Jiya Shankar is engaged! Actress introduces fiancé Kaaran Dhanak with emotional love story

Television and film actress Jiya Shankar is officially engaged. The Bigg Boss OTT 2 contestant took to social media on August 6 to announce her engagement to entrepreneur and corporate professional Kaaran Dhanak, sharing a series of romantic pictures from the special moment along with a heartfelt note about their long-distance love story.

Jiya Shankar shares emotional note for fiancé Kaaran Dhanak Announcing the happy news, Jiya reflected on finding love when she least expected it and thanked Kaaran for standing by her through the highs and lows of life.

She wrote, "So maybe it is true, you do find love when you least expect it but God really tested my patience here. It wasn't easy but somehow it still was. Every conversation with you even though you were thousands of miles away from me, felt like home."

Describing how their relationship grew despite the distance, she added, "This journey wasn't easy but we chose each other every single day. You showed me the love I waited my whole life for. You made me laugh on my toughest days. Held me a lil tighter every time at airport goodbyes like your heart was breaking into a thousand pieces."

 

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Calling Kaaran her "goofball," "best friend" and "ABCD," Jiya concluded her note by writing, "Life is definitely an adventure with you and it happens to be my favourite rom-com. I can't wait to spend my forever with you and spend the rest of my life loving you the way you've always loved me. I love you Kaaran."

The pictures captured the couple sharing a kiss, walking hand in hand and posing together in coordinated pastel outfits against a lush outdoor backdrop. Who is Kaaran Dhanak? While Kaaran Dhanak largely stays away from the entertainment industry, he is reportedly an entrepreneur and corporate professional. With the engagement announcement, the couple has officially made their relationship public for the first time.

Also Read: Karan Johar welcomes Jiya Shankar as Tyaani Jewellery’s new muse for Forces of Tyaani campaign

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Netflix launches ‘India Storytelling Initiative’ to strengthen creative talent pipeline

Netflix has announced a major step towards strengthening India's creative landscape with the launch of the ‘Netflix India Storytelling Initiative’, reaffirming its long-term commitment to the country's growing entertainment industry. The announcement comes after Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos met Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to discuss the increasing global appeal of Indian stories and the company's continued investment in India's creative economy.

Having worked with India's creative community for over a decade, Netflix has produced more than 200 Originals and filmed across over 100 locations in the country. Building on this foundation, the newly launched initiative aims to support the next generation of storytellers through a multi-phase investment focused on talent development. The programme will establish strategic collaborations with leading Indian institutions to equip aspiring creators with industry-relevant skills across the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics (AVGC) ecosystem, an important contributor to India's growing Orange Economy.

The initiative is also aligned with the Government of India's vision for Viksit Bharat @ 2047 by promoting stronger ties between education and industry while nurturing creative talent capable of competing on a global stage. Through these efforts, Netflix hopes to further position India as an international hub for storytelling and entertainment production.

Ted Sarandos, Co-CEO, Netflix, said, "India has always been one of the world's greatest storytelling nations. Over the past decade, we've had the privilege of seeing Indian stories connect with audiences not just across India, but around the world. As we begin our next decade here, we believe our greatest investment is in the people who will tell India's next generation of stories. The Netflix India Storytelling Initiative reflects our long-term commitment to strengthening India's creative ecosystem by creating more opportunities for emerging creators, because investing in creators is investing in India's creative future."

The first phase of the initiative will focus on youth skilling through two key partnerships. Netflix has joined hands with the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) to develop an industry-focused curriculum in Visual Effects Mastery and Media Technology Workflows. The company will also provide 100 scholarships for students enrolling in in-person courses covering Interactive Comics and Sequential Art, Virtual Art Department Content Creation, Art of Character Animation, E-Sports and Gaming Management, along with other emerging creative fields.

Additionally, Netflix has partnered with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to develop a skilled workforce for new roles created under the Prime Minister's accessibility agenda. The collaboration will train audio description writers and voice professionals to make films and series more accessible for audiences with visual and hearing impairments. The programme will follow international standards while incorporating local storytelling traditions, supporting the shared vision of Netflix and the Government of India to promote inclusive storytelling.

