{"data":{"all":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["NRI","featured","one"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Indian GC backlog stretches past decade"},"content":{"text":"Indian professionals seeking employment-based US Green Cards continue to face waits stretching back more than a decade in key categories, even as the start of a new fiscal year has restored visa numbers and brought some movement, according to the US State Department's October Visa Bulletin.  The sharpest disparity remains in the employment-based second preference, or EB-2, category, widely used by professionals holding advanced degrees or possessing exceptional ability. For applicants chargeable to India, the EB-2 final-action date is November 1, 2013. For most countries, the corresponding date is January 1, 2025. That means the cutoff governing Indian applicants remains more than 11 years behind the date applying to most of the world. The picture is similar in the EB-3 category for skilled workers and professionals. India's final-action date is January 1, 2014, compared with May 15, 2024 for most countries. The dates do not mean that every applicant will wait exactly that length of time. They indicate which priority dates are currently eligible for final action on permanent-residence applications, subject to visa availability and other requirements. There was better news for some Indian applicants at the beginning of fiscal 2027. India's EB-1 final-action date, covering priority workers such as people with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers and certain multinational executives, moved to February 1, 2023. The October bulletin also restored availability in EB-2 India after the category had become unavailable toward the end of the previous fiscal year because its annual visa allocation had been exhausted. The US State Department said the arrival of fiscal 2027 immigrant visa numbers allowed filing and final-action dates to advance across several categories. But the October numbers illustrate how India's employment-based backlog persists even when a new annual allocation becomes available. The separate \"Dates for Filing\" chart provides somewhat later dates for Indian applicants. Under that chart, EB-1 India stands at July 1, 2024, while both EB-2 and EB-3 India are at January 15, 2015. US Citizenship and Immigration Services determines each month whether applicants seeking adjustment of status inside the United States may use the State Department's Dates for Filing chart rather than the more restrictive Final Action Dates chart. The distinction is significant. A filing date can permit an eligible applicant to submit an adjustment-of-status application, while the final-action date determines when an immigrant visa number is available for the case to be approved. India is one of four countries currently treated as oversubscribed under the US preference-immigration system, along with mainland China, Mexico and the Philippines. The State Department said allocations are made, to the extent possible, according to priority dates. When demand exceeds the available numerical allocation for a country or category, a cutoff date is imposed. Federal immigration law sets numerical limits on employment-based immigrant visas and also places limits on the proportion available to nationals of any single country. The October bulletin says the worldwide employment-based preference level is at least 140,000 annually. The country limits have had an outsized effect on India because of the large number of Indian professionals in the US employment-based immigration pipeline. As a result, applicants from India can remain in temporary immigration status for years while waiting for their priority dates to become current. The Visa Bulletin is issued monthly by the State Department and can move forward, remain unchanged or retrogress depending on demand and the number of immigrant visas available."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/6a5229b9-ba41-4fbf-926a-a933bd8f60b1_SU+Greencard.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T15:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indian-gc-backlog-stretches-past-decade"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","two"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Anurag Kashyap Steps Into ‘Kaaka’"},"content":{"text":"Popular Bollywood director and actor Anurag Kashyap has now come on board Megastar Chiranjeevi's eagerly awaited action entertainer, 'Kaaka', the film's makers announced on Monday. The makers released an image that features director Bobby Kolli explaining a scene to Anurag Kashyap, who is listening with rapt attention. Anurag Kashyap's presence is certainly an exciting addition to the film and further adds to the anticipation surrounding Kaaka. Meanwhile, shooting of 'Kaaka' is currently underway in Hyderabad, with Anurag Kashyap participating in the shoot, along with the other lead actors. It may be recalled that Chiranjeevi, had, during the course of his speech at an event that was held recently, revealed that he was playing a character called Kadiri Kalidas in the film. Sources close to the unit of the film say that while 'Kaaka' has been envisioned as a high-intensity action entertainer, it will also feature a strong emotional and family-oriented narrative, making the protagonist’s character arc one of its key attractions. It may be recalled that the unit of the film had started its most recent schedule on September 7 this year. KVN Productions, which is producing the film, had, a few days ago, announced the title of the film through a title teaser and revealed that the film would hit screens on January 13 next year. Taking to its social media timelines to share the title teaser, the production house wrote, \"Meet Supervisor Satyam, C/O Ammaji Aqua Industries, Ravulapalem. Team #KAAKA wishes the one and only Megastar @Kchirutweets garu a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Title glimpse out now. January 13, 2027 - Sankranthi release.\" The title teaser showed Chiranjeevi working in a shrimp farm called Ammaji Aqua Industries. His name in the film is Satyam and he works as a Supervisor in the facility that has people from all regions of the country working in it. The title teaser showed an employee attempting to return a key to Chiranjeevi but ends up dropping it in a pool full of shrimps. Chiranjeevi was then seen retrieving the key using a giant electromagnet. Along with the key, a lot of weapons too come up. The key has a keychain that reads, 'I love dad'. The film has triggered huge interest in fans and film buffs ever since it was first announced and the title teaser only added to the excitement. Sources close to the unit of the film say that the first half of the film ends with a spectacular action sequence. They claim that this interval fight sequence, which was shot recently, is set to be one of the major attractions of the film. The action block has been designed and executed on a grand scale and is expected to provide a powerful high point before the second half. Sources also claim that the initial output has given the team immense confidence, with the narrative maintaining the right mix of intensity, entertainment, emotion, and action. Anaswara Rajan and Nivetha Pethuraj play pivotal roles in this film, which is currently being planned as a Sankranthi 2027 release. This is the second time that director Bobby is working with Megastar Chiranjeevi. The two had earlier worked together on action entertainer 'Waltair Veerayya'."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/53gMGIF6dD-3st18_anuragkashyapkaka.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C8%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T14:59:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"anurag-kashyap-steps-into-kaaka"}},{"node":{"tags":["Editorial","featured","four"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Flydubai Episode: Statecraft or Manufactured Consent?"},"content":{"text":"\"Kahaani koi bhi ho, sach chhupaya ja sakta hai aur sach banaya bhi ja sakta hai. Zaroori yeh nahi ki sach kya hai, zaroori yeh hai ki log kya maante hain” (No matter what the story is, the truth can be hidden and the truth can be manufactured. What matters isn't what the truth actually is; what matters is what people choose to believe.) This Bollywood movie dialogue is a perfect pop-culture adaptation of political philosophy on statecraft and manufactured consent, highlighting how political leaders immediately convert real-world emergencies into electoral currency. It reminds us that in the arena of political theater, a crisis is far too valuable an asset to be left to meander as one of those day-to-day happenings. It belongs instantly to the mythmakers. Welcome to the grand theater of modern geopolitics, where actual facts are completely useless and the only thing that matters is who hires the loudest storyteller. Just like the master-manipulator Vijay Salgaonkar in the movie Drishyam 3, politicians in India, Israel, and the United States have realized that controlling the narrative is the ultimate power play. The recent FlyDubai flight incident has officially ceased to be an ordinary aviation rescue story. Instead, it has been aggressively hijacked by global leaders desperately looking for their own blockbuster \"Pulwama moment\" to score cheap domestic political points. The political scriptwriters are working overtime, turning one pilot’s bravery into a massive international election campaign. In India, the ruling BJP machinery has fast-tracked the incident into a personal victory for its Supreme Leader, loudly claiming the pilot's bravery is a direct byproduct of \"strong national leadership.\" The goal is simple: turn a real-life emergency into a hyper-patriotic frenzy to completely divert the attention from and crush the Opposition's planned October 2nd street protests. Meanwhile, Tel Aviv's strategists are quickly framing the Middle Eastern aviation crisis as definitive proof of their hostile neighborhood, weaponizing the panic to justify aggressive military posturing and demand blind alignment from global allies. Not to be outdone, Washington politicians are instantly capitalizing on the chaos to claim strategic dominance in the region, feeding their domestic voter base a narrative of \"American-brokered stability\" to serve as potent fuel for their upcoming elections. Naturally, the news channels are not just reporting the story, they are aggressively weaponizing it to serve the electoral interests of their political paymasters. Led by prime-time anchors who prioritize party affiliation over basic journalistic ethics, the heroic act of pilot Smit Machachar was instantly commodified into a partisan cudgel rather than being celebrated as a simple, brave rescue deserving of a Republic Day medal. On the other side of the digital battlefield, the ruling party's social media warriors swiftly trapped the Opposition by demanding to know why Rahul Gandhi remained silent on the incident, using it to portray him as anti-national. The media effectively gaslit the public into framing all domestic daily grievances as irrelevant \"cockroaches\" compared to the pilot's flawless patriotism. By branding the planned opposition street protests as total flops and anti-national conspiracies, this coordinated strategy perfectly mirrors the \"Pulwama\" formula. Just like the 2019 airstrikes successfully shifted the entire national conversation from pressing economic issues to national security, this aviation crisis is being used to build an impenetrable firewall of aggressive nationalism around the government. This temptation of a \"Pulwama moment\", where a sudden security crisis is instantly converted into raw voter mobilization, seemed to offer an excellent lesson that was simply too lucrative for Washington and Tel Aviv to pass up. In Israel's playbook, politicians are painting the FlyDubai crisis with the aggressive brush of regional terror and existential threat, aiming to silence internal democratic dissent and tightly consolidate wartime power. On the American side, politicians view the incident as the perfect election-season photo-op to convince voters they are actively managing the Middle East, using the event to bully domestic opponents as \"weak on global security.\" Of course, it is a completely minor detail that a flight nosediving in a terrifying, vertical plunge somehow magically resulted in zero catastrophic injuries, an aviation miracle that apparently allowed a casual onboard plumber to meticulously study the physics of the descent mid-air. In a twist totally unrelated to cinematic scripts, the coincidence also just happened to place off-duty pilots in civilian clothes right in the cabin, ready to step in at the exact climax for a picture-perfect landing. It is almost as if the entire physics-defying incident was storyboarded in a Bollywood studio, custom-made for prime-time television rather than actual reality. If the movie producers behind the recent blockbuster success of Drishyam are already planning a spiritual sequel titled Bhavandar, nobody should be surprised. The casting choices practically write themselves: Akshay Kumar would undoubtedly play the nationalist hero Machchar, Akshaye Khanna would bring intense gravitas to the Omani co-pilot, and John Abraham would flex his muscles as the physics-defying, mid-air-analyzing plumber. Ultimately, while the brave pilot successfully saved the plane, the politicians managed to save their sinking approval ratings. In this real-world adaptation, the actual facts have been completely buried as the manufactured truth of political opportunists officially takes flight, ready to be turned into a box-office hit near you."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/xd7ajrzUDtA2tTcS_flydubai.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T11:55:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"flydubai-episode-statecraft-or-manufactured-consent"}},{"node":{"tags":["Videos"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"JAILER 2 - Official Telugu Trailer"},"content":{"text":"JAILER 2 - Official Telugu Trailer"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/lP-WEbwlVT5b8X6W_jailer2trailer.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,14,790,390&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T13:40:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mYAvoEvX7I"}},"uid":"jailer-2---official-telugu-trailer"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Maatrubhumi' Set for CBFC Review"},"content":{"text":"Salman Khan's highly anticipated film 'Maatrubhumi', initially titled 'Battle of Galwan', is gearing up for its screening by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) following significant revisions aimed at appeasing governmental concerns. Earlier this year, the film faced scrutiny from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, which mandated alterations to its title and content to ensure a more favorable portrayal of Indo-China relations. As the filmmakers prepare for the CBFC’s review this week, they are reportedly targeting a Diwali release, strategically timed to follow the launch of the much-anticipated 'Ramayana: Rise of a Legend'. In response to feedback from officials, the production team has executed reshoots to align the narrative with the government's expectations, including a shift in the film’s stance towards China. While some reports suggested that the edits were extensive enough to eliminate all references to the neighboring country, sources from the Hindustan Times have indicated that the film is not undergoing any radical transformations and remains primarily intact. Given Salman Khan’s legacy as a family entertainer, industry insiders expect minimal pushback from the censor board, which typically favors content that aligns with mainstream sensibilities. 'Maatrubhumi' is directed by Apoorva Lakhia and produced under the banner of Salman Khan Films, featuring Chitrangada Singh in a key role. The film centers around the intense clashes that occurred in the Galwan Valley in 2020, a flashpoint in the ongoing tensions between India and China. Lakhia, known for films such as 'Shootout at Lokhandwala' and 'Haseena Parkar', marks his first collaboration with Khan, bringing a blend of action and drama that is expected to resonate with audiences amid the current geopolitical climate. Despite earlier indications of possible delays caused by government intervention, recent communications from the production team suggest that those concerns may have been exaggerated. The controversy surrounding 'Maatrubhumi' has sparked discussions on the intersection of cinema and politics in India, particularly regarding how filmmakers navigate sensitive historical narratives. As the release date approaches, the film’s journey reflects broader societal conversations about representation, national identity, and the role of cinema in shaping public perception."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/C7JDqA7aFDPqTWoZ_matrubhumi.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T14:56:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"maatrubhumi-set-for-cbfc-review"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics","featured","three"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Godavari-Cauvery Link: Drought Solution?"},"content":{"text":"Interlinking of Godavari and Cauvery rivers can make southern states free from the problem of drought, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Monday.  He lamented that even during drought conditions, 2,000 TMC of water is flowing into the sea. If at least 200 TMC of Godavari floodwater is utilised, the Rayalaseema region will flourish with abundant greenery and crops, he said while launching the 'Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 – Amarajeevi Jaladhara' programmes in Proddatur in Kadapa district. Chandrababu Naidu said it was his government that interlinked the Godavari and Krishna rivers. He vowed to complete the Polavaram project before the Godavari Pushkaram and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate the project to the nation. Reiterating that 36 irrigation projects worth Rs 35,000 crore will be launched over the next three years, he said the government has already released a schedule for completion of the projects. The Chief Minister, along with Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and state BJP President PVN Madhav, laid the foundation for the 'Jal Jeevan Mission' and 'Amarajeevi Jaladhara' programmes aimed at providing tap water connections to every household, with an outlay of Rs 30,136 crore. “We are implementing measures to provide water to 90 lakh households, 48,000 rural areas, and 3.30 crore people,” Chandrababu Naidu said. The Chief Minister slammed the YSR Congress Party for undermining Jal Jeevan Mission. He said while states like Uttar Pradesh (Rs 1 lakh crore), Madhya Pradesh (Rs 83,000 crore), and Kerala (Rs 85,000 crore) received significant funds from the Centre under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the previous government did a disservice to Andhra Pradesh by securing only Rs 2,600 crore. He alleged that villages suffered due to the negligence and failure of the previous government, as they were left without roads, streetlights, or water. “Rural communities were left in tears due to the destructive policies of the previous regime. When considering the state of roads, compare the past with the present. People endured a hellish experience on the roads during the 'Axe Party's' (YSRCP's) tenure,” he said. Chandrababu Naidu claimed that with firm resolve and the Centre's cooperation, the coalition government successfully laid strong foundations for the state's reconstruction over the past 28 months. He stated that the government launched nine programmes in just the last seven days aimed at the development of villages and towns across the state. Through the 'Palle Panduga' initiative, we have undertaken works worth Rs 11,085 crore to provide infrastructure such as roads, drains, and streetlights in villages, he said. “We have distributed housing pattas (title deeds) for residential sites worth Rs 52,000 crore across the state, including in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and Mangalagiri. We have initiated a 'Global Horticulture Hub' project worth Rs 1 lakh crore, aimed at transforming the future and direction of the Rayalaseema region. We are working towards the goal of providing a house to every family by 2029. As part of this initiative, we will construct 19 lakh houses. Today, we launched projects worth Rs 30,156 crore under the Jal Jeevan Mission and the 'Amarajeevi Jaladhara' programme.”"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/TZTpyuY8KUQaDPOb_linking.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,42,1200,592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T12:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"godavari-cauvery-link-drought-solution"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Nepal floods: Govt call off search & rescue operations"},"content":{"text":"The Nepali government has decided to call off the search and rescue operations launched following the deadly floods that struck the country on August 26, as hopes of finding survivors have faded, the Prime Minister’s Secretariat said on Monday. Forty days after floods in the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers devastated communities and infrastructure along the river corridors, the government has now prioritised reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. The decision was taken based on recommendations from district security committees, district disaster management committees, the Executive Committee of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, and findings from field inspections, the Prime Minister’s Secretariat said. A total of 1,455 people have been confirmed dead and 5,285 remain missing following the disaster till date, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority. The meeting also decided to recommend a budget of NPR 559.18 billion ($3.62 billion) to the Ministry of Finance for 504 plans and programmes aimed at reconstructing and rehabilitating areas affected by the August 26 disaster and other monsoon-related disasters. According to the Rapid Disaster Needs Assessment (RDNA) report prepared by a joint technical team of the National Planning Commission and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, the recent floods are estimated to have caused physical damage worth NPR 274.48 billion, while overall losses and damages have reached NPR 408.28 billion. The preliminary assessment suggests that more than NPR 723 billion will be required for the reconstruction and recovery of affected infrastructure and assets. Now, the Nepali government has been working on a Post-Disaster Needs Assessment with an extensive assessment of damages. The council directed the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority to recommend additional budgetary arrangements once details are received for projects whose cost estimates have not yet been determined or which have yet to be prioritised. Prime Minister Balendra Shah said disaster management efforts had been carried out through coordination among the federal, provincial and local governments, adding that reconstruction and rehabilitation would also proceed through the same mechanism. The meeting expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and property caused by the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods and other monsoon-related disasters. It paid tribute to those who lost their lives and expressed condolences to their bereaved families. The council also thanked security personnel, elected representatives, civil servants, private-sector organisations, volunteers and media personnel involved in search, rescue, relief and rehabilitation operations, as well as donor countries and development partners that assisted during the crisis."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/KeWrN6WY_hBb_V_x_nepalfloddsus.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C94%2C449%2C221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T10:20:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"nepal-floods-govt-call-off-search--rescue-operatio"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Anupam Kher Gets Special Gift from De Niro"},"content":{"text":"Actor Anupam Kher recently met his “dearest friend” and Hollywood veteran Robert De Niro during his ongoing trip to America and Canada. He called the meeting one of the special highlights of his visit. Taking to Instagram, the ‘Special 26’ actor shared pictures from the meeting and expressed his happiness at spending time with the veteran actor. He said meeting De Niro is always a memorable experience and added that he was delighted to visit him during his trip. Sharing his photos and videos, Anupam wrote, “Meeting Mr. Robert De Niro! How could I come to America and not meet my dearest friend, and world’s FINEST actor, Mr. Robert De Niro? Meeting this legend is always a joy, and once again, one of the most special highlights of my trip to America and Canada with me play #JaanePehchaaneAnjane!.” “Thank you, dearest Mr. De Niro, for inviting me into your home, for the delicious lunch, and for your love and warmth. Our conversations and your generosity with your time mean so much to me. Every time we meet, the admirer in me is as excited as the friend! I have the deepest respect for you, both as an actor and as a person. And I feel truly fortunate to be able to call you my friend,” he added. The ‘Saaransh’ actor also extended his gratitude to De Niro’s family, including Tiffany, for creating another memorable experience during his visit. “My love and gratitude to you, Tiffany, and your entire family. Thank you for another beautiful memory that I will carry home with me. God bless you always! Most importantly- Thank You for the cap. Your kind gesture means the world to me! #RobertDeNiro #Legend #Friendship.” Anupam Kher is currently in New York as part of his North American tour with his musical play ‘Jaane Pehchaane Anjaane.’ During his visit to the city, the actor also took time out to meet his “dearest friend” and Hollywood veteran Robert De Niro at his home."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/QNvzydkau6mu1FNr_kherrobert.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C449%2C221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T05:14:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"anupam-kher-gets-special-gift-from-de-niro"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Rishab Shetty–Chidambaram’s Two-Film Deal"},"content":{"text":"National Award-winning actor-filmmaker Rishab Shetty is to join hands with ace Malayalam director Chidambaram, best known for having directed the blockbuster 'Manjummel Boys', for two films.  Of the two films, one will be a sports drama in Kannada. Interestingly, it is the sports drama which is to be made first.  Sources say the film is currently in the pre-production stage and is expected to go on floors some time next year. The film will be produced by well known Malayalam film producer Shibu Thameens. Director Chidambaram has carved a unique space with his unconventional storytelling and ability to build deeply human narratives. His collaboration with Rishab brings together two filmmakers and performers with a distinct understanding of rooted storytelling. For Rishab Shetty, the project marks an exciting new creative move as he continues to expand his slate across diverse genres.  With Jai Hanuman among his eagerly awaited upcoming projects, sources say Rishab Shetty is exploring new storytelling spaces while continuing to stay connected to the rooted, culturally rich narratives that have defined his journey.  His work in the 'Kantara' franchise, including his National Award-winning performance, has further established him as one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated creative forces. In fact, just a few days ago, the actor and filmmaker had taken to his social media timelines to pen a post, reflecting on the journey of making 'Kantara: Chapter 1' . The actor penned the post on the occasion of the film completing one year. Rishab has consistently drawn from local culture and lived traditions. His move into the sports drama genre opens up another exciting  Sources close to the team say that more details regarding the storyline, cast and crew are likely to be announced soon."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/_PsZDFUn7HKict6W_rishanchidanbaran.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T02:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rishab-shettychidambarams-two-film-deal"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Kerala CPI(M) caught in sleaze, corruption storm"},"content":{"text":"The CPI(M) in Kerala is facing a series of controversies involving allegations of sexual misconduct, corruption and serious questions over the conduct of senior party leaders, putting the party under growing political pressure.  In Palakkad, the abrupt removal of district secretary E.N. Suresh Babu on Sunday has triggered allegations of sexual misconduct involving a woman party worker. She is understood to have approached the party's senior leadership with digital evidence, including messages and call recordings, alleging that Suresh Babu had harassed her over a period of time and behaved improperly towards her. Suresh Babu has since stepped down as district secretary, citing personal reasons. The controversy comes close on the heels of another major issue involving former GCDA chairman and present CPI(M) state secretariat member C.N. Mohanan. The Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan-led government has ordered a Vigilance probe into the Mundamveli flat complex in Kochi, where 78 families have been living in allegedly appalling conditions less than two years after the flats were commissioned. A Vigilance case has already been registered against Mohanan, who was GCDA chairman when the project was taken forward. The Muvattupuzha Vigilance Court has directed that a report on the present status of the case be submitted on October 22. Questions have also been raised over the land allotted by the GCDA for the project. Revenue records reportedly classify the land as marshy. The Mundamveli proposal was allegedly suggested by Mohanan. The site is also located below a high-tension electricity line. In Thiruvananthapuram, the CPI(M) has ordered an internal enquiry into allegations that its Corporation councillor S. Ajin demanded a Rs 10 lakh bribe to resolve a land-related issue. The allegation was raised by Sanju, a resident of Thirumala, who released audio and video clips accusing the councillor of demanding the money in connection with problems concerning a plot he had purchased at MLA Road in Thrikannapuram ward. State secretary M.V. Govindan has confirmed that the party will conduct an enquiry into the allegation against Ajin. Meanwhile State Congress President, also Power Minister, Sunny Joseph, recalled the way he handled the complaint against then Palakkad Congress MLA over alleged misbehaviour with a lady and said the complaint was immediately transferred to the State Police. Three separate controversies involving party functionaries have thus placed the CPI(M) in an uncomfortable position, raising questions over conduct, accountability and internal control. What’s going to hurt the CPI(M) the most is that the Kerala Legislative Assembly is to have a nine day sitting starting later this week and the ruling Chief Minister Satheesan-led government is going to pin down the Left Opposition using these three cases."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2d0f2d69-5c99-4cd4-aa1d-3cfb7df661fc_kerala+CM.