Entertainment

Pratik Gandhi Discusses Portraying Jyotirao Phule: “Our Role Was Not to Pass Judgment”

Published

1 year ago

March 27, 2025

Historical dramas often walk a delicate line between compelling storytelling and historical accuracy. In a time when films face scrutiny from various political and social groups, embodying a revolutionary figure can be intimidating. However, for Pratik Gandhi, taking on the role of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule in the film ‘Phule’ felt more like a duty than a daunting obstacle.

Directed by Ananth Mahadevan, the film also features Patralekhaa as Savitribai Phule, vividly depicting the inspiring story of a couple who defied caste discrimination and gender inequality in the 19th century.

Despite frequent controversies surrounding historical dramas in Bollywood—like the recent uproar over ‘Chhaava’—‘Phule’ seems to resonate well with audiences, as indicated by the positive response to its trailer.

For Pratik Gandhi, acclaimed for his outstanding role in ‘Scam 1992’, the decision to portray Jyotirao Phule was facilitated by the film’s thorough research and definitive direction. “We were less intimidated,” he explained to ANI. “The reason was the extensive groundwork laid by the writers and director. There’s a wealth of material available, which informed our script and instilled confidence in us. Additionally, the director set a clear vision, emphasizing that we wouldn’t embellish the characters. We are dedicated to narrating the story as truthfully as possible.”

He underlined that accurately portraying such a legendary figure requires avoiding personal judgments or biases. “Our task was not to evaluate anything from anyone’s or our own perspective. We simply had to tell a story and create a character. The strength of his story is undeniable—there’s no other way to approach it,” he remarked.

Also Read: Kunal Kamra calls out T-Series: “Stop being a stooge” in copyright dispute!

For Patralekhaa, stepping into the role of Savitribai Phule was a deeply emotional journey. While she didn’t feel afraid to take on the character, she acknowledged the substantial responsibility it entailed. “I was never scared. I know that Ananth sir and the writers have invested considerable effort into this project. Condensing everything that has been written about them into a two-hour film is indeed a monumental task. I may not have felt fear, but I do feel the weight of portraying figures like Jyotiba and Savitribai, who seem divine. That pressure is something I carry,” she shared.

Entertainment

Ram Gopal Varma Questions Dawood Ibrahim’s Portrayal in Dhurandhar 2

Published

15 hours ago

April 17, 2026

Namma Kudla

Film :Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has shared his views on the film Dhurandhar 2. He praised the movie but raised concerns about one key aspect.

In a recent podcast with writer Hussain Zaidi, RGV said he liked the film’s storytelling and direction. However, he said the portrayal of Dawood Ibrahim did not match his understanding.

In the film, Dawood Ibrahim is shown as a mastermind controlling terror activities from Pakistan. He is referred to as “Bade Sahab.” RGV said this version may not be accurate.

He added that, based on what he knows, Dawood has been inactive for many years. He believes the gangster stepped away from crime about 20 years ago.

RGV also said that no one can fully confirm the truth about such figures. He stated that both the filmmaker and critics may have different views.

Dhurandhar 2, directed by Aditya Dhar, is a spy-action film. It stars Ranveer Singh in the lead role, along with a strong supporting cast.

Entertainment

Mahesh Bhatt Calls Granddaughter Raha ‘A Drop of Divinity’

Published

2 days ago

April 16, 2026

Namma Kudla

Film: Veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt has shared his heartfelt feelings about becoming a grandfather. He spoke about his granddaughter, Raha, the daughter of actors Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt.

Raha was born in November 2022. Since her birth, she has brought immense joy to the family. Mahesh Bhatt described her arrival as “a drop of divinity” in their lives.

He said that Raha’s presence has filled him with happiness and a deep sense of peace. He added that just thinking about her brings a smile to his face. He also spoke about her personality and described her as lively and intelligent.

Mahesh Bhatt said that watching his daughter Alia and granddaughter Raha together gives him a strong sense of life’s continuity. He explained that it feels special to see two generations grow in front of him. He added that this experience has helped him rediscover the beauty of life.

He also mentioned that every grandfather feels this kind of joy. He said that even simple moments, like talking to Raha, are enough to make his day complete.

Meanwhile, Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor recently celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary. The couple marked the occasion in Austria, surrounded by snow-covered mountains. They shared pictures of their vacation on social media.

In the photos, the couple is seen enjoying time together and skating on snow. One picture also shows Ranbir spending time with Raha and introducing her to animals.

Actor Neetu Kapoor also shared a warm message for the couple. She posted a picture of them and wrote a blessing for their happiness.

The family continues to enjoy these special moments together, with Raha bringing new joy into their lives.

Entertainment

Dhurandhar 2 Crosses Major Milestone at the Box Office

Published

3 days ago

April 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

Film: The Revenge has achieved a major milestone at the global box office. The movie stars Ranveer Singh in the lead role. It is the second part of the Dhurandhar franchise.

The film is close to completing one month in theatres. Before that, it has already made history. The Dhurandhar franchise has now crossed Rs 3,000 crore worldwide. It is the first Indian film franchise to reach this mark.

This achievement puts it ahead of big franchises like Baahubali by S. S. Rajamouli and Pushpa starring Allu Arjun.

After 26 days, the film earned Rs 1,311.68 crore gross in India. Its net collection in India stands at Rs 1,095.67 crore. On Day 27, it collected Rs 7.05 crore domestically.

Overseas, the film earned Rs 1 crore on Day 27. Its total overseas collection has reached Rs 416.25 crore. The worldwide gross collection is now Rs 1,727.93 crore.

The first part of the franchise, Dhurandhar, had earned Rs 1,307.35 crore. Together, both films have collected around Rs 3,019 crore worldwide.

The film had a strong start at the box office. It earned Rs 102.55 crore on its opening day. It also made Rs 43 crore from paid previews.

In the first week, the film collected Rs 674.17 crore. In the second week, the earnings dropped to Rs 263.65 crore. In the third week, it collected Rs 110.60 crore.

The film has also set another record. It is the highest-grossing Indian film without earnings from Gulf countries and China.

The cast includes Arjun Rampal, R. Madhavan, and Sanjay Dutt. They have returned to reprise their roles.

Experts say this success shows a new trend in Indian cinema. Film franchises are now gaining global recognition. Multi-part stories are becoming more popular among audiences.