Through these initiatives, Netflix aims to create more opportunities for emerging creators, strengthen India's entertainment production capabilities, and further expand the global reach of Indian stories. The company stated that as it enters its second decade in India, it remains committed to investing in creative talent, enhancing industry partnerships, and supporting Indian storytellers in reaching audiences across the world.

Also Read: Netflix drops announcement video of Musafir Cafe for Season 2: Vikrant Massey, Vedika Pinto and Mahima Makwana to return

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SCOOP: Sanjay Leela Bhansali approaches Kareena Kapoor Khan for his Dhanush-starrer mytho-jungle adventure

Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Kareena Kapoor Khan have always remained on opposite sides of one of Bollywood's most talked-about professional fallouts. Their strained relationship dates back to the early 2000s when the actress screen-tested for Bhansali's landmark period romance Devdas, only to find out later that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had bagged the role. A young Kareena felt cheated and vowed never to work with the director.

Nearly two-and-a-half decades later, Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Kareena Kapoor Khan seem poised to bury the hatchet with a potential collaboration. Buzz in the industry suggests that Bhansali has approached the 3 Idiots actress for the female lead in his upcoming production headlined by Dhanush. The yet-untitled film features a powerful female character playing a parallel lead alongside Dhanush, and Bhansali is keen to get Kareena on board for the part. The actress is said to have shown interest but is yet to make a decision, with negotiations still underway over remuneration, dates, and other contractual details.

The Dhanush film has been described as an ambitious jungle-set saga rooted in mythology. Details of the plot and characters have been strictly kept under wraps, but sources say the story revolves around an elephant and will be mounted on a grand scale. Bhansali will produce the film, while Tamil filmmaker P. S. Mithran, known for helming films like Irumbu Thirai, Hero, and Sardar, has been roped in to direct. The film is currently in the writing stage, with pre-production expected to commence in November and principal photography scheduled to begin in January 2027.

Although Kareena has not been signed yet, should the collaboration materialize, the project will mark her first-ever collaboration with Bhansali, ending their long-running professional rift. Kareena was also in talks with Raj & DK for their upcoming Salman Khan film, but those discussions have not progressed further. As for her upcoming lineup, she will next be seen in Daayra, Meghna Gulzar's crime thriller that delves into the complexities of law and justice. The Junglee Pictures production, also starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, is slated to release in theatres on September 18, 2026.

Meanwhile, Sanjay Leela Bhansali is gearing up to unveil the first official look of his ambitious period romantic drama Love & War. The Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal starrer is currently in the final stage of production and is scheduled to hit cinemas on January 21, 2027.

Also Read: Daayra first look: Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran face off in Meghna Gulzar’s crime thriller

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Saiee M Manjrekar begins shooting for new romantic drama in Italy; official announcement expected soon

Saiee M Manjrekar has reportedly commenced work on yet another project, adding to her growing slate of films across multiple industries. The actress is currently in Italy, where she has begun shooting for what is being described as a romantic drama, although an official announcement regarding the film is still awaited.

According to sources, Saiee has travelled to the picturesque European country to begin the first schedule of the yet-untitled project. The film is said to be helmed by a debutant director and is expected to be extensively shot across scenic locations in Italy, with the story unfolding against a summer backdrop.

While the makers have remained tight-lipped about the project, the development has sparked curiosity among fans eager to know more about the actress' next outing. Details regarding the film's cast, title and production banner are currently under wraps, with an official announcement expected in the coming days.

A source close to the development shared, "Saiee is currently in Italy for her work commitment. At this stage, not a lot can be revealed about the project, but an official announcement will be made soon. It's an exciting phase for her, and audiences can expect something special. The film is set in Europe and it’s a summer setting and it’s a romantic drama genre".

The project is expected to showcase Saiee in a fresh avatar, with the European setting likely to play an integral role in the narrative. Romantic dramas set against international backdrops have often resonated with audiences, and the upcoming film is expected to blend scenic visuals with an emotional storyline.

