United News of Bangladesh

Amidst a season brimming with high-profile releases, ‘Housefull 5’ arrives as a fresh entry that promises laughter with a twist. Released on June 6, 2025, this Akshay Kumar-starring comedy thriller adds a new flavour to the well-known franchise. As audiences and critics turn their attention to its performance and reception, all eyes are on its impact. Let’s explore how the movie measures up in both entertainment and box office numbers. A Premise with Two Different Prints Set on a lavish cruise, the story kicks off with the mysterious murder of billionaire Ranjeet Dobriyal at the hands of a masked assailant. Chaos follows, staying true to the franchise’s signature blend of slapstick humour and comic confusion. Police officers Bhidu and Baba dive into the investigation, while Julius joins forces with other passengers to uncover the truth. The suspense deepens with a twist- two alternate versions of the film, ‘Housefull 5A’ and ‘Housefull 5B’. Collectively, the story offers different killer reveals, leaving viewers guessing until the final frame. Neat Humour but Slow-Paced Storyline The movie kicks off with promise, striking a lively balance between comedy and suspense. In the first half, Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, and Riteish Deshmukh shine through. Their timing, expressions, and witty one-liners carry the narrative with ease. Nostalgia is woven cleverly, recalling iconic bits like ‘Prada ka beta Gucci’ and even reviving the monkey from earlier instalments, much to fans’ delight. Read more: June 2025 Bollywood Movie Lineup: Top 10 Most-Anticipated Hindi Films Adult humour finds its place too, handled with restraint and smart writing. The early segments remain crisp and engaging. But as the interval approaches, things begin to slip. The plot feels stretched. After the break, the grip loosens. Momentum fades as the screenplay struggles to manage the massive cast. The attempt to give each character a share of the spotlight leads to bloat, pushing the runtime to 165 minutes. Despite all the effort, several characters end up feeling like fillers, appearing briefly with minimal impact. Just before the twist, the pace picks up again. The twist lands well, and Bobby Deol’s late appearance injects some freshness. A smart reveal involving Abhishek Bachchan adds to the intrigue. The climax manages to be both unexpected and amusing. The franchise’s usual tone, fun beyond logic, remains intact, though this time a touch of logic joins the party. Still, the overstuffed cast and excessive length dilute the overall experience. If the pre-climax stretch had been tighter, the film could have truly lived up to the makers’ tall claims. A Huge Star-Studded Cast in the Lead With a staggering ensemble of 17 lead actors, ‘Housefull 5’ carries a weighty cast. Yet, it is Sanjay Dutt and Jackie Shroff who leave the strongest impression. Both are offered well-crafted scenes and deliver them with seasoned flair. Akshay maintains his dominance with effortless humour, driven largely by his eccentric expressions. Riteish Deshmukh and Abhishek Bachchan also make their presence felt through sharp comic timing. Read more: Judwaa: A Pakistani Drama about Twin Sisters Becomes Internet Obsession The female leads – Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, and Jacqueline Fernandez – serve primarily as visual highlights. While they contribute a few amusing moments in the first half, their roles gradually fade as the narrative progresses. Their impact remains confined to their glamour appeal. Among the supporting cast, Johnny Lever stands out as the sole performer with well-written scenes and effective punchlines. Others, including Fardeen Khan, Dino Morea, Shreyas Talpade, Nikitin Dheer, Chitrangada Singh, and Chunky Pandey, are largely under-utilised. Shreyas Talpade is nearly invisible. Fardeen Khan manages a few decent moments, though without lasting effect. Nana Patekar’s cameo is a clear standout. His entry is impactful, commanding attention despite limited screen time. Even in a serious tone, he introduces a fresh layer of humour. Bobby Deol, appearing towards the end, adds an unexpected twist to close the character lineup. Music, Screenplay, and Direction Sajid Nadiadwala handles the story and screenplay, while Tarun Mansukhani takes charge of direction. Their collaboration shows strength in the first half, maintaining a light, engaging rhythm. However, the second half struggles with consistency. Read more: Eid-ul-Azha 2025 Bengali TV Drama Preview: Top Upcoming Bangladeshi Natoks Set to Spark the Festival Balancing a murder mystery within a comic framework proves challenging. The narrative loses its grip as it tries to manage both genres. Music, a trademark of the ‘Housefull’ series, falls short this time. Unlike past chart-toppers like ‘Aapka Kya Hoga (Dhanno)’ or, ‘Anarkali Disco Chali’ only ‘Laal Pari’ leaves a lasting impression. The remaining tracks are enjoyable but forgettable. Box Office Earnings: Akshay’s Historical Achievement Backed by Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, ‘Housefull 5’ was made on a budget of Rs 225 crore. It opened with a robust global earning of Rs 37.25 crore, securing the third-highest opening for a Bollywood film in 2025. Over the first weekend, the film collected between Rs 130.50 crore and Rs 131.50 crore worldwide. The figure surpasses ‘Sooryavanshi’ (Rs 118 crore) to mark Akshay Kumar’s biggest weekend yet. Within four days, the comedy thriller entered the Rs 100 crore club