Veteran actor and comic legend Asrani passed away at the age of 84 in Mumbai after a prolonged illness. He was admitted to Bharatiya Arogya Nidhi Hospital four days ago due to fluid in his lungs. His funeral was held at the Santacruz Crematorium, with the family announcing the news afterward, respecting his wish for a quiet farewell. Known for iconic roles in films like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Bawarchi, and Mere Apne, Asrani acted in over 350 films. His comic timing and versatility made him one of Indian cinema’s most beloved actors. A prayer meeting is being planned. (PC: India Today)

Salman Khan's remarks at Joy Forum 2025 in Riyadh sparked debate after he separately mentioned "people from Balochistan" and "people from Pakistan" while discussing South Asian communities in the Middle East. Speaking alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan, his statement went viral, with journalist Smita Prakash noting the separation as "amazing." Social media debated whether it was a slip, lack of knowledge, or intentional recognition of Balochistan's distinct identity. Supporters highlighted Balochistan's unique regional culture, while the comment reignited discussions about the province's history of unrest and autonomy aspirations. Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province, spans three countries and has longstanding cultural distinctions from Pakistan's dominant ethnic groups.

The Kapoor family kicked off Diwali celebrations with a grand Dhanteras gathering. Kareena Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor, and Alia Bhatt were seen together, dressed in festive attire. Alia wore a shimmering gold saree, Kareena opted for a blue and gold lehenga, and Karisma wore a black and white outfit. Neetu Kapoor and other family members joined the celebrations, sharing moments on social media. Ibrahim Ali Khan posted a cute picture with his brothers, Taimur and Jeh. Soha Ali Khan also shared glimpses of the festive spirit. Fans praised the family’s style and warmth. The Kapoor family continues to celebrate Diwali together each year. (PC: India Today)

Bollywood stars joined PM Modi's "Vocal for Local" initiative, promoting local businesses this Diwali through a special video campaign. Prominent celebrities including Madhuri Dixit, Triptii Dimri, Varun Dhawan, and Shankar Mahadevan encouraged citizens to shop locally and celebrate Indian entrepreneurship. Triptii promoted a Jodhpur footwear shop, stating "every small shop has a big heart," while Madhuri highlighted a Dehradun lights business, emphasizing spreading "light of togetherness." Comedian Sunil Grover and singer Shankar Mahadevan also participated, thanking small vendors for their essential societal role during festive season. The initiative received significant attention, encouraging citizens to support local artisans, weavers, and small businesses, strengthening India's self-reliant economic vision.

Sir David Attenborough, the world-renowned naturalist and broadcaster, has become the oldest person to win a Daytime Emmy at age 99. He won for outstanding daytime personality — nondaily, for his Netflix documentary Secret Lives of Orangutans. Attenborough broke the record set last year by Dick Van Dyke, who won at 98. The ceremony was held in Pasadena, California, though Attenborough did not attend. The documentary also won awards for directing and music. Known for Life on Earth and Our Planet, Attenborough has been making documentaries since the 1950s. This is his first Daytime Emmy. (PC: nytimes)

South Korean actor Lee Jung-jae shared a viral selfie with Shah Rukh Khan at Joy Forum 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, calling it an "honour" to meet the Bollywood icon. The photo captured both stars smiling broadly, thrilling fans worldwide who celebrated the K-drama sensation meeting the King of Bollywood. Joy Forum 2025 brought together global entertainment heavyweights including Lee Byung-hun, Aamir Khan, and Shaquille O'Neal under Saudi General Entertainment Authority's patronage, discussing entertainment's future, creative collaboration, and technological innovation. Shah Rukh reflected on his three-decade career, expressing admiration for fellow stars Salman Khan and Aamir Khan, reaffirming his commitment to inspiring audiences globally.

'Squid Game' star Lee Jung-jae shared an Instagram selfie with Shah Rukh Khan, captioning "Honoured to be with a respected icon Mr. @iamsrk." The photo shows Lee in a grey hoodie while SRK wore a black shirt, both smiling. Fans praised the meeting, calling them "2 LEGENDS." Lee plays protagonist Seong Gi-hun (Player 456) in Netflix's 'Squid Game,' portraying a flawed, debt-ridden gambling addict who maintains humanity during deadly games. After winning 45.6 billion won, trauma prevents normal living, leading him to expose the brutal competition. Shah Rukh Khan's next film 'King,' directed by Siddharth Anand with daughter Suhana Khan, releases Gandhi Jayanti 2026.

Singapore Police Force confirmed no foul play suspected in singer Zubeen Garg's death investigation, urging public against spreading unverified speculation. The 52-year-old died during a yacht outing while performing at Singapore's North East India Festival last month. Investigations under Singapore's Coroners Act 2010 may take three more months before findings reach the State Coroner, who'll determine if a Coroner's Inquiry is necessary. Singapore police shared autopsy report and preliminary findings with India's High Commission on October 1 upon request. Five arrests made in India include event organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta, manager Siddharth Sharma, suspended APS officer Sandipan Garg (cousin), and two PSOs including Nandeswar Bora. (PC: The New York Times)

Comedian Kapil Sharma's Kaps Cafe in Surrey, Canada faced its third shooting in four months Wednesday night, with Lawrence Bishnoi gang members Goldy Dhillon and Kuldeep Sidhu claiming responsibility. Video footage showed multiple handgun shots shattering a window; no casualties reported. The gangsters warned the "general public" to stay away and threatened those "who speak against religion in Bollywood" that "bullets can come from anywhere." Previous attacks occurred August 8 (25 shots fired) and July 10 (10 bullets struck windows). Babbar Khalsa International terrorist Harjit Singh Laddi claimed the first attack, citing offense over remarks about Nihang Sikhs at Sharma's show. Mumbai security was increased following threats.

Bollywood star Deepika Padukone has become the new voice of Meta AI, marking a historic collaboration as one of the first Indian celebrities to voice an AI assistant. Available across six countries including India, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, the feature allows users to chat with her voice in English. Deepika announced the partnership on Instagram, calling it "pretty cool" and encouraging followers to try the experience. The collaboration brings a familiar, friendly tone to Meta's expanding digital platform. On the film front, Deepika was last seen in 'Kalki 2898 AD' and will next appear in 'King' alongside Shah Rukh Khan, plus a pan-India project with Atlee and Allu Arjun. (PC: X)