Rani Mukerji to receive Honorary Doctor of Letters from La Trobe University at IFFM 2026

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne is excited to share that famous actor and helper Rani Mukerji will be given a special honor called the Honorary Doctor of Letters by La Trobe University during the 2026 festival.

The special honor will happen on August 14, 2026, at Federation Square in Melbourne as part of the festival.

This recognition is because of Rani Mukerji’s amazing work in Indian movies and her long-time help for women, kids, and other groups who are not well-off.

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne will take place from August 13 to 23, 2026.

Over time, it has become one of the top events for celebrating Indian cinema around the world.The festival brings together top people from the Indian film industry and keeps the culture between India and Australia strong while showing stories and artists that have made a big difference to people everywhere.

Rani Mukerji has been in the business for almost thirty years and is still one of the most respected and successful actors in India.

She has acted in many powerful movies like Black, No One Killed Jessica, Hichki, the Mardaani series, and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway.Her films often talk about women's rights, fairness, helping people with disabilities, and bringing about change in society.

Outside of acting, Rani has been helping with causes that support children’s health, education, and community projects, showing her strong belief in making a real difference.

Rani Mukerji said she is very grateful to get this Honorary Doctor of Letters from La Trobe University.

She said that movies have been a big part of her life and she always thought that storytelling can make people feel more connected, start important talks, and bring about good changes.Receiving this honor during the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, which has always been a big stage for Indian movies, makes it even more meaningful.She thanked La Trobe University and the festival for this special recognition.She said she has had many inspiring movies that let her tell the stories of people who show strength, passion, and courage in the face of difficulties.She feels that human stories have always moved her and that cinema has given her many different lives.She dedicated this honor from Australia and the festival to her country India and to everyone who has supported her and helped her become an actor and live a full life.

John Brumby AO, Chancellor of La Trobe University, said that Rani Mukerji's work goes beyond entertainment and has started important conversations about fairness, equality, and inclusion.

Her lasting impact on movies and her constant support for good causes make her the perfect person to receive this honorary doctorate.The university is happy to recognize her achievements and to welcome her into the La Trobe University family.

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, Director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, said that the festival always honors artists who have shaped Indian cinema and touched people around the world.

Rani Mukerji is one of the best actors of her time, whose performances have always combined excellent acting with powerful stories.The festival is honored that this recognition from La Trobe University will take place during IFFM.It’s a proud moment for the festival and for all those who have admired Rani’s important contributions to Indian cinema over the years.

The 2026 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne will be another special edition celebrating the best of Indian cinema through movie showings, premieres, talks, and special events, bringing together filmmakers, artists, and audiences from all over the world.

Shehnaaz Gill and Jai Randhawa’s Ishqnama set for July 24 release; trailer out now

The trailer for Ishqnama, featuring Shehnaaz Gill and Jai Randhawa, has now been released, giving people their first look at a romance set in the past, inspired by a real-life story.Directed by Arvvindr S.Khaira, the Punjabi movie takes viewers back to a touching love story that happened across the India-Pakistan border.The film stars Jai Randhawa, Shehnaaz Gill, and Saurabh Sachdeva and will be shown in India, Canada, and the UK on July 24, 2026.

Ishqnama is based on the well-known book Hind Pak Bordernama, which is about the true story of Nimma and Naseema.

The film is set between 1981 and 1988 along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab.It tells the story of Nimma, a Sikh poet from Indian Punjab, and Naseema, a Muslim woman from Pakistani Punjab, whose love story takes place against the long-lasting effects of Partition.

What makes the film special is that Nimma is still alive and lives in India, while Naseema is thought to have moved to England.

People are trying to find her, which adds a real-life element to the story, making it more than just a love story—it's also about living history.

The trailer shows beautiful visuals, moving music, and powerful emotional scenes, making Ishqnama look like a grand romantic drama where love overcomes borders, religion, and fate.

Arvvindr S.Khaira, who is making his directorial debut after directing music videos for many years, said, "For ten years, I poured the deep feelings of heartbreak into four-minute songs, but some stories can’t be contained in a song.They need a bigger picture.Ishqnama is that story.It's the raw truth of Nimma and Naseema, whose love changed history.This trailer is a glimpse of our work, and we are honored to share it with you."

