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Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari movie release poster

Big Dussehra Release: Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor's Rom-Com 'Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari' Hits Theatres

New Delhi: The highly anticipated Hindi film, 'Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari' (SSKTK), has finally been released in cinemas across India today, October 2, a date that coincides with the national holidays of Dussehra and Gandhi Jayanti. This romantic comedy, which promises light-hearted family entertainment, stars popular actors Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor in the leading roles.

The movie marks the return of director Shashank Khaitan, known for earlier box office hits like 'Badrinath Ki Dulhania.' The story revolves around two people, Sunny and Tulsi, who pretend to be a couple to make their ex-partners jealous, leading to funny and dramatic situations. The film also features strong supporting performances from Sanya Malhotra and Rohit Saraf.

The film was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with a U/A certificate, which means it is suitable for family viewing, though parental guidance is advised for children. With a crisp runtime of just over two hours, the film is designed to be a fast-paced entertainer, packed with music and drama.

Box Office Clash and Early Performance

The release of SSKTK has created a major box office battle as it is clashing with the prequel to the much-talked-about South Indian hit, 'Kantara: Chapter 1'.

Trade experts noted that the advance bookings for the Varun Dhawan-starrer were moderate, reportedly crossing the ₹3 crore mark. This means the movie will depend heavily on audiences buying tickets directly at the counter today and during the long weekend holidays. Projections suggest the film could earn an opening day collection in the range of ₹8 to ₹10 crore.

Director Shashank Khaitan, responding to the competition, has stated that he believes there is a large audience for both films, as they offer two completely different genres—a light-hearted rom-com and a mythological thriller.

Audience Reaction and Reviews

Initial reactions from both fans and critics have been varied. Many social media users have praised the film, calling it a "feel-good family entertainer" and highlighting the "sparkling chemistry" between Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor. They specifically appreciated Varun Dhawan's return to his comedy style.

However, some film reviewers pointed out that while the film has witty dialogues and great performances, the overall story is familiar and lacks originality. Despite this, the general consensus is that Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari provides a good dose of laughter and entertainment, making it a suitable watch for the festive season.

The film's success will now be determined by positive word-of-mouth throughout the Dussehra weekend. The producers have also confirmed that the film will be available for streaming on Netflix after its run in the theatres is over.

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Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco Posing together

Hollywood Star's Wedding Ceremony Expected This Weekend

Mumbai: Hollywood singer and actress Selena Gomez and music producer Benny Blanco are reportedly getting married this weekend. Reports from international media suggest that the wedding ceremony will be a private affair in Santa Barbara, California, with a star-studded guest list.

The couple, who have been in a relationship since late 2023, announced their engagement in December 2024. The news of their wedding has generated significant interest among fans worldwide. According to reports from International Media preparations for the event are in full swing at a private estate. The venue is being kept secret, and guests are expected to be taken there by special transport for privacy.

The guest list is rumoured to include several big names from the entertainment industry, such as Selena’s long-time friend Taylor Swift, who has reportedly already arrived in California. Her "Only Murders in the Building" co-stars, Steve Martin and Martin Short, are also expected to attend. Other notable guests reportedly include Paris Hilton and some of Benny Blanco's music collaborators.

In recent interviews, Selena Gomez has spoken about her excitement for the wedding. She told Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show that she is "so excited" and "very lucky." She also mentioned that she has been using social media platforms like Pinterest for wedding inspiration.

The couple’s relationship has been closely followed by the media. Their journey, which began with professional collaborations, turned into a romantic one. Benny Blanco is known for his work with famous artists, including Selena's former boyfriends. Despite this, Selena has publicly defended her relationship with him, stating he is the "best thing that's ever happened" to her.

The wedding is being planned as an intimate and secure event, with some reports even suggesting a "no phone" policy to ensure complete privacy. While no official statements have been released by the couple themselves, the preparations and confirmed guest arrivals point towards the wedding taking place as planned. The public and fans are eagerly waiting for updates from what is expected to be one of the most talked-about weddings of the year. (agencies)

 

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SON OF SARDAAR 2 REVIEW

 MUMBAI – Ajay Devgn's much-anticipated sequel, "Son of Sardaar 2," has been released to a divided response from critics and audiences, with many praising its comedic timing and others critiquing its predictable plot and uneven execution. The film, which hit theaters on August 1, 2025, faced stiff competition from other releases, leading to a modest opening at the box office.

