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Mumbai, July 15 (IANS) Rapper Ikka, who has released his new EP ‘Enigma 2 Icon’, has shared that his EP proves that struggles don't define a person’s ending, their courage does. The EP presents a story of courage, growth and becoming an icon.

It comprises of 6 tracks including ‘Hamla’, ‘Enigma 2 Icon’, ‘Fan/Stan’, ‘Drunk Ikka’, ‘Shahrukh Khan’ and ‘Demon Slayer’, and it captures the journey of an artist who has faced criticism, embraced every scar and emerged stronger than ever.

Talking about the release, Ikka shared, “‘Enigma 2 Icon’ is probably the most honest representation of where I stand today. I've seen phases where people doubted me, misunderstood me and counted me out, but every experience became fuel for what I am today. This EP is about proving that your struggles don't define your ending, your courage does”.

He further mentioned, “Every scar, every setback and every victory has found its place in these six songs. I hope people see a part of their own journey in this music and walk away believing they can overcome anything”.

‘Hamla’ is a high-octane anthem that embodies the rapper’s fearless mindset. It is rooted in the unapologetic spirit of Delhi's streets, the track is packed with commanding verses, relentless energy and a victorious attitude that symbolizes taking control against all odds.

The music video for Hamla is directed by Vaksh, and brings the emotion to life with striking visuals that mirror the song's raw intensity and unapologetic confidence. Focusing on gritty themes of survival, street life, and asserting dominance in Delhi.

The EP is presented by T-Series, and is available to stream across all streaming platforms. The music video is available to watch on the T-Series youtube channel.

--IANS

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Chennai, July 15 (IANS) The makers of director Mariyappan Chinna's horror thriller 'Immortal', featuring actors G V Prakash and Kayadu Lohar in the lead, on Wednesday announced that their film would now hit screens worldwide on September 4 this year.

For the unaware, the film was to originally release on July 23 this year.

With the makers of director H Vinoth's long-awaited 'Jana Nayagan', featuring actor Vijay in the lead, announcing on Wednesday that their film would release on July 23, the makers of Immortal have chosen to push their film's release to September 4.

Taking to his X timeline, G V Prakash wrote, "Thalapathy vandha thalli poyi dhaaney aaganum. Adhuvum one Last time…. (When the Thalapathy arrives, we need to make way. That too, one last time.) Best of luck team JN … #immortal will release in theatres on September 4th with your support and love … @AKfilmfactory @DirMari_Chinna @thinkmusicindia."

G V Prakash, had, only in May this year, announced that shooting for the film had been wrapped up.

Sources had said that the makers were initially intending to release the film in May this year. However, they then chose July 23 as the release date of the film. Now, circumstances have forced the makers to push the release of the film to September 4.

The film has been eagerly awaited ever since the makers released a chilling and entertaining teaser of the film last year.

Sharing the teaser on his X timeline, G V Prakash Kumar had then said, "Here is #Immortal teaser for all of u … the mystery world unveils now .. @11Lohar @AKfilmfactory #maarichinna."

The teaser begins on a funny romantic note. It has G V Prakash, who is a die hard romantic, having a conversation with a friend. He says, "Imagine how it would be if a handsome guy like me and a very beautiful girl stayed in the same house." The friend replies, "It would be jealousy-inducing." To this, G V Prakash gleefully says, "It must."

The teaser then shows G V Prakash having a conversation with actress Kayadu Lohar in a flat that looks exactly like the one he was seen talking about a while ago to his friend.

"If I ask you something, will you mistake me," he asks her and she shoots back, saying, "You will anyway ask something that is wrong."

The teaser makes it evident that G V Prakash's character in the film is romantically interested in the character that Kayadu Lohar plays. He tells her, "My room has a lot of mosquito problems" to which she replies, "Mine has problems caused by bats. Is it alright?"

It is then that the horror phase starts. He wakes up in the middle of the night and looks through the keyhole, only to find a beast with the face of a bat!

The film, apart from G V Prakash Kumar and Kayadu Lohar, also features a host of actors including TM Karthik, Kumar Natarajan, Lollu Sabha Maaran, Aaditya Kathir, Arshu Maharjan, Pema Tsamchoe and Sunita Shrestha.

On the technical front, the film, which has been produced by Arunkumar Dhanasekaran, has cinematography by Arun Radhakrishnan and music by Sam CS. Editing for the film is by San Lokesh while art direction is by Siva Sankar. Stunts for the film have been choreographed by R.Sakthi Saravanan while dances have been choreographed by Sabarish.