domestically. After drawing Rs 32.5 crore on Sunday, it maintained momentum with Rs 13.5 crore on Monday, taking the total India box office tally to Rs 101 crore. Read more: Top 10 Netflix Originals Streaming in June 2025 On the international front, the Indian film crossed the USD 1 million mark at the North American box office. This milestone marks Akshay’s 28th film to do so, further strengthening his overseas track record. According to trade analyst Nishit Shaw, Akshay stands just behind Shah Rukh Khan in the million-dollar club rankings. While Shah Rukh leads with 32 films, Akshay holds second with 28, edging past Salman Khan, who has 25 films on the list. Verdict Akshay Kumar starrer ‘Housefull 5’ features two alternate versions, subtitled 5A and 5B. Though the film delivers neat humour, it suffers from a sluggish story pace. The amazing blend of comedy and thriller boasts a massive star-studded ensemble in this film. However, not all are meaningfully utilised. Despite narrative flaws, the Nadiadwala production has struck gold at the box office, crossing INR 100 crore domestically and USD 1 million in North America. Marking Akshay’s 28th entry in the million-dollar club, the movie stands as both a significant highlight in his career and a gem for Indian cinema. Read more: Top Amazon Prime Originals to Binge-Watch in June 2025

With the enduring charm of Hindi cinema captivating global audiences, Bollywood continues to be the heart of India’s film legacy. June 2025 brings a cinematic feast across horror, comedy, thriller, mystery, and drama. Each promises visual spectacle featuring newcomers, rising talents, and beloved stars. Let’s explore the top 10 Bollywood movies lighting up screens this June, each promising a story worth watching. 10 Most Anticipated Hindi Movies Releasing This June . Main Bhi Arjun: Parv / Biography / June 3, 2025 The narrative traces the extraordinary life of child prodigy Parv Thacker, who was born with clubfoot. He overcomes adversity to become the Global Ambassador of ‘Global Clubfoot Awareness Parv’. Not only that, he is also up for India's youngest singer, entrepreneur, and Bhagavad Gita Bharat Ambassador. His inspiring path draws strength from Indian cultural wisdom, rooted in Indian legendary icons like the Bhagavad Gita and Ramayana. Besides directing the movie and crafting its script, Krupesh Thacker and Pooja Thacker assume the pivotal roles along with Parv Thacker in the lead. Read more: Judwaa: A Pakistani Drama about Twin Sisters Becomes Internet Obsession The production is spearheaded by Esy ID and Krup Productions. Housefull 5 / Comedy Thriller / June 6, 2025 The fifth chapter of the Housefull series, this movie takes shape under the direction of Tarun Mansukhani, who co-wrote it with Farhad Samji. Firuzi Khan, Sajid Nadiadwala, and Warda Nadiadwala of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment steer the production. The ensemble cast includes Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Jacqueline Fernandez, Jackie Shroff, Shreyas Talpade, Fardeen Khan, Nana Patekar, Dino Morea, Nargis Fakhri, Chitrangada Singh, Johnny Lever, Sonam Bajwa, Chunky Pandey, Soundarya Sharma, and Nikitin Dheer. Read more: Sardaarji 3: First Look of the Horror Comedy Echoes ‘Stree’ The plotline unfolds aboard a luxury cruise where a billionaire's mysterious death spirals into a frantic whodunit laced with the franchise’s hallmark slapstick chaos. Akshay Kumar’s character leads a hilariously unorthodox investigation. Meanwhile, Sanjay Dutt and Jackie Shroff appear as baffled officers navigating layers of nautical nonsense. Shraap 3D / Horror / June 19, 2025 Backed by Neelam Sharma Entertainment, this horror film boasts Faisal Saif as its writer and director. With a script written in both Tamil and Hindi, this movie’s plot unfolds with a CBI officer who has experience with a ghost. Rajpal Yadav and Kavita Radheshyam portray the lead characters with a supporting cast of Mythriya Gowda, Nishant Pandey, Dev Sharma, Yashpal Sharma, and Himani Shivpuri. Sitaare Zameen Par / Sports Comedy / June 20, 2025 Positioned as a spiritual heir to ‘Taare Zameen Par’ (2007), this emotionally charged sports drama reinterprets the 2018 Spanish film, ‘Champions’. This time, Aamir Khan shares the screen with Genelia Deshmukh. R. S. Prasanna takes the director’s seat, and Divy Nidhi Sharma serves as the writer. Aparna Purohit, along with Aamir Khan, drives the production. Read more: Pakistani Drama Tere Bin Emerges as an All-Time Audience Favourite The story begins with a disgraced basketball coach sentenced to community service after a DUI, tasked with training a team of neurodivergent adults. What starts as resistance slowly gives way to revelation. His assumptions crumble under the weight of empathy, growth, and newfound understanding. The trio, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, is behind the song composition with lyrics of Amitabh Bhattacharya. Ram Sampath takes charge of the film’s background score. Detective Sherdil / Comedy Mystery / June 20, 2025 Directed by Ravi Chhabriya, this mystery comedy thrives with Ali Abbas Zafar as its writer. Diana Penty, Diljit Dosanjh, and Boman Irani embody the key characters. Read more: Eid-ul-Azha 2025 Bengali TV Drama Preview: Top Upcoming Bangladeshi Natoks Set to Spark the Festival The premise centres on an amateur sleuth whose overzealous antics fuel a simulated comedy woven through a criminal case. The production credit goes to AAZ Films, Maurya Entertainment, and Offside Entertainment.

