{"data":{"all":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Encounter: When the meaning expands beyond a mere meeting"},"content":{"text":"Encounter – a word that originally meant a meeting or clash has, in India, become a euphemism for police shootings of suspects in a shift that was reignited after a recent West Bengal event which has reopened debates about rule of law, accountability, and political rhetoric.  The West Bengal government has now assigned the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to probe the “encounter” killing of one of the four people accused in the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl at Baruipur in South 24 Parganas district and submit a report. This meaning of the word that comes in the sundry conversation in India can be considered unique. Some say the word assumed a new meaning in the late-1960s and acquired a unique place in the vocabulary by the mid-1970s. During the rise of Naxalism in West Bengal, violence and bloodshed made headlines every day, and the word entered the lexicon, even in Bangla. The news next day would say “…killed in encounter”, implying an exchange of fire with activists/criminals who could not be overpowered and were thus eliminated in self-defence. Such high‑profile encounters elsewhere in India, too, provoked cycles of public approval and legal scrutiny. In some states, celebrated encounters bolstered political careers; in others, later investigations exposed staged shootings and custodial abuses. Human‑rights groups have long warned that normalising the term risks eroding due process, alleging when “encounter” becomes a shorthand for desirable outcome, incentives shift away from investigation and trial toward immediate lethal resolution. In later days, police officer Daya Nayak earned the epithet of “encounter specialist” during his tenure. His “fearless crackdowns” on Mumbai’s underworld in the late 1990s and early 2000s have been reported widely, recorded in many books, and recounted on celluloid as well. He reportedly led around 86 police encounters against hardened criminals, including noted gangsters and terror elements, turning into one of the most formidable figures in the Mumbai Police. But his career was not without setbacks – he faced corruption allegations and a long suspension, but was later acquitted and reinstated. He went on to retire from service. Thus, the word which in ordinary English sense is neutral and broad, was expanded built on its intrinsic meaning. According to Wikipedia, “The term encounter killing came into popular use in India since the late 20th century following a very high frequency of such killings by police in cities including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Ghaziabad. Some of the killings have been controversial, and critics have alleged that the police created 'fake encounters' as opportunities to kill suspects.” The Cambridge dictionary website describes encounter as to meet someone unexpectedly, or, to experience something, especially something unpleasant. The Merriam-Webster does mention “a meeting between hostile factions or persons: A sudden often violent clash” among other definitions. The online Oxford Learners Dictionaries, among other listings, gives a definition – but adding in parentheses “(Indian English)” – calling it “an incident in which police shoot dead a suspected criminal”. Wikipedia says, “Encounter killings, often simply referred to as encounters, is a euphemism used in India and Pakistan to refer to extrajudicial killings by security forces. The officers typically described the incidents as a shootout situation, often allegedly starting when a criminal grabs for the gun of a police officer. The term encounter came into widespread use for such incidents in the late 20th century.” Adding later, “Sometimes police officers are also killed in such incidents, although relatively rarely.” Over time, media and official language began to use the term for incidents in which suspects died in police firing. The transformation from “meeting” to a shorthand for police killings is not merely lexical drift; it is social and political. From the later part of 20th century, episodes of armed confrontation between police and organised criminals or insurgents were often reported as “encounters”, as evident."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/874S3GTYX1ZEe_SN_encounter.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T06:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"encounter-when-the-meaning-expands-beyond-a-mere-m"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Dulquer Salmaan's #DQ41 titled 'Sri Sri'"},"content":{"text":"The makers of director Ravi Nelakuditi's upcoming romantic entertainer, featuring Dulquer Salmaan in the lead, on Friday announced that the film had now been titled 'Sri Sri.  Taking to his social media timelines, actor Dulquer Salmaan wrote, \"Love will feel a little extra special with 'Sri Sri'. #DQ41 is #SriSri. #LoveWillSparkAgain. #SLVC10. Starring @dulQuer, @hegdepooja & @Dheekshiths Directed by @ravinelakuditi9 Music by @gvprakash Cinematography by #AnayOmGoswamy Editing by #KotagiriVenkateswaraRao. Production design by @artkolla.Produced by @sudhakarcheruk5 under @SLVCinemasOffl.\" It may be recalled that the makers of the film had welcomed well known Telugu actor Jagapathi Babu onboard the unit of the film in February this year. Taking to its X timeline to wish Jagapathi Babu a happy birthday, well known production house SLV Cinemas, which is producing the film, had said, \"Happy Birthday to the versatile @IamJagguBhai Garu. The world of DQ41 gets special with your addition. -Team #DQ41. #SLVC10 Starring @dulQuer, @hegdepooja, @meramyakrishnan, @Dheekshiths. Directed by @ravinelakuditi9. Music by @gvprakash. Cinematography by #AnayOmGoswamy. Editing by #KotagiriVenkateswaraRao. Production design by @artkolla. Produced by @sudhakarcheruk5 under @SLVCinemasOffl. Co-produced by @innamuri8888.\" The film, which went on floors in August last year, features Dulquer Salmaan and Pooja Hegde in the lead. The project was launched with a special pooja ceremony in Hyderabad last year. While Natural Star Nani had given the clap for the mahurat shot, Buchi Babu had switched on the camera. 'Dasara' director Srikanth Odela had also graced the mahurat ceremony. Treating the netizens to sneak peeks from the launch ceremony, Dulquer had said, \"The much awaited #DQ41 - a heartwarming contemporary love story - launched grandly with a pooja ceremony...Natural Star @nameisnani gave the clap & blockbuster directors @srikanthodela__ & @buchibabu_sana graced the event to bless the team.\" Backed by Sudhakar Cherukuri under the banner of SLV Cinemas, the music for the film is being provided by two-time National Award winner GV Prakash. Apart from Dulquer Salmaan, Pooja Hegde and Jagapathi Babu, the film will also feature Ramya Krishnan and Deekshith Shetty in pivotal roles. On the technical front, the film has Anay Goswamy as its cinematographer, and Avinash Kolla as the head of the production design. Touted to be a pan-India project, 'Sri Sri' will reach the audience in five languages."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/qB2YmsRjnwMPc36w_srisri.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C7%2C448%2C221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T08:24:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"dulquer-salmaans-dq41-titled-sri-sri"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Car crashes into house of actor Dharma"},"content":{"text":"A car crashed into the residence of Tollywood actor Dharma in Film Nagar in posh Jubilee Hills area here in the early hours of Friday. No one was injured in the incident, police said.  