9 PM | ETV Telugu News | 17th May”2025
Vijay Varma’s Journey: From Hyderabad to Bollywood Spotlight
The film industry is often described as a land where dreams come true—and actor Vijay Varma’s journey is a testament to that belief. Hailing from Hyderabad, Vijay’s path to stardom was anything but smooth.
Born into a traditional family that didn’t embrace cinema, Vijay faced strong opposition at home, especially from his strict father, who disapproved of his interest in acting. Determined to follow his passion, Vijay made the bold decision to leave home and chase his dreams.
He eventually found his footing at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, where he honed his craft and gained the skills necessary to thrive in the film world.
From a rebellious young man breaking away from societal norms to a recognized talent in Indian cinema, Vijay Varma’s story is one of courage, perseverance, and self-belief. His journey continues to inspire countless aspiring actors who dare to dream beyond the limitations set by their circumstances.
Meenakshi Chaudhary’s Stylish Look & Upcoming Film NC24
Meenakshi Chaudhary recently captivated her fans with a stunning Instagram photo where she wore a vibrant yellow saree designed by @issadesignerstudio. Her radiant makeup was expertly done by @makeuphairbyrahul, complemented by soft, wavy hair styled by @chinnisrinu-_stylist. She accessorized her look with elegant jewelry from @ekadhijewels, all curated under the guidance of stylist @kalyanik666. The beautiful shot was captured by @tdf.studioz, with additional styling support from @aksharamahi7.
On the film front, Meenakshi is creating buzz for her upcoming project alongside Naga Chaitanya titled NC24 (tentatively named Vrusha Karma), directed by Karthik Varma Dandu, known for Virupaksha. She will portray Lakshya, an archaeologist, opposite Naga Chaitanya’s treasure hunter character. The film promises an intriguing blend of mythological adventure and mystical elements. Naga Chaitanya has even undergone a notable physical transformation for his role. Produced by BVSN Prasad under Sri Venkateswara Cine Chitra and presented by Sukumar Writings, the movie features music by Ajaneesh B Loknath, celebrated for Kantara, and production design by Sri Nagendra Tangala.
Proposed US Remittance Tax May Hit Indian Families, NRIs Hard
A new bill in the United States is causing deep concern among immigrant communities, especially among the 2.3 million Indians living and working there. The proposal introduces a 5% excise tax on every dollar sent abroad, which could significantly impact families, investments, and financial support flowing back to India. In 2023 alone, Indians in the US remitted over $23 billion to India, supporting their families, funding education, and investing in property or business ventures. With this proposed tax, those remittances will now come with a substantial cost.
For example, someone sending $1,000 monthly to family in India would now lose $50 each time to tax, amounting to $600 per year. To ensure their family receives the full amount, they would have to send over $1,050 monthly, increasing their out-of-pocket expense. Larger transfers, such as $10,000 for education or real estate, would incur a $500 tax, requiring a transfer of $10,526 to cover the full need. Even smaller transactions, like $200 monthly, would see $10 deducted each time—an annual loss of $120.
The tax would apply to all categories, including wage earners on H-1B or F-1 visas, green card holders, and NRIs earning from stocks or investments. With no exemptions for small amounts, every remittance would be affected. Since nearly 28% of India’s remittances originate from the US, the tax could redirect $1.6 to $1.7 billion away from Indian households, affecting essential spending on education, healthcare, and housing.
Experts are raising concerns about double taxation, as these funds have already been taxed in the US, and it’s unclear whether senders will get tax credits. The proposed tax might also reduce NRI interest in Indian investments, impact foreign exchange reserves, and encourage risky informal transfer methods. Real estate markets in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad could suffer, as developers depend heavily on NRI buyers.
With a possible implementation by July 2025, financial advisors are urging NRIs to complete major transfers ahead of time and reconsider their remittance strategies to minimize losses and adapt to the new costs.
Radhika Apte’s Sister Midnight Set to Challenge Censorship Norms
Censorship in Indian cinema has long been a subject of debate—often inconsistent and unpredictable. Films that push boundaries frequently face hurdles, despite garnering global praise. And now, another bold contender is preparing to test the waters: Sister Midnight, led by acclaimed Bollywood actress Radhika Apte.
Directed by Karan Kandhari, Sister Midnight is a dark, surreal comedy set in the vibrant chaos of a Mumbai slum. The film follows Uma, a fiercely independent woman trapped in an oppressive arranged marriage. As she struggles against rigid societal norms, her world unravels into a hallucinatory journey filled with rebellion, symbolism, and even goats.
