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India Today
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
6 Bollywood celebrities who made huge comebacks
6 Bollywood celebrities who made huge comebacks August 13, 2025 Several Bollywood celebrities have made comebacks even more powerful than their debuts. These actors effortlessly reclaimed their place in the industry. Here are 6 such celebs who made a remarkable return. Rani Mukerji took a four-year break after the birth of her daughter. She made a powerful comeback with the film 'Hichki', in which she portrayed a teacher suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Rani Mukerji (Hichki) Credit: IMDb Sanjay Dutt made his comeback with the film 'Bhoomi' in 2017. After serving years in prison, this movie marked his grand return. Even though it was not a commercial hit, he was praised for his acting. Sanjay Dutt (Bhoomi) After 15-year break from Bollywood, Sridevi made a powerful comeback with the hit film 'English Vinglish' in 2012. This film was highly praised for its storyline and her performance. Sridevi (English Vinglish) After the commercial failure of his film 'Zero', SRK took a break for four years and made a huge comeback with the film 'Pathaan' in 2023, which broke several box office records. Shah Rukh Khan (Pathaan) After a five-year break, Madhuri Dixit returned to Bollywood with the film 'Aaja Nachle' in 2007. The film was about a choreographer who returned to her hometown to save an old theater. Madhuri Dixit (Aaja Nachle) After facing a long commercial setback, he returned with the hit web series 'Aashram' in 2020. Later, he appeared in the blockbuster film 'Animal' in 2023, earning high critical praise. Bobby Deol (Ashram )
Time of India
04-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Entertainment with empathy: The power of purpose-driven storytelling in Indian Cinema
By Siddharth P Malhotra In a country where cinema is more than just a medium, it's an emotion and stories have the power to shape how we think, feel, and engage with the world around us. While entertainment remains at the heart of Indian films, a new wave of storytelling is blending emotion with intention. Purpose driven narratives are emerging as a powerful force, proving that entertainment and empathy can go hand in hand and they leave a deeper, lasting impact. The Role of Cinema Beyond Entertainment Indian cinema has long been known for its grand narratives, colourful visuals, and deeply emotional stories. While its primary purpose remains entertainment, there's a growing shift towards storytelling that also carries a deeper meaning, stories that move the heart, but also awaken the mind. This evolving trend reflects the immense power of cinema not just to engage, but also to influence and inspire change. Not Just a Story, A Social Reflection A truly impactful film goes beyond the screen. It holds a mirror to society, sparking conversations around issues that are often overlooked. Whether it's blind faith, social injustice, or emotional resilience, films today are exploring themes that resonate with real-life challenges. When a character questions societal norms or speaks out against prejudice, it does more than build drama, it invites the audience to reflect and respond. Take, for instance Maharaj, a story that critiques blind faith, not in a preachy or academic way, but through powerful dialogue and engaging characters. When a character says, 'If we don't wake up as a society, the names of the gurus may change, but the stories will remain the same,' it hits a nerve. It's storytelling with a conscience. Finding Empathy in Entertainment Good storytelling taps into universal emotions while great storytelling does that and teaches empathy. For example, portraying a protagonist with a neurological condition, like Tourette's Syndrome in the film Hichki can do more than raise awareness about a medical issue. When the narrative is shaped to show that everyone has their own version of Tourette's, their own internal struggle or flaw, the story becomes universally relatable. It becomes a metaphor for overcoming life's challenges. Such stories remind viewers that imperfections are part of being human, and embracing them is a step toward personal growth and compassion. Storytelling on Humanitarian Grounds There are also narratives that go beyond individual experiences and touch upon broader humanitarian concerns, like the identity and rights of people across borders, or the impact of war and displacement. These aren't just stories, they are expressions of shared humanity. They urge viewers to think beyond politics and prejudice and look at the person behind the label. Films that explore such sensitive themes with care and authenticity leave a lasting mark. They challenge stereotypes, build empathy, and often lead to greater awareness, while keeping the audience emotionally invested. Message Without Preaching Purpose driven storytelling doesn't mean sacrificing entertainment. In fact, the most impactful films are often the ones that blend meaningful messages with engaging narratives. They don't shout from a podium. Instead, they put across their message through the story, letting the audience draw their own conclusions. Directors and writers who strike this balance by building entertainment layered with empathy, create stories that are more universal. The key lies in clarity of intent. Whether it's a love story or a drama, knowing why the story is being told gives It depth and purpose. Leaving a Mark That Matters In a world flooded with content, what makes a film stand out is its ability to connect, not just emotionally, but socially. Purpose driven storytelling allows filmmakers to leave behind more than just applause. It gives them a chance to contribute to a larger conversation, to influence thought, and perhaps, to shift perspective. In conclusion , if a story can entertain, move hearts, and nudge society in a better direction then it should be told that way. (The author is the director and producer, Alchemy Films.)
Time of India
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Director Siddharth P Malhotra reacts to the news about Kiara Advani playing Meena Kumari in the biopic
Kiara Advani, Siddharth P Malhotra and Meena Kumari There's a buzz doing the rounds that actress Kiara Advani has been approached to portray the iconic Meena Kumari in an upcoming biopic. Reports claimed that director Siddharth P Malhotra saw Kiara as the perfect choice for the role of the legendary actress, and had already narrated the script to her. According to sources, Kiara who is currently pregnant and recently made waves with her debut at the Met Gala, is said to have loved the story and may soon give it a green light. However, when we reached out to Malhotra, he clarified the rumours, and said, 'This is all a hypothesis. I am in New York now and I will be back in Mumbai by the end of July, and only then will I start with my narration. I am going to lock Kamal Amrohi's casting first. Until then, I won't move on to casting for Meena Kumari ji's role.' Director Siddharth P Malhotra, known for films like Hichki and Maharaj, acknowledged that rumours around the biopic's casting continue to circulate. 'Every now & then, rumours surface of a certain Bollywood actress being approached for the biopic. I don't think before September we can officially announce Kamal Amrohi & Meena ji's casting,' he said. When asked if Kiara had been in discussions with him for the role at any point, Malhotra said, 'We have had conversations about possibly doing it. She is pregnant & will deliver in some time. Now in the last few months before delivery, it is unrealistic to discuss this.' Malhotra has officially secured the rights for the film, which aims to bring to life the epic real-life love story between celebrated actress Meena Kumari & legendary director-screenwriter Kamal Amrohi.