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T07:48:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"kerala-cpim-caught-in-sleaze-corruption-storm"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Trump Mixes Up Brazil Polls, India Vote Count"},"content":{"text":"US President Donald Trump appeared to mistakenly refer to Brazil as India while commenting on the South American country's presidential election, claiming that 125 million people had voted in the “first round of India's presidential election”.  Trump made the remarks in a post on Truth Social on Monday (Indian time), shortly after the first round of Brazil's presidential election was held. India does not have a direct presidential election in which citizens vote for the President. In his post, Trump wrote: “125 Million People voted today in the first round of India's Presidential Election. The results came out shortly after the vote closed, on the SAME DAY! In Detroit, Philadelphia, California, and numerous other U.S. Cities and States, the results, with much smaller numbers, will often take weeks to Rig, I mean, calculate. Voting in America is CORRUPT!!! President DJT.” Official White House Rapid Response account also reposted Trump’s post. Comment sections flooded with social media users correcting Trump. Trump's post came after the first round of Brazil's presidential election, in which right-wing candidate Flavio Bolsonaro finished ahead of incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva but failed to secure the more than 50 per cent of votes required to win outright. With 98.81 per cent of the votes counted, Bolsonaro secured 47.24 per cent of the vote, while Lula received 44.91 per cent. As neither candidate crossed the required threshold, the two will now face each other in a run-off scheduled for October 25. The result marks a strong performance for Bolsonaro, the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro. The former right-wing leader is serving a 27-year prison sentence after being convicted of masterminding a failed attempt to overturn the previous election result through a military coup. Lula, meanwhile, will now seek to consolidate his existing support while reaching out to voters who backed candidates eliminated in the first round. The president faces the challenge of preventing the right from gaining control of Brazil's presidency."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F7f473b1f-87a6-4d28-9f0b-d9367e8bd88b_trump.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C3%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T04:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"trump-mixes-up-brazil-polls-india-vote-count"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Shriya’s ‘Drishyam 3’ Sleepless Night"},"content":{"text":"Shriya Saran reveals she couldn’t sleep a day before ‘Drishyam 3’ release: ‘Every scene, I was revisiting emotionally’ Actress Shriya Saran has opened up about her nervousness ahead of the release of ‘Drishyam 3.’ In an exclusive interview with media, she admitted that she could not sleep the night before as she kept thinking about how audiences would receive the film. Speaking about the film, Shriya said she found herself emotionally revisiting every scene she had performed. “I couldn't sleep last night. I was thinking what will happen, what kind of a film it will be. And you know, it's a sense of nervousness. Every scene that I have done in the film, I was revisiting it emotionally and mentally. I was thinking how it will be,” she said. Shriya also spoke about the evolution of dubbing and sound technology in filmmaking. She noted that while actors earlier spent considerable time watching films during dubbing, the sound process has now become much more sophisticated. “Because earlier when the film was made, we used to watch a lot of films in dubbing. But now dubbing has become so sophisticated. The sound system is so amazing,” she said. Shriya praised the film’s sound team and revealed that the team did not have to rely on dubbing extensively as the film was shot with sync sound. “And in conclusion, Abhishek has got such an amazing sound system, sound director. It's amazingly sync sound that we didn't have to dub it at all. So, we are very lucky,” she added. Describing ‘Drishyam 3’, Shriya said the film carries a sense of responsibility because of its emotional and dramatic nature. She explained that the film is rooted in family drama and mystery rather than being a larger-than-life visual spectacle. “So, I was thinking what it is. But I know for a fact it's a beautiful film. Yes, I know there is a lot of responsibility. Because it's not like, it's a drama. Family drama, mystery. And it plays with your emotions,” she said. The actress added that the film’s strength lies in its emotional connection with the audience. “But it's not like a visual spectacle, spectacularly. It's not like, it's a larger than life kind of a film. It's a film that connects to your heart. So, it's that. And there is a lot of responsibility. But I know that Abhishek is on a great job,” Shriya said. On a related note, Shriya Saran returned as Nandini Salgaonkar, the wife of Vijay Salgaonkar, portrayed by Ajay Devgn, in the concluding chapter, Drishyam 3: The Conclusion. The film hit theatres on October 2, 2026, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aUGQvnNYClf9oSUB_shriya2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T10:51:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"shriyas-drishyam-3-sleepless-night"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Rakul breaks silence on IT raid reports"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood actress Rakul Preet Singh has addressed reports that linked her name to recent income tax searches. Taking to social media, the ‘Yaariyan’ actress on Monday clarified that she was not connected to the matter and sought to set the record straight. Rakul shared a note that read, “It's heartbreaking to see that There's a growing trend amongst the self styled online reporters & some main stream media journalists to sensationalise the news without verifying facts. Let's therefore set the record straight once for all. The search was not pertaining to me.” “Let it be known that I am from the Armed Forces background & had no Godfather in the Industry. I have come up through sheer hardwork & as a responsible law abiding citizen have been paying my due taxes since the age of 20 years.” The actress added, “I am not involved in any kind of illegal Foreign remittance in personal capacity or on behalf of any Production house. I would also add here that I do not hold any Benami property on behalf of anyone anywhere in the country or abroad. Neither anyone has ever gifted me any property at anytime nor do I accept such expensive gifts as a principle.” “I urge all those who published these false, malicious and speculative reports to retract them and clarify the facts. I understand that everyone running a media business however big has their own commercial pressures. But it cannot come at the cost of facts. And certainly not at the cost of someone's reputation and livelihood.” According to some online reports, the Income Tax Department had conducted searches at multiple locations reportedly linked to Rakul Preet Singh, her father-in-law and film producer Vashu Bhagnani, and Panorama Studios in Mumbai. The reports claimed that the Mumbai Income Tax Department had carried out searches at 12 locations as part of an investigation into suspected financial irregularities. Officials were reportedly looking into allegations that funds had been routed overseas under the pretext of financing film projects."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aHdmrUMqNJQqH81b_rakulpreet.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T06:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rakul-breaks-silence-on-it-raid-reports"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Kareena Set to Dazzle at IIFA 2027"},"content":{"text":"The highly anticipated 27th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards is gearing up to be a star-studded affair, with Bollywood luminary Kareena Kapoor Khan confirmed to perform live. Slated for January 22 and 23, 2027, the event will unfold at the prestigious Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, showcasing the grandeur of Indian cinema to a global audience. As the excitement builds, tickets for this cinematic celebration are now available, promising an unforgettable experience for attendees. Kareena Kapoor Khan's return to the IIFA stage marks a significant moment not only for her career but also for the celebration of Indian film on an international platform. In her words, being part of the IIFA has created cherished memories, particularly as it gathers passionate fans from around the world who share a love for cinema. The two-day event will commence with the IIFA Digital Awards followed by the highly anticipated main ceremony, underscoring the prominence of this festival in the cinematic calendar. Historically, the IIFA Awards have served as a crucial bridge connecting Bollywood with its global audience, allowing Indian cinema to flourish beyond its borders. Abu Dhabi’s selection as the venue for the 2027 edition is particularly fitting, with its rich tapestry of cultures offering a backdrop that resonates with the spirit of Indian cinema. The event not only celebrates artistic excellence but also highlights the cultural exchange that occurs when diverse communities come together to honor a shared passion. In addition to Kapoor’s performance, the upcoming IIFA promises a fresh twist with Varun Dhawan and Pankaj Tripathi stepping in as hosts for the first time, while Salman Khan is also set to grace the stage. Kareena expressed her enthusiasm about performing for an audience that travels from various corners of the globe to celebrate the magic of Indian storytelling. Such sentiments encapsulate the essence of IIFA—a celebration not just of films, but of the unifying power of art in a divided world."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/RQEubx36mWPuCNnC_kareena.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C22%2C620%2C306&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T09:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"kareena-set-to-dazzle-at-iifa-2027"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Hema Malini To Celebrates 60 in Style"},"content":{"text":"In an inspiring celebration of her illustrious career, veteran actress and MP Hema Malini is poised to take the stage for a live performance like no other. The event, aptly named The Dream Girl’s Diamond Jubilee Concert, is scheduled for July 10 at Mumbai’s Shanmukhananda Hall, marking a significant milestone as Malini sings live for the first time. This gala, organized to benefit the Cine and TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA), is conceptualized by renowned radio jockey Anirudh Chawla, who aims to weave the narrative of Malini’s six-decade-long journey through music and stories. The concert promises a nostalgic journey through Hema Malini's storied career, showcasing significant moments and contributions to the Indian film industry. Audiences will be treated to a 15-piece live orchestra performing melodies that have accompanied her on-screen presence throughout the years. Moreover, a host of esteemed artists, referred to as “Hemaji Ke Navratan” by Chawla, will join Malini in this celebration. Notable performers such as Sudesh Bhosale, Kavita Krishnamurthy Subramaniam, and Anup Jalota are set to grace the event, further enhancing its star-studded allure. The evening will culminate in a surprise performance from Malini herself, adding an element of anticipation to the event. Hema Malini's commitment to the arts extends beyond mere performances; she has a storied relationship with CINTAA, which has been instrumental in advocating for the rights and welfare of artists within the industry. At a recent press conference unveiling the concert, Malini expressed her gratitude for the love and support she has received throughout her career, emphasizing her desire to give back through this initiative. She revealed plans to donate ₹500,000 from ticket sales to CINTAA, reinforcing her dedication to the organization that has supported countless artists. Furthermore, a book co-authored by Malini and RJ Anirudh Chawla, detailing her life and career, is set for publication, alongside a documentary currently in development. The concert is not merely a retrospective of Hema Malini’s achievements; it is a significant cultural event that encapsulates the legacy of an era in Indian cinema. As RJ Anirudh Chawla aptly put it, the concert will serve as a journey through time, reliving moments that have defined generations. Poonam Dhillon, another prominent figure in the industry, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the concert's dual role as a celebration of Malini's illustrious past and a commitment to the future welfare of artists. This confluence of legacy and philanthropic intent promises an event that resonates deeply within the fabric of Indian cinema and its artistic community."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/fO-gVE3DnVXH9MiF_hemamalini.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T09:02:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"hema-malini-to-celebrates-60-in-style"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Cong turned T'gana into ATM to fund propaganda"},"content":{"text":"Telangana BJP President N. Ramchander Rao on Monday accused the Congress party of turning the state into an ATM to fund its propaganda in Delhi.  Addressing the meeting of BJP office-bearers at the party office here, he stated that while the world takes pride in India's democracy and electoral process, the Congress is busy whining and making absurd, baseless allegations against the country and the Election Commission.  He remarked that the party is unable to digest the fact that an ordinary 'chaiwala' (tea seller) has become the country's Prime Minister. Rao called it shameful that Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge, driven by the narrow-minded notion that only someone from the Nehru family should hold the office, would claim that the elections held in the country are invalid.  Throwing a challenge at Congress, he said if they truly believe the elections are invalid, they should first have Chief Ministers of Telangana, Kerala and Himachal Pradesh, resign from their posts. He strongly criticised the Congress for what he called its regressive political conduct, noting that they praise EVMs and the Election Commission when they win, but blame them when they lose.  Ramchander Rao stated that during the Congress party's past tenure, illegal infiltrators obtained ration cards through illicit means and registered their names in the voters' list. He clarified that while every citizen of the country has the right to vote under the Indian Constitution, foreign nationals who have entered illegally from countries like Bangladesh and Burma do not possess this right.  According to him, the names of millions of illegal infiltrators are coming to light during the ongoing voter list revision process. He claimed that there are approximately 30,000 Rohingyas and illegal voters in the Maheshwaram constituency of Hyderabad alone. He criticised leaders of the Congress and the 'INDIA' bloc for spreading false propaganda out of fear that they would lose elections if the names of infiltrators were removed from the rolls.  He asserted that the BJP fully respects the Constitution and maintains that every Indian citizen over the age of 18 -- regardless of religion -- must have the right to vote. He also slammed Congress for displaying double standards regarding the long-standing process of verifying and correcting the names of individuals who have relocated to different areas for livelihood or other reasons.  He claimed that the people of Telangana are fed up with both BRS and Congress.  While the KCR family prospered during 10 years of BRS rule, under the Congress government, it is “Revanth Reddy and Brothers” who are prospering through exploitation, even as the hardships of ordinary people remain unresolved, he remarked. The state BJP chief criticised the Congress government for failing to implement any of its promises, including the 'Six Guarantees' made during the elections, even as it nears the completion of three years in power.  He voiced concern over non-payment of fee reimbursement arrears to students, the absence of 'Rythu Bharosa' support, delays in pension payments to retired employees, and the complete stalling of teacher recruitment and employee promotions.  The BJP leader alleged that the state is committing a grave injustice against farmers by refusing to implement the Central government's 'Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana'.  He accused the Congress leaders of being preoccupied solely with commissions, contracts, and sending kickbacks to Delhi.  He alleged that internal disputes over the division of ill-gotten assets are playing out within the KCR family, while both parties engage in a charade of blaming each other for their respective acts of plunder.  Ramchander Rao said the office-bearers’ meeting reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen the BJP across the state and bring a “Double Engine Sarkar” to Telangana under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Newly-appointed Telangana BJP Co-Incharge Abhay Patil, General Secretary (Organisation) Madhukar, Co-General Secretary (Organisation) Dasharatha Vailaya and Karnataka State Co-Incharge Kasam Venkateshwarlu also attended the meeting."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/de3d6ddd-7580-4779-a4f5-3cfc7d31f0d4_congress.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T10:26:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"cong-turned-tgana-into-atm-to-fund-propaganda"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Nani’s 'BB' Comeback? No Way!"},"content":{"text":"Natural Star Nani appears to have closed the door on returning to the Bigg Boss stage as a host. The actor, who has largely stayed focused on cinema in recent years, has indicated that hosting a reality show is no longer on his priority list. His comments have once again brought attention to his brief but memorable association with Bigg Boss Telugu, where he took over the hosting duties for the second season after Jr NTR successfully launched the franchise with its debut edition. Nani brought a relatively natural and conversational style to the weekend episodes, interacting with contestants and reacting to their performances in a manner that reflected his personality. His stint, however, was far from controversy-free. As the season progressed, sections of the audience accused Nani of being partial towards certain contestants, triggering heated debates across social media. Fans of contestant Kaushal, in particular, were highly vocal in their criticism, making the host himself a subject of intense online trolling. Unlike a film, where an actor's performance is judged largely through a character and storyline, a reality show places the host directly in the middle of contestants, fan groups and constantly changing public opinions. The experience gave Nani a different perspective on television and the pressures that come with hosting a hugely followed reality programme. Looking back, Nani has suggested that the Bigg Boss experience taught him several lessons, but his current priorities are firmly rooted in filmmaking and acting. For the actor, being in front of the camera as a performer remains more appealing than taking responsibility for steering a reality show every weekend. His latest remarks therefore suggest that audiences should not expect him to make a comeback as a Bigg Boss host anytime soon. Rather than revisiting television, Nani seems keen to invest his time and energy in the world of cinema, where he continues to explore different characters and projects. Still, Nani's season remains a memorable chapter in the history of Bigg Boss Telugu. His easy-going hosting style, direct conversations with contestants and spontaneous reactions created a distinct identity for Season 2, and many viewers continue to remember that version of the show fondly. His latest comments have consequently revived discussions among fans who would still welcome him back on the Bigg Boss stage. For now, though, Nani seems to have made his position clear: cinema first, and Bigg Boss hosting can stay in the past."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2f8c2056-4ed0-4b85-a148-f462b88e2229_nani.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T13:00:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"nanis-bb-comeback-no-way"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Dutt Reveals Truth Behind His Remark"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, who was recently seen in the Marathi biopic ‘Raja Shivaji’, has issued a clarification with regards to his recent statement about the diminishing levels of peace in the country, of late. On Sunday, the actor took to his X, formerly Twitter, and penned a long note, as said that his statement was part of a scripted show, and has been taken out of context. He wrote, “I would like to clarify that it was never my intention to hurt, offend, or disrespect the sentiments of any individual, community, or institution”. He further mentioned, “My remarks were made in the context of a scripted conversation intended to be light-hearted and humorous. The spirit behind them was similar to the humour and satire seen in films like Munna Bhai, particularly the concept of 'Gandhigiri’, which was intended to convey a message of love, warmth, togetherness, and goodwill. Unfortunately, my words were interpreted outside of that intended context”. However, the netizens were in no mood to believe him. One user wrote, “I liked that sanju baba more. This one feels scripted and out of context”. Another user wrote, “Stupid explanation. You meant every-word you said. You should have suffered in jail like every terror supporter but since congress was behind you life gave you undeserving chances but once an asshole is always an asshole. Bomb-blast from 1992 to 2006 was a peaceful time for you”. A 3rd user wrote, “‘Scripted conversation’. So, is Shekhar Suman telling his guests what answers to give on the show?” The actor recently found himself embroiled in a controversy after his comments on Shekhar Suman’s chat show ‘Shekhar Tonite’ sparked backlash on social media. During his appearance on the show, the actor had said, “The people of this country are so lovely. There should be peace here. I can’t feel that peace in our country anymore. We Indians are large-hearted people and we are hospitable. We have given so much, and we should always remain that way. I pray to Shivji that those days come back soon”."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2Ffad8db4d-a613-4dfb-85f3-a4ff67d7bdee_sanjay+dutt.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C37%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T16:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"dutt-reveals-truth-behind-his-remark"}},{"node":{"tags":["Health"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"A Simple Eye Test Can Protect  from Diabetic Blindness"},"content":{"text":"As diabetes continues its relentless rise across India, the threat of diabetic retinopathy looms large, often unnoticed until it’s too late. Over 21 million Indians are at risk of developing this insidious condition, which quietly deteriorates vision without pain or clear symptoms. By the time individuals recognize blurred vision or other warning signs, irreversible damage may have already occurred, making routine screening essential in the battle against preventable blindness. Diabetic retinopathy affects the delicate retina, the tissue responsible for converting light into the visual signals that shape our world. When blood sugar levels remain elevated over time, the tiny blood vessels in the retina can weaken and leak, leading to potential vision loss. This condition can progress without any noticeable symptoms, which is why healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of early detection through regular retinal exams. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), more than 101 million Indians currently live with diabetes, underscoring the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how diabetic eye health is managed across the nation. The pathophysiology of diabetic retinopathy is often exacerbated by a lack of awareness among patients and medical practitioners alike. Dr. Vishali Gupta, President of the Vitreo Retina Society of India, highlights a critical gap: many individuals postpone eye examinations until vision impairment is evident, often overlooking the crucial role that proactive diabetes management plays in eye health. “Preventing blindness starts with strict diabetes control, routine screening, and standardized referral pathways,” she asserts. Without integrating eye health into comprehensive diabetes care, the risk of irreversible vision loss only increases, leaving patients vulnerable to a preventable fate. A concerted effort is needed to treat diabetic retinopathy not just as an eye issue but as a significant public health challenge. Dr. R Kim from Aravind Eye Hospital advocates for the integration of retinal screening into broader healthcare protocols, akin to regular blood sugar monitoring. The adoption of artificial intelligence in screening processes presents an innovative solution for improving early detection, particularly in underserved regions. By prioritizing education, routine screenings, and interdisciplinary cooperation within the healthcare system, India can take essential steps toward mitigating the looming threat of diabetic blindness."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/3a3b5486-3f57-4f8d-af38-fc2d697267f8_Telangana+Eye+Test.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T15:47:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"a-simple-eye-test-can-protect--from-diabetic-blind"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Janhvi Draws Line on Deepfake Abuse"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor has strongly reacted to her sexually explicit deepfake video doing rounds on the Internet. On Sunday, the actress took to the Stories section of her Instagram, and penned a long note in which she criticised those who made the deepfake video. She lashed out at them for their lack of understanding on the concept of consent, and called the content bordering on sexual assault. She wrote, “The criminal misuse of technology to objectify women and circulate fictionalised content without consent is deeply violating, bordering on sexual assault. Almost every woman in my industry has faced some version of this, and women everywhere are increasingly being subjected to it. Consent, choice and respect for a woman's body should be among the most basic notions of humanity. Yet somehow, they continue to be treated as complicated. They are not. It is surprising that it still seems too nuanced for some people to understand that even if a woman says yes five days in a row and no on the sixth, that no must be respected”. The clip in question is a doctored clip from her film ‘Devara’ in which she starred opposite NTR Jr. The actress further mentioned that if a woman happens to wear a miniskirt, it does not give anyone permission to put a camera up her skirt, capture violating angles or visually exploit her body. She continued, “What a woman is comfortable with, where she draws the LINE and what she chooses to do with her body are decisions that belong exclusively to her. This is basic. This goes far beyond the AI videos I have dealt with over the last few days, or anything I have personally experienced throughout my career. It is about the larger reality of being a woman, the gaze, the judgement, the constant negotiation for safety, and the feeling that our boundaries somehow remain open to interpretation”. She went on, “That threat has now expanded into the digital sphere, when we have not even adequately addressed the very real, physical fear that continues to disrupt the lives of women every day. The answer cannot simply be to \"Protect your daughter.\" We also need to undo the conditioning that makes people believe they are entitled to violate somebody else's boundaries in the first place. And part of that change will come from exemplary men with the moral compass and the spine to say clearly what is right and what is wrong”, she added. The actress expressed her gratitude to her co-actor, NTR Jr for standing up for her. “I am deeply touched by ntr sir for taking such a strong stand and condemning this violation. Thank you, sir. When someone whom millions look up to speaks up about something that may not directly concern him, it makes a difference to every woman who has experienced some degree of this behaviour. Thank you also to chiranjeevi sir, Vijay and khushbu ma'am for amplifying that sentiment and calling for action against this mentality and these immoral practices. I hope everything unfolding around us right now forces those who participate in any form of harassment to introspect. Is it really too much for a woman to ask to simply be treated and seen as a human being? Her body. Her image. Her boundaries. Her choice”, she added."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/jxlt7EuqRTeRqtwx_janhvi.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T14:09:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"janhvi-draws-line-on-deepfake-abuse"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Night Stonefall Sparks Fear in Andhra"},"content":{"text":"Fear has gripped residents of a village in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh due to mysterious stone-throwing at their houses during night hours.  After residents of Appajipeta in Pimdi mandal lodged a complaint, police deployed four constables for patrolling. Though these police personnel patrolled the area for two days, the mysterious phenomenon has not stopped. Villagers said about 20 youths from the village, along with the police, maintained a vigil from a nearby hillock. Stones fell on the roofs even as they maintained a tight vigil. According to locals, the stone-throwing on the houses during night hours had been continuing for the last one week. Heavy stones are falling on the roofs as soon as night falls. They said despite all their efforts with the cooperation of the police, they were not able to resolve the mystery. Initially, they suspected it was the handiwork of miscreants. They approached the authorities, requesting them to take action. With patrolling by police and a group of youth failing to check the mysterious phenomenon, villagers are living in fear. Terrified villagers are locking themselves indoors at sunset. Villagers showed stones that fell on the rooftops to local media persons visiting the village. A couple of villagers sustained minor injuries in the stone-throwing They said stones are raining down on rooftops around 10 p.m., and this activity continues at intervals. The stones are pelted after a gap of a few minutes. As most of the houses in the village have asbestos roofs, the stone-throwing is resulting in damage. Some of the villagers suspect paranormal activity behind the stone-throwing. Stating that they are spending sleepless nights, they have appealed to authorities to come to their rescue. Similar incidents were reported in the past from a couple of villages in both the Telugu states. In 2024, a village in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruppur district witnessed a similar mysterious phenomenon."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/8DRzD9kn8M_slKNk_andhravillage.