Tribute to a Legend: Veteran DD Anchor Sarla Maheshwari Dies at 71!

The Voice of an Era: How Sarla Maheshwari Defined Indian TV News!

In the history of Indian broadcasting, few voices carried as much weight and grace as Sarla Maheshwari. A veteran newsreader who became a household name during the 1980s and 90s, she represented the "Golden Era" of Doordarshan.

As of February 12, 2026, the nation mourns her passing at the age of 71. Her legacy remains a testament to a time when news was delivered with composure, impeccable diction, and a sense of duty.

 

The Journey of an Icon: Biography

• Early Ambitions: Sarla Maheshwari's journey in broadcasting began in 1976. At the time, she was pursuing her PhD at Delhi University. She auditioned for a post as a news announcer and was selected, marking the start of a nearly three-decade-long career.
• The Pioneer Generation: She was among the first news anchors to read news live on Indian television. Working alongside legends like Shammi Narang, she navigated the medium's evolution from black-and-white to color television.
• Global Stint: In 1984, she moved to the UK and served as a newsreader for the BBC until 1986. She rejoined Doordarshan in 1988 upon returning to India.
• Academic Connection: Beyond the screen, she was a respected scholar and served as a lecturer at Hansraj College, Delhi University.

 

A Legacy of Grace: Career Highlights

Sarla Maheshwari was known for more than just reading the news; she was a master of "Dignified Delivery."

• The Era Before Teleprompters: In her early days, newsreaders had to memorize large portions of the script or read from physical sheets without the aid of a teleprompter, requiring immense focus and maturity.
• Impeccable Diction: She was widely admired for her precise Hindi pronunciation and calm voice, which established a deep sense of trust with viewers across the country.
• Cultural Impact: As one of the most recognized faces of the 80s and 90s, she received massive amounts of fan mail. Viewers often commented on her "bindi," her saris, and her poised demeanor.

 

Tributes and Final Departure

Following the news of her demise in Delhi on February 12, 2026, tributes poured in from across the media fraternity:

• Doordarshan National: "She carved a special place in the Indian news world with her gentle voice, precise pronunciation, and dignified delivery. Her simplicity and restraint instilled a deep trust in her viewers."
• Shammi Narang (Ex-Co-Anchor): "She was the embodiment of grace and courtesy. Beautiful not just in appearance but even more so at heart... Her presence on the Doordarshan screen had a unique aura."

Her last rites were performed at Nigam Bodh Ghat in Delhi.

 

Why Sarla Maheshwari is Trending in 2026

1. Nostalgia for Quality Journalism: In an age of high-decibel debates, Maheshwari’s death has sparked a nationwide conversation about the return of "restraint" and "credibility" in news broadcasting.
2. Pioneering Spirit: She is celebrated as a woman who broke barriers in a government-controlled medium, maintaining professional independence and academic excellence simultaneously.
3. The "DD Era" Revival: With several classic DD archives being digitized, her iconic bulletins are being rediscovered by a new generation.

Ragini 3 Exclusive: Tamannaah and Junaid Khan to Lead the Next Chapter of Horror!

Tamannaah Bhatia & Junaid Khan: Bollywood's Newest Duo for the Ragini Franchise!

In a groundbreaking update for horror-thriller aficionados, the Ragini MMS franchise is set to return with a fresh identity and a powerhouse cast. As of February 12, 2026, reports indicate that TamannaahBhatia and Junaid Khan are in talks to headline the third installment, which is now reportedly titled Ragini 3.

After a brief period of uncertainty following director Sahir Raza's exit, the project has found its new captain in Shashanka Ghosh, the original visionary behind the 2011 found-footage cult hit.

 

Key Highlights: Ragini 3 Production Update

• The Lead Pair: Tamannaah Bhatia and Junaid Khan (Aamir Khan's son) are the top choices for the lead roles.
• The Title Shift: Breaking away from the "MMS" tag, the film is expected to be titled simply Ragini 3.
• The Director: Shashanka Ghosh returns to the franchise, replacing Sahir Raza.
• The Producer: Ekta Kapoor (Balaji Motion Pictures) remains at the helm of the production.
• The Genre: While maintaining its "erotic horror-thriller" roots, the third part is rumored to lean more heavily into supernatural elements.

