26022026-LSTL-01.qxd 2/25/2026 7:23 PM Page 1 c m y b Akshay Kumar’s upcoming film Bhooth Bangla has generated significant buzz, as it marks his reunion with filmmaker Priyadarshan after a gap of 14 years. Amid rising anticipation among fans, the makers on Tuesday unveiled the teaser of the film’s first song, Ram Ji Aake Bhala Karenge. TRIBUNE Tough phase Life Bella Hadid talked about the emotional toll of stepping away from work while undergoing treatment for Lyme disease, revealing that she felt disposable in the fashion industry after having to decline assignments. LUDHIANA | THURSDAY | 26 FEBRUARY 2026 Mardaani 4 would happen only if we have a good story to tell, says director Abhiraj Minawala NonikaSingh the man E behind supercop Shivani Roy I do not take censure in negative light. Critics are not writing for the heck of it and I am willing to draw a lesson from their opinion. HOT shimla Meet NTERING an established universe may seem like a cakewalk but comes with its own set of challenges. Abhiraj Minawala, director of hard-hitting Mardaani 3, understood the responsibility of carrying forward a franchise only too well. The task he knew was doubly onerous since Mardaani and its lead character of supercop Shivani Shivaji Roy had been created by a stalwart, late director Pradeep Sarkar. But when he read the story of Mardaani 3, he connected to it as father of a young daughter and completely related to fears which human trafficking evokes. While the intense film has given audiences many goosebump moments, interestingly he recalls two scenes when despite being the maker himself, Abhiraj felt more than a shiver down his spine. One concerns the antagonist Amma’s entry scene where she is carrying a dead child in her bag and steps out of a white Mercedes. Then in another key scene not just he but the entire crew on the set stood transfixed. He shares, “It was when Rani ma’am (Mukerji) did her confrontation scene with tears flowing of free will. If you see the film again just watch how she did the entire emotive scene in one take.” He is still trying to figure out how to direct a powerhouse performer like Rani. No, he was neither intimidated by the realisation that she has lived the character in two films before he came on board, nor by the fact that she is YRF boss Aditya Chopra’s wife. He asserts, “She is a thorough professional and I am awed by her passion for acting which has not diminished one bit. At best, I could have only harnessed her talent and used her experience.” Anyway, it’s from directors like Yash Chopra whom he assisted in Jab Tak Hai Jaan that he learnt the all important lesson of allowing actors the space to be themselves. He recalls, “Yash ji would never act it out for them. Just tell them the mood of the scene and thereafter they had the freedom to enact as they wished.” Of course, during prep, he and his lead actress did discuss how Shivani Shivaji Roy, Rani’s character, was going to be more mature and emotional in the third outing. Why do we need sequels and threequels in the first place is explained by him with rationale. He says, “For me, it’s more about franchise model, the need to carry on the love that the character has received.” But that does not mean a new outing WHAT’S is ‘a day in the life of Shivani Shivaji…’ Rather he insists, “Mardaani 4 would happen only if we have a good story to tell.” Associated with YRF known for big-budget , films, stars and superstars for him are muchneeded value-addition. He says, “First of all, they have not become superstars overnight. Fans have reposed faith in their talent for years and it’s my job to reinforce their trust in their icons.” Audiences, he observes, are smart enough to know the difference between his film and Delhi Crime Season 3 which, too, was about trafficking. Though his directorial dealt with a relevant issue of how young children are picked up for clinical trials, cinema for him is not about messaging. “It’s not a platform to air your views but means to entertain viewers, only caveat is there shouldn’t be any unnecessary negativity around it,” he adds. Critical response to his film might not have been near unanimous but he is not peeved by negative reviews. He says, “I do not take censure in negative light. Critics are not writing for the heck of it and I am willing to draw a lesson from their opinion and use it in my next.” So, what next… is met with, “Well, my loyalties are with YRF and we are working on several subjects. More recently, I have been assigned the task of being an associate for action, a role created by Adi sir.” Between action and emotion, he avers, “Without emotion no action howsoever well mounted and stupendous can work.” And if Shivani Shivaji Roy represents compassion for him, Mardaani 3 is ‘a voice for justice.’ His own voice is one of reason, clarity and control. No wonder, instead of hyperboles, logic reigns in his conversation with us. eat BREWS AND BOOKS C AFE in Shimla, which is located at the iconic Mall Road, has emerged as the favourite spot for bibliophiles, who like to read their favourite books while enjoying delicious snacks and beverages. Cafe offers a variety of cuisines, including North Indian and Continental along with hot and cold beverages. Along with this, the cafe offers a variety of books, especially authored by writers from Himachal Pradesh, giving the people a unique experience. Owned by renowned Vandana Bhagra, author and journalist, the cafe also offers membership through which people can borrow a book and can also avail a special discount on foods and beverages. jalandhar BHOOTH BANGLA SONG RELEASED play CHAT UP PROMOTE MAA BOLI PRIDE AND PREJUDICE TEASER OUT T O promote Punjabi language, Maa Boli Punjabi March is being taken out in Jalandhar on February 26, starting at 10:30 am. Prominent singers, including Mankirat Aulakh, Gurlez Akhtar, Kulwinder Kailey, Ali Brothers and Dalwinder Dyalpuri, will be a part of the march through the city from Lyallpur Khalsa School, Nakodar Road, to Desh Bhagat Yadgar Hall, said Deepak Bali, Advisor, Punjab Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department, and AAP general secretary. Netflix has released the first teaser for its highly anticipated series adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, offering viewers a glimpse of Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet and Jack Lowden as Mr Darcy. The sixepisode series, adapted by author Dolly Alderton, is set to premiere this fall. love KATRINA KAIF SPOTTED MOVIE MEMORABILIA ON OFFER The harpoon gun used in Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster Jaws and a light-up C-3PO head from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back are among more than 1,550 items of film and television memorabilia that could raise around $9 million at auction. The Propstore Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction runs from March 25 to 27 in Los Angeles and also includes items from classics such as The Terminator and Gladiator. A TRUNK SHOW L DEVOTED TO DENIM Denim took the center-stage on the opening day of Milan Fashion Week as Diesel unveiled its Fall/Winter 2026/2027 collection, a showcase rooted in reinvention. The brand reimagined its signature fabric in striking fashion — distressed, spliced, washed, and reconstructed into exaggerated silhouettes. Oversized jackets, structured coats and deconstructed skirts appeared alongside layered looks that fused rugged textures with softer knits. The runway design amplified this theme of transformation on Tuesday at Milan, Italy. A deliberately chaotic set mirrored the collection’s rebellious spirit, reinforcing Diesel’s message of confidence, individuality, and fearless experimentation. Running through Monday, the seven-day event is shaping up to be one of the most compelling in recent years, defined by creative transitions and bold new directions. Anticipation is especially high for the debut collections from new designers at Fendi and Marni, as well as the first fullscale runway presentation for Gucci under Demna. — TNS c m y b UDHIANA is set to host a dazzling celebration of style and luxury with The Couture Trunk Show on February 26 at Sun View Plaza. Presented by renowned designer Suneet Varma in collaboration with New Age Diamonds, the event will showcase exquisite bridal couture and festive fashion alongside stunning diamond jewellery. Running from 12 pm to 8 pm, the meet-and-greet promises an immersive experience for bridesto-be, fashion enthusiasts and jewellery lovers alike. Hosted by Shweta Gupta, Simran Grewal, Jasmine Sarao and Ishnaaz Brar, the showcase blends glamour with innovation, offering Ludhiana a rare opportunity to witness couture artistry and sustainable luxury under one roof. ludhiana Nearly three months after the birth of her son Vihaan with Vicky Kaushal, actor Katrina Kaif was spotted for the first time in the city on Tuesday evening. A while ago, Katrina was spotted stepping out of a building with fitness instructor Yasmin Karachiwala in Mumbai.