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C406%2C200&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T15:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"night-stonefall-sparks-fear-in-andhra"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Drishyam 3' Breaks Records in a Flash"},"content":{"text":"In a remarkable display of box office prowess, Ajay Devgn's latest thriller, 'Drishyam The Conclusion', has swiftly ascended to become the second-fastest film of 2026 to cross the coveted Rs. 100 crore mark, achieving this milestone in a mere two days following its release. Directed by Abhishek Pathak, the film opened with an impressive Rs. 62.03 crore on its first day and maintained its momentum with an estimated Rs. 50.95 crore on Saturday, bringing its total to an astounding Rs. 112.98 crore within just 48 hours. This latest achievement positions 'Drishyam The Conclusion' behind only 'Dhurandhar The Revenge', which astonishingly surpassed the Rs. 100 crore threshold on its opening day. The rapid financial success highlights a growing trend in the Indian film industry, where audience anticipation and marketing strategies play pivotal roles in a film's early box office performance. Following Devgn's latest offering, 'Border 2' rounds out the top three, having taken three days to reach the same financial benchmark, while other noteworthy releases like 'Mirzapur - The Movie' and 'Toxic' required four days to join the Rs. 100 crore club. Historically, the trajectory of 'Drishyam The Conclusion' mirrors the seismic shifts in Bollywood's box office landscape, with several films from the past few years also achieving rapid success. Notably, the excitement around sequels and franchise films has significantly contributed to this trend, as audiences flock to see familiar characters and narratives. The franchise's previous installment, 'Drishyam', already set a formidable precedent, cultivating a loyal fanbase that eagerly awaited the conclusion of this gripping storyline. Devgn's consistent star power, along with strong direction and an engaging plot, has evidently translated to box office gold in the current cinematic climate. As 'Drishyam The Conclusion' continues to dominate the box office, industry analysts are keenly observing its performance heading into the weekend. With a significant amount of revenue already captured, the film stands poised for an even more lucrative opening weekend, potentially shattering existing records across various metrics. The film's rapid ascent in the box office rankings underscores not only Devgn's enduring appeal but also the strategic marketing efforts that have propelled this production to the forefront of 2026's cinematic offerings."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/EtNqdyFPlv99hm5m_drishyamtheconclusion.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T15:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"drishyam-3-breaks-records-in-a-flash"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Gul Panag renews her pilot license!"},"content":{"text":"Along with being a celebrated actress, Gul Panag is also a licensed private pilot. The 'Dor' actress got a little nostalgic as she recently renewed her licence after 10 years.  Looking back at the time when she first got her licence, Gul Panag wrote on her IG, \"Life is eventually all about perspective. Ten years ago, when I got my flying licence, I was over the moon. It had been on my bucket list for a very, very long time. And there had been no shortage of people telling me I couldn’t do it. Or wouldn’t be able to (sic).\" The 'The Family Man' actress also reflected on all the hurdles she had to overcome to realize her dream of becoming a pilot. \"Starting flying training is one thing. Completing the prescribed flying hours while pursuing a career, clearing all the exams, navigating the paperwork, keeping your medical current and seeing the entire process through is quite another. Individually, they’re all relatively simple things. Together, they add up to a great deal, especially when you’re not doing it to pursue flying as a profession. But I managed. And when that licence was finally issued, I was ecstatic. A huge bucket-list item ticked off,\" she penned. Gul Panag said that ten years after officially becoming a pilot, she realised that getting the licence was one thing; keeping it is quite another. She added that she knows so many people who started flying but never finished their training, or others who completed their flying hours but do not clear the exams. And then there are those who earned their licences but eventually let them lapse. \"Life, work, medical requirements, or simply not flying enough. It happens so easily, particularly when flying isn’t your profession,\" she added. \"I now appreciate not just what it took to get here, but what it has taken to keep going. And for once, I’m allowing myself a small pat on the back. Walking in this time, not as a student hoping to earn her wings, but as a licensed pilot returning for a renewal, felt rather different. And yet, some things haven’t changed,\" Gul Panag concluded."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/vuK_vQkEV0PjrBg__gulpanang.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T09:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"gul-panag-renews-her-pilot-license"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Vijay’s Sweet Tribute to Singeetham"},"content":{"text":"Actor Vijay Deverakonda mourned the death of veteran filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao. He remembered the affection and warmth the filmmaker showed him over the years. Taking to social media, the ‘Dear Comrade’ actor recalled how Singeetham would call him and shower him with love and affection. He also expressed happiness at having been part of one of the filmmaker’s visions. “Singeetham sir, your beliefs, your thoughts and your stories will live on with us forever. For every time you called me since Pelli Choopulu to shower love and affection, I hope it made you happy and brought a smile seeing me in one of your films,” Vijay wrote. Vijay added, “Singeetham, I feel happy to have been a part of one of your vision. My forever respect.” Pelli Choopulu, written and directed by Tharun Bhascker and produced by Raj Kandukuri and Yash Rangineni. It featured Vijay Deverakonda and Ritu Varma in the lead roles. Vijay made a special cameo in the 2026 musical fantasy-comedy “Sing Geetham,” directed by Singeetham Srinivasa Rao. Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, who passed away at the age of 95, was celebrated for his distinctive filmmaking style, creative vision and willingness to experiment with different genres. Over a career spanning several decades, the filmmaker helmed acclaimed films including ‘Raja Paarvai,' ‘Apoorva Sagodharargal,' ‘Michael Madana Kama Rajan,' ‘Kadhala Kadhala,' and ‘Little John,' among others. His death has prompted tributes from several prominent names from the Indian film industry, who have remembered his contribution to cinema and his enduring creative legacy. Jr NTR also expressed his grief over the filmmaker’s demise and remembered his lasting contribution to cinema. He paid his tribute, writing, “The news that Singeetam Srinivasa Rao garu is no more is deeply heartbreaking. Aditya 369, Pushpaka Vimanam, Mayuri… a visionary who thought ahead of his time, delivering films that feel fresh even across generations. My deepest condolences to his family members. Om Shanti.” Among those who expressed their condolences were actor Kamal Haasan, filmmaker S. S. Rajamouli, and actor Vishnu Manchu, who remembered Singeetham Srinivasa Rao for his immense contribution to Indian cinema and his distinctive creative vision."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/xVPIFRjJIEW6DU5H_vdksingeetham.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T07:18:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"vijays-sweet-tribute-to-singeetham"}},{"node":{"tags":["Editorial"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Captain Machchhar: Courage vs Noise"},"content":{"text":"'It is better to be a Machchhar than a cockroach, and when life gives you a chance, choose the former over the latter'. This is the latest viral social media analogy/meme comparing the CJP's moves with the brave action of flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar. The memes may or may not be liked by many, but they reflect a thought that is gradually trying to draw a distinction. What Captain Machchhar did was an unparalleled act of bravery that will be remembered for a long time, not just in India or Israel but across the world. Machchhar may well become the face of courage who stood up to and put a brake on an evil act carried out in the name of terror. According to the United Arab Emirates probe, Hamam Al-Hammami, the co-pilot of the Dubai-Tel Aviv flydubai flight, attacked Indian pilot Captain Machchhar with the cockpit's crash axe in what the UAE authorities have described as a \"terrorist attack\". Al-Hammami tried to take control of the flydubai aircraft, carrying over 170 people, after attacking Captain Machchhar, who tried to stop him. Despite being injured, the Indian pilot managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to intervene and overpower the attacker. The investigation is continuing, and more information is likely to emerge about Al-Hammami, his background, and whether there were any links or circumstances which prompted him to unleash the attack. There are many questions, but at the moment, one truth has clearly emerged: Captain Machchhar is a hero. Along with the other passengers, he helped prevent what could have been a big tragedy. Captain Machchhar's courageous action has come at a time when the youth of the country are being presented with examples that appear to normalise violent, indecent and questionable behaviour and language. It is not wrong to dissent, question decisions or challenge systems. But it is wrong to run down institutions, abuse the Prime Minister of the country and his late mother, and create violent situations. It is equally wrong to raise only those questions that suit one's political convenience and turn a blind eye to issues in states ruled by political allies. The CJP stayed away from the Jharkhand students' stir, though it later extended support from outside. Similar questions have also been raised about its approach to student unrest in other states, such as Punjab, Karnataka or Kerala. Therefore, questions about motives and intentions are bound to arise. But with Captain Machchhar, the only motive was to save lives, and he did that even while facing a brutal attack from the co-pilot. With this bravery, the Indian pilot has presented the country and the world with a powerful example of courage for humanity. It is not even easy to comprehend what he must have undergone as he was suddenly attacked by a colleague sitting next to him. He may initially have been shocked, but Machchhar quickly realised the seriousness of the situation and acted in a way that helped save the lives of those on board. He not only helped save the passengers, but he also protected the reputation of Indian pilots and, in a way, the country's aviation profession. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made this point during his conversation with the brave pilot. He said the episode could have affected the perception of Indian pilots had the event unfolded differently. \"Had this not happened, who knows what India would have had to face, what all Indian pilots would have had to endure, and how Indian pilots would have been viewed. You have saved everyone. You have done a very big thing,\" PM Modi told Machchhar during the video phone call. The Prime Minister's pointed remarks are also a reminder to those, whether inside or outside the country, who are ever ready to run down Indian institutions and systems. When Operation Sindoor happened, US President Donald Trump was among those who claimed credit for the subsequent ceasefire, and leaders like Rahul Gandhi questioned the number of Indian fighter jets allegedly downed by Pakistan. Even in the latest act of bravery by an Indian pilot, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra have not publicly praised Captain Machchhar. The silence has attracted criticism and is being interpreted by some as an example of political appeasement. Abhijeet Dipke and his Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which built its activism largely through social media, have also, so far, been silent on Captain Machchhar. Their silence is now being discussed on social media -- the same platform where the CJP started its activism and claimed to have incubated and grown its movement -- is going gaga over Captain Machchhar's feat. And perhaps that is where the 'Machchhar versus cockroach' meme becomes more than just another social media joke. For a generation watching politics and public life unfold largely through phones, the contrast is simple. One showed what it means to stand up when lives are at stake. The other has become a symbol of protest, targeting only one party. The choice, ultimately, is for the young generation to make. But there should be no confusion about who the real hero is. And the answer is Captain Machchhar."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ONpaQymA1ABT2ZIL_Machchhar.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C30%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T05:41:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"captain-machchhar-courage-vs-noise"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Khushbu to Janhvi: Stay Strong Bachcha!"},"content":{"text":"Actress Khushbu Sundar has extended her support to Janhvi Kapoor after her morphed video from 'Devara' song 'Chuttamalle' raised serious concerns about the misuse of AI.  \"What has been done through AI is not a joke, not entertainment and not something we should ever normalise. It is cruel, abusive and deeply shameful. It is tearing off her dignity,\" she wrote on X (Previously called Twitter) handle. Expressing her displeasure in strong words, she added, \"I am outraged by the creation and circulation of morphed videos targeting a woman. No woman should have to fear that technology can be weaponised to invade her dignity, reputation and sense of safety. Today, it is her. Tomorrow, it could be me, you, our daughter, our sister, our mother, or any woman we love. We cannot remain silent simply because we are not the victim today. When one woman’s dignity is attacked, every woman has a reason to stand up and speak out.\" Khushbu Sundar feels that those who create such content, knowingly share it, and promote it must be held accountable and face consequences in order to set an example. \"A woman’s body is not content. Her dignity is not entertainment. Her humiliation is not a joke. And AI must never become a weapon against women. As women, we must stand together and say: ENOUGH,\" she went on to write. Supporting Janhvi, she concluded the post saying, \"I stand with you #JanhviKapoor Stay strong bachcha.\"  On Saturday, Jr NTR raised his voice against using AI to create fake videos. He even warned of legal action against those who indulged in such activities. He also suggested the same repercussions for those who help circulate it. Additionally, Vijay Deverakonda and Chiranjeevi also used social media to condemn such misuse of technology."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/mwhKfrYoKX7LmHPV_jhushboojanhvi.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T08:35:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"khushbu-to-janhvi-stay-strong-bachcha"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"RGV: AI Controversy Drives More Views?"},"content":{"text":"Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma shared his views on how AI is being misused to spread fake and objectionable content after a morphed video of the song 'Chuttamalle' from 'Devara' circulated on social media recently.  The 'Satya' maker said that celebrities talking about fake AI content on social media only helps it reach more people, bringing unnecessary attention to the victim's identity. Ram Gopal Varma tweeted, \"The only thing all the celebrities succeeded in , is to publicise and thereby make crores and crores of people see the objectionable link ..The smart thing would have been to concentrate on catching the perpetrator and publicise that ..Instead what they did is to tweet and bring enormous attention to the victim’s identity and the offensive content which is also a crime (sic)\". On Saturday, Jr NTR condemned the fake video of the 'Chuttamalle' song. He warned of legal action against the accused, along with those who help circulate such content. Calling such people \"Disgusting, Sick and Shameless\", the 'RRR' actor posted on the micro-blogging site, \"In a land that worships women as mothers and goddesses, where \"Matrudevo Bhava\" is not just a phrase but a part of our culture, some people have fallen so low that they are using AI to disrespect a woman in the most degrading way possible. Using AI to create something this vile is shameful beyond words. To the scumbags behind this morphed Chuttamalle video, I will not spare any of you. I will take every possible legal action against those who created it and those who are spreading it.\" Jr NTR further urged the netizens not to watch, share, or even engage with such content. He also requested the authorities to come up with strict regulations against such blatant misuse of technology. \"Please do not watch, share or engage with such content. Today it is someone else. Tomorrow, it could be your mother, sister, wife or daughter. This is a serious issue, and I urge all the state governments and the Government of India to act strongly and bring in strict regulations against the misuse of AI,\" he concluded."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F390b4149-e568-442f-8589-9d2ec70be5a6_rgv.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C12%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T06:42:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rgv-ai-controversy-drives-more-views"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Why Erravalli Has Become a KCR Flashpoint?"},"content":{"text":"The political spotlight in Telangana has once again shifted to Erravalli, where revenue officials have completed a detailed survey of land surrounding former Chief Minister and BRS chief K. Chandrashekar Rao’s farmhouse. The exercise has drawn considerable attention because the land under scrutiny lies close to KCR’s agricultural property and has been at the centre of competing claims over ownership, government land and cultivation rights. Officials surveyed 388 acres in Survey No. 325, covering areas around Erravalli, Venkatapur and Varadarajpur. The survey was initiated following concerns raised by the Telangana government over the status of land in the area. Officials used digital survey methods and worked on fixing boundaries and verifying existing land records. The exercise also involved collecting details from farmers who have been cultivating portions of the land for several decades. Reports indicate that more than 200 farmers were served notices or called for verification during the process, while officials gathered documents and details relating to possession and cultivation. What has made the issue politically sensitive is the close proximity of the surveyed land to KCR’s farmhouse. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy had raised the issue of alleged encroachment of government land in Erravalli during an Assembly session, bringing the former chief minister’s property into the wider political debate. However, officials have so far maintained a distinction between the land being surveyed and KCR’s farmhouse itself. The first phase of the exercise was completed without officials entering the farmhouse or issuing a notice to KCR. At the ground level, the survey has also triggered anxiety among local farmers. Several cultivators have argued that they have been in possession of the land for decades and fear that the government could take back land they depend on for their livelihoods. Some farmers have also maintained that the surveyed Survey No. 325 lands are separate from KCR’s property. At the same time, questions over village boundaries and the classification of the land have added another layer to the dispute, making the survey more complicated than a straightforward verification exercise. The bigger question now is what happens after the survey report reaches the district administration and the government decides on the next course of action. Officials have prepared records and boundary details, while the portion directly involving KCR’s farmhouse is expected to be examined in a subsequent phase. For the Congress government, the issue has become part of its broader scrutiny of land records linked to the previous BRS regime. For the BRS, the repeated focus on KCR’s farmhouse is being viewed as a political issue. With the survey completed but several questions still open, Erravalli is likely to remain a politically charged flashpoint in Telangana."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2GemTBdknXWdn43G_KCR.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T07:39:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"why-erravalli-has-become-a-kcr-flashpoint"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Singeetham: An Era Ends"},"content":{"text":"Veteran filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, one of the most distinctive voices in Indian cinema, has passed away in Chennai at the age of 94 while undergoing treatment at Kauvery Hospital. His death marks the end of an extraordinary filmmaking journey spanning several decades, during which he worked across Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Hindi and other languages. Known for his fearless experimentation and ability to move effortlessly between genres, Singeetham leaves behind a body of work that continues to be remembered by generations of movie lovers. Singeetham’s filmography stands out for its sheer variety and originality. From the imaginative fantasy world of Bhairava Dweepam and the time-travel adventure Aditya 369 to the dialogue-free Pushpaka Vimana, he repeatedly explored ideas that were considered unconventional for mainstream Indian cinema. His collaborations with legendary actors such as Kamal Haasan and Rajkumar also produced several memorable films, including Apoorva Sagodharargal and Michael Madana Kama Rajan. Over his career, he directed around 60 films and received major recognition, including National Film Awards, Nandi Awards, Karnataka State Film Awards and Filmfare Awards South. What made Singeetham particularly remarkable was his continued passion for filmmaking even in his nineties. Earlier in 2026, he returned to the director’s chair with Sing Geetham, his 61st film, becoming one of the world’s oldest active filmmakers to lead a major production. The film was completed despite the challenges of his age and was released earlier this year, serving as a final testament to his lifelong commitment to cinema. With his passing, Indian cinema loses a filmmaker who consistently pushed creative boundaries and refused to be confined by conventional formulas. His films and innovative approach are likely to remain an enduring part of the country’s cinematic legacy."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/1951f435-3008-4fe3-ac08-da4eb6f4bbc1_singeetham.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-03T18:24:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"singeetham-an-era-ends"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Vijay Supports NTR’s Strong Stand"},"content":{"text":"Telugu star Vijay Deverakonda has now expressed his full support to Jr NTR, who had earlier in the day urged all the state governments and the Government of India to act strongly and bring in strict regulations against the misuse of AI.  Jr NTR's appeal came in the wake of a morphed video of the song 'Chuttamalle' from his film 'Devara' being circulated by miscreants on social media.  Taking to his X timeline to express his whole hearted support to Jr NTR and his team on the issue, Vijay Deverakonda, who quoted Jr NTR's post, wrote, \"We have stooped to the levels of absolute lowlife. Whoever is responsible for this should not be spared. They must face the harshest possible legal consequences and be made an example of. We must not let this go.\" He went on to say, \"When did we become so insensitive to each other. What kind of parenting is going on? What kind of society are we living in? Where we find joy in degrading each other? At a time when the world is debating and fearing how AI disrupt livelihoods and take away jobs, these idiots are using that very technology to do utter nonsense.\"  Stating that the act of putting out such a video by miscreants was the digital equivalent of sexual assault, the actor said, \"The law must treat such acts with utmost seriousness.\" He ended his note saying, \"And to the team standing up against this, you have my full support.\""},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/d2f24df9-41c7-4467-a48f-0b77edc021b2_VDK.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-03T12:49:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"vijay-supports-ntrs-strong-stand"}}]},"featured":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Indian GC backlog stretches past decade"},"content":{"text":"Indian professionals seeking employment-based US Green Cards continue to face waits stretching back more than a decade in key categories, even as the start of a new fiscal year has restored visa numbers and brought some movement, according to the US State Department's October Visa Bulletin.  The sharpest disparity remains in the employment-based second preference, or EB-2, category, widely used by professionals holding advanced degrees or possessing exceptional ability. For applicants chargeable to India, the EB-2 final-action date is November 1, 2013. For most countries, the corresponding date is January 1, 2025. That means the cutoff governing Indian applicants remains more than 11 years behind the date applying to most of the world. The picture is similar in the EB-3 category for skilled workers and professionals. India's final-action date is January 1, 2014, compared with May 15, 2024 for most countries. The dates do not mean that every applicant will wait exactly that length of time. They indicate which priority dates are currently eligible for final action on permanent-residence applications, subject to visa availability and other requirements. There was better news for some Indian applicants at the beginning of fiscal 2027. India's EB-1 final-action date, covering priority workers such as people with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers and certain multinational executives, moved to February 1, 2023. The October bulletin also restored availability in EB-2 India after the category had become unavailable toward the end of the previous fiscal year because its annual visa allocation had been exhausted. The US State Department said the arrival of fiscal 2027 immigrant visa numbers allowed filing and final-action dates to advance across several categories. But the October numbers illustrate how India's employment-based backlog persists even when a new annual allocation becomes available. The separate \"Dates for Filing\" chart provides somewhat later dates for Indian applicants. Under that chart, EB-1 India stands at July 1, 2024, while both EB-2 and EB-3 India are at January 15, 2015. US Citizenship and Immigration Services determines each month whether applicants seeking adjustment of status inside the United States may use the State Department's Dates for Filing chart rather than the more restrictive Final Action Dates chart. The distinction is significant. A filing date can permit an eligible applicant to submit an adjustment-of-status application, while the final-action date determines when an immigrant visa number is available for the case to be approved. India is one of four countries currently treated as oversubscribed under the US preference-immigration system, along with mainland China, Mexico and the Philippines. The State Department said allocations are made, to the extent possible, according to priority dates. When demand exceeds the available numerical allocation for a country or category, a cutoff date is imposed. Federal immigration law sets numerical limits on employment-based immigrant visas and also places limits on the proportion available to nationals of any single country. The October bulletin says the worldwide employment-based preference level is at least 140,000 annually. The country limits have had an outsized effect on India because of the large number of Indian professionals in the US employment-based immigration pipeline. As a result, applicants from India can remain in temporary immigration status for years while waiting for their priority dates to become current. The Visa Bulletin is issued monthly by the State Department and can move forward, remain unchanged or retrogress depending on demand and the number of immigrant visas available."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/6a5229b9-ba41-4fbf-926a-a933bd8f60b1_SU+Greencard.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T15:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indian-gc-backlog-stretches-past-decade"}}]},"politics":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Godavari-Cauvery Link: Drought Solution?"},"content":{"text":"Interlinking of Godavari and Cauvery rivers can make southern states free from the problem of drought, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Monday.  He lamented that even during drought conditions, 2,000 TMC of water is flowing into the sea. If at least 200 TMC of Godavari floodwater is utilised, the Rayalaseema region will flourish with abundant greenery and crops, he said while launching the 'Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 – Amarajeevi Jaladhara' programmes in Proddatur in Kadapa district. Chandrababu Naidu said it was his government that interlinked the Godavari and Krishna rivers. He vowed to complete the Polavaram project before the Godavari Pushkaram and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate the project to the nation. Reiterating that 36 irrigation projects worth Rs 35,000 crore will be launched over the next three years, he said the government has already released a schedule for completion of the projects. The Chief Minister, along with Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and state BJP President PVN Madhav, laid the foundation for the 'Jal Jeevan Mission' and 'Amarajeevi Jaladhara' programmes aimed at providing tap water connections to every household, with an outlay of Rs 30,136 crore. “We are implementing measures to provide water to 90 lakh households, 48,000 rural areas, and 3.30 crore people,” Chandrababu Naidu said. The Chief Minister slammed the YSR Congress Party for undermining Jal Jeevan Mission. He said while states like Uttar Pradesh (Rs 1 lakh crore), Madhya Pradesh (Rs 83,000 crore), and Kerala (Rs 85,000 crore) received significant funds from the Centre under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the previous government did a disservice to Andhra Pradesh by securing only Rs 2,600 crore. He alleged that villages suffered due to the negligence and failure of the previous government, as they were left without roads, streetlights, or water. “Rural communities were left in tears due to the destructive policies of the previous regime. When considering the state of roads, compare the past with the present. People endured a hellish experience on the roads during the 'Axe Party's' (YSRCP's) tenure,” he said. Chandrababu Naidu claimed that with firm resolve and the Centre's cooperation, the coalition government successfully laid strong foundations for the state's reconstruction over the past 28 months. He stated that the government launched nine programmes in just the last seven days aimed at the development of villages and towns across the state. Through the 'Palle Panduga' initiative, we have undertaken works worth Rs 11,085 crore to provide infrastructure such as roads, drains, and streetlights in villages, he said. “We have distributed housing pattas (title deeds) for residential sites worth Rs 52,000 crore across the state, including in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and Mangalagiri. We have initiated a 'Global Horticulture Hub' project worth Rs 1 lakh crore, aimed at transforming the future and direction of the Rayalaseema region. We are working towards the goal of providing a house to every family by 2029. As part of this initiative, we will construct 19 lakh houses. Today, we launched projects worth Rs 30,156 crore under the Jal Jeevan Mission and the 'Amarajeevi Jaladhara' programme.”"