మురుగదాస్ అనేది ఒకప్పుడు ఇండియా హిట్ డైరెక్టర్లలో ఒకరు. “రమణ”, “గజిని”, “హిందీ గజిని”, “తుపాకి”, “కత్తి” వంటి బ్లాక్ బస్టర్లతో తనకంటూ ఒక ప్రత్యేకమైన స్థానం ఏర్పరచుకున్న ఆయన, మెగాస్టార్ చిరంజీవి, సూపర్ స్టార్ మహేష్ బాబు వంటి టాప్ హీరోలతో పనిచేసి ఇండియన్ సినిమాల్లో తన గుర్తింపు పెంచుకున్నాడు. ఆమిర్ ఖాన్తో కూడా బాలీవుడ్లో ఒక విజయం సాధించాడు.
కానీ, “స్పైడర్”తో వచ్చిన దెబ్బ తర్వాత ఆయన కెరీర్లో గ్యాప్ వచ్చింది. ఆ సినిమా, తదుపరి “సర్కార్” మరియు “దర్బార్” కూడా నిరాశే కలిగించాయి. కానీ మురుగదాస్ సడలకుండా, “సికందర్” మరియు “మదరాసి” వంటి క్రేజీ ప్రాజెక్టులతో తిరిగి పగ్గం పట్టాడు.
“సికందర్” విడుదలైనప్పటి నుంచి, మురుగదాస్ గత సినిమాలు మెరుగైనవి అనిపించాయి. సల్మాన్ ఖాన్ కెరీర్లోనే ఒక డిజాస్టర్గా నిలిచింది. ఈ సినిమా వల్ల మురుగదాస్ అభిమానుల ఆశలు అణగారిపోయాయి. “మదరాసి” గురించి అనేక ఆందోళనలు మొదలయ్యాయి. అయినప్పటికీ, శివకార్తికేయన్ “అమరన్”తో మంచి విజయం సాధించి, ఈ సినిమాపై ఆశలు పెరిగాయి.
కానీ, “సికందర్” తరువాత “మదరాసి” విడుదల తేదీకి సంబంధించి అభిమానుల మాట వినడం మంచిదని అనిపించింది. “సికందర్” విడుదల తరువాత నెల రోజుల తర్వాత “మదరాసి” విడుదల తేదీ ప్రకటించినా, అది మంచి ఆలోచన కాదని వారు భావిస్తున్నారు. అయినప్పటికీ, ఈ సినిమా బాక్సాఫీస్ వద్ద మంచి విజయాన్ని సాధించి, మురుగదాస్ కెరీర్ని తిరిగి దుముకొలిపి తన గత విజయాలను తిరిగి రాబట్టాలని ఆశిస్తున్నారు.
కమర్షియల్గా ఫ్లాప్ అయినప్పటికీ ఖలేజాకు తరువాత కాలంలో కల్ట్ ఫాలోయింగ్ సంపాదించింది. ముఖ్యంగా టీవీ ఛానల్స్, ఓటిటి ప్లాట్ఫారమ్స్లో రిపీట్ రన్ చూసే అభిమానులతో పాటు కొత్తగా ఈ సినిమాను అనుసరించే ప్రేక్షకులు కూడా వచ్చారు. మహేష్ బాబు కామెడీ టైమింగ్తో పాటు పలు వేరియేషన్లను అందరినీ ఆకట్టుకునేలా చూపించిన దర్శకుడు త్రివిక్రమ్ శ్రీనివాస్ వంద మార్కులు సాధించాడు. అయితే, ఫస్ట్ హాఫ్ యొక్క సాగతీత, విలన్ ఎస్టాబ్లిష్మెంట్లో కొంత లోపం ఉన్నందున, జనాలతో కనెక్ట్ కాలేకపోయింది. ముఖ్యంగా ఎడిటింగ్లో ఉన్న లోపాలు చాలా మందికి గమనించకపోయినా, కొందరు ఆ లోపాలను గుర్తించారు.
