Visvada Naayakaa – Lyrical | Thug Life (Telugu) | Kamal Haasan | Mani Ratnam | STR | AR Rahman
Kamal Haasan Shines in Mani Ratnam’s Musical Spectacle
The much-anticipated gangster drama Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam and headlined by the legendary Kamal Haasan, continues to build excitement with the release of its latest single, “Visvada Naayakaa.” The film features music by the iconic A.R. Rahman, whose previous tracks for the film have already garnered enthusiastic responses from audiences and critics alike.
“Visvada Naayakaa,” penned by acclaimed lyricist Anantha Sriram, is a powerful blend of poetic depth and modern musical sensibilities. The track is elevated by the dynamic vocals of Alexandra Joy and A.R. Ameen, whose rap segments—arranged by Prashanth Venkat—infuse the song with contemporary energy and rhythm.
Visually, the song is a tribute to Kamal Haasan’s enduring charisma and screen presence. With stunning cinematography and stylized sequences, the video showcases the veteran actor in a range of commanding avatars. The visuals also subtly hint at the layered narrative of the film, including the complex dynamics his character shares with the female leads, played by Abhirami and Trisha.
While “Visvada Naayakaa” stands strong as an audio experience, its true impact is realized on screen—thanks to Mani Ratnam’s masterful storytelling and the song’s striking visual composition.
Thug Life is slated for a grand theatrical release on June 5th, with N. Sudhakar Reddy’s Sreshth Movies presenting the film across the Telugu states.
GST Collections Stay Above ₹2 Lakh Crore, Indicating Steady Consumption Growth
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue collection has remained robust, crossing the ₹2 lakh crore mark for the second consecutive month, underscoring strong economic activity and consistent consumption growth across various sectors.
While April 2025 witnessed a record GST collection of ₹2.37 lakh crore, driven primarily by year-end filings, the sustained high figures in May indicate continued economic momentum. Net GST revenue (after refunds) surged by over 20% year-on-year to ₹1.73 lakh crore. Domestic collections grew by 13%, complemented by a significant 25.7% increase in import-related GST contributions.
Among the southern states, Telangana reported a 6% increase in GST revenue, rising from ₹4,986 crore in May 2024 to ₹5,310 crore in May 2025. This growth reflects relatively stable economic activity in the state. Conversely, Andhra Pradesh experienced a slight decline of 2%, with collections falling from ₹3,890 crore to ₹3,803 crore, possibly due to subdued consumption or weaker business activity during the period.
At the national level, Maharashtra maintained its position as the largest contributor to GST collections, generating ₹31,530 crore. It was followed by Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, which contributed ₹14,299 crore and ₹12,230 crore respectively. These three states continue to dominate the country’s indirect tax revenue, benefiting from their strong industrial and service sectors, robust compliance mechanisms, and elevated consumption levels.
The sustained high GST collections reinforce positive economic trends, reflecting resilience and steady growth across multiple sectors.
Manushi Chhillar Shines Bright on the Silver Screen
Manushi Chhillar, the elegant and poised beauty from Haryana and crowned Miss World 2017, is steadily establishing herself as a formidable presence in Indian cinema. Having transitioned seamlessly from the glamour of the pageant circuit, Manushi has begun to carve a distinct niche for herself on the silver screen.
Following her impactful debut in the Telugu film Operation Valentine, Manushi has garnered attention from filmmakers across the country, signaling her rising appeal and versatility as an actress. With several promising projects in the pipeline, her journey in the film industry is poised for significant growth.
In her latest photoshoot, Manushi dazzled in a striking red ensemble that beautifully marries contemporary fashion with timeless elegance. The outfit, featuring a daring thigh-high slit, perfectly captures her fearless approach to style and her evolution as a sophisticated fashion icon. Her poise and magnetic screen presence continue to captivate audiences, and her stunning look has quickly gone viral, earning widespread admiration across social media platforms.
On the professional front, Manushi is gearing up for the release of her upcoming films Maalik and Tehran, both slated for release this year, further underscoring her commitment to diverse and challenging roles.
With her grace, talent, and growing popularity, Manushi Chhillar is undoubtedly a name to watch in the evolving landscape of Indian cinema.
Big Releases Set to Revive Telugu Cinema in June 2025
As the first five months of 2025 conclude with subdued box office performance, the industry looks toward June with cautious optimism. Four significant releases scheduled this month have generated considerable anticipation and are widely expected to rejuvenate audience interest and improve theatrical collections.
The much-awaited collaboration between Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam, Thug Life, marks their reunion after 38 years. Releasing on June 5th, the film has witnessed a robust promotional campaign across the Telugu states, cultivating strong pre-release buzz. The makers are confident that the film will resonate well with Telugu audiences and deliver substantial box office returns.
Following this, on June 12th, Pawan Kalyan returns to the silver screen with a period drama set during the Mughal era, directed by acclaimed filmmakers Krish Jagarlamudi and Jyothi Krishna. Despite a measured promotional response and a fluctuating buzz, the film carries the weight of high expectations from Pawan Kalyan’s loyal fan base, who hope for a performance that rekindles his cinematic stature.
June 20th will see the release of Kuberaa, directed by veteran filmmaker Sekhar Kammula, commemorating his 25 years in the industry. Featuring Dhanush in the lead, supported by Nagarjuna, Rashmika Mandanna, and Jim Sarbh, the film is poised to offer a fresh narrative approach that deviates from Kammula’s usual style. The project is anticipated to be content-driven and impactful.
Rounding off the month, Kannappa, starring Manchu Vishnu, is set for a June 27th release. Touted as Vishnu’s dream project, the film’s promotions and music have generated a favorable response. Its performance is considered pivotal for Vishnu’s career trajectory, and industry observers will watch closely to gauge audience reception.
Collectively, these releases position June as a potential turning point for the Telugu box office, promising to end the ongoing slump and deliver a much-needed boost to the trade. The forthcoming weeks will be critical in determining if these films can revive audience engagement and commercial momentum.
Hasina Indicted for 2024 Protest Crackdown
Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) formally indicted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two senior officials on Sunday, marking the beginning of a landmark trial over their alleged involvement in the violent suppression of student-led protests last year.
The three-member judicial bench took cognizance of the charges, which include mass murder, and ordered the commencement of trial proceedings in absentia against Ms. Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal. The third accused, former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, is currently in custody and will face trial in person.
“We do hereby take into cognizance the charges,” the bench declared after the prosecution formally presented the case, accusing the defendants of deploying excessive force to quell the protests that ultimately led to the fall of Hasina’s government in mid-2024.
The indictment includes charges of superior command responsibility, with the prosecution alleging that Hasina exercised unchecked authority in directing the violent crackdown. Khan Kamal and Al-Mamun face additional accusations of provocation, complicity, abetment, instigation, and facilitation of crimes committed during the suppression.
In a historic first, the tribunal proceedings were broadcast live on national television, drawing widespread public attention. However, the start of the trial was briefly delayed after unidentified assailants hurled three crude bombs at the tribunal’s main gate early Sunday morning. According to police reports, two of the devices detonated without causing casualties, while the third was safely defused. Law enforcement agencies are reviewing CCTV footage to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
The tribunal also issued a renewed arrest warrant for Sheikh Hasina and Khan Kamal, both of whom are believed to be abroad. Authorities have not provided updates on their current whereabouts.
The charges stem from a nationwide protest movement led by students and youth groups in 2024, which was met with a forceful government response, triggering domestic and international condemnation.
Sunday’s hearing marks a significant moment in Bangladesh’s judicial history, as the ICT takes on a high-profile case with far-reaching political and legal implications.
Sobhita Dhulipala & Naga Chaitanya Harmonizing Marriage and Career
Sobhita Dhulipala and Naga Chaitanya, one of the most admired couples in the industry, recently opened up about their evolving journey of marital bliss while managing demanding work schedules. The duo, who graced the cover of Vogue, shared insights into how they navigate their personal and professional lives amidst busy calendars.
Sobhita, currently engaged in a shoot in Hyderabad, revealed that their work commitments often do not align, making it challenging to spend time together during the week. Despite this, they prioritize communication through Zoom calls and ensure they dedicate their weekends to each other.
Naga Chaitanya, last seen in Thandel, expressed a significant shift in his priorities post-marriage, emphasizing that “home and family” now take precedence over everything else. Both actors have a shared fondness for South Indian cuisine and enjoy discovering home-style thalis together, as neither considers themselves proficient cooks.
Reflecting on their relationship dynamics, they acknowledged that the concept of work-life balance was not a major consideration before marriage. However, with their changing perspectives, they are consciously striving to maximize quality time together. As actors, they also recognize the emotional intensity of their roles and make a deliberate effort to leave those emotional hangovers behind before reconnecting with each other.
Sobhita and Naga Chaitanya’s candid reflections highlight the realities of balancing demanding careers with nurturing a fulfilling personal life, underscoring their commitment to each other and their shared journey.
Rinku Singh to Get Engaged to Samajwadi Party Politician Priya Saroj
Indian cricketer Rinku Singh is set to take a significant step in his personal life, with his engagement to Priya Saroj, a politician from the Samajwadi Party, officially scheduled for June 8. The ceremony will be held at a prominent hotel in Lucknow.
The 27-year-old batter, whose Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 campaign with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has recently concluded, is now focusing on this important milestone. Although rumors about their engagement had circulated earlier on social media, the families have now confirmed the official event.
Priya Saroj is the daughter of Tufani Saroj, a sitting MLA representing the Samajwadi Party. Speaking to ANI, he acknowledged the relationship and stated that both families had been consulted. “Both the children have expressed their desire to get married and have sought our permission. The engagement has not taken place yet. Initial talks have taken place in this regard,” he said.
On the professional front, Rinku Singh’s IPL 2025 season was modest. He accumulated 206 runs at an average of 29.42, maintaining a healthy strike rate of 153.73. Despite his efforts, KKR had a challenging season, finishing eighth on the points table with five wins from 14 matches.
Nonetheless, Rinku remains an integral part of India’s T20 International (T20I) squad. Since making his T20I debut in 2023 against Ireland, he has played 30 matches, scoring 507 runs at an impressive average of 46.09 and a strike rate of 165.14, including three half-centuries.
In addition to his T20 credentials, Rinku has represented India in two One Day Internationals (ODIs). He boasts strong List-A statistics, amassing 1,899 runs in 52 innings at an average of 48.69 and a strike rate of 94.8, which includes one century and 17 fifties.
As Rinku Singh prepares to embark on this new chapter in his personal life, cricket fans will continue to watch his promising career with great interest.
Indian Students Turn to EB-5 Visa for Stability Amid US Visa Uncertainty
With increasing restrictions and uncertainties surrounding US student visas, a growing number of Indian students are turning to the EB-5 investor visa as a more secure pathway to permanent residency. The EB-5 visa, which requires an investment commitment of $800,000, offers a direct route to a Green Card, providing greater stability and legal rights compared to traditional student (F-1) visas.
Recent months have witnessed a surge of over 100% in EB-5 applications from Indian students, a significant shift from the earlier trend dominated primarily by professionals on H-1B visas. This increase is particularly notable among students pursuing careers in high-demand sectors such as technology, finance, and biotechnology.
Several factors are driving this trend. Indian families are increasingly concerned about visa appointment delays, heightened scrutiny at US borders, and technical issues affecting student records. These challenges, coupled with fears of being caught in administrative or political crossfires, have prompted many to explore the EB-5 option as a means to safeguard their children’s future in the US.
The EB-5 visa’s faster processing times—now reduced to as little as three months—add to its appeal. Unlike the F-1 visa, the EB-5 provides not only a more stable immigration status but also greater legal protections. Immigration consultants are advising students to minimize international travel and remain within the US while adjusting their status to mitigate any risks during the transition.
Recent incidents involving international students at prestigious institutions like Harvard have heightened anxiety across universities nationwide. Additionally, unpredictable shifts in US immigration policy, especially under the Trump administration, have intensified uncertainty among prospective and current students.
However, the EB-5 route is accessible only to those who can afford the substantial investment—approximately Rs 7 crore (around $800,000)—and is subject to an annual quota limiting Indian nationals to just 700 visas. Consequently, securing an EB-5 visa requires not only financial capability and clear intent but also favorable timing and an element of luck amid growing competition.
For many Indian families, the EB-5 visa has become more than just an immigration option—it represents peace of mind and a reliable pathway to a stable future in the United States.
Social Media Arrest of Sharmistha Panoli Draws Widespread Criticism
The recent arrest of law student and social media influencer Sharmistha Panoli in Gurugram has ignited widespread criticism and debate across political and social spheres. Panoli was taken into custody by Kolkata police over a communally sensitive social media post related to “Operation Sindoor.” The influencer had also publicly criticized Bollywood actors for their silence on the issue, which further intensified the controversy.
Several prominent figures, including Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and BJP ally Pawan Kalyan, actress-politician Kangana Ranaut, and Dutch MP Geert Wilders, condemned the arrest and expressed concerns over freedom of expression and alleged political bias.
Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan criticized the West Bengal police for arresting Panoli despite her acknowledgment of the mistake, deletion of the contentious video, and issuance of a public apology. Speaking on X, he highlighted the perceived double standards in the treatment of communal sensitivities, stating, “But what about the deep, searing pain inflicted upon millions when elected leaders, MPs of TMC, mock Sanatana Dharma? Where is the outrage when our faith is called ‘Gandha Dharm’? Where is their apology? Where is their swift arrest?” He further emphasized that “secularism must be a two-way street,” calling for equal application of the law and justice.
In response, West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC chief Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP of attempting to foment communal unrest through divisive politics in the state. She rejected the BJP’s narrative by asserting that its “gandha dharma” was antithetical to the true principles of Hinduism. Deputy Chief Minister Kalyan reiterated the call for justice and fairness, stating, “Blasphemy must be condemned, always! Secularism isn’t a shield for some and a sword for others. It must be a two-way street. West Bengal Police, the nation is watching. Act justly for all.”
Dutch MP Geert Wilders, leader of the right-wing Party for Freedom in The Netherlands, also weighed in, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and ensure Panoli’s release. On X, Wilders condemned the arrest as “a disgrace for freedom of speech” and called on the Indian government not to punish her for speaking out on sensitive topics. Wilders has previously supported BJP’s Nupur Sharma during similar controversies.
BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut publicly supported Panoli’s immediate release, acknowledging that while Panoli’s words were “unpleasant,” her apology should suffice to end the matter. Ranaut condemned further harassment and bullying against the influencer.
Amidst growing backlash, Kolkata police clarified that the arrest was lawful and that all legal procedures had been followed meticulously. They also cautioned against misinformation suggesting that the arrest was unlawful.
The incident has once again spotlighted the delicate balance between freedom of expression and communal sensitivities in India’s complex social and political landscape.
Rajendra Prasad Sparks Controversy with Inappropriate Remarks
Renowned actor Rajendra Prasad, once celebrated as the king of comedy, has recently found himself at the center of controversy due to a series of inappropriate comments made during public appearances. His speeches, which many now perceive as lacking decorum, have drawn widespread criticism from industry peers and audiences alike.
The controversy began a few weeks ago when Rajendra Prasad made indecent remarks about cricketer David Warner, which sparked immediate backlash. More recently, he has again come under scrutiny for using an offensive term while referring to senior actor Ali at a public event. Although some suggest these comments may have been made in jest or based on personal familiarity, the use of such language in a public forum is widely regarded as unprofessional and disrespectful.
The situation escalated when Rajendra Prasad demanded applause from the audience, citing his receipt of the prestigious NTR Award. Veteran actor Murali Mohan questioned the propriety of such a demand, to which Rajendra Prasad responded dismissively, stating, “If you don’t clap, it means you have no shame at all,” accompanied by a dismissive gesture. This exchange with a respected senior figure has further fueled criticism.
An industry insider, speaking off the record, remarked sarcastically that Rajendra Prasad seems to be experiencing a “serious nerve issue”—a metaphorical reference to a disconnect between his thoughts and speech—suggesting that the actor is becoming increasingly erratic and out of touch during public engagements.
As one of Telugu cinema’s beloved figures, Rajendra Prasad’s recent conduct has raised concerns about professionalism and respect within the industry. Many hope the veteran actor will reflect on these incidents and restore the dignity he once epitomized.