The Gang Heads West: Mirzapur: The Movie Wraps Banaras Shoot; Power Battle Shifts to Mumbai!

🚀 Filming Update: 'Mirzapur: The Movie' Cast Wraps Banaras; Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal Begin Mumbai Schedule After Diwali

Fans, prepare for the biggest chapter yet! The much-anticipated feature film adaptation, Mirzapur: The Movie, has reached a major production milestone. The main cast, led by Pankaj Tripathi (Kaleen Bhaiya), Ali Fazal (Guddu Pandit), and Shweta Tripathi Sharma (Golu Gupta), has successfully concluded the grueling Banaras (Varanasi) schedule.

The team will now celebrate Diwali before relocating the entire production to Mumbai to kick off the next crucial phase of filming in early November.

The Soul of Mirzapur: Banaras Shoot Conclusion

Banaras, with its ancient ghats and undeniable raw energy, has always been integral to the Mirzapur narrative. The two-week-long shoot in the city was reportedly intense, capturing key sequences that will bridge the world of the hit OTT series to the new cinematic scale.

The actors shared emotional goodbyes to the location, acknowledging its significance to their characters:

• Pankaj Tripathi spoke of his character's birthplace: "Every time I come to Banaras, I feel a deep sense of belonging. This city is spiritual, raw, and alive. Shooting Mirzapur: The Movie here reminded me why Kaleen Bhaiya's world feels so real."

• Ali Fazal highlighted the local support: "This leg was charged with energy, emotion, and a lot of love from fans who showed up at every corner to watch us film."

• Shweta Tripathi Sharma noted the poetic connection: "Banaras has given me so much as an actor... Golu's journey is about transformation and inner strength, and shooting in Banaras makes that emotion feel real."

Why the Shift to Mumbai Matters for the Plot

The move to Mumbai is strategic, signaling an escalation in the power dynamics of the Mirzapur universe. While the Purvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh (UP) forms the heart of the gang war, the Mumbai schedule is expected to film sequences involving powerful, high-stakes political or criminal connections—the kind of players necessary for the Tripathis and Pandits to fight for absolute control.

The film, produced by Excel Entertainment and directed by Gurmmeet Singh, is set to be a spectacle. It brings back popular characters and introduces new faces, including Sonal Chauhan, with reports suggesting appearances by Jitendra Kumar and Ravi Kishan in pivotal roles.

With the Banaras chapter wrapped, the focus now shifts entirely to the Mumbai sets, bringing the highly anticipated 2026 release closer to reality for millions of fans. The battle for supremacy in the world of Kaleen Bhaiya and Guddu Pandit has officially left the heartland.

Ali Fazal: The Versatile Actor with Global Appeal!

Ali Fazal, a name that has steadily risen in the Indian film industry, is known for his versatile acting skills and captivating screen presence. From indie films to Hollywood blockbusters, Fazal has proven his mettle in diverse roles.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born and raised in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Fazal's journey to Bollywood began with his debut in the 2009 film "3 Idiots." His role as Joy Lobo, the aspiring musician, garnered him critical acclaim and recognition.

A Versatile Actor

Fazal's versatility as an actor is evident in his diverse roles. He has effortlessly transitioned between genres, from the quirky and charming characters in "Fukrey" to the intense and brooding roles in films like "Mirzapur." His performance as Guddu Pandit in the Amazon Prime Video series "Mirzapur" has been particularly praised, establishing him as a leading name in the digital entertainment space.

International Recognition

Fazal's talent has not gone unnoticed internationally. He has starred in Hollywood films like "Victoria & Abdul," alongside Dame Judi Dench, and "Death on the Nile," directed by Kenneth Branagh. His portrayal of various characters in these films has showcased his global appeal and acting prowess.

A Passion for Indie Cinema

Apart from mainstream cinema, Fazal has actively supported independent filmmaking. He has been a part of several critically acclaimed indie films, including "Bobby Jasoos," "Kaalakaandi," and "For Here or Eternity." His dedication to quality cinema has earned him respect from both audiences and critics.

A Social Activist

Beyond his acting career, Fazal is a vocal advocate for various social causes. He is passionate about environmental conservation, animal rights, and social justice. He actively uses his platform to raise awareness and inspire others to take action.

