]]>Lucknow | Widespread protests were reported across Uttar Pradesh following allegations that a recently released film, “GHOOSKHOR PANDIT” contains objectionable references targeting a particular community. A complaint has been filed with the police claiming that the film’s title and narrative deliberately insult a specific caste group, particularly members of the Brahmin community.
According to the complaint, the film includes dialogues and scenes that allegedly promote caste based humiliation. It has been stated that the film’s title itself appears to be designed to demean a specific community. The controversy intensified after promotional content circulated on streaming platforms and social media, triggering strong reactions from various sections of society.
In Prayagraj, members of the Rashtriya Parashuram Sena Brahmavahini staged a protest and burned an effigy of the film’s producer at Subhash Chauraha. In Varanasi, Brahmin groups gathered at the Ahilyabai Ghat to demonstrate against the film. Protesters demanded an immediate change to the film’s title and strict action against those responsible.
Political reactions also added to the controversy. Samajwadi Party national president Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the content visible on OTT platforms reflects the preferences of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. He claimed that platforms showcase material aligned with government interests while films and television shows critical of the government face restrictions.
Further escalation occurred after warnings were issued that symbolic rituals would be conducted for actor Manoj Bajpayee and others associated with the film as a mark of protest. Senior police officials in Lucknow confirmed that legal action would be taken based on evidence presented in the case. Authorities stated that investigations would proceed against the film’s director and production team in accordance with the law.
Law enforcement agencies have maintained heightened vigilance to prevent any breach of public order as tensions remain high in several districts.
]]>https://theedgemedia.in/uproar-over-controversial-film-protests-uttar-pradesh/feed0FIR Registered in Lucknow Over Film Titled “Ghuskhor Pandit” After Thursday Protest Call
https://theedgemedia.in/fir-registered-lucknow-ghuskhor-pandit-film-controversy
https://theedgemedia.in/fir-registered-lucknow-ghuskhor-pandit-film-controversy#respondFri, 06 Feb 2026 13:46:14 +0000https://theedgemedia.in/?p=29032An FIR was lodged in Lucknow against the director of the film “Ghuskhor Pandit” after protests erupted over its title and content, which authorities say could harm social harmony and public order.
]]>Lucknow | Following a call for protest on Thursday, an FIR has been registered at Hazratganj police station in Lucknow against the director of the film titled “Ghuskhori Pandit”, which is currently being promoted and streamed on OTT platforms. The action was taken on the directions of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
The complaint alleges that the film attempts to spread social discord and hurt religious and caste-based sentiments, while also disturbing public peace. Authorities stated that the content could negatively impact social harmony and law and order. Protests against the film were also reported from Varanasi and Prayagraj, where people expressed strong opposition to its title and theme.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has reiterated a zero tolerance policy against elements that seek to disrupt social harmony or insult religious and caste sentiments. He has directed officials to take strict action against those responsible for creating or circulating such content.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak thanked the central government for responding to the state’s request regarding the film. He stated that the Uttar Pradesh government had formally urged the Centre to ensure the removal of the film’s title, which was considered socially divisive. According to him, the request was accepted, and necessary steps were initiated.
Pathak further said that the government remains committed to maintaining social unity and will not allow content that encourages division or unrest. Following the directives, Hazratganj police have begun identifying and taking action against individuals involved in sharing the film’s controversial promotional material online.
]]>https://theedgemedia.in/fir-registered-lucknow-ghuskhor-pandit-film-controversy/feed0Shots Fired Outside Rohit Shetty’s Juhu Residence, Police Launch Probe
https://theedgemedia.in/shots-fired-outside-rohit-shetty-juhu-residence-mumbai
https://theedgemedia.in/shots-fired-outside-rohit-shetty-juhu-residence-mumbai#respondSun, 01 Feb 2026 04:15:59 +0000https://theedgemedia.in/?p=28888Shots were reportedly fired outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s Juhu residence early Sunday, triggering a police and forensic investigation, though no injuries were reported.
]]>Unidentified persons allegedly opened fire outside the residence of filmmaker Rohit Shetty in Mumbai’s Juhu area in the early hours of Sunday, prompting a swift response from the police and forensic teams, officials said.
According to initial information, at least four rounds were fired at the building. No injuries were reported in the incident. An official said it was not immediately clear whether Shetty was present at his residence at the time of the firing.
“Someone fired on the building. Zonal police and crime branch teams are investigating the matter,” an official stated. Following the incident, security outside the building was significantly tightened as a precautionary measure.
Personnel from the Juhu police station and the Mumbai crime branch rushed to the spot soon after the firing and began an investigation. The police are examining CCTV footage from the surrounding area to identify the attackers and reconstruct the sequence of events.
A forensic science team also reached the location to collect evidence that could help establish the motive and trace those involved. An FIR has been registered in connection with the incident, officials confirmed.
Rohit Shetty is one of Bollywood’s most prominent filmmakers and is widely known for successful franchises such as Golmaal and Singham, starring Ajay Devgn, as well as the Shah Rukh Khan-led Chennai Express.
]]>https://theedgemedia.in/shots-fired-outside-rohit-shetty-juhu-residence-mumbai/feed0Former Bus Conductor, Doctors Among 45 Padma Shri Awardees Named Unsung Heroes
https://theedgemedia.in/padma-shri-unsung-heroes-republic-day-awards
https://theedgemedia.in/padma-shri-unsung-heroes-republic-day-awards#respondSun, 25 Jan 2026 13:55:02 +0000https://theedgemedia.in/?p=28646Sources said the Padma Awards this year continue the tradition of celebrating ordinary Indians who have made extraordinary contributions to society.
]]>A former bus conductor who created the world’s largest free access library, a paediatrician who established Asia’s first human milk bank, and a 90 year old tribal musician are among 45 individuals selected for the Padma Shri in the unsung heroes category on the occasion of Republic Day, sources said on Sunday.
Anke Gowda, once a bus conductor from Haralahalli village near Mysuru in Karnataka, has been honoured for setting up Pustak Mane, the world’s largest free access library. The library houses over two million books in more than 20 languages along with rare manuscripts and has emerged as a major centre for learning and knowledge sharing across the country.
Medical professionals feature prominently among the awardees. Mumbai based paediatrician Armida Fernandes has been recognised for founding Asia’s first human milk bank, a pioneering initiative that has significantly improved infant survival. Shyam Sundar was selected for developing an affordable diagnostic test for Kala Azar, also known as black fever, while veteran haematologist Suresh Hangavadi was honoured for his lifelong contribution to the treatment ofHaemophilia.
The list also includes Ladakh based Padma Gurmet for promoting ancient Tibetan medicine, Tamil Nadu veterinary scientist Punniamurthy Natesan for combining traditional practices withmodern animal healthcare, Hyderabad based geneticistKumarasamy Thangharaj, and Gujarat based social workerNilesh VinodchandraMandlewala, founder of Donate Life, who has played a key role in promoting organ donation.
Several artists preserving India’s rich cultural heritage have also been honoured. These include Bundeli war art trainer Bhagwandas Raikwar from Madhya Pradesh, Silambam martial art exponent K Pajanivel from Puducherry, 90 year old tribalTarpa musician Bhiklya Ladakya Dhinda from Maharashtra, and 100 year old Nata Sankirtanaperformer Yumnam Jatra Singh from Manipur.
Other awardees include folk dancer Vishwa Bandhu from Bihar, Rajasthani Bhapang musician Gafruddin Mewati Jogi, Gujarati Maanbhatt artist Dharmiklal Chunilal Pandya and Taga Ram Bheel, who has worked to preserve the fading Algoza musical tradition.
The Padma Shri has also been conferred on theatre and performing arts contributors, such as, Odisha based Sakhi Nata actor Simanchal Patro, Naga folk theatre guru Sangyusang S Pongener, and Assam scenographer Nuruddin Ahmed.
Among those recognised for social service and community development are Jammu and Kashmir based social worker Brij Lal Bhat, Budri Thati for establishing schools in Naxal affected regions of Chhattisgarh, Ramchandra and Sunita Godbole for providing affordable healthcare to tribal communities in Bastar, former IPS officer Inderjit Singh Sandhu for sanitation advocacy, and Techi Gubin for preserving the culture of the Nishi tribe in Arunachal Pradesh.
