Have you heard? Ready for an auspicious start

Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi

Rajkummar Rao is upbeat with the response to his portrayal of visually-challenged businessman Srikant Bolla, in his biopic, Srikanth. Not one to rest on his laurels, the actor has moved on to his next, Bhul Chuk Maaf, which reunites him with his Stree franchise, Roohi and Hum Do Hamare Do producer Dinesh Vijan. Wamiqa Gabbi plays Raj's leading lady in this love story set in small-town India. The actors have reached the holy city of Varanasi for Karan Sharma's directorial venture that goes on floors this week. Featuring an interesting mix of supporting cast, the narrative promises a unique take on love in unusual circumstances. The makers plan to wrap up most of the shoot in the Uttar Pradesh temple city.

New jodi on the big screens

It is known that YRF is launching Ananya Panday's cousin, Ahaan Pandayy, with Mohit Suri's next directorial venture. He previously assisted director Shiv Ravail on the production house's maiden web series, The Railway Men. Now, we hear that Aneet Padda, who earned praise for her performance in the show, Big Girls Don't Cry, has been finalised as the leading lady of Mohit's yet-untitled film. She reportedly impressed Aditya Chopra with her auditions. Subsequently, he signed her not only for a three-film deal, but also to be managed by his talent division. Mohit is slated to begin filming with Ahaan and Aneet later this year.

Working b'day for Junaid

Junaid Khan turned a year wiser yesterday. However, it was not all party for Aamir Khan's son as he had a working birthday. Junaid is currently shooting for his third film, Loveyapa, co-starring Khushi Kapoor. Helmed by Advait Chandan, the movie is an adaptation of actor-director Pradeep Ranganathan's Tamil romantic drama, Love Today (2022), which also starred Ivana. Advait is planning to complete most of the outdoor shoot by mid-June, before the onset of the monsoon season.

New host promises new twists

After multiple reports and hints, it is now clear that Anil Kapoor is stepping into Salman Khan's shoes to host Bigg Boss OTT 3. AK features in the new promo released by JioCinema, the OTT platform on which the reality show will begin streaming soon. Alongside the video, the makers wrote, "A new host for the new season of Bigg Boss OTT! Aur Bigg Boss ki tarha, inki awaaz hi kaafi hai. PS - No prizes for guessing." Even though they continue to keep Anil's face in the dark, his walk, voice and the use of his catchphrase, ‘Jhakaas' are giveaways. It appears that the reality show will have a new twist this season. The actor also can be heard saying, "Bahut ho gaya Jhakaas... Karte hain na kuchh aur khaas." We will know in the coming days the new twists that Anil will bring to the show.

European holiday

Sobhita Dhulipala and Naga Chaitanya continue to make news even though they have declined to comment on their relationship status. Over the weekend, a picture from their European holiday caught netizens' attention. The rumoured couple can be seen indulging in wine-tasting with other tourists in the image. Sources claim Naga and Sobhita had taken off to Europe to celebrate her 32nd birthday (May 31). Previously, the Made in Heaven actor is said to have flown directly to Hyderabad after attending the Cannes Film Festival, to meet the Dhootha star, before returning to Mumbai to fulfil her work commitments.

Small role, big impact

Even though Karan Veer Mehra has a small role in the television show, Pukaar: Dil Se Dil Tak, he is pleased with the experience. Talking about his character, Gautam, who is the brain behind the success of the Maheshwari family business in the narrative, the actor says, "Gautam is generous and kind to everyone; he is unable to see how the Maheshwaris use him to their advantage. It's an out-and-out positive character, which I have not played in a long time." The show also reunites him with Sayali Salunkhe, after Baatein Kuchh Ankahee Si. "While we portrayed a couple before, she is playing my daughter on this show. I often tease her about this," he smiles. While his character has limited screen time, Karan promises, "The impact it creates will be a turning point for all the events that will unfold in the show."