Karnataka Box Office Loses Big as Thug Life Pulls Out Over Language Controversy

June 3, 2025

The much-anticipated action drama Thug Life, starring and produced by Kamal Haasan, has become embroiled in a significant controversy resulting in the film’s official non-release in the state of Karnataka. The dispute originated from a comment made by Kamal Haasan at a public event, where he stated that the Kannada language had evolved from Tamil. This remark triggered strong opposition from various Kannada groups and the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), who demanded a formal public apology.

Kamal Haasan, standing firm on his statement, clarified that his comment was not intended to cause offense and expressed reluctance to apologize, stating, “If I have spoken wrongly, I will apologize. But why should I apologize for a misunderstanding?” Despite issuing a letter to the KFCC explaining his intent, the backlash persisted without abatement.

In light of the ongoing dispute, the KFCC declared that Thug Life would not be screened in Karnataka unless a mutual resolution was reached between Kamal Haasan and the Chamber. Subsequently, Kamal Haasan’s team sought legal protection from the Karnataka High Court to facilitate the film’s release. The court, however, recommended an amicable settlement and noted that an apology could have potentially averted the current conflict.

Faced with mounting pressure, Kamal Haasan has chosen to withhold the release of Thug Life in Karnataka, accepting the substantial financial loss this decision entails. The actor-producer has maintained that he has done nothing wrong and is prioritizing his principles over commercial considerations.

Interestingly, the boycott is poised to have a more adverse impact on Karnataka’s distribution and exhibition sectors. Local theaters, already struggling due to a recent dearth of major Kannada film releases, face further revenue losses as they miss out on screening a high-profile, eagerly awaited film like Thug Life. Industry insiders suggest that the ongoing impasse may deepen the financial strain on exhibitors and distributors in the state.

This controversy highlights the complex interplay between cultural sensitivities and commercial interests in the Indian film industry and underscores the challenges filmmakers face when navigating regional sentiments.

Jagan Condemns Police Brutality, Slams ‘Red Book’ Misuse in Andhra Pradesh

June 3, 2025

Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) President Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Tuesday condemned the misuse of police powers under the current Telugu Desam Party (TDP)-led government. Speaking in Tenali, Guntur district, he alleged that the so-called ‘Red Book’—a list reportedly maintained by state minister Nara Lokesh containing names of officials and others accused of harassing TDP leaders and cadres during the YSRCP tenure—has spiraled out of control.

Jagan accused the TDP administration of weaponizing the police force to suppress dissent and target political opponents, including former ministers, MLAs, and party workers. He expressed deep concern over a recent incident in Tenali where three youths from Dalit and minority communities—Chebrolu John Victor (25), Karimullah (21), and Doma Rakesh (25)—were publicly beaten by police officers.

According to Jagan, the three youths were subjected to physical assault by the police after they questioned a constable in plainclothes on April 24. The following day, they were taken to the Tenali police station, where they were allegedly tortured. On April 26, the police reportedly paraded and beat them in public, a distressing incident captured on video and circulated widely on social media.

Jagan shared that the families of the victims had shown him photographs and police reports documenting the abuse. He further alleged that the police planted a knife in John’s pocket to falsely implicate him and had registered rowdy sheet cases against all three men.

Addressing the media, Jagan questioned the police’s authority to publicly assault individuals, stressing that pending cases do not justify such violations of law and human rights. He highlighted that even TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu faces multiple cases, implying that law enforcement must remain impartial and uphold legal procedures.

Jagan was warmly welcomed by YSRCP supporters and local residents upon his arrival in Tenali. However, some Dalit groups in Telangana protested his visit, accusing him of failing to console the family of a man who died during the YSRCP’s previous tenure and criticized him for allegedly supporting individuals with criminal backgrounds.

This latest episode has intensified political tensions in Andhra Pradesh, raising urgent questions about police accountability and the rule of law under the current state government.

Kamal Haasan Pulls Thug Life Release in Karnataka Amid Row

June 3, 2025

Veteran actor and filmmaker Kamal Haasan has found himself at the center of an escalating controversy surrounding his upcoming film Thug Life. Amid the backlash and increasing pressure from the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), the actor has taken a firm stance by deciding to halt the film’s release in Karnataka. According to media reports, Kamal has also formally communicated this decision to the court.

The controversy, which has seen sharp criticism from the KFCC, reached a crucial juncture when the court suggested that Kamal issue a public apology to help diffuse tensions. However, the actor chose not to follow that route. Instead, he issued a detailed letter defending his position, which, rather than calming the situation, seemed to have further intensified it. Despite the legal route available to him, Kamal has now withdrawn his petition seeking police protection for the film’s release in the state.

