Sara Ali Khan faces fatwa over Kedarnath Temple visit: Reports

Sara Ali Khan's recent visit to Kedarnath Temple has led to a religious controversy after Uttar Pradesh-based Islamic cleric Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi reportedly issued a fatwa over the actress offering prayers at the shrine. Sara visited Kedarnath on October 25 and was reportedly seen waiting in the queue for darshan before offering prayers with folded hands. Media reports also said that she participated in puja and aarti and visited the Bhukunt Bhairav Temple.

Reacting to the visit, the cleric said that Islamic Sharia does not permit Muslims to participate in religious practices associated with another faith. “I want to make it clear that Islamic Sharia does not permit its followers to engage in shirk,” the cleric said, as reported by Bhaskar English. He further added, “This means that no Muslim, whether a man or a woman, is allowed to adopt the religious practices of another faith or worship at a temple.”

The cleric reportedly described such acts as “impermissible and haram” under Sharia and said Sara should repent before Allah. He also reiterated his position on the actress's temple visit, saying, “I want to make it clear that such acts are not permissible.” What happened during Sara Ali Khan's Kedarnath visit? According to reports, Sara travelled to Kedarnath by helicopter before joining devotees waiting for darshan. Pictures and videos from the visit showed her standing in the queue and later offering prayers at the temple.

Reports also said that the actress participated in the temple's puja and aarti and visited the Bhukunt Bhairav Temple. Her visit reportedly took place amid cold weather, with some reports stating that women devotees offered her a shawl to help her keep warm.

Sara has maintained a connection with Kedarnath for several years. The shrine also has a link to her film career, as she made her Bollywood debut with the 2018 film Kedarnath, which starred the late Sushant Singh Rajput. She has returned to the temple on multiple occasions since then. Temple committee's protocol for non-Hindu visitors The controversy has also brought attention to the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee's rules for non-Hindu visitors. According to reports, the committee requires non-Hindu devotees who wish to offer prayers at the shrine to submit an affidavit.

BKTC CEO Sohan Singh Rangar reportedly confirmed to News18 that Sara's team had submitted the required affidavit before her visit.

A fatwa is generally understood as a religious opinion or ruling issued by an Islamic scholar on a question concerning Islamic law. In this case, the reported ruling reflects the position expressed by the cleric and should not be presented as a universal view shared by all Muslims or Islamic scholars.

Also Read: Sara Ali Khan reveals why Atrangi Re was one role that demanded the most from her: “Lots of personal things had happened that year”

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SCOOP: Anirudh exits Shah Rukh Khan’s King due to packed schedule; gifts SRK the theme track as Sachin-Jigar take over

Shah Rukh Khan and Siddharth Anand are gearing up to end the year with a bang, as their next King is the most discussed film of 2026. The countdown to a grand asset launch for Shah Rukh Khan's birthday is underway, which will officially kick off the actioner's marketing campaign.

And now, Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learnt of a major development that could leave Shah Rukh Khan and Anirudh fans with mixed emotions. Anirudh, who has earned a massive following for his electrifying background scores, has amicably parted ways with King owing to his packed schedule. A source informed Bollywood Hungama, “Siddharth Anand and Shah Rukh Khan are determined to bring King to cinemas this Christmas without any delays. However, Anirudh has been juggling multiple commitments down South, making it difficult for him to devote the time and attention that a film of this scale demands. After a cordial discussion, both parties mutually decided to part ways.” The source further revealed that the makers have now entrusted Sachin-Jigar with the responsibility of composing the film’s music and background score.

"However, Anirudh has given the Theme Track of King to Shah Rukh Khan as a mark of his respect for the megastar, and Sachin-Jigar too will be reimagining the track for the entire background score of the film. So King will still have the Anirudh touch with the theme track, but the entire score also the album, otherwise will be done by Sachin-Jigar," the source tells us.

King is touted to be the most ambitious action film of Hindi cinema, mounted on a mammoth budget as the makers are up to deliver a never-before spectacle. The estimated costs excluding SRK's fees and PnA is touted to be in the zone of Rs. 450 crore, and every penny will be visible on the screen as per insiders.