 

The Tamannaah Bhatia & Junaid Khan Collaboration

The potential pairing of Tamannaah Bhatia and Junaid Khan has sparked immense curiosity.

• Tamannaah’s Horror Streak: Following her massive success with the "Aaj Ki Raat" track in Stree 2 and her upcoming jungle horror film Vvan, Tamannaah is quickly becoming the new "Horror Queen" of Bollywood.
• Junaid’s Rising Star: After his debut in Maharaj, Junaid Khan is exploring diverse genres. His involvement in a gritty franchise like Ragini signals a bold career move into the experimental space.

 

Director Shashanka Ghosh Returns to the Roots

The exit of Sahir Raza (due to scheduling conflicts with a Netflix series) initially left the film in limbo. However, the return of Shashanka Ghosh is seen as a major win for the franchise.

• Why it Matters: Ghosh directed the first Ragini MMS (2011), which redefined the found-footage genre in India. His return suggests a "back-to-basics" approach focusing on psychological chills and atmospheric dread rather than just jump scares.

 

The Evolution of a Franchise

The Ragini MMS series has always been a trendsetter:

1. Ragini MMS (2011): Introduced the "Found Footage" style to the Indian masses starring Rajkummar Rao.
2. Ragini MMS 2 (2014): Blended mainstream glamour and horror with Sunny Leone, producing the chartbuster "Baby Doll."
3. Ragini 3 (2026): Aiming to merge the gritty realism of the first part with the high-octane performance value of modern stars like Tamannaah.

From 'Kirik Party' to 'Kantara': The Evolution of Rishab Shetty!

The Legend of Keradi: How Rishab Shetty Conquered Indian Cinema!

In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian cinema, RishabShetty has emerged as a trailblazing force, bridging the gap between deep-rooted folklore and global commercial success. As the mastermind behind the cultural phenomenon Kantara, Shetty has redefined the "Pan-India" label, proving that the more regional a story is, the more universal its appeal becomes.

As of February 2026, the industry is abuzz with his upcoming portrayal of Lord Hanuman in Prasanth Varma's Jai Hanuman and the highly anticipated Kantara: A Legend (Chapter 1).

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The Visionary from Keradi: Biography

• Born: July 7, 1983, in Keradi, Kundapura, Karnataka.
• The Struggle: Before becoming a household name, Rishab did several odd jobs, including selling water cans and working as a spot boy, to sustain his passion for filmmaking.
• Education: A graduate in Film Direction from the Government Film and TV Institute in Bangalore, he started his career as an assistant director to the legendary A.M.R. Ramesh.
• The Creative Trio: He is part of the famous "Rakshit-Rishab-Raj" trio (alongside Rakshit Shetty and Raj B. Shetty) that is credited with the "Coastalwood" revolution in Kannada cinema.
• Personal Life: He is married to Pragathi Shetty, who also serves as a costume designer for his films. The couple is known for their grounded lifestyle and philanthropic efforts in their native village.

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A Filmography of Innovation and Impact

Rishab Shetty is unique because he is equally celebrated as a National Award-winning actor and a visionary director.

The Directorial Breakthroughs

• Kirik Party (2016): A campus rom-com that became a cult classic and catapulted Rakshit Shetty and Rashmika Mandanna to stardom.
• Sarkari Hi. Pra. Shaale, Kasaragodu (2018): This National Award-winning children's film highlighted the importance of Kannada-medium education with a perfect blend of humor and heart.

The Actor-Director Phenomenon

• Kantara (2022): The film that changed everything. Exploring the Bhoota Kola tradition and man-vs-nature conflict, it became one of India’s highest-grossing films. For this, Rishab received the National Film Award for Best Actor and Best Popular Film.
• Bell Bottom (2019): As an actor, he played "Detective Diwakar," showcasing his impeccable comic timing and retro style.