Chart-topper punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh continues to expand his cinematic journey. Known for his landmark appearance at Coachella, this globally recognised actor remains a defining figure in contemporary entertainment. He now returns with the next installment of his widely popular horror comedy franchise. Titled ‘Sardaarji 3,’ the upcoming film is slated for release on June 27, 2025. The recently revealed first look has already sparked comparisons to a well-known genre hit. Let’s break down the poster and its nationwide fans' reaction. ‘Sardaarji 3’ Poster Teases Vibes of ‘Stree’ Diljit Dosanjh took to Instagram to announce his next big-screen outing with a motion poster reveal. At the centre stands Diljit, wearing his signature grin, while a circle of veiled women surrounds him. Their faces hidden under traditional ghoonghats add an eerie stillness to the otherwise vibrant frame. The setup hints at an offbeat ride packed with energy, humour, and a fantastical edge. Viewers were quick to pick up on the familiarity. The imagery sparked instant comparisons with ‘Stree’ (2018), known for blending supernatural suspense with quirky charm. From the veiled female figures to the comedic undertone, the parallels felt unmistakable. Read more: Pakistani Drama Tere Bin Emerges as an All-Time Audience Favourite Diljit’s caption deepened that impression. He playfully hinted that ghosts might shiver and witches could demand kisses. He sums it all up with three simple cues: goosebumps, laughter, and love. His words suggest a chaotic mix of romance, comedy, and spooky fun, much like Stree’s winning formula. Audience Reaction The unveiled poster has stirred anticipation across social media. Its eerie composition hints at more than just light-hearted fun. Shadows, mystery, and hidden identities suggest a darker twist woven into the familiar comic framework. The poster marks a significant moment for the beloved Punjabi franchise’s third chapter. The announcement came with the promise of an upcoming teaser, further intensifying the buzz. Read more: Aditya Roy Kapur on reuniting with Anurag Basu for Metro In Dino: "Every Day Brings Something New" With visuals pointing to a ghostly edge, audiences are now awaiting what appears to be a bold return to the genre’s spooky roots. A Brief Journey to the Sardaarji franchise The franchise began its journey in 2015 with a mix of fantasy, horror, and comedy, an unusual blend for Punjabi cinema at the time. Directed by Rohit Jugraj, the first installment starred Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa, and Mandy Takhar in key roles. Its imaginative storyline and genre-defying tone marked it as one of the pioneering fantasy ventures in the regional film industry. The second chapter arrived just a year later, in 2016. Though set in the same universe, it functioned as a standalone sequel. Dosanjh took on a triple role, showcasing his comic timing and screen presence with support from Monica Gill and Sonam Bajwa. Rohit Jugraj Chauhan returned to direct, continuing the blend of absurdity and thrill that defined the original. Read more: Maalik Teaser: Gangster Rajkummar Rao becomes "Hero" of his own tale The upcoming third part signals a new chapter with director Amar Hundal taking the reins. The cast expands to include familiar and fresh faces: Neeru, Manav Vij, Saleem Albela, Nasir Chinyoti, and Monica Sharma. Initial speculation surrounded the involvement of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. Dosanjh later addressed it quietly, indicating her absence from the project. Adding to the anticipation is the reunion of Dosanjh and Neeru, coming on the heels of their recent success ‘Jatt & Juliet 3’ (2024). Their dynamic has consistently drawn audiences, and their return promises yet another engaging on-screen pairing. Read more: Eid-ul-Azha 2025 Bengali TV Drama Preview: Top Upcoming Bangladeshi Natoks Set to Spark the Festival Wrap Up ‘Sardaarji 3’ first look vibing Stree's horror comedy sparked instant excitement. Audiences responded with enthusiasm as the poster teased suspense and humour. While Hania Aamir’s rumoured role was ruled out, Neeru Bajwa returns, reprising her part from the original film. With Diljit Dosanjh at the centre, the franchise gears up for another thrilling entry. The film series is poised to bear an influential imprint on the Punjabi film industry.

Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has officially confirmed his exit from ‘Hera Pheri 3’ during the early stages of its production. This new installment continues the iconic Bollywood film series that has long featured him as the beloved character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte. This unexpected turn of events has sent waves of disappointment across the fanbase. Let’s take a look at what led to this surprising decision and the reactions of fans. Makers of the Hera Pheri Film Series This Indian comedy movie series debuted in 2000 and was directed by Priyadarshan and produced by A.G. Nadiadwala. Backed by the same producer, the second film was released in 2006 with Neeraj Vora directing. Now the third edition boasts Farhad Samji as its director and Firoz A. Nadiadwala as its producer. Over the years since its debut, this series has cultivated a devoted cult following. Read more: Bhool Chuk Maaf Movie Update: New Theatrical and OTT Release Dates Paresh Rawal Throughout the Franchise Rawal’s portrayal of Baburao is legendary in Bollywood. From the very first film, Baburao, affectionately known as Babu Bhaiya, quickly won over audiences. His character is a bumbling yet kind-hearted landlord, often seen in a perpetually inebriated state. Despite his flaws, Baburao forms an unlikely but effective partnership with Raju, played by Akshay Kumar, and Shyam, portrayed by Suniel Shetty. The chemistry between the three iconic characters surpassed all expectations of the comic-film lovers. Baburao has a unique way of delivering dialogue. Portraying eccentric activities with impeccable comic timing, this veteran actor claimed his place among the most popular cult figures in Bollywood. Memorable lines such as “Utha le re baba” and “Ye Babu Rao ka style hai” have transcended the screen. These phrases have become staples in online culture, inspiring countless memes and GIFs. These remain popular on social media platforms even today. Read more: Top 10 Netflix Originals Streaming in June 2025 Reason Behind the Exit The iconic actor confirmed his departure in a statement with Bollywood Hungama, simply acknowledging it as fact. Most importantly, creative disagreements between Rawal and the makers led to his decision to leave the project. In a separate conversation with Lallantop, Rawal opened up about deeper reasons behind his choice. He admitted feeling creatively stifled, describing the experience of being typecast as suffocating, likening it to a noose. He recalled approaching filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj back in 2007, soon after the second installment was released. Rawal had expressed his urge to break free from the Baburao image. He wanted to play a fresh character while retaining the familiar getup, hoping Bhardwaj could shape something new. However, he noted that most directors continued to view him solely through the lens of ‘Baburao’. As an actor, he felt the need to explore beyond that comfort zone. Read more: Godzilla x Kong: Supernova Teased for 2027 with Another Epic Monster Clash Interestingly, Akshay Kumar had once stepped away from the project too, before eventually returning. Fans of the franchise now hold onto the same hope that Rawal might also find his way back. Audience Reaction For the audience, his absence felt like a blow to the very spirit of the film series. The character of Babu Rao isn’t just a part of the story; he’s the pulse of the series. Without him, a large section of the audience believes the film simply won’t carry the same charm. Social media quickly reflected this wave of dismay. One user wondered aloud if all the fun had exited along with Rawal. Another firmly stated that without him, there’s no ‘Hera Pheri 3’ worth watching. Some fans urged the makers to reconsider, fearing the series might lose its legacy if pushed forward without its iconic face. One even pleaded not to ruin what had already become a cult classic for the sake of profit. Read more: Top Amazon Prime Originals to Binge-Watch in June 2025 Amid the disappointment, a few held on to hope. One fan expressed belief that Akshay Kumar might somehow bring Rawal back. According to fans, the movie just isn’t imaginable without Baburao. Bottom Line Paresh Rawal’s exit from ‘Hera Pheri 3’ marks a major shift in the franchise. His role as Baburao had long defined the series, blending comedy and heart in equal measure. Fans see his absence as a void that the upcoming installment may not fill. Social media is flooded with calls for his return, echoing his unmatched impact. While disappointment runs deep, many still hope Akshay Kumar can persuade Rawal to return and complete the beloved trio once again. Read more: Suriya’s ‘Retro’ Roars: A Bold Comeback With Myth, Action, And Box Office Glory

Buzz continues to build around the much-anticipated Bollywood feature as ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’ prepares for its big-screen and digital arrivals. The theatrical debut is now scheduled for May 23, 2025, while its OTT premiere shifts from May 16 to June 6, 2025. Let’s unpack the full slate of updates, including the cast, team, and theme. The Team Behind Bhool Chuk Maaf: Movie Makers and Cast This science fiction film has been produced under the collaboration of Maddock Films and world-renowned film house Amazon MGM Studios. It marks Amazon’s Indian film debut. The distribution rights go to PVR INOX Pictures, Pen Marudhar, and Yash Raj Films. Directed and penned by Karan Sharma, the romantic comedy movie stars Wamiqa Gabbi, Rajkummar Rao, and Seema Pahwa in lead roles. Read more: Top 10 Netflix Originals Streaming in June 2025 The supporting cast comprises Sanjay Mishra, Zakir Hussain, Raghubir Yadav, Ishtiyak Khan, Anubha Fatehpuria, and Jay Thakkar. Dhanashree Verma makes a special appearance in the track ‘Ting Ling Sajna’. A refreshed version of the 2009 hit ‘Chor Bazaari Phir Se’ finds new life in this film’s soundtrack. The song was originally voiced by Sunidhi Chauhan and Neeraj Shridhar in the film ‘Love Aaj Kal’. Tanishk Bagchi scores the soundtrack with lyrics by Irshad Kamil, while Ketan Sodha handles the background music. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte Storyline Based on Sci-fi Comedy Theme Set against the vibrant backdrop of Varanasi, the movie explores the charm of small-town romance. At its heart is Ranjan, played by Rajkummar, a sincere dreamer who lands a government job to win the hand of his beloved. Wamiqa portrays Titli Mishra, his spirited fiancee. Just as their wedding approaches, something strange begins. A time loop traps Ranjan in a never-ending rewind to their Haldi ceremony. Titli, unaware of the loop, leaves him battling the bizarre repetition alone. Controversy Surrounding Theatrical and OTT Releases The film’s journey to release has been anything but smooth. With over 5,000 tickets already sold through box offices and online platforms, generating more than Rs. 3 crore in revenue. However, a last-minute decision by Maddock Films to cancel the theatrical release sparked immediate backlash. This sudden shift to a digital launch triggered legal action. PVR INOX, citing major financial setbacks and breach of contract, filed a lawsuit seeking Rs. 60 crore in damages. They argued that the eleventh-hour cancellation had caused irreversible losses across distribution and exhibition networks. Read more: Godzilla x Kong: Supernova Teased for 2027 with Another Epic Monster Clash On May 9, 2025, the Bombay High Court stepped in. It granted ad-interim relief to PVR INOX, prohibiting Maddock Films from releasing the movie on any digital or non-theatrical platform. This restriction remains in place until the mandatory eight-week holdback period has passed following a theatrical premiere. Just days later, on 14 May, both parties reached a compromise. The film will now hit theatres on May 23, 2025. Hindi films typically follow an eight-week gap before reaching OTT platforms. However, this title will stream on Prime Video in just two weeks, on June 6, 2025. This rare exception was ordered by the court and will not serve as precedent for future releases. In a final turn, PVR INOX has chosen to drop its Rs. 60 crore compensation claim. Maddock Films will not owe any financial settlement. A formal joint statement from both sides is expected to clarify the resolution and terms of this agreement. Bottom Line New release dates for ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’ are set for May 23, 2025, in theatres and June 6, 2025, on Prime Video. Karan Sharma’s direction and the cast led by Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi signify Amazon’s maiden Hindi-language production. This sci-fi romantic comedy unfolds around a time loop trapping the protagonist during a wedding ceremony. The release faced legal hurdles after a last-minute shift from theatres to digital. However, the dispute was resolved with a delayed theatrical release and a shortened OTT window. Read more: Top Amazon Prime Originals to Binge-Watch in June 2025

Breaking away from the war-soaked legacy of its predecessor, Kesari Chapter 2 carves its path through the high-stakes world of courtroom drama. Released on April 18, 2025, this Akshay Kumar-led film places its strength in sharp dialogues, layered emotions, and legal confrontations. Let’s evaluate the filmmaking finesse, star appeal, and box office trajectory of the Bollywood historical drama Kesari Chapter 2. Narrative Depth of Kesari Chapter 2 Subtitled ‘The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh,’ this chapter revisits one of colonial India’s darkest hours, seldom explored on screen. Inspired by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat’s The Case That Shook The Empire, the film leans into its charting of familiar territory with dignity rather than daring. Anchored by the tireless resolve of C. Sankaran Nair, it delves deep into his courtroom quest for justice following the brutal Jallianwala Bagh massacre. As legal proceedings unmask imperial deceit and media manipulation, Nair’s defiance ignites both a legal and emotional uprising. Read more: Top Pakistani Dramas in 2025 Showcasing Strong Female Leads Filmmaking: Direction and Screenplay in Harmony When storytelling meets sincerity, it leaves a lasting imprint, and this film does just that under the assured vision of Karan Singh Tyagi. His approach isn’t weighed down by the need to sensationalise history but rather to let the gravity of its truth speak for itself. Each frame feels like it was carved with both reverence and restraint. It offers a cinematic experience that balances commercial storytelling with historical depth. Even the few dramatised moments stay rooted in emotional honesty, never tipping into artificiality. What’s especially refreshing is its resistance to the typical post-interval slump; the pacing remains taut and engaging throughout. The dialogues, shaped meticulously by Sumit Saxena, feel less like scripted lines, deliberate truths waiting to strike. Credit also flows to Tyagi and Amritpal Singh Bindra’s subtle strength in co-shaping the screenplay. With this creative collaboration, the drama avoids overblown patriotism, opting instead for quiet, piercing dignity. Read more: May 2025 Bollywood Releases: 10 Most Hyped Hindi Films To Watch Star Cast Led by Akshay Kumar Akshay delivers a performance that transcends his usual action-packed persona. Stepping into the shoes of C. Sankaran Nair, he masterfully portrays the transformation of a British loyalist into a passionate truth-seeker. His ability to channel the inner conflict of a man torn between loyalty and morality introduces a unique depth to his character. Every monologue, carefully crafted and executed, is a moment of defiance and a raw human reaction to the forces of manipulation. In contrast, R. Madhavan, as Neville McKinley, serves as the perfect foil to Akshay’s stoic intensity. His portrayal of an eloquent, somewhat eccentric opposing counsel presents a refined complexity to their courtroom clashes. These verbal duels are poised as ideological battlegrounds, where each