The vehicle, allegedly driven by intoxicated youths crashed into Dharma’s house past midnight after the driver lost control apparently due to over speeding. According to police, the car crashed into the gate and entered the premises before coming to a halt. A portion of the boundary wall came crashing under the impact of the collision. The vehicle was extensively damaged in the incident. On hearing the loud thud, the actor and his family members woke up. They lodged a complaint with the police. Police rushed to the spot and detained the youth, who was driving the vehicle, allegedly under the influence of alcohol. Jubilee Hills police registered a case and took up investigation. Meanwhile, in a bizarre incident, a drunk man stole a bus belonging to Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC). According to police, a man stole a hired bus of TGSRC from Jangaon bus stand and took it away. Venkanna, a resident of Palakurthi, drove the empty bus for about 21 km towards Suryapet. The bus came to an abrupt halt after hitting a cement block near the Singarajupally toll gate. The police have arrested the accused, who was under the influence of alcohol. According to police, Venkanna, a tractor driver, wanted to travel to Tirupati. He first visited a nearby railway station twice, but after learning that no trains were available at that time, he went to Jangaon bus stand, where he noticed an RTC-hired bus parked on the premises. He entered the bus and managed to start it using the vehicle's toolkit. He then drove the bus along the Suryapet route for about 21 kilometres. The theft came to light after the bus met with an accident near the Singarajupalli toll plaza. Venkanna reportedly hit the divider while attempting to reverse the bus. Toll plaza staff became suspicious when he repeatedly rammed the divider and was unable to reverse the vehicle properly. They informed the police, who detained Venkanna."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2RqIUxatqd_YW-Am_dharmahome.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T07:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"car-crashes-into-house-of-actor-dharma"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"CM Vijay Keeps His Promise"},"content":{"text":"Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Friday handed over compassionate appointment orders to the members of families who lost their loved ones in the Karur stampede, describing the tragedy as an “unhealed wound” that continues to weigh heavily on his heart.  The stampede occurred on September 27 last year, on the eve of the Tamil Nadu Assembly election, during a TVK election campaign rally in Karur. Forty-one people were killed in the incident. A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the tragedy is currently underway. Following the incident, the Tamil Nadu government announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh to each bereaved family, while the TVK extended an additional compensation of Rs 20 lakh. As part of the government’s rehabilitation measures, the Chief Minister visited Karur to distribute compassionate appointment orders to eligible family members of the victims. During a function held at the Atlas Arena, CM Vijay presented appointment orders to one member from each of the 32 affected families, with jobs offered as per the educational qualifications of the beneficiaries. The event coincided with proceedings before the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court, where a petition challenging the government’s decision to provide permanent government jobs to the victims’ families came up for hearing. The court directed that the beneficiaries could, for the present, be offered temporary appointments. Addressing the gathering, an emotional Vijay said the pain caused by the Karur tragedy had never left him. “My heartfelt greetings to all my brothers and sisters of Karur who live in my heart. No matter how high a person rises in life, the wounds and pain in the heart can never be forgotten. I stand before you today after overcoming many hardships and emotional scars,” he said. “The Karur tragedy caused me immense mental anguish. I lost my brothers, my sisters and my innocent children in Karur. The incident remains an unhealed wound in my heart. They pinned the blame on me for the Karur incident, but I entered politics for the sake of the people, and I am determined to bring a permanent end to such tragedies,” the Chief Minister said. Launching a political attack on the Opposition, CM Vijay alleged that opposition members walked out of the Legislative Assembly when the term “party fund” was mentioned. He further claimed that corruption worth crores of rupees existed across government departments in the past, but asserted that people now believed bribery and corruption in government offices had significantly reduced under his administration. The Chief Minister also reiterated his government’s commitment to fulfilling its election promises. He announced that the promised scheme to present a gold ring on behalf of the maternal uncle to newborns on the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai (Arignar Anna) would be implemented as pledged. The programme concluded with the distribution of appointment orders to beneficiaries, with the government stating that the initiative was aimed at providing long-term financial security to families devastated by one of the worst public tragedies in the state’s recent history."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/bfZ9ipLrs4bJqUwd_vijay.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C2%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T08:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"cm-vijay-keeps-his-promise"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Mbappe scripts FIFA WC history"},"content":{"text":"France talisman Kylian Mbappe has carved his name deeper into football history, becoming the youngest player to feature in 20 FIFA World Cup matches and the fastest to reach the milestone of 20 World Cup goals after steering his side to its third FIFA World Cup semifinal. The 27-year-old achieved the historic feat during France’s 2-0 quarter-final victory over Morocco at the Boston Stadium, where he recovered from a first-half penalty miss to score in the 60th minute before setting up teammate Ousmane Dembele for the second. While Argentina’s Lionel Messi is the outright record holder for FIFA World Cup appearances with 30, Mbappe has become France's first-most capped player in the competition with 20 appearances. He is level with Hugo Lloris and ahead of Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud and Raphael Varane.  With his eighth goal of the ongoing 2026 tournament, Mbappe has now taken his overall World Cup tally to 20 goals in just 20 appearances across three editions (2018, 2022, and 2026), just one goal shy of equalling Messi (21) for the most goals scored in the history of the competition. France's all-time leading goalscorer Kylian Mbappe has cemented his place among the greatest players in FIFA World Cup history across his appearances at three editions of the tournament. He features prominently in numerous all-time rankings and boasts an impressive collection of individual records. After France's 3-0 victory over Sweden at World Cup 2026, the 27-year-old Frenchman became the French player with the most wins in the tournament's history (15). His 16th triumph, against Paraguay, saw him draw level with Brazil's Cafu on the all-time list. Against Morocco in the quarter-final, he levelled with Miroslav Klose with 17 wins. Only Lionel Messi (20 wins) remains ahead of him. With eight knockout-stage goals to his name before the 2026 tournament, Mbappe was level with Brazil's Leonidas and Ronaldo. His brace against Sweden in France's 3-0 win in New Jersey took him clear at the top of the all-time ranking, before he extended the record to 11 goals with another against Paraguay and to 12 against Morocco."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/WvZNtvn-RdQx1PGC_mbappa.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T01:39:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"mbappe-scripts-fifa-wc-history"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","three"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Is 175th Movie Is Rajini's Final Innings?"},"content":{"text":"Speculation about Superstar Rajinikanth's future in cinema has once again taken over social media, with fresh reports suggesting that the legendary actor may consider stepping away from films after completing his milestone 175th project. The rumours have sparked widespread discussion among fans and industry insiders, as Rajinikanth has remained one of Indian cinema's biggest icons for over four decades. Despite the growing buzz, there has been no official confirmation from the actor or his team regarding any retirement plans. The speculation has gained momentum at a time when several leading stars are redefining their careers. With actor-turned-politician Vijay announcing that he will focus on public life after his final film, many fans have begun drawing comparisons and wondering whether Rajinikanth could also be preparing to slow down his acting career. Social media has been flooded with emotional reactions, with admirers describing the possibility as the end of an unforgettable era in Tamil cinema. However, industry observers point out that these discussions are based entirely on unverified reports rather than confirmed information. Interestingly, this is not the first time retirement rumours have surrounded Rajinikanth. Similar claims surfaced during the releases of several of his previous films, but each time they proved to be nothing more than speculation. At present, the superstar remains actively involved in filmmaking, with his upcoming projects generating tremendous anticipation among fans. Until an official statement is issued, the reports surrounding his retirement remain purely speculative, while audiences continue to look forward to seeing the veteran actor on the big screen for years to come."