The 2026 Power Slate

• Kantara: A Legend (Chapter 1): Currently in production, this prequel dives into the origins of the legend, featuring high-octane action and deeper mythological roots.
• Jai Hanuman (2026): In a massive collaboration with director Prasanth Varma, Rishab is set to play Lord Hanuman. The film’s official launch is scheduled for February 22, 2026, with filming beginning in April.

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Why Rishab Shetty is the "Cultural Ambassador" of 2026

1. Authenticity: In an era of high-budget VFX, Rishab prioritizes authentic cultural rituals and raw, physical performances.
2. Global Recognition: From being honored at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) to receiving praise from global critics, he has put Kannada culture on the world map.
3. Versatility: He seamlessly transitions from a comedic detective to a fierce tribal protector and now to a divine mythological figure.

Mark Your Calendars: Rishab Shetty’s Jai Hanuman Grand Launch on Feb 22, 2026!

From Kantara to Jai Hanuman: Why Rishab Shetty is the Perfect Choice!

In a massive development for the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU), industry reports have confirmed the production timeline for the highly anticipated sequel, Jai Hanuman. Starring National Award winner Rishab Shetty, the film is set to officially launch with a grand ceremony on February 22, 2026, with principal photography beginning in April 2026.

As the direct sequel to the 2024 global blockbuster Hanu-Man, this film is positioned to be one of the biggest Indian cinematic events of the year.

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Key Highlights of the Jai Hanuman Report

• Official Launch Date: February 22, 2026.
• Production Start: April 2026.
• Lead Actor: Rishab Shetty as Lord Hanuman.
• Director: Prasanth Varma.
• Cinematic Universe: Part of the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU).

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Rishab Shetty as the New Face of Lord Hanuman

The casting of Rishab Shetty has sent shockwaves of excitement through the industry. After the global success of Kantara, Shetty has become synonymous with portraying divine and rooted Indian characters.

The first-look posters for Jai Hanuman have already gone viral, showcasing Shetty’s intense physical transformation. His ability to blend raw power with spiritual vulnerability makes him the perfect choice to play the titular deity in this modern reimagining of the legend.

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The Launch Ceremony: February 22, 2026

According to reports, the "Muhurat" ceremony on February 22 will be a star-studded affair in Hyderabad. This date is strategically chosen to build momentum before the summer production cycle. Fans are expecting a special video or a "glimpse" to be released during the launch, potentially revealing more about the plot and the connection to Teja Sajja’s character from the first film.

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April 2026: A High-Octane Shooting Schedule

Directing Jai Hanuman is a massive undertaking for Prasanth Varma. The April schedule is rumored to involve:

• State-of-the-Art VFX: Following the high standards set by Hanu-Man, the sequel will utilize advanced CGI to bring the epic scale of the Ramayana to life.
• International Action Teams: Rumors suggest that action choreographers from Hollywood and South Korea are being brought in to design Rishab Shetty’s combat sequences.
• Massive Sets: Large-scale sets representing ancient kingdoms and mythological landscapes are currently under construction.

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Why This Film is Trending in 2026

1. The Kantara Factor: Rishab Shetty’s brand value is at an all-time high.
2. Mythological Wave: Indian audiences are currently gravitating toward "Dharmic" and mythological storytelling.
3. The Sequel Hype: Hanu-Man was a "David vs. Goliath" success story; Jai Hanuman now has the budget and scale to compete with global superhero franchises.

From Supernatural Hero to Gritty News Anchor: The Evolution of Akshay Kapoor!

🛸 The Alag Phenomenon: The Digital Resurrection of Akshay Kapoor!

The Narrative: From "Different" to "Digital"

In 2006, a young man with a shaved head and no eyebrows stared out from movie posters, promising a supernatural shift in Bollywood. That man was Akshay Kapoor (born Sunny D’mello). While the film Alag was ahead of its time, the actor’s journey since then has been a masterclass in the "Slow-Burn Comeback."