--IANS

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Chennai, July 15 (IANS) Well known actress and Bigg Boss contestant Shivani Narayanan has paid tribute to one of India's greatest playback singers S Janaki in her own simple way.

The actress has now put out videos of her attempting to sing some of the iconic chartbusters sung by the legend as a small tribute to the great playback singer who recently passed away in Mysuru after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Taking to her Instagram page to post the videos of her singing the legendary singer's songs, Shivani Narayanan wrote, "No formal training, just pure admiration for the Nightingale of the South."

Shivani announced, "I am not a professionally trained singer, but my love for Janaki Amma’s magical voice always inspires me to try. Growing up listening to Janaki Amma’s divine voice taught me how to feel music. This is just a small, heartfelt attempt. Singing her track is incredibly challenging because her vocal modulation is perfection, but I couldn’t resist trying out of sheer love and respect."

The actress said that the void left by the legend was irreplaceable, but that her music was an eternal comfort.

Shivani concluded her post, saying,"A golden voice has fallen silent, but her melodies will echo forever,"

For the unaware, legendary singer and four-time National Award winner S Janaki, who has rendered over a whopping 48,000 songs in several Indian languages, passed away at a private hospital in Mysuru on Saturday after suffering a cardiac arrest.

She was 88.

The Apollo BGS Hospitals in Mysuru, where she was admitted on Saturday afternoon, issued a statement soon after her demise.

In its statement, the hospital said, "Mrs. S. Janaki was admitted to Apollo BGS Hospitals, Mysuru, on 11 July 2026 at 12:49 PM. On admission, her condition was critical, and she was immediately evaluated and shifted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for further management."

The hospital informed that despite intensive medical care and continuous monitoring by a multidisciplinary team, the veteran singer suffered a cardiac arrest during the course of treatment.

"Advanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was initiated immediately in accordance with standard medical protocols. Despite resuscitative efforts, she experienced multiple cardiac arrests and could not be revived.

Mrs. S. Janaki was declared deceased at 7:30 PM on 11 July 2026."

--IANS

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Los Angeles, July 15 (IANS) Hollywood star Hugh Jackman has entered beast mode. On Wednesday, the actor took to his Instagram, and shared pictures and videos from his fitness session.

In the video, the actor can be seen training fiercely, pumping the iron as he put up an impressive performance brimming with adrenaline and testosterone.

He wrote in the caption, “BIG WIN today!! Last 2k was 6:54. Proud, exhausted, grateful and sweating profusely. This result is in no small part due to my friend and longtime trainer @bethlewisfit”.

The actor, who has essayed the character of Wolverine, has always boasted of top-notch fitness and muscle mass as his character demanded strength and a certain look.

The character was initially considered an unconventional choice due to the actor’s height. Over nearly 25 years, he reprised the role across multiple films. His emotionally layered performance transformed Wolverine into one of cinema's most beloved superheroes, blending ferocity with vulnerability. After initially bidding farewell in ‘Logan’, he returned as the clawed mutant in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’.

Earlier in March, the actor showcased his musical side which he rarely brings out for special ones. The actor sang for his fellow Australian Rupert Murdoch at his 95th birthday party. The actor sang tunes from ‘The Greatest Showman’, as well as covers of ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ and ‘New York, New York’ at the celebration, which took place in New York.

He closed out his performance with a rendition of ‘I Still Call Australia Home’. While unable to attend in person, Donald Trump reportedly sent a video message wishing Murdoch a happy birthday.

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 15 (IANS) Actress Wamiqa Gabbi, has expressed her admiration for Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit, as she met her recently on the sets of a project.

On Wednesday, the actress took to her Instagram, and shared a video of herself meeting the senior actress. Wamiqa also did the step of ‘Dhak Dhak Karne Laga’, as she met the actress whom she has admired since her childhood.

She also penned a long note in the caption, as she wrote, “My closest friends who know the 13 year old me, obviously know how magical this moment was for me. Meeting THE MADHURI DIXIT. uhooo uhoooo. I made her meet mom and dad and narrated her a few stories to tell her how beautiful a part of my childhood she has been. Love you so much @madhuridixitnene”.

This is the first time Wamiqa has spoken up about her deep admiration for the actress, who has been the favourite of an entire generation of millennials.

Earlier in March, Wamiqa Gabbi marked 1 year of release of her fantasy romantic comedy, ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’ with a special ride in an e-rickshaw. Commemorating the milestone, Wamiqa uploaded a clip on her official Instagram handle where she is seen dressed as a bride, traveling in an auto, and telling everyone on the way that today is her wedding day.

She wrote in the caption. "Ek saal pehle aap sab ne humari shaadi me shaamil hoke humko itna pyaar diya! Usske liye shukriya! Kuch BHOOL CHUK hogayi ho toh MAAF kardijiye ga (sic)”.

