{"data":{"all":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","three"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Jana Nayagan' Passes Censor Test"},"content":{"text":"The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has finally cleared  director H Vinoth's eagerly awaited action entertainer 'Jana Nayagan', which also happens to be Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay's last film as an actor, for release with an 'A' certificate.  Although the makers of the film are yet to make an official announcement in this regard, well known film producer and distributor Dhananjheyan took to his X timeline to share a copy of the Censor certificate. He wrote, \"#JanaNayagan finally got the censor certificate and will be releasing soon . What a relief to @KvnProductions & Tamil Cinema to bring out the most expected film of our #ThalaivarVijay sir, one last time on big screen.\" While the film's release date is yet to be officially announced by KVN Productions, the firm that has produced the film, sources in the industry claim that the makers were likely to release the film on July 24.  It may be recalled that IANS had, quoting sources, reported earlier that that the issue pertaining to receiving a clearance from the Censor Board was likely to be resolved shortly and that the makers of the film were considering the possibility of releasing the film in July itself.  For the unaware, the film had triggered huge interest as it was Vijay's last film as an actor before he turned a full-time politician. It was originally scheduled for release for the festival of Pongal in January this year. However, its release had to be postponed after the film, which was sent to the Censor Board for clearance, was referred to a Revising Committee under Rule 24 of the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules. The Censor Board has now cleared the film, which was submitted to it for clearance in December last year. Directed by H. Vinoth, 'Jana Nayagan' boasts a powerful ensemble cast featuring Vijay, Bobby Deol, Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju, Prakash Raj, and Gautham Vasudev Menon. KVN Productions, while announcing their decision to postpone the release of Jana Nayagan in January this year, had said,\"It is with a heavy heart that we share this update with our valued stakeholders and audiences. The release of 'Jana Nayagan', eagerly awaited on January 9, has been postponed due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control.\" The production house had further said, \"We deeply understand the anticipation, excitement, and emotions surrounding this film, and this decision has not been an easy one for any of us. The new release date will be announced at the earliest.Until then, we humbly request your patience and continued love. Your unwavering support is our greatest strength and means everything to the entire Jana Nayagan team.\""},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/g6IjorhsC7WfZtww_jana.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T12:58:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"jana-nayagan-passes-censor-test"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Kavitha: BRS got 1,400cr as quid pro quo"},"content":{"text":"Telangana Rakshana Sena (TRS) chief K. Kavitha on Thursday alleged that the Rs 1,400 crore in the bank accounts of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) came from \"quid pro quo\" deals. She demanded that BRS distribute the money to Telangana martyrs' families. Addressing workers of Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) in Kothagudem, Kavitha also launched a scathing attack on her brother, BRS working president K. T. Rama Rao (KTR), and her cousin, former minister T. Harish Rao, accusing them of corruption. BRS president and former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao's daughter ruled out her return to the BRS. \"As long as I am alive, I will not join BRS.\" She claimed that Rs 1,400 crore in the BRS party's bank accounts came from Andhra contractors through \"quid pro quo\". Stating that it is corruption money, she said the BRS should distribute it to the families of Telangana martyrs. She said the party should give Rs 1 crore each to the families of martyrs. Kavitha alleged that KTR committed corruption through a quid pro quo deal with a construction company. Accusing Harish Rao of corruption in the Kaleshwaram project, she called him 'Anaconda'. She said despite his involvement in corruption, the party was still pushing him forward. She remarked that BRS can never improve and it can never come back to power. She accused Harish Rao's company of supplying milk to Sri Chaitanya educational institutions. She demanded that the government should make it mandatory for all private educational institutions with more than 500 students to procure milk from Vijaya Dairy. The TRS leader said that if her party comes to power, it will review all land allotted by both the BRS and state governments to Andhra contractors. \"Every square yard of such land will be taken back,\" she said. She accused BRS of hatching conspiracies to ensure that her party does not get the TRS acronym. On statements by BRS leaders that they are not afraid of her party, she asked if this was true, why did they file over 1,000 complaints with the Election Commission of India? Kavitha demanded that dependent jobs in Singareni Collieries Company Limited be cleared by conducting medical board meetings twice a month. She said the government should make a clear announcement in this regard, failing which she would launch a hunger strike."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ad8xZZ1ZCF7ETMwa_kavitha.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T11:50:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"kavitha-brs-got-1400cr-as-quid-pro-quo"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"BRS Picks Ravichandra as PP Leader"},"content":{"text":"Telangana's Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has appointed its Rajya Sabha member, Vaddiraju Ravichandra, as the leader of the BRS Parliamentary Party.  BRS President Kalvakuntla Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) appointed Ravichandra as the leader of the BRS Parliamentary Party and BRS floor leader in the Rajya Sabha. K.R. Suresh Reddy, who was heading the Parliamentary Party, recently completed his term as a Rajya Sabha member. Ravichandra was previously serving as the deputy leader of BRS Parliamentary Party. KCR had sent Ravichandra to the Rajya Sabha for a second term in recognition of the services he rendered to the party and to the Backward Classes and Bahujan communities, the BRS said in a release. Ravichandra was originally selected for a Rajya Sabha nomination in 2022 to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Dr Banda Prakash Mudiraj, who was moved to the Legislative Council. After Ravichandra’s term ended in April 2024, KCR re-nominated him to the Rajya Sabha for the second term. He was subsequently named deputy leader of the BRS Parliamentary Party. Ravichandra's term as Rajya Sabha member ends in April 2030. He currently serves as a member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Coal and Mines. Following his appointment as BRS parliamentary party leader, Ravichandra conveyed his heartfelt thanks to BRS President KCR and Working President K.T. Rama Rao for naming him as the Parliamentary Party leader. Expressing happiness at being appointed as the Parliamentary Party leader, in addition to being sent to the Rajya Sabha twice, he said that he humbly accepts this significant responsibility. He pledged to powerfully voice the concerns of the people of Telangana in the Parliament and vowed to work tirelessly to further strengthen the party and ensure KCR becomes the Chief Minister for a historic third term. Following Suresh Reddy’s retirement, the BRS currently has three members in the Rajya Sabha – Ravichandra, D. Damodar Rao and Dr Bandi Parthasaradhi Reddy. The BRS has no representation in the Lok Sabha as it drew a blank in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/lG3E3dQz-XKNL81x_ravichandra.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T10:20:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"brs-picks-ravichandra-as-pp-leader"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics","featured","four"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Bandi Bhagirath Gets Bail"},"content":{"text":"The Telangana High Court on Thursday granted bail to Bandi Sai Bageerath, son of Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, in a POCSO case. Pronouncing its orders on the bail petition, the High Court granted conditional bail. The court directed him to cooperate with the police in the investigation. He was also directed to furnish a bond of Rs 1 lakh along with two sureties. After hearing arguments from both sides, the High Court reserved orders on Monday. A case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was registered against Bandi Bageerath at Pet Basheerabad Police Station of Cyberabad Commissionerate on May 8 for the alleged assault of a 17-year-old girl. Police had arrested Bageerath on May 16 on the outskirts of Hyderabad after the High Court had declined to give interim protection from arrest. Bandi Sanjay, however, had claimed that his son surrendered before police. Bageerath had earlier secured one week's bail from the trial court to appear for his exams, from June 22 to June 24. He surrendered before the Cherlapally prison authorities on June 25 in compliance with the bail conditions. On a complaint by the victim's mother, the case was booked under Section 11 read with 12 of the POCSO Act and Sections 74 and 75 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The victim's mother had lodged a complaint that Bageerath, who was in a relationship with her, subjected her to sexual harassment. The accused also lodged a counter-complaint in Karimnagar, alleging that the girl's family attempted to extort Rs 5 crore by threatening to implicate him in a false case. After the investigating officer recorded the victim's statement, the police invoked Section 5(1), read with Section 6, of the POCSO Act. The section deals with aggravated penetrative sexual assault and carries a punishment that may extend up to 20 years’ imprisonment or more. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) had also questioned Bageerath based on statements recorded during the course of investigation and digital evidence."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agVw86YofJOwHPVr_bandibhageernath.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T12:29:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"bandi-bhagirath-gets-bail"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","two"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Fauji' Shoot Lands in Trouble"},"content":{"text":"The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has written a letter to the CM of Telangana, Revanth Reddy requesting for a high-level investigation into the incident at the shooting of ‘Fauji’ set at Ramoji Film City, which impacted the health of actor Rajesh Sharma. The body has asked to conduct an investigation to ascertain workplace safety, hygiene and emergency medical protocols and to identify any negligence on the part of the producer. They wrote, “Actor Rajesh Sharma's health reportedly deteriorated severely during the shooting schedule, following which he travelled to Kolkata and was admitted to a private hospital for medical treatment, The circumstances that led to such a serious medical emergency remain unclear and warrant an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation”. They further mentioned, “The seriousness of the incident has become even more alarming in view of the latest medical update.. Rajesh Sharma remains under close medical observation and is reportedly still not out of danger. Considering the gravity of his condition, AICWA believes that a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances that led to this medical emergency during the shooting of Fauji is absolutely essential. If Actor Rajesh Sharma's condition became so serious during the shoot, why was he not immediately admitted to one of Hyderabad's leading hospitals by the producer and production house? Was adequate emergency medical assistance available on the set? Were all mandatory health, hygiene and workplace safety protocols being followed? What exactly happened at the shooting location that resulted in his health deteriorating to such an alarming extent? The film industry has a legal and moral responsibility to provide a safe, hygienic and medically prepared working environment for every artist, technician and worker”. Actor Rajesh Sharma is currently hospitalized after reportedly suffering a suspected insect bite while shooting for Prabhas' upcoming film Fauji at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. “Workers and technicians frequently hesitate to speak openly due to fear of losing their employment or facing professional consequences. Such an atmosphere prevents transparency and accountability.  The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) demands that the Honourable Chief Minister of Telangana, Shri Revanth Reddy, order an immediate high-level investigation into the incident at the Fauji shooting set at Ramoji Film City. The investigation must determine the exact cause of actor Rajesh Sharma's medical emergency, examine whether all workplace safety, hygiene and emergency medical protocols were followed, and identify any. negligence on the part of the producer, production house or any other responsible authority. If any lapse or negligence is found, strict legal action must be taken against all those responsible without delay”, they added."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/NzB3x11VNxfB7dOy_fauzi.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T14:35:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"fauji-shoot-lands-in-trouble"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Rahman's sweet 'Bro' moment"},"content":{"text":"AR Rahman has welcomed Sonu Nigam to his studio to sing a track for the upcoming film “Batwara 1947”. The Oscar-winner even asked a question about how the National Award-winning singer can sound so romantic.  Rahman took X, formerly called Twitter, where he expressed his excitement on having Sonu Nigam on board for the song “On Tabassum” for the upcoming film, directed by Rajkumar Santoshi. “Thrilled to have #Sonunigam back in our studios to sing #OhTabassum melody from the movie #Batwara1947 Written by @Javedakhtarjadu ..Directed by @RajSantoshi and produced by @AKPPL_Official #Aamirkhan ..Bro..how can you sound so Romantic?,” Rahman wrote. The details around the film are still underwraps. The film, which stars Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta, Ali Fazal and Shabana Azmi, was earlier titled “Lahore 1947”. The film marks Sunny’s reunion with Santoshi after films such as ‘Ghayal’ and ‘Damini’. The narrative is reportedly adapted from Asghar Wajahat’s acclaimed play ‘Jis Lahore Nai Dekhya, O Jamyai Nai’, which examines Partition not through large-scale politics, but through intimate human relationships fractured by communal violence and displacement. The story reportedly centres on a Hindu family forced to migrate from Lahore to India, who are allotted a haveli vacated by a Muslim family, only to discover an elderly Muslim woman still living inside. Sonu Nigam’s performances include a wide range of genres, like classical music, devotional music, ghazals, qawwali, rock and pop music, among others. He has recorded over 6,000 songs in more than 32 languages throughout his career. He started his career in early 1990s. His first song for a film was \"O Aasmanwale\" from Aaja Meri Jaan in 1993. He gained recognition with TV serial song \"Hum To Chhaila Ban Gaye\" from Talash and later for songs \"Accha Sila Diya\", \"Sandese Aate Hai\" and \"Yeh Dil Deewana\". His album Deewana in 1999 became popular. He made his acting debut as an adult in 2002 with Jaani Dushman: Ek Anokhi Kahani, a fantasy action thriller film directed by Rajkumar Kohli."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aW5tMgIvOtkhBt0M_rahman.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T03:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rahmans-sweet-bro-moment"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Rashmika’s Underwater Mission Complete"},"content":{"text":"The makers of director Rawindra Pulle's eagerly awaited action thriller 'Mysaa', featuring actress Rashmika Mandanna in the lead, have now disclosed that the unit has completed shooting a crucial underwater sequence featuring Rashmika.    Taking to his Instagram stories section, producer Ajay Saipureddy wrote, \"It's a wrap for the exciting underwater sequence with Rashmika Mandanna.\" The film was in the news just a few days back when director Rawindra Pulle posted a picture of him sporting a shirt bearing Rashmika's hand imprints on social media, saying, \"The blood marks are on their way\". Unformula Films, the production house producing the film, for its part, had said, \"Signed in mud. Remembered in blood. #MYSAA shoot in progress with #RashmikaMandanna, bringing raw emotion, grit and brilliance to the screen like never before. In cinemas this 2026.\" Rashmika, while responding to this post of her director, jokingly remarked, \"We should have also mixed some blood and umber powder in this beautiful art of mine! Next time for sure!@rawindrapulle @unformulafilms.\" Taking to his Instagram stories section, Rawindra Pulle shared a picture of the sets of the song and wrote, \"#Mysaa song pack up.\" The song, which features Rashmika, has been choreographed by well known dance choreographer Brinda. The film has generated excitement among fans ever since it was first announced. In fact, in May this year, the film was in the news when actress Rashmika Mandanna disclosed that the unit had successfully wrapped up a long schedule in Kerala. Taking to her Instagram page to share pictures of the unit that worked in Kerala, Rashmika wrote, \"Guys, a little update is that we successfully wrapped up a long schedule for #Mysaa in Kerala!!\" She went on to say, \"And these were some of the darlings who worked so so hard and made it all possible. Thank you guys and I'll see you soon again on set.\" nces for this film which were shot in this schedule. Rashmika is believed to have performed some high intensity action sequences during this schedule along with key actors in the film."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2Fb03af4db-5713-41e6-8e44-4053814edf79_rashmika.jpg?auto=format,compress&rect=0,54,1200,592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T02:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rashmikas-underwater-mission-complete"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"River swallows 3,000 LPG cylinders"},"content":{"text":"Around 3,000 LPG cylinders were swept away by floodwaters after a protective wall at the HPCL Patalganga LPG Bottling Plant in Maharashtra's Raigad district collapsed following heavy rainfall. Videos circulating on social media showed hundreds of gas cylinders floating in the swollen Patalganga River, drawing large crowds of onlookers who recorded the unusual sight from a nearby bridge. According to officials, relentless rainfall caused the plant's protective boundary wall to give way, allowing floodwaters to enter the facility. The powerful current carried away thousands of LPG cylinders, which were washed into the Patalganga River and Kharpada Creek. The district administration said some of the cylinders may still contain LPG, prompting authorities to issue a public safety advisory. Amazed citizens were seen recording visuals of the floating cylinders from a bridge. Raigad Collector Kishan Javle urged residents not to touch, collect, or attempt to use any cylinders found floating in the river or washed ashore. He appealed to citizens to immediately inform the authorities or hand over the cylinders to designated collection points. Residents can deposit the recovered cylinders directly at the HPCL plant, any nearby HPCL dealer, the Tehsildar Office in Khalapur, the Tehsildar Office in the concerned area, or the office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO). The administration has advised people against storing the cylinders in their homes or handling them without proper safety measures. \"There is no guarantee whether the cylinders washed into the river contain gas or whether they are in a safe condition. Picking them up, opening them, or taking them home out of curiosity or for use could be extremely dangerous,\" the collector said. Heavy rainfall has continued to batter several parts of Maharashtra over the past week, triggering floods, waterlogging, and overflowing rivers. Raigad remains among the worst-hit districts, with widespread flooding affecting normal life and prompting authorities to remain on high alert."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/26dKTJPWA78VkgHS_LPGcylinders.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T04:51:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"river-swallows-3000-lpg-cylinders"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Payal Rejects Glam Expectations"},"content":{"text":"Tollywood actress Payal Rajput has firmly addressed the misconceptions surrounding her newly launched Instagram subscription channel, making it clear that the platform is not meant for sensational or explicit content. As more celebrities introduce exclusive subscription spaces to connect with their fans, Payal found herself at the center of online speculation, prompting her to issue a candid clarification. Through a heartfelt message, she urged people to understand the real purpose behind the initiative rather than believing misleading social media narratives. Payal revealed that she has been flooded with messages from fans asking what kind of exclusive content they can expect after subscribing. Responding to the curiosity, she emphasized that anyone joining the channel expecting glamorous or \"hot\" pictures would only end up disappointed. She stressed that her subscription platform is not designed to cater to such expectations. Instead, it is intended to offer followers a closer look at her life beyond the camera, featuring authentic, unfiltered moments, behind-the-scenes experiences, personal thoughts, and glimpses into her everyday journey that rarely make it to her public social media feed. The actress further explained that the subscription space is dedicated to those who genuinely appreciate her as a person rather than merely her on-screen image. Payal expressed gratitude to fans who respect her personal boundaries and support her career with sincerity and understanding. She reiterated that the platform is built on trust, authenticity, and meaningful interaction, hoping it will create a stronger and more genuine connection with admirers who value her individuality beyond glamour."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2Fa379108c-a8b8-4cce-850d-a529b22a13ad_payal+rajput+%2812%29.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C30%2C1357%2C669&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T06:03:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"payal-rejects-glam-expectations"}},{"node":{"tags":["NRI"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Telangana Techie’s Murder Plot Exposed"},"content":{"text":"A shocking murder case involving a Telangana software engineer has taken a dramatic turn in the United States, where police arrested a man nearly nine months after the death of his wife. The accused, 30-year-old Avinash Narne, allegedly strangled his wife, Rajitha Sabbineni, before attempting to stage the incident as a mysterious death. Investigators say the arrest came after months of painstaking forensic and digital investigation that uncovered crucial evidence linking him to the crime. The couple, both software professionals from Telangana, had been living in Washington after their marriage, which had lasted only six months. In October last year, Avinash called Bellevue police claiming that his wife had locked herself inside the bathroom and was not responding. When officers forced open the door, they found Rajitha lying lifeless on the floor. An autopsy later confirmed that she had died due to strangulation, leading authorities to register a homicide case. Although investigators initially suspected Avinash, the lack of concrete evidence allowed him to remain free while the investigation continued. Over the following months, detectives pieced together digital records, call logs, and other forensic evidence that ultimately pointed to Avinash as the prime suspect. According to investigators, he had been involved in an extramarital relationship with a woman in India even before his marriage, and the relationship reportedly continued afterward. Police believe this affair may have been the motive behind the killing. Officials also revealed that Avinash had contacted the woman multiple times on the day of the murder and even shared a photograph of his wife's body with her the following day. During questioning, he allegedly confessed to the crime, bringing a tragic case to a decisive conclusion after months of investigation."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/0M2P9OVRV_jQsTSD_TStechie.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T01:47:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"telangana-techies-murder-plot-exposed"}},{"node":{"tags":["Editorial","featured","one"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"AP: Will CBN's Deputy Become His Liability?"},"content":{"text":"\"A leader's biggest danger isn't their enemies, it is the out-of-control behavior of their lieutenants and confidants. When those allies go too far, the public blames the leader for everything” What the above profound statement suggests is that “even if the leader didn't do anything wrong personally, the public will judge the entire government based on the bad behavior of that one partner” In the annals of political downfalls, leaders are rarely destroyed by their direct enemies; they are more often undone by the unchecked audacity of their chief lieutenants. History provides sharp warnings on this front. Think of Grigori Rasputin, whose brazen manipulation of state machinery eroded the credibility of Tsar Nicholas II, or Sanjay Gandhi, whose extra-constitutional high-handedness during the 1975–1977 Emergency turned a powerful Prime Minister into a political liability and caused a historic electoral wipeout. A similar, highly concerning dynamic is unfolding in Andhra Pradesh. The recent actions of the State’s Deputy Chief Minister, specifically his crusade against online critics, are rapidly transforming from a personal vendetta into a major political liability for Nara Chandrababu Naidu (CBN), the state’s self-styled visionary CEO-styled CM, and his ruling TDP-led coalition. The flashpoint for this growing institutional crisis is the relentless state crackdown on Dalit Christian YouTuber Bachalakuri Joseph, popularly known as \"Prashna\" Raavan. Following a speech critical of the government as well as the Deputy CM, the state’s law enforcement apparatus was deployed in a manner that displayed scant regard for constitutional boundaries, despite bail being granted by the local courts. As if to block further legal recourse and to permanently prevent any relief from the courts, the police invoked the draconian Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), an anti-terror law meant for national security threats—charging the digital commentator with \"waging war against the government.\" It is the height of hypocrisy by all moral standards; his detention under UAPA, after four successive arrests followed by the grant of bail under other offences, was meant to satisfy the ego of a \"Power Star\" and his so-called method of madness (\"Naako Thikka undi, Daaniki O lekka undi\"), who entered politics promising to “question” the establishment. Discerning observers allege this is a subtle endorsement of the Deputy CM given his public pronouncements to that effect. His public rhetoric has turned explicitly aggressive, using movie-style dialogue to warn critics that the government will \"crush them\" if they cross the line. Reports indicate that Station House Officers are being pressured directly by his circle to pursue critics, reducing the state police force into his personal grievance cell. To understand why the actor-turned-politician is behaving so aggressively, one must look at the psychological friction between his cinematic \"hero\" image and his actual administrative powers. In the alliance cabinet, CBN’s party MLA holds the Law-and-Order portfolio, while his son, Nara Lokesh, commands high-profile ministries—a scenario where his fans feel their leader is being eclipsed by the TDP leadership. Lacking direct control over the Home Ministry, his critics contend that he has resorted to public outbursts, even rebuking his own coalition's Home Minister, to prove to his base that he is still the one calling the shots. By directing the police to hunt down internet trolls and commentators with absolute brazenness, he is trying to project the image of an all-powerful, unassailable leader who cannot be trifled with. While he plays out his cinematic alpha-male fantasies, the actual political cost is being billed directly to CBN’s account. This overreach poses a structural threat to the TDP's electoral future, particularly, in the backdrop of growing clamor from a section of Kapus demanding CBN to handover the CM post to the deputy CM for the remaining tenure or declare as the CM candidate of the alliance in the next elections. CBN has spent 40+ years building his reputation as a sophisticated, law-abiding visionary focused on development, IT, and ease of doing business. By allowing his Deputy CM to turn the state into a personal fiefdom where anti-terror laws (UAPA) are slapped on internet commentators, his carefully curated image of a mature statesman has the potential of being completely shredded. Slapping multiple cases and terror charges on a Dalit Christian influencer is terrible optics. It hands the opposition YSRCP, including the Left parties, a potent emotional weapon to consolidate Dalit, minority, and neutral voters against the TDP-led establishment. It frames the government not as a progressive coalition, but as an intolerant, vengeful regime. When a deputy Chief minister publicly bypasses administrative channels and demands a police force to operate on personal whims, it breaks the chain of command. The state's bureaucracy and police officers feel caught in the crossfire of alliance power dynamics, leading to structural paralysis within the government. Just as Sanjay Gandhi’s unchecked excess during the Emergency became the primary reason the Indian masses turned on Indira Gandhi, CBN’s deputy’s brazen disregard for due process may fast become the Achilles' heel of his governance and reputation. CBN is a veteran politician who understands the laws of political gravity. If he continues to play the ostrich while his deputy uses the state machinery as a personal weapon against critics, the electorate may eventually hold him responsible, and punish the TDP ruthlessly at the ballot box."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/GDqJuG6kix8wMYYd_cbnpk.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T06:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ap-will-cbns-deputy-become-his-liability"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Cinema Wasn't Dhanush's Choice!"},"content":{"text":"Director and actor Kasthuri Raja, who is also the father of ace Tamil actor, director and producer Dhanush, has now disclosed that Dhanush did not come to cinema willingly and that until his fifth or sixth film, he was pleading with him to let him get out of it.  Participating in the pre release event of Love Oh Love, in which his grandson Pavish plays the lead, Kasthuri Raja said, \"Among the three directors in my family, It was only Selvaraghavan (Dhanush's elder brother) who came to cinema willingly. Dhanush did not like cinema. Until he completed five or six films, he did not like cinema. When I made 'Thulluvadho Ilamai', he would keep telling me, 'Dad, let me go. I will leave.' He would cry before the shot while shooting for Thulluvadho Illamai.\" \"Selvaraghavan, on the other hand, is the most educated among the members of my family. He is a medallist. He is a mechanical engineer. I was very particular that my children must not come to cinema. Therefore, I would not even take them to preview shows even. I was very strict,\" Kasthuri Raja said.  \"However, when Selvaraghavan was in his second year in college, he came to me one day and said that he did not want to go to college and that he wanted to enter cinema,\" Kasthuri Raja disclosed.  Kasthuri Raja said he then pointed out to Selvaraghavan the trouble his mother had undergone to get him the college seat. \"I told him that cinema had been there before me, it was there during my time now and that it would be there after my time but a college degree was not like that and that if he lost the opportunity to get a degree now, he may not get it again. I lied to him that if he got his degree, I would get him into cinema. Selvaraghavan agreed to complete his education and did so.