Saiee has been steadily carving a space for herself with a mix of commercial entertainers and content-driven films. Having made her acting debut alongside Salman Khan in Dabangg 3, she has since expanded her filmography by taking on projects across different languages and genres.

The actress is currently looking ahead to the release of India House, one of her most anticipated upcoming films. In addition to that, she is also working on another project featuring actor Raghav Juyal, further strengthening her diverse lineup.

With filming now underway in Italy and an official reveal expected soon, fans are keenly awaiting more details about Saiee M Manjrekar's latest venture, which promises to add another exciting chapter to her evolving career.

Also Read: Saiee M Manjrekar on going out of her comfort zone in Ikaai, “This film pushed me emotionally and mentally in ways I didn’t expect”

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Vishesh Bhatt responds to Awarapan 2 clash with Sunny Deol’s Batwara 1947: “It's our fortune and luck that we get to share this release date with Sunny Deol”

With the trailer of Awarapan 2 set to launch on August 6, anticipation around Emraan Hashmi’s much-awaited sequel continues to grow. The film, which arrives in cinemas on August 14 during the Independence Day holiday weekend, will face competition from Sunny Deol’s Batwara 1947. Despite the high-profile box office clash, producer Vishesh Bhatt has expressed confidence and gratitude, saying the release date was chosen with audiences in mind rather than competition.

Addressing the much-discussed clash, Vishesh Bhatt said, “We came on the date that seemed best. It's our first release coming into 14th August on a holiday and it's our fortune and luck that we get to share this release date with the legend Sunny Deol and and it's with a lot of humility we would like to bring the film on a holiday so more people can also come and watch this film.”

#Awaarapan2 producer Vishesh Bhatt answers the question on the Independence Day clash with #Batwara1947.

He says it's THEIR fortune to share this release date with the LEGEND SUNNY DEOL ♥️

ALL the best to them as well!!

Healthy clash ho jaye....!! #SunnyDeol pic.twitter.com/8R3R3bhzki — Deva Ki Adaalat (@SunnyDeolFanHu) August 4, 2026

His remarks reflect the makers’ positive outlook towards the festive release window, which traditionally draws large crowds to theatres. Instead of viewing the simultaneous release as a rivalry, Bhatt emphasized that the holiday period offers moviegoers an opportunity to enjoy multiple films on the big screen.

Awarapan 2 marks the return of Emraan Hashmi as Shivam Pandit nearly two decades after the original Awarapan earned cult status among fans. The sequel also stars Disha Patani, Shabana Azmi, Suvinder Vicky and Vijayant Kohli, promising a blend of action, romance and emotional drama while carrying forward the legacy of the 2007 film.

Music has always been one of the biggest strengths of the Awarapan franchise. Songs like ‘Tera Mera Rishta,’ ‘Toh Phir Aao,’ and ‘Maula Maula’ continue to enjoy immense popularity years after the original film's release. Keeping that legacy alive, the makers have already hinted that Awarapan 2 will feature a fresh soundtrack while retaining the soulful musical identity that made the first film memorable. The music is expected to play a key role in connecting both old fans and a new generation of audiences.

With nostalgia, music, and Emraan Hashmi reprising one of his most loved characters, Awarapan 2 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases of the Independence Day weekend.

Also Read : Awarapan 2 trailer to release on 6th August, Emraan Hashmi and Vishesh Bhatt

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Malaika Arora buys Mahindra Thar Roxx worth nearly Rs. 28 lakhs

Malaika Arora has expanded her luxury car collection with the addition of a brand-new Mahindra Thar Roxx, a premium SUV priced at nearly Rs. 28 lakhs for its higher variants. A video of the actress taking delivery of the vehicle has surfaced on social media, capturing the special moment as she welcomed the SUV with a traditional puja ceremony outside her Mumbai residence.

The clip, which has been widely shared by paparazzi accounts on Instagram, shows the Mahindra Thar Roxx arriving at Malaika's home. Surrounded by a small gathering, the actress is seen performing customary rituals before taking possession of the vehicle. The puja, a common practice followed during the purchase of new vehicles in India, is believed to seek blessings and protect against the evil eye before the vehicle is driven for the first time.