Many observers view the entire episode as an avoidable escalation. A section of the public and industry insiders believe the matter could have been resolved early on with a conciliatory gesture such as an apology. Instead, Kamal Haasan’s decision to stand firm on principle—despite potential financial implications—has led to the shelving of the film’s release in Karnataka.

As one of the producers of Thug Life, Kamal appears willing to absorb any resulting losses, underscoring his commitment to his stance. However, the situation raises important questions about how future releases involving the actor will be handled in Karnataka. If the impasse with the KFCC remains unresolved, similar challenges may arise with each new project.

Speculation persists on whether Kamal might have responded differently had another producer been involved. For now, fans and industry stakeholders alike hope for a resolution that allows for the film’s eventual release and puts an end to a controversy that many feel has spiraled unnecessarily.

Tollywood’s Dry Summer: No Blockbusters, Few Bright Spots

June 3, 2025

The crucial summer box office window has closed for Tollywood, and the results have been largely underwhelming. Spanning the months of March, April, and May, over 75 films were released — yet not one featured a major star, and the absence of big-ticket films clearly impacted the overall performance.

Highly anticipated releases such as Viswambhara and Raja Saab were postponed, leaving a void at the marquee and dampening audience enthusiasm.

March witnessed 29 releases, but none rose to blockbuster status. Films like Court and MAD Square managed to register decent box office returns, offering a glimmer of hope. However, titles such as Robinhood failed to make an impact, and Dil Ruba faced severe criticism from both audiences and critics.

April proved to be the weakest month of the quarter. Despite nearly 25 releases, not a single film emerged as a hit. Titles including Jack, Oodelu-2, Arjun Son of Vyjayanthi, and Sarangapani Jathakam failed to meet expectations — with Jack turning out to be one of the season’s biggest disappointments.

May began on a high note with the release of Hit-3. The film opened to strong numbers and reportedly crossed ₹100 crore in its initial days. However, the momentum was short-lived, and the film eventually settled for an average run. A rare bright spot came in the form of Sri Vishnu’s Single, which defied expectations to become a sleeper hit. Unfortunately, other releases like Shubham, Bhairavam, and Shastipoorthi failed to find footing at the box office.

With not a single true blockbuster to define the summer of 2025, all eyes are now on the upcoming Dussehra and Christmas seasons, which are expected to bring in heavyweight releases and much-needed momentum for the industry.

Political Tussle Over Kapu Agitation Cases Escalates in Andhra Pradesh

June 3, 2025

The Andhra Pradesh government led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has moved to file a petition in the High Court challenging the previous withdrawal of cases against former minister and current YSR Congress Party leader Mudragada Padmanabham (now known as Padmanabha Reddy) and others. These cases pertain to violence during the Kapu reservation agitation in 2016, a move that is increasingly putting Jana Sena Party president and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan in a politically delicate position.

The Kapu community, under the leadership of Mudragada, had mounted strong protests across the state demanding reservation under the Backward Classes (BC) quota, a promise made by the TDP during the 2014 elections. One of the key flashpoints was a large rally in Tuni, East Godavari district, which escalated into violence when protestors set fire to the Ratnanchal Express train and attacked the local police station.

Following the unrest, multiple criminal cases were registered under various IPC sections (including 109, 143, 147, 148, 149, 353, 440, 427, and 435) against protestors, including Mudragada himself. These cases were spread across several police jurisdictions, including Eluru, Polavaram, Katrenikona, Ravulapalem, Kothapeta, and others, totaling 161 cases before March 2019.

In 2020, under the YSRCP government, a government order was issued withdrawing these cases as Mudragada had joined the ruling party. Now, the TDP-led administration has directed the Home Department to instruct the public prosecutor to challenge this withdrawal by filing an appeal in the High Court.

This decision is politically sensitive, as it risks provoking unrest within the Kapu community, which now largely supports Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, a prominent leader from the community. While the legal challenge primarily targets Mudragada and his faction, it could also result in reopening cases against several Kapu youth who may have been wrongfully implicated during the agitation, thereby causing significant embarrassment to Pawan Kalyan.

The unfolding situation places Pawan Kalyan in a difficult position, balancing his political alliance with the TDP government and his responsibility to protect the interests of his community from potential legal repercussions. It remains to be seen how he will respond and whether measures will be taken to shield genuine Kapu protestors from renewed prosecution.