Ali Fazal's journey is a testament to his hard work, talent, and dedication. With his diverse roles and global appeal, he continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.

Ali Fazal to become Rule Breakers for Hollywood star Phoebe Waller-Bridge!

Ali Fazal’s thrilling moments due to his film with Hollywood star Phoebe Waller-Bridge!

Ali Fazal recently expressed his excitement about the project. Fazal will co-star with Phoebe Waller-Bridge in the Hollywood film Rule Breakers.

Over the years, Ali Fazal has acted in several Hollywood movies, and his performances have delighted viewers around. He's working on another exciting international project right now. In the forthcoming movie Rule Breakers, Ali will co-star with Phoebe Waller-Bridge. Recently, the actor expressed his excitement and praised his co-star's talent.

Rule Breakers is a true story about Afghanistan's first all-girls robotics team. In a recent statement, Ali Fazal said, “I am thrilled to be a part of Rule Breakers and to share the screen with such a talented actress as Phoebe Waller-Bridge.” 

Ali continued by talking about the movie's meaning to him, “This project resonates with me deeply, and I believe it’s crucial to tell stories that highlight the strength and resilience of individuals in challenging circumstances.” He expressed his excitement about sharing the story with others worldwide.

Ali expressed his enthusiasm at being in a movie that he thought all parents ought to take their girls to see. Regarding his collaboration with Fleabag star Phoebe Waller-Bridge, the actor stated, “The story being so inspiring, it was no surprise that Phoebe also stepped in. Of course she is a powerhouse of talent so her addition am sure has lifted the film to greater heights.”

Ali also alluded to their roles in the film. He revealed, "We play key roles at different stages in Roya Mahboob’s life and journey along with the Afghani robotics team for girls."

Rule Breakers is produced by Angel Studios and directed by two-time Academy Award winner Bill Guttentag. The film explores the themes of resilience and defiance in Afghanistan. It is slated for release in theaters in March 2025.

International productions like Victoria & Abdul and Death on the Nile are also part of Ali Fazal's oeuvre.

Ali and his wife, Richa Chadha, welcomed their first child together in July 2024. The couple revealed the daughter's name in a recent interview with a tabloid: Zuneyra Ida Fazal.

Film Fukrey 3 to hit the floors by 2021 end!

After the stunning success of Fukrey and Fukrey Returns, admirers have been keenly waiting for the third installment of the franchise. Amid all this, director Mrighdeep Singh Lamba has revealed about Fukrey 3 and confirmed that the movie is in works.

While talking to a daily, Mrighdeep specified that while they had plans to begin rolling Fukrey 3 in April this year, it got delayed due to COVID 19 lockdown. However, he did mention that the movie will hit the floors by the end of 2021. “We were supposed to take it on floors on April 15, but the lockdown [disrupted our plan]. Now, we will begin shooting by the year-end. We want things to settle down; people should feel safe and mentally ready before going on the set,” he further added.

Film Roohi director also clarified that the pandemic has been refraining him from giving a go ahead for the movie. He revealed, “We don’t know what will hit us next. I don’t want to start [the project] and then stop midway. I’d rather start and finish in one go”. Well, while the admirers are eagerly waiting for Fukrey 3, it will be interesting to see what new twists the makers will bring in the third film.

Ali Fazal’s Maldives vacation for birthday of lover Richa Chadha!

Bollywood’s famous couple Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal are happily dating each other. They made their relationship public when Ali took Richa to the Venice International Film Festival where his movie Victoria & Abdul had the world premiere. 

As per reports, Richa is celebrating her birthday today with beau Ali in the Maldives. It was a surprise from Ali’s side to sweetheart Richa.

Diana Penty feels Happy Phir Bhag Jayegi is funnier than the first one!

Bollywood actress Diana Penty is one of the cutest actresses in Bollywood. In a latest media chat, she revealed that her priority is to keep experimenting and avoid sticking to "formula films".

Diana is presently gearing up for her forthcoming movie Happy Phir Bhag Jayegi, which is a sequel to her 2016 hit movie Happy Bhag Jayegi. The movie will feature Abhay Deol, Jimmy Sheirgill, Ali Fazal and Sonakshi Sinha.

Speaking about the movie, Diana revealed, "If you like the first one, you will also like the second one. It’s the same space. It is funny, crazy and sweet. It’s a joyride. It is funnier than the first one. It feels good that a film is good enough for the makers to consider a part two. I feel proud when I think of that."

