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Salman Khan teases new ‘Maatrubhumi’ song, hums tune in social media post

Rahil Jamil
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Salman Khan teases new ‘Maatrubhumi’ song, hums tune in social media post

Amid the growing buzz surrounding Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s upcoming release ‘Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace’, the actor has dropped a new video of himself teasing the next track from the film.

In a social media post, Salman shared the video which shows him humming the tune of a song. “Mera Jee Nahi Bhara,” he captioned the post.

Speaking on the same, a source close to the production reveals, “The upcoming track from Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace focuses more on the narrative of the film. This upcoming song does not feature Salman Khan or Chitrangada Singh but introduces two fresh faces from the film who play pivotal roles in the storyline. The idea was always to expand the world of the film and give audiences a deeper glimpse into its characters and emotional arcs,” as per a press release.

Noting that Salman Khan will not be seen in this particular song, the source added, “It’s a conscious call to stay true to the screenplay. Every song in the film serves a purpose, and this one specifically helps establish new characters and their journey.”

Produced by Salma Khan under the banner of Salman Khan Films, ‘Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace’ is directed by Apoorva Lakhia.

The film also stars Chitrangada Singh in a pivotal role.

Earlier in March, the makers announced the film’s title change.

The announcement was accompanied by a striking new poster featuring the updated title and tagline, “May War Rest in Peace.”

A teaser released in December last year offered a first look at Salman Khan in the role of an Indian Army officer.

The teaser shows him with a serious and restrained expression. The visuals depict rough terrain, cold weather, and close combat, offering a preview of the challenges soldiers face at high altitudes.

A story reimagined: The return of Rama to the global stage

Rahil Jamil
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A story reimagined: The return of Rama to the global stage

In a cinematic moment of remarkable ambition, filmmaker and producer Namit Malhotra unveils a bold new vision of one of the world’s most enduring epics, Ramayana. Conceived as a two-part cinematic franchise, this large-scale production introduces audiences to ‘Rama’, a figure whose story has transcended generations for over 5,000 years.

Through a dedicated teaser, viewers are offered their first glimpse of Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, a portrayal that signals both reverence and reinvention.

A Global Moment

Unveiled to audiences worldwide with equal anticipation, the ‘Rama’ teaser marks a significant cultural moment. For many, it is a story deeply rooted in memory and tradition; for others, it is an introduction to an epic of unparalleled scale. This reimagining invites both familiarity and discovery, positioning Ramayana as a global cinematic experience.

A Hero Defined by His Choices

At the heart of the story is Rama, not merely a hero of strength, but of principle. Known as Maryada Purushottama, or the highest ideal of human conduct, Rama embodies dignity, compassion, and moral clarity. He is a figure who chooses duty over desire, relinquishes power when necessary, and remains steadfast even in the face of exile, loss, and injustice.

It is this unwavering commitment to what is right, even at great personal cost, that has allowed his story to endure across centuries.

Director Nitesh Tiwari reflects on this depth, noting that the greatness of Ramayana lies not simply in the battle between good and evil, but in its emotional richness, in the weight of choices and their consequences. Rama’s journey, he suggests, is profoundly human.

For Ranbir Kapoor, stepping into the role has been less about representation and more about understanding. He describes the experience as deeply humbling, drawn to the simplicity and purity that define Rama’s character.

Meanwhile, Namit Malhotra emphasises that the power of Rama’s story lies not in conquest, but in restraint, in what he chooses to let go of. It is a standard that is neither easy nor convenient, yet remains essential.

The Epic Unfolds

Set against a cosmic backdrop, the story begins with the balance of the universe under threat. The Trinity, Brahma the creator, Vishnu the protector, and Shiva the transformer, govern the three worlds. As chaos begins to rise, Vishnu descends to Earth in human form as Rama.

Opposing him is Ravana, portrayed by Yash, a formidable and learned demon king, whose immense power is matched only by his pride and vengeance. Blessed by the very gods he defies, Ravana stands as a force capable of shaking the cosmos.