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/62da9168-88d6-41c4-83ab-f93876632a40_rajini+darbar.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T06:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"is-175th-movie-is-rajinis-final-innings"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"HC imposed penalty of 7.5 cr on Rajpal Yadav"},"content":{"text":"The Delhi High Court on Friday upheld actor Rajpal Yadav's conviction in cheque bounce cases, dismissing his petitions challenging the trial court's verdict  The court also imposed a combined penalty of Rs 7.35 crore on the actor. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma termed Rajpal Yadav's conduct \"dubious\", observing that he was given multiple opportunities to repay the amount but repeatedly failed to honour his commitments. The High Court granted Rajpal Yadav two months to challenge its order in the Supreme Court. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 1.05 crore in each of the seven cases, totalling Rs 7.35 crore. As per the court's directive, Rs 1.04 crore will be paid to the complainant and Rs 25,000 to the state in each case. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma pronounced the judgment in a batch of criminal miscellaneous petitions and criminal revision petitions arising out of proceedings under the Negotiable Instruments Act. The actor had been granted interim suspension of sentence by the Delhi High Court, which continued to remain in operation during the pendency of the proceedings. The petitions have been filed by Rajpal Yadav against M/s Murli Projects Pvt Ltd and another, challenging the orders passed by the trial court in multiple cheque dishonour cases. Earlier, the High Court had extended the interim suspension of sentence granted to Rajpal Yadav after observing that the actor had already made substantial payments to the complainant company. During the hearing, counsel appearing for Yadav had informed the Delhi High Court that around Rs 4.25 crore had already been paid to M/s Murli Projects Pvt Ltd, including a demand draft of Rs 25 lakh handed over before the court. Observing that the actor had already made substantial payments, Justice Sharma had orally remarked that the court was not inclined to send him back to jail at that stage. The High Court had also declined to vacate its earlier order suspending Yadav's sentence despite an application filed by the complainant seeking cancellation of the interim relief. \"He is not running away. He is still here… If the money has to come to you, it will come,\" the Delhi High Court had observed, while clarifying that the actor must either honour the settlement or contest the case on the merits.  Earlier, in February, the High Court had directed Rajpal Yadav to surrender before the concerned Jail Superintendent after taking a stern view of his repeated failure to honour settlement commitments despite being granted several opportunities. Justice Sharma had then observed that despite \"considerable leniency\", the actor had repeatedly breached undertakings given to the court and failed to comply with payment timelines fixed from time to time. Subsequently, the actor was granted an interim suspension of sentence after depositing part of the settlement amount, paving the way for his release from jail while the High Court continued hearing the main petitions. Rajpal Yadav was convicted and sentenced in 2024 in multiple cheque dishonour cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aYM3c90YXLCxVW7h_rajpalyadav.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T10:19:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"hc-imposed-penalty-of-7.5-cr-on-rajpal-yadav"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Viral Kumbh Star Loses Security"},"content":{"text":"The Kerala High Court on Friday vacated its interim order granting police protection to Monalisa Bhosle, the young woman who shot to national fame as the Viral Kumbh Mela Star, after the State informed the court that police were unable to trace her using the address and contact details furnished in her petition.  Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas withdrew the interim protection after the Government Pleader submitted that repeated attempts by the police to contact Monalisa had failed. According to the State, officers were unable to locate the petitioner despite efforts to provide the protection ordered by the court. \"The police wanted to provide protection, but the petitioner could not be traced. This has become a regular pattern. Every time she approaches the court seeking police protection, the police are unable to contact her,\" the Government Pleader submitted before the court. Monalisa's counsel told the court that he had no instructions from his client regarding the State's submissions. Taking note of the developments, the court vacated its interim order issued on June 19. However, it clarified that if Monalisa approaches the police in writing seeking protection, the authorities must provide the necessary security. The case has been posted for further hearing on July 21. Monalisa had approached the High Court alleging that she had become the target of hate campaigns on mainstream media and social media platforms after marrying Mohammed Farmaan, a Muslim. She became a household name during the Maha Kumbh celebrations after videos of her selling 'rudraksha' garlands went viral on social media, earning her the sobriquet Viral Kumbh Mela Star. The legal battle surrounding the couple has witnessed several twists over the past few months. Earlier this year, while in Kerala for a film shoot, Monalisa sought police assistance claiming that her family was opposing her marriage to Farmaan. The couple subsequently got married. Her father later lodged a complaint in Madhya Pradesh alleging that Farmaan had abducted her, prompting the couple to move the Kerala High Court. The court had earlier granted Farmaan one month's transit anticipatory bail to enable him to seek regular relief before the competent courts in Madhya Pradesh. The couple has also approached the Madhya Pradesh High Court alleging that Monalisa's birth certificate had been forged to falsely invoke provisions of the POCSO Act against Farmaan. However, last week, the Kerala High Court declined to extend Farmaan's transit anticipatory bail after a POCSO court in Madhya Pradesh rejected his plea for anticipatory bail, leaving the couple's legal battle spread across courts in two States."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aFBNfLNJEFaPYAAn_monalisa.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T07:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"viral-kumbh-star-loses-security"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Samantha Backs Ex-BiL Akhil"},"content":{"text":"Southern beauty Samantha Ruth Prabhu extended her best wishes to her former brother-in-law and actor Akhil Akkineni for his forthcoming action entertainer 'Lenin'.  Samantha uploaded the trailer of 'Lenin' on the Stories section of her Instagram handle, wishing Akhil and the entire team of the drama. The 'Kushi' actress penned that the project is already giving out blockbuster vibes. \"Wishing Lenin, Akhil Akkineni and the whole team the very best. Big blockbuster vibes already (sic),\" Samantha's post on the photo-sharing app read. Akhil also reshared her post on his official handle and penned, \"Thank you so much Sam...my team and me really appreciate your wishes,\" followed by three folded hands emoji. For those who do not know, Samantha tied the knot with Akhil's elder brother, and actor Naga Chaitanya, back in 2017. The two got hitched in a lavish ceremony after being in a relationship for many years. However, in October 2021, Samantha and Naga Chaitanya announced that they had decided to go their separate ways. Both Samantha and Naga Chaitanya are happily married to their respective partners now. Naga Chaitanya entered matrimony for the second time with actress Sobhita Dhulipala on December 4, 2024, in a traditional ceremony. On the other hand, Samantha tied the knot with filmmaker Raj Nidimoru on 1 December 2025. The couple is believed to have met while shooting the Amazon Prime Video series, 'The Family Man 2'. Samantha is all set to enter a new phase of her life as she is expecting her first baby with husband and filmmaker Raj Nidimoru. Samantha confirmed her first pregnancy recently during the success meet of her latest release 'Maa Inti Bangaaram'. The 'Yashoda' actress revealed that she will be taking a maternity break after wrapping up her current work commitments. “After Maa Inti Bangaaram, I will have to take a small break, given my condition. I’ll have to take maternity leave. After that, I’ll be back with another film for my fans,” Samantha said."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ha_hNktoh-G5i7_k_samakhil.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T09:55:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"samantha-backs-ex-bil-akhil"}},{"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":["Entertainment"],"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":"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":["Entertainment"],"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":["politics"],"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"],"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":["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":["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":["Editorial","featured","four"],"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":["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":["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":["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":["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":["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"}}]},"featured":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Is 175th Movie Is Rajini's Final Innings?"},"content":{"text":"Speculation about Superstar Rajinikanth's future in cinema has once again taken over social media, with fresh reports suggesting that the legendary actor may consider stepping away from films after completing his milestone 175th project. The rumours have sparked widespread discussion among fans and industry insiders, as Rajinikanth has remained one of Indian cinema's biggest icons for over four decades. Despite the growing buzz, there has been no official confirmation from the actor or his team regarding any retirement plans. The speculation has gained momentum at a time when several leading stars are redefining their careers. With actor-turned-politician Vijay announcing that he will focus on public life after his final film, many fans have begun drawing comparisons and wondering whether Rajinikanth could also be preparing to slow down his acting career. Social media has been flooded with emotional reactions, with admirers describing the possibility as the end of an unforgettable era in Tamil cinema. However, industry observers point out that these discussions are based entirely on unverified reports rather than confirmed information. Interestingly, this is not the first time retirement rumours have surrounded Rajinikanth. Similar claims surfaced during the releases of several of his previous films, but each time they proved to be nothing more than speculation. At present, the superstar remains actively involved in filmmaking, with his upcoming projects generating tremendous anticipation among fans. Until an official statement is issued, the reports surrounding his retirement remain purely speculative, while audiences continue to look forward to seeing the veteran actor on the big screen for years to come."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/62da9168-88d6-41c4-83ab-f93876632a40_rajini+darbar.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T06:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"is-175th-movie-is-rajinis-final-innings"}}]},"politics":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Encounter: When the meaning expands beyond a mere meeting"},"content":{"text":"Encounter – a word that originally meant a meeting or clash has, in India, become a euphemism for police shootings of suspects in a shift that was reignited after a recent West Bengal event which has reopened debates about rule of law, accountability, and political rhetoric.  The West Bengal government has now assigned the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to probe the “encounter” killing of one of the four people accused in the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl at Baruipur in South 24 Parganas district and submit a report. This meaning of the word that comes in the sundry conversation in India can be considered unique. Some say the word assumed a new meaning in the late-1960s and acquired a unique place in the vocabulary by the mid-1970s. During the rise of Naxalism in West Bengal, violence and bloodshed made headlines every day, and the word entered the lexicon, even in Bangla. The news next day would say “…killed in encounter”, implying an exchange of fire with activists/criminals who could not be overpowered and were thus eliminated in self-defence. Such high‑profile encounters elsewhere in India, too, provoked cycles of public approval and legal scrutiny. In some states, celebrated encounters bolstered political careers; in others, later investigations exposed staged shootings and custodial abuses. Human‑rights groups have long warned that normalising the term risks eroding due process, alleging when “encounter” becomes a shorthand for desirable outcome, incentives shift away from investigation and trial toward immediate lethal resolution. In later days, police officer Daya Nayak earned the epithet of “encounter specialist” during his tenure. His “fearless crackdowns” on Mumbai’s underworld in the late 1990s and early 2000s have been reported widely, recorded in many books, and recounted on celluloid as well. He reportedly led around 86 police encounters against hardened criminals, including noted gangsters and terror elements, turning into one of the most formidable figures in the Mumbai Police. But his career was not without setbacks – he faced corruption allegations and a long suspension, but was later acquitted and reinstated. He went on to retire from service. Thus, the word which in ordinary English sense is neutral and broad, was expanded built on its intrinsic meaning. According to Wikipedia, “The term encounter killing came into popular use in India since the late 20th century following a very high frequency of such killings by police in cities including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Ghaziabad. Some of the killings have been controversial, and critics have alleged that the police created 'fake encounters' as opportunities to kill suspects.” The Cambridge dictionary website describes encounter as to meet someone unexpectedly, or, to experience something, especially something unpleasant. The Merriam-Webster does mention “a meeting between hostile factions or persons: A sudden often violent clash” among other definitions. The online Oxford Learners Dictionaries, among other listings, gives a definition – but adding in parentheses “(Indian English)” – calling it “an incident in which police shoot dead a suspected criminal”. Wikipedia says, “Encounter killings, often simply referred to as encounters, is a euphemism used in India and Pakistan to refer to extrajudicial killings by security forces. The officers typically described the incidents as a shootout situation, often allegedly starting when a criminal grabs for the gun of a police officer. The term encounter came into widespread use for such incidents in the late 20th century.” Adding later, “Sometimes police officers are also killed in such incidents, although relatively rarely.” Over time, media and official language began to use the term for incidents in which suspects died in police firing. The transformation from “meeting” to a shorthand for police killings is not merely lexical drift; it is social and political. From the later part of 20th century, episodes of armed confrontation between police and organised criminals or insurgents were often reported as “encounters”, as evident."