Suniel Shetty in talks to adapt Black Scorpion; keen to portray gangster Shyam Kishore Garikapati: Report

Veteran actor Suniel Shetty is exploring a new creative direction by entering into conversations to acquire the adaptation rights of the true-crime book Black Scorpion: To Hell and Back, with the intention of transforming it into a long-form web series. The narrative chronicles the life of Shyam Kishore Garikapati, a notorious underworld figure in Mumbai during the late 1980s and 1990s who later turned into a businessman.

According to a report by Mid-Day, Shetty has been deeply engaged with the book’s content in recent days, and his interest goes beyond acquisition. The report indicates that he is also considering playing the central role of Garikapati in the adaptation, which would mark a significant on-screen return to gritty crime drama for the actor.

The portal quoted a source saying, “Suniel thinks the story has the potential to be a thrilling web series. He likes such subjects. What makes the story more interesting is how Garikapati — known in the police circles as Black Scorpion — turned his life around after meeting top cop Kiran Bedi in Tihar Jail and eventually became a businessman.”

The news of Shetty’s interest in this project comes amid his continued involvement in varied roles and ventures across the industry. He has been active in both on-screen and off-screen creative decisions, with several projects in different stages of development. This includes acting roles as well as initiatives behind the camera, where he has taken a keen interest in shaping narratives that challenge conventional storytelling.

Meanwhile, the report also quoted co-author Joshua, who confirmed the development, saying, “When Suniel Anna read the synopsis, he was fascinated by the arc. He decided to not only unveil the book, but also pursue the rights to adapt it into a series.”

However, at the time of reporting, neither Shetty nor his representatives had officially confirmed the acquisition of rights or casting decisions, and negotiations are understood to be ongoing. Further details, including potential collaborators, platforms, and timelines, are likely to emerge as discussions progress.

Also Read: Suniel Shetty praises Aditya Dhar and Ranveer Singh after watching Dhurandhar; calls it ‘mind-blowing film’

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FWICE demands withdrawal of Ghooskhor Pandat title, warns of strict action

The controversy around the upcoming Netflix film Ghooskhor Pandat, produced by Neeraj Pandey and starring Manoj Bajpayee, grew more intense this week after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) formally objected to its title and urged the makers to withdraw it, warning of significant industry action if the demand is not met.

The dispute began soon after the film’s announcement and teaser release, with many viewers and various organisations criticising the title Ghooskhor Pandat as offensive and potentially derogatory toward a specific community. The title combines ghooskhor — a colloquial Hindi term for someone who takes bribes — with Pandat, commonly associated with the Brahmin community. Critics argued that this linkage could perpetuate stereotypes and hurt sentiments. FWICE’s Objection and Warning FWICE, a body representing workers, technicians and artists across more than three dozen affiliated associations, sent a letter to producers’ bodies and major OTT platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Zee5 and SonyLIV. The organisation, according to a PTI report, stated: “FWICE and all its affiliated associations strongly object to the use of this title, as it appears to single out and target a particular community and its traditional means of livelihood in a derogatory and offensive manner.”

The letter added, “Such a title has the potential to hurt sentiments, provoke misunderstanding, and disturb social harmony… We therefore appeal to all producer bodies to refrain from allowing the registration or continuation of film titles that are provocative in nature and capable of creating unrest among Indians.” The federation emphasised that the film industry, as a platform of influence, has a responsibility to avoid promoting disrespect or division.

FWICE also warned that if the title is not withdrawn promptly, it may advise its associations and members to distance themselves from any project associated with the film’s production house. This could translate into a boycott of technicians and crew working on future films by the same producers. Government, Legal and Public Reaction to Ghooskhor Pandat The controversy crossed into legal and political arenas. In Lucknow, an FIR was lodged against the film’s creators for allegedly hurting caste sentiments, and a writ petition has been filed in the Delhi High Court seeking a stay on the film’s release on grounds that the title is “communally offensive.”