\" Director Kasthuri Raja also spoke highly of the film unit of 'Love Oh Love'. He said, \"The true strength of a good film lies in the trust and harmony shared between its producer, director, and actors. Watching the producers of Love Oh Love present a gift to their director even before the film's release reflects the mutual respect and affection within the team. It's equally remarkable how efficiently the film has progressed—from its pooja ceremony to theatrical release in such a short span. I wholeheartedly appreciate the producers, director, and the entire team for their commitment and discipline. Both Pavish and Naga Durga have brought youthful energy, sincerity, and natural performances that beautifully complement the film.” "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/16326b96-c69e-4d85-918e-7bcfce6157b8_dhanush.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T09:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"cinema-wasnt-dhanushs-choice"}},{"node":{"tags":["Videos"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Vadala' Movie Trailer"},"content":{"text":"'Vadala' Movie Trailer"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/6ui925_N6cbCnzOH_vadala.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T07:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6B9rD0XhsY"}},"uid":"vadala-movie-trailer"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Producer Drops 'KA' Collection Bomb"},"content":{"text":"A fresh controversy has erupted around the box office performance of Kiran Abbavaram's hit thriller 'KA' after producer Chinta Gopalakrishna Reddy made unexpected remarks about the film's financial outcome. While 'KA' was widely celebrated as one of the actor's biggest commercial successes and was promoted with impressive collection figures during its theatrical run, the producer's recent comments have triggered intense discussions on social media. His statement has led many to question whether the reported earnings truly reflected the film's actual performance. Speaking at the success meet of Rao Bahadur, the producer suggested that the real achievement of 'KA' was not its box office collections but the recognition and opportunities it created for the artists involved. His comments were quickly interpreted by many as an indication that the film may not have generated the profits that were publicly projected. The remarks have fueled online speculation, with critics alleging that the collection figures released during the film's run were exaggerated for promotional purposes. As the debate continues to gain momentum, fans are now waiting to see whether Kiran Abbavaram or the 'KA' team will respond and clarify the controversy surrounding the film's reported box office numbers."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/xXR1KuIPobE-ofbJ_Kamovie.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T10:16:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"producer-drops-ka-collection-bomb"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Deepika Radiates Motherhood"},"content":{"text":"Deepika Padukone has captivated fans with her latest ad campaign, where she proudly flaunts her baby bump. The beloved actress, who is expecting her second child with husband Ranveer Singh, stars in a new Hilton commercial that has taken the internet by storm. Dressed in a chic blue pantsuit, Deepika showcases her effortless dance moves and glowing appearance, drawing admiration from her followers, who quickly noticed her pregnancy glow.  Reports reveal that the ad was filmed when Deepika was around four months pregnant, adding a special touch to the campaign. Fans flooded the comments section with adoration for the actress, celebrating her radiant presence and baby bump. Deepika and Ranveer announced their second pregnancy in April, sharing the joyful news on social media.  The couple, who tied the knot in 2018, welcomed their first child, Dua, in September 2024. On the professional front, Deepika has an exciting lineup, starring alongside Shah Rukh Khan in 'King' and opposite Allu Arjun in Atlee's 'Raaka.'"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/VqcHeDtkL2GKyew4_deepika.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T11:54:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"deepika-radiates-motherhood"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Nikhil Siddhartha gifts study kits to a 1000 students "},"content":{"text":"Telugu star Nikhil Siddhartha, who is now gearing up for the release of his much-awaited period action drama 'Swayambhu', has gifted study kits to a 1000 school kids in Bhimavaram and has promised to gift such kits to kids across many more cities.   Taking to his Instagram page to share a video of him meeting the joyous kids and gifting them the study kits, Nikhil Siddhartha wrote, \"Met & Gifted 1000 School Kids StudyKits & More. Thanks to @mahendrarakshadal bhai & rakshadal for arranging this is Bhimavaram. Will be doing across many more cities. Motivating these Wonderful Kids in whatever way I can.\" On the work front, Nikhil Siddhartha will next be seen playing the lead in director Bharat Krishnamachari's eagerly awaited period film 'Swayambhu'. In fact, the actor had disclosed earlier that 'Swayambhu' draws inspiration from the Sengol, an ancient emblem that represents righteous governance, justice, and moral authority. Speaking about the core idea of the film, Nikhil had said, “Swayambhu is a story derived from a very special and very unique aspect of Indian history which is the history of Sengol. We all popularly know Sengol as something that was carried by honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the inauguration of Indian Parliament and is installed in the new parliament building. But not many know the rich history behind the Sengol. It was first given by Lord Rama to his descendent. It stands for righteous governance, justice and the power to be able to effectively rule. This Sengol has traveled in the history of India and has had a lot of significance in Indian empires like the great Chola dynasty. We have created a fictionalised story around the Sengol and our hero.” The Sengol, which recently returned to public consciousness after being installed in the new Parliament building, has a long and layered legacy that spans centuries. By weaving this symbol into a larger cinematic narrative, Swayambhu aims to blend mythology, history, and fiction into an epic storytelling experience. The film, directed by Bharat Krishnamachari, has actresses Nabha Natesh and Samyuktha playing the female leads and is slated to hit screens later this year."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/cDQeJJBCk7Dzxd1q_nikhil.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T13:42:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"nikhil-siddhartha-gifts-study-kits-to-a-1000-stude"}},{"node":{"tags":["Videos"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"GDN's first single 'The Rise of GDN'"},"content":{"text":"GDN's first single 'The Rise of GDN'"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/AEjUZPKBSqUxpWvj_GDN.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T13:20:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhOpGTA-qRI"}},"uid":"gdns-first-single-the-rise-of-gdn"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Kareena's summer crush? Saif!"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor seems to be making the most of her family vacation, and her latest social media post is a proof of the same.  Kareena's latest post speaks all about her \"hot husband\" Saif Ali Khan. On Wednesday, Kareena shared a series of candid pictures of Saif walking out from the crystal-clear sea during their beach holiday. In the pictures, the actor is seen emerging out of the water in bright neon orange swim shorts, flaunting his toned physique as his dearest wife captures the moment from the shore. Sharing the pictures, Kareena captioned the post, \"Summer's going well #HotHusband,\" followed by rainbow, red heart and fire emoticon. On Tuesday, the actress had treated fans to another adorable glimpse from the vacation by posting a picture of son Taimur Ali Khan standing besides his mom as she photographed a bowl full of fresh fruits that she seemed to have enjoyed for breakfast. For the uninitiated, Saif and Kareena according to reports, are currently vacationing in Greece. Talking about their love story, Kareena and Saif first met on the sets of 'Tashan' in 2007. Their friendship soon blossomed into romance, and after dating for many years, they tied the knot in an intimate ceremony on October 16, 2012. They are parents to two sons, Taimur Ali Khan, born in 2016, and Jehangir Ali Khan, born in 2021. On the professional front, Kareena is gearing up for Meghna Gulzar's 'Daayra', where she will be seen sharing screen space with Malayalam superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran for the first time. The much-awaited drama is set to release on September this year. Saif Ali Khan was seen in the crime thriller film, Kartavya which premiered on May 15, 2026. He essayed the role of a gritty police officer pushed to his limits."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/oTXPhFrQztD2GBfb_saifsummer.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T09:37:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"kareenas-summer-crush-saif"}},{"node":{"tags":["NRI"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"US launches major H-1B fraud probe"},"content":{"text":"The Trump administration has launched its first major investigation into alleged fraud involving H-1B and PERM employment visas, with the US Labour Department's Inspector General saying investigators have already issued dozens of subpoenas as part of a sweeping probe into suspected labour trafficking and abuse of foreign worker programmes. Labour Department Inspector General Anthony D'Esposito said the investigation would be one of the most aggressive actions ever undertaken by an Inspector General's office against alleged foreign labour fraud. \"Without a doubt... we are gonna take an aggressive action, what we believe is probably the most aggressive action against foreign labour fraud by an Inspector General, this administration,\" D'Esposito told Fox News in an interview. \"We've already started to issue dozens of subpoenas.\" He said investigators would pursue every lead with support from the President Donald Trump administration and Vice President J.D. Vance's fraud task force. \"We are going to make sure that we track down every lead,\" D'Esposito said. He added that whistleblowers had raised concerns involving \"some of the biggest companies, like Cognizant,\" and said investigators would \"work side by side with the president and vice president's fraud task force\" as the inquiry moves forward. D'Esposito alleged that fraud involving foreign labour programmes is linked to wider criminal networks. \"This is another example where fraud is fueling violent crime,\" he said. \"Much of the visa and the human trafficking that we see when it comes to this foreign labour is tied to cartels, is tied to transnational gangs. And this is the work that we should be doing, not only to make America safe again, but to make America more affordable again.\" He also claimed that the alleged fraud extends beyond traditional labour-intensive industries. \"This is not just people working... in factories,\" D'Esposito said. \"These are people working in medical facilities, in doctors' offices that are actually putting people in harm's way. I mean, to the potential of causing death.\" He said investigators would examine cases involving factories, ports, hospitals and nursing facilities across the United States. The Inspector General said the probe is being coordinated with the Department of Justice and federal prosecutors. \"Fraudsters are gonna be hunted down. They are going to be investigated, they're going to be arrested, and they're going to be put behind bars,\" he said. D'Esposito also said the investigation is intended to ensure American workers are not displaced through abuse of employment-based visa programmes. He identified California, New York and Illinois among the states with the largest numbers of visa applicants. \"Our focus is we wanna make sure that we root out any fraud, waste and abuse in the visa programme to make sure that the American people... are not seeing their jobs taken away by foreigners or people who are gaming the system or financially benefiting from bringing these individuals into America and putting them into jobs that, quite frankly, they are not qualified to do,\" he said. The H-1B visa programme allows US employers to hire foreign professionals in speciality occupations requiring specialised knowledge. The programme is widely used by technology companies, consulting firms, healthcare providers, engineering companies and universities. Indian nationals have consistently accounted for the largest share of H-1B beneficiaries, making the programme particularly significant for India's information technology sector and skilled professionals seeking employment in the United States."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aNFVfZ5xUNkB0-bC_H1Bvisa.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T16:29:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"us-launches-major-h-1b-fraud-probe"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Ravi Mohan publicly apologizes to fans"},"content":{"text":"In a poignant display of vulnerability, actor Ravi Mohan took to the stage at the JFW awards in Chennai, delivering a heartfelt apology to his fanbase amidst a backdrop of personal turmoil and public scrutiny. This marked the first time the 46-year-old actor addressed his audience since his tumultuous divorce and the ensuing controversies that have plagued his personal life. Reflecting on his 23-year journey in the film industry, Mohan expressed deep regret for the emotional decisions that have led to a rift with those who supported him throughout his career. \"I have only one regret. I made one small mistake, and that ended up hurting all of you,\" he confessed, underscoring the gravity of his emotional misjudgments. Mohan's emotional appeal resonated with the audience as he recounted the support he received from colleagues and fans during his darkest moments. He revealed that the words of his peers became a lifeline, urging him to remain in the cinematic world despite his personal upheavals. \"Everyone in the industry came up to me and said, 'You can say anything you want. We'll accept it. But don't ever say that you won't be a part of cinema anymore.' I took those words as gospel,\" he stated, illustrating the profound connection between an artist and their craft. This sentiment set the stage for a powerful moment in which he sought forgiveness, vowing to never betray the trust of his fans or the essence of cinema. The backdrop to Mohan's emotional address is a turbulent chapter in his life, marked by a high-profile separation from his estranged wife, Aarti Ravi. Their split not only attracted media attention but also became a public spectacle as accusations flew between the former couple. As the divorce proceedings unfolded in court, Mohan's personal life became further complicated by his association with singer and therapist Keneshaa Francis, leading to rampant speculation and scrutiny. In light of this relentless public examination, Mohan took a stand against cyberbullying, highlighting the negative impact such harassment can have on mental health, as he navigated his way through both personal and professional challenges. Currently, Ravi Mohan is channeling his energy into his upcoming directorial debut, An Ordinary Man, while also collaborating on projects within the Lokesh Cinematic Universe. Despite the tumultuous events of the past few years, he continues to pursue his passion for acting and filmmaking, with several projects in the pipeline, including the eagerly anticipated Karathey Babu. Mohan's recent remarks have opened up dialogues on mental health within the film community, a silver lining to the controversies he faced. His ability to turn adversity into advocacy speaks volumes about his resilience, ultimately reinforcing the significance of mental health discussions in a high-pressure industry."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/VlPfLkdxbI32_I7j_ravimohan.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T10:52:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ravi-mohan-publicly-apologizes-to-fans"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"US: Bishnoi ran global gang from jail"},"content":{"text":"US prosecutors have alleged that jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi directed a sprawling international criminal enterprise from an Indian prison, using contraband mobile phones and internet-based communications to oversee murders, extortion, drug trafficking and other crimes across several countries. The allegations are contained in a federal racketeering indictment unsealed on Tuesday (local time) as part of 'Operation Hard Ball', a multinational crackdown targeting three organised crime groups accused of operating across North America, Europe and elsewhere. According to the indictment, Bishnoi transformed what began as a student network in Punjab into a transnational organised crime syndicate after abandoning campus politics. \"While enrolled in university in the early 2010s, defendant BISHNOI styled himself as a student leader and developed a network of associates and followers. Defendant BISHNOI soon thereafter traded campus politics for criminal activity, and refashioned his associates and followers into a criminal organisation,\" the indictment states. Although arrested by Indian authorities in 2015, prosecutors allege Bishnoi continued to lead the organisation from prison. The indictment says he used \"contraband cellphones and other voice over internet protocol devices smuggled into his jail cell\" to direct \"political assassinations, murders, shootings, extortions, kidnappings, drug trafficking, human smuggling, and other crimes\" carried out by members of the organisation worldwide. US authorities allege the organisation expanded well beyond India, establishing networks across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia, with thousands of members and associates worldwide, including hundreds in the United States and Canada. The indictment also alleges Bishnoi carefully cultivated a public image to recruit followers. \"In public, defendant BISHNOI projected an image of himself as a 'patriot,' 'nationalist,' and deeply religious individual.\" Prosecutors allege he used social media posts and media interviews to recruit members in India, the United States and elsewhere. Investigators alleged that the organisation recruited vulnerable young people, particularly in Punjab. According to the indictment, the group recruited \"primarily from vulnerable, disadvantaged populations in India,\" often targeting minors from impoverished areas by promising money, notoriety and protection. Loyal members were allegedly sent to countries including the United States and Canada on student and foreign worker visas, sometimes using fraudulent information. US prosecutors further allege that the organisation deliberately maintained a decentralised structure so that lower-ranking members knew little about one another, making the network more resilient and limiting its exposure if members were arrested.  They also allege members were threatened with violence against themselves or relatives in India if they cooperated with law enforcement or attempted to leave the organisation. The indictment accuses Bishnoi of leading a criminal enterprise engaged in targeted killings, extortion, narcotics trafficking and human smuggling, while using high-profile acts of violence to build the organisation's reputation and intimidate victims in India and among Indian diaspora communities abroad.  Prosecutors also allege profits from criminal activities were shared across the network and channelled back to members in India."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/c2cdd08b-a8e5-45a9-9df2-d45a54e45c94_bishnoi.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T05:14:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"us-bishnoi-ran-global-gang-from-jail"}},{"node":{"tags":["Trending"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Rajasthan Cyclist completes epic US coast ride"},"content":{"text":"Rajasthan cyclist Nitin Saini has completed the gruelling Trans Am Bike Race, riding across the United States from the Pacific coast to Washington, DC, in 28 days in this year's ultra-endurance event.  Saini began the race from Astoria, Oregon, on June 7 and reached the historic Lincoln Memorial in Washington on July 5 after covering nearly 3,500 miles (about 5,630 km) through 11 US states. The event attracted around 30 cyclists from across the world, including riders from the United States, Europe and two from India. The Trans Am Bike Race is consideres as one of the world's toughest unsupported cycling events wherein participants carry their own equipment, arrange their own food and accommodation, and ride virtually non-stop across the United States without support crews. Speaking to media after completing the race, Saini described the ride as far more demanding than he had expected. \"When the Trans Am Bike Race started, on the second day itself I realised that this was something else,\" he said, recalling rapidly changing weather, mountain climbs, heavy rain, gravel roads and long stretches without settlements. He said riders encountered temperatures as low as five degrees Celsius, rode through forests, rain and unpaved roads, making the challenge unlike anything he had experienced before. Travelling through rural America left a lasting impression on him. \"I have seen that America's geographical area is so vast,\" he said, adding that while riding on country roads he often travelled for kilometres without seeing another person. Small villages with only a handful of residents, he said, offered a perspective that tourists visiting major cities rarely experience. Saini said people in small American towns recognised India from the Indian jersey he wore during the race. \"They know India very well,\" he said, adding that many people immediately associated India with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and were eager to ask questions about the country. He said hearing such comments in remote parts of the United States made him feel proud as an Indian. The cyclist also highlighted the logistical challenges of an unsupported race. Carrying only essential clothing, tools and supplies on his bicycle, he depended largely on petrol station convenience stores for food. As a vegetarian, he said finding suitable meals was often difficult, forcing him to rely on bread, cheese, nachos, chocolates and biscuits during long sections where no towns were available. Reflecting on his motivation, Saini said cycling allowed him to experience countries beyond their famous landmarks. \"If you want to explore the world, there cannot be a better way than cycling,\" he said. He also urged people to prioritise their health, saying, \"Health should be the first priority.\" The Trans Am Bike Race is an annual self-supported endurance event that follows a transcontinental route across the United States. Riders are responsible for navigation, food, repairs and rest, with no outside assistance permitted. Completing the race requires sustained physical endurance, mental resilience and careful logistical planning."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ZYxd-OFpaGZGUNgO_rajasthancyclist.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T05:00:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rajasthan-cyclist-completes-epic-us-coast-ride"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Search called off, 6 Andhra fishermen feared dead?"},"content":{"text":"Authorities have called off the search operation for six fishermen who went missing off the coast of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, after their boat capsized on July 4, dashing the hopes of finding them alive.  The fishermen remained untraced after a four-day-long search and rescue operation by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. The authorities now presume the missing fishermen dead on the basis of information given by a fisherman, who was rescued by a cargo ship on Sunday. The search operation, involving two ships and two helicopters of the Coast Guard, continued till Tuesday midnight, but all efforts by the search teams involved proved futile.   State Minister Kollu Ravindra told media persons after consoling the families of missing fishermen and distributing ex gratia of Rs 10 lakh each that since no trace of the missing fishermen was found even after extensive search for more than 72 hours, they are presumed dead. A group of seven fishermen belonging to Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam districts had left in a boat for fishing from Visakhapatnam Fishing Harbour on July 1. The boat developed mechanical failure and capsized on Saturday while they were returning to the coast. One of them was rescued by the crew of a merchant vessel, and he reached the coast on Monday. With the search operation being called off, the state government announced financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh each for the families of the six fishermen. A pall of gloom descended on the families of the fishermen, who were hoping for their safe return. The fishermen had set off for fishing on July 1. As the sea conditions turned rough due to a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal, their families contacted them over mobile phones to alert them. The fishermen told their families they would return to the coast by the afternoon of July 4. As they did not return and their mobile phones were found switched off, anxious families alerted the Coast Guard and Marine Police. Kari Chinna, who owns the missing fishing boat, was rescued by the Panama-flagged merchant vessel 'MV Universe Wealthy' on Sunday.  The Indian Navy airlifted him from the vessel to INS Dega on Monday evening. He was later shifted to KIMS ICON Hospital. According to doctors, he is in stable condition. Doctors quoted him as saying the boat capsized on Saturday at 3.30 p.m. He kept swimming to save himself and remained in the sea for about 18 hours before he was rescued by the crew of a merchant vessel around 9 a.m. on Sunday. Meanwhile, Minister for Excise and Mines Kollu Ravindra, along with MLAs Vamsi Krishna Yadav and Lokam Madhavi, Visakhapatnam District Collector Abhijit Kishore, and Fisheries Commissioner Rama Shankar Naik, handed over cheques worth Rs 10 lakh each to the families of six fishermen. The minister and other officials presented cheques comprising Rs 5 lakh from the Fisheries Department and another Rs 5 lakh from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Kinjarapu Atchannaidu, stated that the agony, anxiety, and uncertainty currently being endured by the families of the missing fishermen are deeply distressing. "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/bfNG57KM1T4SD-KT_fisherman.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T05:43:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"search-called-off-6-andhra-fishermen-feared-dead"}},{"node":{"tags":["Editorial"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"YSR's Legacy Remembered"},"content":{"text":"Yeduguri Sandinti Rajasekhara Reddy, popularly known as YSR, was born on July 8, 1949, in Pulivendula in the backward Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. Rajasekhara Reddy evinced interest in politics right from his student days. While studying in M R Medical College, Gulbarga, Karnataka, he served as president of the Students union. He was elected leader of the House Surgeon's Association in S V Medical College, Tirupati. After completing his MBBS, Reddy served as Medical Officer at the Jammalamadugu Mission Hospital for a brief period. In 1973, he established a 70-bed charitable hospital at Pulivendula, named after his father. His family established one polytechnic and one degree college in Pulivendula, which were later handed over to the well-known Loyola group of institutions. Reddy entered active politics in 1978 and contested elections -- four times to enter the state Legislative Assembly and an equal number of times to enter the Lower House of Parliament. A significant achievement of YSR is that he has won all the elections he contested. In a career spanning 25 years, YSR served in multiple capacities. He was president of the Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) twice, from 1983 to 1985 and then again from 1998 to 2000. From 1999 to 2004 he was the Leader of Opposition in the 11th state Assembly. YSR took part in several mass struggles, and highlighted issues facing peasants, weavers, Dalits, youth and women. He also introduced many reforms, including the frequent increases in power tariff and indiscriminate privatisation of public sector units. During mid-summer in 2003, he led a 1400-km long Paadayaatra covering all backward areas in the state and in the Assembly elections which were held in 2004 he swept the state by winning 185 seats. Reddy was elected as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh after that massive mandate. Reddy was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh for the second consecutive term on May 20, 2009. The ceremony was held in Hyderabad's Lal Bahadur Shastri Stadium and attended by a crowd of around 20,000 people. During his first term as CM Opposition parties alleged corruption in Reddy's led state government. In 2008, Telugu Desam Party leader N Chandrababu Naidu accused Reddy and his family were involved in the Satyam scandal."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F57b23ca7-6747-4a7a-b48b-1e4dda04ed33_ysr+navodayum.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T06:36:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ysrs-legacy-remembered"}},{"node":{"tags":["Videos"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Toxic Movie: Tabaahi Song"},"content":{"text":"Toxic Movie: Tabaahi Song"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/-rJBIT1SVp9-szmD_tabaahi.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T06:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGy0A0atslA"}},"uid":"toxic-movie-tabaahi-song"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Pawan Kalyan Devastated by Fan's Death"},"content":{"text":"Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and actor Pawan Kalyan on Wednesday expressed shock over the death of his young fan Niranjan, who succumbed to a rare disease.  Pawan Kalyan, who had fulfilled the wish of the 17-year-old Niranjan by visiting his house in Hanumakonda town of Telangana on June 17, stated that the news that Niranjan was no more had deeply shaken his heart.  Niranjan, confined to his bed due to a rare genetic disease with no signs of growth, had wished to meet Pawan Kalyan as his last desire. “The moments from just a few days ago when I visited Niranjan's home in Hanumakonda and met him are still vividly alive in my mind. That little one, who waited for me despite battling severe illness... the tiny smile that bloomed on his face the moment he saw me... all of these will remain forever as unforgettable memories,” the Jana Sena leader posted on ‘X’. Pawan Kalyan stated that even as Niranjan’s body fought the disease, his mind stood firm with immense courage. “The hope and self-confidence he showed toward life, even while enduring such pain, are invaluable. It is heartbreaking that a child with such courage has left us so soon. I extend my deepest condolences to Niranjan's family members. I pray that God grants them the strength to bear this irreparable sorrow,” he said. “Dear Niranjan... the smile you showed, the courage, the love you shared will remain in my heart forever. I pray to God that your soul attains peace,” added the actor-politician. Meanwhile, actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood paid respects to Niranjan through a video call with his parents. He consoled the family members and assured them of all the support. According to Niranjan’s family members, he was also an ardent fan of Sonu Sood and wished to meet him. During his visit to Niranjan’s house, Pawan Kalyan had given financial support and divine temple prasadam to Niranjan. Pawan Kalyan sat beside the 17-year-old Niranjan on his bed, held his hand and took selfies to cheer him up. The actor-politician spoke with the parents, Ponugoti Rangopal and Manasa, and inquired about Niranjan's health condition.  An emotional Pawan Kalyan spent a lot of time with him. Upon entering the house, seeing his fan in a condition where he couldn't even stand, he was deeply moved. He sat on his bed and embraced him affectionately. He kissed his forehead and gently stroked him. He was touched by Niranjan's words that he had been his fan since childhood. Pawan Kalyan fondly looked at videos and photos of dances of Niranjan when he used to imitate the actor when he was healthy."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ajJ_Yo1P9HI4UnQA_pawan.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T07:43:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"pawan-kalyan-devastated-by-fans-death"}},{"node":{"tags":["Editorial"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Ayodhya's Kryptonite: Will Faith Defeat Propaganda?"},"content":{"text":"“With respect, I advise you, do not make an enemy of faith. It exhorts and comforts and binds together your people. Underestimate it at your peril”- Iconic quote from “House of the Dragon”, American Fantasy web series” The High Septon’s warning to Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen serves as a textbook lesson in political survival. In simple terms, he warns the crown that while her dragons command absolute terror, she cannot rule a kingdom by fear alone. Disrespecting religion means alienating the masses. If the working-class people lose respect for the ruler, their collective devotion will morph into a rebellion, putting the throne in serious danger. One wonders whether the BJP government missed this specific episode, or if they simply believe their own political \"dragons\" are immune to the laws of political gravity. One wonders whether such parallels of underestimating the influence of the Faith are in play in the developing narrative around the allegations of the “Chanda Chori” (Fund Theft) in the Ayodhya Ram temple. Even as allegations of \"Chanda Chori\" at the temple expedited an SIT investigation into pilfered donation boxes, the ruling party has unleashed its favorite mythical dragons: “Whataboutery and Propaganda.” Instead of addressing how millions in cash reportedly vanished under the noses of security cameras, the BJP has launched a classic counter-offensive, targeting the opposition’s silence on alleged irregularities involving Waqf land to deflect from the subject. Its propaganda claims that the opposition is blowing a simple temple theft out of proportion purely to insult Hindus and attack Sanatan Dharma. Meanwhile, its online social media soldiers are deploying a bizarrely comedic narrative line: implying that there is either a grand opposition conspiracy behind the allegations or, hilariously, that it shouldn't matter if funds are mismanaged as long as the hands doing it belong to the correct faith. By treating a financial accountability issue as an existential assault on religion, the BJP is playing a highly volatile card. The core political fallout relies on a dangerous miscalculation of the Hindu voter base. On the other hand, the preliminary findings of the Uttar Pradesh government’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) read less like a standard bureaucratic audit and more like a heist script. What it unearthed, including details of how unauthorized individuals, specifically political and ideological aides linked to RSS and temple trust leadership, held keys to the primary offering boxes without any formal written orders—completely shattered the BJP’s narrative that the allegations were merely \"political fiction.” The BJP assumes religious sentiment blindly covers financial corruption. This dangerous gamble ignores India's electoral history. Historically, corruption within sacred institutions acts as absolute political kryptonite. The DMK’s historic ascent in Tamil Nadu proves this. The Dravidian movement mobilized the masses by exposing temple corruption, targeting financial irregularities, nepotism, and asset mismanagement. Look also at Kerala's Sabarimala and Travancore reversals, or the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams scandal. Allegations of missing jewelry and fund diversions sparked furious backlashes that translated directly into devastating electoral defeats. For long, the opposition was paralyzed by the BJP’s formidable Hindutva narrative, finding that direct criticism of the Ram Temple was political suicide. However, the SIT report provides a new strategy, allowing them to defend devotees by framing the issue around financial integrity rather than theology. By focusing on potential class exploitation, the opposition pivots to a narrative of \"last rupees to God\" being taken by ruling party insiders, though this strategy remains a double-edged sword. The political fallout for the ruling party might be severe. The BJP’s entire brand relies on the image of absolute cultural and financial incorruptibility. By using aggressive \"whataboutery\" campaigns, the party looks uncharacteristically defensive. When a party is forced to use communal diversions to drown out its own state-appointed investigation team, it signals a structural vulnerability. The core risk is the fracturing of the Hindu voter base. If regular, working-class devotees begin to see the temple trust not as a spiritual unit, but as an opaque, corrupt corporate entity shielded by state machinery, the emotional and electoral investment in the BJP's primary ideological project will rapidly deflate. For the wider opposition, this is a golden opportunity to breach the BJP’s fortress, but it is laced with danger. If they maintain a laser-sharp focus on transparency, institutional audits, and the rights of ordinary donors, they can alienate a substantial chunk of the BJP's moderate base. However, if the opposition crosses the line from exposing financial corruption into mocking the faith or the temple institution itself, the BJP’s defensive \"Insult to Sanatan Dharma\" narrative will instantly regain its teeth. The Sangh Parivar outfits are already attempting this counter-trap, writing letters demanding that opposition leaders be cross-examined by the SIT to turn the hunters into the hunted. The High Septon’s warning in the fantasy web series rings true: faith is a fire that warms a ruler, but burns those who underestimate its moral boundaries. By treating a massive financial crime inside India's most high-profile temple as a mere PR crisis to be managed via social media IT cells, the ruling establishment risks a severe, quiet rebellion at the ballot box from the very people who built their throne."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/wdAYM4uXFGvMyyah_ramtemple.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T09:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ayodhyas-kryptonite-will-faith-defeat-propaganda"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Dark web breeds new drug cartels"},"content":{"text":"As India intensifies its campaign against narcotics, enforcement agencies are confronting a new and rapidly evolving threat -- drug trafficking networks operating through the dark web and cryptocurrencies. Officials say the narcotics trade is increasingly shifting away from conventional smuggling routes, making investigations more complex and hampering efforts to trace financial transactions.  An Intelligence Bureau official said that it is no longer the routes used by narcotic cartels that pose the challenge. The trade has largely shifted to the dark web, and this poses a major challenge. Further, the transactions are fuelled by cryptocurrency, and this has aided the smugglers in concealing their networks behind digital wallets. The official said that tracing the financial trail is very crucial in a drug smuggling operation. The conventional land, air and sea routes no longer pose a major challenge. These are the conventional methods that have been used for years by drug smugglers. The cryptocurrency transactions being made by drug lords are what the agencies are finding hard to track. Another official said that the drug smugglers have roped in various dark web groups to help further their business. These groups operate through encrypted browsers and dedicated systems. It takes a lot to track such an operation, and going forward this would pose a major challenge for Indian agencies, the official also said. The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), India’s premier anti-drug agency, had between 2020 and 2024 booked 92 cases involving the dark net and cryptocurrencies. The NCB has found that the drug trade is increasingly shifting to this method and has led the agency to enhance technology and surveillance online, an official said. Earlier this year, the NCB had busted a dark net-enabled pan-India drug distribution network. During the probe, it was found that this cartel known as Team Kalki would source high-grade LSD and MDMA from Poland, Germany and the Netherlands. It then adopted a drop-dead technique by which the drugs would be left at a pre-determined hidden location for trusted customers. Using speed post and various couriers, the cartel managed more than 1,000 orders across the country. To conceal the money trail, it routed the funds through intermediary mule wallets. Officials say that while the dark net remains the biggest challenge, a new trend where smaller cartels operating without the backing of the bigger cartels is emerging. The dark web has helped individuals with ample technical expertise to run a drug operation. The official explained that the emergence of these smaller and unknown players has made the battle against drugs even more challenging. The Indian narcotics markets are largely being controlled either by the Dawood Ibrahim Syndicate or the drug lords operating out of the Golden Triangle. The D-Syndicate operates more in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and the other northern parts of the country. It does have southern operations based in Tamil Nadu, and these narcotics are meant for some southern states and Sri Lanka. The Golden Triangle cartels focus on the northeast and also Sri Lanka through the Southern states. The drugs that land in Sri Lanka are meant for local markets, while the remaining are smuggled into Thailand. Officials say that handling these cartels is relatively easier. They often use conventional methods and smuggle drugs using land, sea, or air routes. However, it is these unknown players who form cartels with just one or two persons is what poses the challenge. There is no file on them, and they are largely incognito. Two to three persons with ample technical knowledge of the dark web get together and start a cartel. They are also not associated with any major syndicate, and this makes finding their trail harder, the official said. An official said that the newer technologies do pose a challenge, with unknown and smaller cartels coming up. However, this does not mean that bigger syndicates would look to completely stop using the conventional methods. They would try to maximise their business and hence would use all possible methods available at their disposal, the official said."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/Uh-0Bl0gTtf-sNlu_darkweb.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T09:40:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"dark-web-breeds-new-drug-cartels"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"The cinematic tribute to Ganguly's legacy"},"content":{"text":"In a momentous reveal aligning with Sourav Ganguly's birthday, the first-look poster for 'Dada - The Sourav Ganguly Story' has captivated fans and cricket aficionados alike. Showcasing the nuanced portrayal of the legendary cricketer by Rajkummar Rao, the film has been slated for theatrical release on May 14, 2027, strategically positioned over a long holiday weekend to maximize its audience reach. This unveiling not only commemorates a cricketing icon but also sets the stage for a biographical narrative that promises to resonate profoundly within India’s rich sporting heritage. The poster poignantly captures Rao in a dramatic recreation of Ganguly’s historic jersey-waving moment from the NatWest Trophy triumph at Lord's in 2002—a powerful symbol of defiance and renewed confidence in Indian cricket. This iconic celebration, witnessed by millions, marked a turning point in the sport, representing not only Ganguly’s personal victory but also the emergence of a robust Indian cricketing identity. Such imagery encapsulates the very essence of the film, which aims to portray the multifaceted journey of a man who transformed the landscape of Indian cricket. Delving deeper into the narrative, 'Dada - The Sourav Ganguly Story' promises to explore not just the sporting achievements, but also the adversity faced by Ganguly throughout his career. From his early days as a promising cricketer to his rise as one of the most influential captains in the history of Indian cricket, the film seeks to celebrate the resilience, strategic acumen, and unwavering belief that defined Ganguly's leadership. His tenure as captain is credited with fostering a generation of players who took pride in wearing the national colors, and this cinematic endeavor aims to honor that legacy. Directed by the acclaimed Vikramaditya Motwane and produced by Luv Ranjan, Ankur Garg, and the renowned T-Series, the film is poised to be a significant cultural touchstone. The collaboration between these industry stalwarts signals the ambitious scope of the project, with high expectations surrounding its narrative depth and visual storytelling. As the release date approaches, anticipation builds not just for a film, but for a celebration of a cricketing era defined by courage, determination, and an indomitable spirit."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/pHF4nfrPQrPo_kBm_dada.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T09:48:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"the-cinematic-tribute-to-gangulys-legacy"}},{"node":{"tags":["NRI"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Andhra Student Killed in US Crash"},"content":{"text":"A tragic road accident in the United States has claimed the life of a young woman from Andhra Pradesh, cutting short her dreams of building a successful future abroad. Atluri Prasanna, a native of Mulapadu village in Ibrahimpatnam mandal of NTR district, lost her life in a devastating car crash in New York on July 5. The heartbreaking incident has left her family, friends, and hometown in deep shock, with many mourning the loss of a promising student who had recently completed her higher education. According to reports, Prasanna was travelling with two friends to a nearby temple when their vehicle came to a halt at a traffic signal. Moments later, another car speeding from behind crashed into their vehicle with tremendous force. The impact proved fatal, killing Prasanna and another young woman at the scene. A third occupant sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where treatment is currently underway. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision. Prasanna had recently graduated from Pace University in New York and was preparing to begin the next chapter of her life by searching for employment. Friends say she was determined to secure a good job and support her family after completing her studies. Her untimely death has shattered those dreams, leaving her loved ones devastated. Back in Mulapadu, grief has engulfed the village as relatives, neighbours, and well-wishers remember Prasanna as a bright and hardworking young woman whose life ended far too soon."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/b2lyL4hloDkVD2vl_prasanna.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-07T09:40:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"andhra-student-killed-in-us-crash"}}]},"featured":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Bandi Bhagirath Gets Bail"},"content":{"text":"The Telangana High Court on Thursday granted bail to Bandi Sai Bageerath, son of Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, in a POCSO case. Pronouncing its orders on the bail petition, the High Court granted conditional bail. The court directed him to cooperate with the police in the investigation. He was also directed to furnish a bond of Rs 1 lakh along with two sureties. After hearing arguments from both sides, the High Court reserved orders on Monday. A case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was registered against Bandi Bageerath at Pet Basheerabad Police Station of Cyberabad Commissionerate on May 8 for the alleged assault of a 17-year-old girl. Police had arrested Bageerath on May 16 on the outskirts of Hyderabad after the High Court had declined to give interim protection from arrest. Bandi Sanjay, however, had claimed that his son surrendered before police. Bageerath had earlier secured one week's bail from the trial court to appear for his exams, from June 22 to June 24. He surrendered before the Cherlapally prison authorities on June 25 in compliance with the bail conditions. On a complaint by the victim's mother, the case was booked under Section 11 read with 12 of the POCSO Act and Sections 74 and 75 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The victim's mother had lodged a complaint that Bageerath, who was in a relationship with her, subjected her to sexual harassment. The accused also lodged a counter-complaint in Karimnagar, alleging that the girl's family attempted to extort Rs 5 crore by threatening to implicate him in a false case. After the investigating officer recorded the victim's statement, the police invoked Section 5(1), read with Section 6, of the POCSO Act. The section deals with aggravated penetrative sexual assault and carries a punishment that may extend up to 20 years’ imprisonment or more. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) had also questioned Bageerath based on statements recorded during the course of investigation and digital evidence."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agVw86YofJOwHPVr_bandibhageernath.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T12:29:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"bandi-bhagirath-gets-bail"}}]},"politics":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Kavitha: BRS got 1,400cr as quid pro quo"},"content":{"text":"Telangana Rakshana Sena (TRS) chief K. Kavitha on Thursday alleged that the Rs 1,400 crore in the bank accounts of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) came from \"quid pro quo\" deals. She demanded that BRS distribute the money to Telangana martyrs' families. Addressing workers of Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) in Kothagudem, Kavitha also launched a scathing attack on her brother, BRS working president K. T. Rama Rao (KTR), and her cousin, former minister T. Harish Rao, accusing them of corruption. BRS president and former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao's daughter ruled out her return to the BRS. \"As long as I am alive, I will not join BRS.\" She claimed that Rs 1,400 crore in the BRS party's bank accounts came from Andhra contractors through \"quid pro quo\". Stating that it is corruption money, she said the BRS should distribute it to the families of Telangana martyrs. She said the party should give Rs 1 crore each to the families of martyrs. Kavitha alleged that KTR committed corruption through a quid pro quo deal with a construction company. Accusing Harish Rao of corruption in the Kaleshwaram project, she called him 'Anaconda'. She said despite his involvement in corruption, the party was still pushing him forward. She remarked that BRS can never improve and it can never come back to power. She accused Harish Rao's company of supplying milk to Sri Chaitanya educational institutions. She demanded that the government should make it mandatory for all private educational institutions with more than 500 students to procure milk from Vijaya Dairy. The TRS leader said that if her party comes to power, it will review all land allotted by both the BRS and state governments to Andhra contractors. \"Every square yard of such land will be taken back,\" she said. She accused BRS of hatching conspiracies to ensure that her party does not get the TRS acronym. On statements by BRS leaders that they are not afraid of her party, she asked if this was true, why did they file over 1,000 complaints with the Election Commission of India? Kavitha demanded that dependent jobs in Singareni Collieries Company Limited be cleared by conducting medical board meetings twice a month. She said the government should make a clear announcement in this regard, failing which she would launch a hunger strike."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ad8xZZ1ZCF7ETMwa_kavitha.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T11:50:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"kavitha-brs-got-1400cr-as-quid-pro-quo"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"BRS Picks Ravichandra as PP Leader"},"content":{"text":"Telangana's Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has appointed its Rajya Sabha member, Vaddiraju Ravichandra, as the leader of the BRS Parliamentary Party.  BRS President Kalvakuntla Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) appointed Ravichandra as the leader of the BRS Parliamentary Party and BRS floor leader in the Rajya Sabha. K.R. Suresh Reddy, who was heading the Parliamentary Party, recently completed his term as a Rajya Sabha member. Ravichandra was previously serving as the deputy leader of BRS Parliamentary Party. KCR had sent Ravichandra to the Rajya Sabha for a second term in recognition of the services he rendered to the party and to the Backward Classes and Bahujan communities, the BRS said in a release. Ravichandra was originally selected for a Rajya Sabha nomination in 2022 to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Dr Banda Prakash Mudiraj, who was moved to the Legislative Council. After Ravichandra’s term ended in April 2024, KCR re-nominated him to the Rajya Sabha for the second term. He was subsequently named deputy leader of the BRS Parliamentary Party. Ravichandra's term as Rajya Sabha member ends in April 2030. He currently serves as a member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Coal and Mines. Following his appointment as BRS parliamentary party leader, Ravichandra conveyed his heartfelt thanks to BRS President KCR and Working President K.T. Rama Rao for naming him as the Parliamentary Party leader. Expressing happiness at being appointed as the Parliamentary Party leader, in addition to being sent to the Rajya Sabha twice, he said that he humbly accepts this significant responsibility. He pledged to powerfully voice the concerns of the people of Telangana in the Parliament and vowed to work tirelessly to further strengthen the party and ensure KCR becomes the Chief Minister for a historic third term. Following Suresh Reddy’s retirement, the BRS currently has three members in the Rajya Sabha – Ravichandra, D. Damodar Rao and Dr Bandi Parthasaradhi Reddy. The BRS has no representation in the Lok Sabha as it drew a blank in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/lG3E3dQz-XKNL81x_ravichandra.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T10:20:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"brs-picks-ravichandra-as-pp-leader"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Bandi Bhagirath Gets Bail"},"content":{"text":"The Telangana High Court on Thursday granted bail to Bandi Sai Bageerath, son of Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, in a POCSO case. Pronouncing its orders on the bail petition, the High Court granted conditional bail. The court directed him to cooperate with the police in the investigation. He was also directed to furnish a bond of Rs 1 lakh along with two sureties. After hearing arguments from both sides, the High Court reserved orders on Monday. A case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was registered against Bandi Bageerath at Pet Basheerabad Police Station of Cyberabad Commissionerate on May 8 for the alleged assault of a 17-year-old girl. Police had arrested Bageerath on May 16 on the outskirts of Hyderabad after the High Court had declined to give interim protection from arrest. Bandi Sanjay, however, had claimed that his son surrendered before police. Bageerath had earlier secured one week's bail from the trial court to appear for his exams, from June 22 to June 24. He surrendered before the Cherlapally prison authorities on June 25 in compliance with the bail conditions. On a complaint by the victim's mother, the case was booked under Section 11 read with 12 of the POCSO Act and Sections 74 and 75 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The victim's mother had lodged a complaint that Bageerath, who was in a relationship with her, subjected her to sexual harassment. The accused also lodged a counter-complaint in Karimnagar, alleging that the girl's family attempted to extort Rs 5 crore by threatening to implicate him in a false case. After the investigating officer recorded the victim's statement, the police invoked Section 5(1), read with Section 6, of the POCSO Act. The section deals with aggravated penetrative sexual assault and carries a punishment that may extend up to 20 years’ imprisonment or more. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) had also questioned Bageerath based on statements recorded during the course of investigation and digital evidence."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agVw86YofJOwHPVr_bandibhageernath.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T12:29:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"bandi-bhagirath-gets-bail"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"River swallows 3,000 LPG cylinders"},"content":{"text":"Around 3,000 LPG cylinders were swept away by floodwaters after a protective wall at the HPCL Patalganga LPG Bottling Plant in Maharashtra's Raigad district collapsed following heavy rainfall. Videos circulating on social media showed hundreds of gas cylinders floating in the swollen Patalganga River, drawing large crowds of onlookers who recorded the unusual sight from a nearby bridge. According to officials, relentless rainfall caused the plant's protective boundary wall to give way, allowing floodwaters to enter the facility. The powerful current carried away thousands of LPG cylinders, which were washed into the Patalganga River and Kharpada Creek. The district administration said some of the cylinders may still contain LPG, prompting authorities to issue a public safety advisory. Amazed citizens were seen recording visuals of the floating cylinders from a bridge. Raigad Collector Kishan Javle urged residents not to touch, collect, or attempt to use any cylinders found floating in the river or washed ashore. He appealed to citizens to immediately inform the authorities or hand over the cylinders to designated collection points. Residents can deposit the recovered cylinders directly at the HPCL plant, any nearby HPCL dealer, the Tehsildar Office in Khalapur, the Tehsildar Office in the concerned area, or the office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO). The administration has advised people against storing the cylinders in their homes or handling them without proper safety measures. \"There is no guarantee whether the cylinders washed into the river contain gas or whether they are in a safe condition. Picking them up, opening them, or taking them home out of curiosity or for use could be extremely dangerous,\" the collector said. Heavy rainfall has continued to batter several parts of Maharashtra over the past week, triggering floods, waterlogging, and overflowing rivers. Raigad remains among the worst-hit districts, with widespread flooding affecting normal life and prompting authorities to remain on high alert."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/26dKTJPWA78VkgHS_LPGcylinders.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T04:51:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"river-swallows-3000-lpg-cylinders"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"US: Bishnoi ran global gang from jail"},"content":{"text":"US prosecutors have alleged that jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi directed a sprawling international criminal enterprise from an Indian prison, using contraband mobile phones and internet-based communications to oversee murders, extortion, drug trafficking and other crimes across several countries. The allegations are contained in a federal racketeering indictment unsealed on Tuesday (local time) as part of 'Operation Hard Ball', a multinational crackdown targeting three organised crime groups accused of operating across North America, Europe and elsewhere. According to the indictment, Bishnoi transformed what began as a student network in Punjab into a transnational organised crime syndicate after abandoning campus politics. \"While enrolled in university in the early 2010s, defendant BISHNOI styled himself as a student leader and developed a network of associates and followers. Defendant BISHNOI soon thereafter traded campus politics for criminal activity, and refashioned his associates and followers into a criminal organisation,\" the indictment states. Although arrested by Indian authorities in 2015, prosecutors allege Bishnoi continued to lead the organisation from prison. The indictment says he used \"contraband cellphones and other voice over internet protocol devices smuggled into his jail cell\" to direct \"political assassinations, murders, shootings, extortions, kidnappings, drug trafficking, human smuggling, and other crimes\" carried out by members of the organisation worldwide. US authorities allege the organisation expanded well beyond India, establishing networks across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia, with thousands of members and associates worldwide, including hundreds in the United States and Canada. The indictment also alleges Bishnoi carefully cultivated a public image to recruit followers. \"In public, defendant BISHNOI projected an image of himself as a 'patriot,' 'nationalist,' and deeply religious individual.\" Prosecutors allege he used social media posts and media interviews to recruit members in India, the United States and elsewhere. Investigators alleged that the organisation recruited vulnerable young people, particularly in Punjab. According to the indictment, the group recruited \"primarily from vulnerable, disadvantaged populations in India,\" often targeting minors from impoverished areas by promising money, notoriety and protection. Loyal members were allegedly sent to countries including the United States and Canada on student and foreign worker visas, sometimes using fraudulent information. US prosecutors further allege that the organisation deliberately maintained a decentralised structure so that lower-ranking members knew little about one another, making the network more resilient and limiting its exposure if members were arrested.  They also allege members were threatened with violence against themselves or relatives in India if they cooperated with law enforcement or attempted to leave the organisation. The indictment accuses Bishnoi of leading a criminal enterprise engaged in targeted killings, extortion, narcotics trafficking and human smuggling, while using high-profile acts of violence to build the organisation's reputation and intimidate victims in India and among Indian diaspora communities abroad.  Prosecutors also allege profits from criminal activities were shared across the network and channelled back to members in India."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/c2cdd08b-a8e5-45a9-9df2-d45a54e45c94_bishnoi.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T05:14:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"us-bishnoi-ran-global-gang-from-jail"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Search called off, 6 Andhra fishermen feared dead?"},"content":{"text":"Authorities have called off the search operation for six fishermen who went missing off the coast of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, after their boat capsized on July 4, dashing the hopes of finding them alive.  The fishermen remained untraced after a four-day-long search and rescue operation by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. The authorities now presume the missing fishermen dead on the basis of information given by a fisherman, who was rescued by a cargo ship on Sunday. The search operation, involving two ships and two helicopters of the Coast Guard, continued till Tuesday midnight, but all efforts by the search teams involved proved futile.   State Minister Kollu Ravindra told media persons after consoling the families of missing fishermen and distributing ex gratia of Rs 10 lakh each that since no trace of the missing fishermen was found even after extensive search for more than 72 hours, they are presumed dead. A group of seven fishermen belonging to Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam districts had left in a boat for fishing from Visakhapatnam Fishing Harbour on July 1. The boat developed mechanical failure and capsized on Saturday while they were returning to the coast. One of them was rescued by the crew of a merchant vessel, and he reached the coast on Monday. With the search operation being called off, the state government announced financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh each for the families of the six fishermen. A pall of gloom descended on the families of the fishermen, who were hoping for their safe return. The fishermen had set off for fishing on July 1. As the sea conditions turned rough due to a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal, their families contacted them over mobile phones to alert them. The fishermen told their families they would return to the coast by the afternoon of July 4. As they did not return and their mobile phones were found switched off, anxious families alerted the Coast Guard and Marine Police. Kari Chinna, who owns the missing fishing boat, was rescued by the Panama-flagged merchant vessel 'MV Universe Wealthy' on Sunday.  The Indian Navy airlifted him from the vessel to INS Dega on Monday evening. He was later shifted to KIMS ICON Hospital. According to doctors, he is in stable condition. Doctors quoted him as saying the boat capsized on Saturday at 3.30 p.m. He kept swimming to save himself and remained in the sea for about 18 hours before he was rescued by the crew of a merchant vessel around 9 a.m. on Sunday. Meanwhile, Minister for Excise and Mines Kollu Ravindra, along with MLAs Vamsi Krishna Yadav and Lokam Madhavi, Visakhapatnam District Collector Abhijit Kishore, and Fisheries Commissioner Rama Shankar Naik, handed over cheques worth Rs 10 lakh each to the families of six fishermen. The minister and other officials presented cheques comprising Rs 5 lakh from the Fisheries Department and another Rs 5 lakh from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Kinjarapu Atchannaidu, stated that the agony, anxiety, and uncertainty currently being endured by the families of the missing fishermen are deeply distressing. "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/bfNG57KM1T4SD-KT_fisherman.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T05:43:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"search-called-off-6-andhra-fishermen-feared-dead"}}]},"entertainment":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Jana Nayagan' Passes Censor Test"},"content":{"text":"The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has finally cleared  director H Vinoth's eagerly awaited action entertainer 'Jana Nayagan', which also happens to be Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay's last film as an actor, for release with an 'A' certificate.  Although the makers of the film are yet to make an official announcement in this regard, well known film producer and distributor Dhananjheyan took to his X timeline to share a copy of the Censor certificate. He wrote, \"#JanaNayagan finally got the censor certificate and will be releasing soon . What a relief to @KvnProductions & Tamil Cinema to bring out the most expected film of our #ThalaivarVijay sir, one last time on big screen.\" While the film's release date is yet to be officially announced by KVN Productions, the firm that has produced the film, sources in the industry claim that the makers were likely to release the film on July 24.  It may be recalled that IANS had, quoting sources, reported earlier that that the issue pertaining to receiving a clearance from the Censor Board was likely to be resolved shortly and that the makers of the film were considering the possibility of releasing the film in July itself.  For the unaware, the film had triggered huge interest as it was Vijay's last film as an actor before he turned a full-time politician. It was originally scheduled for release for the festival of Pongal in January this year. However, its release had to be postponed after the film, which was sent to the Censor Board for clearance, was referred to a Revising Committee under Rule 24 of the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules. The Censor Board has now cleared the film, which was submitted to it for clearance in December last year. Directed by H. Vinoth, 'Jana Nayagan' boasts a powerful ensemble cast featuring Vijay, Bobby Deol, Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju, Prakash Raj, and Gautham Vasudev Menon. KVN Productions, while announcing their decision to postpone the release of Jana Nayagan in January this year, had said,\"It is with a heavy heart that we share this update with our valued stakeholders and audiences. The release of 'Jana Nayagan', eagerly awaited on January 9, has been postponed due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control.\" The production house had further said, \"We deeply understand the anticipation, excitement, and emotions surrounding this film, and this decision has not been an easy one for any of us. The new release date will be announced at the earliest.Until then, we humbly request your patience and continued love. Your unwavering support is our greatest strength and means everything to the entire Jana Nayagan team.\""},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/g6IjorhsC7WfZtww_jana.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T12:58:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"jana-nayagan-passes-censor-test"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Fauji' Shoot Lands in Trouble"},"content":{"text":"The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has written a letter to the CM of Telangana, Revanth Reddy requesting for a high-level investigation into the incident at the shooting of ‘Fauji’ set at Ramoji Film City, which impacted the health of actor Rajesh Sharma. The body has asked to conduct an investigation to ascertain workplace safety, hygiene and emergency medical protocols and to identify any negligence on the part of the producer. They wrote, “Actor Rajesh Sharma's health reportedly deteriorated severely during the shooting schedule, following which he travelled to Kolkata and was admitted to a private hospital for medical treatment, The circumstances that led to such a serious medical emergency remain unclear and warrant an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation”. They further mentioned, “The seriousness of the incident has become even more alarming in view of the latest medical update.. Rajesh Sharma remains under close medical observation and is reportedly still not out of danger. Considering the gravity of his condition, AICWA believes that a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances that led to this medical emergency during the shooting of Fauji is absolutely essential. If Actor Rajesh Sharma's condition became so serious during the shoot, why was he not immediately admitted to one of Hyderabad's leading hospitals by the producer and production house? Was adequate emergency medical assistance available on the set? Were all mandatory health, hygiene and workplace safety protocols being followed? What exactly happened at the shooting location that resulted in his health deteriorating to such an alarming extent? The film industry has a legal and moral responsibility to provide a safe, hygienic and medically prepared working environment for every artist, technician and worker”. Actor Rajesh Sharma is currently hospitalized after reportedly suffering a suspected insect bite while shooting for Prabhas' upcoming film Fauji at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. “Workers and technicians frequently hesitate to speak openly due to fear of losing their employment or facing professional consequences. Such an atmosphere prevents transparency and accountability.  The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) demands that the Honourable Chief Minister of Telangana, Shri Revanth Reddy, order an immediate high-level investigation into the incident at the Fauji shooting set at Ramoji Film City. The investigation must determine the exact cause of actor Rajesh Sharma's medical emergency, examine whether all workplace safety, hygiene and emergency medical protocols were followed, and identify any. negligence on the part of the producer, production house or any other responsible authority. If any lapse or negligence is found, strict legal action must be taken against all those responsible without delay”, they added."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/NzB3x11VNxfB7dOy_fauzi.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T14:35:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"fauji-shoot-lands-in-trouble"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Rahman's sweet 'Bro' moment"},"content":{"text":"AR Rahman has welcomed Sonu Nigam to his studio to sing a track for the upcoming film “Batwara 1947”. The Oscar-winner even asked a question about how the National Award-winning singer can sound so romantic.  Rahman took X, formerly called Twitter, where he expressed his excitement on having Sonu Nigam on board for the song “On Tabassum” for the upcoming film, directed by Rajkumar Santoshi. “Thrilled to have #Sonunigam back in our studios to sing #OhTabassum melody from the movie #Batwara1947 Written by @Javedakhtarjadu ..Directed by @RajSantoshi and produced by @AKPPL_Official #Aamirkhan ..Bro..how can you sound so Romantic?,” Rahman wrote. The details around the film are still underwraps. The film, which stars Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta, Ali Fazal and Shabana Azmi, was earlier titled “Lahore 1947”. The film marks Sunny’s reunion with Santoshi after films such as ‘Ghayal’ and ‘Damini’. The narrative is reportedly adapted from Asghar Wajahat’s acclaimed play ‘Jis Lahore Nai Dekhya, O Jamyai Nai’, which examines Partition not through large-scale politics, but through intimate human relationships fractured by communal violence and displacement. The story reportedly centres on a Hindu family forced to migrate from Lahore to India, who are allotted a haveli vacated by a Muslim family, only to discover an elderly Muslim woman still living inside. Sonu Nigam’s performances include a wide range of genres, like classical music, devotional music, ghazals, qawwali, rock and pop music, among others. He has recorded over 6,000 songs in more than 32 languages throughout his career. He started his career in early 1990s. His first song for a film was \"O Aasmanwale\" from Aaja Meri Jaan in 1993. He gained recognition with TV serial song \"Hum To Chhaila Ban Gaye\" from Talash and later for songs \"Accha Sila Diya\", \"Sandese Aate Hai\" and \"Yeh Dil Deewana\". His album Deewana in 1999 became popular. He made his acting debut as an adult in 2002 with Jaani Dushman: Ek Anokhi Kahani, a fantasy action thriller film directed by Rajkumar Kohli."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aW5tMgIvOtkhBt0M_rahman.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T03:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rahmans-sweet-bro-moment"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Rashmika’s Underwater Mission Complete"},"content":{"text":"The makers of director Rawindra Pulle's eagerly awaited action thriller 'Mysaa', featuring actress Rashmika Mandanna in the lead, have now disclosed that the unit has completed shooting a crucial underwater sequence featuring Rashmika.    Taking to his Instagram stories section, producer Ajay Saipureddy wrote, \"It's a wrap for the exciting underwater sequence with Rashmika Mandanna.\" The film was in the news just a few days back when director Rawindra Pulle posted a picture of him sporting a shirt bearing Rashmika's hand imprints on social media, saying, \"The blood marks are on their way\". Unformula Films, the production house producing the film, for its part, had said, \"Signed in mud. Remembered in blood. #MYSAA shoot in progress with #RashmikaMandanna, bringing raw emotion, grit and brilliance to the screen like never before. In cinemas this 2026.\" Rashmika, while responding to this post of her director, jokingly remarked, \"We should have also mixed some blood and umber powder in this beautiful art of mine! Next time for sure!@rawindrapulle @unformulafilms.\" Taking to his Instagram stories section, Rawindra Pulle shared a picture of the sets of the song and wrote, \"#Mysaa song pack up.\" The song, which features Rashmika, has been choreographed by well known dance choreographer Brinda. The film has generated excitement among fans ever since it was first announced. In fact, in May this year, the film was in the news when actress Rashmika Mandanna disclosed that the unit had successfully wrapped up a long schedule in Kerala. Taking to her Instagram page to share pictures of the unit that worked in Kerala, Rashmika wrote, \"Guys, a little update is that we successfully wrapped up a long schedule for #Mysaa in Kerala!!\" She went on to say, \"And these were some of the darlings who worked so so hard and made it all possible. Thank you guys and I'll see you soon again on set.\" nces for this film which were shot in this schedule. Rashmika is believed to have performed some high intensity action sequences during this schedule along with key actors in the film."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2Fb03af4db-5713-41e6-8e44-4053814edf79_rashmika.jpg?auto=format,compress&rect=0,54,1200,592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T02:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rashmikas-underwater-mission-complete"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Payal Rejects Glam Expectations"},"content":{"text":"Tollywood actress Payal Rajput has firmly addressed the misconceptions surrounding her newly launched Instagram subscription channel, making it clear that the platform is not meant for sensational or explicit content. As more celebrities introduce exclusive subscription spaces to connect with their fans, Payal found herself at the center of online speculation, prompting her to issue a candid clarification. Through a heartfelt message, she urged people to understand the real purpose behind the initiative rather than believing misleading social media narratives. Payal revealed that she has been flooded with messages from fans asking what kind of exclusive content they can expect after subscribing. Responding to the curiosity, she emphasized that anyone joining the channel expecting glamorous or \"hot\" pictures would only end up disappointed. She stressed that her subscription platform is not designed to cater to such expectations. Instead, it is intended to offer followers a closer look at her life beyond the camera, featuring authentic, unfiltered moments, behind-the-scenes experiences, personal thoughts, and glimpses into her everyday journey that rarely make it to her public social media feed. The actress further explained that the subscription space is dedicated to those who genuinely appreciate her as a person rather than merely her on-screen image. Payal expressed gratitude to fans who respect her personal boundaries and support her career with sincerity and understanding. She reiterated that the platform is built on trust, authenticity, and meaningful interaction, hoping it will create a stronger and more genuine connection with admirers who value her individuality beyond glamour."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2Fa379108c-a8b8-4cce-850d-a529b22a13ad_payal+rajput+%2812%29.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C30%2C1357%2C669&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T06:03:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"payal-rejects-glam-expectations"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Cinema Wasn't Dhanush's Choice!"},"content":{"text":"Director and actor Kasthuri Raja, who is also the father of ace Tamil actor, director and producer Dhanush, has now disclosed that Dhanush did not come to cinema willingly and that until his fifth or sixth film, he was pleading with him to let him get out of it.  Participating in the pre release event of Love Oh Love, in which his grandson Pavish plays the lead, Kasthuri Raja said, \"Among the three directors in my family, It was only Selvaraghavan (Dhanush's elder brother) who came to cinema willingly. Dhanush did not like cinema. Until he completed five or six films, he did not like cinema. When I made 'Thulluvadho Ilamai', he would keep telling me, 'Dad, let me go. I will leave.' He would cry before the shot while shooting for Thulluvadho Illamai.\" \"Selvaraghavan, on the other hand, is the most educated among the members of my family. He is a medallist. He is a mechanical engineer. I was very particular that my children must not come to cinema. Therefore, I would not even take them to preview shows even. I was very strict,\" Kasthuri Raja said.  \"However, when Selvaraghavan was in his second year in college, he came to me one day and said that he did not want to go to college and that he wanted to enter cinema,\" Kasthuri Raja disclosed.  Kasthuri Raja said he then pointed out to Selvaraghavan the trouble his mother had undergone to get him the college seat. \"I told him that cinema had been there before me, it was there during my time now and that it would be there after my time but a college degree was not like that and that if he lost the opportunity to get a degree now, he may not get it again. I lied to him that if he got his degree, I would get him into cinema. Selvaraghavan agreed to complete his education and did so.\" Director Kasthuri Raja also spoke highly of the film unit of 'Love Oh Love'. He said, \"The true strength of a good film lies in the trust and harmony shared between its producer, director, and actors. Watching the producers of Love Oh Love present a gift to their director even before the film's release reflects the mutual respect and affection within the team. It's equally remarkable how efficiently the film has progressed—from its pooja ceremony to theatrical release in such a short span. I wholeheartedly appreciate the producers, director, and the entire team for their commitment and discipline. Both Pavish and Naga Durga have brought youthful energy, sincerity, and natural performances that beautifully complement the film.” "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/16326b96-c69e-4d85-918e-7bcfce6157b8_dhanush.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T09:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"cinema-wasnt-dhanushs-choice"}}]},"tech":{"edges":[]},"fashion":{"edges":[]},"business":{"edges":[]},"health":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"How Smoking Hurts Pregnancy!"},"content":{"text":"When planning to start a family, many couples focus on preparing for pregnancy by discussing nursery plans and choosing baby names. However, what often goes unnoticed is the detrimental impact of smoking on fertility and pregnancy. Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that can damage reproductive cells in both men and women, making it harder to conceive and increasing the risk of pregnancy complications and poor outcomes for babies.  Dr. Vandana Bhatia, a Senior Fertility Specialist, emphasizes that smoking silently affects fertility, pregnancy, and the long-term development of the child. Both partners play a crucial role in protecting fertility as smoking can reduce sperm count, affect sperm movement, and damage egg quality, hormone levels, and ovarian reserve. Additionally, passive smoking also poses risks to fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Quitting smoking as a couple not only improves motivation and emotional support but also encourages healthier habits, leading to improved fertility and overall health.  The quality of eggs and sperm before conception significantly influences the health of the future child, making it essential for both parents to quit smoking before starting a family. Dr. Bhatia recommends practical steps for quitting smoking together, emphasizing that healthy choices are crucial in building a healthy family. Parenthood begins with the quiet promise of choosing health together, even before the first heartbeat is heard on an ultrasound."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/akDOG1bRV8_Qf8Cd_smokefertility.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-27T19:33:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"how-smoking-hurts-pregnancy"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Even 1% Sleep Loss Could Heighten Dementia Risk"},"content":{"text":"A recent study published in JAMA Neurology has shed light on the potential link between minimal sleep loss and an increased risk of dementia. The research suggests that as little as a 1% reduction in deep sleep per year for individuals over 60 could translate to a 27% elevated risk of developing dementia. Deep sleep, also known as slow-wave sleep, plays a crucial role in the body's repair processes and the clearance of toxic proteins associated with dementia.  Associate Professor Matthew Pase from Monash University's Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health emphasized the significance of deep sleep in supporting the aging brain and facilitating the removal of metabolic waste, including proteins linked to Alzheimer's disease. The study, which drew from the Framingham Heart Study, examined 346 participants over 60 years of age, tracking their sleep patterns and dementia development over a 17-year period. Even after adjusting for various factors, including age, genetic predisposition, and medication use, the findings consistently pointed to a 27% increased dementia risk for each percentage decrease in deep sleep annually.  It's important to note that the natural decline in deep sleep with age is gradual, peaking between 75 and 80 years old and then stabilizing. However, the cumulative effect of a 27% increase per percentage-point decrease underscores the long-term impact on dementia risk. While there's no straightforward solution to preserving deep sleep, maintaining consistent sleep schedules, avoiding alcohol before bedtime, creating a conducive sleep environment, and addressing conditions like sleep apnea can potentially support better sleep quality. Additionally, regular exercise has been linked to improved slow-wave sleep in older adults. Although these measures aren't a guarantee, the study highlights the importance of prioritizing deep sleep for brain health as individuals age."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/50a54145-f24c-4c83-80b9-e6d19ba52027_sleep.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-25T06:59:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"even-1-sleep-loss-could-heighten-dementia-risk"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Is Your Soda Habit Causing Hair Loss?"},"content":{"text":"Are your beloved sodas harming your hair? While soft drinks have long been criticized for their impact on weight, diabetes, and heart health, a new concern has emerged regarding their potential effects on hair. The discussion gained traction after hair transplant surgeon Dr. Abhishek Pilani highlighted the issue on Raj Shamani's Figuring Out podcast.  According to Dr. Pilani, regular consumption of sugary cold drinks may create conditions within the body that are not conducive to healthy hair growth. While consuming one soda is unlikely to cause sudden hair loss, a study published in the journal Nutrients in 2023 found a link between higher consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and male-pattern hair loss in young men. However, it's essential to note that the study established a correlation, not causation. The potential connection between soft drinks and hair health lies in the impact of high-sugar beverages on overall health.  Excessive sugar consumption can lead to repeated spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, potentially contributing to inflammation and metabolic issues that affect the body, including hair growth. However, hair loss is rarely attributed to a single factor and is typically the result of various elements accumulating over time, including genetics, hormones, nutrition, lifestyle, and overall health. Healthy hair growth relies on a balanced intake of nutrients such as iron, protein, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins. While soft drinks don't directly deplete these nutrients, excessive consumption may lead to healthier options being replaced.  The concern lies in long-term habits rather than occasional consumption. The normal range of daily hair loss is between 50 and 100 strands, but concerns arise when lost hairs aren't adequately replaced. While soft drinks may not directly cause hair loss, their impact on overall health could potentially affect hair growth. Instead of fixating on individual cans of soda, experts emphasize the importance of considering overall lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress management, balanced nutrition, and reduced sugar intake. Ultimately, addressing concerns about hair health may begin with dietary and lifestyle adjustments."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aDbfAydWJ-7kSniS_jucessoda.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T18:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"is-your-soda-habit-causing-hair-loss"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Recognizing the Early Signs of Ovarian Cancer"},"content":{"text":"Ovarian cancer is a significant concern for women in India, being the third most common cancer among them. However, many women with ovarian cancer often experience symptoms for several months before receiving a proper diagnosis. In India, a staggering 70 to 80 percent of ovarian cancer patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, mainly because the early signs are easily mistaken for other health issues. Oncologists have dubbed ovarian cancer as a 'silent disease' due to its subtle progression without clear, alarming symptoms.  Dr. Sampada Desai, a Consultant Gynaecological Cancer and Robotic Surgeon, emphasizes that ovarian cancer does not remain silent but instead 'whispers' through nonspecific symptoms such as upper abdominal discomfort, bloating, feeling full too early, and digestive problems, which are often mistaken for other conditions. Persistent bloating and extreme fullness even after consuming small portions of food, coupled with lower abdominal or pelvic pain, should prompt a visit to the doctor. Changes in menstrual patterns, irregular bleeding, or any bleeding post-menopause also warrant attention.  It is crucial for individuals experiencing these symptoms to keep a record for a month and consult a gynecologic oncologist if any symptoms persist for more than two weeks or occur frequently. Women with a family history of ovarian, breast, or colon cancer should be particularly vigilant, as they have a higher genetic predisposition to cancer. Early detection is key, as there are no routine screening tests for ovarian cancer. Clinical examination, ultrasonography, and blood tests may be part of the evaluation for potential ovarian cancer. Recognizing the subtle signs and listening to the 'whisper' of ovarian cancer may significantly aid in early detection and improved survival rates."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aigpQAeQX7-eXEpI_overaincancer.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-08T18:42:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"recognizing-the-early-signs-of-ovarian-cancer"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"How Thyroid Health Affects Fertility"},"content":{"text":"For women trying to conceive, the road to pregnancy can be fraught with challenges. While the reasons for delayed conception may not always be obvious, thyroid health could be a significant factor. As the world marks World Thyroid Day on May 25, experts emphasize the often overlooked influence of hypothyroidism on reproductive health. Dr. Alimileti Jhansi Rani, a Fertility Specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF Hyderabad, stresses the critical role of the thyroid in reproductive health.  Research has shown that hypothyroidism can disrupt ovulation, menstruation, and hormonal regulation, leading to fertility struggles and potential complications during pregnancy. It's important to note that even 'normal' thyroid levels may not be ideal for conception, with specialists recommending optimized levels for fertility. Treatment and lifestyle changes, including medication, proper nutrition, stress management, and monitoring menstrual and ovulation patterns, can significantly improve the chances of conception.  Additionally, testing for thyroid antibodies can provide valuable insights, especially for women facing recurrent miscarriages or fertility challenges. Understanding the impact of thyroid health on fertility and seeking timely medical guidance can save valuable time for women struggling to conceive."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/1c687669-969a-426e-b643-acc2ccc20607_thyroid.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-25T06:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"how-thyroid-health-affects-fertility"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Shortness of Breath? Take It Seriously"},"content":{"text":"Feeling winded when doing everyday tasks like climbing stairs may seem normal, but according to Dr. Rajesh Rajani, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, it can be a red flag for an underlying heart problem. Many people dismiss breathlessness as a sign of aging or lack of fitness, but this could be dangerous thinking. The gradual decline in your ability to perform tasks without getting breathless may go unnoticed, leading to delayed diagnosis of potential heart issues.  Dr. Rajani warns that breathlessness should not be normalized, as it could indicate serious heart conditions such as blocked arteries, heart valve disease, irregular heart rhythms, or weakening of the heart muscles. Recognizing and evaluating these symptoms early can help identify underlying health risks and prevent more serious complications later. It's crucial not to make excuses for these symptoms and to seek medical advice if you experience increasing shortness of breath.  This article provides insights from Dr. Rajesh Rajani, shedding light on why breathlessness should not be ignored and how it can signify an underlying heart condition."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agwbIKYofJOwHWqT_breath.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-18T18:56:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"dont-ignore-it-when-shortness-of-breath-signals-a-serious-health-concern-mpcc9z9u"}}]},"nri":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Telangana Techie’s Murder Plot Exposed"},"content":{"text":"A shocking murder case involving a Telangana software engineer has taken a dramatic turn in the United States, where police arrested a man nearly nine months after the death of his wife. The accused, 30-year-old Avinash Narne, allegedly strangled his wife, Rajitha Sabbineni, before attempting to stage the incident as a mysterious death. Investigators say the arrest came after months of painstaking forensic and digital investigation that uncovered crucial evidence linking him to the crime. The couple, both software professionals from Telangana, had been living in Washington after their marriage, which had lasted only six months. In October last year, Avinash called Bellevue police claiming that his wife had locked herself inside the bathroom and was not responding. When officers forced open the door, they found Rajitha lying lifeless on the floor. An autopsy later confirmed that she had died due to strangulation, leading authorities to register a homicide case. Although investigators initially suspected Avinash, the lack of concrete evidence allowed him to remain free while the investigation continued. Over the following months, detectives pieced together digital records, call logs, and other forensic evidence that ultimately pointed to Avinash as the prime suspect. According to investigators, he had been involved in an extramarital relationship with a woman in India even before his marriage, and the relationship reportedly continued afterward. Police believe this affair may have been the motive behind the killing. Officials also revealed that Avinash had contacted the woman multiple times on the day of the murder and even shared a photograph of his wife's body with her the following day. During questioning, he allegedly confessed to the crime, bringing a tragic case to a decisive conclusion after months of investigation."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/0M2P9OVRV_jQsTSD_TStechie.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T01:47:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"telangana-techies-murder-plot-exposed"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"US launches major H-1B fraud probe"},"content":{"text":"The Trump administration has launched its first major investigation into alleged fraud involving H-1B and PERM employment visas, with the US Labour Department's Inspector General saying investigators have already issued dozens of subpoenas as part of a sweeping probe into suspected labour trafficking and abuse of foreign worker programmes. Labour Department Inspector General Anthony D'Esposito said the investigation would be one of the most aggressive actions ever undertaken by an Inspector General's office against alleged foreign labour fraud. \"Without a doubt... we are gonna take an aggressive action, what we believe is probably the most aggressive action against foreign labour fraud by an Inspector General, this administration,\" D'Esposito told Fox News in an interview. \"We've already started to issue dozens of subpoenas.\" He said investigators would pursue every lead with support from the President Donald Trump administration and Vice President J.D. Vance's fraud task force. \"We are going to make sure that we track down every lead,\" D'Esposito said. He added that whistleblowers had raised concerns involving \"some of the biggest companies, like Cognizant,\" and said investigators would \"work side by side with the president and vice president's fraud task force\" as the inquiry moves forward. D'Esposito alleged that fraud involving foreign labour programmes is linked to wider criminal networks. \"This is another example where fraud is fueling violent crime,\" he said. \"Much of the visa and the human trafficking that we see when it comes to this foreign labour is tied to cartels, is tied to transnational gangs. And this is the work that we should be doing, not only to make America safe again, but to make America more affordable again.\" He also claimed that the alleged fraud extends beyond traditional labour-intensive industries. \"This is not just people working... in factories,\" D'Esposito said. \"These are people working in medical facilities, in doctors' offices that are actually putting people in harm's way. I mean, to the potential of causing death.