గద్వాల్ చీర గద్వాల్ లో పుట్టలేదు || Manjula Nirupam

June 3, 2025

గద్వాల్ చీర గద్వాల్ లో పుట్టలేదు || Manjula Nirupam

K T Rama Rao: Telangana Youth Icon and Future Leader Among U.S. Diaspora

June 3, 2025

Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president and former Telangana minister K T Rama Rao continues to command significant admiration and influence among Telangana-origin youth in the United States, despite facing internal family challenges, including a noted dissent from his sister, Kalvakuntla Kavitha.

This stronghold was prominently displayed during KTR’s recent visit to Dallas, Texas, where local BRS leaders orchestrated a concerted effort to position him as the party’s prospective leader and a potential Chief Ministerial candidate for Telangana within the next three years.

The BRS NRI USA Youth Wing hosted a major preparatory meeting in Dallas that attracted a substantial turnout of students and young professionals from the region. The gathering included attendees from prominent academic institutions such as the University of North Texas and the University of Texas at Dallas, alongside hundreds of passionate youth supporters and families.

Post-event, the enthusiasm for KTR was palpable as attendees eagerly sought photographs and selfies with him. The crowd’s excitement necessitated the organization of a managed queue to ensure orderly interactions, with KTR warmly engaging with each supporter.

The event primarily served as a public relations platform by the BRS NRI Youth Wing to project KTR as the embodiment of Telangana’s political future. Notably, while the auditorium had sufficient capacity, hundreds of supporters waiting outside were reportedly denied entry due to security concerns. Observers suggested this too was a deliberate PR tactic, designed to create the impression of an overwhelming demand for KTR’s presence, with the venue ostensibly exceeding capacity and interest spilling beyond its walls.

In sum, K T Rama Rao’s visit to Dallas underscored his enduring appeal and status as a style icon and symbol of modern Telangana among the diaspora youth, reinforcing his stature as a key figure poised to shape the state’s political landscape in the coming years.

NTR’s Bollywood Debut War 2 Faces Mixed Teaser Reaction, Confident of Pan-Indian Impact

June 3, 2025

Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr. (NTR) is all set to make his Hindi film debut with the much-anticipated action thriller War 2, slated for release this August. The teaser, unveiled last month, sparked a wave of mixed reactions, particularly among Hindi-speaking audiences. While some viewers expressed disappointment with NTR’s look, drawing comparisons to Hrithik Roshan’s charismatic presence in the original War, the actor remains undeterred.

Confident in his craft, NTR believes that the initial criticism will give way to appreciation once audiences experience his full performance on the big screen. He views War 2 as a pivotal project that will broaden his pan-Indian appeal and showcase his versatility to a wider audience.

Despite some reported reservations from trade analysts and distributors following the teaser’s release, NTR continues to maintain an optimistic outlook regarding the film’s commercial and critical impact.

Looking ahead, NTR is committed to balancing his burgeoning Bollywood career alongside his Telugu film commitments. Industry insiders reveal that he is poised to sign additional projects under the prestigious Yash Raj Films (YRF) banner. Furthermore, producer Aditya Chopra is reportedly keen to cast NTR in more spy-themed films, signaling a long-term collaboration that could further establish the actor as a prominent figure in Hindi cinema.

Sundarakanda – Official Teaser | Nara Rohith | Venkatesh Nimmalapudi | Leon James

June 3, 2025

Sundarakanda – Official Teaser | Nara Rohith | Venkatesh Nimmalapudi | Leon James

తుని కేసు తిరగదోడే ఉద్దేశం లేదు | రాష్ట్ర ప్రభుత్వం | Tuni Train Burning Case

June 3, 2025

తుని కేసు తిరగదోడే ఉద్దేశం లేదు | రాష్ట్ర ప్రభుత్వం | Tuni Train Burning Case

Actress Kalpika Face to Face Exclusive Interview | Prism Pub Issue

June 3, 2025

Actress Kalpika Face to Face Exclusive Interview | Prism Pub Issue

Operation Sindoor: Panda-Led Delegation Returns To India, Shares Feedback To Jaishankar

June 3, 2025

Operation Sindoor: Panda-Led Delegation Returns To India, Shares Feedback To Jaishankar

Media Q & A With Chowdary Gari Abbayi tho naidu Gari Ammayi Team | Supritha | Amardeep

June 3, 2025

Media Q & A With Chowdary Gari Abbayi tho naidu Gari Ammayi Team | Supritha | Amardeep

Vijay Deverakonda Kingdom Re- Shooting | Naga Vamsi | Gowtam Tinnanuri

June 3, 2025

Vijay Deverakonda Kingdom Re- Shooting | Naga Vamsi | Gowtam Tinnanuri

Mani Ratnam Backs Deepika’s Reduced Work Hours Demand

June 3, 2025

The recent buzz surrounding Deepika Padukone’s reported exit from the upcoming film Spirit, starring Prabhas and directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, has sparked widespread discussions within the industry. While initial reports suggested that Deepika was dropped due to what were termed “unreasonable demands,” neither the actress nor the makers have officially confirmed these claims.