word carries the weight of colonial repression and personal belief. Ananya Panday shines as Dilreet Kaur, a co-counsel whose quiet determination adds gravitas to her role. She navigates her character’s legal prowess and personal pain with remarkable maturity. Meanwhile, Regina Cassandra’s portrayal of Nair’s wife, Palat Kunhimalu Amma, anchors much-needed support to Nair's tumultuous journey. Read more: May 2025 Amazon Prime Video Originals Streaming Lineup: Movies, Series, Shows Finally, Simon Paisley Day brings a chilling presence as General Dyer, whose backstory adds a layer of tragic complexity to his villainous role. His portrayal sheds light on the dark psychology driving colonial violence. Visual Brilliance and Score: Production Set, Cinematography, and Music The production design by Rita Ghosh flawlessly brings the pre-Independence era to life. It extends from the bustling streets of Amritsar to the bloodied grounds of Jallianwala Bagh. The colonial courts, the grandeur of the Viceroy’s parties feels genuine yet not overly staged. Every single detail is meticulously crafted to evoke the period’s oppressive atmosphere.  Debojeet Ray’s cinematography, paired with Tyagi's direction, adds a visual depth that enhances the emotional weight of the story. The music elevates the experience further with Shashwat Sachdev’s stirring compositions, like ‘O Shera’ and ‘Kithe Gaya.’ Azeem Dayani’s background score underscores the tension and drama. A poignant moment arrives with the nostalgic revisit of ‘Teri Mitti,’ an emotional callback to the first film, binding the narrative together beautifully. Read more: Sunny Deol's Jaat Movie Review: Is It Worth Watching Box Office Strength and Audience Verdict Bankrolled by the collaborative strength of Dharma Productions, Leo Media Collective, and Cape of Good Films, the film’s box office journey began with steady momentum. Its opening day pulled in Rs 7.75 crore, which is around BDT 11.02 crore (Rs. 1 = BDT 1.42); a respectable start. The second day witnessed a healthy uplift, recording Rs 9.5 crore (BDT 13.51 crore), 22.58 percent growth from day 1. As of midday on April 20, the third-day earnings stood at Rs. 0.6 crore (BDT 0.8 crore), pushing the total to Rs. 17.85 crore (BDT 25.38 crore). Despite stiff competition from Sunny Deol’s roaring comeback in Jaat, the movie’s hold remains promising. Audience reception shines brightly too, with an IMDB rating of 8.6- a testament to its impact beyond mere numbers. Verdict Kesari Chapter 2 Movie Review reflects a gripping courtroom journey wrapped in patriotic depth and emotional weight. Akshay Kumar’s compelling portrayal of C. Sankaran Nair marks one of his most restrained yet stirring performances. The historical drama arrived with an impressive box office turnout, holding audience attention despite its creatively mixed echoes. A fine blend of storytelling and purpose, Karan Singh’s direction emerges as a dignified sequel worth watching. Read more: 10 Best Films, Documentaries on Palestine That Everyone Should Watch

Bollywood’s cinematic universe has always been a vibrant mosaic of emotions and larger-than-life narratives that echo across generations. As May 2025 approaches, the diverse slate of Hindi film releases covers crime, thrillers, romance, comedy, horror, historical epics, and action-packed sagas. With a mix of celebrated stars and promising new talents gracing the screen, fans are eagerly counting down the premiere days. Here’s the list of most-anticipated Bollywood movies coming in this May. 10 Must-watch Bollywood Films Debuting this May . Raid 2 | Crime Thriller | May 1, 2025 A direct successor to the 2018 movie Raid, this thriller thrives under the direction of Raj Kumar Gupta, who co-wrote the movie with Ritesh Shah, Karan Vyas, and Jaideep Yadav. The narrative sharpens its lens on Amay Patnaik, an Indian Revenue Service officer. His unyielding pursuit of black money has already led to the recovery of over Rs. 4,200 crores. Now, he prepares for his landmark 75th raid, locking horns with Dada Manohar Bhai, a formidable figure entrenched in white-collar crime. Read more: May 2025 Amazon Prime Video Originals Streaming Lineup: Movies, Series, Shows The major cast members are Riteish Deshmukh, Vaani Kapoor, and Ajay Devgn. The film showcases item songs featuring special cameos by Tamannaah Bhatia, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Yo Yo Honey Singh. Headlined by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Honey Singh, the soundtrack brings together an ensemble featuring White Noise Collectives, Sachet-Parampara, Rochak Kohli, and Amit Trivedi. Trivedi also orchestrates the background score. The production credit goes to Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Kumar Mangat Pathak, and Abhishek Pathak. The Bhootnii | Horror Comedy | May 1, 2025 Initially slated for premiere on April 18, this Sanjay Dutt-fronted action-horror spectacle is now set to make its theatrical debut on May 1. Alongside Dutt, “The Bhootnii” stars Sunny Singh, Mouni Roy, Palak Tiwari, Aasif Khan, Beyounick, and Navneet Malik in crucial roles. Read more: Sunny Deol's Jaat Movie Review: Is It Worth Watching Besides directing and writing the movie, Sidhaant Sachdev contributes to its screenplay along with Vankush Arora. The narrative unwraps with St. Vincent College’s Virgin Tree awakening a love-starved spirit every Valentine’s Day. When Shantanu's wish stirs her obsession, 27 days of eerie love and growing horror unfold. As dread grips the campus, a parapsychicist, Baba, faces a force beyond his lifetime of ghost-hunting. The horror-comedy makes its way to theatres courtesy of producers Deepak Mukut, Hunar Mukut, Sanjay Dutt, and Maanayata Dutt. Costao | Crime Drama | May 1, 2025 This film draws inspiration from the real-life grit of customs officer Costao Fernandes, who, in the 1990s, dismantled Goa’s most entrenched smuggling empire. This crime drama charts Fernandes’ lone-wolf crusade against one of India’s largest gold trafficking syndicates. The directing of Sejal Shah and