Unaware of his destiny, Rama lives as the beloved prince of Ayodhya, devoted to a life of honour alongside his wife Sita, played by Sai Pallavi, and his loyal brother Lakshman, portrayed by Ravie Dubey. Yet a twist of fate leads him into exile, setting the stage for an inevitable and cataclysmic confrontation with Ravana, one that will determine the fate of both gods and mortals.

A Global Assembly of Talent

Ramayana stands as one of the most ambitious productions in the history of Indian cinema, bringing together an extraordinary ensemble both on-screen and behind the scenes.

Alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, the film features prominent talents including Sunny Deol as Hanuman. The project is helmed by Nitesh Tiwari and adapted by acclaimed screenwriter Shridhar Raghavan.

The film’s musical landscape is shaped by two iconic composers, Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman, while production design reimagines ancient India on an unprecedented scale under Ravi Bansal and Ramsey Avery. Action sequences are led by Hollywood stunt directors Terry Notary and Guy Norris, further reinforcing the film’s global scope.

A Story for Our Time

More than a tale of gods and kings, Ramayana remains a living cultural force. Its most celebrated moment, Rama’s return to Ayodhya, is commemorated as Diwali, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness.

At its core, the story explores universal truths: duty over desire, humility over pride, and selflessness over ambition. Rama stands as a symbol of Dharma, while Ravana’s downfall reflects the consequences of unchecked ego and desire.

In bringing this epic back to the screen, Ramayana arrives at a moment where its themes feel as relevant as ever, a timeless story, returning with renewed purpose for a global audience.

Anil Kapoor, 69, shares gym grind with message on power of consistency

Sanah Akhtar
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Anil Kapoor, 69, shares gym grind with message on power of consistency

Veteran Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor has once again underlined the value of discipline and routine, sharing an intense gym workout alongside a message on the power of consistency.

The 69-year-old star took to social media on Wednesday to post a video of himself training, performing high-intensity exercises with focus and precision.

The clip shows Kapoor pushing through a demanding routine, offering a glimpse into the discipline behind his long-standing fitness levels.

Captioning the post, he wrote: “Show up. Put in the work. Repeat.”

In the video, Kapoor delivers a reflective monologue on consistency, describing it as one of the most powerful forces in life.

He said: “One of the most powerful forces in life is consistency — being able to do something, in moderation, over and over again. That’s how you start big movements, that’s how you get big results… Consistency is small wins every single day.”

The message reinforces Kapoor’s long-held belief that steady effort and repetition are key to achieving lasting success, whether in personal goals or professional pursuits.

Widely recognised for maintaining exceptional fitness well into his late sixties, Kapoor is known for following a strict training regime alongside a balanced diet.

His career spans more than four decades, having made his Bollywood debut in Woh Saat Din in 1983. He has since delivered a string of iconic performances in films including Mr India, Tezaab, Ram Lakhan, Beta, Virasat and Nayak.

Away from the screen, Kapoor is also celebrating a personal milestone. His daughter, Sonam Kapoor, recently welcomed her second child, a baby boy, with husband Anand Ahuja on 29 March.

Bollywood pays tribute as Manish Malhotra’s mother Garima dies aged 94

Sanah Akhtar
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Bollywood pays tribute as Manish Malhotra’s mother Garima dies aged 94

The Indian film and fashion fraternity has come together in mourning following the passing of Garima Malhotra, mother of celebrated designer and filmmaker Manish Malhotra, who died aged 94 on Thursday.

A steady stream of Bollywood personalities were seen visiting Malhotra’s residence in Mumbai to offer their condolences, reflecting the deep respect held for the designer and his family within the industry.

Among those in attendance were actors Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who arrived together to pay their respects. Actor Sidharth Malhotra was also present alongside his wife, Kiara Advani. Varun Dhawan, who worked with Sidharth in Student of the Year, was seen visiting with his wife Natasha Dalal.

Several other prominent names from the film industry also gathered at the residence, including Karisma Kapoor, Arjun Kapoor, Ananya Panday, Raveena Tandon and filmmaker Zoya Akhtar.

Despite being the mother of one of Bollywood’s most influential designers, Garima Malhotra largely remained out of the public eye. Known for her quiet dignity and private nature, she chose to stay away from media attention, maintaining a life rooted in family rather than fame.