In 2026, as global streaming platforms look for actors with "global sensibilities," Akshay’s Broadway training and cross-continental background have made him a premium choice for the Indian Noir movement.

 

The Global Journey: Biography

• Born: September 18, 1980, in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• Roots & Education: Though born in India, Akshay immigrated to the United States as an infant. He spent his formative years in Pittsgrove and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, where he deeply immersed himself in theatre, even appearing in several Broadway plays before deciding to try his luck in Bollywood.
• The Rebrand: Born Sunny D’mello, he adopted the screen name Akshay Kapoor for his Bollywood debut.
• Personal Resilience: In 2007, just as his career was gaining momentum, Akshay was bedridden for nearly 18 months due to a severe battle with Typhoid and Jaundice, which led to a 25kg weight loss and a temporary exit from the industry to recover in the US.
• Personal Life: In 2015, Akshay married his long-time partner, Cynthia Jacob. The couple held a beautiful cross-cultural wedding, featuring both a church ceremony and traditional Indian rites.

 

📡 The Timeline of a Maverick

1. The Broadway Blueprint (Pre-2004)

Before the glitz of Mumbai, there was the discipline of New Jersey. Trained on the stages of Broadway, Akshay didn't enter Bollywood as a novice; he entered as a technician. This foundation is why, even in 2026, his performances in series like P.I. Meena feel distinct—they possess a theatrical weight that is rare in commercial cinema.

2. The Transformation Peak (2006)

• The Role: Tejas Rastogi in Alag.
• The Sacrifice: Most actors shy away from "ugly" roles early on. Akshay did the opposite, undergoing a physical overhaul to play a character who lived in darkness.
• 2026 Perspective: In the era of high-end VFX, Alag is being revisited by Gen-Z cinephiles on Reddit and Letterboxd as an "Indian Sci-Fi Cult Classic."

3. The Dark Night of the Soul (2007–2010)

Success isn't linear. A severe health crisis (Typhoid/Jaundice) sidelined him at his peak. His story in 2026 is often cited as a mental health and resilience case study: how to lose everything, recover in a foreign land (the US), and have the courage to return to the spotlight years later.

4. The Streaming Renaissance (2023–2026)

The launch of P.I. Meena (Prime Video) signaled the "Akshay Kapoor 2.0" era.

• The Vibe: No longer the boy-next-door from Popcorn Khao!, he is now the "Sophisticated Antagonist" or the "Intense Professional."
• The Current Status: He is currently trending as a prime example of the "40+ Actor Resurgence," proving that the second act of a career can be more profound than the first.

📊 The Akshay Kapoor "Pulse" for 2026

Category	The 2026 Verdict
Aesthetic	"Grown-up Indie" — Think leather jackets, salt-and-pepper stubble, and intellectual intensity.
Niche	The bridge between Western acting styles and Indian storytelling.
Social Proof	A surge in "Throwback" edits of Alag on TikTok and Instagram Reels.
Key Keyword	#AkshayKapoorRebirth

 

🎬 Final Thought

Akshay Kapoor’s career is a reminder that stardom has no expiration date. In 2026, he isn't just an actor from the 2000s; he is a living bridge between the experimental past of Bollywood and the global future of Indian streaming.

 

🎭 The Narrative: "The Phoenix of Pittsgrove"

While most Bollywood debuts are designed to be "safe," Akshay Kapoor’s entry into cinema was anything but. Trained in the high-stakes world of Broadway, he brought a theatrical discipline from New Jersey to Mumbai that set him apart from the traditional "star son" culture.

1. The Metamorphosis (2006)

• The Milestone: Alag
• The Risk: Most debutants prioritize vanity; Akshay sacrificed it. He shaved his head and eyebrows to play Tejas Rastogi, a man with supernatural electromagnetic powers.
• The 2026 Verdict: In the age of Brahmastra and the "Astraverse," modern cinephiles on platforms like Reddit are rediscovering Alag as the original blueprint for Indian superhero cinema.

