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Mumbai, Aug 27 (IANS) Actor Angad Bedi called wife and actress Neha Dhupia the 'most beautiful girl inside & outside' in a heartfelt birthday post on Thursday as she turned a year older.

Angad took to his official Instagram handle and dropped a video montage of some unseen precious photos with the birthday girl.

Expressing his love for his better half, Angad wrote the caption, "Happy birthday to the most beautiful girl inside and outside.. Through thick n thin..,.. @nehadhupia i love you now and forever.(sic)"

Reacting to the post, Neha commented, "My heart (sic)", followed by a red heart emoji.

Talking about their love story, Angad first saw Neha at a gym when she was just 20 years old. He pursued Neha for nearly eight years before she finally said yes. Neha and Angad finally tied the knot during a private ceremony on 10 May 2018 in the presence of close family and friends.

On 18 November 2018, the couple was blessed with their first child, baby girl Mehr Dhupia Bedi.

Later, on 3 October 2021, Neha and Angad embraced parenthood for the second time as they welcomed a baby boy, Guriq Singh Dhupia Bedi.

Neha and Angad like to celebrate their special moments on social media, with such heartwarming posts.

Meanwhile, on August 7, Neha celebrated her parents' 50th wedding anniversary with a heartfelt tribute on social media.

She called the bond shared by her parents a true example of love.

Neha took to her official Instagram handle and penned, “This is what 50 years of togetherness looks like … #happyanniversary ma pa …. The love in your story is the real love story …. My golden people. Love you ma pa @babsdhupia @pdhupia.”

Professionally, Neha last appeared on screen in the drama “Perfect Family”, which premiered on Sony LIV in June 2026.

--IANS

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Chennai, Aug 27 (IANS) Expressing concern over the heartbreaking tragedy in Nepal, where a sudden flash flood left at least 162 people dead, ace Tamil film director Venkat Prabhu on Thursday said that he hoped that Nepal found the strength to heal through this devastating time.

The popular Tamil director took to his X timeline to express his pain and anguish at the tragedy that has left several people missing. He wrote, "Nepal is going through a heartbreaking tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected, especially the families who have lost their loved ones. May those still missing be found safe, and may Nepal find strength to heal through this devastating time."

Telugu star and producer Vishnu Manchu too expressed solidarity with the people of Nepal. He wrote, "Heartbroken by the devastating floods in Nepal. My deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected and with those still waiting for news of their loved ones. I stand in solidarity with the people of Nepal during this painful time. Lord Shiva, please help."

Earlier in the day, actor Silambarasan too had reacted to the news of the tragedy.

Taking to his X timeline to share his grief, Simbu had said, "Heartbreaking to see the devastation caused by the floods in Nepal. My prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, everyone affected, and all those still waiting to be rescued. Praying for their safety and strength."

For the unaware, at least 162 people died and several hundreds, including security personnel and tourists, went missing after a flash flood in the Bhote Koshi River hit the region.

The flood was caused after an avalanche blocked the flow of the Lhende tributary of the Bhotekoshi and first hit Timure, near the Nepal-China border at Rasuwagadhi, according to The Kathmandu Post.

As no rainfall was reported in the area, residents had no warning of the disaster and were going about their daily routines when the flood struck, the report said.

The Nepali government said 44 Nepal Army personnel, 28 police personnel deployed at various police posts, and 13 Armed Police Force (APF) personnel working in the affected areas remained out of contact.

Additionally, nine hydropower projects and several commercial banks, at least 19 motorable bridges and dozens of public and private properties have been swept away.

Authorities are continuing to collect details of the human and physical losses caused by the disaster.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Aug 27 (IANS) Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan recently lauded the perseverance and resilience of Dr. Prachi Rathod on the quiz based reality show ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’.

During the latest episode, Prachi opened up about her personal journey of gender transformation and the hurdles she overcame to become a practicing medical professional.

Big B asked her about the support system that carried her through her transformation from a man to a woman. Prachi spoke about finding a 2nd family within the transgender community and the employment challenges she faced post-transition.

She said, “Sir, obviously, ever since childhood, until I told my family that I wanted to undergo this transformation, my parents, siblings and the entire family were there for me. But somewhere, they refused to accept me. That was when, Sir, I found another family in Hyderabad, where six ‘havelis’ (transgender communities) live. I am the daughter of the biggest haveli among those six. This community accepted me, and that encouraged me”.

She further mentioned, “They told me to continue my education, move forward in life and fulfil the dreams my father had for me. They told me that they would always stand by me. Sir, the six havelis in Hyderabad are my first family. I also tried very hard to find a job. I applied with my resume, went for interviews and made every effort, but somewhere, because of my gender, people refused to accept me”.

