Category: Hindi

  • Indian box office flexes its muscles in Feb 2025 as Chhaava conquers all

    Indian box office flexes its muscles in Feb 2025 as Chhaava conquers all

    MUMBAI: The Indian cinema landscape is witnessing a box office bonanza in early 2025, with February continuing the strong momentum established in January. The domestic box office is flourishing, with projections indicating a cumulative haul of Rs 2,264 crore for 2025 releases thus far—a whopping 39 per cent increase compared to the same period last year, according to the  Ormax Media  The India Box Office Report for February 2025.
    grossdomestic box officeThe Hindi epic Chhaava has emerged as the undisputed champion of February, single-handedly contributing a staggering 53 per cent of the month’s total collections. The film has muscled its way into the record books with earnings exceeding Rs 650 crore, cementing its position among the highest-grossing Hindi films of all time.

     Only the Hindi language collections have been tallied in this report, as the Telugu version didn’t swagger into theatres until March 2025. The only other film to smash through the Rs 100 crore barrier in February was the Tamil action-thriller Dragon, which has proven to be a surprise package. 
     

    The film has outperformed expectations, even eclipsing the collections of the big-budget Tamil spectacle Vidaamuyarchi—proof that audiences still prefer substance over style when parting with their hard-earned cash. 

    FBERUARY 2025 GROSS DOMESTIC The re-release trend shows no signs of abating, with nostalgic favourite Sanam Teri Kasam and Christopher Nolan’s mind-bender Interstellar both featuring in the top 10 grossers of the month. It seems cinema-goers are just as keen to revisit classics as they are to embrace new narratives. 

    ACROSS ALL LANGUAGES

    With Thandel joining the party in February, Telugu cinema now boasts four entries in the list of highest-grossing films of 2025 so far. Hindi and Tamil industries are tied with three films each, suggesting a healthy competitive balance in the Indian film ecosystem. 

    Thanks largely to Chhaava’s earth-shattering performance, Hindi language films have increased their market share to 45 per cent for January-February 2025, up from 40 per cent for the entire 2024 calendar year.  

  • Sholay turns 50: UMG for Brands announces exclusive partnership

    Sholay turns 50: UMG for Brands announces exclusive partnership

    MUMBAI: Yeh Dosti hum nahin todenge, 
    todenge dum magar Tere saath na chodenge   

    Universal Music Group for Brands India is hoping this iconic song picturised on Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan  from the classic Sholay still holds some pull on audiences 50 years from the time it was released on cinema screens and is celebrated as one of the most perfect pieces of film making  emerging from India. 

    The company  has struck an exclusive partnership with Sholay Media Entertainment to manage all brand collaborations for the iconic film’s 50th anniversary in 2025, according to Preeti S Nayyar SVP &  business head for India and South Asia.

    The landmark 1975 film, widely regarded as a defining masterpiece of Indian cinema, continues to hold significant cultural influence across generations. With its memorable dialogues, characters, and music, Sholay has maintained its position as a touchstone in India’s collective memory.

    “The milestone presents a unique opportunity for brands to align with this iconic film,” noted Nayyar, “leveraging its cultural and emotional impact to create meaningful connections for consumers and fans.”
    Interested companies can access licensing opportunities for the film’s music, iconic dialogues, legendary characters, and unforgettable moments through UMG for Brands India. The partnership aims to help brands evoke nostalgia, drive engagement, and build pop culture connections.

    Brands looking to honour Sholay’s enduring legacy are encouraged to contact UMG for Brands India directly to explore collaboration opportunities
     For after all as the song goes: 
    Arre, meri jeet teri jeet
    Teri haar meri haar, sun, ae mere yaar
    Tera gham mera gham
    Meri jaan teri jaan, aisa apna pyaar
    Jaan pe bhi khelenge
    Tere liye le lenge…
    Jaan pe bhi khelenge
    Tere liye le lenge sab se dushmani
    Yeh dosti hum nahin todenge
    Todenge dum, magar tera saath na chhodenge.