ఇటీవల, వాటి గురించి కల్కి దర్శకుడు నాగ్ అశ్విన్ ఓపెనయ్యాడు. “మీకు ఇష్టమైన నేను డైరెక్ట్ చేసి ఉంటే బాగుండేదని ఫీలైన సినిమాలేవీ?” అనే ప్రశ్నకు బదులుగా, “డైరెక్షన్ అయితే ఏమైనా, ఎడిటింగ్ లో ఖలేజా బాగా చేసి ఉండేవాడినని” అభిప్రాయపడ్డారు. అతని మాటలకు అక్కడ వున్న వాళ్ళ నుంచి భారీగా చప్పట్లు విన్నాయి. ఇదే కాకుండా, నాగ్ అశ్విన్ తన ఎడిటింగ్ లిస్టులో ‘డియర్ కామ్రేడ్’ని కూడా చేర్చాడు. విజయ్ దేవరకొండ, రష్మిక మందన్న కాంబినేషన్లో తెరకెక్కిన ఈ ఎమోషనల్ లవ్ స్టోరీలో పాటలు ఎంత బాగున్నా, సినిమా నిడివి, సుధీర్ఘమైన ఎమోషన్ల ప్రెజెంటేషన్ ప్రేక్షకులను సరిగ్గా ఆకట్టుకోలేకపోయింది, దీంతో సినిమా ఫెయిల్యూర్ అయ్యింది.
చిత్రోత్సవ్ ఫిలిం ఫెస్టివల్ 2025 సందర్భంగా మా ప్రతినిధితో జరిపిన ప్రత్యేక ముఖాముఖీలో నాగ్ అశ్విన్ ఎంతో ఆసక్తికరమైన విషయాలను పంచుకున్నాడు. కల్కి సినిమాలో ఒక్కో సీన్ కోసం ఆయన నెలలు, సంవత్సరాలు గడిపిన విధానం, దాని విస్తరణకు ఉన్న అవకాశాల గురించి, మారుతీ కారులో తిరిగే సాదాసీదా జీవితం, ఏఐ టెక్నాలజీ ప్రభావం తదితర విషయాలు ముచ్చట్లు గా ప్రస్తావించాయి. కల్కి 2 ప్రాజెక్ట్ కొంత ఆలస్యంగా వచ్చినప్పటికీ, అది అభిమానులకు అద్భుతమైన అనుభవాన్ని ఇచ్చేలా సిద్ధమవుతోందని నాగ్ అశ్విన్ చెప్పారు. ప్రభాస్ అభిమానులు దీనికి బాగా ఆశలు పెట్టుకున్నట్లు సమాచారం, అలాగే స్క్రిప్ట్ వర్క్, ప్రీ ప్రొడక్షన్ పనులు క్షణోక్షణం కొనసాగుతున్నట్లు తెలుస్తోంది.
నేచురల్ స్టార్ నాని కెరీర్ ప్రారంభంలో క్లాస్ సినిమాలతో ప్రాచుర్యం పొందాడు. అతని ఫ్యాన్స్ కూడా ఎక్కువగా క్లాస్ చిత్రాలనే ప్రిఫర్ చేసేవారు. కానీ గత కొన్నేళ్లలో నాని తన కెరీర్లో కొత్త మార్గం తీసుకున్నారు. ‘‘ఎంసీఏ’’ మరియు ‘‘నేను లోకల్’’ వంటి సినిమాల్లో అతడి హీరోయిజం ఎలివేట్ అయ్యి, మాస్ ప్రేక్షకులకు చేరువయ్యాయి. ‘‘దసరా’’తో నాని మాస్ ప్రేక్షకుల మధ్య పెద్ద ఫాలోయింగ్ను సంపాదించుకున్నాడు. అయినప్పటికీ, నాని తన మార్కు క్లాస్ సినిమాలను వదలలేదు. ‘‘హాయ్ నాన్న’’ వంటి చిత్రాలతో ఫ్యామిలీ ఆడియెన్స్ను అలరించగా, ‘‘సరిపోదా శనివారం’’తో క్లాస్ మరియు మాస్ ప్రేక్షకులను ఆకట్టుకున్నాడు. ఇప్పుడు, అతని తాజా చిత్రం ‘‘హిట్-3’’లో ఆఫ్-బీట్ వయొలెన్స్ చూపిస్తూ, ప్రేక్షకులను ఆశ్చర్యపరిచేలా కనిపిస్తోంది.
ఈ చిత్రం విషయంలో నాని తన ఫ్యాన్స్కు స్వీట్ వార్నింగ్ ఇచ్చాడు. ‘‘హిట్-3’’ ట్రైలర్ లాంచ్ సందర్భంగా నాని చెప్పింది: ‘‘నేను యాక్షన్ సినిమాలు చేయాలని కోరుకునేవారు మే 1న థియేటర్లకు వచ్చేయండి. కానీ నన్ను లవ్ స్టోరీలు, ఫీల్ గుడ్ సినిమాలాడాలని కోరుకునేవారు, కొంచెం జాగ్రత్తగా ఉండండి. ‘‘హిట్-3’’లో వేరే కట్కిన రకమైన యాక్షన్ అనుభవం ఉంటుందని చెప్పాడు. ఈ చిత్రం టాలీవుడ్కు కొత్త జానర్ను పరిచయం చేయనుందని నాని పేర్కొన్నాడు.
వైజాగ్ గురించి మాట్లాడుతూ నాని, ‘‘15 ఏళ్ల నుండి ఇక్కడి వస్తున్నాను. మొదట్లో ఒక అమ్మాయిని కలవడానికి వచ్చేవాడిని, ఆమెనే పెళ్లి చేసుకున్నాను. ఇప్పటికీ ఈ నగరానికి వస్తూనే ఉన్నాను. వేరే ఊర్లలో నన్ను అన్న లేదా తమ్ముడిగా చూస్తారు, కానీ వైజాగ్ వాళ్ళు నన్ను అల్లుడిగా చూస్తారు. ఇది నాకు చాలా స్పెషల్’’ అని చెప్పాడు.
In an industry where sustaining peak physical fitness becomes increasingly challenging with age, Bollywood megastar Salman Khan continues to defy the odds. At 59, the actor remains an embodiment of discipline and physical prowess, as seen in his recent gym photo that has gone viral across social media platforms. Flaunting a chiseled upper body, with well-defined biceps, pronounced shoulder traps, and sculpted forearms, Salman appears every bit as robust and imposing as he did in his prime.
At a time when individuals in their 30s are often seen struggling to maintain consistent fitness routines, Salman’s dedication to his physique stands out. His commitment not only sets a benchmark for physical upkeep in the entertainment industry but also reinforces his image as a larger-than-life persona who continues to inspire millions.
However, while his personal fitness remains commendable, Salman’s professional choices of late have raised concerns. His most recent release, Sikandar, which arrived with much fanfare during Eid, unfortunately failed to meet both critical and commercial expectations, marking it as a significant setback.
As one of Bollywood’s most bankable stars, the onus is now on Salman to recalibrate his cinematic journey. With a loyal fan base and unparalleled star power, the potential for a grand comeback is certainly within reach—provided it is backed by strong content, fresh storytelling, and innovative direction.
Moving forward, a carefully curated script selection and a renewed focus on impactful roles could well pave the way for Salman Khan’s resurgence on the big screen, reaffirming his position not just as a fitness icon, but as a formidable force in Indian cinema.
Acclaimed actress Radhika Apte, known for her compelling performances and unconventional choice of roles in Bollywood, is all set to make a powerful comeback to Telugu cinema. After memorable performances in Dhoni and Legend, Radhika took a significant hiatus from the South film industry. Now, she is re-entering the Telugu space with a high-profile Pan-India project directed by none other than Puri Jagannadh.
The upcoming film will feature celebrated actor Vijay Sethupathi in the lead role, with veteran actress Tabu also playing a pivotal part. Interestingly, Radhika Apte is expected to be paired opposite Vijay Sethupathi, marking a fresh and intriguing on-screen combination that is already generating buzz.
Director Puri Jagannadh, known for his distinctive storytelling and mass appeal, is making strategic casting choices for what is poised to be a grand return. By assembling a stellar cast comprising nationally recognized talents, Puri aims to elevate the film’s reach and impact across languages and markets.
The project is currently in the advanced stages of casting and pre-production, with filming scheduled to commence in June. An official announcement detailing the full cast and crew is expected soon.
This marks a significant moment not only for Radhika Apte’s fans but also for South Indian cinema, as she reunites with the industry in a project that promises scale, substance, and star power.
Acclaimed filmmaker Nag Ashwin, who recently delivered a box office triumph with Kalki 2898 AD starring Prabhas, continues to garner attention not only for his cinematic brilliance but also for his humility and grounded nature. Having started his journey in the film industry as an associate to director Sekhar Kammula, Ashwin made his directorial debut with Yevade Subrahmanyam. He rose to national prominence with the critically acclaimed biopic Mahanati, and has now firmly established himself as a successful pan-India director with Kalki 2898 AD Part 1.
In a recent interaction with college students, Nag Ashwin offered rare insights into his creative process, personal aspirations, and his views on evolving filmmaking technologies. When asked if there was a film he wished he had directed, Ashwin responded thoughtfully, “I always wished that it would be cool if I was the editor on Khaleja, and maybe Dear Comrade.” He has previously expressed admiration for Khaleja, calling it his favorite film. Despite their initial box office performance, both Khaleja and Dear Comrade went on to achieve cult status among audiences.
Speaking about the monumental effort behind Kalki, Ashwin emphasized the importance of meticulous planning and strong writing. “If you want to expand Kalki into a zig-zag puzzle mode and solve it, every scene has months and years of effort and planning that went into it. The writing is the core and the film did so well because of it,” he noted.
Touching upon the creative overlaps that occur in the industry, Ashwin shared an anecdote about working on a memory-based concept in 2008 that bore resemblance to Christopher Nolan’s Inception, highlighting how such coincidences are common in the creative world.
A recent viral video of the director driving a Maruti 800—famously featured in Jathi Ratnalu—sparked curiosity among fans. Clarifying the incident, Ashwin said, “There is nothing as such. I have the car and it has the charge. Someone from the other vehicle captured me on a video. That’s all.”
He also shared his perspective on the role of artificial intelligence in cinema, noting its growing influence. “When we worked on Kalki, there were some AI tools already available. But now, it is a different ball game. Already, people are making trailers with AI. But the point is that it still needs a mind to give a direction,” Ashwin remarked.
As Nag Ashwin continues to push the boundaries of Indian cinema with visionary storytelling and technical innovation, his grounded approach and philosophical outlook continue to inspire the next generation of filmmakers.
Sunny Deol’s latest Bollywood venture, Jaat, directed by Telugu filmmaker Gopichand Malineni, has garnered attention for both its commercial success and the controversy surrounding its portrayal of the Tamil militant organization, The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Released on April 10, the film has made a positive impact at the box office but is now facing backlash from various groups, particularly within the Tamil community.
A significant online movement has emerged, with the hashtag #BoycottJaatMovie trending on social media. The controversy centers around the depiction of the LTTE in the movie. Critics argue that Jaat misrepresents the organization, portraying it as a terrorist group rather than acknowledging its origins as a resistance movement. The LTTE was formed in the context of systemic oppression and violence against Tamils in Sri Lanka, fighting for the protection of Tamil rights and autonomy. Many Tamils view the portrayal in Jaat as a distortion of history and an attempt to demonize their struggle.
On social media platforms, several users have expressed their dissatisfaction, with one stating, “The LTTE was born out of systemic oppression and genocide against Tamils in Sri Lanka. Stop rewriting our history to suit your narrative.” Others have voiced similar sentiments, asserting that the group was not a terrorist organization but a liberation force seeking justice for the Tamil people. As one user wrote, “Tamils won’t stay silent when history is twisted. Jaat shamelessly demonizes a freedom struggle.”
In the film, Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda plays the role of Ranatunga, a Sri Lankan antagonist, adding to the tension surrounding the movie’s portrayal of Sri Lanka’s internal conflict.
As of now, the filmmakers behind Jaat, including Mythri Movie Makers and People Media Factory, have yet to address the growing controversy. The film’s music is composed by Thaman, and it continues to perform well in theatres despite the criticism. The ongoing debate reflects deeper concerns about the representation of sensitive political issues in cinema, particularly when it involves historical narratives tied to ongoing struggles for justice and recognition.
Young Tiger NTR is poised to dominate the silver screen for the foreseeable future, with a lineup of highly anticipated projects that will keep him occupied for at least the next five years. The actor, known for his versatility and powerful screen presence, is currently gearing up for an exciting series of films, each bringing a unique dimension to his career.
NTR’s journey begins with Dragon, directed by the visionary Prashanth Neel. The film, which is currently in pre-production, is set to begin its shoot next week. With Neel’s track record of delivering high-octane action films, expectations are already soaring for this project, which is tentatively titled Dragon. NTR will be pushing boundaries once again with this collaboration, marking an important milestone in his career.
Following Dragon, NTR will swiftly transition to WAR 2, a sequel to the highly successful WAR. Set for release in August, WAR 2 promises to deliver intense action and gripping storytelling. NTR’s role in the film has generated significant buzz, with fans eagerly anticipating his return to the high-stakes world of WAR.
Once WAR 2 wraps up, NTR will dive into the much-anticipated Devara 2. Despite some early speculations regarding the fate of the sequel, the actor has been consistent in fueling excitement, frequently teasing the continuation of the story. Kalyan Ram, his brother and producer, has confirmed that Devara 2 is very much on the cards. The sequel is expected to go on floors right after Dragon, with NTR undergoing a significant transformation to maintain a different look for his character.
In addition to these high-profile projects, NTR has also confirmed plans to collaborate with director Nelson Dilipkumar. The project, which will be produced by Naga Vamsi, is slated to begin after the completion of Devara 2. This collaboration, which is still in its early stages, has already stirred much excitement in the industry, with expectations running high for the dynamic combination of NTR and Dilipkumar.
With Devara already making waves at the box office and WAR 2 poised for a massive release, NTR’s career is set to reach new heights. If the sequels and upcoming projects live up to the immense expectations surrounding them, NTR is destined for even greater success in the years to come. Fans and the industry alike are eagerly waiting to see how this powerhouse performer continues to redefine his legacy in Indian cinema.
The film industry was taken by surprise when news broke that acclaimed actor Vijay Sethupathi is set to collaborate with director Puri Jagannadh for an upcoming project. The unlikely pairing has sparked wide discussions across film circles, especially among Tamil cinema audiences and Vijay Sethupathi’s loyal fanbase. While some expressed concern over the director’s recent track record, Sethupathi remains unfazed by the criticism.
In a recent interview, the versatile actor addressed the buzz surrounding his decision to work with Puri. “I do not consider the result of the previous movies. If I like the story, I decide to do the film,” Vijay said. “Puri narrated a story that I really liked. I have not done a film like this before, and I always strive to explore new narratives so that I don’t repeat myself.”
Joining him on this cinematic journey is veteran actress Tabu, marking her first on-screen collaboration with Vijay Sethupathi. Speaking about the pairing, the actor expressed his enthusiasm: “She is a great performer, and I have not worked with her before. I look forward to working with her.”
Puri Jagannadh, who last directed Double iSmart—a film that unfortunately failed at the box office—is now looking to bounce back with this fresh and promising collaboration. While critics have questioned the director’s form, his fans are optimistic that this film, bolstered by Vijay Sethupathi’s involvement, could mark a turning point in his career.
With an intriguing story and a unique lead pairing, this project is already generating considerable anticipation in both Tamil and Telugu film industries.
