In a recent meeting with Indian government officials, Netflix India’s content chief, Monika Shergill, pledged the platform’s commitment to producing content that is sensitive to and respectful of the nation’s sentiments. This assurance came in the wake of significant backlash against the streaming giant’s new series, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, which depicted the 1999 hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight.

The series, which delved into the harrowing 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814 by the Pakistan-based terror group Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, had ignited a firestorm of controversy, with critics accusing it of trivializing the traumatic event and potentially undermining national sentiments.

The government, in a stern stance, summoned Shergill to explain the series’ controversial elements and demanded assurances that future content would be more sensitive to the nation’s sensibilities. The meeting, held at Shastri Bhawan, underscored the government’s growing concerns about the potential impact of OTT platforms on public discourse and the need to maintain a delicate balance between creative freedom and national interests. Citing government sources, ANI reported, “Nobody has the right to play with the sentiments of the people of this nation. India’s culture and civilization should always be respected. You should think before portraying something in a wrong manner. The govt is taking it very seriously.”

Netflix, however, defended its portrayal of the hijackers, stating that the series was based on extensive research and historical accounts. As per the report, sources further said, “Netflix team has come to the meeting with research documents and footage that have been collected for reference. The OTT platform will be putting forward their view that the series is in accordance with publicly available resources, with the information taken from books and other government statements.”

Government sources further said, “Netflix has assured to conduct a content review and guarantee that all future content on their platform will be sensitive to and by the nation’s sentiments.”

The outcome of the meeting remains to be seen. The series, directed by Anubhav Sinha, was released on Netflix India on August 29. Despite the controversy, the show has received positive reviews for its effective and sharp portrayal of the events. However, the allegations of historical inaccuracies and religious offences have raised serious questions about the series’ impact and its potential to cause division.

Produced by Matchbox Shots in association with Benaras Mediaworks, Anubhav Sinha’s directorial streaming debut is inspired by real events, and launched on August 29. Adapted from the book ‘Flight Into Fear’ by Captain Devi Sharan and Srinjoy Chowdhury, the series also captures the heart of negotiations, unveiling the intricate diplomacy within Delhi’s War Room and the tense exchanges at Kandahar’s Negotiation Station.
ALSO READ: PIL filed against IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack in Delhi HC seeking ban on Anubhav Sinha series

L’Oréal Paris, the No.1 beauty brand in the world, has announced Alia Bhatt as the new global brand ambassador. She joins the brand’s diverse roster of spokespersons like Viola Davis, Jane Fonda, Eva Longoria, Kendall Jenner, Elle Fanning, Camila Cabello, and many others. The award-winning actress, producer, and entrepreneur will star in the French beauty brand’s campaigns starting from September 2024. 

One of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2024, Alia Bhatt’s repertoire of cinema spans languages and genres, which have won her awards and critical acclaim. A true multi-hyphenate, Alia embodies the core values of L’Oréal Paris, representing inclusivity and empowerment, sharing the transformative power of self-belief with women all over the world.

“At L’Oréal Paris, we are honored to welcome Indian actress Alia Bhatt to the family. I admire how Alia uses her global platform and role as a producer to push for inclusivity in the film industry and to shed light on Indian cinema worldwide. Her commitment to care for people and the planet makes her the perfect ambassador for female talent, entrepreneurship, and the endless possibilities L’Oréal Paris seeks to open up by uplifting women’s worth,” said Delphine Viguier-Hovasse, L’Oréal Paris Global President.

“I am thrilled to join the L’Oréal Paris family and stand alongside a community of strong, powerful women. As someone who has always been deeply interested in all things skin, I admire L’Oréal Paris for its pioneering innovations and commitment to excellence in the beauty industry. The brand’s celebration of women’s empowerment resonates deeply with me, as it strives to ensure every woman feels valued and empowered. I am excited to collaborate with L’Oréal Paris to make a positive impact in the beauty industry and champion inclusivity for women,” says Alia Bhatt.

Also Read: Alia Bhatt shares enchanting glimpse of Alpha with Sharvari in picturesque Kashmir

Meanwhile, sources claim that J.Lo is attempting to “move forward” as she navigates feelings of “bitterness” about the split.

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“It just felt like they’d put all their characters in a magic-8 ball, and shaken it to decide their endings.”

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The release of the Netflix series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack has ignited a fierce debate in India, with allegations of historical inaccuracies and potential religious offence. The series, a dramatization of the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC 814 by the Pakistan-based terrorist group Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, has come under scrutiny for its portrayal of the hijackers’ identities.

As per Indian Express, a public interest litigation (PIL) was filed in the Delhi High Court by Surjit Singh Yadav, president of the Hindu Sena, seeking a ban on the series. The petition argued that the show erroneously depicts the real hijackers as having Hindu names, including “Bhola” and “Shankar” – alternative names for the Hindu deity Shiva. This, according to the petitioner, is a deliberate attempt to distort historical facts and hurt the sentiments of the Hindu community.

The PIL contends that such misrepresentation not only undermines the accuracy of historical events but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes and misinformation. The petitioner has urged the court to intervene and prevent further public misunderstanding and potential harm.

In response to the growing controversy, the central government has summoned the content head of Netflix India. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has demanded an explanation regarding the allegedly contentious aspects of the series, particularly its portrayal of the hijackers. Officials have expressed concern that the series may play with the sentiments of the nation.

The series, directed by Anubhav Sinha, was released on Netflix India on August 29. Despite the controversy, the show has received positive reviews for its effective and sharp portrayal of the events. However, the allegations of historical inaccuracies and religious offence have raised serious questions about the series’ impact and its potential to cause division.