Radhika Apte delivers a powerful, almost entirely non-verbal performance shaped through intense rehearsals—her physicality and emotional depth forming the core of the narrative.
Having premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and earned a BAFTA nomination, Sister Midnight has already received international acclaim for its bold visual style and hard-hitting commentary on gender and class dynamics. With its Indian theatrical release set for May 23, 2025, the question remains: Will the Indian censor board allow its full, unfiltered message to reach audiences?
As Sister Midnight edges closer to release, all eyes are on how India will receive this daring film—one that blends artistic risk with raw societal critique.
Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life: A High-Octane Reunion
Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam join forces once again after a long gap, and this time they’re back with a bang! Their much-anticipated film Thug Life is set to hit theaters on June 5th, and the recently released trailer promises an electrifying action-packed experience.
Set against the gritty world of gangland politics and personal redemption, the trailer introduces a powerful and complex relationship between two men — Kamal Haasan and Simbu — whose bond as mentor and protégé turns into a fierce rivalry. Kamal Haasan delivers a magnetic performance as an aging gangster torn between his legacy and thirst for vengeance, while Simbu brings raw intensity and emotional depth as the man rising from the shadows to challenge his former mentor.
Directed with Mani Ratnam’s trademark blend of elegance and raw emotion, Thug Life beautifully balances cinematic grandeur with deeply personal stakes. AR Rahman’s pulsating score elevates every moment, infusing the film with both heart and adrenaline. Cinematographer Ravi K. Chandran’s stunning visuals capture the moodiness and grit of the story, making every frame a visual treat.
Produced by the powerhouse collaboration of Raaj Kamal Films International, Madras Talkies, and Red Giant Movies, Thug Life promises to be a stylish, ambitious, and emotionally charged film crafted for the big screen. With the trailer out and promotions in full swing, fans can gear up for a thrilling showdown filled with passion and fire when the movie releases.
US Tightens Immigration Rules: Visa Violations Now Risk Immediate Deportation
The United States has intensified its immigration enforcement, issuing a strong warning to both undocumented and legal immigrants to strictly adhere to visa regulations and U.S. laws, or face deportation and permanent travel bans.
The U.S. Embassy in India posted a clear message on X (formerly Twitter), cautioning travelers: “If you remain in the United States beyond your authorized period of stay, you could be deported and face a permanent ban on traveling to the United States in the future.” This warning reflects the Trump administration’s continued crackdown on immigration amid declining approval ratings and budget constraints.
In addition, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a firm statement expanding the grounds for deportation to include individuals holding valid visas or green cards. “Receiving a visa or green card is a privilege. Our laws and values must be respected,” USCIS emphasized in an April 30 post. The statement also highlighted that anyone who advocates violence, supports terrorist activities, or encourages such actions is no longer eligible to remain in the U.S.
Supporting this tougher stance is an internal memo from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), part of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which reportedly allows for immediate termination of visas without prior notice or the chance to appeal.
Previously, international students and other non-citizens were given an opportunity to correct minor infractions or contest revocation decisions. Under the new rules, that leniency is being removed.
NBC News reports that the grounds for revoking student status have also broadened to include failure to maintain enrollment, loss of work authorization, or involvement in certain legal violations.
Together, these developments signal a heightened focus on immigration compliance under the current administration, targeting not only illegal entries but also the behavior, intent, and visa status of legal residents and visitors alike.
India-Afghanistan Ties Strengthen Amid Taliban Engagement and Regional Challenges
India and Afghanistan continue to strengthen their historic friendship despite the challenges posed by the current geopolitical environment, which has impacted trade flows — particularly affecting Delhi’s Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest dry fruit and spice market, due to reduced imports from Kabul.
A recent phone call between India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi sent a strong message that, although the Indian government has not officially recognized the Taliban regime, New Delhi remains a trusted and reliable partner for Kabul.
The “good conversation,” during which Muttaqi condemned the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack and dismissed efforts to sow distrust between India and Afghanistan, is likely to unsettle Pakistan’s political and military leadership across the Durand Line. Jaishankar highlighted this on X, stating: “Welcomed his (Muttaqi) firm rejection of recent attempts to create distrust through false reports. Underlined our traditional friendship with the Afghan people and continuing support for their development needs. Discussed ways to advance cooperation.”
