Hear Sabrina Carpenter and Dolly Parton Duet on ‘Please Please Please’

Sabrina Carpenter Teams Up with Dolly Parton on 'Please Please Please'

Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter has sweetened the anticipation for her fans by releasing a deluxe edition of her Grammy-winning album Short 'n Sweet. Timed perfectly for Valentine's Day, this new edition features a delightful collaboration with the iconic Dolly Parton on the revamped track "Please Please Please."

In this charming duet, Parton offers playful lyrics that capture a lighthearted essence, encouraging listeners to ditch the outdoors for the comfort of home. Her lines, "I have a fun idea, babe, maybe just stay inside...but the ceiling fan is so nice," set the stage for a catchy chorus that showcases both artists' talents.

Carpenter couldn't contain her excitement when announcing the collaboration, referring to Parton as "Miss Dolly Parton" on social media. In an interview with Rolling Stone, producer Jack Antonoff noted that the track carries a modern pop vibe infused with a touch of Dolly's country roots.

The deluxe edition not only includes the new collaboration but also features four additional tracks: "15 Minutes," "Couldn’t Make It Any Harder," "Busy Woman," and "Bad Reviews." Notably, Carpenter's previous album, Emails I Can’t Send, also received an extended edition, showcasing her versatility and growth as an artist.

The reimagined cover for Short 'n Sweet presents Carpenter in front of a vibrant aqua-blue backdrop, marking a visual upgrade to accompany the new tracks. Looking ahead, Carpenter is set to embark on her European and UK tour starting in early March, culminating in a headlining performance at London’s Hyde Park this July.

Is Offset Taking Shots at Cardi B on New Single ‘Ten’?

Offset, the Atlanta-based rapper, made waves upon releasing his latest single, "Ten," on Valentine's Day. Contrary to the spirit of love, this track appears to be a pointed commentary on his tumultuous relationship with Cardi B. The lyrics resonate with discomfort, notably when he proclaims, "She bad but she bad for a nigga," and on the hook reminds listeners, "You gon’ have to fuck 10 more niggas to get over me." Such lines seem to channel the emotional aftermath of their high-profile romance.

On this track, Offset fully embraces a persona that he describes as unapologetically self-centered, rapping, "I don’t need you, I got money/I don’t miss you I got money/Love you, but not like money." His choice to deliver this sentiment in a vibrant Afrobeats-inspired style seems a striking juxtaposition to the Valentine's Day theme, hinting at deeper issues surrounding infidelity that marred their relationship.

The relationship between Offset and Cardi B has been fraught with ups and downs, including Cardi's divorce filing last August amidst mutual cheating allegations. In a past interview, Cardi articulated the struggle of balancing her impactful career with her role as a wife and mother, mentioning how often her relationship sometimes took a back seat to her professional life.

Their social media exchanges have been equally tumultuous. Cardi has openly criticized Offset, labeling him a "narcissistic piece of shit," while Offset responded with implicit references to their children, including a now-deleted post where he left a trash can emoji under a photo she shared. "Ten" embodies this ongoing friction; Offset’s lyrics suggest an unease about how their relationship has been perceived, stating, "It’s a big difference, I was just fuckin’ them hoes, you was nitpickin."

Addison Rae Chooses ‘High Fashion’ Over Cheap Love on New Single

Addison Rae is making a bold statement in her latest single, “High Fashion,” which she released on Friday. This track not only showcases her evolution as a pop star but emphasizes her preference for luxury over superficial love. As she prepares for her debut album later this year, Rae’s new single marks the first release of 2025, captivating listeners with its catchy lyrics and engaging visuals.

The opening verse of the song sets the tone: “Wantin’ somethin’ more than just a hit/Nothing else can make me feel like this,” while the chorus candidly declares her desire for the finer things in life, stating, “I don’t want cheap love, I’d rather get high fashion.” The accompanying music video mirrors this message, featuring Rae joyfully playing in powdered sugar, showcasing her extravagant wardrobe, and alluding to iconic pop culture references reminiscent of Britney Spears and Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz.

Promoting her new single with a cheeky caption, Rae encouraged her followers, “Don’t be lonely on Valentine’s Day… get High Fashion!” The video also contains vibrant Wizard of Oz-inspired visuals, bridging nostalgia with modern aesthetics. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Rae expressed her ambitions for this new chapter, stating that after crafting the unforgettable chorus, she created a collage filled with luxurious imagery to channel her persona. Her aspiration? To be “prim and poised,” much like the legendary Marilyn Monroe, steering away from the casualness of modern lingo.