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/874S3GTYX1ZEe_SN_encounter.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T06:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"encounter-when-the-meaning-expands-beyond-a-mere-m"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"CM Vijay Keeps His Promise"},"content":{"text":"Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Friday handed over compassionate appointment orders to the members of families who lost their loved ones in the Karur stampede, describing the tragedy as an “unhealed wound” that continues to weigh heavily on his heart.  The stampede occurred on September 27 last year, on the eve of the Tamil Nadu Assembly election, during a TVK election campaign rally in Karur. Forty-one people were killed in the incident. A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the tragedy is currently underway. Following the incident, the Tamil Nadu government announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh to each bereaved family, while the TVK extended an additional compensation of Rs 20 lakh. As part of the government’s rehabilitation measures, the Chief Minister visited Karur to distribute compassionate appointment orders to eligible family members of the victims. During a function held at the Atlas Arena, CM Vijay presented appointment orders to one member from each of the 32 affected families, with jobs offered as per the educational qualifications of the beneficiaries. The event coincided with proceedings before the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court, where a petition challenging the government’s decision to provide permanent government jobs to the victims’ families came up for hearing. The court directed that the beneficiaries could, for the present, be offered temporary appointments. Addressing the gathering, an emotional Vijay said the pain caused by the Karur tragedy had never left him. “My heartfelt greetings to all my brothers and sisters of Karur who live in my heart. No matter how high a person rises in life, the wounds and pain in the heart can never be forgotten. I stand before you today after overcoming many hardships and emotional scars,” he said. “The Karur tragedy caused me immense mental anguish. I lost my brothers, my sisters and my innocent children in Karur. The incident remains an unhealed wound in my heart. They pinned the blame on me for the Karur incident, but I entered politics for the sake of the people, and I am determined to bring a permanent end to such tragedies,” the Chief Minister said. Launching a political attack on the Opposition, CM Vijay alleged that opposition members walked out of the Legislative Assembly when the term “party fund” was mentioned. He further claimed that corruption worth crores of rupees existed across government departments in the past, but asserted that people now believed bribery and corruption in government offices had significantly reduced under his administration. The Chief Minister also reiterated his government’s commitment to fulfilling its election promises. He announced that the promised scheme to present a gold ring on behalf of the maternal uncle to newborns on the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister C.N. Annadurai (Arignar Anna) would be implemented as pledged. The programme concluded with the distribution of appointment orders to beneficiaries, with the government stating that the initiative was aimed at providing long-term financial security to families devastated by one of the worst public tragedies in the state’s recent history."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/bfZ9ipLrs4bJqUwd_vijay.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C2%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T08:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"cm-vijay-keeps-his-promise"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Mbappe scripts FIFA WC history"},"content":{"text":"France talisman Kylian Mbappe has carved his name deeper into football history, becoming the youngest player to feature in 20 FIFA World Cup matches and the fastest to reach the milestone of 20 World Cup goals after steering his side to its third FIFA World Cup semifinal. The 27-year-old achieved the historic feat during France’s 2-0 quarter-final victory over Morocco at the Boston Stadium, where he recovered from a first-half penalty miss to score in the 60th minute before setting up teammate Ousmane Dembele for the second. While Argentina’s Lionel Messi is the outright record holder for FIFA World Cup appearances with 30, Mbappe has become France's first-most capped player in the competition with 20 appearances. He is level with Hugo Lloris and ahead of Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud and Raphael Varane.  With his eighth goal of the ongoing 2026 tournament, Mbappe has now taken his overall World Cup tally to 20 goals in just 20 appearances across three editions (2018, 2022, and 2026), just one goal shy of equalling Messi (21) for the most goals scored in the history of the competition. France's all-time leading goalscorer Kylian Mbappe has cemented his place among the greatest players in FIFA World Cup history across his appearances at three editions of the tournament. He features prominently in numerous all-time rankings and boasts an impressive collection of individual records. After France's 3-0 victory over Sweden at World Cup 2026, the 27-year-old Frenchman became the French player with the most wins in the tournament's history (15). His 16th triumph, against Paraguay, saw him draw level with Brazil's Cafu on the all-time list. Against Morocco in the quarter-final, he levelled with Miroslav Klose with 17 wins. Only Lionel Messi (20 wins) remains ahead of him. With eight knockout-stage goals to his name before the 2026 tournament, Mbappe was level with Brazil's Leonidas and Ronaldo. His brace against Sweden in France's 3-0 win in New Jersey took him clear at the top of the all-time ranking, before he extended the record to 11 goals with another against Paraguay and to 12 against Morocco."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/WvZNtvn-RdQx1PGC_mbappa.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T01:39:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"mbappe-scripts-fifa-wc-history"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Viral Kumbh Star Loses Security"},"content":{"text":"The Kerala High Court on Friday vacated its interim order granting police protection to Monalisa Bhosle, the young woman who shot to national fame as the Viral Kumbh Mela Star, after the State informed the court that police were unable to trace her using the address and contact details furnished in her petition.  Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas withdrew the interim protection after the Government Pleader submitted that repeated attempts by the police to contact Monalisa had failed. According to the State, officers were unable to locate the petitioner despite efforts to provide the protection ordered by the court. \"The police wanted to provide protection, but the petitioner could not be traced. This has become a regular pattern. Every time she approaches the court seeking police protection, the police are unable to contact her,\" the Government Pleader submitted before the court. Monalisa's counsel told the court that he had no instructions from his client regarding the State's submissions. Taking note of the developments, the court vacated its interim order issued on June 19. However, it clarified that if Monalisa approaches the police in writing seeking protection, the authorities must provide the necessary security. The case has been posted for further hearing on July 21. Monalisa had approached the High Court alleging that she had become the target of hate campaigns on mainstream media and social media platforms after marrying Mohammed Farmaan, a Muslim. She became a household name during the Maha Kumbh celebrations after videos of her selling 'rudraksha' garlands went viral on social media, earning her the sobriquet Viral Kumbh Mela Star. The legal battle surrounding the couple has witnessed several twists over the past few months. Earlier this year, while in Kerala for a film shoot, Monalisa sought police assistance claiming that her family was opposing her marriage to Farmaan. The couple subsequently got married. Her father later lodged a complaint in Madhya Pradesh alleging that Farmaan had abducted her, prompting the couple to move the Kerala High Court. The court had earlier granted Farmaan one month's transit anticipatory bail to enable him to seek regular relief before the competent courts in Madhya Pradesh. The couple has also approached the Madhya Pradesh High Court alleging that Monalisa's birth certificate had been forged to falsely invoke provisions of the POCSO Act against Farmaan. However, last week, the Kerala High Court declined to extend Farmaan's transit anticipatory bail after a POCSO court in Madhya Pradesh rejected his plea for anticipatory bail, leaving the couple's legal battle spread across courts in two States."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aFBNfLNJEFaPYAAn_monalisa.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T07:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"viral-kumbh-star-loses-security"}},{"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"}}]},"entertainment":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Dulquer Salmaan's #DQ41 titled 'Sri Sri'"},"content":{"text":"The makers of director Ravi Nelakuditi's upcoming romantic entertainer, featuring Dulquer Salmaan in the lead, on Friday announced that the film had now been titled 'Sri Sri.  Taking to his social media timelines, actor Dulquer Salmaan wrote, \"Love will feel a little extra special with 'Sri Sri'. #DQ41 is #SriSri. #LoveWillSparkAgain. #SLVC10. Starring @dulQuer, @hegdepooja & @Dheekshiths Directed by @ravinelakuditi9 Music by @gvprakash Cinematography by #AnayOmGoswamy Editing by #KotagiriVenkateswaraRao. Production design by @artkolla.Produced by @sudhakarcheruk5 under @SLVCinemasOffl.\" It may be recalled that the makers of the film had welcomed well known Telugu actor Jagapathi Babu onboard the unit of the film in February this year. Taking to its X timeline to wish Jagapathi Babu a happy birthday, well known production house SLV Cinemas, which is producing the film, had said, \"Happy Birthday to the versatile @IamJagguBhai Garu. The world of DQ41 gets special with your addition. -Team #DQ41. #SLVC10 Starring @dulQuer, @hegdepooja, @meramyakrishnan, @Dheekshiths. Directed by @ravinelakuditi9. Music by @gvprakash. Cinematography by #AnayOmGoswamy. Editing by #KotagiriVenkateswaraRao. Production design by @artkolla. Produced by @sudhakarcheruk5 under @SLVCinemasOffl. Co-produced by @innamuri8888.\" The film, which went on floors in August last year, features Dulquer Salmaan and Pooja Hegde in the lead. The project was launched with a special pooja ceremony in Hyderabad last year. While Natural Star Nani had given the clap for the mahurat shot, Buchi Babu had switched on the camera. 'Dasara' director Srikanth Odela had also graced the mahurat ceremony. Treating the netizens to sneak peeks from the launch ceremony, Dulquer had said, \"The much awaited #DQ41 - a heartwarming contemporary love story - launched grandly with a pooja ceremony...Natural Star @nameisnani gave the clap & blockbuster directors @srikanthodela__ & @buchibabu_sana graced the event to bless the team.\" Backed by Sudhakar Cherukuri under the banner of SLV Cinemas, the music for the film is being provided by two-time National Award winner GV Prakash. Apart from Dulquer Salmaan, Pooja Hegde and Jagapathi Babu, the film will also feature Ramya Krishnan and Deekshith Shetty in pivotal roles. On the technical front, the film has Anay Goswamy as its cinematographer, and Avinash Kolla as the head of the production design. Touted to be a pan-India project, 'Sri Sri' will reach the audience in five languages."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/qB2YmsRjnwMPc36w_srisri.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C7%2C448%2C221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T08:24:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"dulquer-salmaans-dq41-titled-sri-sri"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Car crashes into house of actor Dharma"},"content":{"text":"A car crashed into the residence of Tollywood actor Dharma in Film Nagar in posh Jubilee Hills area here in the early hours of Friday. No one was injured in the incident, police said.  The vehicle, allegedly driven by intoxicated youths crashed into Dharma’s house past midnight after the driver lost control apparently due to over speeding. According to police, the car crashed into the gate and entered the premises before coming to a halt. A portion of the boundary wall came crashing under the impact of the collision. The vehicle was extensively damaged in the incident. On hearing the loud thud, the actor and his family members woke up. They lodged a complaint with the police. Police rushed to the spot and detained the youth, who was driving the vehicle, allegedly under the influence of alcohol. Jubilee Hills police registered a case and took up investigation. Meanwhile, in a bizarre incident, a drunk man stole a bus belonging to Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC). According to police, a man stole a hired bus of TGSRC from Jangaon bus stand and took it away. Venkanna, a resident of Palakurthi, drove the empty bus for about 21 km towards Suryapet. The bus came to an abrupt halt after hitting a cement block near the Singarajupally toll gate. The police have arrested the accused, who was under the influence of alcohol. According to police, Venkanna, a tractor driver, wanted to travel to Tirupati. He first visited a nearby railway station twice, but after learning that no trains were available at that time, he went to Jangaon bus stand, where he noticed an RTC-hired bus parked on the premises. He entered the bus and managed to start it using the vehicle's toolkit. He then drove the bus along the Suryapet route for about 21 kilometres. The theft came to light after the bus met with an accident near the Singarajupalli toll plaza. Venkanna reportedly hit the divider while attempting to reverse the bus. Toll plaza staff became suspicious when he repeatedly rammed the divider and was unable to reverse the vehicle properly. They informed the police, who detained Venkanna."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2RqIUxatqd_YW-Am_dharmahome.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T07:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"car-crashes-into-house-of-actor-dharma"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Is 175th Movie Is Rajini's Final Innings?"},"content":{"text":"Speculation about Superstar Rajinikanth's future in cinema has once again taken over social media, with fresh reports suggesting that the legendary actor may consider stepping away from films after completing his milestone 175th project. The rumours have sparked widespread discussion among fans and industry insiders, as Rajinikanth has remained one of Indian cinema's biggest icons for over four decades. Despite the growing buzz, there has been no official confirmation from the actor or his team regarding any retirement plans. The speculation has gained momentum at a time when several leading stars are redefining their careers. With actor-turned-politician Vijay announcing that he will focus on public life after his final film, many fans have begun drawing comparisons and wondering whether Rajinikanth could also be preparing to slow down his acting career. Social media has been flooded with emotional reactions, with admirers describing the possibility as the end of an unforgettable era in Tamil cinema. However, industry observers point out that these discussions are based entirely on unverified reports rather than confirmed information. Interestingly, this is not the first time retirement rumours have surrounded Rajinikanth. Similar claims surfaced during the releases of several of his previous films, but each time they proved to be nothing more than speculation. At present, the superstar remains actively involved in filmmaking, with his upcoming projects generating tremendous anticipation among fans. Until an official statement is issued, the reports surrounding his retirement remain purely speculative, while audiences continue to look forward to seeing the veteran actor on the big screen for years to come."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/62da9168-88d6-41c4-83ab-f93876632a40_rajini+darbar.