Shehnaaz Gill shared her thoughts on playing Naseema, saying, "As an actor, playing Naseema is like a new beginning.

The greatest gift in an artist's life is getting to deal with something that challenges them; I'm so grateful I could do that with Ishqnama.It took me out of my comfort zone.This is a big, old-school romance that shows love as a revolution.It’s a true story of real lovers who fought for each other with everything they had.With the release of this trailer, I feel like I'm sharing a part of my own artistic rebirth.I dedicate this to anyone who has ever been in love."

Jai Randhawa also talked about showing the trailer in Punjab, saying, "There couldn’t have been a more meaningful place to show the Ishqnama trailer than Punjab.

This land has shaped me and given me an identity I will always be thankful for.The love I’ve received here over the years is beyond words.Being here with Shehnaaz and Arvvindr, who have also been loved so much, made this launch very special.The story of this film is about more than love—it explores sacrifice, longing, destiny, and the choices we make.In many ways, bringing Nimma to life is my way of thanking the audience that has supported me through every stage of my journey.Whatever I am today is because of their faith and love.I hope this first look of Ishqnama makes them proud."

Ishqnama, directed by Arvvindr S.

Khaira and produced by Sourabh Rana, is a period romance based on the book Hind Pak Bordernama.The film also stars Shehnaaz Gill, Jai Randhawa, and Saurabh Sachdeva, along with an ensemble cast.The music is composed by B Praak with lyrics by Jaani.The film is set for a wide theatrical release in India, Canada, and the UK on July 24, 2026.

Anjali Anand reacts to fat-shaming jokes in Dhamaal 4: “I’m biting a bitter pill to run my house”

Actor Anjali Anand talked about the criticism she received for her role in Dhamaal 4.She explained that she can't just say no to every project because she needs to keep working to build her career.She said she's taking on the opportunities that come her way.

Anjali shared her thoughts on the jokes about her body in Dhamaal 4.

She said, "I'm biting a bitter pill to run my house." She talked about how people often make fun of others' appearances, and she didn't think it was fair.

This discussion started when a content creator shared a clip from an old interview.

In that interview, Anjali said that if someone called her fat, she would call them ugly.She explained that such comments say more about the person making them than the one being called.

The content creator then questioned why Anjali chose to be in Dhamaal 4, especially since her character was constantly made fun of for her size, even though she supports body positivity.

In response, Anjali posted a long message about the reality of working in the film industry.

She wrote, "Yes my love.Because the society still is ugly.Go see comments on my page and you'll get it.Nobody is going to write me a part until I put myself out there and show what I can do with my talent so yes, I'm biting a bitter pill to run my house and put food on my table and taking up projects that I'm getting."

She also said that unlike many big-name actors, she doesn't have the choice of being selective.

"I do not have an option to choose what I want to do and what not.There aren't directors lining up for me to give me parts."

She listed some of her projects and said she wants to make the most of every chance.

She said, "My first project, UNTAG, then Dhhai Kilo Prem, then Rocky Rani and then this.If they want to cast a fat girl, honey I'll be the best damn fat girl they've ever seen because I'm here for the long run."

Anjali admitted that changing how people see body image in the industry will take time.

But she said she's willing to wait for change."I have to wait it out until the whole climate changes.It's a revolution and it will take time and I have the balls to wait it out until then."

She also answered people who wondered if taking on such roles goes against her beliefs.

She compared actors to the characters they play."A serial killer playing a part in a film does not mean he supports killing people.Don't ridicule me to my size.See what I can do with my talent and where I have reached with it.Abhi bahot kuch karna baaki hai.Jai Mata Di lets rock," she concluded.

Anjali has talked about facing judgment for her weight and the struggles of working in the entertainment industry.

She recently shared that some casting decisions, like for Bell Bottom, were influenced by her size.But in recent years, she has gained praise for her performances in movies like Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.

