Global Superstar Aamir Khan to be Chief Guest at the 16th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne

Global Superstar Aamir Khan to be Chief Guest at the 16th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) has officially announced that acclaimed actor, filmmaker, and cultural icon Aamir Khan will be the Chief Guest at its 2025 edition. As part of the celebrations, the festival will present a special retrospective of Aamir Khan’s cinematic journey, showcasing his outstanding contributions to Indian cinema, with a special spotlight on his upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par.

Aamir Khan, known for shaping powerful and thought-provoking narratives over a career spanning more than three decades, has given Indian cinema unforgettable films like Taare Zameen Par, Dangal, Lagaan, PK, and Secret Superstar. His new film, Sitaare Zameen Par, continues this legacy. The story follows a basketball coach who, through a social outreach program, begins training a team of neurodivergent adults. In the process, he discovers a deeper purpose in life. The film has resonated strongly with audiences for its emotional depth and humane storytelling.

In recognition of his artistic legacy, IFFM 2025 will host special screenings of some of Aamir Khan’s most impactful films, focusing on his socially relevant and courageous storytelling. The centerpiece of this retrospective will be a screening of Sitaare Zameen Par, followed by an exclusive live conversation featuring Aamir Khan, director R.S. Prasanna, and Aparna Purohit, CEO of Aamir Khan Films. This session will offer audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the film’s creative process and its message of inclusion and empathy.

Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange shared her excitement:

“Aamir Khan is not just a cinematic legend—his body of work reflects sensitivity, depth, and the courage to tell meaningful stories. We’re honored to have him as our Chief Guest this year. His presence will elevate the festival experience for audiences and filmmakers alike. Aamir has consistently used cinema as a medium for social change, and Sitaare Zameen Par beautifully captures the power of inclusive storytelling with honesty, joy, and compassion.”

Aamir Khan expressed his enthusiasm about attending IFFM:

“It’s an absolute honor to be a part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. This festival celebrates the richness and diversity of Indian cinema. I’m excited to meet audiences, share some of my favorite work, and engage in meaningful conversations about the power of storytelling. Sitaare Zameen Par is a film close to my heart, aiming to portray the stories of neurodivergent individuals with sensitivity and sincerity. I look forward to sharing this journey with everyone in Melbourne.”

The 16th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne will take place from August 14–24, 2025, featuring film screenings, panel discussions, masterclasses, and cultural events. The Aamir Khan retrospective promises to be one of the biggest highlights of the festival.

Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain! Angoori Beats Up Masked Intruders—Not Knowing It’s Tiwari and Anita!

Sanjay and Binaiferr Kohli’s beloved sitcom Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain!, produced under the Edit II banner, continues to rule hearts even after nine successful years on-air. With its perfect blend of humor, drama, and quirky characters, the show is a true gem of Indian television.

Starring Aasif Sheikh, Rohitashv Gour, Shubhangi Atre, and Vidisha Srivastava, the show airs on &TV and is all set to deliver another rollercoaster of hilarious twists this week.

This Week’s Madness in Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain!

In a bizarre turn of events, Vibhuti Narayan Mishra (Aasif Sheikh) falsely accuses Manmohan Tiwari (Rohitashv Gour) of stealing his slippers at the temple. The mix-up begins when both men wear identical slippers, and it turns out that David Chacha (Annup Upadhyay) had accidentally walked off with Vibhuti’s pair. But before the truth emerges, Vibhuti creates a public scene, humiliating Tiwari without a second thought—and without ever apologizing.

Hurt and fuming, Tiwari swears to teach Vibhuti a lesson. His moment arrives when Bhure (Rakesh Bedi) drops by with ₹35 lakhs for a land deal. Tiwari cunningly swipes the money and frames Vibhuti for the theft. The setup is so convincing that even Happu Singh (Yogesh Tripathi) starts suspecting Vibhuti.

Cornered by false accusations and social disgrace, Vibhuti flees and ends up joining a dangerous underworld gang that operates like a corporate firm—but is involved in major crimes. The gang is so powerful, even the cops stay away.

Back home, Anita (Vidisha Srivastava) struggles to face society, embarrassed by her husband’s new “criminal” identity. But when guilt starts eating away at Tiwari, he finally confesses the truth to Bhure. Realizing the mess he’s created, he teams up with Anita to free Vibhuti from the gang’s clutches.