As the Telugu film industry crosses the halfway mark of April, it continues to wait for its first notable box office success this month. Following the moderate run of MAD Square, recent releases have struggled to make an impact, with Jack, starring Siddhu Jonnalagadda, ending up as a box office disaster. However, the upcoming weekend brings a ray of hope with a mix of fresh content and nostalgic charm set to hit the screens.
Odela 2 – April 17 Release
Leading the lineup is Odela 2, a mythological horror thriller headlined by Tamannaah Bhatia, who takes on a powerful role as Shiva Shakti. The film also features Vashishta Simha and Hebbah Patel in prominent roles. Serving as a sequel to Odela Railway Station, this spiritual successor is directed by Ashok Teja, with seasoned filmmaker Sampath Nandi contributing as producer, writer, and direction supervisor. With its unique blend of myth and mystery, Odela 2 promises to offer a refreshing experience to the audience.
Arjun S/o Vyjayanthi – April 18 Release
Next up is Arjun S/o Vyjayanthi, a commercial action entertainer enriched with emotional depth and mother-son sentiment. The film stars Nandamuri Kalyan Ram in the titular role, supported by veteran actress Vijayashanti and Saiee Manjrekar as the female lead. Directed by Pradeep Chilukuri, this mass entertainer is expected to appeal to family audiences and action lovers alike.
Naa Autograph – Sweet Memories (Re-Release) – April 18
Rounding off the weekend is the re-release of Naa Autograph – Sweet Memories, one of the most cherished films in Ravi Teja’s career. Originally released in 2004, the film is a nostalgic journey through love and life, featuring Gopika and Bhumika Chawla as the female leads. With its soulful music by MM Keeravani and heartfelt storytelling, the film’s return to the big screen is set to rekindle fond memories for fans and moviegoers.
Bollywood power couple Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt marked their third wedding anniversary with an intimate celebration at their Mumbai residence last night. Known for keeping their personal lives private, the duo shared a tender photograph that quickly captured the hearts of fans across social media.
In the viral image, Alia is seen resting her head gently on Ranbir’s hand, while he looks into the camera with a subtle smile. Alia captioned the photo, “Home, always. #Happy3 💛🫶🏼🤗,” a simple yet heartfelt message reflecting their deep bond and how they balance love, life, and career.
The post drew warm responses from family and fans alike. Ranbir’s mother Neetu Kapoor responded with heart emojis, while his cousin Kareena Kapoor Khan commented, “The Best Peeps ❤️❤️.” Admirers of the couple also flooded the post with messages of love and admiration, celebrating their journey together as a couple and as parents to their two-year-old daughter, Raha.
On the professional front, Ranbir and Alia are set to reunite on-screen in the much-anticipated film Love and War, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, where they will star alongside Vicky Kaushal. Fans are eagerly awaiting the return of their on-screen chemistry, last seen in Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva.
Ranbir & Alia Mark 3 Years with Love and Warmth at Home
Bollywood power couple Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt marked their third wedding anniversary with an intimate celebration at their Mumbai residence last night. Known for keeping their personal lives private, the duo shared a tender photograph that quickly captured the hearts of fans across social media.
In the viral image, Alia is seen resting her head gently on Ranbir’s hand, while he looks into the camera with a subtle smile. Alia captioned the photo, “Home, always. #Happy3 💛🫶🏼🤗,” a simple yet heartfelt message reflecting their deep bond and how they balance love, life, and career.
The post drew warm responses from family and fans alike. Ranbir’s mother Neetu Kapoor responded with heart emojis, while his cousin Kareena Kapoor Khan commented, “The Best Peeps ❤️❤️.” Admirers of the couple also flooded the post with messages of love and admiration, celebrating their journey together as a couple and as parents to their two-year-old daughter, Raha.
On the professional front, Ranbir and Alia are set to reunite on-screen in the much-anticipated film Love and War, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, where they will star alongside Vicky Kaushal. Fans are eagerly awaiting the return of their on-screen chemistry, last seen in Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva.