Nepotism, what?
The nepotism debate in Bollywood may soon intensify, with Kajol revealing that Karan Johar is eager to launch her daughter, Nysa Devgan. Speaking to Shubhankar Mishra, she admitted, “I have received a couple of calls,” but insisted that Nysa has no immediate plans to join films. “If she wants to do something, she will tell us, and we are with her 100 per cent,” Kajol explained. Ajay Devgn also dismissed speculation during Koffee with Karan 8, saying, “Right now, she doesn’t want to be an actor. At this moment, there is zero per cent chance.” Despite Nysa’s strong social media presence, her parents emphasise she is charting her own path, though industry interest ensures the conversation around nepotism remains alive.
Aamir wants to rewrite history
Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani
The much-awaited Dadasaheb Phalke biopic, directed by Rajkumar Hirani and starring Aamir Khan, has reportedly been postponed. According to reports, Aamir has expressed concerns about the script, saying it lacked Hirani’s signature “blend of humour and heart” and needed “more layers to keep the audience engaged.” We have learnt that Hirani and co-writer Abhijat Joshi were said to be surprised by the superstar’s candid feedback but agreed to revisit the screenplay. The film, originally expected to go on floors in October 2025, will now begin later. Insiders add that Aamir is exploring other projects in the meantime. The delay has sparked buzz, given the scale of the film and Khan’s long-anticipated collaboration with Hirani. On other note not one, but two films are being made on the life of Phalke. In June, mid-day had spoken to Phalke’s grandson Chandrashekhar Pusalkar, where he had revealed that the makers were set to start shoot in January 2026. (‘Producers felt Phalke’s story didn’t have masala’, June 26).
Dadasaheb Phalke
Manipuri magic on screen
Gugun Kipgen in ‘Boong’
Filmmaker Lakshmipriya Devi’s acclaimed Manipuri feature Boong will release in cinemas today. Backed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s Excel Entertainment along with Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, the film stars Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam and will screen in select cities at PVR INOX. Premièred at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2024, Boong tells the story of a young boy and his single mother as they confront the mysterious disappearance of his father. Reflecting on her directorial debut, Lakshmipriya said, “Boong is the book I could not write because of my bad English! The film is inspired by my grandmother’s folktales that cushioned me with a certain kind of fuzzy warmth, during my childhood. It is dedicated to the resilience of the people of Manipur. I am experiencing this crazy mix of complete disbelief, happiness and a whole lot of gratitude that a Manipuri film is finally reaching a wider audience, in mainland India!”
Playing chor police again
(L-R) Sunny Kaushal and Yami Gautam in ‘Chor Nikal Ke Bhaga’
Actors Sunny Kaushal and Yami Gautam are set to reunite for Chor Nikal Ke Bhaga 2, with producer Dinesh Vijan reviving the blockbuster heist franchise. According to industry insiders, the script has been finalised and filming is expected to begin by the end of this year. Both leads will return to their roles. However, we have learnt that the makers are in talks with several seasoned actors to join the cast. This time, the story is expected to move from the skies to the sea, with the action taking place on a cruise ship in international waters. Insiders suggest the sequel will be even more intense, blending thrills with humour. Unlike the first film, which was a Netflix release, the sequel is likely to head to cinemas.
Swara wants to avoid friction
(L-R) Swara Bhasker and Fahad Ahmad; (right) Kangana Ranaut
Actor Swara Bhasker was left surprised when her husband, politician Fahad Ahmad, bluntly called Kangana Ranaut a “bad politician” in a chat with Filmygyan. Fahad, National President of the Nationalist Youth Congress, criticised Kangana’s response to floods in her constituency, Mandi, saying, “She is a really good actor. But she is a very bad politician.” Swara, keen to avoid friction, offered a softer view, calling Kangana “Destiny’s child.” Fahad added that Kangana once congratulated them on their wedding but stood by his opinion. Swara and Kangana, who share a fraught history, previously worked together in Tanu Weds Manu films.
Kerala casting call
Nazriya Nazim and Tovino Thomas
Malayalam actor Nazriya Nazim is set to collaborate with Tovino Thomas in a new film directed by Muhsin Parari. The untitled project, written by Parari and Zakariya, will be produced under AVA Productions, Maargaa Entertainment, and The Writing Company. Announcing the project on Instagram, Parari shared a casting call poster that revealed the lead actors and creative team. He also invited fresh talent to audition, describing it as “an upcoming Malayalam movie starring Nazriya Nazim and Tovino Thomas.” Tovino, who recently appeared in Identity, L2: Empuraan, and Lokah Chapter:1 Chandra continues his strong run at the box office. He will next feature in Toxic and Palli Chattambi.