But there’s a twist! The gang demands that Vibhuti either commit a murder, return ₹35 lakhs, or serve a two-year notice. Desperate, Anita and Tiwari plot a heist to retrieve the stolen money from Bhure’s safe. Wearing masks, they sneak into the house—only to be caught red-handed by Angoori (Shubhangi Atre), who, unaware of who they really are, gives them a thorough beating!

With Vibhuti still trapped in the gang’s clutches and the situation spiraling out of control, what will happen next? Will Angoori discover the truth? Can Tiwari and Anita pull off a rescue?

Tune in to find out in this week’s laugh-out-loud episodes of Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain! only on &TV!

Paresh Rawal Rejoins Hera Pheri 3 Weeks After Exit, Breaks Silence on Controversy

Weeks after Paresh Rawal announced his departure from the upcoming film Hera Pheri 3, the actor has now confirmed his return to the franchise. Speaking with Himanshu Mehta on his podcast, Paresh also addressed the controversy around the film. He also praised Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Priyadarshan.

Paresh Rawal talks about Hera Pheri 3 row

When asked about the controversy around Hera Pheri 3, Paresh denied that there was one. He said, “Nahi controversy kuch nahi hai (There’s no controversy). I believe that when people have loved something so much, then you have to be extra careful. It is our responsibility toward the audience. The audience has given you so much adulation. You can’t take things for granted. Mehnat karke unko do (Work hard and give them the film). So I was of the opinion that sab saath mein aaye, mehnat karein. Aur kuch nahin (Everyone should come together, work hard). It is all resolved now.”

Read Full Article: Hindustantimes

Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti’ is releasing on July 4

‘Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti’ is releasing on July 4

-Deepak Dua
Zee Studios, in collaboration with Contiloe Pictures, proudly announces the release of its upcoming action-thriller ‘Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti’, a riveting cinematic retelling of one of India’s most fearless counter-terror missions.

Headlined by the versatile Akshaye Khanna and helmed by acclaimed director Ken Ghosh, the film is set to hit theatres across India on July 4, 2025.

Inspired by true events, Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti takes audiences back to the harrowing 2002 terrorist attack on the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat. As bullets echoed through sacred halls, a covert mission codenamed Operation Vajra Shakti unfolded, showcasing the unwavering courage and tactical brilliance of India’s armed forces.

The newly released poster sets the tone for what’s to come, a haunting visual where temple pillars stand tall, casting shadows that reveal the silhouette of an armed commando. The image captures the quiet tension before action, a prelude to a storm of bravery.

Promising edge-of-the-seat action, emotionally charged storytelling, and a powerful performance at its core, the film is more than just a thriller, it’s a salute to India’s unsung heroes who risked everything to protect what mattered most.

Suchata of Thailand crowned 72nd Miss World in Hyderabad

-Deepak Dua

Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand was crowned as Miss World for 2025. She was crowned by Krystyna Pyszkovaof Czech Republic, who won Miss World title in 2024. This is the first time that a beauty queen from Thailand has received this honor.

After undergoing breast surgery at the age of 16, Suchatajoined the breast cancer awareness campaign and is still doing meaningful work for this cause. Later when we talked to her, we found that she is very humble and never hesitates in showing her respect for others.She praised India and Indian culture and said that wherever she went in India, people gave her a lot of love and respect.

She expressed her wish to meet the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi to thank him. Suchata named Alia Bhatt as her favorite actress from India.In her message to girls, she said that they should have faith in themselves and if they try, nothing is impossible for them.

Hanumankind Sets the Stage Ablaze at Netflix Tudum 2025 with Thrilling Squid Game Reveal

At the Netflix Tudum 2025 global fan event, Hanumankind, the Indian rapper and music sensation, kicked off the festivities with an electrifying opening performance that set the tone for an exciting lineup of reveals and showcases.

The high-energy act introduced the much-anticipated return of Squid Game, one of Netflix’s most-watched series globally. Hanumankind’s performance was bold, cinematic, and laced with the intense energy that mirrors the gripping, high-stakes world of Squid Game. With stunning visuals, pulsating beats, and a commanding stage presence, the performance blended music, visual storytelling, and suspense to tease the upcoming season.

