Category: ENTERTAINMENT

Chennai, Sep 19 (IANS) Actor, director and music director Hiphop Tamizha Adhi, who is now gearing up for the release of his upcoming film ‘Meesaya Murukku 2’ which is slated to hit screens worldwide on September 25, says that the film’s story is a global one which will seek to celebrate the lives, struggles and dreams of musicians.

Participating in a pre-release event organised by the makers of the film, Hiphop Tamizha Adhi, who has both directed the film and played the lead role in it, explained how the second part would be different from the first film in the franchise.

He said, “‘Meesaya Murukku’ was a biopic based on my own life. But ‘Meesaya Murukku 2’ is a much broader and more universal story. It is a global story about music, musicians and the lives they lead. It explores the dreams, struggles, journeys and emotions of people who choose music as their way of life.”

The director went on to say that the film, in particular, would seek to showcase the world of Gana musicians and artistes, whose music often emerges from their lived experiences.

“The film becomes an important record of Gana artistes who express their struggles, experiences and journeys through songs and make a living through their art. Their stories and the world they come from are an important part of this film,” he pointed out.

In the first part, late actor Vivek had played his father’s role. Adhi, who acknowledged the significance of the contribution made by the late actor, said, “No one can ever fill the place of the late Vivek sir, who played my father in the first part. However, ‘Meesaya Murukku 2’ moves through three different time periods, and there is a very important father character in this story as well. I felt that Baba Bhaskar Master was the right person for this role.”

Adhi further revealed that Baba Bhaskar initially had reservations about taking up the role, but eventually took up the character with conviction. “He was slightly hesitant initially, but he trusted me and went ahead with the role. He has performed extremely well. I genuinely believe that after this film, he will earn a significant place in Tamil cinema as an actor.”

The film also introduces a new dimension through its female lead, with Ketika Sharma playing Laila Singh, a dancer who travels to Chennai from Punjab.

Sources close to the unit claim that the contrasting worlds of music, dance, ambition and love will come together in ‘Meesaya Murukku 2’.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 19 (IANS) Basking in massive success, the team of the much-appreciated movie ‘Hanuman Ansh’, along with director Vishal Chaturvedi, met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at his official residence, Varsha, to take the blessings of Bappa.

On Saturday, the Chief Minister published a small glimpse of himself hosting the ‘Hanuman Ansh’ team and congratulated them on their ‘great work’.

He mentioned on his official X (Earlier known as Twitter) timeline, “It was great to have team ‘Hanuman Ansh’ at Varsha, last evening, to seek blessings of Ganpati Bappa. Congratulated Vishal Chaturvedi and team on their great work and wished more success in all the endeavours! (sic).”

Previously, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also watched ‘Hanuman Ansh’ and expressed his appreciation for the portrayal of faith, devotion and traditions in the drama.

The CM said that the film provides an insight into the spiritual traditions associated with Neem Karoli Baba and devotion to Lord Hanuman.

He shared, “Hanuman Ansh is a medium to understand our faith, spiritual traditions and the path of devotion to Lord Hanuman. The film effectively presents the spirit of worship and service and the power of devotion to bring about social reform.”

The Chief Minister also went on to praise actor Shobhinav Satya for bringing the character of Neem Karoli Baba alive on screen.

He said that such movies can play a significant role in connecting the younger generation with India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

“Our cultural and spiritual traditions have always drawn inspiration from the lives of saints. Films on such subjects can play an important role in connecting the younger generation with its roots, values and spiritual heritage,” he added.

The CM also penned his views on the micro-blogging site, saying, ” Today, I watched the much-discussed film ‘Hanuman Ansh’ with the workers. This film, centred on the life story of Neem Karoli Baba, inspires us with integral humanism, service, and the welfare of the proletariat class. Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the entire team of the film for this meaningful and inspiring presentation.”

–IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 19 (IANS) In a heart-melting gesture, Shibani Akhtar recently got a new tattoo, similar to the one her husband Farhan Akhtar had made 2 decades ago.

In her latest post on social media, Shibani was seen getting herself inked with a dolphin tattoo, matching Farhan’s.