Political organisations and leaders have also joined the criticism. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) labelled the title as “offensive” and has urged appropriate measures against the film. Amid the backlash, authorities reportedly directed Netflix India to remove the teaser and related promotional content from official channels.

Responding to the uproar, Neeraj Pandey issued a statement acknowledging that the title had “hurt” some viewers and announced that all promotional material for the project would be taken down for the moment. He clarified: “Our film is a fictional cop drama… the term ‘Pandat’ is used simply as a colloquial name for a character. The story focuses on an individual’s actions and choices and does not comment on or represent any caste, religion or community.”

Manoj Bajpayee also addressed the controversy on his official social media, writing: “I respect the emotions and concerns people have shared, and I take them seriously… For me, this was about portraying a flawed individual and his journey of self-realisation. This was not meant to be a statement about any community.”

Beyond FWICE, the Film Makers Combine (FMC) — another industry body — has objected to the title on procedural grounds, noting that Ghooskhor Pandat had not been formally approved under standard title registration processes. The organisation has cautioned the production and Netflix against using an unauthorized title.

Also Read: After Neeraj Pandey, Manoj Bajpayee addresses backlash over Ghooskhor Pandat title: “Not meant to be a statement about any community”

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“Disappointing”: Vikrant Massey BREAKS SILENCE on being replaced by Raghav Juyal in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana

Actor Vikrant Massey addressed widespread rumours surrounding his alleged role in Ramayana, a two-part film directed by Nitesh Tiwari, and reports that he was replaced by Raghav Juyal. The speculation began earlier this week, triggering reactions across social media and entertainment outlets.

In a post shared on his Instagram Stories, Massey firmly denied being part of the project. “Ok. To put the rumours to rest. I never was a part of Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayan,” he wrote, reflecting on the coverage that suggested he had lost a role in the film. “The many media portals reporting about my supposed ‘replacement’ should’ve done the requisite background check. Disappointing. Nonetheless, wishing everyone a part of the movie all the very best. Love.”

The actor later deleted the post from his Instagram Story, though no explanation was given for its removal.

The controversy stemmed from a report by Variety India mentioning that Raghav Juyal had been cast as Meghanad (also called Indrajit) — the eldest son of Ravana and a key warrior in the Ramayana narrative — for Ramayana: Part 2. The same report indicated that the role was once linked to Massey before the filmmakers made a different casting choice. The publication quoted a source saying, “The role was initially supposed to be played by Vikrant Massey, but things apparently didn't work out. Raghav was subsequently approached, and he immediately came on board.”

Despite the buzz, Massey made it clear he had no official involvement with the project at any stage. The deleted clarification post was his way of countering the growing speculation.

Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is being produced as a two-part cinematic adaptation of the ancient Indian epic and is expected to be among the biggest live-action films in Indian cinema. Ranbir Kapoor headlines as Lord Ram, while Sai Pallavi plays Goddess Sita. Yash embodies Ravana, with Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. The ensemble cast also includes several other prominent actors in key roles.

The first part of Ramayana is scheduled for a Diwali 2026 release, while the second installment is expected around Diwali 2027.

Also Read: Musafir Café on Netflix: Vikrant Massey, Vedika Pinto and Mahima Makwana lead a soulful love story

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EXCLUSIVE: Salman Khan’s Battle Of Galwan to release on Independence Day 2026

Earlier in the day, Bollywood Hungama announced that the much-awaited film, Battle Of Galwan, might not be able to make it on April 17, as scheduled. The news went viral as soon as it went live. We now bring to you another exciting update – the new release date of the Salman Khan-starrer.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Battle Of Galwan has indeed been postponed and it’ll now release on August 14, 2026. Salman Khan and the makers are of the opinion that it would be a better date since India’s Independence Day falls on August 15. The patriotic sentiment will be at an all-time high and Battle Of Galwan would be an ideal flick to watch in this period.”

