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EXCLUSIVE: Ranveer Singh-starrer Dhurandhar Part 1 expected to be 3 hours 32 minutes long; will be Bollywood’s LONGEST film since Jodhaa Akbar

Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront in delivering breaking news about the much-awaited film, Dhurandhar. We were the first to announce that the Ranveer Singh-starrer is a two-part saga; this news created a stir in the industry. Prior to this newsbreak, we informed readers that Dhurandhar is expected to last 3 hours. Bollywood Hungama has now learned that the run time of the first part of Dhurandhar is longer than expected. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Dhurandhar Part 1’s length is said to be around 3 hours and 32 minutes. The final run time has been kept under wraps. But it’s expected to be close to 3 ½ hours long. The process of acquiring the censor certificate has begun. Once the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) passes the film in a few days from now, the exact run time will be known.”An insider told Bollywood Hungama, “Dhurandhar tells a vast story and hence the lengthy run time. Director Aditya Dhar is an expert storyteller. Look at Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019) or his productions like Article 370 (2024), Dhoom Dhaam (2025) and the recently-released Baramulla (2025). He always ensures that there’s a lot happening in his films and that the goings-on don’t feel stretched. Dhurandhar’s storytelling will be on the same lines. There would be so much happening that the audience would be gripped from start to finish.”If Dhurandhar indeed has a run time of 3 hours and 32 minutes, it’ll be Bollywood’s longest film since Jodhaa Akbar (2008). The Hrithik Roshan-Aishwarya Rai Bachchan starrer was 3 hours and 34 minutes long. In the last 25 years, there have been 24 Hindi films with a run time of more than 3 hours. Dhurandhar is the sixth longest Bollywood film since 2000 after LOC Kargil (2003; 4 hours and 7 minutes), Lagaan (2001; 3 hours and 44 minutes), Salaam-E-Ishq (2007; 3 hours and 36 minutes), Mohabbatein (2000; 3 hours and 35 minutes) and Jodhaa Akbar (2008; 3 hours and 34 minutes). The 3 hours plus Hindi films in the last 25 years (arranged in the order of their release): 1. Mohabbatein (2000) 3 hours and 35 minutes 2. Lagaan (2001) 3 hours and 44 minutes 3. Gadar Ek Prem Katha (2001) 3 hours and 6 minutes 4. Dil Chahta Hai (2001) 3 hours and 4 minutes 5. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001) 3 hours and 30 minutes 6. Devdas (2002) 3 hours and 4 minutes 7. The Hero: Love Story Of A Spy (2003) 3 hours and 3 minutes 8. LOC Kargil (2003) 4 hours and 7 minutes 9. Lakshya (2004) 3 hours and 5 minutes 10. Veer-Zaara (2004) 3 hours and 12 minutes 11. Swades (2004) 3 hours and 15 minutes 12. Ab Tumhare Hawale Watan Saathiyo (2004) 3 hours and 6 minutes 13. Bose: The Forgotten Hero (2005) 3 hours and 28 minutes 14. Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006) 3 hours and 12 minutes 15. Salaam-E-Ishq (2007) 3 hours and 36 minutes 16. Jodhaa Akbar (2008) 3 hours and 34 minutes 17. Ghajini (2008) 3 hours and 4 minutes 18. What’s Your Raashee? (2009) 3 hours and 20 minutes 19. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) 3 hours and 8 minutes 20. M S Dhoni The Untold Story (2016) 3 hours and 10 minutes 21. Animal (2023) 3 hours and 23 minutes 22. Maidaan (2024) 3 hours and 1 minute 23. The Bengal Files (2025) 3 hours and 25 minutes 24. Dhurandhar (2025) 3 hours and 32 minutes (expected)Also Read: Dhurandhar: Massive public demand pushes early release of ‘Ishq Jalakar Karvaan’.