Made under the direction of Karan Sharma, ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’ has been backed by Dinesh Vijan under the banner of Maddock Films, along with Amazon MGM Studios. The film also starred Rajkummar Rao, and Seema Pahwa, Sanjay Mishra, Zakir Hussain, Raghubir Yadav, Ishtiyak Khan, Purnima Sharma, Anubha Fatehpuria, and Vineet Kumar.

The film follows the story of Ranjan (played by Rajkummar), a small-town boy from Banaras who gets a government job to marry the love of his life Titli (Played by Wamiqa). However, he ends up forgetting a crucial vow to Lord Shiva, which traps him in a time loop.

The actress will be next seen in ‘G2’ opposite Adivi Sesh.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, July 15 (IANS) Chrissy Teigen, the wife of Grammy-winning musician John Legend, has given a peek into her European adventure with her family.

She took to her Instagram recently, and shared what her summer in Europe looks like as she and Legend’s kids support him on tour.

She posted a series of pictures and videos featuring the family’s time in Switzerland, the Netherlands and Belgium.

She wrote in the caption, “Ghent / Montreux / Rotterdam. 800 year old castles, pancake cruises, fried chicken and ping pong, glow in the dark golf but for the record my kids still think I never do annnnnyything (sic)”.

In the pictures, the family can be seen exploring the local attractions and spending time on a boat and enjoying traditional Dutch pancakes.

In one clip, Chrissy Teigen took a bite into a pancake and told the camera, as she said, “Oh my God, that’s so good”.

Her eldest daughter Luna Simone, 10, decorated her pancake with mini marshmallows in another picture.

The couple shares 4 children, Luna, Miles Theodore, Esti Maxine, and Wren Alexander. John Legend, 40, joined his family in two of the photos as they posed for a family shot.

He took to the comments section, and wrote, “You’re our EVERYTHING”.

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend are among Hollywood's most enduring celebrity couples. They first met in 2006 on the set of Legend's music video for Stereo. The couple got engaged in 2011, and married on September 14, 2013, in Lake Como, Italy.

John’s chartbuster track ‘All of Me’ was written as a tribute to his wife. The couple has been candid about their fertility journey through IVF, the heartbreaking loss of their son Jack in 2020, and their path to parenthood. They renewed their wedding vows in 2023, celebrating a decade of marriage.

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 15 (IANS) Lyricist Javed Akhtar shared a heartwarming moment with his daughter-in-law Shibani Dandekar at Wimbledon.

On Wednesday, Shabana Azmi took to her Instagram handle and posted images from the family’s outing at the tennis tournament 2026. For the caption, she simply wrote, “The #Akhtars at #Wimbledon finals.”

The first picture featured Javed Akhtar posing alongside his daughter-in-law Shibani Dandekar, who was seen placing her hand affectionately on his arm as they smiled for the camera. The warm gesture reflected their close bond. The next candid shot featured Farhan Akhtar clicking his selfie while posing with Shibani. The couple coordinated in white outfits.

Notably, the ‘Naam Shabana’ actress was quick to take note of Shabana’s post as she commented, “Best time ever.”

Shibani also shared several pictures featuring herself with Javed Akhtar and Farhan Akhtar. She also posted solo images capturing moments from the tournament. Alongside them, she wrote, “Third wheeling the father- son tradition and having the time of my life! Wimbledon 2026 you were incredible! Memories locked in for a lifetime with @jaduakhtar @faroutakhtar Heart is full.”

For the unversed, Farhan Akhtar is the stepson of veteran actress Shabana Azmi. His father, celebrated lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar, married Shabana Azmi in 1984 after separating from Farhan’s mother, screenwriter Honey Irani. Despite the family dynamics, Shabana Azmi has always shared a close and affectionate bond with Farhan and his sister Zoya Akhtar.

Several Bollywood celebrities have been adding star power to Wimbledon 2026 with their stylish appearances at the prestigious tennis tournament. Among them, Ananya Panday attended the Wimbledon Men’s Singles semi-finals and was spotted at the iconic All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC) in London.

Priyanka Chopra also turned heads with her elegant all-white ensemble and made a special appearance in the Royal Box at Centre Court during the eleventh day of the tournament.

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 15 (IANS) Actor Abhay Deol has taken a nostalgic trip down memory lane as the much-loved film ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’ completed 15 years of its release.

The actor revisited the cherished moments from the film’s journey. He also celebrated the unforgettable experience of working alongside co-stars Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Katrina Kaif and Kalki Koechlin. Reflecting on the film that became a celebration of friendship, adventure, and self-discovery, Abhay shared heartfelt memories of the bonds formed during its making.