As this dynamic artist continues her trajectory in the music industry, “High Fashion” follows previous hits, including the viral “Diet Pepsi” and her EP AR, further solidifying her presence in pop culture. With the anticipation of her debut album later this year, fans are eager to see where her musical journey will take her next.

Vicky Kaushal gets a standing ovation at Chhaava premiere

Vicky Kaushal was overcome with emotion as he received a thunderous standing ovation at the premiere of his latest film, Chhaava, on Thursday night. Taking on the challenging role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the actor captivated the audience, leading to cheers and applause after the special screening. Hosted for close friends, family, and select industry insiders, the premiere provided a glimpse into the epic story and the making of this historical drama.

Arriving alongside his wife, fellow actor Katrina Kaif, the couple looked stunning in traditional attire as they graced the red carpet. Vicky donned a sleek black bandhgala suit, while Katrina wowed in a gorgeous sheer saree. Videos from the event quickly went viral on social media, showcasing the exhilaration of the audience as they fervently chanted, “Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj ki Jai!” A proud Katrina joined in, amplifying the electric atmosphere throughout the theatre.

Kaushal and director Laxman Utekar were also seen joining the audience in their enthusiastic chants, humbly responding with folded hands to express their gratitude. Since the release of the trailer, anticipation for Kaushal’s portrayal of the legendary Maratha warrior has soared. The film, which also features Rashmika Mandanna, promises to deliver grand visuals and powerful storytelling about Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the celebrated Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

With estimates projecting a remarkable box office opening of around Rs 25 crore on its first day, 'Chhaava' is set to make a significant impact, particularly in Maharashtra. Positive word-of-mouth could further enhance its performance across other regions, setting the stage for a successful run for this historical epic.

Amidst dating rumours, Sanya opens up on love

Sanya Malhotra is currently enchanting audiences with her performance in the film 'Mrs', which has garnered substantial admiration, particularly from women. The movie delves into the complexities of patriarchy and sheds light on the often-unspoken challenges women face post-marriage. It's a thought-provoking narrative that resonates with many and encourages discourse around societal norms.

In addition to her professional endeavors, Sanya has been making headlines for her rumored relationship with Rishabh Sharma, a talented sitarist and the prodigious youngest disciple of the iconic Ravi Shankar. Rishabh has gained significant popularity on the internet, with his sitar performances capturing the hearts of many and even going viral.

Speculations about Sanya and Rishabh blossomed when they were recently spotted together in a video that circulated widely online. Responding to these dating rumors, Sanya opened up about her views on love in a recent interview with Pinkvilla. She expressed, "I do believe in having a companion for sure." Further, she shared her belief about companionship adding beauty to life, stating, "I think it makes life beautiful. Maybe it’s love—it’s always nice to share love." She also referred to love as a "beautiful feeling" that enriches life.

The online community has reacted positively to the news, with fans excited about the potential coupling. A viral post on Reddit highlighted their interactions, noting comments and likes exchanged between them, suggesting a deeper connection. One user remarked, "What a good-looking pair!" while another pointed out that Sanya is six years older than Rishabh, adding an interesting element to their relationship dynamics.

Assam Police in Pune to summon Samay Raina

A police team from Assam has arrived in Pune to serve a summons to popular comedian Samay Raina, as part of an ongoing investigation into his YouTube reality show, India’s Got Latent. The case emerged from complaints filed in Guwahati, stemming from controversial comments made by fellow YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, widely known as ‘Beer Biceps’. These remarks reportedly promoted obscenity, leading to significant public backlash.

In light of the controversy, Samay Raina has opted to remove all episodes of India’s Got Latent from YouTube, citing it as “too much to handle.” On the show, Allahbadia's remarks regarding parents and sex sparked outrage, prompting legal actions against multiple individuals involved, including Raina and popular figures like Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Makhija. While Assam police have already issued summons to Allahbadia and Chanchlani, Raina's summons is still pending.

