Jagan’s Dismissive Attitude Sparks Discontent Among YSRCP Leaders | AP Liquor Scam
Kamal Haasan’s ‘Thug Life’ Faces Ban Threat Over Language Controversy
The upcoming release of actor Kamal Haasan’s film Thug Life has become embroiled in a heated controversy following the actor’s recent remarks on the origin of the Kannada language. During the film’s promotional activities, Kamal Haasan stated that Kannada was derived from Tamil, a comment that has sparked strong reactions from Kannada language activists and film industry bodies in Karnataka.
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and various language advocacy groups have condemned the actor’s statement, demanding a formal apology. They have further threatened to block the release and screening of Thug Life in Karnataka unless Kamal Haasan retracts his comment and apologizes. Kamal Haasan, however, has maintained his position, stating he would apologize only if proven wrong.
In response to the threats and the growing tension, Kamal Haasan’s production company, Raj Kamal Films International, filed a petition in the Karnataka High Court seeking protection for the film’s release. The petition requests the court to direct the Karnataka government, police authorities, and film bodies to ensure that no obstruction is made against the screening of Thug Life. It also calls for adequate security arrangements to safeguard the film’s exhibition.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce met with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging the state government to prevent the film’s release. The Chief Minister assured legal cooperation with the film bodies and emphasized the importance of preserving linguistic unity and harmony. However, he stopped short of imposing a direct ban on the film.
This controversy has placed distributors of Thug Life in a difficult position, with many expressing hesitation about releasing the film in Karnataka amid the volatile environment. They have sought additional time to consult with Kamal Haasan, who is currently abroad and expected to return shortly.
Adding to the discourse, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma publicly criticized the threats against Kamal Haasan as “a new kind of hooliganism,” although he later deleted his tweet.
The unfolding situation highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression and regional linguistic sensitivities in India. As the debate continues, the release and screening of Thug Life in Karnataka remain uncertain, pending further legal and political developments.
Malaika Arora’s Effortless Summer Send-Off
As summer gently gives way to cooler days, Malaika Arora is making sure it doesn’t fade without a graceful farewell. Sharing a curated set of moments from her time by the pool, the style icon turned up the heat with understated charm and signature confidence.
In one standout shot, Malaika lounges at the pool’s edge in a striking zebra-print bikini. With sunglasses on and the sun glinting off the water behind her, the image captures a moment of serene indulgence. The surrounding greenery adds a layer of calm, making the scene feel more like a pause in time than a posed photo. It’s a celebration of presence—effortless, grounded, and radiant.
She followed it with a photo in a sultry red backless dress, captured poolside under soft, ambient lighting. The mood shifts in another post featuring a mirror selfie—here, Malaika dons a crisp white co-ord with a peek of a bikini top underneath, embodying a more relaxed, off-duty vibe. Each look reflects a distinct mood, but all remain true to her hallmark style—uncomplicated, confident, and chic.
Rather than aiming to impress, Malaika’s photos feel like an intimate farewell to the season—a quiet yet impactful reminder to embrace the moment. From sun-drenched afternoons to tranquil evenings by the water, she closes out summer not just with fashion inspiration, but with poise and authenticity.
Andhra Pradesh Marks June 4 with Political Face-Off
June 4 marks one year since the electoral defeat of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), led by former Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, in the 2024 Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections. Although the Telugu Desam Party (TDP)-led coalition officially took office on June 12, the date has come to symbolize a political turning point in the state.
The YSR Congress Party has announced statewide protests on June 4, branding it as “Backstabbing Day.” The party alleges that the TDP-led government has failed to deliver on key pre-election promises and accuses it of betraying the trust of the people. YSRCP state coordinator Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy stated that party workers and supporters will organize rallies across all constituencies and submit memoranda to local officials, demanding the implementation of promised welfare schemes.
In a counter move, the ruling coalition, comprising the TDP, Jana Sena Party, and BJP, plans to observe the same day as “Freedom from Jagan’s Rule Day.” Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party President Pawan Kalyan has called on the public to celebrate the occasion by decorating their homes with rangoli, organizing competitions, lighting lamps, and bursting crackers. He also encouraged supporters to amplify the celebrations through social media.
TDP MP Kalisetti Appalanayudu described the day as a moment of liberation for the state, citing what he termed the “hardships and misgovernance” under Jagan Mohan Reddy’s tenure. He criticized the YSRCP’s observance of “Backstabbing Day” as “ironic,” given the party’s alleged failures during its term.
As both camps prepare for demonstrations and celebrations, June 4 is poised to be a politically charged day, reflecting the deep divisions and high stakes in Andhra Pradesh’s evolving political landscape.