Towards the end of the clip, the ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ maker was seen flaunting his dolphin tattoo on his shoulder as he showered love on his better half.

In the caption, Shibani even asked the users if they thought her gesture was cute or creepy.

She shared, “Does it still count as a matching tattoo if he got it 20 years before we met? Cute or creepy? @faroutakhtar (sic).”

Many members of the entertainment industry, Dia Mirza, Saba Azad, and Amrita Arora, reacted to the post, calling it ‘cute’ with red heart emojis.

Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan’s sister Saba Pataudi shared, “Adorable…Mahsha’Allah”.

On August 27 this year, Farhan had compiled a sweet birthday wish for his wife.

Calling her his “sunshine,” the actor and director wrote on social media, “Happy birthday, sunshine… love you @shibaniakhtar.”

In the picture uploaded by Farhan on his official handle, he was seen posing with Shibani, with his arm wrapped around her neck.

Shibani expressed her love for her husband in the comment section, saying, “Love you.”

Before this, in January, she described her life with Farhan as “the greatest adventure” in a lovely birthday wish that read, “My best friend. My happy place. My everything. This life with you is the greatest adventure and I can’t wait to keep exploring. Happy birthday my sweet guy @faroutakhtar Love you with all my heart @faroutakhtar.”

For those who do not know, Farhan and Shibani tied the knot on February 19, 2022, in an intimate ceremony surrounded by close family and friends.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 19 (IANS) Actor Jackie Shroff decided to relive some fond memories of classic Indian cinema as he recently met with the veteran actress Shubha Khote.

On Saturday, Jackie uploaded a glimpse of his meeting with the veteran actress, where he was seen presenting her with a shawl. Jackie sat next to her on the floor as the two smiled at the camera.

Sharing the beautiful moment with his Instagram family, Jackie wrote on his Insta handle, “Grateful for moments spent with legends! Reliving fond memories of classic Indian cinema with the ever graceful Shubha Khote ji (sic),” followed by a red heart emoji.

Actor Suniel Shetty reacted to the post with a comment that read, “Dadaaaaaaaaaaaaaa,” along with a red heart emoticon.

Jackie further added the track “Baat Baat Mein Rootho Na” by late legend Lata Mangeshkar as background score.

It might be interesting to know that Jackie and veteran actress Shobha Khote had shared screen space in the 1986 drama “Haathon Ki Lakeeren”.

The project, which was made under the direction of Chetan Anand, also saw Sanjeev Kumar, Zeenat Aman, Priya Rajvansh, Sudhir Dalvi, Bharat Kapoor, Dina Pathak, and Kamal Kapoor in key roles, along with others.

At the time when “Haathon Ki Lakeeren” was made, Jackie was relatively new in the industry, whereas Shobha Khote was already an established character actress and a comedian.

Produced by Chetan Anand and written by Veera Singh, “Haathon Ki Lakeeren” featured music scored by Pyare Mohan.

Talking about Shubha Khote, she made her acting debut back in 1955 with the movie ‘Seema’, which was directed by Amiya Chakravarty.

During her seven-decade-long career, the veteran actress has been a part of many Hindi and Marathi films.

She created a niche for herself in comedy and was best known for her on-screen pairing with Mehmood in films like ‘Sasural’, ‘Bharosa’, ‘Ziddi’, ‘Chhoti Behan’, ‘Love in Tokyo’, ‘Grahasthi’, ‘Humrahi’, and ‘Beti Bete’.

–IANS

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Chennai, Sep 169 (IANS) Actor Vijay Sethupathi, who plays the lead in director Balaji Tharaneetharan’s eagerly awaited Tamil film ‘Baththa’, has said that he wishes to be as dedicated in his work as Superstar Rajinikanth was.

Participating in the audio launch event of the film, which was held at the Sathyabama Engineering college in the city, the actor, among other things said, “The one person who I’ve looked up to with fascination and have been totally in awe of is Superstar Rajinikanth.”