The source further said, “The makers are expected to shortly announce the new release date of Battle Of Galwan officially.”

Earlier, Bollywood Hungama, in its article, carried a quote from a source who explained the reason for the delay, “The shoot is not yet over and the reshoot is taking more time than expected. From Monday, February 9, a one-week schedule will commence in the Golden Tobacco Factory in Mumbai. After this schedule gets over, a few more days of shooting are left and by February-end, it’ll be a wrap.”

The source further said, “Director Apoorva Lakhia will begin editing the reshot portions. And that’s not all. As per the rules, Battle Of Galwan needs to be shown to the Ministry of Defence and this process might also take time. Due to these two reasons, the makers feel that they would not be able to meet the April 17 deadline. Salman Khan is clear that such a special, patriotic film needs to be nurtured well. He has told the team of the film that they should not rush through the process and take their time in ensuring that the final product looks appealing, compelling and cinematic.”

Interestingly, Battle Of Galwan will now clash with Kartik Aaryan-starrer Naagzilla.

Also Read: Salman Khan back on Battle Of Galwan sets for 15-day additional shoot and patchwork; action scene added

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Karan Johar, Vicky Kaushal, Ananya Panday and others attend day 2 of the 100-year celebration event of RSS in Mumbai

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) completed 100 years in 2025. As part of its centenary celebrations, a grand two-day event is being held at a sprawling auditorium in Mumbai. The first day of the event took place on Saturday, February 7, with several prominent personalities from various fields in attendance. The Bollywood film fraternity was not far behind and many celebs attended the first day of the event like superstars Salman Khan and Ranbir Kapoor, filmmakers Mohit Suri, Subhash Ghai, Nitesh Tiwari, Mahaveer Jain, Om Raut, Vikram Malhotra, lyricist Prasoon Joshi and others.

The second day of the event was also star-studded. While Ranbir attended the first day of the event, his Love & War co-star Vicky Kaushal made his presence felt on day 2. Karan Johar and Ananya Panday were also present and they were joined by veteran actor Jackie Shroff, the evergreen Raveena Tandon and Shilpa Shetty, music composer Pritam Chakraborty, singer Adnan Sami, television star Rupali Ganguly, Marathi actor Subodh Bhave, talented performer Viineet Kumar Siingh, and filmmakers Nitesh Tiwari, Madhur Bhandarkar, Mahesh Manjrekar, Aanand, L Rai, Amar Kaushik, Amit Sharma, Ramesh Taurani, Anand Pandit, Arunabh Kumar and others.

On the film front, Ananya Panday and Karan Johar are gearing up for their romantic flick, Chand Mera Dil. It also stars Lakshya of Kill (2024) and The Ba***ds Of Bollywood (2025) fame and is directed by Vivek Soni, whose Netflix original Aap Jaisa Koi (2025), starring R Madhavan and Fatima Sana Shaikh, received rave reviews.

Ananya Panday and Karan Johar’s last film together, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri (2025), was released in cinemas on Christmas. It recently premiered on Amazon Prime Video on rent. Meanwhile, Ananya is currently working on the second season of Call Me Bae. Incidentally, the slice-of-life show is also backed by Karan Johar.

Besides Call Me Bae Season 2 and Chand Mera Dil, Karan Johar is also gearing up for the Konkona Sen Sharma-Pratibha Ranta Netflix film Accused, Kartik Aaryan-starrer Naagzilla, Ayushmann Khurrana-Sara Ali Khan untitled flick, a thriller with Aditya Roy Kapur etc.

Also Read: Salman Khan, Ranbir Kapoor and others attend the 100-year celebration event of RSS in Mumbai

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Ishaan Khatter buys Rs. 29.37 crore luxury apartment in Mumbai’s elite Pali Hill area

Bollywood actor Ishaan Khatter has reportedly made a significant real estate investment in Mumbai, purchasing a luxury apartment in the city’s upscale Pali Hill neighbourhood for Rs. 29.37 crore. The transaction details have emerged through property registration documents accessed by real estate data platform CRE Matrix.

