Bollywood’s beloved ‘Bhai’, Salman Khan, rang in his 58th birthday on December 27 with an understated celebration at his Bandra residence. The star-studded affair on Tuesday night was a deviation from his traditional grandeur at the family’s Karjat farmhouse. The change in venue comes in the backdrop of the actor receiving death threats earlier this year, escalating concerns for his safety. Consequently, Salman now moves under the aegis of Y+ category security, assigned by government authorities. Officials, prioritizing his safety, suggested that the actor arrange for additional security measures for his birthday gala. Heeding to his family’s evident worry, he decided to keep the event low-key and more private. As part of the precautions taken, media personnel were also dissuaded from gathering outside his residence to capture the festivities.
In the world of southern cinema, megastar Rajinikanth is gearing up for some thrilling action. Currently engaged in the production of ‘Vettaiyan’ under director TJ Gnanavel’s vision, Rajinikanth is slated to commence filming ‘Thalaivar 171’ with Lokesh Kanagaraj in April. Known for integrating strong social messages in his work, Lokesh recently disclosed that his upcoming film with the icon would be an action thriller but would skint on substance abuse themes—a stark contrast to his previous projects focusing on anti-drug narratives, such as ‘Leo’, ‘Vikram’, and ‘Kaithi’. Audiences are keenly waiting to see Rajinikanth portray a character with grey nuances in this anticipated release.
While celebrations and new ventures light up parts of Bollywood, controversy shadows others. Ranbir Kapoor, last seen in ‘Animal’, has flown out for his year-end holiday with actress-wife Alia Bhatt and their daughter Raha. However, the actor finds himself entangled in legal troubles after accusations of offending Christian sentiments. It was reported that during a festive meal, alcohol was allegedly poured on a cake, set alight, followed by the chant ‘Jai Mata Di’, which reportedly upset certain communities. Advocates Ashish Rai and Pankaj Mishra have lodged a complaint at Ghatkopar Police Station, urging for charges against Kapoor under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code; however, no FIR has been confirmed as of yet.
On a brighter note, Ahan Shetty, son of actor Suniel Shetty, added another candle to his birthday cake. His father took to social media expressing heartfelt sentiments. Meanwhile, Ahan’s cinematic journey continues to burgeon as producer Sajid Nadiadwala heralded his birthday with an announcement of their next cinematic venture together. Nadiadwala, who introduced Ahan in the 2021 film ‘Tadap’, hinted at an upcoming release planned for the next month. The industry buzz suggests Ahan has inked deals for a trio of additional film projects, details of which are being finely kept under wraps with official announcements on the horizon.
Celestial heights in acting were reached by Wamiqa Gabbi this year, achieving industry-wide acclaim for performances in a diverse array of projects, including ‘Jubilee’, ‘Modern Love Chennai’, and ‘Charlie Chopra and the Mystery of Solang Valley’, to name a few. Her stellar year was capped off by being listed among IMDb’s top Indian actors and being featured in Forbes Showstoppers, enhancing her determination to further the art of storytelling and embrace challenging roles ahead.
On a somber note, the matrimonial alliance of actress Isha Koppikar and restaurateur Timmy Narang has seen its conclusion after 14 years. The couple, who tied the knot in 2009 and share a nine-year-old daughter, reportedly filed for divorce last month following a rough patch. Efforts to mend fences were in vain, ultimately leading to their separation.
In conclusion, Bollywood’s tapestry remains ever-vibrant, with its amalgamation of celebration and strife, emerging talent, and established icons, all leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape.
