Tiger
Shehnaaz fights for her worth
Actor Shehnaaz Gill has candidly spoken about the realities of navigating the entertainment industry, revealing that she once worked on projects without charging a fee, only to realise that the gesture did not earn her the respect she had hoped for. The actress said remuneration has now become a nonnegotiable factor before signing a film, adding that she often has to fight for the fee she believes she deserves. In a recent interview, Shehnaaz reflected on her career journey and explained why financial compensation now plays a key role in choosing projects. “Money is very important. It gives you respect. When I ask for what I deserve today, I sometimes get that, sometimes I don’t and sometimes it’s less than what I quote for myself. But everyone should fight for one’s own right. I work really hard and I’ve been through a lot to reach the place that I’m in today,” said Shehnaaz, whose recent release is Ishqnama. Recalling her early years, she said, “There was a time when I did a lot of work for free. But I didn’t get any respect for it. I compromise only when the film is really good and the script is meaningful. But I’ve never done a project just for money by compromising on the quality of my work.”
Tiger to make professional football debut
Tiger Shroff may soon be adding another feather to his cap. The actor, who has earned a reputation for his martial arts skills, athleticism, and action-packed performances on screen, is now reportedly stepping into the world of professional football. According to recent reports, the Baaghi star is expected to represent Mumbay FC in the prestigious 135th edition of the Durand Cup.“If the reports are accurate, Tiger has been training extensively with Mumbay FC, a football club owned by businessman Ali Ahmed. The actor is said to have been attending regular practice sessions with the squad and has impressed the coaching staff with his commitment and sporting abilities. Sources further suggest that his dedication could pave the way for him to become a permanent member of the team in the future.“The reports also claim that Tiger and the Mumbay FC squad are scheduled to travel to Shillong July 30 ahead of the upcoming Durand Cup fixtures. While an official confirmation from either the actor or the club is still awaited, the news has already generated considerable excitement among fans, many of whom are eager to see him compete on the football field.“Known for maintaining an exceptionally disciplined fitness routine, Tiger has often showcased his love for sports and physical training through social media.
Mallika bats for authenticity
Actor Mallika Sherawat says she has consciously chosen to age naturally, revealing that she has never undergone Botox, fillers or cosmetic enhancements despite growing pressure in the entertainment industry to maintain a youthful appearance. She believes authenticity and discipline are far more valuable than chasing unrealistic beauty standards. “I have chosen to remain natural. I have not relied on any plastic surgeon. I like the face that I have,” Mallika says, adding that there is no shortcut to genuine beauty. She also questions the growing trend of women altering their appearances, saying she does not aspire to have an “Instagram face” but instead wants to live a life worth sharing on social media. Sharing her wellness routine, the actor credits a healthy lifestyle for her appearance. She follows a disciplined regimen that includes avoiding smoking and alcohol, sleeping early, practising yoga and pranayama, and steering clear of late nights. “I don’t want to look 25 forever. I simply want to be the healthiest and happiest version of myself at every age,” she says. Mallika believes ageing gracefully is about embracing oneself with confidence rather than trying to erase the signs of time through cosmetic procedures or societal expectations.
Aditi achieves international milestone
Aditi Rao Hydari has achieved another international milestone with her selection for the 2027 Pirelli Calendar, becoming the only Bollywood actor to feature in the iconic publication’s Indiathemed edition. Widered regarded as one of the most prestigious fashion calendars in the world, the annual project has historically featured celebrated actors, artists, musicians and supermodels from across the globe. The 2027 edition marks a significant first for the publication, as it has been photographed entirely in India and is dedicated exclusively to the country’s diverse identities, cultures and stories. Titled India, Beyond a Single Gaze, the calendar seeks to present a multidimensional portrait of India through the perspectives of accomplished women representing different walks of life. Hydari joins an accomplished line-up that includes Freida Pinto, Padma Lakshmi, Anoushka Shankar, Rupi Kaur, Lakshmi Menon, Bhavitha Mandava and Avantika Vandanapu, among others. Her inclusion makes her the sole representative from mainstream Bollywood in this landmark edition of the calendar. The project was originally conceived by legendary photographer Raghu Rai, who had been commissioned to photograph the calendar before his passing earlier this year. Following his demise, his daughter, photographer Avani Rai, stepped in to continue the assignment and bring his vision to life Joining the project is internationally acclaimed Norwegian fashion photographer Sølve Sundsbø, who photographed the featured women, creating a visual dialogue between India’s heritage and its modern identity.
Umrao Jaan has never left me: Rekha
Veteran diva Rekha will be seen as a guest of honour at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026 and her 1981 film Umrao Jaan will be screened at the event. The icon says her character has never left her and that she lives in her memories and silence. Speaking on this, Rekha said in a statement: “Umrao Jaan has never left me. She lives in my memories, in my silences, and in the hearts of those who have embraced her with a lot of love over the years. To revisit that journey and see the film being celebrated on a global stage is both humbling and moving.” Umrao Jaan is a period musical drama film directed by Muzaffar Ali and starring Rekha as the title character. Based on Mirza Hadi Ruswa’s 1899 Urdu novel Umrao Jaan Ada, the film tells the story of a Lucknow tawaif and poet, and her rise to fame. The film has been feted with several honours. At 29th National Film Awards, it won 4 awards, including Best Actress. The festival will also honour Rekha with the prestigious Excellence in Cinema Award, celebrating her unparalleled body of work, definitive performances, and extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema.