True homecoming for the desi girl

Priyanka Chopra is set to return to Indian cinema with SSMB29, the upcoming film by SS Rajamouli, starring Mahesh Babu. PeeCee, who has spent the last few years focused on Hollywood projects and personal milestones, called SSMB29 a significant step for her, describing it as an emotional and meaningful return to her roots. Directed by Rajamouli, known for mega-hits like Baahubali: The Beginning (2015), Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017), and RRR (2022), the film is expected to be a large-scale, international action-adventure. Even as the stars have already begun filming, plot details remain tightly guarded. However, we have learnt that the film is an adventure thriller inspired by the “Indiana Jones” franchise, with elements of Indian mythology and a focus on the history of Varanasi. Her collaboration with two major forces in Telugu cinema is already being hailed as one of the most awaited moments of her career back home. Recently, her SSMB29 co-star R Madhavan, after watching her latest actioner, Heads of State, with John Cena and Idris Elba, took to social media to laud Priyanka. He said that her victory feels personal.

Setting up the bar

Rashmika Mandanna, Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon

mid-day had earlier reported that Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Diana Penty’s much-loved rom-com Cocktail (2012) is getting a sequel (A second round of cocktails, April, 8). Now, director Homi Adajania’s wife, celebrity stylist Anaita Shroff Adajania seems to have confirmed the news by sharing a photo of the script of Cocktail 2 on her Instagram Story with the caption, “Let the prep begin.” While the makers are yet to reveal further details, Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna have reportedly been approached to lead the sequel. The original film, known for its music and Deepika’s standout performance, had received mixed reviews when it first released. However, it was loved by the audience when it was re-released in cinemas this May.