Officials from the cyber division of Assam police are currently operating out of Mumbai, where they have been active in issuing notices. Raina is expected to appear before the Mumbai police on February 17, but due to his ongoing performances in the United States, he has requested an extension. The Maharashtra Cyber division is also involved in the investigation, having previously summoned over 50 individuals associated with the show for questioning, including Raghu Ram, a judge on the series.

Sanam Teri Kasam hits Rs 26.50 Cr mark in 7 Days

Sanam Teri Kasam, featuring Harshvardhan Rane and Mawra Hocane, has made a remarkable comeback at the box office, grossing an impressive Rs 26.50 crore in the first week of its re-release. Initially hit theaters in 2016, the film had only managed to gather Rs 9.1 crore during its initial run. The resurgence can largely be attributed to an energetic social media campaign and the film's lasting appeal among audiences.

The romantic drama opened with a solid Rs 4.25 crore on its first day and continued to perform well, with daily earnings of Rs 5.25 crore, Rs 6 crore, and consistent numbers in the following days—Rs 3.25 crore, Rs 3 crore, Rs 2.60 crore, and Rs 2.15 crore respectively.

Competing alongside new releases like Himesh Reshammiya’s Badas Ravikumar and Khushi Kapoor-Junaid Khan’s Loveyapa, Sanam Teri Kasam has outperformed both of them combined in earnings. Harshvardhan Rane, who portrayed the lead character Inder, played a pivotal role in the film’s revival, conducting a vigorous social media campaign that included a challenge on Instagram. He promised to approach producer Deepak Mukut about a re-release if his post received 10,000 likes; in a surprising turn, the post garnered 30,000 likes.

This enthusiastic reception has not only delighted the filmmakers but has also solidified Sanam Teri Kasam's standing as a cult classic. The film’s emotional depth and enchanting soundtrack continue to resonate with audiences, making its resurgence an outstanding success. Interestingly, it now faces off against Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava, which centers on the life of Chhatrapathi Sambhaji Maharaj.

Malaika's dance leaves Arjun speechless- WATCH

Malaika Arora and Arjun Kapoor have had a rollercoaster relationship, filled with passion and public interest. After dating for several years, they faced breakup rumors last year, which were later confirmed to be true, albeit amicable. Despite going their separate ways, both celebrities have maintained a sense of respect for each other, with Arjun even publicly stating that he is currently single. Their bond has been particularly supportive during tough times, such as when Malaika lost her father, showcasing the depth of their friendship.

Recently, the couple made a rare appearance together on a popular television show where Malaika serves as a judge. Arjun was there to promote his upcoming film 'Mere Husband Ki Beewi', which co-stars Bhumi Pednekar and Rakul Preet Singh. During the episode of 'India's Best Dancer Vs Super Dancer', the dancers honored Malaika with performances of her iconic songs, creating a heartfelt tribute. This not only celebrated her career but also highlighted her contributions to the entertainment industry.

As the dancers concluded their tribute, Arjun couldn't help but express his admiration. He playfully remarked, "I’ve been speechless for years; I prefer remaining silent even now." Nevertheless, he made sure to commend Malaika's incredible journey, stating, "The kind of music, the kind of performances... congratulations, Malaika. You know how much I love all these songs. It was wonderful to see you being celebrated like this." With a touch of humor, he quipped about knowing Malaika’s competition better than anyone else, while Malaika playfully deferred responding, highlighting the camaraderie they still share.

Directed by Mudassar Aziz, Arjun's film 'Mere Husband Ki Beewi' is set to hit theaters on February 21, marking another exciting chapter in the lives of these two talented stars.

Sharvari to join hands with Diljit Dosanjh, Vedang Raina for an Imtiaz Ali directorial: Report

Rumors have been swirling around the highly anticipated directorial project by Imtiaz Ali, with speculation suggesting that Diljit Dosanjh and Vedang Raina may be joining the cast. However, the latest buzz reveals that Imtiaz Ali is particularly interested in casting Sharvari as the leading lady. After the remarkable success of her film Munjya and the acclaim she received for her action-oriented performance in Vedaa, Sharvari is riding a wave of popularity, all while she juggles her commitments to the upcoming project Alpha.

If these rumors hold true, this new role could add another feather to Sharvari's cap. According to reports from a source close to Pinkvilla, Imtiaz is keen to work with Sharvari because he believes she is a noteworthy talent perfect for the character. This choice has resonated with the industry, as many believe she has the potential to ascend to great heights in her acting career.

