
This week, smaller films are set to create a buzz in theaters, promising delightful entertainment for audiences. Additionally, OTT platforms are highlighting a range of interesting movies and series. Let’s take a look at the films and web series scheduled for release this week.



Movies Releasing in Theaters



Darling



Starring Priyadarshi and Nabha Natesh in lead roles, the unique romantic comedy entertainer 'Darling' is directed by Aswin Ram. Produced under the Prime Show Entertainment banner by K. Niranjan Reddy and Smt. Chaitanya, the film is set to release globally on July 19.







Ramam Raghavam



A bilingual film 'Ramam Raghavam' directed by comedian Dhanraj, features Samuthirakani and Dhanraj as father and son. This film, with a strong father-son sentiment, will release in Telugu and Tamil on July 19.







Peka Medalu



Starring Vinoth Kishan and Anusha Krishna, 'Peka Medalu' is produced by Crazy Ants Productions. Directed by Neelagiri Mamilla, the film is set to greet audiences on July 19 and is expected to appeal to all viewer segments, as stated by producer Rakesh Varre.







Crime Reel



Featuring Siri Choudary, Pink Pak Surya, Jabardasth Abhi, and Bharath in principal roles, 'Crime Reel' marks the directorial debut of Sanjana Anne, previously known as an actress in several films. Releasing on June 19, the film portrays how social media is influencing the youth, a theme that resonates widely, according to director Sanjana.







Movies/Series Releasing on OTT



The Goat Life (Aadujeevitham)



After the blockbuster 'Salaar,' Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran stars in 'The Goat Life' (Aadujeevitham), directed by award-winning director Blessy. Featuring Amala Paul, KR Gokul, and Jimmy Jean Louis in key roles, this survival adventure film was released on March 28 and achieved tremendous success, grossing over ₹150 crores worldwide. It is set to stream from July 19 on Netflix in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi.







TitleCategoryLanguagePlatformRelease DateWanda RuseSeriesEnglishNetflixJuly 15T・P BONSeriesJapaneseNetflixJuly 17The Green Glow Gang 2SeriesEnglishNetflixJuly 17Kobla Kay Season 6SeriesEnglishNetflixJuly 18Tribhuvan Mishra CA TopperSeriesHindiNetflixJuly 18Sweet Home S 3SeriesKorean/EnglishNetflixJuly 19Nagendran’s HoneymoonsSeriesTelugu DubHotstarJuly 18BahishkaranaSeriesTeluguZee 5July 19BarzakhSeriesHindiZee 5July 19HotspotMovieTelugu DubAhaJuly 17My Spy: The Eternal CityMovieEnglishAmazon&nbsp;July 18Betty Law FeeSeriesEnglish/ SpanishAmazon&nbsp;July 19


This Week’s OTT &amp;&nbsp; Telugu Movie Releases (19th July)


Pan-Indian star Prabhas, who is on a roll with a string of hits, has given his fans another surprise treat. Today at 5:03 PM, the team behind his next film, "Raja Saab," revealed an interesting update.



How was the glimpse?



Prabhas appeared spectacular on a bike against a colorful background. In his charming getup, he looked handsome as ever. He mesmerized as he stepped off the bike holding a bouquet of flowers, playfully admiring his reflection in a car mirror while plucking a flower, which was a delightful sight.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFZMBqyXkqQ




Prabhas, the Pan-Indian Rebel Star, continues to maintain strong momentum with consecutive successes. He focuses on delivering the content his fans crave and has achieved significant victories. Notably, his film "Kalki" crossed Rs. 1100 crore, solidifying his position as the number one hero in India.



In the Romantic Horror Genre...



Stepping out from the success of "Kalki," Prabhas is now focusing on his future projects. He is actively participating in the shooting of "The Raja Saab" under the direction of Maruthi. After "Kalki," while he was set to act in "Spirit" directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, it seems Prabhas has been shooting extensively for "The Raja Saab." Known for enthralling audiences with mass action films, Darling seems to have taken a break to choose the romantic horror genre. They are ready to release "The Raja Saab" first, which is being filmed in this genre.







Surprise at 5 PM



The promotional images already released from this film have captivated audiences and fans alike. In keeping with this, the makers of "Raja Saab" delivered a surprise by releasing a glimpse on Monday (July 29) at 5:03 PM. Fans, affectionately called 'Darlings', are raving about it on social media, praising Prabhas's handsome look and posting comments like "awesome". They are also complimenting the superb background music in the glimpse. Music for this film is being provided by composer Thaman. The filmmakers are planning to release the movie on April 10 next year.







The Hindi Song Remix



Director Maruthi is considering remixing a super hit old Hindi song for "The Raja Saab." Discussions are also ongoing with music director Thaman about this remix. Currently, the makers are considering three songs for the final selection. There is strong buzz in film circles that the evergreen Bollywood song "O Khaike Paan Banaras Wala '' might be remade.







In the 1940 Backdrop...



On the other hand, Prabhas has signed a project with "Sita Ramam" fame Hanu Raghavapudi. Rumors suggest that this movie is titled "Fauji." With "Spirit" requiring more time for pre-production, Prabhas has given the green light to "Fauji." Director Hanu Raghavapudi has started preparations to begin shooting this film in October.







"Fauji" is expected to be a period drama set in the 1940s, depicting the British era. Mrunal Thakur is likely to appear as the heroine opposite Prabhas. "Fauji" means soldier, so Prabhas is also expected to be portrayed as a soldier in this film. Prominent production house Mythri Movie Makers is ready to produce this film on a large budget, with Vishal Chandrashekhar set to provide the music. Official updates related to this movie are expected to arrive soon.






The Raja Saab: Prabhas Surprises Fans With A Sudden Announcement!


Following the blockbuster success of 'Kalki 2898 AD', Prabhas' popularity has reached new heights. There is growing anticipation nationwide for his upcoming projects. Prabhas is currently collaborating with director Maruthi on a film titled 'Raja Saab' and is also expected to appear in the sequel to 'Kalki', directed by Nag Ashwin. Additionally, renowned directors Prashanth Neel and Sandeep Reddy Vanga are lined up for future collaborations with him. It was widely expected that Sandeep Reddy Vanga's project would be Prabhas' next film to start production. However, recent buzz in Tollywood indicates that Prabhas may greenlight a different film instead. Let’s explore the details.



Director Preference!



Fans and others were expecting Prabhas to collaborate with Sandeep Reddy Vanga after the success of 'Kalki 2898 AD'. However, it appears that director Hanu Raghavapudi, known for 'Sita Ramam', has stepped in instead. Prabhas had previously committed to a project with Hanu Raghavapudi, now reportedly titled 'Fauji'. Given the extensive pre-production required for 'Spirit', Prabhas has opted to proceed with 'Fauji', sparking significant buzz in the industry. Director Hanu Raghavapudi is making preparations to begin shooting in October.







Prabhas as a Soldier!



The upcoming film 'Fauji' with Hanu Raghavapudi is set to be a period drama, unfolding against a 1940s British era backdrop. Mrunal Thakur is likely to appear as the heroine opposite Prabhas. 'Fauji' meaning soldier, Prabhas is expected to portray a military officer, stirring significant excitement among fans. The film is set to be produced on a grand scale by Mythri Movie Makers, with Vishal Chandrashekhar providing the music. Official updates related to this movie are expected soon.







Raja Saab's Big Plan!



Prabhas is collaborating with director Maruthi on the upcoming film 'Raja Saab'. An exciting development has recently emerged regarding the movie. Director Maruthi is considering remixing a classic hit song for the film, which interestingly is not a Telugu song but a superhit Hindi song from the 1980s. The music director, Thaman, is currently in discussions with the filmmakers, who are considering three songs, with one expected to be finalized soon. The iconic Bollywood song 'O Khaike Paan Banaras Wala' might be remade, generating significant buzz in cinema circles.







I'll Show My Best Work



Sandeep Reddy Vanga, known for his bold and daring directing style, is currently immersed in pre-production for 'Spirit'. With Prabhas confirmed in the lead role, casting for other parts is still underway. Recently, Sandeep shared insights about what to expect from 'Spirit', sparking significant interest online. He stated, "Some say 'Animal' is my best work. You'll see my best in 'Spirit'," raising anticipation among fans. Many are already predicting that 'Spirit' will eclipse the success of Sandeep's previous hits like 'Arjun Reddy', 'Kabir Singh', and 'Animal'. Social media is abuzz with predictions of another blockbuster for Prabhas, potentially earning up to Rs. 1000 crores.







