Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which tragically took 26 lives and plunged the nation into mourning, actor Atul Kulkarni has made a courageous and heartfelt decision.

While reports indicate that about 90% of travelers are canceling their vacations to the valley, Kulkarni opted for a different approach. He traveled to Kashmir—not merely as a tourist, but as a symbol of resilience and solidarity.

“Why should I not go to Kashmir? This country is mine, and Kashmir is a part of it. If we don’t go, then the terrorists succeed in spreading fear. That’s precisely what we must not allow,” Kulkarni stated during his visit to ANI.

Amid vacant streets and canceled plans, he chose to explore the valley, engage with locals, and capture his experience on social media. He posted various photos on Instagram, beginning with his packed flight from Mumbai to Srinagar.

Also Read: Atul Kulkarni urges tourists to return to Kashmir after Pahalgam attack

“The crew says they were at full capacity. We need to fill them up again. Chaliye ji, Kashmir chalein,” he encouraged, urging people to return to the region.

Kulkarni shared stunning images of Pahalgam’s landscapes—including serene rivers, majestic mountains, and vast skies. Yet, he didn’t shy away from the emotional weight of his visit.

One particular photo captured a once-bustling street now eerily quiet. In another, locals held placards stating, “We condemn this attack,” while others proudly waved the Indian flag.

Through his posts, Kulkarni celebrated the beauty of Kashmir while also showcasing its resilience. One of his images was accompanied by a Hindi poem that encapsulated the sorrow of recent events, yet hinted at hope and healing.

The attack on April 22, which also claimed the life of a Nepalese national, has sparked a diplomatic standoff between India and Pakistan, with Delhi condemning Islamabad’s alleged support for cross-border terrorism.

BLACKPINK’s Lisa is set to embark on an exciting new collaboration with Maroon 5. The K-pop sensation will join forces with the global band for her upcoming single, “Priceless.”

Recently, Maroon 5 shared a behind-the-scenes video on social media featuring lead vocalist Adam Levine alongside Lisa. The announcement was enhanced by a sneak peek of the unreleased track playing in the background, accompanied by the caption: “PRICELESS FT. LISA @lalalalisa_m PRE-SAVE NOW.” Fans, including BLINKs and LILIES, quickly filled the comments with their excitement for this high-profile collaboration.

This single will be Lisa’s first release since her solo performance at the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, which wrapped up on April 20. Prior to this, she worked with Doja Cat and RAYE on “Born Again,” featured on her debut solo album *Alter Ego*, released on February 7. She recently also dropped a music video for her second album track, “FUTW.” Beyond music, Lisa made her acting debut in Season 3 of the Emmy-winning series *The White Lotus*, which premiered on February 16. Notably, she became the first Korean artist to perform at the Academy Awards, impressing audiences with her debut this year.

Meanwhile, Maroon 5 boasts an impressive catalog, featuring numerous hits like “Animals,” “Maps,” and “Girls Like You.”

It was an evening filled with pride and emotion for Ajith Kumar, a cherished star of Tamil cinema, as he received the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honors, during a prestigious ceremony in New Delhi. The event took place at the majestic Ganatantra Mandap within Rashtrapati Bhawan on Monday, where President Droupadi Murmu presented the award in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.

Ajith, looking sharp in a classic black suit and crisp white shirt, accepted the accolade with his trademark humility, surrounded by his family.

The entire team at Venus Motorcycle Tours, Aspire World Tours, and Ajith Kumar Racing expressed their pride and congratulations via a heartfelt message from Ajith’s manager, Suresh Chandra, on X (formerly Twitter): “We are thrilled to congratulate our CEO, Mr. Ajith Kumar, on receiving the esteemed Padma Bhushan Award. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you and can’t wait to see what lies ahead.”

Since making his debut in ‘Amaravathi’ in 1993, Ajith has had an extraordinary career featuring iconic films like ‘Vaalee’, ‘Mugavari’, ‘Mankatha’, and ‘Yennai Arindhaal’. With a deep connection to his fans and a humble demeanor, his Padma Bhushan recognition resonates as a collective victory for millions who admire him.

Also Read: Nawazuddin Siddiqui on Pahalgam attack: “It’s truly shameful”

Earlier this year, upon the announcement of the Padma awardees, Ajith shared a heartfelt statement expressing his gratitude: “I am deeply humbled and honored to receive the esteemed Padma Award. It’s a privilege to be acknowledged at this level, and I am genuinely grateful for this recognition of my contributions to our nation.”

Reflecting on his late father, Ajith expressed his wish that he could share this moment with him. “I believe he would be proud that his spirit and legacy live on in all that I do,” he said. He also extended his gratitude to his mother for her unwavering support, calling her the backbone of his journey.

Ajith recognized everyone who has supported him over the years, from fellow actors and filmmakers to the motor racing and shooting sports communities that he is passionate about. He thanked organizations such as the Madras Motor Sports Club and the Chennai Rifle Club for their encouragement.

In tribute to his wife Shalini, he stated, “Your partnership has been a joy and a cornerstone of my success.” He also mentioned his children, Anoushka and Aadvik, who he referred to as “the pride and light of my life” and his source of inspiration.