SCOOPS: How Salman Khan surprised Shah Rukh Khan's team 'Zero', The Kapil Sharma Show to go on air on December 29 & more

It’s a foregone conclusion that when two superstars share screen space together, the result is going to be magical. Even though the teaser of Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan performing a song for the former’s Zero generated curiosity when it was released a couple of months ago, the recently launched peppy number Issaqbaazi has surpassed the expectations of the movie’s team. Director Aanand L Rai has brought the two superstars together especially for this song. Interestingly, not many know that when Issaqbaazi was to be shot at a specially created set in a suburban studio, the Tiger Zinda Hai actor arrived earlier than schedule, much to the Zero team’s surprise.

“Salman’s arrival on the set further fuelled the excitement about him and SRK sharing screen space together after so many years. The camaraderie they share off screen translated perfectly on screen,” says a unit member, adding, “They were in their element and it was a delight to see their brotherly bonding, irrespective of whether the camera was on or off.”

While it’s known that Meghna Gulzar’s biopic on acid attack survivor Laxmi is Deepika Padukone’s first after her wedding with Ranveer Singh, little is known about the other actors in the movie. We hear that for a pivotal role in the film which is being produced by the Padmaavat actress, two actors are apparently being considered. 

An industry source tells that the movie’s makers are reportedly undecided between  Ayushmann Khurrana and Rajkummar Rao. Our informer adds, “Both of them are not only wonderful actors, but they have also proved themselves at the box office with their recent films — Ayushmann with AndhaDhun and Badhaai Ho, and Raj with Stree. Interestingly, both were seen together in Bareilly Ki Barfi last year. The actors are on the top of minds of filmmakers exploring diverse subjects. So, naturally, they are being considered for Laxmi as well. The character in question plays a very important part in the journey of the protagonist, which will be essayed by Deepika. Ayushmann and Raj are capable of carrying a such a significant role. Now, it remains to be seen who will finally make the cut.”

Ever since she made her debut in MS Dhoni: The Untold Story in 2016, Disha Patani has become popular among brands. Says a source, “The leggy lass, who started out as a model, has already signed four endorsements this year. Apart from a pleasing personality, she has a huge fan following on social media.”

Besides Indian labels, a number of international ones are also queuing up to sign the sexy actress. The informer adds, “Disha’s dance-and-workout videos rake in a lot of views on the internet. So, when an international athleisure and fitness brand (Calvin Klein) was looking out for a young heroine as their ambassador, they approached her. This is the first time they have got an Indian face for their campaign.”

The 20-something actress, who will be seen next in Bharat opposite Salman Khan, is also in talks for another collaboration. The source reveals, “A cosmetic giant wants to rope in Disha for one of their campaigns and discussions are on for the same. Things will be locked within a few weeks.”

— by Nayandeep Rakshit

There were reports that Kapil Sharma’s show will go on air on December 23, a day before his Mumbai reception. But sources say that it will now start on December 29. While the channel refuses to confirm the date saying it is yet to be decided, a source says that the previous date was never under consideration.

Kapil kick-started the shoot on December 5 with Salman Khan and his family. The Dabangg Khan was accompanied by his father, Salim, as well as brothers Sohail and Arbaaz. On December 7, the stand-up comedian shot an episode with the Simmba team — Rohit Shetty, Ranveer Singh and Sara Ali Khan. He’s currently in Amritsar for his wedding with Ginni Chatrath, the rituals for which will take place on December 12. Kapil is likely to return to Mumbai within a week and immediately resume shooting for his show. 

— by Chaya Unnikrishnan

Meanwhile, Sunil Grover’s comeback TV show Kanpur Waale Khuranas is starting on December 15, two weeks before that of Kapil’s. Interestingly, he also shot an episode with  Ranveer Singh and Rohit Shetty, on December 6. We told you that the superstar and the blockbuster director will be the first guests. Now, we hear that even Kapil is likely to commence his programme with the Simmba trio, though he shot with Dabangg Khan first. A source says that since the film is releasing on December 28, it makes sense to begin the show with their promotions. With almost the same stars appearing on both the new comedy offerings for their film promotions, all eyes are on the impending clash between Sunil and Kapil who were part of one show earlier.

Yo Yo Honey Singh loves interacting with fans, but the singer-composer met a superfan recently. The Blue Eyes composer was stunned to see a fan’s photo with Singh’s portrait done in the form of a tattoo on his arm and chest. The fan, Devendra Singh, who is based in Pune, recently got an opportunity to meet his idol. A source says, “Honey came across this fan’s messages a few days ago. Since he was scheduled to fly down to Mumbai for Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone’s wedding, he decided to get in touch with the admirer and asked him to meet him in the city.” The Lungi Dance composer spent a considerable time interacting with Devendra.