He went on to explain, “I had recently acted in a scene in ‘Jailer 2’. I had gone to the sets. It was just a small shot. He (Rajinikanth) and I were supposed to talk about something. Director Nelson came in with betel nuts, leaves and cloves and told Rajinikanth, ‘Please use it if you need it.’ For the kind of experience Rajinikanth sir has, he did not have to rehearse. But he took a piece of clove, some betal nuts and started chewing on them, even as he began folding the betal leaves. I realised he was checking the time I took to speak the dialogues and if they were synchronised to the time he took to fold the betal leaf. He rehearsed it some five to six times.”

Vijay Sethupathi said, “If there is one thing that I wholeheartedly long and wish for, it is that till the time I die, if I am an actor, I have to be like that. I wish to be as dedicated in my work as he is.”

For the unaware, the makers had recently released a glimpse video from the film titled ‘The world of Baththa.’

The glimpse video opens with all those close to Baththa eagerly awaiting his return. It is evident that the film is set in the eighties. While Baththa’s daughter says she is scared and wants her dad to return, his brother is seen exuding confidence that his brother will return. A small kid is seen saying, “Everybody is scared of him but he isn’t scared of anything.” The glimpse video also goes on to show that people expect a big crime to happen and the police are seen asking people if they suspect anybody.

All through the glimpse video, Baththa comes across as a ruffian who keeps bashing people. The glimpse video also gives the impression that he is not the ideal husband. There is a scene where he is seen spitting out food served to him by his wife. In another sequence, we see his wife (played by Lijomol Jose) asking him where he was and that they were searching for him. He replies to her in an arrogant tone, “You shouldn’t search for me. I will be found by myself.”

Starring Vijay Sethupathi and Lijomol Jose in the lead roles, ‘Baththa’ has been directed by Balaji Tharaneetharan, who is best known for having delivered the superhit film ‘Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom’, and presented by well known director Atlee.

On the technical front, Baththa has music by Sai Abhyankkar and cinematography by Selvakumar S.K. R. Kalaivanan has taken care of the film’s editing while T Muthuraj has served as its Production Designer.

The film is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on October 1, 2026.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 19 (IANS) Television actress Tannaz Irani shared an adorable birthday wish for her daughter Zara as she turned 15 years old on Saturday.

Taking to her official Insta handle, Tannaz treated the netizens with a nostalgic collage of all the precious moments of Zara with her parents.

Tannaz admitted that she learns a lot from her daughter, including simple things such as updating her skincare routine.

The ‘Bigg Boss 3’ contestant penned on the photo-sharing app, “Happy Birthday to the one girl in our house who has the power to love and drive everyone crazy at the same moment. Thank you for being such a power house of love and understanding. There are so many things I get to learn from you daily including how backward I am in my skin care routine and how I can get better deals on Swiggy! I’ve learnt from you to know that it is what it is. Your basic explanations literally squash the stress out of painful events. And above all you surely know how to get the best out of me. I’ve developed Patience and understanding to another level. (sic).”

Extending wishes from her and her husband Bakhtiyar Irani’s side, she added, “Wishing you the best year ahead my Minnu, daddy’s Dollo the only girl who can get away with anything with her Daddy. We both love you and wish you best always and remember we are your strongest supporters no matter what. Today you turn 15 years old. Happy 15th Birthday Princess.”

Bakhtiyar’s sister and actress Delnaaz irani, commented for her niece, “Happy birthday darling Zaru…lots of love and happiness always and lots of sushi…yes and i remember we have to go out for a date fui n zara.”

Tannaz and Bakhtiyar got married in 2007. The couple welcomed their first child, son Zeus, on 20 March 2008, followed by daughter Zara, who was born on 19 September 2011.

–IANS

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Chennai, Sep 19 (IANS) Director Samjad PS’s upcoming film ‘Half’ has made history by becoming the first Malayalam film to be screened in the prestigious Midnight Madness section of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

Sources present at the venue claimed the film’s screening was met with an electrifying response from the audience, with the energy inside the theatre continuing through the post-screening question and answer session.