    So be it!

     

  • A.R. Rahman lits the stage on fire at Chhaava album launch

    A.R. Rahman lits the stage on fire at Chhaava album launch

    MUMBAI: The night was electric, the beats were thunderous, and the legend himself, A.R. Rahman, took center stage for a grand musical celebration. The much-anticipated Chhaava album launch turned into an unforgettable spectacle, blending history, emotion, and melody. Produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films and directed by Laxman Utekar, the historical epic Chhaava is set to hit cinemas worldwide on 14 February 2025.

    With an ensemble cast featuring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, the event was graced by Utekar, Vijan, and the entire creative team behind the film. But the real showstopper? Rahman’s signature blend of soulful melodies and powerful arrangements that took the audience on a sonic journey through time and Maratha pride.

    The launch was nothing short of a musical blitzkrieg. Each song from the Chhaava album was brought to life with Rahman’s spellbinding performance, amplified by a dynamic dance troupe that infused the stage with unrelenting energy. The atmosphere was charged, the audience enthralled, and the beats—sharp as a warrior’s sword—pierced through the air, keeping everyone hooked. The event also featured a candid conversation between the cast and Rahman, offering a deeper glimpse into the soul of the Chhaava album.

    Rahman shared his excitement, stating, “Some movies aren’t just stories—they are the roar of a beating heart. Chhaava is one of them. I thoroughly enjoyed composing the score, BGM, and songs with the incredible team of Laxman Utekar, Dinesh Vijan, Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and my amazing music team. To all the fans, I hope you enjoy this music as much as we enjoyed creating it. And I can’t wait for you to experience our performance! Chhaava releases on February 14 in cinemas near you.”

    Kaushal, overwhelmed by the experience, said, “It’s truly an honor to be part of Chhaava, especially with the legendary A.R. Rahman sir composing the music. This film marks my first collaboration with him, and watching him perform these beautiful tracks live has been an unforgettable experience I will cherish for the rest of my life. Now that the album is launched, I’m incredibly excited for audiences to experience these songs, which are so powerful, and I hope they resonate with each one of you.”

    Mandanna added, “Vicky and I are in awe of the honor it has been to collaborate with the unparalleled A.R. Rahman sir on Chhaava. Every song in this album carries a piece of history—stories of love, sacrifice, and duty—woven together so beautifully. Watching Rahman sir bring the emotional depth of the film into the music has been a surreal experience and truly one of the most defining moments of my career. Being part of such a monumental film is a privilege I’ll forever cherish.”

    Lyricist Irshad Kamil, who intricately crafted the words for Chhaava, reflected on his artistic pursuit, stating, “Writing the lyrics for Chhaava was an artistic pursuit. Every word had to do justice to the warrior’s journey, capturing the essence of sacrifice, valor, and honor. My intent was to honor the relentless spirit of the Marathas—celebrating their courage and unwavering commitment. These songs were crafted with the same precision as a sword strike, not merely telling a story but conveying the immortal bravery of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Working on this album was not just a task, but a duty that I was honored to fulfill.”

    With Rahman’s music as the soul of the film, Chhaava promises to be a storytelling marvel. Kaushal embodies Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj with unmatched intensity, while Akshaye Khanna steps into the formidable role of Aurangzeb, setting the stage for an epic historical clash. Mandanna adds grace and strength as Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale, the queen of Swarajya, showcasing resilience and elegance.

    Presented by Sony Music Entertainment India, the Chhaava soundtrack is set to captivate audiences far and wide, much like the warrior’s tale it brings to life.

  • Red Lorry Film Festival returns with a cinematic extravaganza

    Red Lorry Film Festival returns with a cinematic extravaganza

    MUMBAI: Dust off your cinephile credentials and brace yourself—the Red Lorry Film Festival is roaring back, bringing with it a truckload of nostalgia, storytelling genius, and enough cinematic gold to keep film buffs grinning for weeks! Curated by BookMyShow and presented by BookAChange, this festival is the ultimate paradise for cinephiles, bringing together over 120 legendary films spanning decades, genres, and unforgettable moments on the big screen.

