Mark your calendars — August 14, 2025, is shaping up to be one of the biggest box-office showdowns in recent memory. Rajinikanth’s much-anticipated film Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, is officially set to release on the Independence Day, clashing head-on with Yash Raj Films’ War 2, starring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR.

Coolie release announcement stirs excitement

The makers of Coolie took to social media to break the news, with Sun Pictures posting on X: “Sound-ah yethu! Deva Varraaru #Coolie worldwide from August 14th.” Director Lokesh Kanagaraj followed up with a fiery post confirming the release date, alongside a brand-new poster featuring Rajinikanth attempting to whistle — a teaser of the mass celebration expected from fans.

Produced by Kalanithi Maran, the film features a star-studded ensemble including Nagarjuna, Upendra, Soubin Shahir, Sathyaraj, Shruti Haasan, Reba Monica John, Junior MGR, and Monisha Blessy. The project, initially announced as Thalaivar 171 in 2023, was officially titled Coolie in April 2024. Buzz also suggests a cameo by Aamir Khan, though no official confirmation has been made.

War 2: A formidable opponent

On the other side of the cinematic battlefield is War 2, the high-octane sequel to the 2019 blockbuster War. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the film is part of YRF’s expanding Spy Universe. The action-packed sequel stars Hrithik Roshan returning as Kabir, with Jr NTR stepping in as the antagonist — a casting move that has already created immense hype among fans.

YRF confirmed the same release date on social media, with a post that read: “There will be mayhem in cinemas on 14 August 2025, worldwide.”

Coolie vs War 2: Independence Day mega clash

The simultaneous release of Coolie and War 2 sets the stage for a high-stakes South vs Bollywood showdown at the box office. With both films featuring superstar lineups, slick action, and massive fan bases, the Independence Day weekend is expected to witness record footfalls in cinemas across the country.

Instagram influencer and podcast host RJ Mahvash has finally addressed ongoing rumours linking her with Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal. After the two were spotted together at the ICC Champions Trophy final, social media was abuzz with speculation about a possible romance. However, Mahvash has now clarified her relationship status, stating that she is very much single.

In a candid podcast appearance, Mahvash dismissed any notions of casual dating. I don’t even believe in casual dating. I will only date someone I want to get married to, she said, adding that she doesn’t understand the idea of modern-day marriages.

“Marriage concept doesn’t make sense to me anymore,” says Mahvash.

Opening up about her personal journey, Mahvash revealed that she was engaged at the age of 19 but ended the relationship by the time she turned 21. Reflecting on her upbringing in Aligarh, she said,“Growing up, we were conditioned to believe that marriage was the ultimate goal. But now I’ve hit pause on that idea.”

She explained that her stance on love and relationships has changed significantly since then. “I’m that kind of person who sees a future first. Like in the film Dhoom, I see the wife and kids behind the bike,” she quipped.

This revelation comes at a time when Chahal has officially ended his marriage with Dhanashree Verma, fueling public interest in his post-divorce life. While Mahvash’s comments have put a stop to dating rumours for now, her firm stance suggests she’s not looking for fleeting connections.

The beloved comedy-drama Panchayat has officially completed five years since its debut on April 3, 2020. To mark the occasion, the makers have announced that Panchayat Season 4 will premiere on July 2, 2025, much to the excitement of fans across the country.

The announcement was made via a special promotional video released by Prime Video, featuring lead actor Jitendra Kumar, actress Jia Manek of Saath Nibhaana Saathiya fame, and internet sensation Darshan Magdum.

Cast and creators return for Season 4

The upcoming season will once again see the return of its star cast, including Neena Gupta, Raghubir Yadav, Chandan Roy, Sanvikaa, Faisal Malik, Durgesh Kumar, Sunita Rajwar, and Pankaj Jha, alongside Jitendra Kumar.

Produced by The Viral Fever (TVF), the show continues to be created by Deepak Kumar Mishra and Chandan Kumar, with direction by Deepak Kumar Mishra and Akshat Vijaywargiya.

Journey of a cult favourite

Panchayat follows the life of an engineering graduate who takes up a job as a Panchayat secretary in the fictional rural village of Phulera, Uttar Pradesh. The show has received widespread acclaim for its grounded storytelling, relatable characters, and humorous take on rural administration and village life.

The announcement of Season 4 not only celebrates its legacy but also assures fans that the charm of Phulera will return in the coming months with new twists and stories.