Produced by Anne Sajeev and P. K. Sajeev under the banner of Fragrant Nature Film Creations, ‘Half’ drew enthusiastic reactions from international audiences for its raw, distinctive and immersive cinematic experience.

The packed theatre erupted in applause at several moments during the screening, with the film’s intense world and unconventional presentation leaving a strong impression on viewers.

Director Samjad, producers Anne Sajeev and P. K. Sajeev, lead actors Ranjith Sajeev and Aiswarya Raj, music composer Mithun Mukundan and sound designer Vishnu Govind joined the session, engaging with the audience on the film’s theme, making, visual language, music, sound design and performances.

The performances of Ranjith Sajeev and Aiswarya Raj were discussed during the Q&A session, with viewers posing questions to the actors about their characters in the film.

The film’s action sequences also emerged as a major talking point among viewers, with the fight choreography by Very Tri Yulisman drawing particular attention. The film’s music and sound design were equally appreciated for contributing to its intense atmosphere and immersive viewing experience.

For the unaware, the film boasts of a fine technical unit. Cameraman Pappinu has shot the film while editing for the film has been handled by Mahesh Bhuvanend. Sound design for the film is by Vishnu Govind.

The film’s international journey has been strengthened by its global partnerships. Excel Entertainment and AA Films are presenting and distributing HALF across North India, while its International Sales Rights have been acquired by Best Friend Forever (BFF).

–IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 19 (IANS) The son of veteran Bihar politician Lalu Prasad Yadav and a former Bihar minister, Tej Pratap Yadav, will be entering the unpredictable “Rise & Fall Season 2” Tower soon.

Reflecting on the time when others may have celebrated seeing him shaken, the politician was seen invoking the might of a Bargad.

Tej Pratap made a strong declaration of his strength in the clip, saying, “Jab hum udte samay dagmaya aur sab maje le rahe the par woh bhul gaye ke hum bargadh hai bargadh jiska daali se zyaada mazbood hai jadh aur issliye aa rahe hai Rise & Fall pe gardha udane. (“A lot of people enjoyed it when I wavered with flying; however, they forgot that I am like a banyan tree, whose roots are stronger than its branches, and that’s why we are coming to Rise & Fall to stir things up).”

Sharing his plans for his time in the Tower, he added, “Waha ke Penthouse pe kabza nahi karenge darbaar lagayenge aur raj karenge neeche wala Basement ke logowa ke upar. (I won’t just occupy the penthouse there; we’ll run a darbaar and rule over the people in the basement)”.

“Aur duniya ko batla dijiye humara parivaar pura Bihar hai. (And tell the world that the entire Bihar is our family),” Tej Pratap ended up declaring.

Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag will be making his OTT debut as the host of “Rise and Fall Season 2”.

“Cricket has taught me one thing—no match is won before the final ball, and Rise and Fall Season 2 takes that unpredictability to another level. As a host, what excites me about this game is that there are no easy wins and no fixed positions,” he shared.

“Rise & Fall Season 2” will premiere on 26th September and air every day at 12 PM, for free on Prime Video and the MX Player Android app.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 19 (IANS) Producer Boney Kapoor has marked 17 years of his 2009 production ‘Wanted’ starring Salman Khan, calling the Salman Khan-starrer a “true game-changer” and a landmark film that played an important role in shaping modern Hindi mass-action cinema.

Boney took to Instagram, where he shared a picture of a single-screen theatre playing ‘Wanted’, when it was released in 2009. He also added the song Le Le Mazaa Le as the background score for the photograph.

The filmmaker wrote: “17 years ago, India witnessed the arrival of a film that went on to become a true game-changer, a landmark of Indian cinema — WANTED. Released in 2009, WANTED brought together the electrifying screen presence of @beingsalmankhan the blockbuster direction of @PrabhuDevaofficial, the elegance of Ayesha Takia, and a powerful commercial entertainer that connected with audiences across the country.”

He recalled how Salman’s performance as Radhe left a lasting impression.

“From WANTED becoming a defining title to its unforgettable action, dialogues, music and Salman Khan’s iconic portrayal of Radhe, the film created a cultural impact that continues to be remembered by audiences even today.”

