 5-star hotel.
Nimki Phulki 2, the sequel to Bangla comedy-drama film Nimki Phulki, will pick up from where the original ended, showing how Nimki’s and Phulki’s courageous acts changed their lives, from 22nd October. Starring Koushani Ray and Somraj Maiti, ZEE Bangla Cinema Original Phire Dekha will be available from 15th October. The story revolves around the lives of a US-returned man Sandy who strikes a deep connection with Tara, leading to a streak of mysterious events linking to over 100 years in the past. The comedy film Dadur Kirti, about a grandfather’s possessive relationship with his granddaughter, will be streaming on the platform from 8th October.
On the occasion of Durga Puja, the platform will launch Bengali Film Fiesta from 6th to 15th October, while ZEE Bangla’s Maha Pujo 2021 will be available from 6th to 24th October. From ‘Agomonir Aradhana’ on Mahalaya to ZEE Bangla Paribar Bijoya Baithak, ZEE Bangla’s grand celebration will include singer Aneek Dhar, YouTuber Indrani Biswas of Wonder Munna fame, actors Vikram Chatterjee and Ditipriya Roy and many more. The original series Ey Emon Porichoy is set to release on 21st October.
Viewers can also watch two intriguing Bangla ZEE5 Exclusive Natoks, The Broker and Herey Jabar Golpo set to release on 1st October and 7th October respectively. The Broker narrates the story of a greedy broker whose life takes a sharp turn when his daughter gets diagnosed with a rare heart disease. Herey Jabar Golpo encompasses the life of a boy who considers himself to be an ultimate loser and a girl who wishes to embrace life completely even with her failed kidneys.
For Telugu viewers, ZEE5 brings the crime comedy film Raja Raja Chora on the platform on 8th October. Written and directed by debutant Hasith Goli, the film encompasses the life of a store clerk whose desire to enjoy and achieve the finer things in life leads him down a path of deceit and danger. The film stars Sree Vishnu and Megha Akash in lead roles. Viewers can also watch the kids game show Mayadweepam from 3rd October. The ever-popular Zee Kutumbam Awards is coming soon on ZEE5. Dasara Dosti will be streaming on the platform around Dussehra. Original film Heads and Tales will be released soon on the platform.
For Punjabi viewers, ZEE5 brings the comedy film Jinne Jamme Saare Nikkame with a social message about family values. The movie stars Binnu Dhillon, Jaswinder Bhalla, Pukhraj Bhalla and Seema Kaushal and will be available from 14th October. Director Jagdeep Sandhu is set to release the romantic drama film Qismat 2 starring popular on-screen duo Ammy Virk and Sargun Mehta, this October, only on ZEE5.
Tamil Original film Vinodhaya Chitam premieres on 13th October. Anbe Sivam will also release on the platform on 18th October, where a married couple part ways owing to certain issues. ZEE Tamil viewers can also watch the Vijayadashami Puja Special on 14th and 15th October. The Tamil film Endraavathu Oru Naal will release on 8th October.
Early reviews praise the series as an entertaining and spoofy take on the film industry.
The show features a host of major celebrity cameos, including Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan.
A subtle dig at the Wankhede case has become an immediate talking point for fans.
The series is now streaming globally on Netflix.
Aryan Khan has officially arrived as a director, and the buzz is impossible to ignore. His new Netflix series, The Ba**ds of Bollywood*, premiered to a star-studded audience in Mumbai before its global launch and the first reactions are flooding in. The project, a self-aware show, offers a cheeky look behind the curtain of the Hindi film industry. This bold directorial debut is already being called a game-changer for the star kid, presenting his unique vision and creative chops.
From scandal to satire Aryan Khan’s The Ba**ds of Bollywood* takes Bollywood by surprise Instagram/redchilliesent
What is The Ba**ds of Bollywood actually about?
Forget a straight-laced drama because this is a satirical romp. The narrative centres on a group of outsiders and their frenzied attempts to carve a space for themselves in the cutthroat world of Bollywood. It’s packed with meta-humour, insider jokes and a tone that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The series uses its seven-episode run to explore the absurdities and sacrifices behind the glamour, all while delivering plenty of drama and unexpected twists to keep viewers hooked.
