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Prabhas Allots Dates for Kalki 2 Amid Spirit Shoot
In a surprising development, Prabhas has reportedly allotted dates for another project even as he has only recently begun shooting for Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit. The news has caught many off guard, especially since Vanga is known for demanding complete commitment from his actors and generally discourages them from juggling multiple films simultaneously.
However, considering Prabhas’ massive star stature, it appears that certain exceptions are being made. As per reports, the actor has agreed to a brief shooting schedule for Kalki 2 in February. Although there is no official confirmation yet, the sequel has already entered the pre-production stage, with groundwork quietly progressing for some time now.
Kalki 2 is the second installment of the blockbuster Kalki 2898 AD franchise, in which Prabhas impressed audiences with his dual roles as bounty hunter Bhairava and the mythological warrior Karna. The sequel is expected to delve deeper into the narrative surrounding the birth of Kalki, offering Prabhas an entirely new dimension to explore.
At this point, it remains unclear whether Prabhas will continue shooting for Kalki 2 alongside his tightly packed schedule for Spirit, where he essays the role of a police officer under Vanga’s intense direction. With multiple high-profile projects lined up, all eyes are now on how the actor balances these ambitious films.
తరుణ్ భాస్కర్ కొత్త చిత్రం ‘ఓం శాంతి శాంతి శాంతిః’ జనవరి 30న రిలీజ్
తెలుగు సినిమా గమనాన్ని మార్చిన దర్శకుల్లో తరుణ్ భాస్కర్ ఒకరు. ఆయన సినిమాలు వస్తే, ఎప్పుడూ కొత్తదనం, నూతన కథలతో ప్రేక్షకులను ఆకర్షిస్తాయి. తాజాగా ఆయన దర్శకత్వంలో తెరకెక్కిన ‘ఓం శాంతి శాంతి శాంతిః’ జనవరి 30న ప్రపంచవ్యాప్తంగా రిలీజ్ కు సిద్ధమవుతోంది.
ఇక ఇచ్చిన ఓ ఇంటర్వ్యూలో, తరుణ్ తన కెరీర్ ప్రారంభనాటి భయాలు, విజయం వెనుక ఉండే ఒత్తిడిని పంచుకున్నారు. తన మొదటి చిత్రం ‘పెళ్లి చూపులు’ విజయాన్ని గురించి మాట్లాడుతూ, ఆ సినిమా రిలీజ్ సమయంలో తన పరిస్థితి ఇంత తీవ్రంగా ఉన్నదని చెప్పారు. “నాకు హార్ట్ ఎటాక్ వచ్చినంత పని అయింది” అని ఆయన సమాధానమిచ్చారు. జీవితంలో విజయం లేదా అపజయం రెండింటినీ ఎదుర్కొని మాత్రమే ముందుకు వెళ్లవచ్చని, అత్యధిక సక్సెస్ అయినా, పెద్ద ఫెయిల్యూర్ అయినా రెండూ సమస్యలేనని, ఆ ఒత్తిడిని ఎదుర్కోవడం అతనికి ఒక సవాలుగా అనిపించిందని తెలిపారు.
‘ఓం శాంతి శాంతి శాంతిః’ లో ఈషా రెబ్బ హీరోయిన్ గా నటిస్తున్నది. తరుణ్ భాస్కర్ తనదైన శైలిలో రాసుకున్న ఈ కథలో యూత్ ఫుల్ ఎలిమెంట్స్, హ్యూమర్ పీక్స్ ఉంటాయని సమాచారం. ఈ సినిమా కంటే తప్ప మరికొన్ని క్రేజీ ప్రాజెక్టులకూ ఆయన శ్రీకారం చుట్టారు. కేవలం దర్శకత్వమే కాకుండా, నటుడిగా కూడా బిజీగా ఉండటంతో, తన మార్క్ సినిమాలను లైన్లో పెడుతున్నారు.