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T06:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"is-175th-movie-is-rajinis-final-innings"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"HC imposed penalty of 7.5 cr on Rajpal Yadav"},"content":{"text":"The Delhi High Court on Friday upheld actor Rajpal Yadav's conviction in cheque bounce cases, dismissing his petitions challenging the trial court's verdict  The court also imposed a combined penalty of Rs 7.35 crore on the actor. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma termed Rajpal Yadav's conduct \"dubious\", observing that he was given multiple opportunities to repay the amount but repeatedly failed to honour his commitments. The High Court granted Rajpal Yadav two months to challenge its order in the Supreme Court. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 1.05 crore in each of the seven cases, totalling Rs 7.35 crore. As per the court's directive, Rs 1.04 crore will be paid to the complainant and Rs 25,000 to the state in each case. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma pronounced the judgment in a batch of criminal miscellaneous petitions and criminal revision petitions arising out of proceedings under the Negotiable Instruments Act. The actor had been granted interim suspension of sentence by the Delhi High Court, which continued to remain in operation during the pendency of the proceedings. The petitions have been filed by Rajpal Yadav against M/s Murli Projects Pvt Ltd and another, challenging the orders passed by the trial court in multiple cheque dishonour cases. Earlier, the High Court had extended the interim suspension of sentence granted to Rajpal Yadav after observing that the actor had already made substantial payments to the complainant company. During the hearing, counsel appearing for Yadav had informed the Delhi High Court that around Rs 4.25 crore had already been paid to M/s Murli Projects Pvt Ltd, including a demand draft of Rs 25 lakh handed over before the court. Observing that the actor had already made substantial payments, Justice Sharma had orally remarked that the court was not inclined to send him back to jail at that stage. The High Court had also declined to vacate its earlier order suspending Yadav's sentence despite an application filed by the complainant seeking cancellation of the interim relief. \"He is not running away. He is still here… If the money has to come to you, it will come,\" the Delhi High Court had observed, while clarifying that the actor must either honour the settlement or contest the case on the merits.  Earlier, in February, the High Court had directed Rajpal Yadav to surrender before the concerned Jail Superintendent after taking a stern view of his repeated failure to honour settlement commitments despite being granted several opportunities. Justice Sharma had then observed that despite \"considerable leniency\", the actor had repeatedly breached undertakings given to the court and failed to comply with payment timelines fixed from time to time. Subsequently, the actor was granted an interim suspension of sentence after depositing part of the settlement amount, paving the way for his release from jail while the High Court continued hearing the main petitions. Rajpal Yadav was convicted and sentenced in 2024 in multiple cheque dishonour cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aYM3c90YXLCxVW7h_rajpalyadav.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T10:19:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"hc-imposed-penalty-of-7.5-cr-on-rajpal-yadav"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Samantha Backs Ex-BiL Akhil"},"content":{"text":"Southern beauty Samantha Ruth Prabhu extended her best wishes to her former brother-in-law and actor Akhil Akkineni for his forthcoming action entertainer 'Lenin'.  Samantha uploaded the trailer of 'Lenin' on the Stories section of her Instagram handle, wishing Akhil and the entire team of the drama. The 'Kushi' actress penned that the project is already giving out blockbuster vibes. \"Wishing Lenin, Akhil Akkineni and the whole team the very best. Big blockbuster vibes already (sic),\" Samantha's post on the photo-sharing app read. Akhil also reshared her post on his official handle and penned, \"Thank you so much Sam...my team and me really appreciate your wishes,\" followed by three folded hands emoji. For those who do not know, Samantha tied the knot with Akhil's elder brother, and actor Naga Chaitanya, back in 2017. The two got hitched in a lavish ceremony after being in a relationship for many years. However, in October 2021, Samantha and Naga Chaitanya announced that they had decided to go their separate ways. Both Samantha and Naga Chaitanya are happily married to their respective partners now. Naga Chaitanya entered matrimony for the second time with actress Sobhita Dhulipala on December 4, 2024, in a traditional ceremony. On the other hand, Samantha tied the knot with filmmaker Raj Nidimoru on 1 December 2025. The couple is believed to have met while shooting the Amazon Prime Video series, 'The Family Man 2'. Samantha is all set to enter a new phase of her life as she is expecting her first baby with husband and filmmaker Raj Nidimoru. Samantha confirmed her first pregnancy recently during the success meet of her latest release 'Maa Inti Bangaaram'. The 'Yashoda' actress revealed that she will be taking a maternity break after wrapping up her current work commitments. “After Maa Inti Bangaaram, I will have to take a small break, given my condition. I’ll have to take maternity leave. After that, I’ll be back with another film for my fans,” Samantha said."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ha_hNktoh-G5i7_k_samakhil.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T09:55:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"samantha-backs-ex-bil-akhil"}},{"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"}}]},"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":"Ladies & Ladies- Toxic"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/K10mAN33LJO63Yfk_ladiesandladiew.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C158%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-01T06:56:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"ladies--ladies--toxic"}}]},"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":[]},"two":{"edges":[]},"three":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Is 175th Movie Is Rajini's Final Innings?"},"content":{"text":"Speculation about Superstar Rajinikanth's future in cinema has once again taken over social media, with fresh reports suggesting that the legendary actor may consider stepping away from films after completing his milestone 175th project. The rumours have sparked widespread discussion among fans and industry insiders, as Rajinikanth has remained one of Indian cinema's biggest icons for over four decades. Despite the growing buzz, there has been no official confirmation from the actor or his team regarding any retirement plans. The speculation has gained momentum at a time when several leading stars are redefining their careers. With actor-turned-politician Vijay announcing that he will focus on public life after his final film, many fans have begun drawing comparisons and wondering whether Rajinikanth could also be preparing to slow down his acting career. Social media has been flooded with emotional reactions, with admirers describing the possibility as the end of an unforgettable era in Tamil cinema. However, industry observers point out that these discussions are based entirely on unverified reports rather than confirmed information. Interestingly, this is not the first time retirement rumours have surrounded Rajinikanth. Similar claims surfaced during the releases of several of his previous films, but each time they proved to be nothing more than speculation. At present, the superstar remains actively involved in filmmaking, with his upcoming projects generating tremendous anticipation among fans. Until an official statement is issued, the reports surrounding his retirement remain purely speculative, while audiences continue to look forward to seeing the veteran actor on the big screen for years to come."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/62da9168-88d6-41c4-83ab-f93876632a40_rajini+darbar.