Post-Alpha debacle, what is the future of YRF Spy Universe? Trade experts give their suggestions, “Reboot the series; make Pathaan 2, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Alia Bhatt, Sharvari; avoid bikini scenes”

Three years ago, the YRF Spy Universe was one of the most popular movie groups in Indian cinema.But the failure of War 2 in 2025 made things harder for the series.The movie Alpha also didn’t do well, which made people wonder if the franchise still has a future.Even with this uncertainty, there's hope that YRF will make Pathaan 2, featuring Shah Rukh Khan.We talked to people who know a lot about the film industry to learn what might happen next for the Spy Universe and how it can get back on track.

Trade expert Taran Adarsh said, "The Spy Universe needs a fresh start." But he doesn’t think the series is over.

He said, “Never say never.There will be stops along the way.That doesn’t mean we stop moving forward.”  

He added, "Look at past Spy Universe movies like Ek Tha Tiger, Tiger Zinda Hai, and Pathaan.

These were fun and exciting.Now, the audience expects something new.Also, Dhurandhar changed how we view spy thrillers, especially with its take on Pakistan."  

Trade analyst Atul Mohan said, "People love action movies.

But all the Spy Universe films are pretty similar.The country is in danger, the villain hides his true colors, and sometimes he's on the side of the hero."  

He continued, "Like Dhurandhar, they need to reinvent themselves.

If they don't want to show a Pakistan villain, they can use someone from another country.The story and how it's made should be different from the other films in the series."  

He also mentioned, "In Alpha, there was a scene with Alia Bhatt and Sharvari in bikinis.

That should be avoided.The movie should feel real."  

Vishek Chauhan, owner of a cinema in Bihar, said, "They should take a break for 2 to 3 years.

Let this genre rest on TV and OTT platforms.Then, come back with Pathaan 2.Bring new storylines and maybe unite all the characters in one big movie.That would mean having Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Alia Bhatt, and Sharvari.Marvel did something similar with Avengers: Doomsday.They used to make many films a year but now are focusing on one big movie."  

He said, "Theatrical movies need to be ahead of TV.

You can't expect people to love a movie just because it's the same as what they watch on TV."  

Girish Johar, a producer and film analyst, noted, "Alpha took the story in a new direction for the franchise.

Aditya Chopra and the YRF team have opened up the universe.In the end, Anil Kapoor's character asks Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, "Why don't you join Tiger, Pathaan, and Kabir?" Imagine all these five characters coming together.Or even if Shah Rukh and Alia or Salman and Alia team up, it will create excitement just from the announcement.So, even if people say bad things, Alpha is a positive step for the YRF Spy Universe."

Dhamaal 4 Box Office: Has a GOOD HOLD on Monday, crosses Rs. 70 crores in 4 days

Dhamaal 4 is doing really well and is becoming a big hit.On Monday, it was expected to do good, and that's exactly what happened with strong audience interest.The movie earned Rs.8.18 crores, which is a small drop compared to the Rs.13.72 crores it made on Friday.This shows that the movie is being accepted by people beyond just the weekend crowd.

At one point, there was hope that the movie might reach even higher numbers.

The big jump on Saturday and continued growth on Sunday made that seem possible.However, even though it didn't reach Rs.10 crores, it has done well enough to reach where it is now, and the collections will likely stay stable from here.

The movie did not choose to offer the Blockbuster Tuesday deal, so ticket prices are regular.

This means there won't be a big rush on Tuesday like there usually is with such offers, but it also helps keep the drop on Wednesday in check since the weekday collections will be more steady.

Since this is a family movie, you can expect the collections to remain steady until Friday.

Then, there should be a bigger rise on Saturday and Sunday.This will balance things out and help the movie reach its target of Rs.150 crores overall.It is already halfway there with Rs.72.53 crores and is expected to close the first week at around Rs.93-94 crores.

Did Dhurandhar affect Alpha’s box office outcome? Trade experts share their views: “You can’t escape comparison with Dhurandhar. It’ll remain in front of you always”

Alpha did not do well at the box office, and some people think it was because audience tastes changed after the movie Dhurandhar.We talked to trade experts about this idea.