    This year, the festival pays tribute to Indian cinema’s finest through two special segments: “Legacy Rewind” and “Timeless Tales”. From the magnetic charm of Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts to the masterful storytelling of Subhash Ghai, Vijay Anand, and Michael Mann, Red Lorry Film Festival is set to bring these cinematic gems back to the big screen.

    Legacy Rewind

    Celebrating 45 years of Subhash Ghai’s Karz (1980), the festival pays tribute to Indian cinema’s ‘Showman’ and his unforgettable musical thriller. “The magic of Karz still resonates today, and I am thrilled to share this milestone with fans,” said Ghai.

    Adding to the nostalgia, Mansoor Khan takes the audience back in time with Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988) and Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992). “These films hold a special place in my heart, and I’m honoured to see them celebrated again,” he shared.

    The legacy continues with Nasir Hussain’s iconic classics Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973) and Hum Kisise Kum Nahin (1977), marking 65 years of his unparalleled storytelling. Rajiv Rai, son of visionary Gulshan Rai, will present Johny Mera Naam (1970) and Deewaar (1975), celebrating 55 years of Trimurti Films. “My father’s films were ahead of their time, and their impact continues to inspire generations,” said Rai.

    The segment also honours Vijay Anand’s cinematic masterpieces like Teesri Manzil (1966), Jewel Thief (1967), and Johny Mera Naam (1970), bringing Indian cinema’s golden era back to the screen.

    Timeless Tales

    This festival isn’t just about Indian cinema—it’s a global celebration of cinema! Honouring the centennial birth anniversary of Guru Dutt, the festival presents one of his rare comedies, Mr. & Mrs. ‘55 (1955).

    Marking 70 years of Smita Patil’s legacy, her iconic performance in Mirch Masala (1987) will once again grace the silver screen. Hollywood royalty takes center stage too, with a 35 Anniversary screening of Julia Roberts’ Pretty Woman and a 30 Anniversary Imax edition of Brad Pitt’s psychological thriller Se7en.

    Adding to the international flavour, cinephiles can revisit French classics like Z (1969) and The Wages of Fear (1953), alongside Paul Verhoeven’s Showgirls (1995) in a 30 anniversary showcase.

    Curated by acclaimed filmmaker Atul Sabharwal, the festival will present Michael Mann’s Heat (1995) and The Last of the Mohicans (1992). “These films are benchmarks in cinematic storytelling,” noted Sabharwal.

    Fans of contemporary cinema can rejoice as Vikramaditya Motwane’s Udaan (2010) marks its 15 anniversary at the festival. “Udaan was a deeply personal project, and seeing it celebrated at this festival is a surreal experience,” shared Motwane.

    Following a phenomenal debut in 2024, the Red Lorry Film Festival returns from 21-23 March 2025, in Mumbai as ‘Red Lorry Film Festival: Take 2’, and expands to Hyderabad with ‘Red Lorry Film Festival: Parallel Verse’.

    With over 120 meticulously curated films, interactive masterclasses, and discussions with industry greats, the festival promises an immersive experience for film lovers.

    Don’t miss out on this cinematic adventure! Grab your tickets and be part of history.

     Instagram: @bookmyshowin and @redlorryfilmfestival

       X (Twitter): @bookmyshow and @RLFilmFestival

       Facebook: @bookmyshow

       YouTube: @bookmyshow

  • Former SPNI head honcho Neeraj Vyas joins Vinod Bhanushali as his studio’s CEO

    Former SPNI head honcho Neeraj Vyas joins Vinod Bhanushali as his studio’s CEO

    MUMBAI: When Neeraj Vyas put in his papers at Sony Pictures Networks India mid-last  year, speculation was running high where the veteran broadcaster who built Sony Sab into a successful brand would be headed.  Well, we know now – to Bhanushali Studios Ltd  (BSL) as its CEO. The announcement was made a short while ago by Vinod himself on linkedin.

