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Adivi Sesh and Mrunal Thakur Reunite in Dacoit
Actors Adivi Sesh and Mrunal Thakur are set to share screen space in the upcoming love-action thriller Dacoit, directed by Shaneil Deo. The film promises a gripping blend of romance, betrayal, and revenge, and has already generated strong buzz with its intriguing promotional content.
Production is currently in full swing in Hyderabad, with both lead actors actively participating in the shoot. Recently, Mrunal Thakur shared a behind-the-scenes still featuring herself with Adivi Sesh and captioned it with a fiery warning: “Sabka badla legi JULIET!”
The reference ties back to the earlier released teaser, where Sesh’s character refers to Mrunal as Juliet, hinting at a turbulent past between the two. The storyline appears to revolve around a deep and emotional revenge drama between former lovers, adding layers of intensity and emotional depth. In the on-location photo, Mrunal is seen with visible bruises on her forehead, suggesting high-stakes action and conflict.
Dacoit is being produced by Supriya Yarlagadda in collaboration with Suniel Narang under the Annapurna Studios banner. With its emotional core and action-driven plot, the film is expected to offer a unique cinematic experience.
Dacoit is slated for a Christmas release on December 25th, making it one of the most anticipated Telugu films to close out the year.
Madhavan Champions Age-Appropriate Roles in Cinema
Actor R. Madhavan has long been known for his thoughtful approach to cinema, consistently choosing roles that align with his principles rather than succumbing to commercial pressures. As he gears up for the release of his upcoming Netflix film Aap Jaisa Koi, the actor has once again emphasized the importance of authentic and age-appropriate storytelling in Indian cinema.
Madhavan, who has been vocal about this stance for years, recalled how he felt uncomfortable playing a college student in 3 Idiots at the age of 40. “It made me cringe,” he admitted, reinforcing his belief that realism on screen matters — especially in the portrayal of romance.
Speaking at a recent promotional event, Madhavan said he’s happy to see the industry finally evolving. “There’s a visible shift,” he noted, “where older male actors are no longer romancing women half their age without proper context. Audiences are rejecting such portrayals unless the storytelling is realistic and age-appropriate.”
The Sala Khadoos and Sakhi star explained that he doesn’t follow trends, but instead chooses roles based on emotional resonance. “I instinctively gravitate towards stories that feel honest. I don’t pick roles to please the market, but to tell stories that matter,” he said.
Madhavan’s career reflects this commitment — from romantic dramas to intense character roles, his performances stand out for their depth and authenticity.
While many mainstream stars still face commercial pressure to take on stereotypical roles that appeal to mass audiences, Madhavan remains firm in his belief that cinema must evolve with its viewers. His approach sets a powerful example for actors to prioritize meaningful narratives over box office formulas.
Hari Hara Veera Mallu Is a Fictional Tale, Clarifies Producer
Hari Hara Veera Mallu, an upcoming Telugu period drama featuring Pawan Kalyan in the lead role, is generating significant buzz ahead of its release on July 24th. Promoted as a film that blends historical inspiration with high-octane fiction, the movie has recently found itself in the middle of a controversy related to historical accuracy.
The debate began on social media, where users questioned how Veera Mallu — a character said to have lived over 200 years before Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s invasion of the Golconda region — is shown interacting with him in the film.
Responding to the concerns, producer AM Rathnam issued a clarification, stating that Hari Hara Veera Mallu is purely a work of fiction. According to him, the film introduces Veera Mallu as a fictional warrior from the Mughal era, during the time of active diamond mining in India. The story revolves around this character attempting to steal the legendary Kohinoor diamond, with the narrative creatively placing him in conflict with Aurangzeb.
“We have not distorted any real historical events,” Rathnam emphasized. “This is a fictional story set during the Mughal period, where Veera Mallu is imagined as a rebel hero.”
The project, which originally began under the direction of Krish Jagarlamudi, is now being helmed by AM Jyothi Krishna, Rathnam’s son, following a change in the film’s leadership.
The recently released trailer has further heightened expectations, showcasing powerful visuals and an impactful background score by MM Keeravani. Actress Niddhi Agerwal plays the female lead, adding to the film’s grand scale and visual appeal.
With its unique blend of myth, fiction, and historical settings, Hari Hara Veera Mallu is shaping up to be a high-stakes cinematic spectacle.
Shine Tom Chacko and Vincy Aloshious Reconcile Ahead of Suthraprayam Release
Shine Tom Chacko, one of Malayalam cinema’s most versatile and intense actors, has recently been in the spotlight not just for his on-screen performances, but also due to a series of controversies and personal setbacks. The actor, known for his unconventional roles and raw talent, suffered a tragic loss recently when his father passed away in a road accident on June 6, while the family was en route to Bengaluru.
Adding to his turbulent phase, Shine was previously booked under multiple sections, including Section 238 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (causing disappearance of evidence) and Sections 27 and 29 of the NDPS Act, pertaining to drug consumption and criminal conspiracy.
Amid these developments, an earlier controversy involving actress Vincy Aloshious also resurfaced. Vincy had previously accused Shine of drug use on set and alleged inappropriate behavior. However, in a recent joint press interaction ahead of their film Suthraprayam, which is set to release on July 11, the two actors appeared together and clarified that there is no bad blood between them.
When the media brought up their past issues, Shine calmly responded, “Do you see any problems between us by looking at us?” This prompted Vincy to reflect on their relationship and clarify her stance.
“Shine Chacko was the first person I ever told about my dream to become an artiste. His journey has been a big influence on mine. I was genuinely happy to work with him in Suthraprayam,” she said, adding that her previous statements were not made with ill intent. “I didn’t expect him to behave that way at the time, and he didn’t expect my reaction either,” she noted, to which Shine responded empathetically, “If you were hurt, I’m sorry.”
Vincy added that she sees a change in Shine now and holds him in high regard.
Despite the setbacks and media glare, Shine Tom Chacko seems to be turning a new page both professionally and personally. His upcoming film Suthraprayam is expected to showcase his signature intensity once again, this time with a narrative that may, in part, mirror the resilience he’s shown in real life.
Manchu Manoj on Nepotism: “You Still Have to Earn It”
The debate surrounding nepotism in the film industry is far from new. For years, audiences and insiders have discussed how actors from prominent film families often get an easier entry into cinema—especially in Bollywood. Filmmaker Karan Johar has frequently found himself at the center of this storm. Yet, as history shows, a film background doesn’t always equal guaranteed success.
In Telugu cinema too, lineage hasn’t always translated to stardom. A descendant of SV Ranga Rao didn’t make it as a lead actor. Among NTR’s children, only Balakrishna found long-term success. In the Akkineni family, Naga Chaitanya carved out his space, while Akhil Akkineni is still waiting for that one game-changing blockbuster.
Now, actor Manchu Manoj has sparked new conversations by candidly addressing the issue at a recent event. “Even if you’re a nepo kid, you still have to earn it,” he said, referencing his own journey. Despite being the son of veteran actor Mohan Babu, Manoj struggled to establish himself as a consistent box office draw. His recent comeback as a villain in Bhairavam didn’t quite make the impact many expected.
On the other hand, actors like Chiranjeevi, Ravi Teja, and Nani rose to fame without any industry connections, proving that talent and timing often trump legacy.
Manoj’s comments also gained attention because they came shortly after Vijay Deverakonda shared in an interview that being an outsider meant he couldn’t afford to reject poor scripts early in his career. In that context, Manoj’s perspective feels especially timely — a reminder that success in cinema, regardless of background, must be earned.
Priyamani Wants to Lead Tamil Version of Money Heist
South Indian actress Priyamani, known for her impactful performances in thrillers like Bhamakalapam, Chaarulatha, Nehru, and more recently Jawan, has surprised fans with her bold cinematic wishlist — she wants to headline a Tamil adaptation of Money Heist.
In a recent interview, Priyamani playfully remarked that her role in Jawan already gave off strong Money Heist vibes. She revealed that she’d love to play Tokyo, the fiery and impulsive lead from the original Spanish hit. But, in her own words, considering the fate of her Jawan character, Nairobi might be a more fitting match — a nod to the fearless and emotionally grounded figure in the series.
Priyamani’s fascination with powerful, rebellious characters is nothing new. With ongoing roles in The Family Man 3 and Jana Nayagan, she has consistently proven her mettle in strong, complex roles. Her growing resume of thrillers and heist-style dramas shows her natural affinity for high-stakes storytelling.
The idea of a Tamil remake of Money Heist, with Priyamani in the lead, doesn’t feel far-fetched. In fact, her experience, intensity, and screen presence could bring a fresh edge to such a project. Whether as Tokyo, Nairobi, or a uniquely crafted desi character, one thing is clear — Priyamani is ready to lead the heist.
Nayanthara’s Netflix Documentary Faces Legal Heat
Star heroine Nayanthara recently made headlines with her Netflix documentary “Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairytale”, which started streaming on November 18, 2024. While the documentary aimed to give an intimate look into her life and career, it has now landed in legal trouble.
Earlier, Kollywood actor Dhanush filed a legal case, claiming that the documentary used footage from his film “Naanum Rowdy Dhaan” without his permission. Dhanush, who also produced the film, issued a legal notice demanding ₹10 crore in damages for using a three-second clip without authorization. That case is currently under judicial review.
Now, the makers of Chandramukhi, the iconic film in which Nayanthara starred alongside Rajinikanth, have raised similar concerns. They allege that scenes from Chandramukhi were included in the documentary without obtaining proper permissions. Despite sending prior legal notices requesting removal of the footage, the makers claim they received no response.
As a result, AB International, the copyright holder of Chandramukhi, has approached the Madras High Court, demanding the scenes be removed and seeking ₹5 crore in damages. The court has taken up the petition and reportedly directed Netflix and the producers to respond within two weeks, also asking them to disclose the revenue earned from the documentary post-release.
Meanwhile, on the professional front, Nayanthara is involved in several big-ticket projects. She is playing a key role in Yash’s upcoming film Toxic, which is already in active production. She will also appear in Patriot, a film headlined by Mohanlal. Other upcoming films include Rakkayi, Mookuthi Amman 2, and Dear Students. Notably, she’s also part of Mega 157, starring Chiranjeevi and directed by Anil Ravipudi, which is progressing at a brisk pace.
With several high-profile films in her pipeline, fans are eager to see how Nayanthara fares at the box office despite the ongoing controversies surrounding her documentary.
Anirudh’s Back-to-Back Musical Blitz with Kingdom and Coolie
sensation Anirudh Ravichander continues to prove why he’s one of the most in-demand composers in Indian cinema today. In an exciting turn, he has two major releases lined up just two weeks apart — the Telugu film Kingdom hitting screens on July 31, followed by the Tamil biggie Coolie, starring Rajinikanth, releasing on August 14.
What makes this even more remarkable is the scale and expectation surrounding both films. Despite the packed schedule, sources say Anirudh has nearly wrapped up the music for both projects. And this isn’t just about delivering hit songs — both Kingdom and Coolie are films that rely heavily on background scores to elevate storytelling and atmosphere. Anirudh’s job here is not just to entertain but to amplify the emotional and visual depth of two very different cinematic worlds.
The buzz for Coolie hit a new high with the release of the high-energy track “Chikitu”, which quickly gained traction online. The combination of Anirudh’s punchy beats and Rajinikanth’s electrifying screen presence set the tone for what’s to come. Meanwhile, Kingdom promises a grand, intense narrative where Anirudh’s score is expected to add gravity and power to the visuals.
Fans and critics alike are eager to see how Anirudh balances the demands of two high-profile films in such a short span. His signature style — bold, edgy, and emotionally charged — has already transformed the soundscape of modern Indian cinema. Now, all eyes are on how he pulls off this back-to-back musical challenge.
With two different genres, two languages, and one music director at the helm, Anirudh Ravichander’s next few weeks are set to make musical history.
R. Madhavan Joins Mahesh Babu’s SSMB29 in Kenya
Buzz around SSMB29, the much-anticipated collaboration between Mahesh Babu and SS Rajamouli, has intensified with reports that R. Madhavan has joined the Kenya schedule of the film. Though the makers have not officially confirmed his role, strong speculation suggests Madhavan could be playing Mahesh Babu’s father. Earlier, names like Nana Patekar and Vikram were also floated for this key role, indicating that casting decisions in this film are far from casual — especially with Rajamouli at the helm.
After wrapping major schedules in Odisha and Hyderabad, the team has now moved to Kenya, shooting in exotic and real forest locations like Amboseli National Park. High-intensity action sequences and chase scenes are currently being filmed with local permissions secured, hinting at the scale and ambition of the production. As is typical of Rajamouli’s style, tight security surrounds the shoot, and only occasional leaks are surfacing.