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/TZTpyuY8KUQaDPOb_linking.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,42,1200,592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T12:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"godavari-cauvery-link-drought-solution"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Nepal floods: Govt call off search & rescue operations"},"content":{"text":"The Nepali government has decided to call off the search and rescue operations launched following the deadly floods that struck the country on August 26, as hopes of finding survivors have faded, the Prime Minister’s Secretariat said on Monday. Forty days after floods in the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers devastated communities and infrastructure along the river corridors, the government has now prioritised reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. The decision was taken based on recommendations from district security committees, district disaster management committees, the Executive Committee of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, and findings from field inspections, the Prime Minister’s Secretariat said. A total of 1,455 people have been confirmed dead and 5,285 remain missing following the disaster till date, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority. The meeting also decided to recommend a budget of NPR 559.18 billion ($3.62 billion) to the Ministry of Finance for 504 plans and programmes aimed at reconstructing and rehabilitating areas affected by the August 26 disaster and other monsoon-related disasters. According to the Rapid Disaster Needs Assessment (RDNA) report prepared by a joint technical team of the National Planning Commission and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, the recent floods are estimated to have caused physical damage worth NPR 274.48 billion, while overall losses and damages have reached NPR 408.28 billion. The preliminary assessment suggests that more than NPR 723 billion will be required for the reconstruction and recovery of affected infrastructure and assets. Now, the Nepali government has been working on a Post-Disaster Needs Assessment with an extensive assessment of damages. The council directed the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority to recommend additional budgetary arrangements once details are received for projects whose cost estimates have not yet been determined or which have yet to be prioritised. Prime Minister Balendra Shah said disaster management efforts had been carried out through coordination among the federal, provincial and local governments, adding that reconstruction and rehabilitation would also proceed through the same mechanism. The meeting expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and property caused by the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods and other monsoon-related disasters. It paid tribute to those who lost their lives and expressed condolences to their bereaved families. The council also thanked security personnel, elected representatives, civil servants, private-sector organisations, volunteers and media personnel involved in search, rescue, relief and rehabilitation operations, as well as donor countries and development partners that assisted during the crisis."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/KeWrN6WY_hBb_V_x_nepalfloddsus.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C94%2C449%2C221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T10:20:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"nepal-floods-govt-call-off-search--rescue-operatio"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Kerala CPI(M) caught in sleaze, corruption storm"},"content":{"text":"The CPI(M) in Kerala is facing a series of controversies involving allegations of sexual misconduct, corruption and serious questions over the conduct of senior party leaders, putting the party under growing political pressure.  In Palakkad, the abrupt removal of district secretary E.N. Suresh Babu on Sunday has triggered allegations of sexual misconduct involving a woman party worker. She is understood to have approached the party's senior leadership with digital evidence, including messages and call recordings, alleging that Suresh Babu had harassed her over a period of time and behaved improperly towards her. Suresh Babu has since stepped down as district secretary, citing personal reasons. The controversy comes close on the heels of another major issue involving former GCDA chairman and present CPI(M) state secretariat member C.N. Mohanan. The Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan-led government has ordered a Vigilance probe into the Mundamveli flat complex in Kochi, where 78 families have been living in allegedly appalling conditions less than two years after the flats were commissioned. A Vigilance case has already been registered against Mohanan, who was GCDA chairman when the project was taken forward. The Muvattupuzha Vigilance Court has directed that a report on the present status of the case be submitted on October 22. Questions have also been raised over the land allotted by the GCDA for the project. Revenue records reportedly classify the land as marshy. The Mundamveli proposal was allegedly suggested by Mohanan. The site is also located below a high-tension electricity line. In Thiruvananthapuram, the CPI(M) has ordered an internal enquiry into allegations that its Corporation councillor S. Ajin demanded a Rs 10 lakh bribe to resolve a land-related issue. The allegation was raised by Sanju, a resident of Thirumala, who released audio and video clips accusing the councillor of demanding the money in connection with problems concerning a plot he had purchased at MLA Road in Thrikannapuram ward. State secretary M.V. Govindan has confirmed that the party will conduct an enquiry into the allegation against Ajin. Meanwhile State Congress President, also Power Minister, Sunny Joseph, recalled the way he handled the complaint against then Palakkad Congress MLA over alleged misbehaviour with a lady and said the complaint was immediately transferred to the State Police. Three separate controversies involving party functionaries have thus placed the CPI(M) in an uncomfortable position, raising questions over conduct, accountability and internal control. What’s going to hurt the CPI(M) the most is that the Kerala Legislative Assembly is to have a nine day sitting starting later this week and the ruling Chief Minister Satheesan-led government is going to pin down the Left Opposition using these three cases."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2d0f2d69-5c99-4cd4-aa1d-3cfb7df661fc_kerala+CM.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T07:48:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"kerala-cpim-caught-in-sleaze-corruption-storm"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Trump Mixes Up Brazil Polls, India Vote Count"},"content":{"text":"US President Donald Trump appeared to mistakenly refer to Brazil as India while commenting on the South American country's presidential election, claiming that 125 million people had voted in the “first round of India's presidential election”.  Trump made the remarks in a post on Truth Social on Monday (Indian time), shortly after the first round of Brazil's presidential election was held. India does not have a direct presidential election in which citizens vote for the President. In his post, Trump wrote: “125 Million People voted today in the first round of India's Presidential Election. The results came out shortly after the vote closed, on the SAME DAY! In Detroit, Philadelphia, California, and numerous other U.S. Cities and States, the results, with much smaller numbers, will often take weeks to Rig, I mean, calculate. Voting in America is CORRUPT!!! President DJT.” Official White House Rapid Response account also reposted Trump’s post. Comment sections flooded with social media users correcting Trump. Trump's post came after the first round of Brazil's presidential election, in which right-wing candidate Flavio Bolsonaro finished ahead of incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva but failed to secure the more than 50 per cent of votes required to win outright. With 98.81 per cent of the votes counted, Bolsonaro secured 47.24 per cent of the vote, while Lula received 44.91 per cent. As neither candidate crossed the required threshold, the two will now face each other in a run-off scheduled for October 25. The result marks a strong performance for Bolsonaro, the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro. The former right-wing leader is serving a 27-year prison sentence after being convicted of masterminding a failed attempt to overturn the previous election result through a military coup. Lula, meanwhile, will now seek to consolidate his existing support while reaching out to voters who backed candidates eliminated in the first round. The president faces the challenge of preventing the right from gaining control of Brazil's presidency."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F7f473b1f-87a6-4d28-9f0b-d9367e8bd88b_trump.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C3%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T04:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"trump-mixes-up-brazil-polls-india-vote-count"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Cong turned T'gana into ATM to fund propaganda"},"content":{"text":"Telangana BJP President N. Ramchander Rao on Monday accused the Congress party of turning the state into an ATM to fund its propaganda in Delhi.  Addressing the meeting of BJP office-bearers at the party office here, he stated that while the world takes pride in India's democracy and electoral process, the Congress is busy whining and making absurd, baseless allegations against the country and the Election Commission.  He remarked that the party is unable to digest the fact that an ordinary 'chaiwala' (tea seller) has become the country's Prime Minister. Rao called it shameful that Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge, driven by the narrow-minded notion that only someone from the Nehru family should hold the office, would claim that the elections held in the country are invalid.  Throwing a challenge at Congress, he said if they truly believe the elections are invalid, they should first have Chief Ministers of Telangana, Kerala and Himachal Pradesh, resign from their posts. He strongly criticised the Congress for what he called its regressive political conduct, noting that they praise EVMs and the Election Commission when they win, but blame them when they lose.  Ramchander Rao stated that during the Congress party's past tenure, illegal infiltrators obtained ration cards through illicit means and registered their names in the voters' list. He clarified that while every citizen of the country has the right to vote under the Indian Constitution, foreign nationals who have entered illegally from countries like Bangladesh and Burma do not possess this right.  According to him, the names of millions of illegal infiltrators are coming to light during the ongoing voter list revision process. He claimed that there are approximately 30,000 Rohingyas and illegal voters in the Maheshwaram constituency of Hyderabad alone. He criticised leaders of the Congress and the 'INDIA' bloc for spreading false propaganda out of fear that they would lose elections if the names of infiltrators were removed from the rolls.  He asserted that the BJP fully respects the Constitution and maintains that every Indian citizen over the age of 18 -- regardless of religion -- must have the right to vote. He also slammed Congress for displaying double standards regarding the long-standing process of verifying and correcting the names of individuals who have relocated to different areas for livelihood or other reasons.  He claimed that the people of Telangana are fed up with both BRS and Congress.  While the KCR family prospered during 10 years of BRS rule, under the Congress government, it is “Revanth Reddy and Brothers” who are prospering through exploitation, even as the hardships of ordinary people remain unresolved, he remarked. The state BJP chief criticised the Congress government for failing to implement any of its promises, including the 'Six Guarantees' made during the elections, even as it nears the completion of three years in power.  He voiced concern over non-payment of fee reimbursement arrears to students, the absence of 'Rythu Bharosa' support, delays in pension payments to retired employees, and the complete stalling of teacher recruitment and employee promotions.  The BJP leader alleged that the state is committing a grave injustice against farmers by refusing to implement the Central government's 'Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana'.  He accused the Congress leaders of being preoccupied solely with commissions, contracts, and sending kickbacks to Delhi.  He alleged that internal disputes over the division of ill-gotten assets are playing out within the KCR family, while both parties engage in a charade of blaming each other for their respective acts of plunder.  Ramchander Rao said the office-bearers’ meeting reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen the BJP across the state and bring a “Double Engine Sarkar” to Telangana under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Newly-appointed Telangana BJP Co-Incharge Abhay Patil, General Secretary (Organisation) Madhukar, Co-General Secretary (Organisation) Dasharatha Vailaya and Karnataka State Co-Incharge Kasam Venkateshwarlu also attended the meeting."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/de3d6ddd-7580-4779-a4f5-3cfc7d31f0d4_congress.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T10:26:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"cong-turned-tgana-into-atm-to-fund-propaganda"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Night Stonefall Sparks Fear in Andhra"},"content":{"text":"Fear has gripped residents of a village in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh due to mysterious stone-throwing at their houses during night hours.  After residents of Appajipeta in Pimdi mandal lodged a complaint, police deployed four constables for patrolling. Though these police personnel patrolled the area for two days, the mysterious phenomenon has not stopped. Villagers said about 20 youths from the village, along with the police, maintained a vigil from a nearby hillock. Stones fell on the roofs even as they maintained a tight vigil. According to locals, the stone-throwing on the houses during night hours had been continuing for the last one week. Heavy stones are falling on the roofs as soon as night falls. They said despite all their efforts with the cooperation of the police, they were not able to resolve the mystery. Initially, they suspected it was the handiwork of miscreants. They approached the authorities, requesting them to take action. With patrolling by police and a group of youth failing to check the mysterious phenomenon, villagers are living in fear. Terrified villagers are locking themselves indoors at sunset. Villagers showed stones that fell on the rooftops to local media persons visiting the village. A couple of villagers sustained minor injuries in the stone-throwing They said stones are raining down on rooftops around 10 p.m., and this activity continues at intervals. The stones are pelted after a gap of a few minutes. As most of the houses in the village have asbestos roofs, the stone-throwing is resulting in damage. Some of the villagers suspect paranormal activity behind the stone-throwing. Stating that they are spending sleepless nights, they have appealed to authorities to come to their rescue. Similar incidents were reported in the past from a couple of villages in both the Telugu states. In 2024, a village in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruppur district witnessed a similar mysterious phenomenon."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/8DRzD9kn8M_slKNk_andhravillage.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C406%2C200&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T15:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"night-stonefall-sparks-fear-in-andhra"}}]},"entertainment":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Anurag Kashyap Steps Into ‘Kaaka’"},"content":{"text":"Popular Bollywood director and actor Anurag Kashyap has now come on board Megastar Chiranjeevi's eagerly awaited action entertainer, 'Kaaka', the film's makers announced on Monday. The makers released an image that features director Bobby Kolli explaining a scene to Anurag Kashyap, who is listening with rapt attention. Anurag Kashyap's presence is certainly an exciting addition to the film and further adds to the anticipation surrounding Kaaka. Meanwhile, shooting of 'Kaaka' is currently underway in Hyderabad, with Anurag Kashyap participating in the shoot, along with the other lead actors. It may be recalled that Chiranjeevi, had, during the course of his speech at an event that was held recently, revealed that he was playing a character called Kadiri Kalidas in the film. Sources close to the unit of the film say that while 'Kaaka' has been envisioned as a high-intensity action entertainer, it will also feature a strong emotional and family-oriented narrative, making the protagonist’s character arc one of its key attractions. It may be recalled that the unit of the film had started its most recent schedule on September 7 this year. KVN Productions, which is producing the film, had, a few days ago, announced the title of the film through a title teaser and revealed that the film would hit screens on January 13 next year. Taking to its social media timelines to share the title teaser, the production house wrote, \"Meet Supervisor Satyam, C/O Ammaji Aqua Industries, Ravulapalem. Team #KAAKA wishes the one and only Megastar @Kchirutweets garu a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Title glimpse out now. January 13, 2027 - Sankranthi release.\" The title teaser showed Chiranjeevi working in a shrimp farm called Ammaji Aqua Industries. His name in the film is Satyam and he works as a Supervisor in the facility that has people from all regions of the country working in it. The title teaser showed an employee attempting to return a key to Chiranjeevi but ends up dropping it in a pool full of shrimps. Chiranjeevi was then seen retrieving the key using a giant electromagnet. Along with the key, a lot of weapons too come up. The key has a keychain that reads, 'I love dad'. The film has triggered huge interest in fans and film buffs ever since it was first announced and the title teaser only added to the excitement. Sources close to the unit of the film say that the first half of the film ends with a spectacular action sequence. They claim that this interval fight sequence, which was shot recently, is set to be one of the major attractions of the film. The action block has been designed and executed on a grand scale and is expected to provide a powerful high point before the second half. Sources also claim that the initial output has given the team immense confidence, with the narrative maintaining the right mix of intensity, entertainment, emotion, and action. Anaswara Rajan and Nivetha Pethuraj play pivotal roles in this film, which is currently being planned as a Sankranthi 2027 release. This is the second time that director Bobby is working with Megastar Chiranjeevi. The two had earlier worked together on action entertainer 'Waltair Veerayya'."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/53gMGIF6dD-3st18_anuragkashyapkaka.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C8%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T14:59:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"anurag-kashyap-steps-into-kaaka"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Maatrubhumi' Set for CBFC Review"},"content":{"text":"Salman Khan's highly anticipated film 'Maatrubhumi', initially titled 'Battle of Galwan', is gearing up for its screening by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) following significant revisions aimed at appeasing governmental concerns. Earlier this year, the film faced scrutiny from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, which mandated alterations to its title and content to ensure a more favorable portrayal of Indo-China relations. As the filmmakers prepare for the CBFC’s review this week, they are reportedly targeting a Diwali release, strategically timed to follow the launch of the much-anticipated 'Ramayana: Rise of a Legend'. In response to feedback from officials, the production team has executed reshoots to align the narrative with the government's expectations, including a shift in the film’s stance towards China. While some reports suggested that the edits were extensive enough to eliminate all references to the neighboring country, sources from the Hindustan Times have indicated that the film is not undergoing any radical transformations and remains primarily intact. Given Salman Khan’s legacy as a family entertainer, industry insiders expect minimal pushback from the censor board, which typically favors content that aligns with mainstream sensibilities. 'Maatrubhumi' is directed by Apoorva Lakhia and produced under the banner of Salman Khan Films, featuring Chitrangada Singh in a key role. The film centers around the intense clashes that occurred in the Galwan Valley in 2020, a flashpoint in the ongoing tensions between India and China. Lakhia, known for films such as 'Shootout at Lokhandwala' and 'Haseena Parkar', marks his first collaboration with Khan, bringing a blend of action and drama that is expected to resonate with audiences amid the current geopolitical climate. Despite earlier indications of possible delays caused by government intervention, recent communications from the production team suggest that those concerns may have been exaggerated. The controversy surrounding 'Maatrubhumi' has sparked discussions on the intersection of cinema and politics in India, particularly regarding how filmmakers navigate sensitive historical narratives. As the release date approaches, the film’s journey reflects broader societal conversations about representation, national identity, and the role of cinema in shaping public perception."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/C7JDqA7aFDPqTWoZ_matrubhumi.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T14:56:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"maatrubhumi-set-for-cbfc-review"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Anupam Kher Gets Special Gift from De Niro"},"content":{"text":"Actor Anupam Kher recently met his “dearest friend” and Hollywood veteran Robert De Niro during his ongoing trip to America and Canada. He called the meeting one of the special highlights of his visit. Taking to Instagram, the ‘Special 26’ actor shared pictures from the meeting and expressed his happiness at spending time with the veteran actor. He said meeting De Niro is always a memorable experience and added that he was delighted to visit him during his trip. Sharing his photos and videos, Anupam wrote, “Meeting Mr. Robert De Niro! How could I come to America and not meet my dearest friend, and world’s FINEST actor, Mr. Robert De Niro? Meeting this legend is always a joy, and once again, one of the most special highlights of my trip to America and Canada with me play #JaanePehchaaneAnjane!.” “Thank you, dearest Mr. De Niro, for inviting me into your home, for the delicious lunch, and for your love and warmth. Our conversations and your generosity with your time mean so much to me. Every time we meet, the admirer in me is as excited as the friend! I have the deepest respect for you, both as an actor and as a person. And I feel truly fortunate to be able to call you my friend,” he added. The ‘Saaransh’ actor also extended his gratitude to De Niro’s family, including Tiffany, for creating another memorable experience during his visit. “My love and gratitude to you, Tiffany, and your entire family. Thank you for another beautiful memory that I will carry home with me. God bless you always! Most importantly- Thank You for the cap. Your kind gesture means the world to me! #RobertDeNiro #Legend #Friendship.” Anupam Kher is currently in New York as part of his North American tour with his musical play ‘Jaane Pehchaane Anjaane.’ During his visit to the city, the actor also took time out to meet his “dearest friend” and Hollywood veteran Robert De Niro at his home."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/QNvzydkau6mu1FNr_kherrobert.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C449%2C221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T05:14:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"anupam-kher-gets-special-gift-from-de-niro"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Rishab Shetty–Chidambaram’s Two-Film Deal"},"content":{"text":"National Award-winning actor-filmmaker Rishab Shetty is to join hands with ace Malayalam director Chidambaram, best known for having directed the blockbuster 'Manjummel Boys', for two films.  Of the two films, one will be a sports drama in Kannada. Interestingly, it is the sports drama which is to be made first.  Sources say the film is currently in the pre-production stage and is expected to go on floors some time next year. The film will be produced by well known Malayalam film producer Shibu Thameens. Director Chidambaram has carved a unique space with his unconventional storytelling and ability to build deeply human narratives. His collaboration with Rishab brings together two filmmakers and performers with a distinct understanding of rooted storytelling. For Rishab Shetty, the project marks an exciting new creative move as he continues to expand his slate across diverse genres.  With Jai Hanuman among his eagerly awaited upcoming projects, sources say Rishab Shetty is exploring new storytelling spaces while continuing to stay connected to the rooted, culturally rich narratives that have defined his journey.  His work in the 'Kantara' franchise, including his National Award-winning performance, has further established him as one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated creative forces. In fact, just a few days ago, the actor and filmmaker had taken to his social media timelines to pen a post, reflecting on the journey of making 'Kantara: Chapter 1' . The actor penned the post on the occasion of the film completing one year. Rishab has consistently drawn from local culture and lived traditions. His move into the sports drama genre opens up another exciting  Sources close to the team say that more details regarding the storyline, cast and crew are likely to be announced soon."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/_PsZDFUn7HKict6W_rishanchidanbaran.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T02:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rishab-shettychidambarams-two-film-deal"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Shriya’s ‘Drishyam 3’ Sleepless Night"},"content":{"text":"Shriya Saran reveals she couldn’t sleep a day before ‘Drishyam 3’ release: ‘Every scene, I was revisiting emotionally’ Actress Shriya Saran has opened up about her nervousness ahead of the release of ‘Drishyam 3.’ In an exclusive interview with media, she admitted that she could not sleep the night before as she kept thinking about how audiences would receive the film. Speaking about the film, Shriya said she found herself emotionally revisiting every scene she had performed. “I couldn't sleep last night. I was thinking what will happen, what kind of a film it will be. And you know, it's a sense of nervousness. Every scene that I have done in the film, I was revisiting it emotionally and mentally. I was thinking how it will be,” she said. Shriya also spoke about the evolution of dubbing and sound technology in filmmaking. She noted that while actors earlier spent considerable time watching films during dubbing, the sound process has now become much more sophisticated. “Because earlier when the film was made, we used to watch a lot of films in dubbing. But now dubbing has become so sophisticated. The sound system is so amazing,” she said. Shriya praised the film’s sound team and revealed that the team did not have to rely on dubbing extensively as the film was shot with sync sound. “And in conclusion, Abhishek has got such an amazing sound system, sound director. It's amazingly sync sound that we didn't have to dub it at all. So, we are very lucky,” she added. Describing ‘Drishyam 3’, Shriya said the film carries a sense of responsibility because of its emotional and dramatic nature. She explained that the film is rooted in family drama and mystery rather than being a larger-than-life visual spectacle. “So, I was thinking what it is. But I know for a fact it's a beautiful film. Yes, I know there is a lot of responsibility. Because it's not like, it's a drama. Family drama, mystery. And it plays with your emotions,” she said. The actress added that the film’s strength lies in its emotional connection with the audience. “But it's not like a visual spectacle, spectacularly. It's not like, it's a larger than life kind of a film. It's a film that connects to your heart. So, it's that. And there is a lot of responsibility. But I know that Abhishek is on a great job,” Shriya said. On a related note, Shriya Saran returned as Nandini Salgaonkar, the wife of Vijay Salgaonkar, portrayed by Ajay Devgn, in the concluding chapter, Drishyam 3: The Conclusion. The film hit theatres on October 2, 2026, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aUGQvnNYClf9oSUB_shriya2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T10:51:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"shriyas-drishyam-3-sleepless-night"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Rakul breaks silence on IT raid reports"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood actress Rakul Preet Singh has addressed reports that linked her name to recent income tax searches. Taking to social media, the ‘Yaariyan’ actress on Monday clarified that she was not connected to the matter and sought to set the record straight. Rakul shared a note that read, “It's heartbreaking to see that There's a growing trend amongst the self styled online reporters & some main stream media journalists to sensationalise the news without verifying facts. Let's therefore set the record straight once for all. The search was not pertaining to me.” “Let it be known that I am from the Armed Forces background & had no Godfather in the Industry. I have come up through sheer hardwork & as a responsible law abiding citizen have been paying my due taxes since the age of 20 years.” The actress added, “I am not involved in any kind of illegal Foreign remittance in personal capacity or on behalf of any Production house. I would also add here that I do not hold any Benami property on behalf of anyone anywhere in the country or abroad. Neither anyone has ever gifted me any property at anytime nor do I accept such expensive gifts as a principle.” “I urge all those who published these false, malicious and speculative reports to retract them and clarify the facts. I understand that everyone running a media business however big has their own commercial pressures. But it cannot come at the cost of facts. And certainly not at the cost of someone's reputation and livelihood.” According to some online reports, the Income Tax Department had conducted searches at multiple locations reportedly linked to Rakul Preet Singh, her father-in-law and film producer Vashu Bhagnani, and Panorama Studios in Mumbai. The reports claimed that the Mumbai Income Tax Department had carried out searches at 12 locations as part of an investigation into suspected financial irregularities. Officials were reportedly looking into allegations that funds had been routed overseas under the pretext of financing film projects."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aHdmrUMqNJQqH81b_rakulpreet.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T06:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rakul-breaks-silence-on-it-raid-reports"}}]},"tech":{"edges":[]},"fashion":{"edges":[]},"business":{"edges":[]},"health":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"A Simple Eye Test Can Protect  from Diabetic Blindness"},"content":{"text":"As diabetes continues its relentless rise across India, the threat of diabetic retinopathy looms large, often unnoticed until it’s too late. Over 21 million Indians are at risk of developing this insidious condition, which quietly deteriorates vision without pain or clear symptoms. By the time individuals recognize blurred vision or other warning signs, irreversible damage may have already occurred, making routine screening essential in the battle against preventable blindness. Diabetic retinopathy affects the delicate retina, the tissue responsible for converting light into the visual signals that shape our world. When blood sugar levels remain elevated over time, the tiny blood vessels in the retina can weaken and leak, leading to potential vision loss. This condition can progress without any noticeable symptoms, which is why healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of early detection through regular retinal exams. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), more than 101 million Indians currently live with diabetes, underscoring the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how diabetic eye health is managed across the nation. The pathophysiology of diabetic retinopathy is often exacerbated by a lack of awareness among patients and medical practitioners alike. Dr. Vishali Gupta, President of the Vitreo Retina Society of India, highlights a critical gap: many individuals postpone eye examinations until vision impairment is evident, often overlooking the crucial role that proactive diabetes management plays in eye health. “Preventing blindness starts with strict diabetes control, routine screening, and standardized referral pathways,” she asserts. Without integrating eye health into comprehensive diabetes care, the risk of irreversible vision loss only increases, leaving patients vulnerable to a preventable fate. A concerted effort is needed to treat diabetic retinopathy not just as an eye issue but as a significant public health challenge. Dr. R Kim from Aravind Eye Hospital advocates for the integration of retinal screening into broader healthcare protocols, akin to regular blood sugar monitoring. The adoption of artificial intelligence in screening processes presents an innovative solution for improving early detection, particularly in underserved regions. By prioritizing education, routine screenings, and interdisciplinary cooperation within the healthcare system, India can take essential steps toward mitigating the looming threat of diabetic blindness."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/3a3b5486-3f57-4f8d-af38-fc2d697267f8_Telangana+Eye+Test.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T15:47:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"a-simple-eye-test-can-protect--from-diabetic-blind"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"The Hidden Danger Behind Chest Pain"},"content":{"text":"Chest pain is frequently associated with heart attacks, yet a lesser-known condition, aortic dissection, can present equally alarming symptoms. Dr. N. Murali Krishna, a cardiology consultant at Manipal Hospital in Vijayawada, warns that this condition arises from a tear in the aorta's inner layer, the vital blood vessel that transports blood from the heart throughout the body. The rarity of aortic dissection does not diminish its urgency—every moment counts, as delayed diagnosis could precipitate life-threatening complications such as organ rupture, stroke, or kidney failure. The nature of pain caused by aortic dissection sets it apart from typical heart attack discomfort. Patients typically describe the sensation as sharp, ripping, or tearing, often radiating from the chest to the back or abdomen as the dissection progresses. Dr. Krishna emphasizes that this pain typically escalates to its peak within seconds to minutes, necessitating immediate medical attention. Accompanying symptoms may include breathlessness, sweating, and weakness, but in some cases, patients experience few signs, complicating timely diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the risk factors for aortic dissection is crucial for prevention. Hypertension emerges as a significant contributor, alongside hereditary connective tissue disorders, pre-existing aortic aneurysms, and certain congenital heart conditions like a bicuspid aortic valve. While older individuals are more commonly affected, younger adults are not exempt from this serious cardiovascular threat. A thorough examination, including blood pressure readings in both arms, ECG, and blood tests, can aid in assessing the risk, while CT angiography is employed to visualize the aorta and assess any tears. Dr. Krishna urges vigilance when experiencing sudden chest or upper back pain. He advises against self-diagnosis and stresses the importance of seeking emergency care, particularly if the pain escalates quickly or is coupled with faintness, weakness, or breathlessness. Patients should provide medical personnel with detailed accounts of their symptoms, including the onset and intensity of pain, to facilitate accurate diagnosis. This proactive approach can be lifesaving, as the subtleties of aortic dissection's presentation often challenge even the most seasoned healthcare providers."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/8822f77d-8219-4cf7-ad6d-2c029df74875_heart+attack.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-21T10:09:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"the-hidden-danger-behind-chest-pain"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Heart Crisis Grips Young India"},"content":{"text":"A disturbing trend is emerging in India, where cardiovascular disease is no longer an affliction of the elderly but a growing concern among younger populations. Recent statistics indicate that cardiovascular diseases accounted for nearly 29% of all recorded deaths in India between 2017 and 2019. This alarming statistic highlights a shifting paradigm, with the National Health Profile revealing that non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illnesses, collectively account for a staggering 63% of the nation's mortality rates. As the nation grapples with this health crisis, the underlying risk factors that contribute to heart disease are becoming increasingly prevalent among young adults, often unnoticed until it is too late. The escalating incidence of heart disease in India’s youth can be traced to a confluence of modern lifestyle choices, including prolonged sedentary behavior, poor dietary habits, irregular sleep patterns, and chronic stress. Dr. Deepak Krishnamurthy, a leading cardiologist, articulates that the traditional risk factors such as hypertension and high cholesterol are now manifesting in younger demographics, exacerbated by genetic predispositions and environmental stressors. Moreover, the omnipresence of technology has led to an increase in screen time, which not only promotes a sedentary lifestyle but also disrupts sleep cycles. The result is a perfect storm wherein young Indians find themselves at greater risk for developing heart-related ailments much earlier in life. Historically, heart disease was often associated with the aging population, attributed to years of cumulative risk factors. However, the current landscape paints a different picture, one where the interplay of lifestyle choices has catalyzed a shift towards earlier onset of cardiovascular issues. The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases reports an alarming 9.36 crore people receiving treatment for hypertension and diabetes—critical precursors to heart disease. As the healthcare system grapples with these numbers, the need for comprehensive awareness and early intervention becomes paramount. Dr. Krishnamurthy emphasizes that conditions leading to heart problems develop insidiously and often go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred, particularly among the young. As for actionable steps, Dr. Krishnamurthy advocates for a proactive approach among young adults in their 20s and 30s. He suggests that individuals should eliminate tobacco use, incorporate regular physical activity into their routines, and adopt heart-healthy dietary practices while keeping an eye on their waistlines. Moreover, he underscores the importance of regular monitoring of vital health indicators such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This holistic understanding of cardiovascular health is crucial for young Indians, who must learn to recognize the silent threats posed by modern lifestyles and take charge of their health before it spirals out of control."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/pJ-dW9a56Zc9ur7D_heartdiseas.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C1280%2C631&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-16T11:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"heart-crisis-grips-young-india"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"A Fight for Life at 85"},"content":{"text":"At 85 years old, Mrs. Lakshmi (name changed) faced what many in her age group would consider insurmountable challenges: two tumors and a life-threatening blockage in her colon. Rather than embracing the tranquility that often accompanies advanced age, she found herself in the emergency room, grappling with severe abdominal pain and a severe inability to pass stool. The diagnosis revealed a critical blockage in the sigmoid colon due to a tumor, a condition that posed immediate threats to her life. The medical team, acutely aware of her complex health history—including hypertension, diabetes, and a previous stroke—understood the urgency of the situation, necessitating careful decision-making regarding her treatment options. The initial intervention involved a minimally invasive procedure where doctors placed a colonic stent to alleviate her discomfort. While this temporary solution offered some relief to Mrs. Lakshmi and her anxious family, it soon became clear that a more comprehensive approach was required. Further examinations unveiled a second tumor in her esophagus, complicating an already dire diagnosis. Dr. K Hemanth Kumar, a leading Consultant in Surgical Gastroenterology at Manipal Hospital, emphasized the urgency of the case. The existence of two malignancies in a patient of advanced age, coupled with multiple underlying health conditions, demanded a meticulous and strategic response from her medical team. The critical nature of Mrs. Lakshmi's situation highlighted broader issues in geriatric care, particularly concerning complex cancer diagnoses. As the medical community increasingly confronts aging populations, the intersection of age and multi-morbidity raises significant ethical and logistical challenges. In Mrs. Lakshmi's case, the stent was a temporary fix, with the potential for serious complications looming should a definitive treatment not be pursued. The family was faced with a heart-wrenching decision: proceed with high-risk surgery or risk further deterioration of her health. Ultimately, they chose the path of hope, opting for a pioneering robotic surgical approach that addressed both tumors in one procedure. Utilizing the advanced Da Vinci Xi robotic system, Dr. Hemanth and his team executed a complex operation that not only targeted the colon cancer but also the esophageal tumor, representing a significant advancement in addressing dual malignancies. Remarkably, Mrs. Lakshmi recovered without needing an intensive care unit stay, a testament to both her resilience and the proficiency of her healthcare providers. Just one week post-operation, she was discharged, marking a poignant moment for both her and her family. Three months later, Mrs. Lakshmi continues to thrive, undergoing further treatment as part of her recovery journey, signaling not just survival but a remarkable testament to the human spirit in the face of daunting medical challenges."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/W5S8nG7lRQSGgKv2_mediclelife.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C44%2C1280%2C631&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-15T23:40:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"a-fight-for-life-at-85"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Scorching Heat: The Unseen Toll on Teen Mental Health"},"content":{"text":"As global temperatures soar, a troubling new study reveals that extreme heat is not merely an environmental concern but a significant threat to the mental health of adolescents. Research indicates that for every 1°C rise in daily temperature, the risk of adverse mental health outcomes in teenagers escalates by nearly 1%. While this statistic may seem modest at first glance, it becomes alarming when considering the frequency of heatwaves in recent summers, underscoring the urgent need to address this evolving crisis. The comprehensive review analyzed data from 23 studies worldwide, pinpointing children and teenagers aged five to eighteen as the most vulnerable demographic. On particularly hot days, this group experiences a 1.5% increase in the likelihood of poor mental health outcomes; however, during actual heatwaves, this figure skyrockets to an astonishing 25%. Such stark differences highlight the psychological ramifications of sustained heat exposure, which extends beyond mere discomfort to include serious implications such as increased anxiety, depression, and even suicide attempts. Experts, including co-author Jacqueline Stephens from Flinders University, emphasize that the intersection of climate change and mental health cannot be ignored. The patterns of rising temperatures and more frequent heat events are not restricted to a single region; they are a global phenomenon with widespread repercussions. Adolescents are particularly susceptible during this pivotal developmental stage, where their routines—schooling, recreation, and social interactions—are disrupted by extreme weather conditions, causing significant emotional distress. Moreover, researchers note that the physical impact of heat, such as sleep disruption, compounds mental health challenges. Poor sleep exacerbates mood regulation, while family stress during heatwaves creates a ripple effect that permeates households. Although the findings point to population-level trends rather than individual predictions, they call for a re-evaluation of how public health strategies address heat-related issues. Current responses prioritize physical safety measures like hydration and cooling centers but overlook the critical need for mental health support tailored to young people. This oversight underscores the need for a more holistic approach to climate adaptation strategies that incorporate mental health services as integral components of public health initiatives."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/CJ8ZpPonvzZKyB1t_mentalhealth.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-08-11T10:28:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"scorching-heat-the-unseen-toll-on-teen-mental-heal"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"The Distinction Between Brain Tumors and Brain Cancer"},"content":{"text":"The phrases 'brain tumor' and 'brain cancer' often evoke a visceral reaction among the public, conjuring images of gravely serious health threats. However, contrary to common perception, these terms describe distinct medical conditions that warrant different approaches to diagnosis and treatment. A brain tumor is simply an abnormal growth of cells in or around the brain, which can be classified as benign or malignant. While all brain cancers are tumors, not all tumors exhibit cancerous characteristics; this critical distinction can influence a patient's treatment plan and overall prognosis. The medical community underscores the importance of understanding these differences. Brain tumors, irrespective of their benign or malignant status, can lead to severe health consequences because of the brain’s confined environment within the skull. This means that even non-cancerous tumors can exert pressure on vital neurological functions, leading to symptoms such as persistent headaches, seizures, and cognitive deficits. Dr. Praveen Gupta, a prominent neurologist, emphasizes that benign tumors, while non-cancerous, can still necessitate significant medical intervention depending on their size and location. The implications of this are crucial for anyone facing a diagnosis related to brain health. Historically, the classification of brain tumors has evolved as medical science has advanced. The National Cancer Institute and other leading neurological institutions categorize these tumors into myriad types, each demanding tailored treatment strategies. For instance, malignant tumors possess the aggressive ability to invade surrounding brain tissue, often requiring complex interventions that may include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Understanding whether a growth is benign or malignant is not just a matter of terminology; it directly impacts the urgency and nature of the interventions required. Symptoms often overlap between benign and malignant tumors, complicating self-diagnosis and reinforcing the necessity for professional evaluation. Medical imaging techniques such as MRI and CT scans, along with biopsies, are essential to ascertain the nature of the tumor. Experts caution against relying on symptomatology alone, as the presence of alarming symptoms could mask a benign condition, while milder manifestations could signify a malignant threat. As such, timely medical evaluation is paramount, as early detection can significantly enhance treatment effectiveness and patient quality of life."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/f6803c8c-7220-433e-b58f-ef269a3ecf79_brain+stroke.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-24T10:10:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"the-distinction-between-brain-tumors-and-brain-can"}}]},"nri":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Indian GC backlog stretches past decade"},"content":{"text":"Indian professionals seeking employment-based US Green Cards continue to face waits stretching back more than a decade in key categories, even as the start of a new fiscal year has restored visa numbers and brought some movement, according to the US State Department's October Visa Bulletin.  The sharpest disparity remains in the employment-based second preference, or EB-2, category, widely used by professionals holding advanced degrees or possessing exceptional ability. For applicants chargeable to India, the EB-2 final-action date is November 1, 2013. For most countries, the corresponding date is January 1, 2025. That means the cutoff governing Indian applicants remains more than 11 years behind the date applying to most of the world. The picture is similar in the EB-3 category for skilled workers and professionals. India's final-action date is January 1, 2014, compared with May 15, 2024 for most countries. The dates do not mean that every applicant will wait exactly that length of time. They indicate which priority dates are currently eligible for final action on permanent-residence applications, subject to visa availability and other requirements. There was better news for some Indian applicants at the beginning of fiscal 2027. India's EB-1 final-action date, covering priority workers such as people with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers and certain multinational executives, moved to February 1, 2023. The October bulletin also restored availability in EB-2 India after the category had become unavailable toward the end of the previous fiscal year because its annual visa allocation had been exhausted. The US State Department said the arrival of fiscal 2027 immigrant visa numbers allowed filing and final-action dates to advance across several categories. But the October numbers illustrate how India's employment-based backlog persists even when a new annual allocation becomes available. The separate \"Dates for Filing\" chart provides somewhat later dates for Indian applicants. Under that chart, EB-1 India stands at July 1, 2024, while both EB-2 and EB-3 India are at January 15, 2015. US Citizenship and Immigration Services determines each month whether applicants seeking adjustment of status inside the United States may use the State Department's Dates for Filing chart rather than the more restrictive Final Action Dates chart. The distinction is significant. A filing date can permit an eligible applicant to submit an adjustment-of-status application, while the final-action date determines when an immigrant visa number is available for the case to be approved. India is one of four countries currently treated as oversubscribed under the US preference-immigration system, along with mainland China, Mexico and the Philippines. The State Department said allocations are made, to the extent possible, according to priority dates. When demand exceeds the available numerical allocation for a country or category, a cutoff date is imposed. Federal immigration law sets numerical limits on employment-based immigrant visas and also places limits on the proportion available to nationals of any single country. The October bulletin says the worldwide employment-based preference level is at least 140,000 annually. The country limits have had an outsized effect on India because of the large number of Indian professionals in the US employment-based immigration pipeline. As a result, applicants from India can remain in temporary immigration status for years while waiting for their priority dates to become current. The Visa Bulletin is issued monthly by the State Department and can move forward, remain unchanged or retrogress depending on demand and the number of immigrant visas available."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/6a5229b9-ba41-4fbf-926a-a933bd8f60b1_SU+Greencard.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T15:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indian-gc-backlog-stretches-past-decade"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Hindu temple in US Ohio attacked with bricks"},"content":{"text":"A Hindu temple in Ohio’s Greater Cleveland area was attacked with bricks that shattered windows while priests and devotees were inside, the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) said.  COHNA said the attack on the Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Temple Vadtaldham happened Friday afternoon. It did not report whether anyone was injured or specify how many windows were damaged. The organisation urged Richmond Heights Mayor Kim Thomas and city authorities to condemn the incident and called for swift police action. “We call upon Mayor Kim Thomas and @RichmondHtsOH to condemn such bigotry and @PoliceRichmond to take swift action against the perpetrator,” it wrote. The post did not identify a suspect or provide details about arrests. It also did not describe evidence establishing a religious motive. The organisation said the incident came as Hindus in Ohio began celebrating Hindu Heritage Month. It also referred to upcoming Navratri observances. Hindu Heritage Month is observed in October by Hindu community organisations in the United States. CoHNA has warned of rising hate and violence against Hindus in the United States and documented repeated incidents involving temples. Its published chronology includes the vandalism of a Gandhi statue at Shri Tulsi Mandir in Queens, New York, in August 2022 and graffiti at the SMVS Shri Swaminarayan Temple in Newark, California, in December 2023. The chronology records individual incidents rather than establishing a nationwide annual rate of increase. BAPS temples in Melville, New York, and the Sacramento area of California were vandalised in September 2024. In March 2025, the BAPS temple in Chino Hills, California, was defaced with hateful mesaged. The incident followed similar vandalism at its New York and Sacramento temples."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/O9EmTfDY0qB_UPfj_Hindutempleattacked.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C31%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-03T02:53:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"hindu-temple-in-us-ohio-attacked-with-bricks"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"H-1B Relief: Second US Judge Blocks $100K Fee"},"content":{"text":"Thousands of Indian professionals and US employers have received a potential reprieve after a second federal judge blocked the Trump administration from enforcing its controversial $100,000 H-1B visa fee. US District Judge Haywood S. Gilliam Jr. ruled that federal agencies likely failed to follow the legally required rulemaking procedures when implementing the policy. The decision temporarily prevents the relevant agencies from enforcing the measures linked to the original September 2025 proclamation and its September 2026 extension while they comply with the required procedures. The ruling is particularly significant for Indians, who accounted for 71% of approved H-1B petitions in fiscal 2024, according to US immigration data cited in reports. The fee had raised serious concerns among technology companies, healthcare providers, universities and other employers that rely on skilled foreign professionals. The administration has defended its restrictions as a way to protect American workers and curb alleged misuse of the visa programme. What does this mean for Indian IT professionals, students and H-1B aspirants? The latest order offers relief from the challenged fee, but it does not eliminate other H-1B requirements or guarantee visa approval. The legal battle is also not over, with the government’s appeal against an earlier ruling still pending. For Indians planning to work in the US, the key takeaway is to monitor official USCIS guidance and confirm how the court orders apply to their specific petition before making job or travel decisions."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2Fc26fc6a1-82dc-4c92-80f9-5c61d5776d0a_h1b.jpg?auto=format,compress&rect=0,54,1200,592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-01T19:56:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"h-1b-relief-second-us-judge-blocks-100k-fee"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Indian-American lawmakers push H-1B visa overhaul"},"content":{"text":"Two Indian-American lawmakers have backed legislation that would allow H-1B professionals and several other categories of foreign workers to renew their visas without leaving the United States.  Representatives Suhas Subramanyam and Raja Krishnamoorthi said domestic visa renewal would reduce disruption for workers, families and employers. It would also free US consular officials overseas to focus on new visa applications and other foreign-policy work. The proposal forms part of a three-bill package announced by Subramanyam, a Democrat representing Virginia. The measures seek to reduce visa-processing backlogs, modernise the immigration system and strengthen US responses when Americans are caught in emergencies abroad. The Domestic Visa Renewal Modernization Act would expand a 2024 pilot programme that allowed some H-1B visa holders to renew their visa stamps within the United States. The bill would make domestic renewal available to holders of H-1B, H-1B1, E, I, L, O and P visas. These categories cover skilled professionals, executives transferred within multinational companies, investors, journalists, athletes, entertainers and people with extraordinary ability. Visa holders must generally travel to a US embassy or consulate abroad to obtain a new visa stamp. Delays in securing appointments can leave workers stranded outside the country and separated from their jobs and families. “People who are already legally living and working in the United States should not have to leave the country simply to renew their visas,” Krishnamoorthi said. “Our Domestic Visa Renewal Modernization Act would cut unnecessary red tape, give workers and employers greater certainty, and help ensure America remains competitive in attracting and retaining talented people from around the world,” he said. Krishnamoorthi and Republican Representative Don Bacon are co-leading the legislation with Subramanyam. Democratic Representatives Jonathan Jackson and Deborah Ross are co-sponsors. A second measure, the Reducing Visa Delays Act, would require the State Department to examine whether US embassies and consulates have sufficient staff to reduce appointment and processing delays. It would also require a review of visa-vetting policies imposed by the Trump administration. Additional transparency provisions would give applicants a clearer picture of the full waiting periods they face. “My constituents deal with the consequences of extended visa delays on a daily basis. Appointment backlogs and processing delays disrupt families and jobs. We need to address them,” Subramanyam said. The third bill, the Strengthening Emergency Responses Act, addresses the treatment of Americans caught in conflicts and natural disasters overseas. It would require the State Department to update its evacuation plans after every emergency evacuation. The department would also review how information is distributed to people seeking evacuation assistance. The proposal would require regular State Department contact with the next of kin of Americans affected by major disasters abroad. Subramanyam said constituents had reported receiving insufficient guidance when trying to leave the Middle East at the beginning of the Iran war. Families also sought better communication following the August floods in Nepal. “At the start of the Iran War, I had constituents stranded in the Middle East with little guidance and no advance notice. It is critical to communicate closely with families of those impacted by disasters abroad too,” he said."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aNOt5p5xUNkB1C_r_H1B.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-09-30T02:07:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indian-american-lawmakers-push-h-1b-visa-overhaul"}}]},"videos":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"JAILER 2 - Official Telugu Trailer"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/lP-WEbwlVT5b8X6W_jailer2trailer.