Reports are in that the YRF Spy Universe just got a significant expansion with veteran actor Anil Kapoor joining the ranks. Known for his commanding screen presence in Siddharth Anand’s Fighter, Kapoor is reportedly set to step into the role of R&AW (Research & Analysis Wing) Chief in Aditya Chopra’s cinematic espionage world. Sources close to the production house disclosed that Kapoor will replace the character Ajit Shenoy, previously portrayed by the late Girish Karnad in the spy thrillers Ek Tha Tiger and Tiger Zinda Hai. This move seems to sideline Revathy’s character Maithili Menon introduced in Tiger 3.
While details have yet to be fully disclosed, it is believed that Anil Kapoor will make his debut as the intelligence boss in Shiv Rawail’s upcoming, still-unnamed thriller featuring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh. Additionally, whispers suggest the possibility of Kapoor making a cameo appearance in the much-anticipated Hrithik Roshan and Junior NTR-starrer War 2. According to an inside informant, Kapoor has secured a substantial multi-movie contract with YRF, suggesting his character may take a central role in future mission-based films of the expanding universe.
In related news, Bobby Deol has concluded filming for his next venture, Stardom, the directorial debut of Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan. Set within the movie industry, Stardom offers a peek into the glitzy yet controversial lives of film celebrities. Deol, recognized for his work in Animal, is set to begin dubbing for the series, which is slated for release later this year. The series promises to bring a dose of glamour with star cameos from Shah Rukh Khan himself, along with Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, and Karan Johar, with Lakshya Lalwani playing the lead role.
The film industry’s strategists seem to be facing scheduling challenges, as evidenced by the makers of Baby John who are contemplating a change in their release date strategy. In hopes of avoiding a clash with blockbuster releases, they are considering a shift from their initial May 31 date. They are closely monitoring the situation around other major films such as Kalki 2898 AD and Kamal Haasan and S Shankar’s Indian 2, which is tentatively set for a June release. The Baby John team remains on alert, playing a waiting game for their optimal release slot.
Director Anees Bazmee, in spite of a recent leg injury, continues to forge ahead with his latest project Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Recently completing a filming schedule with Kartik Aaryan and Triptii Dimri, Bazmee has embarked on a location scout in Kolkata for the next segment of shooting his horror-comedy. With a portion of the film set to be shot in graveyards within the city, the director assures audiences of a thrilling experience with his forthcoming Diwali release, which will also feature segments shot in Rajasthan.
Amidst release date concerns, the makers of Kalki 2898 AD plan to introduce audiences to their film’s universe through an animated prelude on an OTT platform. Actor Prabhas has lent his voice to the animated venture, offering a sneak peek into the futuristic setting of the film prior to its cinematic debut.
Philanthropic efforts in the industry continue as actor Sonu Sood announced the opening of this year’s IAS coaching scholarships under his Sambhavam initiative, in partnership with DIYA Delhi. This program has to date empowered 7,000 students with access to IAS coaching and personality development, fostering the next generation of nation builders. Sonu Sood took to social media to share the news, underscoring his commitment to educational empowerment with the tagline “IAS ban, desh bana.”
Lastly, in an exciting development for fans of historical dramas, Ankita Lokhande has been cast as the lead in Amrapali, helmed by filmmaker Sandeep Singh. The series will chart the transformation of the revered courtesan Amrapali into a Buddhist nun. Lokhande, fresh off her acclaimed role in Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, is thrilled to take on a character renown for beauty and strength that will resonate with her dance skills.
To summarize, the YRF Spy Universe is poised to welcome Anil Kapoor as the new head of R&AW, while elsewhere, industry stalwarts like Bobby Deol and Ankita Lokhande gear up for their upcoming ventures, each eager to make a mark with their unique contributions to the entertainment landscape.
