Bollywood
From Devdas to Hiramandi: How Sanjay Leela Bhansali created the most powerful female characters
Sanjay Leela Bhansali is one of the finest filmmakers of Indian cinema, whose grand vision and powerful storytelling have given the industry a different height. What makes his films special is not just their grandeur, but the characters that stay in people’s hearts for years to come. What is most special about Bhansali’s films is the strength of his female characters. The women in his films are not just beautiful and graceful, but also strong, courageous and inspiring. Their struggles, their strength, their emotions—Bhansali presents everything in his own unique way, making his characters memorable forever. This Women’s Day, let’s salute the most powerful and iconic female characters from his films, who have left an indelible mark on the big screen!
Padmavati in Padmavat
In Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmavat, Rani Padmavati is not just a queen but a living example of honor, courage and sacrifice. She faced every challenge without bowing down, without fear and proved that honour is greater than any fear. Bhansali presented her story with stunning visuals and deep emotions, making her not just a character but an immortal icon forever. Her sacrifice shows the power of unshakable courage, which will always live in history.
Leela in Ram Leela
Leela of Ram-Leela was not just a lover, but an example of passion and rebellion. Bhansali showed her as fearless, bindaas and firm on her principles – who loves wholeheartedly and also knows how to fight. Even amidst traditions and enmity, she listened to her heart, lived love and pain with equal intensity. Leela was not just a lover, but a warrior of the heart, who was ready to stake everything for her love.
Kashibai in Bajirao Mastani
In Bajirao Mastani, Sanjay Leela Bhansali showed Kashibai not just as an unhappy wife, but as a strong, empowered and dignified woman. The deeper her pain, the more true her love. Kashibai’s character is not a story of revenge, but of dedication and self-respect. She loved Bajirao immensely, but never allowed herself to become weak. Her silent strength made her one of Bhansali’s most memorable and heart-touching characters.
Gangubai in Gangubai Kathiawadi
In Gangubai Kathiawadi, Sanjay Leela Bhansali created his strongest and most fearless heroine till date. Gangubai was not just a woman victim of circumstances, but one who turned pain into strength and fought for her rights. Her strong presence and fiery attitude are evident in every scene—whether it is her fiery speeches or her determination to snatch respect and justice from society. Bhansali’s vision made this story not just inspiring but iconic. Gangubai will always be remembered—as the epitome of courage, bravery and rebellion.
Chandramukhi in Devdas
In Devdas, Sanjay Leela Bhansali presented Chandramukhi not just as a courtesan, but as an epitome of selfless love and indomitable dignity. She was radiant, kind and fiercely loyal—someone who lived to give, not to gain in love. Bhansali captured her pain and dignity through his gorgeous visuals and heart-touching dance sequences. She did not need anyone’s approval or recognition, but her love was her greatest strength. Thus, Chandramukhi will remain one of Bhansali’s most beautiful and memorable characters.
Paro in Devdas
In Devdas, Bhansali made Paro not just a woman in love but an example of love and sacrifice. Even after being separated, she could never separate Devdas from her heart. With grand sets, spectacular costumes and deep emotions, Bhansali showed the story of her transformation from an innocent girl to a responsible woman. Circumstances separated them, but their love never diminished, proving that true love does not need to be together. Paro’s silent pain and unwavering love make her one of Bhansali’s most memorable heroines.
Mallikajaan in Heeramandi
In Heeramandi, Sanjay Leela Bhansali showed Mallikajaan not just as a mistress of courtesans but as an example of courage, wisdom and strength. She was the ruler of her world, but more than that, the protector of the women who depended on her. Bhansali has portrayed her as both powerful and emotional—ruling with authority but hiding the pain of her sacrifice. With lavish sets, a powerful story and deep emotions, Mallika Jaan was not just a mistress, but a living warrior who never gave in to circumstances.
Bibojaan in Heeramandi
In Heeramandi, Sanjay Leela Bhansali has portrayed Bibojaan as a blend of tenderness, strength and unfulfilled desires. Caught in the game of power, yet standing firm with her dignity and courage. Bhansali has made her a symbol of sacrifice and hidden pain—where love was a dream and emotions a luxury. Her silence also had a deep story, making her one of the most distinctive and impactful characters in Heeramandi.