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,14,790,390&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T13:40:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"jailer-2---official-telugu-trailer"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"AK 47: Narayanamma Lyric Video"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/h6kW6teka9N2q0tO_Adarshakutumbham.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=28,0,669,330&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-27T19:11:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"ak-47-narayanamma-lyric-video"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Chiru at SIGMA Pre-Release Event"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/nM04eUDZc_Vg0HGy_chiruatsigmaprerelease.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=20%2C0%2C578%2C285&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-25T18:30:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"chiru-at-sigma-pre-release-event"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Jailer 2: 'One Sun One Moon' Song"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/E4OibyLkghHPq2_K_onesunonemoon.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-09-25T08:33:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"jailer-2-one-sun-one-moon-song"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"MYSAA Teaser"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/xClkscuToqQOL0WK_Mysaa.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C5%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-20T13:11:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"mysaa-teaser"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Salman Takes Off His T-Shirt on Bigg Boss"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/g9cJNG71ecJFxwXR_Salman.png?auto=format,compress&rect=0,26,532,262&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-20T11:59:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"salman-khan-takes-off-his-t-shirt-on-bigg-boss-var"}}]},"editorial":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Flydubai Episode: Statecraft or Manufactured Consent?"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/xd7ajrzUDtA2tTcS_flydubai.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T11:55:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"flydubai-episode-statecraft-or-manufactured-consent"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Captain Machchhar: Courage vs Noise"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ONpaQymA1ABT2ZIL_Machchhar.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C30%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-04T05:41:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"captain-machchhar-courage-vs-noise"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Deepfakes: The New Political Weapon"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/hEhtP8aOetMu3qKR_df1.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-27T08:25:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"deepfakes-the-new-political-weapon"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"UPI Transactions: There Is Nothing Called 'Free Lunch'"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/IWNC-LYO9T7IQfVm_scan.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C7%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-16T07:30:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"upi-transactions-there-is-nothing-called-free-lunc"}}]},"gallery":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-10-04T12:13:25+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/fMOvTQW_BEpfRQAh_shruthi.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"shruti-haasan-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-10-04T12:07:55+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/UBpIzIDhP04TaKIc_bhagya2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"bhagyashri-borse-new-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-10-03T10:57:06+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Aishwarya Rajesh New Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Aishwarya Rajesh is an Indian actress who works predominantly in Tamil cinema, in addition to a few Telugu and Malayalam films. Aishwarya is a recipient of several awards including two Filmfare Awards South, two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards and six SIIMA Awards."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/xdGEw8Wy3a26lX2Z_aishwarya.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"aishwarya-rajesh-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-10-02T17:50:37+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/VB0L3OmK91nMSwh0_nabha2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"nabha-natesh-glam-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-09-29T11:43:24+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Nidhhi Agerwal New Glam 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/3ZfRaN9LEK6PhAKU_niddhi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"nidhhi-agerwal-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-09-25T11:18:08+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Sreeleela Stylish New Stills"},"content":{"text":"Sreeleela is an American actress of Indian origin who primarily works in Telugu cinema. She began her career as a child artist before making her lead debut in the 2019 Kannada film Kiss."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/7O8vuvW-nRobKyp8_sreeleela2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"sreeleela-stylish-new-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-09-22T09:21:16+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Anupama Parameswaran New Pics"},"content":{"text":"అనుపమ పరమేశ్వరన్ ఒక భారతీయ నటి. ఈమె తెలుగు, మలయాళ, తమిళ సినిమాలలో నటించింది.ఆమె భర్త పేరు రాజేష్ గోరువ. ఆమె నటించిన తొలి మలయాళ చిత్రం ప్రేమమ్‌లోని మేరీ జార్జ్, తెలుగు సినిమా శతమానం భవతిలో నిత్య ప్రాత్రలు ఈమెకు మంచి పేరు తెచ్చిపెట్టాయి."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/PGeINEpPe90fiQfG_anupama2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"anupama-parameswaran-new-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-09-18T12:13:50+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Ashu Reddy Black Spicy Pics"},"content":{"text":"This is Ashu Reddy, Telugu actress worked in movies and prominently known for BiggBoss3 and also social media influencer and beauty content activist. My videos also include entertainment, knowledge and information in many ways to many people."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/314HzBkvs5lFnVwg_ashureddy2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"ashu-reddy-black-spicy-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-09-18T10:47:25+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Anasuya Bharadwaj New 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/ZDW3Te-AlkGuINBe_anasuya2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"anasuya-bharadwaj-new-saree-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-09-17T17:41:36+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Payal Rajput Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Payal Rajput is an Indian actress who primarily works in Telugu and Punjabi films. She made her film debut with the Punjabi film Channa Mereya, for which she won the Filmfare Award Punjabi for Best Debut Actress. Rajput then made her Hindi film debut with Veerey Ki Wedding."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/6rmeRJW-0U0Yxkno_payal2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"payal-rajput-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-08-12T08:19:18+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Mouni Roy Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Mouni Roy is an Indian actress who primarily works in Hindi television and films. One of the highest-paid television actresses in India, Roy is widely known for her portrayal of a shape-shifting snake in Naagin and its sequel Naagin 2."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/8nkSdpm8T3G0jWQk_mouniroy2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"mouni-roy-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-08-07T16:20:40+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Vishnu Priya Latest Spicy Stills"},"content":{"text":"Vishnupriya Ramchandran Pillai (born in Bahrain), known mononymously and better as Vishnupriya, is an Indian actress, dancer and model. She started off her career participating in the dance reality show Vodafone Thakadimi which was aired on Asianet. She made her acting debut in 2007 with Speed Track, playing a supporting character. Later, she played the lead character in Keralotsavam 2009 and got noticed for her character in Penpattanam (2010)."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/EKRVCL6edvfOM1nL_vp2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"vishnu-priya-latest-spicy-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-07-21T16:54:06+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Shraddha Das Spicy Pics"},"content":{"text":"Shraddha Das is an Indian actress and model who predominantly appears in Telugu, Hindi, Bengali, and Kannada language films. She made her acting debut in the 2008 Telugu film Siddu from Sikakulam, and since then has worked across six different film industries throughout her career."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/J5KjgIk60wE63lRg_shraddhadas.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"shraddha-das-spicy-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-07-20T16:44:06+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rakul Looks Radiant In Yellow Saree"},"content":{"text":"Rakul Preet Singh is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Telugu, Hindi and Tamil films. Singh is a recipient of several accolades including a SIIMA Award, in addition to four nominations at the Filmfare Awards South. Singh started her career as a model and made her acting debut with the Kannada film Gilli"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/_eGbGvnqa1VVLLAH_rps2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rakul-looks-radiant-in-yellow-saree"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-07-17T12:42:16+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Pragya Jaiswal Spicy Stills"},"content":{"text":"Pragya Jaiswal is an Indian actress and model who predominantly works in Telugu films. She made her acting debut in 2014 with the Tamil-language film Virattu in 2014. Jaiswal had her breakthrough with the Telugu period drama Kanche, for which she was awarded the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/HTcjp1FBdNZf7hDK_pragya2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"pragya-jaiswal-spicy-stills"}},{"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":"2026-05-02T12:20:57+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":"2026-03-29T07:22:02+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"}}]},"one":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Indian GC backlog stretches past decade"},"content":{"text":"Indian professionals seeking employment-based US Green Cards continue to face waits stretching back more than a decade in key categories, even as the start of a new fiscal year has restored visa numbers and brought some movement, according to the US State Department's October Visa Bulletin.  The sharpest disparity remains in the employment-based second preference, or EB-2, category, widely used by professionals holding advanced degrees or possessing exceptional ability. For applicants chargeable to India, the EB-2 final-action date is November 1, 2013. For most countries, the corresponding date is January 1, 2025. That means the cutoff governing Indian applicants remains more than 11 years behind the date applying to most of the world. The picture is similar in the EB-3 category for skilled workers and professionals. India's final-action date is January 1, 2014, compared with May 15, 2024 for most countries. The dates do not mean that every applicant will wait exactly that length of time. They indicate which priority dates are currently eligible for final action on permanent-residence applications, subject to visa availability and other requirements. There was better news for some Indian applicants at the beginning of fiscal 2027. India's EB-1 final-action date, covering priority workers such as people with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers and certain multinational executives, moved to February 1, 2023. The October bulletin also restored availability in EB-2 India after the category had become unavailable toward the end of the previous fiscal year because its annual visa allocation had been exhausted. The US State Department said the arrival of fiscal 2027 immigrant visa numbers allowed filing and final-action dates to advance across several categories. But the October numbers illustrate how India's employment-based backlog persists even when a new annual allocation becomes available. The separate \"Dates for Filing\" chart provides somewhat later dates for Indian applicants. Under that chart, EB-1 India stands at July 1, 2024, while both EB-2 and EB-3 India are at January 15, 2015. US Citizenship and Immigration Services determines each month whether applicants seeking adjustment of status inside the United States may use the State Department's Dates for Filing chart rather than the more restrictive Final Action Dates chart. The distinction is significant. A filing date can permit an eligible applicant to submit an adjustment-of-status application, while the final-action date determines when an immigrant visa number is available for the case to be approved. India is one of four countries currently treated as oversubscribed under the US preference-immigration system, along with mainland China, Mexico and the Philippines. The State Department said allocations are made, to the extent possible, according to priority dates. When demand exceeds the available numerical allocation for a country or category, a cutoff date is imposed. Federal immigration law sets numerical limits on employment-based immigrant visas and also places limits on the proportion available to nationals of any single country. The October bulletin says the worldwide employment-based preference level is at least 140,000 annually. The country limits have had an outsized effect on India because of the large number of Indian professionals in the US employment-based immigration pipeline. As a result, applicants from India can remain in temporary immigration status for years while waiting for their priority dates to become current. The Visa Bulletin is issued monthly by the State Department and can move forward, remain unchanged or retrogress depending on demand and the number of immigrant visas available."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/6a5229b9-ba41-4fbf-926a-a933bd8f60b1_SU+Greencard.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T15:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indian-gc-backlog-stretches-past-decade"}}]},"two":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Anurag Kashyap Steps Into ‘Kaaka’"},"content":{"text":"Popular Bollywood director and actor Anurag Kashyap has now come on board Megastar Chiranjeevi's eagerly awaited action entertainer, 'Kaaka', the film's makers announced on Monday. The makers released an image that features director Bobby Kolli explaining a scene to Anurag Kashyap, who is listening with rapt attention. Anurag Kashyap's presence is certainly an exciting addition to the film and further adds to the anticipation surrounding Kaaka. Meanwhile, shooting of 'Kaaka' is currently underway in Hyderabad, with Anurag Kashyap participating in the shoot, along with the other lead actors. It may be recalled that Chiranjeevi, had, during the course of his speech at an event that was held recently, revealed that he was playing a character called Kadiri Kalidas in the film. Sources close to the unit of the film say that while 'Kaaka' has been envisioned as a high-intensity action entertainer, it will also feature a strong emotional and family-oriented narrative, making the protagonist’s character arc one of its key attractions. It may be recalled that the unit of the film had started its most recent schedule on September 7 this year. KVN Productions, which is producing the film, had, a few days ago, announced the title of the film through a title teaser and revealed that the film would hit screens on January 13 next year. Taking to its social media timelines to share the title teaser, the production house wrote, \"Meet Supervisor Satyam, C/O Ammaji Aqua Industries, Ravulapalem. Team #KAAKA wishes the one and only Megastar @Kchirutweets garu a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Title glimpse out now. January 13, 2027 - Sankranthi release.\" The title teaser showed Chiranjeevi working in a shrimp farm called Ammaji Aqua Industries. His name in the film is Satyam and he works as a Supervisor in the facility that has people from all regions of the country working in it. The title teaser showed an employee attempting to return a key to Chiranjeevi but ends up dropping it in a pool full of shrimps. Chiranjeevi was then seen retrieving the key using a giant electromagnet. Along with the key, a lot of weapons too come up. The key has a keychain that reads, 'I love dad'. The film has triggered huge interest in fans and film buffs ever since it was first announced and the title teaser only added to the excitement. Sources close to the unit of the film say that the first half of the film ends with a spectacular action sequence. They claim that this interval fight sequence, which was shot recently, is set to be one of the major attractions of the film. The action block has been designed and executed on a grand scale and is expected to provide a powerful high point before the second half. Sources also claim that the initial output has given the team immense confidence, with the narrative maintaining the right mix of intensity, entertainment, emotion, and action. Anaswara Rajan and Nivetha Pethuraj play pivotal roles in this film, which is currently being planned as a Sankranthi 2027 release. This is the second time that director Bobby is working with Megastar Chiranjeevi. The two had earlier worked together on action entertainer 'Waltair Veerayya'."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/53gMGIF6dD-3st18_anuragkashyapkaka.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C8%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T14:59:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"anurag-kashyap-steps-into-kaaka"}}]},"three":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Godavari-Cauvery Link: Drought Solution?"},"content":{"text":"Interlinking of Godavari and Cauvery rivers can make southern states free from the problem of drought, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Monday.  He lamented that even during drought conditions, 2,000 TMC of water is flowing into the sea. If at least 200 TMC of Godavari floodwater is utilised, the Rayalaseema region will flourish with abundant greenery and crops, he said while launching the 'Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 – Amarajeevi Jaladhara' programmes in Proddatur in Kadapa district. Chandrababu Naidu said it was his government that interlinked the Godavari and Krishna rivers. He vowed to complete the Polavaram project before the Godavari Pushkaram and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate the project to the nation. Reiterating that 36 irrigation projects worth Rs 35,000 crore will be launched over the next three years, he said the government has already released a schedule for completion of the projects. The Chief Minister, along with Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and state BJP President PVN Madhav, laid the foundation for the 'Jal Jeevan Mission' and 'Amarajeevi Jaladhara' programmes aimed at providing tap water connections to every household, with an outlay of Rs 30,136 crore. “We are implementing measures to provide water to 90 lakh households, 48,000 rural areas, and 3.30 crore people,” Chandrababu Naidu said. The Chief Minister slammed the YSR Congress Party for undermining Jal Jeevan Mission. He said while states like Uttar Pradesh (Rs 1 lakh crore), Madhya Pradesh (Rs 83,000 crore), and Kerala (Rs 85,000 crore) received significant funds from the Centre under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the previous government did a disservice to Andhra Pradesh by securing only Rs 2,600 crore. He alleged that villages suffered due to the negligence and failure of the previous government, as they were left without roads, streetlights, or water. “Rural communities were left in tears due to the destructive policies of the previous regime. When considering the state of roads, compare the past with the present. People endured a hellish experience on the roads during the 'Axe Party's' (YSRCP's) tenure,” he said. Chandrababu Naidu claimed that with firm resolve and the Centre's cooperation, the coalition government successfully laid strong foundations for the state's reconstruction over the past 28 months. He stated that the government launched nine programmes in just the last seven days aimed at the development of villages and towns across the state. Through the 'Palle Panduga' initiative, we have undertaken works worth Rs 11,085 crore to provide infrastructure such as roads, drains, and streetlights in villages, he said. “We have distributed housing pattas (title deeds) for residential sites worth Rs 52,000 crore across the state, including in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and Mangalagiri. We have initiated a 'Global Horticulture Hub' project worth Rs 1 lakh crore, aimed at transforming the future and direction of the Rayalaseema region. We are working towards the goal of providing a house to every family by 2029. As part of this initiative, we will construct 19 lakh houses. Today, we launched projects worth Rs 30,156 crore under the Jal Jeevan Mission and the 'Amarajeevi Jaladhara' programme.”"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/TZTpyuY8KUQaDPOb_linking.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,42,1200,592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T12:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"godavari-cauvery-link-drought-solution"}}]},"four":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Flydubai Episode: Statecraft or Manufactured Consent?"},"content":{"text":"\"Kahaani koi bhi ho, sach chhupaya ja sakta hai aur sach banaya bhi ja sakta hai. Zaroori yeh nahi ki sach kya hai, zaroori yeh hai ki log kya maante hain” (No matter what the story is, the truth can be hidden and the truth can be manufactured. What matters isn't what the truth actually is; what matters is what people choose to believe.) This Bollywood movie dialogue is a perfect pop-culture adaptation of political philosophy on statecraft and manufactured consent, highlighting how political leaders immediately convert real-world emergencies into electoral currency. It reminds us that in the arena of political theater, a crisis is far too valuable an asset to be left to meander as one of those day-to-day happenings. It belongs instantly to the mythmakers. Welcome to the grand theater of modern geopolitics, where actual facts are completely useless and the only thing that matters is who hires the loudest storyteller. Just like the master-manipulator Vijay Salgaonkar in the movie Drishyam 3, politicians in India, Israel, and the United States have realized that controlling the narrative is the ultimate power play. The recent FlyDubai flight incident has officially ceased to be an ordinary aviation rescue story. Instead, it has been aggressively hijacked by global leaders desperately looking for their own blockbuster \"Pulwama moment\" to score cheap domestic political points. The political scriptwriters are working overtime, turning one pilot’s bravery into a massive international election campaign. In India, the ruling BJP machinery has fast-tracked the incident into a personal victory for its Supreme Leader, loudly claiming the pilot's bravery is a direct byproduct of \"strong national leadership.\" The goal is simple: turn a real-life emergency into a hyper-patriotic frenzy to completely divert the attention from and crush the Opposition's planned October 2nd street protests. Meanwhile, Tel Aviv's strategists are quickly framing the Middle Eastern aviation crisis as definitive proof of their hostile neighborhood, weaponizing the panic to justify aggressive military posturing and demand blind alignment from global allies. Not to be outdone, Washington politicians are instantly capitalizing on the chaos to claim strategic dominance in the region, feeding their domestic voter base a narrative of \"American-brokered stability\" to serve as potent fuel for their upcoming elections. Naturally, the news channels are not just reporting the story, they are aggressively weaponizing it to serve the electoral interests of their political paymasters. Led by prime-time anchors who prioritize party affiliation over basic journalistic ethics, the heroic act of pilot Smit Machachar was instantly commodified into a partisan cudgel rather than being celebrated as a simple, brave rescue deserving of a Republic Day medal. On the other side of the digital battlefield, the ruling party's social media warriors swiftly trapped the Opposition by demanding to know why Rahul Gandhi remained silent on the incident, using it to portray him as anti-national. The media effectively gaslit the public into framing all domestic daily grievances as irrelevant \"cockroaches\" compared to the pilot's flawless patriotism. By branding the planned opposition street protests as total flops and anti-national conspiracies, this coordinated strategy perfectly mirrors the \"Pulwama\" formula. Just like the 2019 airstrikes successfully shifted the entire national conversation from pressing economic issues to national security, this aviation crisis is being used to build an impenetrable firewall of aggressive nationalism around the government. This temptation of a \"Pulwama moment\", where a sudden security crisis is instantly converted into raw voter mobilization, seemed to offer an excellent lesson that was simply too lucrative for Washington and Tel Aviv to pass up. In Israel's playbook, politicians are painting the FlyDubai crisis with the aggressive brush of regional terror and existential threat, aiming to silence internal democratic dissent and tightly consolidate wartime power. On the American side, politicians view the incident as the perfect election-season photo-op to convince voters they are actively managing the Middle East, using the event to bully domestic opponents as \"weak on global security.\" Of course, it is a completely minor detail that a flight nosediving in a terrifying, vertical plunge somehow magically resulted in zero catastrophic injuries, an aviation miracle that apparently allowed a casual onboard plumber to meticulously study the physics of the descent mid-air. In a twist totally unrelated to cinematic scripts, the coincidence also just happened to place off-duty pilots in civilian clothes right in the cabin, ready to step in at the exact climax for a picture-perfect landing. It is almost as if the entire physics-defying incident was storyboarded in a Bollywood studio, custom-made for prime-time television rather than actual reality. If the movie producers behind the recent blockbuster success of Drishyam are already planning a spiritual sequel titled Bhavandar, nobody should be surprised. The casting choices practically write themselves: Akshay Kumar would undoubtedly play the nationalist hero Machchar, Akshaye Khanna would bring intense gravitas to the Omani co-pilot, and John Abraham would flex his muscles as the physics-defying, mid-air-analyzing plumber. Ultimately, while the brave pilot successfully saved the plane, the politicians managed to save their sinking approval ratings. In this real-world adaptation, the actual facts have been completely buried as the manufactured truth of political opportunists officially takes flight, ready to be turned into a box-office hit near you."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/xd7ajrzUDtA2tTcS_flydubai.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-10-05T11:55:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"flydubai-episode-statecraft-or-manufactured-consent"}}]},"five":{"edges":[]},"review":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: ‘Don’t Trouble the Trouble’"},"content":{"text":"When a film carries the backing of a filmmaker as influential as S.S. Rajamouli, expectations automatically rise. ‘Don’t Trouble the Trouble’ arrived with considerable attention, presented by Rajamouli and produced by his son S.S. Karthikeya. The promotional campaign also received a boost from NTR’s presence at the pre-release event and Mahesh Babu’s positive social-media response.  With Fahadh Faasil leading the cast and an intriguing fantasy premise at its core, the film created curiosity before release. Unfortunately, the final product struggles to translate that promise into an engaging theatrical experience. Story: The film revolves around Suri (Fahadh Faasil), an ambulance driver whose obsession with money has pushed him far away from basic human values. He is willing to cross almost any line if there is money involved. One decision made in pursuit of financial gain eventually turns his life upside down. Parallelly, Divya (Sara), a young girl who mysteriously acquires supernatural abilities, sets out on a journey to find her missing parents. What exactly does Suri do that changes the course of his life? How does Divya acquire her supernatural powers? What happened to her parents? And under what circumstances do Suri and Divya cross paths? These questions form the foundation of the story. The basic concept has enough potential for an entertaining fantasy adventure, but the film's execution fails to extract the maximum impact from the premise. Performances: Fahadh Faasil is undoubtedly one of the film's biggest strengths, but surprisingly, the screenplay does not provide him with enough material to deliver the kind of performance audiences may expect from him. After his appearance in ‘Pushpa’, there was considerable curiosity about whether this film would give Fahadh a stronger platform to showcase his range. Instead, his character is largely presented as a petty thief and cheat whose motivations revolve around money. There is an expectation that his character will become more layered after meeting Divya, but even the subsequent portions offer limited opportunities for Fahadh to truly dominate the screen. He performs his role with his usual natural ease, yet the character itself remains underwritten. The film ultimately feels like a missed opportunity for an actor of his calibre. Sara, meanwhile, makes a strong impression despite her age. Her character demands emotional shifts, lengthy dialogues and a range of expressions, and she handles those requirements effectively. Her screen presence adds some freshness to the narrative. The supporting cast, including Saurabh Sachdeva, Mahesh Manjrekar and Subbaraju, deliver performances that are adequate for their respective roles. Technical: The central idea chosen by director Shashank Yeleti is certainly interesting. A story combining an unlikely protagonist with a child possessing supernatural abilities could have developed into a fun fantasy entertainer. The major problem lies in the screenplay. Instead of building momentum around the unusual premise, the film repeatedly settles for routine scenes and predictable developments. Several sequences can be anticipated well before they unfold, which takes away much of the excitement. The narrative lacks the rhythm required to sustain a fantasy-driven story, and the director's storytelling gradually loses focus. The music by Kaala Bhairava does not leave much of an impression, while even the background score fails to provide the required elevation during crucial moments. The cinematography is passable, but the editing could have been considerably tighter. Both the first half and second half contain sequences that feel unnecessarily stretched, resulting in a slow and occasionally tedious viewing experience. Production values are decent, but the technical presentation never manages to compensate for the weaknesses in the writing. Analysis: The biggest disappointment is the gap between the film's intriguing premise and its execution. With Rajamouli presenting the project and Karthikeya serving as one of the producers, the film entered theatres carrying considerable expectations. The concept may have initially appeared exciting on paper, but the screenplay needed much stronger treatment to transform that idea into a compelling theatrical product. Fahadh Faasil is an actor capable of elevating even a relatively simple character, yet the writing here restricts him considerably. His character has limited depth, and the film does not fully exploit the potential of the actor-protagonist combination. The relationship between Suri and Divya could also have formed the emotional heart of the movie, but that opportunity is not explored with sufficient strength. The film might have worked better had the screenplay embraced its fantasy elements with more humour, adventure and emotional warmth. A more entertaining treatment could potentially have made it accessible to both children and adults. Instead, it occupies an uncertain middle ground. Apart from a few emotional moments, occasional comedy and some fantasy sequences, there is little that sustains the excitement. Plus Points: Fahadh Faasil’s performance Fantasy elements Climax Sara’s performance Minus Points: Predictable screenplay Weak execution Direction Music and background score Lengthy sequences Verdict: ‘Don’t Trouble the Trouble’ starts with an interesting fantasy idea but struggles to turn that concept into a consistently engaging film. Fahadh Faasil and Sara provide some watchable moments, while the fantasy portions and climax offer glimpses of what the movie could have been. However, a predictable screenplay, uneven pacing and underutilised characters ultimately dominate the experience. Final Word: For those who go looking for entertainment, the film unfortunately offers more trouble than the title promises to avoid. Banner: Arka Media Producers: Shobu Yarlagadda, Prasad Devineni, S.S. Karthikeya Director: Shashank Yeleti Music: Kaala Bhairava Cast: Fahadh Faasil, Sara Falekar, Saurabh Sachdeva, Mahesh Manjrekar, Subbaraju and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/bqNucWhmNWKKQiVy_DTTT.