The storyline remains under wraps, but strong whispers suggest the film draws inspiration from the ‘Sanjeevani’ element in the Ramayana, possibly reimagined as a global quest. Much of the narrative is said to unfold against African backdrops, with Mahesh Babu sporting a radical new avatar. In fact, some unverified yet intriguing rumors hint at sequences involving dinosaur hunting, pointing to an adventurous and genre-blending storyline far from conventional Telugu cinema.
With a staggering ₹1000 crore budget, SSMB29 is being bankrolled by K.L. Narayana under the Durga Arts banner. Music is being composed by M.M. Keeravani, adding further weight to the already star-studded project. Names like Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran are also reportedly associated with the film, reinforcing the project’s pan-Indian — and possibly global — ambitions.
Whether or not R. Madhavan’s role is officially confirmed, his appearance on set has sparked further curiosity, signaling that SSMB29 is shaping up to be one of Indian cinema’s boldest and most exciting ventures.
Musk’s xAI Revamps Grok with Bold, Media-Sceptical Voice
Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence venture, xAI, has introduced a significant update to its chatbot, Grok, steering it toward a more opinionated and sceptical tone, especially when addressing mainstream media narratives. The updated system prompts now instruct Grok to approach subjective viewpoints from the media as potentially biased, and to express politically incorrect views if they are well-reasoned and supported by evidence.
Musk announced the changes last Friday, calling it a “significant” improvement. By Sunday, xAI had made the new system prompts publicly available, outlining how Grok should now respond to user inputs. It’s unclear whether further internal or undisclosed changes were implemented.
The revised directives tell Grok to dig deeper when responding to topics involving current events, data, or controversial issues. It is advised to draw from a broad range of sources representing multiple viewpoints and maintain a sceptical stance toward legacy media. Additionally, the system instructs Grok not to disclose these internal guidelines unless directly asked.
This move is part of Musk’s broader vision to reshape Grok’s ideological tone and analytical depth. Over the past few months, Musk has openly criticized Grok’s earlier responses, particularly accusing it of mimicking mainstream narratives. In June, after Grok stated that right-wing violence in the U.S. was more prevalent than left-wing violence, Musk responded by accusing it of “parroting legacy media” and promised a complete overhaul.
Grok has previously made headlines for controversial outputs, including a false claim about Musk’s involvement in flood-related deaths in Texas and statements that echoed anti-Semitic sentiments. In February, xAI had to issue multiple patches after Grok made extreme statements, including suggesting both Musk and U.S. President Joe Biden deserved the death penalty. Another update followed when the model implied both figures spread misinformation.
One of the most criticized incidents occurred when Grok questioned the Holocaust death toll. xAI later said that unauthorized modifications to the system prompts were to blame, calling them a violation of the company’s internal policies. In response, xAI began publishing Grok’s system prompts on GitHub to enhance transparency.
As Musk continues fine-tuning Grok’s voice, the chatbot is becoming a focal point in the ongoing debate over AI neutrality, freedom of expression, and ideological alignment. Grok’s evolution is not only a reflection of Musk’s personal views but also a test case for how AI systems can—or should—navigate politically and culturally sensitive terrain.
Shah Rukh Khan Joins Don 3 with Ranveer Singh
Don 3 just got a major upgrade! While Ranveer Singh is already locked in as the new face of the iconic franchise, the latest buzz is that Shah Rukh Khan will also feature in the film — making a special cameo appearance that promises to surprise fans and bridge generations of the Don legacy.
According to sources, Farhan Akhtar, who returns as director for this installment, personally approached SRK with the concept. Despite being deeply involved with his ongoing project King, Shah Rukh reportedly agreed to take on the role, thanks to his long-standing bond with Farhan. While details of his character remain under wraps, insiders believe SRK’s appearance will serve as a crucial narrative link between his portrayal of Don and Ranveer’s new avatar, creating a seamless transition for the franchise rather than a complete reboot.
What makes this even more exciting is that Don 3 will mark the first-ever on-screen appearance of Shah Rukh Khan and Ranveer Singh together, a move that’s sure to set fan expectations soaring. Their shared screen presence is not just a crowd-puller — it adds emotional and narrative depth to the evolution of the Don saga.
Adding to the excitement, there are strong rumors that Priyanka Chopra might reprise her role as Roma. In a recent interview, she expressed her desire to return to Hindi cinema, and Don 3 could be the perfect comeback vehicle.
With legacy, fresh energy, and a star-studded cast coming together, Don 3 is shaping up to be a film that both honors the past and redefines the future of the franchise.
