Aaliyah Kashyap Slams Audience for 'Ignoring' Good Films!

A fresh debate has been ignited in Bollywood, sparked by content creator Aaliyah Kashyap. Daughter of acclaimed filmmaker AnuragKashyap, Aaliyah has taken to social media to voice her frustration with audiences who, in her opinion, often fail to support quality cinema. The comments, which specifically mention the film Dhadak 2, were made while she was passionately promoting her father’s upcoming directorial, Nishaanchi, which is set to release soon.

 

The Frustrating Reality: Aaliyah's Statement on Audience Choices

In a series of Instagram stories, Aaliyah Kashyap shared her candid thoughts on the disconnect between what audiences say they want and what they actually support. She wrote, "It's honestly so frustrating to see people CONSTANTLY say they want 'good cinema' but when good films actually release, hardly anyone goes to the theatre."

She pointed to the recently released Dhadak 2 as a prime example, highlighting its positive reviews but underwhelming box office performance. Aaliyah also noted that this is a recurring trend in Indian cinema, mentioning other critically acclaimed films like Udaan, Lootera, and The Lunchbox which were not commercial successes upon their release but are now celebrated as "cult classics" or "hidden gems."

 

A Call to Action: Promoting Her Father's Film, 'Nishaanchi'

The timing of her statement was no coincidence. Aaliyah's critique was part of a larger plea for audiences to show up for her father, Anurag Kashyap's, next project. His film Nishaanchi, a crime drama starring newcomer Aaishvary Thackeray in a double role, is slated for a theatrical release on September 19. Aaliyah urged audiences to support the film now, when it matters.

"If we really want good, impactful and meaningful cinema, we can't just appreciate it in hindsight. Great cinema doesn't get better with time, it deserves to be seen NOW," she wrote, echoing a sentiment many filmmakers and artists feel. Her promotion of Nishaanchi serves as a direct call to action, asking viewers to put their money where their mouth is and support content-driven cinema on the big screen.

 

The Broader Debate: Box Office Success vs. Critical Acclaim

Aaliyah Kashyap's comments have fueled a long-standing debate within the industry: what determines a film's success? While some argue that box office numbers are the ultimate barometer, others believe that critical acclaim and a film's lasting impact on culture are more important.

Her father, Anurag Kashyap, has also been a vocal advocate for films with substance, even praising Dhadak 2 himself and comparing it to the works of legendary filmmakers. Aaliyah's statement reflects the challenges filmmakers face today, where creating meaningful content is only part of the battle; getting audiences to leave their homes to watch it is the other. As the industry grapples with changing audience habits, Aaliyah’s passionate defense of good cinema has become a topic of widespread discussion, raising an important question for both creators and consumers of art.

Kalki Koechlin on Anurag Kashyap Divorce: 'Hurtful to See the Other Person with Somebody Else'!

Mumbai, India: In a candid and revealing interview, acclaimed actress Kalki Koechlin has opened up about the emotional aftermath of her divorce from filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, admitting that it was "hurtful to see the other person with somebody else" in the initial years following their separation. The couple, who were once a prominent power duo in Bollywood, tied the knot in 2011 and officially parted ways in 2015.

Kalki's recent statements shed light on the complex journey of healing and moving on after a high-profile divorce. While they now share a cordial relationship, with Kalki even attending Anurag's daughter Aaliyah Kashyap's wedding in December 2024, the path to amicable terms was not an immediate one.

The Painful Road to Healing

Speaking to Zoom, Kalki shared that the first few years post-divorce were challenging for both of them. "The first few years after the divorce were not easy for us," she revealed. "Then came a point when we were like, 'we need to stay out of each other's lives' because it was hurtful to see the other person with somebody else, just the reminders are so strong."

Her honesty resonates with many who have experienced the pain of seeing an ex move on. The actress emphasized that time and distance played a crucial role in their healing process. "It does take a few years. We didn't get to it immediately, and distance helped," she explained.

Childhood Influences and Moving Forward

Kalki also hinted that her understanding of relationships and her own divorce might have been subtly influenced by witnessing her parents' "nasty" divorce when she was 13. She reflected on how growing up in such an environment could, in some ways, condition a person to "jeopardize relationships once they start turning bad." However, she credits "consciousness and therapy" for helping her overcome this conditioning and process her past experiences.

Today, Kalki Koechlin is in a happy and settled place in her life. She is married to Israeli musician Guy Hershberg, and the couple welcomed their daughter, Sappho, in February 2020. Their multicultural household, where they speak multiple languages, reflects Kalki's diverse background and her embrace of a new chapter.