Hafiz Zia Ahmad, Director of Public Communication at the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told IANS that the discussion focused on enhancing bilateral relations, promoting trade, and strengthening diplomatic ties. Issues like facilitating visas for traders and patients, and the release of Afghan prisoners in India, were also addressed.
Last week, Afghanistan had strongly rejected Pakistan’s claims that India launched missile strikes on Afghan soil during Operation Sindoor, calling the allegations “baseless” and “unfounded.” This stance was echoed by Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who dismissed Pakistan’s accusations as “ludicrous.”
Kabul has also expressed deep concern over rising regional tensions following the deadly Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed 26 innocent lives.
Many experts in Pakistan had anticipated that India’s engagement with Afghanistan would diminish following the Taliban takeover in 2021. However, contrary to these expectations, India has continued its strong involvement in Afghan humanitarian and developmental efforts under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
Notably, former ISI Director General Lt Gen Faiz Hameed’s visit to Kabul in September 2021 was touted by Pakistan as a symbolic gesture, yet within four years, Hameed has been detained, and India remains a key stakeholder in Afghanistan.
India’s approach to Afghanistan is rooted in its historic and civilizational ties, as well as relevant UN resolutions, including UNSCR 2593. Since the Taliban takeover, India evacuated its embassy personnel but has maintained a technical team since June 2022 to oversee humanitarian assistance and other matters. Jaishankar affirmed India’s non-recognition of the Taliban in line with the international community but emphasized India’s ongoing commitment to Afghan development.
The strengthening ties are the result of persistent diplomacy, with MEA Joint Secretary J.P. Singh visiting Kabul as the Taliban showed willingness to engage with India rather than Pakistan proxies. In January 2025, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Muttaqi in Dubai, reaffirming India’s condemnation of Pakistan’s December 24 airstrikes on Afghanistan and pledging further humanitarian aid.
The two sides also discussed greater use of the Chabahar port in Iran to facilitate trade and humanitarian supplies to Afghanistan. Afghanistan underscored its sensitivity to India’s security concerns, agreeing to maintain regular contact.
Experts believe that while mutual trust will take time to build, the evolving regional dynamics — including India-Pakistan tensions and Taliban-China engagement — have accelerated New Delhi’s efforts to deepen its relationship with Kabul.
Prof. Gulshan Sachdeva of JNU and the Daskshin Global South Centre of Excellence observed, “India’s engagement with the Taliban is driven by strategic realities and the Taliban’s desire for normalized relations. India represents a vital market for Afghan products and offers substantial development assistance. Afghan citizens eagerly await stronger ties with India, especially for medical and educational support.”
Trump Proposes ‘Freedom Zone’ in Gaza, Backs Netanyahu Amid Conflict
US President Donald Trump has expressed continued support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amidst the ongoing war in Gaza, emphasizing the brutality of the October 7 Hamas attacks and reiterating his controversial vision for Gaza as a “freedom zone.”
Speaking to Fox News’ Bret Baier from Abu Dhabi, Trump stated, “No, I’m not frustrated with Netanyahu. He’s in a tough situation. People forget October 7 – one of the most violent days in world history.” Trump added that while Netanyahu is “an angry man,” he believes the Israeli PM has fought “hard and bravely.”
Notably, Trump skipped a stop in Israel during his Middle East tour, which included visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. When asked about Netanyahu’s views on a possible nuclear deal with Iran, Trump responded, “Bibi believes it’s a threat, and rightly so.”
Trump reiterated his longstanding proposal to transform Gaza into a “freedom zone.”
“Gaza is a nasty place… I think it should become a freedom zone. Everyone’s being killed there. You ever look at the crime stats? It’s horrific,” he said.
While on board Air Force One, Trump told reporters, “A lot of good things are going to happen in the next month. We have to help the Palestinians too. A lot of people are starving.”
Speaking earlier in the UAE, Trump said, “We’ve got to take care of Gaza. It’s a humanitarian crisis. I’ve spoken with all three Gulf nations — they’re wealthy, capable, and willing to help. Money is not the issue. It’s about global cooperation.”
The comments come as Israeli airstrikes intensified across Gaza, with more than 100 reported killed on Thursday alone, according to Gaza Civil Defence. Trump’s statements have sparked renewed debate over U.S. involvement in the region.