The Mahindra Thar Roxx has emerged as one of the most sought-after SUVs in the country since its launch in 2024. Introduced as the five-door version of the iconic Thar, the model quickly gained popularity among buyers for combining the rugged appeal of the original SUV with improved practicality and passenger comfort.

Unlike the traditional three-door Thar, the Roxx offers more interior space, making it suitable for daily commuting while retaining its strong off-road capabilities. The SUV is available with both petrol and diesel engine options, paired with either a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission.

According to Carblog India, the Thar Roxx is powered by either a 2.0-litre mStallion turbo-petrol engine or a 2.2-litre mHawk turbo-diesel engine. The higher diesel variants also come equipped with Mahindra's advanced 4x4 drivetrain and off-roading technologies such as Intelli-Turn, a feature designed to reduce the turning radius on challenging terrain.

With its blend of rugged performance, modern technology and everyday usability, the Mahindra Thar Roxx continues to remain a popular choice among SUV buyers and automobile enthusiasts alike.

On the work front, Malaika Arora was last seen in the film Thama, where she made a special appearance in the song ‘Poison Baby’.

Also Read : International Yoga Day 2026: Bollywood actresses who are Yoga enthusiasts – From Malaika Arora, Shilpa Shetty to Alaya F

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Yash Raj Films launches Raah Records; first artist Aman to debut with 'Jaadugari'

Yash Raj Films (YRF), one of India's leading entertainment studios, today announced the launch of Raah Records, a new music company and incubator created to discover, develop and support original artists while helping them build long-term creative careers beyond film music.

For over five decades, YRF has helped shape Indian music through some of cinema's most enduring soundtracks. Raah Records extends that legacy into India's rapidly evolving music ecosystem by bringing together artist development, original music creation and long-term career building under one dedicated platform.

Speaking about the launch, Akshaye Widhani, CEO, Yash Raj Films, said: "Raah Records represents an important strategic expansion of Yash Raj Films' music business. For over five decades, we have believed in identifying exceptional talent and creating platforms where creativity can thrive. As India's independent music ecosystem enters a defining phase of growth, we believe great artists need more than distribution; they need belief, time and long-term creative partnership. Raah Records is built around careers, not campaigns, bringing together world-class A&R, artist development, marketing and distribution to help original artists build lasting careers."

Rather than operating as a traditional release-driven label, Raah Records has been conceived as a long-term creative partner for artists. Through its incubator model, the company has already been working closely with emerging musicians behind the scenes, with its first artist now beginning the next chapter of that journey under the Raah Records banner. The launch reflects YRF's continued investment in nurturing creative talent while expanding its music business beyond cinema into original independent music.

Raah Records will be led by Nakul Sharma, Senior General Manager - Music Management, Yash Raj Films, who has played a central role in shaping the label's artist development philosophy, A&R strategy and long-term incubator model. Under his leadership, Raah Records will work closely with artists from the earliest stages of their careers, supporting songwriting, production, creative direction, audience growth and strategic partnerships.

Speaking about the launch of Raah Records and its first release, Nakul Sharma, Senior General Manager – Music Management, Yash Raj Films, said: "Raah Records was built on a belief that artists need time, they need trust, and they need the space to grow into who they already are. Our role is to stand beside them throughout that journey, helping them build lasting careers without losing what makes them unique. Aman is exactly the kind of artist we built 'Raah' for, and 'Jaadugari' felt like a fitting way to begin his journey and the label's."

The first glimpse of the track 'Jaadugari,' which was released today, will be available across all major audio streaming platforms from August 5 onwards. The song marks the beginning of Aman's journey with Raah Records, following a year of close creative collaboration that helped shape and refine his artistic voice.

 

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With Raah Records, YRF aims to build a long-term home for original artists, investing in creative development and creating a platform where independent voices can grow into defining musical careers. As the label expands its roster, additional artist signings and original releases will follow in the months ahead.

Also Read: Jyoti Mukerji calls Aditya Chopra “best brother-in-law”; reveals why she never worked with Yash Raj Films despite family ties

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