Rama vs Kumbhkarna Battle Set for Varanasi; ‘Peddi’ Director Breaks Silence on Janhvi Casting Controversy

SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi is set to feature a major spectacle sequence from the Ramayana, with a 30-minute battle between Rama and Kumbhkarna reportedly forming one of the film’s centrepieces, according to the director’s father.

The ambitious set piece is expected to be one of the film’s biggest highlights. Meanwhile, Peddi director Buchi Babu Sana has addressed criticism over the alleged oversexualisation of Janhvi Kapoor in the film. He said the team originally envisioned a “playful romance” between Janhvi Kapoor and Ram Charan, but acknowledged that the final version did not turn out as intended.

In other developments, actor Shilpa Shinde has sparked controversy after claiming she had filed a false sexual harassment case against Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain producer Sanjay Kohli during a podcast appearance with Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa. Her remarks drew strong reactions, with the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) demanding action. Shilpa Shinde has since issued a clarification video presenting her side.

Actor Shalin Bhanot spoke about a difficult phase in his life following his separation from Dalljiet Kaur, recalling how the breakup left him emotionally shaken and forced him to return to his hometown, Jabalpur, to recover.

Separately, Imtiaz Ali’s upcoming film Main Vaapas Aaunga will mark a special moment at the Attari Border with a musical tribute event titled Jai Ho – A Tribute To The Bravehearts. The event will feature a live performance by composer A.R. Rahman on June 7 in honour of the Border Security Force.