Pakistan to head IMF, World Bank boards after 74 years  amid persistent economic crisis

IND-W vs ZIM-W, 1st T20I: Deepti Sharma, Niki Prasad shine as India beat Zimbabwe by four wickets

US midterms 2026: Ken Paxton may have Elon Musk to thank if he wins the Texas Senate race. Here's why

Trump invokes national interest to waive new Russia sanctions, tariffs; India gets relief from 100% tariff threat

Ankita Bhandari murder case: Parents meet CBI, seek impartial investigation

Lizard people? Ex-US Army sniper claims soldier killed by 'reptilian beings' in battle near Area 51

Gravitas | Iran threatens to hit key bridges in 7 countries if US resumes strikes

Ukraine drone strike disrupts 22 Russian airports, over 200 flights

Not Khan but Pal: Why did Imran Khan choose his mother's surname over his father's? Family tree explained

A secret code, a midnight escape and 300 deaths: The Russian officer who turned on Putin

'Reason UN has lost credibility': Amid SIR protests India hits out at report alleging 'youth repression'

‘My president, I mean my husband’: Trump's new press secretary Katie Zacharia's first briefing goes off the rails in 14 minutes

China responds to Trump's Press Secretary Katie Zacharia after toilet remark: 'Visit China more often'

Who left the White House podium the fastest? Press secretaries with the shortest stints

COVID-19 pandemic led to increase in divorce cases, observes Madras High Court

Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna's Ranabaali X Review: Netizens call it history-rich but overstuffed

Ramayana Part 1: Sai Pallavi's warrior avatar as Sita steals the spotlight in new BTS footage

Israel examines Russia's Shahed-type drones sent by Ukraine to combat Iran | Gravitas

US midterms 2026: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez donates $1 million to Abdul El-Sayed’s as Michigan race heats up

Infiltration bid foiled in Kupwara’s Keran sector, search operation underway

Here’s who is eyeing the White House press secretary role after Katie Zacharia’s exit

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs transferred to new prison amid reports of special privileges

Abhishek Sharma sets all-time record for most T20I sixes in a year

No Ravindra Jadeja, Yashasvi Jaiswal in India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans: Report

Inside Tesla's Roadster: 10 features of Elon Musk's 'flying car' that push the limits of electric vehicles | In Pics

India’s naval priorities: Ex-Navy Chief calls for third aircraft carrier, more warships and submarines

New Friday OTT releases (October 16, 2026): DC, Sacrifice, Aasha- 6 new movies and TV shows coming on Netflix, Zee 5, Prime Video and more

One species, two lineages: Why Sri Lanka’s spectacled cobra differs genetically from Indian variant

Oil tanker carrying over 2M barrels of crude hits mine in Strait of Hormuz, catches fire, says Iran

Selma Blair’s team responds to flight incident, says actress ‘did not intend to harm anyone’

'We feel like Mr India': Gujarat’s undercover SHE team guard garba nights at Navratri

US ends automatic work permit extensions; Indian workers lose 540-day safety net: What it means

US lawmaker Pramila Jaypal writes to Rubio, urges to raise handling of CJP protest with India

<p>If you have ever had Bengali food, you must have tried <i>Aloo posto.</i> The dish made of boiled potatoes mixed with poppy seed paste, has been a staple in every Bengali household for years. It is one of the most preferred comfort foods for the community. Usually consumed with steaming hot rice and perhaps a dash of green chilies, <i>Aloo posto</i> is the go-to dish on a day when the heart craves for comfort food. While Bengali cuisine has distinct characteristics and styles of making, depending on where it originated, East or West Bengal<i>, Posto, </i>over the years, has been a unanimous favourite. The much-loved dish, however, has a dark past.<i> Posto</i> or poppy seeds came to India due to the opium trade by the British.&nbsp;</p><h2>Opium trade and lack of options</h2><p>Once used as a recreational drug in Emperor Akbar's court, opium was discovered by the British soon after the Battle of Plassey in 1757. The British realised opium had a huge illegal market in China and decided to grow in Bengal, known for its fertile soil. Farmers across the region were forced by the British to grow opium in large quantities, which was harvested and sold in the Chinese black market as a drug. China was a big consumer of opium, even though it was illegal to buy or consume it openly.&nbsp;The poppy seed-pods and their latex are the narcotic parts of the opium plant.&nbsp;</p><h2>Journey from the black market to the kitchen</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As the British found a way to double its income, it robbed scores of households in Bengal of their staple crop, which would also be consumed at home with rice. With many men landing in opium induced haze, the women of these farming communities had to make do with what was available. They scurried through forests, by the ponds, in the groves, desperately looking to supplement their families' meager meals. And then stumbled upon mountains of dried poppy seeds, discarded as waste by their colonial overlords.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>What women used was the dried residual of the harvested crop- basically the&nbsp;seed pods and the latex in them, once it had completely dried out.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>Posto,</i> or poppy seeds, were typically ground to a thick paste and then mixed with salt and a dash of mustard oil, and mixed with whichever vegetable was available, not just the potatoes, and consumed with <i>panta bhat</i> (fermented rice). The popularity of the dish united villages on both sides of the Padma River, which divided East and West Bengal. Thus originated dishes like <i>Aloo posto,</i> <i>posto bora</i>(poppy fritters),&nbsp;<i>posto&nbsp;bata</i>&nbsp;(raw paste of poppy seeds)<i> jhinge&nbsp;posto</i>&nbsp;(ridge gourd and poppy curry), and more.&nbsp;</p><h2>Posto in Mughal Kitchen</h2><p>Much before the Britishers made opium a cash crop, it was used in Emperor Akbar’s kitchen not just as a recreational drug but also as a key ingredient to thicken rich gravies. Akbar, who was known to have a keen interest in trade and aesthetics, understood the potential of the opium plant. It was cultivated under his regime, and its vibrant crimson flowers also inspired Mughal art. Not just that, the poppy seeds are also used as a medicine and for healing purposes. But its addictive characteristic made it a potent drug, the consumption of which was in later centuries, frowned upon.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While the British robbed India of resources, manpower, and money, they also unknowingly gave us one of the most treasured ingredients of all time. <i>Posto</i> or <i>Khus Khus</i> is now not only used in Bengali cuisines but also other parts of the country in some way or the other. When the British forced opium cultivation, no one could have foreseen its dominance and importance in Indian kitchens hundreds of years later. Its usage also highlights the resilience of Indians as a race, which has always managed to make do with whatever is available — sometimes out of desperation, and at other times out of curiosity.&nbsp;</p><h2>Aloo Posto recipe</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Now that you know the history, here the recipe of the humble, dependable aloo posto:&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Ingredients&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li>2 tbsp mustard oil</li><li>1 tbsp panch phoran or nigella seeds&nbsp;</li><li>2 large potatoes , peeled and cut into cubes</li><li>1 green chili, slit</li><li>1 tsp turmeric powder, optional</li><li>Salt to taste</li></ul><p><strong>For the posto paste</strong></p><ul><li>3 tbsp white poppy seeds, khuskhus or posto dana, soaked in ½ cup water</li><li>1 green chili</li></ul><p><strong>Instructions</strong></p><p><strong>To make the posto or poppy seeds paste</strong></p><ul><li>Sieve the soaked poppy seeds into the smallest blender jar. Add 1 chopped green chilli and some water to help the grinding.</li><li>Grind to a fine paste</li></ul><p><strong>To make the aloo posto</strong></p><ul><li>Heat mustard oil in a flat pan or wok. Bring it to a simmer at medium heat and then reduce the heat to low.</li><li>Add panch phoran or nigella seeds to the hot oil&nbsp;</li><li>When the seeds start to sputter, add the chopped potatoes. Mix well till all the potatoes are coated with oil and spices.</li><li>Cover and cook on low heat for 5 minutes.</li><li>Add the posto paste, turmeric, and slit green chillies. Add ½ cup of water and mix everything well. Cover and cook for another 8-10 mins on low heat. Occasionally stir in between to check if the water is sufficient and the potatoes are not sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook until the potatoes are cooked through.</li><li>Aloo posto gravy is supposed to be thick, and the potatoes are coated with the posto paste. If you want a thinner consistency, add more water in the previous step.</li><li>Serve hot with rice.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p>

If you have ever had Bengali cuisine, you must have tried aloo posto- a wholesome dish made with boiled potatoes and poppy seed paste. The dish is now a staple in Bengali households; it has a dark past. 

If you have ever had Bengali food, you must have tried Aloo posto. The dish made of boiled potatoes mixed with poppy seed paste, has been a staple in every Bengali household for years. It is one of the most preferred comfort foods for the community. Usually consumed with steaming hot rice and perhaps a dash of green chilies, Aloo posto is the go-to dish on a day when the heart craves for comfort food. While Bengali cuisine has distinct characteristics and styles of making, depending on where it originated, East or West Bengal, Posto, over the years, has been a unanimous favourite. The much-loved dish, however, has a dark past. Posto or poppy seeds came to India due to the opium trade by the British. Opium trade and lack of options Once used as a recreational drug in Emperor Akbar's court, opium was discovered by the British soon after the Battle of Plassey in 1757. The British realised opium had a huge illegal market in China and decided to grow in Bengal, known for its fertile soil. Farmers across the region were forced by the British to grow opium in large quantities, which was harvested and sold in the Chinese black market as a drug. China was a big consumer of opium, even though it was illegal to buy or consume it openly. The poppy seed-pods and their latex are the narcotic parts of the opium plant. Journey from the black market to the kitchen As the British found a way to double its income, it robbed scores of households in Bengal of their staple crop, which would also be consumed at home with rice. With many men landing in opium induced haze, the women of these farming communities had to make do with what was available. They scurried through forests, by the ponds, in the groves, desperately looking to supplement their families' meager meals. And then stumbled upon mountains of dried poppy seeds, discarded as waste by their colonial overlords. What women used was the dried residual of the harvested crop- basically the seed pods and the latex in them, once it had completely dried out. Posto, or poppy seeds, were typically ground to a thick paste and then mixed with salt and a dash of mustard oil, and mixed with whichever vegetable was available, not just the potatoes, and consumed with panta bhat (fermented rice). The popularity of the dish united villages on both sides of the Padma River, which divided East and West Bengal. Thus originated dishes like Aloo posto, posto bora(poppy fritters), posto bata (raw paste of poppy seeds) jhinge posto (ridge gourd and poppy curry), and more. Posto in Mughal Kitchen Much before the Britishers made opium a cash crop, it was used in Emperor Akbar’s kitchen not just as a recreational drug but also as a key ingredient to thicken rich gravies. Akbar, who was known to have a keen interest in trade and aesthetics, understood the potential of the opium plant. It was cultivated under his regime, and its vibrant crimson flowers also inspired Mughal art. Not just that, the poppy seeds are also used as a medicine and for healing purposes. But its addictive characteristic made it a potent drug, the consumption of which was in later centuries, frowned upon. While the British robbed India of resources, manpower, and money, they also unknowingly gave us one of the most treasured ingredients of all time. Posto or Khus Khus is now not only used in Bengali cuisines but also other parts of the country in some way or the other. When the British forced opium cultivation, no one could have foreseen its dominance and importance in Indian kitchens hundreds of years later. Its usage also highlights the resilience of Indians as a race, which has always managed to make do with whatever is available — sometimes out of desperation, and at other times out of curiosity. Aloo Posto recipe Now that you know the history, here the recipe of the humble, dependable aloo posto: Ingredients 2 tbsp mustard oil 1 tbsp panch phoran or nigella seeds 2 large potatoes , peeled and cut into cubes 1 green chili, slit 1 tsp turmeric powder, optional Salt to taste For the posto paste 3 tbsp white poppy seeds, khuskhus or posto dana, soaked in ½ cup water 1 green chili Instructions To make the posto or poppy seeds paste Sieve the soaked poppy seeds into the smallest blender jar. Add 1 chopped green chilli and some water to help the grinding. Grind to a fine paste To make the aloo posto Heat mustard oil in a flat pan or wok. Bring it to a simmer at medium heat and then reduce the heat to low. Add panch phoran or nigella seeds to the hot oil When the seeds start to sputter, add the chopped potatoes. Mix well till all the potatoes are coated with oil and spices. Cover and cook on low heat for 5 minutes. Add the posto paste, turmeric, and slit green chillies. Add ½ cup of water and mix everything well. Cover and cook for another 8-10 mins on low heat. Occasionally stir in between to check if the water is sufficient and the potatoes are not sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook until the potatoes are cooked through. Aloo posto gravy is supposed to be thick, and the potatoes are coated with the posto paste. If you want a thinner consistency, add more water in the previous step. Serve hot with rice.

<p>If you have ever had Bengali cuisine, you must have tried aloo posto- a wholesome dish made with boiled potatoes and poppy seed paste. The dish is now a staple in Bengali households; it has a dark past.&nbsp;</p>

Independence Day special | British opium trade to Indian kitchens; the dark history of Bengal's comfort food

Apocalypse Now remains one of the best films ever made, but did you know the film had one of Hollywoods infamous troubled productions? As the epic celebrates its 46th anniversary, lets take a look at some lesser-known facts about the film.


<p>Apocalypse Now remains one of the best films ever made, but did you know the film had one of Hollywood's infamous troubled productions? As the epic celebrates its 46th anniversary, let's take a look at some lesser-known facts about the film.<br>&nbsp;</p>

46 Years of Apocalypse Now: 6 Fascinating facts about the war epic

<p>The legal battle between K-pop band NewJeans and their agency ADOR continues, as a recent court mediation between the two parties failed to reach an agreement. The mediation session was held at the Civil Settlement Division 41 of the Seoul Central District Court on August 14 to settle the ongoing lawsuit filed by ADOR against NewJeans members Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/blackpink-2025-world-tour-find-out-where-jisoo-jennie-ros-and-lisa-will-performing-all-dates-and-countries-confirmed-1752487896038"><strong>BLACKPINK 2025 World Tour: Find out where they're performing - all dates and countries confirmed</strong></a></p><h2>How the dispute between NewJeans and ADOR began</h2><p>The issue started when the band sued ADOR, seeking to terminate their exclusive contracts and perform independently in August 2024. However, ADOR filed an injunction against them, won the case, and followed it up with a lawsuit in December seeking confirmation of the validity of their exclusive contracts.</p><h2>Failed mediation and ongoing court battle</h2><p>The recent court mediation lasted for an hour and 20 minutes, with both parties failing to come to terms. ADOR claims that the contracts are still legally binding and wants to settle, but NewJeans argued that trust between them has been broken, and there is no possibility of them returning to the agency.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-jin-hits-back-at-troll-shading-other-members-of-k-pop-group-1753195534420"><strong>BTS' Jin hits back at troll shading other members of K-pop group</strong></a></p><h2>A brief history of NewJeans</h2><p>ADOR is a sub-division of Hybe, a South Korean multinational entertainment company. NewJeans made its debut in 2022 with the hit single Attention and followed this up with the singles Hype Boy and Cookie, with Hype Boy going on to chart on Billboard's Global 200. The group released their first album, OMG, in 2023. The album was a critical and commercial hit and charted on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart, and became the 8th best-selling artist worldwide the same year. The group's last concert took place at the 2025 AsiaWorld–Expo in March.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A second mediation will be held on September 11 to settle the issue. The legal dispute involving NewJeans is shaping up to be one of the biggest recent court cases in South Korea.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/will-bts-rule-k-pop-once-again-in-2026-post-military-discharge-1750663242936"><strong>Will BTS rule K-pop once again in 2026 post military discharge?</strong></a></p><p><br><br>&nbsp;</p>

NewJeans and ADOR have failed to settle a recent court mediation. ADOR is a sub-division of Hybe, a South Korean multinational entertainment company. NewJeans made its debut in 2022 with the hit single Attention. 

The legal battle between K-pop band NewJeans and their agency ADOR continues, as a recent court mediation between the two parties failed to reach an agreement. The mediation session was held at the Civil Settlement Division 41 of the Seoul Central District Court on August 14 to settle the ongoing lawsuit filed by ADOR against NewJeans members Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein. Also Read: BLACKPINK 2025 World Tour: Find out where they're performing - all dates and countries confirmed How the dispute between NewJeans and ADOR began The issue started when the band sued ADOR, seeking to terminate their exclusive contracts and perform independently in August 2024. However, ADOR filed an injunction against them, won the case, and followed it up with a lawsuit in December seeking confirmation of the validity of their exclusive contracts. Failed mediation and ongoing court battle The recent court mediation lasted for an hour and 20 minutes, with both parties failing to come to terms. ADOR claims that the contracts are still legally binding and wants to settle, but NewJeans argued that trust between them has been broken, and there is no possibility of them returning to the agency. Also Read: BTS' Jin hits back at troll shading other members of K-pop group A brief history of NewJeans ADOR is a sub-division of Hybe, a South Korean multinational entertainment company. NewJeans made its debut in 2022 with the hit single Attention and followed this up with the singles Hype Boy and Cookie, with Hype Boy going on to chart on Billboard's Global 200. The group released their first album, OMG, in 2023. The album was a critical and commercial hit and charted on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart, and became the 8th best-selling artist worldwide the same year. The group's last concert took place at the 2025 AsiaWorld–Expo in March. A second mediation will be held on September 11 to settle the issue. The legal dispute involving NewJeans is shaping up to be one of the biggest recent court cases in South Korea. Also Read: Will BTS rule K-pop once again in 2026 post military discharge?

<p>NewJeans and ADOR have failed to settle a recent court mediation. ADOR is a sub-division of Hybe, a South Korean multinational entertainment company. NewJeans made its debut in 2022 with the hit single Attention.&nbsp;</p>

NewJeans and ADOR legal dispute continues after unsuccessful court mediation

<p>TIFF (Toronto Film Festival) is dedicated to presenting the best of international and Canadian cinema, creating transformational experiences for film lovers and creators of all ages and backgrounds. The festival is now creating buzz as there are reports that organisers have admitted that the Israeli documentary is now in the official selection after finding a resolution to legal issues.</p><h2>Why was the Israel documentary pulled out of the TIFF?</h2><p>As per reports, earlier TIFF had pulled its invite for the documentary titled <i>The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue</i>, which is on October 7, 2023, following Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. Reportedly, the event organisers saw that the film had failed to meet general requirements for inclusion, specifically the legal clearance of all the film's footage, while the filmmakers say the festival has censored its programming.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/happy-birthday-ben-affleck-7-movies-you-need-to-watch-1755248907343"><strong>Happy Birthday Ben Affleck: 7 movies you need to watch</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per reports, recently, &nbsp;the festival’s chief executive, Cameron Bailey, and Barry Avrich, a Canadian filmmaker and a past festival board member, said in a joint statement that they have reached a settlement which addressed “important safety, legal, and programming concerns” that had arisen. However, they did not reveal the terms of the resolution they had reached.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/glen-powell-s-action-thriller-the-running-man-release-delayed-know-why-1755237639723"><strong>Glen Powell's action thriller The Running Man release delayed? Know why</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For the unversed, the documentary is about a retired Israeli general's mission to rescue family members during the October 7, 2023, terror attacks by Hamas on Israel. The documentary has been helmed by Barry Avrich.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/and-just-like-that-creator-of-the-sarah-jessica-parker-s-show-reveals-main-reason-for-the-end-1755233921468"><strong>And Just Like That: Creator of the show reveals main reason for the end</strong></a></p><h2>All about TIFF</h2><p>The 50th annual Toronto International Film Festival will be held from September 4 to 14, 2025. The first programming announcement was that Colin Hanks' documentary film John Candy: I Like Me, about the actor John Candy, will open the festival. The festival's regular awards for films, including the People's Choice Award, will be announced after the festival.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/tom-cruise-declines-kennedy-center-honor-months-after-trump-takes-control-of-the-arts-complex-1755246751136"><strong>Tom Cruise declines Trump's invite for Kennedy Center Honor</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The sponsorship deal will include a television special to air on Citytv. Reportedly, the preparations for the 2025 festival included the renewal of the festival's sponsorship deal with Rogers Communications for three years through 2027.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As Canada's premiere home of cinema, TIFF offers screenings, lectures, discussions, festivals, workshops, events, professional development and opportunities to meet, hear and learn from filmmakers from Canada and around the world.</p>

The organisers of Toronto Film Festival 2025 have reportedly admitted that the Israel documentary The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue will premiere at the event. This comes after their invitation was withdrawn earlier.

TIFF (Toronto Film Festival) is dedicated to presenting the best of international and Canadian cinema, creating transformational experiences for film lovers and creators of all ages and backgrounds. The festival is now creating buzz as there are reports that organisers have admitted that the Israeli documentary is now in the official selection after finding a resolution to legal issues. Why was the Israel documentary pulled out of the TIFF? As per reports, earlier TIFF had pulled its invite for the documentary titled The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue, which is on October 7, 2023, following Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. Reportedly, the event organisers saw that the film had failed to meet general requirements for inclusion, specifically the legal clearance of all the film's footage, while the filmmakers say the festival has censored its programming. Also Read: Happy Birthday Ben Affleck: 7 movies you need to watch As per reports, recently, the festival’s chief executive, Cameron Bailey, and Barry Avrich, a Canadian filmmaker and a past festival board member, said in a joint statement that they have reached a settlement which addressed “important safety, legal, and programming concerns” that had arisen. However, they did not reveal the terms of the resolution they had reached. Also Read: Glen Powell's action thriller The Running Man release delayed? Know why For the unversed, the documentary is about a retired Israeli general's mission to rescue family members during the October 7, 2023, terror attacks by Hamas on Israel. The documentary has been helmed by Barry Avrich. Also Read: And Just Like That: Creator of the show reveals main reason for the end All about TIFF The 50th annual Toronto International Film Festival will be held from September 4 to 14, 2025. The first programming announcement was that Colin Hanks' documentary film John Candy: I Like Me, about the actor John Candy, will open the festival. The festival's regular awards for films, including the People's Choice Award, will be announced after the festival. Also Read: Tom Cruise declines Trump's invite for Kennedy Center Honor The sponsorship deal will include a television special to air on Citytv. Reportedly, the preparations for the 2025 festival included the renewal of the festival's sponsorship deal with Rogers Communications for three years through 2027. As Canada's premiere home of cinema, TIFF offers screenings, lectures, discussions, festivals, workshops, events, professional development and opportunities to meet, hear and learn from filmmakers from Canada and around the world.

<p>The organisers of Toronto Film Festival 2025 have reportedly admitted that the Israel documentary The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue will premiere at the event. This comes after their invitation was withdrawn earlier.</p>

Toronto Film Festival: Organisers reinstates world premiere of Israel documentary to 2025 lineup

Ben Affleck celebrates his birthday today. The Hollywood actor has acted in and directed some of the most critically acclaimed and beloved movies. So lets take a look at 7 of his must-watch films.


<p>Ben Affleck celebrates his birthday today. The Hollywood actor has acted in and directed some of the most critically acclaimed and beloved movies. So let's take a look at 7 of his must-watch films.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Happy Birthday Ben Affleck: 7 movies you need to watch

<p>Tom Cruise has reportedly declined a Kennedy Center Honoree during US President Donald Trump’s second term in the White House. Cruise, a Hollywood superstar, was invited to receive a Kennedy Center Honor but the actor declined it citing scheduling conflicts.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A report in The Washington Post stated that the actor was offered the honors but he declined it.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Tom Cruise was offered the honors but declined because of scheduling conflicts, according to several current and former Kennedy Center employees who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss event plans,” the report read.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The report added that a spokesperson for the actor has declined to comment on the development.</p><h2>About the Kennedy Center Honors</h2><p>On Wednesday, Trump named Hollywood icon Sylvester Stallone and country music great George Strait among the recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors. This move comes after he took control of the Kennedy Center arts complex earlier this year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Disco diva Gloria Gaynor, rock band KISS, and British theater star Michael Crawford will also receive the honors which is considered as America’s highest arts awards.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump announced he himself would host the Honors gala, which usually takes place in early December and is later broadcast on CBS.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Cruise, a Hollywood superstar, was invited to receive a Kennedy Center Honor but the actor declined it citing scheduling conflicts. The award was being given to the actor for his contribution to cinema.

Tom Cruise has reportedly declined a Kennedy Center Honoree during US President Donald Trump’s second term in the White House. Cruise, a Hollywood superstar, was invited to receive a Kennedy Center Honor but the actor declined it citing scheduling conflicts. A report in The Washington Post stated that the actor was offered the honors but he declined it. “Tom Cruise was offered the honors but declined because of scheduling conflicts, according to several current and former Kennedy Center employees who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss event plans,” the report read. The report added that a spokesperson for the actor has declined to comment on the development. About the Kennedy Center Honors On Wednesday, Trump named Hollywood icon Sylvester Stallone and country music great George Strait among the recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors. This move comes after he took control of the Kennedy Center arts complex earlier this year. Disco diva Gloria Gaynor, rock band KISS, and British theater star Michael Crawford will also receive the honors which is considered as America’s highest arts awards. Trump announced he himself would host the Honors gala, which usually takes place in early December and is later broadcast on CBS.