పారితోషికం కాదని మానవత్వం చెప్పిన పవన్ కళ్యాణ్
టాలీవుడ్లో అత్యధిక పారితోషికం తీసుకునే నటుడిగా పేరుగాంచిన పవర్ స్టార్ పవన్ కళ్యాణ్, పారితోషికం కన్నా మానవతా విలువలతోనే అభిమాన హృదయాల్లో Rajadhi Raja లా నిలిచారు. హిట్ సినిమా అయితే నిర్మాతలు లాభపడతారని తెలిసిన పవన్, సినిమా ఫ్లాప్ అయితే మాత్రం నిర్మాతల నష్టాన్ని తలచుకుని తన పారితోషికంలో స్వచ్ఛందంగా మినహాయింపులు చేయడం విశేషం.
అంతేకాదు, కొన్ని సందర్భాల్లో ముందుగానే తీసుకున్న అడ్వాన్స్ను కూడా తిరిగి ఇచ్చేయడం పవన్కి సాధారణమే. యాక్టర్గా కాకుండా, ఒక మంచి మనిషిగా నిలవాలన్న తపనతో ఆయన చేసే ఈ వినయపూరిత చర్యలు అభిమానులను మరింత కట్టిపడేస్తున్నాయి.
ప్రస్తుతం పవన్ కల్యాణ్ ప్రధాన పాత్రలో రూపొందుతున్న సినిమాలు – హరిహర వీరమల్లు, ఓజీ మరియు ఉస్తాద్ భగత్ సింగ్. వీరిలో హరిహర వీరమల్లు షూటింగ్ పూర్తయింది, జూన్లో విడుదల కానుంది. ఈ సినిమాతో పాటు ఉస్తాద్ భగత్ సింగ్ ప్రాజెక్ట్ కూడా సెట్స్పై ఉంది. ఈ రెండు చిత్రాలకుగాను పవన్ సుమారు 35 కోట్ల రూపాయల అడ్వాన్స్ తీసుకున్నట్లు సమాచారం – వీ其中 హరిహర వీరమల్లుకి 20 కోట్లు, ఉస్తాద్ భగత్ సింగ్కు 15 కోట్లు.
అయితే ఈ రెండు చిత్రాల విడుదలలో భారీగా ఆలస్యం కావడంతో, పవన్ ఇటీవల నిర్మాతల్ని అమరావతికి పిలిపించి విలక్షణ నిర్ణయం తీసుకున్నారు. మిగిలిన పారితోషికం ఇవ్వవద్దని, సినిమాల విడుదల సజావుగా జరిగేలా చూడడమే తనకు ముఖ్యమని చెప్పారు. నిర్మాతలు నష్టపోయిన విషయాన్ని గుర్తు చేసుకుంటూ, తన వల్ల సినిమాలు ఆలస్యం అయ్యాయని ఓపికగా అంగీకరించారు.
ఈ సందర్భంలో మరోసారి పవన్ కళ్యాణ్ మానవతా గుణం బహిర్గతమైంది. నటుడిగా కాదు, మనిషిగా ఆయన గొప్పతనం మరోసారి ప్రేక్షకుల హృదయాలను హత్తుకుంది.
Pawan Kalyan Backs Operation Sindoor, Slams Pakistan & Celebrity Silence
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has taken a proactive and assertive stance in support of Operation Sindoor, an ongoing counter-terrorism initiative targeting militant hubs in Pakistan. Unapologetically backing the Modi government’s decisive action, Kalyan echoed the national sentiment on the urgency of dealing firmly with terrorism.
In a high-profile public event held alongside Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Pawan Kalyan reiterated his firm support for the operation, addressing a massive gathering of citizens.
“Peace talks won’t work with Pakistan… We’ll enter their homes and strike,” Kalyan declared, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd. His words resonated with a large section of the public who have been demanding a strong response to cross-border terrorism.
Speaking to the media after the event, Kalyan elaborated on the current status of Operation Sindoor:
“As Modi ji rightly said, the operation is currently on a monetary pause. It’s not over — just momentarily halted due to ongoing diplomatic discussions. But make no mistake, the operation will resume with full force if Pakistan doesn’t dismantle its terror infrastructure.”
In a bold remark that stirred conversation across social circles, Pawan Kalyan addressed the criticism surrounding the silence of celebrities on the matter:
“Actors are performers, entertainers. It’s unfair to expect all of them to respond to geopolitical or national security issues. Patriotism isn’t proven by public statements alone.”
However, he didn’t hold back in acknowledging the disappointment of the public over the muted response from some prominent personalities. “At a time when the nation stands united, every voice matters. Silence can often speak louder than words.”
Pawan Kalyan’s powerful speech and candid remarks have made headlines, highlighting his growing role as a decisive and vocal political figure in national affairs.