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T06:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"is-175th-movie-is-rajinis-final-innings"}}]},"four":{"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"}}]},"five":{"edges":[]},"review":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","two"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Dhamaal 4'"},"content":{"text":"STORY: Over the years, the Dhamaal franchise has carved out a unique, bulletproof space in Bollywood, one built entirely on unapologetic, leave-your-brain-at-home comedy. Director Indra Kumar returns to this signature comfort zone scaling up the adventure with itns fourth installment. This time, the chaos revolves around a massive 100-year-old hidden treasure belonging to the legendary Shaitaan Singh. The key to its location is locked away in the faulty memory of Prithvi (Upendra Limaye). When the secret slips out, it triggers a wild, breathless race to a mysterious island marked by a giant \"M.\" Every character is out to outsmart the other to reach the khazana first, paving the way for endless confusion, wrong clues, and frantic chases. SITUATIONAL COMEDY: Chaos at Its Peak What makes Dhamaal 4 work so effectively is its reliance on situational comedy. The film throws a massive ensemble of eccentric, greedy, and hilariously unlucky individuals into bizarre environments, from wild jungle disasters to unexpected pirate encounters. The script doesn’t ask you to look for logic; instead, it invites you to surrender to the sheer ridiculousness of the situations. The first half is exceptionally fast-paced, packed with clever nods to older films in the franchise that will keep longtime fans chuckling. ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCES: The Ultimate Laughter Brigade The true strength of the film lies in its stellar ensemble cast, where Ajay Devgn leads the pack with absolute swagger alongside Sanjay Mishra, whose iconic comic timing results in sharp laugh-out-loud moments. The heartbeat of the franchise, Arshad Warsi and Jaaved Jaaferi, return with their signature electric chemistry, beautifully joined by Sanjeeda Shaikh who adds great charm to their chaotic dynamic. Riteish Deshmukh delivers a thoroughly entertaining performance with his desi flavor alongside Anjali Anand, who plays his wife Paro with a hilarious domestic touch. Stealing scenes effortlessly, Ravi Kishan brings a fresh wave of comedy as the quirky pirate leader Adhoora. Finally, Upendra Limaye is fantastic as the main catalyst of the plot with his high-energy performance, while Esha Gupta brings a wonderful charm and flair to the screen. DIRECTION, SCREENPLAY, AND MUSIC Indra Kumar proves yet again that he is a master at delivering high-energy situational comedies. The engaging screenplay keeps the audience hooked with a constant stream of rapid-fire jokes and entertaining jungle and island survival sequences. On the technical side, the massive scale of the film looks stunning on the big screen, making it a true theatrical spectacle. The music seamlessly fits this energetic narrative, with tracks like Chatni and Qeher keeping the mood light, and celebratory throughout. THE VERDICT: The Perfect Family Entertainer Dhamaal 4 is a fun-filled joyride that is tailor-made for the big screen. It effortlessly delivers on its promise of pure, non-stop entertainment from start to finish. It stands out as an excellent, wholesome entertainer that will easily appeal to all age groups, from grandparents to little kids, who will absolutely love the comedy and thrilling pirate adventures. If you are looking to share a hearty laugh with your entire family this weekend, Dhamaal 4 is a highly recommended watch! Director: Indra Kumar Cast: Ajay Devgn, Arshd Warsi, Riteish Deshmukh, Jaaved Jaaferi, Sanjay Mishra, Ravi Kishan, Upendra Limaye, Anjali Anand, Esha Gupta and Sanjeeda Shaikh"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/51qvs_NXLgg3Shrm_dhamaal3.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T04:00:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-dhamaal-4"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","one"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Lenin'"},"content":{"text":"Years have passed since Akhil made his debut as a hero from the Akkineni family, yet he has not managed to achieve commercial success. Consequently, fans' confidence in him has been waning. At this juncture, Akhil has worked hard on the movie 'Lenin' with great hope. Let us see how the movie fares in this review. Story: The story unfolds in a remote village in Andhra Pradesh. Lenin (Akhil) arrives as an orphan in a village named Sriramapuram. A woman, who is the village head, takes him under her wing and raises him just like her own son. Her son, Vasanth, and Lenin become best friends. While Vasanth pursues his studies and becomes a doctor, Lenin stays back in the village and becomes an integral part of everyone's lives. It has become a tradition for the village's prestigious 18-day festival to be conducted under Lenin's supervision every year. During one such festival, Lenin sees Bharati (Bhagyashree) and falls in love with her. This romance marks a turning point in the entire story. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Vasanth is compelled to marry Bharathi. Meanwhile, Lenin ends up in prison. The story revolves around why Lenin went to jail and whether Vasanth actually marries Bharathi. Performances: As has been noted from the start, it is evident on screen that Akhil has put in a great deal of effort for this film. There is no doubt that this is a distinctively different role compared to the characters he has played previously. Furthermore, he successfully molded himself to fit the character, displaying impressive range and variations in his acting. He also adopted a fresh style of dialogue delivery for this movie. Visually, he is impressive, and in the action sequences, he comes across as a high-voltage action hero; he delivers exactly what fans desire. Beyond the action, he also impresses in the romantic scenes. The heroine, Bhagyashree, charms the audience with her beauty—something she has done in several previous films. However, in this movie, she also impresses with her acting prowess where the script demands it. She certainly leaves a mark on the role assigned to her, though one cannot help but feel that her character could have been written with more depth.  The supporting cast also delivers impressive performances within the scope of their roles; Eswari Rao, Pramod, and Brahmaji, in particular, stand out with their acting.  Technical: The director needed to work a bit more on the story, though he did try to make an impact with the screenplay. He succeeded in engaging the audience during the opening 10–15 minutes, effectively building suspense and sparking curiosity about what would unfold next. However, the dialogues could have been sharper. Thaman delivered a decent musical score, as always; however, there were certain scenes where one felt he could have done more with the background music. The cinematography is impressive—crucial for a film set against a village backdrop. There are minor flaws in the editing, but the production values ​​are good. Plus points: Akhil Akkineni, Jathara (fair) scenes The plot twist Minus points: Some dragged-out scenes Background score Story and screenplay Analysis: There is no doubt that the film lived up to the high expectations of Akkineni fans. However, it remains to be seen how well the general audience will receive it. Akhil had stated from the beginning that he worked very hard for this film, and that effort is clearly visible on screen. The director aimed to present something fresh;...yet, the film would have been even better with more work on the story and a tighter screenplay. It must be noted that there was a lack of sufficient commercial elements to appeal to all sections of the audience, not just the fans. The music also felt a bit underwhelming. Akhil fulfilled his role with 100% commitment; however, the director failed to craft a strong screenplay for the supporting characters, leaving them with little scope to showcase their true acting potential. Overall, this village-based drama manages to engage the audience and appeals to fans. Final verdict: Akhil Akkineni impresses the fans Banner: Sithara Entertainments, Manam Enterprises Producers: Suryadevara Naga Vamsi, Akkineni Nagarjuna Director: Murali Kishore Music: Thaman Cast: Akhil, Bhagyashree, Eeshwari Rao, Pramod, Brahmaji, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/SNyf-1iLls6NrA-j_lenin.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-10T07:34:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-lenin"}},{"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"}}]}},"pageContext":{"isCreatedByStatefulCreatePages":true}}