Anurag Kashyap, too, has moved on, and while he has stated he's not planning to remarry, he continues to focus on his prolific filmmaking career. The mature friendship shared by Kalki and Anurag, as evidenced by her presence at Aaliyah's wedding, is a testament to their ability to navigate past pain and forge a new kind of respectful relationship.

Kalki Koechlin's openness provides a valuable perspective on the personal struggles that often accompany public splits, highlighting the human element behind celebrity relationships. Her journey from heartache to a place of peace and acceptance serves as an inspiration for many.

“They got uncomfortable watching…”, Anurag Kashyap says about Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui!

Anurag Kashyap is a notable director in Bollywood. Throughout his protracted career, he has continuously spoken his opinions on issues pertaining to the profession. The director also frequently works with amateurs and tackles subjects in his films that Bollywood wouldn't dare touch. Kashyap recently spoke about the film Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui, which stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Vaani Kapoor.

In an interview with a media source, Kashyap was asked about the representation of women in television and film. He asserted that since they did not watch Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui, the audience must likewise be open-minded. He revealed, "They got uncomfortable watching that film." Kashyap then praised both the film and Vaani Kapoor's performance in it. "It's such a great film. I love Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui and I think Vaani Kapoor's performance is one of the finest that I saw in that film. It really was a very good film", he further added.

In Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui, directed by Abhishek Kapoor, a man falls in love with a trans woman.

During the same interview, Kashyap was asked why he doesn't work with celebrities. He revealed, “Though I came here to make films, there was a time when I succumbed to it (the habit of chasing stars). Everybody was telling me, ‘Without stars you are doing this… imagine what you will do with stars’. That’s when the tide turns the other way and the slide starts.”

Taapsee Pannu to begin shoot for Anurag Kashyap’s sci fi thriller Dobaaraa!

Earlier, Anurag Kashyap had pronounced that he will be reuniting with his Manmarziyaan actress Taapsee Pannu for a sci-fi thriller.

Recently, Anurag and Taapsee had posted a video pronouncing their association for the next film Dobaaraa. Now, the twosome have begun shooting and Taapsee took to Instagram to share a goofy on set photograph. In the photograph, Taapsee can be seen wearing a mint green outfit, similar to hospital staff uniforms. With her hair tied in a pony and sports shoes, the actress for sure looks smart. Anurag can be seen sitting on her lap as he strikes a pose while donning his mask. Sharing the photo, Taapsee posted, "My #DobaaraaSeries Coz some collaborations deserve to be repeated... Ready to create more memories because we were running out of Manmarziyaan stories to tell..@anuragkashyap10 let’s do this #Dobaaraa."

About the film, Anurag had told, "Our vision with Dobaaraa is to bring a fresh, new story to the audience and I am very excited for it. This will be my third collaboration with Taapsee and this time the attempt is to bring an interesting new take on thrillers."

Anurag Kashyap spills the beans about ‘Project 10’!

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap made India proud lately when he was one of the nominees for the International Emmys with two of his projects making it to the list. After Manmarziyaan, Anurag will soon be returning to the big screen with a fresh new script.

As per a latest media report, Anurag Kashyap's next movie is titled 'Project 10'. The director and producer has already started the movie's shooting and has shot a major portion in the UK. The movie is set in the UK and India and stars numerous newcomers. Unlike Kashyap's recent OTT work, Kashyap's movie will see a theatrical release. Describing it as a 'young love story', Anurag Kashyap also disclosed one of the actors who will be starring in the movie.

As per reports, Aalia Furniturewalla will be starring in the lead roles. The actress, who is scheduled to make her debut with Saif Ali Khan in Jawaani Jaaneman, will be coming on board for Project 10.

Anurag Kashyap’s no talking terms with Vikas Bahl!

Well-known filmmakers Anurag Kashyap, Vikramaditya Motwane, Vikas Bahl and Madhu Mantena of Phantom films decided to part ways in 2017 after a fiery turn of events. Earlier, Vikas Bahl was accused of sexual harassment by a female employee of their company, which he denied. Anurag Kashyap and Vikas Bahl have not been on talking terms since then and now after nearly eighteen months, Anurag has opened about his equation with the latter.

Speaking about Vikas Bahl, buddy Anurag revealed, “My stand on this is the same as it was back then. Vikas works in the company, he is a partner and nothing against him has been proven. But mutually, we’ve decided that we will work separately, in separate premises. Vikas and I are not on talking terms; everything else is a rumour. We will continue making films together but I see no point in making him uncomfortable. We can work in different set-ups. I don’t feel the need to sort anything out, because no one came forward to say or prove anything, at that time.”

Vicky Kaushal and Taapsee Pannu’s emotional birthday wishes for director Anurag Kashyap!

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap is celebrating his birthday today. Vicky Kaushal and Taapsee Pannu have sent out whole-hearted birthday wishes to the Manmarziyaan director Anurag Kashyap. Vicky shared a photo hugging Anurag with an emotional message. He posted, “If it wasn’t for this beautiful man, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today. You are one of the most accessible, one of the most genuine persons around. Feel so happy and proud when people call me your ‘blue haired boy’. Thank You for being there, thank you for being YOU! On this special day, sending you many such warm hugs and good wishes. Can’t wait to see you in Toronto. Happy Birthday @anuragkashyap10 Happy Birthday ‘chachaji’! Love You  Shakal aadhi dikh rahi hai par emotion poora hai. Thanks @khamkhaphotoartist for capturing this!”

Taapsee also wished director Anurag Kashyap and posted, “To the man who, in his own unique way ‘farted’ beneath Rumi’s wings to make her fly and be who she is ! This year there is a super special birthday gift coming up soon ( that’s apart from the fact that we all r soon landing in Toronto to meet u , dressed as fancy gift package ) it’s finally gonna be the birth of @anuragkashyap10 version 2.0! Now prepare a good return gift for us Happy Birthday penguin! @khamkhaphotoartist.”

Aishwarya to give preference Anurag Kashyap over her favourite Sanjay Leela Bhansali!

Aaishwarya Rai Bachchan, Sanjay Leela Bhansali

Bollywood beauty Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was last seen playing the role of a pop sensation named Baby Singh in Fanney Khan co-starring Anil Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao. Now, Aishwarya has signed another project which marks the reunion of Aishwarya with her husband and actor Abhishek Bachchan onscreen. The lovely pair will be starring in a film titled Gulab Jamun which will be produced by Anurag Kashyap.

As per a news in a daily, Aishwarya was also offered to be a part of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's forthcoming production and she chose to work with Abhishek in Kashyap's movie. Speaking about it, a source revealed, "Aishwarya had to choose between working with Bhansali and sharing screen space with her husband, as the dates for both films were clashing. And she chose the film with her husband. They haven’t worked together in eight years. And more importantly, both of them have fabulous roles in Gulab Jamun. They’re going to be playing characters they’ve never played before."

Anurag Kashyap questioned on sexual harassment in Bollywood!

Lately, Pakistani singer Meesha Shami disclosed that she was sexually harassed by actor-singer Ali Zafar. By using the #MeToo hashtag, the singer told that she won't stay silent anymore.

After that, a lot of people are expecting Bollywood celebrities to open up on sexual harassment in the industry.

About the same, when a media source questioned director Anurag Kashyap about the same, he revealed, "Anywhere, a campaign like this (#MeToo) will be successful only when the victim speaks up. Then the people can stand up in support of the victim. If the victim won't speak up, then no one can speak because the others will be branded as disgruntled people trying to do rumour-mongering. It will be a total failure."

About media's obsession with "sexual harassment exists in every field including Bollywood", the director told, "It exists everywhere. Why are people obsessed with Bollywood?"

"I think everyone needs to take that clue and find that courage to do something about it," further added Anurag.

Taapsee Pannu feels, Manmarziyan is lovely amalgam of Anurag Kashyap and Aanand L. Rai's world!

Bollywood actress Taapsee Pannu, who will be seen in "Manmarziyan", tells the movie is a lovely mix of the different worlds of filmmakers Aanand L. Rai and Anurag Kashyap.

Taapsee revealed to a media source, "It's a very beautiful mix of Aanand L. Rai's world with Anurag Kashyap's world. That is why I am pretty excited about it." 

"It is a typical Anurag Kashyap style of love story, where you do not have black and white characters. Everyone has certain flaws. It is presented by Aanand L. Rai, who is known for these small time town beautiful (stories)," she further added. 

The movie, directed by Kashyap and presented by Rai, will go on floors in February. It also stars Vicky Kaushal and Abhishek Bachchan. 

If Shah Rukh Khan scolds me, I’ll sit in a corner and cry, admits Anurag Kashyap!

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap’s newest release, Mukkabaaz has received much appreciation from the viewers as well as the critics. The movie has been hyped to be among Anurag’s best work.