Commending her determination to complete her medical education despite societal barriers, Amitabh Bachchan said, “Prachiji hum samaj sakte hain aapke jeevan mein bohot saari kathinaaye aayi lekin yeh dekh karke ki aap jijaak nahi rahi hain aur saari duniya bata rahi hain ki aapke sath kya hua aur aapne har kisam ke badlav toh aapne swikaar kiya hain aur aage badi hain aur ek aur baat acchi lagi ki aapne aapki padhai puri ki aur aaj aap doctor ban gayi hain joh logo ka ilaaj karti hain toh iss baat keliye aapko bohot badhai (Prachiji, we can understand that you have faced many difficulties in your life. But what I admire is that you never hesitated to tell the world about what happened to you. You accepted every kind of change and continued to move forward. And another thing that I really appreciate is that you completed your education and today, you have become a doctor who treats people. For this, I congratulate you wholeheartedly)”.

‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ season 18 is available on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.

--IANS

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Chennai, Aug 27 (IANS) The makers of director Nahas Hidhayath's eagerly awaited action entertainer 'I'm Game', featuring actor Dulquer Salmaan in the lead, on Thursday released the single 'Loser' from the film, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

The song offers audiences a playful glimpse into the world of the upcoming thriller. The track also sees Dulquer stepping into the role of a singer, lending his voice to the song and adding a personal touch to the film’s musical album. The song has been set to tune by Jakes Bejoy and has lyrics by Suhail Koya.

‘Loser’ takes a refreshing approach to the idea of being a loser, turning what is often considered a negative label into something to celebrate. The song embraces the imperfect, unconventional and chaotic side of its characters, giving the track a fun and irreverent energy.

Speaking about the song, Dulquer says, “It’s a song that celebrates losers, and I think it’s kind of fun. I also got to sing it.”

The track also gives audiences a glimpse into Dulquer’s character in 'I'm Game'. The character he plays is unlike the actor himself. Describing his role, Dulquer says, “I get to play a character who is quite a brat in this movie, which is very unlike me. Hopefully, by the end of the movie, I redeem myself and win you back.”

The song’s release comes as anticipation continues to build around 'I'm Game', with Dulquer taking on a character that allows him to explore a different side of his performance.

Dulquer, who shared the link to the song on his social media timelines, wrote, "No matter the language, the vibe hits the same! The LOSER SONG from I’M GAME is officially OUT NOW in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada!"

For the unaware, 'I'm Game' is to hit screens on September 3 this year. The film was originally scheduled to hit screens worldwide on August 20.

In a statement announcing the postponement of the film's release date, Dulquer Salmaan had acknowledged the anticipation around the film and stated that the decision to opt for a new release date came with a larger vision for the film.

He said, "The game gets bigger. The release gets wider. We understand the anticipation and we apologize for the delay, but #imgame will now release worldwide on 3rd September, moving from its earlier release date of 20th August."

The actor went on to say, "The new release date comes with a larger vision for the film as #imgame gears up for a wider theatrical release across markets. The film will now simultaneously release in multiple languages-Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada taking the experience to audiences across the country and beyond."

He ended the statement saying, "This decision has been made to give #imgame the scale, reach, and theatrical platform it truly deserves, allowing audiences across different markets to experience it on the big screen. The wait gets a little longer, But the game gets bigger!"

Directed by Nahas Hidhayath, 'I'm Game' has been mounted on an ambitious scale and will mark Dulquer Salmaan’s return to Malayalam cinema. The film completed an extensive 11-month shooting schedule spanning 156 days, with filming taking place across more than 100 locations in South India.

The film features an ensemble cast including Antony Varghese, Mysskin, Kayadu Lohar, Kathir, Parth Tiwari and Samyuktha Viswanathan. Jakes Bejoy has composed the music, while the action sequences have been choreographed by Anbariv Masters. The film has been produced by Dulquer Salmaan and Jom Varghese under Wayfarer Films.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, Aug 27 (IANS) Filmmaker James Gunn has given a major update on the upcoming film ‘Superman: Man of Tomorrow’. The director recently took to Threads, and shared that he has wrapped the shooting of ‘Superman: Man of Tomorrow’.

He wrote, “That's a wrap on principal photography for Man of Tomorrow. Truly a joyful experience and I have immense gratitude to my cast and crew”.

He also shared a couple of snaps with his followers, including one after Nicholas Hoult, who plays Lex Luther in the franchise, "jumped in the lake" after his "last shot".

He also shared a photo of his "brain trust", and shared, "They make making movies fun”.

The upcoming sequel to 2025's Superman is set to be released on July 9, 2027. ‘Superman: Man of Tomorrow’ is a 2020 animated superhero film that offers a fresh, modern take on the origin of Superman.