How have critics and celebrities reacted to the show?
The initial reviews are overwhelmingly positive, tipping the scales away from mere nepotism chatter. Filmmaker Rahul Dholakia took to X, writing, “Not Star but ***’s are born!! What an entertaining and spoofy, goofy first episode... Bhai Binge Karna padega!!!” He congratulated the entire team, mentioning the years of hard work that went into the project.
— (@)
Producer Sunita Gowariker called it an “amazing, entertaining, funny series,” while Farah Khan applauded Aryan as the “kindest, sweetest, talented n most hardworking director.” The consensus is clear: Aryan Khan hasn’t just entered the arena but has made a strong statement.
— (@)
Did Aryan Khan take a dig at the Wankhede case?
It appears so, and fans have latched on to it. The reference is a bold move, given Aryan’s own arrest in October 2021 by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in a high-profile cruise ship drug case. The investigation, led by then zonal director Sameer Wankhede, saw Aryan spend weeks in jail before being granted bail. The NCB eventually cleared him of all charges due to a “lack of evidence.” In the show, a scene features a stern-looking cop frustrated by drug abuse in the industry.
Drugs-On-Cruise Case: Shah Rukh Khan heaves a sigh of relief as son Aryan Khan gets clean chit by NCB AFP via Getty Images
Viewers were quick to connect this to Wankhede. Social media exploded with comments, one user noting, “Bhai sahab... #aryankhan took a zabardast dig... Very gutsy.” This bold, unsubtle reference has become one of the most discussed elements of the show.
— (@)
Where can you watch The Ba**ds of Bollywood ?
The entire series is available to stream right now on Netflix. The global release means subscribers everywhere can dive into the chaos. With a reported budget running into millions of pounds, the production values are as glossy as you’d expect from a Red Chillies Entertainment production. So, if your schedule allows, clear it. As one fan aptly posted, they were officially on a “binge-watching break” for this one. It’s time to see what all the fuss is about.
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Spain announces withdrawal from Eurovision over Israel participation amid growing boycott movement
Spain leads a growing boycott movement, with Ireland, the Netherlands and Slovenia also refusing to participate if Israel competes.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is in crisis talks, extending its decision deadline to December 2025.
The situation draws direct comparisons to Russia’s exclusion in 2022, creating a precedent the EBU must now navigate.
The core dilemma pits Eurovision’s non-political ideals against the stark reality of a humanitarian crisis.
The Eurovision Song Contest, that glitter-drenched annual spectacle of pop and unity, is staring into the abyss. The escalating call for a Eurovision boycott over Israel's participation, against the backdrop of the ongoing Gaza conflict, has put the organisers into their most severe political crisis yet. This isn't just about another song entry but a fundamental clash between the contest's cherished apolitical fantasy and the inescapable geopolitics of the real world, threatening to tear the competition apart from within.
Spain announces withdrawal from Eurovision over Israel participation amid growing boycott movement Instagram/eurovision
What is causing the Eurovision 2025–2026 crisis?
The main trigger is Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza. Casualty figures reported by the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry exceed 64,000 Palestinians by September 2025, drawing international scrutiny. Several European countries argue that Israel’s presence in a major cultural event like Eurovision would appear to normalise the humanitarian crisis. On the other hand, Israel insists participation is purely cultural and unrelated to politics.
What countries are boycotting Eurovision over Israel?
So, which nations are taking this stance? The movement gained its most significant momentum with Spain's announcement. Its public broadcaster, RTVE, issued a decisive statement, confirming an overwhelming vote to withdraw. The organisation cited Israel's military actions in Gaza and stated it could not, in good conscience, "look the other way." This move is particularly consequential as Spain is one of the "Big Five" major financial contributors to the contest.
