The Indian film industry witnessed a flurry of significant developments on January 6, 2026. The day's headlines were dominated by a legal setback for a filmmaker, emotional clarifications from a veteran star, exciting hints from a leading actress, and a tantalizing glimpse into one of cinema's most awaited projects.
Legal Troubles for Vikram Bhatt and Wife
The Rajasthan High Court refused to grant bail to filmmaker Vikram Bhatt and his spouse Shwetambari Bhatt in a fraud case registered in Udaipur. The court's decision means the couple will remain in judicial custody as investigations proceed. They had filed petitions seeking interim relief and the quashing of the FIR, but the bench dismissed their pleas.
Justice Sameer Jain observed that the complaint indicated issues beyond a simple breach of contract. The court noted allegations of intentional fund diversion, misuse, and a distinct lack of transparency. A preliminary inquiry reportedly uncovered evidence related to fabricated invoices and suspicious circulation of money, contributing to the denial of bail.
Hema Malini Addresses Family Speculation
Following the passing of veteran actor Dharmendra on November 24, 2025, the organization of separate prayer meetings led to rumours of discord within the family. While his first wife, Prakash Kaur, and their children held a prayer meet in Mumbai, Hema Malini and her daughters Esha and Ahana were absent.
Hema Malini later organized her own prayer meetings in Mumbai, Delhi, and Mathura. In an interview, she firmly dismissed talks of a rift, calling it a personal family matter. She explained that the separate gatherings were for different circles of people—personal friends, political associates in Delhi, and constituents in her Mathura constituency, who held immense love for Dharmendra.
Deepika Padukone Hints at Romantic Comedy Comeback
At a pre-birthday interaction with fans, Deepika Padukone broke her silence on the persistent audience demand to see her back in a romantic comedy. Reading a fan's question about her return to the genre, Padukone expressed hope that it would happen very soon, confessing it is one of her favourite genres both as an actor and an audience member.
When fans suggested potential co-stars like Hrithik Roshan and Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika responded with a smile, acknowledging that such collaborations have been discussed. Her playful reaction to a fan's joke about romancing both stars added a lighthearted moment to the event.
A Musical Powerhouse for Ramayana
Producer Namit Malhotra offered fans a thrilling behind-the-scenes look at the epic project Ramayana by sharing a studio picture on composer A.R. Rahman's birthday. The photograph featured Malhotra with the Oscar-winning maestro and the legendary film score composer Hans Zimmer.
In his caption, Malhotra celebrated Rahman's genius and expressed anticipation for bringing the combined musical magic of Rahman and Zimmer to the world, heightening excitement for the film's soundtrack.
Priyadarshan Reacts to Arshad Warsi's Remarks
In related news, director Priyadarshan responded to actor Arshad Warsi's recent comments about having an unpleasant experience during the making of the 2004 film Hulchul. Warsi had stated his role was reduced and he did not enjoy the process.
Priyadarshan expressed being hurt and shocked by the claims, recalling that Warsi had called him after the film's release to thank him for the appreciation he received. The director emphasized that Hulchul was a commercial success, contradicting Warsi's description of it as a flop.