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-10-02T08:16:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-dont-trouble-the-trouble"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'The Paradise'"},"content":{"text":"After delivering a major success with Dasara, director Srikanth Odela reunited with Nani for The Paradise, a film that arrived with enormous expectations. The project generated considerable buzz from the beginning, not only because of the successful director-actor combination but also because it reportedly became the first Nani film to cross the ₹100-crore mark in theatrical business.  With a period backdrop, a socially rooted storyline and an intense transformation in Nani’s appearance, the film promised something much bigger than a conventional action drama. Unfortunately, the final product struggles to translate that ambition into compelling cinema. Story: Set against a historical backdrop, The Paradise revolves around a community that continues to remain trapped in oppression even after Hyderabad and Telangana move beyond the era of Nizam rule. The fictional Paradise settlement is controlled for generations by the Malik family, who treat the local population as little more than slaves while denying them even the basic dignity of identity and recognition. Sammakka, played by Sonali Kulkarni, becomes one of the voices challenging this system. Her son Jadal, portrayed by Nani, is forced into a difficult life at a very young age and eventually lands in prison. When he returns, his personal journey becomes intertwined with the larger fight of his community. The central question is whether Jadal can break the cycle of oppression and secure the identity his people have been denied for generations. The premise has considerable potential, but the screenplay fails to extract the emotional and dramatic weight from it. Performances: Nani once again attempts to step outside his familiar image. His distinctive appearance, particularly the long-haired look designed for Jadal, immediately catches attention. Following his striking transformation in Dasara, expectations were naturally high for another unconventional portrayal. Nani carries the rugged appearance convincingly and performs the physically demanding action sequences with commitment. However, the character is written largely around aggression and action, leaving limited room for the actor to explore emotional depth. The film occasionally introduces sentimental moments, but they are not developed strongly enough to create a lasting impact. Mohan Babu plays Malik, a character that was heavily discussed before the film's release. Despite being positioned as a crucial figure in the narrative, the character receives surprisingly limited dramatic weight. Raghav Juyal also makes an impression in the space given to him, but his character is brought to an abrupt end instead of being developed into a stronger force within the story. Sonali Kulkarni's character is central to the film's larger theme, yet the screenplay doesn't provide her enough material to make the emotional struggle truly resonate. Kayadu Lohar's role is largely confined to the romantic and glamour elements. Sampoornesh Babu appears in a supporting part with barely enough dialogue to make an impression. Even the numerous experienced actors in the cast are unable to leave a strong mark because the writing does not give their characters sufficient substance. Technical: Anirudh Ravichander's involvement naturally raised expectations, particularly for the background score. While the music works in isolated stretches, the background score often becomes excessively loud rather than enhancing the emotional intensity of the scenes. A couple of songs stand out, but the soundtrack as a whole does not deliver the impact one might expect from a project of this scale. The cinematography does reasonably well in recreating the period atmosphere. The production design and visual detailing help establish the harsh world in which the characters live. The film carries considerable production value, and the scale is visible on screen. The biggest problem, however, lies in the writing and execution. Srikanth Odela appears to have had a strong central idea but struggles to turn it into a cohesive screenplay. The dialogue, scene construction, pacing and transitions frequently lack the required sharpness. Editing issues further affect the flow, making the lengthy narrative feel more exhausting than immersive. Plus Points: Nani's rugged transformation and performance Kayadu Lohar's presence The pre-interval sequence Production design and period atmosphere A few effective action moments Minus Points: Weak screenplay Underdeveloped characters Uneven pacing Excessive action Limited emotional impact Editing issues Underutilisation of senior actors Analysis: At its core, The Paradise is built around a potentially powerful idea: the fight of an oppressed community for recognition and dignity. The problem is that the film rarely develops this idea with the depth it deserves. Instead of building the characters and their conflicts gradually, the narrative repeatedly falls back on large-scale action and heightened moments. The influence of films such as KGF and Salaar can be felt in the treatment, particularly in the attempt to create a larger-than-life world populated by powerful factions and brutal action. But where those films built their worlds around stronger character motivations and narrative momentum, The Paradise struggles to establish the same emotional connection. The action sequences are undeniably aggressive, but intensity alone cannot compensate for weak storytelling. Several sequences appear designed primarily to shock rather than organically emerge from the story. The violence frequently moves away from realism, while the emotional scenes fail to generate the intended response. The film also introduces powerful-looking antagonists, only to gradually reduce their importance. This weakens the central conflict because the protagonist never gets a consistently formidable opposition. Even the effort to add political and historical references appears more like an attempt to generate additional buzz than something organically integrated into the screenplay. Nani gives the role everything he can, but the performance ultimately depends heavily on the material provided to him. The film clearly wants to present Jadal as an iconic figure, yet the writing does not sufficiently establish the emotional journey necessary to make that transformation convincing. Final Verdict: The Paradise begins with an interesting idea and a promising world, but struggles to turn that foundation into a satisfying cinematic experience. The gap between the film's promotional build-up and the actual content becomes difficult to ignore as the story progresses. Nani's commitment and the film's scale are evident, but they cannot fully compensate for an underdeveloped screenplay and inconsistent execution. What could have been a hard-hitting story about identity, dignity and resistance instead ends up feeling like an action-heavy film searching for an emotional core."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/gykUOtmdxL0XVM2y_TheParadise.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-23T20:38:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-the-paradise"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Epic'"},"content":{"text":"The combination of Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya, who previously delivered a successful outing with Baby, naturally raised expectations around Epic. With the duo returning together, there was considerable curiosity about whether the film could recreate the magic of their earlier collaboration. Unfortunately, while Epic has its share of entertaining moments, it ultimately struggles to live up to the expectations created by its lead pair. Story: Aditya (Anand Deverakonda), the younger son of Chandrasekhar (Shivaji), a government school teacher, is a carefree youngster with little interest in academics but a deep fascination for cinema. Dreaming of becoming a filmmaker, he keeps trying to find his way into the world of movies. However, pressure from his parents eventually forces him to travel to the UK to pursue his education. An innocent, soft-spoken and inexperienced young man, Aditya enters a completely unfamiliar world in the UK. Soon after arriving, he meets Kadali (Vaishnavi Chaitanya), and the encounter gradually brings a significant change in his personality and outlook. Meanwhile, Aditya's family is dealing with its own set of problems back home. Whether Aditya manages to achieve his ambitions, how his relationship with Kadali develops and where his journey eventually takes him form the crux of the story. Performances: Anand Deverakonda once again fits comfortably into the role of an innocent and somewhat naïve youngster. Much like his performance in Baby, he brings a certain vulnerability to the character, though the actor gets an opportunity to display a slightly different shade of the role as the story progresses into the second half. His appearance, body language and dialogue delivery work well for the character. Anand is particularly effective in emotional and romantic sequences, showing noticeable improvement and confidence as a performer. His familiar mannerisms and body language may also remind audiences of his brother Vijay Deverakonda, which could work in favour of his fan base. Overall, Epic gives Anand another opportunity to showcase his acting abilities. Vaishnavi Chaitanya, who delivered a strong performance in Baby, does not get a character with comparable depth here. While she has a few scenes that allow her to demonstrate her acting skills, much of the role remains fairly limited. She gets some glamorous moments and contributes effectively whenever the screenplay gives her room, but the character itself does not offer enough scope for a standout performance. Shivaji is convincing as the middle-class government school teacher and once again settles naturally into the character. The supporting cast performs adequately within the limitations of their respective roles. Technical: Director Aditya Hasan chooses a premise that feels contemporary and relevant to the mindset of the current generation. However, the execution is considerably more conventional. The comedy provides some relief and prevents the screenplay from becoming completely monotonous, but several sequences feel familiar and reminiscent of situations seen in other films. The screenplay could have benefited from greater freshness and stronger character development. The first half works relatively better, largely because of its comic portions, while the second half loses momentum and becomes slower. Hesham Abdul Wahab's music is another weak link. Although a couple of songs are passable, the overall album fails to make a lasting impression. The background score, particularly during emotional sequences, could have played a much stronger role in elevating the impact of the scenes. The cinematography is adequate, though the film could have made better use of the picturesque UK locations. Production values are solid and contribute to the film's overall visual presentation. Analysis: A successful pairing can certainly create initial buzz, but a familiar combination alone cannot guarantee a successful film. What truly works is when a popular combination is backed by strong and engaging content. In Epic, the film's premise appears tailored to the sensibilities of the current generation, but the execution does not consistently match its potential. The director succeeds in extracting some entertaining moments from the comedy and emotional portions. The first half benefits from its humour, while the emotional scenes in the latter portion provide a few engaging moments. However, the romantic track lacks the impact required to make the central relationship truly memorable. The film also needed a sharper screenplay and a more compelling second half to rise above its routine elements. While it may not satisfy viewers expecting another Baby-like outing from Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya, Epic can still work as a light, one-time entertainer for those looking for a casual watch. Positives: Comedy First half Anand Deverakonda Vaishnavi Chaitanya Negatives: Slow narration Routine story and screenplay Music Second half Verdict: Epic has enough comedy and a few engaging moments to make it a passable time-pass entertainer, but its routine romantic track, slow narration and underwhelming second half keep it from becoming the memorable film its lead combination promised. Banner: Sithara Entertainments Producer: Suryadevara Naga Vamsi Director: Aditya Hasan Music: Hesham Abdul Wahab Cast: Anand Deverakonda, Vaishnavi Chaitanya, Shivaji, Vasuki, Kalyan Shankar and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/i5tpcCyZXxZGstkc_EPICreview.jpg?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-11T08:51:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-epic"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Haiwaan'"},"content":{"text":"Haiwaan builds its strongest moments around two accomplished actors standing on opposite sides of a conflict. Directed by Priyadarshan, the psychological action crime thriller brings Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan together after 18 years, and their reunion is easily one of the film’s biggest strengths. At its core, the film is a tense game of cat and mouse between a dangerous antagonist and a visually impaired man who must rely on instinct, intelligence and resilience to survive. Akshay Kumar is the first major talking point, delivering what could easily be described as one of his darkest and most menacing performances to date. As Parshuram, he does not play the villain in the conventional, loud Bollywood manner. Instead, there is an unsettling calmness to his performance. Akshay gives Parshuram a sense of conviction and unpredictability that makes it difficult to anticipate his next move. His body language, controlled expressions and measured intensity establish the character as genuinely dangerous. There is a quiet menace running through the performance, making Parshuram one of Akshay’s standout negative roles. Saif Ali Khan is equally compelling as Shyam, a visually impaired man who finds himself caught in an increasingly dangerous situation. What stands out about Saif’s performance is the restraint. He does not exaggerate the character’s blindness or turn it into a theatrical device. Instead, Shyam’s vulnerability exists alongside his intelligence, determination and heightened instincts. Saif allows us to understand the challenges Shyam faces without ever making him seem helpless. His performance becomes particularly effective in the confrontational scenes with Akshay. That brings us to the film’s biggest hook — the Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan face-off. Their scenes provide some of Haiwaan’s most thrilling moments because the conflict is not merely physical; there is a strong psychological element to their encounters. Parshuram has physical menace, confidence and an apparent ability to control situations, while Shyam has to depend on instinct, intelligence and resilience. The contrast creates genuine tension. Their standoff gives Haiwaan its dramatic pulse and keeps the audience invested in their battle. A major surprise comes from Paahal Chaudhary, who emerges as one of the film’s biggest revelations. The young actor delivers an outstanding and remarkably assured performance. Paahal brings vulnerability and sincerity to the role without allowing the character to become merely a plot device. Her presence adds emotional stakes to the thriller and makes the audience more invested in what happens to the characters. She holds her own impressively alongside an established cast and becomes an important emotional centre of the story. The supporting cast adds further weight to the narrative. Saiyami Kher, Shriya Pilgaonkar and Boman Irani bring sincerity and conviction to their respective roles, while Sharib Hashmi is effective as the police officer and fits naturally into the investigative world of the film. The return of veteran actor Asrani is particularly heartwarming. He delivers another memorable performance, and his final on-screen appearance gives his presence an added emotional significance. Priyadarshan demonstrates once again why he remains such a dependable filmmaker when it comes to commercial storytelling. With Haiwaan marking his 98th film, he understands how to balance emotion, drama, suspense and mainstream entertainment without allowing one element to overpower the others. At 2 hours and 44 minutes, the film is certainly long, but it rarely feels as though the material is being unnecessarily stretched. The performances, confrontations and steady progression of the thriller keep the narrative moving. The background score deserves special mention for the role it plays in sustaining that momentum. The BGM consistently keeps the tension alive and gives the film the atmospheric quality required of a thriller. It works particularly well during confrontational sequences, adding anticipation without overpowering the performances. The soundscape works hand-in-hand with Priyadarshan’s direction and ensures that the film retains its thriller pulse. Pritam’s music is also integrated thoughtfully into the narrative. Mere Hero Hai Woh adds an emotional dimension, while Rangiyaara works particularly well during the travel portions. The songs complement the mood and allow the film to breathe while remaining connected to the narrative. They never feel completely disconnected from the storytelling. The fact that Haiwaan is adapted from Priyadarshan’s Malayalam thriller Oppam will naturally be known to audiences familiar with the original. However, the Hindi adaptation brings its own treatment, staging and commercial flavour to the material. The performances give the story fresh energy, while Priyadarshan’s direction ensures that it remains accessible as a Hindi theatrical thriller. Mohanlal’s special appearance, reprising his presence from the original, is also a welcome touch for fans of Oppam and provides a meaningful connection between the two films. The film also benefits from a clear central conflict. The screenplay does not bury the emotional stakes under unnecessary complications, allowing the audience to understand what is at risk while the suspense builds naturally. What makes the performances stand out is the contrast in their approaches. Akshay creates danger through stillness and unpredictability, while Saif creates tension through observation and restraint. That difference gives their scenes texture and prevents the conflict from becoming a routine hero-versus-villain battle. The audience is constantly waiting for the next move, which is where the film finds its strongest rhythm. For a film carrying the weight of a star reunion, Haiwaan also avoids becoming solely about that reunion. Akshay and Saif are undoubtedly the centre of attention, but the surrounding characters and emotional stakes are given enough room to matter. Haiwaan works because its strongest elements come together effectively. Akshay’s Parshuram provides the menace, Saif’s Shyam supplies the emotional and human core, and Paahal Chaudhary adds an unexpected layer of vulnerability. The supporting performances strengthen the world around them, while Priyadarshan keeps the suspense alive. The gripping background score further enhances the atmosphere, and the music sits naturally within the narrative. Haiwaan is a theatrical thriller that gets its most important ingredients right. Akshay Kumar gets one of his most compelling negative roles, Saif Ali Khan brings depth and restraint to a challenging character, and Paahal Chaudhary proves to be a genuine revelation. But it is the Akshay-Saif confrontation that remains the film’s beating heart.  Priyadarshan’s assured direction keeps the tension intact and successfully balances suspense, emotion, drama and mainstream entertainment. Haiwaan may draw from familiar material, but its performances, atmosphere and execution give it enough conviction to work as a satisfying big-screen experience. Director – Priyadarshan, Cast:  Saif Ali Khan, Akshay Kumar, Boman Irani, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Saiyami Kher, Mohanlal, Asrani, Sharib Hashmi And Others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/pcf8OeUE1gPChq-9_HaiwaanJ.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C42%2C1280%2C631&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-11T05:04:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-haiwaan"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Sardar 2’ "},"content":{"text":"Karthi has built a strong following across both Tamil and Telugu audiences, and the success of Sardar naturally created considerable anticipation for its sequel. With Sardar 2, director P. S. Mithran attempts to expand the franchise into a larger and more intense espionage-action space. The film carries forward the narrative from the first instalment while introducing a new threat and a fresh mission. On paper, the ingredients suggest a potentially engaging spy thriller. However, the execution falls short of the expectations created by its predecessor, with an uneven screenplay and excessive padding preventing the film from achieving the impact it aims for. Story: The sequel picks up from where Sardar left off. After reports emerge that Sardar, played by Karthi, has been shot dead in China, the focus shifts to his son Vijay, also portrayed by Karthi, who works as a RAW agent. Vijay does not enjoy much support from his superiors, but that does not stop him from taking matters into his own hands. He launches an unauthorised operation to rescue Walrus, played by Achyuth Kumar.  Although Vijay fails to save him, the mission leaves him with crucial information about a dangerous operation known as ‘DO’. His investigation leads him towards Black Dagger, played by S. J. Suryah, and a larger conspiracy that threatens the country. The mystery surrounding Black Dagger, his motives and the purpose of Operation DO forms the central conflict.  While the premise has the potential for a gripping espionage drama, the narrative takes too long to build momentum and struggles to maintain suspense. Performences: Karthi remains the film’s biggest asset. The actor handles the two contrasting shades of his characters with confidence, bringing gravitas to Sardar while giving Vijay a more youthful and jovial personality. The difference between the two roles allows Karthi to display considerable range, and his energetic performance keeps several sequences watchable even when the writing falters.  S. J. Suryah once again proves effective as a villain, bringing an unsettling intensity to Black Dagger and making some of his scenes genuinely menacing.  Malavika Mohanan has limited scope but makes an impression in the portions available to her, while Ashika Ranganath gets only a few opportunities to showcase her acting abilities.  Yogi Babu provides comic relief, though some of the humour feels artificially inserted into the otherwise serious narrative. c oy-e remaining cast members are adequate within their respective roles. Technical: The film does not consistently live up to its big-budget positioning. The background score is particularly disappointing, with similar musical patterns repeatedly used during the action sequences. At several points, the music becomes excessively loud and threatens to overpower the scenes instead of complementing them. The cinematography fares better, with certain sequences gaining visual appeal from the camera work.  The production design and overall scale are reasonably impressive, but these positives are undermined by the film’s editing. Several portions feel unnecessarily prolonged, particularly during the first half, and a tighter cut could have significantly improved the pacing. The second half makes a more determined attempt to generate intrigue and urgency, but the screenplay never quite develops the momentum required for a satisfying payoff. Analysis: The fundamental problem with Sardar 2 is that it arrives as the follow-up to a successful film. A sequel is expected not merely to continue the story but to raise the stakes and offer audiences something more compelling than what they have already seen. Here, the connection to the first film is maintained while the new storyline remains accessible even to those unfamiliar with the earlier instalment. Yet the basic espionage framework feels familiar, and the film needed sharper writing and more inventive storytelling to make its premise stand out. Instead, the slow stretches, forced comedy and inconsistent screenplay repeatedly take the edge off the narrative. Ultimately, Sardar 2 has a capable lead, an interesting central idea and a few effective performances, but it lacks the tight writing and controlled execution required for a high-impact spy thriller. Karthi’s dual-role performance is undoubtedly a plus, and the core storyline offers enough material for an engaging franchise film. However, the sequel never fully capitalises on those strengths. For audiences expecting a more powerful follow-up to Sardar, the film is likely to feel like a missed opportunity. Positives:  Karthi’s dual performance Basic storyline S. J. Suryah’s villainous act Negatives:  Slow first half Forced comedy Weak background score Uneven editing Inconsistent screenplay Final Verdict:  Sardar 2 has the scale, star power and premise of a promising spy-action franchise, but its lacklustre screenplay and uneven execution keep it from matching the impact of the original. Banner: Prince Pictures, IVY Entertainment Producers: S. Lakshman Kumar, Ishan Saksena Director: P. S. Mithran Music: Sam C. S. Cast: Karthi, Malavika Mohanan, S. J. Suryah, Ashika Ranganath, Yogi Babu and others "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/YJ_CQhIc2-axaebY_SARDARReview2.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-09-10T07:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-sardar-2-"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Toxic'"},"content":{"text":"After delivering the massive success of KGF, Yash took considerable time before announcing his next project. He reportedly heard several scripts and met numerous filmmakers before finally joining hands with Geetu Mohandas for Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups. The collaboration itself raised eyebrows, with many wondering how Mohandas’ filmmaking sensibilities would blend with Yash’s larger-than-life action image. The result is an ambitious gangster action drama that aims for the scale and intensity of KGF, but struggles to match its emotional impact. Story: Set against the backdrop of Goa in 1947, the film revolves around a powerful drug and underworld network led by Salvador, a feared gang lord. Raya (Yash) and Ganga (Nayanthara), who are siblings, are among his most trusted associates. Ganga dreams of seeing her younger brother rise to the top of Goa’s drug empire. Raya’s life takes an unexpected turn when he falls in love with Salvador’s daughter, Rebecca (Tara Sutaria), and marries her. This eventually helps him become the head of the drug syndicate, fulfilling Ganga’s long-standing ambition. However, Raya later develops feelings for Nadia (Kiara Advani), a circus performer. Their relationship leads to Nadia’s pregnancy and creates a devastating conflict after Rebecca discovers the affair. Overcome by the situation, Rebecca takes her own life. The central conflict then revolves around Salvador’s reaction and Ganga’s desperate attempts to protect her brother from his wrath. Performances: Yash delivers a convincing performance as Raya and carries much of the film on his shoulders. However, the screenplay is so heavily centred on his character that several supporting roles fail to make a lasting impact. Some of his action sequences also feel exaggerated, with the hero overpowering villains almost effortlessly. While his emotional moments work reasonably well, the action lacks the grounded quality needed to make the violence feel convincing. Nayanthara gets a powerful character as Ganga, but the writing does not provide her with enough substantial scenes. She makes an impression whenever she appears, despite having limited material. Kiara Advani, unfortunately, has little scope to demonstrate her acting abilities, with her character largely confined to glamour and romance. Tara Sutaria fares better, delivering a natural performance in several emotional sequences. The remaining cast members are adequate within the limitations of their respective roles. Technical: Geetu Mohandas deserves credit for attempting a dark and ambitious gangster drama, but the execution falls short of the potential of the premise. The screenplay repeatedly relies on elaborate action sequences, seemingly assuming that Yash’s screen presence and large-scale set pieces alone will sustain the film. Considerably more attention is given to the protagonist than to the development of the supporting characters. The dubbing is another noticeable weakness, occasionally giving the film the feel of a dubbed production rather than a seamless multilingual project. The cinematography is impressive and succeeds in creating the required visual scale. However, the background score does not leave a strong impact. Ravi Basrur’s music fails to live up to expectations, while the songs struggle to connect because of their placement within the romantic portions. Editing is one of the film’s major drawbacks, particularly in the second half, where several sequences feel unnecessarily stretched. The production values, however, remain impressive and contribute to the film’s grand visual presentation. Analysis: The biggest challenge for Toxic was always going to be the enormous expectations surrounding Yash after KGF. Audiences naturally expected another high-octane action spectacle, and the film clearly attempts to recreate that larger-than-life formula. But KGF worked not merely because of its action; its emotional core gave the spectacle considerable weight. Toxic struggles in that department. The film repeatedly prioritises action, violence and glamour while failing to build sufficiently strong emotional connections with its characters. The result is a movie that looks ambitious but often feels emotionally hollow. The excessive romantic and adult-oriented content may also alienate a significant section of family audiences. Instead of complementing the gangster narrative, several such sequences feel unnecessarily provocative and distract from the core story. The film appears determined to push its mature tone, but the approach does not always feel organic to the narrative. Ultimately, Toxic showcases Yash’s immense screen presence and delivers a few visually striking action sequences, but it falls short of replicating the emotional resonance that made KGF such a phenomenon. The attempt to create another massive Yash action vehicle is evident, yet the absence of a compelling emotional backbone prevents the film from reaching its full potential. Plus Points: Yash’s performance Tara Sutaria’s natural acting A few well-executed action sequences Grand production values Impressive cinematography Minus Points: Weak story and screenplay Limited depth for supporting characters Excessive romance and adult content Over-the-top action in places Underwhelming music and background score Slow and stretched second half Dubbing issues Verdict: Toxic sets out to deliver another KGF-style action extravaganza but misses the emotional ingredient that made Yash’s previous blockbuster so effective. Despite its scale, star power and flashes of impressive action, the film struggles to create a satisfying overall impact. Final Take: Another KGF was attempted, but the emotion is missing. Banner: KVN Productions Producer: Venkat K. Narayana Director: Geethu Mohandas Music: Ravi Basrur Cast: Yash, Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria, Rukmini Vasanth, Sudev and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/E2UJr6qTDfzc_kvt_TOXIC.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-08-26T07:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-toxic"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Irumudi'"},"content":{"text":"It has been a long time since Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja scored a hit. At a time when his fans were also giving up hope on Ravi Teja, expectations have increased hugely on the film directed by Shiva Nirvana, who is known as a sensible director. A positive buzz has been created for Ravi Teja's film like never before and huge advance bookings have been registered. Let's see how this film is in this review. Story: Trinath (Ravi Teja) is a devotee of Ayyappa. He wears an Ayyappa garland every year. Trinath, who is very devoted when he wears a garland, cannot stop drinking when he does not have one. No matter how much he drinks, he takes good care of his wife Kaveri (Priya Bhavani Shankar) and daughter Manikantha (Baby Nakshatra), leads a happy life with them, and works in the banana plantation. Trinath, who lives in a village, loves his daughter. He takes care of every girl in the village and is the first to come to his aid if any danger comes to them. At such a time, a girl studying in high school is murdered. What changes does Trinath's life bring about with that murder? Why does Trinath swear to his daughter that he will stop drinking? What else does Trinath do for his daughter is the story of the film. Actors' Performance: Everyone who acted in the film acted very well. Ravi Teja, as always, acted with full energy and impressed. Especially in the action scenes and sentimental scenes with his daughter, Ravi Teja acted very well. Ravi Teja appeared for the first time in Ayyappa Mala. As expected, Ravi Teja impressed in the devotional scenes as well. Overall, he carried the film on his shoulders and carried it forward, impressing everyone including the fans. Heroine Priya Bhavani Shankar acted as if she had a good future. She was seen in a de-glamor look in this film. Still, she impressed in terms of looks. Apart from that, she impressed with her acting. In recent times, we have been seeing the level of importance given to the acting of heroines. It has been proven once again that heroines will create dust if they get roles that have potential for acting. There is no doubt that Baby Nakshatra has given life to the film. Ajay Ghosh and Sai Kumar impressed with their roles. Technical: Music director GV Prakash Kumar impressed with the background score. The theater was rocked by the song Mallepula Pallaki. However, it must be said that the credit does not go to GV Prakash. The other songs are mediocre. The more GV lifts the film with the background score, the more it lifts it. Director Shiva Nirvana's writing is good. Some dialogues are touching, while some scenes are like the best of Ravi Teja's career. Overall, the director has succeeded in all respects. There are no major mistakes in editing. It would have been even better if some scenes in the second half had been cut to three or four minutes. The cinematography is good. The beauty of the village has been shown well. There is no compromise in the structural values. Analysis: Director Shiva Nirvana has conveyed the point he wanted to convey with devotion and sentiments. The director has shown the injustice being done to girls in the current society well. Apart from that, there is no doubt that he has made a good decision in choosing Ravi Teja for this film and taking Ayyappa Mala as the backdrop. Ravi Teja has never done such roles in the past. That is why there is a concern about how he will be seen in this film, how the character will be, and how the film will be. After watching the film, it feels like we are seeing Trinath instead of Ravi Teja. The director has taken us into the film in a very short time. This film can be called a movie with good sentiment and devotion along with entertainment. Ravi Teja's films have been criticized for a long time in the industry. There is no doubt that this film is the answer to all of them. It went like an all-round movie. Plus points: Ravi Teja, Other Actors' Performances, Mallepula Pallaki Song, Action Sequences Minus points: Some Emotional Scenes Final Verdict:  Ravi Teja tied 'Irumudi' to Ayyappa and scored a hit Banner: Mythri Movie Makers Producer: Naveen Yerneni, Y Ravi Shankar Director: Shiva Nirvana Music: G.V. Prakash Kumar Cast: Ravi Teja, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Sai Kumar, Baby Nakshatra, Ajay Ghosh and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/HcTr2KkaiWO37ssK_irumudi.jpg?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-08-21T08:18:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-irumudi"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Awarapan 2'"},"content":{"text":"Some characters become so closely associated with an actor that bringing them back after nearly two decades is a risky proposition. Shivam Pandit is one such character for Emraan Hashmi. Awarapan 2 takes that risk and, for the most part, understands why the 2007 film became a cult favourite. Directed by Nitin Kakkar, the film picks up the emotional thread of the original rather than simply recreating it. Shivam is still carrying the memory of Aaliyah when he comes across an abandoned infant girl at her grave. He takes her to an orphanage, quietly pays for her care and names her Aaliyah. When a couple later adopts the girl, Shivam convinces himself that giving her a family is the right thing to do. He soon discovers that they are connected to an international child-trafficking syndicate, and when Interpol tells him that Aaliyah has been abducted, the man who had walked away from the criminal world has no choice but to return. That premise gives Awarapan 2 a natural reason to bring Shivam back rather than forcing a reunion for nostalgia's sake. Interpol wants his help in taking down the syndicate, but Shivam's motivation is much more personal. His guilt over Aaliyah and his inability to protect her pull him back into the world he desperately wanted to leave behind. This is where the sequel expands the franchise. The first Awarapan was raw, intimate and deeply rooted in Shivam's personal transformation. The new film moves from that compact moral awakening into a larger crime thriller involving trafficking, organised crime, revenge and sacrifice. The scale is bigger, the action is more prominent and the storytelling is designed for a theatrical audience, but the emotional core remains Shivam's search for redemption. The narrative has moved from 2007 to 2026, and this genuinely feels like the next chapter rather than a film simply borrowing the name of a beloved original. A major part of that evolution comes from Vishesh Bhatt. As the co-producer of Awarapan and now the writer-producer behind Awarapan 2, Bhatt's vision of turning Awarapan into a franchise is central to the film. This isn't just a sequel made because the first film developed a cult following. There is a clear attempt to build the next chapter of Shivam Pandit's story while retaining the emotional and musical DNA of Vishesh Films. Bhatt's creative direction gives the film its larger ambition, with Kakkar and the entire team following that lead. The collaboration between Emraan Hashmi and Vishesh Films remains one of the film's strongest forces. Emraan, unsurprisingly, is the film's biggest strength, but the supporting characters deserve attention. Disha Patani plays Zara, a woman who becomes an unintentional victim of the criminal world surrounding her family. Her brother Zorawar, played by Puran Gabbi, is involved in the drug trade, and the film uses their relationship to show how crime can trap people who never chose that life. Patani gets a stronger dramatic focus and brings a vulnerability that gives Zara's portions emotional weight. Gabbi is one of the film's discoveries, bringing an unpredictability that makes Zorawar stand out without turning him into a standard gangster caricature. Shabana Azmi as Nafisa brings the expected gravitas, while Suvinder Vicky as Jaideep, Vijayant Kohli as Mehmood, Atul Kumar as Samarth and Aniruddh Rawal as Sikandar add further layers to the criminal and investigative world around Shivam. The music is where Awarapan 2 makes perhaps its most important connection with the original. Mithoon, Amaal Mallik and Jeet Gannguli carry forward the musical identity of the franchise, with lyrics by Sayeed Quadri and Rashmi Virag. The returning favourites \"Tera Mera Rishta\" and \"Toh Phir Aao\" have been reimagined by Mithoon, while \"Yeh Awarapan\", sung by Arijit Singh, adds another emotional layer. But the soundtrack is not simply a collection of songs designed to trigger nostalgia. The music is integral to the story. It carries Shivam's emotional state, builds the atmosphere and becomes part of the film's narrative language. This is also a soundtrack that deserves to be experienced in a theatre, where the sound design, scale of the compositions and visuals create a different audio-visual experience. The film also makes its marketing campaign look smarter once the story unfolds. Some of what has been shown and teased begins to make sense only after watching it, and there are elements of the narrative better experienced without knowing too much beforehand. Awarapan 2 is not merely selling the return of Emraan Hashmi or the nostalgia of its music. It is attempting to make audiences curious about what happened to Shivam and where his story goes next. The big-screen presentation adds to that appeal. Awarapan 2 succeeds because it respects where the franchise came from without pretending that cinema hasn't changed since 2007. It is bigger, more ambitious and more conventional as a thriller than the original, but it retains the grief, rage, sacrifice and search for redemption that made Shivam Pandit memorable. Vishesh Bhatt's franchise vision, Vishesh Films' creative identity, Nitin Kakkar's direction, Bilal Siddiqui's writing and Emraan Hashmi's return all work toward the same goal: taking Shivam's story forward rather than simply repeating it. Disha Patani gets a meaningful role, Puran Gabbi emerges as a genuine discovery, the supporting cast adds weight and the music remains an essential part of the experience. It may not have the same bleak intimacy as Awarapan, but that isn't what this film is trying to be. This is the 2026 chapter of Shivam Pandit's journey much bigger, louder and still carrying the same old wound. Director: Nitin Kakkar,  Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani, Shabana Azmi, Puran Gabbi, Suvinder Vicky and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/nH0_7NckLLpkJ8vL_awarapan2.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-08-14T04:07:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-awarapan-2"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Vishwanath and Sons'"},"content":{"text":"Despite being a Tamil hero, Surya is a hero who has a good craze in Telugu. Telugu audiences have raised their expectations as soon as he says that he is working with a Telugu director. The film Surya, which was made in a Telugu production company and directed by a Telugu director, was promoted as a Telugu film. Let's see how this film, which has huge expectations among the audience, is doing in this review. Story: Sanjay Vishwanath (Surya) is a big businessman. Sanjay, who has everything, is not interested in marriage. But his mother (Radhika) insists on marriage and having a family. Sanjay becomes a father to a baby boy through surrogacy for his mother. While he is happy with Babu, unexpected developments take place. Babu develops serious health problems. Babu needs bone marrow. Then Sanjay goes to Maddy (Mamita Baiju), who is in the US. She has to give the bone marrow to Babu. 22-year-old Maddy, who came for Babu, falls in love with 42-year-old Sanjay. Where did that love lead? Who is Maddy really? You have to watch the movie to know these things. Performance: There is no need to mention the performance of the hero Surya. Millionaire Sanjay Vishwanath impressed in the role. Surya scored 100 out of 100 marks in showing that modesty. Surya impressed in a role that shows love while appearing serious in some scenes. Overall, there is no doubt that Sanjay Vishwanath brought the character to life. Fans enjoyed the shades of Surya's character. Surya impressed with his 40+ age look. Maddy's role is very crucial in the movie. The entire first half is based on that character. Mamita Baiju appeared in the role of an orphan with no one. Generally, any heroine would look good in the role of a naughty girl. But Mamita in the role of Maddy made me laugh, cry, and get angry. She was the main attraction of the film. It seemed that Maddy's role would have been better in the second half as well. Radhika impressed in the role of Sanjay's mother. She seemed to have transformed into a small child and acted. The other actors acted and impressed within the scope of their roles. Technical: It seemed that the music director focused more on the background score than on the songs. It must be said that his hard work was rewarded. Because the background score came out well. It led some scenes in an impressive way. Let's talk about cinematography. Generally, it is easy to show the beauty of the village, but to bring a rich family look, cinematography has more work. That work is good. It would have been better if the director had worked more on the second half. The structural values ​​are good. Editing needs to be improved in the second half. Plus points: Mamita Baiju Surya Entertainment Some sentimental scenes Minus points: Second half Fights Analysis: Director Venky seems to have come up with a mature story once again. However, this time, the addition of a love story made it a youthful entertainer. Especially in the first half, the scenes with the heroine should definitely make the audience fall in love. The scenes between the hero and heroine make you laugh on one side and cry on the other. Although the second half seemed to be a bit sentimental, it ended on a positive note. There is no doubt that if the first half was as entertaining as the second half, it would have been even better if it had been more entertaining along with sentiment. Overall, this film can be watched for the heroine Mamita Baiju and for the sentimental scenes. Finally... The first half is fun, the second half is balanced with emotion. Banner: Sitara Entertainments Producer: Suryadevara Nagavamsi Director: Venky Atluri Music: G.V. Prakash Kumar Cast: Surya, Mamita Baiju, Radhika Sarath Kumar, Raveena Tandon, Nassar, Sudha and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ahgA9bK9tuLqENie_vishwanathandsons.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-08-14T07:46:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-vishwanath-and-sons"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Korean Kanakaraju'"},"content":{"text":"Mega hero Varun Tej, who has been greeting the audience with a series of films, has once again come to the Telugu audience with a different concept. This time, he has come to the audience with a Korean ghost concept like never before. He has attracted everyone's attention by coming to the audience with a ghost concept.  A large-scale publicity program was organized before the release. With that, a huge buzz was created. Let's see if the movie lives up to that buzz in the review. Story: Kanakaraju (Varun Tej) from Penukonda area leads a smooth life. He falls in love with Chaitra (Rithika), who works for Kia car companies. An angry Kanakaraju has a fight with a local rowdy gang. At that time, in the wake of unforeseen developments, the ashes of a person from Korea arrive in India. They reach Penugonda. The soul of the deceased Korean man enters Kanakaraju's body. Why did that soul enter Kanakaraju's body and what happens next is the rest of the story. Actors' performance: Varun Tej seems to have done 100 percent justice to the character of Kanakaraju. There is no doubt that he acted as if the angry Kanakaraju was really in front of us, and there is no doubt that the way he spoke in Korean when the Korean soul entered him took Varun's acting to another level. Varun, who maintained a good physique to match the character, also impressed with his comedy timing. It is no exaggeration to say that Varun has never done this level of comedy before. Varun impressed with his acting in the action scenes, but he could not do much with his dance. Heroine Rithika impressed with her cute looks. However, despite the importance of her role in the story, she did not get much opportunity to appear in the screenplay. The scenes with Satya were good, but Satya's dominance is clearly visible in it. Rithika impressed in two or three scenes along with her cute beauty display.  Comedian Satya appeared on the screen more than the second hero. At the same time, he impressed with his comedy. Overall, Satya's comedy was the main attraction in the film. Those who played the rest of the characters did not seem to care. Technical: The songs provided by music director Thaman seemed mediocre, but the background score was good here and there. Thaman impressed in some horror scenes. Overall, it must be said that Thaman's work is not up to his level. It would have been better if the songs were two or three good. The cinematography seems to be okay. It seemed like the focus on action scenes was reduced in order to show Korean beauties. The heroine was shown as cute. More care should have been taken in the matter of hero elevation. It would have been better if director Gandhi had rewritten the story and given a different treatment to the screenplay. The production values ​​are good. There is a possibility of trimming some of the second-off scenes. Analysis: The main attraction of the movie is the concept. It seems that director Gandhi has not been completely successful in carrying out that concept with a proper screenplay. However, he has brought the movie to a close with comedy. It is commendable that the director has chosen Satya for that role with full faith. The comedy has the potential to make the movie closer to the family audience. Since there have been no movies with the concept of a Korean ghost movie so far, this movie is sure to feel new. Director Gandhi has a reputation for making different movies.. This movie is a continuation of that. Varun Tej has fully fulfilled the responsibility assigned to him. It would have been better if he had thought better about the screenplay and worked out the horror scenes. The graphics seem poor. It seems like it was made using AI technology. Plus points: Concept, Hero heroine, True comedy Minus points: Routine horror, Graphics, Korean language. Finally... A routine horror drama that will please mega fans Banner: UV Creations Director: Merlapaka Gandhi Producer: Vamsi, Pramod Music: Thaman Cast: Varun Tej, Rithika Nayak, Satya and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/Ui6FbufwpUs86SxR_KoreanKanakaraju.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-08-07T06:59:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-korean-kanakaraju"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Chennai Love Story'"},"content":{"text":"Small films are having a good time in Tollywood. The makers have been repeatedly saying that they are bringing this film to the audience as a content-oriented film, in the wake of the huge success of making content-oriented films. The makers who gave a super hit film like Baby have brought this film to the audience. Let's see how this film, which was released today, is like in the review. Story: Niv (Sri Gauri), who wanted to fall in love and get married, is unexpectedly cheated by her boyfriend Ajay (Trigun). He leaves her by saying that he loves another girl before the wedding. With that, Nivi turns into a lady Devadasu and becomes addicted to drinking. At that time, her friends take her to Chennai and try to change her a little. But her behavior does not change. That's when Steven Shankar (Kiran Abbavaram) steps into Chennai to show his mettle as a director. Friends help Shankar, an orphan, and allow him to stay in their room. The room is close to Nivi. At first, Shankar's words used to irritate Nivi. Slowly, she gets closer to him. Love blossoms between the two. But amidst unpredictable developments, their love runs into a problem. What is that problem and will the two meet again is the plot. Acting: Kiran Abbavaram impressed with his good acting, like in the past, he impressed with his looks as if he was the boy next door. Playing the role of an innocent person is not an easy thing. But Kiran Abbavaram played the role very easily. Kiran Abbavaram showed well in this role what an innocent person who steps into Chennai with an effort to impress the director would be like. There is no doubt that this heroine Gowry Priya  is the most crucial role in the story. She has done complete justice to her role. Siri Hanumanthu has once again impressed with her acting in a good role. She is likely to get more good roles in the future. Those who played other roles impressed within the scope of their roles. Technical: When the director thought that the story was being handled well, he tried to say something new by saying Atma Paramatma in the second half. It must be said that it failed. In terms of screenplay, the second half failed. The music was impressive, especially the background score was impressive. Manisharma once again showed his magic. Cinematography is good. There is no doubt that cinematography has definitely been useful in showing the beauty of Chennai. The dialogues are good. There are some flaws in the editing, and there is still work to be done in the second half. The structural values ​​are according to the story. Plus points: Hero, heroine acting, Manisharma's background score First off Minus points: Second half, Routine screenplay. Analysis: Producer Sai Rajesh has been making comments in several media conferences and interviews that this film is definitely a baby range cult love story, but it doesn't seem like it has any scenes. While you think that the first half of the film will be smooth and interesting, he made the second half boring by adding unnecessary elements. If the same love story had been continued simply, the second half would definitely have been a good talk. Hero Kiran Abbavaram impressed with his good performance. The audience will definitely appreciate him, and heroine Gauri also did full justice to her role. Gauri impressed in the role of a drunkard and Lady Devadasu, but it must be said that the screen did not match their performance. Overall, Chennai Love Story turned out to be an average love story. Finally... It makes feel like going all the way to Chennai for this love story Banner: Mass Movie Makers Producer: SKN, Sai Rajesh Director: Ravi Namburu Music: Mani Sharma Cast: Kiran Abbavaram, Gowri Priya, Siri and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/0yN9tZHPaAuq2hyg_CLS.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-24T08:01:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-chennai-love-story"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Jana Nayakudu' "},"content":{"text":"Expectations have increased among all sections of the audience on the film Jana Nayaku, which was advertised as the last film of Tamil superstar Vijay. Although it was not officially announced that it is a remake of the film Bhagwant Kesari, which came in the combo of Balakrishna and Anil Ravipudi, the makers have been unofficially saying it.  This film, which was delayed a lot due to Tamil Nadu politics, made a royal entry without any problems as Vijay became the CM of Tamil Nadu. And how is this film? Will the audience like this story again in Telugu? Let's see in this review. Story: Vetri Kondan's (Vijay) mother dies in jail. Out of humanity, the jailer releases Vetri Kondan on parole and sends him out to see his mother for the last time. When Vetri is sent out, the jailer gets into a big problem. Vetri Kondan learns that the jailer who helped him is in trouble, and goes to his house. In the wake of unexpected developments, the jailer dies. His only daughter, Viji (Mamita Baiju), becomes an orphan.  The jailer who helped him looks after his daughter and wants to make her an army officer. But Viji says she will not join the army out of fear. Why does Vetri want to send Viji to the army? Will Viji finally join the army? What difficulties will Vetri face in doing so? This is the story. Performance: There is no need to mention anything special about Superstar Vijay's performance. Just as Balakrishna adapted to the role in Bhagwant Kesari, there is no doubt that Vijay also adapted to the role of Vetri. The screenplay was such that the entire story of the film was carried on his shoulders. Even so, Vijay acted well in every scene without giving up. There is no doubt that he impressed with his comedy timing. His fans will enjoy the action scenes to the fullest. Now that he is the CM, he has tried to show Vijay in that angle as well, which is a feast for the eyes of the fans. Since this is Vijay's last film, it seems that he gave his best. Pooja Hegde, who played the heroine, does not have much screen presence. It must be said that Pooja Hegde's screen presence is less than what Kajal Aggarwal's role was in the original Telugu version. Mamita Baiju played the role of Viji, played by Srileela in Telugu and got good marks. It seemed that Mamita did Viji's role even better than Srileela. Along with impressive looks, the two heroines gave good expressions to suit their roles. However, Pooja Hegde's role did not get priority. Mamita impressed as much as she did. Bobby Deol impressed in terms of looks. It would have been better if he had been shown as a stronger and better villain. Since the villain role was not given priority in the story, Bobby Deol's performance became like water poured on ashes. Technical: Director H Vinod tried to make the Telugu story as it is and add Tamil flavor to the screenplay. He made the story without making many changes in the first half. However, when it came to the second half, he made many changes. The entire screenplay changed as if it was a new story. Vijay's character also left the audience in a bit of a quandary. There is nothing much to say about the music. Anirudh, as usual, gave a good background score to Vijay's film. But since the songs did not have much scope, Anirudh's work did not come out much.  The cinematography is good. The cinematography is definitely good in elevating the action scenes. There are errors in the editing. Some scenes in the second half, especially the villain scenes, could have been trimmed. It would have been better if the heroine scenes that are not part of the story were also trimmed a bit. The production values ​​are good. The story was produced with added weight without detracting from it. Plus points: Vijay, Some Action Scenes, Mamita Baiju Minus points: Story, screenplay, Being a familiar story, Second half, Villain role. Analysis: The film Jana Nayakkudu, which was supposed to be released early this year, did not see its release due to censor problems due to Tamil Nadu politics. Officials said that permission could not be given for the release of the film in the wake of the assembly elections. With Vijay becoming the CM, the film Jana Nayakkudu came plowing ahead without any problems and shook the Tamil box office. This movie has been seen in Telugu before. Even though it is known that this is a remake of Balakrishna Bhagwant Kesari, many enthusiasts booked in advance and watched the movie. The movie got a good opening in Telugu states.  It is undeniable that Jana Nayakkudu could not satisfy the Telugu audience completely. Tamil audience will think aha.. oh my for Vijay Elevations. Moreover, they will like it because it is a new story, but Telugu people do not have much to like about this movie, even though the second half seems to have changed a bit, it felt like it was forced. The political elements were not set in the story at all. There is action but no emotion. The magic is missing in the screenplay. Overall, Jana Nayakkudu does not have anything new that the Telugu audience will like much. Finally... A Tamil mass leader who cannot please Telugu people. Banner: KVN Productions Producer: Venkat K. Narayan Director: H Vinod Music: Anirudh Cast: Vijay, Pooja Hegde, Mamita Baiju, Sunil, Bobby Deol and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/8WXmx3hoavnPTLpj_jananayakudu.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-23T08:18:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-jana-nayakudu-"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"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"],"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"}}]}},"pageContext":{"isCreatedByStatefulCreatePages":true}}