<p>Cruise, a Hollywood superstar, was invited to receive a Kennedy Center Honor but the actor declined it citing scheduling conflicts. The award was being given to the actor for his contribution to cinema.</p>

Tom Cruise declines Kennedy Center Honor months after Trump takes control of the arts complex

<p><i>The Boys</i> spinoff <i>Vought Rising</i> has dropped the first look at Jensen Ackles’s Soldier Boy from the upcoming series. <i>Vought Rising </i>will be the third spinoff set in Amazon’s The Boys universe, following the animated anthology series <i>The Boys Presents: Diabolical </i>and the live-action <i>Gen V.</i> Vought Rising was officially announced in July 2024 by Jensen Ackles at Comic-Con. The series will serve as an origin story for Vought's first superheroes, focusing on Soldier Boy and Stormfront, and will be set in the 1950s.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/starlight-returns-erin-moriarty-shines-in-brutal-gen-v-season-2-trailer-at-sdcc-watch-1753515369313"><strong> Starlight returns! Erin Moriarty shines in brutal Gen V season 2 trailer at SDCC| Watch</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Once upon a time, these four were as American as apple pie. Say hello to the supes of VOUGHT RISING - a new origin story set in the world of The Boys - in production this month.<br><br>First up, Jensen Ackles as Soldier Boy… <a href="https://t.co/eqbHTi00kN">pic.twitter.com/eqbHTi00kN</a></p>&mdash; THE BOYS (@TheBoysTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheBoysTV/status/1956052952482783718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Who are Soldier Boy and Stormfront?</h2><p>Soldier Boy made his debut in the third season of<i> The Boys.</i> He was once the most powerful superhero in the world before being betrayed by his team and taken prisoner by the Soviet Union. After his escape, he teams up with Butcher and the rest of the boys to kill Homelander. It is ultimately revealed that he is Homelander's father; however, he proves to be too unstable, leading to him being put in cryogenic stasis. He will be playing a major role in the fifth and final season of <i>The Boys.</i></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Stormfront, also known as Liberty, was first introduced in the second season of <i>The Boys.</i> It is revealed in the show that she is a Nazi and the former wife of Vought's founder, Frederick Vought, and that she helped with his research in creating Compound V, the substance that grants people superpowers. She volunteered to be the first human test subject, and after the Second World War, she moved to the US, where she controlled Vought from behind the scenes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-the-boys-spinoff-series-gen-v-gets-premiere-date-everything-to-know-618228"><strong>The Boys spinoff series Gen V gets premiere date: Everything to know</strong></a></p><h2>What to expect in Vought Rising season 1</h2><p>The show will be set in the 1950s and will focus on Jensen Ackles’s Soldier Boy and Aya Cash’s Stormfront. The series will explore Soldier Boy's early years as a superhero and may possibly reveal insight into Homelander's origins. We also know that Elizabeth Posey will play the role of the superhero Private Angel, Mason Dye as Bombsight, and Will Hochman as Torpedo.</p><h2>Vought Rising will begin production soon</h2><p>The first season of <i>Vought Rising </i>will start production on 18 August 2025 and wrap on 27 February 2026. The rest of the supporting cast includes KiKi Layne, Jorden Myrie, Nicolò Pasetti, Ricky Staffieri and Brian J. Smith.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/jensen-ackles-open-to-playing-batman-in-dcu-says-it-would-be-a-challenge-to-make-it-stand-out-1750922580201"><strong>Also Read: Jensen Ackles open to playing Batman in DCU, says it would be a challenge to make it stand out</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

We finally get our first look at Jensen Ackles’s Soldier Boy from the upcoming The Boys spinoff series Vought Rising. The series will start production shortly and will be set in the 1950s, focusing on Soldierboy and Stormfront.

The Boys spinoff Vought Rising has dropped the first look at Jensen Ackles’s Soldier Boy from the upcoming series. Vought Rising will be the third spinoff set in Amazon’s The Boys universe, following the animated anthology series The Boys Presents: Diabolical and the live-action Gen V. Vought Rising was officially announced in July 2024 by Jensen Ackles at Comic-Con. The series will serve as an origin story for Vought's first superheroes, focusing on Soldier Boy and Stormfront, and will be set in the 1950s. Also Read: Starlight returns! Erin Moriarty shines in brutal Gen V season 2 trailer at SDCC| Watch

<p>We finally get our first look at Jensen Ackles’s Soldier Boy from the upcoming The Boys spinoff series Vought Rising. The series will start production shortly and will be set in the 1950s, focusing on Soldierboy and Stormfront.</p>

Vought Rising: The Boys spinoff unveils first look at Jensen Ackles’s Soldier Boy's new superhero suit

South Korean star Ji Sung entered the showbiz industry around 1999-early 2000s. Since then, there has been no looking back. He has built on delivering remarkable and memorable performances. Here are a few of the K-dramas he has featured in.

<p>South Korean star Ji Sung entered the showbiz industry around 1999-early 2000s. Since then, there has been no looking back. He has built on delivering remarkable and memorable performances. Here are a few of the K-dramas he has featured in.</p>

Kill Me, Heal Me to Doctor John: 7 Best shows of South Korean actor Ji Sung

<p>War 2 starring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR in the lead, released on August 14. The film is part of YRF’s Spyverse, which also includes titles like Ek Tha Tiger, Tiger Zinda Hai,and &nbsp;Pathaan. While the makers have urged fans and viewers to avoid spoilers around War 2, the film’s post-credit scene has already leaked online. The scene features Bobby Deol and gives a hint at Alpha, the next movie in the Spyverse.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>*This story has spoilers</i></p><h2>War 2 post-credits scene</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Bobby Deol features in a surprise cameo in the post-credit scene in War 2. Deol’s character is seen stamping the logo of a covert agency onto the hand of a young girl and teasing fans upcoming thriller Alpha. Fans are now speculating that the young girl featured in the scene plays the young Alia Bhatt in the film. Alpha also co-stars Sharvari.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to reports, Bobby will portray the primary antagonist in Alpha, adding weight to fan theories that he may be the one who trains Alia’s character, only for them to become adversaries later.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The scene has piqued curiosity among fans for Alpha, which will expand the YRF Spy Universe in thrilling new directions.</p><h2>About War 2</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>War 2, the latest entry in YRF’s Spy Universe, stars Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani in a high-octane action thriller. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the film is a sequel to the 2019 film War, which also starred Hrithik. The film opened to mixed reviews from critics and minted over Rs 52.50 crore in its first day of release. Despite divided opinions, War 2 is expected to be a major crowd-puller this Independence Day.</p><h2>WION’s Review of War 2</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shomini Sen of WION felt War 2 was a missed opportunity. “<i>War 2&nbsp;</i>suffers mostly because the film doesn't deliver anything new. We know the story, we can guess or sense the twists. While the first half is thrilling and takes a lot of effort to present the two heroes gloriously on screen, the second half meanders through a very poor storyline.</p>

<p> In an attempt to keep it engaging, Chopra throws in too many twists and even a side story of long lost friends getting reunited again- but this one is working for the country and others against it.” </p>

Bobby Deol features in a post credit scene of War 2 which teases fans of YRF's upcoming spy thriller Apha which features Alia Bhatt and Sharvari in the lead. The post-credit scene has now gone viral on social media. 

War 2 starring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR in the lead, released on August 14. The film is part of YRF’s Spyverse, which also includes titles like Ek Tha Tiger, Tiger Zinda Hai,and Pathaan. While the makers have urged fans and viewers to avoid spoilers around War 2, the film’s post-credit scene has already leaked online. The scene features Bobby Deol and gives a hint at Alpha, the next movie in the Spyverse. *This story has spoilers War 2 post-credits scene Bobby Deol features in a surprise cameo in the post-credit scene in War 2. Deol’s character is seen stamping the logo of a covert agency onto the hand of a young girl and teasing fans upcoming thriller Alpha. Fans are now speculating that the young girl featured in the scene plays the young Alia Bhatt in the film. Alpha also co-stars Sharvari. According to reports, Bobby will portray the primary antagonist in Alpha, adding weight to fan theories that he may be the one who trains Alia’s character, only for them to become adversaries later. The scene has piqued curiosity among fans for Alpha, which will expand the YRF Spy Universe in thrilling new directions. About War 2 War 2, the latest entry in YRF’s Spy Universe, stars Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani in a high-octane action thriller. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the film is a sequel to the 2019 film War, which also starred Hrithik. The film opened to mixed reviews from critics and minted over Rs 52.50 crore in its first day of release. Despite divided opinions, War 2 is expected to be a major crowd-puller this Independence Day. WION’s Review of War 2 Shomini Sen of WION felt War 2 was a missed opportunity. “War 2 suffers mostly because the film doesn't deliver anything new. We know the story, we can guess or sense the twists. While the first half is thrilling and takes a lot of effort to present the two heroes gloriously on screen, the second half meanders through a very poor storyline.

<p>Bobby Deol features in a post credit scene of War 2 which teases fans of YRF's upcoming spy thriller Apha which features Alia Bhatt and Sharvari in the lead. The post-credit scene has now gone viral on social media.&nbsp;</p>

War 2 post-credit scene featuring Bobby Deol leaks online, makes way for Alpha in YRF’s spyverse

Sunny Deol has been entertaining Indian audiences for over 4 decades with his power packed performances, from intense dramas to action-packed thrillers. The actor has given Bollywood some of its biggest hits. So lets take a look at 7 of his Best Movies available on OTT.

<p>Sunny Deol has been entertaining Indian audiences for over 4 decades with his power-packed performances, from intense dramas to action-packed thrillers. The actor has given Bollywood some of its biggest hits. So let's take a look at 7 of his Best Movies available on OTT.</p>

From Gadar to Border: Watch Sunny Deol's 7 Best Movies on Netflix, Prime and More

<p>Glen Powell is one of the renowned and bankable actors in Hollywood. He gained global stardom after his portrayal in <i>Top Gun: Maverick </i>and <i>Anyone But You</i>, establishing himself as one of the current leading stars. Now, the actor is all geared up for his upcoming film titled<i> The Running Man.</i> But, as per reports, there has been a buzz that it has been delayed.</p><h2>Why was The Running Man's release delayed?</h2><p>According to reports, Paramount has postponed the release of the film from November 7 to November 14. Reportedly, the delay was made by the studio to take advantage of access to IMAX screens. With a change of release comes a change in competition as the other film, Predator: Badlands, releases on November 7.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/and-just-like-that-creator-of-the-sarah-jessica-parker-s-show-reveals-main-reason-for-the-end-1755233921468"><strong>And Just Like That: Creator of the Sarah Jessica Parker's show reveals main reason for the end</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For the unversed, <i>The Running Man, </i>co-written, produced, and directed by Edgar Wright, is based on the 1982 novel by Stephen King. It is the second adaptation of the book following the 1987 film. The film will also feature Josh Brolin, Colman Domingo, Jayme Lawson, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, William H Macy, David Zayas, and Katy O'Brien, among others.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/megadeth-announces-forthcoming-album-as-its-final-one-don-t-be-mad-don-t-be-sad-be-happy-for-us-all-1755192579725"><strong>Megadeth announces forthcoming album as its final one</strong></a></p><h2>All about Glen Powell</h2><p>Glen Powell began his career in the showbiz industry with small roles in television and films, too. His acting phase began while working with Antonio Banderas and Sylvester Stallone in <i>Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over.</i> He then landed a role in<i> The Great Debaters,</i> directed by and starring Denzel Washington. He also had minor parts in <i>The Dark Knight Rises </i>and <i>Stuck in Love</i>.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/independence-day-important-films-on-partition-that-one-needs-to-watch-1755179448457"><strong>Independence Day: Important films on partition that one needs to watch</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>His works in films include<i> Set It Up, Devotion, Twisters, The Blue Angels, Sand Castle, Ride Along 2, Misconduct, and Everybody Wants Some!!. Red Wing </i>and <i>Best Friend Forever</i>, among others.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/japanese-pop-idol-kenshin-kamimura-convicted-by-hong-kong-court-in-indecent-assault-case-1755147364532"><strong>Japanese pop idol Kenshin Kamimura convicted by Hong Kong court in indecent assault case</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He has also featured in shows such as <i>Scream Queens and The Lying Game. Rizzoli and Isles, Without a Trace, All Hail King Julien, </i>and <i>Robot Chicken,</i> among others.&nbsp;</p>

Glen Powell is all set to be seen in the upcoming thriller titled The Running Man. The film, which was scheduled to be released in November, has reportedly been postponed. Read more to know why.

Glen Powell is one of the renowned and bankable actors in Hollywood. He gained global stardom after his portrayal in Top Gun: Maverick and Anyone But You, establishing himself as one of the current leading stars. Now, the actor is all geared up for his upcoming film titled The Running Man. But, as per reports, there has been a buzz that it has been delayed. Why was The Running Man's release delayed? According to reports, Paramount has postponed the release of the film from November 7 to November 14. Reportedly, the delay was made by the studio to take advantage of access to IMAX screens. With a change of release comes a change in competition as the other film, Predator: Badlands, releases on November 7. Also Read: And Just Like That: Creator of the Sarah Jessica Parker's show reveals main reason for the end For the unversed, The Running Man, co-written, produced, and directed by Edgar Wright, is based on the 1982 novel by Stephen King. It is the second adaptation of the book following the 1987 film. The film will also feature Josh Brolin, Colman Domingo, Jayme Lawson, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, William H Macy, David Zayas, and Katy O'Brien, among others. Also Read: Megadeth announces forthcoming album as its final one All about Glen Powell Glen Powell began his career in the showbiz industry with small roles in television and films, too. His acting phase began while working with Antonio Banderas and Sylvester Stallone in Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over. He then landed a role in The Great Debaters, directed by and starring Denzel Washington. He also had minor parts in The Dark Knight Rises and Stuck in Love. Also Read: Independence Day: Important films on partition that one needs to watch His works in films include Set It Up, Devotion, Twisters, The Blue Angels, Sand Castle, Ride Along 2, Misconduct, and Everybody Wants Some!!. Red Wing and Best Friend Forever, among others. Also Read: Japanese pop idol Kenshin Kamimura convicted by Hong Kong court in indecent assault case He has also featured in shows such as Scream Queens and The Lying Game. Rizzoli and Isles, Without a Trace, All Hail King Julien, and Robot Chicken, among others.

