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Shashtipoorthi Title Track Celebrates Life, Legacy, and Tradition
Shashtipoorthi, an upcoming heartwarming social entertainer, continues to build anticipation with the launch of its much-awaited title track. Featuring fresh talents Rupeysh and Akanksha in the lead roles, the film also brings together veteran actors Rajendra Prasad and Archana in pivotal supporting roles, promising a rich blend of youthful energy and seasoned performances.
Following the successful reception of the film’s first three songs, the title track “Shashtipoorthi” was officially launched by acclaimed director Nag Ashwin, adding a layer of prestige to the musical rollout. The song, penned by celebrated lyricist Chaitanya Prasad, is composed by the legendary Ilaiyaraaja, who is at the helm of the film’s music album. Known for his timeless melodies, Ilaiyaraaja infuses this track with a serene, celebratory tone that beautifully captures the spirit of a 60th birthday — a momentous milestone in Indian tradition.
Unlike conventional upbeat numbers, the title track embraces a peaceful and festive soundscape, echoing the film’s emotional core and cultural values. It serves as a soulful tribute to life, relationships, and the joy of enduring bonds, mirroring the spiritual essence of a Shashtipoorthi ceremony.
Directed by Pavan Prabha and produced under the Maa Aai banner by Rupeysh, the film is positioned as a feel-good family entertainer with a unique narrative. With its thoughtful music and promising cast, Shashtipoorthi is poised to strike a chord with audiences when it hits theatres on May 30.
Kamal Haasan’s Liplock in Thug Life Trailer Sparks Age-Gap Debate
The recently released trailer of the much-anticipated action drama Thug Life, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Mani Ratnam, has stirred considerable discussion—not for its gritty visuals or ensemble cast, but for an unexpected moment of intimacy featuring lead actor Kamal Haasan.
At 70, Haasan is seen in a liplock with co-star Abhirami, aged 41, in a scene that has sparked a wave of reactions across social media platforms. Many fans expressed discomfort over the age gap portrayed on screen, with some calling the scene “unnecessary” and questioning its relevance to the film’s narrative.
Adding to the controversy, the trailer also features Haasan in a flirtatious interaction with actress Trisha, further fueling debates about age-appropriate casting and on-screen intimacy. Critics and viewers alike have begun drawing comparisons to similar backlash received by senior Telugu actors such as Ravi Teja (Mr. Bachchan) and Nandamuri Balakrishna (Daaku Maharaj) for their romantic pairings with significantly younger actresses.
What’s drawing additional ire is the placement of the intimate scene in the trailer itself. Several fans argue that including such a moment out of narrative context appears to be a deliberate move to generate buzz around the film, potentially overshadowing its artistic and cinematic value.
Despite the debate, Thug Life remains one of the most eagerly awaited films of the year. With a formidable cast including Silambarasan, Trisha, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Joju George, Nasser, and Abhirami, the film promises a high-octane gangster saga. Music by A.R. Rahman further heightens expectations, while production is jointly handled by Raaj Kamal Films International and Madras Talkies.
As discussions continue to unfold online, all eyes are now on the film’s release, with many awaiting to see how these moments fit into the broader storyline—and whether the final product justifies the bold creative choices made by the team.
Vijay Deverakonda Saved Taxiwala from Being Shelved
Telugu actor Vijay Deverakonda recently opened up about the turbulent journey of his 2018 supernatural thriller Taxiwala, revealing how the film nearly got shelved due to creative dissatisfaction—an episode that nearly derailed his early career.
In a candid conversation during a recent podcast, Vijay shared that despite having a blast on the sets and enjoying the shoot, the pre-release phase of Taxiwala was nothing short of a nightmare. “The way it was shot, we had so much fun on the sets. But before the release, it turned into a bitter experience,” he recalled.
Things took a serious turn when veteran producer Allu Aravind, who backed the project under the GA2 Pictures and UV Creations banner, called Vijay with distressing news. “He said, ‘We’re going to shelve the project’ and warned me that my future was at stake,” Vijay recounted. The call prompted him to immediately rush from a film shoot in Chennai to Hyderabad to address the crisis.