They were swiftly followed by Ireland’s RTÉ, which deemed participation "unconscionable" given the situation in Gaza. Public broadcasters in the Netherlands and Slovenia subsequently aligned with similar positions. Iceland's broadcaster has also indicated it is considering its position, formally "reserving the right" to withdraw. This is not a peripheral protest but a movement emerging from within the contest's core European membership, raising questions about which other countries may follow.
How is the EBU handling the Eurovision boycott calls?
The European Broadcasting Union faces an immense challenge. Its standard operating procedure of promoting unity through music appears insufficient for this geopolitical dilemma. The gravity of the situation can be seen in its unprecedented decision to delay the standard deadline for participation confirmations to mid-December 2025. This extension is dedicated to extensive consultation with all member unions in an effort to find a viable resolution that preserves the contest's integrity.
Concurrently, the EBU has been forced to publicly deny reports from Israeli media outlets suggesting it had advised Israel to withdraw voluntarily to avoid a "humiliating elimination," calling these claims false.
Is this Eurovision situation similar to Russia's exclusion?
This comparison forms the crux of the debate for many. The 2022 exclusion of Russia following its invasion of Ukraine established a clear precedent; the EBU justified its decision by stating Russia's participation would "bring the competition into disrepute."
Boycott advocates now argue that the same standard must be applied consistently, questioning why Israel's actions in Gaza do not merit an identical response. The EBU will likely attempt to differentiate the cases based on nuanced legalities of membership and the operational independence of the respective national broadcasters. However, in the court of public and political opinion, the perception of a double standard is a significant threat to the EBU's credibility.
What are the arguments for and against the boycott?
Proponents of the boycott base their position on principles of human rights and conscience. They stress the extensive civilian casualty figures reported by authorities in Gaza, alongside assessments from UN agencies, to argue that Israel’s inclusion on a cultural platform constitutes a form of normalisation of the ongoing conflict.
Conversely, opponents of a boycott contend that cultural events must remain separate from political disputes. They caution that excluding a nation’s artists could veer into prejudice and stress that the Israeli broadcaster, Kan, operates with editorial independence, unlike the state-controlled media of Russia. There is no clear, unambiguous resolution that will satisfy all parties.
What happens if Israel is allowed to compete in Eurovision 2026?
Should the EBU permit Israel's participation, an immediate and consequential withdrawal of several key members is all but certain. The loss of Spain, a major funder, would represent a serious financial and credibility blow. The subsequent absence of Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and potentially others would noticeably diminish the contest's scale and diversity.
Furthermore, the event itself would likely become a focal point for large-scale protests, potentially disrupting the broadcast and overshadowing the musical competition, further alienating segments of its global audience.
What happens if Israel is excluded from Eurovision?
An exclusion would trigger a different but equally severe crisis for the EBU. It would face vehement accusations of hypocrisy and double standards, particularly from Israel and its allies. The move could prompt legal challenges and potentially lead to Israel's permanent withdrawal from the union.
It would also establish a new and far-reaching precedent for excluding countries involved in international conflicts, fundamentally transforming Eurovision from an inclusive cultural space into an institution that makes overt political judgements.
The future is decidedly uncertain. The EBU is confronted with a dilemma where any decision carries significant negative consequences. The upcoming General Assembly in December is going to be a tense and potentially historic meeting. While some have speculated about a compromise, such as Israel participating under a neutral banner, the EBU has denied pursuing this option.
The underlying truth is that Eurovision has always been intertwined with politics, from historical participation under authoritarian regimes to contemporary voting blocs. The current crisis has simply stripped away the glittering façade, forcing a direct confrontation with this reality. The contest's future will depend on navigating a path that may not exist, balancing its ideals against an increasingly polarised world.
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Malayalam star Unni Mukundan to play Narendra Modi in ‘Maa Vande’ tracing PM’s roots and mother’s legacy
Malayalam star Unni Mukundan announced as lead in Narendra Modi biopic titled Maa Vande.
The film will focus on the Prime Minister's early life and bond with his mother.
A pan-India release is planned for 2026 with a major technical crew attached.
Mukundan is currently riding high on the success of his brutal action film Marco.