<p>Glen Powell is all set to be seen in the upcoming thriller titled The Running Man. The film, which was scheduled to be released in November, has reportedly been postponed. Read more to know why.</p>

Glen Powell's action thriller The Running Man release delayed? Know why

<p>One of the most loved shows, <i>And Just Like That featuring </i>Sarah Jessica Parker, Kristin Davis and Cynthia Nixon in key roles<i> ,</i> is a revival and sequel to the iconic series franchise <i>Sex and the City.</i> After the recent announcement earlier this month for ending the show, the creator has opened up and revealed the main reason for taking this decision.</p><h2>Why, and Just Like That has been decided to end with season 3?</h2><p>As per a report of <i>Entertainment Weekly</i>, series creator Michael Patrick King said that he thought a lot about the original <i>Sex and the City</i> finale while making the ending for Season 3. He also added, from the episode of 2004, during Carrie's narration, 'The most exciting, challenging, and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you find someone to love you, you love, well....that's just fabulous.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coolie-box-office-collection-day-1-rajinikanth-s-action-thriller-dominates-on-opening-day-1755231001528"><strong>Coolie Box office collection day 1: Rajinikanth's action thriller dominates on opening day</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>King further mentioned, "That was the sort of mission statement of <i>Sex and the City. </i>The interesting trick to it is she then answered a phone call from a man who was coming to be with her". "In the <i>And Just Like That season 3 </i>writer's room, Carrie's epilogue, 'she was on her own," became a response to the Sex and the City ending. "It's like an answer, it's a callback, it's an echo," he says.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/mrunal-thakur-breaks-silence-over-the-viral-bipasha-basu-body-shaming-video-playful-banter-that-went-too-far-1755189120619"><strong>Mrunal Thakur breaks silence over the viral Bipasha Basu body shaming video</strong></a></p><h2>All about And Just Like That</h2><p>The American comedy-drama TV show is developed by Michael Patrick King for HBO Max. From the sequel of <i>Sex and the City</i>, created by Darren Star, which is based on Candace Bushnell's newspaper column and 1996 book anthology of the same title.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/independence-day-important-films-on-partition-that-one-needs-to-watch-1755179448457"><strong>Independence Day: Important films on partition that one needs to watch</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The first season premiered on HBO Max on December 9, 2021, and ended on February 3, 2022. The second season premiered on June 22, 2023. In August 2023, the series was renewed for a third season, which premiered on May 29, 2025. The series ended on August 14.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/darshan-and-pavithra-gowda-arrested-on-charges-of-muder-know-all-about-the-renukaswamy-murder-case-1755175673697"><strong>Darshan and Pavithra Gowda arrested on charges of muder; know all about the case</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The show is set 11 years after the 2010 film <i>Sex and the City 2.</i> How they face transition in their life and their friendships in their 30s to 50s forms the main crux of the story. The show stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, Kristin Davis, Mario Cantone, David Eigenberg, Evan Handler, and Sarah Ramirez, among others.&nbsp;</p>

The creator of the much-popular show And Just Like That revealed the main reason for ending the series. The comedy drama ended with season 3 on August 14.

One of the most loved shows, And Just Like That featuring Sarah Jessica Parker, Kristin Davis and Cynthia Nixon in key roles , is a revival and sequel to the iconic series franchise Sex and the City. After the recent announcement earlier this month for ending the show, the creator has opened up and revealed the main reason for taking this decision. Why, and Just Like That has been decided to end with season 3? As per a report of Entertainment Weekly, series creator Michael Patrick King said that he thought a lot about the original Sex and the City finale while making the ending for Season 3. He also added, from the episode of 2004, during Carrie's narration, 'The most exciting, challenging, and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you find someone to love you, you love, well....that's just fabulous. Also Read: Coolie Box office collection day 1: Rajinikanth's action thriller dominates on opening day King further mentioned, "That was the sort of mission statement of Sex and the City. The interesting trick to it is she then answered a phone call from a man who was coming to be with her". "In the And Just Like That season 3 writer's room, Carrie's epilogue, 'she was on her own," became a response to the Sex and the City ending. "It's like an answer, it's a callback, it's an echo," he says. Also Read: Mrunal Thakur breaks silence over the viral Bipasha Basu body shaming video All about And Just Like That The American comedy-drama TV show is developed by Michael Patrick King for HBO Max. From the sequel of Sex and the City, created by Darren Star, which is based on Candace Bushnell's newspaper column and 1996 book anthology of the same title. Also Read: Independence Day: Important films on partition that one needs to watch The first season premiered on HBO Max on December 9, 2021, and ended on February 3, 2022. The second season premiered on June 22, 2023. In August 2023, the series was renewed for a third season, which premiered on May 29, 2025. The series ended on August 14. Also Read: Darshan and Pavithra Gowda arrested on charges of muder; know all about the case The show is set 11 years after the 2010 film Sex and the City 2. How they face transition in their life and their friendships in their 30s to 50s forms the main crux of the story. The show stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, Kristin Davis, Mario Cantone, David Eigenberg, Evan Handler, and Sarah Ramirez, among others.

<p>The creator of the much-popular show And Just Like That revealed the main reason for ending the series. The comedy drama ended with season 3 on August 14.</p>

And Just Like That: Creator of the Sarah Jessica Parker's show reveals main reason for the end

<p>Rajinikanth's much-awaited film <i>Coolie</i>, was released in cinemas on August 14. Helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, the action thriller, with an ensemble cast, even before its release, garnered over Rs 100 crore at the box office. Let's dig into how much the film minted on the opening day.</p><h2>Box office report day 1 of Coolie</h2><p>According to the <i>Sacnilk </i>report, <i>Coolie </i>earned Rs 65 crore net in India, with the Tamil version earning Rs 45 crore, Hindi version Rs 4.5 crore, Telugu version Rs 15 crore, and Kannada version Rs 0.5 crore. The highest occupancy has been recorded in Trichy (98.75%), followed by Chennai (97.75%), Pondicherry (97.50%), Dindigul (97.33%), Coimbatore (97.25%), and Vellore (95%).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coolie-review-rajinikanth-and-lokesh-combo-is-a-mid-rehash-of-vikram-1755159637449"><strong>Coolie review: Rajinikanth and Lokesh combo is a mid rehash of Vikram</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per the early estimates of <i>Sacnilk</i>, so far <i>Coolie </i>on the second day at the box office has earned Rs 3.09 crore.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coolie-rajinikanth-fans-celebrate-by-showering-flower-petals-dance-to-beating-drums-watch-1755143793477"><strong>Coolie: Rajinikanth fans celebrate release of film across India | Watch</strong></a></p>

<h2>Netizens' reaction and review of Coolie</h2>

<p>Soon after the release of the film, fans took to social media platforms to give their verdict and gave mixed reactions. One user wrote, "#Coolie title card theatre reaction is (fire emojis). Sadly, that’s the only good thing about the whole movie. Even Rajinikanth’s swag can’t save it, and Aamir’s cameo is just plain ghatiya. Big letdown #CoolieFDFS #CoolieReview".&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/war-2-review-hrithik-roshan-fights-for-inida-romances-jr-ntr-and-kiara-advani-in-a-vfx-heavy-spy-thriller-1755165615411"><strong>War 2 review: Hrithik romances Jr NTR and Kiara in a VFX heavy spy thriller</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coolie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coolie</a> title card theatre reaction is 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Sadly, that’s the only good thing about the whole movie. Even Rajinikanth’s swag can’t save it, and Aamir’s cameo is just plain ghatiya. Big letdown <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoolieFDFS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoolieFDFS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoolieReview?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoolieReview</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajnikanth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajnikanth</a> <a href="https://t.co/YuCMpJ5HVs">pic.twitter.com/YuCMpJ5HVs</a></p>&mdash; SUMIT (@5UM1T_DBZ) <a href="https://twitter.com/5UM1T_DBZ/status/1955875357665402965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Another user wrote, "Just watched coolie! Pure Rajni movie carried on his shoulders till the end".</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just watched coolie ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥 ! Pure rajni movie carried on his shoulders till the end ! <br><br>The SWAG is unmatchable 😎🔥 !<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoolieReview?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoolieReview</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajinikanth%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajinikanth𓃵</a> <a href="https://t.co/0Gb5BbSbS3">pic.twitter.com/0Gb5BbSbS3</a></p>&mdash; Himani ✨ (@Himani_kk) <a href="https://twitter.com/Himani_kk/status/1955978094130684183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>As per WION's Achu Krishnan, "the plot of Coolie mostly feels like a rehash of Vikram, where a veteran is forced out of retirement to avenge a murder and, in the process, uncovers a large criminal conspiracy. It also turns out that the veteran has a past where he was a super-cool agent/gangster. As far as performances are concerned, Rajinikanth does his best to carry the movie, and his usual charm and charisma shine through in parts".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/war-2-box-office-collection-day-1-hrithik-roshan-jr-ntr-starrer-kicks-off-with-modest-start-mints-this-much-1755222301434"><strong>War 2 BO day 1: Hrithik Roshan-Jr NTR starrer kicks off with modest start</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>Coolie </i>marked the first collaboration between Rajinikanth and director Lokesh Kanagaraj. &nbsp;The movie has an ensemble star cast that includes Nagarjuna, Aamir Khan, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, and Soubin Shahir, among others.&nbsp;</p>

Coolie, featuring Rajinikanth in the lead role, was released in cinemas on August 14. Helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, the action thriller has reportedly entered the Rs 50 crore club. Read more to know how much the film has earned on its opening day.

Rajinikanth's much-awaited film Coolie, was released in cinemas on August 14. Helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, the action thriller, with an ensemble cast, even before its release, garnered over Rs 100 crore at the box office. Let's dig into how much the film minted on the opening day. Box office report day 1 of Coolie According to the Sacnilk report, Coolie earned Rs 65 crore net in India, with the Tamil version earning Rs 45 crore, Hindi version Rs 4.5 crore, Telugu version Rs 15 crore, and Kannada version Rs 0.5 crore. The highest occupancy has been recorded in Trichy (98.75%), followed by Chennai (97.75%), Pondicherry (97.50%), Dindigul (97.33%), Coimbatore (97.25%), and Vellore (95%). Also Read:Coolie review: Rajinikanth and Lokesh combo is a mid rehash of Vikram As per the early estimates of Sacnilk, so far Coolie on the second day at the box office has earned Rs 3.09 crore. Also Read: Coolie: Rajinikanth fans celebrate release of film across India | Watch

<p>Coolie, featuring Rajinikanth in the lead role, was released in cinemas on August 14. Helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, the action thriller has reportedly entered the Rs 50 crore club. Read more to know how much the film has earned on its opening day.</p>

Coolie Box office collection day 1: Rajinikanth's action thriller dominates on opening day

<p>The first poster of Border 2 was unveiled on Friday to mark India’s 79th Independence Day. The makers of chose this historic day to pay a sincere tribute to India’s bravehearts. The first poster features Sunny Deol in a fiery avatar. The poster also unveils the new release date. Border 2 will now release in theaters on January 22, 2026, days ahead of India’s Republic Day.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Border 2 first poster unveiled</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The poster brings back Sunny Deol in his most iconic, battle-hardened avatar, evoking the very essence of what made Border a historic milestone. Dressed in military gear and gripping a bazooka with fierce intensity, Sunny stands tall as the embodiment of patriotism and raw emotion. With that unmistakable fire in his eyes and the weight of duty on his shoulders, Sunny Deol returns to the frontlines, ready to channel the spirit of an Indian soldier once more.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNXF9ARpfiF/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNXF9ARpfiF/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNXF9ARpfiF/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Sunny Deol (@iamsunnydeol)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2>Border 2 cast</h2><p>Directed by Anurag Singh, Border 2 brings together a powerful ensemble led by Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Medha Rana, Mona Singh, and Sonam Bajwa, with production by Bhushan Kumar and JP Dutta. JP Dutta had helmed the first part of the film Border back in 1997. The film was based on the Indo-Pak 1971 war.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The unveiling of the first poster of Border 2 on Independence Day connects the film’s patriotic essence with the spirit of the nation, stirring memories of the original while promising a cinematic spectacle for a new generation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Director Anurag Singh shared, “Announcing the release date on Independence Day is symbolic. This day reminds us of the sacrifices made by our soldiers for India’s freedom, and so does our film. It’s an honour and a privilege to honour their undying spirit through this story.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Backed by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, JP Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, and directed by Anurag Singh, Border 2 is presented by Gulshan Kumar &amp; T-Series, in association with JP Dutta’s J.P. Films. The film continues the legacy of honoring the heroism and indomitable spirit of Indian soldiers, taking audiences on a spectacular journey of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Border 2 releases in cinemas on January 22, 2026.</p>

The sequel to the 1997 film Border, Border 2 will be releasing days before India's 76th Republic Day. Border 2 release date was unveiled along with the film's motion poster which features Sunny Deol. 

