In a momentous move that has sent ripples through the Indian film industry, Kannada superstar Yash, best known for his groundbreaking role in the “KGF” series, is set to make his Hindi film debut with an epic venture. He joins director Nitesh Tiwari’s highly anticipated Ramayan trilogy, featuring a star-studded cast including Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Sunny Deol as Hanuman. With the film recently entering production, there has been a buzz surrounding Yash’s decision to portray the formidable character of Raavan.
Reportedly, Yash was initially hesitant to take on the role of the ten-headed demon king. It was only after extensive discussions that the actor agreed to step into the part. Sources within the industry claim that Yash was offered a staggering R80 crore as remuneration for his participation in the three-part project. However, in a strategic twist, the actor forewent the hefty paycheck to become a producer for the epic saga. By opting to exchange his upfront fee for a stake in the project, Yash positions himself to share in the potential profits, leveraging his burgeoning popularity to secure a vested interest in the trilogy’s success.
While Yash embarks on this ambitious journey, he continues work on his upcoming film “Toxic” with director Geetu Mohandas. Upon completing this project, he will fully immerse himself in the world of Ramayan.
The Bollywood grapevine is also abuzz about Bobby Deol’s upward career trajectory. The “Animal” (2023) actor, fresh from wrapping up Aryan Khan’s directorial debut “Stardom,” is rumored to join forces with director Anurag Kashyap in a new thriller. Although details remain under wraps, this film is speculated to be an adaptation of an unpublished book depicting the harrowing ordeal of a man ensnared in a fabricated rape case. As production is slated to commence in Mumbai this May, this marks a long-anticipated collaboration between Kashyap and Deol.
Adding to the excitement, Dino Morea has been confirmed as the latest cast member for the second installment of the Rana Daggubati and Venkatesh-led series “Rana Naidu 2.” Taking on the role of a police officer, Morea’s character is said to play a pivotal part in the storyline of the Suparn Varma and Karan Anshuman directorial, an adaptation of the American crime drama “Ray Donovan.”
In the entrepreneurial landscape, Rakul Preet Singh is venturing into the health-centric dining scene. Having just married producer Jackky Bhagnani, Singh is set to open a fine dining restaurant on April 16 in Madhapur, Hyderabad. Distinguished by a millet-centric menu, Singh’s establishment “Arambam” aims to bridge sumptuous taste with nutritional value.
Former radio jockey turned actor Abhilash Thapliyal makes headlines with his role as a commentator in the upcoming sports drama “Maidaan.” After an unsuccessful audition for a footballer position in the film, Thapliyal’s proficiency in radio commentary ushered him into a role that harmoniously blends his passions for radio and acting.
Moreover, “Girls Will Be Girls,” the maiden production by Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal, continues to garner international acclaim. Following its acclaimed debut at Sundance Film Festival and South by Southwest Film Festival, the film is set to be showcased at the TIFF Next Wave Film Festival.
Rounding off the industry news, actor Ahaan Panday extends a quirky birthday wish to director Mohit Suri, who is guiding Panday in his acting debut. As they move forward with the star-studded musical romcom, expectations are high for the reveal of the film’s leading lady.
The Indian film industry continues to evolve with collaborations, ambitious projects, and creative expansions into new business territories, promising a compelling slate of entertainment for audiences worldwide.