    Said Vinod: “ With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, Neeraj brings visionary leadership and a passion for innovation. We look forward to harnessing his expertise, creativity, and strategic vision to drive growth, amplify creativity, and propel the studio to new heights. Here’s to a bright and inspiring future ahead.”

    Vinod, has in recent times, been displaying lots of chutzpah, after leaving T-Series around four years ago. Amongst his most recent partnerships was his taking equity in Hansal Mehta and Sahil Saigal’s True Story Films along with former Ksera Sera boss Parag Sanghvi. BSL has been the production house behind  titles such as Janhit Mein Jaari, Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, Main Atal Hoon and Bhaiyya Ji.

  • Indian Film Festival 2025 to honour Raj Kapoor’s centenary year

    Indian Film Festival 2025 to honour Raj Kapoor’s centenary year

    MUMBAI: The Embassy of India in Yerevan is rolling out the red carpet for cinephiles with the Indian Film Festival 2025, a three-day celebration of India’s rich cinematic legacy. Organised in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), the festival will take place from 7-9 February at Kino Moscow Theatre, showcasing the timeless brilliance of Raj Kapoor alongside contemporary Indian classics.

    This grand cinematic affair will commemorate the 100 birth anniversary of Kapoor, a name synonymous with Indian cinema’s golden era. With a mix of old-world charm and modern storytelling, the festival aims to strengthen cultural bonds between India and Armenia through the universal language of film.

    The festival will open on 7 February at 6:00 pm with an exhibition, “Life and Times of Raj Kapoor”, at the Big Red Hall of Kino Moscow Theatre. Following this, at 6:30 pm, Kapoor’s visually stunning and philosophically profound film Satyam Shivam Sundaram (with English subtitles) will take centre stage.

    On 8 February, the Small Red Hall will play host to two of Kapoor’s most beloved works. Anari will screen at 1:30 pm, a heartwarming tale that still resonates with audiences. Later, the festival will present Awaara, a globally revered film that cemented Kapoor’s reputation as India’s answer to Charlie Chaplin. Both films will be screened with Russian subtitles, making them accessible to a wider audience.

    On 9 February, the festival takes a poetic turn with Teesri Kasam at 2:00 pm, a lyrical masterpiece known for its evocative storytelling. Wrapping up the festival with a contemporary touch is English Vinglish at 7:00 pm, featuring the legendary Sridevi in one of her most memorable performances. Both films will also be presented with Russian subtitles.

    All screenings are free of charge, inviting cinema lovers to immerse themselves in India’s cinematic magic. The festival will be held at 50, 2 Dzorapi St, Yerevan 0019, Armenia, promising a delightful mix of nostalgia and modern storytelling.

    Whether you’re a die-hard Kapoor fan or simply someone who loves a good film, the Indian Film Festival 2025 is set to be a celebration of artistry, culture, and timeless storytelling.

  • PVR Inox screens a strong  Q3 FY 2025

    PVR Inox screens a strong Q3 FY 2025

    MUMBAI:  Q3 FY 2025 saw the audiences coming back to the theaters drawn in by entertaining films. At least that’s what one can infer  from the financials of PVR Inox Ltd’s for  Q3 FY 2025  and  for the nine months ended 31 December 2024.

    PVR  announced its results  on 6 February through regulatory filings with the Bombay stock exchange. 

     Q3 FY 2025 was especially strong  driven by blockbuster releases and record-breaking figures in ticket prices, food and beverage (F&B) spends, and advertising revenues.

    The company reported revenues of Rs 17,388 million, EBITDA of Rs 2,583 million, and a profit after tax (PAT) of Rs 681 million for Q3 FY 2025. Cinema admissions reached 37.3 million, with the highest-ever average ticket price (ATP) of Rs 281 and F&B spend per head (SPH) of Rs 140. Advertising income surged to Rs 1,486 million, the highest since the pandemic.

    During the quarter, PVR Inox opened 11 new screens across two properties, bringing its total portfolio to 1,728 screens across 350 cinemas in 111 cities.

    For the nine-month period, the company posted revenues of Rs 45,893 million, an EBITDA of Rs 4,453 million, and a net loss of Rs 460 million. Cinema admissions totalled 106.4 million, with an ATP of Rs 259 and SPH of Rs 137.

    Commenting on the performance, managing director Ajay Bijli said, “As we look ahead, our focus remains on adopting a capital-light model, enhancing cash generation, reducing net debt, controlling costs, and delivering a diverse slate of films to excite moviegoers. With a robust content pipeline and strategic growth initiatives, we are confident in sustaining our leadership and driving long-term value for stakeholders.”

    The quarter witnessed record-breaking box office collections, propelled by Pushpa 2, which grossed Rs 1,450 crore in India, including Rs 900 crore for its Hindi dubbed version, making it the highest-grossing Hindi film ever. Tamil and Telugu films continued to perform well, while the Hollywood release Mufasa: The Lion King resonated with urban audiences.

    Despite these successes, key film reschedules affected overall momentum. The company anticipates strong 2025 content pipelines across Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional cinema.

    PVR Inox also announced continued reduction in net debt, which stood at Rs 9,958 million as of December 2024, a decrease of Rs 4,346 million since March 2023. The company exited 67 underperforming screens and expects to open 100–110 new screens by the fiscal year-end, focusing on capital-light models for future expansion.

  • Love, loss, and a thrill to remember as &pictures turns up the drama

    Love, loss, and a thrill to remember as &pictures turns up the drama

    MUMBAI: Heartbreak, redemption, and a past that refuses to let go-this 7 February, &pictures is bringing a tale that hits where it hurts and heals where it must. Mark your calendars as Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha premieres on Friday, 7 February, at 11 am, promising a cinematic rollercoaster packed with passion, suspense, and second chances.

    Featuring powerhouse performers Ajay Devgn and Tabu, alongside Shantanu Maheshwari, Saiee Manjrekar, and Jimmy Shergill, the film weaves a tale of love and loss under the masterful direction of Neeraj Pandey—the man behind Baby, Special 26, and M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story.

    At the heart of the narrative is Krishna (Devgn), a man haunted by his past, and Vasudha (Tabu), the woman who holds the key to his redemption. Their intertwined destinies unfold against a backdrop of intense emotions, moral dilemmas, and a search for the truth.

    Devgn reflects on his character’s journey, saying, “This film is about resilience, emotions, and the battles life throws at us. Krishna’s story is one that will connect deeply with anyone who has faced struggles and fought to rise above them.”

    Tabu, who shares a long-standing on-screen camaraderie with Devgn, adds, “Vasudha is a woman of immense strength, but her vulnerability is what makes her unforgettable. Neeraj Pandey’s direction ensured we brought our most layered performances to life. This is a story that lingers long after the credits roll.”

    With its mix of raw emotions and edge-of-the-seat drama, Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha is set to leave a lasting impact. Don’t miss its &pictures premiere—because some stories aren’t just watched, they’re felt.

  • Applause Entertainment and Kabir Khan Films announce two-film collaboration

    Applause Entertainment and Kabir Khan Films announce two-film collaboration

    MUMBAI: Sameer Nair is known for telling stories that are well told either for the big screen or for the streaming platforms. Applause Entertainment – the studio he heads – has been the force behind several  intense series and films which have broken the mould- the Scam series, City of Dreams, Swigato, Tanaav, and Rudra. Kabir Khan, on the other hand, is known for films that are replete with thrills, chases, action, and are larger than life – and  for sports biopics, two of which have got critical acclaim but have not done as well at the box office. 

    When the two get together wonder what we will end up getting?

    Well they have!  

    Applause Entertainment and Kabir Khan Films have announced a creative partnership for a two-film collaboration, bringing together two powerhouse storytellers from India’s entertainment industry.
    This collaboration marks a significant milestone, blending Applause Entertainment’s reputation for innovative storytelling with Kabir Khan Films’ expertise in crafting cinematic blockbusters. Known for acclaimed projects, both companies are set to deliver compelling narratives that promise to captivate audiences.