2. The Great Hiatus & Resilience

Success is often interrupted by life. A severe battle with health issues (Typhoid and Jaundice) forced Akshay to step away from the limelight at his peak. His return to the US for recovery and his eventual journey back to India is now cited as a case study in professional resilience. It proved that for an actor with true craft, a "break" is just a "build-up."

3. The Digital Renaissance (2023–2026)

The launch of P.I. Meena on Prime Video signaled the arrival of "Akshay Kapoor 2.0."

• The Transformation: The "boy-next-door" from Popcorn Khao! has evolved into a seasoned performer with a commanding screen presence.
• The Global Edge: His Broadway-honed sensibilities make him a favorite for international co-productions, bridging the gap between Western acting techniques and Indian emotional

Ranveer Singh is Ready for the Apocalypse! Check Out the Mind-Blowing Budget for ‘Pralay’!

Confirmed: Ranveer Singh and Kalyani Priyadarshan Team Up for ₹300Cr Mega-Project ‘Pralay’!

Fresh off the earth-shattering success of Dhurandhar, which solidified his status as a box-office king in 2025, Ranveer Singh is ready to dive into the most daring project of his career. Titled Pralay, this post-apocalyptic zombie thriller is already being hailed as a game-changer for Indian cinema, moving away from the lighthearted "zom-com" tropes of the past and into a gritty, high-stakes dystopia.

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The Massive ₹300 Crore Vision

The buzz surrounding Pralay reached a fever pitch this week as industry insiders revealed the staggering financial scale of the project.

• The Budget: Reportedly pegged at a massive ₹300 crore, making it the most expensive standalone project in Ranveer Singh’s career.
• A Dystopian Mumbai: A significant portion of this budget is being funneled into cutting-edge AI-driven visuals. The makers plan to "digitally age" Mumbai, transforming the bustling metropolis into a decaying, abandoned wasteland reminiscent of The Hunger Games and 28 Days Later.
• The Scale: Unlike the contained thrillers often seen in this genre, Pralay is being developed as a "large-scale genre project" designed to rival the production quality of global hits like Train to Busan or World War Z.

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Casting Coup: Ranveer Meets Kalyani Priyadarshan

While rumors initially linked Alia Bhatt to the project, her packed 2026 schedule (including Alpha and Love & War) opened the door for a fresh and exciting pairing.

• Female Lead: Kalyani Priyadarshan, fresh from the massive success of the Malayalam superhero hit Lokah: Chapter 1, is set to make her Bollywood debut.
• The Dynamic: Ranveer and Kalyani will reportedly play a husband and wife fighting for survival in a collapsing world.
• Behind the Scenes: Reports suggest Ranveer Singh, who is also stepping into a producer role for this film, personally convinced Kalyani to join the project after she expressed initial hesitation about making her Hindi debut in a zombie thriller.

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Director and Production Details

The film marks a significant milestone for its director, Jai Mehta. Having already proven his mettle with Scam 1992 and Lootere, Pralay serves as his solo feature directorial debut.

"Jai Mehta is looking to reimagine Mumbai in a way Indian audiences have never witnessed. It’s not just about jump-scares; it’s a story of social, emotional, and moral collapse." — Industry Source.

The film is a collaborative effort between Applause Entertainment, Hansal Mehta, and Ranveer Singh’s own production banner, ensuring a blend of commercial scale and critical depth.

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When Does the Apocalypse Begin?

Fans won't have to wait long for production to kick off. The current roadmap for Ranveer Singh’s 2026 looks like this:

Milestone	Expected Timeline
Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge	Releasing March 19, 2026
Don 3 Filming	Beginning early 2026
Pralay Filming	Slated to go on floors July–August 2026

With Dhurandhar having already crossed the ₹1200 crore mark globally, all eyes are on whether Pralay can leverage its massive ₹300 crore investment to become the next milestone in Indian cinematic history.