The movie is set to be an intense romantic drama—though many details remain under wraps. However, it has been confirmed that Sharvari will share the screen with Vedang Raina, contributing to a multifaceted narrative. The film aims to present a fresh take on romance, differing from Imtiaz's previous works, and is said to be a period love story expected to commence filming in April.

Imtiaz has had previous collaborations with Diljit Dosanjh that garnered praise, especially with the film Amar Singh Chamkila. On another note, this project will mark Vedang Raina's first time working with the acclaimed filmmaker, adding excitement to the mix.

Additionally, Sharvari has recently stepped into the spotlight as a brand ambassador for Wellbeing Nutrition, showcasing her growing influence in the industry.

Ranveer Allahbadia moves Supreme Court against lodging of FIR

YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia filed a petition in the Supreme Court on February 14, 2025, contesting the first information reports (FIRs) lodged against him due to his controversial comments. The Supreme Court has indicated that it will hear his pleas within the next two to three days.

The Maharashtra Cyber Cell took action on February 12, 2025, registering a case against Allahbadia which arose from negative remarks made during a specific episode of India’s Got Latent. These comments sparked significant backlash on social media, leading to widespread calls for the banning of his podcast.

Despite issuing an apology, Allahbadia faced condemnation from prominent politicians, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and various opposition leaders, who accused him of misusing his freedom of speech. Reports indicate that around 30 to 40 individuals associated with the show, including judges, have also been implicated in this case, highlighting the magnitude of the fallout.

Lily Allen Says She Went to a ‘Treatment Center’ After Experiencing ‘Emotional Turmoil’

Lily Allen is embarking on a significant journey of self-discovery and healing. In a recent episode of the BBC podcast Miss Me?, co-hosted by Allen and Miquita Oliver, the acclaimed singer opened up about her experience at a treatment center due to her emotional struggles.

"I just feel very grateful to have been given the time and the space that I needed… Well, I went into a sort of treatment center for a few weeks, which was great," Allen revealed. She participated in both group and individual therapy sessions, emphasizing the importance of stepping back from her usual routine to tackle her inner battles.

During her time there, Allen undertook what she described as “shadow work” and “inner child stuff,” acknowledging that this introspective journey was challenging. Though she did not explicitly reference her recent separation from her husband David Harbour, it’s difficult to ignore the emotional turmoil surrounding her family life. Allen, a mother of two daughters from a prior relationship, expressed concerns about their well-being and how she was struggling to provide them with a sense of safety and security amidst her challenges.

"I do feel like I am now. I‘m not saying I’m 100 percent there, and I’m not saying that I’m getting it 100 percent right or ever will," she reflected. Allen articulated her commitment to being her best self for her children, saying, “I felt like it was getting harder and harder for me to be able to show up for them in the way that they need me to.”

Making the decision to temporarily leave her children for her treatment was not easy, yet she believed it was necessary for both her and their long-term stability. "It was a really big decision to have to leave them for a few weeks to go and focus on myself, but ultimately it was for them," she concluded with a sense of hope and resolve.

Harshvardhan Rane opens up on nepotism in Bollywood

Harshvardhan Rane is riding high on the success of his film 'Sanam Teri Kasam', which has made a notable comeback in theatres alongside co-star Mawra Hocane. Originally released without much fanfare, it has now re-emerged as a sleeper hit, collecting over Rs 15 crore during its opening weekend since its re-release on February 7. The film's success comes as a delightful wedding gift for Mawra, who recently tied the knot.

In addition to celebrating the film's performance, Harshvardhan shared his thoughts on a pressing issue in the film industry: nepotism. In a candid interview with India Today, he expressed a unique perspective, emphasizing the importance of facts over hearsay. He said, "Honestly, I am someone who believes in writing down things rather than just believing the voices floating around me." Harshvardhan analyzed the careers of star kids compared to outsiders, pointing out that although star children often receive more opportunities, many of them have faded away, while outsiders continue to thrive and secure good roles.

His reflections underscore a message about hard work and perseverance, suggesting that instead of focusing on perceived advantages, one should acknowledge the reality of success based on merit. He adds that each doubt should be met with careful scrutiny of facts, encouraging a realistic outlook on careers in Bollywood.

