FROM FAMILY DRAMA HIGH-OCANE ACTION TO

Get Ready for an Epic Movie Extravaganza

By Shweta Kulkarni

The wave of entertaining Bollywood movies shows no signs of slowing down as the year progresses. From the highly awaited flamboyant family drama Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani to the scintillating action-thriller Animal, and not forgetting the buzz surrounding upcoming sequels like Gadar 2: The Katha Continues and Dream Girl 2, there is something for every movie lover. As if that weren't enough, we also have our sights set on the action-packed adventure — Jawan. So, as SRK said in Pathaan, "Apni kursi ki peti bandh lijiye", the exhilarating ride of entertainment is about to begin!

Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani

Release Date: July 28, 2023

Directed by: Karan Johar

Starring: Ranveer Singh, Alia Bhatt, Dharmendra, Jaya Bachchan, Shabana Azmi, Amrita Puri

A star-studded extravaganza, Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani is arguably one of the most-awaited films of the year. Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani marks the return of Karan Johar to the director's chair after seven long years. While the film's plot is under wraps, Karan Johar mentioned in a social media post that the film is inspired by a real-life family anecdote shared by his father, the late Yash Johar. In an interview, Ranveer Singh, who takes on the role of Rocky, shared his excitement, stating, "Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani is a quintessential Karan Johar movie… every trope you've seen in Karan Johar movies, his brand of cinema you have loved – all there." The actor added, "It's going to be his quirkiest, zaniest film, and it's shaped up so well."

Animal

Release Date: August 11, 2023

Directed by: Sandeep Reddy Vanga

Starring: Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Rashmika Mandanna, Tripti Dimri filmmaker Anil Sharma, Gadar 2: The Katha Continues picks up from where its predecessor left off and takes the story of Tara and Sakeena forward. In an interview, director Anil Sharma spoke about the sequel: "I feel, Gadar 2 will carry forward the legacy of the first part. I have complete faith in this subject, and hence, I am not worried now."

There is a helluva reason to look forward to Animal. For starters, the film stars Ranbir Kapoor, who truly is a master at becoming one with the character he portrays. The pre-teaser of the film gave a glimpse of the action-thriller, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga of Kabir Singh fame, hinting at a display of sleek and enthralling action sequences that push the boundaries of cinematic excellence. Ranbir commented about his character, "It's a new territory for me. It's a crime drama and a father-son story. It's something audiences don't expect me to do. It has got shades of grey. He is very alpha, again, something I'm not. So, I'm looking forward to it."

GADAR 2: THE KATHA CONTINUES

Release Date: August 11, 2023

Directed by: Anil Sharma

Starring: Sunny Deol, Ameesha

Patel, Utkarsh Sharma, Simrat

Kaur

Get ready for an epic saga of love, patriotism, and relentless action as the legendary Tara Singh (Sunny Deol) returns to the big screen in the highly anticipated sequel to the 2001 blockbuster hit film Gadar: Ek Prem Katha. Directed by

Dream Girl 2

Release date: August 25, 2023

Directed by: Raaj Shaandilyaa

Starring: Ayushmann Khurrana, Ananya Panday, Annu Kapoor, Paresh Rawal

Featuring the talented Mr. Khurrana, Dream Girl 2 is the much-awaited sequel to the 2019 hit film of the same name. It tells the story of Karam (Ayushmann), who falls in love with Pari (Ananya), but his life goes off the rails when he takes on the persona of Pooja. Directed by Raaj Shaandilya and produced by Balaji Motion Pictures, the film promises to be a complete blast. Talking about the film, Aysuhmann said, "I am super stoked about Dream Girl 2! This is my second outing with Balaji Motion Pictures, and I am thankful to Ektaa that she has carried this franchise forward and made it bigger. I have found a friend in Raaj, and it's exciting to team up with him again. Ananya Panday has been paired with me, and I am looking forward to seeing the audience's reaction to our chemistry. Along with a cracking ensemble cast of Annu Kapoor, Paresh Rawal, Vijay Raaz, Manoj Joshi, Rajpal Yadav, Seema Pahwa, Manjot Singh, Abhishek Banerjee, Asrani Saab, Dream Girl 2 is sure to take the audiences on a hilarious roller-coaster ride."

Jawan

Release date: September 7, 2023

Directed by: Atlee

Starring: Shah Rukh Khan, Vijay Sethupathi, Nayanthara

This year undeniably belongs to King Khan. After creating a buzz with his last outing Pathaan, the superstar of Hindi cinema, is all set to captivate his audience again with yet another action flick — Jawan. Apart from SRK, Jawan has a few more incentives for cinephiles to look forward to the film. Jawan is helmed by Atlee, known for his blockbuster hits in Tamil Cinema, and it also features two of the best talents from the South film industry — Vijay Sethupathi and Nayanthara. While the film's plot is still under wraps, it is believed to be a high-octane thriller with plenty of breathtaking action sequences, intense drama, and a gripping storyline. In an interview, Shah Rukh said, "Atlee and I have good chemistry. I bring in some, he brings in some. And hopefully, whatever we have done of Jawan is thrilling and exciting."