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Aaishvary Thackeray replaces Babil Khan in Hindi remake of Telugu blockbuster Baby

Ever since Baby, the 2023 Telugu film directed by Sai Rajesh featuring Anand Deverakonda became a surprise blockbuster, the Hindi remake has been in the pipeline. The late Irrfan Khan’s son Babil Khan was signed for the Hindi remake to be directed by the same director Sai Rajesh. Babil shot for the film and then had to quit for health reasons. The Hindi remake of Baby is now back on the track, this time with Aaishvary Thackeray playing the role, which got Anand Deverakonda a sizeable amount of acclaim. Thackeray’s co-star in Baby is the upcoming Telugu actress Upasana Shetty. The Hindi remake is being produced by Mythri Movie Makers and directed by Sai Rajesh. Also Read: Apart from bagging Yash Raj Films’ action flick, Aaishvary Thackeray also composes music for Alpha for the same banner.

Entertainment

SCOOP: Salman Khan considering reclaiming his traditional Eid slot with Battle Of Galwan; might clash with Toxic and Dhamaal 4

Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront in delivering exciting and exclusive news about Battle Of Galwan, one of the most-awaited films of 2026. It stars Salman Khan in a never-before-seen avatar, as evident from the first look of the film. The film’s shoot is about to get over and the makers have still not announced the release date of the film. Earlier this month, we reported that the makers are considering releasing the film in June. But now, Bollywood Hungama has learned that Salman Khan is also eyeing the Ramzan Eid holiday. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “It’s common knowledge that Salman Khan and Eid are synonymous with each other. Earlier, Salman Khan decided not to bring Battle Of Galwan on Eid, that is, March 19, 2026, as the slot was already taken by Toxic, starring KGF star Yash and the multi-starrer Dhamaal 4. But now, the superstar is toying with the idea and considering if his war film can arrive on the holy festival.”The source further said, “The shoot would be wrapped up in December and hence, Battle Of Galwan will be ready by March. Moreover, his fans will be overjoyed if the film is announced as an Eid release. Hence, Eid is a date that he’s seriously considering and he plans to take a call on the same soon.”It now remains to be seen whether Salman Khan announces Battle Of Galwan’s release date on his much-awaited 60th birthday next month or before the landmark occasion. It also remains to be seen whether Toxic or Dhamaal 4 will make way once the superstar decides to reclaim his traditional Eid release date. If Battle Of Galwan does release on March 19 next year, it’ll be Salman Khan’s 17th Eid release, the other 16 being Judwaa (1997), Kyon Ki (2005), Jaan-E-Mann (2006), Wanted (2009), Dabangg (2010), Bodyguard (2011), Ek Tha Tiger (2012), Kick (2014), Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), Sultan (2016), Tubelight (2017), Race 3 (2018), Tubelight (2017), Radhe Your Most Wanted Bhai (2021), Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan (2023) and Sikandar (2025). Also Read: SCOOP: Battle Of Galwan makers considering June 2026 release; shoot of Salman Khan-starrer wraps up in December.

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EXCLUSIVE: Ranveer Singh to promote Dhurandhar at closing ceremony of 56th International Film Festival of India in Goa on November 28; Kriti Sanon, Rajinkanth to also attend

Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront in giving exclusive news about Dhurandhar. We were the first ones to break the news that 2000 Ranveer Singh fans will be in attendance at the grand trailer launch of Dhurandhar at Mumbai’s iconic Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. Later, we informed readers that Dhurandhar is expected to have a run time of more than three hours. A day before the trailer launch, Bollywood Hungama broke the internet with the news that Dhurandhar is a two-part saga. And now, we are back with another exclusive piece of information about the much-awaited action entertainer. A source told us, “The team of Dhurandhar will make its presence felt at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), which is currently going on in Goa. The closing ceremony will be held at the expansive Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, Panjim, Goa, on the evening of the last day, that is, November 28. The Dhurandhar team will make its presence felt at this event. The closing ceremony of IFFI is usually grand and attended by several people from the media, industry and aam junta. Hence, it would serve as a perfect venue to speak about the film. Even for IFFI, this will prove beneficial as the presence of the team of the film will further add to the eyeballs.”The source continued, “Lead actor Ranveer Singh and director Aditya Dhar are expected to be there for sure. Ranveer is expected to perform on the songs of the film. Others from the team are also expected to be present at the IFFI closing ceremony.” Besides Ranveer Singh, Dhurandhar also stars Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun. It is backed by Jio Studios and B62 Studios. As per a creative shared by IFFI’s social media handle, Rajinikanth and Kriti Sanon are also going to attend the closing ceremony. The grand 2024 closing ceremonyBollywood Hungama was present at the closing ceremony of the 55th IFFI, held on November 28, 2024, and it was a star-studded affair. The highlight was that Rashmika Mandanna and producer Y Ravi Shankar promoted Pushpa 2 at the event. Allu Arjun was also scheduled to attend but had to cancel at the last moment. Also Read: Arjun Rampal credits Aditya Dhar for his ‘Angel of Death’ avatar in Dhurandhar; says, “Thanks to him for making us look so different and unrecognizable on screen”.

