Ajay Devgn’s crime thriller Raid 2, directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, hit theaters on May 1, 2025, to a mixed reception from critics and audiences. The film opened with a respectable Rs 19.25 crore on its first day, but collections dipped to Rs 12 crore on Friday, signaling uneven audience traction.

A rebound on Saturday saw earnings climb to Rs 18 crore, bringing the total net collection in India to Rs 49.25 crore, as reported by trade analyst Sacnilk. Globally, the film amassed Rs 40.5 crore over its first two days, reflecting a steady but not spectacular performance.

Despite a challenging box office climate for Bollywood releases, Raid 2 has outperformed Devgn’s previous film, Azaad, maintaining a relatively stable run. However, the film faced setbacks with over 350 screenings canceled by Saturday, reducing the number of shows from 4,711 on Friday to 4,504. Saturday’s overall theater occupancy stood at 30.51%, indicating room for growth to sustain momentum.

Regionally, Chennai led with a robust 56% occupancy across 54 shows, followed by Bengaluru at 43.50% for 217 shows and Pune at 37.75% for 355 shows. Mumbai recorded 31.50% occupancy across 778 shows, while Delhi-NCR saw 33.75% for 1,061 shows, reflecting varied audience turnout. The film’s cast, including Riteish Deshmukh, Vaani Kapoor, and Saurabh Shukla, has drawn praise, but reviews highlight an inconsistent script as a hurdle, with some lauding its gritty action and others critiquing its pacing.

In a related development, on May 2, 2025, Bollywood faced scrutiny over declining theater attendance, with industry experts citing competition from streaming platforms. A Mumbai-based exhibitor reported a 20% drop in footfall for mid-budget films like Raid 2 compared to pre-pandemic levels, prompting discussions on ticket price reductions. The Producers Guild of India announced plans to collaborate with multiplexes to boost weekday screenings, aiming to revive cinema-going culture.

Produced by Panorama Studios and T-Series, Raid 2 continues to navigate a competitive market. Its ability to capitalize on weekend gains will be crucial, as industry watchers monitor whether Devgn’s star power can overcome screening cuts and sustain its box office trajectory.

Supermodel Gigi Hadid confirmed her romance with actor Bradley Cooper, sharing an intimate Instagram photo of the couple kissing during her 30th birthday celebration.

The post, a milestone in their relationship, marked the first time the duo publicly acknowledged their bond on social media, ending months of speculation that began in 2023. The image, captured at a glamorous party at L’Avenue at Saks in New York City, radiated warmth and joy.

The star-studded bash welcomed Hadid’s parents, sister Bella Hadid, and celebrities like Anne Hathaway and Will Arnett. In her caption, Hadid reflected on turning 30, writing, “I’m so thankful to be 30! The highs and lows, lessons and gifts, have shaped me. I’m grateful for the love from all of you around the world. Celebrating felt magical!” Her heartfelt words resonated with fans, highlighting her gratitude for both personal growth and global support.

In a recent magazine interview, Hadid described their relationship as “truly romantic and fulfilling,” adding, “It’s about mutual respect and finding someone who aligns with your values.” Their frequent public appearances over the past year, from dinners to red-carpet events, had fueled rumors, but this post solidified their status as a couple.

In a related development, on May 1, 2025, Hadid and Cooper attended a high-profile fashion event in Los Angeles, co-hosted by a luxury brand to launch a sustainable clothing line. The couple, dressed in coordinated outfits, mingled with industry icons, drawing attention for their effortless chemistry.

Hadid, a vocal advocate for eco-conscious fashion, spoke briefly about the importance of sustainable design, while Cooper supported her advocacy, underscoring their shared commitment to meaningful causes. The event, widely covered in entertainment news, amplified their influence as a power couple.

Hadid and Cooper’s public embrace of their relationship has captivated fans, blending their high-profile careers with genuine connection. As Hadid enters her 30s, her candid Instagram post marks a new chapter, celebrating love and authenticity alongside Cooper, with their joint appearances continuing to draw admiration.

On the morning of May 4, Babil Khan, actor and son of the late Irrfan Khan, sent shockwaves through social media with a series of emotional Instagram stories, tearfully denouncing Bollywood as the “fakest industry” he has ever encountered.

The 26-year-old, visibly distraught, later deleted his Instagram account, leaving fans and netizens worried about his well-being and speculating about potential industry pressures or mental health struggles.

In the now-viral videos, Babil expressed frustration, stating, “Bollywood is the most fake, fake, fake industry I’ve been part of. But there are a few who want it to be better. I have so much more to show, so much to give.”

In another story, he named actors like Ananya Panday, Shanaya Kapoor, Arjun Kapoor, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Raghav Juyal, Adarsh Gourav, and singer Arijit Singh, adding, “Bollywood is so messed up.” The remarks led fans to wonder if Babil was facing bullying or isolation in the industry.

The outburst triggered widespread online discussion, with some users interpreting it as a cry for help. Hours later, Ananya Panday posted Instagram pictures, including one with a Harry Potter quote: “What’s coming will come, and we’ll meet it when it does.”

Many speculated this was a subtle response to Babil’s comments, fueling further debate. Bollywood’s competitive landscape, often criticized for its cliques and nepotism, has long been a topic of public scrutiny, and Babil’s remarks reignited these conversations.

Just a week prior, on April 29, 2025, Babil paid a heartfelt tribute to his father Irrfan Khan on his fifth death anniversary, writing, “With you, without you. Soon I’ll be there, and we’ll run, fly, and laugh like we used to. I miss you.” The post, shared across platforms, highlighted Babil’s ongoing grief, which may have contributed to his emotional state.

Babil debuted in the 2022 film Qala, followed by Friday Night Plan (2023) with Juhi Chawla. His breakthrough came with the Prime Video series The Railway Men, and he recently starred in ZEE5’s thriller Logout. As fans await updates on his well-being, Babil’s candid critique has cast a spotlight on the pressures faced by young actors in Bollywood’s high-stakes world.