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The Communiqué News

Imtiaz Ali Unveils Friendship Day Film 'Side Heroes' with Star Cast

Updated: Aug 4

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 3: Renowned director Imtiaz Ali has revealed his newest project, aligning with the celebration of Friendship Day.


Imtiaz Ali Unveils Friendship Day Film 'Side Heroes' with Star Cast

Varun Sharma, Aparshakti Khurana, Abhishek Banerjee


In an official Instagram post, Mahaveer Jain Films released a video featuring the director alongside the lead cast, which includes the energetic Abhishek Banerjee, Aparshakti Khurana, and Varun Sharma. This trio is renowned for their hilarious comedic performances in the 'Stree' and 'Fukrey' series. In the video, Imtiaz Ali seems to be discussing plans for a potential film titled 'Side Heroes' with the actors, showcasing a surprising Bhojpuri accent while speaking to a friend on the phone.

Later in the video, the filmmaker hints at a story about lifelong friends, infused with humor and emotions. "It's time to celebrate friendship! To all the friends on Friendship Day," the creators mentioned in the caption. The film, directed by Ssanjay Tripathy, is penned by Siddharth Sen and Pankaj Matta. Imtiaz Ali will produce the movie alongside Mahaveer Jain, Reeyan M Shah, and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. Providing an update on the project, Varun Sharma expressed his excitement about collaborating with a dream team on a film that he described as "made by friends and for friends."

A team filled with heart and love. With a big smile and immense gratitude, I'm thrilled to be working with this incredible dream team. A film created by friends, for friends everywhere. There's nothing greater than the emotion of friendship. I'm eagerly anticipating the magic to unfold and for the world to witness this wonderfully beautiful script. See you on Friendship Day 2026 in cinemas with "Side Heroes," he wrote on Instagram. Varun also posted behind-the-scenes pictures from the team meeting, capturing everyone in high spirits.

"Side Heroes" is scheduled to begin production this year and is set to be released in theaters on Friendship Day 2026.




Maharani (2025): A Heartfelt Gujarati Cinematic Gem

Maharani is a refreshing Gujarati film that brings warmth, humor, and emotion in equal measure.


Swati Bhat

Maharani A Heartfelt Gujarati Cinematic Gem

Directed by Viral Shah, the story follows Manasi (played by Manasi Parekh), a working mother struggling to balance her home and career. When she hires Rani (Shraddha Dangar), an outspoken and quirky maid, an unlikely but touching friendship begins to form.

What starts as a typical “maid hunt” soon evolves into something deeper. The film explores themes of emotional labor, gender roles, and how women support each other in ways often unseen. Both leads deliver honest, heartfelt performances. Parekh’s portrayal of a modern woman feels authentic, while Dangar’s natural comic timing and energy add spark to every scene. Their chemistry is the backbone of the film.

Supporting actors like Ojas Rawal and Sanjay Goradia bring lightness without overshadowing the main narrative. The writing by Raam Mori and Hardik Sangani keeps things relatable, though a few subplots could’ve been more fleshed out.

Parth Bharat Thakkar’s music adds subtle emotional depth, enhancing the film’s grounded tone. Maharani isn’t flashy, but it’s sincere, entertaining, and deeply relatable—especially for urban families.





ISKCON has booked a cinema hall to screen 'Mahavatar Narsimha' for devotees, which will convey a powerful message.

Mumbai [India], July 29: Ashwin Kumar's recent mythological animated film, 'Mahavatar Narsimha', has become an unexpected hit, captivating audiences nationwide.

Swati Bhat

Poster of Narsimha

Produced by Hombale Films, 'Mahavatar Narsimha' centers on Lord Narasimha, the half-man, half-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The film has garnered a positive response and performed well at the box office, earning praise from ISKCON. ISKCON Siliguri has reserved an entire cinema for devotees to watch the movie. "We have reserved the entire cinema here for our devotees. Tomorrow, more devotees will come to see the film. Many devotees have gathered for the screening. It conveys a powerful message to people...This film promotes Indian culture and makes it easier for people to understand our philosophy," said Nam Krishna Das to TC, the spokesperson for ISKCON Siliguri.

Earlier, the organization shared on their official social media account that 'Mahavatar Narsimha' serves as a "testimony to the dedication of numerous ISKCON members." They elaborated that these members have worked diligently to help the younger generation engage with spiritual content and understand the culture.

Housefull show of Narimha

"Audiences across the country have praised the storyline, the VFX and the overall presentation. Watch it with your family and friends and feel the presence of Lord Narasimha!" the post further added. Written and directed by Ashwin Kumar, 'Mahavatar Narsimha' has connected with viewers from all age groups, with positive responses pouring across social media platforms. The makers have also shared updates on the film's performance, revealing that it became the #1 movie at the Indian box office on Monday, July 28.

According to trade analysts of Bollywood, the animation film's Hindi version has collected Rs 14.70 crore within three days of release, thus bringing another addition to Hombale Films' hit slate.





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