The first poster of Border 2 was unveiled on Friday to mark India’s 79th Independence Day. The makers of chose this historic day to pay a sincere tribute to India’s bravehearts. The first poster features Sunny Deol in a fiery avatar. The poster also unveils the new release date. Border 2 will now release in theaters on January 22, 2026, days ahead of India’s Republic Day. Border 2 first poster unveiled The poster brings back Sunny Deol in his most iconic, battle-hardened avatar, evoking the very essence of what made Border a historic milestone. Dressed in military gear and gripping a bazooka with fierce intensity, Sunny stands tall as the embodiment of patriotism and raw emotion. With that unmistakable fire in his eyes and the weight of duty on his shoulders, Sunny Deol returns to the frontlines, ready to channel the spirit of an Indian soldier once more.

<p>The sequel to the 1997 film Border, Border 2 will be releasing days before India's 76th Republic Day. Boder 2 release date was unveiled along with the film's motion poster which features Sunny Deol.&nbsp;</p>

Border 2 first poster out! Sunny Deol looks battle ready

<p>Actress and BJP MP from Mandi, Kangana Ranaut, has called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the world’s biggest feminist. The actress turned politician has stated that the PM&nbsp; has been working tirelessly for the causes of women without ever showing off. In a recent interview, Kangana termed PM Modi as a ‘silent feminist’.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Kangana recounts PM Modi's work on women's empowerment&nbsp;</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kangana spoke to Hauterrfly and said, “Modi ji se bada feminist mujhe nahi lagta is world mein koi hain! Ek toh wo jaise hi pehle aaye yaha jo samasya hain toilet ki, sabse pehle aake hi unhone wo banwaye… toh logo ne kaha ki kya gusalkhana banwa rahe ho? Unhone sabse pehle woh kaam kiya! Phir dusra kaam unhone gas-chulhe diye, ki woh pehle toh lakdi laye phir khana banaye? Phir unke account khulwaye… Phir unka reservation kiya (He is the biggest feminist in the world. The first thing he did after he came to power was to make toilets, and everyone else wondered what he was doing… then he gave them a gas oven so that the women would not have to cut the wood and then make food. Then he made them open bank accounts, then gave them reservations in politics).”</p><h2>PM Modi is a ‘silent feminist’</h2><p>She continued, “Aise anginat kaam… I don't want to make it preachy but mujhe lagta hain unse jyada bada feminist maine toh life main nahi dekha. Uske upar se kabhi ye cheez nahi dikhana ki haan hum bohot bade feminist hain. He is a silent feminist (There are so many things, he is truly the biggest feminist I have seen. Also, he has never shown off that he has done these many things for women).”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kangana Ranaut contested on BJP ticket and won the Lok Sabha elections 2024 from the Mandi constituency in Himachal Pradesh. She was last seen in Emergency, a film that she directed and featured in as former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As far as her work in Bollywood is concerned, she was last seen in the film Emergency, which she also directed.</p>

Actress and BJP MP from Mandi, Kangana Ranaut, has called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the world’s biggest feminist.

Actress and BJP MP from Mandi, Kangana Ranaut, has called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the world’s biggest feminist. The actress turned politician has stated that the PM has been working tirelessly for the causes of women without ever showing off. In a recent interview, Kangana termed PM Modi as a ‘silent feminist’. Kangana recounts PM Modi's work on women's empowerment Kangana spoke to Hauterrfly and said, “Modi ji se bada feminist mujhe nahi lagta is world mein koi hain! Ek toh wo jaise hi pehle aaye yaha jo samasya hain toilet ki, sabse pehle aake hi unhone wo banwaye… toh logo ne kaha ki kya gusalkhana banwa rahe ho? Unhone sabse pehle woh kaam kiya! Phir dusra kaam unhone gas-chulhe diye, ki woh pehle toh lakdi laye phir khana banaye? Phir unke account khulwaye… Phir unka reservation kiya (He is the biggest feminist in the world. The first thing he did after he came to power was to make toilets, and everyone else wondered what he was doing… then he gave them a gas oven so that the women would not have to cut the wood and then make food. Then he made them open bank accounts, then gave them reservations in politics).” PM Modi is a ‘silent feminist’ She continued, “Aise anginat kaam… I don't want to make it preachy but mujhe lagta hain unse jyada bada feminist maine toh life main nahi dekha. Uske upar se kabhi ye cheez nahi dikhana ki haan hum bohot bade feminist hain. He is a silent feminist (There are so many things, he is truly the biggest feminist I have seen. Also, he has never shown off that he has done these many things for women).” Kangana Ranaut contested on BJP ticket and won the Lok Sabha elections 2024 from the Mandi constituency in Himachal Pradesh. She was last seen in Emergency, a film that she directed and featured in as former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. As far as her work in Bollywood is concerned, she was last seen in the film Emergency, which she also directed.

<p>Actress and BJP MP from Mandi, Kangana Ranaut, has called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the world’s biggest feminist.</p>

Kangana Ranaut calls PM Narendra Modi the ‘biggest feminist in the world’

<p><i>War 2</i>, featuring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, finally released in cinemas on August 14. The sixth entry into the YRF Spy Universe, expectations are high for the film, and a lot is riding on its success. On the film's opening day, it garnered impressive numbers and surpassed expectations at the box office. Let's know how much more the film has earned.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Box office report day 1 of War 2</h2>

<p>According to the Sacnilk report, <i>War 2</i> has earned around Rs 52.50 crore net in India, with collections in the Hindi version being Rs 29 crore, Tamil version being Rs 0.25 crore, and Telugu version being Rs 23.25 crore.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/war-2-review-hrithik-roshan-fights-for-inida-romances-jr-ntr-and-kiara-advani-in-a-vfx-heavy-spy-thriller-1755165615411"><strong>War 2 Movie Review: Hrithik Roshan fights for India, romances Jr NTR and Kiara Advani in a VFX heavy spy thriller</strong></a></p>

<p>The highest occupancy has been recorded in Hyderabad (99%), followed by Lucknow (79.25%), Ahmedabad (61%), Bengaluru (58.50%), Mumbai (50%), and Surat (52.67%). As per early estimates of <i>Sacnilk</i>, so far, <i>War 2</i> on the second day has minted Rs 0.27 crore.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/war-2-x-reviews-here-s-what-netizens-have-to-say-about-hrithik-roshan-jr-ntr-starrer-1755136428099"><strong>War 2 X reviews: Here's what netizens have to say about the Hrithik Roshan &amp; Jr. NTR starrer</strong></a></p>

<h2>Netizens' reaction and review of War 2</h2>

<p>Soon after the release of the film, fans took to social media platforms to give their verdict. Many found it boring, while many loved the screen presence of Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR's clash and Kiara Advani's romance. One user wrote, The #War2 review verdict: a visually stunning film with impressive action sequences and outstanding performances. (4/5)".</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/War2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#War2</a> review verdict: a visually stunning film with impressive action sequences and outstanding performances. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5) <a href="https://t.co/7VXCoNYeuE">pic.twitter.com/7VXCoNYeuE</a></p>&mdash; chum patil (@ChumHere) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChumHere/status/1955853744165494885?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Another user wrote, "#War2 &nbsp;#War2Review One Word Review: 'Pathetic Pathetic Pathetic" One of the worst films ever made in the history of Indian Cinema. 0.5/5 Box office verdict: "Disaster".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/independence-day-special-8-unmissable-films-inspired-by-india-s-freedom-movement-1755168007977"><strong>Independence Day special: Unmissable films inspired by India’s freedom movement</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/War2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#War2</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/War2Review?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#War2Review</a><br><br>One Word Review :<br><br>&quot;Pathetic Pathetic Pathetic &quot;<br><br>One of the worst film ever made in the history of Indian Cinema. <br><br>0.5⭐/5<br><br>Box office verdict: &quot;Disaster&quot;.<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/PqcTuX7jkh">pic.twitter.com/PqcTuX7jkh</a></p>&mdash; ఓజస్ Reddy🗡️ (@TheLordOjas) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheLordOjas/status/1955920087397097727?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>As per <i>WION's </i>Shomini Sen, 'From the gorgeous locations, to mind-numbing action sequences, to a bikini-clad pool romance to some jugalbandi on the dance floor- War 2 checks a lot of boxes that make a Hindi spy film work. Both Hrithik and Jr NTR are presented on screen in their life avatar. War 2 suffers mostly because the film doesn't deliver anything new. We know the story, we can guess or sense the twists. While the first half is thrilling and takes a lot of effort to present the two heroes gloriously on screen, the second half meanders through a very poor storyline."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coolie-review-rajinikanth-and-lokesh-combo-is-a-mid-rehash-of-vikram-1755159637449"><strong>Coolie review: Rajinikanth and Lokesh combo is a mid rehash of Vikram</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For the unversed, <i>War 2</i> is the sequel to the 2019 blockbuster War, where Hrithik Roshan played Major Kabir Dhaliwal, a RAW agent who goes rogue after discovering enemy spies within the organization. The film boasts of a star-studded cast that includes Kiara Advani, Ashutosh Rana, Anil Kapoor, and Dishita Sehgal, among others. <i>War 2</i> is helmed by Ayan Mukerji.</p>

War 2, starring Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani, released in cinemas on August 14. The action-thriller on the opening surpassed the expectations at the domestic box office. Read more to know the collection on day one. 

War 2, featuring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, finally released in cinemas on August 14. The sixth entry into the YRF Spy Universe, expectations are high for the film, and a lot is riding on its success. On the film's opening day, it garnered impressive numbers and surpassed expectations at the box office. Let's know how much more the film has earned.

<p>War 2, starring Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani, released in cinemas on August 14. The action-thriller on the opening surpassed the expectations at the domestic box office. Read more to know the collection on day one.&nbsp;</p>

War 2 Box office collection day 1: Hrithik Roshan-Jr NTR starrer kicks off with modest start, mints THIS much

<p>Iconic metal band Megadeth is bowing out. The band's frontman and founder, Dave Mustaine, announced on Thursday that Megadeth’s next album will be their last. 40 years since its inception, the iconic band has made 16 studio albums. The seventeenth will be their last and will be accompanied by a final, multi-year tour.&nbsp;</p><h2>Megadeth announces retirement</h2><p>Dave Mustaine issued a statement announcing the news and said, “There’s so many musicians that have come to the end of their career, whether accidental or intentional. Most of them don’t get to go out on their own terms on top, and that’s where I’m at in my life right now. I have travelled the world and have made millions upon millions of fans, and the hardest part of all of this is saying goodbye to them."&nbsp;</p><p><br>“We can’t wait for you to hear this album and see us on tour. If there was ever a perfect time for us to put out a new album, it’s now. If there was ever a perfect time to tour the world, it’s now. This is also a perfect time for us to tell you that it’s our last studio album. We’ve made a lot of friends over the years and I hope to see all of you on our global farewell tour. Don’t be mad, don’t be sad, be happy for us all, come celebrate with me these next few years.</p><p><br>“We have done something together that’s truly wonderful and will probably never happen again,” he concluded. “We started a musical style, we started a revolution, we changed the guitar world and how it’s played, and we changed the world. The bands I played in have influenced the world. I love you all for it. Thank you for everything.”</p><h2>Megadeth origin&nbsp;</h2><p>Megadeth was founded by Mustaine in 1983 after he was fired from Metallica just before the band recorded their debut album, Kill ‘Em All, due to substance abuse and conflicts with James Hetfield.</p>

Megadeth founder and lead singer Dave Mustaine announced that the band's seventeenth album will be its final one and they will follow it up with a world tour. 

Iconic metal band Megadeth is bowing out. The band's frontman and founder, Dave Mustaine, announced on Thursday that Megadeth’s next album will be their last. 40 years since its inception, the iconic band has made 16 studio albums. The seventeenth will be their last and will be accompanied by a final, multi-year tour. Megadeth announces retirement Dave Mustaine issued a statement announcing the news and said, “There’s so many musicians that have come to the end of their career, whether accidental or intentional. Most of them don’t get to go out on their own terms on top, and that’s where I’m at in my life right now. I have travelled the world and have made millions upon millions of fans, and the hardest part of all of this is saying goodbye to them." “We can’t wait for you to hear this album and see us on tour. If there was ever a perfect time for us to put out a new album, it’s now. If there was ever a perfect time to tour the world, it’s now. This is also a perfect time for us to tell you that it’s our last studio album. We’ve made a lot of friends over the years and I hope to see all of you on our global farewell tour. Don’t be mad, don’t be sad, be happy for us all, come celebrate with me these next few years. “We have done something together that’s truly wonderful and will probably never happen again,” he concluded. “We started a musical style, we started a revolution, we changed the guitar world and how it’s played, and we changed the world. The bands I played in have influenced the world. I love you all for it. Thank you for everything.” Megadeth origin Megadeth was founded by Mustaine in 1983 after he was fired from Metallica just before the band recorded their debut album, Kill ‘Em All, due to substance abuse and conflicts with James Hetfield.