Sai Pallavi praises Naga Chaitanya's faith in 'Thandel' success

Success of 'Thandel': Sai Pallavi and Naga Chaitanya Shine

Sai Pallavi and Naga Chaitanya are currently celebrating the remarkable success of their film 'Thandel', helmed by director Chandoo Mondeti. During a recent success meet, Sai Pallavi expressed her gratitude towards the cast and crew, highlighting their collective efforts in bringing the film to life.

Reflecting on the real-life inspiration behind 'Thandel', she shared a heartfelt acknowledgment of Rama Rao, the individual on whom the story is based. Rama Rao invited the team to celebrate their success in Srikakulam, and Sai Pallavi called it a unique honor to create a movie inspired by genuine experiences.

In her speech, she praised Naga Chaitanya's unwavering faith in the project, stating that he believed the film would resonate emotionally with the audience. Sai Pallavi elaborated that Naga's strong belief wasn't just due to their hard work but was rooted in the potential of the film to touch hearts.

The success meet turned interactive when Sai Pallavi invited the audience to join her in celebrating by dancing to the film's popular hook step, encouraging Naga Chaitanya and producer Allu Aravind to join her on stage.

'Thandel' tells the gripping story of fishermen from Srikakulam who are captured by Pakistani forces while fishing in international waters. The plot centers on the character Raju, played by Naga Chaitanya, and his love interest Satya, portrayed by Sai Pallavi. The emotional narrative focuses on Satya's struggle to rescue Raju and bring him home safely.

In just six days of its release, 'Thandel' achieved extraordinary box office success, amassing over Rs 80 crore globally. The film had an impressive collection of Rs 44.35 crore in India by day five and was approaching the Rs 50 crore mark by day seven. Additionally, the music by Devi Sri Prasad has garnered positive feedback from fans, contributing to the film's popularity. 'Thandel' officially hit theaters on February 7th, 2025.

India’s got Latent row: Mumbai Police fresh summon to Ranveer Allahbadia and Samay Raina

Ranveer Allahbadia in the Spotlight
Social media sensation Ranveer Allahbadia has found himself at the center of controversy following his inflammatory remarks during a YouTube show. On February 14, 2025, he was summoned to the Khar police station after failing to attend a previous meeting. Officials stated that even after expressing his fear of media scrutiny, he was reminded that evading questioning was not an option.

Alongside Allahbadia, comedian Samay Raina, a participant in the contentious reality show "India's Got Latent," has also been asked to provide a statement within five days. Raina, currently in the U.S., has requested an extension before meeting the authorities. The Mumbai police and the Maharashtra Cyber Department are conducting parallel investigations into Allahbadia's remarks, which have sparked significant public outcry and generated petitions, including complaints filed by political figures.

The cyber department has summoned over 40 individuals linked to the case, including other participants from the controversial show. As of now, while statements from seven individuals—including fellow influencer Apoorva Makhija—have been recorded, no formal FIR has been filed. Notably, Allahbadia’s comments about parents and sex on social media resulted in a public apology where he described his statements as a "lapse in judgment." Yet, this incident has continued to escalate, eventually making its way into controversy discussions in Parliament.

Public Backlash and Legislative Response

The uproar surrounding Allahbadia's comments has ignited discussions about the need for regulatory measures for social media influencers. Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske raised the issue in Parliament, advocating for stringent laws to manage social media content and holding influencers accountable.

Organizational Theatre’s devised play explores identity, corporate struggles, and family bonds

Organizational Theatre Presents 'To Be Or Not To Be'

Organizational Theatre is set to amaze audiences with its latest production 'To Be Or Not To Be', which will take the stage at ADA Ranga Mandira in Bengaluru on February 16. This play creatively reinterprets Shakespeare's iconic soliloquy from Hamlet to frame the stories of three characters entangled in the chaos of city life, each grappling with their dreams, aspirations, and the relentless pursuit of meaning in a seemingly mindless rat race.

The director, Ranji David, explains that the play draws inspiration from real-life experiences shared by the actors during the creative process. One of the poignant stories portrayed in the production follows a young girl who embarks on a profound exploration of her gender identity. Caught in her personal turmoil of whether to embrace femininity or masculinity, her journey is a reflection of broader themes of identity and self-acceptance.