About the story of the second film’s uniqueness. She revealed, "I don’t think it is that much pressure or anything. It’s a unique story and director Mudassar Aziz really aced it. I feel it is even funnier than the first one."

Ali Fazal’s next is Tigmanshu Dhulia’s Milan Talkies!

Ali Fazal 

Tigmanshu Dhulia

Filmmaker Tigmanshu Dhulia’s romantic drama Milan Talkies has been in talks for a while having gone through numerous changes. After buzzes of numerous actors doing the movie including the likes of Shahid Kapoor, Ayushman Khurana and Aditya Roy Kapur.

Now, Ali Fazal who will be assuming the lead role in the much talked about romantic drama to be directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia.

A source reveals that Ali has read the script and given a thumbs up to it and will commence shooting for the movie in March. Sources closer to the actor told, “He has given his dates and Tigmanshu is currently on the lookout for the leading lady. It is set in North India and Ali will start shooting in the second week of March after he returns from the Academy Awards ceremony to be held on March 4.”

Ali is soon to take off to the U.S. to work on his next project after his perfect lead debut in Victoria and Abdul and will also attend the Oscars as Victoria & Abdul has been nominated for two prestigious categories. 

Now Ali Fazal enacts in a biopic in Hollywood?

Bollywood star Ali Fazal has captivated all as Abdul Karim in the Hollywood film Victoria & Abdul. He stars together with veteran actress and Oscar winner Dame Judi Dench.

Victoria & Abdul debuted at no.2 at the U.K. box-office. The film debuted in 10 territories over the weekend, grossing $4.7m. The UK territory alone garnered $2.6 million.

With a fruitful run, it comes as no surprise that Ali is in talks with a Hollywood director for a biopic role, as per a source.

When Ali was communicated on the same, the actor disclosed that he was in talks for an international project and did in fact meet a director. But he specified, "It will hopefully roll in 2018. I can’t elaborate further as I am yet to sign on the dotted line."

"Filmmakers are experimenting with unique topics and I want to grab these opportunities and not get typecast," Ali further added.

Recently, a famous US-based magazine listed Ali in the list of 10 Actors to Watch for 2017.

Victoria & Abdul is scheduled to release on October 13, 2017. 

We aren't Obamas to make our relationship public, says Richa on dating with Ali Fazal!

Bollywood beauty Richa Chadha, who had accompanied her "Fukrey" co-star Ali Fazal to the premiere of "Victoria & Abdul" at the 74th Venice International Film Festival, tells that they never felt the need to make their relationship public as they are just two "humble actors" and not the Obamas.

Richa, who was present for Tod's store launch on Thursday here, was questioned about her trip to Venice and her public appearance with Ali, who essays a key role in "Victoria & Abdul" with the Hollywood legend Judi Dench.

"People are writing shit on my social media accounts like love jihad and all that nonsense, so I find it really humorous. We are not Barack Obama (former US President) or Michelle Obama to make our relationship public. We are just two humble actors. So, I don't think anyone cares about it. But the fact that I took a trip to Venice to be with him... I think that says something," Richa told.

Earlier this week, Ali told a leading daily that it's their friendship which grew over time.

Talking about her upcoming movie "Fukrey 2", Richa said: "In 'Fukrey', I am paired with Chu Cha (Varun Sharma), so I cannot leave him. My first love is Chu Cha and for that, I feel sorry for Ali but I have to be with Chu Cha. The teaser of the film has already come, so of course, the trailer will also come closer to (film's) release."

"The film is releasing on December 8."

Ali and Richa co-starred for the first time in the 2013 film "Fukrey", and they are said to have been dating since over a year.

Couldn't be more proud, says Richa Chadha to Ali Fazal!

Actress Richa Chadha chose the Instagram route to acknowledge in a way that she was in Venice to be with Ali Fazal, whom she is seemingly dating over a year.

"Couldn't be more proud! Ali Fazal! You held your own. Magnificent in the film and in a magnificent film," Richa wrote on the photo-sharing platform on Tuesday.

Ali was in Venice for the world premiere of his foreign film "Victoria & Abdul", which features him with international actor Judi Dench.