Anurag stated in an interview lately about his dream of working with Shah Rukh Khan. He told, “He wanted to do No Smoking and he was very upset when I went away from him. I also went to him with Allwyn Kalicharan. I wanted to do that with him and a big superstar from Hollywood. Everything was almost done but then again (it didn’t happen)”.

He is keen that they work together soon. Anurag told, “But we will work together. I won’t go anywhere without making a film with Shah Rukh Khan... I will write a film that will lure him. He should be attracted to it, he should be dying do the film. He is my senior from university, he has been there like a big brother helping me. He is super successful. When he loves you, he approaches things like, in my struggling years, (he used to tell me), ‘if you do what I tell you to do, your problems will disappear’. But I didn’t want him to make my life.”

Anurag who is known to speak his mind on numerous issues told, “He is the only guy I can never speak upto. I can fight with the world but not him. If he scolds me, I’ll sit in a corner and cry. He is someone I have this love for. I love him to death.”

Kalki Koechlin plays mixed tapes with ex-husband Anurag Kashyap during an interview session!

Actress Kalki Koechlin wedded Anurag Kashyap in the year 2011 and they got separated in 2015. Since then, the exes have been friendly to each other and maintained a warm relationship.

Recently, Kalki and Anurag interviewed each other for an online page. In the photo, Anurag is seen showing something above and Kalki is gazing at it with a smile.

Kalki captioned the photo on Instagram telling, "It's not every day you get to listen to the voice of God and play mixed tapes with your ex."

Manmarziyan gets makeover!

Aanand L Rai’s much-delayed project Manmarziyan is getting a full overhaul.

The romantic drama started out with Ayushmann Khurrana and Bhumi Pednekar in the lead and Sameer Sharma as director, before Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari replaced Sameer. Now I can confirm that Anurag Kashyap has taken over the reins from Ashwiny, and he’s swapped Ayushmann and Bhumi for Dangal’s Sanya Malhotra and the newbie Jassie Gill. Manmarziyan 2.0 rolls in Punjab this December, and I hope things go smoothly this time around! 

Now Anurag Kashyap’s punch for Mukkabaaz!

It’s been well over a year since Rama Raghav 2.0 released, and Anurag Kashyap is ready to return to the director’s chair.

The man behind hits like Dev D and misses like Bombay Velvet has announced a new project called Mukkabaaz, which will centre on a boxer from Uttar Pradesh who falls for a Brahmin girl. Mukkabaaz is being coproduced by Aanand L Rai, with Vineet Kumar Singh and Jimmy Shergill headlining its cast. Here’s hoping the sporty film with a political twist see’s Anurag back in his best form.

Is Anurag Kashyap in a live-in relationship?

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap is open about his personal life, be it his weddings or relationships. The gifted filmmaker was married to Aarti Bajaj and got separated in the year 2009 after six years of togetherness. Then he started dating Kalki Koechlin and finally married her in 2011. They got divorced after being married for four years.

Now, he is again in love and is supposed to be in a live-in relationship with a 23-year-old girl named Shubhra Shetty. His Instagram page is full with intimate and pretty photographs with Shubhra.

Anurag shared a mushy snap and captioned it telling, "Love"

In one of the pictures, both were seen performing yoga together. Speaking about it, he told, "We are killing it #Rupalsid"

And in another nice picture, the duo is seen dancing and he captioned it telling, "Beauty and the Beast .. just to clarify I am the beauty .."

Previously, a picture went viral on the Internet, where the two were indulging in a kiss while on the streets of New York City. Shubhra’s friend Gillian Bolt shared it on Instagram, but it was finally deleted. The photo was captioned, "My little lovebirds".

Furthermore, Anurag's 16-year-old daughter Aaliya was also snapped holidaying with them in New York. Shubra even joined Anurag to Madhu Mantena and Masaba Gupta’s wedding.

The alleged couple has not confirmed their relationship yet, but the photographs say it all!

Anurag's last directorial was Raman Raghav 2.0 starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Vicky Kaushal in the leads. The movie was critically acclaimed for its incredible acts.

Anurag Kashyap's open letter over criticism he is facing!

The entire of Hindi Film Industry is divided over the case of Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. Anurag Kashyap, who has worked with Karan Johar, Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma in Bombay Velvet, tried to help their case when he tweeted to none other than PM Narendra Modi telling, "Sir you haven't yet said sorry for your trip to meet the Pakistani PM... It was dec 25th. Same time KJo was shooting ADHM? Why? why is it that we have to face it while you can be silent??"