The opening moment served as a cultural crossover—highlighting Netflix’s global ambitions by bringing Indian hip-hop flair to a Korean drama phenomenon, all under one roof.

Fans worldwide were left buzzing as Tudum 2025 began on a thrilling note, promising a powerful year ahead for Netflix originals.

Rajesh: A Timeless Star of Tamil Cinema

Rajesh (1949–2025)
Veteran Tamil actor Rajesh, known for his graceful screen presence and natural performances, passed away at 75 on May 29, 2025. Starting his journey as a teacher, he transitioned to cinema with a debut in Aval Oru Thodarkathai (1974) and rose to fame with Kanni Paruvathile (1979). Over five decades, he acted in 150+ films, including Sathya, Mahanadhi, and Virumaandi. Admired for his depth and dignity on screen, Rajesh leaves behind a lasting legacy in South Indian cinema.

Criminal Justice: Season 4

The fourth season of Criminal Justice, titled Criminal Justice: A Family Matter, premiered today, May 29, 2025, on JioHotstar. This season continues the gripping legal drama with Pankaj Tripathi reprising his acclaimed role as Advocate Madhav Mishra. (Wikipedia)

Where to Watch

You can stream Criminal Justice: A Family Matter exclusively on JioHotstar. Please note that a subscription is required to access the series.

Plot Overview

In this season, Madhav Mishra takes on a complex case involving Raj Nagpal, who is found holding the body of a murdered nurse, Roshni Saluja, after his daughter’s birthday celebration. As the courtroom drama unfolds, hidden truths emerge, challenging perceptions and testing the limits of justice.

Cast Highlights

  • Pankaj Tripathi as Advocate Madhav Mishra
  • Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub as Raj Nagpal
  • Surveen Chawla as Raj’s wife
  • Asha Negi as Roshni Saluja
  • Shweta Basu Prasad as Public Prosecutor Lekha Agastya
  • Mita Vashisht as Corporate Lawyer Mandira Mathur

Paresh Rawal Exits Hera Pheri 3: Legal Storm, Missing Script & Industry Shockwaves

For generations of Indian cinema lovers, Hera Pheri is more than just a comedy — it’s cultural gold. So when Paresh Rawal, the iconic Babu Bhaiya, officially stepped away from Hera Pheri 3 in mid-May 2025, fans and industry insiders were stunned. What followed was a dramatic chain reaction involving legal notices, unfulfilled contracts, and a franchise seemingly caught in limbo.

The Exit That Shook Fans

On May 18, Paresh Rawal surprised fans with a statement on X, confirming his departure from the sequel. He emphasized that his exit wasn’t due to creative differences, expressing deep respect for director Priyadarshan and actor Akshay Kumar.

Legal Fireworks

Days later, Akshay Kumar’s production house, Cape of Good Films, hit back with a ₹25 crore legal notice, alleging financial damage caused by Rawal’s sudden withdrawal. The company claimed to have paid off debts and acquired rights from multiple stakeholders in preparation for reviving the franchise.

Priyadarshan’s Reluctance

In a candid interview, director Priyadarshan admitted he never intended to return to the franchise but was persuaded by Akshay. “I couldn’t say no to him,” he said, adding another layer of complexity to the project’s shaky foundation.

Paresh Rawal Responds

Rawal’s legal team rebutted the accusations, clarifying that no script, agreement, or finalized story had been shared with him. He also cited objections raised by original producer Firoz Nadiadwala regarding the sequel’s legitimacy. Rawal returned his ₹11 lakh signing amount with 15% interest — and a goodwill bonus.

The Real Problem: Missing Paperwork

According to Film Information, no final agreement existed between Rawal and the producers. The much-hyped promotional shoot was reportedly rushed, and franchise rights remain under dispute, further complicating matters.

Akshay Kumar Speaks

At a promotional event on May 27, Akshay diplomatically avoided direct confrontation, saying, “We’ve worked together for 30 years. He’s a great actor and a dear friend. This isn’t the right place to discuss it.”

The Verdict?
With contracts missing, loyalties tested, and the franchise rights still unclear, the future of Hera Pheri 3 is more uncertain than ever. One thing is clear: in the age of legal contracts and billion-rupee investments, even beloved characters like Babu Bhaiya aren’t immune to the harsh realities of the film business.

source : timesofindia.indiatimes.com