Minister Nara Lokesh And Kalyan Ram Pays Tribute to Sr NTR on 30th Anniversary
Tamannaah’s Old Revelation Sparks Fresh Debate in South Cinema
Tamannaah’s recent comments about an incident from nearly two decades ago have sparked intense debate online. The actress reportedly recalled an early experience in her career where a senior male star—almost 20 years older than her—allegedly insisted on intimate scenes and later threatened to remove her from the film’s leading lady role when she resisted. Tamannaah spoke about this while reflecting on the challenges she faced as a young actress entering the industry.
While her remarks have gone viral, the response from sections of South Indian fans has been largely critical. Many argue that Tamannaah built her stardom primarily in the South, enjoyed immense popularity, and earned substantial remuneration over the years. They question why such allegations are being spoken about now, after she has spent over two decades in the industry, and feel that her silence all these years weakens the timing of her claims.
Some observers have also drawn parallels with past comments made by Radhika Apte regarding the Telugu and South Indian film industries. This has led to a broader discussion, with critics suggesting that certain actresses leverage South cinema to gain fame and recognition, only to later speak critically about the industry after their peak phase. According to this viewpoint, such narratives come across as selective and hypocritical.
At the same time, others point out that speaking up about uncomfortable experiences—regardless of when—should not be dismissed outright, and that power imbalances in the film industry have long discouraged young actors from voicing concerns.
As the debate continues, Tamannaah’s statements have once again brought conversations about consent, power dynamics, and timing of revelations in the film industry into the spotlight, sharply dividing public opinion.
Dhanush–Mrunal Thakur Wedding Rumours Spark Social Media Buzz
For the past couple of days, social media has been abuzz with rumours surrounding the alleged wedding of actors Dhanush and Mrunal Thakur. Reports suggest that the two stars are planning to tie the knot in an intimate ceremony on February 14, 2025. It is also being claimed that they have been in a relationship for about a year.
So far, neither Dhanush nor Mrunal Thakur has confirmed or reacted to these reports, adding to the curiosity and speculation among fans.
Meanwhile, a few pictures said to be from a private party have surfaced online. Sharp-eyed netizens pointed out that the backdrop in these images closely resembles visuals previously shared by Sreyas, Dhanush’s manager, on Instagram. This has fueled speculation that the actors may have hosted a close-knit gathering in Dubai, possibly as part of pre-wedding celebrations.
Interestingly, Dhanush and Mrunal Thakur have not worked together in any film yet. However, reports claim that they share common friends in Mumbai and grew close after meeting for the first time last year.
Dhanush parted ways with Aishwarya Rajinikanth, the elder daughter of Superstar Rajinikanth, about two years ago. The former couple has two sons. Mrunal Thakur, on the other hand, has never been married. If the rumours turn out to be true, this would mark her first marriage and Dhanush’s second.
Until an official confirmation is made, the reports remain speculative, but they continue to generate significant buzz across social media platforms.
Eros Moves Bombay High Court Over Tere Ishk Mein Promotion Controversy
Actor Dhanush and filmmaker Aanand L Rai recently reunited for their second collaboration, Tere Ishk Mein. While the film did not receive the same unanimous critical acclaim as their 2013 classic Raanjhanaa, it managed to perform well at the box office, supported by decent word of mouth.
However, the film has now landed in controversy. According to media reports, Eros International Ltd has approached the Bombay High Court against Aanand L Rai and his production banner Colour Yellow Media Entertainment LLP, alleging misuse of the goodwill associated with Raanjhanaa while promoting Tere Ishk Mein.
Eros has claimed that the makers marketed Tere Ishk Mein as a “spiritual sequel” to Raanjhanaa, thereby unlawfully capitalising on the popularity and brand value of the 2013 blockbuster. The production house has sought ₹84 crore in damages, stating that Rai’s actions caused significant financial and reputational loss. The company has filed a commercial intellectual property lawsuit, along with an interim application.
By naming multiple parties, Eros has turned the issue into a multi-party legal dispute, centered on the intellectual property rights of Raanjhanaa and its alleged misuse in the promotion of Tere Ishk Mein. Eros has asserted that it is the producer and exclusive owner of all intellectual property rights related to Raanjhanaa.