"This is Siddharth Anand's biggest film till date and a love letter to the legend of SRK. He has designed the full film keeping his aura in mind."

Also Read: Siddharth Anand drops another cryptic post about Shah Rukh Khan starrer King at midnight; is a birthday surprise coming?

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Siddharth Anand drops another cryptic post about Shah Rukh Khan starrer King at midnight; is a birthday surprise coming?

Filmmaker Siddharth Anand has once again sparked curiosity among Shah Rukh Khan fans with a cryptic midnight post about KING. Following his earlier one-word tweet, “It’s”, the director has now shared another intriguing message that reads, “Time For The World”. The latest post has fuelled speculation about whether an announcement related to the much-awaited action thriller is around the corner, especially with Shah Rukh Khan’s birthday on November 2 approaching.

Siddharth Anand’s first post had already caught the attention of fans, with many wondering whether the filmmaker was hinting at an upcoming update on KING. His latest message has added another layer to the mystery, prompting questions about whether the two posts are connected and whether they could be building towards a larger reveal.

Time For The World — Siddharth Anand (@justSidAnand) October 29, 2026

With the superstar’s birthday just around the corner, fans are also speculating whether Siddharth Anand could have another midnight surprise planned for tomorrow. However, the filmmaker has not officially confirmed what the cryptic messages refer to, leaving the possibility of a reveal open to speculation.

It’s — Siddharth Anand (@justSidAnand) October 29, 2026

Directed by Siddharth Anand, KING is an international action thriller produced by Gauri Khan under Red Chillies Entertainment and Marflix Pictures. The film stars Shah Rukh Khan in the titular role of a deadly assassin whose underworld journey intersects with high-stakes emotional conflicts and a romantic core, teased through the tagline, “Qaatil Nahi.. Aashiq Hoon…”.

The film features Suhana Khan in a pivotal lead role, alongside Abhishek Bachchan as the primary antagonist. Deepika Padukone, Rani Mukerji, Jaideep Ahlawat and Raghav Juyal are also part of the ensemble cast in supporting roles and special appearances.

Mounted on a global scale, the project features international stunt choreography, with Red Chillies VFX handling the visual effects. KING is scheduled to arrive in cinemas worldwide on December 24, 2026, during the Christmas holiday period.

For now, Siddharth Anand’s latest post has left fans guessing. Whether “Time For The World” signals a major KING update or is simply another teaser remains to be seen.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan birthday special? Siddharth Anand drops cryptic “It’s” tweet sparking speculation on new King update

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Bhumi Pednekar reunites with Akshay Kumar for Priyadarshan’s next comedy

Bhumi Pednekar is set to reunite with Akshay Kumar for an upcoming comedy directed by Priyadarshan. The project will mark their third collaboration and comes four years after the duo was last seen together in Raksha Bandhan.

According to a report by Hindustan Times, Bhumi has been signed as the leading lady of the film. Priyadarshan has also confirmed her casting to HT City. The upcoming project is Priyadarshan’s 99th film as a director and is expected to go on floors in the last week of November 2026. Akshay Kumar to play tiger hunter in 1970s-set comedy The film is reportedly set in the 1970s, with Akshay Kumar playing a tiger hunter. While details about the story are currently being kept under wraps, the project is being described as a comedy set against the period.

Earlier reports had suggested that the film could incorporate elements related to wildlife conservation alongside comedy and thriller elements. However, the makers have not revealed detailed plot information yet.

The film is being produced by Ramesh Taurani. Reports have also suggested that Annu Kapoor and Rajpal Yadav could be part of the cast, although further details about their roles have not been officially disclosed. Bhumi Pednekar and Akshay Kumar to reunite after Raksha Bandhan Bhumi and Akshay have previously shared screen space in Toilet: Ek Prem Katha and Raksha Bandhan. Their upcoming collaboration will therefore mark their third film together.