\" He said investigators would examine cases involving factories, ports, hospitals and nursing facilities across the United States. The Inspector General said the probe is being coordinated with the Department of Justice and federal prosecutors. \"Fraudsters are gonna be hunted down. They are going to be investigated, they're going to be arrested, and they're going to be put behind bars,\" he said. D'Esposito also said the investigation is intended to ensure American workers are not displaced through abuse of employment-based visa programmes. He identified California, New York and Illinois among the states with the largest numbers of visa applicants. \"Our focus is we wanna make sure that we root out any fraud, waste and abuse in the visa programme to make sure that the American people... are not seeing their jobs taken away by foreigners or people who are gaming the system or financially benefiting from bringing these individuals into America and putting them into jobs that, quite frankly, they are not qualified to do,\" he said. The H-1B visa programme allows US employers to hire foreign professionals in speciality occupations requiring specialised knowledge. The programme is widely used by technology companies, consulting firms, healthcare providers, engineering companies and universities. Indian nationals have consistently accounted for the largest share of H-1B beneficiaries, making the programme particularly significant for India's information technology sector and skilled professionals seeking employment in the United States."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aNFVfZ5xUNkB0-bC_H1Bvisa.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T16:29:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"us-launches-major-h-1b-fraud-probe"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Andhra Student Killed in US Crash"},"content":{"text":"A tragic road accident in the United States has claimed the life of a young woman from Andhra Pradesh, cutting short her dreams of building a successful future abroad. Atluri Prasanna, a native of Mulapadu village in Ibrahimpatnam mandal of NTR district, lost her life in a devastating car crash in New York on July 5. The heartbreaking incident has left her family, friends, and hometown in deep shock, with many mourning the loss of a promising student who had recently completed her higher education. According to reports, Prasanna was travelling with two friends to a nearby temple when their vehicle came to a halt at a traffic signal. Moments later, another car speeding from behind crashed into their vehicle with tremendous force. The impact proved fatal, killing Prasanna and another young woman at the scene. A third occupant sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where treatment is currently underway. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision. Prasanna had recently graduated from Pace University in New York and was preparing to begin the next chapter of her life by searching for employment. Friends say she was determined to secure a good job and support her family after completing her studies. Her untimely death has shattered those dreams, leaving her loved ones devastated. Back in Mulapadu, grief has engulfed the village as relatives, neighbours, and well-wishers remember Prasanna as a bright and hardworking young woman whose life ended far too soon."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/b2lyL4hloDkVD2vl_prasanna.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-07T09:40:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"andhra-student-killed-in-us-crash"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Indian American leaders celebrate US at 250"},"content":{"text":"Prominent Indian American political leaders from across the ideological spectrum marked the United States' 250th Independence Day by reflecting on their immigrant roots, their families' journeys from India and their differing visions of America, while expressing gratitude for the opportunities the country has offered.  Former Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai recalled how his parents arrived in the United States in 1971 carrying little more than hope for a better future. \"$8 , a transistor radio, and an unshakeable belief in the American dream: that's what my parents brought with them in 1971,\" Pai wrote. \"We've lived that dream ever since. So grateful to the United States, this nation of freedom and opportunity. Happy 250th!\" Pai also looked back at another milestone in his public life, recalling a 2020 post in which he said he was looking forward to travelling to India with then President Donald Trump and other US officials \"and participating in bilateral meetings aimed at deepening the friendship between our two nations.\" Republican Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy tied the country's 250th anniversary to a personal celebration, marking both Independence Day and the fourth birthday of his son, Arjun. Calling July 4, 1776, \"the most important date in the history of our universe for human freedom and human flourishing,\" Ramaswamy said America's founding remained a defining moment for liberty. \"We know it was successful because here we are, 250 years later, living in a country that allows free Americans like you and me to dream big, to work hard, to take risks, sometimes fail, pick ourselves up and do it again, to raise our families, to pursue our calling, to worship as we see fit, to speak our minds,\" he said. He added that he was \"grateful to be a citizen of the greatest nation known to the history of man.\" Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna reflected on growing up as the son of Indian immigrants in Pennsylvania after his parents arrived in the United States in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Born during America's bicentenary in 1976, Khanna said the country's history shaped his understanding of its ideals. \"The founders would be amazed to see some of the progress we have made, the abolition of slavery, the empowering of women's rights, the ending of Jim Crow, the embrace of immigrants like my family from around the world,\" Khanna said. He argued that providing \"economic security and economic hope\" would allow Americans to \"all be for Team America.\" Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal recounted how her parents, while living in India and Indonesia, sent her alone to the United States at the age of 16 to pursue higher education. She said it took her 17 years, multiple degrees and \"an alphabet soup of visas\" before she became an American citizen. \"Today, as the Trump administration terrorises immigrants and severely restricts legal pathways to citizenship, we need to remember that our American identity is uniquely tied to immigration,\" Jayapal said. She called for \"real, humane immigration reform\" and urged Americans to commit to \"protecting the promise of America\" and \"building a more perfect union together.\" New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, who became a US citizen nearly a decade ago, also centred his Independence Day message on immigration and citizenship. Addressing newly naturalised Americans, he said they held \"the power to determine what America means\" and described patriotism as \"every act of righteous dissent.\" He added: \"It is precisely because we love this nation that we will not leave it.\" Despite representing sharply different political philosophies, the leaders' messages shared a common theme: each drew on a personal or family immigration story to explain their connection to the United States and what the country's founding ideals mean to them 250 years after independence. Indian Americans today number more than five million and have emerged as one of the fastest-growing and most influential immigrant communities in the United States. The United States marked its 250th Independence Day with celebrations across the country, including official ceremonies, military displays and community events. For many Indian Americans, the anniversary also became an occasion to reflect on the journeys that brought their families from India to the United States and on their growing contribution to the nation's political, economic and civic landscape."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/dLDOnpi_wpGbusJe_USAT250.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T01:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indian-american-leaders-celebrate-us-at-250"}}]},"videos":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Vadala' Movie Trailer"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/6ui925_N6cbCnzOH_vadala.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T07:25:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"vadala-movie-trailer"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"GDN's first single 'The Rise of GDN'"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/AEjUZPKBSqUxpWvj_GDN.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T13:20:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"gdns-first-single-the-rise-of-gdn"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Toxic Movie: Tabaahi Song"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/-rJBIT1SVp9-szmD_tabaahi.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T06:30:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"toxic-movie-tabaahi-song"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Nag Speech at Lenin Grand Pre-Release"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/XvBh3TK3w8IcgRgr_nagspeech.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T18:30:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"nag-speech-at-lenin-grand-pre-release"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Why Is Europe Baking?"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/cbc7cbe8-ede0-4641-bc31-8ce61dd824e7_heat+wave.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-01T06:43:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"why-is-europe-baking"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Lenin' Movie Trailer"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/lHByY5qo3LD7cDbD_lenin.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-01T05:27:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"lenin-movie-trailer"}}]},"editorial":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"AP: Will CBN's Deputy Become His Liability?"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/GDqJuG6kix8wMYYd_cbnpk.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T06:45:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"ap-will-cbns-deputy-become-his-liability"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"YSR's Legacy Remembered"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F57b23ca7-6747-4a7a-b48b-1e4dda04ed33_ysr+navodayum.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T06:36:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"ysrs-legacy-remembered"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Ayodhya's Kryptonite: Will Faith Defeat Propaganda?"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/wdAYM4uXFGvMyyah_ramtemple.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-08T09:05:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"ayodhyas-kryptonite-will-faith-defeat-propaganda"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"The \"Crush And Silence\" Symphony?"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/MrVteoMU3Hxvrh_e_raavanpkcbn.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-07T07:51:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"the-crush-and-silence-symphony"}}]},"gallery":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-06-27T18:04:47+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Aakankshaa Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Aakankshaa Glam Stills"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aj-0fFbRV8_Qf7sW_aakankshaa.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"aakankshaa-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-06-27T18:04:47+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Anasuya Bharadwaj Saree Pics"},"content":{"text":"Anasuya Bharadwaj is an Indian television presenter and actress who works in Telugu films and television. She has received two SIIMA Awards, an IIFA Utsavam Award and a Filmfare Award South for her performances in Kshanam and Rangasthalam."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aj-3gFbRV8_Qf7se_anasuya2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"anasuya-bharadwaj-saree-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-05-02T12:20:57+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Kajal Aggarwal Stunning Stills"},"content":{"text":"Kajal A Kitchlu, known professionally as Kajal Aggarwal, is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi films. Aggarwal is considered one of the highest paid actresses of South Indian cinema. She is a recipient of three SIIMA Awards and a Filmfare Award."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/afXrHcBOoF08xjQk_kajal2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"kajal-aggarwal-stunning-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-04-14T10:45:57+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Janhvi Kapoor Radiant Look Stills "},"content":{"text":"Janhvi Kapoor is an Indian actress who works predominantly in Hindi films. Born to film actress Sridevi and producer Boney Kapoor, she made her acting debut in 2018 with the romantic drama Dhadak, which was a commercial success."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ad3-7Z1ZCF7ETKag_janhvi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"janhvi-kapoor-radiant-look-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-04-02T15:03:07+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Nabha Natesh Glam Pics"},"content":{"text":"Nabha Natesh is an Indian actress and model who primarily appears in Telugu films. She made her debut with Kannada film Vajrakaya and later in Telugu with Nannu Dochukunduvate. She had her breakthrough with iSmart Shankar in 2019 due to which she is popularly referred as \"Ismart Beauty\" in the media."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ac6Er5GXnQHGZNWp_nabha2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"nabha-natesh-glam-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-29T11:03:07+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Nidhhi Agerwal Royal Blue Sari Stills"},"content":{"text":"Nidhhi Agerwal is an Indian actress who primarily works in Telugu and Tamil films. After participating in Miss Diva Universe 2014, Agerwal made her acting debut with the Hindi film Munna Michael, for which she received Zee Cine Award for Best Female Debut."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ackGR5GXnQHGZEvS_nidhhi2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"nidhhi-agerwal-royal-blue-sari-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-29T07:22:02+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rakul New Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Rakul Preet Singh is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Telugu, Hindi and Tamil films. She has won a South Indian International Movie Award, in addition to four nominations at the Filmfare Awards South. Singh made her acting debut with the Kannada film Gilli."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/acjShZGXnQHGZErj_RPS2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rakul-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-17T09:44:26+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rashi Khanna New Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Rashii Khanna (born 30 November 1990) is an Indian actress and playback singer who predominantly works in Telugu and Tamil film industries. She made her acting debut in a supporting role with the Hindi film Madras Cafe (2013) and subsequently made her debut as female lead with Telugu film Oohalu Gusagusalade (2014), in Tamil with Imaikkaa Nodigal (2018) and Malayalam with Villain (2017)."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/abkhxbbci2UF6Gme_rashikhanna.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rashi-khanna-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-12T18:30:32+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Meenakshi Chaudhary Red Bold Stills"},"content":{"text":"Meenakshi Chaudhary is an Indian actress and beauty pageant titleholder who works predominantly in Telugu and Tamil films. She represented the state of Haryana at the Femina Miss India 2018 pageant, where she was crowned as Femina Miss India Grand International 2018."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/abMFmVxvIZEnjoQC_meenakshi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"meenakshi-chaudhary-red-bold-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-10T18:35:00+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Shruti Haasan Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Shruti Haasan is an Indian actress and singer who works in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi films. She is the recipient of various accolades, including two Filmfare Award South and seven South Indian International Movie Awards. Haasan has appeared in Forbes India's Celebrity 100 list of 2015 and 2016."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aa__a1xvIZEnjhl8_shruthi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"shruti-haasan-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-03T18:03:05+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Bhagyashri Borse New Stills"},"content":{"text":"Bhagyashri Borse is an Indian actress who appears primarily in South films. After doing cameo appearances in Hindi films Yaariyan 2 and Chandu Champion, she made her lead debut in South with the Telugu film Mr. Bachchan for which she has won the SIIMA Award for Best Female Debut – Telugu."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aachiFxvIZEnjSV9_bhagya2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"bhagyashri-borse-new-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-02-27T11:14:55+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"ViRosh Wedding Stills"},"content":{"text":"ViRosh Wedding Stills"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aaF4t8FoBIGEg6zW_virosh.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"virosh-wedding-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-02-21T12:37:04+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Niharika Konidela New Stills"},"content":{"text":"Niharika Konidela is an Indian actress and producer who predominantly works in Telugu films. She made her debut with the film Oka Manasu. She produces films and web series under her banner. "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aZmdKsFoBIGEgndO_niharika2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"niharika-konidela-new-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-02-01T18:21:28+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rashmi Gautam Red Hot Sills"},"content":{"text":"Rashmi Gautam is an Indian actress and television presenter who appears in Telugu-language films and TV. She hosts the Telugu television comedy show Extra Jabardasth and is a conceptual team leader in reality dance show Dhee."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aX-WA90YXLCxVPdl_rashmi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rashmi-gautam-red-hot-sills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-01-29T19:41:55+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rithu Chowdary Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Rithu Chowdary is an Indian actress and anchor known for her work in Telugu television and films. She began her career as an anchor on Star Maa Music and gained popularity through reality shows like Pelli Choopulu (2018). She debuted in Telugu TV with the serial Gorintaku (2019) and later appeared in Suryavamsam and Inti Guttu. Her film debut was in Mouname Ishtam (2019), followed by a role in Uppena (2021). Rithu is also a regular on comedy shows like Jabardasth and Sridevi Drama Company, known for her comedic timing and charm. In 2021, she launched her YouTube channel, Rithu Chowdhary, with over 70,000 subscribers. She participated in Bigg Boss Telugu Season 8 (2024)."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aXu3QAIvOtkhCGJU_rithuchoudhary.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rithu-chowdary-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-12-16T17:05:55+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Shriya Saran Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Shriya Saran Bhatnagar is an Indian actress who primarily works in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi films. Although Saran aspired to become a well-known dancer, she became an actress and made her film debut with the Telugu film Ishtam. Saran had her first commercial success with Santosham."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aUGQvnNYClf9oSUB_shriya2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"shriya-saran-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-12-06T17:46:28+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Guess This Heroine"},"content":{"text":"guess this heroine"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aTLHu3NYClf9n2n7_gs1.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"guess-this-heroine"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-09-23T11:53:49+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Priya Prakash Varrier New Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Priya Prakash Varrier is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Malayalam films. Her wink in the film Oru Adaar Love went viral, making her the most searched-for personality through Google in India in 2018."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aNJDd55xUNkB1AGF_priyapvarrier2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"priya-prakash-varrier-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-09-20T17:01:37+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Disha Patani Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Disha Patani is an Indian actress who primarily work in Hindi films. Patani began her acting career with the Telugu film Loafer, and had her first Hindi film release with the biopic M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, for which she won the IIFA Award for Star Debut of the Year"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aM7X1J5xUNkB07Ue_disha2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"disha-patani-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-08-27T16:52:16+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Raai Laxmi Hot Bikini Stills"},"content":{"text":"Lakshmi Rai, professionally credited as Raai Laxmi is an Indian actress and model who predominantly works in Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, Kannada and Hindi languages."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aK8262GNHVfTOYIc_raailakshmi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"raai-laxmi-hot-bikini-stills"}}]},"one":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"AP: Will CBN's Deputy Become His Liability?"},"content":{"text":"\"A leader's biggest danger isn't their enemies, it is the out-of-control behavior of their lieutenants and confidants. When those allies go too far, the public blames the leader for everything” What the above profound statement suggests is that “even if the leader didn't do anything wrong personally, the public will judge the entire government based on the bad behavior of that one partner” In the annals of political downfalls, leaders are rarely destroyed by their direct enemies; they are more often undone by the unchecked audacity of their chief lieutenants. History provides sharp warnings on this front. Think of Grigori Rasputin, whose brazen manipulation of state machinery eroded the credibility of Tsar Nicholas II, or Sanjay Gandhi, whose extra-constitutional high-handedness during the 1975–1977 Emergency turned a powerful Prime Minister into a political liability and caused a historic electoral wipeout. A similar, highly concerning dynamic is unfolding in Andhra Pradesh. The recent actions of the State’s Deputy Chief Minister, specifically his crusade against online critics, are rapidly transforming from a personal vendetta into a major political liability for Nara Chandrababu Naidu (CBN), the state’s self-styled visionary CEO-styled CM, and his ruling TDP-led coalition. The flashpoint for this growing institutional crisis is the relentless state crackdown on Dalit Christian YouTuber Bachalakuri Joseph, popularly known as \"Prashna\" Raavan. Following a speech critical of the government as well as the Deputy CM, the state’s law enforcement apparatus was deployed in a manner that displayed scant regard for constitutional boundaries, despite bail being granted by the local courts. As if to block further legal recourse and to permanently prevent any relief from the courts, the police invoked the draconian Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), an anti-terror law meant for national security threats—charging the digital commentator with \"waging war against the government.\" It is the height of hypocrisy by all moral standards; his detention under UAPA, after four successive arrests followed by the grant of bail under other offences, was meant to satisfy the ego of a \"Power Star\" and his so-called method of madness (\"Naako Thikka undi, Daaniki O lekka undi\"), who entered politics promising to “question” the establishment. Discerning observers allege this is a subtle endorsement of the Deputy CM given his public pronouncements to that effect. His public rhetoric has turned explicitly aggressive, using movie-style dialogue to warn critics that the government will \"crush them\" if they cross the line. Reports indicate that Station House Officers are being pressured directly by his circle to pursue critics, reducing the state police force into his personal grievance cell. To understand why the actor-turned-politician is behaving so aggressively, one must look at the psychological friction between his cinematic \"hero\" image and his actual administrative powers. In the alliance cabinet, CBN’s party MLA holds the Law-and-Order portfolio, while his son, Nara Lokesh, commands high-profile ministries—a scenario where his fans feel their leader is being eclipsed by the TDP leadership. Lacking direct control over the Home Ministry, his critics contend that he has resorted to public outbursts, even rebuking his own coalition's Home Minister, to prove to his base that he is still the one calling the shots. By directing the police to hunt down internet trolls and commentators with absolute brazenness, he is trying to project the image of an all-powerful, unassailable leader who cannot be trifled with. While he plays out his cinematic alpha-male fantasies, the actual political cost is being billed directly to CBN’s account. This overreach poses a structural threat to the TDP's electoral future, particularly, in the backdrop of growing clamor from a section of Kapus demanding CBN to handover the CM post to the deputy CM for the remaining tenure or declare as the CM candidate of the alliance in the next elections. CBN has spent 40+ years building his reputation as a sophisticated, law-abiding visionary focused on development, IT, and ease of doing business. By allowing his Deputy CM to turn the state into a personal fiefdom where anti-terror laws (UAPA) are slapped on internet commentators, his carefully curated image of a mature statesman has the potential of being completely shredded. Slapping multiple cases and terror charges on a Dalit Christian influencer is terrible optics. It hands the opposition YSRCP, including the Left parties, a potent emotional weapon to consolidate Dalit, minority, and neutral voters against the TDP-led establishment. It frames the government not as a progressive coalition, but as an intolerant, vengeful regime. When a deputy Chief minister publicly bypasses administrative channels and demands a police force to operate on personal whims, it breaks the chain of command. The state's bureaucracy and police officers feel caught in the crossfire of alliance power dynamics, leading to structural paralysis within the government. Just as Sanjay Gandhi’s unchecked excess during the Emergency became the primary reason the Indian masses turned on Indira Gandhi, CBN’s deputy’s brazen disregard for due process may fast become the Achilles' heel of his governance and reputation. CBN is a veteran politician who understands the laws of political gravity. If he continues to play the ostrich while his deputy uses the state machinery as a personal weapon against critics, the electorate may eventually hold him responsible, and punish the TDP ruthlessly at the ballot box."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/GDqJuG6kix8wMYYd_cbnpk.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T06:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ap-will-cbns-deputy-become-his-liability"}}]},"two":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Fauji' Shoot Lands in Trouble"},"content":{"text":"The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has written a letter to the CM of Telangana, Revanth Reddy requesting for a high-level investigation into the incident at the shooting of ‘Fauji’ set at Ramoji Film City, which impacted the health of actor Rajesh Sharma. The body has asked to conduct an investigation to ascertain workplace safety, hygiene and emergency medical protocols and to identify any negligence on the part of the producer. They wrote, “Actor Rajesh Sharma's health reportedly deteriorated severely during the shooting schedule, following which he travelled to Kolkata and was admitted to a private hospital for medical treatment, The circumstances that led to such a serious medical emergency remain unclear and warrant an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation”. They further mentioned, “The seriousness of the incident has become even more alarming in view of the latest medical update.. Rajesh Sharma remains under close medical observation and is reportedly still not out of danger. Considering the gravity of his condition, AICWA believes that a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances that led to this medical emergency during the shooting of Fauji is absolutely essential. If Actor Rajesh Sharma's condition became so serious during the shoot, why was he not immediately admitted to one of Hyderabad's leading hospitals by the producer and production house? Was adequate emergency medical assistance available on the set? Were all mandatory health, hygiene and workplace safety protocols being followed? What exactly happened at the shooting location that resulted in his health deteriorating to such an alarming extent? The film industry has a legal and moral responsibility to provide a safe, hygienic and medically prepared working environment for every artist, technician and worker”. Actor Rajesh Sharma is currently hospitalized after reportedly suffering a suspected insect bite while shooting for Prabhas' upcoming film Fauji at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. “Workers and technicians frequently hesitate to speak openly due to fear of losing their employment or facing professional consequences. Such an atmosphere prevents transparency and accountability.  The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) demands that the Honourable Chief Minister of Telangana, Shri Revanth Reddy, order an immediate high-level investigation into the incident at the Fauji shooting set at Ramoji Film City. The investigation must determine the exact cause of actor Rajesh Sharma's medical emergency, examine whether all workplace safety, hygiene and emergency medical protocols were followed, and identify any. negligence on the part of the producer, production house or any other responsible authority. If any lapse or negligence is found, strict legal action must be taken against all those responsible without delay”, they added."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/NzB3x11VNxfB7dOy_fauzi.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T14:35:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"fauji-shoot-lands-in-trouble"}}]},"three":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Jana Nayagan' Passes Censor Test"},"content":{"text":"The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has finally cleared  director H Vinoth's eagerly awaited action entertainer 'Jana Nayagan', which also happens to be Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay's last film as an actor, for release with an 'A' certificate.  Although the makers of the film are yet to make an official announcement in this regard, well known film producer and distributor Dhananjheyan took to his X timeline to share a copy of the Censor certificate. He wrote, \"#JanaNayagan finally got the censor certificate and will be releasing soon . What a relief to @KvnProductions & Tamil Cinema to bring out the most expected film of our #ThalaivarVijay sir, one last time on big screen.\" While the film's release date is yet to be officially announced by KVN Productions, the firm that has produced the film, sources in the industry claim that the makers were likely to release the film on July 24.  It may be recalled that IANS had, quoting sources, reported earlier that that the issue pertaining to receiving a clearance from the Censor Board was likely to be resolved shortly and that the makers of the film were considering the possibility of releasing the film in July itself.  For the unaware, the film had triggered huge interest as it was Vijay's last film as an actor before he turned a full-time politician. It was originally scheduled for release for the festival of Pongal in January this year. However, its release had to be postponed after the film, which was sent to the Censor Board for clearance, was referred to a Revising Committee under Rule 24 of the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules. The Censor Board has now cleared the film, which was submitted to it for clearance in December last year. Directed by H. Vinoth, 'Jana Nayagan' boasts a powerful ensemble cast featuring Vijay, Bobby Deol, Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju, Prakash Raj, and Gautham Vasudev Menon. KVN Productions, while announcing their decision to postpone the release of Jana Nayagan in January this year, had said,\"It is with a heavy heart that we share this update with our valued stakeholders and audiences. The release of 'Jana Nayagan', eagerly awaited on January 9, has been postponed due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control.\" The production house had further said, \"We deeply understand the anticipation, excitement, and emotions surrounding this film, and this decision has not been an easy one for any of us. The new release date will be announced at the earliest.Until then, we humbly request your patience and continued love. Your unwavering support is our greatest strength and means everything to the entire Jana Nayagan team.\""},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/g6IjorhsC7WfZtww_jana.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T12:58:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"jana-nayagan-passes-censor-test"}}]},"four":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Bandi Bhagirath Gets Bail"},"content":{"text":"The Telangana High Court on Thursday granted bail to Bandi Sai Bageerath, son of Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, in a POCSO case. Pronouncing its orders on the bail petition, the High Court granted conditional bail. The court directed him to cooperate with the police in the investigation. He was also directed to furnish a bond of Rs 1 lakh along with two sureties. After hearing arguments from both sides, the High Court reserved orders on Monday. A case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was registered against Bandi Bageerath at Pet Basheerabad Police Station of Cyberabad Commissionerate on May 8 for the alleged assault of a 17-year-old girl. Police had arrested Bageerath on May 16 on the outskirts of Hyderabad after the High Court had declined to give interim protection from arrest. Bandi Sanjay, however, had claimed that his son surrendered before police. Bageerath had earlier secured one week's bail from the trial court to appear for his exams, from June 22 to June 24. He surrendered before the Cherlapally prison authorities on June 25 in compliance with the bail conditions. On a complaint by the victim's mother, the case was booked under Section 11 read with 12 of the POCSO Act and Sections 74 and 75 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The victim's mother had lodged a complaint that Bageerath, who was in a relationship with her, subjected her to sexual harassment. The accused also lodged a counter-complaint in Karimnagar, alleging that the girl's family attempted to extort Rs 5 crore by threatening to implicate him in a false case. After the investigating officer recorded the victim's statement, the police invoked Section 5(1), read with Section 6, of the POCSO Act. The section deals with aggravated penetrative sexual assault and carries a punishment that may extend up to 20 years’ imprisonment or more. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) had also questioned Bageerath based on statements recorded during the course of investigation and digital evidence."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agVw86YofJOwHPVr_bandibhageernath.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-09T12:29:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"bandi-bhagirath-gets-bail"}}]},"five":{"edges":[]},"review":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Rao Bahadur'"},"content":{"text":"Satyadev has carved a unique niche for himself as an actor by choosing diverse films. Meanwhile, director Venkatesh Maha has already earned a strong reputation for delivering distinctive movies. Expectations soared when a superstar like Mahesh Babu stepped forward to present this collaboration between the two. Let us see in this review whether the film lives up to those expectations. Story: Bhuvanam Ramappa Rao Bahadur (Satyadev), a man of royal lineage, grapples with severe mental turmoil in his old age. He harbors suspicions regarding his younger son, Kusumappa—who passed away in childhood—doubting whether the boy was truly his biological son. Driven by this doubt, he clings to life for years despite suffering from cancer. Ramappa’s wife, Renuka, is also confined to a single room. The story unfolds by exploring the reasons behind Ramappa’s condition and Renuka’s confinement, as well as how it was ultimately confirmed that Kusumappa was indeed Ramappa’s son. Performances: A notable aspect of the film is that, apart from Satyadev, the entire cast consists of newcomers. It is commendable that Satyadev committed to such a role; not every actor could pull off a character like this. He delivered a brilliant performance, nailing the makeover, expressions, and body language. Satyadev truly embodied the persona of a scion of the Rao Bahadur lineage. He impressed everyone with a look that perfectly captured the persona of an elderly king. Furthermore, Satyadev deserves full marks for his acting and dialogue delivery. Generally, young heroes are reluctant to take on such roles, but Satyadev put in immense effort to breathe life into this character. It was revealed that the makeup process took four hours; seeing the 'Ramappa' character on screen, one feels that the actual time spent on makeup might have been even longer. Deepa Thomas, playing the female lead, impressed with her distinctive look. There is a growing opinion that she might secure good opportunities in Tollywood in the future. Vikas Muppala also impressed with his acting, and the supporting cast performed well within the scope of their roles. Venkatesh Maha, appearing in a guest role, also made a strong impression. Technical: Director Venkatesh Maha presented a completely fresh concept to the audience. However, the narrative pacing felt somewhat tedious. The first half moved slowly. While he attempted to pick up the pace in the second half, the twists introduced towards the end felt unintentionally funny. He failed in the attempt to blend humor into what otherwise seemed like a serious story. Some of the dialogues were good. The cinematography was impressive; it effectively brought the atmosphere of the 1960s and 1990s to life. The music was also decent. The songs failed to impress, but the background score was certainly impressive. The production values ​​are good; it is truly commendable that such a significant budget was allocated for an experimental story like this. There are flaws in the editing; some scenes in the first half should have been trimmed. Overall, the film would have benefited from a runtime reduction of 20 to 25 minutes. Analysis: Director Venkatesh attempted an experiment by utilizing a talented actor like Satyadev. Satyadev deserves praise for agreeing to be part of this experimental project. The story revolves around the consequences arising from a suspicion harbored by an elderly man. In an era where films generally achieve commercial success only with compelling storylines and narratives, Director Venkatesh brought this film to the audience without worrying about how such an experiment would be received. He attempted to drive the film using screenplay wizardry. Although the story itself is simple, his execution deserves appreciation. However, the inclusion of more thrilling elements would have improved the film; the first half, in particular, is somewhat underwhelming. The climax manages to generate interest, though the final twist lacks a sense of realism. Ultimately, instead of leaving the audience with the impression of having watched a serious film, the movie ends up feeling more like a comedy.  Plus Points: Satyadev Background music, cinematography Second half, climax Minus Points: Boring first half Illogical scenes Climax twist Verdict: 'Rao Bahadur' is for those looking to watch a thriller rather than a regular commercial movie. Banner: Sree Chakras Entertainments, Mahayana Motion Pictures Producers: Anurag Reddy, Sharath Chandra, Chinta Gopalakrishna Reddy, Eswaran Vijayaraghavan Directior: Venkatesh Maha Music: Smaran Sai Cast: Satyadev, Deepa Thomas, Vikas Muppala, Bala Parasar, Kunal Kaushik, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ruDZrQh1uyTKyATR_RaoBahadur.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-03T09:26:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-rao-bahadur"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Nagabandham' "},"content":{"text":"South makers have done wonders once again. At a time when audiences are craving larger-than-life cinematic experiences rooted in Indian culture and mythology, Nagabandham arrives as an ambitious spectacle that blends mystery, mythology, fantasy and adventure into an engrossing big-screen entertainer. Foremost credit goes to the producers Nishitha Nagireddy and Kishore Annapureddy, the duo under the banners of NIK Studios and Abhishek Pictures, have given the film the scale, craft and budget it demands. The budget, the scale and the vision of the film is at par in comparison with some of the biggies. Mounted on a lavish scale, the film starts on a very intriguing note and right from the first frame it captures you into the world, the drama. As it progresses it continues to impresses with its visual ambition, the character introduction, immersive world-building and sincere storytelling, making it one of the most ambitious pan-India releases of the year. Without wasting any single time the film sticks to the subject. The unfolding of mysterious universe where ancient secrets, divine legends and hidden treasures shape the narrative. Rather than rushing through its mythology, the film gradually builds intrigue around the ancients and what 'Nagabandham' is. This measured approach keeps the audience invested while continuously expanding the film's rich cinematic universe. The film begins with the impresive introduction of Rishabh Sawhney who is olayiytge main antagonist in the film and then transports us to the drama that is very interesting. Director Abhishek Nama deserves appreciation for attempting a genre that demands conviction and imagination. His vision remains consistent throughout, balancing mythology with fantasy while ensuring the emotional core never gets lost beneath the visual grandeur. The screenplay unfolds like an adventure, introducing fresh mysteries at regular intervals and maintaining curiosity until the very end. Visuals are Nagabandham's undoubtedly the biggest strengths. Every frame reflects meticulous craftsmanship, from magnificent temple architecture and ancient kingdoms to breathtaking action sequences and mystical landscapes. The production values are first-rate, while the VFX complement the storytelling without overwhelming it. The film consistently feels designed for the biggest screens. Virat Karrna, who is essaying the main protoganist delivers a confident performance, carrying the narrative with sincerity and intensity. Nabha Natesh lends grace and emotional depth to her character, while Rishabh Sawhney leaves a strong impression with his commanding screen presence in the character of the main antagonist. Mahesh Manjrekar stands out in a pivotal role of saint ,adding gravitas whenever he appears. Daksha Nagarkar and the supporting cast contribute effectively, making the expansive world feel believable. The action choreography especially the Interval block and CLIMAX deserves special mention. Instead of relying solely on spectacle, the action sequences are integrated into the mythology, making every confrontation feel purposeful. Several moments involving serpents, ancient rituals and large-scale battles generate genuine goosebumps and showcase the makers' ambition. Technically, Nagabandham is polished across departments. The cinematography captures both the grandeur and mysticism beautifully, while the background score elevates the emotional and adventurous moments. The editing keeps the narrative engaging despite the film's expansive scale, and the sound design enhances the theatrical experience. One of the film's biggest achievements is how it respects Indian mythology while presenting it through an entertaining fantasy-adventure lens. Rather than merely recreating familiar legends, it creates its own mythology-inspired universe that feels fresh and cinematic. If there is one area where the film occasionally slows down, it is during portions dedicated to explaining the mythology, which may slightly affect the pace. However, the narrative quickly regains momentum with compelling twists, visually stunning sequences and emotionally satisfying payoffs. With Nagabandham, South filmmakers once again demonstrate why they continue to lead the way in creating ambitious, pan-India cinematic spectacles. The film combines mythology, fantasy, adventure and emotion into an entertaining package that is tailor-made for the theatrical experience. For audiences looking for a grand visual adventure filled with mystery, ancient legends, spectacular action and impressive world-building, Nagabandham is a rewarding watch. Banner: NIK Studios, Abhishek Pictures Producer: Nishitha Nagireddy, Kishore Annapureddy Director: Abhishek Nama Cast: John Vijay, Nabha Natesh, Iswarya Menon, Mahesh Manjrekar and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/S_t-IVjB2yqa78-Q_nagabandham.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-02T16:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-nagabandham-"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Welcome To The Jungle'"},"content":{"text":"There was a time when Bollywood regularly produced big, unapologetic comedy entertainers that families could watch together. Films weren't trying to preach, surprise audiences with complicated twists or leave behind social messages. They existed for one simple reason—to make people laugh. Welcome To The Jungle embraces exactly that philosophy, and that's what makes it work. Director Ahmed Khan doesn't try to reinvent the Welcome franchise. Instead, he understands its DNA and amplifies it. The laughs are bigger, the cast is bigger, the scale is grander and the madness is turned up several notches. The result is a film that knows exactly what it wants to be—and rarely loses sight of it. The story itself is delightfully ridiculous. A billionaire comes up with an absurd plan to convert his black money into losses by deliberately producing a flop film. To execute this bizarre mission, he assembles a film full of struggling stars, forgotten heroes and eccentric personalities. Among them are Yeda Anna (Suniel Shetty), the brother of Anna from the Welcome universe, and Romeo (Arshad Warsi), Majnu's equally eccentric brother. Just when the production begins, an Income Tax raid wipes out the financier's money, forcing the crew to abandon the expensive setup and continue the shoot in a remote village with real people—while the actors remain blissfully convinced that everything happening around them is part of the script. From there, the film spirals into complete comic chaos involving mistaken identities, fake heroics, terrorists, villagers and nonstop confusion. If there is one actor who reminds audiences why he has ruled Bollywood comedy for decades, it is Akshay Kumar. This is comfortably one of his strongest comic performances in recent years. His expressions, dialogue delivery, body language and effortless timing hold the enormous ensemble together without trying to dominate it. He lets the humour breathe and trusts the situations to generate laughs. Suniel Shetty is undoubtedly one of the film's biggest surprises. His Yeda Anna is wonderfully eccentric and consistently entertaining, delivering several laugh-out-loud moments. Arshad Warsi slips into the franchise's familiar madness with ease, while Lara Dutta, as the Army trainer preparing the clueless actors, adds another enjoyable layer to the comedy. The supporting cast is where the film truly shines. Veterans like Paresh Rawal, Johnny Lever and Rajpal Yadav prove once again why they remain among Hindi cinema's finest comic performers. But the film's biggest scene-stealers are undoubtedly Farida Jalal and Kiran Kumar. Every single time they appear on screen, the theatre erupts in laughter. Farida Jalal's delightfully confused character, speaking in her own hilarious gibberish language, becomes one of the film's biggest highlights. Kiran Kumar matches her brilliantly with his exaggerated, heavily Urdu-laced dialogues delivered with complete conviction. Their chemistry, impeccable comic timing and effortless performances produce some of the loudest laughs in the film. There's another emotional layer that longtime Bollywood lovers will instantly appreciate. Watching Akshay Kumar reunite with Suniel Shetty and Raveena Tandon brings back memories of an era when entertainers were built around fun rather than formulas. Thankfully, these reunions never feel forced. They blend naturally into the narrative while allowing the film to create its own identity instead of living entirely on nostalgia. Managing such a massive ensemble is never easy, yet Ahmed Khan deserves credit for ensuring almost every actor gets at least one memorable moment. Despite featuring dozens of familiar faces, the screenplay rarely feels overcrowded. The humour constantly shifts between situational comedy, visual gags, witty one-liners, misunderstandings and complete comic mayhem, ensuring the energy rarely drops. The adventure angle also gives the franchise a refreshing twist. Instead of repeating the exact template of the earlier films, Welcome To The Jungle expands its canvas with larger action set pieces and a more adventurous narrative while still retaining the flavour that fans associate with the franchise. Visually, the film looks colourful and vibrant. The production design suits the exaggerated world perfectly, while the songs arrive naturally without disturbing the pace. The background score effectively enhances both the comic situations and the action sequences. What deserves appreciation is that the film never pretends to be more intelligent than it is. It doesn't chase awards, social commentary or emotional manipulation. It simply focuses on entertaining its audience for over two hours—and judging by the laughter echoing through the auditorium, it succeeds. Welcome To The Jungle is designed for the big-screen experience. Many jokes become funnier because they are enjoyed collectively. The whistles, applause and laughter inside a packed theatre become an extension of the film itself. That's something no OTT platform can replicate. Directed by Ahmed Khan, the film boasts one of the biggest ensemble casts in recent Hindi cinema, featuring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Jackie Shroff, Paresh Rawal, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Farida Jalal, Johnny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Rajpal Yadav, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Daler Mehndi, Aftab Shivdasani, Mukesh Tiwari, Yashpal Sharma, Kiran Kumar, Zakir Hussain, Vindu Dara Singh, Urvashi Rautela, Hemant Pandey, Brijendra Kala, Feroze Khan (Arjun), Late Pankaj Dheer, Puneet Issar, Sudesh Berry, Jeetu Verma, Vrihi Kodvara, Adityaa Singgh and Bhagya Bhanushali. Presented by A.A. Nadiadwala, Cape of Good Films and Star Studios in association with Seeta Films and Rakesh Dang, the film is a Base Industries Group production produced by Rakesh Dang and Vedant Vikaas Baali, and produced by Firoz A. Nadiadwala. If your expectation is meaningful cinema, look elsewhere. But if you simply want to laugh, switch off your brain and enjoy a grand Bollywood entertainer with your family, Welcome To The Jungle delivers exactly what it promises. Sometimes, that's more than enough. Director : Ahmed Khan, Producer : Firoz A Nadiadwala Cast : Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Arshad Warsi and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aj1hFVbRV8_Qf44R_welcometothejungle.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-25T15:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-welcome-to-the-jungle"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Cocktail 2'"},"content":{"text":"Some relationships don’t end because people stop loving each other. They end because love alone isn’t always enough. Backed by Maddock Films and producer Dinesh Vijan, a banner known for delivering some of the most memorable entertainers and relationship dramas in recent years, Cocktail 2 is yet another winner. Directed by Homi Adajania, the film explores modern relationships with warmth, maturity and emotional honesty, resulting in a story that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. While the original film thrived on youthful chaos, Cocktail 2 takes a more mature route. It examines what happens when comfort begins to replace excitement, when commitment feels heavier than romance, and when life forces people to question whether the relationship they’ve built is still the one they truly want. The Story: Kunal (Shahid Kapoor) and Diya (Rashmika Mandanna) have been together for years. What started as a college romance has survived distance, changing priorities and the challenges of adulthood. Their relationship is comfortable, familiar and seemingly stable, but beneath the surface, cracks have begun to appear. Diya finds herself grappling with expectations around marriage and commitment, while Kunal continues holding on to a version of their relationship that may no longer exist. Their lives take an unexpected turn during a trip to Sicily, where they meet Ally (Kriti Sanon), a free spirited woman who lives entirely on her own terms. As the three grow closer, the film gradually unfolds into something far more complex than a traditional love triangle. Friendships blur into emotional attachments, loyalties are tested and difficult questions emerge about love, compatibility and personal happiness. What makes the narrative work is that it never reduces its characters to heroes or villains. Everyone is flawed, everyone makes mistakes and that honesty gives the film its emotional weight. Performances: Shahid Kapoor delivers one of his most mature performances in recent years. Kunal is a character filled with contradictions and Shahid captures every shade beautifully. Whether he’s expressing quiet heartbreak, frustration or vulnerability, he keeps the audience invested throughout. Rashmika Mandanna brings warmth and authenticity to Diya. Many of her moments feel incredibly relatable, particularly when she navigates the pressures placed on women regarding relationships and life choices. She handles both the lighter and emotionally intense scenes with confidence and restraint. Kriti Sanon is exceptional as Ally. What initially appears to be a carefree and impulsive character slowly reveals surprising emotional depth. Kriti balances Ally’s charm, unpredictability and vulnerability effortlessly, creating one of the film’s most memorable performances. Together, the trio share terrific chemistry. Their interactions feel natural and lived-in, making every friendship, confrontation and emotional conflict feel genuine. Kriti and Rashmika also share some thoroughly entertaining moments, adding another engaging layer to the film’s relationship dynamics. Writing, Dialogues and Relationships: One of the film’s biggest strengths is its writing. The relationships feel layered and believable, with conversations that reflect how people actually communicate rather than how movie characters are expected to speak. The dialogues are sharp, mature and emotionally effective. Several confrontations land with impact because they come from a place of truth rather than melodrama. The film consistently keeps you invested in its characters and the choices they make, while balancing romance, friendship and self-discovery with remarkable ease. Music and Visuals: Pritam’s music blends seamlessly into the storytelling, elevating both the emotional and romantic moments. The songs never interrupt the narrative and instead become a natural extension of it. Visually, the film is stunning. Sicily provides a breathtaking backdrop, with every frame looking postcard worthy without ever feeling excessive. The cinematography, fashion and overall production design add tremendous richness to the viewing experience, making the film as beautiful to look at as it is emotionally engaging. What Could Have Worked Better: A few emotional stretches in the latter half could have been slightly more concise. The Verdict: Cocktail 2 is a beautifully crafted film about love, friendship, self discovery and the difficult choices that come with growing up. It doesn’t offer easy answers and that’s precisely what makes it work. Produced by Maddock Films and Luv Films, backed by outstanding performances from Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna, thoughtful writing, gorgeous visuals and strong emotional payoffs, the film delivers a deeply satisfying experience. A heartfelt, visually stunning and emotionally resonant drama that reminds us that sometimes the hardest part of love isn’t finding it, it’s understanding what to do with it once you have it. The result is a relationship drama that stays with you long after the credits roll. Banner: Maddock Films and Luv Films Producer: Dinesh Vijan Director: Homi Adajania Music: Pritam Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, Kriti Sanon and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ah7YRgeQX7-eWjSA_cocktail2.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-19T04:48:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-cocktail-2"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Maa Inti Bangaram'"},"content":{"text":"At a time when it was widely assumed Samantha had limited her career to Bollywood, all eyes are on this Telugu film she has undertaken. It is well known that Samantha has previously worked under Nandini Reddy's direction; their collaboration naturally generates positive buzz. Furthermore, expectations have soared because the film is produced by Raj Nidimoru. Let us see in this review whether the movie lives up to those expectations. Story: Swarna (Samantha), who entered into a love marriage with Anirudh (Diganth Manchale), steps into her in-laws' home after a long time due to certain circumstances. She struggles to fit into the joint family environment. Despite the difficulties, she makes earnest efforts to bond with the family members and win their approval. Swarna carries a past—a flashback—associated with her love marriage. This flashback becomes the source of emerging problems within her in-laws' household.  What are these problems? What exactly is Swarna's flashback? To find out what Swarna did at her in-laws' house, one simply has to watch the movie. Performances: Samantha’s acting needs no special introduction. The action sequences she performed in this film are impressive; seeing her execute action scenes while dressed in a traditional saree felt fresh and novel. She delivered a performance that felt distinct—and even better—than her work in previous films. Beyond action, she also showcased her acting prowess in emotional and dramatic scenes. It is evident that she poured her experience into the role, truly doing justice to the character of Swarna. Her appearance seemed slightly different compared to the past, but that change suited the character perfectly.  Overall, Samantha succeeded in fully justifying the role she chose. The supporting cast performed well within the scope of their roles; Gulshan Devaiah, in particular, stood out, and his portrayal of the villain was impressive. Gautami had limited screen time but made a good impression within that scope. Sreemukhi also impressed with a different look. Technical: Director Nandini Reddy has once again presented a unique concept to the audience, and her direction is impressive. The storytelling and screenplay could have benefited from a bit more detail. Some of the dialogues are excellent, particularly those in the emotional scenes, which are truly touching. The music is decent; one or two songs have already gained popularity among the audience, though there isn't much else to highlight regarding the soundtrack beyond those tracks.  However, the background score was impressive. The cinematography was good; Om Prakash’s work made the action scenes appear quite realistic, ensuring the film remained engaging. The cinematography also deserves praise for how it presented Samantha’s look. The production values ​​align well with the story. Apart from minor editing flaws, everything else was solid. Analysis: The mere mention of a Samantha film generates audience interest comparable to that of movies starring big male stars. Director Nandini Reddy lived up to this expectation by weaving the story around a massive flashback sequence, much like those seen in big-star films. However, there are some illogical scenes. More care could have been taken with the dramatic elements; specifically, the portrayal of the new daughter-in-law's conduct in her in-laws' home didn't feel quite right.  Additionally, there were some issues in seamlessly connecting the flashback episode to the present-day narrative. An effort was made to deliver good entertainment. Overall, the film appeals to the average viewer, particularly family audiences. If one overlooks a few illogical scenes, the movie is enjoyable. It is a must-watch for Samantha’s fans and serves as a good \"time-pass\" movie for general audiences. Plus Points: Samantha, Flashback scenes, Action sequences.  Minus Points: Some illogical scenes, Boring moments here and there, Lack of mass elements. Verdict: A film that Samantha's fans will appreciate Banner: Tralala Moving Pictures Producers: Samantha, Raj Nidimoru, Himank Reddy Duvvuru Director: B.V. Nandini Reddy Music: Santhosh Narayanan Cast: Samantha, Sreemukhi, Gulshan Devaiah, Diganth Manchale, Gautami, Srinivas Gavireddy, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ajUbm41P9HI4UuRN_MIB.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-19T07:36:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-maa-inti-bangaram"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai'"},"content":{"text":"Some films are designed to make you think. Others are designed to make you laugh till your cheeks hurt. Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, directed by David Dhawan, proudly belongs to the latter category. Loaded with misunderstandings, larger-than-life characters, romance, family drama and non-stop comedy, the film embraces the classic Bollywood entertainer template and delivers exactly what it promises. Written by David Dhawan with screenplay by Yunus Sajawal and dialogues by Farhad Samji, the film thrives on its energetic storytelling and unapologetically chaotic humour. The Story: At the heart of the film is Jass, a lovable and impulsive man whose life takes an unexpected turn when personal relationships, family expectations and a series of unfortunate circumstances collide at the same time. Without revealing too much, the story follows Jass as he finds himself caught in an increasingly complicated situation involving his estranged wife Baani and Preet, a woman who unexpectedly enters his life. What begins as a relationship drama soon snowballs into a full-fledged comedy of errors, leading to a chain of misunderstandings, secrets and hilarious situations. The narrative constantly throws Jass from one problem into another, ensuring there is never a dull moment. While the premise is outrageous, the film fully commits to its madness, making the ride entertaining from start to finish. Performances: Varun Dhawan is in his element as Jass. His comic timing, boundless energy and natural screen presence carry the film effortlessly. He understands the rhythm of David Dhawan's brand of comedy and delivers a performance that is both charming and consistently entertaining. Mrunal Thakur brings warmth and emotional depth to Baani, ensuring that the character remains relatable amidst the chaos unfolding around her. She balances the film's emotional moments effectively and shares a comfortable chemistry with Varun. Pooja Hegde lights up the screen as Preet. Confident, glamorous and full of spark, she adds freshness to the narrative and keeps the momentum alive whenever she appears. Among the supporting cast, Maniesh Paul is a scene stealer, delivering several laugh-out-loud moments with effortless ease. Jimmy Sheirgill, Chunky Pandey, Kubbra Sait, Rakesh Bedi and Mouni Roy contribute well to the ensemble, each adding their own flavour to the madness. Dialogues and Humour: Farhad Samji's dialogues play a major role in keeping the entertainment quotient high. The punchlines land well, the situational comedy works and several one-liners are likely to draw applause from audiences in packed theatres. The film embraces old-school Bollywood comedy while updating it for contemporary viewers, creating a blend that feels familiar yet accessible. Music and Technical Aspects: The music complements the film's upbeat tone, while the vibrant visuals and colourful production design add to its festive appeal. David Dhawan keeps the pace brisk for most parts, ensuring the narrative rarely loses momentum. What Could Have Worked Better: Some comedic stretches feel slightly overextended and a few situations require audiences to completely suspend disbelief. However, these are minor concerns in a film that is more interested in entertaining than being realistic. Final Word: Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai is a quintessential David Dhawan entertainer that embraces confusion, comedy and chaos with complete conviction. Powered by Varun Dhawan's infectious energy, solid support from Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, the film delivers a thoroughly enjoyable big-screen experience. If you're looking for logic, this may not be your destination. If you're looking for laughter, fun and a dose of classic Bollywood masala, this film delivers in abundance."