A key point highlighted by Eros is the use of promotional hashtags such as “From the world of Raanjhanaa” and “#WorldOfRaanjhanaa” in the teaser of Tere Ishk Mein, which the company claims created misleading associations between the two films.
As of now, the makers of Tere Ishk Mein have not issued an official response to the allegations, and further developments are awaited as the legal proceedings continue.
Kangana Ranaut Criticizes AR Rahman Over Emergency Snub
Music composer AR Rahman recently commented on the film Chhaava, calling it a divisive film. He suggested that while the movie touches on contentious themes, its core message celebrates bravery.
Rahman’s remarks sparked a range of reactions within the film industry, with Kangana Ranaut being one of the most vocal critics. The actress shared her perspective on social media, alleging bias on Rahman’s part.
Kangana wrote that she had approached Rahman for her directorial Emergency, but he reportedly refused to meet her. She stated:
“Dear @arrahman ji, I face so much prejudice and partiality in the film industry because I support a saffron party, yet I must say I have not come across a man more prejudiced and hateful than you.”
She continued, “I desperately wanted to narrate my directorial Emergency to you. Forget narration, you even refused to meet me. I was told you don’t want to be part of a propaganda film. Ironically, Emergency was called a masterpiece by all critics. Even opposition party leaders sent me fan letters appreciating the film for its balanced and compassionate approach, but you are blinded by your hate. I feel sorry for you.” She concluded her post with the hashtag #Emergency.
At present, it is unclear whether Rahman voluntarily chose not to be involved with films like Emergency. However, Kangana’s remarks have generated widespread attention and debate across social media and industry circles.
Ram Charan Gears Up with Intense Fitness Regime for Peddi
Mega Power Star Ram Charan is once again demonstrating why preparation is key to his craft. As work resumes on the next critical portions of Peddi, the actor has entered an intense fitness and training phase, fully committed to embodying his character.
Ram Charan’s latest gym pictures showcase a sculpted physique designed to reflect the raw intensity and emotional depth of the role he is portraying. Sharing the images on social media, he wrote: “Fired up working in silence!!! Ready for the next challenge @peddimovie less,” signaling his unwavering focus.
This training phase highlights an actor who is not only physically transforming but also mentally immersing himself in the character. The calm intensity captured during workouts hints at a performance built on restraint, power, and inner fire, promising a portrayal that is both authentic and impactful.
With Peddi, Ram Charan is not just reshaping his body—he is crafting a presence on screen that demands attention. Directed by Buchi Babu Sana and produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru, the film is slated for a March 27 release, raising high expectations among fans.
Dhruva Sarja Shines in ‘Basavanna’ Song from Arjun’s Seetha Payanam
Multi-talented actor and director Action King Arjun is gearing up for the release of his upcoming film Seetha Payanam, produced under the Shree Raam Films International banner. The film marks the silver-screen debut of Arjun’s daughter Aishwarya Arjun as the female lead and features a strong ensemble cast including Niranjan, Sathyaraj, Prakash Raj, and Kovai Sarala in pivotal roles. Arjun not only directs the film but also appears in a special character, while his nephew Action Prince Dhruva Sarja makes a powerful cameo appearance.
The recently released song “Basavanna”, which introduces Dhruva Sarja’s character, has instantly caught audience attention. The track hints at Dhruva portraying an intense and commanding role as Basavanna, emerging as a major highlight of the film. Anup Rubens’ high-energy composition amplifies the character’s impact, while Kasarla Shyam’s rousing lyrics add a goosebump-worthy feel. Sung by Nakash Aziz and L. Keerthana, the song is further elevated by dynamic choreography from Lalitha Shobi and Srishti Varma. From this powerful glimpse, Dhruva Sarja appears poised to be one of the film’s biggest strengths.
The film has completed both shooting and post-production, and the makers have confirmed a grand theatrical release on February 14. Seetha Payanam will hit screens across Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi, aiming for a wide pan-Indian reach.
The project boasts a strong technical team, with G. Balamurugan handling cinematography, Sai Madhav Burra writing the dialogues, and Kick Ass Kali choreographing the high-octane stunt sequences. With an engaging cast, energetic music, and solid technical backing, Seetha Payanam is shaping up as a promising and impactful cinematic outing.