Those close to the family describe her as a strong and grounding presence in Manish Malhotra’s life, particularly during his early years as he navigated uncertainty in the competitive world of cinema and fashion. Before achieving global recognition as a couturier, Malhotra explored acting and faced several challenges in establishing his career — a period during which his mother’s encouragement played a significant role.

Her influence is said to have shaped many of the values that define Malhotra’s work today, including discipline, cultural appreciation and a strong work ethic. While she remained behind the scenes, her contribution to his journey is widely regarded as profound.

In interviews over the years, Malhotra has occasionally acknowledged the importance of his family’s support system, crediting it for helping him rise from a young aspirant in Mumbai to an internationally recognised name in fashion.

Garima Malhotra’s passing marks the loss of a quiet yet pivotal figure whose legacy lives on through her son’s work and the values she instilled.

RECIPE: Chicken & Mushroom Vol-Au-Vents

Rahil Jamil
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0
RECIPE: Chicken & Mushroom Vol-Au-Vents

INGREDIENTS

18 pack medium or 6 king size, baked per packet instructions
2 tbsp oil
100g finely chopped chicken breast
150g finely chopped button mushrooms
1 tbsp Supreme Garlic Paste
Salt to taste
1 tsp Supreme Coarse Black Pepper
2 tbsp Supreme Onion Powder
1 tbsp Supreme Garlic Powder
Salt to taste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
300 ml double cream
¼ cup finely chopped parsley

METHOD

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add chicken, garlic paste, salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through and all excess moisture has evaporated. Add garlic powder, onion powder and chopped mushrooms and saute for 5 minutes. Stir in double cream and worcestershire sauce and mix well. Stir occasionally and simmer until sauce has thickened. Add chopped parsley, check seasoning and mix well. Push the middle of the vol au vents down. Spoon the mixture into baked vol au vents and garnish with chopped parsley. Can be served warm or cold.

RECIPE: Yassa Chicken

Rahil Jamil
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RECIPE: Yassa Chicken

Ingredients: 

1 whole chicken with skin cut into quarters

¼ cup oil

½ cup fresh lemon juice

1 tbsp dijon mustard

1 tsp Supreme Garlic Powder

1 tsp Supreme Coarse Black Pepper

Salt to taste

2 Supreme Bay leaves

1 scotch bonnet, pierced

2 cups chicken stock

3 medium onions, sliced

Garnish:

½ cup sliced green olives

1 lemon sliced

Handful of chopped coriander

Method: 

In a bowl mix together lemon juice, dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper and salt. Add chicken and sliced onions and mix well. Marinate in the refrigerator for 4 hours.

Place a large shallow pan over high heat. Add oil and once heated add the chicken to the pan and cook until brown on both sides. Remove chicken and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-high, add marinated sliced onions,bay leaves and scotch bonnet to the pan, stir and cook until onions soften. Stir in chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and place chicken back into the pan, cover and simmer on low until chicken is fully cooked and the stock has reduced. Garnish with lemon slices, sliced olives and chopped coriander. Serve with bread

Salman Khan’s ‘Chand Dekh Lena’ teaser offers glimpse of love, longing and sacrifice

Sanah Akhtar
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Salman Khan’s ‘Chand Dekh Lena’ teaser offers glimpse of love, longing and sacrifice

The teaser for Chand Dekh Lena, the latest romantic track from Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace, has been unveiled, offering a heartfelt glimpse into a story of love shaped by distance and duty.

Featuring Salman Khan and Chitrangda Singh, the song captures an emotional narrative centred on longing, reunion and the quiet sacrifices that come with life on the front line.

Following the earlier releases of Maatrubhumi and Main Hoon, the newly released teaser introduces the film’s third track, deepening its emotional core. It portrays the realities of an army officer’s life, not only defined by bravery in service, but also by the strain it places on relationships left behind.

The teaser shows Chitrangda Singh’s character waiting for her husband, played by Salman Khan, as he returns home after serving at the border. In one striking moment, Khan is seen dancing on a bridge, a symbolic expression of love, relief and reunion.

Sharing the teaser on his social media, Salman Khan gave fans an early look at what promises to be one of the film’s most moving sequences.