Trade veteran Taran Adarsh said, "After Dhurandhar, the way people look at spy thrillers, especially those with a Pakistan angle, has changed completely.

People's thinking has shifted, and they have made that clear."

Trade analyst Atul Mohan said, "There is some negative talk about the Spy Universe.

Some netizens are trying to bring it down.They say it's too soft on Pakistan and compare it with Dhurandhar.But the film was made long before Dhurandhar.It was not fair to compare them.The film was delayed because of certain reasons, and the teaser didn't get the right reaction."

At the same time, he said, "You can't avoid comparing it with Dhurandhar.

It will always be the first thing people think of when talking about the Spy Universe.A film like Dhurandhar comes once in a lifetime.It changes how stories are told and it needs to be respected.It set a new standard."

Meanwhile, Vishek Chauhan, owner of Roopbani Cinema in Purnia, Bihar, completely disagreed with this belief, "This is a narrow view spread online by people who don't understand the business.

Didn't people come in large numbers to watch Alpha over the weekend?Many were expecting an opening of Rs.4 crores; it ended up making close to Rs.10 crores on the first day.Even with bad reports, people still went to see it.The audience hasn't vowed to only watch films like Dhurandhar.Dhurandhar is done, and it's not on their minds anymore.They want something that excites them."

He continued, "Theatrical audience is like a hungry animal looking for something new.

It will go for anything that catches its interest, and it has a big appetite.The key is to give them something exciting.They think, 'I haven't had this in a long time.' If you keep feeding them the same thing, they'll get bored.Give them something new every day, and everything will be fine.Repetition harms the theatrical business."

Girish Johar, a producer and well-known film business analyst, agreed, "Clearly, social media trolling hasn't affected the film, as shown by the weekend numbers.

The average person doesn't care.If they like a film, they'll go see it."

Dhamaal 4 Box Office: Film edges Welcome To The Jungle; emerges as 3rd highest opening weekend grosser of 2026

Dhamaal 4 has made another big achievement by becoming the third highest-grossing film of the opening weekend in 2026.After making Rs.64.35 crores in the first three days, the comedy movie has beaten Welcome To The Jungle, which made Rs.63.47 crores, and now holds the No.3 position among the biggest opening weekends of the year.

The latest movie in the Dhamaal series continues to do well, drawing people to the theaters with its mix of funny moments, group acting, and family-friendly fun.

Although the gap between Dhamaal 4 and Welcome To The Jungle is only a little over Rs.1.53 crores, it's enough for Dhamaal 4 to be in the top three in a very competitive year for box office numbers.

Only two films have done better than Dhamaal 4 in 2026.

At the top is Dhurandhar The Revenge, which made a huge Rs.443 crores on its opening weekend and is far ahead of others.The film starring Ranveer Singh has set a high standard that no other movie has reached this year.In second place is Border 2, which opened with Rs.129.89 crores, showing how big-budget films are dominating the box office.

Behind Dhamaal 4 is Welcome To The Jungle with Rs.

63.47 crores, followed by Bhooth Bangla, which made Rs.54.50 crores on its opening weekend.Cocktail 2 comes in last with Rs.46.76 crores, proving that audiences are still supporting different types of movies.

Dhamaal 4's success is especially important because it beat another major comedy, Welcome To The Jungle, and became the top comedy film among the top opening weekends of the year.

The film also shows that the Dhamaal franchise is still popular, even after several movies, and continues to attract families.

Now that Dhamaal 4 is in the top three opening weekends of 2026, the attention is shifting to its performance on weekdays.

If it can keep its good momentum in the coming days, it has a good chance of becoming one of the biggest hits of the year and adding another success to Bollywood's successful comedy franchise.

Top 5 Highest Opening Weekend Grossers of 2026:  

Dhurandhar The Revenge - Rs.

443 cr  

Border 2 - Rs.

129.89 cr  

Dhamaal 4 - Rs.

64.35 cr  

Welcome To The Jungle - Rs.

63.47 cr  

Bhooth Bangla - Rs.

54.50 cr  

Cocktail 2 - Rs.

46.76 cr