<p>Megadeth founder and lead singer Dave Mustaine announced that the band's seventeenth album will be its final one and they will follow it up with a world tour.&nbsp;</p>

Megadeth announces forthcoming album as its final one: 'Don’t be mad, don’t be sad, be happy for us all'

<p>Mrunal Thakur, who has been courting controversy for the past few days for her remark on Bipasha Basu in an old interview, has broken her silence on the matter and issued an apology. On Thursday night, Mrunal stated on social media apologising for her comments made on Bipasha Basu in an old interview and stated that she wished 'she had chosen her words differently.'</p><h2>Mrunal apologises for her old comments on Bipasha Basu</h2><p><br>The Son Of Sardaar 2 actress took to Instagram stories and wrote, "19-year-old me as a teenager said many silly things. I didn’t always understand the weight of my voice or how much words, even in jest, could hurt. But it did, and for that I am deeply sorry. My intent was never to body-shame anyone. It was playful banter in an interview, that went too far. But I understand how it came across, and I truly wish I had chosen my words differently.</p><p><br>“With time, I’ve grown to appreciate that beauty comes in every form, and that’s something I truly value now,” she said.</p>

Mrunal Thakur's statement

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What is the controversy about?</h2><p>A few days back, an old video of Mrunal giving an interview surfaced online. Mrunal, as many would recall, was a prominent face on TV before she made her foray into films. In the old video, she can be seen sitting next to Television actor Arjit Taneja and calling Bipasha Basu 'muscular'.<br>She started her career as a television actor with Mujhse Kuchh Kehti...Yeh Khamoshiyaan (2012) and also featured in Kumkum Bhagya (2014).</p><p><br>In the viral video, Mrunal joked that she is much better than ‘muscular’ Bipasha Basu. Since the video surfaced on Reddit and then migrated to Instagram, Bipasha's fans have been making edits to recall just how beautiful and iconic she has been. Many criticised Mrunal and the actress has been trolled severely in other social media posts for her remarks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNVeuKZym7F/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNVeuKZym7F/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNVeuKZym7F/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Ayesha 🕊️ (@ishq_under_ink)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2>Bipasha Basu reacts</h2><p><br>While Bipasha Basu has maintained silence on the matter, she did put up a message on Instagram stories about women lifting women. “Strong women lift each other up.” She went on to add more in the caption, which read, “Get those muscles, beautiful ladies, we should be strong. Muscles help you attain good physical and mental health forever! Bust the age-old thought process that women should not look strong or be physically strong," Bipasha wrote, seemingly referring to Mrunal's viral video.</p><p><br>It is interesting to note that both Mrunal and Bipasha's stories do not mention any name, even though they seem to be talking of the same interview.</p><p><br>Mrunal was last seen in Son of Sardaar 2 with Ajay Devgn and is known for movies such as Jersey, Sita Ramam and Love Sonia. Bipasha, who has famously starred in films like Jism, Dhoom 2, Raaz, to name a few, has been on a break from movies after welcoming her daughter Devi with husband, actor Karan Singh Grover.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

An old video of Mrunal Thakur surfaced which showed the actress body shaming Bipasha Basu and calling her ‘muscular’. Thakur has now apologised for the old video. 

Mrunal Thakur, who has been courting controversy for the past few days for her remark on Bipasha Basu in an old interview, has broken her silence on the matter and issued an apology. On Thursday night, Mrunal stated on social media apologising for her comments made on Bipasha Basu in an old interview and stated that she wished 'she had chosen her words differently.' Mrunal apologises for her old comments on Bipasha Basu The Son Of Sardaar 2 actress took to Instagram stories and wrote, "19-year-old me as a teenager said many silly things. I didn’t always understand the weight of my voice or how much words, even in jest, could hurt. But it did, and for that I am deeply sorry. My intent was never to body-shame anyone. It was playful banter in an interview, that went too far. But I understand how it came across, and I truly wish I had chosen my words differently. “With time, I’ve grown to appreciate that beauty comes in every form, and that’s something I truly value now,” she said.

<p>An old video of Mrunal Thakur surfaced which showed the actress body shaming Bipasha Basu and calling her ‘muscular’. Thakur has now apologised for the old video.&nbsp;</p>

Mrunal Thakur breaks silence over the viral Bipasha Basu body shaming video: 'Playful banter that went too far'

Independence Day: Important films on partition that one needs to watch

<p>As India prepares to celebrate its Independence Day, here are some movies about the partition that you must watch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Actors Darshan and Pavithra Gowda were arrested on Thursday afternoon after the Supreme Court cancelled the bail that had been granted to them by the Karnataka High Court earlier. The two, along wth others, have been accused in the Renukaswamy murder case. Darshan was arrested from his Hosakerehalli residence in Bengaluru and taken into custody through the back gate.</p><h2>Supreme Court cancels bail&nbsp;</h2><p><br>A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan set aside the Karnataka High Court order, stating it “suffers from serious infirmities” and directed authorities to take the accused into custody immediately. The court emphasised that the trial must be conducted expeditiously.<br>“No legal reason to grant bail,” the bench observed, adding that Darshan’s liberty posed a “risk of derailing the administration of justice.”</p><h2>Why have Pavithra Gowda and Darshan been arrested?</h2><p><br>Actors Darshan and Pavithra Gowda, along with a few others, have been accused of abducting and torturing 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan who had allegedly sent obscene messages to Pavitra. The case dates back to June 2024, and the Police state that Renukaswamy was held in a shed in Bengaluru, where he was tortured for three days. He was later found dead in a drain.</p><p><br>The victim reportedly held Gowda responsible for discord in Darshan's marriage at the time. Police said a member of Darshan’s fan club got Renukaswamy to come to a shed in RR Nagar locality on the pretext of meeting the actor.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Supreme Court also warned the state government against providing special treatment to the accused in jail and directed that the trial be expedited too.&nbsp;</p><p><br>Darshan was arrested on June 11, 2024, two days after the body of Renukaswamy was discovered in a drain. In the police chargesheet, filed in September 2024, Pavithra Gowda is named as the prime accused and Darshan as the second.</p>

Kannada film actors Darshan and Pavithra Gowda have been arrested in a muder case dating back to June 2024. The victim was a fan of Darshan, who sent lewd and obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda. 

Actors Darshan and Pavithra Gowda were arrested on Thursday afternoon after the Supreme Court cancelled the bail that had been granted to them by the Karnataka High Court earlier. The two, along wth others, have been accused in the Renukaswamy murder case. Darshan was arrested from his Hosakerehalli residence in Bengaluru and taken into custody through the back gate. Supreme Court cancels bail A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan set aside the Karnataka High Court order, stating it “suffers from serious infirmities” and directed authorities to take the accused into custody immediately. The court emphasised that the trial must be conducted expeditiously. “No legal reason to grant bail,” the bench observed, adding that Darshan’s liberty posed a “risk of derailing the administration of justice.” Why have Pavithra Gowda and Darshan been arrested? Actors Darshan and Pavithra Gowda, along with a few others, have been accused of abducting and torturing 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan who had allegedly sent obscene messages to Pavitra. The case dates back to June 2024, and the Police state that Renukaswamy was held in a shed in Bengaluru, where he was tortured for three days. He was later found dead in a drain. The victim reportedly held Gowda responsible for discord in Darshan's marriage at the time. Police said a member of Darshan’s fan club got Renukaswamy to come to a shed in RR Nagar locality on the pretext of meeting the actor. The Supreme Court also warned the state government against providing special treatment to the accused in jail and directed that the trial be expedited too. Darshan was arrested on June 11, 2024, two days after the body of Renukaswamy was discovered in a drain. In the police chargesheet, filed in September 2024, Pavithra Gowda is named as the prime accused and Darshan as the second.

<p>Kannada film actors Darshan and Pavithra Gowda have been arrested in a muder case dating back to June 2024. The victim was a fan of Darshan, who sent lewd and obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda.&nbsp;</p>

Darshan and Pavithra Gowda arrested on charges of muder; know all about the Renukaswamy murder case

<p><strong>War 2 Movie Review: </strong>Ayan Mukerji- the man who gave us the brilliant <i>Wake Up! Sid</i> and enjoyable <i>Yeh Jawani Hai Diwani </i>takes a leap of faith to give us the most massy film of his career, YRF-backed<i> War 2. </i>Part of the studio's Spyverse, <i>War 2 </i>picks up from where <i>War</i> (2019) had ended and gives us two new heroes- Kabir (Hrithik Roshan) and Vikram (Jr NTR, making his Bollywood debut in this one). The result should have been electrifying -considering it combines the best of North and South cinema- but falls into the usual trappings of an illogical, larger-than-life spy film that Bollywood- particularly YRF- has been feeding us for the past few years. <i>War 2</i> thrills but also gives a sense of <i>Deja Vu, </i>which isn't necessarily a good thing.&nbsp;</p><p><br>Story is never the biggest asset of YRF's Spyverse, but it always manages to feature a gamut of prominent faces from the Indian film industry in key roles. So I wasn't expecting a great story here. But <i>War 2</i> movie also has Aditya Chopra as the writer (the guy who gave us the iconic <i>DDLJ </i>and YRF head), Abbas Tyrewala's dialogues (director, writer of <i>Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na</i>) and Mukerji helming the affair. Naturally, expectations double up for cinema lovers. But <i>War 2</i> not just underutilises its actors but also its creators. The result is a very predictable, tried and tested plot that thrills only in the first half and then becomes tedious in the second.&nbsp;</p><h2>Plot of War 2 movie</h2><p><br>Major Kabir (Hrithik) is on the run. RAW thinks he has killed his mentor Colonel Luthra ( Ashutosh Rana), and his daughter Kavya (Kiara Advani ) wants to avenge her father's death. To track down Kabir, they hire their best officer, Major Vikram (NTR), to do the job. The man who pulls the trigger before thinking doesn't fear anyone and has a 100 per cent strike rate. But when you pit the best against the best, fireworks are bound to occur. Vikram and Kabir are mirror images of each other in terms of sharpness and capabilities. Does Vikram get to do the job? Is Kabir a murderer? Does Kavya avenge her father's death?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As Kabir makes the RAW agents go on a wild goose chase, the officers also have to thwart an assassination plot involving the Indian PM in Davos. Will they be able to crack the case or will RAW chief Kaul (Anil Kapoor) be forced to bring in Kabir, his best officer on board?</p><h2>What works in War 2</h2><p><br>From the gorgeous locations, to mind-numbing action sequences, to a bikini-clad pool romance to some jugalbandi on the dance floor- <i>War 2</i> checks a lot of boxes that make a Hindi spy film work. Both Hrithik and Jr NTR are presented on screen in larger than life avatar. No bullet, deadly animal, weather hazards or speeding trains can harm our heroes. They jump off cliffs from speeding trains, take on packs of men mid-air and mid-sea, fight in igloos in just t-shirts and cargoes without shivering even once and manage to escape unscathed from burning vessels and planes.</p>

<p>It's all there. Hrithik brings in his usual swagger and charm while NTR, who looks a lot fitter, plays the brooding, egotistical RAW agent with great ease. The two actors have been crowd pullers in their respective industries, are not just pitted against each other but also made to dance together, much like Hrithik had done in<i> War </i>with Tiger Shroff. While Hrithik looks comfortable doing the complicated steps, NTR looks diligent and conscious, trying to match Hrithik's effortless style.</p><h2>What does not work in War 2 movie</h2><p><br><i>War 2 </i>suffers mostly because the film doesn't deliver anything new. We know the story, we can guess or sense the twists. While the first half is thrilling and takes a lot of effort to present the two heroes gloriously on screen, the second half meanders through a very poor storyline. In an to keep it engaging, Chopra throws in too many twists and even a side story of long lost friends getting reunited again- but this one is working for the country and others against it.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The film depends heavily on VFX, and it isn't the best. Some of the shots are so shoddily done, one can almost imagine the actors performing in front of a green screen.&nbsp;</p><p><br>There are too many flashbacks, Kabir's backstory about how he is from the streets, his relationship with Kavya and a fleeting mention of his love lost in Nisha (Vaani Kapoor) in the first film.&nbsp;</p><p><br>Because the film is called <i>War,</i> the word is used a LOT throughout the film along with the word 'warrior'. Turns out every RAW agent is a Warrior. One could easily start a drinking game and take shots every time the words ‘War’ and ‘Warrior’ are used.</p><p><br>The climax suddenly becomes a track of confessions and redemptions. At one point, while slinging an ice axe towards Hrithik, NTR talks of heartbreak and betrayal. At one Hrithik clutches a bleeding NTR's face and talks about friendship and never letting one's bestie go. I almost thought that the two men would end up kissing each other- and that would make for a greater plot twist than anything else, but alas, Chopra and Mukerji shy away from going the extra mile and stick to <i>dosti </i>only.</p><h2>Bromance over saving the nation</h2><p><br><i>War </i>movie had Shroff's character idolising Roshan's Kabir. It had also started wild fan theories of how the film could have been just a gay love story. <i>War 2 </i>will also likely give way to more such theories because the film in the second half becomes about two friends, rising from the streets and then one being betrayed by the other. There is an undercurrent romance between Vikram and Kabir- no one can convince me otherwise.</p><p><br>The movie <i>War 2</i> begins with a lot of potential but ends in a whimper. Roshan looks great, even though much older than NTR and Kiara Advani (we are told they are all of the same age). NTR and Kiara too look a million bucks in their chiselled avatars. But the film fails to thrill or leave a lasting impression. It is, in fact, just another film in YRF's ever-growing spy universe, making way for its female spy film<i> Alpha</i> starring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari.</p><p><br><i>War 2 </i>ultimately is an exhausting and tedious sequel to its original. It's more about bromance and heartbreak than about spies.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>War 2</i> is now playing in cinemas.</p>

A sequel of 2019 film War, Ayan Mukerji's latest film War 2 ticks boxes of a usuall Bollywood spy thriller yet falls short in second half as it becomes more about friendships than about saving the country. 