Another narrative delves into the corporate world, narrated through the life of a woman facing the challenges of office politics. Her first encounter with a manager fixated on her appearance rather than her capabilities leaves her questioning her place in this cutthroat environment—is it worth it to continue in such a corporate landscape?

Additionally, the play thoughtfully tackles the emotional dilemma faced by parents whose children have settled abroad, often neglecting their familial responsibilities back home. It raises the poignant question of whether these children will ever truly understand the struggles and situations their parents endure.

Director Ranji David emphasizes the uniqueness of devised theatre, which allows actors to portray their transformative life experiences through improvisation. After six months of tireless collaboration and rehearsals, the production has evolved, now featuring a new cast while maintaining the essence of the original stories. With a dedicated crew of 30 actors and 11 technical staff members, including assistant directors and set designers, the play showcases a united effort in its execution.

Tickets for the 12 noon show can be purchased at the ADA Ranga Mandira box office or via BookMyShow, priced at ₹375.

Selena Gomez, Benny Blanco to Share Their ‘Love Story’ on Album ‘I Said I Love You First’

Pop sensation Selena Gomez and talented producer Benny Blanco are set to enthrall fans with their upcoming collaborative album titled I Said I Love You First, which is set to release on March 21. The duo shared the exciting news on Thursday, unveiling their first single, Scared of Loving You, along with a sneak peek into the emotional journey they wish to portray through their music.

On Instagram, Gomez shared her joy, stating, “I always trick you guys. My NEW album I Said I Love You First with my best friend @itsbennyblanco, is out on 3/21. Our first song, Scared of Loving You is out now… We can’t wait to share this special project with you soon!” Blanco couldn't hide his excitement either, adding, “I can’t believe I get to spend the rest of my life with you.”

The first single, Scared of Loving You, co-written by Gomez, Blanco, and Finneas, dives deep into the theme of relationship anxieties and fears. Many fans will relate to the poignant lyrics, with lines that touch upon vulnerability and the need for support in a relationship. The accompanying lyric video shows playful and intimate moments between the duo, showcasing their romantic chemistry.

The album promises to narrate Gomez and Blanco's love story, detailing their journey from before they met to their hopeful future together. A press release indicates that this album will celebrate their unique bond and experiences. Fans can also look forward to a special single-LP vinyl version available for pre-order.

This upcoming LP marks a significant moment in Gomez's career, following her 2020 album Rare, while for Blanco, it comes after his last projects, Friends Keep Secrets and Friends Keep Secrets 2, released in recent years.

Madonna Confirms ‘Confessions’ Sequel Is on the Way

Madonna Announces the Arrival of ‘Confessions 2’

In an exciting revelation for fans, the iconic pop superstar Madonna has confirmed that she is currently working on a new album, titled Confessions 2. This upcoming release will serve as a sequel to her critically acclaimed 2005 album, Confessions on a Dance Floor.

Madonna took to social media on Thursday to share the news, stating, “My Valentine’s Day gift to all my fans is to let you know I’m putting my heart and soul into my new music and I can’t wait to share it with you!!” The announcement was accompanied by a clip of the track Future Lovers from her previous album. However, she did not provide any information regarding a release date.

Confessions 2 will be significant as it marks Madonna's first album since her 2019 release, Madame X, and it will stand as her 15th album overall. The original Confessions on a Dance Floor reached a milestone recently, celebrating its 20th anniversary in November and winning a Grammy for Best Dance/Electronic album back in 2007.

Earlier in the year, Madonna hinted at new music while collaborating with Stuart Price, the producer from the original Confessions album. Although she has yet to confirm his involvement in the upcoming project, it appears likely, especially given her comments about how the studio sessions have been 'medicine for my soul.'

In addition to her music endeavors, the Queen of Pop has remained active outside the recording studio. Last month, she surprised fans with a comedic performance in New York, where she shared the stage with comedian Amy Schumer. Moreover, Madonna has outspokenly criticized the current political landscape, especially President Donald Trump’s administration, voicing her concern over the erosion of freedoms and encouraging her fans not to give up the fight for their rights.

Chhaava advance box office collection Day 1

Vicky Kaushal's highly anticipated historical epic, Chhaava, is making waves at the box office even before its official release on Valentine's Day. The film has garnered an impressive over Rs 13 crore in advance bookings, showcasing its potential for a robust opening.

According to preliminary estimates from Sacnilk.com, Chhaava has accumulated around Rs 13.78 crore solely from pre-booked ticket sales, equating to over 4.87 lakh tickets sold across more than 14,063 shows nationwide. The current net figure stands at Rs 13 crore, but with additional blocked seats factored in, the overall advance total is expected to reach Rs 17.87 crore.

Industry analysts forecast a staggering Rs 23-25 crore net opening for Chhaava on its first day, potentially marking it as one of the biggest debuts in the historical genre. The film’s appeal is notably strong in Maharashtra, where local interest is driving ticket sales. Furthermore, experts suggest that if positive word-of-mouth resonates post-release, Chhaava could see significant success, not just in Maharashtra but beyond.

Nonetheless, its overall performance remains in question, as advance bookings in most other states, with the exception of Delhi, have struggled to surpass the Rs 1 crore mark. A closer inspection of sales reveals that the Hindi 2D version has notably led the way with Rs 13.17 crore in earnings, followed by IMAX 2D with Rs 41.55 lakh, and both ICE and 4DX formats contributing over Rs 18 lakh.

Maharashtra alone contributed nearly Rs 8.29 crore to the total pre-sales, underlining the strong regional enthusiasm for the film. However, Chhaava is stepping into a competitive arena, facing off against Marvel's Captain America: Brave New World, which is also debuting on February 14. While Chhaava leads in advance reservations, it remains to be seen if it can sustain its sales momentum throughout the weekend.

'Chhaava' FIRST reviews: The film gets a mixed response

Vicky Kaushal's 'Chhaava' Hits Theatres

Today marks the much-anticipated release of 'Chhaava', featuring the talented Vicky Kaushal in the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. This historical drama, set against the backdrop of one of India’s prominent figures, has generated buzz for its star-studded cast, including Akshaye Khanna portraying the antagonist, Aurangzeb.

The film has already garnered a flurry of early reviews, with trade expert Taran Adarsh taking to social media to share his excitement. He labeled 'Chhaava' with a #OneWordReview of SPECTACULAR and awarded it a remarkable rating of 4.5 stars. According to him, the film masterfully blends history with emotions, passion, patriotism, and action, emerging as a triumph for director Laxman Utekar. Adarsh commended Kaushal’s portrayal as award-worthy, highlighting his commanding presence and fiery dialogues, particularly in the confrontation scenes against Khanna.

While many praise Kaushal's performance, opinions about the film's pacing vary. Some viewers noted that the first half of the movie felt slow, suggesting that it was the second half where the action truly picked up. One user acknowledged Kaushal's impressive performance but criticized the performances of his co-stars, noting that the film's rating deserved to be around 3 stars.

However, not all reviews have been positive. A contrasting opinion described 'Chhaava' as loud and irritating, claiming it failed to respect the historical context. Critics took particular issue with the film’s VFX and accused it of borrowing heavily from other historical dramas like 'Tanhaji' and 'Bajirao Mastani', resulting in a subpar representation of Indian history. Overall, this viewer felt the film was a waste of time, giving it a dismal 1-star rating.

'Badass Ravi Kumar' Vs Loveyapa box office day 7

Himesh Reshammiya's much-anticipated movie, Badass Ravi Kumar, hit theaters on February 7, creating a buzz in the cinematic landscape as it faced off against Khushi Kapoor and Junaid Khan's film, Loveyapa. While Loveyapa received mixed reviews and managed to surprise some viewers, the film's box office collections did not reflect that positivity. In fact, despite the competition, Reshammiya's venture maintained a slight edge over the romantic comedy.

After a week-long run at the box office, both films are experiencing a drop in ticket sales as Vicky Kaushal's highly anticipated release, Chhaava, is set to debut on Friday. Badass Ravi Kumar opened to a decent collection of Rs 2.75 Crore on its first day, but the numbers began to decline from Saturday onwards, culminating in a total revenue of Rs 8.20 crore after seven days. In contrast, Loveyapa started at Rs 1.15 crore but has gathered only Rs 6.5 crore since its premiere.

Both films face stiff competition from the South Indian market, with films like Thandel and Vidaamuyarchi also vying for audiences' attention. Meanwhile, Chhaava, which stars Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna alongside Kaushal, has already generated impressive advance ticket sales worth Rs 10 crore. Experts predict a strong opening day for this film, estimating revenues of around Rs 25 crore.