Monday marked a monumental day for actor Varun Dhawan and his wife Natasha Dalal, as the couple welcomed their first child into the world at a suburban hospital. The jubilant news was shared by the Baby John actor himself on social media, early Tuesday morning, through an enchanting and animated post that quickly gained traction and heartfelt reactions from fans and well-wishers alike.
The social media post was eloquent and filled with joy. “We are overjoyed with this new blessing in our lives. During this special time, we request the media to give us our privacy. Thank you for your support and understanding.” Varun further added, “Our baby girl is here. Thank you for all the good wishes for the mama and the baby.” This heartfelt announcement immediately prompted an outpour of congratulatory messages from Bollywood celebrities and fans.
Bollywood fraternity members were quick to extend their warm wishes. Janhvi Kapoor and Kiara Advani reacted with heart emojis, while Shraddha Kapoor joyously commented, “Congratulations Babdu and Nat!” Rakul Preet Singh expressed her delight by saying, “So much love for three of you,” and Kareena Kapoor Khan extended her blessings with, “Wonderful news! God bless all of you.”
It is worthy to note Varun Dhawan’s earlier public remarks about his desire to have a baby girl. During an appearance on season 5 of Koffee with Karan, alongside Alia Bhatt, Varun was asked during a rapid-fire round to name one thing that Shahid Kapoor had that he didn’t. To this, Varun candidly responded, “He has a baby girl. I don’t want his baby girl, I want my own.” As if speaking his future into existence, he immediately clarified, “Shahid, your child is yours. I don’t want your child.”
The exciting baby news follows in a series of recent celebrity tidbits. For instance, Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt have reportedly indulged in a luxurious purchase, acquiring a brand new Lexus LM for approximately Rs 2.5 crore, shortly after their return from Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding festivities with their daughter Raha. The high-end vehicle boasts impressive features, including reclining seats with massage functions, a refrigerator, and an entertainment system for rear passengers.
. This purchase adds to their collection, including a Bentley valued around Rs 6 crore. On the professional front, Ranbir Kapoor is set to commence work in November on Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s upcoming project, Love & War, which also stars Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal.
In other news, the camaraderie on the set of the television show Main Hoon Saath Tere appears to be fostering an environment of pranks and fun. Karan Vohra, Ulka Gupta, and child actor Nihan Jain, who play pivotal roles, have developed a close bond, often engaging in playful antics. Ulka revealed a memorable prank where Karan and Nihan, in collusion with crew members, locked her up in her make-up room in an attempt to scare her. Ulka spoke fondly of these moments, noting that such camaraderie enhanced the authenticity of their on-screen chemistry, making each day on set both enjoyable and memorable.
Meanwhile, actress Rani Mukerji is primed to finalize her next film project. Following Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, Rani is reportedly deep in discussions with The Sky is Pink director Shonali Bose for a family drama backed by Junglee Pictures. The casting process is actively underway, seeking an A-list lead. Should all details fall into place, shooting for the as-yet-untitled film is anticipated to commence by September. Moreover, Rani is also set to return in her iconic role as the no-nonsense cop Shivani Shivaji Roy in the forthcoming Mardaani 3, which is currently in the scripting phase.
Internationally, acclaimed Indian filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker made headlines by becoming the first Indian director to be bestowed with the Medal of Saint Tropez. The Lagaan and Jodhaa Akbar director was honored at the Nirvana Cultural Cinema Festival in France. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Gowariker thanked Ms. Sylvie Siri, the Mayor of Saint Tropez, expressing his eagerness to further bridge the cultural and cinematic ties between France and India. His 2004 film Swades was also screen to enthusiastic audiences in the scenic town of Saint Tropez.
Finally, the beloved 90s Bollywood track, Tujhe Dekha Toh Yeh Jana Sanam from the iconic film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), has been crowned as the UK’s favourite 90s Bollywood song. This recognition comes from a BBC Asian Network poll that saw active participation from listeners who chose the timeless love ballad from a list of 50 contenders. Renowned presenters and industry experts unanimously celebrated this Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol classic, further cementing its place in India’s pop culture history.
Indeed, Monday has brought a variety of joyful news and exciting updates from the Bollywood sphere, headlined by the arrival of Varun and Natasha’s precious baby girl.