The filmmaker said “Wanted” marked an important evolution of “mass action cinema.”

“It was more than just an action entertainer — it marked an important moment in the evolution of the modern Hindi mass-action cinema. 17 years of Radhe. 17 years of iconic dialogues. 17 years of whistle-worthy action. 17 years of WANTED. Here’s celebrating the enduring legacy of a film that became a milestone in Indian commercial cinema.”

Wanted, action thriller film directed by Prabhu Deva, who was the director of the remake of Tamil film Pokkiri. It also stars Prakash Raj, Ayesha Takia, Vinod Khanna, Mahesh Manjrekar with Arvind Swamy, Govinda and Anil Kapoor.

The followed a sharpshooter who is caught between a gangster who wants him dead since he knows too much, the police who want him for the information he holds and his girlfriend who yearns for him to mend his ways.

–IANS

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Chennai, Sep 19 (IANS) The makers of YouTuber V J Siddhu’s debut film ‘Dayangaram’ have now announced that dubbing for the film had begun.

Vels Film International, the production house producing the film, took to its social media timelines to make the announcement. It wrote, “Mic Check 1, 2, 3! Bayangara ragalai ah dubbing for #Dayangaram officially begins! Get ready for the ultimate theatrical ride starring VJ Siddhu & Team! Directed by @VJSiddhuOG Produced by @IshariKGanesh.”

It may be recalled that the unit of the film had wrapped up shooting for the film in July this year.

Sources close to the unit had claimed that the film had been shot in a matter of just 49 days and that post production work on the film had already begun and was on in full swing.

The actor-director shared a story on Instagram that was posted by the film’s costume designer Keerthi Vasan that announced that shooting for the film had been wrapped.

For the unaware, The film, which is being directed by VJ Siddhu, features the YouTuber in the lead role as well. The film has music by Siddhu Kumar and cinematography by Dinesh Krishnan. Editing for the film is being handled by Pradeep E Ragav and Art direction is by Vinoth Raj Kumar.

In late November last year, the makers of the film, Vels Film International, had announced the completion of the first schedule. Taking to its social media timelines, the production house wrote, “A step closer to the big screens! #Dayangaram first schedule wrapped.”

It may be recalled that actor Dhanush had released the announcement video of the film ‘Dayangaram’ in May last year.

The announcement video shared by the actor was noticed for its funny content. It begins with VJ Siddhu taking his dad along with him to meet the producer of the film, Ishari K Ganesh, who is also the founder and chancellor of Vels University.

Both father and son wait with parents who are looking to admit their children to the university. Siddhu’s dad, who is intent on making his son succeed as a director, bolsters his confidence by saying he has a bound script and a video clip to show to the producer.

When they are called in to eventually meet the producer, he is busy signing documents. Without looking up, he keeps asking questions about the marks Siddhu’s scored in school. Siddhu, whose marks are not too healthy, begins to wonder why the producer is asking him for his marks while they are here to ask him for a chance to make a film.

Eventually, Siddhu’s dad interrupts the conversation and tells the Chancellor,” Sir, forget the marks. My son will definitely make a great movie. Please give him a chance.”

That is when the Chancellor realises Siddhu’s come to ask for a chance. He asks Siddhu’s dad to wait outside and asks him, “Usually, kids bring their dad along with them when they come for college admissions. Do people bring their dads along to ask for a chance to make a movie?” Siddhu convinces the producer and shows him a video of his.

Eventually, the producer is convinced and he calls up Siddhu to inform him of his decision to give him a chance to direct a film. However, Siddhu’s phone is with his friends and they pick Ishari Ganesh’s call. They give a series of hilarious responses to the producer, driving him to the point of reconsidering his decision to give the debutant an opportunity.

Eventually, Siddhu goes to meet the producer in person and pleads with him not to take away his opportunity for the goof ups of his friends.

The producer, who says the story is good, asks for a title that should be “bayangaram” (fear inducing). The announcement video ends with Siddhu’s response who reveals the title of the film as ‘Dayangaram’.

–IANS

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