Richa has put out a selfie, wherein she and Ali are seen smiling away, while Hollywood actress Judi Dench too can be spotted in the frame. The Bholi Punjaban of "Fukrey" wore a golden dress for the event, where Ali was suited and booted in black.

Richa has been making the most of her time in Venice. A travel enthusiast, she even took a boat ride to enjoy the surroundings.

Ali Fazal-Richa Chadha’s relationship is official now!

Bollywood stars Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha have known each other for the past four-five years and are really close. They starred together in Fukrey and since then have been good friends.

But friendship seemed to have bloomed too much more as Richa accompanied Ali as his date to the Venice International Film Festival where his Hollywood film Victoria & Abdul had a world premiere.

The pair has been dating for over a year now and made it official in Venice!

While Ali left for Venice on Friday night, Richa flew down a day later as she was shooting for her forthcoming television show. They walked down the red carpet together at the official media event, thus confirming the news.

While Richa looked beautiful in a sequined golden gown, Ali looked handsome in a dark blue suit, a white shirt and black trousers.

Directed by Stephen Frears, Victoria & Abdul is scheduled to release in India on October 6, 2017.

There's always been racism, there always will be, reveals Ali Fazal!

Bollywood actor Ali Fazal, who plays one of the title roles in Stephen Frears' directorial "Victoria and Abdul" with veteran actor Judi Dench, believes racism has always existed and it will continue to exist in future too. But he tells he is one of the lucky few to have never experienced it.

"I don't think it is (racism) out of the picture. There has always been racism and there will (always) be, unfortunately," the actor said in an interview.

Ali says his film is coming out at the right time and he is extremely excited about its release. The movie revolves around the inexplicable bond between Queen Victoria (Dench) and her clerk Abdul Karim (Fazal).

The film is based on a book of same name by Shrabani Basu that chronicles the real-life relationship between Queen Victoria and Abdul Karim -- a relationship viewed with suspicion by members of the royal household. 

Paris for Ali!

Ali Fazal will co-star with a screen Queen in Victoria & Abdul, and now he’s signed on to share screen space with the daughter of music royalty in another international flick!

The guy from Lucknow will team up with Michael Jackson’s daughter Paris for an angrezi film that’s inspired by our own Bollywood musicals. The film’s plot will center on two couples, and it’ll also feature Richa Chadha in a key role along with another American actor. I’ll keep you updated on this one.

City Agra to be recreated in London for Ali Fazal’s Victoria And Abdul!

It had been informed earlier that certain protestors from the Bajrang Dal interrupted the shooting of the Hollywood movie Victoria And Abdul starring Dame Judi Dench and Ali Fazal in protest of the installation of Queen Victoria on the sets.

  

In order to avoid any such unpleasant incidents in the future, the makers have now decided to reconstruct Agra in London and shoot their portions in the United Kingdom. A source attached to the film told, “The team was planning to shoot in India and was even prepping for it. However owing to the earlier circumstances and situation, they finally decided to not shoot here. Instead, since the shoot left was that of market areas and houses, they planned to stick to recreating the sets in the outskirts of London which was more feasible for them. This would be the final schedule of the film before its release in September.”

  

Directed by Stephen Frears, Victoria And Abdul is based on the book along the same title written by Shrabani Basu, which revolves around Queen Victoria and her confidante Abdul Karim, played by Judi and Ali respectively.

Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha’s encounter with Paris Jackson in LA!

Bollywood actor Ali Fazal is all set for his Hollywood debut in Victoria and Abdul. The film is directed by Stephen Frears and also stars Judi Dench, Eddie Izzard, Tim Pigott-Smith, and Adeel Akhtar. 

While Ali is presently in LA, the actor was spotted interacting with Paris Jackson, who we all know as the late well-known singer Michael Jackson's daughter. Along with them was Richa Chadha who is gearing up to attend the screening of her first American production, Love Sonia. 

Paris looked funky in a cream crop-top and army green shorts. Ali kept it cool in a black overcoat, tee and pants while Richa looked cute in a white shirt, black leather skirt and an overcoat.

The buzz around town is that Ali and Richa maybe collaborating on something special with Paris. We can't wait to see it!

A while back when Ali was questioned about how he was chosen for Victoria and Abdul, the actor said a famous tabloid, "I think they liked my hold on Hindi, English and Urdu. I'm growing a beard for this film. Hence, I'm looking like a homeless guy while promoting my film Happy Bhag Jayegi." He left for London to shoot for the movie after Happy Bhag Jayegi released. 

