The Indian entertainment landscape witnessed a whirlwind of significant events on December 5, 2025. The day was marked by a major cinematic release, an unexpected postponement of a much-awaited sequel, news of a potential record-breaking digital deal, and the sad demise of a Hollywood icon. Here’s a detailed look at the top stories that kept fans and industry watchers glued to the news.
Dhurandhar Roars at the Box Office
Ranveer Singh's ambitious action-spy thriller, 'Dhurandhar', finally landed in theatres on December 5, 2025, to widespread critical and audience acclaim. The film, which boasts an ensemble cast including Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, and Arjun Rampal, has made an immediate impact. It registered an impressive first-day collection, crossing the Rs 27 crore mark at the domestic box office.
Notably, the film's runtime of 214 minutes makes it the longest Hindi film release in almost twenty years. Before its release, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) granted it an 'A' certificate after recommending certain edits for violent content and language. The massive appreciation signals a strong theatrical run ahead for this big-budget spectacle.
Akhanda 2 Hits a Legal Roadblock
In a disappointing turn of events for Telugu cinema fans, the highly anticipated sequel 'Akhanda 2', starring Nandamuri Balakrishna, was abruptly postponed indefinitely. The film was originally scheduled for a grand release on December 5, 2025, but premiere shows were cancelled at the last minute citing "technical issues."
The real reason, however, is a serious legal dispute. Reports indicate that a Rs 28 crore arbitration award in favour of Eros International Media Limited is pending. This led to the Madras High Court issuing a stay order, which explicitly bans the film's release, distribution, or any commercial exploitation until the dues are cleared. The unexpected delay has left fans and the film's makers awaiting a resolution.
Varanasi's Potential Streaming Windfall
Excitement is building around SS Rajamouli's next magnum opus, 'Varanasi', starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra. According to industry reports, the film's global streaming rights are being negotiated for a staggering sum that could touch Rs 1,000 crore. If finalized, this would set a new benchmark for OTT deals in Indian cinema.
This potential record-breaking deal has stirred immense excitement among fans who are eagerly awaiting this big-budget, pan-Indian project. The news underscores the growing financial clout and global appeal of major Indian film franchises in the digital streaming space.
Hollywood Mourns Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa
The entertainment world also mourned the loss of veteran actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, who passed away at the age of 75. Best known for his iconic portrayal of the villain Shang Tsung in the 1995 film 'Mortal Kombat', Tagawa died on December 4, 2025, in Santa Barbara, California, due to complications from a stroke.
His career spanned several decades, beginning with a memorable role in 'The Last Emperor' (1987). He went on to appear in numerous Hollywood films and TV shows. Tributes poured in from fans and colleagues worldwide, remembering him as a defining screen villain whose work left a lasting legacy on 1990s action and video-game adaptation cinema.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan on Life and Career
Meanwhile, at the Red Sea Film Festival 2025, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan shared insights into her current life priorities. When asked about potentially feeling insecure for not signing film projects frequently, the actress stated she is "so busy taking care of Aaradhya, being with Abhishek."
She emphasized that insecurities have never driven her career choices. Instead, she explained that her decisions are guided by personal conviction and a genuine love for compelling stories, rather than external pressures or industry expectations.
December 5, 2025, proved to be a day of stark contrasts for the film industry—celebrating a new release's success, navigating a high-stakes legal delay, anticipating a historic digital sale, and bidding farewell to a beloved artist. The developments highlight the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the world of entertainment.