Prabhas as a Powerful Police Officer



Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga has plans to uniquely craft 'Spirit', not focusing on affluent family dramas like in 'Arjun Reddy' or 'Animal', but setting it against a middle-class backdrop. Past comments by Sandeep suggest that Prabhas will play a powerful police officer, an avatar never seen before. His characterization and mannerisms are expected to bring something fresh to the screen. The script for 'Spirit' is nearing its final stages, with filming likely to commence around October or November, as buzzed in film circles.






Prabhas New Movie: Exciting Update... Another Film Replaces 'Spirit'!


The film 'RRR,' directed by the legendary S.S. Rajamouli has made a significant impact worldwide. Lead actors Ram Charan and Jr NTR propelled the movie to international fame, earning it numerous international awards. Notably, it was a contender at the Oscars, where it won the Best Original Song award for 'Naatu Naatu.' Recently, 'RRR' showed its dominance once more at the '68th Filmfare Awards South 2023, securing a total of seven awards. Other films such as 'Sita Ramam,' 'Virata Parvam,' and 'Bheemla Nayak' also received awards.



Mark of 'RRR' at Filmfare



The organizers of the 68th Filmfare Awards recently announced the winners, considering films released in South Indian languages (Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam) during 2022 and 2023. 'RRR,' released on March 24, 2022, won awards in seven categories. These include Best Film for 'RRR,' Best Director for Rajamouli, Best Actor for Ram Charan and Jr NTR, Best Music Album, Best Choreographer for Prem Rakshit, Best Production Design for Sabu Cyril, and Best Playback Singer for Kaala Bhairava for the song ‘Komuram Bheemudho.'







'Sita Ramam' Harvests Awards



Following 'RRR,' 'Sita Ramam' also made a significant mark. Despite facing tough competition from 'RRR,' 'Sita Ramam' managed to stand out and garnered several awards. It won a total of five awards, including Best Movie (Critics), Best Actor (Critics), Best Actress (Mrunal Thakur), Best Lyrics, and Best Playback Singer. Additionally, 'Virata Parvam,' starring Rana and Sai Pallavi, received two awards, while 'Bheemla Nayak,' featuring Pawan Kalyan, won one award. Let's take a closer look at the winners in each category and additional details.







'RRR' Awards



Best Film - 'RRR'Best Director - SS Rajamouli ('RRR')Best Actor - Ram Charan, Jr. NTR ('RRR')Best Music Album - MM Keeravani ('RRR')Best Production Design - Sabu Cyril ('RRR')Best Choreography - Prem Rakshit ('RRR' - 'Naatu Naatu' song)Best Playback Singer (Male) - Kaala Bhairava ('Komuram Bheemudo' song)



'Sita Ramam' Awards



Best Movie (Critics) - 'Sita Ramam' (Hanu Raghavapudi)Best Actor (Critics) - Dulquer Salmaan ('Sita Ramam')Best Actress - Mrunal Thakur ('Sita Ramam')Best Lyrics - Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry - 'Kaanunna Kalyanam' ('Sita Ramam')Best Playback Singer (Female) - Chinmayi Sripada ('Sita Ramam' - 'O Prema..')



Other Film Awards



Best Actress (Critics) - Sai Pallavi ('Virata Parvam')Best Actress - Nandita Das ('Virata Parvam')Best Supporting Actor - Rana Daggubati ('Bheemla Nayak')


68th Filmfare Awards South 2023: Ram Charan and Tarak Win Best Actors for Their Films!


In cinema, both the hero and the heroine are crucial, like the two eyes of a face. Nowadays, heroines seem to have less scope for substantive roles compared to the past, with some directors focusing films predominantly around the hero. Often, heroines appear primarily for songs and to add a visual appeal. Recent movies like 'Liger,' 'Mr. Bachchan,' and 'Double iSmart' have drawn criticism for focusing more on heroines' exposure than their acting skills. However, some young directors in Tollywood are attracting praise for portraying heroines with dignity, following the example set by Sekhar Kammula. Who are these directors? What films have they made? How have they portrayed their heroines? Let’s find out.



Sekhar Kammula



When you think of a sensible director in Tollywood, Sekhar Kammula is one of the first names that come to mind. He is known for creating beautiful love stories and engaging family dramas. The heroines in his films and the way they are portrayed remain memorable to the audience. Kamalinee Mukherjee in 'Anand' and 'Godavari' is a prime example, portrayed as the girl-next-door in a dignified manner. In 'Leader,' Richa Gangopadhyay, and in 'Life is Beautiful,' Shagun Kaur, left lasting impressions. Particularly in films like 'Fidaa' and 'Love Story,' Sai Pallavi's roles won hearts without relying on exposure, affirming Sekhar’s significant contribution to her becoming a star heroine. His understanding of how to extract authentic performances from actresses makes many heroines keen to work with him at least once.







Hanu Raghavapudi



Similar to Sekhar Kammula, director Hanu Raghavapudi takes great care in the portrayal of heroines. His films 'Andala Rakshasi,' 'Krishna Gaadi Veera Prema Gaadha,' 'Padi Padi Leche Manasu,' and 'Sita Ramam' make it clear that he focuses on the substance of his heroines' roles. Actresses like Lavanya Tripathi, Mehreen, Sai Pallavi, and Mrunal Thakur under his direction have garnered significant acclaim. Mrunal Thakur, in particular, received rave reviews for her role in the beautiful love saga 'Sita Ramam,' achieving star status in Telugu cinema. Her character Sita in the film remains special to her, as stated in various interviews. Hanu has announced a project with Prabhas, introducing a new actress, Iman Ismail, to the Telugu screen, whose appearance has already generated considerable interest.







Vivek Athreya



Young director Vivek Athreya also seems to follow in Sekhar Kammula's footsteps regarding heroine portrayal. His recent film 'Saripodhaa Sanivaaram' with Nani, featuring Tamil actress Priyanka Arul Mohan, showcased her acting without resorting to glamour. His previous works, 'Mental Madhilo,' 'Brochevarevarura,' and 'Ante Sundaraniki,' emphasized dignified portrayals over skin show, with actresses like Nivetha Pethuraj, Nivetha Thomas, and Nazriya Nazim earning recognition for their roles.







Shouryuv



Director Shouryuv made his mark with the film 'Hi Nanna,' capturing hearts and earning praise for his sensitive portrayal. In the film, Nani stars alongside Mrunal Thakur, who was previously known in Bollywood for more glamorous roles. Shouryuv presented her as a quintessential Telugu girl without compromising her dignity throughout the film. Despite opportunities for skin show in songs, he chose not to take that route, maintaining the integrity of Mrunal's character. This approach left film critics impressed and hopeful that he will continue in this manner in his future projects.







Tharun Bhascker



Tharun Bhascker, a young director, has quickly become synonymous with youthful films. He has gained recognition in a short time with content that resonates with the youth, without ever giving in to the temptation to showcase glamour unnecessarily. Starting with his debut film 'Pelli Choopulu,' this aspect becomes clear. Vijay Deverakonda and Ritu Varma's pairing in the film highlighted substantial acting over cheap thrills. This film significantly boosted Ritu Varma's popularity. After turning actor in several films, Tharun Bhascker has returned to directing with 'Keeḍa Cola,' continuing his tradition of dignified cinematic portrayals.






Tollywood's Emerging Directors: Redefining the Role of Heroines


The movie "Kalki 2898 AD," starring Prabhas as the hero, has made a significant impact in theaters, becoming a box office sensation. This success can be credited to director Nag Ashwin and the production house "Vyjayanthi Movies." Producer Aswani Dutt undertook this ambitious project with determination, despite its escalating budget, aiming for high-quality results. He granted director Nag Ashwin full financial freedom. With a budget exceeding 600 crores, Kalki stands as one of India's most expensive films. Currently, Vyjayanthi Movies is gaining nationwide recognition for delivering visual spectacles like Kalki.