In the midst of this speculation, acclaimed filmmaker Mani Ratnam weighed in, expressing strong support for Deepika Padukone’s stance on work-hour flexibility for actresses, particularly after becoming mothers.

During the promotional events for Thug Life, Mani Ratnam was asked about the ongoing debate on reduced working hours for heroines who are new mothers. He remarked, “I think it is a rightful demand. I’m glad she’s in a position to ask for it. As a filmmaker, you will take that into consideration when you cast. It is not an unreasonable thing to ask, but an absolute necessity. That should be the priority. You have to acknowledge that, understand it, and work around it.”

Deepika is said to have requested a six-hour workday to balance her professional commitments with caring for her newborn daughter, who is only a few months old. This demand has garnered sympathy and support from other industry stalwarts as well. Actor Ajay Devgn echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Most honest filmmakers will not have problems with it. Being a mother and working an eight-hour shift is common in many professions; the film industry should be no different.”

Despite these progressive viewpoints, rumors have also surfaced claiming that Deepika sought a substantial remuneration package and a share in the film’s profits. These reports remain unconfirmed by either party.

This discourse highlights the evolving dynamics of the film industry in accommodating the personal lives and well-being of actors, particularly women balancing motherhood and career. Industry leaders like Mani Ratnam and Ajay Devgn championing these demands could set a positive precedent for more inclusive and empathetic work environments going forward.

Kamal Haasan Stands Firm Amid ‘Thug Life’ Controversy

June 3, 2025

The controversy surrounding actor Kamal Haasan’s comments during the promotional campaign of his upcoming film Thug Life has taken an unexpected turn, as legal proceedings continue in the Karnataka High Court. The court, which earlier questioned Haasan’s authority to make historically sensitive remarks, directed him to issue a formal apology to settle the matter. However, the actor has declined to include an explicit line of apology in his response, maintaining that his statements were misinterpreted.

In his communication to the Karnataka Film Chamber, Kamal Haasan clarified that his remarks were meant to underline the linguistic and cultural unity of South Indian languages, and not to undermine the Kannada language in any way. He emphasized that his words were taken out of context, and that he holds all regional languages in high regard.

Adding to the developments, Haasan has also withdrawn his appeal for police protection, prompting the court to direct him to resolve the matter in consultation with the Film Chamber. With no resolution in sight, the High Court has now adjourned the case to June 10.

Meanwhile, industry observers are expressing concern over the escalating tensions, with calls for a mediated resolution to prevent further disruptions. As the controversy continues to unfold, all eyes are on whether an amicable settlement can be reached.

Thug Life, one of the most anticipated films of the year, is still slated for a grand theatrical release on June 5. It remains to be seen how the ongoing controversy might impact the film’s reception across key markets, particularly in Karnataka.

Nagarjuna Invites Telugu Chief Ministers to Son Akhil’s Wedding

June 3, 2025

Veteran Telugu actor Nagarjuna is currently engaged in extending invitations to prominent leaders and celebrities from the twin Telugu states for the upcoming wedding ceremony of his younger son, Akhil Akkineni. Following his recent meeting with Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao’s close aide, Revanth Reddy, Nagarjuna proceeded to Andhra Pradesh to personally invite Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.

Reports confirm that Nagarjuna visited the Chief Minister’s residence in Undavalli, where the two leaders shared a warm and cordial interaction. Photographs released to the media depict Nagarjuna and Chandrababu Naidu exchanging smiles during their meeting, highlighting the friendly rapport between the two. Nagarjuna formally extended an invitation to the Chief Minister for the wedding reception.

It is also anticipated that Nagarjuna will soon meet with Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister K. Narayana Swamy Kalyan to invite him as well. Given Nagarjuna’s longstanding association with Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, industry observers are keen to see whether the latter will also be invited to the event. However, Nagarjuna prioritized inviting Chandrababu Naidu as part of his official engagements.

The stage is now set for Akhil Akkineni’s wedding, scheduled to take place on June 6. Akhil is set to marry his fiancée, Zainab Ravdjee, in a much-anticipated ceremony attended by family, friends, and distinguished guests from the entertainment and political spheres.