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiKZMAeQX7-eW1yO_HaiJawaniTohIshqHonaHai.jpg?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-05T03:39:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-hai-jawani-toh-ishq-hona-hai"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Peddi'"},"content":{"text":"Buchi Babu grabbed everyone's attention with his debut film, 'Uppena'. Having grossed over 100 crores with his very first movie, he caught the eye of several star heroes. Even NTR expressed interest in working with him. A project with NTR was confirmed; however, for various reasons, it never materialized.  Buchi Babu subsequently spent the last two years collaborating closely with Ram Charan to bring this film to life. Given the massive hype surrounding it, let's see how the movie actually turned out in this review. Story: The story of 'Peddi' revolves around the journey of a 'sports laborer'—a man named Peddi (Ram Charan)—who is driven by an unwavering determination to showcase the existence of his village to the world. Hailing from a village that doesn't even have a name, Peddi earns his livelihood as a sports laborer. While he has built a good reputation as a cricketer, he eventually comes to believe that true recognition for his village can be achieved not through cricket, but through wrestling. However, recognition for the village does not come through wrestling either. So, how did the entire world eventually come to talk about this nameless village—exactly as 'Peddi' had wished? What daring feat did 'Peddi' undertake to make that happen? That forms the crux of the story.  Performances: Ram Charan’s performance is magnificent. Throughout the entire first half of the film, he captivates the audience in his role as a cricketer. He appears to execute spectacular shots, just like a professional cricketer would; indeed, one feels as though they are watching a genuine cricketer in Ram Charan. It is often said that Ram Charan naturally excels in emotional scenes, and there is absolutely no doubt that he truly lived the emotional moments leading up to the interval and during the film's climax. Furthermore, he elevated the musical numbers to extraordinary heights through his dancing—going above and beyond what was expected. Ram Charan showcases his absolute best dancing skills in this movie. He also impresses equally in both the action sequences and the sports-centric scenes. As for the female lead, Janhvi Kapoor—while she is credited as the heroine, she has very little scope to perform and is not an integral part of the core narrative. Moreover, her screen presence is shockingly brief. Janhvi Kapoor practically disappears entirely during the second half of the film. However, it must be noted that she did manage to grab some attention in the first half by flaunting her physique.  Jagapathi Babu, who appears in the first half, delivers a captivating performance in his emotional scenes. Meanwhile, Kannada superstar Shivarajkumar impresses in his role as a wrestling mentor; his mere look alone wins over half the audience, and his acting prowess requires no special mention. Finally, it must be stated that none of the other supporting characters were given any significant prominence. Technical: The film's music has been a prominent topic of discussion right from the very beginning. Director Buchi Babu made a deliberate and specific choice to enlist A.R. Rahman as the music director for the film. Consequently, everyone anticipated that 'Peddi' would capture the audience's attention primarily through its musical elements. True to expectations, the songs proved to be a resounding success. Furthermore, the background score was equally impressive; with the exception of one or two isolated moments, Rahman's background music was captivating throughout the rest of the film. The cinematography also earns high marks. A commendable effort was made to authentically depict the atmosphere and conditions of the 1990s era. The camera work was particularly effective in a few sequences—most notably during the sports scenes. The first half of the film felt somewhat dragged out, suggesting that the editing could have been tighter. The production values, however, were excellent. Director Buchi Babu selected a compelling core concept; yet, it felt as though he was unable to craft a screenplay that did full justice to that premise. Some of the dialogues were well-written. Analysis: Buchi Babu has garnered a strong reputation as a director who managed to achieve a ₹100-crore box office collection with his very first film. Moreover, since the outset, there has been considerable buzz suggesting that he is in no way inferior to his mentor, Sukumar. Reports have surfaced claiming that this particular story—which was originally penned with NTR in mind—was ultimately filmed with Ram Charan. Leaving aside the veracity of those reports, it appears that Ram Charan gave his approval to the project based solely on the strength of the story's core premise. However, watching the film makes it evident that a compelling premise alone is not sufficient to carry an entire movie. The narrative centers on the protagonist participating in three distinct sports to showcase the existence and identity of his hometown to the world. Given this premise, it was imperative that the portrayal of these specific sports be significantly elevated and given greater prominence within the film. Apart from cricket, no other sport was given significant prominence.  The first half dragged on in a boring manner. The second half was somewhat passable, barring a few emotional scenes. It must be said that Director Buchi Babu failed to effectively showcase the sports elements—which are absolutely crucial to the screenplay. With the exception of a few sequences, the majority of the film feels tedious. However, there is no doubt that this serves as a delightful treat for Ram Charan's fans. Viewed from a fan's perspective, the film earns high marks; yet, it must be acknowledged that for a regular moviegoer, it may not quite hit the mark. Plus Points: Ram Charan A few sports sequences The songs Minus Points: The slow pacing of the first half The screenplay The heroine's role The lack of prominence given to the villains Conclusion... The 'Peddi' games are boring. Banners: Vriddhi Cinemas, Mythri Movie Makers Producers: Venkata Satish Kilaru, Ishan Saxena Direction: Buchi Babu Music: A.R. Rahman Cast: Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, Divyendu, Boman Irani, Upendra, Satya, Chammak Chandra, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiCF9AeQX7-eWrDe_peddi.jpg?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-03T19:52:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-peddi"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: Made in India – A Titan Story"},"content":{"text":"Rarely does a series manage to be both inspiring and cinematically gripping—but Made in India – A Titan Story achieves exactly that, and does it with remarkable finesse. The Story: Where Vision Meets Legacy   At its core, the series is a tribute to belief—the kind that builds institutions. It traces the journey of Xerxes Desai, a man driven by vision, and the unwavering faith J.R.D. Tata placed in him. What unfolds is not just the story of Titan Watches, but of an idea that refused to stay small. It is about ambition, risk, and the quiet power of trust that turns dreams into legacy. Performances That Stay With You   Jim Sarbh delivers one of his most layered performances to date. His portrayal of Xerxes Desai is controlled yet deeply emotional, capturing the vulnerability and determination of a man chasing something bigger than himself. Naseeruddin Shah, as J.R.D. Tata, is understated brilliance. Even with limited screen time, his presence defines the emotional spine of the series—commanding, graceful, and quietly powerful. The ensemble cast adds richness to the narrative. Each character feels lived-in and purposeful—whether it’s Namita Dubey’s sincerity, Lakshveer Saran’s emotional weight, or Kaveri Seth’s authenticity. Supporting performances from Vaibhav Tatwawadi, Paresh Ganatra, Ashwath Bhatt, Viraf Patel, Joy Sengupta, and Prateeksha Lonkar create a world that feels real and immersive. Craft, Scale, and Storytelling :  Director Robbie Grewal handles the material with precision and maturity, allowing the story to breathe while maintaining a steady narrative grip. The storytelling never feels rushed, yet never loses momentum. The writing by Karan Vyas is sharp and confident, with dialogues that feel organic yet impactful. Visually, the show carries a cinematic scale—elegant production design, carefully chosen locations, and a background score that subtly amplifies the emotional beats. The integration of classic music adds texture without overwhelming the narrative. Final Word: Backing a story like this requires both courage and conviction, and Almighty Motion Picture deserves credit for bringing it to life. Co-produced with T-Series Films, Made in India – A Titan Story is not just a series—it’s an experience that fills you with immense pride for India and reminds you of the power of vision, perseverance, and nation-building. Patriotism naturally seeps in as the story unfolds. It’s one of a kind story that inspires, engages, and stays with you long after it ends."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ah_UIAeQX7-eWo7C_madeinindia.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-03T05:14:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-made-in-india--a-titan-story"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Drishyam 3'"},"content":{"text":"This film serves as a sequel to 'Drishyam 1' (released in 2013) and 'Drishyam 2' (released in 2021). With the 'Drishyam' franchise, Jeethu Joseph garnered a nationwide fan base. Consequently, whenever a new 'Drishyam 3' installment is announced, it immediately sparks immense curiosity among audiences.  Venkatesh had previously remade the first two 'Drishyam' films, bringing them to the Telugu audience. However, for this third installment, Mohanlal himself has presented the film directly to the Telugu audience today. Despite being a dubbed film, the expectations and interest among the Telugu audience are exceptionally high. Let's see in this review whether the film lives up to those expectations. Story: George (Mohanlal) produces a feature film titled 'Drishyam', based on the actual events that unfolded in his own life. The movie receives a positive reception and garners massive box-office collections. Meanwhile, discussions regarding Varun's murder resurface once again. As the topic of Varun's murder gains traction on social media, George begins looking for suitable alliances to arrange the marriage of his eldest daughter, Anu.  In this sequence of events, Varun's father, Prabhakar (Siddique), devises a plan to reopen the Varun murder case and execute an arrest precisely on the day of Anu's wedding. However, George cleverly manages to evade capture. Nevertheless, George and his family members find themselves in deep trouble due to another plan orchestrated by Prabhakar.  What are these troubles? And how does George manage to protect his family from them? That forms the crux of the film's story. Performances: Just as he impressed audiences with his nuanced and understated acting in the first two installments, Mohanlal once again delivers a captivating performance in this film as a responsible and devoted father. In particular, the anguish he portrays in certain scenes makes him feel truly like a real-life father. There is absolutely no doubt that Mohanlal has delivered a stellar performance as an average father who constantly worries about the future of his two daughters—never going overboard, yet never holding back. There isn't much to say regarding Meena's role, as she was given very little scope to showcase her acting prowess. However, she was impressive in terms of her appearance in the role of a mother, and she performed aptly in accordance with the demands of a character who is a mother to two children. The actresses who played George's daughters were also impressive; their characters have been a continuous presence since the very first installment. Much like in the first two films, their acting and on-screen presence were captivating in this installment as well. However, it must be noted that in this particular film, their screen time and scope for acting were significantly limited. As for the actors playing the supporting roles, their performances were decent and adequate for their respective characters.  Technical: Music director Anil Johnson does not appear to have put in much effort. He relied heavily on the background score used in the first installment. During suspense sequences, the music felt formulaic and uninspired; it should have been composed in a manner that heightened the intrigue.  There are significant flaws in the editing; specifically, many scenes in the first half felt dragged out. Despite the first half being relatively short in duration, it still came across as boring. It appears that director Jeethu Joseph focused more on the protagonist's character and on maintaining the suspense than on the narrative itself this time around.  The production values, as always, remained modest and aligned with the requirements of the story. Analysis: For audiences who have previously watched both installments of the 'Drushyam' franchise in Telugu, watching the dubbed version this time around might feel somewhat unfamiliar. In other words, viewers accustomed to seeing Venkatesh and the other actors in those roles across the first two films may feel slightly disoriented upon seeing Mohanlal and the Malayalam cast. Many scenes also retain a distinct \"Malayalam flavor,\" placing the film quite far removed from a typical Telugu cultural context.  Consequently, it may not be particularly easy for Telugu audiences to fully connect with the story. Nevertheless, for those who enjoyed the previous two installments of the 'Drushyam' franchise, this film is worth a one-time watch. The first half unfolded very slowly and failed to effectively draw the audience into the narrative. Conversely, the second half felt rushed, as if hurrying to reach the climax. Some of the suspense sequences felt forced and shoehorned into the plot.  However, one or two of the twists introduced within the story were engaging. However, on the whole, it must be admitted that the film failed to captivate audiences in the way its predecessors did. Towards the end, a hint was dropped suggesting the possibility of a 'Drishyam 4'. It remains to be seen when that installment will arrive and what form it will take. Plus Points: Mohanlal's performance, The twists in the plot, The main storyline. Minus Points: Slow-paced screenplay in the first half, Editing, Lack of prominence given to characters other than George. Conclusion: This Malayalam 'Drishyam' sequel feels somewhat forced Banner: Aashirvad Cinemas Producer: Antony Perumbavoor Direction: Jeethu Joseph Music: Anil Johnson Cast: Mohanlal, Meena, Ansiba Hassan, Esther Anil, Asha Sharath, Shanthi Mayadevi, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ag7UpaYofJOwHelj_Drushyam3.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-21T09:20:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-drishyam-3"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Aakhri Sawal'"},"content":{"text":"There are films that entertain, there are films that provoke, and then there are films like Aakhri Sawal that arrive like a storm and force an entire nation to confront the questions it has avoided for decades. Directed by Abhijeet Mohan Warang and Produced by Nikhil Nanda, this hard-hitting political drama is not designed to comfort the audience. It is designed to challenge them, disturb them, and leave them thinking long after the credits roll. At a time when mainstream cinema often plays safe, Aakhri Sawal chooses courage. The film openly touches upon some of the nation’s most controversial and emotionally charged subjects — from the demolition of the Babri Masjid to the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi — and raises questions that generations have debated but never fully answered. What makes the film even more shocking is the unapologetic honesty with which these conversations are presented. The narrative dares to ask whether organizations like the RSS had deeper involvement in these historic events, and the way the film lays out its perspective and facts leaves the audience stunned. There are moments where the sheer boldness of the writing genuinely makes your jaw drop. Sanjay Dutt delivers what can easily be called one of the most intense performances of his career. This is not the larger-than-life Sanjay Dutt audiences are used to seeing. This is a restrained, wounded, fearless performer carrying the weight of history, anger, and truth in his eyes. Every dialogue lands with impact, and every silent moment speaks even louder. His performance elevates the film from being just politically relevant to emotionally unforgettable. The biggest surprise package, however, is Namashi Chakraborty. He emerges as the soul of the film and proves that he is far more than what audiences expected. His sincerity, emotional depth, and screen presence add an unpredictable energy to the narrative. Several scenes involving him leave a lasting impact and showcase an actor ready for much bigger recognition. One of the strongest aspects of Aakhri Sawal is its newsroom debate sequences. These portions are written with remarkable intensity and intelligence, constantly keeping the audience intrigued. The confrontations feel raw and real, almost like watching a nation argue with itself on screen. Some sequences are so emotionally charged and haunting that they genuinely stir your soul. Visually, the film maintains tension throughout. Every frame carries weight and purpose, ensuring that the audience remains invested till the very end. The storytelling never loses grip despite dealing with layered political and historical themes. Instead of becoming preachy, the film remains emotionally engaging and deeply human. The supporting cast including Amit Sadh, Sameera Reddy, Neetu Chandra and Tridha Choudhury deliver some of their most impactful performances ever, adding further strength to the film’s emotionally heavy narrative. Producer Nikhil Nanda deserves appreciation for backing a subject this fearless and uncompromising. Aakhri Sawal does not feel like just another film. It feels like a conversation India was never prepared to have openly. Bold, unsettling, emotional, and brutally honest, the film succeeds in doing what very few political dramas achieve it makes the audience uncomfortable while also keeping them completely engaged. This is courageous cinema in its purest form."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agbLRqYofJOwHQ43_aakhrisawal.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-15T06:29:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-aakhri-sawal"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: Daadi Ki Shaadi"},"content":{"text":"The film revolves around Kapil, who is navigating an arranged marriage setup when he meets Sadia Khateeb, his prospective match. Just when things begin to settle into a traditional roka, the situation takes an unexpected turn, Sadia’s daadi announces her own decision to get married, completely shifting the emotional and social dynamics of the family. The story moves to Shimla, where the daadi (Neetu Kapoor) lives alone. Her two sons and daughter rush to Shimla after reading online about her decision to remarry at this age, especially as her phone is switched off, leaving them worried and unable to reach her. Caught in the middle of this chaos is Kapil, who is deeply in love with Sadia Khateeb. Even after his own roka is called off under the belief that his union cannot continue if the daadi is remarrying, he chooses to stay connected to Sadia. He eventually joins the family’s chaotic mission, though with a very different intent: to stop the daadi’s wedding and salvage his own love story in the process. What unfolds is a mix of emotional clashes, comedic misunderstandings, and generational conflict, eventually building towards a surprisingly heartfelt resolution that touches upon family, acceptance, and letting go. Performances: Neetu Kapoor is the undeniable anchor of the film, delivering a graceful yet fearless performance as the daadi. She brings warmth, dignity, and emotional unpredictability, making her character both endearing and impactful. Kapil Sharma balances humour and emotion with ease. His performance feels natural, especially as his character transitions from a hopeful groom to someone emotionally entangled in a much larger family conflict. Sadia Khateeb lends quiet strength to her role, portraying confusion, affection, and emotional restraint with sincerity. She remains the emotional bridge between the chaotic family dynamics. The supporting cast, playing the daadi’s children, effectively drives the central conflict, bringing in frustration, humour, and generational resistance that fuels the narrative. Direction and Writing: The film stands out for its emotional clarity and grounded storytelling, leaning into relatable family dynamics and human reactions. The writing is on point and effective, allowing situations to unfold naturally rather than forcefully. Ashish R Mohan’s direction is confident and patient, often letting silence, reactions, and awkward family exchanges carry as much weight as dialogue. This gives the film its authenticity and emotional depth. Music and Visuals: The music complements the narrative without overwhelming it, subtly enhancing emotional and light-hearted moments. Visually, the film maintains a warm, accessible tone, making the world feel familiar and lived-in. Verdict: A heartfelt, well-crafted family entertainer that blends generational conflict, humour, and emotion into a cohesive experience. It works because of its sincerity and its ability to find humour within emotional chaos. Final Word: Warm, chaotic, and deeply human, this is family cinema done right."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/af2G8qYofJOwG-KX_KapilDaadiKiShaadi.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C874%2C431&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-08T05:59:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"daadi-ki-shaadi-movie-review"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Raja Shivaji'"},"content":{"text":"Riteish Deshmukh returns to direction with Raja Shivaji, and the ambition here is immediately evident. Taking on the roles of actor, writer, and director, he reshapes the familiar historical biopic into something more reflective and immersive. Told through a chapter-based narrative in a bilingual format, the film unfolds less like a conventional drama and more like a carefully written manuscript, measured, deliberate, and emotionally layered. What stands out most is the film’s clear intent: this is not a story of war, but of a warrior. There are no overwhelming, large-scale battle sequences designed purely for spectacle. Instead, the narrative chooses to focus on the making of Shivaji Maharaj, his thoughts, his influences, and the journey that shaped him into a leader. This approach gives the film a quieter strength, allowing it to connect on a more personal level. A significant portion of the film is devoted to Shivaji’s early years and coming-of-age. It thoughtfully explores the lesser-known aspects of his upbringing, placing strong emphasis on the role of his mother, Jijabai. Her presence becomes the emotional anchor of the story, illustrating how values, vision, and resilience were instilled in him long before he became a legendary figure. The focus on family and formative relationships adds richness, making his evolution feel deeply human rather than mythic. At the center, Riteish Deshmukh delivers a restrained and composed performance. His portrayal avoids excessive grandeur, instead leaning into stillness and quiet intensity. As a filmmaker, he shows notable control allowing moments to breathe and trusting the material rather than overdramatizing it. Genelia Deshmukh’s involvement is felt in the film’s emotional texture. There’s a softness in how relationships are handled, a sensitivity that balances the larger historical canvas. This is especially evident in the film’s quieter passages, where personal moments are given as much importance as political developments. Young Rahyl Deshmukh brings a natural charm to the role of the young Shivaji, capturing innocence and curiosity in a way that makes the early chapters particularly engaging and heartfelt. Among the supporting cast, Vidya Balan as Badi Begam leaves a strong impression with a performance marked by subtlety and intelligence. She brings both emotional depth and political nuance without resorting to overt dramatics. Sanjay Dutt’s Afzal Khan is equally compelling - his portrayal carries an underlying tension, defined by cunning, cruelty, and a quiet, looming menace that makes him deeply unsettling.   Fardeen Khan’s Shah Jahan is defined by restraint. Much of his presence is built around observation and waiting particularly in moments linked to the completion of the Taj Mahal giving the character a composed, watchful quality rather than overt authority. Abhishek Bachchan, as Sambhaji, delivers one of the film’s more emotionally layered performances, reflecting the burden of legacy with quiet internal conflict. A brief but impactful cameo by Salman Khan as Jiva Mahala adds emotional weight. The moment resonates not because of scale, but because of the personal loyalty it represents. The supporting ensemble including Bhagyashree as Jijabai, Sachin Khedekar, Mahesh Manjrekar, Boman Irani, Jitendra Joshi, and Amole Gupte ensures that the world feels complete and intentional. Each character contributes meaningfully to the narrative’s emotional and political fabric. Visually, Santosh Sivan’s cinematography lends the film a grounded grandeur. The landscapes feel authentic, and even the action is staged with clarity rather than chaos. Ajay–Atul’s music further elevates the experience, maintaining an emotional rhythm that complements the storytelling without overwhelming it. The blend of Marathi and Hindi elements adds cultural authenticity. Backed by Jio Studios and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under Mumbai Film Company, the film maintains a fine balance between scale and discipline. Its ambition is evident, but it never loses control of its narrative focus. While Raja Shivaji is designed as a Pan-India film, it carries a special resonance for audiences in Mumbai and Maharashtra. Releasing around Maharashtra Day, it feels like more than just a cinematic event, it comes across as a heartfelt cultural tribute.  More than a tale of war, it stands as a lesson in leadership, resilience, and pride, one that deserves to be known and felt by every Indian. Director: Riteish Deshmukh,   Cast: Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, Genelia Deshmukh and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/afRcDsBOoF08xh7T_rajashivaji.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-05-01T06:54:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-raja-shivaji"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Decoit'"},"content":{"text":"Known for consistently choosing unique scripts and achieving back-to-back successes in his career, Adivi Sesh took a brief hiatus before making this film. Initially, Shruti Haasan was selected as the female lead; however, she stepped down due to various reasons. Subsequently, Mrunal Thakur was cast as the heroine. With Mrunal's inclusion, expectations surrounding the film soared even higher. Let's see in this review to what extent the film managed to live up to those expectations. Story:  Haridas (Adivi Sesh) and Saraswathi (Mrunal Thakur)—a couple who fell in love and got married—end up separating amidst a series of unexpected circumstances. Haridas lands in prison in connection with a murder case. It is due to Saraswathi that Haridas finds himself incarcerated for the murder. Consequently, he resolves to exact revenge upon her. After escaping from prison, Haridas hatches a plan to flee to Dubai.To facilitate this, he requires a certain amount of money. In the process of trying to acquire those funds, he crosses paths with Saraswathi—only to discover that she has since remarried.  While her husband suffers from a severe illness, Saraswathi faces immense hardships while raising their child. At this critical juncture, what steps does Haridas—who is intent on exacting revenge upon Saraswathi—take? Furthermore, why did Haridas and Saraswathi—who had fallen deeply in love and married—eventually part ways? And how did Haridas become entangled in a murder case? To uncover the answers to these questions, one must watch the film. Performances: It is a well-known fact that Adivi Sesh has repeatedly proven his mettle as an actor. Once again, he has impressed audiences with his performance. Rather than merely acting in the role of Haridas, one could say he truly lived the character; such was the caliber of Adivi Sesh's performance. He earns high praise, particularly for his work in several emotional and action sequences. He also captivated viewers with a look that perfectly suited the demands of the role. Additionally, Adivi Sesh impressed with his acting in the romantic scenes. Overall, although his character in this film is quite distinct from his previous roles, he adapted to it seamlessly and delivered a compelling performance. Mrunal Thakur’s character holds immense significance within the film's narrative. However, in terms of the screenplay, her role did not receive as much prominence as it deserved. It must be noted that there were no specific scenes that truly challenged her to deliver a tour-de-force performance. Mrunal’s acting in the romantic scenes was engaging, while her performance in some of the emotional sequences was merely passable.  Atul Kulkarni did complete justice to his role. As for Anurag Kashyap, he made a strong impression within the limited screen time he was allotted; however, his character certainly warranted greater prominence. The actors who played the supporting roles delivered decent performances. Technical: Director Shaniel Deo chose a unique premise for the story. However, it must be said that he failed to flesh it out into a cohesive narrative. He drove the plot forward using routine sequences; in particular, several scenes felt like rehashes of moments seen in countless other films. There is nothing particularly noteworthy to mention regarding the screenplay either.  As for the music provided by Bheems, there is little to discuss; only one song felt somewhat passable. Bheems failed to impress even with the background score. Although it felt adequate in a scene or two, the music ultimately proved to be a detriment to the film as a whole.  The cinematography was good in certain sequences—specifically, some shots effectively conveyed the sense of being transported back in time. The production values ​​were commendable. Analysis: Compared to Adivi Sesh's previous films, this movie stands out as a distinctly different kind of project. However, the outcome of this film implicitly suggests that if Adivi Sesh were to attempt a movie within a conventional, formulaic format, his dedicated fan base would likely reject it.  The director steered the film using a stereotypical story and narrative structure. Despite Adivi Sesh's undeniable talent, the lack of a strong grip on the screenplay rendered the entire effort futile—much like pouring precious perfume into the ashes. Rumors had already surfaced during the filming stage regarding creative differences over certain scenes.  It appears that, this time around, Adivi Sesh's judgment may have faltered. Mrunal Thakur did justice to her role; however, she should have been given a bit more prominence. The director ought to have exercised greater care regarding the screenplay. Plus Points: Adivi Sesh Cinematography Anurag Kashyap Minus Points: The Heroine's Role Music Story and Screenplay In Conclusion: A story and screenplay that fail to impress. Banner: Annapurna Studios, SS Creations Direction: Shaniyel Deo Producers: Supriya Yarlagadda, Sunil Narang Music: Bheems Ceciroleo Cast: Adivi Sesh, Mrunal Thakur, Atul Kulkarni, Vaibhav, Anurag Kashyap, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/adjfdp1ZCF7ETENe_dacoit.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-04-10T06:31:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-decoit"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Biker'"},"content":{"text":"It is a well-known fact that the summer season is crucial for Tollywood. This summer was originally scheduled to kick off with a major release starring Ram Charan; however, due to various reasons, that film was postponed. Stepping in to fill that void, Sharwanand has arrived before the audience today with his film, 'Biker.'  The filmmakers have consistently asserted that—until now—no full-fledged bike racing movie has ever graced the Indian screen, making this the very first of its kind. Having assured the public that the film would captivate audiences, let us see in this review whether 'Biker' lives up to those claims. Story: Vikas Narayan—known as Vicky (Sharwanand)—is a top-tier motocross racer who suddenly decides to quit the sport. While fully immersed in leading a family life, Vicky unexpectedly finds his interest and passion for racing reignited due to unforeseen circumstances. Consequently, he returns to his father and mentor, Sunil Narayan (Rajasekhar).  