Speculations Grow Over Raj and Samantha’s Relationship
Director Raj Nidimoru’s wife, Shhyamali De, recently shared a cryptic message on Instagram stating, “Time exposes, Karma corrects. The Universe humbles,” which has fueled widespread speculation about the status of their relationship. This post surfaced shortly after rumors began circulating that Raj Nidimoru might be romantically involved with actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu.
Though reports suggest that Raj and Shhyamali may have separated in 2022, neither party has publicly confirmed a divorce. Similarly, Raj Nidimoru and Samantha have not addressed the dating rumors directly. Around the same time as Shhyamali’s post, Samantha posted pictures and videos on her Instagram account, including one of her playing pickleball with Raj, which drew considerable attention from netizens.
Earlier in May, Samantha shared a cozy selfie with Raj during the promotions of her film Subham, which fans interpreted as a subtle nod towards their relationship. The pair were also seen together at the Tirumala temple prior to the film’s release, further adding fuel to the speculation.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu divorced actor Naga Chaitanya in 2021 after four years of marriage. In December 2024, Chaitanya remarried actress Sobhita Dhulipala, signaling a new chapter in his personal life.
As rumors continue to swirl, many are curious about whether Raj and Samantha will formalize their relationship through marriage once Raj’s divorce is officially confirmed, or if they may opt for a different arrangement. For now, both remain tight-lipped, leaving fans and the media eager for clarity.
Only time will reveal the truth behind these unfolding developments.
Aamir Khan’s Emotional Connection to Mahabharata Sparks Retirement Talk
Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has opened up about his highly anticipated dream project, Mahabharata, revealing that it might mark the culmination of his illustrious acting career. Speaking candidly on a podcast with Raj Shamani, Aamir expressed his profound emotional connection to the epic, stating, “It has layers, emotion, scale — everything. Whatever exists in the world, you’ll find it in the Mahabharata.”
The actor further shared his aspirations to continue working “till my last breath,” but admitted that after undertaking this monumental project, he might feel “emotionally spent and unable to act anymore.” This heartfelt revelation underscores the deep significance the project holds for him.
Reports indicate that Mahabharata is currently in pre-production, with filming expected to commence next year. Fans and industry insiders alike are eagerly awaiting this ambitious cinematic retelling of one of India’s greatest epics.
In the meantime, Aamir Khan’s upcoming film, Sitare Zameen Par, is scheduled for theatrical release on June 20, adding to the excitement surrounding his ongoing contributions to Indian cinema.
Prakash Raj Sparks Outrage with Controversial Post Targeting PM Modi and Operation Sindoor
Actor Prakash Raj has sparked controversy following a sarcastic social media post that appeared to mock Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the recently launched Operation Sindoor. The post has drawn sharp criticism from BJP leaders, with party spokesperson NV Subhash condemning the remarks as “deeply shameful.”
In his post, Raj shared a headline stating, “Modi government to deliver sindoor to every household,” captioning it with the phrase “One Nation, One Husband.” This was widely interpreted as a jibe at both Prime Minister Modi and the government’s initiative. Raj further posted a provocative comment questioning, “But why will women take #Sindoor from this old man?”, which was seen by many as a personal attack on the Prime Minister’s age and marital status.
NV Subhash responded vehemently, accusing Prakash Raj of disrespecting Indian women and undermining the country’s democratic values. “His words are worse than those of an ISI agent. A man who preaches values on-screen has become a villain off-screen,” Subhash stated. He urged the actor to reconsider his remarks and withdraw them, emphasizing the need for respect towards women, including one’s own family members.
Background on Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor refers to a coordinated military strike launched by the Indian armed forces on May 7, in retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the death of 26 people in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22. The operation targeted nine terrorist infrastructure sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including locations such as Kotli, Bahawalpur, and Muzaffarabad, aiming to dismantle terror networks responsible for the attack.
Krish Jagarlamudi’s Silence Sparks Speculation Ahead of Hari Hara Veera Mallu Release
As the highly anticipated release date of Hari Hara Veera Mallu draws closer, the conspicuous silence of director Krish Jagarlamudi has become a topic of discussion within the industry and among fans. Krish, who originally helmed the project and invested over four years in its development, has notably refrained from commenting on the film, even as its promotional activities are underway.
Krish not only crafted the story and screenplay for Hari Hara Veera Mallu but also directed a significant portion of the film’s first part before stepping away. The production faced considerable delays, particularly as lead actor Pawan Kalyan’s increasing political commitments limited his availability. Consequently, Krish chose to exit the project. Thereafter, producer A.M. Rathnam’s son, Jyothi Krishna, assumed directorial responsibilities, shooting additional scenes and completing the film around Pawan Kalyan’s constrained schedule.
This transition has led to widespread speculation about the final cut: How much of Krish’s original vision remains intact? What portions were reworked or reshot? And crucially, how will directorial credits be allocated?