Produced by Matchbox Shots in association with Benaras Mediaworks, Anubhav Sinha’s directorial streaming debut is inspired by real events, launched on August 29. Adapted from the book ‘Flight Into Fear’ by Captain Devi Sharan and Srinjoy Chowdhury, the series also captures the heart of negotiations, unveiling the intricate diplomacy within Delhi’s War Room and the tense exchanges at Kandahar’s Negotiation Station.
ALSO READ: Anubhav Sinha expresses gratitude towards appreciation for IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack amid boycott calls: “I am indebted”

Cardi has responded after fans noticed the wildly inappropriate word in the background of her shoot.

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Sidharth Malhotra began the year with the hijack flick Yodha (2024), produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions. He then took his time to sign his next films. Recently, there were reports that he has dropped out of Mitti. And now, Bollywood Hungama has learned that he has bagged a very interesting commercial flick.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Sidharth will be seen in a film which is an out-and-out entertainer. It has loads of comedy and also has a thrill element. Sidharth excitedly came on board as he knows that it’s a film that’ll present him in a never-before-seen avatar and also expand his fan base. As a result, he’s giving his hundred percent towards prepping for the role.”

The source continued, “This film will be produced by Mahaveer Jain. He and his team are in advanced talks with a top director. A clearer picture in this regard would emerge in a week or so.”

The source also said, “The title of the film, too, is yet to be locked. Sidharth Malhotra and Mahaveer Jain are looking at taking the film on floors in the first quarter of 2025.”

Besides this entertainer, Sidharth Malhotra is also in advanced talks to play the lead in Karan Johar’s action film. Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report about it last month. “Sidharth Malhotra and Karan Johar share a very special bond, and the latter feels that the former is meant to do action films. When he was developing the script, the name of Sid naturally crossed his mind. He narrated the film to Sid, and the actor has shown interest in mentors’ action film,” a trade source had told Bollywood Hungama.

Recently, reports also stated that Sidharth Malhotra will front a love story produced by Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films. It will be directed by Tushar Jalota of Dasvi (2022) fame.

Also Read: Sidharth Malhotra buys Range Rover worth Rs. 3 crores; takes Kiara Advani on a ride in new luxury car

Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut is gearing up to lead a new film titled Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, where she will portray a pivotal character at the heart of the narrative. It will spotlight the remarkable achievements of everyday people, bringing their extraordinary stories to the big screen.

The film is set to be helmed by Manoj Tapadia, who is both the writer and director. Tapadia is expected to bring a unique perspective to the film, which aims to resonate with audiences through its portrayal of real-life heroism.

Produced by Babita Ashiwal under the banner of Eunoia Films and Adi Sharmaa of Floating Rocks Entertainment, Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata is positioned as an endeavour that seeks to inspire through its depiction of courage, resilience, and triumph against the odds.

As the film delves into the lives of ordinary people who achieve extraordinary feats, it promises to offer a blend of emotional depth and inspirational storytelling.

Meanwhile, Kangana Ranaut is awaiting the release of Emergency, which has been postponed. The film is yet to receive certification from CBFC.
ALSO READ: Kangana Ranaut reveals she was offered roles in Shah Rukh Khan’s Zero, Akshay Kumar’s Singh Is Bliing, Salman Khan’s Bajrangi Bhaijaan: “I created my own existence in the industry”

On August 14, Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report that the Akshay Kumar-starrer Sky Force won’t be able to make it on October 2 in theatres, as scheduled. As expected, the news became a talking point, and many wondered what the new release date of the film would be – will it be released later this year, or would the release be pushed to next year?

Bollywood Hungama has learned that the makers have locked a release date for Sky Force. A source told us, “Sky Force would arrive in cinemas on January 24, 2025. It’ll be a Republic Day release and is the right time to be presented to the viewers as it’s a patriotic entertainer. An official announcement will happen soon.”

There were murmurs that Sky Force’s promo would be attached to the Independence Day release, Stree 2. This is because Stree 2, like Sky Force, is also a Jio Studios and Maddock Films production. But after the decision to postpone the Akshay Kumar-starrer was taken, the idea to showcase the teaser was dropped.

This also means that there won’t be any more Akshay Kumar releases in 2024. He has had three releases this year – Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, Sarfira and Khel Khel Mein. Khel Khel Mein incidentally clashed with Stree 2 on August 15. Akshay also had a hilarious cameo in Stree 2.

Sky Force would be Akshay Kumar’s sixth release in the Republic Day week. His first film Saugandh (1991) released on January 25. The week has been lucky for him as all his previous Republic Day releases like Elaan (1994), Khakee (2004), Baby (2015) and Airlift (2016) were successes at the box office. It now remains to be seen if Sky Force also follows suit.

Besides Akshay Kumar, Sky Force also stars Sara Ali Khan, Veer Pahariya and Nimrat Kaur. The period aerial action thriller is backed by Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films and Jyoti Deshpande of Jio Studios and is directed by Sandeep Kewlani and Abhishek Kapur.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar starrer Sky Force to release in January 2025: Report

1. Apple’s M4 Mac Mini, Mac Pro and Mac Studio models may ditch USB-A ports  The Hindu
2. Apple to bid adieu to USB-A ports on upcoming M4-powered Mac mini: Report  The Indian Express
3. Apple M4 Mac mini to drop USB-A connectivity, getting 5 USB-C ports: Report  Business Standard
4. New Mac mini will get ‘most dramatic new design’: Here’s what is changing  The Times of India
5. Apple may let go of Type-A port in new Mac device  Deccan Herald