the writing of Bhavesh Mandalia and Meghna Srivastava elevate the drama. Read more: 10 Best Films, Documentaries on Palestine That Everyone Should Watch Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Priya Bapat, Kishore Kumar G., and Davina Colaco portray the main characters. Kamlesh Bhanushali, Vinod Bhanushali, Bhavesh Mandalia, Sejal Shah, Faizuddin Siddiqui, and Shyam Sunder oversee the production. Bhool Chuk Maaf | Comedy Drama | May 9, 2025 Bankrolled by Dinesh Vijan, this joint production of Maddock Films and Amazon MGM Studios highlights the writing and directing prowess of Karan Sharma. The lead cast consists of Wamiqa Gabbi, Rajkumar Rao, and Seema Pahwa, supported by Sanjay Mishra and Zakir Hussain. The storyline drifts through the narrow places of Varanasi, where the charm of small-town love meets the twists of destiny. Ranjan, a lovestruck dreamer, lands a secure government post to marry his beloved Titli. But as wedding bells near, fate traps him in an inexplicable time loop. Read more: Farewell to ACP Pradyuman: Tribute to Sony TV Crime Drama CID's Legendary Character Abir Gulaal | Romantic Comedy | May 9, 2025 Flourished with Aarti S. Bagdi as the director, this romantic movie headlines actors Vaani Kapoor and Fawad Khan. The story unfolds as fate entwines the lives of two wounded hearts, each carrying silent scars of their past. Through shared moments of vulnerability, their companionship deepens, slowly blossoming into a love rooted in solace. The supporting cast members are Riddhi Dogra, Lisa Haydon, Farida Jalal, Soni Razdan, and Parmeet Sethi. With Amit Trivedi composing the music, this movie is a collaborative production of Vivek B. Agrawal, Avantika Hari, Rakesh Sippy, and Firuzi Khan. Read more: Top 10 Netflix English Originals Releasing in May 2025

“Jaat” marks Sunny Deol’s cinematic comeback, reviving the raw intensity that once defined his larger-than-life action era. At 67, the veteran star once again shoulders the weight of high-octane drama and fist-pumping sequences. Released theatrically on 10 April 2025, this film taps into old-school heroism with unshaken resolve. Let's find out if the Bollywood action thriller Jaat (2025) truly packs a punch or merely rides on nostalgia. Jaat Movie Insights: Storyline, Theme, and Direction Set against the windswept shores of Ramayapatnam, “Jaat” opens with a familiar setup: A stranger’s arrival disrupts the reign of a merciless tyrant. What follows is a battle not just of muscle but of moral reckoning. Director Gopichand Malineni, making his Hindi debut after a strong Telugu run, infuses the first half with remarkable energy. With the unmistakable flavour of the Madras Cut, the film crafts a tightly edited, sharply written build-up that surprises with its humour and fluid pacing.  Read more: 10 Best Films, Documentaries on Palestine That Everyone Should Watch Gopichand, alongside co-writers Srinivas Gavireddy and Kundan Pandey, maintains a screenplay that invites curiosity and keeps the viewer guessing. There’s craft in the setup, an assurance in the rhythm, and polish in every frame. However, this polish fades as the second half unravels. The plot begins to sag under the weight of scattered sub-themes. It extends from moral crusades to social messaging and half-baked women empowerment arcs. The tonal balance wavers, and what once felt precise becomes overstuffed. Even the stylised violence begins to feel repetitive rather than impactful. Sunny Deol’s Action Legacy Is Far from Done Beneath the dust and defiance, the movie builds toward an inevitable clash, though the path leading there holds enough punch to keep things moving. Sunny Deol’s name goes unspoken until deep into the second half, but by then, the aura is already cemented. He leans fully into his strengths—every bellow, every punch sending bodies flying, lands with satisfying impact.  Read more: April 2025 Hindi Films Lineup: Top 10 Most Hyped Bollywood Releases Thaman S.’s rousing background score breathes rhythm into each frame, especially during those slow-motion power walks and tension-laced standoffs. “Jaat” works best as a nostalgic ride for Sunny fans, even if it stops short of offering something truly new beneath the spectacle. Casts In the Shadows of the Spotlight A brooding menace cloaks Randeep Hooda’s performance—sharp, deliberate, and just restrained enough to intrigue. Though the “real-life Jaat” angle is left underexplored, he owns the screen whenever present. Vineet Kumar Singh revels in madness, slipping into his wild sidekick role with unforced flair. Read more: April 2025 South Indian Film Slate: 12 most hyped releases Regina Cassandra commands attention with layered poise. Saiyami Kher’s cop role feels underutilised, limited to mere script requirements without the chance to leave a lasting impression. Jagapathi Babu’s character also fades into the background, failing to make a significant impact. Solid Opening in Box Office and IMDb Score Backed by Mythri Movie Makers, People Media Factory, and Zee Studios, Jaat arrived with solid commercial momentum. Its opening day haul of Rs 9.5 crore placed it as the fourth-biggest Hindi opener of 2025, crossing BDT 13.14 crore (Rs. 1 = BDT 1.38). By 2 pm on April 11, it added another 1.39 crore (approximately BDT 1.92 crore), holding steady on its second day. The numbers fall short when placed beside the thunderous Rs 40 crore (over BDT 55.34 crore) launch that Gadar 2 stormed in with back in 2023. However, they still mark an improvement over Deol’s recent outings. Read more: 12 Most Anticipated South Indian Movies Releasing in March 2025 ET News claims that Rs. 3.62 million (over BDT 5 million) worth of tickets were sold in just two hours. As per the Times of India, pre-release ticket sales reached Rs. 62.7 million (beyond BDT 86.75 million). On IMDb, the film currently holds a respectable 7.8 rating from 827 users. In a Nutshell The Bollywood film Jaat (2025) delivers a familiar yet rousing action experience, with Sunny Deol stealing the spotlight through sheer presence and raw power. His performance reminds audiences why he's long been a mass favourite. The action film opened well at the box office, signalling strong crowd pull despite mixed creative reception. While it doesn’t break new ground, Gopichand’s direction succeeds as a throwback entertainer. It is definitely a decent one-time watch for One-Man-Army epic action fans. Read more: March 2025 Bollywood Movie Releases: Top 10 Most-Anticipated Hindi Films to Watch

Bollywood remains a captivating force, mesmerising audiences with its ever-evolving storytelling and cinematic artistry. The Hindi film slate for April 2025 offers a thrilling blend of drama, horror, thriller, and sci-fi, promising diverse experiences. Newcomers and rising stars share the screen with industry favourites making this month's releases even more anticipated. Let’s explore the top 10 Bollywood films hitting theatres this April. Top 10 Most Anticipated Hindi Movies Releasing this April . Jaat / Action Thriller / April 10, 2025 Under the joint production of Mythri Movie Makers and People Media Factory, this action movie stars Sunny Deol and Randeep Hooda in lead roles. Besides crafting the story, the Tamil director Gopichand Malineni marks his Bollywood debut with this film. He also contributed to its screenplay alongside Srinivas Gavireddy. Dialogues are shaped by Sai Madhav Burra and Saurabh Gupta. The supporting cast includes Vineet Kumar Singh, Upendra Limaye, Prashant Bajaj, Regina Cassandra, and Saiyami Kher. Read more: Vicky Kaushal fans defend him as twitter blames Chhaava for Nagpur violence  While plot details remain undisclosed, Jaat is poised to follow Hussain (Deol) and Dev Khan (Randeep). They navigate brotherhood, loyalty, and adversity in a turbulent world. Taking charge of the musical score are Thaman S and Amrit Maan. Bhool Chuk Maaf / Sci-fi Comedy / April 10, 2025 Bankrolled by Dinesh Vijan on behalf of Maddock Films, this sci-fi movie excels with Karan Sharma as its writer and director. This sci-fi tale follows a groom-to-be whose wedding is just a day away, only for the Haldi ceremony to reset in an endless time loop. It traps him in a cycle of anticipation, confusion, and dread. Read more: Aamir Khan steps out with girlfriend Gauri in first public appearance post relationship confirmation Led by Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi, the talented ensemble includes Kumud Mishra, Sadia Khateeb, Revathi, and Sharib Hashmi. Phule / Biography / April 11, 2025 In an era when child marriage was prevalent and girls were denied education, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule defied norms by taking a big step. He educates his wife, Savitribai Phule, and together they fight for the underprivileged. With this plot, ‘Phule’ boasts Ananth Mahadevan as the director and writer  Pratik Gandhi plays Jyotirao, and Patralekhaa Paul portrays the role of Savitribai. The other key cast members include Darsheel Safary, Vinay Pathak, Joy Sengupta, Alexx O'Nell, Jeet Raidutt, and Sushil Pandey. Read more: Hollywood director arrested for allegedly swindling $11M from Netflix Credit for producing the biography goes to Dancing Shiva Productions and Kingsmen Productions. Raibaar / Family Drama / April 11, 2025 Featuring Shishir Uniyal in a pivotal role, this drama thrives under his direction and writing. The writing team also includes Dinesh Bijalwan and Bhagat Singh. Set in Uttarakhand, this story follows Pushkar, a mid-30s postman who stumbles upon an undelivered letter from seven years ago. Determined to find its rightful recipient, he embarks on a personal journey in search of long-buried answers. Sunil Singh, Shrish Dobhal, Suman Gaur, Mohit Ghildiyal, Rajesh Naugain, Rakesh Arya, Subhash Chamoli, Sushil Purohit, and Anju Purohit portray the key characters. Read more: April 2025 South Indian Film Slate: 12 most hyped releases Rajendra Chauhan’s compositions set the tone for this family drama, backed by Bhagat Singh under Kinoscope Films. Tum / Drama / April 14, 2025 This movie explores the lives of two strangers, each awaiting a significant encounter, only to realize that meeting each other is the turning point they never anticipated. As their interactions unfold, so do the hidden stories within them. Torn between self-doubt and acceptance, they navigate life’s complexities with an unexpected sense of ease. Meenakshi Vinay Rai directs and writes this drama while also producing it under MVR Cinema and composing its music alongside Shruti Rai. The main cast comprises Vinay Rai, Shruti Rai, and Meenakshi Rai. Read more: Amazon Prime Video Original Lineup for April 2025: Most Hyped Web Series and Films

On his 60th birthday, Bollywood star Aamir Khan made headlines not just for the milestone but for introducing his partner, Gauri Spratt, to the public. At a pre-birthday gathering in Mumbai, Aamir spoke candidly about their relationship and future plans.  Speaking to the media at a Mumbai hotel, Aamir shared that he and Gauri first met 25 years ago but lost touch, reconnecting two years ago. "I was looking for someone who brings me peace, and I found that in her," he said. He explained that they had reached a point in their relationship where they felt secure enough to make it public. "Now, I won’t have to hide things. If we go for coffee, you can join us too," he joked.  Having been married twice before—to Reena Dutta and Kiran Rao—Aamir has three children. He revealed that Gauri had met them and that they liked her. When asked about marriage, he laughed, saying, "We are fully committed. But at 60, marriage may not suit me. Let’s see."  Rashmika Mandanna: The box office queen who surpassed Deepika, Alia Gauri, originally from Bangalore, is the daughter of Rita Spratt, who owned a salon in the city. According to her LinkedIn profile, she currently manages a BBlunt salon in Mumbai. She has a six-year-old child and has been dating Aamir for the past 18 months.  While Aamir remains uncertain about another marriage, his openness about the relationship signals a new chapter in his life. With inputs from Indian media