ప్రతి సినిమాలోనూ లోకల్ నేటివిటీని తన ప్రత్యేక శైలిలో చూపించే తరుణ్, ఈసారి కూడా బాక్సాఫీస్ వద్ద మ్యాజిక్ చేస్తారని ఫ్యాన్స్ భావిస్తున్నారు. ఆయన మాటల ప్రకారం, “విజయాన్ని తలకెక్కించుకోక, అపజయానికి కుంగిపోక ఉండటమే అసలైన గెలుపు” అని చెప్పడం ఒక స్ఫూర్తిదాయక సందేశంగా నిలుస్తోంది.
తరుణ్ భాస్కర్ ‘పెళ్లి చూపులు’ నాటి ఆందోళన నుండి ఈ రోజు ‘ఓం శాంతి శాంతి శాంతిః’ వరకు చేసిన ప్రయాణం యువ దర్శకులకు ప్రేరణగా ఉంటుంది. నూతన, వైవిధ్యమైన కథలతో వచ్చేస్తున్న ఆయన, ఈ సినిమాతో మరోసారి తెలుగు సినిమా స్థాయిని పెంచుతారని ఆశిద్దాం. జనవరి 30న థియేటర్లలో సినిమా ఏ విధమైన వండర్స్ క్రియేట్ చేస్తుందో వేచి చూడాలి.
తమన్నా భాటియా కొత్త ఎలిగెంట్ లుక్లో సోషల్ మీడియాలో క్రేజ్
బాలీవుడ్ నుండి టాలీవుడ్ వరకు తన అందం, అభినయంతో కోట్లాది అభిమానులను సంపాదించుకున్న మిల్కీ బ్యూటీ తమన్నా భాటియా, మరోసారి సోషల్ మీడియాలో సెన్సేషన్ క్రియేట్ చేస్తోంది. ఇటీవల ఆమె షేర్ చేసిన ఫోటోలు నెటిజన్లను షేక్ చేస్తున్నాయి. ఎప్పుడూ ట్రెండీగా కనిపించే తమన్నా, ఈసారి క్లాసిక్, ఎలిగెంట్ లుక్లో మెరిసి, అభిమానుల గుండెల్లో సెగలు పుట్టిస్తోంది. స్టైలిష్ అవుట్ఫిట్లో మెరిసిన ఆమెను చూసి ఫ్యాన్స్ “క్వీన్ ఆఫ్ స్టైల్” అంటూ కామెంట్లు చేస్తున్నారు.
తమన్నా తన ఫ్యాషన్ సెన్స్ గురించి మాట్లాడుతూ, ఆభరణాల ఎంపికపై ఆసక్తికరమైన వ్యాఖ్యలు చేశారు. “నాకు ఆభరణాలు అంటే కేవలం ఇతరుల దృష్టిని ఆకర్షించడం మాత్రమే కాదు, అవి మన వ్యక్తిత్వానికి ఎలా అర్హంగా ఉంటాయో ముఖ్యం. ఆభరణం మన వ్యక్తిగత శైలిని పెంచాలి, కానీ మనల్ని అధిగమించకూడదు” అని ఆమె చెప్పారు. ఆమె ఎల్లప్పుడూ సహజ, బేసిక్ స్టైల్ను ఇష్టపడతుందని, వస్తువులను ఒక ఉద్దేశంతోనే సేకరిస్తుందని, చక్కటి ఆభరణాలు కేవలం అలంకరణగా కాకుండా మన వ్యక్తీకరణలో భాగంగా ఉండాలనని వివరించారు.
తాజా ఫోటోలలో ఆమె ధరించిన అవుట్ఫిట్ ఆమె ఎలిగెన్స్ను మరింత పెంచింది. మినిమల్ మేకప్, సింపుల్ హెయిర్ స్టైల్, మరియు ఆమె సిగ్నేచర్ స్మైల్తో కెమెరాకు ఫోజ్ ఇచ్చిన తీరు నెటిజన్లను మగ్నెట్ చేసింది. ఫ్యాన్స్ కొన్ని గంటల్లోనే లక్షలాది లైకులు, కామెంట్లు ఇస్తూ ఆమె క్రేజ్ను పునరుద్ధరించారు.
ప్రస్తుతానికి తమన్నా కెరీర్లో అత్యుత్తమ దశలో ఉంది. ఒకవైపు సినిమాల్లో నటిస్తూ, మరోవైపు ఓటీటీ ప్లాట్ఫారమ్లలో కూడా తన ప్రభావాన్ని చూపిస్తోంది. గత ఏడాదిలో వచ్చిన ఓదెల్ 2 హిట్ తర్వాత ఆమె క్రేజ్ పెరిగింది. హిందీలో వరుస ప్రాజెక్ట్స్తో బిజీగా ఉండటంతో పాటు, కేవలం గ్లామర్ పాత్రలకు పరిమితం కాకుండా, నటనకు ప్రాధాన్యత ఉన్న పాత్రలను ఎంచుకుంటూ తన ప్రత్యేకతను చాటుతోంది.
సోషల్ మీడియాలో తన ఫ్యాషన్ స్టేట్మెంట్స్ యంగ్ హీరోయిన్లకు కూడా మొదటి ప్రేరణగా నిలుస్తున్నాయి. కొత్త లుక్స్తో ఎప్పుడూ ప్రయోగాలు చేస్తూ, ఫ్యాన్స్ను మెస్మరైజ్ చేస్తోంది. ఈ తాజా ఎలిగెంట్ లుక్ ఆమె అసలు క్లాస్ను పూర్తిగా బయటపెట్టింది. అభిమానులు ఇలాంటి మరిన్ని అద్భుతమైన లుక్స్తో ఆమెను మరింతగా చూడాలని కోరుతున్నారు.
మమ్ముట్టికి 2026 లో పద్మభూషణ్ అవార్డు
మలయాళ సినిమా లెజెండ్ మమ్ముట్టికు భారత ప్రభుత్వం పద్మభూషణ్ (2026) అవార్డు ప్రకటించడం ఆయన 50 ఏళ్ల సుదీర్ఘ సినీ ప్రయాణానికి గొప్ప గౌరవం. ఆయన ఎందుకు ఈ అవార్డుకు అర్హుడు, ఆయన కెరీర్ విశేషాలు ఏమిటో పరిశీలించాలి.
మమ్ముట్టి కేవలం భారతదేశపు అగ్రశ్రేణి నటుల్లో ఒకరు మాత్రమే కాదు, భారతీయ సినిమాను అంతర్జాతీయ స్థాయికి తీసుకెళ్లిన గొప్ప కళాకారుడు. మలయాళంలో ప్రధానంగా, అలాగే తెలుగు, తమిళ, హిందీ, కన్నడ, ఆంగ్ల చిత్రాల్లో నటించి పాన్-ఇండియా స్టార్గా గుర్తింపు పొందారు. ఆయన తెలుగు సినిమాలో స్వాతికిరణం, యాత్ర వంటి సినిమాల్లో నటించారు, తమిళంలో దళపతి సినిమాలోనూ, ఇతర భాషల చిత్రాల్లోనూ సత్తా చాటారు.
సినిమా కంటే ఎక్కువగా, మమ్ముట్టి కేర్ అండ్ షేర్ ఇంటర్నేషనల్ ఫౌండేషన్ ద్వారా వేల మందికి ఉచిత వైద్యం, విద్యను అందిస్తున్నారు, ముఖ్యంగా గిరిజన ప్రాంతాల్లో. 70 ఏళ్లు దాటినా, ఆయన ఇప్పటికీ ప్రయోగాత్మక చిత్రాలు చేస్తూ యువ నటులకు సవాలు విస్మరిస్తున్నాడు (భ్రమయుగం, కాదల్).