    Sameer Nair, CEO of Applause Entertainment, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Kabir Khan, a master storyteller, to create two distinctive films that reflect our shared vision for impactful cinema.”

    Kabir Khan, known for films like Chandu Champion, Ek Tha Tiger, Bajrangi Bhaijaan and 83, added: “This partnership with Applause is an exciting opportunity to explore fresh narratives and deliver cinematic experiences that resonate with audiences.”

    Further details about the films, including cast and release timelines, are expected to be announced soon. The partnership signals a dynamic phase for both production houses, promising engaging content for the evolving Indian film landscape.

  • Boman Irani’s The Mehta Boys drops a trailer packed with grunts & glances

    Boman Irani’s The Mehta Boys drops a trailer packed with grunts & glances

    MUMBAI: The father-son bond is like an old, well-worn sweater—comfortable, full of history, and never washed clean of unspoken emotions. It’s built on half-nods, gruff pats on the back, and conversations that peak at ‘Hmm’ and ‘Okay’. Love is there, of course, buried under layers of cricket scores, newspaper rustling, and unsolicited life advice. But say it out loud? “I love you, Dad?” Nope. That’s an emotional landmine best avoided.

    And yet, here comes Prime Video’s latest original, The Mehta Boys, daring to dive headfirst into this beautifully awkward relationship. Helmed by the ever-versatile Boman Irani in his directorial debut and co-written with Academy Award-winner Alex Dinelaris, this film promises a rollercoaster of love, misunderstandings, and those dreaded heart-to-hearts we men prefer to dodge. With its release slated for 7 February, The Mehta Boys is set to take viewers across India—and 240 other countries—on a journey of father-son redemption, where words may still be few, but feelings? Loud and clear.

    The trailer peels back the layers of a deeply personal yet universally relatable story. Irani and Avinash Tiwary deliver compelling performances as a father and son locked in a battle of emotions, resentment, and unresolved conflicts. The film’s narrative oscillates between light-hearted charm and gut-wrenching emotional depth, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate nuanced storytelling.

    “For me, The Mehta Boys is an extremely personal journey,” said Irani, who wears multiple hats as the film’s director, co-writer, producer, and lead actor. “The relationship between a father and son is one of the most emotionally charged dynamics. I wanted to explore how love can be both the strongest bond and the greatest source of conflict. This story has lived in my heart for years, and I am thrilled to finally bring it to audiences worldwide on Prime Video.”

    Alongside Irani and Tiwary, The Mehta Boys stars Shreya Chaudhry as Zara, a woman who refuses to play a passive role in her partner’s family drama, and Puja Sarup as Anu, the voice of reason amidst the emotional storm.

    Tiwary, reflecting on his role, shared, “Amay’s journey is layered with conflicts—loyalty, resentment, and unspoken love. The film forces him to confront his past, and portraying that evolution was both challenging and fulfilling. I believe audiences worldwide will connect with this deeply human story.”

    Adding depth to the narrative, Chaudhry emphasised her character’s significance, “Zara is not just a love interest; she is a catalyst for change. She encourages Amay to stop running from his emotions and face his father. I love that she stands on her own as a strong, independent character.”

    Sarup, portraying the family’s emotional anchor, highlighted the universal appeal of the film, “Anu is caught between two men too stubborn to see eye-to-eye. As the sister and daughter, she steps into a motherly role, holding the family together. It has been a joy bringing this character to life.”

    In true Prime Video fashion, The Mehta Boys will premiere in multiple languages—Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada—alongside subtitles, ensuring it reaches a diverse global audience.

    As families worldwide navigate their own tangled relationships, The Mehta Boys offers a cinematic reflection of love, loss, and reconciliation. Whether you have the perfect bond with your father or still struggle to decode his silences, this film promises to leave an impact.

    Don’t miss the heartfelt drama when it premieres on 7 February, exclusively on Prime Video.