By Shweta Kulkarni

Kade Dade Diyan Kade Pote Diyan

Release date: July 14, 2023

Directed by: Laada Siyan Ghuman

Starring: Harish Verma, Simi Chahal, B.N Sharma, Jatinder Kumar

There is a crazy amount of excitement for this comedy-drama, and rightfully so. After a long five-year wait, the film reunites Punjabi cinema's favourite Jodi —

With a plethora of exciting films all set to hit the big screens, Punjabi cinema is thriving and flourishing in the second quarter of the year. Featuring a diverse range of genres, including uproarious comedies like Kade Dade Diyan Kade Pote Diyan and Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi, thought-provoking dramas inspired by real-life like Vajood, and adrenaline-pumping thrillers and action-packed dramas like Tufang and Paune 9, Pollywood is poised to provide an unforgettable cinematic experience in the coming months. So gear up for a dose of entertainment like never before.

Harish Verma and Simi Chahal. The duo's incredible chemistry was last witnessed in the 2018 hit film Golak Bugni Bank Te Batua. Directed by Laadi Siyan Ghuman and jointly written by Karan Sandhu and Dheeraj Kumar, Kade Dade Diyan Kade Pote has received an excellent response for its first-look poster and trailer. With a star-studded ensemble including Harish Verma, Simi Chahal, B.N Sharma, Jatinder Kumar, Seema Kaushal, Anita Devgan, and more, this collaboration between Vesta Wonder Motion Pictures and Ambarsariye Productions promises to be an unforgettable cinematic experience. Harish Verma shared his excitement about the film on his social media platforms, stating, "Get ready for our upcoming project full of laughter, emotions and drama to watch with your whole family." Looks like no one can stop this one from being a box-office hit.

Vajood

Release date: July 14, 2023

Directed by: Ajay Jethi

Starring: Ajay Jethi, Chandan

Gill, Sunita Dhir

Based on the true inspirational story of celebrated Punjabi dramatist Balwant lar cast, including Guri, Jagjeet Sandhu, and Rukshar Dhillon in fiery lead roles. Commenting about the film, lead actor Guri said that the simplicity of his character made him sign the film. The singer-turn-actor said, "The simplicity and the inspiring character of this movie made me choose the role. He is someone who fights for the truth and stands against the false." With such compelling elements, Tufang is sure to leave a lasting impression. attempt to squeeze in. While the makers promise the film to be a complete package with action, comedy, romance, and drama, audiences can anticipate exceptional performances from the dynamic duo Ammy Virk and Binnu Dhillon. Director Smeep Kang shared his excitement about the film on social media, stating, "We are excited to finally give you a rollercoaster ride of giggles and entertainment." So, mark your calendars; this is one Punjabi movie you definitely don't want to miss.

Gargi, Vajood, featuring Ajay Jethi, who gained international fame for his role in Money Heist, is one hotly anticipated film. Vajood also marks Ajay Jethi's directorial debut. While specific details about the plot remain under wraps, Vajood promises to explore profound themes of existence and passion. Speaking about the film, Ajay Jethi said, "This project is not only a dream come true but also marks the beginning of an exciting new journey for me in the world of cinema." It will be fascinating to see Jethi's take on the famous artist Gargi, who penned several world-renowned plays, including Loha Kutt, Kesro, Kanak Di Balli, Sohni Mahiwal, Sultan Razia, Soukan, Mirza Sahiba and Dhooni di Agg and short stories Mircha Wala Sadh, Pattan di Berhi and Kuari Disi.

Tufang

Release date: July 21, 2023,

Directed by: Dheeraj

Kedarnath Rattan

Starring: Guri, Rukshaar

Dhillon, Jagjeet Sandhu

With a tagline: 'Every weapon has its own history,' Tufang promises to be an adrenaline-fueled experience. The recently dropped teaser and the first song from the film have already generated immense excitement among audiences. Written and directed by Dheeraj Kedarnath

Rattan and produced by Geet MP3, this action-packed crime drama boasts a stel-

Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi

Release date: July 28, 2023

Directed by: Smeep Kang

Starring: Ammy Virk, Binnu

Dhillon, Jaswinder Bhalla

Packed with all the quintessential elements of a family entertainer and borrowing its title from an old popular Punjabi song of the same name, Gaddi Jaandi Ae Chalaangaan Maardi is undoubtedly one of the most awaited movies of the year. It brings together Punjabi powerhouses — Ammy Virk and Binnu Dhillon. Helmed by Smeep Kang, this comedy extravaganza apparently revolves around an 8-member family. The plot kicks off when Ammy Virk's character's fiancé's family presents them with a small car as part of the dowry, leading to hilarious chaos as all eight family members

Paune 9

Release date: July 28, 2023

Directed by: Baljeet Noor

Starring: Dheeraj Kumar, Neha Pawar, Pooja Brrambat, Jaggi Bhangu

Prepare to be thrilled and captivated as the much-awaited film Paune 9 is gearing up to hit the screens this month. The intriguing title and the hard-hitting poster have already grabbed the audience's attention, and now, the film's teaser has won hearts, leaving everyone in suspense and eagerly awaiting its release. This dark thriller stars Dheeraj Kumar, Rohan Verma, and Jaggi Bhangu in lead roles, among others. While the makers have not yet revealed the details about the plot, going by the first look, Paune 9 promises to take us on a twisted journey filled with suspense, obsession, and horror. With a stellar ensemble cast and intricate plot, Paune 9 will be an absolute treat for lovers of this genre.

Designer Jigar Mali’s latest collection — Hasrat pays homage to the rich heritage and architectural marvels of bygone eras with a touch of contemporary sophistication.

By Shweta Kulkarni