The film, starring Ajay Devgn, Mrunal Thakur, and Ravi Kishan in lead roles, is a sequel to the 2012 hit "Son of Sardaar." The movie has received a mix of positive and negative reviews, with many labeling it as a "paisa vasool" (worth the money) entertainer for its humor, while others found the plot weak. The film was released in theaters on August 1, 2025. The movie is being shown in theaters across India and is facing stiff competition from other films. The film was made to capitalize on the success of the original, with the makers hoping to deliver a lighthearted, family-friendly comedy.

Detailed Insights into the Reviews

"Son of Sardaar 2" takes the chaotic humor of the original film and moves the setting from rural Punjab to the scenic highlands of Scotland. Ajay Devgn reprises his role as Jaswinder "Jassi" Singh Randhawa, who finds himself entangled in a new series of misadventures. The plot revolves around Jassi pretending to be a war hero to help two lovers, leading to a cascade of humorous situations. The film also features a star-studded ensemble cast, including Deepak Dobriyal, Kubbra Sait, Sanjay Mishra, and a posthumous appearance by Mukul Dev.

Positive reviews lauded the film for its a-brazen, no-logic approach to comedy. Hindustan Times called it "silly, harmless fun" and praised its ability to embrace its "nonsense." Many audience members on social media echoed this sentiment, celebrating Devgn's return to comedy and calling the film a great family entertainer. The chemistry between the leads, particularly the performance of Ravi Kishan as a flamboyant gangster, has also been highlighted as a major plus. One review noted, "Ravi Kishan... is a riot as a Pakistan-hating businessman-turned-gangster, delivering some of the film's best lines and laughs." The film's emotional beats and a positive underlying message were also appreciated by some viewers.

However, the film was not without its critics. The Leading News Channel review gave the movie a 1.5-star rating, calling it "more mess than mass" and stating that it "struggles to match the charm or chaos of the first film." Other critiques pointed out the predictable plot, dated writing, and an over-reliance on forced jokes. One critic from Cinema Express described the film as "a plotless, tasteless, abysmal excuse of a film," suggesting that the star cast was not enough to save the weak script. The film’s depiction of India-Pakistan relations and its "bomb-dropping" punchlines were also met with mixed reactions, with some finding them humorous and others feeling they were problematic.

Box Office Performance and Future Outlook

The film's theatrical run is off to a slow start. Trade analysts from The Times of India reported that "Son of Sardaar 2" had a modest opening, selling only about 28,000 tickets in advance bookings. This can be attributed to stiff competition from films like "Saiyaara" and "Mahavatar Narsimha," which are still performing strongly at the box office. The film also faces a direct clash with "Dhadak 2," which was released on the same day. Experts predict a slow opening day collection, around ₹6.5-7 crore, and believe the film's success will depend heavily on positive word-of-mouth over the weekend to attract more audiences.

As a final thought, "Son of Sardaar 2" appears to be a film for a specific audience—those looking for a lighthearted, no-brainer comedy without too much concern for plot or logic. While it has its moments and some strong performances from its supporting cast, its weaknesses in storytelling and humor have been noted by many. Its performance in the crowded box office remains to be seen, but the initial reviews suggest a bumpy ride for the sequel.


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Marvel Studios has officially announced the start of production for Avengers: Doomsday, revealing a massive ensemble cast led by Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom. The film, set to release on May 1, 2026, marks the next chapter in the Multiverse Saga and follows Marvel’s surprise reveal at 2024’s San Diego Comic-Con. Directed by the Russo brothers, the movie promises a high-stakes battle across realities, with returning and new heroes facing the iconic villain.

Since 2021, Marvel fans have anticipated another Avengers film, but delays due to studio shifts, cast changes, and industry strikes left details uncertain. The project, initially titled Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, was reworked following creative overhauls and audience reception to Kang’s portrayal in Quantumania. The Russo brothers (Avengers: Endgame) returned to helm the film after a break, citing excitement over Downey’s casting as Doom.

The confirmed cast includes Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards), Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), and franchise newcomers like Kelsey Grammer and Patrick Stewart reprising their X-Men roles. Notably absent are younger heroes like Tom Holland’s Spider-Man, though Marvel hints at further casting announcements.

Plot details remain scarce, but Doomsday is expected to explore Doom’s multiversal conquest, potentially setting up Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). The film will span realities, including Latveria, the TVA, and Fox’s X-Men universe, blending serious stakes with Marvel’s signature spectacle.

As production ramps up, speculation grows over Doom’s role and potential surprises. With Fantastic Four: First Steps (2024) introducing his origins, Doomsday could redefine the MCU’s future. Marvel’s next phases hinge on this clash of heroes and villains—across infinite worlds.

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New Delhi: Tom Cruise’s highly anticipated action thriller, Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, will now release in Indian cinemas on May 17, 2025, six days ahead of its original May 23 date. The announcement was confirmed by the film’s creators via Instagram on Friday, accompanied by a poster of Cruise reprising his role as IMF agent Ethan Hunt. The movie, directed by Christopher McQuarrie, will screen in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, catering to pan-Indian audiences.

The decision to advance the India release aligns with Paramount Pictures’ strategy to capitalize on the franchise’s massive fanbase in the country. The Instagram announcement emphasized the film’s multilingual release, a move aimed at broadening its reach. While no official reason was cited for the date shift, industry analysts speculate it could avoid clashing with other summer blockbusters.

Paramount has steadily ramped up promotional efforts, recently releasing gripping behind-the-scenes (BTS) footage of Cruise’s daredevil stunts. One clip showcased the actor clinging to a submarine in full aquatic gear during an underwater sequence. Another viral video highlighted Cruise piloting a helicopter through 140 mph winds at 8,000 feet, a stunt performed without CGI. A voiceover in the clip detailed the physical toll: “The wind distorts your vision. It’s almost impossible to breathe.” The caption bluntly stated: “No CGI.”

Alongside Cruise, the film stars Hayley Atwell, Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames, Vanessa Kirby, and Esai Morales. The Final Reckoning will debut globally at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival on May 14, three days before its India rollout. This marks the franchise’s first appearance at Cannes, underscoring its cultural and commercial significance.

The Mission: Impossible series, launched in 1996, has grossed over llionworldwide,withitsseventhinstallment(∗DeadReckoningPartOne∗,2023)earning567 million. Known for Cruise’s hands-on approach to stunts—from scaling the Burj Khalifa to HALO jumps—the films have consistently pushed practical effects to new heights, a tradition The Final Reckoning promises to uphold.

India remains a critical market for Hollywood, with the previous Mission: Impossible films performing strongly. Dead Reckoning Part One (2023) earned ₹120 crore ($14.5 million) in India, per industry tracker Sacnilk. The early release could help the film leverage pre-summer hype and avoid competition from regional releases.

With its Cannes premiere and India release dates locked, Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning is poised to deliver another adrenaline-fueled chapter. Fans eagerly await what Cruise has teased as “the most demanding shoot of his career.” As the countdown begins, all eyes are on whether Ethan Hunt’s final reckoning will redefine action cinema once again.

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Akshay Kumar’s Kesari Chapter 2 Sees Gradual Rise in Box Office Collections, Crosses Rs 19.54 Crore in Opening Weekend  

Akshay Kumar’s latest historical drama, Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh, opened to a modest Rs 7.75 crore on Friday but witnessed a steady uptick in earnings over the weekend, amassing Rs 19.54 crore in its first three days. The film, co-starring R. Madhavan and Ananya Panday, outperformed recent releases Sikandar and Jaat but fell short of the 2019 prequel Kesari’s record-breaking start.

Box Office Breakdown
According to Sacnilk reports, the film’s earnings grew from Rs 7.75 crore on Friday to Rs 9.50 crore on Saturday. Early estimates for Sunday suggest a collection of Rs 2.04 crore (India net), bringing the total to Rs 19.54 crore. While Sunday’s figures appear lower, industry analysts note these are preliminary numbers, with final totals expected to rise.

Audience Engagement
The film saw a 25.78% overall Hindi occupancy on April 19, peaking during evening (26.83%) and night shows (41.71%). Regional performance varied, with Chennai (56%), Bengaluru (43%), and Hyderabad (37.75%) leading in footfall, while the National Capital Region (NCR) trailed at 29.25%.

Cast and Context
Akshay Kumar portrays C. Shankaran Nair, a real-life figure who sought justice for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre, while R. Madhavan plays lawyer Neville McKinley. Ananya Panday features as Dilreet Gill in this period drama highlighting colonial resistance.

Competitive Landscape
Though Kesari Chapter 2 has surpassed contemporaries Jaat and Sikandar, it has yet to match the momentum of the 2019 original Kesari, which grossed over Rs 207 crore globally.

Conclusion:
Trade experts are cautiously optimistic about the film’s sustained performance, citing its historical appeal and holiday releases in the coming week. Final Sunday collections and weekday trends will determine its long-term viability in a competitive market.

Note: All figures cited are based on provisional data; final box office totals may vary.

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Bollywood actor John Abraham returns to the big screen with Diplomat, a high-stakes political thriller that has garnered significant attention since its release on March 15, 2025. Directed by Shivam Nair, the film delves into a fictionalized account of a real-life diplomatic crisis, exploring themes of patriotism, international relations, and moral dilemmas. With Abraham portraying a sharp and resilient diplomat caught in a web of political intrigue, the movie has sparked discussions among critics and audiences alike. But does Diplomat live up to expectations? Let’s find out.

The Storyline: A Riveting Political Drama

Diplomat is set against the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions, inspired by true events. The film follows Arun Joshi (played by John Abraham), a seasoned Indian diplomat, who is sent on a critical mission to negotiate the safe return of an Indian citizen wrongfully imprisoned in a foreign country. As Joshi navigates international pressure, espionage threats, and bureaucratic roadblocks, the film raises questions about the cost of diplomacy and the ethical dilemmas that come with it.

With its fast-paced narrative, Diplomat keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, skillfully blending real-world issues with cinematic drama. Screenwriter Ritesh Shah, known for his work in political thrillers like Madras Cafe and Batla House, crafts a compelling script that balances suspense with emotional depth.

John Abraham’s Performance: A Career-Defining Role?

John Abraham, best known for his roles in action-packed films such as Pathaan and Batla House, delivers a restrained yet powerful performance in Diplomat. Unlike his usual action-hero persona, here he relies on nuanced expressions and intense dialogue delivery to bring Arun Joshi’s character to life.

Critics have praised his mature portrayal of a seasoned diplomat, with trade analyst Taran Adarsh noting,

“John Abraham proves that he is more than just an action star. His performance in Diplomat is subtle, intense, and one of his finest to date.”

Supporting performances by Kumud Mishra, Sharib Hashmi, and Manish Chaudhari further elevate the film, with each actor playing a crucial role in depicting the high-stakes world of international negotiations.


Direction and Cinematography: A Taut Thriller

Director Shivam Nair, known for his work on espionage dramas like Special Ops, keeps the narrative tight and engaging. The film’s cinematography, handled by Tribhuvan Babu Sadineni, effectively captures the intensity of diplomatic meetings and covert operations, switching between grand international locations and confined negotiation rooms to enhance the suspense.

The background score by Sanjoy Chowdhury adds to the film’s gripping atmosphere, complementing the tense political drama with a pulsating soundtrack.

Critical Reception and Audience Response

Diplomat has received a mixed-to-positive reception, with many appreciating its fresh take on political thrillers while others feel it could have explored deeper nuances of diplomacy.

Critics’ Ratings:

  • Times of India: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Hindustan Times: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • NDTV: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
  • IMDB Audience Score: 7.8/10

The film’s realistic depiction of diplomatic challenges has resonated with audiences, particularly those who enjoy political dramas akin to Argo and Raazi. However, some critics argue that the film occasionally oversimplifies complex geopolitical issues for dramatic effect.

Box Office Performance and Industry Impact

Diplomat opened to a strong box office performance, collecting approximately ₹12 crore on its first day. Trade analysts predict that the film could cross the ₹100 crore mark in its first two weeks, making it one of John Abraham’s highest-grossing solo films.

The movie’s success highlights the growing demand for political thrillers in Indian cinema, a genre that has gained traction with films like A Wednesday! and Madras Cafe. If Diplomat continues its strong run, it may encourage Bollywood to invest in more content-driven thrillers rather than relying solely on big-budget action spectacles.

Final Verdict: Should You Watch Diplomat?

If you’re a fan of edge-of-the-seat political thrillers, Diplomat is a must-watch. John Abraham delivers one of his most compelling performances, backed by a solid script, tight direction, and an engaging narrative. While the film has a few predictable moments, it successfully captures the intensity and stakes of real-world diplomacy.

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

  • Pros: Strong performances, gripping storyline, realistic depiction of diplomacy.
  • Cons: Occasional oversimplification of political conflicts, minor pacing issues.

What’s Next?

With Diplomat performing well at the box office, industry insiders speculate that John Abraham might explore more content-driven roles in the future. Meanwhile, director Shivam Nair has hinted at potential sequels or spin-offs exploring different diplomatic missions.

As audiences continue to engage with politically charged narratives, Diplomat sets the stage for Bollywood to produce more nuanced thrillers. Whether it paves the way for a franchise or remains a standalone success, only time will tell.


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