AP NDA Govt Clears Long-Pending DA Arrears Ahead of Sankranti
The NDA government in Andhra Pradesh has provided major relief to state government employees and pensioners ahead of the Sankranti festival, fulfilling a long-standing promise by clearing pending Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears in one go. The move has brought genuine festive cheer, with nearly ₹1,100 crore directly credited into the bank accounts of employees and pensioners.
The DA arrears had been pending for almost five years, covering close to 60 months. The present government cleared these long-overdue payments, benefiting around 2.25 lakh CPS employees and nearly 2.75 lakh pensioners across the state. Depending on their basic pay, individual beneficiaries reportedly received amounts ranging from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000, leading to widespread relief and happiness among employee unions during the festive season.
In another positive announcement, the government extended relief to the police department, releasing long-pending surrender leave dues to nearly 55,000 police personnel, many of whom had been waiting for years. Additionally, payments worth ₹1,243 crore were released to contractors involved in projects funded by NABARD and foreign loans, a move expected to revive stalled works and accelerate development activities across the state.
Recently, representatives of employee associations met Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and raised concerns about pending dues. The Chief Minister assured them that payments would be cleared before Sankranti and, as promised, coordinated with the finance department to ensure timely release of funds. Employee union leaders have described the move as a reflection of his commitment and administrative sincerity.
Employees say the situation has improved significantly compared to the past, when even salary payments were uncertain. Receiving long-pending dues ahead of a major festival has boosted morale and confidence, with many expressing renewed hope for better governance, financial discipline, and stability in the state going forward.
Vishnu Manchu Launches AVAA International Short Film Contest Season 1
Marking the festive celebrations of Sankranti and Pongal, AVAA Entertainments, led by Vishnu Manchu, has officially announced the launch of the AVAA International Short Film Contest – Season 1. This unique initiative is aimed at discovering and nurturing promising new filmmaking talent from across India, while also extending warm festive greetings to audiences and aspiring creators.
Designed as a director-focused platform, the contest places complete emphasis on storytelling and creative vision. Aspiring filmmakers are invited to submit short films with a maximum runtime of 10 minutes, which will be judged purely on originality, narrative strength, and execution, without being influenced by star presence, budgets, or production scale.
The contest’s biggest highlight is its grand prize, offering the winning director a rare and life-changing opportunity to direct a ₹10-crore feature film, produced by Vishnu Manchu himself. Known for his consistent efforts in encouraging new talent, Vishnu Manchu aims to provide a strong and credible launchpad for deserving filmmakers to enter mainstream cinema.
With the introduction of the AVAA International Short Film Contest, AVAA Entertainments has once again reaffirmed its commitment to discovering fresh voices and supporting the next generation of Indian filmmakers. The initiative is expected to attract wide interest from aspiring directors across the country, giving talent and vision the spotlight they truly deserve.
Allu Arjun–Lokesh Film Puts Kaithi 2 in Doubt
The massive announcement of Allu Arjun’s next film with director Lokesh Kanagaraj has created huge excitement, but it has also come as a disappointment to fans eagerly waiting for the sequel to Karthi’s 2019 blockbuster Kaithi.
Until recently, both Lokesh Kanagaraj and Karthi had consistently maintained that Kaithi 2 was very much on the cards and assured audiences that they would reunite after completing their respective commitments. Fans were particularly expecting an official update on the sequel after the release of Coolie. However, no such announcement has been made so far.
Now, the sudden news of Lokesh teaming up with Allu Arjun has further reduced the chances of Kaithi 2 going on floors anytime soon. While Lokesh Kanagaraj has remained silent about the sequel, Karthi’s recent comments have raised eyebrows. During his latest media interaction, when asked about the status of Kaithi 2, Karthi simply stated that Lokesh will have to clarify the film’s future. This unusually guarded response has led many to believe that the much-awaited sequel has been put on the back burner.
Soon after the Allu Arjun project was announced, several rumours began circulating. One of the major speculations suggests that remuneration issues may have played a role, with reports claiming Lokesh is set to receive a massive paycheck for directing Allu Arjun. Another rumour points to creative differences between Lokesh and Karthi as a possible reason for the delay.
Lokesh Kanagaraj has built a strong brand for himself with blockbusters like Kaithi and Vikram, earning acclaim for his gritty storytelling and distinctive screenplay style. Given the growing speculation, fans now feel that the director should address the rumours and provide clarity on why sequels like Kaithi 2 and Vikram 2, which were once promised, seem to be facing uncertainty.