What adds intrigue is Krish’s continued absence from public discussions and promotional events for Hari Hara Veera Mallu. Fully immersed in his upcoming project Ghati, Krish has neither conducted interviews nor issued statements about the film’s completion or release. This reticence has left fans and industry observers eager to see if he will break his silence—whether during the upcoming pre-release events or following the film’s theatrical debut.
As the film’s release nears, all eyes remain on both Hari Hara Veera Mallu and its original director, awaiting clarity on his role and reflections on a project that marked a significant chapter in his career.
Ghaati Release Date Announced Anushka & Vikram Lead
Acclaimed filmmaker Krish is gearing up to release his much-anticipated action thriller, Ghaati, starring Anushka Shetty in the female lead and Vikram Prabhu as the male protagonist. The film is scheduled to hit theatres on July 11th, promising an intense cinematic experience for audiences.
The recently unveiled release date poster offers a compelling glimpse into the film’s grandeur. It features Anushka, Vikram, and their team crossing a river with heavy jute bags strapped to their backs, set against a majestic hillscape—evoking both the physical and emotional journey that defines Ghaati.
Carrying the powerful tagline “Victim. Criminal. Legend.”, the film encapsulates the complex narrative and layered characters at its core. Produced by Rajeev Reddy and Sai Babu Jagarlamudi, and presented by UV Creations, Ghaati promises a gripping story backed by a strong creative team. The film’s cinematography is helmed by Manojh Reddy Katasani, while the music score is crafted by Nagavelli Vidya Sagar, both of whom contribute significantly to the film’s immersive atmosphere.
Following the successful release of character glimpses introducing Anushka and Vikram Prabhu, the makers plan to roll out regular updates and promotional content to build anticipation leading up to the release.
With its intriguing premise and stellar cast, Ghaati is poised to be one of the most talked-about films this summer.
U.S. Tightens Visa Rules for Foreign Visitors to Harvard
The United States has introduced a more rigorous vetting process for foreign nationals seeking to visit prestigious academic institutions, with Harvard University receiving specific attention. In a directive issued by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, U.S. consular officers worldwide have been instructed to intensify scrutiny of social media profiles for all foreign nationals applying for visas to visit Harvard. This includes prospective and current students, faculty, staff, contractors, guest speakers, and tourists.
According to the directive—circulated via a diplomatic cable—applicants without a discernible online presence are to be denied visas. Additionally, applicants may be required to make their social media accounts public to facilitate content review. The guidance also temporarily halts interviews for student visa applicants deemed potential security risks.
This move is seen as part of the broader immigration stance of the Trump administration, which had previously attempted to bar Harvard from accepting international students—a measure currently on hold following a court decision.
These developments are expected to impact elite universities across the country, where international engagement is significant. In the 2023–2024 academic year, more than 1.1 million foreign students studied in the U.S., with India and China accounting for the largest share. International students represent approximately 5.9% of the total U.S. higher education enrollment of 19 million.
The new vetting policy underscores a shift toward heightened national security measures, potentially reshaping the landscape of international academic exchange in the United States.
Kuberaa Audio Launch: Emotion, Nostalgia, and Soulful Cinema
Director Sekhar Kammula’s much-anticipated Telugu-Tamil bilingual Kuberaa is all set to hit the big screens on June 20. With the film already creating strong pre-release buzz through glimpses and two compelling songs — one of them serving as the theme track — the team amped up the excitement further by hosting a grand audio launch event in Chennai.
The event was graced by the film’s lead actors, including veteran star Nagarjuna and National Award-winning actor Dhanush, both of whom captivated the audience with heartfelt speeches.
Nagarjuna struck a nostalgic note, reminiscing about his deep-rooted connection with Chennai. Thanking the Tamil audience for their enduring support over the years, he added, “Soon after Kuberaa, Superstar Rajinikanth’s Coolie will amaze you big time,” hinting at the exciting cinematic slate ahead for fans.
Dhanush, known for his intensity both on and off screen, delivered an emotionally stirring address. Reflecting on the moral fabric of today’s world, he remarked, “We are living in Kalikaalam, where negativity often overshadows goodness. Sekhar Kammula is a pure soul — like a divine angel.”
The actor also recounted his first day of filming for Kuberaa in Tirupati, where he performed barefoot, dressed as a beggar. “That moment stripped life down to its core truths,” he shared. “Greed and wealth mean nothing. A pure soul is everything. Kuberaa will make you feel that — and I’m 2000% sure.”
With its soulful themes and a stellar cast, Kuberaa promises to be more than just a film — it’s poised to be a spiritual and emotional experience. As the countdown to release begins, expectations continue to soar.
YS Jagan Comments on CM Chandrababu Administration | AP