According to Vijay, the core issue stemmed from the film’s music and its overall presentation. “The whole team was disappointed. The laughs, the punches, the suspense—none of it landed. Scenes felt awkward, and the sound effects followed the typical Telugu comedy template, which didn’t align with our vision. Everyone felt like we had made fools of ourselves,” he said.
Originally conceived as a futuristic horror comedy, Taxiwala was meant to stand apart from conventional fare. However, the final cut lacked the necessary tone and texture to do justice to that concept. Vijay, who had only three films to his credit at the time, knew that shelving the project would not only waste a promising story but also potentially jeopardize his budding career.
In a decisive move, Vijay convinced Allu Aravind to give the film a second chance. He proposed revamping the music and brought onboard composer Jakes Bejoy, who was based in Chennai. The new score injected fresh energy into the film, aligning it more closely with its original vision. The gamble paid off—Taxiwala was released successfully and went on to become a commercial hit.
Reflecting on that crucial phase, Vijay said, “I truly believed in the story. To see it almost get killed before it could reach audiences was heartbreaking. But I’m glad we fought for it. The result proved that it was worth it.”
Today, Taxiwala is remembered not just for its inventive narrative but also for the resilience and conviction of its lead actor, whose unwavering belief helped bring it back from the brink.
Inside Bollywood: Stars Speak Out on Stereotypes and Toxicity
Once hailed as the face of Indian cinema, Bollywood is increasingly coming under scrutiny from some of its own prominent insiders. In recent times, several celebrities have openly criticized the Hindi film industry for its prevailing work culture, stereotypical roles, and other systemic challenges. Among the latest voices to join this chorus of critique is actress Jacqueline Fernandez, adding to the growing list that includes filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, actors Suniel Shetty, Kalki Koechlin, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, and Namashi Chakraborty.
In a candid interview, Jacqueline Fernandez highlighted the persistent issue of stereotyping within Bollywood. She remarked, “I think sometimes it gets misinterpreted for okay, well then let’s stereotype you and let’s put you in these roles and let’s get you to these because that’s what you’re suited to, and that has pretty much been my journey.” While Fernandez expressed gratitude for her career opportunities, she also shared the challenges she has faced in securing versatile roles. Being frequently typecast according to her established persona, she feels restrained in her ability to push her boundaries and explore her full potential as an actor.
This sentiment echoes the concerns voiced by several other Bollywood figures. Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap recently described Bollywood as “toxic,” criticizing the industry’s fixation on chasing unrealistic box office numbers and the obsession with creating 1000 crore blockbusters. Kashyap even announced his decision to shift focus toward South Indian cinema, signaling disillusionment with the current Bollywood environment.
Actor Suniel Shetty pointed out the decline of the multi-starrer culture, attributing it to the insecurity among the younger generation of actors who prefer not to collaborate in ensemble projects. Kalki Koechlin weighed in on the creative stagnation, stating that Bollywood is currently experiencing a recession that calls for fresh and innovative storytelling. Nawazuddin Siddiqui criticized the industry’s star system, noting that while audiences value genuine talent, Bollywood often prioritizes star power over acting prowess, continuing to back big names even when their films underperform commercially.
Adding to the critical discourse, Namashi Chakraborty, son of veteran Mithun Chakraborty, described Bollywood’s environment as “very fake,” condemning the prevalent favoritism that hampers meritocracy in the industry.
Such widespread and vocal criticism from within the industry marks a notable shift. In contrast to earlier times when Bollywood personalities rarely spoke out against the system, a growing number of insiders today are courageously addressing its shortcomings. These candid conversations raise important questions about Bollywood’s work culture and highlight the urgent need for reform and greater inclusivity to nurture real talent and creativity.