According to the documents, Ishaan has acquired the apartment at Navroz Apartments, located in Bandra’s Pali Hill, under the Navroze Premises Co-operative Society. The high-end residence boasts a carpet area of 2,989.05 square feet, making it a spacious addition to the actor’s property portfolio. The seller of the apartment has been identified as Kapil M. Mahtani, and the transaction was officially registered on February 5, 2026.

The paperwork further reveals that the actor paid approximately Rs. 1.76 crore in stamp duty for the deal. In addition to the apartment, the purchase also includes four dedicated parking spaces, a valuable asset in one of Mumbai’s most sought-after residential zones. As of now, Ishaan Khatter has not issued any official statement confirming or commenting on the property purchase.

Pali Hill, situated in Bandra, continues to remain one of Mumbai’s most prestigious and exclusive residential areas. Known for its prime location and accessibility, the locality has long been home to several prominent Bollywood personalities and high-net-worth celebrities such as Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Dilip Kumar, Jackie Shroff, and Sanjay Dutt, among others, own properties in and around the Pali Hill area, further underlining its elite status.

The reported purchase comes at a time when Ishaan Khatter is enjoying a notable phase in his career. The actor received widespread appreciation for his performance in Homebound, co-starring Vishal Jethwa and marking a reunion with his debut co-star Janhvi Kapoor. Produced by Dharma Productions and Neeraj Ghaywan, the film gained international attention and even entered the Oscars nomination race, bringing global visibility to the project.

Closer home, Ishaan also connected with Indian audiences through the Netflix series The Royals, where he featured alongside Bhumi Pednekar, Sakshi Tanwar, and Zeenat Aman. With strong critical and audience reception to his recent work, the actor’s reported investment in a prime Mumbai property appears to reflect both professional stability and long-term planning.

Also Read: Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa react to Homebound losing the Oscar race in heartfelt Instagram posts

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SCOOP: Salman Khan-starrer Battle Of Galwan likely to be postponed; might not make it to cinemas on April 17

Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront in providing timely updates about Battle Of Galwan. We are now back with another news, which might disappoint those who have been waiting to catch the Salman Khan-starrer on the big screen. As per latest developments, the superstar and the makers of the film are toying with the idea of delaying the release.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Battle Of Galwan is scheduled to be released on April 17. But the shoot is not yet over and the reshoot is taking more time than expected. From Monday, February 9, a one-week schedule will commence in the Golden Tobacco Factory in Mumbai. After this schedule gets over, a few more days of shooting are left and by February-end, it’ll be a wrap.”

The source further said, “Director Apoorva Lakhia will begin editing the reshot portions. And that’s not all. As per the rules, Battle Of Galwan needs to be shown to the Ministry of Defence and this process might also take time. Due to these two reasons, the makers feel that they would not be able to meet the April 17 deadline. Salman Khan is clear that such a special, patriotic film needs to be nurtured well. He has told the team of the film that they should not rush through the process and take their time in ensuring that the final product looks appealing, compelling and cinematic.”

The source continued, “Though Salman Khan and Apoorva Lakhia are seriously considering postponing the Battle Of Galwan, they are yet to take the final call. Salman bhai is unpredictable; he might still get the film out on April 17 despite the circumstances, but the chances seem remote. A clearer picture is expected to emerge in a few days from now.”

Besides Salman Khan, Battle Of Galwan also stars Chitrangda Singh. Salman plays the role of Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu in this film, which is based on a chapter in the book ‘India’s Most Fearless 3’ (2022), authored by Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh. The film is inspired by the events of June 15, 2020, when Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed in the Galwan Valley during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also Read: Salman Khan BREAKS SILENCE on trolls over Battle of Galwan teaser expression: “Ye Colonel ka look hai”

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