Here’s an unexpected pairing nobody had on their cinematic bingo card: Pankaj Tripathi and Aditi Rao Hydari are joining hands for the very first time, and the project they’ve chosen is a quintessential homegrown family entertainer.

Titled Parivarik ManuRanjan, this upcoming Sony LIV original is bypassing the traditional theatrical window for an exclusive direct-to-digital world premiere. The makers describe the venture as a “shuddh parivarik” romantic comedy, signalling a breezy blend of heartfelt emotion, domestic chaos, and laugh-out-loud situational humour. It promises an engaging narrative deeply rooted in Indian family life, capturing love through a grounded, humorous, and delightfully nostalgic lens.

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The teaser promo has officially dropped, offering audiences a delightful glimpse into this warm, bustling universe. From the colourful visual palette to the witty banter, it sets up an unconventional romantic dynamic shaped and tested by a boisterous extended family.

Behind the lens, Varun V. Sharma directs the feature. The story and screenplay are collaboratively crafted by veteran actor-writer Brijendra Kala, blockbuster filmmaker Ali Abbas Zafar, and Varun himself. Brijendra Kala, long celebrated for his natural comic timing and sharp ear for relatable middle-class dialogue, also pens the film’s lines, ensuring rich vernacular authenticity. The production boasts a seasoned team, with Vinod Bhanushali, Kamlesh Bhanushali, Himanshu Kishan Mehta, and Alicia Zafar backing the project, while Ali Abbas Zafar oversees proceedings as creative producer.

Pankaj Tripathi has built an illustrious career out of understated brilliance and effortless relatability. Aditi Rao Hydari, meanwhile, brings a poise, restraint, and classical elegance that few in contemporary cinema can match. Pairing them together as romantic leads within a spirited comic setting is brilliantly left field, sparking genuine anticipation about how their contrasting energies will unfold on screen.

For now, Sony LIV is keeping the official premiere date tightly under wraps with a simple “stay tuned.” All signs point toward a truly heartwarming, feel-good family watch.

Also Read: Aditi Rao Hydari And Pankaj Tripathi Join Hands For Parivarik ManuRanjan

The much-awaited biopics on legendary actresses Madhubala and Meena Kumari have been put on hold. According to our sources, both projects are facing delays, and there is currently no clarity on when they will move forward. The films have been in discussion for quite some time, but neither has made significant progress towards production.

Both biopics were expected to bring the lives and journeys of the iconic actresses to the big screen. However, several challenges during the development stage have reportedly slowed down the projects. While fans have been waiting for updates, the makers have not shared any official information about when filming might begin.

The Meena Kumari biopic, in particular, has gone through several changes. Initially, fashion designer Manish Malhotra was expected to make his directorial debut with the film, with Kriti Sanon reportedly playing the lead role. However, that version of the project was eventually shelved after Manish Malhotra stepped away from it.

More recently, reports suggested that Kiara Advani could portray Meena Kumari in the biopic. However, no official announcement has been made regarding her involvement, and the casting is yet to be confirmed.

Meanwhile, the Madhubala biopic, which was reportedly set to star Sara Arjun in the lead role, has also faced several delays. Madhubala’s life was expected to be brought to the big screen by director Jasmeet K. Reen, with Sanjay Leela Bhansali backing the project. The film had earlier faced budget-related issues, but reportedly picked up pace after Bhansali came on board. However, there has been no further update on its progress, and the future of the project remains uncertain.

According to our sources, both films are currently on hold. Although there has been considerable interest in bringing the stories of Madhubala and Meena Kumari to the screen, it remains unclear when the projects will resume. An official update from the makers is still awaited.

Also Read: Editor’s Take: Tragedy Queens, How Madhubala and Meena Kumari Paid The Price for Love and Fame

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