War 2 Movie Review: Ayan Mukerji- the man who gave us the brilliant Wake Up! Sid and enjoyable Yeh Jawani Hai Diwani takes a leap of faith to give us the most massy film of his career, YRF-backed War 2. Part of the studio's Spyverse, War 2 picks up from where War (2019) had ended and gives us two new heroes- Kabir (Hrithik Roshan) and Vikram (Jr NTR, making his Bollywood debut in this one). The result should have been electrifying -considering it combines the best of North and South cinema- but falls into the usual trappings of an illogical, larger-than-life spy film that Bollywood- particularly YRF- has been feeding us for the past few years. War 2 thrills but also gives a sense of Deja Vu, which isn't necessarily a good thing. Story is never the biggest asset of YRF's Spyverse, but it always manages to feature a gamut of prominent faces from the Indian film industry in key roles. So I wasn't expecting a great story here. But War 2 movie also has Aditya Chopra as the writer (the guy who gave us the iconic DDLJ and YRF head), Abbas Tyrewala's dialogues (director, writer of Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na) and Mukerji helming the affair. Naturally, expectations double up for cinema lovers. But War 2 not just underutilises its actors but also its creators. The result is a very predictable, tried and tested plot that thrills only in the first half and then becomes tedious in the second. Plot of War 2 movie Major Kabir (Hrithik) is on the run. RAW thinks he has killed his mentor Colonel Luthra ( Ashutosh Rana), and his daughter Kavya (Kiara Advani ) wants to avenge her father's death. To track down Kabir, they hire their best officer, Major Vikram (NTR), to do the job. The man who pulls the trigger before thinking doesn't fear anyone and has a 100 per cent strike rate. But when you pit the best against the best, fireworks are bound to occur. Vikram and Kabir are mirror images of each other in terms of sharpness and capabilities. Does Vikram get to do the job? Is Kabir a murderer? Does Kavya avenge her father's death? As Kabir makes the RAW agents go on a wild goose chase, the officers also have to thwart an assassination plot involving the Indian PM in Davos. Will they be able to crack the case or will RAW chief Kaul (Anil Kapoor) be forced to bring in Kabir, his best officer on board? What works in War 2 From the gorgeous locations, to mind-numbing action sequences, to a bikini-clad pool romance to some jugalbandi on the dance floor- War 2 checks a lot of boxes that make a Hindi spy film work. Both Hrithik and Jr NTR are presented on screen in larger than life avatar. No bullet, deadly animal, weather hazards or speeding trains can harm our heroes. They jump off cliffs from speeding trains, take on packs of men mid-air and mid-sea, fight in igloos in just t-shirts and cargoes without shivering even once and manage to escape unscathed from burning vessels and planes.

<p>A sequel of 2019 film War, Ayan Mukerji's latest film War 2 ticks boxes of a usuall Bollywood spy thriller yet falls short in second half as it becomes more about friendships than about saving the country.&nbsp;</p>

War 2 Movie Review: Hrithik Roshan fights for India, romances Jr NTR and Kiara Advani in a VFX heavy spy thriller

<p>The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 commenced with great fanfare, hosting its official press conference in the presence of some of the most celebrated names from the Indian film industry alongside distinguished delegates from the Victorian Government.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The event saw a glittering lineup of guests, including Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, celebrated comedian and actor Vir Das, acclaimed performers Tillotama Shome, Jim Sarbh, and Aditi Rao Hydari, visionary filmmakers Shoojit Sircar, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, and R.S. Prasanna (director of Sitaare Zameen Par), as well as acclaimed casting director Mukesh Chhabra.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also present were Baksho Bondi’s talented director Tanushree Das, and members of the cast — as the film takes centre stage as the festival’s highly anticipated Opening Night Film.</p>

Aditi Rao Hydari, Vir Das, director RS Prasanna

<p> </p><p>Aamir Khan expressed, “It’s great to be here in Melbourne. I’m elated to be part of the Indian film festival of Melbourne. It’s a great initiative of cinema that brings people and cultures together. I’m certain the films and the filmmakers who are showcasing at the festival will have a great experience”.</p>

The celebrity line up at  Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025

<p> </p><p>Festival Director Mitu Bhowmik Lange expressed her pride and excitement at the grand kickoff, “Each year, IFFM is a meeting point for incredible stories, extraordinary talent, and a shared passion for cinema that transcends borders. Today’s press conference perfectly captured the spirit of this festival — a vibrant coming together of some of the most inspiring voices in Indian cinema, right here in Melbourne. We are privileged to host legends and visionaries like Aamir Khan, storytellers like Shoojit Sircar and Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, and actors whose performances move audiences across the globe. This year’s programme, headlined by Baksho Bondi as our Opening Night Film, is an exciting blend of creativity, diversity, and cinematic excellence. The presence of so many eminent guests, coupled with the enthusiastic support of the Victorian Government, makes this year’s festival not just a cultural celebration, but also a bridge that strengthens the ties between India and Australia”.</p><p> </p><p>The 16th edition of IFFM promises a spectacular lineup of film screenings, special events, panel discussions, and the annual flag-hoisting ceremony to commemorate India’s Independence Day — all set against the vibrant cultural backdrop of Melbourne.</p>

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 commenced with great fanfare, hosting its official press conference in the presence of some of the most celebrated names from the Indian film industry.

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 commenced with great fanfare, hosting its official press conference in the presence of some of the most celebrated names from the Indian film industry alongside distinguished delegates from the Victorian Government. The event saw a glittering lineup of guests, including Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, celebrated comedian and actor Vir Das, acclaimed performers Tillotama Shome, Jim Sarbh, and Aditi Rao Hydari, visionary filmmakers Shoojit Sircar, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, and R.S. Prasanna (director of Sitaare Zameen Par), as well as acclaimed casting director Mukesh Chhabra. Also present were Baksho Bondi’s talented director Tanushree Das, and members of the cast — as the film takes centre stage as the festival’s highly anticipated Opening Night Film.

<p>The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 commenced with great fanfare, hosting its official press conference in the presence of some of the most celebrated names from the Indian film industry.</p>

Aamir Khan, Tillotama Shome, Jaideep Ahlawat kick off Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025

Celebrate this Independence Day with these powerful films that capture India’s struggle for freedom. So here are  8 Unmissable films inspired by India’s freedom movement that you need to watch.

<p>Celebrate this Independence Day with these powerful films that capture India’s struggle for freedom. So here are &nbsp;8 Unmissable films inspired by India’s freedom movement that you need to watch.</p>

Independence Day special: 8 Unmissable films inspired by India’s freedom movement

<p><i>Coolie</i> has finally hit the big screen. To say the hype surrounding the Rajinikanth starrer is huge would be an understatement. The movie has already set records in pre-release ticket sales, but unfortunately, <i>Coolie </i>ends up being an average entertainer that rehashes plot points from previous films by director Lokesh Kanagaraj, especially <i>Vikram.</i></p><h2>What is Coolie about?</h2><p>The movie follows Deva (Rajinikanth), a retired union leader and coolie who wants to uncover the truth behind the sudden death of his old friend Rajasekar (Sathyaraj). Deva quickly uncovers that his friend had been forced to work for the crime boss Simon (Nagarjuna) and his smuggling cartel.</p><h2>Coolie’s storyline feels too familiar</h2><p>The plot of<i> Coolie</i> mostly feels like a rehash of <i>Vikram,</i> where a veteran is forced out of retirement to avenge a murder and, in the process, uncovers a large criminal conspiracy. It also turns out that the veteran has a past where he was a super-cool agent/gangster. Why Lokesh chose to rehash the story for a third time when his last film, <i>Leo</i>, did the same and ended up being a letdown, remains unclear.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, where <i>Leo</i> was let down by an undercooked second half, what holds <i>Coolie</i> back is a screenplay that, while on the surface it looks like they tried to change up the formula, just ended up abandoning its most interesting plot points and decided to settle. The entire movie comes off like the team had a “well, that's good enough” attitude.</p><h2>Rajinikanth shines, but Nagarjuna is wasted</h2><p>As far as performances are concerned, Rajinikanth does his best to carry the movie, and his usual charm and charisma shine through in parts. The standout, however, is Nagarjuna as Simon. He really seems to be having fun with the role, and despite having the most potential, his character is underutilised and ends up being a side character rather than the main villain.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The movie, for some reason, decided to focus on his right-hand man, Dayal (Soubin Shahir). While the actor does give a solid performance, his character is given a story arc in the second half of the movie that overstays its welcome. It would have made more sense and made the movie far more engaging if they had followed the same arc and focused on Simon instead.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shruti Haasan in the movie is also wasted; her character arc never takes off, and she ends up being nothing more than a damsel in distress. It would be a fun drinking game at parties if everyone took a shot whenever someone drags her off against her will, as it happens a lot, so much so that it seems like an unintentional joke.</p><h2>The movie Coolie's action and music fail to impress</h2><p>The fight scenes also feel mid except for Upendra's cameo, where we start seeing some potential, but it quickly dies out. The music by Anirudh sounds like it is the same as his last few albums. There is an interesting flashback sequence near the climax of the movie that feels like a consolation prize for fans who had high hopes for the film. Finally, Aamir Khan's cameo and character are just a poor Breaking Bad rip-off.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The movie has more than a few references to Breaking Bad and The Dark Knight, which has been a growing trend among Indian filmmakers, especially when it comes to the mass action entertainer genre. While initially, this felt like a nice homage, now it has gotten to the point of being annoying, and it is sad that these filmmakers, who claim to be fans of those stories, do nothing but use them as a cheap reference instead of exploring any of their deeper themes.</p><h2>Coolie movie final verdict</h2><p>So, in conclusion, <i>Coolie</i> does not live up to the hype, nor does it deliver on any of its promises, and ends up being a one-time watch at best and completely forgettable at its worst.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Coolie marks the first collaboration between Rajinikanth and director Lokesh Kanagaraj. The movie boasts of an immense star cast that includes Nagarjuna, Aamir Khan and Upendra. So does the movie live up to the hype

Coolie has finally hit the big screen. To say the hype surrounding the Rajinikanth starrer is huge would be an understatement. The movie has already set records in pre-release ticket sales, but unfortunately, Coolie ends up being an average entertainer that rehashes plot points from previous films by director Lokesh Kanagaraj, especially Vikram. What is Coolie about? The movie follows Deva (Rajinikanth), a retired union leader and coolie who wants to uncover the truth behind the sudden death of his old friend Rajasekar (Sathyaraj). Deva quickly uncovers that his friend had been forced to work for the crime boss Simon (Nagarjuna) and his smuggling cartel. Coolie’s storyline feels too familiar The plot of Coolie mostly feels like a rehash of Vikram, where a veteran is forced out of retirement to avenge a murder and, in the process, uncovers a large criminal conspiracy. It also turns out that the veteran has a past where he was a super-cool agent/gangster. Why Lokesh chose to rehash the story for a third time when his last film, Leo, did the same and ended up being a letdown, remains unclear. However, where Leo was let down by an undercooked second half, what holds Coolie back is a screenplay that, while on the surface it looks like they tried to change up the formula, just ended up abandoning its most interesting plot points and decided to settle. The entire movie comes off like the team had a “well, that's good enough” attitude. Rajinikanth shines, but Nagarjuna is wasted As far as performances are concerned, Rajinikanth does his best to carry the movie, and his usual charm and charisma shine through in parts. The standout, however, is Nagarjuna as Simon. He really seems to be having fun with the role, and despite having the most potential, his character is underutilised and ends up being a side character rather than the main villain. The movie, for some reason, decided to focus on his right-hand man, Dayal (Soubin Shahir). While the actor does give a solid performance, his character is given a story arc in the second half of the movie that overstays its welcome. It would have made more sense and made the movie far more engaging if they had followed the same arc and focused on Simon instead. Shruti Haasan in the movie is also wasted; her character arc never takes off, and she ends up being nothing more than a damsel in distress. It would be a fun drinking game at parties if everyone took a shot whenever someone drags her off against her will, as it happens a lot, so much so that it seems like an unintentional joke. The movie Coolie's action and music fail to impress The fight scenes also feel mid except for Upendra's cameo, where we start seeing some potential, but it quickly dies out. The music by Anirudh sounds like it is the same as his last few albums. There is an interesting flashback sequence near the climax of the movie that feels like a consolation prize for fans who had high hopes for the film. Finally, Aamir Khan's cameo and character are just a poor Breaking Bad rip-off. The movie has more than a few references to Breaking Bad and The Dark Knight, which has been a growing trend among Indian filmmakers, especially when it comes to the mass action entertainer genre. While initially, this felt like a nice homage, now it has gotten to the point of being annoying, and it is sad that these filmmakers, who claim to be fans of those stories, do nothing but use them as a cheap reference instead of exploring any of their deeper themes. Coolie movie final verdict So, in conclusion, Coolie does not live up to the hype, nor does it deliver on any of its promises, and ends up being a one-time watch at best and completely forgettable at its worst.