మమ్ముట్టి అసలు పేరు ముహమ్మద్ కుట్టి, వృత్తిరీత్యా న్యాయవాది. 1971లో అనుభవంఘళ్ పాళిచకళ్ చిత్రంతో చిన్న పాత్రలో సినిమా ప్రయాణం ప్రారంభించారు. 1980లో న్యూఢిల్లీ చిత్రం ఆయనను సూపర్ స్టార్గా నిలిపింది. ప్రస్తుతం ఆయన సుమారు 400 సినిమాల్లో నటించారు, యాక్షన్, సెంటిమెంట్, హిస్టారికల్ రోల్స్లోనూ విభిన్న శైలి చూపించారు.
మతిలుకళ్, పొంతన్ మాడ్, డాక్టర్ బాబాసాహెబ్ అంబేద్కర్ వంటి చిత్రాల కోసం ఆయన రెండు సార్లు జాతీయ ఉత్తమ నటుడు అవార్డు లభించారు. 8 సార్లు కేరళ రాష్ట్ర ఉత్తమ నటుడు అవార్డు పొందారు. 1998లో భారత ప్రభుత్వం ఆయనను పద్మశ్రీతో గౌరవించింది. కేరళ, కాలికట్ విశ్వవిద్యాలయాల నుండి ఆయనకు డాక్టరేట్లు లభించాయి.
పద్మభూషణ్ అవార్డుకు అర్హత:
పద్మభూషణ్ భారతదేశంలో మూడవ అత్యున్నత పౌర అవార్డు. కళలు, సాహిత్యం, విద్య, క్రీడలు, వైద్యం, సామాజిక సేవలలో అసాధారణమైన కృషి చేసిన వ్యక్తికి ఇవ్వబడుతుంది. ఆయా రంగంలో సుదీర్ఘకాలం సేవ చేసి, జాతీయ లేదా అంతర్జాతీయ గుర్తింపు పొందాలి. సాధారణంగా పద్మశ్రీ తర్వాత క్రమంగా కృషి కొనసాగిస్తే, పద్మభూషణ్ అవార్డు అందిస్తుంది.
మమ్ముట్టికి పద్మశ్రీ అవార్డు లభించిన 28 ఏళ్లు పూర్తయ్యాయి, ఇప్పుడు పద్మభూషణ్ అవార్డు అందించడం ఆయన ప్రతిభకు తగిన గుర్తింపు. మమ్ముట్టి సినిమాలు కేవలం కలెక్షన్ల కోసం కాకుండా, నటుడిని ప్రాణంగా ఉంచడానికి చేస్తారు. ఆయన వయసులోనూ చేస్తున్న ప్రయోగాలు చూస్తే, అభిమానులు అనుకుంటున్నారు – పద్మభూషణ్ కూడా ఆయనకు తక్కువ, పద్మ విభూషణ్ కూడా ఇవ్వాలి!
Lokesh Kanagaraj Gears Up for Allu Arjun Project Amid Media Speculation
Kollywood star director Lokesh Kanagaraj has been in the spotlight lately, with media discussions swirling around him. Known as the director who brought in ₹1000 crore to the industry, Lokesh has recently faced comments targeting him after the release of After Coolie, despite being praised prior to its release.
In an attempt to address the ongoing social media speculation, Lokesh spoke openly during a recent press meet. When asked about being seen closely with a heroine, he calmly responded that he has a family, questioning why such assumptions are made. However, reporters continue to ask provocative questions, often targeting him unnecessarily.
Lokesh also clarified that discussions about a project with Allu Arjun have been ongoing for six years, and Maitri Movie Makers had already given him an advance long ago. He confirmed that along with Kaithi 2, his cinematic universe will continue to expand. During the press meet, Lokesh shared insights into the projects he wishes to pursue next, emphasizing that praise is easy when a film succeeds, but criticism comes when it fails. This understanding has motivated him to prove himself with the Allu Arjun project.
Having worked with Allu Arjun, who achieved pan-India fame with Pushpa, the collaboration is expected to generate massive excitement. While fans are curious about the storyline and whether Lokesh is working on his “dream project,” clarity on these aspects is awaited. Regardless, Lokesh seems determined to address all questions only once the film is complete.
Currently, Allu Arjun is busy with Atlee’s film, and once that project wraps up, Lokesh will move on to his sets. Maitri Movie Makers are planning the film with a massive budget, ensuring high expectations. If Lokesh bounces back with this project, both Tamil and Telugu audiences are likely to be thrilled. Apart from Kaithi 2, fans can also expect other exciting projects like Rolex from Lokesh, but to achieve this, he needs to maintain his current momentum and continue delivering hits.
Atlee Kumar’s AA22: Allu Arjun and Deepika Padukone Reunite
Director Atlee Kumar is currently busy shooting his highly anticipated next film, tentatively titled AA22, featuring Allu Arjun in the lead role. Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone is set to play the female lead, promising to bring a fresh and surprising avatar to the project.
During a media interaction at the World Pickleball League, Atlee described Deepika as a “lucky charm” and hinted at the unique performance fans can expect from her. On the film’s production progress, he stated, “Just wait for it. You are going to enjoy it to the max.”
The makers are expected to announce official details about the project in the coming days. Produced under the Sun Pictures banner, this film marks a reunion for Atlee and Deepika, who previously collaborated on Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan, a massive box-office hit.
Apart from AA22, Deepika will also be seen in King, slated for a theatrical release on December 24, 2026, adding to her lineup of exciting projects.
Karan Johar Takes a Week-Long Digital Detox Amid Bollywood Praise
Filmmaker Karan Johar, known for his candid posts and active social media presence, has announced a temporary break from digital platforms, opting for a week-long digital detox. Sharing the news on his Instagram stories, he wrote, “Digital Detox for a week! No doom scrolling! No DMs! No posts! May the universe give me the strength to stay away!!!!”
Social media, while a major platform for connection, can impact mental health, and many celebrities are now taking breaks to find peace of mind. Johar’s step reflects a growing trend among stars to unplug and recharge.
Recently, the ace director has been vocal about the latest Bollywood hits, praising Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar and the multi-starrer war drama Border 2. On Instagram, he celebrated the back-to-back successes, writing, “The mega success of the two recent back-to-back Hindi film hits proves one thing… BOLLYWOOD (yes, incorrect terminology, but here to stay) is BACK! Naysayers can fly a kite! All DHURANDHARS will cross BORDERS of excellence when the films strike emotional chords with a paying audience!!!!”
Karan Johar also expressed admiration for director Neeraj Ghaywan and his film Homebound, which recently missed out on an Academy Awards nomination. Produced by Johar alongside Adar Poonawalla and Apoorva Mehta, and co-produced by Marijke deSouza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier, the film also had Martin Scorsese and Pravin Khairnar as Executive Producers.
With a week away from screens, Johar seems set to recharge while continuing to champion Indian cinema and celebrate its successes.
Ayesha Khan Shines as the Viral Star of “Shararat”
Ayesha Khan has been part of the entertainment industry for nearly a decade, appearing in Bollywood web series and Tollywood films like Mukhachitram and Om Bheem Bush, mostly in cameo roles. Her breakthrough came last year with the viral song “Shararat” from Dhurandhar, which brought her widespread attention and significantly boosted her popularity among audiences.
Recently, Ayesha shared new pictures that showcase her unique fashion sense. She stuns in officecore and deconstructed corporate chic, pairing a cropped light-blue shirt with a loose tie for a playful twist on formal wear. Relaxed low-waist trousers add a cool, Gen Z vibe, while minimal styling and confident poses transform classic office fashion into something bold and modern.
Meanwhile, Vijay Ganguly, the choreographer behind the viral “Shararat” song, revealed that Tamannaah Bhatia was initially considered for the number. However, director Aditya Dhar wanted the song to highlight the film as a whole rather than focus on a single star, keeping the audience’s attention on the story instead of just one performer.
Regardless of the initial choices, fans are thrilled with Ayesha Khan’s performance and style, eagerly following her journey as she rises as a fresh and exciting talent in the film industry.
Couple Friendly’s Peppy Track Gaabara Gaabara Energy Released
UV Creations, one of Tollywood’s leading production houses, is producing a much-anticipated film starring Santosh Sobhan, known for his versatility in content-rich roles. Titled Couple Friendly, the film is set for a worldwide release on February 14, Valentine’s Day, in both Telugu and Tamil.
Following the release of a soulful melody, the makers have now unveiled a peppy track that perfectly captures today’s relatable vibe. Titled Gaabara Gaabara Energy, the song features dynamic vocals by music director Santosh Narayanan, whose energetic delivery adds a unique spark and makes the track instantly catchy.
Paired with Aditya Ravindran’s electrifying composition and Rakendu Mouli’s relatable lyrics, the song delivers a complete audio-visual experience that resonates with listeners of all ages. The lyrical video offers glimpses into the busy, everyday lives of the leads, Santosh Sobhan and Manasa Varanasi, showing how their paths cross and love blooms—a treat made for the big screen. Santosh Narayanan’s vocal energy enhances every moment, making the track both fun and memorable.
The film is directed by debutant Ashwin Chandrasekhar, with Miss India Manasa Varanasi as the leading lady. Produced by UV Concepts and presented by UV Creations, Couple Friendly promises to be an engaging entertainer. Cinematography is handled by Dinesh Purushothaman, while the music is composed by Aditya Ravindran.
KV Anudeep’s Comedy Magic Creates Buzz for Funky
Director KV Anudeep, who shot to fame after his second film Jathi Ratnalu became a sleeper hit, is known for his distinctive style in handling comedy. His knack for weaving side-splitting one-liners and amusing conversations into the narrative sets him apart in delivering slapstick entertainers.
More than his writing, Anudeep’s quirky antics during media interactions and public appearances have made him extremely popular among audiences. This unique charm is now proving to be a big asset for his upcoming film Funky, starring Vishwak Sen in the lead role.
Funky is slated for release on February 13. With just two weeks left, the lack of promotions had sparked speculation about a possible postponement. However, a recently released promotional interview seems to have changed the narrative.
Popular anchor Suma recently hosted an interview with Anudeep and the lead pair, Vishwak Sen and Kayadu Lohar, as part of the film’s promotions. Soon after it went live, social media buzzed with clips praising Anudeep’s impeccable comic timing. Anudeep and Suma, who have shared several rib-tickling conversations in the past, recreated that magic once again.
In this interaction, Anudeep’s wacky replies and tongue-in-cheek remarks made the entire session thoroughly enjoyable for viewers. Many video bytes from the interview have already gone viral, generating positive buzz ahead of the film’s release.
India–EU FTA Opens Big Opportunities for Andhra Pradesh
The India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signed and announced today during the high-level visit of European leaders to New Delhi, has opened a significant window of opportunity for Andhra Pradesh. From aquaculture and exports to green hydrogen and climate resilience, the FTA and accompanying sector-specific partnerships are poised to give a major boost to the state’s economy, directly benefiting lakhs of farmers, workers, and coastal communities.
One of the biggest beneficiaries is expected to be the fisheries and aquaculture sector. As India is a key supplier of shrimp and fish to Europe, the reduction and removal of trade barriers under the FTA will allow Andhra Pradesh’s aqua farmers to export higher volumes at more competitive prices. With a strong focus on sustainable fishing practices and fresh investments in cold-chain infrastructure, small and medium farmers in districts such as Nellore, Krishna, West Godavari, and Srikakulam stand to gain the most. The proposed India–EU Ocean and Fisheries Dialogue will further enhance sustainability standards, quality certification, and export competitiveness.
Andhra Pradesh’s major ports—Visakhapatnam, Krishnapatnam, Gangavaram, and Kakinada—are also expected to witness a sharp rise in cargo movement. Faster clearances, simplified procedures, and increased EU-bound exports, particularly in seafood, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, will strengthen the state’s position as a key trade gateway on India’s east coast.
The India–EU Disaster Risk Management Arrangement is another crucial development for a cyclone-prone state like Andhra Pradesh. Enhanced early-warning systems, climate-resilient infrastructure, and quicker post-disaster response mechanisms will play a vital role in safeguarding lives and livelihoods across vulnerable coastal regions.
Additionally, iconic Andhra products such as Araku Coffee and several horticulture exports could gain stronger global recognition once the India–EU Geographical Indications Agreement is finalised, opening new branding and premium market opportunities.
Taken together, these developments place Andhra Pradesh at the centre of India’s expanding partnership with Europe. The state’s farmers, industries, ports, and coastal communities are set to emerge as some of the biggest winners in this new chapter of India–EU cooperation.
Mrunal Thakur’s Tamil Debut Not with Dhanush
Several reports and online speculations have recently surfaced regarding an alleged relationship between Dhanush and Mrunal Thakur. Some media outlets even went to the extent of claiming that the two were planning to tie the knot, with a few reports suggesting February 14 as a possible wedding date. However, these marriage rumours were later officially denied by teams close to both actors.
While dating speculations continue to do the rounds on social media, the two actors have not shared screen space so far. Contrary to widespread expectations, Mrunal Thakur is not set to make her Tamil debut opposite Dhanush.
According to reports, Mrunal will instead be seen alongside Silambarasan TR (Simbu) in an upcoming Tamil project, with an official announcement expected soon. This development has taken many by surprise, especially against the backdrop of persistent rumours linking her to Dhanush, as Simbu is often perceived as a contemporary rival of the actor.
Despite the lack of any official confirmation regarding their personal lives, social media continues to buzz with discussions, trends, and speculation surrounding the alleged relationship between Mrunal Thakur and Dhanush.
Vaa Vaathiyaar Set for Early OTT Release on Prime Video
Just two weeks after its theatrical release on January 14, Vaa Vaathiyaar—released in Telugu as Annagaru Vostaru—is all set for its digital premiere. The film will begin streaming on Prime Video from January 28, making it available to audiences across India and in over 240 countries and territories worldwide. The action-comedy will stream in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada.
Headlined by Karthi and Krithi Shetty, Vaa Vaathiyaar is a Tamil action-comedy inspired by the legacy of legendary actor and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. G. Ramachandran (MGR). The film features a strong supporting cast that includes Sathyaraj, Raj Kiran, Anandraj, Shilpa Manjunath, Karunakaran, G. M. Sundar, Ramesh Thilak, Nivas Adithan, Vadivukkarasi, Nizhalgal Ravi, and Thenappan P. L.
The story revolves around a die-hard MGR fan who raises his grandson Ramu (played by Karthi), firmly believing that the boy shares a special bond with the iconic star. As Ramu grows up to become a cheerful and fearless police officer, a series of unexpected events put his grandfather’s life at risk, forcing Ramu to shoulder greater responsibilities and undergo a deeply personal emotional transformation.
Directed by Nalan Kumarasamy, the film marks his return to direction after nearly a decade. His previous outing was the 2016 romantic comedy Kadhalum Kadandhu Pogum, while his directorial debut was the cult black comedy Soodhu Kavvum in 2013.
Made on a reported budget of around ₹40 crore, Vaa Vaathiyaar failed to gain traction at the box office, collecting only about ₹10 crore worldwide during its theatrical run. The film’s early arrival on OTT reflects its underwhelming theatrical performance.
Backed by energetic music composed by Santhosh Narayanan, the film blends adventure and comedy with a family-friendly appeal. Produced by K. E. Gnanavel Raja under the Studio Green banner, Vaa Vaathiyaar now hopes to reach a wider audience through its digital release.
Lokesh Kanagaraj Slams Inappropriate Media Question
Filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj recently spoke about various aspects of his films, career, and personal life during a media interaction. However, one question posed by a journalist drew sharp criticism for crossing the boundaries of basic decency.
The journalist referred to rumours about Lokesh’s alleged closeness with a female star—without naming Shruti Haasan directly, though it was evident that the question stemmed from recent social media speculation. Rather than seeking clarification on the rumours, the reporter made an inappropriate remark by asking whether Lokesh “planned to start a family with her.”
