cultureEntertainmentmedia

EXCLUSIVE: Maniesh Paul to kick off Vvan shoot with Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia

Actor and host Maniesh Paul is set to embark on an exciting new journey with Vvan Force of the Forest, a folk-fantasy thriller jointly produced by Balaji Telefilms and TVF Motion Pictures. The film, headlined by Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia, will be directed by Deepak Mishra and Arunabh Kumar marking one of the most intriguing crossovers between mainstream cinema and the digital creative space in recent years. For Maniesh Paul, we hear that the project represents a major leap in his acting career. Known for his charismatic presence and natural ease across genres, the actor has been winning attention with diverse roles from his performance as Kukku in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari to his upcoming film Hai Jawaani To Ishq Hona Hai alongside Varun Dhawan. Producer Ektaa R Kapoor, speaking earlier about casting Maniesh, had shared, “Maniesh has an effortless charm and an innate sense of timing-be it comedy or emotion. He brings a unique energy to the screen that audiences instantly connect with. We’re thrilled to have him on board for Vvan. His role in the film will definitely surprise people.”Coming to the film, Vvan is described as a grand visual experience that intertwines mythology, mystery, and raw human emotion. Set in an ancient forest steeped in spiritual energy and centuries-old beliefs, the story explores the eternal clash between faith, greed, and redemption. With its atmospheric world-building and a star-studded cast, the film aims to bridge the gap between traditional folklore and contemporary storytelling. Backed by Ektaa R Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor, and Arunabh Kumar, Vvan Force of the Forest is shaping up to be a cinematic spectacle that blends emotional depth with visual grandeur. With shooting set to commence soon, the film is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 15, 2026, and is already generating strong anticipation for its fresh pairing and ambitious concept. Also Read: Sidharth Malhotra, Tamannaah Bhatia starrer VVAN Force of the Forrest gets a release date in May next year.

Entertainmentgovernmentjusticelawmedia

Kerala HC rules actor Mohanlal’s ivory licences void and unenforceable

The Kerala High Court has ruled that the State-issued certificates declaring renowned Malayalam actor Mohanlal as the owner of two pairs of elephant ivory tusks and 13 ivory artifacts are void and legally unenforceable. The verdict marks a setback for the superstar in the ongoing controversy surrounding his possession of ivory items. The Division Bench comprising Justice AK Jayasankaran Nambiar and Justice Jobin Sebastian struck down the Kerala government orders issued in February 2015 and February 2016, along with the ownership certificates granted to Mohanlal in January and April 2016. The court held that the State had failed to comply with mandatory statutory requirements under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, before issuing these certificates. However, the court refrained from delving into the specifics of how the government’s power to issue these certificates was exercised, noting that such findings could prejudice Mohanlal in ongoing criminal proceedings related to the case. The judgment highlighted that the government was at liberty to issue fresh notifications under Section 40(4) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. This provision allows the State to request any person to declare possession of wild animal articles before granting ownership certificates or legal immunity against prosecution for illegal possession. The ruling came on two public interest litigation petitions challenging the State notifications under Section 40(4), which allowed Mohanlal to declare his possession of ivory artifacts before the Chief Wildlife Warden. Following these declarations, the State had issued ownership certificates under Section 42 of the Act. Petitioners argued that the notifications were unlawful as they were never published in the official gazette-a mandatory statutory requirement-and pointed out that no proper inquiry had been conducted into the legality of the actor’s possession of the ivory items. Mohanlal has consistently maintained that the ivory tusks were procured legally and that the certificates were issued directionally by the Central government through the Kerala government. Additionally, the State had issued a no-objection certificate for case withdrawal. Nonetheless, the magistrate court had earlier rejected the State’s plea to withdraw the case in June 2022, a decision contested before the Kerala High Court. The High Court partially allowed the State’s plea in February 2023, asking the magistrate to reconsider the withdrawal application. While the High Court’s recent judgment invalidates the ownership certificates, it grants the State the liberty to issue fresh notifications in accordance with the law. The final verdict in the criminal case against Mohanlal remains pending. Also Read: Mohanlal starrer Vrusshabha locks worldwide release date; set to hit theatres in November.

beverageBusinessfood

Starbucks Unlocks Next-Level Fuel: New Protein Lattes and Cold Foams Arrive

Starbucks Coffee Company recently announced the launch of a new, permanent line of Protein Lattes and Protein Cold Foam beverages across the U. S. and Canada. This significant menu expansion directly addresses the escalating consumer demand for functional, protein-rich options that deliver on both nutrition and flavor. Protein-Powered Beverages for a Dynamic Lifestyle The new protein offerings allow customers to seamlessly integrate a substantial protein boost into their daily routine. The new Lattes and Cold Foam drinks offer a range of 15 to 36 grams of protein per Grande (16 oz.) serving, depending on the specific beverage and customization. The innovation centers on two key components: Starbucks® Protein-Boosted Milk: Crafted fresh daily by baristas, this blend of 2% milk and premium whey protein forms the base of the new hot and iced Protein Lattes. Featured drinks include the Vanilla Protein Latte and the Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Matcha, which can deliver up to 36 grams of protein. Starbucks® Protein Cold Foam: Tapping into the immense popularity of cold foam, this new protein-rich topping can be added to any cold beverage, including Cold Brew, Iced Tea, or Refreshers. It is available in a variety of flavors, including Banana, Vanilla, Chocolate, and a Plain Unsweetened option, adding approximately 15 grams of protein per Grande. Tressie Lieberman, Starbucks’ Global Chief Brand Officer, stated, “Our new protein beverages tap into the growing consumer demand for protein in an innovative, premium, and delicious way that only Starbucks can deliver. We are focused on modernizing our menu with hype-worthy, functional products that resonate with our customers’ desire for wellness and convenience. Availability and Customization The full line of new Protein Lattes and Protein Cold Foam products launched in all Starbucks locations across the U. S. and Canada on Monday, September 29, 2025, and will be a permanent offering on the core menu. Customers also have the option to customize nearly any existing milk-based beverage: Protein-Boosted Milk can be substituted in any hot or iced beverage where milk is part of the recipe for an added charge, providing an extra 12-16 grams of protein. Protein Cold Foam can be added to any cold drink for an upcharge. About Starbucks Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world, with coffeehouses in dozens of countries.