Ramayana Trailer Release Set for San Diego Comic-Con: Ranbir Kapoor and Yash to Unveil First Look at Global Event

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, July 16 - The Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise is gearing up for another spooky adventure. After the commercial success of the previous instalments, work has reportedly begun on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4, with reports suggesting that the film is currently in development. Kartik Aaryan is expected to reprise his popular role as Rooh Baba, continuing the character's journey in the horror-comedy universe. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) According to the latest report by Pinkvilla, the script for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4 is presently being written, with the makers taking their time to craft a fresh story for the next chapter. Production is reportedly being planned for 2027, although the project is still in its early stages. The remaining cast and crew, including the film's director, are yet to be officially finalised. Director Anees Bazmee had previously confirmed that the fourth instalment was in the works and stated that Kartik Aaryan's return was the only casting decision locked at the time. There is no clarity if Bazmee will return to direct the upcoming comedy entertainer, as the conversations are progressing internally on who will helm the project. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise has evolved into one of Bollywood's most successful horror-comedy series. Following the success of the original film starring Akshay Kumar, the franchise found renewed momentum with Kartik Aaryan leading Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. With a fourth instalment now in development, fans can expect another blend of supernatural thrills, comedy, and mystery as Rooh Baba prepares to return to the big screen.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Virgin Music Group ("VMG"), the world's leading partner to independent artists, labels and entrepreneurs, today announces a global distribution partnership with acclaimed artist Rajesh Ahir. The agreement spans Rajesh Ahir's future work as well as his complete existing catalogue. This partnership marks a significant milestone in Rajesh Ahir's musical journey and underscores his commitment to delivering exceptional music across generations and geographies. Rajesh Ahir shared his excitement about the partnership, saying: "Music has always been my way of connecting with people and sharing stories that come from the heart. Working with Virgin Music Group is the start of an exciting new chapter in my journey. Their global infrastructure makes them the ideal partner to help take my music to audiences far and wide, and I look forward to creating songs that continue to inspire, entertain, and leave a lasting impact." Rajesh Ahir is a renowned Gujarati folk singer, musician, and performing artist from Dhaneti village in Kutch, Gujarat. Rajesh is recognised for his contributions to Gujarati folk and devotional music and has gained popularity through songs such as "Maan Na Mohanji," "Dwarika Ni Sheriye," "Kana Ne Makhan Bhave," "Aavje Mogal," and "Mava Tari Murti." Known for his ability to blend his traditional Kutch and Gujarati folk heritage with a contemporary music influence, Rajesh strives to keep the region's rich cultural legacy alive while connecting with a younger generation of listeners. Amol Suryavanshi, Label Manager at Virgin Music Group, said: "Rajesh Ahir is a remarkable artist whose authenticity, creativity, and connection with his audience make him truly special. We’re excited to work closely with Rajesh and help him take Gujarati music to listeners across India and around the world."

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, July 16 - The first week of December 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest box office battlegrounds in recent memory. Three major Hindi and pan-India releases are set to arrive within two days of each other, setting the stage for an intense clash before Hollywood giants Avengers: Doomsday and Dune: Part Three, and Shah Rukh Khan's King dominate cinemas later in the month. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Prabhas' much-awaited period action drama Fauzi has officially locked December 3, 2026, as its theatrical release date. Directed by Hanu Raghavapudi, the film has generated significant buzz ever since its announcement and is expected to be one of the biggest pan-India releases of the year. With Prabhas returning in a larger-than-life role, the film is expected to command a massive release across multiple languages. Just a day later, on December 4, Ajay Devgn's much-awaited Ranger is scheduled to hit theatres. Sharing the same release date is Akshay Kumar's untitled collaboration with director Anees Bazmee, setting up a direct three-way contest among some of Indian cinema's biggest stars. While all three films cater to different audiences, they will inevitably compete for premium screens, show timings, and opening weekend collections. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The timing makes the clash even more significant. The three Indian releases will have barely two weeks to maximise their theatrical business before Avengers: Doomsday and Dune: Part Three, along with King, arrive later in December, films that are expected to occupy a substantial share of IMAX and premium large-format screens worldwide. As a result, the opening weekend and first fortnight will be crucial for Fauzi, Ranger, and Akshay Kumar's upcoming entertainer. With Prabhas, Ajay Devgn, and Akshay Kumar all eyeing the lucrative year-end holiday season, the first week of December 2026 is set to become one of the most closely watched box office clashes in recent years. Whether all three films stick to their announced dates or one eventually opts to avoid the crowded window remains to be seen, but as of now, audiences are in for a blockbuster showdown.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Hyderabad, July 16 - Pan-India superstar Prabhas' highly anticipated period war drama Fauzi has finally locked its theatrical release date. The makers officially announced that the Hanu Raghavapudi directorial will release in cinemas worldwide on December 3, 2026, while unveiling a powerful new poster featuring the actor in one of his most intense looks to date. The announcement comes after months of speculation over the film's release window and immediately puts Fauzi among the biggest Indian releases lined up for the end of the year. The newly released poster presents Prabhas in a battered and blood-soaked avatar, seated on a rock amidst a war-ravaged battlefield filled with fallen soldiers. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Holding a rifle while covered in battle scars, the actor exudes determination despite the destruction around him. The poster also carries the striking tagline, "A Battalion Who Fights Alone," hinting at a story centred on courage, sacrifice, and an extraordinary soldier fighting against overwhelming odds. The rugged visual has already generated massive excitement across social media. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Hanu Raghavapudi, Fauzi is set against the backdrop of pre-Independence India and is expected to blend large-scale action with an emotionally driven narrative. The film stars debutante Imanvi opposite Prabhas, while veteran actors Mithun Chakraborty and Jaya Prada play pivotal roles. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Backed by Mythri Movie Makers in association with T-Series, the film is mounted on a lavish budget and is being shot as one of the most ambitious projects in Prabhas' career. The release announcement also confirms that Fauzi will be available in multiple Indian languages, including Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Bengali, underscoring its pan-India appeal. Prabhas has an exciting slate ahead with Spirit, Kalki 2898 AD Part 2, and Salaar Part 2. With Fauzi now officially dated for December 3, 2026, fans can expect the promotional campaign to gather pace in the coming months, beginning with the teaser and first glimpses from what promises to be one of the biggest cinematic spectacles of the year. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) अज्ञातपर्व ENDS. THE REBELLION BEGINS 🔥#Fauzi GRAND RELEASE WORLDWIDE ON 3rd DECEMBER 2026 ❤‍🔥#FauziOnDec3Rebel Star #Prabhas#Imanvi @hanurpudi #MithunChakraborty #JayaPrada @AnupamPKher @Composer_Vishal @sudeepdop @kk_lyricist @MrSheetalsharma @rckamalakannan… pic.twitter.com/EBeYKkNsjo— Mythri Movie Makers (@MythriOfficial) July 16, 2026

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Director Ponram officially confirmed that a sequel to the 2013 cult comedy blockbuster, Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam, was in development during an interview back in December 2025. This update was shared while he was promoting his film Kombuseevi, finally addressing years of fan requests for a second installment. Despite the confirmation happening late last year, the project continues to spark intense debate across Kollywood social media circles due to a significant shift in its casting and creative direction. While the news has been public for some time, the transition from the original leads to a new team remains a major talking point as the production moves closer to reality. The original film was a major milestone in Sivakarthikeyan's career, but the director has clarified why the actor will not be headlining the sequel. Ponram initially drafted the script with Sivakarthikeyan in mind, but the actor's stardom and market value have grown exponentially over the last decade. The director noted that a simple rural comedy no longer aligns with Sivakarthikeyan's current massive star status and mass hero image. Rather than heavily overhauling the script to fit a larger-than-life persona, the decision was made to transition the project to a fresh cast. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Current reports and industry buzz strongly suggest that Rio Raj is stepping in as the lead for this sequel. Adding another layer to his involvement, Rio Raj is also expected to bankroll the film under his newly established production banner, River Route Studios. While Ponram has confirmed that the story is completely ready, the final casting and production details are still awaiting a formal announcement from the team. Until then, these reports remain in the realm of unverified speculation. The original 2013 film remains a massive blockbuster in Tamil cinema, having grossed over ₹30 crore at the box office and successfully completing a 50-day theatrical run. Its success was anchored by the comedic chemistry between Sivakarthikeyan, Soori, and Sathyaraj, complemented by a chartbuster soundtrack from D. Imman that included popular tracks like Oodha Kalaru Ribbon. Because the first installment set such a high benchmark for rural entertainers, many fans believe that recreating that same rustic charm and comedic timing without the original lead duo will be a significant challenge for the sequel. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) On social media, the announcement has faced some pushback, with a section of the audience expressing that nobody can replace the SK factor. There have even been suggestions from fans to change the title of the film to avoid direct comparisons with the iconic first part. The creative team is reportedly focused on recreating that exact lighthearted audio-visual vibe. The reported shift in the lead role points toward Rio Raj, who has established a presence in the industry with films like Nenjamundu Nermaiyundu Odu Raja and the 2023 hit Joe. His most recent outing, Aan Paavam Polladhadhu, performed well at the box office, solidifying his standing as a viable lead for comedy-centric entertainers. Beyond just acting, Rio Raj is expected to bankroll this project under his own production banner, River Route Studios, while he also prepares for his upcoming release, Ram Leela. This transition marks a significant pivot for the franchise, as the makers look to bring in a fresh energy that aligns with the current market for mid-budget rural comedies. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) As the sequel moves into its next phase of development, the original team is focused on their respective individual projects. Sivakarthikeyan is currently busy with a packed lineup that includes the film Seyon, while director Ponram is also developing another full-fledged comedy film alongside this VVS sequel. Whether the sequel can live up to the blockbuster legacy of the original without its founding lead duo is something the industry will be watching closely as official production details emerge.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

With only a few days remaining before the Ramayana trailer release, new details have emerged regarding its official launch at the San Diego Comic-Con. On July 15, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) cleared a 4-minute-15-second-long trailer for the film with a U certificate. This sets the stage for a major international presentation, where director Nitesh Tiwari and the core team are expected to unveil the first look of the epic to a global audience. One of the most significant updates involves the official trailer, which was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification on July 15 with a U certificate. The makers have reportedly prepared two distinct versions for the launch. One cut, titled Trailer - Ramayana 3D, features a runtime of 4 minutes and 15 seconds, while a second version, intended for theatrical use, runs for exactly 4 minutes. This unusually long duration indicates that the team is ready to offer an extensive and detailed look into the mythological world they have built over the last few years. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The trailer launch is not just a digital release but a grand physical event in San Diego. The panel will be held in Ballroom 20, which is the second-largest venue at the convention center, capable of accommodating nearly 4,800 attendees. It is a prestigious slot, occurring between 3:15 pm and 4:15 pm PDT on July 23, which translates to 3:45 am to 4:45 am IST for viewers in India on Friday, July 24. The official Comic-Con website has listed producer Namit Malhotra and director Nitesh Tiwari alongside lead actors Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, referring to them as international superstars. The panel description promises much more than a simple screening. Attendees can expect never-before-seen footage, exclusive reveals, live performances, and special giveaways. This move puts Ramayana in the same league as global franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe, whose president Kevin Feige is scheduled for a major presentation in the larger Hall H on the following day to reveal the future of the MCU and likely the trailer for Avengers: Doomsday. By securing a spot in Ballroom 20, the makers are positioning the film as a global cinematic spectacle, backed by the visual effects expertise of DNEG and Prime Focus Studios. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Beyond the international buzz, the team has also launched a massive ground-level campaign in India titled Hamara Satya, Hamara Itihaas. This school outreach initiative, which began on July 9, aims to connect with over five lakh students across 400 schools in 18 different cities. Through quizzes, drawing competitions, and interactive sessions, the campaign focuses on the core values of the epic, engaging the next generation before the film’s theatrical release. It is a dual strategy that balances local cultural roots with global promotional ambitions. The scale of the production is further highlighted by its cast and crew. While Ranbir Kapoor leads as Rama and Yash takes on the role of Ravana, the film also features Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman. Veterans like Arun Govil and Lara Dutta are also part of the ensemble as Dashrath and Kaikeyi. The musical score is a collaboration between Academy Award winners Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, adding another layer of international appeal. With the first part scheduled for a Diwali 2026 release and the second in Diwali 2027, the San Diego Comic-Con showcase marks the beginning of what the creators call the largest cinematic undertaking in Indian film history.