The film is directed by Chris Palmer, and follows Clark Kent as he begins his journey from an ordinary young reporter in Metropolis to the iconic superhero known as Superman. The story explores his early attempts to understand his Kryptonian heritage while balancing his growing powers with his human identity. Along the way, Clark encounters dangerous adversaries including Lobo and Parasite, forcing him to confront the responsibilities that come with being powerful.

The film also features Lois Lane and Martian Manhunter, adding emotional depth and expanding its version of the DC universe. With its stylish animation, energetic action sequences and emphasis on Clark's humanity, the film presents Superman as a young hero still discovering what he stands for. It ultimately focuses on themes of identity, compassion, responsibility and choosing to use extraordinary abilities for the greater good.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, Aug 27 (IANS) Rapper Pitbull has shared a heartfelt tribute for the late singing legend Dolly Parton, as he said that she "believed” in her when a lot of folks didn't.

The rapper was performing at Northwell at Jones Beach Theater in New York, when he paid the tribute to the late singer.

He told the crowd, "We’re having a great time and then we’re losing our minds, but there’s someone that was very special to me and showed me love and believed in me when a lot of folks didn't and gave me an opportunity. And her name is Dolly Parton. She lived an amazing life. A hardworking woman, intelligent, sophisticated, funny, powerful, intimidating, but more than anything a good human being with a good heart. And she showed me a whole lot of love”.

“So to all the crowds, this is dedicated to y’all, but more than anything to the legend that will live forever, Dolly Parton”, he added.

Pitbull played his 2024 Dolly collaboration, ‘Powerful Women’, a reimagined version of Dolly’s classic 9 to 5.

Dolly Parton passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80. Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, who was also her head of security, revealed the news in an Instagram video. The video was shared on the late singer’s page.

He said in the video, “This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality. As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven't truly felt it until now. It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly”.

“Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens. I first went on the road with Dolly as a kid, getting a taste of the road life in the early 1980s”, he added.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Aug 27 (IANS) Actor Abhay Verma, who has essayed the role of Wing Commander Rajpal Singh Dhaliwal in the streaming series 'Operation Safed Sagar', detests violence, wars and conflicts. The actor discussed the nature of violence, and how he looks at the phenomenon of wars in civilization.

The actor spoke with IANS following the release of the show. When told about violence being the essential driving force in nature as it keeps the food chain running, he said, “So, I distinguish between two things, the human side and the wildlife side. As much as I agree that the wildlife heavily depends on the food chain but as humans, the least we can do is to be empathetic , and have an understanding”.

He told IANS, “They have feelings but they sometimes fail to understand that the other person is also human. If we could only just act just by thinking what it would feel to be in someone else's shoes. I think that would really solve our problems”.

When asked if putting the self-interest behind, and protecting someone or keeping someone comfortable will lead to no violence or no wars in the society, he said, “I think it's a heroic thing to do. And the soldiers who are fighting for us are doing exactly the same”.

“The only addition to them is that they don't even know everyone, we only protect the people that we know. They do it for people whom they don’t even know. I think the world would be really nice if everybody knew everybody because then it would just be conversations, and not bombs dropped and missiles thrown away at other people”, he added.

Meanwhile, ‘Operation Safed Sagar’ is based on the eponymous combined arms operation by the Indian Air Force, supporting elements of the Indian Army during the 1999 Kargil war that was aimed at flushing out regular and irregular troops of the Pakistani Army from vacated Indian Positions in the Kargil sector along the Line of Control. It was the first large-scale use of airpower in the Jammu and Kashmir region since the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Aug 27 (IANS) Bollywood actor Rajat Bedi is all set to expand his horizons with the Marathi film 'Bandhu'.

Sharing what made him say yes to present the Marathi drama, he said that the relatable story of the movie has what it takes to touch the heart of every family member.

Rajat said, “I would not like to discuss much about the story, but the beautiful way the director has merged two stories into one is what really stood out to me. Basically, this is a story that is universal for all families because of the problem we are discussing in the film. The way it eventually touches every family member’s heart is beautiful.”

Rajat further expressed that he is proud to be associated with the project like 'Bandhu', no matter how it performs at the ticket counters.

“I mean, this is one of those films that I will always be extremely proud of in my life. I don't know how it's going to fare; that's in the public's hands, but I am extremely proud of this content,” he added.

Given that Rajat has grown up in Maharashtra, the story holds a special connection for him. Recalling how Marathi was a crucial part of his school years, Rajat shared, “I have grown up in Maharashtra. I was born in Maharashtra, and I'm extremely proud that today I am presenting a Marathi film. I was in Jamnabai Narsee School, and my third language was Marathi. I understand Marathi, and I can speak a little Marathi. So I'm very, very excited about doing something in this language.”

Presented by Rajat Bedi and JSD Studio, in association with Triflix Entertainment, 'Bandhu' has been written and directed by Nitin Sindhuvijay Supekar.