This shows how Sanjay Leela Bhansali brings his female characters to life on screen – fearless, strong and memorable. He respects and supports women not only in films but also in real life. Associating his mother’s name with his own name is also a symbol of his deep respect and gratitude.
Bollywood
Drishyam 3 Release Date: Will It Be Ajay Devgn Starrer Vs Shah Rukh Khan’s King At The Box Office?

Ajay Devgn is starring in back-to-back franchise movies. This year, we saw him in Raid 2, Son of Sardaar 2, and De De Pyaar De 2. Next year, he already has Dhamaal 4 lined up, and on Monday, the release date of Drishyam 3 was officially announced. The movie will hit the big screens on October 2, 2026.
Ajay took to Instagram to inform his fans about it. He posted an announcement video and right, “Aakhri hissa baaki hai. In cinemas on 2nd October, 2026 (sic)” Check out the announcement video below…
While the release of Shah Rukh Khan starrer King has not been officially announced, there have been reports that the movie will be releasing during the Gandhi Jayanti weekend. So, will be Ajay Devgn vs Shah Rukh Khan at the box office?
If the clash happens, this won’t be for the first time when Ajay’s film will be clashing SRK’s movie. In 2012, Ajay starrer Son Of Sardaar and SRK’s Jab Tak Hain Jaan had hit the big screens together during Diwali.
Both movies had done well at the box office, but Jab Tak Hai Jaan had collected a bit more than Son of Sardaar. The former minted Rs. 120.87 crore at the box office, the latter collected Rs. 105.10 crore.
We are sure now everyone is keen for the official announcement of King’s release date. For now, all the Holidays have been booked by other films. So, let’s see if King will clash with any movie, or will opt to release on a non-Holiday weekend.
Apart from Ajay, Drishyam 3 also stars Tabu and Shriya Saran. The part 2 also featured Akshaye Khanna, but in the announcement video his name is not mentioned.
Bollywood
Jannat Zubair and Elvish Yadav meet Messi, call it an ‘amazing day’

Mumbai, Dec 15: As Messi fever grips the entire country, ‘Laughter Chefs season 3’ contestants Jannat Zubair and Elvish Yadav also got the rare opportunity to meet the ‘G.O.A.T’.
Sharing glimpses of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on social media, Jannat and Elvish dropped a joint post that read, “We met Messi!! What an amazing day (Sparkles emoji) Welcome to India 🇮🇳 So much love (red heart emoji) Special Thanks To @officialpuch.ai (Smiling face and red heart emoji) (Sic).”
Messi landed in Mumbai on Sunday as part of his India tour. However, he encountered an embarrassing situation in Kolkata, where he ended up spending only 20 minutes, despite a promised time of 2 hours.
The footballer was forced to leave early as the situation at the Salt Lake stadium turned unpredictable after political and influential figures tried hijacking the event, irking fans, who did not get a chance to see the football player even after paying thousands on tickets.
After Kolkata, Messi made a stop in Hyderabad and then Mumbai as part of his itinerary.
During his Mumbai visit, many bigwigs from Bollywood met the legendary footballer.
B-town beauty, Kareena Kapoor Khan, took her two boys, Taimur and Jeh, to meet Messi. Bebo was seen coming out of the Wankhede Stadium after meeting the footballer on Sunday.
While Kareena was dressed sharply in formals, her sons were seen wearing football jerseys. While Taimur wore the jersey with Messi’s name on it, Jeh was seen in a jersey with Argentina’s name.
Actress Shilpa Shetty also took her son, Viaan-Raj Kundra to meet the football legend at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday.
After coming out of the stadium following the meet, Shilpa told the media stationed outside the venue, “It was very nice. Iska (Viaan) ka toh dream poora ho gaya (Viaan’s dream has been fulfilled)”.
Bollywood
Celebrate Rajinikanth’s 75th Birthday: Evergreen Films Of Superstar Rajini To Stream On OTT Platform

As India celebrates Rajinikanth’s 75th birthday, fans across the world are revisiting the timeless charm, unmatched screen presence, and iconic dialogues that have made him a living legend. Superstar Rajinikanth is fondly known as Thalaivar. The legendary actor is not just a superstar; he is a phenomenon who has shaped Indian cinema for nearly five decades. Rajnikanth’s real name is Shivaji Rao Gaikwad, who was born on December 12, 1950, in a Marathi family in Bengaluru, Mysore State (present-day Karnataka). He has acted in over 170 films across various languages including: Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, and Bengali.
The actor is professionally known as Rajinikanth. The Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan and Dadasaheb Phalke Award nominee actor received his iconic name from legendary director K. Balachander. The legendary director mentored him and suggested the name Rajinikanth for his mass fan following. Rajinikanth has turned 75 on Friday, December 12, 2025. To honour his legacy, let’s take a look at some of his evergreen films available on OTT platforms, perfect for a nostalgic binge.
Enthiran is the sci-fi spectacle that revolutionised Indian cinema. The films’ visual effects brought Rajinikanth in a double role as Dr. Vaseegaran and the unforgettable Chitti, the robot. His performance as the antagonist robot remains iconic. Even today, Enthiran continues to be a benchmark for Indian science fiction. The film was released in 2010, and it was the most expensive Indian film at the time of its release. The film received an overwhelming response, and it emerged as the highest-grossing Indian film of 2010 and won two National Film Awards in the categories of Best Special Effects and Best Production Design. The music of the film was composed by A.R. Rahman.
Another blockbuster film of Rajinikanth is Sivaji The Boss, which is helmed by S. Shankar. Sivaji is a visually grand entertainer that narrates the story of an NRI fighting corruption, which struck a chord with audiences, while Rajini’s charismatic performance and stylish transformation in “Oru Koodai Sunlight” became instant fan favourites. The film remains a must-watch for its powerful message and mass sequences. The film emerged as one of the highest-grossing Indian films at its release and won a National Award in the category of Best Special Effects. The music of the film was composed by A. R. Rahman.
Baashha remains one of Rajinikanth’s most celebrated blockbusters. The film, known for its gripping storyline and the iconic dialogue “Naan oru thadava sonna… nooru thadava sonna madhiri,” showcases Rajini in a dual shade of a calm, humble auto driver by day and a fierce don with a past. Even today, Baashha is widely considered the film that defined Rajinikanth’s superstar aura.
In Kabali, Rajinikanth shed his larger-than-life image and delivered a more grounded, emotional performance. The film narrates the story of an aging gangster searching for his family, bringing a new depth to his acting repertoire. With stylish action and soulful storytelling, Kabali is a top pick for serious cinema lovers.
Kaala is an action-drama film directed by Pa. Ranjith. The film is set in the heart of Dharavi and explores themes of power, identity, and justice. Rajini’s portrayal of a charismatic leader of the oppressed added another dimension to his legacy. The film is appreciated for its socio-political undertones and raw cinematic mood.
Rajinikanth never fails to surprise his fans with his different looks and styles. In Jailer, you will definitely see the charismatic look, a lot of action sequences, and his powerful dialogue delivery, which will definitely keep you hooked to the edge of your seat till the end. The movie was released in 2023 and emerged as the highest-grossing Tamil film of 2023, the sixth highest-grossing Indian film of 2023, and the second highest-grossing Tamil film of all time. The music of the film is composed by Anirudh Ravichandran.
Petta is a Tamil-language action drama film in which Rajinikanth plays the role of Kaali, a mysterious, older man who takes a job as a college hostel warden, but is secretly a powerful figure. The film emerged as one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of all time and the second-highest-grossing Tamil film of 2019.
Apoorva Raagangal is Rajinikanth’s debut film. The film is directed by his mentor K Balachander, in which he played the role of the abusive ex-husband. The film also features Kamal Haasan. The film won three National Film Awards, including Best Feature Film in Tamil.
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