Malayalam cinema actor Unni Mukundan is stepping into the biggest role of his career. He has been officially cast as Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming biographical film Maa Vande. The project, announced on the PM's 75th birthday, promises a fresh look at Modi's formative years. Instead of another political portrait, the filmmakers are zeroing in on his personal journey and the profound influence of his mother.
Malayalam star Unni Mukundan to play Narendra Modi in ‘Maa Vande’ tracing PM’s roots and mother’s legacy Instagram/iamunnimukundan
Who is Unni Mukundan and why was he cast?
If you're not deep into Malayalam films, that name might not ring a bell. But down south, he is a proper lead star. He has been working for over a decade, starting off with smaller roles, having a hit with Mallu Singh, and then breaking through with last year’s Malikappuram.
And then Marco happened, a violent film that crossed the £1.2 million (₹100 crore) mark. The actor can portray devotion and then deliver a brutal action scene. Perhaps that versatility is what the filmmakers wanted. Adding to that, he actually grew up in Ahmedabad. He mentioned in a post that he knew Modi as his "Chief Minister" back then. That personal connection is probably a massive factor.
What will the Narendra Modi biopic Maa Vande be about?
The official line is that it traces his journey from childhood to becoming the leader of the nation. But the tagline gives the real focus: "The Anthem of a Mother." So, this is not going to be a policy-by-policy rundown. It is about his relationship with his late mother, Heeraben Modi.
That is the fresh angle, the human story behind the politician. How that relationship shaped him is the emotional hook. It connects with people on a different level. The filmmakers are planning a 2026 release, and it is set to be pan-India, in multiple languages including English.
The crew list is stacked. It is being directed by Kranthi Kumar C.H. and produced by Veer Reddy M. under Silver Cast Creations. The technical team is impressive: KK Senthil Kumar is on camera, the cinematographer of Baahubali. The music is by Ravi Basrur, editing by Sreekar Prasad, and production design by Sabu Cyril. It is clear that this is not a low-effort cash-in. The A-team from Telugu and Malayalam industries has been brought together to mount this project properly. Serious resources are being invested to ensure it looks and sounds huge.
No. Vivek Oberoi played him in a 2019 film directed by Omung Kumar, which was also called PM Narendra Modi. That film focused more on his political rise. Maa Vande seems to be carving its own niche by going back to the start, focusing on his personal roots. It will be interesting to see how they differentiate it. For Mukundan, it is a massive opportunity. After the physicality of Marco, this role is about capturing Modi’s essence, voice, and posture. It is the biggest challenge of his life, no question.
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Malaika Arora reveals judgement made her stronger and shaped her boldness
The star revealed she was constantly judged for her career and clothing choices.
Malaika said she felt free when she stopped explaining herself to others.
She now sees confidence as moving forward with grace despite self-doubt.
The actor and model insists the only narrative that matters is her own.
Malaika Arora has defiantly addressed the lifetime of criticism she has faced for her personal and professional choices. The actor and model, known for her impeccable fitness and fashion sense, said being labelled “too bold” is something she now wears as a crown. In a new interview, she opened up about her journey to unshakeable self-acceptance and shutting out the noise.
Malaika Arora reveals judgement made her stronger and shaped her boldness Getty Images
What has Malaika Arora said about the criticism she faces?
It seems there is very little Malaika has not been judged for. She laid it all out in a chat with The Hindustan Times, stating, “I was judged for my career, my clothes, my relationships, you name it.” That constant scrutiny from the public and media would be enough to make anyone second-guess themselves.
But her approach changed completely when she decided to stop engaging with it. She called the moment she quit explaining herself the moment she truly felt liberated. Her philosophy is pretty straightforward now: “The only narrative that matters is the one you write for yourself.” It is a powerful shift from being defined to doing the defining.
Malaika Arora owns every label from bold to outspoken and calls them her strength Getty Images
How does Malaika Arora respond to being called 'too much'?
Honestly, she has turned it into a strength. Those very criticisms have become a part of her identity, and she owns them completely. “I have been called too bold, too outspoken, too everything. And honestly? I wear it like a crown now,” she stated.
She even has a sharp, modern clapback for her detractors: “If I am ‘too much’ for someone, they are probably not enough for me.” This mindset is not just for show. It feeds into everything she does, from her fashion collaborations to her fitness brand. She has never followed a template, believing real confidence is when you “stop performing for the world and start living for yourself.”
Malaika Arora insists the only story that matters is the one she writes herself Getty Images
Does Malaika Arora ever experience self-doubt?
Absolutely. It is a reminder that confidence is not about being bulletproof. She is human, after all. Malaika was candid about the fact that self-doubt “never really disappears,” admitting there are days she questions herself just like anyone else. The key difference now is how she handles those moments. Instead of meting out self-criticism, she practises kindness. For her, confidence is not the absence of doubt but the ability to “move forward with grace despite it.”
This nuanced take is a far cry from the perfect, curated images we often see, making her stance all the more relatable to her fans who navigate their own insecurities.
Malaika Arora says she stopped explaining herself and found true freedomGetty Images
What is the core of Malaika Arora's confident mindset?
It all boils down to ownership. Her recent work as the face of a beauty campaign titled Own It felt less like a job and more like telling her own life story. She has had to fight labels and expectations her entire career. This is not about arrogance; it is about a quiet certainty in her own choices.
Whether it is balancing motherhood with her career or navigating public relationships, she trusts her gut. Her message is clear: stop letting outside opinions write your story. The greatest freedom comes from writing it yourself, unapologetically and on your own terms.
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Paul Rudd and Jack Black gear up for jungle chaos in the new Anaconda
First look images reveal the meta comedy take on the 1997 creature feature.
The film sees the duo as fans trying to shoot their own version of the original film.
Director Tom Gormican applies his The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent formula.
The cast, including Thandiwe Newton and Steve Zahn, promises chaotic fun.
It is slated for a Christmas Day release, aiming for a box office strike.
The first photos from the wildly unexpected Anaconda remake have finally surfaced. This is not your typical Hollywood rehash, mind you. Jack Black and Paul Rudd are leading a brilliantly meta charge, playing superfans whose dream project goes horrifyingly wrong. The new images tease the comedic chaos planned for the big screen this Christmas.
Paul Rudd and Jack Black gear up for jungle chaos in the new Anaconda People/Courtesy of Sony Pictures
What is the new Anaconda movie actually about?
Right, so the plot is almost more interesting than the original film's premise. Black and Rudd play lifelong mates, Doug and Griff, who are utterly obsessed with the 1997 J.Lo and Ice Cube B-movie classic. They hit a midlife crisis and decide, you know what, let's actually do it. Let's go to the Amazon and remake Anaconda ourselves. The synopsis says their chaotic movie set gets turned upside down when a real, genuine giant anaconda decides to crash the party. So the film they're desperate to make might literally end them.
One name: Tom Gormican. He is the director behind The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, that brilliantly unhinged Nicolas Cage meta flick. He is bringing that exact same self aware, comedic energy here. Rudd himself said the script's clever meta angles appealed to him directly because he was a fan of The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. This is not some dour, serious reboot. It is like a knowing wink to the audience, a celebration of a so bad it's good film, all wrapped up in a proper action comedy. That angle is everything right now.
Sounds like an absolute riot, honestly. The chemistry between Black and Rudd is the main engine. Black said point blank that working with Rudd was the "main reason" he took the job, calling him "f---ing hilarious" and a "sweet pea". Rudd shared the same feelings, thrilled to finally work with Black properly for months. Even Steve Zahn, who is also in the mix, admitted to messing up takes because he could not stop laughing at them. When the cast is having that much fun, it usually bleeds through onto the screen.
Mark your calendars for a seriously unconventional Christmas Day. 25 December is the planned release date. Releasing a film about a giant killer snake on Christmas itself is a bizarre choice, you have to admit. It is going up against some family friendly stuff, but maybe that is the point, offering an alternative for those tired of the same formulaic content. Whether it becomes a festive box office gift or gets squeezed out remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: it will be a talking point!