But, he received a lot of criticism and reaction from far and wide, for this tweet of his. When a reporter contacted him on Whatsapp to ask for clarification on the issue, Kashyap posted a screen capture of the chat, along with her number, on his social accounting handle.

This resulted in the reporter being stalked by trolls, much to the horror of Kashyap, who now received criticism from the media. Anurag deleted the post and explained his stance on Facebook.

This letter too, received many responses in the form of open letters, adding to the frustration of Kashyap.

I did not ask PM to apologise, clarifies Anurag Kashyap on tweet hullabaloo!

Filmmaker & Director Anurag Kashyap on Tuesday clarified his purpose behind his tweet questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Pakistan last year and told he did not "ask the PM to apologise".

Hitting out at the media for playing with his statement for "headlines", Kashyap took to his Facebook page for a lengthy post and told "it is unfortunate that I have to explain my intention behind my tweet, because others and my industry colleagues have to suffer for me having an opinion".

"I am tired of the film industry being soft targets. We are damned if we do, damned if we don't! When we don't involve ourselves, they ask, 'Why is Bollywood quiet now?' When we involve ourselves, we become the scapegoats to distract you from the real news," Anurag posted. 

"Either way they use us to sensationalise news. Still, I'd rather put my opinions out there on my own platform, then give the media a bite (byte). NO, Anurag Kashyap did not 'ask the PM to apologise' (which most of the headlines would want you to believe, no one has their mind anyways)," he further added. 

The filmmaker tells he just asked the "fairness in judgement of a situation".

"The PM visited Pakistan for talks at the same time that a filmmaker was working with a Pakistani actor. Neither was aware of future events or mood. Yet only one pays the price," he added. 

Kashyap has spoken up after his October 16 tweet -- ""Narendra Modi Sir, you haven't yet said sorry for your trip to meet the Pakistani PM. It was December 25. Same time KJo was shooting 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil'? Why?" -- caused a stir.

It came amid Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India's decision to not release movies with Pakistani actors, in single screens across Maharashtra, Goa and Gujarat. It's a move that is likely to hit hard Karan Johar's "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil", which features Pakistani actor Fawad Khan.

Kashyap on Tuesday told he understands that "the government did not cry 'ban' or demand that Pakistani artists be sent back, just as I'm aware that the PM himself doesn't censor my films".

"But we elected them and so it is their responsibility to protect us from bullies - media or political parties. And when the governing party's designated members don't respond in hours of crisis because they are second guessing the mood of the PM, then I would rather talk straight to the PM himself. There was also sarcasm in the tweet that followed; ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai' was for those mindless trollers who constantly ask for proof of your patriotism. Apparently that's all it takes. It was a jibe at them. Patriotic slogans don't absolve you from it all. I hope this explains." He ended.

Anurag Kashyap’s baddie avatar in the South thriller 'Imaikkaa Nodigal'!

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, who was last seen essaying a corrupt cop in Sonakshi Sinha-starrer Akira, seems to have relished essaying the bad character and the director will be next seen playing the antagonist in a South film titled Imaikkaa Nodigal.

Kashyap tweeted, "I am RUDRA..here's the news guys.. I've signed a Tamil film titled Imaikkaa Nodigal..a nail biting thriller with Nayanthara & Atharvaa. I'm excited to start my first Tamil film Imaikkaa Nodigal..My best wishes to director Ajay Ganamuthu & Cameo Films.."

Bollywood Star kids Khushi Kapoor and Aaliyah Kashyap turn brand ambassadors now!

The young guns are all set to enter into the big world of glitz and glamour! 

Even though Khushi Kapoor and Aaliyah Kashyap are only 15-year-olds, the two were the star attractions at a Bandra bar lately. As per a famous daily, the two young ladies were roped in by designer Babita Malkani as the face of her new campaign and were guests of honour at her party here. 

Aaliyah, the daughter of filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, and Khushi, Sridevi and Boney Kapoor's youngest girl, are Malkani's new brand ambassadors. Apparently, their credentials are their several fans on Instagram. Khushi has 1,50,000 followers while Aaliyah has 75,000.

Anurag Kashyap prefers working with newcomers instead of established stars!

Eccentric director Anurag Kashyap, who generally prefers working with newcomers as opposed to established stars, finally opened up about why he likes to work with newcomers.

During a chat session at the Film Festival, Anurag told that he likes to work with newcomers as he makes small-budget movies and with newcomers, one can shoot on streets without worrying about a mob gathering to look at the actors and disturbing the proceedings. Kashyap also further added that he is not fascinated with the thought of launching an actor.