Ram Charan and Buchi Babu Sana Team Up for Emotional Rural Drama Peddi
Global star Ram Charan has teamed up with director Buchi Babu Sana for an intense rural action and emotional saga titled Peddi, set against the vibrant backdrop of North Andhra. The recently released First Shot Glimpse has generated significant excitement among fans, showcasing Charan’s striking makeover, nuanced body language, and impactful dialogue delivery.
With 30% of the shoot already completed, director Buchi Babu Sana—making his debut with a major star—is meticulously overseeing every aspect of the film’s production. The glimpse reveals Ram Charan in an authentic rural avatar, engaging in a scene centered around cricket. However, Buchi Babu is quick to clarify that Peddi is not a sports film. Instead, its true essence lies in the emotional narrative that forms the heart of the story.
Charan’s character is described as earthy and grounded, reflecting qualities akin to the actor’s real-life persona. Buchi Babu further praises Ram Charan’s professionalism and commitment on set, noting, “Once the camera rolls, Ram Charan transforms completely. His insistence on perfecting each take showcases a rare dedication and hunger that elevates the entire production.”
Produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru, Peddi is slated for a theatrical release on Ram Charan’s birthday, March 27th next year, setting high expectations among audiences and industry insiders alike.
Babil Khan Exits Hindi Baby Remake, Takes Break from Acting
Irrfan Khan’s son, Babil Khan, has officially withdrawn from the Hindi remake of the Telugu hit Baby. Announcing his decision on Instagram, Babil expressed gratitude for the creative collaboration with director Sai Rajesh but cited unforeseen circumstances as the reason behind his exit. He also revealed plans to take a break from acting for the time being and extended his best wishes to Sai Rajesh and the film’s team.
In his statement, Babil wrote,
“With a lot of grit, passion, and mutual respect, Sai Rajesh sir and I both got along on this journey of creating magic together. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, things didn’t go ahead as everyone had planned. Since I will be taking some time off currently, I wish the best to Sai Rajesh sir and the film team on their future journey. I know there is immense love between us, and we will meet soon in the future and create magic together.”
Director Sai Rajesh also responded to Babil’s exit with understanding and support. Taking to social media, he praised Babil as “one of the most talented and hardworking actors” he has worked with and expressed disappointment over the unforeseen situation. He added,
“After spending time with Babil while prepping, I was very happy to be working with such a talented actor… I will still always cherish the experience of seeing him perform in front of me … I will miss my Hero! I respect his decision of self-care first, and wish him all the best and send him all the love in the future! I know we both will create that magic together for sure.”
The announcement comes shortly after Babil posted a heartfelt video on Instagram, where he spoke candidly about perceived biases in Bollywood. This was followed by a brief public disagreement between Babil and Sai Rajesh on social media, both of which were later deleted.
The Telugu original Baby released in 2023, directed by Sai Rajesh, was well received and starred Anand Deverakonda, Vaishnavi Chaitanya, and Viraj Ashwin in lead roles. With Babil’s departure, the production team will now be on the lookout for a new lead to step into the pivotal role for the Hindi remake.
Yamadonga 4K Re-Release Draws Massive Fan Celebration
The beloved Telugu fantasy classic Yamadonga has made a triumphant return to the big screen with a brand-new 4K restoration, drawing enthusiastic crowds across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Originally released in 2007, the film marked a significant milestone in Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr.’s (NTR) career and remains one of the defining fantasy films in Telugu cinema.
Directed by visionary filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli, Yamadonga masterfully blends mythological elements with action, drama, and comedy—creating a timeless cinematic experience that continues to captivate audiences nearly two decades later. The re-release, organized in celebration of NTR’s birthday, has sparked widespread excitement, with early morning shows running to packed houses and the film trending prominently on platforms like BookMyShow.
Fans have embraced the re-release with fervor, flooding social media with nostalgic tributes—ranging from iconic dialogues and high-energy dance sequences to fan-made edits and musical throwbacks. NTR’s charismatic performance is once again earning widespread acclaim, reaffirming his status as a powerhouse performer.