Maintaining his composure, Lokesh responded with dignity, firmly stating that he already has a wife and a family. Despite this clear answer, the journalist shockingly persisted and went a step further by asking if he would consider starting a “second family,” sparking widespread criticism for the insensitive and intrusive line of questioning.
Rumours linking Lokesh Kanagaraj and Shruti Haasan began after the duo collaborated on a video album in which they portrayed lovers. Shruti Haasan’s appearance in Lokesh’s recent film Coolie further fuelled the speculation. However, Lokesh has been married to his longtime partner for several years, making the rumours baseless.
Ustaad Bhagat Singh Targets Summer 2026 Release
With Ram Charan’s Peddi moving out of its originally planned March release and Nani’s The Paradise being postponed indefinitely, trade circles are growing increasingly concerned about the absence of a major Telugu release during the crucial early summer holiday window.
This apparent vacuum seems to have prompted the makers of Ustaad Bhagat Singh to act swiftly and capitalise on the opportunity. Headlined by Pawan Kalyan, the film is now aiming to arrive in theatres as the first major release of the summer 2026 season.
To meet this target, the team has fast-tracked post-production work, while promotional activities are expected to kick off from next month. Following the massive success of OG last year, Pawan Kalyan is said to be particularly keen on Ustaad Bhagat Singh and has reportedly allocated time for dubbing in the coming weeks.
An official release date announcement is expected soon to provide clarity to exhibitors and fans alike. However, sources indicate that the final call will be taken only after receiving Pawan Kalyan’s approval.
Tarun Bhaskar Puts ‘Deccan Derby’ on Hold, Focuses on Acting
Director Tarun Bhaskar, who made a remarkable debut with Pelli Choopulu and later delivered the cult classic Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi, has largely steered clear of working with big stars. While his discovery Vijay Deverakonda became a household name, Tarun himself shifted focus toward acting roles rather than directing star-studded films.
At one point, there was significant buzz about Tarun directing senior star Venkatesh in a high-octane film centered around horse racing and betting in Hyderabad. The project, tentatively titled Deccan Derby, saw Tarun working on the script for almost two years under the supervision of Venky’s brother, producer Suresh Babu.
Responding to the rumors surrounding Deccan Derby, Tarun Bhaskar clarified that the project is currently on hold. “After completing the script, I realized the second half needed substantial changes. The story is still relevant today, but the film demands a bigger budget and heavy VFX to bring it to life. I’ll proceed at the right time,” he said in an interview.
Meanwhile, Tarun is playing the lead role in the upcoming film Om Shanti Shanti, a remake of the Malayalam hit Jaya Jaya Jaya Jayahe. The movie is scheduled to release on January 30 and marks his continued focus on acting for the time being.
Samantha Shines at Rashtrapati Bhavan Republic Day Reception
Samantha Ruth Prabhu recently attended the Republic Day ‘At Home’ Reception held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, an event hosted by the President of India. Calling it a truly special moment, the actress shared her joy and pride with fans through social media.
Samantha posted a series of pictures from the prestigious occasion on her Instagram handle. One of the images shows her standing proudly in front of Rashtrapati Bhavan, while another features President Droupadi Murmu alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with European leaders also seen in the frame. She also shared a photograph of the official invitation card. In another picture, Samantha is seen wearing an elegant green saree, perfectly complementing the grandeur of the occasion.
Along with the pictures, Samantha penned a heartfelt note reflecting on her journey. She spoke about the struggles she faced while growing up and admitted that she never imagined witnessing a moment like this. She shared that there were no crowds cheering for her or mentors guiding her path — only consistent hard work and perseverance. Expressing gratitude, Samantha thanked the country for giving her the opportunity to grow, dream big, and carve her own path.
On the professional front, Samantha is gearing up for her upcoming film Maa Inti Bangaaram, which marks her reunion with director Nandini Reddy after their successful collaboration Oh Baby. The film also stars Gulshan Devaiah and Diganth in key roles. Adding to its significance, Maa Inti Bangaaram also sees Samantha stepping in as one of the producers, making the project even more special for the actress.