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Vyjayanthi Movies Journey



Aswani Dutt started his journey as a producer with a film starring his favorite hero, Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao. He established Vyjayanthi Movies and featured NTR in the avatar of Krishna as its logo. The company made its mark in the industry with the 1975 film "Eduruleni Manishi." Despite initial struggles, the banner did not hesitate to deliver blockbuster films, creating a significant impact in the Telugu film industry. What are those blockbuster films? Let's see what mark they have made in the Telugu film industry.







Agni Parvatam



"Agni Parvatam" is one of the super hit films released under the Vyjayanthi Movies banner. Starring Superstar Krishna in dual roles with Radha and Vijayashanti as the heroines, this film, directed by K. Raghavendra Rao, achieved great success at that time. Superstar Krishna showcased a formidable acting presence. This film stands as a milestone in Krishna's career. His dialogue "Aggi Pettunda?" became very popular back then, as did the song "Kaduluthunna Agniparvatam," which introduced a fresh side of Krishna. The movie's plot revolves around Jamadagni, who resents his father for abandoning his mother, but his enemies bring his step-uncle into play to create problems. What happens next forms the plot.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaJqLrjanQM




Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari



"Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari" proved that Vyjayanthi Movies could produce not just routine films but also experimental films. This unforgettable film in Megastar's career was crafted in the socio-fantasy genre and collected huge amounts at the box office. Despite facing floods in united Andhra Pradesh before its release, the film recorded a massive success. Made with a budget of 2 crores, it garnered 15 crores in its time. The melodious songs provided by Ilayaraja are still enchanting to this day. The plot revolves around Raju, who shelters four orphans and works as a guide. One day, unexpectedly, he finds a ring belonging to Indra's daughter, Indraja, who comes back to earth for the ring. What happens next forms the story.







Shubhalagnam



This film, starring Jagapathi Babu, Aamani, and Roja, was made with a unique concept and proved that happiness in married life does not depend on money. A wife who sells her husband for money eventually changes and retrieves him. This concept was well received by family audiences at the time. The song "Chilaka E Thodu Leka" earned Sirivennela the Nandi Award for Best Lyricist. The story revolves around Radha who marries her husband to a wealthy woman named Lata for money, eventually obtaining one crore rupees. However, over time, she realizes that a life without her husband is worthless.







Govinda Govinda



"Govinda Govinda," a collaboration between Nagarjuna and Ram Gopal Varma, was a blockbuster success. The story revolves around the crown of Lord Venkateswara, providing a fresh experience to the Telugu audience. Sridevi mesmerized the Telugu audience in this film. The plot involves Lord Venkateswara deciding to resolve a chaotic situation on earth using a divine weapon. However, the situation deteriorates when a group of thieves steal the jewels on this weapon.



OTT Platform: Sun Nxt







Rajakumarudu



Vyjayanthi Movies introduced superstar Mahesh Babu as a hero through their banner. His debut film as a lead actor, "Rajakumarudu," was produced by producer Aswani Dutt. This film received the Nandi Award for Best Family Film and played in many centers for over 100 days. The plot is as follows: Raj comes to enjoy his vacation and falls in love with Rani. However, due to family pressure, he leaves her. Who is Rani? What is the feud between her family and Raj's family? How do they eventually unite?







Indra



The film "Indra" elevated Megastar Chiranjeevi's fame to a new level, in which he played a factionist for the first time. Producer Ashwani Dutt received a rain of cash from this film, which also earned Chiranjeevi the Nandi Award for Best Actor in 2002. The plot revolves around ongoing dominance battles between two families in Rayalaseema. To solve the water crisis for the people, Indra agrees to marry the rival's sister. Cutting to the chase, for a simple life, Indra, under an alias, escapes to Kashi. Why did Indra go to Kashi? How did he avenge his rivals?







Student No. 1



Director Rajamouli was introduced to the industry by producer Ashwani Dutt. Tarak starred as the hero in Rajamouli's debut film "Student No. 1," which was produced under Vyjayanthi Movies' sub-banner, Swapna Cinema. This film was shown in 73 centers for 50 days and in 42 centers for more than 100 days. The film, made with a budget of Rs. 1.85 crores, earned Rs. 12 crores. The plot goes as follows: Aditya desires to become an engineer, but his father insists he become a lawyer. Disliking law, Aditya ends up in trouble trying to save a girl while going to write an exam. His father kicks him out of the house. What happens next?







Maharshi



Mahesh Babu starred in "Maharshi" alongside Pooja Hegde and Allari Naresh, with Ashwani Dutt also serving as a producer. Nominated in 10 categories at the SIIMA Awards for 2019, the film won 5 awards. The plot is as follows: Rishi, a CEO of a multinational company, learns about the sacrifice his friend Ravi made for him during their college days. Searching for him, Rishi goes to the village and finds that Ravi is in trouble. What did Rishi do next? How did he support his friend?



OTT Platform: Amazon Prime







Sita Ramam



The 2022 film "Sita Ramam" was a huge success, known to all. Directed by Hanu Raghavapudi and produced by Ashwani Dutt, this film made Mrunal Thakur an overnight star heroine. With a budget of Rs. 30 crores, "Sita Ramam" grossed between Rs. 91-98 crores at the box office. The plot is as follows: Ram, an army officer and an orphan, receives a flood of letters after mentioning this on the radio. A large family forms around him. One woman continuously writes to him addressing him as her husband, Seetamahalakshmi. Who is she? From where did the wife of an orphan like Ram come? What experiences did Ram face when he came to meet her?



OTT Platforms: Amazon Prime &amp; Hotstar







Kalki 2898 AD



Producer Ashwani Dutt produced "Kalki 2898 AD" under the Vyjayanthi Movies banner, a prestigious and high-budget film. This movie was made in the mythology and futuristic genres. In this film, Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan played the role of Ashwatthama, and Kamal Haasan appeared as the villain. Disha Patani and Deepika Padukone also played key roles.







Vyjayanthi Movies' Sub-Banner Hits



Baanam



Priyanka Dutt, daughter of Ashwani Dutt, produced the film "Baanam" under the Three Angels banner, introducing Nara Rohith as the hero. The plot is as follows: Bhagat, the son of a former Naxalite, lives in a small town. He decides to become an IPS officer to protect the people from local gangster atrocities. What happened next? Did he achieve his goal?







Sarocharu



Produced by Priyanka Dutt, "Sarocharu" captivated audiences as a feel-good entertainer. Ravi Teja, Kajal, and Richa Gangopadhyay played the lead roles. The plot is as follows: Sandhya loves Karthik, but she finds out he is already married. What is Karthik's past? Did Karthik and Sandhya end up together?



OTT Platforms: Hotstar &amp; Aha



Sir Ocharu Movie Posters TollywoodAndhra.in



Yevade Subramanyam



"Nag Ashwin's debut film "Yevade Subramanyam" featured Nani and Vijay Deverakonda in leading roles. This movie brought recognition to Nag Ashwin as a talented director. The plot is as follows: Subramanyam, a materialistic man, goes to the Himalayas to fully understand life. During this journey, he changes his perspective on relationships.



OTT Platform: Sun Nxt







Mahanati



Swapna Dutt, Ashwani Dutt's second daughter, produced "Mahanati" under the Swapna Cinema banner, also directed by Nag Ashwin of Kalki fame. This film, based on the life story of legendary actress Savitri, explores how Savitri entered the industry, the impact actor Gemini Ganesan had on her life, and the struggles she faced towards the end of her life.



OTT Platform: Amazon Prime







Jathi Ratnalu



Under the sub-banner of Vyjayanthi Movies, "Swapna Cinema," "Jathi Ratnalu" was produced. The plot is as follows: Three young men from their village come to Hyderabad in search of good jobs and stay in an apartment. They unexpectedly attend an uninvited party and get entangled in a murder attempt case. How did they escape from the case?



OTT Platform: Amazon Prime






Explore Blockbusters from Vyjayanthi Movies, Producers of Kalki 2898 AD

Good Telugu Movies on OTT: Here are the top Telugu family entertainers from the last decade!