The return of Yamadonga is more than just a theatrical re-run; it is a celebration of a film that left a lasting legacy in Telugu cinema. Rajamouli’s direction continues to shine on the big screen, while M.M. Keeravaani’s memorable soundtrack is being rediscovered and cherished by a new generation of moviegoers.
Also starring Mohan Babu in a commanding role as Yama, along with strong performances from Priyamani and Mamta Mohandas, Yamadonga is once again proving its timeless appeal.
This grand re-release not only honors a cinematic gem but also brings fans together in celebration of storytelling, music, and enduring stardom.
Karan Johar Defends Nadaaniyaan and Denies Nepotism Allegations
Filmmaker Karan Johar has once again found himself at the center of controversy following the release of Nadaaniyaan, a Netflix film that marks the debut of Ibrahim Ali Khan, son of Saif Ali Khan, and Khushi Kapoor, daughter of the late Sridevi. The film has drawn sharp criticism from both audiences and critics, with many accusing Johar of perpetuating nepotism by casting actors from prominent film families.
Social media was abuzz with negative reviews, with users describing the lead performances as “wooden” and calling out the lack of acting prowess. Many viewers expressed frustration over what they see as an industry trend where star kids are given opportunities regardless of merit, overshadowing struggling, more talented newcomers without industry connections.
Addressing the backlash in a recent interview, Karan Johar defended the film and its cast. He accused some digital creators of intentionally posting multiple negative reviews to drive engagement. “If you didn’t like the film, say it once and move on. Why are you going on and on?” Johar remarked. He added that when he confronted a few YouTubers, they admitted that repeated criticism was garnering them higher views and engagement.
Responding to the larger debate on nepotism, Johar firmly denied that Dharma Productions only launches star kids. He highlighted the recent success of Kill, which featured actors Lakshya and Raghav Juyal—both of whom do not come from film families. “Kill went to the Toronto International Film Festival and won the People’s Choice Award: Midnight Madness. Why isn’t anyone talking about that?” he questioned. “Eighty percent of actors introduced by Dharma are not from film families.”
Johar also addressed the emotional toll of online trolling on new actors like Ibrahim and Khushi. “People assume they are immune because they are star kids. That’s not true. They feel hurt just like anyone else,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Johar stated that while the criticism may continue, he intends to stay focused on his work. “If that’s the way you want to play, play your way. I’ll just do what I have to: put my head down and work.”
Kajal Aggarwal Set for Bollywood Comeback with Ramayana
Kajal Aggarwal, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated actresses, has enjoyed a remarkable career across multiple film industries, including Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi. While she once held a significant presence in Bollywood, the past decade has seen her presence gradually decline in the Hindi film space. Her recent appearance in Sikander alongside Salman Khan, although high-profile, failed to make a notable impact.
Now, in a strategic move to reclaim her position in Bollywood, Kajal is reportedly gearing up for a powerful role in Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious adaptation of Ramayana. According to sources, she is in talks to play the role of Mandodari, the dignified and wise queen of Lanka and consort of Ravana, who will be portrayed by Yash. The film features an ensemble cast including Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and Sai Pallavi as Sita.
Mandodari is a pivotal character in the Ramayana epic, and this version of the film is said to offer significant screen time and depth to her role. Kajal’s casting in such a nuanced and prominent part could serve as a strong platform to reconnect with Hindi audiences. Her pairing with Yash is already generating buzz, and the dynamic between their characters is expected to be one of the emotional highlights of the film.
Given her fluency in multiple languages and her extensive experience across various film industries, Kajal is well-positioned to resonate with a pan-Indian audience. This role may not only revive her Bollywood trajectory but also reinforce her versatility as a performer.
Prior to Sikander, Kajal was seen in Mumbai Saga (2021), and before that in Do Lafzon Ki Kahani and Final Cut of Director (2016). Now, as she gradually returns to full-time acting post marriage, Ramayana could mark a significant milestone in her second innings in Hindi cinema.