<p>Coolie marks the first collaboration between Rajinikanth and director Lokesh Kanagaraj. The movie boasts of an immense star cast that includes Nagarjuna, Aamir Khan and Upendra. So does the movie live up to the hype?</p>

Coolie movie review: Rajinikanth and Lokesh combo is a mid rehash of Vikram

<p>Popular Japanese idol Kenshin Kamimura is making headlines for all the wrong reasons. The singer has reportedly been found guilty and has been fined on Wednesday, ie, on August 13, for assaulting a woman who was working with him during a fan event in Hong Kong last year.</p><h2>More details about Kenshin Kamimura's conviction</h2>

<p>As per reports, the West Kowloon Court found that Kamimura had assaulted the woman, who had worked as his interpreter, by patting and stroking her thigh at a Mong Kok restaurant on March 2. He has been fined $1910.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/sholay-turns-50-did-you-know-amitabh-bachchan-and-dharmendra-were-not-the-original-choice-for-jai-veeru-1755138020700"><strong>Sholay @ 50: Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra were NOT the original choice for film</strong></a></p>

<p>Reportedly, Magistrate Peter Yu found that he had assaulted her and dismissed the defendant's actions as cultural differences. But some people from the public had reportedly made unfair accusations while the trial was going on. The Magistrate said, "The defendant's acts were disrespectful of women. They deserve condemnation because they violate Hong Kong Law".</p>

<p>Netizens took to social media platforms to share their posts in regard to this case. One user wrote, "Not all heroes wear capes. After Kenshin is convicted, a Hong Kong guy held a paper that read “You deserved it. This is Hong Kong. Feel the pain.” Sadly, Kenshin didn't even need to serve prison and can go back to JP, where he still has a big fanbase".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/vincent-d-onofrio-confirms-daredevil-born-again-season-2-isn-t-the-final-chapter-1755093310997"><strong>Vincent D’Onofrio confirms Daredevil: Born Again season 2 isn’t the final season</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Not all heroes wear capes🫡<br>After Kenshin is convicted, a Hong Kong guy held a paper that wrote “You deserved it. This is Hong Kong. Feel the pain.”<br>Sadly Kenshin didnt even need to serve prison and can go back to JP, where he still have a big fanbase🤢<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KenshinKamimura?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KenshinKamimura</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E4%B8%8A%E6%9D%91%E8%AC%99%E4%BF%A1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#上村謙信</a> <a href="https://t.co/ynkWPkM6L6">pic.twitter.com/ynkWPkM6L6</a></p>&mdash; 𝕊𝕒𝕟𝕕𝕪 cw SecretLover (@sa_hk_) <a href="https://twitter.com/sa_hk_/status/1955863683495813220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Another user wrote, "You're defending someone guilty as a criminal and calling him innocent...you should be ashamed of yourself, your lack of empathy for the victim is heartbreaking. Kenshin Kamimura is a sexual harasser, and that's all he is".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-inception-to-mulholland-drive-10-must-watch-mind-bending-movies-1755085842244"><strong>From Inception to Mulholland Drive: 10 must-watch mind-bending movies</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">You&#39;re defending someone who was guilty as a criminal and calling him innocent...you should be ashamed of yourself, your lack of empathy for the victim is heartbreaking. Kenshin Kamimura is a sexual harasser and that&#39;s all he is! <a href="https://t.co/oOqN5hzwI1">https://t.co/oOqN5hzwI1</a></p>&mdash; bea (@ryubizuu) <a href="https://twitter.com/ryubizuu/status/1955626046986064338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>All about Kenshin Kamimura</h2><p>Born in Aichi, Japan, he is a Japanese actor and a former member of the group ONE 'N' ONLY. He gained recognition after his performance in the 2024 TV show <i>Our Youth</i>, in which he played the role of the protagonist.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He has also been part of other shows, including<i> Our Youth: After Story, Ossan's Lobe Returns, The Unknown Me, </i>and <i>Shufu Katsu,</i> among others.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coolie-rajinikanth-fans-celebrate-by-showering-flower-petals-dance-to-beating-drums-watch-1755143793477"><strong>Coolie: Rajinikanth fans celebrate by showering flower petals. dance to beating drums | Watch</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kenshin Kamimura is a former member of the boy band ONE 'N' ONLY, which Stardust Promotion reportedly later announced the termination of Kamimura's contract due to serious compliance violations, and he was dropped from the group and its activities. All of his social media accounts were removed and suspended. Kenshin was reportedly set to perform at the prestigious Budokan arena in Tokyo with his boy band.</p>

Japanese popular idol Kenshin Kamimura, who is best known for his role in the show Our Youth, has been found guilty by Hong Kong court in an assault case.  The victim had previously worked with him as an interpreter. 

Popular Japanese idol Kenshin Kamimura is making headlines for all the wrong reasons. The singer has reportedly been found guilty and has been fined on Wednesday, ie, on August 13, for assaulting a woman who was working with him during a fan event in Hong Kong last year. More details about Kenshin Kamimura's conviction

<p>Japanese popular idol Kenshin Kamimura, who is best known for his role in the show Our Youth, has been found guilty by Hong Kong court in an assault case. &nbsp;The victim had previously worked with him as an interpreter.&nbsp;</p>

Japanese pop idol Kenshin Kamimura convicted by Hong Kong court in indecent assault case

<p>Rajinikanth starrer <i>Coolie </i>finally released in theatres today amid much fanfare. With the release of the much-awaited film, it also marks the veteran star's 50th anniversary in cinema today. Fans celebrated the day by dancing and showering petals. The video has now gone viral on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Rajinikanth fans' celebration of release of Coolie across India</h2>

<p>Fans in Tamil Nadu gathered to celebrate the special day as they all gathered for the first show by dancing to beating drums and showering petals outside theatres.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-sri-raghavendrar-to-mullum-malarum-8-underrated-rajinikanth-movies-you-shouldn-t-miss-1755095742427"><strong>From Sri Raghavendrar to Mullum Malarum: 8 Underrated Rajinikanth movies you shouldn’t miss</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Madurai, Tamil Nadu | Fans of Superstar Rajinikanth celebrate the release of his new movie ‘Coolie’, dancing to beating drums and showering flower petals, as they gather to watch the first day-first show. <a href="https://t.co/wNvErFxJEn">pic.twitter.com/wNvErFxJEn</a></p>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1955823038928236703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>For the unversed, <i>Coolie's </i>release marks Rajinikanth's 50th anniversary in the film industry. Coolie is one of the most anticipated Tamil releases of 2025.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coolie-x-reviews-here-s-what-early-reviews-are-saying-about-the-rajinikanth-mass-action-movie-1755139118294"><strong>Coolie X reviews: Here's what early reviews say about the Rajinikant movie</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Such is the hype, a day before the release, the devotion of fans for Rajinikanth was in full display as they all gathered early at the Srirangam Vinayagar Temple, holding posters of their favourite Thalaiva and performing special pooja rituals for the success of the multi-starrer movie.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/50-years-of-rajinikanth-magic-kamal-haasan-hrithik-roshan-mammootty-others-pay-tribute-1755087259904"><strong>50 Years of Rajinikanth magic: Kamal Haasan, Hrithik Roshan &amp; others pay tribute</strong></a></p>

<h2>Netizens' reaction to Rajinikanth starrer</h2>

<p>Even before the release of the film, the movie had already grossed over Rs 100 crore, reportedly at the box office in the pre-ticket sales. While the film has been released today, ie, on August 14, let's take a look at what netizens have to say about the film.</p>

<p>One user wrote, "#cooliereview: DISAPPOINTED. First Half – Slow pacing, weak comedy, and predictable scenes fail to grab attention. Second Half – Turns even messier with forced drama, over-the-top action, and a dragged climax that tests patience."</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cooliereview?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cooliereview</a> : DISAPPOINTED 👎🏻<br><br>2/5 ⭐⭐<br><br>First Half – Slow pacing, weak comedy, and predictable scenes fail to grab attention.<br><br>Second Half – Turns even messier with forced drama, over-the-top action, and a dragged climax that tests patience.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajinikanth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajinikanth</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coolie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coolie</a> <a href="https://t.co/lgRi63kZP6">pic.twitter.com/lgRi63kZP6</a></p>&mdash; Mani Kandan (@LeoDas0292) <a href="https://twitter.com/LeoDas0292/status/1955798659343507943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Another user wrote, “#coolie review 1st half was too good with intro scenes, every character did a great performance. Interval block was just jaw-dropping &nbsp;unexpected twists. Second half is a bit slow but ends with a great storyline LCU. Climax cameo will set you on fire”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/50-years-of-rajinikanth-magic-8-films-every-fan-must-watch-1755080363272"><strong>50 years of Rajinikanth magic: 8 films every fan must watch</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coolie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coolie</a> review<br>1st half was too good with intro scenes,everyy character did a great performance 🔥<br>Intervall block was just jaw dropping ☠️ unexpected twists.<br>Second half is bit slow but ends with great story line 👍🏻<br>LCU ✅<br>Climax cameo will set you on fire🔥<br>Rating:3.75/5🔥🔥🔥</p>&mdash; REBEL JADAV 👑 (@jadavvvv) <a href="https://twitter.com/jadavvvv/status/1955847868939689993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>"Coolie Review, First half: excellent Vibe song, Rajini vintage looks, Monica song, Nag swag &amp; style, ANI’s Music Second half: Screenplay, story, Uppi’s role &amp; Thalaivar's massiest Screen presence. Rating: 3/5, wrote the third user.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Coolie Review <br><br>First half : excellent <br><br>Vibe song , rajini vintage looks , <br>Monica song , Nag swag &amp; style , ANI’s Music <br><br>Second half : <br><br>Screenplay , story , Uppi’s role &amp; Thalaivar massiest Screen presence <br><br>Rating : 3/5 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlockBusterCoolie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlockBusterCoolie</a></p>&mdash; Mamulga Undadu 2.0 🥷💣 (@VolunteerVasu) <a href="https://twitter.com/VolunteerVasu/status/1955815634614251679?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><i>Coolie </i>helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, features an ensemble cast that includes Aamir Khan, Nagarjuna, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, and Soubin Shahir, among others. The action-thriller marks the debut of Bollywood actor Aamir Khan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Interestingly, <i>Coolie's </i>one major highlight is the reunion of Rajinikanth and Aamir Khan. They had last worked together in the 1995 film <i>Aatank Hi Aatank.&nbsp;</i></p>

Rajinikanth fans celebrated the release of his film Coolie across India by dancing to beating drums and showering flowering petals outside theatres. Lokesh Kanagaraj helms the action thriller. 

Rajinikanth starrer Coolie finally released in theatres today amid much fanfare. With the release of the much-awaited film, it also marks the veteran star's 50th anniversary in cinema today. Fans celebrated the day by dancing and showering petals. The video has now gone viral on social media.

<p>Rajinikanth fans celebrated the release of his film Coolie across India by dancing to beating drums and showering flowering petals outside theatres. Lokesh Kanagaraj helms the action thriller.&nbsp;</p>

Coolie: Rajinikanth fans celebrate by showering flower petals. dance to beating drums | Watch

entertainment

Entertainment, News on Entertainment, stories on Entertainment, articles on Entertainment, Entertainment stories at Wion, Entertainment news, Entertainment latest news

entertainment

Independence Day special | British opium trade to Indian kitchens; the dark history of Bengal's comfort food

46 Years of Apocalypse Now: 6 Fascinating facts about the war epic

NewJeans and ADOR legal dispute continues after unsuccessful court mediation

TIFF: Organisers reinstates world premiere of Israel documentary to 2025 lineup

Happy Birthday Ben Affleck: 7 movies you need to watch

Tom Cruise declines Trump's invite for Kennedy Center Honor

Vought Rising: The Boys spinoff unveils first look at Soldier Boy

7 Best shows of South Korean actor Ji Sung

War 2 post-credit scene featuring Bobby Deol leaks online, makes way for Alpha

From Gadar to Border: Watch Sunny Deol's 7 Best Movies on Netflix, Prime & More

Glen Powell's action thriller The Running Man release delayed? Know why

And Just Like That: Creator of the show reveals main reason for the end

Coolie BO day 1: Rajinikanth's action thriller dominates on opening day

Border 2 first poster out! Sunny Deol looks battle ready

Kangana Ranaut calls PM Narendra Modi the ‘biggest feminist in the world’

War 2 BO day 1: Hrithik Roshan-Jr NTR starrer kicks off with modest start

Megadeth announces forthcoming album as its final one

Mrunal Thakur breaks silence over the viral Bipasha Basu body shaming video

Independence Day: Important films on partition that one needs to watch

Darshan and Pavithra Gowda arrested on charges of muder; know all about the case

War 2 review: Hrithik romances Jr NTR and Kiara in a VFX heavy spy thriller

Aamir Khan, Tillotama Shome kick off Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025

Independence Day special: Unmissable films inspired by India’s freedom movement

Coolie review: Rajinikanth and Lokesh combo is a mid rehash of Vikram

J-pop idol Kenshin Kamimura convicted by Hong Kong court in indecent assault

Coolie: Rajinikanth fans celebrate release of film across India | Watch