The list further honours literary figures and artisans, such as, Santhali author Charan Hembram, senior journalist Kailash Chandra Pant for promoting Hindi for over six decades, Kashmiri writer Shafi Shauq, and Naresh Chandra Debbarma for advancing Tripura’s Kokborok language.
Craft and environmental contributions were recognised through awards to brass engraver Chiranji Lal Yadav from Moradabad, bronze sculptor Rajastapathi Kaliappa Goundar, Kantha embroidery mentor Tripti Mukherjee, Jamdani weaving trainer Khem Raj Sundriyal, 92 year old environmentalist Kollakkayil Devaki Amma G from Kerala, Meghalaya’s Hally War for traditional afforestation and water conservationist Mohan Nagar from Madhya Pradesh.
Agricultural innovation and rural development were acknowledged through honours to Shrirang Devba Lad for the Dada Ladcotton farming technique, Mahendra Kumar Mishra of Odisha for protecting tribal voices, Raghupat Singh from Uttar Pradesh for farming innovations, and Raghuveer Tukaram Khedkar for using Tamasha art to raise awareness on drug addiction.
Sources said the Padma Awards this year continue the tradition of celebrating ordinary Indians who have made extraordinary contributions to society, many of whom have overcome personal hardship while serving communities in remote and marginalised regions.
]]>https://theedgemedia.in/padma-shri-unsung-heroes-republic-day-awards/feed0TVK Chief Vijay Questioned by CBI for Nearly Six Hours in Karur Stampede Case
https://theedgemedia.in/tvk-chief-vijay-cbi-questioning-karur-stampede-case
https://theedgemedia.in/tvk-chief-vijay-cbi-questioning-karur-stampede-case#respondMon, 19 Jan 2026 12:05:58 +0000https://theedgemedia.in/?p=28445The agency had asked him to appear again on January 13, but Vijay sought another date citing the Pongal festival.
]]>TVK chief and actor Vijay on Tuesday left the Central Bureau of Investigation headquarters in New Delhi after nearly six hours of questioning in connection with the Karur stampede case.
According to officials, the CBI conducted a second round of questioning of Vijay at its Lodhi Road headquarters on Monday as part of its ongoing probe. The actor arrived at the agency office in the morning in a convoy of luxury sport utility vehicles.
He was questioned throughout the day by a team of CBI officials led by an officer of the deputy superintendent rank from the agency’s anti corruption wing, the officials said. Vijay had earlier appeared before the CBI on January 12, when he was questioned for more than six hours.
The agency had asked him to appear again on January 13, but Vijay sought another date citing the Pongal festival. The CBI accepted his request and rescheduled the questioning for Monday.
During the examination, investigators questioned him on multiple aspects related to the event, including decision making behind the rally, reasons for his late arrival, continuation of his speech, his awareness of the chaos at the venue, the size of the crowd and alleged lapses in crowd management.
]]>https://theedgemedia.in/tvk-chief-vijay-cbi-questioning-karur-stampede-case/feed0Ajay Devgan Announces AI Powered Film Bal Tanhaji Under Lens Vault Studios
https://theedgemedia.in/ajay-devgn-ai-powered-film-bal-tanhaji-lens-vault-studios
https://theedgemedia.in/ajay-devgn-ai-powered-film-bal-tanhaji-lens-vault-studios#respondMon, 19 Jan 2026 11:15:44 +0000https://theedgemedia.in/?p=28454Danish Devgn, founder and chief executive officer of Lens Vault Studios, said the film redefines how legacy narratives can evolve through technology.
]]>Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn and producer Danish Devgn on Monday announced their upcoming AI powered film Bal Tanhaji, which will be produced under their next generation entertainment venture Lens Vault Studios.
Inspired by the success of the 2020 blockbuster Tanhaji The Unsung Warrior, the new project expands the franchise into unexplored narrative territory. Bal Tanhaji aims to reimagine the story universe for a generation that consumes content across multiple platforms beyond traditional theatrical screens.
According to a press release, the film reflects the core vision of Lens Vault Studios, which seeks to build long lasting story worlds that can exist across formats, platforms and evolving technologies.