Jointly backed by Pranav Desai, Juhi Desai and Kuldeep Sunil Ojha, 'Bandhu' is slated to hit the cinema halls on November 20.

--IANS

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Mumbai, August 27 (IANS) Actor Akhilendra Mishra, who played Arjan in the cult classic Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India, along with his Lagaan co-stars seems to be having a great time.

The actor shared a picture with his fellow members of the film's team at Mumbai's historic V.T. station. (Now CST)

In the picture, Akhilendra Mishra is seen posing with three other members of the Lagaan team against the imposing backdrop of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus.

Talking about Lagaan, the movie released on June 15, 2001, and went on to become one of the most celebrated films in Indian cinema.

Starring Aamir Khan as Bhuvan, Gracy Singh as Gauri and Rachel Shelley as Elizabeth Russell, the film featured a large ensemble cast including Raghubir Yadav, Rajesh Vivek, Raj Zutshi, Pradeep Rawat, Daya Shankar Pandey, Yashpal Sharma, Amin Hajee and Aditya Lakhia. The film was also nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

The film completed 25 years in June this year, for which a major reunion of its cast and crew was held. Aamir Khan and Ashutosh Gowariker reunited with almost all the members of the original ensemble for a special celebration, while the film had also returned to theatres for celebratory re-release.

The anniversary celebrations also saw the cast revisit the film through a special script-reading session. Aamir Khan and Gracy Singh were seen recreating a Bhuvan-Gauri scene, while Aamir and Paul Blackthorne revisited some of the film's iconic exchanges.

Recently, actor Pradeep Rawat, who played Deva Singh Sodhi, the Sikh ex-sepoy and an important member of Bhuvan's cricket team in Lagaan, passed away at the age of 74 on August 4, 2026, following a battle with cancer.

Almost all members of the Lagaan fraternity, including Aamir Khan, Ashutosh Gowariker, Akhilendra Mishra, Daya Shankar Pandey, Amin Hajee and Yashpal Sharma, attended Rawat's last rites in Mumbai and paid their final respects to their former co-star.

–IANS

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Mumbai, August 27 (IANS) Bollywood star Karisma Kapoor turned nostalgic while talking about her younger sister, actress Kareena Kapoor.

She recalled how the latter's natural look in the 2001 historical drama Asoka marked a departure from the conventional presentation of heroines on screen.

In an upcoming episode of the dance reality show India's Best Dancer Season 5, which celebrates the spirit of 'India Wala Dance', Karisma opened up about Kareena's journey as an actress and remembered how she embraced a completely natural appearance for Asoka.

Talking specifically about the film and Kareena's look, Karisma said, “Aur main ek cheez kehna chahti hoon Asoka film ke baare mein. Toh Asoka aisi ek film thi, I think first time jab ek heroine bina makeup full film kiya tha and Kareena Kapoor is without makeup, only kajal unki aankhon mein. She looked organic, so beautiful. Ek naya daur hi chalu hua, you know, to be totally pure and organic. I'm proud of my sister.”

(And I want to say one thing about the film Asoka. I think Asoka was one such film where, for the first time, a heroine did an entire film without makeup. Kareena Kapoor was without makeup, with only kajal in her eyes. She looked organic and so beautiful. It started a new era of being completely natural and organic. I'm proud of my sister)

Karisma also spoke about how she always sensed that Kareena was destined for a career in acting. Recalling their childhood, she said, “I think ye toh tha hi ki heroine banegi, artist banegi, bahot badi star banegi. Bachpan se hi woh dance karti thi, main seekhti thi dance. Woh aake baithti thi, mujhe dekhti thi, toh woh passion tha hi.”

(I think it was always clear that she would become an actress, an artist, and a very big star. She had been dancing since childhood, and I used to learn dance as well. She would come and sit and watch me, so that passion was always there)

Karisma's mention of Asoka, brings the focus back to the 2001 epic historical drama directed and co-written by Santosh Sivan, which starred Shah Rukh Khan as Emperor Asoka and Kareena Kapoor as Kaurwaki. The film presented a dramatised account of the early life of the Mauryan emperor and combined historical drama with romance and action.

Kareena's portrayal of Kaurwaki became one of the memorable early performances of her career. Her look in the film, particularly the striking eye makeup and earthy, period-inspired styling, later found a completely new audience on social media more than two decades after the film's release.

The film's music, composed by Anu Malik with background music by Sandeep Chowta, also remains an important part of its legacy. The soundtrack included songs such as 'Raat Ka Nasha', 'San Sanana', 'Roshni Se', 'O Re Kanchi' and 'Aa Tayar Hoja', with lyrics by Gulzar and Anand Bakshi.

Among them, 'Raat Ka Nasha' continues to be remembered as one of the romantic favourites from the film, while 'San Sanana', also known through its 'Jaa Re Pawan' has been going viral over social media off late.

--IANS

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