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EXCLUSIVE: Amar Kaushik teases mystery cricketer cameo in MHCU – Bollywood Universe set for Cricket-meets-horror twist?

Bollywood Hungama readers, get ready for a super crossover! Acclaimed director Amar Kaushik has dropped a tantalizing hint about a famous cricketer making a cameo in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU). This revelation adds an unexpected sporty twist to Bollywood’s beloved supernatural world and has set fans abuzz about “Thamma” and beyond. During his exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Kaushik was asked about the expanding universe, casting surprises, and what’s next for fans of Stree, Bhediya, and Thamma. After discussing the story connections and his creative approach, he caught everyone off guard with a comment that’s destined to be discussed everywhere, “Kabhi Koi Cricketer bhi aa sakta hai. agar koi cricketer acting karna chahta hai toh batao (Maybe a cricketer could also come in. If any cricketer wants to act, let me know)!”Kaushik, known for mixing horror, comedy, and social themes, couldn’t reveal any names, but the quote has sent fans and gossip columns into a frenzy. Could cricketing icons like Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, or even legendary Sachin Tendulkar be seen battling vampires and ghosts on-screen? The director’s playful openness left room for endless speculation. He explained the process of building the MHCU and keeping surprises alive for the audience, “Hum log universe ki baat kar rahein hai. itne saare characters hai. Kabhi kabhi aa sakte hain Shraddha, Ayushmann, Rajkummar, Varun. kabhi kabhi aa sakte hain. But aayenge, jaldi aayenge. Aur cricketer bhi aa sakta hai (We’re talking about building a universe. So many characters! Shraddha, Ayushmann, Rajkummar, Varun. all could come together anytime. And possibly a cricketer too)!”Kaushik also elaborated on how item numbers, fight scenes, and Indian pop culture blend with supernatural themes, promising more crowd-pleasing moments, “Indian film hai, Hindi film hai. Toh usmein gaana toh hoga hi. sab aapke apne-apne favourite characters hain. aur shayad ab cricketer bhi (It’s an Indian film, it’s a Hindi film, there must be a song. everyone has their own favorite character. maybe now a cricketer too)!” With the MHCU’s success and Kaushik’s knack for headlines, audiences are now speculating wildly: Which cricketer will make the leap from pitch to screen? And will their role be hero, villain, or something wilder? Stay tuned to Bollywood Hungama for the latest scoop because in Amar Kaushik’s universe, anything can happen, and everyone wants in! Also Read: Abhishek Banerjee talks Thamma, Bhediya 2, and his ever-growing bank balance.

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SCOOP: Not cancelled! Love & War Italy schedule back on – Sanjay Leela Bhansali to shoot grand climax in Italy this December

In what marks a striking production shift for one of Bollywood’s most ambitious projects, director Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War has re-mapped its shooting strategy. Although earlier reports noted that the film’s international schedule in Italy had been cancelled, insiders clarify that the shoot was not cancelled, but rather reshaped to accommodate actor schedules with about ten days of filming in Mumbai and the grand finale now set to be shot in Italy by December 2025. According to well-placed industry sources, “Sanjay Leela Bhansali recreated 1970s Italy right here in Mumbai for Love & War. Around ten days of shoot were completed before Diwali, and the final 20-day schedule, featuring the film’s grand climax, is expected to take place by December 2025 in Italy. The team is eyeing an Eid 2026 release.”Initial reports suggested a full cancellation of the Italy schedule due to logistical complexities. But the revised strategy shows a different picture: those Italy-bound scenes began in Mumbai, with extensive sets recreating 1970s Italian landscapes in the city. After completing the first phase, the production will now move to Italy for the final climax preserving the intended locale while accommodating the actors’ availability. This two-pronged strategy offers multiple gains. Mumbai filming minimised schedule clashes and logistical overheads at a time when international travel is more complex. Then, the Italy segment will provide the scale, authenticity, and grandeur that Bhansali’s canvases are known for comfortable for an Eid 2026 release, as the source indicates. With major stars on board including Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal the complex shoot was always under scrutiny. The film had originally planned a 45-day schedule in Italy, but revision was flagged when the location proved logistically complex. Now, the creative team seems to be walking a smart middle path anchoring early filming in Mumbai, then scaling up the international component when the actors’ calendars align. The shift also suggests Bhansali’s commitment to delivering the opulence and atmosphere his films are famed for by actually going to the location for the climax, instead of fully settling into interior sets in Mumbai. The upcoming Italy schedule is pegged at around 20 days, and its completion will likely set the stage for post-production to begin in earnest. With an Eid 2026 release targeted, the timeline aims for a grand festive launch. Whether the film retains all its intended visual scale remains to be seen but with Bhansali at the helm, expectations are high. Also Read: Two of my favourite actors: Ranbir Kapoor talks working with Vicky Kaushal and Alia Bhatt in Bhansali’s Love & War.

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Kartik Aaryan gears up to rejoin the sets of Anurag Basu’s next in November for 25 days

Anurag Basu’s films are always like a glass of whisky they take their own sweet time to hit the right notes. It’s no secret that Anurag Basu’s next project with Kartik Aaryan is no longer releasing on the Diwali or Christmas 2025 weekend due to the delay in shooting. But now, we have been informed by very reliable sources that Kartik Aaryan is all set to start shooting for the film from the month of November. A little birdie informed Bollywood Hungama, “Kartik and Anurag Basu are reuniting for an important 25-day leg of this intense romantic saga from November. This includes the shoot of fresh sequences, alongside some reshoots of already canned moments. The shoot will take place in Mumbai, and the prep work is going on in full swing for the same.”The source also informs us that around 40 days of shoot for this yet untitled romance remains, and the makers are committed to call it a film wrap by the end of January. “The last 15 days of this film will be split shoot between December and January, as Kartik has allotted a bulk of dates for the promotions of his New Year release Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri.”Our reliable source has confirmed that the untitled romance will release in the Summer of 2026 period and the date announcement will be made once the shoot is wrapped up in January. Also Read: Kartik Aaryan dedicates his FIRST Filmfare Award to “dreamers”: “Champion girta hai. par rukta nahi”.

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Kartik Aaryan gears up to rejoin the sets of Anurag Basu’s next in November for 25 days

Anurag Basu’s films are always like a glass of whisky they take their own sweet time to hit the right notes. It’s no secret that Anurag Basu’s next project with Kartik Aaryan is no longer releasing on the Diwali or Christmas 2025 weekend due to the delay in shooting. But now, we have been informed by very reliable sources that Kartik Aaryan is all set to start shooting for the film from the month of November. A little birdie informed Bollywood Hungama, “Kartik and Anurag Basu are reuniting for an important 25-day leg of this intense romantic saga from November. This includes the shoot of fresh sequences, alongside some reshoots of already canned moments. The shoot will take place in Mumbai, and the prep work is going on in full swing for the same.”The source also informs us that around 40 days of shoot for this yet untitled romance remains, and the makers are committed to call it a film wrap by the end of January. “The last 15 days of this film will be split shoot between December and January, as Kartik has allotted a bulk of dates for the promotions of his New Year release Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri.”Our reliable source has confirmed that the untitled romance will release in the Summer of 2026 period and the date announcement will be made once the shoot is wrapped up in January. Also Read: Kartik Aaryan dedicates his FIRST Filmfare Award to “dreamers”: “Champion girta hai. par rukta nahi”.