The film itself has recently undergone a title change, from Battle of Galwan to Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace, a shift that reflects a more human and emotional lens on conflict and sacrifice.

Produced by Salman Khan Films and backed by Salma Khan, the film is directed by Apoorva Lakhia.

Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace promises a powerful portrayal of courage, resilience and the emotional cost of war, with Chand Dekh Lena set to become a standout moment in its storytelling.

RECIPE: Peri Peri Calzones

Rahil Jamil
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RECIPE: Peri Peri Calzones

INGREDIENTS

500g chicken breast
2 tbsp Supreme Garlic Paste
1 tbsp Supreme Black Peppercorns
5 Supreme Whole Red Chillies
½ cup premium finest tomato paste
1 cup ketchup
⅓ cup lemon juice
½ cup Supreme Peri Peri Seasoning
Salt to taste
1 cup finely chopped mixed coloured peppers
3 cups grated mozzarella
1 tbsp Sugar

Dough:
6 cups bread flour, and extra for dusting
2 cups warm water
2 tbsp olive oil & extra to coat the bowl
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
2 ½ tbsp yeast
Water
Whisked egg/ milk

METHOD

Fill a saucepan with water, garlic paste, black pepper and whole red chillies. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add chicken breast and cook until fully cooked through. Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken and set aside to cool. Once fully cool, shred the chicken and set aside. In another bowl, mix together tomato paste, ketchup, lemon juice, peri peri seasoning, salt to taste, mixed coloured peppers, mozzarella, sugar and shredded chicken. Set aside. Make the dough; in a large bowl, add warm water, olive oil, sugar, salt and yeast. Set aside for 15-20 minutes to let the yeast activate. Then mix in flour and knead into a smooth dough. Coat the bowl with oil, add dough and cover. Set aside in a warm place to rise for 2 ½ hours or until double in size. Dust the surface with flour and tip out the dough and divide the dough into 8 balls. Take 1 ball (cover the rest) and divided into 8 equal balls. Then roll each ball into 3 ½ – 4 inch circles and fill with a heap tbsp of mixture. Brush edges with water. Fold over and press the edges to seal. Pleat the edges by folding and twisting till the end. Brush the top with milk or eggs. At this point you can freeze them. To bake: preheat oven to 180 c. Place calzones on a lined baking tray and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve immediately.

Priyanka Chopra faces backlash after Oscars stage moment with Javier Bardem

Sanah Akhtar
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0
Priyanka Chopra faces backlash after Oscars stage moment with Javier Bardem

The actress, who was among the presenters at the ceremony held on Monday, appeared alongside Javier Bardem to present the Best International Feature Film award.

During the segment, Bardem delivered a political message calling for peace and support for Palestine, telling the audience: “No to war and free Palestine,” while wearing pins reinforcing his stance.

Standing beside him, Chopra smiled and nodded but did not make any political comment herself, a moment that quickly sparked debate across social media.

Clips of the exchange circulated widely on platforms including X and Reddit, with some users describing her reaction as “awkward” or “forced”, while others questioned her silence given her global platform.

The discussion also drew comparisons between Bardem’s outspoken activism and Chopra’s more measured public approach, despite her longstanding humanitarian work. Chopra has served as a Global Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF since 2016.

However, many came to her defence, arguing that live broadcasts, particularly on a global stage such as the Academy Awards, are not always the place for spontaneous political responses. Supporters also highlighted the pressures of live presenting and the need to remain professional.

The moment has reignited wider conversations around whether celebrities should speak out on political issues during major events, or whether neutrality remains a valid stance.

Chopra’s appearance at the Oscars came after a hectic start to the evening, with her and husband Nick Jonas reportedly forced to switch to a golf cart after their vehicle was denied access, arriving just in time for the ceremony.

Despite the controversy, the incident has once again placed the spotlight on the growing intersection between celebrity, activism and global platforms.

Oscars 2026: ‘One Battle After Another’ dominates as Michael B. Jordan makes history

Sanah Akhtar
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0
Oscars 2026: ‘One Battle After Another’ dominates as Michael B. Jordan makes history

The 98th Academy Awards delivered a night of historic wins, emotional speeches and political moments, as One Battle After Another emerged as the biggest winner of the evening with six Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director.