He further added, "I'm living my dream. Abdul is a guy from Agra who goes to London and is thrown into a fancy place all of a sudden. That's just what happened to me. Stephen liked my audition and I did reading sessions with Judi Dench."

Judi Dench’s Victorian style birthday gift for Ali Fazal!

As per reports, Actor Ali Fazal will be seen sharing screen space with Dame Judi Dench for the very first time in 'Abdul And Victoria' and Dench, who is known for her iconic role as Secret Service Chief M in a few Bond movies, bowled over Ali with a thoughtful birthday gift.

Fazal, who lately turned a year older, got a set of salt and pepper containers from the Victorian Era, which simply made Fazal's day. A source attached to the unit told, "While the two were shooting at the Osborne house which happens to the former house of the Royal Family, Ali had mentioned his love for Victorian style a lot of times and specifically a set of accessories that caught his attention. Like a good co-star Judi kept this in mind and waited for the right occasion to present it to him! Being part of the royal house, it was almost impossible to get but Judi and the team managed to surprise Ali with this very special gift."

Set in the late 1800's in the Victorian Empire era, Victoria And Abdul is about Abdul, an Indian servant who comes from India to work in the Royal Court and eventually develops a unique friendship with Queen Victoria.

Ali Fazal’s dance tips to Judi Dench!

After Irish actor Pierce Brosnan, who was known for essaying British secret service James Bond was spotted endorsing pan masala, don't be astonished if you soon see actress Judi Dench, known for her iconic role as Secret Service chief 'M' in Bond films, shake a leg to some Bollywood number in the near future.

We have informed that Ali Fazal, who will be seen sharing screen space with Dench in 'Victoria And Abdul', lately taught Judy Dench and the movie crew members some signature steps from Bollywood. The crew members were glad and pleased to learn some fun moves from the actor and the team had a great time on the sets of the movie.

Set in the late 1800's in the Victorian Empire era, 'Victoria And Abdul' is about Abdul, an Indian servant who comes from India to work in the Royal Court and finally develops a unique friendship with Queen Victoria.

Ali Fazal follows Akshay Kumar's footsteps!

Akshay Kumar was one of the first actors in Bollywood to introduce parkour to the silver screen and it seems like Ali Fazal too has taken a leaf out of the Khiladi's book.

We have learned that the actor has signed up with a group in Mumbai around where in lives for a weekend training in parkour action. Confirming the same, Fazal told, ''"I love experimenting with my work outs. Cannot imagine myself as only a gym rat. Thus a friend of mine actually came across a parkour group on Facebook and I instantly got in touch with them. I have just started to train and boy, it's amazingly difficult. What I immensely love about parkour is that it looks artistic and at the same time, it is a great fitness activity."

Ali Fazal was last seen in Khamoshiyan and will be next seen in Happy Bhaag Jaayegi.

Taapsee Pannu and Ali Fazal’s romantic Jodi for Prakash Raj's 'Tadka'!

Prakash Raj, who's one of Bollywood's favorite baddies, is now all set to mark his directorial debut in Bollywood with a movie titled Tadka and he has roped in Ali Fazal and Taapsee Pannu for his movie. The movie is a remake of Raj's Tamil movie Un Samayal Arayil and will also star Nana Patekar and Shriya Saran in key roles.

Approving the reports, Taapsee told, ''It's so exciting that finally Prakash sir will direct me. I have acted with him in two Telugu movies before and we had such a great time working with each other. His energy is infectious. Icing on the cake being I will get to share screen space with ‘The Nana Patekar'. I have seen the film in South but a lot has changed in it now to suit the sensibilities of Hindi audience and I'm nothing short of thrilled to be doing this role with such an amazing star cast.''

On his part, Ali told, ''I have always admired Prakash sir's work, be it down South or up here. Being directed by him is going to be an adventure I look forward to. It's one of the most endearing stories that I have had the chance to work on. I'm looking forward to bring some Tadka on the canvas. Also I feel blessed to be working with Taapsee, Nana Patekar and Shriya Saran. The ball is rolling and we're all set to jump in.''

Set in Goa, Tadka is a comedy of errors and it will go on floors in first week of May.