Raksha Bandhan, directed by Aanand L Rai, was released in 2022 and featured Bhumi as Akshay’s co-star. The upcoming Priyadarshan project will bring the pair together in a different setting, with the story reportedly taking place several decades in the past. Priyadarshan’s 99th film to begin shooting in November The film is expected to begin production in the last week of November 2026. The shooting schedule is likely to span around three months, with Rajasthan and Mumbai among the locations. Bhopal is also being considered as a possible shooting location.

Also Read: Bhumi Pednekar recalls Shah Rukh Khan’s warm hospitality and Akshay Kumar’s lasting advice

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PVR INOX sees record Q2 as Indian box office crosses Rs 4,000 crore for FIRST time in a quarter!

PVR INOX Limited has reported its highest-ever quarterly revenue, EBITDA and profit after tax for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, as strong theatrical performance and higher consumer spending supported the cinema chain's financial results.

For Q2 FY27, PVR INOX recorded revenue of Rs 21,327 million, or around Rs 2,133 crore, on an Ind AS 116-adjusted basis. This marked a 17% increase from Rs 18,187 million in the corresponding quarter last year.

Adjusted EBITDA rose 44% year on year to Rs 4,752 million, with the EBITDA margin improving to 22.3% from 18.1%. Profit after tax from continuing operations increased 111% to Rs 2,733 million, compared with Rs 1,296 million in Q2 FY26. PVR INOX sees 46.3 million patrons in Q2 The cinema chain welcomed 46.3 million patrons during the quarter, marking a 4% year-on-year increase. Occupancy also improved to 30.4%, compared with 28.7% in the same period last year. Average ticket price rose 14% to Rs 298, while average food and beverage spending per head also increased 14% to Rs 153. Both ticketing and F&B revenues grew 18% during the quarter.

The company said the results were supported by a strong theatrical slate and increased consumer spending.

Commenting on the performance, PVR INOX Managing Director Ajay Bijli said, “Q2 FY'27 has been a landmark quarter for Indian cinema and PVR INOX. We achieved record quarterly and half-yearly revenue, EBITDA and PAT, supported by strong content, higher consumer spends and disciplined costs.”

He added, “Our margins are now well above pre-COVID levels, a clear sign of a structurally stronger business. We generated significant free cash flow, completed our maiden share buyback and carry a strong balance sheet.” Indian box office crosses Rs 4,000 crore in a quarter PVR INOX's results come amid a strong quarter for the Indian theatrical market. According to Ormax Media and company estimates cited by PVR INOX, India's gross box office collections reached Rs 4,443 crore in Q2 FY27, representing 23% year-on-year growth.

The quarter marked the first time that the Indian box office crossed Rs 4,000 crore in a single quarter. First-half FY27 box office collections stood at Rs 7,618 crore, up 22% year-on-year.

English-language films recorded particularly strong growth, with collections increasing 87% to Rs 1,024 crore. Spider-Man: Brand New Day became the highest-grossing English film in India with collections of Rs 608 crore, according to the company's estimates. Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey also performed strongly, collecting Rs 233 crore.

Hindi box office collections, including dubbed films, grew 12% year on year. Hanuman Ansh collected Rs 351 crore, while Mirzapur: The Movie earned Rs 267 crore. Regional cinema also recorded 12% growth, with titles including Toxic and Jana Nayagan contributing to the overall performance. PVR INOX remains net cash positive after share buyback The company generated Rs 6,035 million in free cash flow during the first half of FY27 and repaid Rs 2,586 million of debt. It also completed its first-ever Rs 3,000 million share buyback in September. Despite the buyback, PVR INOX's net cash position stood at Rs 1,407 million as of September 30, compared with Rs 807 million at the end of June.

The company's board has also approved a new Capital Allocation and Dividend Distribution Policy. The policy focuses on investments in screens, premium formats and technology, while targeting a net debt to LTM EBITDA ratio of no more than 0.5 times after any distribution.

The company said it plans to return around 30% of annual surplus cash flow through dividends and/or buybacks, subject to the board's decision. PVR INOX expands screen network As of September 30, PVR INOX operated 1,797 screens across 114 cities in India and Sri Lanka. The company opened 24 screens across six cinemas during the first half of FY27, while exiting 25 screens, largely from loss-making locations.

PVR INOX plans to add 90 to 100 screens during FY27, with most of the expansion expected in the second half of the financial year through capital-light models. The company also opened its first SMART Cinema in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, in September. The format is aimed at smaller Tier III and Tier IV markets, with two to three more SMART Cinemas planned for the current financial year. Ramayana, King and other major releases expected ahead PVR INOX expects the upcoming film slate to support theatrical momentum in the second half of the financial year. Major Hindi releases include Ramayana: Part One in November, Shah Rukh Khan's King in December, followed by Love & War and Golmaal 5 in the fourth quarter.

The regional and pan-India lineup includes Chiranjeevi's Kaaka and Prabhas' Spirit. Hollywood releases expected during the period include The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, Avengers: Doomsday, Dune: Part Three and Jumanji: Open World.

“Looking ahead, we remain firmly focused on growth, expanding our network through capital-light formats and taking cinema deeper into under-screened India with our new SMART Cinemas. With an exciting content pipeline, we are committed to delivering a compelling cinema experience and long-term shareholder value,” Bijli said.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: PVR INOX’s Sanjeev Kumar Bijli talks about consumer court rulings over lengthy cinema ads: “We have reduced ad time from 15 mins to 10 mins…we want to make sure that moviegoing experience does not get compromised”

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Disha Patani turns entrepreneur, launches clothing brand DZ with oversized and space-inspired designs

Disha Patani has ventured into the fashion business with the launch of her own clothing brand, DZ. The actress, who has often been associated with relaxed and oversized silhouettes, is bringing that aesthetic to her new label along with designs inspired by outer space and aliens.

The brand has gone live through its official website, offering a range of oversized and baggy outfits featuring graphic and space-inspired elements. DZ marks Patani's move into entrepreneurship after more than a decade in the film industry. Disha Patani introduces DZ with new track Alongside the clothing line, Patani has also unveiled a promotional track for DZ. The actress features in the accompanying video in an experimental look that includes bleached eyebrows and oversized outfits.

The styling reflects the aesthetic associated with the brand, with loose silhouettes and graphic elements taking centre stage. The space-inspired designs and alien references also form a recurring visual theme across the collection.

Patani has previously been seen favouring relaxed and oversized clothing in her off-duty appearances, and DZ appears to build on that personal style. DZ focuses on oversized and offbeat fashion The new label focuses on baggy silhouettes and designs aimed at those looking to experiment with casual fashion. Its collection incorporates motifs and graphics inspired by outer space, aliens and other unconventional themes.

With DZ, Patani is also bringing her personal interest in offbeat fashion into a business venture. The brand is currently available through its website, where customers can explore its collection.

The launch adds another dimension to Patani's career as she expands beyond acting and enters the fashion and lifestyle space.

Also Read: Disha Patani reflects on 10 Years in Bollywood; says, “I don’t want to be defined by one particular kind of role or image”

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Varun Sharma and makers of Naam – To Live Is War part ways amid scheduling commitments

Actor Varun Sharma, who was all set to star in the upcoming action thriller Naam – To Live Is War, and the makers Utsav Entertainment have arrived at a mutual understanding regarding the collaboration, keeping in view existing professional commitments and scheduling considerations.

Due to Varun’s existing professional commitments and scheduling considerations, accommodating the project at this time has become challenging. Following thoughtful discussions and careful consideration, both the actor and the makers have mutually agreed on a practical course of action, keeping their respective professional commitments in mind.

The actor and the makers share, “We were genuinely looking forward to this collaboration and exploring the opportunity to work together. However, given the existing professional commitments and scheduling considerations, we felt it was best to take a considered and practical decision at this stage. While things may not align this time, we hope to find an opportunity to collaborate in the future when circumstances are more conducive. We wish the entire team the very best and hope the film receives immense love and success.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Himesh Reshammiya to compose music for Veer Pahariya’s Naam – To Live Is War; reunites with Mahesh Bhatt after 16 years

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