Taking to Instagram, the actor expressed gratitude for being part of a project that continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans. Sharing photos from the movie, Abhay wrote, “We worked, we played, we cried and we laughed, we opened up, and we connected with an amazing audience. There’s no measure of how many blessings I have received for this film. Thank you for the opportunity and for the love, 15 years of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara!.”

The pictures capture Abhay Deol’s memorable moments with Hrithik Roshan and Farhan Akhtar from the movie.

Farhan Akhtar also celebrated 15 years of ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’ by sharing a nostalgic carousel of pictures from the film. The collection offered a glimpse of the memorable moments from the much-loved road trip drama.

The final slide featured the heartfelt message, “Some roads stay with you forever.” Farhan captioned the post as, “15 years. Still seizing the day. Celebrating #15YearsOfZindagiNaMilegiDobara.”

Directed by Zoya Akhtar and produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani under the Excel Entertainment banner, “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" was released in theatres on July 15, 2011. The film featured an ensemble cast including Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar, Katrina Kaif, and Kalki Koechlin, with Naseeruddin Shah and Deepti Naval in significant roles.

The film revolved around three childhood friends — Arjun, Kabir, and Imran — who set out on a life-changing bachelor road trip across Spain.

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 15 (IANS) The makers of the upcoming film ‘Jana Nayagan’ starring Thalapathy Vijay, have announced the film’s release date. The film, which is set to be the final cinematic venture of the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, will release in theatres worldwide on July 23, 2026.

The film marks a landmark moment in Thalapathy Vijay’s illustrious cinematic journey, and is one of the most awaited films of Indian cinema. The film promises to be a fitting tribute to a career that has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

Directed by H. Vinoth and produced by KVN Productions, Jana Nayagan brings together a stellar creative team to deliver a grand cinematic experience for audiences worldwide.

Speaking about the announcement, producer Venkat K. Narayana said, “There are very few moments in cinema that feel truly historic, and Jana Nayagan is one such moment. As Thalapathy Vijay prepares for his final outing on the big screen, we are honoured to be a part of this journey and to bring this special film to his fans across the world”.

He further mentioned, “It has been remarkable to witness a journey that began with cinema and went on to inspire millions, ultimately leading him to become the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, a testament to the extraordinary connection he shares with the people. We are confident that Jana Nayagan will be a memorable theatrical experience and a fitting tribute to a phenomenal career”.

The release date announcement sets the stage for what is expected to be one of the biggest theatrical events of the year, with fans and moviegoers gearing up to celebrate Thalapathy Vijay’s final chapter as a leading man on the silver screen.

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 15 (IANS) Casting director Karan Mally, who is known for his work in ‘Gully Boy’, ‘The Archies’, ‘Kho Gaye Hum Kahan’, ‘Made in Heaven’, ‘Sam Bahadur’, ‘Thappad’, ‘Superboys of Malegaon’, and the reality show ‘Alliance’, has shared the inspiration behind the casting of former couple Sohail Khan and Seema Sajdeh in ‘Alliance’.

He said that he wanted to showcase progressive, and mature dynamics between a couple, who still share warmth despite parting their ways.

Talking about the same, he told IANS, “The inspiration came from wanting to showcase a very progressive, modern, and mature dynamic that we rarely see represented authentically in mainstream media. Pop culture often defaults to painting past relationships or separations with a very bitter, dramatic brush. But real life is far more complex, respectful, and nuanced than that. Bringing Sohail and Seema together wasn't about chasing sensationalized shock value”.

He further mentioned, “It was about capturing a very real, dignified, and compelling human equation. The collaboration came to life organically through incredibly honest conversations. Our team’s primary goal was to create a safe, collaborative framework where everyone felt entirely comfortable. I think once they saw the genuine, sophisticated vision we had for the show, they trusted the process and everything fell into place beautifully”.

The casting director credited the couple for being very open to the idea, and that mindset came from the assurance that the reality show didn’t want to exploit their relationship but to give the respect it deserves.

“They were incredibly open and excited right from the start. Naturally, anytime you bring a unique, real-life dynamic onto a major streaming platform like Prime Video, there’s a healthy amount of initial caution. Nobody wants their personal journey reduced to a sensationalized headline. But their enthusiasm locked in once they realized Alliance was a space designed to respect their shared history and not exploit it. Their openness on camera is going to be incredibly refreshing for the audience. It comes from a place of great mutual respect and a genuine willingness to try something entirely new in the Indian entertainment space”, he added.

--IANS

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