What events unfold during this reunion? Furthermore, what is the true nature of the bond shared between this father-son duo—Sunil and Vicky? The film's premise revolves around why Vicky gives up racing, only to return to the sport many years later. Although the storyline itself is quite simple, the film is driven primarily by its screenplay. Performances: Regardless of the film or the nature of the role, we consistently see Sharwanand impressing audiences with his acting prowess. In this latest outing, he once again poured his heart and soul into the character of Vicky. Sharwanand appears in two distinct age groups within the film, and he delivers a convincing performance tailored perfectly to each phase of the character's life.  Furthermore, Sharwanand earns high marks once again for his execution of both emotional and romantic scenes. As a biker, he makes a sincere effort to impress through his body language. His romantic scenes with the female lead are engaging. Overall, Sharwanand delivers a commendable performance as a biker. Rajasekhar makes a return to the silver screen after a long hiatus. He is cast in the role of Sharwanand's father—a character that, despite being a paternal figure, is accorded significant importance within the narrative. Rajasekhar effectively conveys the emotional depth of the role, bringing the character to life with great conviction. Rajasekhar's acting requires no special mention; he has once again proven his mettle as a performer.  Regarding the female lead, while her character holds significance within the story's plot, it must be noted that she does not receive the expected level of prominence in the actual screenplay. Nevertheless, she delivers a decent performance within the scope provided to her. There is not much to specifically discuss regarding the performances of the other supporting cast members.  Technical: Director Abhilash should have chosen a stronger storyline. It appears he intended to carry the film solely through his direction and screenplay. He really should have put more effort into refining the story itself. Such a thin storyline demands a robust screenplay; however, the director did not fully succeed in that regard either. There are flaws in the editing.  Some of the bike racing sequences occasionally feel tedious. While the film might appeal to racing enthusiasts, regular audiences are likely to wear expressions of exasperation, thinking, \"That's enough—please make it stop!\"  The cinematography is commendable; the camera work in certain racing sequences is particularly impressive. As for the music, there is nothing particularly noteworthy to mention, though it must be acknowledged that the music director did manage to succeed with the background score in a few isolated moments. The production values ​​are good. Analysis: It would have been more effective had the director first provided the audience with a foundational understanding of bike racing before immersing them in the narrative. As it stands, the film is truly engaging only for those who already possess prior knowledge of racing. Specifically, racing aficionados are the ones who will likely watch and enjoy this movie.  However, the average commercial audience is bound to be left bewildered—staring blankly and wondering, \"What exactly is this?\" While the audience may connect with a few of the emotional scenes scattered throughout the film, that connection often feels abruptly severed almost immediately. Overall, the director failed to craft a film that would truly resonate with the audience or leave a lasting impression on their hearts.  The director steered the film as if its sole purpose were to showcase bike racing. It remains unclear whether he simply forgot that a movie requires a blend of various elements, or if he naively assumed that the presence of emotion and racing sequences alone would suffice to bring everything else together. However, it must be stated that the average moviegoer is unlikely to enjoy 'Biker'.  Sharwanand put in a tremendous amount of effort. It was a wise decision to cast Rajasekhar in this role; the combination of these two actors held the potential to create something truly spectacular. Unfortunately, the director failed to effectively utilize their talents to deliver a hit film. Apart from those with a specific passion for bike racing, regular family audiences will find it difficult to connect with this movie. It is simply not possible to carry an entire film on the strength of just a few emotional scenes. Plus Points: Sharwanand Rajasekhar A few racing sequences Minus Points: Story and Screenplay Slow pacing in the first half Some racing sequences felt tedious Certain scenes were overly melodramatic Conclusion: While Sharwanand was impressive in his portrayal of a biker, the film ultimately failed to appeal to family audiences. Banner: UV Creations Producers: Vamsi, Pramod Direction: Abhilash Reddy Music: Ghibran Cast: Sharwanand, Rajasekhar, Malavika Nair, Atul Kulkarni, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ac96upGXnQHGZPjo_biker.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-04-03T06:31:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-biker---for-those-who-love-racing"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Ustaad Bhagat Singh'"},"content":{"text":"Everyone is well aware of the massive success achieved by Gabbar Singh—a film released many years ago, starring Pawan Kalyan as the lead and directed by Harish Shankar. Consequently, expectations for this film have soared to great heights. In this review, let us see whether Director Harish Shankar has managed to live up to those expectations. Story: A teacher (K.S. Ravikumar), who dedicates himself to supporting the education of tribal children, notices a particular young boy in the region who stands out as truly special. The teacher adopts the boy, raises him, and molds him into a police officer.  That officer is Ustaad Bhagat Singh (Pawan Kalyan)—a man who not only accomplishes whatever he sets his mind to but also stands at the forefront whenever and wherever corruption or injustice rears its head.  The story revolves around how Ustaad Bhagat Singh thwarts the schemes of an individual who seeks to seize power by assassinating the state's Chief Minister. Simply put, this is the story of a powerful police officer. Performances: There is no need to speak separately about Pawan Kalyan's performance; it speaks for itself. There is absolutely no doubt that he does complete justice to any role assigned to him. Pawan Kalyan has done full justice to the character of Ustaad Bhagat Singh as well. Delivering a powerful performance in a commanding role, he captivated the audience without ever compromising on his signature style of entertainment.  Furthermore, his impeccable comedic timing earned him the appreciation of his fans. Pawan Kalyan was equally impressive in the romantic sequences. He also delighted the audience by showcasing a few dance moves in the musical numbers.  Overall, Pawan Kalyan delivered a captivating performance that truly defined the concept of a \"one-man show.\" Typically, heroines do not play a very significant role in Pawan Kalyan's films; this trend continued in this movie as well. The character played by the lead actress, Sreeleela, lacked substantial importance. Nevertheless, she delivered a decent performance within the limited scope of her role. The other heroine, Raashi Khanna, was confined to a single song sequence. She did not feel integral to the plot; in fact, her absence from the film would not have made any significant difference to the narrative.  The supporting cast members performed adequately within the confines of their respective roles. Technical: It appeared that Director Harish Shankar focused his attention entirely on the screenplay and Pawan Kalyan's character, rather than on the core storyline itself. Several of his dialogues were crafted to deliver a definite \"kick\" to the fans. Moreover, the director clearly understood exactly how the fans wished to see Pawan Kalyan portrayed on screen, and he presented him in the film accordingly.  The director succeeded in crafting dialogues that perfectly complemented Pawan Kalyan's distinct body language. The screenplay was passable. The direction falls short, the storyline is weak, and the cinematography is merely passable.  The music provided by Devi Sri Prasad is decent, to a certain extent. The fact that the songs did not turn out to be blockbusters is a drawback; however, the background score provided by Thaman stands out as a major highlight of the film. The production values ​​are commendable, though there are occasional flaws in the editing. Analysis: Whenever a Pawan Kalyan film is announced, it captures the attention not only of his fans but of audiences from all walks of life. Speculations abound—regarding the kind of story he might choose or whether the film will live up to the stature he currently commands—and expectations inevitably soar. There is absolutely no doubt that meeting such high expectations is a monumental challenge for any director.  In this film, Director Harish Shankar presents Pawan Kalyan in a simple, straightforward manner—devoid of heavy-handed social messages or overly dramatic, \"powerful\" dialogues—while crafting his lines in a way that specifically appeals to his fan base. It has been proven once again that Harish Shankar possesses a keen understanding of exactly what fans expect from a Pawan Kalyan film. Director Harish Shankar knew that if Pawan Kalyan delivered the kind of high-energy entertainment reminiscent of Gabbar Singh, his fans would undoubtedly embrace it wholeheartedly. Consequently, he devised a strategy to focus exclusively on showcasing Pawan Kalyan's persona and delivering pure entertainment, without getting bogged down in the intricacies of the plot or other narrative elements.  While his approach certainly resonates with the fans, the general audience may be left feeling that something more is missing. Ultimately, the film feels as though it was crafted exclusively for the enjoyment of Pawan Kalyan's devoted fan base. Pawan Kalyan's previous film, OG, also felt as though it was made specifically for his fans. Once again, this movie appears to have been crafted solely to satisfy Pawan Kalyan's fan base. General audiences may choose to wait until the film becomes available on OTT platforms. Plus Points: Pawan Kalyan, Comedy Select scenes Minus Points: Story and Screenplay Roles of the Heroines Roles of the Villains Verdict: For Pawan Kalyan's fans..."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/abuyNrbci2UF6P_u_UBS.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-03-19T07:22:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-ustaad-bhagat-singh---treat-for-fans-only"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Vishnu Vinyasam' - Routine Entertainer"},"content":{"text":"This film, starring Sree Vishnu, who has acquired a special image by choosing different films, did not have much publicity from the beginning. But there was a bit of a rush during the release. The hype for this film increased in the wake of the publicity that two films starring Sree Vishnu were coming out at the same time. So how is this film? Let's see in this review whether the matter in this film is up to the increased hype. Story: Vishnu (Sree Vishnu) is a junior lecturer at Ongole Pragathi Junior College. He believes in Vastu a lot and pays a lot of attention to horoscopes. He believes a little too much in numerology. Manisha (Nayan Sarika) enters Vishnu's life. Manisha loves Vishnu at first sight. Manisha has a problem. Because of that problem, no one comes forward to marry her. But Manisha loves Vishnu without telling him about it.  After both of them fall deeply in love, Manisha tells Vishnu the real thing. Will Vishnu then say okay to marry Manisha? What is that problem that Manisha has so far? You have to watch the movie to know. Actors' performance: Sree Vishnu has been impressing in recent times as he has made a name for himself in comedy roles. He has already earned the reputation of playing confusing roles. Moreover, as expected, since this is a confusing role in this film, Srivishnu impressed. He acted in an impressive manner and impressed. His expressions make you laugh. Apart from that, he acted in a memorable way in his role.  The heroine Nayan Sarika impressed with her beauty. Even though she was mostly seen in a saree, she sparkled with beauty here and there. Along with her impressive beauty, she impressed with her acting. Her acting in some scenes was good. Especially in some scenes, her acting was the main attraction of the film.  The actors who played other roles impressed within the scope of their roles. Technical: Although the subject taken by director Yadunath Maruthirao is very routine, he impressed with the entertainment he handled. More care should have been taken in the screenplay. It seemed that some scenes were jumped. There are errors in editing. Especially some scenes are like front, back... back, front. That makes it confusing at times.  There is nothing much to say about the music. But in some scenes of the film, it seems that the background score is not important. The production values ​​are good. The cinematography is not important. Analysis: It seems that hero Srivishnu has accepted this film after seeing the support that entertainment films have been getting in recent times. The story is very routine. Recently, too, a film came out in which the hero had three beliefs. If you watch this film within a few months of its release, it has been proven once again that if this subject is handled with comedy, the audience will support it.  The director has handled this film in a completely entertaining way. But there are some errors in the screenplay. There is some confusion in the placement of scenes. The first half came out very well. After the entertaining first half, it must be said that the second half has decreased a bit. The director succeeded in revealing the twist. However, even though there is another twist in the climax, it did not work out well. Overall, the movie is a good entertainer, but you have to enjoy the magic without logic. Plus points: Sree Vishnu, Nayan Sarika Comedy, Satya, other comedians Minus points: Some scenes without logic, Some scenes in the second half, Music, editing. Finally.. It would be good if you enjoy the entertainment without looking at whether there is no logic or not. Banner: Sree Subrahmanyeshwara Cinemas Producer: Sumanth Naidu Director: Yadunath Maruthi Rao Music: Rathan Cast: Sree Vishnu, Nayan Sarika, Satya, Murali Sharma, Brahmaji and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aaFsmMFoBIGEg6rI_vishnuvinyasam.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-02-27T09:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkkMjnbLZHw"}},"uid":"review-vishnu-vinyasam---routine-entertainer"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'O’Romeo'"},"content":{"text":"Inspired by true events, Sajid Nadiadwala's O'Romeo encompasses layered elements of emotions, story and characters that are thoughtfully crafted. Starring Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Avinash Tiwary, Nana Patekar, Farida Jalal, followed by Disha Patani, Tamannaah Bhatia & Vikrant Massey in a special appearances O'Romeo is a visual treat. Vishal Bhardwaj's direction is seamlessly balanced between the mass and class appeal. His sharp attention to even the minute details truly yet again proves his eye for nuanced filmmaking. The jaw dropping action sequences performed by Shahid Kapoor, Avinash Tiwary is arresting and even Triptii Dimri impresses with her action skills making the hype and high anticipation around the film all worth it. The performances by each actor is refined, outstanding and in one word perfect.Shahid Kapoor as Ustara is mind boggling and O'Romeo surely stands as one of his finest roles. Triptii Dimri as Afshan has the innocence yet when required the zeal and fire for revenge. Avinash Tiwary as Jalal is unexpected and unrecognisable. The head tattoo adds to his menacing look and the ruthless character that he plays on screen. The chemistry between Shahid and Triptii feels fresh, intensely passionate and yet they never make you feel this is the first time they are sharing screen space together. Audiences are in for a visual treat with Farida Jalal's fiery dialogues and Nana Patekar's raw and unfiltered dialogue delivery and magnetic screen presence. The humour of the film is something that is strategically placed and doesn't disrupt the emotional intensity. Vishal Bhardwaj can never go wrong when it comes to music. Each music track is immensely soul stirring and melody that you will connect to. The dance numbers be it Aashiqon ki colony, paan ki dukaan has an unmatched energy and makes you want to shake a leg. What grabs your attention is also what a phenomenal dancer Shahid and Disha are and how beautifully they have been brought together in the popular tracks of the movie. Sajid Nadiadwala adds another impressive visionary movie to his legacy with O'Romeo after some of the most inspiring and milestone movies like Chhichhore, 83,Tamasha, Chandu Champion and more."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aY7_mFWLo0XkEfK7_ORomeo.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-02-13T06:15:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2M4hKmuBzUU"}},"uid":"review-oromeo"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Anaganaga Oka Raju'"},"content":{"text":"Naveen Polishetty, who gained immense popularity overnight as a hero with the film Jathi Ratnalu, has been making films slowly and steadily without much fanfare. His film with Anushka, Miss Shetty Mr. Polishetty, was considered decent, but some felt it wasn't a film befitting Naveen's image. Naveen started this film with his own script. Even though the director changed, he took the lead in carrying the film forward. From the beginning of the film's production, they have been conducting promotions in a way that raised expectations. Let's see how the film is in this review.  Story: Raju (Naveen Polishetty), who belongs to a zamindar family, lives a respectable life in the village by invoking his ancestors' name, even though he has lost all his properties. Although he is a zamindar's heir in name, Raju faces financial difficulties. Even though he has lost all his fields and properties, he continues to be called a zamindar in the village by mentioning his grandfather's name. He thinks that to solve all his problems, he needs to marry a very wealthy girl. He looks at many prospective matches for this purpose. Finally, he meets Charulata (Meenakshi Chaudhary). Upon learning that she is the daughter of the very wealthy Bhupathi Raju (Rao Ramesh), he undertakes \"Operation Charulata\" to make her fall in love with him.  Charulata falls for his plan, and Raju and Charu get married in a grand ceremony. After the marriage, Raju learns some shocking things, and his situation becomes even worse than before the wedding. How does Raju get out of these circumstances? Does Raju manage to overcome his financial problems as he had hoped? What he does in response to that is the film's plot.  Actors' Performance: It's evident from watching the film that Naveen Polishetty carried the entire burden of the movie on his shoulders. Naveen impressed with his comedic timing. He captivated with his signature mannerisms and also impressed with his dialogues and dance. He also attracted everyone's attention by performing an action sequence. There is no doubt that Naveen's comedic timing is the main attraction of the film. He dominated the entire film with his acting and comedy. Even though the entire film revolved around Naveen, he acted with balance and restraint without going overboard anywhere.  The heroine, Meenakshi Chaudhary, looks very beautiful. She has already earned good marks in terms of her looks. Although she seemed to overact in one or two places, her overall performance was impressive. Rao Ramesh impressed in his limited role. The actors in other roles performed adequately. However, none of them got the scope to deliver a great performance.  Technical Aspects: The director tried to make the story completely entertaining. In that process, the comedy scenes he wrote were somewhat funny. However, every scene felt like something seen before, like something that had made people laugh before. The writing was particularly poor in the second half. It is known that Naveen is one of the writers of this film. It doesn't seem like he gave much importance to other characters except for his own.  There is nothing much to say about the music. While one song was somewhat decent, overall, the songs and background score were not great. The cinematography is good; the beauty of the village was captured well. There are many complaints regarding the editing. The second half, in particular, needed significant trimming. The production values ​​are in line with the story.  Analysis: The fact that Naveen Polishetty is releasing his film knowing that there are big films releasing for Sankranthi suggests he had a lot of confidence in his movie. His statements before the film's release also generated interest. He conducted promotional activities in a way that attracted everyone's attention. However, his complete control over the script and the lack of importance given to any character other than his own resulted in the entire film revolving around Naveen. Despite this, the first half felt decent and progressed with comedy.  However, despite a major problem in the second half, it's unclear why he's contesting in elections and making various attempts to win them. Only Naveen knows why a person from one village is contesting elections in another village. The entire second half proceeded illogically, like magic. While logic isn't always necessary for such entertainment films, assuming that the audience will accept and believe anything shown to them can backfire. That's what happened here. The illogical scenes and screenplay became excessive. The villain had no importance whatsoever; everyone stood before the hero like sheep. The audience won't stand for that. Therefore, it remains to be seen how well the audience will receive the king's entertainment.  Plus points: Naveen Polishetty Some comedy scenes First half.  Minus points: Second half Illogical scenes Routine climax Music  Conclusion... This entertainment is not enough for the Sankranthi competition, Raju.  Banner: Sithara Entertainments  Producers: Naga Vamsi, Sai Soujanya  Director: Mari  Music: Mickey J. Meyer  Cast: Naveen Polishetty, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Rao Ramesh, Tharak Ponnappa and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWdkoQIvOtkhBfM4_AnaganagaOkaRaju.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-01-14T07:42:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSGVbEZHgSQ"}},"uid":"review-anaganaga-oka-raju"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi'"},"content":{"text":"Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja has been struggling with a series of flops. The recent film 'Mass Jathara' further disappointed his fans. Recovering quickly from that flop, Ravi Teja made this film at a very fast pace. Director Kishore Tirumala has crafted this film as a family entertainer. It was promoted as a good family entertainer for this Sankranthi season. Let's see in this review whether the film lives up to those expectations.  Story: Ram (Ravi Teja) and Balamani (Dimple Hayathi) are husband and wife. They lead a very harmonious life together. While their married life is going smoothly, due to some unexpected events, Ram unexpectedly meets Manasa Shetty (Ashika Ranganath) from Spain, and a physical relationship develops between them.  After returning from Spain, Ram is troubled by this incident. That's when Manasa comes to Hyderabad. This leads to more problems for Ram. Ram tries to tell Manasa that he is married. What happens in the end? How do the two women play games with Ram? That's the story of the film.  Actors' Performance: Ravi Teja, as always, impressed with his energetic performance. It has been proven once again that he can easily handle such roles. Although being caught between two women is a somewhat new subject for Ravi Teja, he was still captivating. With his trademark mannerisms, Ravi Teja was decent in creating humor through awkward situations and interactions between the two female leads. However, he failed to impress in the songs. In some scenes, his age was clearly visible. Overall, it must be said that Ravi Teja tried his best to deliver full-fledged entertainment.  Among the heroines, Dimple Hayathi deserves special mention. She played Ravi Teja's wife. Her character was portrayed as both traditional and beautiful. However, in some scenes, it feels like another actress would have been a better fit for this role than Dimple. There wasn't much scope for acting. Dimple was decent with what she had. Ashika impressed with her beauty. She played the role of a girl who takes revenge on the person who cheated her. Her character also had only moderate scope for acting. However, overall, Dimple Hayathi impressed in the role of Manasa that she was given.  Technical Aspects: Director Kishore Tirumala should have written a stronger story. He claimed to have managed with the screenplay despite the simple story. He tried to drive the narrative with entertainment. However, he should have presented the story in a more engaging way for the audience. Some dialogues were good, while others were very clichéd.  Bheems' music was average. The songs were not very impressive. The background score was also just average. The cinematography was average. The cinematography was good in some of the foreign location scenes. There were flaws in the editing. Some scenes in the second half feel dragged out. The production values ​​are in line with the story.  Analysis: From the beginning, the unit members have been saying that this film delivers the kind of entertainment that audiences expect from Ravi Teja. Many films have been made in the past about a man caught between two women. Director Kishore has tried to bring back the same story with a new backdrop. It must be said that the director has succeeded to a certain extent in making the film's screenplay entertaining.  Despite the routine story, he managed to evoke laughter in places with the screenplay he chose. He also kept the story moving forward without becoming boring. However, when there is a very strong family entertainer playing alongside it, this film needed to be even better. It needed to be a superior family entertainer. But since the film is only moderately entertaining, it remains to be seen how much the audience will support this film.  Plus Points: Some comedy scenes First half Serial song  Minus Points: Routine story Narrative Some scenes in the second half  Finally... A request to all husbands... A routine entertainer  Banner: SLV Cinemas  Producer: Sudhakar Cherukuri  Director: Kishore Tirumala  Music: Bheems Ceciroleo  Cast: Ravi Teja, Dimple Hayathi, Ashika Ranganath, Sunil, Tharak Ponnappa, Soni, Vennela Kishore, Satya, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWYRSgIvOtkhBbFi_BMW.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-01-13T08:33:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7PJpctfx3Q"}},"uid":"review-bhartha-mahasayulaku-wignyapthi"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Mana Shankaravaraprasad Garu'"},"content":{"text":"After delivering the biggest blockbuster with 'Sankranthi Ki Vastunnam' alongside Venkatesh for Sankranthi 2025, Anil Ravipudi is being called the 'Sankranthi Director'. In this context, ever since the announcement that Anil would be coming with a film starring the Megastar for Sankranthi, everyone has been eagerly waiting to see how it would turn out. Moreover, with Venkatesh also in the film and every song released becoming a hit, the expectations increased even further. Let's see in this review whether Anil Ravipudi lived up to the expectations, continued his Sankranthi sentiment, and delivered a hit.  Story: Shankaravaraprasad (Chiranjeevi) is a National Security Officer. Due to certain reasons, he divorces his wife Shashirekha (Nayanthara). At the time of the divorce, they have two children. Shashirekha, who is one of the wealthiest women in the country, takes precautions to prevent Shankaravaraprasad from even meeting his children. After a long time, Shankaravaraprasad gets the opportunity to see his children. At that time, realizing that his children are longing for their father's love, he decides to get closer to Shashirekha again.  What does Shankaravaraprasad do for this? A certain circumstance leads him to become a security officer at Shashirekha's house. What is that circumstance? What happened in the end? Will the divorced couple reunite? This is the storyline of the film.  Actors' Performance: No amount of praise is enough for Megastar Chiranjeevi's performance. From the beginning, fans eagerly awaited seeing Chiranjeevi's vintage comedy in this film. They got exactly what they hoped for from Chiranjeevi. He entertained with his unique mannerisms, just like he did in his brother's film and some other movies. He impressed in dance, action, drama, and everything else. He was particularly outstanding in some of the comedy scenes. The director fully utilized Chiranjeevi's potential. It felt like Chiranjeevi completely surrendered to the director's vision.  Venkatesh impressed in his role. His look and body language were captivating as always. Venkatesh excelled, especially in the scenes with Chiranjeevi. It must be said that the film's second half definitely picked up because of Venkatesh's presence. The story revolves around Nayanthara's character, but she didn't get much scope to perform. The director designed her character to be serious throughout. Except for one or two scenes, there isn't much to say about Nayanthara's performance. However, she impressed with her look. As Chiranjeevi's leading lady and playing the role of the richest woman in the country, Nayanthara fit perfectly into the character. The other actors also performed well within the scope of their respective roles.  Technical Aspects: There is no doubt that the film, which is releasing for Sankranthi, became a super hit because of its musical success. Everyone doubted whether Bheem could deliver such songs and music again. Even Mega fans commented that Bheems was unnecessary. But unexpectedly, Bheem delivered music perfectly suited to Megastar Chiranjeevi's body language and Anil Ravipudi's screenplay and writing. Bheem's music became the main attraction of the film. He deserves credit for elevating the film not only with the songs but also with the background score.  Director Anil Ravipudi once again worked his magic with his screenplay. The story is very simple, and the premise he chose is also very simple, but he impressed with the screenplay woven around it, his direction, dialogues, and writing. It has been proven once again that Anil Ravipudi can create a sensation with his comedy. The cinematography is average. It must be said that such comedy films don't require exceptional cinematography. The cinematography is adequate for the film. Some scenes in the second half could have been trimmed. The production values ​​are quite good, in line with the story.  Analysis: With five films releasing for Sankranthi, especially with a pan-India superstar like Prabhas's Raja Saab also releasing, some expressed doubts about what kind of result our Manasankaravaraprasad would achieve. However, those who had faith in Anil Ravipudi's content and his comedy expressed the opinion from the beginning that Manasankaravaraprasad had a strong chance of being a big hit. And as expected, Anil Ravipudi has once again proven his mettle with this film.  Except for one or two scenes in the second half, the entire film was a full-fledged entertainer. Especially the comedy in the first half and the vintage songs featuring the Venky-Chiru combo in the second half are undoubtedly the highlights of the film. If a little more care had been taken with the second half, it would have been on another level. Even now, without a doubt, this film stands as a full-length entertainer for this Sankranthi.  For the fans and audience who were waiting to see what kind of comedy Anil Ravipudi would deliver with a megastar like Chiranjeevi, it can be said that the film provided entertaining content without any disappointment. With a couple of sentimental scenes, some action sequences, and songs, the film is good in all aspects.  Plus Points: Comedy, Chiranjeevi, Venky, Music, First Half  Minus Points: Some scenes in the second half  Finally... Just like Sankranthi 2025, there is no doubt that Sankranthi 2026 will also belong to Anil's entertainment.  Banner: Shine Screens, Gold Box Entertainments  Producers: Sahu Garapati, Sushmita Konidela  Director: Anil Ravipudi  Music: Bheems Ceciroleo  Cast: Chiranjeevi, Venkatesh, Nayanthara, Catherine Tresa, Sachin Khedekar, Sharath Saxena, Harshavardhan, Abhinav Gomatam and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWQCvAIvOtkhBRbE_MSVPG2.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-01-11T20:06:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4CbAkPb468"}},"uid":"review-mana-shankaravaraprasad-garu"}}]}},"pageContext":{"isCreatedByStatefulCreatePages":true}}