Indian Express
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘Thappads, ragging would happen': Siddharth P Malhotra recalls assisting Vidhu Vinod Chopra, dad asked Kareeb director to ‘grind' him
Filmmaker Siddharth P. Malhotra, who has made his mark with films like We Are Family, Hichki, and most recently Maharaj, opened up about his early days in the industry, working under celebrated director Vidhu Vinod Chopra. In a candid conversation with Cyrus Broacha, Malhotra shared memories of being an assistant director on Chopra's 1998 film Kareeb, calling the experience both demanding and unforgettable. 'He is a genius but at the same time, he wants what he wants,' Malhotra said. 'So I remember that all of us as his assistants were very enthusiastic, and he was like, 'Who can swim here?' And I was like, 'I can swim.'' What followed was a far cry from what they'd expected. 'As assistants, we had no idea that we were going into the water to hold one rope, because he wanted a thousand candles to be aligned while Bobby Deol is in the water. So all the people who practically knew swimming were below water, holding the bloody rope so that the song Chori Chori Jab Nazrein Mili could happen.' Malhotra recalled the the intensity of working under Chopra. 'I remember as an assistant, a call used to come and then I used to run, go somewhere and then come back… ragging would happen, thappads would happen, everything happened,' he said. Despite coming from a prominent film family, he is the grandson of veteran actor Prem Nath and related to Raj Kapoor and Prem Chopra, Malhotra insisted no special privileges were afforded to him. In fact, he revealed that his father personally requested Chopra to make him work hard. 'My father made a call to Vinod and asked him to grind me as an assistant,' he said. 'And Vinod once laughingly said, 'Your father has asked me to raggado him, so I'm doing that.'' Also Read | 'I thought Vidhu Vinod Chopra would hit me': Ram Gopal Varma says 12th Fail director 'believes he's the best filmmaker', Anurag Kashyap recalls quitting his film Malhotra also reminisced about a personal milestone in Chopra's life that coincided with the making of Kareeb. 'I think it was at that time he had just married Anu [film critic and author Anupama Chopra], so the temperament was still high then. But now it has come down,' he said. 'I really love him though. The way he uses the camera, I don't think anyone else can.' Vidhu Vinod Chopra most recently directed 12th Fail, a film that was met with widespread critical acclaim and went on to become a sleeper box office success. The film won accolades for its storytelling, Chopra's direction and editing, and a standout performance by Vikrant Massey.
Hindustan Times
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Kiara Advani in talks for Meena Kumari biopic? Makers set the record straight
Rumours have been swirling about Kiara Advani being considered for the role of Meena Kumari in her biopic, with reports suggesting she is also impressed with the script. However, filmmaker Siddharth P Malhotra, who owns the rights to Meena Kumari's life story, has stepped in to quell the speculation, urging fans to await the official announcement and refrain from jumping to conclusions. Also read: Kiara Advani approached for Meena Kumari biopic, may mark return to acting after pregnancy with film on 'Tragedy Queen' Earlier in the day, it was being reported that Kiara Advani is in talks to play Meena Kumari on the big screen in the biopic.(AFP) Siddharth P Malhotra, known for his work in Maharaj and Hichki, took to Instagram on Tuesday to clear the buzz around the film and shut down speculations around Kiara getting on board the project. 'Would appreciate for the media to avoid conjectures on the casting of Kamal aur Meena the script has only gotten ready and as we have a cast and more, we will only be more than happy to officially announce it,'he wrote. The director added, 'Until then request everyone to avoid conjectures until they hear officially from us.' The director shared they will announce the news officially soon. Earlier in the day, it was reported that Kiara Advani is in talks to play Meena Kumari on the big screen in the biopic, and might be the first film she does after her pregnancy. Sources were quoted as saying, "Kiara has been approached for the ambitious project and was given a narration some time back'. It was stated that Kiara has 'loved the narration', but 'the actor is yet to sign on the dotted line and give a final nod'. The report also claimed that the film's team feels that 'Kiara is the perfect choice for the role, given the blend of her appearance and acting skills'. What do we know about the film Last year, Saregama, along with Bilal Amrohi and its other partners, announced a biopic based on Meena Kumari's love story with her producer-husband Kamal Amrohi in a joint Instagram post. At that time, it was shared that Kamal and Meena would chronicle their 20-year journey, starting from their first meeting when she was just 18 and he was 34, to the creation, filming and release of the classic Pakeezah. It is believed that AR Rahman, Irshad Kamil, Bhavani Iyer and Kausar Munir are attached to the project. Meena Kumari, also known as Mahjabeen Bano, is regarded as one of the finest female stars in Hindi cinema history. She worked in hits such as Baiju Bawra (1952), Parineeta (1953), Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai (1960), Dil Ek Mandir (1963), Kaajal (1965), Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962), Phool Aur Patthar (1966), Mere Apne (1971), and Pakeezah (1972). She died weeks before the release of Pakeezah, aged only 38. Meena got married to Kamal (Amrohi) in a secret ceremony on February 14, 1952. Kamal was an Indian filmmaker and screenwriter, known for films like Mahal. He established his own studio known as Kamal Amrohi Studios in 1958.