Held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, the ceremony celebrated a year of bold filmmaking and standout performances. Hosted for the second year running by comedian Conan O’Brien, the show blended humour with powerful moments as the industry reflected on a changing world.

A big night for ‘One Battle After Another’

Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, One Battle After Another dominated the night, securing six awards including Best Picture, Best Director for Paul Thomas Anderson and Best Film Editing.

The sweeping victory confirmed Anderson’s film as the standout production of the year, combining critical acclaim with awards success.

Anderson also took home the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay, using his acceptance speech to reflect on the future generation.

“I wrote this movie for my kids to say sorry for the housekeeping mess we’ve left in this world,” he said. “But also with the encouragement that they will be the generation that hopefully brings us some common sense and decency.”

Michael B. Jordan makes history

One of the most talked-about moments of the evening came when Michael B. Jordan won Best Actor for his performance in Sinners.

Jordan’s win marked a historic milestone and capped a hugely successful night for the film, which had entered the awards with a record-breaking 16 nominations and ultimately secured four Oscars.

An emotional Jordan thanked director Ryan Coogler, with whom he has collaborated on multiple projects.

“God is good,” Jordan said. “Ryan, you gave me the opportunity and the space to be seen.”

Coogler also took home the award for Best Original Screenplay for Sinners, further cementing the film’s impact.

Powerful performances recognised

The Best Actress award went to Jessie Buckley for her emotionally charged performance in Hamnet, portraying a mother grappling with the loss of her young son.

Buckley noted the significance of the moment, dedicating her win to mothers everywhere.

“I’d like to dedicate this to the beautiful chaos of a mother’s heart,” she said. “We all come from a lineage of women who continue to create against all odds.”

Meanwhile, veteran actor Sean Penn won Best Supporting Actor for his role in One Battle After Another, becoming only the fourth male performer to win three Oscars. Penn did not attend the ceremony, prompting presenter Kieran Culkin to joke that the famously awards-averse star “couldn’t be here this evening — or didn’t want to”.

Best Supporting Actress went to Amy Madigan for her striking performance in Weapons.

Historic wins and milestones

The evening also marked several historic moments.

Cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw made history as the first woman to win the Oscar for Best Cinematography for her work on Sinners.

Another milestone came when casting director Cassandra Kulukundis received the inaugural Academy Award for Casting for her work on One Battle After Another.

There was also a rare tie in the Best Live Action Short category, with both films sharing the prize.

International and animation highlights

The Best Documentary Feature went to Mr. Nobody Against Putin, a powerful look at political repression during the Russia–Ukraine conflict.

Accepting the award, co-director David Borenstein warned of the dangers of complacency in the face of authoritarianism.

Meanwhile, Netflix hit KPop Demon Hunters won Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for its anthem “Golden”.

Co-director Maggie Kang said the win was a landmark moment for representation.

“I’m sorry it took us so long to see ourselves in a movie like this,” she said. “But it’s here now — and the next generation won’t have to wait.”

Politics and humour on the Oscars stage

Host Conan O’Brien opened the show with a comedy sketch parodying several nominated films before delivering a monologue packed with political jokes.

The ceremony also featured several political statements from presenters and winners, reflecting ongoing global tensions and debates.

Actor Javier Bardem used his time on stage to call for peace, saying: “No to war and free Palestine.”

Key winners at the 2026 Oscars

Best Picture – One Battle After Another

Best Director – Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another)

Best Actor – Michael B. Jordan (Sinners)

Best Actress – Jessie Buckley (Hamnet)

Best Supporting Actor – Sean Penn (One Battle After Another)

Best Supporting Actress – Amy Madigan (Weapons)

Best Original Screenplay – Ryan Coogler (Sinners)

Best Adapted Screenplay – Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another)

Best International Feature – Sentimental Value

Best Documentary – Mr. Nobody Against Putin

Best Animated Feature – KPop Demon Hunters

With emotional speeches, historic milestones and blockbuster wins, the 98th Academy Awards proved once again why Hollywood’s biggest night continues to capture the world’s attention.

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