When you think of Prabhas, his physique is what immediately comes to mind for everyone. His stature has greatly aided his rise as a Pan-India star. When Prabhas performs an action sequence, it feels real to the audience. Not just action, his stature fits well even for mythological characters. Prabhas has already appeared as Lord Rama in 'Adipurush,' as Karna in 'Kalki 2898 AD,' and there's talk that he will be seen as Nandi in the upcoming 'Kannappa.' Amidst this, there’s exciting news related to Prabhas that he will also be portraying Parashurama soon. Let's dive into the details now.



Prabhas as Parashurama!



It’s known that a movie titled 'Ramayana' is currently being filmed in Bollywood, with Ranbir Kapoor playing Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita. The director, Nitesh Tiwari, wants to make the wedding scene of Sita and Rama a visual feast. In this context, the character of Parashurama is crucial, being the avatar that precedes Rama in the dashavatara (ten incarnations) of Vishnu. Nitesh thinks it fitting that a star of equal stature to Ranbir, who is playing Rama, should portray Parashurama. Hence, he is considering Prabhas for this role. There’s buzz in B-Town that Prabhas has been approached for this. Bollywood circles suggest that Prabhas has agreed to the role, with an official announcement expected soon. However, his role in the film is said to be brief but impactful.







Star Couples as Villains



Prabhas is set to work on a film directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga (of 'Animal' fame), titled 'Spirit.' The script phase is already underway. Recently, there have been substantial reports that Kareena Kapoor will be acting in this film and that Saif Ali Khan will play a villain. The latest buzz is that Kareena Kapoor will also portray a character with negative shades in 'Spirit.' Real-life couple Kareena and Saif are rumored to be playing villains in this film, which awaits further confirmation.







Police vs Mafia Don!



'Spirit' is rumored to feature Prabhas in a dual role, stirring strong buzz. The script work is said to be complete, with only the dialogues left to be finalized. If rumors are to be believed, Prabhas will be seen as a police officer in one role and as a mafia don in another, with the latter having negative shades. Fans are confident that if this turns out to be true, it will be a blockbuster at the box office. In celebration of Prabhas’s birthday on October 10, a special poster is expected to be released, with 'Spirit' set to go on floors by January 25 of the next year. Meanwhile, Prabhas has previously done dual roles in movies like 'Billa,' 'Baahubali,' and 'Baahubali 2,' and is rumored to be doing the same in the upcoming 'Raja Saab.'







Periodical Love Story!



Prabhas and Hanu Raghavapudi are known to be teaming up for a film. Recently, a puja ceremony was held concerning this movie, which is rumored to be a period action love drama. Set against the backdrop of the Razakars era, during the time of Hyderabad's accession to India, director Hanu Raghavapudi has reportedly crafted a beautiful love story. The film, tentatively titled 'Fauji' (meaning soldier), will reportedly feature Prabhas as an Indian paramilitary soldier. Iman Ismail is set to star as the heroine and has already participated in the recent puja events, capturing attention on social media with her looks.






Prabhas to Play Parashurama in Upcoming Mythological Epic 'Ramayana'?


Among the leading heroes in the country, Rebel Star Prabhas undoubtedly holds a top spot. He has garnered a nationwide fan following independently of his industry connections. Prabhas continues to break his own box office records, consistently earning over ₹600 crores. He has reached heights unmatched by any other hero, and it seems he is about to receive a unique honor not previously accorded to any other Telugu hero. There is strong buzz about an upcoming documentary that will reveal extensive details about him, sending his fans into a frenzy of excitement.



A Documentary with Comprehensive Information!



According to strong buzz, the popular OTT platform Zee 5 is planning a documentary on Prabhas. Work related to this documentary has reportedly begun. The documentary team is set to visit Prabhas’s hometown of Mogalthuru to interact with the locals there. They also plan to collect video testimonials from actors, directors, and friends who have worked with Prabhas. It’s said that Prabhas has given the green light for this project. Makers are planning to bring this documentary to the audience by the end of next year, which has already sparked interest among everyone.







On Rajamouli As Well



Netflix recently made a documentary on the achievements of director Rajamouli. Titled ‘Modern Masters’, it has been streaming since August 2. Prabhas, along with Ram Charan and Jr NTR, shared their experiences working with Rajamouli, humorously revealing how tough he is at work. Rajamouli’s wife, Rama Rajamouli, and music director Keeravani also shared their insights. The documentary has received widespread appreciation across the country. Comments on social media marvel at how Rajamouli’s personality is as grand as his films.







Prabhas to Star Opposite Villain Gopichand!



Prabhas and Gopichand share a good friendship. They previously starred as adversaries in the blockbuster hit 'Varsham'. Recently, during the promotions of the movie 'Viswam', Gopichand made interesting remarks. Asked if he would act as a villain against Prabhas, he responded positively. Consequently, rumors in the industry suggest that director Hanu Raghavapudi is considering Gopichand for the villain role in an upcoming film. However, Gopichand has yet to announce his decision, with clarity expected soon.







Prabhas’s Birthday Gift



Prabhas made his debut as a hero in the film 'Eeshwar', which was released 22 years ago and gave him a fantastic start as a mass hero. Director Jayanth C. Paranjee brilliantly showcased Prabhas's mass appeal in that debut film. In light of Prabhas's upcoming birthday on the 23rd, 'Eeshwar' is set for a grand re-release. A newly cut trailer of the movie has been released, reintroducing Prabhas as 'Eeshwar', capturing everyone's attention once again.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTA9ghC4ehs



Upcoming Documentary to Reveal Exclusive Details About Prabhas – Fans Are Thrilled!


Bhumika Chawla was once a star heroine in Tollywood, acting alongside leading heroes like Pawan Kalyan, Mahesh Babu, Junior NTR, Ravi Teja, and Venkatesh. Her films such as 'Okkadu', 'Khushi', and 'Simhadri' were major hits in the industry. However, she recently shared a grievous insult she faced early in her Hindi film career. She revealed that she was abruptly removed from a project that she had high hopes for. Her comments about this incident have gone viral online. Now, let’s look at the details.



Waited a Year.. Still Replaced!



Bhumika Chawla's transformation into a film heroine began with the 2000 film 'Yuvakudu' starring Sumanth. She then gained recognition in Telugu as a star heroine through films like 'Khushi', 'Vasu', 'Okkadu', 'Missamma', and 'Simhadri'. After 'Simhadri', her first Hindi film 'Tere Naam' also turned out to be a success, leading to continuous offers in Bollywood, including 'Munna Bhai MBBS' and 'Jab We Met'. Bhumika revealed that she was initially selected as the heroine for 'Jab We Met'. She waited almost a year for this movie and did not accept other films to avoid date issues. However, she mentioned that initially, Bobby Deol was considered as the hero for 'Jab We Met', but later they brought in Shahid Kapoor instead. Subsequently, they also replaced her with Kareena Kapoor as the final choice. This deeply upset her, and she remarked that her career could have been different had she done the film.




https://twitter.com/theBuzZBasket/status/1846077009803297009




Those Movies Gave Me Joy: Bhumika



It appears that Bhumika Chawla also faced injustice with the Hindi film 'Munna Bhai MBBS'. Initially, she was considered for the heroine role opposite Sanjay Dutt. Due to unavoidable reasons, she was replaced by Vidya Balan. This film became a blockbuster hit in Hindi and was remade in Telugu as 'Shankar Dada MBBS' by Megastar, which was also a grand success. Despite losing these two opportunities, Bhumika recalled the success of her Telugu films 'Khushi', 'Okkadu', and 'Simhadri', which recently re-released and achieved good collections, bringing her joy.







Was She Replaced Just for a Girlfriend?



There are discussions in Bollywood circles suggesting a strong reason behind Bhumika’s removal from 'Jab We Met'. During the time of this movie, there were widespread reports of Shahid Kapoor being in a relationship with Bollywood beauty Kareena Kapoor. In this context, it is alleged that Shahid Kapoor provided his girlfriend with the opportunity by replacing Bhumika. However, Kareena later separated from Shahid and eventually married Saif Ali Khan. Some people believe that the directors and producers might have thought Kareena would be a better fit alongside Shahid Kapoor, which is why they made the switch at the last moment. Despite acting in several Hindi films thereafter, Bhumika did not achieve significant success.







21 Years Later..



Currently, Bhumika has begun her second innings in Telugu cinema, captivating audiences with key supporting roles in films like 'MCA (Middle Class Abbayi)', 'Savyasachi', 'Ruler', 'Paagal', 'Seetimaarr', 'Sita Ramam', and 'Butterfly'. She is also playing a pivotal role in the upcoming film 'Euphoria', directed by Gunasekhar. Notably, this is the first film she is doing with Gunasekhar after the blockbuster 'Okkadu', 21 years ago. She expressed her happiness about working with Gunasekhar again on her Instagram account, writing about the start of a new journey.



        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Bhumika Chawla (@bhumika_chawla_t)


Bhumika Chawla's Heartbreaking Story: Replaced in 'Jab We Met' After Waiting a Year


In cinema, we often first recall heroes, heroines, and directors, followed by music directors, other cast members, and the technical team. Lastly, cinephiles might ponder who produced the film. Indeed, it's the producers who shoulder the bulk of a movie's production efforts, ensuring no expense is spared to deliver a quality film. While actors and directors may move on to other projects, producers face a tougher challenge if a film flops after significant investment. Now, amidst this high-risk scenario, daughters of stars are stepping into production roles, determined to prove their mettle alongside their brothers, who are entering the scene as actors. Let’s discover who these young producers are in this special report.



Tejaswini Nandamuri



In Tollywood, Balakrishna has made an indelible mark as an actor, consistently making films alongside younger heroes. Now, his daughter, Tejaswini Nandamuri, is stepping into production as Mokshagna Teja prepares to make his acting debut. She will serve as the producer for Mokshagna's first film under Legend Productions. This project will be directed by the talented director Prasanth Varma.







Niharika Konidela



From the mega family, which has introduced many actors who have gained international recognition and elevated the status of Indian cinema, now the daughters are ready to shine in production. Niharika Konidela, daughter of Nagababu, has recently turned producer. She established her own production house, Pink Elephant Pictures, and produced her first film, "Committee Kurrollu," which received acclaim for its unique story and fresh cast. The film, made on a budget of Rs. 6 crores, grossed over Rs. 18 crores at the box office.







Sushmita Konidela



Another member from the mega family is stepping into the production field. Sushmita Konidela, daughter of Chiranjeevi, has founded Gold Box Entertainments and announced her first film featuring her father. Details about this project will be revealed soon. Sushmita, who has earned a good reputation as a costume designer for many of Chiranjeevi's films, is now set to showcase her talent in production, much to the excitement of mega fans.







Swapna Dutt and Priyanka Dutt



"Vyjayanthi Movies" holds a special place in Tollywood with a history of producing great films over the past 50 years. Swapna Dutt and Priyanka Dutt, daughters of Ashwani Dutt, are taking forward the legacy. They have recently received international acclaim for "Kalki 2898 AD" and have announced more films in the pipeline. They had earlier established sub-banners like Swapna Cinema, Three Angels Studio, and Early Monsoon Tales, producing hit films like "Mahanati," "Sita Ramam," "Baahubali," and "Saarocharu."







Praseedha Uppalapati



Praseedha Uppalapati, daughter of the legendary actor Krishnam Raju and sister of rebel star Prabhas, has also turned producer. She established "Gopikrishna Movies Private Limited" and produced "Radheshyam" featuring Prabhas, although the film did not meet the expected success.







Manjula Ghattamaneni



From superstar Krishna’s family, Manjula Ghattamaneni, sister of Mahesh Babu, has produced several films. Under the Indira Productions banner, she has worked on films like "Show," "Nani," "Pokiri," and "Ye Maaya Chesave." She has also acted in various films, further showcasing her diverse talents in the industry.






Daughters of the Stars: The New Wave of Women Producers in Tollywood


Renowned hero Dulquer Salmaan has carved a unique identity for himself in the South Indian film industry. As the heir of Malayalam cinema legend Mammootty, Dulquer has quickly established his own separate fan base within a short period. Proving himself a worthy son with his remarkable acting skills, he has also made significant inroads into Tollywood, gaining a solid fan following. However, it appears that Dulquer is now shifting his focus entirely towards the Telugu industry. Announcing back-to-back projects in Telugu, he seems ready to give stiff competition to Tier-2 heroes like Ram, Vijay Deverakonda, Naga Chaitanya, and Nithiin.



Dulquer as a Rising Hero in Tollywood!



With just two or three films, young hero Dulquer Salmaan has managed to achieve star hero status in Tollywood. His role as Gemini Ganesan in the Telugu film 'Mahanati', directed by Nag Ashwin, impressed everyone. His exceptional performance mesmerized the Telugu audience. Following this, he captivated viewers as a hero in the film 'Sita Ramam'. Playing a soldier, a lover, and a prisoner in an enemy country, his diverse performances have won the hearts of Telugu cinema-goers. Recently, he played a significant role in 'Kalki 2898 AD' starring Prabhas, portrayed as a mentor who plays a critical role in Prabhas's life, akin to the mythical figure Parashurama. Rumors suggest that Dulquer will continue his role in 'Kalki 2'.







Recognition through Dubbed Films



In addition to direct Telugu films, several movies in which he acted in Tamil and Malayalam were dubbed into Telugu. Dulquer Salmaan's films, up to nine in number, have reached Telugu audiences. Movies directed by Mani Ratnam like 'Ok Bangaram', and those he starred in with Sai Pallavi like 'Hey Pillagada', and 'Andamaina Jeevitham' have greatly attracted the Telugu youth, giving them a feeling of kinship with Dulquer. Action films like 'Kurup', 'Salute', and 'King of Kotha' also gained good will among the mass audience. With this, Dulquer has evolved into a hero who embodies a blend of class and mass appeal in the Telugu film industry.







Aggression with New Projects



With his star hero status in Telugu, directors and producers in Tollywood are keen to work with Dulquer. Consequently, he is actively engaging in Tollywood projects with enthusiasm. He is currently working with director Venky Atluri in the film 'Lucky Bhaskar', set to release on October 31. Additionally, he has agreed to a Pan-India project titled 'Aakashamlo Oka Tara' under the direction of Pavan Sadineni, which has already generated interest with its first look poster showing Dulquer in a farmer’s role. Meanwhile, he has started a new project under Rana's production titled 'Kantha', where he will be seen alongside Tollywood's rising beauty Bhagyashree Borase. Set in the 1950s, Rana plays a key role in this film directed by Tamil director Selvamani Selvaraj.




https://twitter.com/vamsikaka/status/1817427815249133673





https://twitter.com/imwpolitikos/status/1833028992456089818





https://twitter.com/Chrissuccess/status/1832279694118400071




Strong Competition for Tier-2 Heroes!



Given Dulquer Salmaan's momentum in Tollywood, it seems inevitable that he will pose strong competition to Tier-2 heroes like Ram, Vijay Deverakonda, Naga Chaitanya, and Nithiin. Film analysts believe that if at least two of his current three projects hit, his stature will significantly rise. With his classic looks and the capability to electrify action sequences, Dulquer is fast becoming a preferred choice for Telugu directors. Heroes suffering from a series of flops, like Naga Chaitanya, Ram, and Vijay Deverakonda, need to be cautious about the competition from Dulquer.






Dulquer Salmaan's Rapid Rise in Tollywood: A New Competitor for Tier-2 Heroes


Weekends are a celebration for movie enthusiasts, with new releases in theaters and on OTT platforms providing ample entertainment. That's why movie lovers eagerly anticipate the weekend from the start of the week. This week, several new films are set to entertain on various OTT platforms, allowing you to enjoy them from the comfort of your home with your family. What are these films? What are their plots? Where are they streaming? Let’s explore these details in this special feature.



Indian 2 (Bharateeyudu 2)



Kamal Hassan and Director Shankar’s collaboration 'Indian 2' (Bharateeyudu 2) is coming to OTT this week. It will be streaming on Netflix from August 9th and is available in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada. Released in theaters on July 12, the film was a disaster and also garnered many criticisms. It will be interesting to see how 'Indian 2' fares with the OTT audience. The plot involves Siddharth and his friends fighting against growing corruption in the country through social media. They trend the hashtag calling for Senapathy’s return. After many years, Senapathy returns to India. What battle does he wage against corruption and bribery?'







Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba



Starring Taapsee Pannu, Vikrant Massey, and Sunny Kaushal, 'Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba' is set to release on OTT this week. Taapsee plays a character with negative shades. It will be available on Netflix from August 9th. The plot follows Rani Kashyap (Taapsee) and her husband Rishu (Vikrant) who have very different personalities. Rani becomes attracted to a man named Neel due to Rishu’s gentle nature. A fire at home one day kills Rishu. Rani is accused of murdering him with her lover. What truths are uncovered during the investigation?'







Turbo



Starring Malayalam star Mammootty, 'Turbo' is directed by Vishakh and will start streaming on SonyLIV from August 9th. The plot centers on 'Turbo Jos (Mammootty), a jeep driver, who gets involved in helping his friend Jerry win over a girl, leading to unexpected complications. After a police case is filed, he flees to Chennai. Meanwhile, Jerry is killed by gangsters who then try to kill his girlfriend. How does Jos save her? Why did the gangsters kill Jerry? How does Jos avenge his friend's death?'







Birthmark



Directed by Vikram Sridharan, the thriller 'Birthmark' stars Shabeer and Mirnaa Menon. Starting August 8, it will be streaming on Aha. The music by Vishal Chandrashekhar, who stole everyone’s heart with 'Sita Ramam', is a highlight of this film. The plot involves Lieutenant Commander Daniel being captured by an enemy nation and returning home after 6 months, by which time his wife is pregnant and suffering from various health issues. He takes her to a village lacking proper medical facilities for delivery. How does the delivery happen? Who poses a threat to her child?'







Derick Abraham



Another film featuring Mammootty, 'Derick Abraham', directed by Shaji Padur, will start streaming on Aha from August 10th. Made with a budget of about 5 crores, it collected 45 crores at the box office. The film's plot revolves around 'ASP Derick Abraham (Mammootty) solving a series of murders happening in the state. How does he solve the case?'







Gyaarah Gyaarah



This intriguing crime thriller series 'Gyaarah Gyaarah', starring Bollywood actor Raghav Juyal, known for his hit in 'Kill', is ready for streaming. It will be available on Zee5 from August 9th. The series unfolds across three different timelines. 'Raghav Juyal, Kritika Sarm, and Dhairya Karwa play police officers investigating a murder case that has remained a mystery for years. They find a girl’s body during their investigation. They communicate across time using walkie-talkies. Will they solve the case mystery? Will they uncover the truths?' Watch this series to find out.







Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes



For those looking for a good Hollywood movie this weekend, 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes' is a great choice. It came to OTT last week, and if you haven’t seen it yet, make sure to watch it this weekend. Streaming on Disney+ Hotstar from August 2nd, it's available in English, Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi. The plot involves 'Proximus, who rules the apes, wanting to eradicate humans. During an attempt to kill a young woman named Nova, a chimpanzee from Caesar’s lineage intervenes. Enraged by this, Proximus engages in a fierce battle with Nova and the chimpanzee. How do they collectively confront Proximus?'







Brinda



If you missed the 'Brinda' web series last week, which topped the views on OTT, make sure to plan for it this weekend. It marks the first web series of star heroine Trisha. Streaming on SonyLIV from August 2nd in various South Indian languages, the plot involves Brinda, a newly appointed SI at a police station, discovering a body in a local lake one day. The post-mortem reveals the body was shaved bald and stabbed 16 times in the heart. Brinda discovers a total of 16 people have been brutally murdered in similar fashion. Who is this serial killer? Why are they committing these murders? How does Brinda's team catch them?'






Weekend OTT Suggestions: Don't Let This Weekend Be Boring, Watch These Movies!

Top Telugu Romantic Songs with Iconic Lyrics Like 'Samajavaragamana' and 'Inkem Inkem Kaavaale'


It's known that a film based on the epic Ramayana is in the making in Bollywood. Titled 'Ramayana', the film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita, with Bollywood's star director Nitesh Tiwari helming the project. The shooting for this movie began some time ago, and some photos from the set have already leaked. Meanwhile, the movie team has officially provided some dazzling updates about the movie. Let's take a look at these details now.



In Two Parts...



The film 'Ramayana' is being produced as a prestigious project in Bollywood. Produced in collaboration with leading Bollywood producers and Allu Aravind, the filming has been ongoing for quite some time, yet until now, no official announcement had been made. Noticing the fans' growing dissatisfaction, the movie team has announced the release date without any prior information and revealed that the movie will be released in two parts. They have announced that the first part of Ramayana will be released for Diwali 2026 and the second part for Diwali 2027, as confirmed by a poster release.







Sunny Deol as Hanuman!



It is already known that Kannada star hero Yash will be seen as Ravana in the film 'Ramayana'. Alongside him, several star actors are reported to be part of this big project. Bollywood star hero Sunny Deol is said to be playing the role of Hanuman. Rakul Preet Singh is reportedly playing the role of Surpanakha. Veteran actor Arun Govil, who became extremely popular as Rama in the Hindi 'Ramayana' series, is set to appear as Dasharatha. Furthermore, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Ravi Dubey as Lakshmana, Indira Krishnan as Kausalya, and Sheeba Chaddha as Mandara are among others reported to be in the cast. This information indicates that many actors from Bollywood are participating in the Ramayana project.




https://twitter.com/seeuatthemovie/status/1854049562689740919




Oscar Winners for Music



To compose music for 'Ramayana', two Oscar winners have joined the field. One is Indian Oscar winner A.R. Rahman, and the other is Hollywood Oscar winner Hans Zimmer. Initially, A.R. Rahman was chosen as the music director for the film, but aiming for international music standards, Hans Zimmer was also brought on board. This marks Hans Zimmer’s first Indian film project, known for his work in Hollywood films like 'The Lion King', 'The Dark Knight Trilogy', and 'Inception'.







Special Focus on Graphics



Following the release of 'Adipurush', where Prabhas starred as Rama and faced heavy criticism particularly for its graphics, being deemed too cartoonish and poorly executed, the 'Ramayana' team is taking extra caution. A graphic team that has worked on Hollywood-level films has been hired for this movie. It's reported that an agreement has been made with the Oscar-winning company DNEG for visual effects, involving a team of 26 experts from both Hollywood and Bollywood. This shows that the movie team is making no compromises when it comes to VFX.







Trivikram Responsible for Telugu Version



The responsibility of writing dialogues for the Telugu version of 'Ramayana' has been entrusted to the renowned dialogue writer Trivikram Srinivas, known for his special place in Tollywood and his strong grasp on Telugu literature. This has been confirmed through various films he has worked on previously. News had surfaced earlier about the 'Ramayana' unit approaching him, and there was a significant discussion on this topic, but Trivikram did not deny any of it, leading Telugu audiences to believe that he is indeed a partner in the 'Ramayana' team.






Bollywood's Biggest Epic: Ranbir-Sai Pallavi's Ramayana Brings Together Oscar Winners, VFX Giants, and Star-Studded Cast


Cast: Sree Vishnu, Ritu Sharma, Daksha Nagarkar, Meera Jasmine, Sunil, Getup Srinu, Ravi Babu, Gopiraju Raman, Sharanya Pradeep, and others



Written and Directed by: Hasith Goli



Music by: Vivek Sagar



Cinematography: Vedaraman Shankaran



Editing by: Viplav



Producer: T.G. Viswaprasad



Release Date: October 4, 2024



After the super hit 'Raja Raja Chora', Sree Vishnu stars in the latest film 'Swag', directed by Hasith Goli. Featuring Ritu Varma, Meera Jasmine, and Daksha Nagarkar as the female leads, the already released trailers, teasers, and promotional images have heightened expectations. Released to audiences on October 4, did this film manage to impress? Did the Sree Vishnu-Hasith Goli combo deliver another hit? Let’s find out in this review.







Plot



The story of 'Swag' revolves around a lineage during the 1550s, a time marked by struggles for dominance between men and women. Bhavabhuti Maharaj (Sree Vishnu) devises a plan to confine his queen (Ritu Varma) and succeeds, subsequently bringing all the women in the kingdom under his control. As time progresses, Bhavabhuti's lineage continues with only daughters until twin boys are born. Bhavabhuti decides to gift one of his sons to his friend (Sunil), who has no sons. The lineage becomes dispersed over time. Cut to the present, the fortune belonging to the Swaganika lineage is securely kept, waiting to be passed to the rightful heir. Several claimants arrive, declaring themselves the descendants. Who are they really? Does the fortune find its rightful owner? To know more, one must watch the movie.







Performances



Young actor Sree Vishnu dazzles with his performance, portraying five roles including Bhavabhuti Maharaj, Yabhuti, Bhavabhuti, Vibhuti, and Singa. He connects emotionally with the audience as Yabhuti and entertains as Bhavabhuti. Ritu Varma impresses with her performance. Meera Jasmine, making her re-entry into Telugu cinema after 11 years, adequately delivers her role. Daksha Nagarkar marks her presence with her glamour, though her role lacks depth. Despite the presence of seasoned actors like Ravi Babu and Sunil, their roles do not stand out as the film primarily revolves around Sree Vishnu. The rest of the cast performed adequately.







Direction



Director Hasith Goli chose an interesting point for the film but the execution appears quite chaotic. The first half of the film leaves the audience puzzled for about 40 minutes until the comedy provides some relief. The director interestingly showcases Bhavabhuti's flashback and leads into the story well. The interval block may seem a bit messy but is passable. The first half overall can be described as average. Coming to the second half, the way Yabhuti's flashback is designed impresses the audience. Some double-meaning dialogues manage to evoke laughter. However, the climax again ends in confusion. The director concludes the film with a line indicating that gender discrimination is a blight on society, but the film feels abruptly ended, leaving a sense of incompleteness. The screenplay is quite confusing and demands full attention to grasp the storyline.







Technically



On the technical front, Vivek Sagar’s music and background score are highlights, adding value to the film. The cinematography is also commendable. Editing is decent, and the production values are high, offering a rich output despite a modest budget.







Plus Points



- Story



- Sree Vishnu’s acting



- Comedy



Minus Points



- Confusing screenplay



- Slow narration



Rating by Telugu.yousay.tv: 2.5/5


Swag Movie Review: Sree Vishnu Shines Amidst a Confusing Narrative


The Telugu film industry is in uproar over comments made by Minister Konda Surekha while criticizing BRS Working President KTR (K. T. Rama Rao), where she mentioned Samantha, Naga Chaitanya, and Nagarjuna. The Movie Artist Associations have also expressed strong dissatisfaction against Konda Surekha. Various Tollywood stars and celebrities are condemning the Minister's comments, criticizing them as regrettable and politically motivated.



What actually happened?



Comments by Telangana Minister Konda Surekha have caused tremors in Tollywood. On Wednesday, while making severe allegations against former Minister KTR, the working president of BRS, she dragged the Akkineni family and actress Samantha into the controversy. She criticized KTR for allegedly promoting drug habits among cinema people and accused him of troubling cinema celebrities with rave parties. Furthermore, she sensationalized that KTR was the reason behind Naga Chaitanya and Samantha's divorce, claiming that KTR demanded Samantha be sent to him to avoid the destruction of an N convention, a claim which Nagarjuna allegedly forced Samantha to comply with but she refused. Surekha stated that it led to the divorce, as it was a situation of "listen or leave."




https://twitter.com/i/status/1841433938297807337




Retract Your Comments: Nagarjuna



Actor Nagarjuna has condemned Minister Konda Surekha's comments. He requested that personal matters of individuals be respected. “I strongly condemn the comments made by Honorable Minister Smt. Konda Surekha. Please do not use the lives of celebrities, who stay away from politics, and your opponents to criticize. Respect the personal matters of individuals. As a responsible woman in a high position, your comments and accusations against our family are completely irrelevant and false. I urge you to retract your comments immediately,” Nagarjuna posted on X.




https://twitter.com/iamnagarjuna/status/1841446247242035233




Do Not Use Actors' Lives for Headlines: Naga Chaitanya



Actor Naga Chaitanya commented that Minister Surekha’s allegations are unacceptable. "Divorce is one of the most painful and unfortunate aspects of life, decided after much consideration and mutual consent between my ex-wife and me. Many baseless allegations have been made about our divorce in the past. We remained silent out of respect for both families. Minister Konda Surekha's comments are not only false but also ridiculous. Such remarks are unacceptable. Society should respect women and not use personal decisions of celebrities for media headlines," Naga Chaitanya stated.




https://twitter.com/chay_akkineni/status/1841529895031050723




My Divorce Has No Political Influence: Samantha



Samantha responded to Minister Konda Surekha's comments. “My divorce is a personal matter, and I request that speculations about it cease. It takes a lot of courage and strength for a woman to come forward and fight. Please don’t belittle this. As a minister, I hope you realize the weight of your words. When discussing personal matters, one must act responsibly and respectfully. My divorce was amicable and mutually agreed upon without any political influence. Please keep my name out of politics. I have always been and will continue to be apolitical,” Samantha stated.







Such Accusations Should Not Degrade: Chiranjeevi



Megastar Chiranjeevi also strongly condemned the Minister's comments. "I am deeply saddened by the disrespectful comments made by the respected female minister. Targeting celebrities and individuals related to the film industry for quick news is disgraceful. We all unanimously oppose such verbal attacks on members of the film industry. Such accusations against individuals, especially women, who are unrelated to politics, should not degrade their stature. We elect our leaders for societal development, not to diminish their own standing with such comments. Political leaders and dignitaries should inspire others with their actions and words,” Chiranjeevi expressed.




https://twitter.com/KChiruTweets/status/1841684462767313169




I Strongly Condemn Baseless Accusations: Mahesh Babu



Actor Mahesh Babu also responded to the controversy on X. "The comments made by Minister Konda Surekha against prominent members of our film family have greatly distressed me. As a son to a mother, a husband to a wife, and a father to a daughter, such unwarranted comments against another woman are deeply disturbing. The freedom of speech should not harm others' sentiments. I strongly condemn such baseless and cheap accusations. I also urge that comments not target the film industry. We must respect women and celebrities in our country with the honor they deserve,” Mahesh Babu stated.




https://twitter.com/urstrulyMahesh/status/1841752300517290457




The Pinnacle of Degrading Politics: Tarak



Junior NTR criticized the involvement of personal lives in degrading politics. "Dragging personal lives into politics is the pinnacle of degrading politics. Making baseless comments and remaining silent as if we will tolerate it is not acceptable. Those in public life like Minister Konda Surekha should behave responsibly and respectfully, maintaining privacy. It’s truly saddening to see such irresponsible declarations against the film industry. We won’t remain silent if others make such allegations against us. We will definitely raise this issue to ensure mutual respect and boundaries are maintained. Our society in democratic India will never condone negligent behavior,” NTR warned.




https://twitter.com/tarak9999/status/1841571689982730392




This Behavior Is Extremely Disrespectful: Nani



Young hero Nani also gave a strong counter to Minister Konda Surekha. “Seeing politicians make senseless statements is exasperating. Observing how you speak without responsibility makes one question if you really care about your people. This is not just about film actors, the film industry, or a political party. Such groundless accusations by a person in a dignified position are not at all acceptable. We all must condemn actions that negatively impact society and ensure respect for personal privacy, especially for women. We must collectively promote respect and  decorum in society,” Nani posted on X.




https://twitter.com/NameisNani/status/1841541476083499197




These Comments Are Only for Political Gain: Venkatesh



Senior actor Venkatesh also commented on the controversy. "Using others’ personal situations for political gain deeply distresses me. Making such comments while holding a responsible position for political benefit is unfortunate. The film industry has been built on mutual respect, hard work, and dedication. Political leaders must maintain respect in public discourse. Bringing personal lives into politics benefits no one and only causes pain to the families involved. Individuals in such significant leadership positions should exercise restraint and empathy. Your actions and words should inspire, not demoralize,” Venkatesh stated.




https://twitter.com/VenkyMama/status/1841696634889240644




This Behavior Is Extremely Disrespectful: Allu Arjun



Icon star Allu Arjun also criticized the Minister’s comments. “I strongly condemn the baseless and insulting comments made about celebrities and their families. This behavior is extremely disrespectful and contrary to our Telugu cultural values. Such irresponsible actions should not be accepted as normal. Parties must act responsibly and respect personal privacy, especially of women. Together, we must enhance respect and decency in society,” Allu Arjun stated on social media.




https://twitter.com/alluarjun/status/1841692652388970952



Chiru, Tarak, Bunny, Mahesh and Tollywood Unite Against Minister Konda Surekha’s Controversial Comments on Akkineni Family and Samantha


Tollywood star director Prasanth Varma's highly anticipated film "Jai Hanuman" has just shared an exciting update. After much speculation about who would play Hanuman, the filmmakers have finally revealed that Kannada star hero Rishab Shetty will portray the role. The first look poster featuring Rishab Shetty as a powerful Hanuman holding a statue of Lord Rama has ignited immense interest among fans.



The previous film "Hanuman" by young hero Teja Sajja and director Prasanth Varma shook the entire nation. Released pan-India in languages including Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi, it became a blockbuster hit. This film, a festive release for Sankranti, outperformed major films and set new box office records, leading to high expectations for its sequel "Jai Hanuman." This has intensified the efforts to cast a notable actor for Hanuman's role in the sequel, keeping the audience in suspense.







Initially, there were rumors that either Chiranjeevi or Ram Charan might play Hanuman, especially after the director hinted at the sequel's direction in the ending of "Hanuman." Reports were that Prasanth Varma had discussions with Yash of KGF fame, but due to his busy schedule with "Toxic" shooting, that combination did not materialize. However, last month Prasanth Varma met with Rishab Shetty and shared the story, sparking his interest in the project. This led to the official announcement of Rishab Shetty taking on the role, further raising expectations. Mythri Movie Makers are producing this big-budget film, and regular shooting will start soon.







Why Was Rishab Shetty Chosen?



Rishab Shetty, as a hero and director of the Kannada film "Kantara," demonstrated his capability on a national level, creating a box office tsunami. Before "Kantara," Rishab Shetty was primarily known in the Kannada industry, but now he's recognized nationwide and even received a national award for best actor. He is currently working on "Kantara Chapter 1," a prequel, in collaboration with a renowned Hollywood VFX company that has worked on successful films like "The Chronicles of Narnia," "The Lion King," and "Batman." This collaboration is expected to bring a new energy to "Jai Hanuman," aligning well with his rising popularity and the pan-India goals of the film.







New Project "Maha Kali"



On another note, director Prasanth Varma's "Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe" (PVCU) has just announced its third project, titled "Maha Kali" (MAHAKALI). The first look poster released by the makers indicates that this film will be the first female superhero movie in the Indian cinema landscape, directed by Pooja Aparna Kolluru. Produced under the RKD Studios banner by Riwaz Ramesh Duggal, this project adds new strength to our universe. Prasanth Varma’s post hints that Kali Devi will incarnate to battle formidable evil, promising to redefine what superheroes can be.




https://twitter.com/PrasanthVarma/status/1844236760215392423



'Kantara' Star Rishab Shetty Beats Chiranjeevi, Ram Charan to Become Lord Hanuman in 'HanuMan' Sequel?


Jr. NTR is overjoyed with the success of 'Devara', which is charging towards a 500 crore milestone, sparking full enthusiasm among the fans as well. Meanwhile, Tarak is known for balancing his cinematic career with family life, always placing his two sons at the forefront whenever he gets some free time. During the promotions of 'Devara', Tarak and his sons, Abhay and Bhargav, visited Los Angeles, where interesting comments were made about the boys' potential cinematic debut.



What Tarak Said About His Sons' Entry into Cinema!



The Nandamuri family, to which Jr. NTR belongs, is one of the major lineages in Tollywood. Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao's heirs, Balakrishna and Harikrishna, have made significant marks in the industry. Jr. NTR, Harikrishna's son, has also made a notable entry and is currently a leading actor. During a recent trip to America, Tarak was asked if he would introduce his children to the film industry. He gave a striking answer, expressing that he does not want to impose his opinions on his children; instead, they should have their own thoughts. He stated that he would not force them into cinema, just as his parents never forced him. However, he hinted that seeing their father on screen might inspire them to follow in his footsteps, exciting the fans who are now eagerly anticipating the cinematic debut of Abhay and Bhargav.







Is Tarak Not a Nandamuri Heir?



At the IIFA awards ceremony held in Abu Dhabi, Balakrishna made intriguing remarks when asked about his heirs. He responded that his son Mokshagna and his grandson are his successors. When further pressed, he implied that no one else qualifies. Although this response was appropriate, netizens felt mentioning other family members like Jr. NTR and Kalyan Ram, who are also significant figures in the industry, would have been better. Despite family differences, they are still part of the Nandamuri lineage, as netizens commented. This led to a robust online debate, with Tarak's fans demanding recognition for him as a legitimate heir of the Nandamuri family.







The Rift Grows After Harikrishna's Death!



As successors of Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, both Balakrishna and Harikrishna entered the Telugu film industry. Harikrishna debuted as a child actor before his father and later took a break from films to support his father’s political campaigns. Unlike Harikrishna, Balakrishna continuously worked in films and attained a star status. The relationship between Tarak, Kalyan Ram, and the Nandamuri family was good while Harikrishna was alive. Balakrishna was affectionate towards both of them. However, after Harikrishna's death, an apparent rift has grown between Balakrishna and Jr. NTR, though Jr. NTR and Kalyan Ram remain close. There are ongoing attempts by Jr. NTR to bridge this gap, but criticisms arise on social media about Balakrishna's reluctance to reconcile.







'Devara 2'.. What Tarak Said?



With 'Devara' achieving solid success at the box office, all eyes are now on the sequel. In a recent interview with an English media outlet, Tarak commented on 'Devara 2'. “We had already shot some scenes for Part 2 during the filming of the first part. The success of the first part has increased our enthusiasm and sense of responsibility. The sequel will be even better than 'Devara'. We plan to take some time to make it appealing to the audience. The storyline for the sequel is already prepared, but we need to shape it better. Koratala Siva worked hard for 'Devara', so I told him to take a break for a month and a half, to go and enjoy a holiday. After these holidays, we will start the remaining work,” said Tarak.






Jr. NTR Talks About Sons' Potential Movie Debut and the Future of 'Devara 2'


Top Tollywood hero Megastar Chiranjeevi has recently achieved yet another prestigious honor. He has secured a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for his impressive career, spanning 156 films, 537 songs, and 24,000 dance steps. The award was presented by representatives of the Guinness Book and Bollywood actor Aamir Khan. Notable directors like Raghavendra Rao, B. Gopal, Kodandarami Reddy, Gunasekhar, and Bobby, along with producers Allu Aravind, Ashwini Dutt, Shyam Prasad Reddy, Suresh Babu, Gemini Kiran, Mythri Ravi Shankar, Tammareddy Bharadwaja, K.S. Rama Rao, and others participated in the event. They congratulated Chiranjeevi and shared their memories and associations with him. Let’s now look at the other Telugu film personalities who have made it to the Guinness Book of Records.



Ramoji Rao



Ramoji Rao, who built the world's largest film city, has a special place in the Guinness Book. He produced several successful films under the Usha Kiran Movies banner and has made significant contributions as the editor of the Eenadu newspaper and as a producer.







Dasari Narayana Rao



With over 150 films directed in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi, Dasari Narayana Rao created a record. This accomplishment earned him a special recognition in the Guinness Book of World Records.







S.P. Balasubrahmanyam



Sripathi Panditaradhyula Balasubrahmanyam, popularly known as S.P. Balu, sang over 40,000 songs in various languages including Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Hindi, Marathi, and Malayalam. This achievement earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Balu was also known as a music director, actor, and television host.







Daggubati Ramanaidu



Daggubati Ramanaidu, known as the Movie Mogul, produced over 100 films and set a world record. His name is featured in the Guinness Book of World Records. The Government of India honored him with the Padma Bhushan and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.







Vijaya Nirmala



Having acted in over 200 films in Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam, and directing 44 films, Vijaya Nirmala made a record and secured a place in the Guinness Book in 2002. She passed away in 2019.







P. Susheela



Renowned singer P. Susheela, with a career spanning over 60 years in the Indian film industry, sang nearly 30,000 songs in 12 languages. This feat earned her a special place in the Guinness Book. The Government of India honored her with the Padma Bhushan award.







Brahmanandam



Popular Telugu comedian, Kanneganti Brahmanandam, secured a place in the Guinness Book for acting in 754 films in a single language. He has acted in over 1250 films and was honored with the Padma Shri award by the Government of India.






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