Ajay Devgn said the project marks the studio’s entry into future ready content creation. He noted that Lens Vault Studios was set up to go beyond conventional storytelling boundaries by exploring largely untapped formats and mediums while maintaining the scale and discipline of mainstream cinema. He added that Bal Tanhaji represents the starting point of this creative journey.
Danish Devgn, founder and chief executive officer of Lens Vault Studios, said the film redefines how legacy narratives can evolve through technology. He added that generative AI enables the expansion of story universes in ways that were not possible earlier, making them more immersive, scalable and relevant for new age audiences, and that this approach forms the foundation of the studio’s vision.
]]>https://theedgemedia.in/ajay-devgn-ai-powered-film-bal-tanhaji-lens-vault-studios/feed0Universal Music India Sees Strong Growth Potential In Paid Music Subscriptions
https://theedgemedia.in/universal-music-india-paid-subscription-growth
https://theedgemedia.in/universal-music-india-paid-subscription-growth#respondSun, 04 Jan 2026 05:45:14 +0000https://theedgemedia.in/?p=28244Describing India as a critical global market, Sanyal said the company plans to invest aggressively across its operations in the country.
]]>Universal Music India believes the Indian music market is on the path to maturity and could become a highly influential paid subscription market within the next five years, as the industry shifts its focus toward monetised music consumption. Despite India’s massive population, only a small fraction currently pays for music services, indicating significant scope for expansion.
Devraj Sanyal, chairman and chief executive officer for India and South Asia at Universal Music Group, said that around 15 million people in India presently pay for music subscriptions in a country with more than one and a half billion people.
He pointed out that the cost of a single cup of coffee is often enough to purchase monthly access to platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music, all of which provide fully licensed and legitimate music. According to him, it is only a matter of time before India becomes a highly impactful paid market.
His comments come at a time when the Indian music industry reported a two per cent decline in revenue in 2024. This dip was attributed to efforts by digital streaming platforms to discourage free music consumption, along with a reduction in streaming royalty rates. While these measures led to an increase in paid subscribers from 8 million to 10.5 million during the year, the overall listening audience declined from 185 million to 175 million, as noted in a joint report by FICCI and EY.
Sanyal highlighted that India’s ecosystem of nearly a billion smartphones and SIM connections, combined with some of the world’s cheapest data rates, offers enormous potential for growth. He said this environment creates substantial opportunities not only for the wider music industry but also for all business segments of Universal Music India.
Describing India as a critical global market, Sanyal said the company plans to invest aggressively across its operations in the country. He emphasised that Universal Music Group views India as one of the most exciting emerging markets in the region and is committed to long term growth, regardless of the scale of investment required.
The company expects double digit growth in the coming years by leveraging its diverse portfolio, which includes talent management, brand partnerships, merchandising, fandom initiatives, film soundtracks, independent and non film music, regional content, publishing, and distribution.
Sanyal also noted that Universal Music Group for Brands currently ranks fourth globally. The division has collaborated with brands across sectors such as fast moving consumer goods, banking and financial services, insurance, automobiles, and telecommunications.
In 2025, Universal Music India re entered the film soundtrack business after a long gap by signing a strategic partnership with Maddock Films. Under the agreement, the company has already released music for mainstream Bollywood projects, including Sidharth Malhotra starrer Param Sundari and Thamma, which is part of Maddock Films’ horror comedy universe.
Sanyal said the company is focused on building long term strategic relationships rather than pursuing single film deals. He added that several major partnerships are expected to be announced soon, which will play an important role in shaping the future of Indian storytelling.
The developments follow Saregama India’s recent investment in Bhansali Productions, under which the production house will exclusively license all future film music to Saregama. This move is expected to further strengthen competition and growth in India’s music licensing space.
]]>https://theedgemedia.in/universal-music-india-paid-subscription-growth/feed0Salman Khan on Love Marriage and the Child Within a Portrait of Bollywood’s Eternal Bachelor
https://theedgemedia.in/salman-khan-marriage-thoughts-eternal-bachelor
https://theedgemedia.in/salman-khan-marriage-thoughts-eternal-bachelor#respondSat, 27 Dec 2025 02:35:21 +0000https://theedgemedia.in/?p=28139Those who have observed him closely often say that his ease with children comes from the fact that he still carries a childlike spirit himself.
]]>Salman Khan has long been one of the most discussed bachelors in the country, and the question of marriage has followed him through every phase of his career. Over the years, he has answered it with humour, logic, honesty, and sometimes quiet reflection, with each response revealing a different layer of his personality.
At times, he has addressed the topic playfully, pointing out that marriage first requires the right partner. At other moments, he has been practical, admitting that his demanding work schedule leaves little room for the time and patience a relationship deserves. He has openly said that even when he is home, he can be difficult to live with, a statement that reflects rare self-awareness.
There have also been occasions when his tone turned philosophical. He shared that while he would welcome marriage if it happened, he had also made peace with the idea that it might not. In one particularly introspective moment, he spoke about a relationship that once mattered deeply but eventually faded. He chose to let the person go, believing that holding on would only bring unhappiness and guilt. This acceptance marked a mature understanding of love and freedom.
When conversations shifted toward the idea of having children, Salman remained non-committal, responding with his trademark calm that such things happen when the time is right. His humour often softened these moments, turning potentially intrusive questions into laughter-filled exchanges.
Despite remaining unmarried, Salman Khan is known for his caring nature, especially toward those close to him. Colleagues and co-stars have often spoken about his support during difficult times. From being just a phone call away during the pandemic to offering comfort even after long gaps in contact, his presence has been steady and reassuring.
What truly sets him apart is his bond with children. Around kids, his tough exterior melts away. He becomes playful, patient, and deeply affectionate. Instances of him dancing with differently abled children or quietly comforting a restless child during an interview reveal a side rarely associated with his larger-than-life image. He remains unruffled by chaos, smiling through pulled hair, interruptions, and spontaneous affection.
Those who have observed him closely often say that his ease with children comes from the fact that he still carries a childlike spirit himself. Mischievous, curious, and impulsive, he navigates life with a blend of innocence and experience. This quality perhaps explains why many around him feel protected and at ease despite his intimidating stardom.
Salman Khan has also faced serious health challenges, living for years with severe pain caused by Trigeminal Neuralgia. Yet, even in the face of life-threatening surgery, he maintained his humour and resilience, emerging stronger and returning to the screen with renewed energy.
At sixty, Salman Khan continues to surprise. He remains single, yet emotionally rich, guarded yet generous, intense yet gentle. Whether marriage eventually finds him or not, his life reflects connection, compassion, and a deep understanding of human relationships, proving that commitment can exist in many forms beyond tradition.
]]>https://theedgemedia.in/salman-khan-marriage-thoughts-eternal-bachelor/feed0The Man Who Gave Salman Khan His First Break Before Stardom
https://theedgemedia.in/jk-bihari-salman-khan-first-film-biwi-ho-toh-aisi
https://theedgemedia.in/jk-bihari-salman-khan-first-film-biwi-ho-toh-aisi#respondTue, 23 Dec 2025 16:20:41 +0000https://theedgemedia.in/?p=28097Biwi Ho Toh Aisi went on to become a hit, performing especially well in smaller centres and enjoying long runs in several regions.
]]>Salman Khan became a household name after Maine Pyaar Kiya but his entry into films happened a year earlier with the 1988 release Biwi Ho Toh Aisi. The film marked the directorial debut of J K Bihari who unknowingly launched a future superstar purely on instinct and belief.
A Scene from the movie Biwi Ho To Aisi
Bihari, who had earlier assisted legendary filmmaker K Asif on Love And God and later worked closely with producer K C Bokadia, says Salman’s innocence and natural way of speaking stood out instantly. According to him, Sooraj Barjatya only needed to see that sincerity to take a leap of faith which eventually reshaped Hindi cinema.
Biwi Ho Toh Aisi starred Rekha in the lead role, a casting that many believed was impossible for a first time director. Bihari recalls approaching Rekha directly with the subject and explaining that it was the title role. Despite her usual reluctance to work with debut directors, Rekha agreed after learning about his association with K Asif. The film was completed and released within six months, defying industry doubts.
Farooque Shaikh and J K Bihari on the sets of Biwi Ho To Aisi.
Salman Khan was cast without an audition. Bihari remembers seeing a young man walking near his office with a file in hand and deciding instantly that he was right for the role of Rekha’s brother in law. At that time, he did not even know that Salman was Salim Khan’s son. There were no auditions or vanity vans in those days, and even senior actors worked with minimal comforts.
During the shoot, Salman was inexperienced but eager to learn. Rekha and Farooque Shaikh supported him on set, helping him grow into the role. While working on the film, Salman signed a three film contract with Bihari. When he was later offered Maine Pyaar Kiya, the makers asked him to obtain a no objection certificate. Recognising the opportunity, Bihari tore up the contract himself, encouraging Salman to move ahead.
Biwi Ho Toh Aisi went on to become a hit, performing especially well in smaller centres and enjoying long runs in several regions. Even today, audiences continue to enjoy the film on television.
Years later, Bihari met Salman again at Mehboob Studio where Salman was shooting with Aamir Khan. On seeing his first director, Salman immediately walked up to him, hugged him warmly and introduced him to Aamir Khan as the man who launched his career. The two spent hours reminiscing and discussing future possibilities.
Bihari later faced professional setbacks and health challenges which slowed his filmmaking journey. However, he remains hopeful of collaborating again, possibly to support his son’s directorial ambitions, bringing the story full circle.
From working in a studio canteen to assisting K Asif and eventually launching one of Bollywood’s biggest stars, J K Bihari’s journey reflects the unpredictable yet magical nature of the film industry, where instinct, timing and generosity can change lives forever.
]]>https://theedgemedia.in/jk-bihari-salman-khan-first-film-biwi-ho-toh-aisi/feed0Akshay Kumar cheers niece Simar Bhatia at special screening of war biopic Ikkis in Mumbai
https://theedgemedia.in/akshay-kumar-amitabh-bachchan-ikkis-special-screening-mumbai
https://theedgemedia.in/akshay-kumar-amitabh-bachchan-ikkis-special-screening-mumbai#respondTue, 23 Dec 2025 09:00:05 +0000https://theedgemedia.in/?p=28109The screening was also attended by the Bachchan family, led by Amitabh Bachchan.
]]>Ahead of its theatrical release, the makers of the Arun Khetarpal biopic Ikkis hosted a special screening in Mumbai for the cast and their family members. The private event saw several well known faces from the Hindi film industry gathering to support the film and its debut actors.
Actor Akshay Kumar arrived at the screening with his sister Alka Bhatia to show his support for his niece Simar Bhatia, who is making her debut with the film. Akshay appeared relaxed and cheerful as he posed for photographers, while the brother sister duo shared warm moments that reflected their close bond. Simar, Alka’s daughter, later joined them, marking a proud family moment.
Akshay also shared an emotional message for his niece, recalling watching her grow from a shy child into a confident young woman ready to face the camera. He wrote that life had come full circle for him and expressed pride in her determination, honesty and family values, encouraging her to shine as she begins her journey in films.
The screening was also attended by the Bachchan family, led by Amitabh Bachchan. After watching the film, Amitabh Bachchan penned a deeply personal note on his blog, describing the emotional experience of seeing his grandson on screen.
He reflected on memories from the time of his grandson’s birth to watching him grow up and eventually choose acting as a profession. Amitabh praised the performance for its maturity, honesty and restraint, noting that the portrayal of soldier Arun Khetarpal was powerful without being excessive. He also lauded the film’s writing, direction and overall presentation, calling the experience overwhelming and deeply moving.
Abhishek Bachchan and Navya Naveli Nanda were also present at the screening, lending their support to the family member and the film.
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest wartime gallantry award, for his bravery during the 1971 India Pakistan war. The film features an ensemble cast including the late Dharmendra, Suhasini Mulay, Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikander Kher and Rahul Dev.
Originally scheduled for a December 25 release, the film will now hit theatres on January 1.
At sixty, Salman Khan continues to surprise. He remains single, yet emotionally rich, guarded yet generous, intense yet gentle. Whether marriage eventually finds him or not, his life reflects connection, compassion, and a deep understanding of human relationships, proving that commitment can exist in many forms beyond tradition.
