27122025-LSTC-01.qxd 12/27/2025 12:11 AM Page 1 c m y b MAYHEM TO RE-RELEASE Kapil Sharma’s Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 is set for a theatrical re-release in January 2026. Despite limited screens during its initial run, the comedy sequel delighted audiences with its situational humour and light-hearted chaos. Fans can once again enjoy Kapil juggling four marriages in this entertainer. TRIBUNE Office-quake Life Dhurandhar crossed ~1,000 cr at the worldwide box office in 21 days, driven by a strong domestic and overseas run. On Christmas Day, it earned ~28.60 cr net in India, taking its total in India to ~668.80 cr. CHANDIGARH | SATURDAY | 27 DECEMBER 2025 Voice between worlds From breakout performances to bold choices, a defining year for newcomers Yathesht Pratiraj Phool I F there’s one thing 2025 quietly proved, it’s this: Bollywood debuts aren’t what they used to be. Gone are the days when a big surname and a glossy launch were enough to seal the deal. This year, newcomers — many of them star kids, yes — had to hold attention, not just grab it. And surprisingly, several did. AHAAN PANDEY When romance still works Romantic heroes aren’t extinct—Ahaan Pandey proved that with Saiyaara. There’s something about his screen presence that feels approachable. Not polished to perfection, but warm, earnest, and emotionally open. Younger viewers, especially, latched on fast. The Class of 2025 Palestinian actor and director Mohammad Bakri, whose career spanned decades across Arab and international cinema, has died aged 72. He passed away on December 24 in Israel after suffering from heart issues. Bakri rose to international prominence with Beyond the Walls (1984), a prison drama that earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. — ANI It’s a wrap for Daayra Filming has wrapped on Daayra, the upcoming investigative crime thriller directed by acclaimed filmmaker Meghna Gulzar and starring Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran. Jointly produced by Junglee Pictures and Pen Studios, the film has now moved into post-production and is slated for a theatrical release in 2026. Described as a gripping investigative drama, Daayra examines how a single diabolical act can set off equal and opposing reactions, splintering opinions across society. The ANEET PADDA The quiet surprise While Saiyaara introduced a heartthrob, it also gave us Aneet Padda, arguably the film’s emotional anchor. She didn’t arrive with massive hype or constant headlines, yet her performance lingered. That’s rare. Her acting felt lived-in — no extra frills, no dramatic exaggeration. Sometimes, she simply reacted, listened, paused. Those pauses mattered. In a debut year filled with noise, Aneet stood out by keeping things grounded. Honestly, that restraint might become her biggest strength. RASHA THADANI Confidence, camera, action film avoids easy conclusions, instead prompting reflection and debate through morally complex situations that linger beyond the narrative. Gulzar brings her trademark sensitivity and narrative precision to the project, shaping a story designed to be both intellectually engaging and emotionally resonant. The film is anchored by nuanced performances from Kapoor Khan and Sukumaran, supported by a strong ensemble cast that adds depth and gravitas to its layered world. Since 2000 Kasauli Foods Then came Rasha Thadani — and she came in loud. Her dance number Uui Amma from Azaad exploded online. But beyond the moves and glamour, there was confidence. The kind that says, “I know the camera’s watching and I’m fine with that.” Her expressive style and fearless energy made her debut hard to ignore. Sure, the buzz started with the dance, but it stayed because she looked comfortable owning the frame. That comfort usually takes years. Rasha seemed to find it early. Mohali EA EAT HEALTHY STAY HEALTHY WE USE ONLY ............. GRADE-1 ............. The Most Preferred Quality for all Products Hygenic Meat Shop of Tri-city p SHANAYA KAPOOR Substance over safety You know what? Shanaya Kapoor didn’t take the obvious route. Instead of a breezy, forgettable debut, she stepped into Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan with a role that demanded emotional control and quiet intensity. Her portrayal of Saba wasn’t loud or flashy — it was measured, almost restrained. And that worked. Critics noticed her screen presence and sincerity, especially in scenes that relied more on silence than dialogue. It felt like she trusted the material, and the audience trusted her back. Add to that the buzz around the teaser of her upcoming thriller Tu Ya Main and it’s clear Shanaya’s playing a long game. Slow build, steady choices, real promise. OUR PRODUCTS • Special Broiler • Special Leg & Chest • Drum Sticks • Wings • Boneless Chicken • Mutton Barra • Fish: Desi Singara & Desi Sole VEER PAHARIYA Less noise, more control Organic approach felt refreshing, like a slow-burning playlist you return to unexpectedly. IBRAHIM ALI KHAN: The closely watched first step Few debuts came with as much anticipation as Ibrahim Ali Khan’s. With Nadaaniyan and Sarzameen, expectations were high, reactions mixed, con- versations endless. What worked? His ease in front of the camera. What didn’t always land? The uneven material. But here’s the thing — 2025 felt less like a verdict and more like a first chapter. ARYAN KHAN Changing the script And then there’s Aryan Khan, who didn’t act at all. Instead, The Bads of Bollywood showcased his dark humour, sharp writing and a clear creative voice. By choosing storytelling over stardom, he quietly redefined what a “debut” can mean. No red-carpet heroics. Just content that sparked discussion. (With inputs from Dharam Pal) Eggs also AVAILABLE HILL MUTTON AVAILABL LE Visit us for: Fresh & Hygienic Meat and Poultry Products BOOTH 230, PHASE-7, MOHALI PH : 0172-5090244, 5099244 BEWARE OF COPIER : c m y b Unmatched Quality of *T & C Apply While many debutants leaned into visibility, Veer Pahariya went the other way. His entry via Sky Force was disciplined, controlled, almost understated. Playing an Indian Air Force officer isn’t easy — you can’t fake authority or physicality. Veer didn’t try to overshadow the film. He blended into it. And strangely enough, that made people notice. In a year full of high-energy debuts, his grounded