{"data":{"all":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"GV Prakash Steps Into Anil’s Camp"},"content":{"text":"Ace director Anil Ravipudi, who is riding a huge success wave, on Friday welcomed National Award-winning music director G V Prakash on board his next Telugu film featuring actors Victory Venkatesh and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram in the lead. Anil Ravipudi took to his X timeline to post a hilarious video and wrote, \"I've always admired @gvprakash's ability to make music that connects instantly with audiences. Thrilled to welcome him on board for #VenkyAnil5 - #NKRAnil2. And we had a blast pulling off this fun concept...A big thank you to GV for trusting the idea, joining in wholeheartedly, and making it so much fun. Looking forward to making some beautiful memories together brother. Victory @VenkyMama garu @NANDAMURIKALYAN garu.\" The video that Anil Ravipudi posted opens with a nostalgic tribute to legendary filmmaker Jandhyala by recreating an iconic scene from 'Aha Naa Pellanta', where the characters are seen buried in the sand up to their necks.  Anil Ravipudi goes on to explain to G V Prakash why he has got him buried in sand upto his neck. He says, \"G V Prakash, you are busy as a hero, as a producer and as a music director. My producer wanted me to have your hands and legs tied and get work done. I thought this would be different and have got you in this position.\"  He then gives him a harmonium and asks him to score a tune. G V Prakash reminds the director that it won't be enough if he has just a harmonium but that he also needs to use his hands, if he has to score music. The director then lets G V Prakash get his hands alone out of the sand.  When G V Prakash requests for a lyricist, he realises that celebrated lyricist Anantha Sriram too is in the same state that he is in -- buried upto his neck in sand!  With this creative announcement, Anil Ravipudi has once again showcased his flair for comedy. Sources say the pooja ceremony and regular shoot of the movie is expected to commence soon. Sources close to the director have said that the film is likely to hit screens for the festival of Sankranthi in January, next year. This project is especially notable as it marks Anil Ravipudi’s fifth collaboration with Venkatesh, following blockbuster entertainers like 'F2', 'F3', 'Sankranthiki Vasthunnam', and an extended cameo in 'MSG'. It is also his second film with Kalyan Ram, after the sensational blockbuster 'Pataas'. Sources say the director has brought together stars from the Daggubati and Nandamuri families for this exciting new film to be made as a clean entertainer with a fresh and highly relatable storyline. Designed to connect with audiences of all age groups, the film is being planned as a perfect festive treat. Sources say it will seek to deliver a healthy mix of humour, emotions, and strong entertainment, staying true to Anil Ravipudi’s trademark style of wholesome cinema."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiwNGqlQnVZVESqt_gv.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T13:00:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcpRsv8dMxQ"}},"uid":"gv-prakash-steps-into-anils-camp"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Salman Takes ‘Kaala Hiran’ Battle to Court"},"content":{"text":"Actor Salman Khan has approached the Delhi High Court seeking a ban on the release of the movie 'Kaala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy.'    Salman Khan has filed a petition for a permanent and interim injunction in the High Court, asking to restrain Amit Jani, Jani Firefox Films, Bharat Shrinath, Akshay Pandey, and others from the production, development, financing, distribution, direction, and promotion of 'Kaala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy.'  In his petition, Salman Khan alleged that the film's poster openly violates his personality rights. He added that his name, image, and public identity are being misused for commercial gain without permission.   Salman Khan stated that the proposed film and its promotional materials are an infringement on his personality rights, which could affect his reputation and legal rights. Before this, Salman Khan also sent a legal notice to the makers of the film, asking for an immediate halt to the development and promotion of the movie. In the notice, Salman Khan had alleged that the project seems to be inspired by his infamous blackbuck hunting case. He pointed out that the film could harm his reputation. In the notice, he further added that the film might interfere with the ongoing judicial proceedings in the case, along with violating his personality rights. In the legal notice, it was stressed that the blackbuck case is still pending before the Rajasthan High Court, and hence, the movie might interfere with the administration of justice, creating a prejudice against Salman Khan. For those who do not know, Salman Khan was accused of allegedly hunting two blackbucks in Kankani village near Jodhpur, Rajasthan, in September 1998 during the shoot of the film \"Hum Saath Saath Hain\". The Bishnoi community filed a complaint against Salman Khan and his co-actors from the family entertainer, Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Neelam, and Tabu, accusing them of hunting two blackbucks during the shoot."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2992f19a-8843-4c6a-9ded-3d462edca8d6_salaman+khan.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T09:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"salman-takes-kaala-hiran-battle-to-court"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Pawan Kalyan Confirms 'OG 2'"},"content":{"text":"Pawan Kalyan, the actor-politician, set the box office on fire with the release of 'They Call Him OG' in September last year, shortly after taking office as the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. Directed by Sujeeth, the film showcased Pawan Kalyan in a stylish role that resonated strongly with his fans. With hints dropped in the film, speculation about a sequel or prequel began to swirl. Music director Thaman's recent comments about 'OG 2' further fueled the anticipation.  Finally, putting an end to the speculation, Pawan Kalyan's production house, Pawan Kalyan Creative Works, shared an update on social media, confirming the sequel. The announcement has left fans thrilled, eagerly awaiting the return of one of Pawan Kalyan's most celebrated recent roles. 'OG' was a massive box-office success, grossing nearly Rs 300 crore during its theatrical run, with Thaman's music and background score earning wide acclaim. Priyanka Mohan played the female lead, and Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi made his Telugu debut as the antagonist."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aMvojGGNHVfTPXCi_og2.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T10:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"pawan-kalyan-confirms-og-2"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"AI171 Survivor’s Life Takes Another Turn"},"content":{"text":"One year after the tragic crash of Flight 171 in Ahmedabad, Viswashkumar Ramesh, the sole survivor, continues to grapple with the profound impact of the disaster. Ramesh shares his ongoing struggles with sleep, anxiety, and haunting memories, shedding light on the enduring trauma resulting from the tragedy. Images of Ramesh walking away from the crash site, stained with blood, have left an indelible mark on global media. Having lost his brother in the catastrophe, Ramesh faces not only physical and psychological challenges but also financial hardships. He has sought legal representation to explore civil claims and is in negotiations with Air India for rehabilitation support.  The Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed 32 seconds after take-off on June 12, 2025, claiming 260 lives, including 241 on board and 19 on the ground. Despite the harrowing ordeal, Air India has reaffirmed its commitment to providing comprehensive support to all those affected by the AI171 tragedy. Ramesh, 39, residing in Leicester with his family, emphasizes that survival is only a part of his story, as he continues to grapple with the overwhelming difficulties that have arisen since the crash. He expresses gratitude for being alive but emphasizes the far more arduous challenges he faces daily.  Ramesh has engaged Hudgell Solicitors in the UK to represent his legal interests, seeking redress for the disaster's repercussions. Constructive discussions with Air India are underway to secure physical and psychological rehabilitation support. Patel, a community leader close to Ramesh's family, highlights the profound impact of the disaster on Ramesh, stating that he remains severely traumatized and dependent on support for daily activities.  In March, Ramesh met with representatives of the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) as part of the official inquiry into the crash. The UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch, offering expert assistance to Indian investigators, extends sympathy to all those affected by the accident. The enduring trauma and legal battles faced by Ramesh and other families affected by the tragedy underscore the long-lasting impact of the AI171 crash."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiwJKKlQnVZVESlG_ai171survivor.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C137%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T11:27:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ai171-survivors-life-takes-another-turn"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Flop actor' remark in Akshay upcoming film"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has explained the reason behind using the expression \"flop actor\" for him in his upcoming film 'Welcome to the Jungle'. The actor attended the trailer launch of his upcoming film 'Welcome to the Jungle' in the city on Thursday. The actor spoke with the media on the sidelines of the trailer launch. When asked why the makers of the film deem it fit to use the expression for him, the actor said that the phrase should be seen in the context of a film rather than as a personal remark. Akshay Kumar told the media, \"We are not told that you have to use such dialogues as taunts. So, when you watch a movie, I am sure you are a smart person. Whenever you watch a movie, you watch it according to the character of the movie. So, please, thank you for feeling bad about it. But don't take it so seriously.\" Elsewhere during the event, the superstar, whose romance with actress Raveena Tandon during the 1990s enjoyed significant public attention, spoke up about the actress. The actor shared how times have changed as his former love interest once ruled Bollywood as a heroine but now she has become the heroine's mother. The superstar pointed to Raveena’s daughter Rasha Thadani. Akshay Kumar also lauded Raveena Tandon for her professionalism and strong set of ethics, as the former said, \"I want to tell you about Raveena that she has been very very professional. I still remember, I was shooting a film where the sun was about to set. And when the sun was about to set, there were only 25-30 minutes. And the green room was very far and she had to quickly change and come. That was impossible. But I still remember, she went to the generator van and quickly changed and came.\" \"So that has been, a lot of changes have happened. She (Raveena Tandon) is a brilliant actor. And one more thing that has changed, earlier she was a heroine, now she is a heroine's mother,\" he added."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/8977bb32-8954-41c1-9372-4eaf47b7e9cf_akshay+kumar.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T21:22:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"flop-actor-remark-in-akshay-upcoming-film"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Legendary shooting coach Jaspal Rana passes away"},"content":{"text":"Renowned Indian shooting coach and former Asian Games gold medallist Jaspal Rana dies at 49.  Rana, who coaches several Indian pistol shooters, including double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker, was serving as the high-performance coach for Indian pistol events. Rana was admitted to hospital after feeling discomfort while returning to India from the ISSF World Cup in Munich. National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) President Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo consoled the demise of Rana. “It is a huge loss. He was not only a champion shooter but also a great mentor. He will be deeply missed,\" he told IANS. Rana, who won numerous medals at international stage, was India’s most successful athlete in Commonwealth Games history, with a remarkable tally of 15 medals—9 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze—won across four editions of the Games: 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2006. He has won eight medals in Asian Games across 1994, 1998 and 2006 editions. He was awarded the Arjuna Award in 1994 and the Padma Shri in 1997 for his contributions to Indian shooting. Recognised for his excellence in coaching, Rana received the Dronacharya Award in 2020, India's highest honour for sports coaching. After a great career as a shooter himself, he turned coaching and helped train the country's best new pistol shooters. His biggest success was coaching Manu Bhaker, who made history by winning two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics. Rana has also coached other top shooters, like Saurabh Chaudhary, Anish Bhanwala, and Chinki Yadav, helping to build a strong future for Indian shooting."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiuTl6lQnVZVEQD7_Untitled-1copy.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T04:50:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"legendary-shooting-coach-jaspal-rana-passes-away"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Rajini to make his debut as a doctor?"},"content":{"text":"The excitement surrounding Rajinikanth's upcoming film, Thalaivar 173, has been steadily increasing since reports confirmed Ashwath Marimuthu as the new director. Although Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International (RKFI) has yet to officially announce the change, a recent birthday post dedicated to the director has fueled speculation.  Sources close to the production revealed that a look test photo shoot recently took place in Chennai, capturing Rajinikanth in a doctor's attire, including a stethoscope. This marks the first time Rajinikanth will be portraying a doctor on screen, a departure from his previous role as a psychologist in Chandramukhi. While rumors suggest the story may be inspired by real-life doctors like the renowned Rs 5 doctor, specific plot details remain under wraps.  The film is scheduled to commence filming on June 26 at Sundar Studios in Poonamallee. Additionally, there are speculations that Mysskin, who previously worked with Ashwath on Dragon, will also be part of Thalaivar 173. Fans eagerly await further details about the cast, crew, plot, genre, and release date.  Originally, Sundar C was slated to direct Thalaivar 173, but following his departure, Cibi Chakravarthy was brought on board before Ashwath Marimuthu took over. Meanwhile, RKFI is gearing up for another collaboration with Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, directed by Nelson and tentatively titled KHxRK Reunion."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/92ff499f-4de3-4e21-8ecf-a758d17ba7c1_rajini.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T18:36:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rajini-to-make-his-debut-as-a-doctor"}},{"node":{"tags":["Health"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Is Your Soda Habit Causing Hair Loss?"},"content":{"text":"Are your beloved sodas harming your hair? While soft drinks have long been criticized for their impact on weight, diabetes, and heart health, a new concern has emerged regarding their potential effects on hair. The discussion gained traction after hair transplant surgeon Dr. Abhishek Pilani highlighted the issue on Raj Shamani's Figuring Out podcast.  According to Dr. Pilani, regular consumption of sugary cold drinks may create conditions within the body that are not conducive to healthy hair growth. While consuming one soda is unlikely to cause sudden hair loss, a study published in the journal Nutrients in 2023 found a link between higher consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and male-pattern hair loss in young men. However, it's essential to note that the study established a correlation, not causation. The potential connection between soft drinks and hair health lies in the impact of high-sugar beverages on overall health.  Excessive sugar consumption can lead to repeated spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, potentially contributing to inflammation and metabolic issues that affect the body, including hair growth. However, hair loss is rarely attributed to a single factor and is typically the result of various elements accumulating over time, including genetics, hormones, nutrition, lifestyle, and overall health. Healthy hair growth relies on a balanced intake of nutrients such as iron, protein, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins. While soft drinks don't directly deplete these nutrients, excessive consumption may lead to healthier options being replaced.  The concern lies in long-term habits rather than occasional consumption. The normal range of daily hair loss is between 50 and 100 strands, but concerns arise when lost hairs aren't adequately replaced. While soft drinks may not directly cause hair loss, their impact on overall health could potentially affect hair growth. Instead of fixating on individual cans of soda, experts emphasize the importance of considering overall lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress management, balanced nutrition, and reduced sugar intake. Ultimately, addressing concerns about hair health may begin with dietary and lifestyle adjustments."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aDbfAydWJ-7kSniS_jucessoda.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T18:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"is-your-soda-habit-causing-hair-loss"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Musk’s Wealth Soars to $970 Billion!"},"content":{"text":"Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) -- the Elon Musk-led rocket and satellite company -- has priced its blockbuster initial public offering (IPO), pushing Musk’s net worth to nearly $970 billion and bringing him closer to becoming the world’s first trillionaire, as per multiple reports.  Reports claim that SpaceX priced its shares at $135 apiece, raising about $75 billion in what is being billed as the largest IPO in history and valuing the company at around $1.77 trillion. The company is expected to begin trading on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol ‘SPCX’. The IPO pricing is estimated to add roughly $275 billion to Musk’s wealth, taking his net worth to around $970 billion. Musk’s SpaceX holdings, including options, are valued at approximately $688 billion at the IPO price. Regulatory filings showed that Musk beneficially owns 849.49 million Class A shares and 5.57 billion Class B shares as of May 1, representing a combined holding of around 6.42 billion shares across both classes. Before completion of the offering, Musk controls about 85 per cent of the company’s voting power through SpaceX’s dual-class structure, under which Class B shares carry ten votes each compared with one vote for each Class A share. The filing also disclosed major insider holdings across the company’s leadership and board. Founded by Musk in 2002, SpaceX has become one of the world’s most prominent aerospace companies through its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy reusable rockets, Dragon spacecraft and Starship launch programme. The company has also expanded through its satellite internet business, Starlink. The listing is expected to mark a watershed moment for public markets and could trigger a fresh wave of mega technology IPOs in the coming months."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/7b8617d0-8425-461b-ac2b-914374ef1d08_musk.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T04:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"musks-wealth-soars-to-970-billion"}},{"node":{"tags":["Editorial","featured","one"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Mega DSC: How A 'Mega' Move Became A 'Mega' Mess"},"content":{"text":"“In modern political warfare, facts matter far less than who tells the story better” If you want proof that propaganda has a comic way of unfolding, look no further than the current chaos surrounding Andhra Pradesh's \"Mega DSC\" teacher recruitment. The TDP-led alliance government is now caught in a major political storm, all because a newly energized opposition found the perfect script to spin its own narrative, proving that in the theatrical arena of politics, from “Alaska to Amalapuram”, timing is everything. What was meant to be Chandrababu’s proudest administrative milestone has been completely hijacked by an aggressive opposition strategy, offering an ironical lesson in how easily a grandiose policy can be turned into a total embarrassment. The TDP-led alliance government, when it conducted Mega DSC recruitment drive, was all planning to hit the ground to hold celebrations, desperate to flaunt it as the ultimate pre-election promise fulfilled. It was supposed to be a flawless political feast, serving 16,347 teaching jobs to a young electorate that had been starving for employment for years. Instead, the opposition YSRCP completely gatecrashed the party, flipped the buffet tables, and loudly claimed the soup was poisoned. With surgical precision, YSRCP chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy rebranded the \"Mega DSC\" into what he calls the “Daga DSC” (Deceptive DSC) scandal. This brilliant narrative flip instantly transformed a chest-thumping government achievement into a defensive bunker for Nara Lokesh, the Harvard-returned State Education Minister, and N. Chandrababu Naidu, a self-styled visionary leader who has always preferred being seen as a corporate CEO rather than a democratically elected Chief Minister. To understand the sheer comedy of errors currently playing out on regional television, one must appreciate the wild accusations being hurled by the opposition. According to the YSRCP's highly publicized attack, the recruitment drive operates less like a standardized government exam and more like an elite, state-sponsored wheeling and dealing operation. The opposition’s magnificent propaganda script reads like a supernatural thriller, revolving around the spooky mysteries of the \"Vanishing Merit List,\" \"Missing Data,\" and jobs magically awarded through the sports quota. In a spectacular twist of cloak-and-dagger governance, the opposition claims the state completely ditched the boring old protocol of proudly displaying selection lists at District Collector offices. Instead, they allegedly opted for a high-tech \"Megha Sandesham\" strategy, a literal \"computing cloud\" maneuver, where the good news was quietly beamed down from the digital heavens straight to chosen candidates via ultra-private SMS messages. Then came a true miracle of academic fortune: an outsourcing employee, who just so happened to be linked directly to the examination process, somehow bagged the state's first rank. Naturally, when the opposition ruined the fun by pointing this out, the individual’s details vanished from official records so thoroughly that you couldn't even find them in the recycle bin of the government computers. To top it all off, YSRCP leaders allege the sports quota was so heavily compromised that non-sportspersons, including those whose only athletic excellence was in high-stakes card games, suddenly developed elite, Olympic-level abilities overnight, magically securing teaching jobs after middlemen reportedly charged a completely casual ₹15 lakh per post. The YSRCP's strategy appeared brutally effective, completely rewriting the script and forcing the entire TDP rank and file to frantically scurry for countermeasures. While the coalition government desperately wanted the headlines to read, \"We fulfilled what we promised,\" the opposition instead hijacked the narrative by rallying disgruntled DSC candidates onto the streets, mimicking a chaotic \"Cockroach Party\" style drama to loudly demand a CBI probe into what they brand a \"Brokered Recruitment Policy.\" By launching statewide protests and mobilizing their youth wing at district collectorates, the opposition has successfully shifted the public gaze away from the achievement of filling jobs and onto the anxiety of how they were filled. For a government that prides itself on tech-savvy governance and corporate-style transparency, being accused of \"paper leaks\" and \"data deletion\" is deeply ironic, if not outright humiliating. The response from the ruling alliance has been a mix of furious outrage and bureaucratic damage control. Rather than celebrating their governance success, the TDP's rank and file were forced to spend their media briefings calling Jagan’s claims \"false propaganda\" and \"desperate drama.\" Senior education officials have been dragged to the microphones to give complex lectures on \"vertical reservation systems\" and Supreme Court guidelines to prove that nothing illegal happened. But in politics, if you are explaining, you are losing. Every time a TDP minister went on television to explain why an SMS notification was better than a public notice board, the opposition appeared to score the brownie points of the narrative war. Ultimately, the Mega DSC saga shows that in modern political warfare, facts matter far less than who tells the story better. The TDP-led government may well have conducted a massive, rule-abiding recruitment drive. However, by allowing gaps in public data display and leaving room for the opposition to exploit irregularities, they handed the YSRCP a political goldmine. While the ruling alliance tries to salvage its narrative by promising yet another DSC notification in October, the damage to their \"Mega\" brand is already done. The lesson here is simple: when you promise a \"Mega\" initiative, you must prepare for \"Mega\" scrutiny. Otherwise, the opposition will happily turn your grandiose policy move into a public apology campaign."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiu7LalQnVZVEQ7o_megadscapjagancbn.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T06:54:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"mega-dsc-how-a-mega-move-became-a-mega-mess"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","three"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"RGV: Stop Chasing Stars, Start Storytelling"},"content":{"text":"Maverick director Ram Gopal Varma has heaped praise on Curry Barker’s budget-friendly supernatural psychological horror thriller \"Obsession,\" calling it a \"wake-up call\" for an industry obsessed with stars, remakes and bloated spectacles.  RGV on Friday morning took to X, formerly called Twitter, talked about the true power of cinema and said it lies in the psychological precision and emotional rawness rather than massive budgets. He wrote: “OBSESSION is how we SHOOT and CUT and not WHAT. OBSESSION made on a budget lesser than maybe the cost of a film stars entourage , will hopefully dismantle our complacency.” RGV shared that Obsession, which was made on a budget of 75000 dollars, proves that filmmakers should focus on making \"better films, not bigger films.” He added: “Forgetting the reported 750 k dollar budget , a film shot entirely in just 2 rooms, interior of a car and a small store with 5 new actors couldn’t have costed more than 70 lakh rupees (Forgetting fee of various) . On that cost , it grossed over $238 million dollars that is Rs 2,279 crores ..It reportedly will do more than 100 cr in india (sic).” RGV said that filmmaker Curry Barker‘s direction seems “deceptively simplistic, but it is highly weaponized.” “He shoots in confined spaces not to avoid scale but to trap the audience in the characters’ perspectives. Editing is not mere assembly but a rhythmic psychological assault... rapid cuts punctuated by sharp sound design (door slams, sudden laughs, heartbeats, voice tone alterations) alternate with agonizingly long holds , most memorably the interval shot lingering on Nikki’s face(My most favourite shot).” The filmmaker said that these “never-before-experienced techniques” has built an unbearable tension by denying escape, “forcing us viewers to feel the horror rather than observe it from afar.” The filmmaker said that “Obsession” “externalizes internal rot making the personal public and the psychological visceral. Its gore and emotional messiness turns pulp into something disturbingly resonant about loneliness and desire.” Talking about the “important lessons” learnt from the Hollywood film for any and all related to “films In our times of franchise fatigue and VFX bloat is that it proves that only rigorous directorial vision to arrest the viewer, cutting edge editing as a storytelling tool, and sound design for emotional punctuation and expressions of actors making one feel can generate much more impact than CGI ARMIES, MASSIVE SETS ,EXOTIC LOCATIONS and 500 CRORE budgets.” Revealing what Barker taught with his latest release is “that we film makers should OBSESS over how we shoot and cut, and not just WHAT we shoot?” “After the example of Obsession Producers and directors should treat low budgets as liberation, not limitation and focus their resources on performances, path breaking editing, and creative sound design , not to forget visionary makers The ROI here will seem obscene and vulgar to the producers who wasted 100’s of crores and shot their films for years.” Calling the film a “wake up call” in teaching, he said cinema’s power lies in psychological precision and emotional rawness, and not industrial excess. “For our industry OBSESSED with risk aversion chasing stars, making remakes and bloated spectacles, this film is a SLAP ON THE FACE.” The filmmaker added: “The greatest thing Curry Barker did more than making a BLOCKBUSTER , is that he taught us that our OBSESSION should be about making BETTER FILMS and not BIGGER FILMS.” Obsession follows Bear, played by Michael Johnston, a music store employee who buys a supernatural toy that grants his wish for his friend Nikki, essayed by Inde Navarrette, to fall in love with him, resulting in horrifying consequences."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aec01404-d28d-4d99-8619-780dee6af2c9_RGV.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C89%2C1280%2C631&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T06:01:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rgv-stop-chasing-stars-start-storytelling"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Dawood Network in New Terror Plot"},"content":{"text":"The Dawood Ibrahim syndicate is reportedly assembling a fresh network of sharpshooters across northern India and neighboring states to execute targeted killings of high-profile individuals, intelligence agencies have revealed.  An Intelligence Bureau official said that, unlike similar networks in the past, this one is not being pieced together to target high-profile politicians or prominent public figures. Instead, its objective is to carry out targeted killings of individuals who are well-known within their localities. “While the attacks may not attract national attention individually, the network is expected to execute a series of such killings,” the official claimed. An official said the pattern bears similarities to incidents witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir a few years ago, when shopkeepers and other influential local figures accused by terror groups of assisting Indian security agencies were selectively targeted. The Dawood gang’s objective is to create fear and spread panic among the public. The plan is to foster a sense of anxiety and uncertainty through a sustained campaign of violence. “The targets are likely to be ordinary individuals chosen at random. While the operations would be carefully planned, the final selection of targets would be left to the network,” another official said. The key instruction, the official added, is to ensure the killings occur at regular intervals and follow a discernible pattern. The effort to build this network comes at a time when security agencies recently dismantled a Dawood-linked module allegedly operated by his aide Munna Jhingada from Pakistan. Investigators said the group was planning a series of blasts at key locations and had recruited several individuals, including a Nepali national. The module was busted through coordinated operations carried out by the Special Cell of the Delhi Police, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Officials said the dismantling of the module dealt a major setback to the Dawood syndicate. The operation had reportedly been backed by Pakistan's intelligence agency, the Inter Services Intelligence, which had high expectations from the network and was banking on the syndicate's extensive links in India to ensure its success. Following the exposure of the module, which investigators said was intended to mirror the structure of the network behind the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, the ISI is believed to have instructed the syndicate to quickly devise a fresh strategy. An official said the new sharpshooter network is also being overseen by Jhingada, alias Sayyad Muzzakkir Muddasar Hussain. According to investigators, he has long managed the Dawood gang's network of contract shooters and reported directly to Dawood’s close aide, Chhota Shakeel. Jhingada later emerged as one of Shakeel's trusted shooters and is believed to have been involved in numerous killings. Impressed by his abilities, Shakeel allegedly assigned him the task of eliminating rival gang leader Chhota Rajan in Thailand. Following the failed attempt, Jhingada was arrested and spent 17 years in a Thai prison. After his sentence, he was extradited to Pakistan. “Given his background and his alleged involvement in several successful shootings in the past, he has now been tasked with leading the newly formed network of sharpshooters,” the officials said. The official said the network would deliberately carry out low-profile killings across the country at regular intervals to establish a pattern. The objective, he said, is to create fear among the public, with people becoming hesitant to venture out due to concerns over random shootings. The choice of victims would be aimed at fostering a sense of anxiety, making people believe that anyone could be next. “The network is expected to recruit shooters from Punjab, Mumbai, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh,” the official claimed. To avoid detection, operatives would generally not be deployed in their home states, where police may already have records on them. For instance, a shooter recruited from Uttar Pradesh would likely be assigned operations in another state, the official explained."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/5e1e7812-954c-461e-9f93-fd36c403bd18_dawood.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T08:52:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"dawood-network-in-new-terror-plot"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","two"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Lawrence: Mom Says Go, What Say Fans?"},"content":{"text":"Expressing his desire to enter politics, actor, dance choreographer and producer Raghava Lawrence on Friday asked his fans and the general public to let him know if they thought he should enter politics or not.  Taking to his social media timelines to post a video in which he explained his desire to enter politics, Raghava Lawrence said, \"Do your duty sincerely, without expecting anything in return. I Need Your Advice and Guidance. I never imagined entering politics. I never had any intention of earning money or seeking a seat. My only thought was that if someone I believed in and close to me entered politics, I would stand by them and work alongside them to serve society on a larger scale than I was already doing as an individual.\" He went on to add, \"Today, circumstances have brought me to a point where I need to enter politics.\"  The actor said that in the video that he was sharing, he had spoken about his understanding of politics, how it came into his life, his mother’s perspective on politics, and a few important and interesting incidents that had shaped his journey straight from my heart with complete honesty and transparency.  \"I request you to watch the video till the end and share your thoughts with me. Your advice and guidance mean a lot to me as I take this important step with all your blessings,\" he said. In the video that he shared, Raghava Lawrence said he went by the philosophy, 'Do your duty sincerely, without expecting its reward.' He narrated the story of a rich man having two servants to clean his room. While one paid attention to doing his duty alone, the other servant would keep praising the boss, Raghava Lawrence said and ended the story by saying how the man who had only done his duty got rewarded handsomely. He then went on to present details of his philanthropic activities before saying how he was prepared to enter politics along with Rajinikanth, when the Superstar had announced his decision to enter politics.  However, Raghava Lawrence said that he had decided against entering politics then because his mom was not for it. \"When I pointed out to her that I could help more children if I entered politics, my mother had said, 'You help with the money you have now. We don't need to enter politics'.\"  Raghava Lawrence then recalled that Rajinikanth's health too had suffered and he also announced that he was not entering politics. The actor then went on to say that he again thought of entering politics when Vijay announced his decision to come to politics. Stating that when he pointed out to his mom on the day of the election results that people had voted for Vijay and that people would trust and cast their votes if good people came to politics, Raghava Lawrence said he saw a smile on his mother's face for the first time. The actor then said his mother had now given him permission to enter politics. The actor ended the video by asking, \"I am asking my fans, who I consider equal to my mother. You tell me, Can I come to politics? Do I have the qualification? Comment and let me know.\""},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aivMxqlQnVZVERgX_lawrence.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C163%2C449%2C221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T08:09:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"lawrence-mom-says-go-what-say-fans"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"‘Peddi’ Makes Janhvi an Rs 8 Cr Actress!"},"content":{"text":"While debates continue over her portrayal in Peddi, Janhvi Kapoor has quietly achieved another milestone — her biggest-ever paycheck. Industry reports suggest the actress was paid a staggering Rs 8 crore for starring opposite Ram Charan in director Buchi Babu Sana’s much-talked-about Telugu entertainer, making it the highest remuneration of her career so far. The reported fee marks a significant jump from the Rs 5 crore she earned for Devara, highlighting her growing market value in the South film industry. Despite facing criticism over certain aspects of her role in Peddi, Janhvi’s commercial appeal appears stronger than ever. Trade circles believe her successful Telugu outings have elevated her into the league of bankable pan-India actresses, prompting producers to invest heavily in her star power. The actress is now lining up some of the biggest projects of her career, including a film with Allu Arjun reportedly directed by Atlee, apart from other high-profile Telugu and Hindi ventures. With her remuneration touching new heights and major banners competing for her dates, Janhvi seems to be turning controversy into opportunity. While Peddi may have sparked mixed reactions, it has undoubtedly strengthened her position as one of the most sought-after young stars in Indian cinema today."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ff74029d-5817-4641-b635-f7703118b9f6_janhvi+kapoor.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T16:50:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"peddi-makes-janhvi-an-rs-8-cr-actress"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"AI deepfakes: New threat to financial systems"},"content":{"text":"The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a fresh advisory warning about the growing misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by cybercriminals to create highly convincing deepfake videos and synthetic identities aimed at compromising financial and digital ecosystems. According to the advisory issued by the National Cybercrime Threat Analytics Unit (NCTAU) under the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) of the Home Ministry, cyber fraudsters are increasingly leveraging advanced AI tools to generate realistic digital impersonations capable of deceiving authentication systems. \"These technologies may be exploited to bypass facial authentication, liveness verification, Video-KYC, account recovery, and unauthorised access to financial and digital services. Fraudsters may attempt to gain unauthorised access to accounts by using facial recordings obtained through deceptive video calls, fake online job interviews or social engineering tactics,\" the advisory read. Elaborating on the pattern observed in such cybercrimes, the NCTAU outlined a multi-stage modus operandi employed by fraudsters. The process often begins with an initial approach through social media networks, messaging platforms, job portals, dating applications, or direct phone calls. Once communication is established, attackers move to the next phase by gathering facial data. The advisory noted that facial information may already be available through publicly accessible online content. In many cases, however, victims are persuaded to perform specific facial actions such as looking directly at a screen, turning their heads, blinking repeatedly, or speaking on camera. The collected recordings are then processed using AI-powered deepfake technologies. Through these tools, cybercriminals can create highly realistic digital replicas that mimic a person's facial expressions, eye movements, gestures, and even their voice. The advisory warned that if systems lack adequate deepfake detection capabilities, these fabricated identities may be used to bypass facial authentication and liveness verification checks. Authorities further cautioned that the misuse of such AI-generated content could facilitate fraudulent Know Your Customer (KYC) verification processes. By successfully defeating identity verification safeguards adopted by financial institutions, fraudsters may be able to create, activate or operate financial accounts for illegal purposes. To counter these evolving threats, the NCTAU has recommended several security measures for institutions as well as individuals. The advisory stated that customer onboarding systems, including those operated by fintech firms, should incorporate robust mechanisms capable of detecting deepfakes and other forms of synthetically generated content. \"Locking your biometric profile is the strongest defence against this type of remote identity theft,\" the advisory stated. In addition, individuals have been advised to closely monitor email notifications and alerts for any unauthorised login attempts or suspicious authentication activities that may indicate an attempt to misuse their identity. The advisory emphasised that any signs of financial fraud or identity theft should be reported immediately. Citizens have been encouraged to document incidents through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and provide relevant information, including the fraudster’s contact details and any video links involved in the scam. The NCTAU also warned users to remain vigilant about sudden disruptions in mobile network services, noting that such incidents could indicate a fraudulent SIM swap attack. Issuing a broader caution, the advisory clarified that it has been released to raise awareness about emerging AI-enabled identity fraud techniques. It added that references to identity verification systems and authentication processes are based on observed threat trends and \"do not imply vulnerabilities or compromise of any specific organisation, platform, or service.\""},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiqXRalQnVZVENP-_deepfake.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T10:41:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ai-deepfakes-emerging-as-new-threat-to-financial-s"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Why Ranbir shelved Kishore Kumar biopic?"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood superstar Ranbir Kapoor, once revealed what led to the shelving of his Kishore Kumar biopic. A clip from Ranbir’s podcast with the comedy collective AIB has resurfaced on the Internet, and it shows the actor saying that the film couldn’t see the light of day because of legal complications. When asked if the Kishore Kumar biopic was happening, he said, “It was happening but there is one character's family or one person's family didn't allow us to use that person. And that was the main conflict of Kishore Kumar's life. So, I hope it happens”. “Doing a biopic is very tricky because even when you are doing the Sanjay Dutt biopic, there were so many people's families who called, and said, ‘Don't write about us’. About his certain ex-girlfriend or certain wife. You can't use all that unless you have permission. So, it's tricky to make biopics”, he added. Earlier, Ranbir had purchased a land parcel in Ayodhya. The actor has bought the property valued at INR 3.31 crore, for a total area of 2,134 sq. ft. Ranbir Kapoor’s purchase follows recent high-value investments in Ayodhya by prominent individuals signalling growing confidence in Ayodhya’s emerging real estate and tourism ecosystem. The land purchase is part of a 75-acre landmark plotted development in Ayodhya on the banks of the river Sarayu. Meanwhile, on the work front, Ranbir has ‘Love & War’ co-starring his wife Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, and ‘Ramayana’ in the pipeline. The film marks Ranbir’s 2nd outing with Alia after ‘Brahmastra’, and with Vicky after ‘Sanju’."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aNpd8J5xUNkB1Nrl_ranbir.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T12:55:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"why-ranbir-shelved-kishore-kumar-biopic"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"TRS Hits a Name War Before Take-Off"},"content":{"text":"Even before hitting the political battlefield, K. Kavitha appears to have landed in an unexpected fight — over a name. Her newly floated Telangana Rakshana Sena (TRS) is facing a challenge from another outfit carrying the exact same acronym. The twist? The rival claimant is not from Telangana but from Solapur in Maharashtra, where a party called Telangana Rastrasamajika Senna (TRS) has also approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) seeking recognition under the TRS banner. The controversy has sparked political curiosity because the acronym \"TRS\" carries significant emotional and political value in Telangana. It was the identity under which the movement for Telangana statehood gained momentum before the party was renamed Bharat Rashtra Samithi. Sources indicate that hundreds of objections have already been filed before the ECI, including one from the BRS itself, which fears that multiple parties using the TRS tag could create confusion among voters and affect future electoral calculations. With two other parties reportedly using the TRS acronym at the Telangana State Election Commission level, the battle is no longer just about a name — it is about political legacy, brand value, and voter recall. As objections pile up, all eyes are now on the Election Commission's decision. For Kavitha, what was expected to be the launch of a new political platform has unexpectedly turned into a high-stakes trademark battle for one of Telangana's most recognizable political identities."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F9e6b7140-d0f5-4058-922f-69ca08d8479a_kavitha+trs.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C62%2C1024%2C505&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T16:27:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"trs-hits-a-name-war-before-take-off"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Kriti Roasts ₹370 Biryani Mindset"},"content":{"text":"The viral ₹370 biryani controversy has found another celebrity critic, and this time it came wrapped in sarcasm. Actress Kriti Kharbanda took a witty swipe at the mindset behind the now-infamous remarks made during comedian Pranit More’s stand-up show, where a man suggested he deserved something in return after spending ₹370 on a date. Without naming anyone directly, Kriti posted a sharp one-liner on Instagram: “Manifesting (Not) the confidence of someone who treats ₹370 like venture capital. Inflation is temporary. Delusion is forever.” The remark instantly struck a chord online, with social media users linking it to the ongoing debate around entitlement, consent, and misogyny. Her sarcastic comparison of a biryani bill to an investment became one of the most talked-about celebrity reactions to the controversy. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning the disturbing mindset that equates spending money on a date with earning a right to intimacy. From actors to law enforcement agencies, voices across the spectrum have condemned the remarks. Kriti’s punchline may have been humorous, but it underscored a serious message: respect and consent are never items on a restaurant bill."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aQ2sTrpReVYa4ONy_kritikharbanda.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T11:38:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"kriti-roasts-370-biryani-mindset"}},{"node":{"tags":["Videos"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"#NBK111 Glimpse"},"content":{"text":"#NBK111 Glimpse"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiqJBalQnVZVENEs_NBK111.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-10T18:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3u_wE0ocFus"}},"uid":"nbk111-glimpse"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Judge Steps Aside in Jacqueline Case"},"content":{"text":"Supreme Court judge, Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra, on Thursday recused himself from hearing Bollywood actor Jacqueline Fernandez’s plea challenging a Delhi court order framing charges against her in the Rs 200 crore money laundering case linked to alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar.  A bench of Justices P.K. Mishra and Atul S. Chandurkar was hearing the matter when Justice Mishra informed the parties that he would not be able to hear the case due to his son's appearance on behalf of the government in a connected matter. \"In one of the connected matters, my son had appeared on behalf of the government. The case must therefore be placed before a different Bench,\" he observed, directing that it be listed before another bench of which he is not a member. The matter has now been posted for hearing on June 25. In her special leave petition (SLP) filed before the Supreme Court, Jacqueline has challenged a Delhi High Court order refusing to quash the ED’s prosecution complaint and the trial court’s decision to frame charges against her under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Earlier this month, the actor pleaded not guilty before a Delhi court in the money laundering case and expressed her willingness to face trial. Appearing before the Patiala House Court on June 3, Jacqueline denied the charges framed against her under the PMLA and opted to contest the case on merits. The trial court also framed money laundering charges against Chandrashekhar, his wife Leena Maria Paul and 14 others, all of whom pleaded not guilty and sought trial. The matter is currently listed before the trial court for further proceedings on July 16. The development came weeks after Jacqueline withdrew her application seeking to become an approver in the case. The ED had opposed the plea, contending that her conduct during the investigation was \"not satisfactory\" and that she had failed to make a \"full and true disclosure\" in statements recorded under Section 50 of the PMLA. The anti-money laundering agency has alleged that Jacqueline remained in regular contact with Chandrashekhar even after becoming aware of his criminal background and did not fully cooperate with the investigation into the alleged proceeds of crime. According to the probe agency, Chandrashekhar arranged luxury gifts, valuables, and other benefits for Jacqueline using proceeds of crime generated through the alleged money-laundering activities. The ED has accused Jacqueline of receiving luxury gifts worth around Rs 7 crore from Chandrashekhar. However, the actor has consistently maintained that she had no knowledge of his alleged criminal activities or the source of the money used for those gifts. The money laundering case stems from allegations that Chandrashekhar cheated the wives of former Ranbaxy promoters Shivinder Singh and Malvinder Singh of nearly Rs 200 crore."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiqHe6lQnVZVENDE_jacqueline.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C23%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T08:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"sc-judge-steps-aside-in-jacqueline-case"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"TCS to empower 50,000 associates with Claude AI"},"content":{"text":"Indian IT giant Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) on Thursday announced a global strategic partnership with US-based AI firm Anthropic and said it will enable 50,000 associates across functions to use Claude as part of its enterprise-wide AI adoption strategy.  According to TCS, it will set up a dedicated business unit to deliver joint industry solutions and deep AI expertise on the Claude family of models through early access to Claude models. It further noted that the partnership aims to move AI projects beyond pilots in regulated industries. \"Combining TCS’ governance, controls and implementation expertise will enable enterprises to deploy Claude confidently in production, not just in experimentation,\" the IT firm said. Combining scaled internal deployment, joint go-to-market offerings, industry co-innovation, and workforce enablement, the partnership gives clients a practical path to enterprise-wide adoption and measurable outcomes, the company added. The partnership also extends to TCS products, platforms and domain specific solutions. Diligenta, TCS’s FCA-regulated life and pensions business in the UK, serving over 22 million life and pensions customers, will use Claude to improve customer experience through agentic process transformation at scale. Further, BFSI products and platforms teams will leverage Claude Code to enhance productivity in software engineering and IT operations. TCS will also bring its domain-led engineering expertise to the Claude Code ecosystem through reusable skills and plugins, including capabilities such as claims adjudication and lending advisory. “Enterprise AI value comes from understanding business context, orchestrating complex systems, and applying deep AI engineering talent,\" said K. Krithivasan, CEO and MD, TCS. The partnership will help customers move faster to production, especially in industries where trust, resilience, and regulatory discipline are critical, he added. Dario Amodei, co-founder and CEO, Anthropic, said that the partnership deepens the company's commitment to India, its second-largest market. “By combining Anthropic's capabilities with Tata Group’s scale, trusted relationships, and nation-building commitment, we will accelerate enterprise reinvention and equip India’s youth with the skills to lead in the AI era,” said N Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/119269ae-dd75-4418-af5e-c9da88404cf9_tcs.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T06:40:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"tcs-to-empower-50000-associates-with-claude-ai"}},{"node":{"tags":["Editorial","featured","four"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Disintegration Of TMC: A Warning For CBN?"},"content":{"text":"“The future has a warning through current symptoms in developing narratives” What this age-old political wisdom suggests is that the future loves leaving a trail of breadcrumbs right before it hits you with a brick. In the cynical world of politics, those breadcrumbs usually look like a sudden, stampede-style exit of \"deeply loyal\" opportunists who were singing your praises until five minutes ago, or the sudden twist of a very sharp knife in the back of an unsuspecting leader, courtesy of a smiling, hugging ally. It’s another matter this is a never-ending soap opera on the Indian political stage.   While highly paid television experts were glued to Maharashtra, watching Eknath Shinde dismantle the Shiv Sena like a happy demolition man, they completely missed the bigger joke. Pundits confidently declared it a local hit job by the BJP to delete the Thackeray family name from history. Not a single one of these geniuses realized they were actually looking at a giant, flashing neon warning sign meant for every family-run business and one-man show in Indian politics, from Mamata Banerjee’s Bengal empire to Chandrababu Naidu’s backyard. As events in Maharashtra unfolded, political analysts were so busy chanting the BJP's old “Congress Mukth Bharat” (\"Congress-free India\") slogan that they failed to notice a new strategy. The Shinde coup wasn't just about Maharashtra; it was the prelude to a \"Regional Party-Free India\" campaign. The goal was simple: swallow local parties whole and turn them into ghosts. It is less about democracy and more about political cannibalism. The Eknath Shinde episode kicked off right after the BJP hit a wall in the West Bengal elections. At that time, Mamata Banerjee’s victory didn't just hurt feelings; it shattered the myth that the supreme leader’s wave could flatten anything. The world finally realized the wave only worked against a weak Congress. When facing strong regional bosses who speak the local language and appeal to regional pride, the mighty wave looked more like a puddle. There followed a brief, sweet period when regional heavyweights held all the cards. Leaders used local culture, pride, and language to completely block the BJP’s grand nationalist narrative. They did it so well that by the 2024 elections, they shattered the BJP's “Abki Baar, Chaar Sau Paar” dream, forcing it into a minority status in Parliament and making it dependent on the support of parties like the TDP and JD(U). Consequently, the grand plan to wipe out local parties had to hit the brakes. Turns out, you can't devour regional entities when you suddenly need them to stay in power. The shattering of the \"400-plus seats\" slogan proved that trying to erase Congress completely actually backfired on the BJP. By trying to clear out the Congress, the BJP accidentally left a massive vacuum. Regional satraps across the country stepped right into that empty space. It became painfully obvious that the supreme leader's magic formula only delivers results when he is fighting a battered Congress in a straight, one-on-one match. In simple terms, the BJP's empire had strict borders; it could only expand as far as local parties allowed. But just as things looked stable, the political weather changed overnight. Thanks to some strict cleaning up by the Election Commission, self-inflicted wounds by the TMC, and Tamil Nadu voters getting tired of the same two local choices, the script flipped. What followed was the spectacular melting away of the TMC. This wasn't just a regular election loss where a party loses power and promises to do better next time. The TMC had ruled Bengal with an iron fist for 15 years. Watching it collapse this fast defied all rules of normal political gravity. This collapse is far worse than what happened to the Congress after the 2014 elections, or the Left when they lost Bengal. The TMC didn't just lose; its entire squad of MPs practically rebelled and packed their bags to support the BJP. This isn't just standard political backstabbing; it is a clear message to leaders like Chandrababu Naidu (CBN). Now that the TMC has imploded and Nitish Kumar has been successfully tamed into compliance, the BJP can get back to its favorite hobby: erasing regional parties. The next target in line is CBN in Andhra Pradesh. When Amit Shah casually announced that the BJP would go solo in the South, he wasn't just making small talk; he was giving Naidu a polite notice to check his exits. The signs of trouble are everywhere. The old Tamil parties are losing their grip, the TMC is so desperate it is thinking about running back to merge with the Congress, and Pawan Kalyan is publicly questioning why he should even attend Andhra cabinet meetings. These aren't random events. They are flashing red lights showing that the BJP is ready to push at least one regional partner out of the plane in Andhra Pradesh. As things stand, the BJP won't even need to budget for a strategy to finish off the YSRCP. Andhra's other regional heavyweight is currently curled up in a fetal position, nursing its electoral bruises and posing about as much threat to the BJP as a wet paper bag. Since that particular rival has already successfully ghosted itself out of relevance, the crosshairs naturally lock onto the only target left worth taming: CBN and his unsuspecting TDP. Can CBN, a veteran with a 40-plus-year political shelf-life, pull off a miracle and save the TDP from becoming completely irrelevant? Or will his party become just another dish at the national party's buffet? As they say in Bollywood: Picture abhi baaki hai—the movie isn't over yet."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aipz_alQnVZVEMr5_mocbma.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T07:38:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"disintegration-of-tmc-a-warning-for-cbn"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Opendoor Shuts India Ops, Cuts 250 Jobs"},"content":{"text":"US-based real estate technology company Opendoor has begun winding down its India operations, with CEO Kaz Nejatian announcing that roles currently based in the country will be relocated closer to the company's customers in the United States.  In a note shared with employees and the same posted on social media platform X, Nejatian said the company had started saying goodbye to its colleagues in India as part of a broader restructuring effort. \"Today we began to say goodbye to our colleagues in India as we wind down our India operations. Our customers are in America, and that's where our operational work belongs,\" he wrote. According to the CEO, Opendoor had nearly 250 employees in India when it launched 'Opendoor 2.0' a few months ago. Over the past several months, some of those roles had already been moved back to the US, and the company is now finalising the process of bringing the remaining operational positions closer to its customers. The move will affect all India-based employees, although a small number of team members will remain temporarily to support the transition of key workstreams. Nejatian said the decision was not a reflection of the performance of employees in India and described them as having done meaningful work for the company. \"Our colleagues in India are great people, and we recommend them to anyone hiring,\" he said, adding that affected employees would receive transition support, including severance packages, outplacement services and other resources. Explaining the rationale behind the move, the CEO said Opendoor's operational work is best carried out closer to customers in the US. He noted that the company had previously built a large team in India to manage manual workflows across fragmented systems but had since streamlined many of those processes. Nejatian said the company has unified its systems and built small AI-native customer-facing teams across the US, reducing the need for a large offshore operational workforce. \"After today, Opendoor 2.0 will be a much smaller company by headcount, but a much larger company by impact,\" he said. The company plans to simplify processes, reduce reliance on multiple tools and manual workflows, and build a unified platform that enables employees to track the entire lifecycle of a home transaction, from purchase and renovation to sale. Despite the workforce reduction, Nejatian said Opendoor remained in a strong position and that the company's strategic priorities had not changed. \"Our colleagues in India helped get Opendoor to where it is today, and we're grateful for it. Our job now is to keep tilting the world in favour of homeowners,\" he said."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aip-5alQnVZVEM3c_opendoor.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T04:56:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"opendoor-shuts-india-ops-cuts-250-jobs"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"India dominates global visa programmes"},"content":{"text":"India ranks at or near the top across major visa programmes tracked, including as the number one source of US H‑1B visas, number two for UK Skilled Worker visas and number two for EU Blue Cards, a report said on Thursday.  India continues to power major global skilled visa pipelines and is poised to benefit from shifting migration patterns as employers pay premiums for scarce talent rather than seeking cost saving, the report from workforce management services firm Deel said. Indians also led in both UAE Golden Visas and standard employment visas while already accounting for 38 per cent of the UAE’s total population. The report, covering data from over 40,000 companies hiring across more than 150 countries, found visa holders consistently earn more than local workers in comparable roles, underscoring that global hiring is driven by skill scarcity rather than wage arbitrage. In the United States, H‑1B workers earn a median $140,000 versus $130,000 for citizens in similar roles; in the UK Skilled Worker visa holders earn £96,000 versus £87,000 for nationals; and in the UAE Golden Visa holders earn 6,05,000 AED compared with 4,59,000 AED for standard employment visa holders. Australia recorded the fastest growth in hiring Indian talent on Deel’s platform, surging 724 per cent year‑over‑year, followed by the UK at 142 per cent and the US at 139 per cent. The UAE remains the top destination for Indian professionals globally, followed by Singapore, the UK, the US, and Canada. The report highlighted growing international demand for Indian tech talent, particularly across engineering, software development, AI, and digital services. Germany’s Opportunity Card programme, designed to attract skilled non-EU workers without requiring a job offer beforehand, has already issued nearly one-third of its total permits to Indians. “Rather than concentrating in a handful of traditional destinations, talent is moving across a broader set of markets,” said Lauren Thomas, Economist at Deel. The report said that India may be entering a new phase of increasingly attracting globally trained professionals back home as domestic opportunities expand."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2Fc8ca36a7-3775-4d07-91ef-ef2592306a21_visa.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C29%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T07:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"india-dominates-global-visa-programmes"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Once B'wood’s Queen, Now a Screen Mom"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, whose romance with actress Raveena Tandon during the 1990s enjoyed extensive public attention, has now spoken up about the actress. The actor attended the trailer launch of his upcoming film ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ in the city on Thursday. The actor spoke with the media on the sidelines of the trailer launch, and shared how times has changed as his former flame once ruled Bollywood as a heroine but now she has become the heroine's mother. The superstar pointed to Raveena’s daughter Rasha Thadani. The actor also lauded Raveena for her professionalism and strong set of ethics, as he said, “I want to tell you about Raveena that she has been very very professional. I still remember, I was shooting a film where the sun was about to set. And when the sun was about to set, there were only 25-30 minutes. And the green room was very far and she had to quickly change and come. That was impossible. But I still remember, she went to the generator van and quickly changed and came”. “So that has been, a lot of changes have happened. She is a brilliant actor. And one more thing that has changed, earlier she was a heroine, now she is a heroine's mother”, he added. Akshay Kumar and Raveena Tandon were among Bollywood’s most talked-about couples of the 1990s. Their romance reportedly blossomed after working together in films such as ‘Mohra’, whose blockbuster success and iconic songs made them a fan-favourite pair. During the late 1990s, the two were engaged and publicly acknowledged their relationship, but the engagement was eventually called off and they went their separate ways. Akshay married Twinkle Khanna in January 2001. They have two children, son Aarav and daughter Nitara. Raveena married film distributor Anil Thadani in 2004. She is the mother of four children, adopted daughters Pooja and Chhaya, and her biological children Rasha and Ranbirvardhan. Over the years, both Akshay and Raveena have moved on personally and professionally, occasionally sharing cordial interactions in public, while their 1990s romance remains one of Bollywood’s most remembered love stories."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/d6234a15-d2c3-4c01-983c-7c8be01002d0_raveena.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T08:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"once-bwoods-queen-now-a-screen-mom"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"ED arrests Raj Kesireddy in liquor scam"},"content":{"text":"The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday arrested Kesireddy Rajasekhara Reddy, aka Raj Kesireddy, the main accused in the multi-crore liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh.  The arrest was made after the Central agency conducted searches at multiple locations in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana as part of the investigation into the liquor transportation scam linked to the alleged liquor scam during YSR Congress Party rule.  The ED officials conducted searches at premises linked to Raj Kesireddy, a former advisor to former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, and other accused at 10 places in Hyderabad, sources said. The agency conducted searches at the residence of Raj Kesireddy in Nanakramguda and the premises linked to six other accused at other places in the Rs 349 crore liquor transport scam. Searches were also conducted at the residences and other premises of former civil supplies minister Karumuri Nageswara Rao, his son Karmuri Sunil Kumar, former managing director of AP State Beverages Corporation Limited, Vasudeva Reddy, and his relative Narasimha Reddy. Raj Kesireddy was arrested by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Andhra Pradesh CID in 2025. The Andhra Pradesh High Court on April 7, 2026, granted him bail. There are allegations that hundreds of crores changed hands in the liquor scam. The Central agency reportedly found that funds were diverted through hawala and money laundering channels.  In April, the ED conducted searches at the houses, offices and other premises of YSR Congress Party leader and former MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, Raj Kesireddy, Bharati Cements director Balaji Govindappa, Krishna Mohan and Dhanunjaya Reddy in Hyderabad, Vijayawada and Tirupati. The Central agency is investigating on the basis of a report of the Special Investigation Team (SIT). In March, the ED attached movable and immovable properties worth Rs 441.63 crore belonging to Kesireddy Rajasekhara Reddy, his family members and related entities; Booneti Chanakya and his related entities; relatives and entities of Donthireddy Vasudeva Reddy; and other persons and entities under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The Central agency initiated the investigation based on an FIR registered by the CID, Andhra Pradesh, on the complaint of the Principal Secretary to the Government of Andhra Pradesh, for loss to the Government exchequer to the tune of Rs 4,000 crore. According to the ED, its investigations revealed that physical cash kickbacks were collected and stored at multiple locations in Hyderabad, from where they were subsequently moved, distributed, or disposed of by designated cash handlers of the syndicate. The ED investigation had revealed a money trail of Rs 1048.45 crore in kickbacks. Numerous distilleries were forced to provide these payments in various forms, including cash and gold, as well as through the control and operation of certain distilleries by the liquor syndicate. Additionally, financial benefits were obtained from the transportation of liquor."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aAfFIPIqRLdaBepj_rajkasireddy.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T08:10:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ed-arrests-raj-kesireddy-in-liquor-scam"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Irumudi' Was More Than a Film!"},"content":{"text":"Actress Priya Bhavani Shankar, who plays the female lead opposite actor Ravi Teja in director Shiva Nirvana's upcoming film, 'Irumudi', has now shared a series of pictures from the sets of the film and said that the cast of the film had taken home a thousand memories from the journey of making the film.  Taking to her Instagram page to share a series of pictures shot on the sets on a day the unit wrapped up shooting, she said, \"We shot scenes, took home a thousand memories, collected a few inside jokes, laughed at things that weren’t supposed to be funny, and somehow finished a film. What a lovely journey this has been. @raviteja_2628 @mythriofficial @shivanirvana621 @gvprakash #Irumudi #WrapDay #MadeWithLove.\" The film has been garnering attention ever since the makers released a glimpse video. The glimpse video released shows Ravi Teja lovingly taking care of his daughter in the film. The child, it is evident, is in a very happy space with her father. However, the glimpse video hints at something tragic happening. As a result, we see Ravi Teja turn violent. He also takes to drinking. When his daughter urges him to quit alcohol, we see him become an Ayyappa devotee and wear the sacred mala to take back control of his life and kick the dreaded habit.   The film, which happens to be Ravi Teja's 77th film and was therefore being tentatively referred to as #RT77 until it was titled 'Irumudi', is being produced by leading production house Mythri Movie Makers. The title 'Irumudi' carries deep spiritual significance, as it symbolizes a devotee’s sacred offering and surrender to Lord Ayyappa. Ravi Teja, at the time of the film's first look being launched, had said, “Some stories choose you at the right moment in life. Feeling blessed to be part of one such story again, letting belief lead the way. Excited to begin this new journey called #Irumudi with @ShivaNirvana & @MythriOfficial Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa.” Sources say director Shiva Nirvana has crafted a powerful script that fuses devotional depth, emotional weight, and mass appeal in equal measure. They further disclose that at the film's core will lie a strong father–daughter bond, that will offer Ravi Teja a character arc unlike anything that he's portrayed before. Besides playing a first-of-its-kind role, Ravi Teja, they say, has also undergone a transformation. Sources also claim that the film promises well-defined roles for every character, adding richness to the narrative. Priya Bhavani Shankar plays the female lead, with Baby Nakshathra portraying Ravi Teja’s daughter in the film. The cast also includes Sai Kumar, Ajay Ghosh, Ramesh Indira, and Swasika in key roles. Backed by producers Naveen Yerneni and Y Ravi Shankar, 'Irumudi' boasts a solid technical crew, with GV Prakash Kumar scoring the music, Vishnu Sarma handling cinematography, Sahi Suresh leading production design, and Prawin Pudi on the editing table. Shiva Nirvana has penned the story, screenplay, and dialogues, with Naresh Babu P serving as script coordinator."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aipVX6lQnVZVEMXG_irumudi.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T04:52:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"irumudi-was-more-than-a-film"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"1 Cr Ex-Gratia: Will CBN Go Extra Mile?"},"content":{"text":"Politics often divides leaders, but tragedies sometimes offer an opportunity to rise above party lines. The devastating blast at Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, which has claimed nine lives and left several workers battling for survival, has now triggered a political challenge from YSRCP chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. Jagan has demanded that the government provide an additional Rs 1 crore ex-gratia to each victim's family, over and above the compensation package already announced, along with employment for a family member. The question now is whether Chandrababu Naidu will accept the demand and transform a political issue into a humanitarian gesture. The state government has already announced compensation, employment support, educational assistance for children, housing benefits, and medical coverage for the injured. However, Jagan argues that a significant portion of the announced package consists of statutory benefits, insurance claims, and retirement dues that rightfully belong to the workers. His demand for an additional Rs 1 crore mirrors the compensation announced during the LG Polymers tragedy and seeks to establish a stronger precedent for industrial disaster victims. For Chandrababu Naidu, the decision carries both political and moral significance. Accepting the demand would send a strong message that worker welfare transcends political differences. It would reassure thousands of employees working in hazardous industrial environments that the government stands firmly behind them during times of crisis. Such a move could also soften criticism that successive governments have failed to adequately address safety concerns within the steel plant. At the same time, the government may argue that compensation cannot become a competitive political exercise and that financial assistance must follow established policies and legal frameworks. Officials may also point out that several benefits announced for the victims' families extend far beyond immediate cash compensation. Yet beyond the politics lies a deeper issue. The families who lost their breadwinners are not concerned about which party gets the credit. Their immediate concern is financial security, education for their children, and a stable future. Whether the compensation is called ex-gratia, relief, or assistance matters little compared to the assurance that their lives will not collapse after the tragedy. As public sympathy continues to pour in for the victims, Chandrababu Naidu faces a choice. He can reject the opposition's demand and defend the existing package, or he can embrace the proposal and position himself as a leader willing to rise above politics when human lives are at stake. In moments like these, governments are often remembered not for the announcements they make, but for the compassion they show."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2Fbb599b1a-2f7d-49d0-ae54-24a236966bdb_chandrababu+naidu.jpg?auto=format,compress&rect=0,54,1200,592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-10T12:57:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"1-cr-ex-gratia-will-cbn-go-the-extra-mile"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Drishyam 3 in Number Plate Controversy"},"content":{"text":"The makers of Mohanlal’s blockbuster film Drishyam 3 are facing a legal challenge after a vehicle owner from Idukki alleged that his vehicle registration number was used in the film without his knowledge or permission. Rajeev, a resident of Kunchithanny in Idukki, has filed a complaint against the film’s producer, Antony Perumbavoor, director Jeethu Joseph, and other crew members, alleging that the registration number of his personal vehicle was falsely shown as the number of the vehicle used by the film’s central character, played by Mohanlal. In his complaint submitted to the Munnar DySP, Rajeev demanded that all scenes in which his vehicle number appears be removed from the film immediately. He also submitted a copy of his vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC) as evidence to support his claim. Rajeev alleged that the unauthorised display of his vehicle number plate could create serious personal and legal complications for him. According to him, any incidents involving the number shown on the screen could lead to unnecessary trouble for the vehicle's actual owner. “Now, with the film getting traction, people who saw the film have started reacting, seeing my vehicle as a ‘Drishyam’ vehicle. Mostly these comments have come from the new generation,” said Rajeev. Interestingly, Rajeev’s vehicle is a Mahindra Scorpio, while the vehicle shown being used by the character in the film is of an entirely different brand. Despite this, he claims the registration number displayed in the movie matches the one assigned to his vehicle. The complainant said he was neither approached nor informed by the filmmakers before using the number plate in the film. He has now decided to pursue further legal action against the production team if the scenes are not removed. The complaint has raised questions about the use of real vehicle registration details in films and the filmmakers' responsibility to ensure that such details do not cause difficulties for unsuspecting individuals."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aBs7uidWJ-7kRs_h_mohanlal.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-10T12:44:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"drishyam-3-in-number-plate-controversy"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Hyd's Growth Story Ends Where the Rain Begins"},"content":{"text":"Hyderabad proudly markets itself as a global technology hub, a city of innovation, investment, and futuristic ambitions. Yet, all it took was one hour of moderate rain to expose a harsh reality. On Tuesday, key stretches in Gachibowli, Hitec City, Financial District, and surrounding areas turned into virtual parking lots as roads disappeared under water and commuters spent hours trapped in traffic. For thousands of working professionals, students, and daily wage earners, the evening commute became an exhausting test of patience. The obvious question citizens are asking is simple: What exactly are HYDRA and the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation doing? Every monsoon, authorities promise better drainage, encroachment removal, flood mitigation plans, and smart city solutions. Yet, the same locations continue to flood year after year. If roads around Hyderabad's most premium business districts cannot withstand an hour of rain, how can citizens trust claims of world-class infrastructure? At the same time, the government appears focused on unveiling grand visions like the proposed Future City. While long-term planning is important, shouldn't the immediate priority be fixing the city people are living in today? What is the value of building tomorrow's city when today's Hyderabad struggles with basic urban management? A software engineer stuck for three hours in traffic or a family stranded on waterlogged roads is unlikely to be inspired by futuristic presentations and ambitious master plans. The growing frustration among citizens is not merely about rainwater or traffic congestion. It is about accountability. Politicians often appear during project inaugurations and ribbon-cutting ceremonies, but ordinary residents rarely see them experiencing the daily struggles of commuting through flooded roads, navigating broken infrastructure, or enduring hours of gridlock. Governance cannot happen from conference halls alone. Hyderabad's taxpayers deserve answers, not excuses. They deserve functioning drainage systems, better urban planning, and real-time accountability from civic agencies. Leaders must step out of their comfort zones, leave behind the grand speeches, and witness firsthand what a common citizen faces during a single rainy evening. Public patience is wearing thin, and the message from Hyderabad's roads is becoming impossible to ignore: fix the present before selling dreams of the future."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ailWwQeQX7-eXKfG_HyderabadRains.png?auto=format,compress&rect=0,34,877,432&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-10T07:11:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RgRS6pzUqnM"}},"uid":"hyds-growth-story-ends-where-the-rain-begins"}}]},"featured":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Disintegration Of TMC: A Warning For CBN?"},"content":{"text":"“The future has a warning through current symptoms in developing narratives” What this age-old political wisdom suggests is that the future loves leaving a trail of breadcrumbs right before it hits you with a brick. In the cynical world of politics, those breadcrumbs usually look like a sudden, stampede-style exit of \"deeply loyal\" opportunists who were singing your praises until five minutes ago, or the sudden twist of a very sharp knife in the back of an unsuspecting leader, courtesy of a smiling, hugging ally. It’s another matter this is a never-ending soap opera on the Indian political stage.   While highly paid television experts were glued to Maharashtra, watching Eknath Shinde dismantle the Shiv Sena like a happy demolition man, they completely missed the bigger joke. Pundits confidently declared it a local hit job by the BJP to delete the Thackeray family name from history. Not a single one of these geniuses realized they were actually looking at a giant, flashing neon warning sign meant for every family-run business and one-man show in Indian politics, from Mamata Banerjee’s Bengal empire to Chandrababu Naidu’s backyard. As events in Maharashtra unfolded, political analysts were so busy chanting the BJP's old “Congress Mukth Bharat” (\"Congress-free India\") slogan that they failed to notice a new strategy. The Shinde coup wasn't just about Maharashtra; it was the prelude to a \"Regional Party-Free India\" campaign. The goal was simple: swallow local parties whole and turn them into ghosts. It is less about democracy and more about political cannibalism. The Eknath Shinde episode kicked off right after the BJP hit a wall in the West Bengal elections. At that time, Mamata Banerjee’s victory didn't just hurt feelings; it shattered the myth that the supreme leader’s wave could flatten anything. The world finally realized the wave only worked against a weak Congress. When facing strong regional bosses who speak the local language and appeal to regional pride, the mighty wave looked more like a puddle. There followed a brief, sweet period when regional heavyweights held all the cards. Leaders used local culture, pride, and language to completely block the BJP’s grand nationalist narrative. They did it so well that by the 2024 elections, they shattered the BJP's “Abki Baar, Chaar Sau Paar” dream, forcing it into a minority status in Parliament and making it dependent on the support of parties like the TDP and JD(U). Consequently, the grand plan to wipe out local parties had to hit the brakes. Turns out, you can't devour regional entities when you suddenly need them to stay in power. The shattering of the \"400-plus seats\" slogan proved that trying to erase Congress completely actually backfired on the BJP. By trying to clear out the Congress, the BJP accidentally left a massive vacuum. Regional satraps across the country stepped right into that empty space. It became painfully obvious that the supreme leader's magic formula only delivers results when he is fighting a battered Congress in a straight, one-on-one match. In simple terms, the BJP's empire had strict borders; it could only expand as far as local parties allowed. But just as things looked stable, the political weather changed overnight. Thanks to some strict cleaning up by the Election Commission, self-inflicted wounds by the TMC, and Tamil Nadu voters getting tired of the same two local choices, the script flipped. What followed was the spectacular melting away of the TMC. This wasn't just a regular election loss where a party loses power and promises to do better next time. The TMC had ruled Bengal with an iron fist for 15 years. Watching it collapse this fast defied all rules of normal political gravity. This collapse is far worse than what happened to the Congress after the 2014 elections, or the Left when they lost Bengal. The TMC didn't just lose; its entire squad of MPs practically rebelled and packed their bags to support the BJP. This isn't just standard political backstabbing; it is a clear message to leaders like Chandrababu Naidu (CBN). Now that the TMC has imploded and Nitish Kumar has been successfully tamed into compliance, the BJP can get back to its favorite hobby: erasing regional parties. The next target in line is CBN in Andhra Pradesh. When Amit Shah casually announced that the BJP would go solo in the South, he wasn't just making small talk; he was giving Naidu a polite notice to check his exits. The signs of trouble are everywhere. The old Tamil parties are losing their grip, the TMC is so desperate it is thinking about running back to merge with the Congress, and Pawan Kalyan is publicly questioning why he should even attend Andhra cabinet meetings. These aren't random events. They are flashing red lights showing that the BJP is ready to push at least one regional partner out of the plane in Andhra Pradesh. As things stand, the BJP won't even need to budget for a strategy to finish off the YSRCP. Andhra's other regional heavyweight is currently curled up in a fetal position, nursing its electoral bruises and posing about as much threat to the BJP as a wet paper bag. Since that particular rival has already successfully ghosted itself out of relevance, the crosshairs naturally lock onto the only target left worth taming: CBN and his unsuspecting TDP. Can CBN, a veteran with a 40-plus-year political shelf-life, pull off a miracle and save the TDP from becoming completely irrelevant? Or will his party become just another dish at the national party's buffet? As they say in Bollywood: Picture abhi baaki hai—the movie isn't over yet."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aipz_alQnVZVEMr5_mocbma.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T07:38:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"disintegration-of-tmc-a-warning-for-cbn"}}]},"politics":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"AI171 Survivor’s Life Takes Another Turn"},"content":{"text":"One year after the tragic crash of Flight 171 in Ahmedabad, Viswashkumar Ramesh, the sole survivor, continues to grapple with the profound impact of the disaster. Ramesh shares his ongoing struggles with sleep, anxiety, and haunting memories, shedding light on the enduring trauma resulting from the tragedy. Images of Ramesh walking away from the crash site, stained with blood, have left an indelible mark on global media. Having lost his brother in the catastrophe, Ramesh faces not only physical and psychological challenges but also financial hardships. He has sought legal representation to explore civil claims and is in negotiations with Air India for rehabilitation support.  The Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed 32 seconds after take-off on June 12, 2025, claiming 260 lives, including 241 on board and 19 on the ground. Despite the harrowing ordeal, Air India has reaffirmed its commitment to providing comprehensive support to all those affected by the AI171 tragedy. Ramesh, 39, residing in Leicester with his family, emphasizes that survival is only a part of his story, as he continues to grapple with the overwhelming difficulties that have arisen since the crash. He expresses gratitude for being alive but emphasizes the far more arduous challenges he faces daily.  Ramesh has engaged Hudgell Solicitors in the UK to represent his legal interests, seeking redress for the disaster's repercussions. Constructive discussions with Air India are underway to secure physical and psychological rehabilitation support. Patel, a community leader close to Ramesh's family, highlights the profound impact of the disaster on Ramesh, stating that he remains severely traumatized and dependent on support for daily activities.  In March, Ramesh met with representatives of the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) as part of the official inquiry into the crash. The UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch, offering expert assistance to Indian investigators, extends sympathy to all those affected by the accident. The enduring trauma and legal battles faced by Ramesh and other families affected by the tragedy underscore the long-lasting impact of the AI171 crash."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiwJKKlQnVZVESlG_ai171survivor.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C137%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T11:27:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ai171-survivors-life-takes-another-turn"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Legendary shooting coach Jaspal Rana passes away"},"content":{"text":"Renowned Indian shooting coach and former Asian Games gold medallist Jaspal Rana dies at 49.  Rana, who coaches several Indian pistol shooters, including double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker, was serving as the high-performance coach for Indian pistol events. Rana was admitted to hospital after feeling discomfort while returning to India from the ISSF World Cup in Munich. National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) President Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo consoled the demise of Rana. “It is a huge loss. He was not only a champion shooter but also a great mentor. He will be deeply missed,\" he told IANS. Rana, who won numerous medals at international stage, was India’s most successful athlete in Commonwealth Games history, with a remarkable tally of 15 medals—9 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze—won across four editions of the Games: 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2006. He has won eight medals in Asian Games across 1994, 1998 and 2006 editions. He was awarded the Arjuna Award in 1994 and the Padma Shri in 1997 for his contributions to Indian shooting. Recognised for his excellence in coaching, Rana received the Dronacharya Award in 2020, India's highest honour for sports coaching. After a great career as a shooter himself, he turned coaching and helped train the country's best new pistol shooters. His biggest success was coaching Manu Bhaker, who made history by winning two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics. Rana has also coached other top shooters, like Saurabh Chaudhary, Anish Bhanwala, and Chinki Yadav, helping to build a strong future for Indian shooting."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiuTl6lQnVZVEQD7_Untitled-1copy.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T04:50:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"legendary-shooting-coach-jaspal-rana-passes-away"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Musk’s Wealth Soars to $970 Billion!"},"content":{"text":"Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) -- the Elon Musk-led rocket and satellite company -- has priced its blockbuster initial public offering (IPO), pushing Musk’s net worth to nearly $970 billion and bringing him closer to becoming the world’s first trillionaire, as per multiple reports.  Reports claim that SpaceX priced its shares at $135 apiece, raising about $75 billion in what is being billed as the largest IPO in history and valuing the company at around $1.77 trillion. The company is expected to begin trading on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol ‘SPCX’. The IPO pricing is estimated to add roughly $275 billion to Musk’s wealth, taking his net worth to around $970 billion. Musk’s SpaceX holdings, including options, are valued at approximately $688 billion at the IPO price. Regulatory filings showed that Musk beneficially owns 849.49 million Class A shares and 5.57 billion Class B shares as of May 1, representing a combined holding of around 6.42 billion shares across both classes. Before completion of the offering, Musk controls about 85 per cent of the company’s voting power through SpaceX’s dual-class structure, under which Class B shares carry ten votes each compared with one vote for each Class A share. The filing also disclosed major insider holdings across the company’s leadership and board. Founded by Musk in 2002, SpaceX has become one of the world’s most prominent aerospace companies through its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy reusable rockets, Dragon spacecraft and Starship launch programme. The company has also expanded through its satellite internet business, Starlink. The listing is expected to mark a watershed moment for public markets and could trigger a fresh wave of mega technology IPOs in the coming months."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/7b8617d0-8425-461b-ac2b-914374ef1d08_musk.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T04:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"musks-wealth-soars-to-970-billion"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Dawood Network in New Terror Plot"},"content":{"text":"The Dawood Ibrahim syndicate is reportedly assembling a fresh network of sharpshooters across northern India and neighboring states to execute targeted killings of high-profile individuals, intelligence agencies have revealed.  An Intelligence Bureau official said that, unlike similar networks in the past, this one is not being pieced together to target high-profile politicians or prominent public figures. Instead, its objective is to carry out targeted killings of individuals who are well-known within their localities. “While the attacks may not attract national attention individually, the network is expected to execute a series of such killings,” the official claimed. An official said the pattern bears similarities to incidents witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir a few years ago, when shopkeepers and other influential local figures accused by terror groups of assisting Indian security agencies were selectively targeted. The Dawood gang’s objective is to create fear and spread panic among the public. The plan is to foster a sense of anxiety and uncertainty through a sustained campaign of violence. “The targets are likely to be ordinary individuals chosen at random. While the operations would be carefully planned, the final selection of targets would be left to the network,” another official said. The key instruction, the official added, is to ensure the killings occur at regular intervals and follow a discernible pattern. The effort to build this network comes at a time when security agencies recently dismantled a Dawood-linked module allegedly operated by his aide Munna Jhingada from Pakistan. Investigators said the group was planning a series of blasts at key locations and had recruited several individuals, including a Nepali national. The module was busted through coordinated operations carried out by the Special Cell of the Delhi Police, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Officials said the dismantling of the module dealt a major setback to the Dawood syndicate. The operation had reportedly been backed by Pakistan's intelligence agency, the Inter Services Intelligence, which had high expectations from the network and was banking on the syndicate's extensive links in India to ensure its success. Following the exposure of the module, which investigators said was intended to mirror the structure of the network behind the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, the ISI is believed to have instructed the syndicate to quickly devise a fresh strategy. An official said the new sharpshooter network is also being overseen by Jhingada, alias Sayyad Muzzakkir Muddasar Hussain. According to investigators, he has long managed the Dawood gang's network of contract shooters and reported directly to Dawood’s close aide, Chhota Shakeel. Jhingada later emerged as one of Shakeel's trusted shooters and is believed to have been involved in numerous killings. Impressed by his abilities, Shakeel allegedly assigned him the task of eliminating rival gang leader Chhota Rajan in Thailand. Following the failed attempt, Jhingada was arrested and spent 17 years in a Thai prison. After his sentence, he was extradited to Pakistan. “Given his background and his alleged involvement in several successful shootings in the past, he has now been tasked with leading the newly formed network of sharpshooters,” the officials said. The official said the network would deliberately carry out low-profile killings across the country at regular intervals to establish a pattern. The objective, he said, is to create fear among the public, with people becoming hesitant to venture out due to concerns over random shootings. The choice of victims would be aimed at fostering a sense of anxiety, making people believe that anyone could be next. “The network is expected to recruit shooters from Punjab, Mumbai, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh,” the official claimed. To avoid detection, operatives would generally not be deployed in their home states, where police may already have records on them. For instance, a shooter recruited from Uttar Pradesh would likely be assigned operations in another state, the official explained."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/5e1e7812-954c-461e-9f93-fd36c403bd18_dawood.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T08:52:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"dawood-network-in-new-terror-plot"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"AI deepfakes: New threat to financial systems"},"content":{"text":"The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a fresh advisory warning about the growing misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by cybercriminals to create highly convincing deepfake videos and synthetic identities aimed at compromising financial and digital ecosystems. According to the advisory issued by the National Cybercrime Threat Analytics Unit (NCTAU) under the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) of the Home Ministry, cyber fraudsters are increasingly leveraging advanced AI tools to generate realistic digital impersonations capable of deceiving authentication systems. \"These technologies may be exploited to bypass facial authentication, liveness verification, Video-KYC, account recovery, and unauthorised access to financial and digital services. Fraudsters may attempt to gain unauthorised access to accounts by using facial recordings obtained through deceptive video calls, fake online job interviews or social engineering tactics,\" the advisory read. Elaborating on the pattern observed in such cybercrimes, the NCTAU outlined a multi-stage modus operandi employed by fraudsters. The process often begins with an initial approach through social media networks, messaging platforms, job portals, dating applications, or direct phone calls. Once communication is established, attackers move to the next phase by gathering facial data. The advisory noted that facial information may already be available through publicly accessible online content. In many cases, however, victims are persuaded to perform specific facial actions such as looking directly at a screen, turning their heads, blinking repeatedly, or speaking on camera. The collected recordings are then processed using AI-powered deepfake technologies. Through these tools, cybercriminals can create highly realistic digital replicas that mimic a person's facial expressions, eye movements, gestures, and even their voice. The advisory warned that if systems lack adequate deepfake detection capabilities, these fabricated identities may be used to bypass facial authentication and liveness verification checks. Authorities further cautioned that the misuse of such AI-generated content could facilitate fraudulent Know Your Customer (KYC) verification processes. By successfully defeating identity verification safeguards adopted by financial institutions, fraudsters may be able to create, activate or operate financial accounts for illegal purposes. To counter these evolving threats, the NCTAU has recommended several security measures for institutions as well as individuals. The advisory stated that customer onboarding systems, including those operated by fintech firms, should incorporate robust mechanisms capable of detecting deepfakes and other forms of synthetically generated content. \"Locking your biometric profile is the strongest defence against this type of remote identity theft,\" the advisory stated. In addition, individuals have been advised to closely monitor email notifications and alerts for any unauthorised login attempts or suspicious authentication activities that may indicate an attempt to misuse their identity. The advisory emphasised that any signs of financial fraud or identity theft should be reported immediately. Citizens have been encouraged to document incidents through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and provide relevant information, including the fraudster’s contact details and any video links involved in the scam. The NCTAU also warned users to remain vigilant about sudden disruptions in mobile network services, noting that such incidents could indicate a fraudulent SIM swap attack. Issuing a broader caution, the advisory clarified that it has been released to raise awareness about emerging AI-enabled identity fraud techniques. It added that references to identity verification systems and authentication processes are based on observed threat trends and \"do not imply vulnerabilities or compromise of any specific organisation, platform, or service.\""},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiqXRalQnVZVENP-_deepfake.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T10:41:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ai-deepfakes-emerging-as-new-threat-to-financial-s"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"TRS Hits a Name War Before Take-Off"},"content":{"text":"Even before hitting the political battlefield, K. Kavitha appears to have landed in an unexpected fight — over a name. Her newly floated Telangana Rakshana Sena (TRS) is facing a challenge from another outfit carrying the exact same acronym. The twist? The rival claimant is not from Telangana but from Solapur in Maharashtra, where a party called Telangana Rastrasamajika Senna (TRS) has also approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) seeking recognition under the TRS banner. The controversy has sparked political curiosity because the acronym \"TRS\" carries significant emotional and political value in Telangana. It was the identity under which the movement for Telangana statehood gained momentum before the party was renamed Bharat Rashtra Samithi. Sources indicate that hundreds of objections have already been filed before the ECI, including one from the BRS itself, which fears that multiple parties using the TRS tag could create confusion among voters and affect future electoral calculations. With two other parties reportedly using the TRS acronym at the Telangana State Election Commission level, the battle is no longer just about a name — it is about political legacy, brand value, and voter recall. As objections pile up, all eyes are now on the Election Commission's decision. For Kavitha, what was expected to be the launch of a new political platform has unexpectedly turned into a high-stakes trademark battle for one of Telangana's most recognizable political identities."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F9e6b7140-d0f5-4058-922f-69ca08d8479a_kavitha+trs.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C62%2C1024%2C505&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T16:27:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"trs-hits-a-name-war-before-take-off"}}]},"entertainment":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"GV Prakash Steps Into Anil’s Camp"},"content":{"text":"Ace director Anil Ravipudi, who is riding a huge success wave, on Friday welcomed National Award-winning music director G V Prakash on board his next Telugu film featuring actors Victory Venkatesh and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram in the lead. Anil Ravipudi took to his X timeline to post a hilarious video and wrote, \"I've always admired @gvprakash's ability to make music that connects instantly with audiences. Thrilled to welcome him on board for #VenkyAnil5 - #NKRAnil2. And we had a blast pulling off this fun concept...A big thank you to GV for trusting the idea, joining in wholeheartedly, and making it so much fun. Looking forward to making some beautiful memories together brother. Victory @VenkyMama garu @NANDAMURIKALYAN garu.\" The video that Anil Ravipudi posted opens with a nostalgic tribute to legendary filmmaker Jandhyala by recreating an iconic scene from 'Aha Naa Pellanta', where the characters are seen buried in the sand up to their necks.  Anil Ravipudi goes on to explain to G V Prakash why he has got him buried in sand upto his neck. He says, \"G V Prakash, you are busy as a hero, as a producer and as a music director. My producer wanted me to have your hands and legs tied and get work done. I thought this would be different and have got you in this position.\"  He then gives him a harmonium and asks him to score a tune. G V Prakash reminds the director that it won't be enough if he has just a harmonium but that he also needs to use his hands, if he has to score music. The director then lets G V Prakash get his hands alone out of the sand.  When G V Prakash requests for a lyricist, he realises that celebrated lyricist Anantha Sriram too is in the same state that he is in -- buried upto his neck in sand!  With this creative announcement, Anil Ravipudi has once again showcased his flair for comedy. Sources say the pooja ceremony and regular shoot of the movie is expected to commence soon. Sources close to the director have said that the film is likely to hit screens for the festival of Sankranthi in January, next year. This project is especially notable as it marks Anil Ravipudi’s fifth collaboration with Venkatesh, following blockbuster entertainers like 'F2', 'F3', 'Sankranthiki Vasthunnam', and an extended cameo in 'MSG'. It is also his second film with Kalyan Ram, after the sensational blockbuster 'Pataas'. Sources say the director has brought together stars from the Daggubati and Nandamuri families for this exciting new film to be made as a clean entertainer with a fresh and highly relatable storyline. Designed to connect with audiences of all age groups, the film is being planned as a perfect festive treat. Sources say it will seek to deliver a healthy mix of humour, emotions, and strong entertainment, staying true to Anil Ravipudi’s trademark style of wholesome cinema."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiwNGqlQnVZVESqt_gv.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T13:00:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcpRsv8dMxQ"}},"uid":"gv-prakash-steps-into-anils-camp"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Salman Takes ‘Kaala Hiran’ Battle to Court"},"content":{"text":"Actor Salman Khan has approached the Delhi High Court seeking a ban on the release of the movie 'Kaala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy.'    Salman Khan has filed a petition for a permanent and interim injunction in the High Court, asking to restrain Amit Jani, Jani Firefox Films, Bharat Shrinath, Akshay Pandey, and others from the production, development, financing, distribution, direction, and promotion of 'Kaala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy.'  In his petition, Salman Khan alleged that the film's poster openly violates his personality rights. He added that his name, image, and public identity are being misused for commercial gain without permission.   Salman Khan stated that the proposed film and its promotional materials are an infringement on his personality rights, which could affect his reputation and legal rights. Before this, Salman Khan also sent a legal notice to the makers of the film, asking for an immediate halt to the development and promotion of the movie. In the notice, Salman Khan had alleged that the project seems to be inspired by his infamous blackbuck hunting case. He pointed out that the film could harm his reputation. In the notice, he further added that the film might interfere with the ongoing judicial proceedings in the case, along with violating his personality rights. In the legal notice, it was stressed that the blackbuck case is still pending before the Rajasthan High Court, and hence, the movie might interfere with the administration of justice, creating a prejudice against Salman Khan. For those who do not know, Salman Khan was accused of allegedly hunting two blackbucks in Kankani village near Jodhpur, Rajasthan, in September 1998 during the shoot of the film \"Hum Saath Saath Hain\". The Bishnoi community filed a complaint against Salman Khan and his co-actors from the family entertainer, Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Neelam, and Tabu, accusing them of hunting two blackbucks during the shoot."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2992f19a-8843-4c6a-9ded-3d462edca8d6_salaman+khan.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T09:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"salman-takes-kaala-hiran-battle-to-court"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Pawan Kalyan Confirms 'OG 2'"},"content":{"text":"Pawan Kalyan, the actor-politician, set the box office on fire with the release of 'They Call Him OG' in September last year, shortly after taking office as the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. Directed by Sujeeth, the film showcased Pawan Kalyan in a stylish role that resonated strongly with his fans. With hints dropped in the film, speculation about a sequel or prequel began to swirl. Music director Thaman's recent comments about 'OG 2' further fueled the anticipation.  Finally, putting an end to the speculation, Pawan Kalyan's production house, Pawan Kalyan Creative Works, shared an update on social media, confirming the sequel. The announcement has left fans thrilled, eagerly awaiting the return of one of Pawan Kalyan's most celebrated recent roles. 'OG' was a massive box-office success, grossing nearly Rs 300 crore during its theatrical run, with Thaman's music and background score earning wide acclaim. Priyanka Mohan played the female lead, and Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi made his Telugu debut as the antagonist."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aMvojGGNHVfTPXCi_og2.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T10:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"pawan-kalyan-confirms-og-2"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Flop actor' remark in Akshay upcoming film"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has explained the reason behind using the expression \"flop actor\" for him in his upcoming film 'Welcome to the Jungle'. The actor attended the trailer launch of his upcoming film 'Welcome to the Jungle' in the city on Thursday. The actor spoke with the media on the sidelines of the trailer launch. When asked why the makers of the film deem it fit to use the expression for him, the actor said that the phrase should be seen in the context of a film rather than as a personal remark. Akshay Kumar told the media, \"We are not told that you have to use such dialogues as taunts. So, when you watch a movie, I am sure you are a smart person. Whenever you watch a movie, you watch it according to the character of the movie. So, please, thank you for feeling bad about it. But don't take it so seriously.\" Elsewhere during the event, the superstar, whose romance with actress Raveena Tandon during the 1990s enjoyed significant public attention, spoke up about the actress. The actor shared how times have changed as his former love interest once ruled Bollywood as a heroine but now she has become the heroine's mother. The superstar pointed to Raveena’s daughter Rasha Thadani. Akshay Kumar also lauded Raveena Tandon for her professionalism and strong set of ethics, as the former said, \"I want to tell you about Raveena that she has been very very professional. I still remember, I was shooting a film where the sun was about to set. And when the sun was about to set, there were only 25-30 minutes. And the green room was very far and she had to quickly change and come. That was impossible. But I still remember, she went to the generator van and quickly changed and came.\" \"So that has been, a lot of changes have happened. She (Raveena Tandon) is a brilliant actor. And one more thing that has changed, earlier she was a heroine, now she is a heroine's mother,\" he added."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/8977bb32-8954-41c1-9372-4eaf47b7e9cf_akshay+kumar.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T21:22:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"flop-actor-remark-in-akshay-upcoming-film"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Rajini to make his debut as a doctor?"},"content":{"text":"The excitement surrounding Rajinikanth's upcoming film, Thalaivar 173, has been steadily increasing since reports confirmed Ashwath Marimuthu as the new director. Although Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International (RKFI) has yet to officially announce the change, a recent birthday post dedicated to the director has fueled speculation.  Sources close to the production revealed that a look test photo shoot recently took place in Chennai, capturing Rajinikanth in a doctor's attire, including a stethoscope. This marks the first time Rajinikanth will be portraying a doctor on screen, a departure from his previous role as a psychologist in Chandramukhi. While rumors suggest the story may be inspired by real-life doctors like the renowned Rs 5 doctor, specific plot details remain under wraps.  The film is scheduled to commence filming on June 26 at Sundar Studios in Poonamallee. Additionally, there are speculations that Mysskin, who previously worked with Ashwath on Dragon, will also be part of Thalaivar 173. Fans eagerly await further details about the cast, crew, plot, genre, and release date.  Originally, Sundar C was slated to direct Thalaivar 173, but following his departure, Cibi Chakravarthy was brought on board before Ashwath Marimuthu took over. Meanwhile, RKFI is gearing up for another collaboration with Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, directed by Nelson and tentatively titled KHxRK Reunion."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/92ff499f-4de3-4e21-8ecf-a758d17ba7c1_rajini.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T18:36:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rajini-to-make-his-debut-as-a-doctor"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"RGV: Stop Chasing Stars, Start Storytelling"},"content":{"text":"Maverick director Ram Gopal Varma has heaped praise on Curry Barker’s budget-friendly supernatural psychological horror thriller \"Obsession,\" calling it a \"wake-up call\" for an industry obsessed with stars, remakes and bloated spectacles.  RGV on Friday morning took to X, formerly called Twitter, talked about the true power of cinema and said it lies in the psychological precision and emotional rawness rather than massive budgets. He wrote: “OBSESSION is how we SHOOT and CUT and not WHAT. OBSESSION made on a budget lesser than maybe the cost of a film stars entourage , will hopefully dismantle our complacency.” RGV shared that Obsession, which was made on a budget of 75000 dollars, proves that filmmakers should focus on making \"better films, not bigger films.” He added: “Forgetting the reported 750 k dollar budget , a film shot entirely in just 2 rooms, interior of a car and a small store with 5 new actors couldn’t have costed more than 70 lakh rupees (Forgetting fee of various) . On that cost , it grossed over $238 million dollars that is Rs 2,279 crores ..It reportedly will do more than 100 cr in india (sic).” RGV said that filmmaker Curry Barker‘s direction seems “deceptively simplistic, but it is highly weaponized.” “He shoots in confined spaces not to avoid scale but to trap the audience in the characters’ perspectives. Editing is not mere assembly but a rhythmic psychological assault... rapid cuts punctuated by sharp sound design (door slams, sudden laughs, heartbeats, voice tone alterations) alternate with agonizingly long holds , most memorably the interval shot lingering on Nikki’s face(My most favourite shot).” The filmmaker said that these “never-before-experienced techniques” has built an unbearable tension by denying escape, “forcing us viewers to feel the horror rather than observe it from afar.” The filmmaker said that “Obsession” “externalizes internal rot making the personal public and the psychological visceral. Its gore and emotional messiness turns pulp into something disturbingly resonant about loneliness and desire.” Talking about the “important lessons” learnt from the Hollywood film for any and all related to “films In our times of franchise fatigue and VFX bloat is that it proves that only rigorous directorial vision to arrest the viewer, cutting edge editing as a storytelling tool, and sound design for emotional punctuation and expressions of actors making one feel can generate much more impact than CGI ARMIES, MASSIVE SETS ,EXOTIC LOCATIONS and 500 CRORE budgets.” Revealing what Barker taught with his latest release is “that we film makers should OBSESS over how we shoot and cut, and not just WHAT we shoot?” “After the example of Obsession Producers and directors should treat low budgets as liberation, not limitation and focus their resources on performances, path breaking editing, and creative sound design , not to forget visionary makers The ROI here will seem obscene and vulgar to the producers who wasted 100’s of crores and shot their films for years.” Calling the film a “wake up call” in teaching, he said cinema’s power lies in psychological precision and emotional rawness, and not industrial excess. “For our industry OBSESSED with risk aversion chasing stars, making remakes and bloated spectacles, this film is a SLAP ON THE FACE.” The filmmaker added: “The greatest thing Curry Barker did more than making a BLOCKBUSTER , is that he taught us that our OBSESSION should be about making BETTER FILMS and not BIGGER FILMS.” Obsession follows Bear, played by Michael Johnston, a music store employee who buys a supernatural toy that grants his wish for his friend Nikki, essayed by Inde Navarrette, to fall in love with him, resulting in horrifying consequences."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aec01404-d28d-4d99-8619-780dee6af2c9_RGV.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C89%2C1280%2C631&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T06:01:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rgv-stop-chasing-stars-start-storytelling"}}]},"tech":{"edges":[]},"fashion":{"edges":[]},"business":{"edges":[]},"health":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Is Your Soda Habit Causing Hair Loss?"},"content":{"text":"Are your beloved sodas harming your hair? While soft drinks have long been criticized for their impact on weight, diabetes, and heart health, a new concern has emerged regarding their potential effects on hair. The discussion gained traction after hair transplant surgeon Dr. Abhishek Pilani highlighted the issue on Raj Shamani's Figuring Out podcast.  According to Dr. Pilani, regular consumption of sugary cold drinks may create conditions within the body that are not conducive to healthy hair growth. While consuming one soda is unlikely to cause sudden hair loss, a study published in the journal Nutrients in 2023 found a link between higher consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and male-pattern hair loss in young men. However, it's essential to note that the study established a correlation, not causation. The potential connection between soft drinks and hair health lies in the impact of high-sugar beverages on overall health.  Excessive sugar consumption can lead to repeated spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, potentially contributing to inflammation and metabolic issues that affect the body, including hair growth. However, hair loss is rarely attributed to a single factor and is typically the result of various elements accumulating over time, including genetics, hormones, nutrition, lifestyle, and overall health. Healthy hair growth relies on a balanced intake of nutrients such as iron, protein, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins. While soft drinks don't directly deplete these nutrients, excessive consumption may lead to healthier options being replaced.  The concern lies in long-term habits rather than occasional consumption. The normal range of daily hair loss is between 50 and 100 strands, but concerns arise when lost hairs aren't adequately replaced. While soft drinks may not directly cause hair loss, their impact on overall health could potentially affect hair growth. Instead of fixating on individual cans of soda, experts emphasize the importance of considering overall lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress management, balanced nutrition, and reduced sugar intake. Ultimately, addressing concerns about hair health may begin with dietary and lifestyle adjustments."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aDbfAydWJ-7kSniS_jucessoda.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T18:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"is-your-soda-habit-causing-hair-loss"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Recognizing the Early Signs of Ovarian Cancer"},"content":{"text":"Ovarian cancer is a significant concern for women in India, being the third most common cancer among them. However, many women with ovarian cancer often experience symptoms for several months before receiving a proper diagnosis. In India, a staggering 70 to 80 percent of ovarian cancer patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, mainly because the early signs are easily mistaken for other health issues. Oncologists have dubbed ovarian cancer as a 'silent disease' due to its subtle progression without clear, alarming symptoms.  Dr. Sampada Desai, a Consultant Gynaecological Cancer and Robotic Surgeon, emphasizes that ovarian cancer does not remain silent but instead 'whispers' through nonspecific symptoms such as upper abdominal discomfort, bloating, feeling full too early, and digestive problems, which are often mistaken for other conditions. Persistent bloating and extreme fullness even after consuming small portions of food, coupled with lower abdominal or pelvic pain, should prompt a visit to the doctor. Changes in menstrual patterns, irregular bleeding, or any bleeding post-menopause also warrant attention.  It is crucial for individuals experiencing these symptoms to keep a record for a month and consult a gynecologic oncologist if any symptoms persist for more than two weeks or occur frequently. Women with a family history of ovarian, breast, or colon cancer should be particularly vigilant, as they have a higher genetic predisposition to cancer. Early detection is key, as there are no routine screening tests for ovarian cancer. Clinical examination, ultrasonography, and blood tests may be part of the evaluation for potential ovarian cancer. Recognizing the subtle signs and listening to the 'whisper' of ovarian cancer may significantly aid in early detection and improved survival rates."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aigpQAeQX7-eXEpI_overaincancer.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-08T18:42:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"recognizing-the-early-signs-of-ovarian-cancer"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"How Thyroid Health Affects Fertility"},"content":{"text":"For women trying to conceive, the road to pregnancy can be fraught with challenges. While the reasons for delayed conception may not always be obvious, thyroid health could be a significant factor. As the world marks World Thyroid Day on May 25, experts emphasize the often overlooked influence of hypothyroidism on reproductive health. Dr. Alimileti Jhansi Rani, a Fertility Specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF Hyderabad, stresses the critical role of the thyroid in reproductive health.  Research has shown that hypothyroidism can disrupt ovulation, menstruation, and hormonal regulation, leading to fertility struggles and potential complications during pregnancy. It's important to note that even 'normal' thyroid levels may not be ideal for conception, with specialists recommending optimized levels for fertility. Treatment and lifestyle changes, including medication, proper nutrition, stress management, and monitoring menstrual and ovulation patterns, can significantly improve the chances of conception.  Additionally, testing for thyroid antibodies can provide valuable insights, especially for women facing recurrent miscarriages or fertility challenges. Understanding the impact of thyroid health on fertility and seeking timely medical guidance can save valuable time for women struggling to conceive."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/1c687669-969a-426e-b643-acc2ccc20607_thyroid.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-25T06:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"how-thyroid-health-affects-fertility"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Shortness of Breath? Take It Seriously"},"content":{"text":"Feeling winded when doing everyday tasks like climbing stairs may seem normal, but according to Dr. Rajesh Rajani, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, it can be a red flag for an underlying heart problem. Many people dismiss breathlessness as a sign of aging or lack of fitness, but this could be dangerous thinking. The gradual decline in your ability to perform tasks without getting breathless may go unnoticed, leading to delayed diagnosis of potential heart issues.  Dr. Rajani warns that breathlessness should not be normalized, as it could indicate serious heart conditions such as blocked arteries, heart valve disease, irregular heart rhythms, or weakening of the heart muscles. Recognizing and evaluating these symptoms early can help identify underlying health risks and prevent more serious complications later. It's crucial not to make excuses for these symptoms and to seek medical advice if you experience increasing shortness of breath.  This article provides insights from Dr. Rajesh Rajani, shedding light on why breathlessness should not be ignored and how it can signify an underlying heart condition."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agwbIKYofJOwHWqT_breath.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-18T18:56:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"dont-ignore-it-when-shortness-of-breath-signals-a-serious-health-concern-mpcc9z9u"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Hantavirus Panic Hits US Passengers"},"content":{"text":"In a troubling development, two American passengers from the MV Hondius have raised alarm as they are transported back to the United States with potential hantavirus infections. The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed on Sunday evening that among the 17 evacuees, one individual is exhibiting mild symptoms, while another has tested 'mildly PCR positive' for the Andes strain of the virus. This evacuation comes amidst a backdrop of heightened awareness surrounding hantavirus, which can lead to severe respiratory complications. The cruise ship, which embarked from Argentina in April and traversed the South Atlantic, has been linked to a disturbing cluster of hantavirus cases, including three fatalities. The initial case involved a Dutch passenger who fell ill shortly after boarding, leading to a tragic sequence of events that resulted in both his and his wife’s deaths, as well as that of a German traveler. The virus's unusual capability for human-to-human transmission—particularly the Andes strain—underscores the urgency of the situation, as it typically spreads through contact with infected rodent excreta. Health experts are particularly concerned about this outbreak due to its rarity, with hantaviruses generally transmitting through animal vectors rather than person-to-person contact. The Andes virus, however, poses a unique threat, necessitating close interactions for transmission to occur. A Swiss tour guide who disembarked in Saint Helena and later tested positive suggests that the virus may have circulated among passengers during the voyage. Such developments have prompted increased scrutiny and rigorous monitoring protocols for those who interacted with affected individuals. The 17 American passengers are currently en route to the University of Nebraska Medical Center, which is equipped to handle potential hantavirus cases. The facility will conduct thorough clinical assessments, with asymptomatic individuals expected to monitor their health at home for a full 42 days—the incubation period for the virus. While health officials have classified most passengers as low-risk, the careful tracking and oversight reflect a cautious approach in the face of a potentially serious health crisis, emphasizing both preparedness and the importance of public health vigilance in mitigating outbreaks."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agHlCKYofJOwHFHL_hantavirus.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-11T05:02:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"hantavirus-alert-us-passengers-evacuated-amid-growing-health-concerns-mp19tz46"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Summer Chill or Skin Kill: The Hidden Perils of AC"},"content":{"text":"As temperatures soar, air conditioning becomes a refuge from the sweltering heat, yet it carries an unsuspected consequence for our skin. The very mechanism that cools our living spaces—lowering humidity levels—has a detrimental effect on skin health. Prolonged exposure to air-conditioned environments can lead to significant dehydration, disrupting the skin's natural barrier and causing a range of issues including heightened sensitivity, flakiness, and even unexpected breakouts. This paradox highlights a critical need for awareness in our skincare routines during the sweltering summer months. The science behind air conditioning reveals a stark reality: the cooling process strips moisture from the air, which in turn accelerates water loss from the skin. This dehydration can affect all skin types, whether oily, dry, or combination. A common misconception is that hydrated skin will always appear visibly dry; in many cases, a lack of moisture can trigger the skin to produce excess oil in a compensatory manner, resulting in clogged pores and acne. This cycle underscores the importance of recognizing air conditioning as a double-edged sword, necessary for comfort yet detrimental to skin vitality. The skin barrier serves as the body’s frontline defense against external aggressors. When faced with the relentless assault of dry air, this barrier struggles to maintain its integrity, leading to issues like increased sensitivity and irritation. Individuals may notice fine lines becoming more pronounced, and persistent redness developing as their skin reacts to the new environment. The long-term implications are unsettling; a compromised skin barrier not only invites dryness but also exposes the skin to pollution and UV damage once individuals venture outside. Understanding this connection is crucial for anyone reliant on air conditioning for comfort. To counteract these adverse effects, skincare strategies must adapt to this summer challenge. Prioritizing deep hydration is essential—switching to lightweight moisturizers infused with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid can help replenish lost moisture without clogging pores. Layering products, such as applying a hydrating serum followed by a moisturizer, creates an additional shield against dry air. Moreover, maintaining internal hydration through adequate water intake and using a humidifier can enhance skin resilience. As the demand for comfort clashes with the need for skin health, it is imperative to strike a balance that ensures both can coexist harmoniously during the hottest months of the year."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/afhRDcBOoF08xkN5_skin.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-03T02:53:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"summer-chill-or-skin-kill-the-hidden-perils-of-air-conditioning-moq2k7ge"}}]},"nri":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"US States hail court win against H-1B fee"},"content":{"text":"State attorneys general across the United States welcomed a federal court ruling striking down the Trump administration’s $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions, calling it a victory for employers, universities, healthcare providers and research institutions that rely on highly skilled foreign workers.  A day earlier, US District Court in Massachusetts issued a final ruling vacating the fee, which had been imposed on all new H-1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025. A multistate coalition had challenged the policy, arguing that the administration lacked congressional authorisation to impose the charge. Washington Attorney General Nick Brown said the ruling would help protect the state's ability to attract specialised talent. “This win helps keep our state at the forefront of highly specialized research that drives our world’s most dynamic industries,” Brown said. “Unchecked, this illegal tax would have massively increased costs for Washington state agencies, public universities, and public colleges,” he added. Brown's office said nearly 500 H-1B visa holders are employed across more than 30 Washington state agencies, public universities and colleges. Officials argued that the fee would have made it difficult for educational institutions to fill critical positions, particularly in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and medical fields. California Attorney General Rob Bonta, whose office led the multistate challenge, said the court had delivered a decisive rejection of the policy. “The judgment is in! The Trump Administration’s unlawful and costly $100,000 tax has been struck down. This tax was an attack on America’s ability to attract and retain the high-skilled talent that strengthens our economy and helps us meet critical workforce needs,” Bonta said. “California remains open for business, open to talent, and committed to ensuring our communities have essential services — from healthcare to education — that depend on a strong, skilled workforce,” he added. Connecticut Attorney General William Tong also praised the ruling, describing the fee as an unfair burden on employers. “We just stopped Donald Trump’s crude attempt to hawk the American Dream to the highest bidder. Trump’s outrageous fees were a steep burden for Connecticut employers across the public and private sector who rely on skilled H-1B workers for difficult, vital positions,” Tong said. “We sued, we won, and we’re going to keep fighting to protect a fair and lawful immigration process,” he added. State officials argued that the fee created a costly barrier for employers seeking workers in specialised occupations, including teachers, physicians, researchers and nurses. They said the policy risked worsening labour shortages and disrupting essential public services. According to the coalition, employers had previously paid between $960 and $7,595 in regulatory and statutory fees for H-1B visas before the $100,000 charge was introduced. The states also highlighted the economic contribution of H-1B workers and their families, citing estimates that they contribute $86 billion annually to the US economy, pay $35 billion in federal and payroll taxes, and another $11 billion in state and local taxes."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F6d9a84a3-bdac-4f8f-957e-c069d3c27d4f_h1b.jpg?auto=format,compress&rect=0,67,1920,947&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-09T20:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"us-states-hail-court-win-against-h-1b-fee"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Indian mangoes spark summer rush across US"},"content":{"text":"From Seattle to Los Angeles and from New Jersey to Washington DC, Indian mangoes are triggering a summer buying frenzy across the United States, with shipments selling out within hours at major retailers as demand surges for varieties such as Kesar, Alphonso and Langra.  India's Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra says the fruit's growing popularity reflects both diaspora nostalgia and widening American appreciation for Indian produce. For decades, Indian Americans returning from summer visits home would carry memories of Alphonso, Kesar, Langra and Dussehri mangoes. Today, many of those same varieties are appearing in mainstream American retail stores, bringing a taste of India to consumers thousands of miles away. \"You know, we all have a sense of diaspora, particularly in the US a sense of summer nostalgia as I call it when it comes to mango. Summer vacations remind us of the times when, we will enjoy mango and the deliciousness of this fruit to our heart's content,\" Kwatra told IANS ahead of a mango festival being organised by the Embassy of India in Washington later this month. That nostalgia is now finding its way into American supermarkets. \"But we are now facing a very, very happy situation where this nostalgia is now available with American retailers,” he said. The latest sign of Indian mangoes' growing popularity came in Seattle, where the Consulate General of India hosted the second edition of \"Mango Magic\", a promotion and tasting event that brought together more than 100 importers, distributors and senior representatives from major retailers, including Costco. Guests sampled seven premium varieties of Indian mangoes — Alphonso and Kesar from Maharashtra, Banganpalli and Himayat from Andhra Pradesh, Langra and Dussehri from Uttar Pradesh, and Rajapuri from Gujarat. Washington State Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck welcomed the introduction of a wider range of Indian mangoes to Washington State. State senators, diplomats and business leaders attended the event, which was organised in partnership with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). In May, Costco imported its first tranche of Indian Kesar mangoes to stores in Greater Seattle, Las Vegas, New Jersey and Greater Los Angeles. Costco representatives have reported that \"all the Indian mangoes were sold out from these locations within two hours of their arrival on the shelves\". That rapid sell-out has become a recurring theme in conversations surrounding Indian mangoes. \"People tell me that when Costco first introduced Mango and … within a couple of hours, the shelves all emptied out. Such was the popularity of the fruit,\" Kwatra said. Consumers have taken notice. Social media posts have tracked arrivals of Kesar mangoes at Costco locations across California, Washington State and New Jersey, with shoppers sharing photos and urging friends to visit stores before supplies disappear. One customer described Indian Kesar mangoes as an \"iconic Indian summer favorite\", while others posted that Indian mangoes were \"unmatched in taste\". The ambassador said the enthusiasm extends beyond the Indian diaspora. \"I can tell you from my personal experience that the mango that we have shared here with our colleagues in the US administration, in the Congress, universal feedback has been that this is the most delicious kind of mango they have ever tasted in their lives,\" he said. India is the world's largest producer of mangoes, with annual production exceeding 26 million metric tonnes and more than 1,000 named varieties. Exports of Indian mangoes to the United States, which resumed in 2007 after an 18-year suspension, have expanded steadily over the past decade. Exports of Indian mangoes to the US reached $10 million in FY2023-24, up from $4.36 million in the previous fiscal year. With the US mango import market crossing $1 billion in value in 2025 and continuing to grow, Indian exporters increasingly see an opportunity to introduce regional varieties to a wider American audience."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/Zrz2ZEaF0TcGI7_5_mangojuice.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-09T19:31:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indian-mangoes-spark-summer-rush-across-us"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"US Introduces Premium Visa Appointments"},"content":{"text":"In a significant shift in visa processing procedures, the US State Department has unveiled a pilot program aimed at B1/B2 visa applicants, allowing them to secure interview appointments within a mere 10 business days for an additional fee of $750. Set to commence on July 1 and running through December 31, this initiative marks a notable departure from the traditionally long wait times that have plagued the process, particularly in the wake of pandemic-related delays. However, while this premium service offers expedited scheduling, it is crucial to understand that it does not alter the underlying processing timelines, eligibility criteria, or likelihood of visa approval. The program will be implemented at select US consulates, with specific locations yet to be identified by the State Department. As stated in an upcoming notice to be published in the Federal Register, only a limited number of expedited appointments will be available at these participating diplomatic missions. This exclusivity highlights both the experimental nature of the pilot and the demand for expedited services, which many applicants have increasingly sought due to extensive backlogs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on international travel. Historically, obtaining a B1/B2 visa—designated for business and tourism—has required meticulous adherence to a standardized process often characterized by extended waiting periods. The recent surge in global travel demands has prompted the US government to reassess its approach to visa applications. By introducing this premium service, the State Department aims to alleviate some of the pressure on applicants while also generating additional revenue through the expedited fee. However, officials have made it explicitly clear that this fee merely facilitates quicker access to interview slots and bears no influence on the outcome of visa applications, which remain subject to the rigors of security checks and eligibility assessments. Applicants opting for the expedited appointment service must still fulfill all existing requirements associated with the B visa category. Consequently, the introduction of this program does not imply enhanced prospects for approval; rather, it serves as an acknowledgment of the ongoing challenges faced by international travelers in securing timely appointments. As the State Department navigates this pilot initiative, the effectiveness and impact on the overall visa processing landscape remain to be seen, with many advocating for a more comprehensive overhaul of the system to meet the rising demands of global mobility."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aNFVfZ5xUNkB0-bC_H1Bvisa.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-10T08:13:57+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"us-introduces-premium-visa-appointments"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Nithya Raman Sets Up LA Mayor Clash"},"content":{"text":"Nithya Raman, a Democratic Socialist in the mould of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, has emerged as the challenger to embattled Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass in the November election to lead the second-biggest US city. She took the second spot in the open primary election, edging out the Republican candidate Spencer Pratt, to face Democrat Bass in a runoff, according to media calculations reported on Monday, even as the official counting was continuing almost a week after the election held last Tuesday. Raman, like Mamdani, made affordability for the majority in the city of Hollywood glamour the focus of her campaign, and pins her hopes on riding a wave of grassroots Democratic Socialist progressivism. If she defeats Bass in November, the two largest cities will be led by leftist Democrats of Indian heritage. Some polls put the disapproval rate of Bass at over 55 per cent, while only 35 per cent of voters had an unfavourable view of Raman. Raman, 44, was born in Kerala to a Tamil family and moved to the US when she was six years old. After getting a bachelor's degree from Harvard University and a master's in urban planning from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, she went back to India to set up a research organisation, Transparent Chennai, that worked on sanitation and environment issues. Returning to the US, she worked for the city before taking up the cause of the homeless. She was elected to the Los Angeles City Council riding a wave of progressivism in 2020, setting the stage for her mayoral candidacy. Bass, a 76-year-old veteran of California politics who was a speaker of the state Assembly, succeeded Eric Garcetti, who was appointed US Ambassador to India by former President Joe Biden. She came under criticism for her handling of the fires that swallowed vast areas of sprawling Los Angeles, destroying over 12,000 homes and 4,000 other buildings. When the fires started in January last year, Bass, who is African American, had been away in Ghana, and grappled with dealing with it and its continuing aftermath. Behind the facade of movie glitter lurked the problems of homelessness, high cost of housing, and delayed response by city emergency services, which Raman said she would try to fix. \"If you're as frustrated by the broken status quo as I am, I hope you'll join our movement to build a city that works for everyone,\" she said. Bass was earlier declared the top candidate in the mayoral primary after she crossed the 34 per cent mark. As of Monday, she had 28.6 per cent of the votes to Pratt's 25.8 per cent, leading to the media declaration. Pratt had been leading for the second spot till Sunday, when Raman overtook him. President Donald Trump, who backed Pratt, alleged the election was rigged, repeating allegations he has made about the US electoral system since his defeat in 2020. \"No way this could have happened. Rigged Election!\" Trump posted on Truth Social about the Los Angeles primary early Monday."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aifkPweQX7-eXA1s_nithyaraman.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-09T06:01:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"nithya-raman-sets-up-la-mayor-clash"}}]},"videos":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"#NBK111 Glimpse"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiqJBalQnVZVENEs_NBK111.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-10T18:30:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"nbk111-glimpse"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"SlumDog - 33 Temple Road Teaser"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWoY2wIvOtkhBpL2_slumdog.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-08T12:53:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"slumdog---33-temple-road-teaser"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Toxic' Movie BTS Video"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiaXXweQX7-eW9Tg_toxicbts.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-08T05:20:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"toxic-movie-bts-video"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Bigg Boss Telugu 10 Promo"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiV9TQeQX7-eW8eA_BB10.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-07T12:16:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"bigg-boss-telugu-10-promo"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Massa Massa Lyrical Video"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ah_G4weQX7-eWo33_massamassasong.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-02T19:17:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"massa-massa-lyrical-video"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Cocktail 2' Trailer"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ah7YRgeQX7-eWjSA_cocktail2.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-02T10:19:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"cocktail-2-trailer"}}]},"editorial":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Mega DSC: How A 'Mega' Move Became A 'Mega' Mess"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiu7LalQnVZVEQ7o_megadscapjagancbn.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T06:54:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"mega-dsc-how-a-mega-move-became-a-mega-mess"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Disintegration Of TMC: A Warning For CBN?"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aipz_alQnVZVEMr5_mocbma.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T07:38:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"disintegration-of-tmc-a-warning-for-cbn"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Is PK writing A New Script?"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aifpNgeQX7-eXBHj_pawan.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-09T06:30:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"is-pk-writing-a-new-script"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"A Bizarre State Of Dual Economic Reality"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiaZhAeQX7-eW9Ua_GDP.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-08T06:25:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"a-bizarre-state-of-dual-economic-reality"}}]},"gallery":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-05-02T12:20:57+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Kajal Aggarwal Stunning Stills"},"content":{"text":"Kajal A Kitchlu, known professionally as Kajal Aggarwal, is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi films. Aggarwal is considered one of the highest paid actresses of South Indian cinema. She is a recipient of three SIIMA Awards and a Filmfare Award."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/afXrHcBOoF08xjQk_kajal2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"kajal-aggarwal-stunning-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-04-14T10:45:57+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Janhvi Kapoor Radiant Look Stills "},"content":{"text":"Janhvi Kapoor is an Indian actress who works predominantly in Hindi films. Born to film actress Sridevi and producer Boney Kapoor, she made her acting debut in 2018 with the romantic drama Dhadak, which was a commercial success."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ad3-7Z1ZCF7ETKag_janhvi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"janhvi-kapoor-radiant-look-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-04-02T15:03:07+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Nabha Natesh Glam Pics"},"content":{"text":"Nabha Natesh is an Indian actress and model who primarily appears in Telugu films. She made her debut with Kannada film Vajrakaya and later in Telugu with Nannu Dochukunduvate. She had her breakthrough with iSmart Shankar in 2019 due to which she is popularly referred as \"Ismart Beauty\" in the media."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ac6Er5GXnQHGZNWp_nabha2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"nabha-natesh-glam-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-29T11:03:07+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Nidhhi Agerwal Royal Blue Sari Stills"},"content":{"text":"Nidhhi Agerwal is an Indian actress who primarily works in Telugu and Tamil films. After participating in Miss Diva Universe 2014, Agerwal made her acting debut with the Hindi film Munna Michael, for which she received Zee Cine Award for Best Female Debut."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ackGR5GXnQHGZEvS_nidhhi2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"nidhhi-agerwal-royal-blue-sari-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-29T07:22:02+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rakul New Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Rakul Preet Singh is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Telugu, Hindi and Tamil films. She has won a South Indian International Movie Award, in addition to four nominations at the Filmfare Awards South. Singh made her acting debut with the Kannada film Gilli."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/acjShZGXnQHGZErj_RPS2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rakul-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-17T09:44:26+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rashi Khanna New Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Rashii Khanna (born 30 November 1990) is an Indian actress and playback singer who predominantly works in Telugu and Tamil film industries. She made her acting debut in a supporting role with the Hindi film Madras Cafe (2013) and subsequently made her debut as female lead with Telugu film Oohalu Gusagusalade (2014), in Tamil with Imaikkaa Nodigal (2018) and Malayalam with Villain (2017)."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/abkhxbbci2UF6Gme_rashikhanna.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rashi-khanna-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-12T18:30:32+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Meenakshi Chaudhary Red Bold Stills"},"content":{"text":"Meenakshi Chaudhary is an Indian actress and beauty pageant titleholder who works predominantly in Telugu and Tamil films. She represented the state of Haryana at the Femina Miss India 2018 pageant, where she was crowned as Femina Miss India Grand International 2018."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/abMFmVxvIZEnjoQC_meenakshi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"meenakshi-chaudhary-red-bold-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-10T18:35:00+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Shruti Haasan Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Shruti Haasan is an Indian actress and singer who works in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi films. She is the recipient of various accolades, including two Filmfare Award South and seven South Indian International Movie Awards. Haasan has appeared in Forbes India's Celebrity 100 list of 2015 and 2016."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aa__a1xvIZEnjhl8_shruthi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"shruti-haasan-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-03T18:03:05+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Bhagyashri Borse New Stills"},"content":{"text":"Bhagyashri Borse is an Indian actress who appears primarily in South films. After doing cameo appearances in Hindi films Yaariyan 2 and Chandu Champion, she made her lead debut in South with the Telugu film Mr. Bachchan for which she has won the SIIMA Award for Best Female Debut – Telugu."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aachiFxvIZEnjSV9_bhagya2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"bhagyashri-borse-new-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-02-27T11:14:55+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"ViRosh Wedding Stills"},"content":{"text":"ViRosh Wedding Stills"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aaF4t8FoBIGEg6zW_virosh.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"virosh-wedding-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-02-21T12:37:04+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Niharika Konidela New Stills"},"content":{"text":"Niharika Konidela is an Indian actress and producer who predominantly works in Telugu films. She made her debut with the film Oka Manasu. She produces films and web series under her banner. "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aZmdKsFoBIGEgndO_niharika2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"niharika-konidela-new-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-02-01T18:21:28+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rashmi Gautam Red Hot Sills"},"content":{"text":"Rashmi Gautam is an Indian actress and television presenter who appears in Telugu-language films and TV. She hosts the Telugu television comedy show Extra Jabardasth and is a conceptual team leader in reality dance show Dhee."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aX-WA90YXLCxVPdl_rashmi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rashmi-gautam-red-hot-sills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-01-29T19:41:55+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rithu Chowdary Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Rithu Chowdary is an Indian actress and anchor known for her work in Telugu television and films. She began her career as an anchor on Star Maa Music and gained popularity through reality shows like Pelli Choopulu (2018). She debuted in Telugu TV with the serial Gorintaku (2019) and later appeared in Suryavamsam and Inti Guttu. Her film debut was in Mouname Ishtam (2019), followed by a role in Uppena (2021). Rithu is also a regular on comedy shows like Jabardasth and Sridevi Drama Company, known for her comedic timing and charm. In 2021, she launched her YouTube channel, Rithu Chowdhary, with over 70,000 subscribers. She participated in Bigg Boss Telugu Season 8 (2024)."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aXu3QAIvOtkhCGJU_rithuchoudhary.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rithu-chowdary-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-12-16T17:05:55+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Shriya Saran Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Shriya Saran Bhatnagar is an Indian actress who primarily works in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi films. Although Saran aspired to become a well-known dancer, she became an actress and made her film debut with the Telugu film Ishtam. Saran had her first commercial success with Santosham."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aUGQvnNYClf9oSUB_shriya2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"shriya-saran-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-12-16T17:05:55+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Anasuya Bharadwaj Saree Pics"},"content":{"text":"Anasuya Bharadwaj is an Indian television presenter and actress who works in Telugu films and television. She has received two SIIMA Awards, an IIFA Utsavam Award and a Filmfare Award South for her performances in Kshanam and Rangasthalam."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aUGPy3NYClf9oSS3_ansuya2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"anasuya-bharadwaj-saree-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-12-06T17:46:28+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Guess This Heroine"},"content":{"text":"guess this heroine"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aTLHu3NYClf9n2n7_gs1.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"guess-this-heroine"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-09-23T11:53:49+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Priya Prakash Varrier New Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Priya Prakash Varrier is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Malayalam films. Her wink in the film Oru Adaar Love went viral, making her the most searched-for personality through Google in India in 2018."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aNJDd55xUNkB1AGF_priyapvarrier2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"priya-prakash-varrier-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-09-20T17:01:37+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Disha Patani Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Disha Patani is an Indian actress who primarily work in Hindi films. Patani began her acting career with the Telugu film Loafer, and had her first Hindi film release with the biopic M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, for which she won the IIFA Award for Star Debut of the Year"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aM7X1J5xUNkB07Ue_disha2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"disha-patani-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-08-27T16:52:16+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Raai Laxmi Hot Bikini Stills"},"content":{"text":"Lakshmi Rai, professionally credited as Raai Laxmi is an Indian actress and model who predominantly works in Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, Kannada and Hindi languages."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aK8262GNHVfTOYIc_raailakshmi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"raai-laxmi-hot-bikini-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-08-15T11:03:15+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Nora Fatehi Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Nora Fatehi is a Canadian dancer and actress based in India. She has appeared in Hindi, Telugu and Malayalam films. Fatehi made her acting debut with the Hindi film Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aJ8R_aTt2nPbaW3o_nora2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"nora-fatehi-glam-stills"}}]},"one":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Mega DSC: How A 'Mega' Move Became A 'Mega' Mess"},"content":{"text":"“In modern political warfare, facts matter far less than who tells the story better” If you want proof that propaganda has a comic way of unfolding, look no further than the current chaos surrounding Andhra Pradesh's \"Mega DSC\" teacher recruitment. The TDP-led alliance government is now caught in a major political storm, all because a newly energized opposition found the perfect script to spin its own narrative, proving that in the theatrical arena of politics, from “Alaska to Amalapuram”, timing is everything. What was meant to be Chandrababu’s proudest administrative milestone has been completely hijacked by an aggressive opposition strategy, offering an ironical lesson in how easily a grandiose policy can be turned into a total embarrassment. The TDP-led alliance government, when it conducted Mega DSC recruitment drive, was all planning to hit the ground to hold celebrations, desperate to flaunt it as the ultimate pre-election promise fulfilled. It was supposed to be a flawless political feast, serving 16,347 teaching jobs to a young electorate that had been starving for employment for years. Instead, the opposition YSRCP completely gatecrashed the party, flipped the buffet tables, and loudly claimed the soup was poisoned. With surgical precision, YSRCP chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy rebranded the \"Mega DSC\" into what he calls the “Daga DSC” (Deceptive DSC) scandal. This brilliant narrative flip instantly transformed a chest-thumping government achievement into a defensive bunker for Nara Lokesh, the Harvard-returned State Education Minister, and N. Chandrababu Naidu, a self-styled visionary leader who has always preferred being seen as a corporate CEO rather than a democratically elected Chief Minister. To understand the sheer comedy of errors currently playing out on regional television, one must appreciate the wild accusations being hurled by the opposition. According to the YSRCP's highly publicized attack, the recruitment drive operates less like a standardized government exam and more like an elite, state-sponsored wheeling and dealing operation. The opposition’s magnificent propaganda script reads like a supernatural thriller, revolving around the spooky mysteries of the \"Vanishing Merit List,\" \"Missing Data,\" and jobs magically awarded through the sports quota. In a spectacular twist of cloak-and-dagger governance, the opposition claims the state completely ditched the boring old protocol of proudly displaying selection lists at District Collector offices. Instead, they allegedly opted for a high-tech \"Megha Sandesham\" strategy, a literal \"computing cloud\" maneuver, where the good news was quietly beamed down from the digital heavens straight to chosen candidates via ultra-private SMS messages. Then came a true miracle of academic fortune: an outsourcing employee, who just so happened to be linked directly to the examination process, somehow bagged the state's first rank. Naturally, when the opposition ruined the fun by pointing this out, the individual’s details vanished from official records so thoroughly that you couldn't even find them in the recycle bin of the government computers. To top it all off, YSRCP leaders allege the sports quota was so heavily compromised that non-sportspersons, including those whose only athletic excellence was in high-stakes card games, suddenly developed elite, Olympic-level abilities overnight, magically securing teaching jobs after middlemen reportedly charged a completely casual ₹15 lakh per post. The YSRCP's strategy appeared brutally effective, completely rewriting the script and forcing the entire TDP rank and file to frantically scurry for countermeasures. While the coalition government desperately wanted the headlines to read, \"We fulfilled what we promised,\" the opposition instead hijacked the narrative by rallying disgruntled DSC candidates onto the streets, mimicking a chaotic \"Cockroach Party\" style drama to loudly demand a CBI probe into what they brand a \"Brokered Recruitment Policy.\" By launching statewide protests and mobilizing their youth wing at district collectorates, the opposition has successfully shifted the public gaze away from the achievement of filling jobs and onto the anxiety of how they were filled. For a government that prides itself on tech-savvy governance and corporate-style transparency, being accused of \"paper leaks\" and \"data deletion\" is deeply ironic, if not outright humiliating. The response from the ruling alliance has been a mix of furious outrage and bureaucratic damage control. Rather than celebrating their governance success, the TDP's rank and file were forced to spend their media briefings calling Jagan’s claims \"false propaganda\" and \"desperate drama.\" Senior education officials have been dragged to the microphones to give complex lectures on \"vertical reservation systems\" and Supreme Court guidelines to prove that nothing illegal happened. But in politics, if you are explaining, you are losing. Every time a TDP minister went on television to explain why an SMS notification was better than a public notice board, the opposition appeared to score the brownie points of the narrative war. Ultimately, the Mega DSC saga shows that in modern political warfare, facts matter far less than who tells the story better. The TDP-led government may well have conducted a massive, rule-abiding recruitment drive. However, by allowing gaps in public data display and leaving room for the opposition to exploit irregularities, they handed the YSRCP a political goldmine. While the ruling alliance tries to salvage its narrative by promising yet another DSC notification in October, the damage to their \"Mega\" brand is already done. The lesson here is simple: when you promise a \"Mega\" initiative, you must prepare for \"Mega\" scrutiny. Otherwise, the opposition will happily turn your grandiose policy move into a public apology campaign."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiu7LalQnVZVEQ7o_megadscapjagancbn.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T06:54:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"mega-dsc-how-a-mega-move-became-a-mega-mess"}}]},"two":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Lawrence: Mom Says Go, What Say Fans?"},"content":{"text":"Expressing his desire to enter politics, actor, dance choreographer and producer Raghava Lawrence on Friday asked his fans and the general public to let him know if they thought he should enter politics or not.  Taking to his social media timelines to post a video in which he explained his desire to enter politics, Raghava Lawrence said, \"Do your duty sincerely, without expecting anything in return. I Need Your Advice and Guidance. I never imagined entering politics. I never had any intention of earning money or seeking a seat. My only thought was that if someone I believed in and close to me entered politics, I would stand by them and work alongside them to serve society on a larger scale than I was already doing as an individual.\" He went on to add, \"Today, circumstances have brought me to a point where I need to enter politics.\"  The actor said that in the video that he was sharing, he had spoken about his understanding of politics, how it came into his life, his mother’s perspective on politics, and a few important and interesting incidents that had shaped his journey straight from my heart with complete honesty and transparency.  \"I request you to watch the video till the end and share your thoughts with me. Your advice and guidance mean a lot to me as I take this important step with all your blessings,\" he said. In the video that he shared, Raghava Lawrence said he went by the philosophy, 'Do your duty sincerely, without expecting its reward.' He narrated the story of a rich man having two servants to clean his room. While one paid attention to doing his duty alone, the other servant would keep praising the boss, Raghava Lawrence said and ended the story by saying how the man who had only done his duty got rewarded handsomely. He then went on to present details of his philanthropic activities before saying how he was prepared to enter politics along with Rajinikanth, when the Superstar had announced his decision to enter politics.  However, Raghava Lawrence said that he had decided against entering politics then because his mom was not for it. \"When I pointed out to her that I could help more children if I entered politics, my mother had said, 'You help with the money you have now. We don't need to enter politics'.\"  Raghava Lawrence then recalled that Rajinikanth's health too had suffered and he also announced that he was not entering politics. The actor then went on to say that he again thought of entering politics when Vijay announced his decision to come to politics. Stating that when he pointed out to his mom on the day of the election results that people had voted for Vijay and that people would trust and cast their votes if good people came to politics, Raghava Lawrence said he saw a smile on his mother's face for the first time. The actor then said his mother had now given him permission to enter politics. The actor ended the video by asking, \"I am asking my fans, who I consider equal to my mother. You tell me, Can I come to politics? Do I have the qualification? Comment and let me know.\""},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aivMxqlQnVZVERgX_lawrence.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C163%2C449%2C221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T08:09:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"lawrence-mom-says-go-what-say-fans"}}]},"three":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"RGV: Stop Chasing Stars, Start Storytelling"},"content":{"text":"Maverick director Ram Gopal Varma has heaped praise on Curry Barker’s budget-friendly supernatural psychological horror thriller \"Obsession,\" calling it a \"wake-up call\" for an industry obsessed with stars, remakes and bloated spectacles.  RGV on Friday morning took to X, formerly called Twitter, talked about the true power of cinema and said it lies in the psychological precision and emotional rawness rather than massive budgets. He wrote: “OBSESSION is how we SHOOT and CUT and not WHAT. OBSESSION made on a budget lesser than maybe the cost of a film stars entourage , will hopefully dismantle our complacency.” RGV shared that Obsession, which was made on a budget of 75000 dollars, proves that filmmakers should focus on making \"better films, not bigger films.” He added: “Forgetting the reported 750 k dollar budget , a film shot entirely in just 2 rooms, interior of a car and a small store with 5 new actors couldn’t have costed more than 70 lakh rupees (Forgetting fee of various) . On that cost , it grossed over $238 million dollars that is Rs 2,279 crores ..It reportedly will do more than 100 cr in india (sic).” RGV said that filmmaker Curry Barker‘s direction seems “deceptively simplistic, but it is highly weaponized.” “He shoots in confined spaces not to avoid scale but to trap the audience in the characters’ perspectives. Editing is not mere assembly but a rhythmic psychological assault... rapid cuts punctuated by sharp sound design (door slams, sudden laughs, heartbeats, voice tone alterations) alternate with agonizingly long holds , most memorably the interval shot lingering on Nikki’s face(My most favourite shot).” The filmmaker said that these “never-before-experienced techniques” has built an unbearable tension by denying escape, “forcing us viewers to feel the horror rather than observe it from afar.” The filmmaker said that “Obsession” “externalizes internal rot making the personal public and the psychological visceral. Its gore and emotional messiness turns pulp into something disturbingly resonant about loneliness and desire.” Talking about the “important lessons” learnt from the Hollywood film for any and all related to “films In our times of franchise fatigue and VFX bloat is that it proves that only rigorous directorial vision to arrest the viewer, cutting edge editing as a storytelling tool, and sound design for emotional punctuation and expressions of actors making one feel can generate much more impact than CGI ARMIES, MASSIVE SETS ,EXOTIC LOCATIONS and 500 CRORE budgets.” Revealing what Barker taught with his latest release is “that we film makers should OBSESS over how we shoot and cut, and not just WHAT we shoot?” “After the example of Obsession Producers and directors should treat low budgets as liberation, not limitation and focus their resources on performances, path breaking editing, and creative sound design , not to forget visionary makers The ROI here will seem obscene and vulgar to the producers who wasted 100’s of crores and shot their films for years.” Calling the film a “wake up call” in teaching, he said cinema’s power lies in psychological precision and emotional rawness, and not industrial excess. “For our industry OBSESSED with risk aversion chasing stars, making remakes and bloated spectacles, this film is a SLAP ON THE FACE.” The filmmaker added: “The greatest thing Curry Barker did more than making a BLOCKBUSTER , is that he taught us that our OBSESSION should be about making BETTER FILMS and not BIGGER FILMS.” Obsession follows Bear, played by Michael Johnston, a music store employee who buys a supernatural toy that grants his wish for his friend Nikki, essayed by Inde Navarrette, to fall in love with him, resulting in horrifying consequences."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aec01404-d28d-4d99-8619-780dee6af2c9_RGV.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C89%2C1280%2C631&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-12T06:01:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rgv-stop-chasing-stars-start-storytelling"}}]},"four":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Disintegration Of TMC: A Warning For CBN?"},"content":{"text":"“The future has a warning through current symptoms in developing narratives” What this age-old political wisdom suggests is that the future loves leaving a trail of breadcrumbs right before it hits you with a brick. In the cynical world of politics, those breadcrumbs usually look like a sudden, stampede-style exit of \"deeply loyal\" opportunists who were singing your praises until five minutes ago, or the sudden twist of a very sharp knife in the back of an unsuspecting leader, courtesy of a smiling, hugging ally. It’s another matter this is a never-ending soap opera on the Indian political stage.   While highly paid television experts were glued to Maharashtra, watching Eknath Shinde dismantle the Shiv Sena like a happy demolition man, they completely missed the bigger joke. Pundits confidently declared it a local hit job by the BJP to delete the Thackeray family name from history. Not a single one of these geniuses realized they were actually looking at a giant, flashing neon warning sign meant for every family-run business and one-man show in Indian politics, from Mamata Banerjee’s Bengal empire to Chandrababu Naidu’s backyard. As events in Maharashtra unfolded, political analysts were so busy chanting the BJP's old “Congress Mukth Bharat” (\"Congress-free India\") slogan that they failed to notice a new strategy. The Shinde coup wasn't just about Maharashtra; it was the prelude to a \"Regional Party-Free India\" campaign. The goal was simple: swallow local parties whole and turn them into ghosts. It is less about democracy and more about political cannibalism. The Eknath Shinde episode kicked off right after the BJP hit a wall in the West Bengal elections. At that time, Mamata Banerjee’s victory didn't just hurt feelings; it shattered the myth that the supreme leader’s wave could flatten anything. The world finally realized the wave only worked against a weak Congress. When facing strong regional bosses who speak the local language and appeal to regional pride, the mighty wave looked more like a puddle. There followed a brief, sweet period when regional heavyweights held all the cards. Leaders used local culture, pride, and language to completely block the BJP’s grand nationalist narrative. They did it so well that by the 2024 elections, they shattered the BJP's “Abki Baar, Chaar Sau Paar” dream, forcing it into a minority status in Parliament and making it dependent on the support of parties like the TDP and JD(U). Consequently, the grand plan to wipe out local parties had to hit the brakes. Turns out, you can't devour regional entities when you suddenly need them to stay in power. The shattering of the \"400-plus seats\" slogan proved that trying to erase Congress completely actually backfired on the BJP. By trying to clear out the Congress, the BJP accidentally left a massive vacuum. Regional satraps across the country stepped right into that empty space. It became painfully obvious that the supreme leader's magic formula only delivers results when he is fighting a battered Congress in a straight, one-on-one match. In simple terms, the BJP's empire had strict borders; it could only expand as far as local parties allowed. But just as things looked stable, the political weather changed overnight. Thanks to some strict cleaning up by the Election Commission, self-inflicted wounds by the TMC, and Tamil Nadu voters getting tired of the same two local choices, the script flipped. What followed was the spectacular melting away of the TMC. This wasn't just a regular election loss where a party loses power and promises to do better next time. The TMC had ruled Bengal with an iron fist for 15 years. Watching it collapse this fast defied all rules of normal political gravity. This collapse is far worse than what happened to the Congress after the 2014 elections, or the Left when they lost Bengal. The TMC didn't just lose; its entire squad of MPs practically rebelled and packed their bags to support the BJP. This isn't just standard political backstabbing; it is a clear message to leaders like Chandrababu Naidu (CBN). Now that the TMC has imploded and Nitish Kumar has been successfully tamed into compliance, the BJP can get back to its favorite hobby: erasing regional parties. The next target in line is CBN in Andhra Pradesh. When Amit Shah casually announced that the BJP would go solo in the South, he wasn't just making small talk; he was giving Naidu a polite notice to check his exits. The signs of trouble are everywhere. The old Tamil parties are losing their grip, the TMC is so desperate it is thinking about running back to merge with the Congress, and Pawan Kalyan is publicly questioning why he should even attend Andhra cabinet meetings. These aren't random events. They are flashing red lights showing that the BJP is ready to push at least one regional partner out of the plane in Andhra Pradesh. As things stand, the BJP won't even need to budget for a strategy to finish off the YSRCP. Andhra's other regional heavyweight is currently curled up in a fetal position, nursing its electoral bruises and posing about as much threat to the BJP as a wet paper bag. Since that particular rival has already successfully ghosted itself out of relevance, the crosshairs naturally lock onto the only target left worth taming: CBN and his unsuspecting TDP. Can CBN, a veteran with a 40-plus-year political shelf-life, pull off a miracle and save the TDP from becoming completely irrelevant? Or will his party become just another dish at the national party's buffet? As they say in Bollywood: Picture abhi baaki hai—the movie isn't over yet."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aipz_alQnVZVEMr5_mocbma.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T07:38:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"disintegration-of-tmc-a-warning-for-cbn"}}]},"five":{"edges":[]},"review":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai'"},"content":{"text":"Some films are designed to make you think. Others are designed to make you laugh till your cheeks hurt. Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, directed by David Dhawan, proudly belongs to the latter category. Loaded with misunderstandings, larger-than-life characters, romance, family drama and non-stop comedy, the film embraces the classic Bollywood entertainer template and delivers exactly what it promises. Written by David Dhawan with screenplay by Yunus Sajawal and dialogues by Farhad Samji, the film thrives on its energetic storytelling and unapologetically chaotic humour. The Story: At the heart of the film is Jass, a lovable and impulsive man whose life takes an unexpected turn when personal relationships, family expectations and a series of unfortunate circumstances collide at the same time. Without revealing too much, the story follows Jass as he finds himself caught in an increasingly complicated situation involving his estranged wife Baani and Preet, a woman who unexpectedly enters his life. What begins as a relationship drama soon snowballs into a full-fledged comedy of errors, leading to a chain of misunderstandings, secrets and hilarious situations. The narrative constantly throws Jass from one problem into another, ensuring there is never a dull moment. While the premise is outrageous, the film fully commits to its madness, making the ride entertaining from start to finish. Performances: Varun Dhawan is in his element as Jass. His comic timing, boundless energy and natural screen presence carry the film effortlessly. He understands the rhythm of David Dhawan's brand of comedy and delivers a performance that is both charming and consistently entertaining. Mrunal Thakur brings warmth and emotional depth to Baani, ensuring that the character remains relatable amidst the chaos unfolding around her. She balances the film's emotional moments effectively and shares a comfortable chemistry with Varun. Pooja Hegde lights up the screen as Preet. Confident, glamorous and full of spark, she adds freshness to the narrative and keeps the momentum alive whenever she appears. Among the supporting cast, Maniesh Paul is a scene stealer, delivering several laugh-out-loud moments with effortless ease. Jimmy Sheirgill, Chunky Pandey, Kubbra Sait, Rakesh Bedi and Mouni Roy contribute well to the ensemble, each adding their own flavour to the madness. Dialogues and Humour: Farhad Samji's dialogues play a major role in keeping the entertainment quotient high. The punchlines land well, the situational comedy works and several one-liners are likely to draw applause from audiences in packed theatres. The film embraces old-school Bollywood comedy while updating it for contemporary viewers, creating a blend that feels familiar yet accessible. Music and Technical Aspects: The music complements the film's upbeat tone, while the vibrant visuals and colourful production design add to its festive appeal. David Dhawan keeps the pace brisk for most parts, ensuring the narrative rarely loses momentum. What Could Have Worked Better: Some comedic stretches feel slightly overextended and a few situations require audiences to completely suspend disbelief. However, these are minor concerns in a film that is more interested in entertaining than being realistic. Final Word: Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai is a quintessential David Dhawan entertainer that embraces confusion, comedy and chaos with complete conviction. Powered by Varun Dhawan's infectious energy, solid support from Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, the film delivers a thoroughly enjoyable big-screen experience. If you're looking for logic, this may not be your destination. If you're looking for laughter, fun and a dose of classic Bollywood masala, this film delivers in abundance."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiKZMAeQX7-eW1yO_HaiJawaniTohIshqHonaHai.jpg?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-05T03:39:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-hai-jawani-toh-ishq-hona-hai"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Peddi'"},"content":{"text":"Buchi Babu grabbed everyone's attention with his debut film, 'Uppena'. Having grossed over 100 crores with his very first movie, he caught the eye of several star heroes. Even NTR expressed interest in working with him. A project with NTR was confirmed; however, for various reasons, it never materialized.  Buchi Babu subsequently spent the last two years collaborating closely with Ram Charan to bring this film to life. Given the massive hype surrounding it, let's see how the movie actually turned out in this review. Story: The story of 'Peddi' revolves around the journey of a 'sports laborer'—a man named Peddi (Ram Charan)—who is driven by an unwavering determination to showcase the existence of his village to the world. Hailing from a village that doesn't even have a name, Peddi earns his livelihood as a sports laborer. While he has built a good reputation as a cricketer, he eventually comes to believe that true recognition for his village can be achieved not through cricket, but through wrestling. However, recognition for the village does not come through wrestling either. So, how did the entire world eventually come to talk about this nameless village—exactly as 'Peddi' had wished? What daring feat did 'Peddi' undertake to make that happen? That forms the crux of the story.  Performances: Ram Charan’s performance is magnificent. Throughout the entire first half of the film, he captivates the audience in his role as a cricketer. He appears to execute spectacular shots, just like a professional cricketer would; indeed, one feels as though they are watching a genuine cricketer in Ram Charan. It is often said that Ram Charan naturally excels in emotional scenes, and there is absolutely no doubt that he truly lived the emotional moments leading up to the interval and during the film's climax. Furthermore, he elevated the musical numbers to extraordinary heights through his dancing—going above and beyond what was expected. Ram Charan showcases his absolute best dancing skills in this movie. He also impresses equally in both the action sequences and the sports-centric scenes. As for the female lead, Janhvi Kapoor—while she is credited as the heroine, she has very little scope to perform and is not an integral part of the core narrative. Moreover, her screen presence is shockingly brief. Janhvi Kapoor practically disappears entirely during the second half of the film. However, it must be noted that she did manage to grab some attention in the first half by flaunting her physique.  Jagapathi Babu, who appears in the first half, delivers a captivating performance in his emotional scenes. Meanwhile, Kannada superstar Shivarajkumar impresses in his role as a wrestling mentor; his mere look alone wins over half the audience, and his acting prowess requires no special mention. Finally, it must be stated that none of the other supporting characters were given any significant prominence. Technical: The film's music has been a prominent topic of discussion right from the very beginning. Director Buchi Babu made a deliberate and specific choice to enlist A.R. Rahman as the music director for the film. Consequently, everyone anticipated that 'Peddi' would capture the audience's attention primarily through its musical elements. True to expectations, the songs proved to be a resounding success. Furthermore, the background score was equally impressive; with the exception of one or two isolated moments, Rahman's background music was captivating throughout the rest of the film. The cinematography also earns high marks. A commendable effort was made to authentically depict the atmosphere and conditions of the 1990s era. The camera work was particularly effective in a few sequences—most notably during the sports scenes. The first half of the film felt somewhat dragged out, suggesting that the editing could have been tighter. The production values, however, were excellent. Director Buchi Babu selected a compelling core concept; yet, it felt as though he was unable to craft a screenplay that did full justice to that premise. Some of the dialogues were well-written. Analysis: Buchi Babu has garnered a strong reputation as a director who managed to achieve a ₹100-crore box office collection with his very first film. Moreover, since the outset, there has been considerable buzz suggesting that he is in no way inferior to his mentor, Sukumar. Reports have surfaced claiming that this particular story—which was originally penned with NTR in mind—was ultimately filmed with Ram Charan. Leaving aside the veracity of those reports, it appears that Ram Charan gave his approval to the project based solely on the strength of the story's core premise. However, watching the film makes it evident that a compelling premise alone is not sufficient to carry an entire movie. The narrative centers on the protagonist participating in three distinct sports to showcase the existence and identity of his hometown to the world. Given this premise, it was imperative that the portrayal of these specific sports be significantly elevated and given greater prominence within the film. Apart from cricket, no other sport was given significant prominence.  The first half dragged on in a boring manner. The second half was somewhat passable, barring a few emotional scenes. It must be said that Director Buchi Babu failed to effectively showcase the sports elements—which are absolutely crucial to the screenplay. With the exception of a few sequences, the majority of the film feels tedious. However, there is no doubt that this serves as a delightful treat for Ram Charan's fans. Viewed from a fan's perspective, the film earns high marks; yet, it must be acknowledged that for a regular moviegoer, it may not quite hit the mark. Plus Points: Ram Charan A few sports sequences The songs Minus Points: The slow pacing of the first half The screenplay The heroine's role The lack of prominence given to the villains Conclusion... The 'Peddi' games are boring. Banners: Vriddhi Cinemas, Mythri Movie Makers Producers: Venkata Satish Kilaru, Ishan Saxena Direction: Buchi Babu Music: A.R. Rahman Cast: Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, Divyendu, Boman Irani, Upendra, Satya, Chammak Chandra, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiCF9AeQX7-eWrDe_peddi.jpg?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-03T19:52:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-peddi"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: Made in India – A Titan Story"},"content":{"text":"Rarely does a series manage to be both inspiring and cinematically gripping—but Made in India – A Titan Story achieves exactly that, and does it with remarkable finesse. The Story: Where Vision Meets Legacy   At its core, the series is a tribute to belief—the kind that builds institutions. It traces the journey of Xerxes Desai, a man driven by vision, and the unwavering faith J.R.D. Tata placed in him. What unfolds is not just the story of Titan Watches, but of an idea that refused to stay small. It is about ambition, risk, and the quiet power of trust that turns dreams into legacy. Performances That Stay With You   Jim Sarbh delivers one of his most layered performances to date. His portrayal of Xerxes Desai is controlled yet deeply emotional, capturing the vulnerability and determination of a man chasing something bigger than himself. Naseeruddin Shah, as J.R.D. Tata, is understated brilliance. Even with limited screen time, his presence defines the emotional spine of the series—commanding, graceful, and quietly powerful. The ensemble cast adds richness to the narrative. Each character feels lived-in and purposeful—whether it’s Namita Dubey’s sincerity, Lakshveer Saran’s emotional weight, or Kaveri Seth’s authenticity. Supporting performances from Vaibhav Tatwawadi, Paresh Ganatra, Ashwath Bhatt, Viraf Patel, Joy Sengupta, and Prateeksha Lonkar create a world that feels real and immersive. Craft, Scale, and Storytelling :  Director Robbie Grewal handles the material with precision and maturity, allowing the story to breathe while maintaining a steady narrative grip. The storytelling never feels rushed, yet never loses momentum. The writing by Karan Vyas is sharp and confident, with dialogues that feel organic yet impactful. Visually, the show carries a cinematic scale—elegant production design, carefully chosen locations, and a background score that subtly amplifies the emotional beats. The integration of classic music adds texture without overwhelming the narrative. Final Word: Backing a story like this requires both courage and conviction, and Almighty Motion Picture deserves credit for bringing it to life. Co-produced with T-Series Films, Made in India – A Titan Story is not just a series—it’s an experience that fills you with immense pride for India and reminds you of the power of vision, perseverance, and nation-building. Patriotism naturally seeps in as the story unfolds. It’s one of a kind story that inspires, engages, and stays with you long after it ends."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ah_UIAeQX7-eWo7C_madeinindia.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-03T05:14:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-made-in-india--a-titan-story"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Drishyam 3'"},"content":{"text":"This film serves as a sequel to 'Drishyam 1' (released in 2013) and 'Drishyam 2' (released in 2021). With the 'Drishyam' franchise, Jeethu Joseph garnered a nationwide fan base. Consequently, whenever a new 'Drishyam 3' installment is announced, it immediately sparks immense curiosity among audiences.  Venkatesh had previously remade the first two 'Drishyam' films, bringing them to the Telugu audience. However, for this third installment, Mohanlal himself has presented the film directly to the Telugu audience today. Despite being a dubbed film, the expectations and interest among the Telugu audience are exceptionally high. Let's see in this review whether the film lives up to those expectations. Story: George (Mohanlal) produces a feature film titled 'Drishyam', based on the actual events that unfolded in his own life. The movie receives a positive reception and garners massive box-office collections. Meanwhile, discussions regarding Varun's murder resurface once again. As the topic of Varun's murder gains traction on social media, George begins looking for suitable alliances to arrange the marriage of his eldest daughter, Anu.  In this sequence of events, Varun's father, Prabhakar (Siddique), devises a plan to reopen the Varun murder case and execute an arrest precisely on the day of Anu's wedding. However, George cleverly manages to evade capture. Nevertheless, George and his family members find themselves in deep trouble due to another plan orchestrated by Prabhakar.  What are these troubles? And how does George manage to protect his family from them? That forms the crux of the film's story. Performances: Just as he impressed audiences with his nuanced and understated acting in the first two installments, Mohanlal once again delivers a captivating performance in this film as a responsible and devoted father. In particular, the anguish he portrays in certain scenes makes him feel truly like a real-life father. There is absolutely no doubt that Mohanlal has delivered a stellar performance as an average father who constantly worries about the future of his two daughters—never going overboard, yet never holding back. There isn't much to say regarding Meena's role, as she was given very little scope to showcase her acting prowess. However, she was impressive in terms of her appearance in the role of a mother, and she performed aptly in accordance with the demands of a character who is a mother to two children. The actresses who played George's daughters were also impressive; their characters have been a continuous presence since the very first installment. Much like in the first two films, their acting and on-screen presence were captivating in this installment as well. However, it must be noted that in this particular film, their screen time and scope for acting were significantly limited. As for the actors playing the supporting roles, their performances were decent and adequate for their respective characters.  Technical: Music director Anil Johnson does not appear to have put in much effort. He relied heavily on the background score used in the first installment. During suspense sequences, the music felt formulaic and uninspired; it should have been composed in a manner that heightened the intrigue.  There are significant flaws in the editing; specifically, many scenes in the first half felt dragged out. Despite the first half being relatively short in duration, it still came across as boring. It appears that director Jeethu Joseph focused more on the protagonist's character and on maintaining the suspense than on the narrative itself this time around.  The production values, as always, remained modest and aligned with the requirements of the story. Analysis: For audiences who have previously watched both installments of the 'Drushyam' franchise in Telugu, watching the dubbed version this time around might feel somewhat unfamiliar. In other words, viewers accustomed to seeing Venkatesh and the other actors in those roles across the first two films may feel slightly disoriented upon seeing Mohanlal and the Malayalam cast. Many scenes also retain a distinct \"Malayalam flavor,\" placing the film quite far removed from a typical Telugu cultural context.  Consequently, it may not be particularly easy for Telugu audiences to fully connect with the story. Nevertheless, for those who enjoyed the previous two installments of the 'Drushyam' franchise, this film is worth a one-time watch. The first half unfolded very slowly and failed to effectively draw the audience into the narrative. Conversely, the second half felt rushed, as if hurrying to reach the climax. Some of the suspense sequences felt forced and shoehorned into the plot.  However, one or two of the twists introduced within the story were engaging. However, on the whole, it must be admitted that the film failed to captivate audiences in the way its predecessors did. Towards the end, a hint was dropped suggesting the possibility of a 'Drishyam 4'. It remains to be seen when that installment will arrive and what form it will take. Plus Points: Mohanlal's performance, The twists in the plot, The main storyline. Minus Points: Slow-paced screenplay in the first half, Editing, Lack of prominence given to characters other than George. Conclusion: This Malayalam 'Drishyam' sequel feels somewhat forced Banner: Aashirvad Cinemas Producer: Antony Perumbavoor Direction: Jeethu Joseph Music: Anil Johnson Cast: Mohanlal, Meena, Ansiba Hassan, Esther Anil, Asha Sharath, Shanthi Mayadevi, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ag7UpaYofJOwHelj_Drushyam3.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-21T09:20:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-drishyam-3"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Aakhri Sawal'"},"content":{"text":"There are films that entertain, there are films that provoke, and then there are films like Aakhri Sawal that arrive like a storm and force an entire nation to confront the questions it has avoided for decades. Directed by Abhijeet Mohan Warang and Produced by Nikhil Nanda, this hard-hitting political drama is not designed to comfort the audience. It is designed to challenge them, disturb them, and leave them thinking long after the credits roll. At a time when mainstream cinema often plays safe, Aakhri Sawal chooses courage. The film openly touches upon some of the nation’s most controversial and emotionally charged subjects — from the demolition of the Babri Masjid to the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi — and raises questions that generations have debated but never fully answered. What makes the film even more shocking is the unapologetic honesty with which these conversations are presented. The narrative dares to ask whether organizations like the RSS had deeper involvement in these historic events, and the way the film lays out its perspective and facts leaves the audience stunned. There are moments where the sheer boldness of the writing genuinely makes your jaw drop. Sanjay Dutt delivers what can easily be called one of the most intense performances of his career. This is not the larger-than-life Sanjay Dutt audiences are used to seeing. This is a restrained, wounded, fearless performer carrying the weight of history, anger, and truth in his eyes. Every dialogue lands with impact, and every silent moment speaks even louder. His performance elevates the film from being just politically relevant to emotionally unforgettable. The biggest surprise package, however, is Namashi Chakraborty. He emerges as the soul of the film and proves that he is far more than what audiences expected. His sincerity, emotional depth, and screen presence add an unpredictable energy to the narrative. Several scenes involving him leave a lasting impact and showcase an actor ready for much bigger recognition. One of the strongest aspects of Aakhri Sawal is its newsroom debate sequences. These portions are written with remarkable intensity and intelligence, constantly keeping the audience intrigued. The confrontations feel raw and real, almost like watching a nation argue with itself on screen. Some sequences are so emotionally charged and haunting that they genuinely stir your soul. Visually, the film maintains tension throughout. Every frame carries weight and purpose, ensuring that the audience remains invested till the very end. The storytelling never loses grip despite dealing with layered political and historical themes. Instead of becoming preachy, the film remains emotionally engaging and deeply human. The supporting cast including Amit Sadh, Sameera Reddy, Neetu Chandra and Tridha Choudhury deliver some of their most impactful performances ever, adding further strength to the film’s emotionally heavy narrative. Producer Nikhil Nanda deserves appreciation for backing a subject this fearless and uncompromising. Aakhri Sawal does not feel like just another film. It feels like a conversation India was never prepared to have openly. Bold, unsettling, emotional, and brutally honest, the film succeeds in doing what very few political dramas achieve it makes the audience uncomfortable while also keeping them completely engaged. This is courageous cinema in its purest form."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agbLRqYofJOwHQ43_aakhrisawal.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-15T06:29:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-aakhri-sawal"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: Daadi Ki Shaadi"},"content":{"text":"The film revolves around Kapil, who is navigating an arranged marriage setup when he meets Sadia Khateeb, his prospective match. Just when things begin to settle into a traditional roka, the situation takes an unexpected turn, Sadia’s daadi announces her own decision to get married, completely shifting the emotional and social dynamics of the family. The story moves to Shimla, where the daadi (Neetu Kapoor) lives alone. Her two sons and daughter rush to Shimla after reading online about her decision to remarry at this age, especially as her phone is switched off, leaving them worried and unable to reach her. Caught in the middle of this chaos is Kapil, who is deeply in love with Sadia Khateeb. Even after his own roka is called off under the belief that his union cannot continue if the daadi is remarrying, he chooses to stay connected to Sadia. He eventually joins the family’s chaotic mission, though with a very different intent: to stop the daadi’s wedding and salvage his own love story in the process. What unfolds is a mix of emotional clashes, comedic misunderstandings, and generational conflict, eventually building towards a surprisingly heartfelt resolution that touches upon family, acceptance, and letting go. Performances: Neetu Kapoor is the undeniable anchor of the film, delivering a graceful yet fearless performance as the daadi. She brings warmth, dignity, and emotional unpredictability, making her character both endearing and impactful. Kapil Sharma balances humour and emotion with ease. His performance feels natural, especially as his character transitions from a hopeful groom to someone emotionally entangled in a much larger family conflict. Sadia Khateeb lends quiet strength to her role, portraying confusion, affection, and emotional restraint with sincerity. She remains the emotional bridge between the chaotic family dynamics. The supporting cast, playing the daadi’s children, effectively drives the central conflict, bringing in frustration, humour, and generational resistance that fuels the narrative. Direction and Writing: The film stands out for its emotional clarity and grounded storytelling, leaning into relatable family dynamics and human reactions. The writing is on point and effective, allowing situations to unfold naturally rather than forcefully. Ashish R Mohan’s direction is confident and patient, often letting silence, reactions, and awkward family exchanges carry as much weight as dialogue. This gives the film its authenticity and emotional depth. Music and Visuals: The music complements the narrative without overwhelming it, subtly enhancing emotional and light-hearted moments. Visually, the film maintains a warm, accessible tone, making the world feel familiar and lived-in. Verdict: A heartfelt, well-crafted family entertainer that blends generational conflict, humour, and emotion into a cohesive experience. It works because of its sincerity and its ability to find humour within emotional chaos. Final Word: Warm, chaotic, and deeply human, this is family cinema done right."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/af2G8qYofJOwG-KX_KapilDaadiKiShaadi.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C874%2C431&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-08T05:59:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"daadi-ki-shaadi-movie-review"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Raja Shivaji'"},"content":{"text":"Riteish Deshmukh returns to direction with Raja Shivaji, and the ambition here is immediately evident. Taking on the roles of actor, writer, and director, he reshapes the familiar historical biopic into something more reflective and immersive. Told through a chapter-based narrative in a bilingual format, the film unfolds less like a conventional drama and more like a carefully written manuscript, measured, deliberate, and emotionally layered. What stands out most is the film’s clear intent: this is not a story of war, but of a warrior. There are no overwhelming, large-scale battle sequences designed purely for spectacle. Instead, the narrative chooses to focus on the making of Shivaji Maharaj, his thoughts, his influences, and the journey that shaped him into a leader. This approach gives the film a quieter strength, allowing it to connect on a more personal level. A significant portion of the film is devoted to Shivaji’s early years and coming-of-age. It thoughtfully explores the lesser-known aspects of his upbringing, placing strong emphasis on the role of his mother, Jijabai. Her presence becomes the emotional anchor of the story, illustrating how values, vision, and resilience were instilled in him long before he became a legendary figure. The focus on family and formative relationships adds richness, making his evolution feel deeply human rather than mythic. At the center, Riteish Deshmukh delivers a restrained and composed performance. His portrayal avoids excessive grandeur, instead leaning into stillness and quiet intensity. As a filmmaker, he shows notable control allowing moments to breathe and trusting the material rather than overdramatizing it. Genelia Deshmukh’s involvement is felt in the film’s emotional texture. There’s a softness in how relationships are handled, a sensitivity that balances the larger historical canvas. This is especially evident in the film’s quieter passages, where personal moments are given as much importance as political developments. Young Rahyl Deshmukh brings a natural charm to the role of the young Shivaji, capturing innocence and curiosity in a way that makes the early chapters particularly engaging and heartfelt. Among the supporting cast, Vidya Balan as Badi Begam leaves a strong impression with a performance marked by subtlety and intelligence. She brings both emotional depth and political nuance without resorting to overt dramatics. Sanjay Dutt’s Afzal Khan is equally compelling - his portrayal carries an underlying tension, defined by cunning, cruelty, and a quiet, looming menace that makes him deeply unsettling.   Fardeen Khan’s Shah Jahan is defined by restraint. Much of his presence is built around observation and waiting particularly in moments linked to the completion of the Taj Mahal giving the character a composed, watchful quality rather than overt authority. Abhishek Bachchan, as Sambhaji, delivers one of the film’s more emotionally layered performances, reflecting the burden of legacy with quiet internal conflict. A brief but impactful cameo by Salman Khan as Jiva Mahala adds emotional weight. The moment resonates not because of scale, but because of the personal loyalty it represents. The supporting ensemble including Bhagyashree as Jijabai, Sachin Khedekar, Mahesh Manjrekar, Boman Irani, Jitendra Joshi, and Amole Gupte ensures that the world feels complete and intentional. Each character contributes meaningfully to the narrative’s emotional and political fabric. Visually, Santosh Sivan’s cinematography lends the film a grounded grandeur. The landscapes feel authentic, and even the action is staged with clarity rather than chaos. Ajay–Atul’s music further elevates the experience, maintaining an emotional rhythm that complements the storytelling without overwhelming it. The blend of Marathi and Hindi elements adds cultural authenticity. Backed by Jio Studios and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under Mumbai Film Company, the film maintains a fine balance between scale and discipline. Its ambition is evident, but it never loses control of its narrative focus. While Raja Shivaji is designed as a Pan-India film, it carries a special resonance for audiences in Mumbai and Maharashtra. Releasing around Maharashtra Day, it feels like more than just a cinematic event, it comes across as a heartfelt cultural tribute.  More than a tale of war, it stands as a lesson in leadership, resilience, and pride, one that deserves to be known and felt by every Indian. Director: Riteish Deshmukh,   Cast: Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, Genelia Deshmukh and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/afRcDsBOoF08xh7T_rajashivaji.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-05-01T06:54:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-raja-shivaji"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Decoit'"},"content":{"text":"Known for consistently choosing unique scripts and achieving back-to-back successes in his career, Adivi Sesh took a brief hiatus before making this film. Initially, Shruti Haasan was selected as the female lead; however, she stepped down due to various reasons. Subsequently, Mrunal Thakur was cast as the heroine. With Mrunal's inclusion, expectations surrounding the film soared even higher. Let's see in this review to what extent the film managed to live up to those expectations. Story:  Haridas (Adivi Sesh) and Saraswathi (Mrunal Thakur)—a couple who fell in love and got married—end up separating amidst a series of unexpected circumstances. Haridas lands in prison in connection with a murder case. It is due to Saraswathi that Haridas finds himself incarcerated for the murder. Consequently, he resolves to exact revenge upon her. After escaping from prison, Haridas hatches a plan to flee to Dubai.To facilitate this, he requires a certain amount of money. In the process of trying to acquire those funds, he crosses paths with Saraswathi—only to discover that she has since remarried.  While her husband suffers from a severe illness, Saraswathi faces immense hardships while raising their child. At this critical juncture, what steps does Haridas—who is intent on exacting revenge upon Saraswathi—take? Furthermore, why did Haridas and Saraswathi—who had fallen deeply in love and married—eventually part ways? And how did Haridas become entangled in a murder case? To uncover the answers to these questions, one must watch the film. Performances: It is a well-known fact that Adivi Sesh has repeatedly proven his mettle as an actor. Once again, he has impressed audiences with his performance. Rather than merely acting in the role of Haridas, one could say he truly lived the character; such was the caliber of Adivi Sesh's performance. He earns high praise, particularly for his work in several emotional and action sequences. He also captivated viewers with a look that perfectly suited the demands of the role. Additionally, Adivi Sesh impressed with his acting in the romantic scenes. Overall, although his character in this film is quite distinct from his previous roles, he adapted to it seamlessly and delivered a compelling performance. Mrunal Thakur’s character holds immense significance within the film's narrative. However, in terms of the screenplay, her role did not receive as much prominence as it deserved. It must be noted that there were no specific scenes that truly challenged her to deliver a tour-de-force performance. Mrunal’s acting in the romantic scenes was engaging, while her performance in some of the emotional sequences was merely passable.  Atul Kulkarni did complete justice to his role. As for Anurag Kashyap, he made a strong impression within the limited screen time he was allotted; however, his character certainly warranted greater prominence. The actors who played the supporting roles delivered decent performances. Technical: Director Shaniel Deo chose a unique premise for the story. However, it must be said that he failed to flesh it out into a cohesive narrative. He drove the plot forward using routine sequences; in particular, several scenes felt like rehashes of moments seen in countless other films. There is nothing particularly noteworthy to mention regarding the screenplay either.  As for the music provided by Bheems, there is little to discuss; only one song felt somewhat passable. Bheems failed to impress even with the background score. Although it felt adequate in a scene or two, the music ultimately proved to be a detriment to the film as a whole.  The cinematography was good in certain sequences—specifically, some shots effectively conveyed the sense of being transported back in time. The production values ​​were commendable. Analysis: Compared to Adivi Sesh's previous films, this movie stands out as a distinctly different kind of project. However, the outcome of this film implicitly suggests that if Adivi Sesh were to attempt a movie within a conventional, formulaic format, his dedicated fan base would likely reject it.  The director steered the film using a stereotypical story and narrative structure. Despite Adivi Sesh's undeniable talent, the lack of a strong grip on the screenplay rendered the entire effort futile—much like pouring precious perfume into the ashes. Rumors had already surfaced during the filming stage regarding creative differences over certain scenes.  It appears that, this time around, Adivi Sesh's judgment may have faltered. Mrunal Thakur did justice to her role; however, she should have been given a bit more prominence. The director ought to have exercised greater care regarding the screenplay. Plus Points: Adivi Sesh Cinematography Anurag Kashyap Minus Points: The Heroine's Role Music Story and Screenplay In Conclusion: A story and screenplay that fail to impress. Banner: Annapurna Studios, SS Creations Direction: Shaniyel Deo Producers: Supriya Yarlagadda, Sunil Narang Music: Bheems Ceciroleo Cast: Adivi Sesh, Mrunal Thakur, Atul Kulkarni, Vaibhav, Anurag Kashyap, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/adjfdp1ZCF7ETENe_dacoit.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-04-10T06:31:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-decoit"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Biker'"},"content":{"text":"It is a well-known fact that the summer season is crucial for Tollywood. This summer was originally scheduled to kick off with a major release starring Ram Charan; however, due to various reasons, that film was postponed. Stepping in to fill that void, Sharwanand has arrived before the audience today with his film, 'Biker.'  The filmmakers have consistently asserted that—until now—no full-fledged bike racing movie has ever graced the Indian screen, making this the very first of its kind. Having assured the public that the film would captivate audiences, let us see in this review whether 'Biker' lives up to those claims. Story: Vikas Narayan—known as Vicky (Sharwanand)—is a top-tier motocross racer who suddenly decides to quit the sport. While fully immersed in leading a family life, Vicky unexpectedly finds his interest and passion for racing reignited due to unforeseen circumstances. Consequently, he returns to his father and mentor, Sunil Narayan (Rajasekhar).  What events unfold during this reunion? Furthermore, what is the true nature of the bond shared between this father-son duo—Sunil and Vicky? The film's premise revolves around why Vicky gives up racing, only to return to the sport many years later. Although the storyline itself is quite simple, the film is driven primarily by its screenplay. Performances: Regardless of the film or the nature of the role, we consistently see Sharwanand impressing audiences with his acting prowess. In this latest outing, he once again poured his heart and soul into the character of Vicky. Sharwanand appears in two distinct age groups within the film, and he delivers a convincing performance tailored perfectly to each phase of the character's life.  Furthermore, Sharwanand earns high marks once again for his execution of both emotional and romantic scenes. As a biker, he makes a sincere effort to impress through his body language. His romantic scenes with the female lead are engaging. Overall, Sharwanand delivers a commendable performance as a biker. Rajasekhar makes a return to the silver screen after a long hiatus. He is cast in the role of Sharwanand's father—a character that, despite being a paternal figure, is accorded significant importance within the narrative. Rajasekhar effectively conveys the emotional depth of the role, bringing the character to life with great conviction. Rajasekhar's acting requires no special mention; he has once again proven his mettle as a performer.  Regarding the female lead, while her character holds significance within the story's plot, it must be noted that she does not receive the expected level of prominence in the actual screenplay. Nevertheless, she delivers a decent performance within the scope provided to her. There is not much to specifically discuss regarding the performances of the other supporting cast members.  Technical: Director Abhilash should have chosen a stronger storyline. It appears he intended to carry the film solely through his direction and screenplay. He really should have put more effort into refining the story itself. Such a thin storyline demands a robust screenplay; however, the director did not fully succeed in that regard either. There are flaws in the editing.  Some of the bike racing sequences occasionally feel tedious. While the film might appeal to racing enthusiasts, regular audiences are likely to wear expressions of exasperation, thinking, \"That's enough—please make it stop!\"  The cinematography is commendable; the camera work in certain racing sequences is particularly impressive. As for the music, there is nothing particularly noteworthy to mention, though it must be acknowledged that the music director did manage to succeed with the background score in a few isolated moments. The production values ​​are good. Analysis: It would have been more effective had the director first provided the audience with a foundational understanding of bike racing before immersing them in the narrative. As it stands, the film is truly engaging only for those who already possess prior knowledge of racing. Specifically, racing aficionados are the ones who will likely watch and enjoy this movie.  However, the average commercial audience is bound to be left bewildered—staring blankly and wondering, \"What exactly is this?\" While the audience may connect with a few of the emotional scenes scattered throughout the film, that connection often feels abruptly severed almost immediately. Overall, the director failed to craft a film that would truly resonate with the audience or leave a lasting impression on their hearts.  The director steered the film as if its sole purpose were to showcase bike racing. It remains unclear whether he simply forgot that a movie requires a blend of various elements, or if he naively assumed that the presence of emotion and racing sequences alone would suffice to bring everything else together. However, it must be stated that the average moviegoer is unlikely to enjoy 'Biker'.  Sharwanand put in a tremendous amount of effort. It was a wise decision to cast Rajasekhar in this role; the combination of these two actors held the potential to create something truly spectacular. Unfortunately, the director failed to effectively utilize their talents to deliver a hit film. Apart from those with a specific passion for bike racing, regular family audiences will find it difficult to connect with this movie. It is simply not possible to carry an entire film on the strength of just a few emotional scenes. Plus Points: Sharwanand Rajasekhar A few racing sequences Minus Points: Story and Screenplay Slow pacing in the first half Some racing sequences felt tedious Certain scenes were overly melodramatic Conclusion: While Sharwanand was impressive in his portrayal of a biker, the film ultimately failed to appeal to family audiences. Banner: UV Creations Producers: Vamsi, Pramod Direction: Abhilash Reddy Music: Ghibran Cast: Sharwanand, Rajasekhar, Malavika Nair, Atul Kulkarni, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ac96upGXnQHGZPjo_biker.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-04-03T06:31:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-biker---for-those-who-love-racing"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Ustaad Bhagat Singh'"},"content":{"text":"Everyone is well aware of the massive success achieved by Gabbar Singh—a film released many years ago, starring Pawan Kalyan as the lead and directed by Harish Shankar. Consequently, expectations for this film have soared to great heights. In this review, let us see whether Director Harish Shankar has managed to live up to those expectations. Story: A teacher (K.S. Ravikumar), who dedicates himself to supporting the education of tribal children, notices a particular young boy in the region who stands out as truly special. The teacher adopts the boy, raises him, and molds him into a police officer.  That officer is Ustaad Bhagat Singh (Pawan Kalyan)—a man who not only accomplishes whatever he sets his mind to but also stands at the forefront whenever and wherever corruption or injustice rears its head.  The story revolves around how Ustaad Bhagat Singh thwarts the schemes of an individual who seeks to seize power by assassinating the state's Chief Minister. Simply put, this is the story of a powerful police officer. Performances: There is no need to speak separately about Pawan Kalyan's performance; it speaks for itself. There is absolutely no doubt that he does complete justice to any role assigned to him. Pawan Kalyan has done full justice to the character of Ustaad Bhagat Singh as well. Delivering a powerful performance in a commanding role, he captivated the audience without ever compromising on his signature style of entertainment.  Furthermore, his impeccable comedic timing earned him the appreciation of his fans. Pawan Kalyan was equally impressive in the romantic sequences. He also delighted the audience by showcasing a few dance moves in the musical numbers.  Overall, Pawan Kalyan delivered a captivating performance that truly defined the concept of a \"one-man show.\" Typically, heroines do not play a very significant role in Pawan Kalyan's films; this trend continued in this movie as well. The character played by the lead actress, Sreeleela, lacked substantial importance. Nevertheless, she delivered a decent performance within the limited scope of her role. The other heroine, Raashi Khanna, was confined to a single song sequence. She did not feel integral to the plot; in fact, her absence from the film would not have made any significant difference to the narrative.  The supporting cast members performed adequately within the confines of their respective roles. Technical: It appeared that Director Harish Shankar focused his attention entirely on the screenplay and Pawan Kalyan's character, rather than on the core storyline itself. Several of his dialogues were crafted to deliver a definite \"kick\" to the fans. Moreover, the director clearly understood exactly how the fans wished to see Pawan Kalyan portrayed on screen, and he presented him in the film accordingly.  The director succeeded in crafting dialogues that perfectly complemented Pawan Kalyan's distinct body language. The screenplay was passable. The direction falls short, the storyline is weak, and the cinematography is merely passable.  The music provided by Devi Sri Prasad is decent, to a certain extent. The fact that the songs did not turn out to be blockbusters is a drawback; however, the background score provided by Thaman stands out as a major highlight of the film. The production values ​​are commendable, though there are occasional flaws in the editing. Analysis: Whenever a Pawan Kalyan film is announced, it captures the attention not only of his fans but of audiences from all walks of life. Speculations abound—regarding the kind of story he might choose or whether the film will live up to the stature he currently commands—and expectations inevitably soar. There is absolutely no doubt that meeting such high expectations is a monumental challenge for any director.  In this film, Director Harish Shankar presents Pawan Kalyan in a simple, straightforward manner—devoid of heavy-handed social messages or overly dramatic, \"powerful\" dialogues—while crafting his lines in a way that specifically appeals to his fan base. It has been proven once again that Harish Shankar possesses a keen understanding of exactly what fans expect from a Pawan Kalyan film. Director Harish Shankar knew that if Pawan Kalyan delivered the kind of high-energy entertainment reminiscent of Gabbar Singh, his fans would undoubtedly embrace it wholeheartedly. Consequently, he devised a strategy to focus exclusively on showcasing Pawan Kalyan's persona and delivering pure entertainment, without getting bogged down in the intricacies of the plot or other narrative elements.  While his approach certainly resonates with the fans, the general audience may be left feeling that something more is missing. Ultimately, the film feels as though it was crafted exclusively for the enjoyment of Pawan Kalyan's devoted fan base. Pawan Kalyan's previous film, OG, also felt as though it was made specifically for his fans. Once again, this movie appears to have been crafted solely to satisfy Pawan Kalyan's fan base. General audiences may choose to wait until the film becomes available on OTT platforms. Plus Points: Pawan Kalyan, Comedy Select scenes Minus Points: Story and Screenplay Roles of the Heroines Roles of the Villains Verdict: For Pawan Kalyan's fans..."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/abuyNrbci2UF6P_u_UBS.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-03-19T07:22:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-ustaad-bhagat-singh---treat-for-fans-only"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Vishnu Vinyasam' - Routine Entertainer"},"content":{"text":"This film, starring Sree Vishnu, who has acquired a special image by choosing different films, did not have much publicity from the beginning. But there was a bit of a rush during the release. The hype for this film increased in the wake of the publicity that two films starring Sree Vishnu were coming out at the same time. So how is this film? Let's see in this review whether the matter in this film is up to the increased hype. Story: Vishnu (Sree Vishnu) is a junior lecturer at Ongole Pragathi Junior College. He believes in Vastu a lot and pays a lot of attention to horoscopes. He believes a little too much in numerology. Manisha (Nayan Sarika) enters Vishnu's life. Manisha loves Vishnu at first sight. Manisha has a problem. Because of that problem, no one comes forward to marry her. But Manisha loves Vishnu without telling him about it.  After both of them fall deeply in love, Manisha tells Vishnu the real thing. Will Vishnu then say okay to marry Manisha? What is that problem that Manisha has so far? You have to watch the movie to know. Actors' performance: Sree Vishnu has been impressing in recent times as he has made a name for himself in comedy roles. He has already earned the reputation of playing confusing roles. Moreover, as expected, since this is a confusing role in this film, Srivishnu impressed. He acted in an impressive manner and impressed. His expressions make you laugh. Apart from that, he acted in a memorable way in his role.  The heroine Nayan Sarika impressed with her beauty. Even though she was mostly seen in a saree, she sparkled with beauty here and there. Along with her impressive beauty, she impressed with her acting. Her acting in some scenes was good. Especially in some scenes, her acting was the main attraction of the film.  The actors who played other roles impressed within the scope of their roles. Technical: Although the subject taken by director Yadunath Maruthirao is very routine, he impressed with the entertainment he handled. More care should have been taken in the screenplay. It seemed that some scenes were jumped. There are errors in editing. Especially some scenes are like front, back... back, front. That makes it confusing at times.  There is nothing much to say about the music. But in some scenes of the film, it seems that the background score is not important. The production values ​​are good. The cinematography is not important. Analysis: It seems that hero Srivishnu has accepted this film after seeing the support that entertainment films have been getting in recent times. The story is very routine. Recently, too, a film came out in which the hero had three beliefs. If you watch this film within a few months of its release, it has been proven once again that if this subject is handled with comedy, the audience will support it.  The director has handled this film in a completely entertaining way. But there are some errors in the screenplay. There is some confusion in the placement of scenes. The first half came out very well. After the entertaining first half, it must be said that the second half has decreased a bit. The director succeeded in revealing the twist. However, even though there is another twist in the climax, it did not work out well. Overall, the movie is a good entertainer, but you have to enjoy the magic without logic. Plus points: Sree Vishnu, Nayan Sarika Comedy, Satya, other comedians Minus points: Some scenes without logic, Some scenes in the second half, Music, editing. Finally.. It would be good if you enjoy the entertainment without looking at whether there is no logic or not. Banner: Sree Subrahmanyeshwara Cinemas Producer: Sumanth Naidu Director: Yadunath Maruthi Rao Music: Rathan Cast: Sree Vishnu, Nayan Sarika, Satya, Murali Sharma, Brahmaji and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aaFsmMFoBIGEg6rI_vishnuvinyasam.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-02-27T09:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkkMjnbLZHw"}},"uid":"review-vishnu-vinyasam---routine-entertainer"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'O’Romeo'"},"content":{"text":"Inspired by true events, Sajid Nadiadwala's O'Romeo encompasses layered elements of emotions, story and characters that are thoughtfully crafted. Starring Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Avinash Tiwary, Nana Patekar, Farida Jalal, followed by Disha Patani, Tamannaah Bhatia & Vikrant Massey in a special appearances O'Romeo is a visual treat. Vishal Bhardwaj's direction is seamlessly balanced between the mass and class appeal. His sharp attention to even the minute details truly yet again proves his eye for nuanced filmmaking. The jaw dropping action sequences performed by Shahid Kapoor, Avinash Tiwary is arresting and even Triptii Dimri impresses with her action skills making the hype and high anticipation around the film all worth it. The performances by each actor is refined, outstanding and in one word perfect.Shahid Kapoor as Ustara is mind boggling and O'Romeo surely stands as one of his finest roles. Triptii Dimri as Afshan has the innocence yet when required the zeal and fire for revenge. Avinash Tiwary as Jalal is unexpected and unrecognisable. The head tattoo adds to his menacing look and the ruthless character that he plays on screen. The chemistry between Shahid and Triptii feels fresh, intensely passionate and yet they never make you feel this is the first time they are sharing screen space together. Audiences are in for a visual treat with Farida Jalal's fiery dialogues and Nana Patekar's raw and unfiltered dialogue delivery and magnetic screen presence. The humour of the film is something that is strategically placed and doesn't disrupt the emotional intensity. Vishal Bhardwaj can never go wrong when it comes to music. Each music track is immensely soul stirring and melody that you will connect to. The dance numbers be it Aashiqon ki colony, paan ki dukaan has an unmatched energy and makes you want to shake a leg. What grabs your attention is also what a phenomenal dancer Shahid and Disha are and how beautifully they have been brought together in the popular tracks of the movie. Sajid Nadiadwala adds another impressive visionary movie to his legacy with O'Romeo after some of the most inspiring and milestone movies like Chhichhore, 83,Tamasha, Chandu Champion and more."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aY7_mFWLo0XkEfK7_ORomeo.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-02-13T06:15:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2M4hKmuBzUU"}},"uid":"review-oromeo"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Anaganaga Oka Raju'"},"content":{"text":"Naveen Polishetty, who gained immense popularity overnight as a hero with the film Jathi Ratnalu, has been making films slowly and steadily without much fanfare. His film with Anushka, Miss Shetty Mr. Polishetty, was considered decent, but some felt it wasn't a film befitting Naveen's image. Naveen started this film with his own script. Even though the director changed, he took the lead in carrying the film forward. From the beginning of the film's production, they have been conducting promotions in a way that raised expectations. Let's see how the film is in this review.  Story: Raju (Naveen Polishetty), who belongs to a zamindar family, lives a respectable life in the village by invoking his ancestors' name, even though he has lost all his properties. Although he is a zamindar's heir in name, Raju faces financial difficulties. Even though he has lost all his fields and properties, he continues to be called a zamindar in the village by mentioning his grandfather's name. He thinks that to solve all his problems, he needs to marry a very wealthy girl. He looks at many prospective matches for this purpose. Finally, he meets Charulata (Meenakshi Chaudhary). Upon learning that she is the daughter of the very wealthy Bhupathi Raju (Rao Ramesh), he undertakes \"Operation Charulata\" to make her fall in love with him.  Charulata falls for his plan, and Raju and Charu get married in a grand ceremony. After the marriage, Raju learns some shocking things, and his situation becomes even worse than before the wedding. How does Raju get out of these circumstances? Does Raju manage to overcome his financial problems as he had hoped? What he does in response to that is the film's plot.  Actors' Performance: It's evident from watching the film that Naveen Polishetty carried the entire burden of the movie on his shoulders. Naveen impressed with his comedic timing. He captivated with his signature mannerisms and also impressed with his dialogues and dance. He also attracted everyone's attention by performing an action sequence. There is no doubt that Naveen's comedic timing is the main attraction of the film. He dominated the entire film with his acting and comedy. Even though the entire film revolved around Naveen, he acted with balance and restraint without going overboard anywhere.  The heroine, Meenakshi Chaudhary, looks very beautiful. She has already earned good marks in terms of her looks. Although she seemed to overact in one or two places, her overall performance was impressive. Rao Ramesh impressed in his limited role. The actors in other roles performed adequately. However, none of them got the scope to deliver a great performance.  Technical Aspects: The director tried to make the story completely entertaining. In that process, the comedy scenes he wrote were somewhat funny. However, every scene felt like something seen before, like something that had made people laugh before. The writing was particularly poor in the second half. It is known that Naveen is one of the writers of this film. It doesn't seem like he gave much importance to other characters except for his own.  There is nothing much to say about the music. While one song was somewhat decent, overall, the songs and background score were not great. The cinematography is good; the beauty of the village was captured well. There are many complaints regarding the editing. The second half, in particular, needed significant trimming. The production values ​​are in line with the story.  Analysis: The fact that Naveen Polishetty is releasing his film knowing that there are big films releasing for Sankranthi suggests he had a lot of confidence in his movie. His statements before the film's release also generated interest. He conducted promotional activities in a way that attracted everyone's attention. However, his complete control over the script and the lack of importance given to any character other than his own resulted in the entire film revolving around Naveen. Despite this, the first half felt decent and progressed with comedy.  However, despite a major problem in the second half, it's unclear why he's contesting in elections and making various attempts to win them. Only Naveen knows why a person from one village is contesting elections in another village. The entire second half proceeded illogically, like magic. While logic isn't always necessary for such entertainment films, assuming that the audience will accept and believe anything shown to them can backfire. That's what happened here. The illogical scenes and screenplay became excessive. The villain had no importance whatsoever; everyone stood before the hero like sheep. The audience won't stand for that. Therefore, it remains to be seen how well the audience will receive the king's entertainment.  Plus points: Naveen Polishetty Some comedy scenes First half.  Minus points: Second half Illogical scenes Routine climax Music  Conclusion... This entertainment is not enough for the Sankranthi competition, Raju.  Banner: Sithara Entertainments  Producers: Naga Vamsi, Sai Soujanya  Director: Mari  Music: Mickey J. Meyer  Cast: Naveen Polishetty, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Rao Ramesh, Tharak Ponnappa and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWdkoQIvOtkhBfM4_AnaganagaOkaRaju.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-01-14T07:42:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSGVbEZHgSQ"}},"uid":"review-anaganaga-oka-raju"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi'"},"content":{"text":"Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja has been struggling with a series of flops. The recent film 'Mass Jathara' further disappointed his fans. Recovering quickly from that flop, Ravi Teja made this film at a very fast pace. Director Kishore Tirumala has crafted this film as a family entertainer. It was promoted as a good family entertainer for this Sankranthi season. Let's see in this review whether the film lives up to those expectations.  Story: Ram (Ravi Teja) and Balamani (Dimple Hayathi) are husband and wife. They lead a very harmonious life together. While their married life is going smoothly, due to some unexpected events, Ram unexpectedly meets Manasa Shetty (Ashika Ranganath) from Spain, and a physical relationship develops between them.  After returning from Spain, Ram is troubled by this incident. That's when Manasa comes to Hyderabad. This leads to more problems for Ram. Ram tries to tell Manasa that he is married. What happens in the end? How do the two women play games with Ram? That's the story of the film.  Actors' Performance: Ravi Teja, as always, impressed with his energetic performance. It has been proven once again that he can easily handle such roles. Although being caught between two women is a somewhat new subject for Ravi Teja, he was still captivating. With his trademark mannerisms, Ravi Teja was decent in creating humor through awkward situations and interactions between the two female leads. However, he failed to impress in the songs. In some scenes, his age was clearly visible. Overall, it must be said that Ravi Teja tried his best to deliver full-fledged entertainment.  Among the heroines, Dimple Hayathi deserves special mention. She played Ravi Teja's wife. Her character was portrayed as both traditional and beautiful. However, in some scenes, it feels like another actress would have been a better fit for this role than Dimple. There wasn't much scope for acting. Dimple was decent with what she had. Ashika impressed with her beauty. She played the role of a girl who takes revenge on the person who cheated her. Her character also had only moderate scope for acting. However, overall, Dimple Hayathi impressed in the role of Manasa that she was given.  Technical Aspects: Director Kishore Tirumala should have written a stronger story. He claimed to have managed with the screenplay despite the simple story. He tried to drive the narrative with entertainment. However, he should have presented the story in a more engaging way for the audience. Some dialogues were good, while others were very clichéd.  Bheems' music was average. The songs were not very impressive. The background score was also just average. The cinematography was average. The cinematography was good in some of the foreign location scenes. There were flaws in the editing. Some scenes in the second half feel dragged out. The production values ​​are in line with the story.  Analysis: From the beginning, the unit members have been saying that this film delivers the kind of entertainment that audiences expect from Ravi Teja. Many films have been made in the past about a man caught between two women. Director Kishore has tried to bring back the same story with a new backdrop. It must be said that the director has succeeded to a certain extent in making the film's screenplay entertaining.  Despite the routine story, he managed to evoke laughter in places with the screenplay he chose. He also kept the story moving forward without becoming boring. However, when there is a very strong family entertainer playing alongside it, this film needed to be even better. It needed to be a superior family entertainer. But since the film is only moderately entertaining, it remains to be seen how much the audience will support this film.  Plus Points: Some comedy scenes First half Serial song  Minus Points: Routine story Narrative Some scenes in the second half  Finally... A request to all husbands... A routine entertainer  Banner: SLV Cinemas  Producer: Sudhakar Cherukuri  Director: Kishore Tirumala  Music: Bheems Ceciroleo  Cast: Ravi Teja, Dimple Hayathi, Ashika Ranganath, Sunil, Tharak Ponnappa, Soni, Vennela Kishore, Satya, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWYRSgIvOtkhBbFi_BMW.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-01-13T08:33:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7PJpctfx3Q"}},"uid":"review-bhartha-mahasayulaku-wignyapthi"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Mana Shankaravaraprasad Garu'"},"content":{"text":"After delivering the biggest blockbuster with 'Sankranthi Ki Vastunnam' alongside Venkatesh for Sankranthi 2025, Anil Ravipudi is being called the 'Sankranthi Director'. In this context, ever since the announcement that Anil would be coming with a film starring the Megastar for Sankranthi, everyone has been eagerly waiting to see how it would turn out. Moreover, with Venkatesh also in the film and every song released becoming a hit, the expectations increased even further. Let's see in this review whether Anil Ravipudi lived up to the expectations, continued his Sankranthi sentiment, and delivered a hit.  Story: Shankaravaraprasad (Chiranjeevi) is a National Security Officer. Due to certain reasons, he divorces his wife Shashirekha (Nayanthara). At the time of the divorce, they have two children. Shashirekha, who is one of the wealthiest women in the country, takes precautions to prevent Shankaravaraprasad from even meeting his children. After a long time, Shankaravaraprasad gets the opportunity to see his children. At that time, realizing that his children are longing for their father's love, he decides to get closer to Shashirekha again.  What does Shankaravaraprasad do for this? A certain circumstance leads him to become a security officer at Shashirekha's house. What is that circumstance? What happened in the end? Will the divorced couple reunite? This is the storyline of the film.  Actors' Performance: No amount of praise is enough for Megastar Chiranjeevi's performance. From the beginning, fans eagerly awaited seeing Chiranjeevi's vintage comedy in this film. They got exactly what they hoped for from Chiranjeevi. He entertained with his unique mannerisms, just like he did in his brother's film and some other movies. He impressed in dance, action, drama, and everything else. He was particularly outstanding in some of the comedy scenes. The director fully utilized Chiranjeevi's potential. It felt like Chiranjeevi completely surrendered to the director's vision.  Venkatesh impressed in his role. His look and body language were captivating as always. Venkatesh excelled, especially in the scenes with Chiranjeevi. It must be said that the film's second half definitely picked up because of Venkatesh's presence. The story revolves around Nayanthara's character, but she didn't get much scope to perform. The director designed her character to be serious throughout. Except for one or two scenes, there isn't much to say about Nayanthara's performance. However, she impressed with her look. As Chiranjeevi's leading lady and playing the role of the richest woman in the country, Nayanthara fit perfectly into the character. The other actors also performed well within the scope of their respective roles.  Technical Aspects: There is no doubt that the film, which is releasing for Sankranthi, became a super hit because of its musical success. Everyone doubted whether Bheem could deliver such songs and music again. Even Mega fans commented that Bheems was unnecessary. But unexpectedly, Bheem delivered music perfectly suited to Megastar Chiranjeevi's body language and Anil Ravipudi's screenplay and writing. Bheem's music became the main attraction of the film. He deserves credit for elevating the film not only with the songs but also with the background score.  Director Anil Ravipudi once again worked his magic with his screenplay. The story is very simple, and the premise he chose is also very simple, but he impressed with the screenplay woven around it, his direction, dialogues, and writing. It has been proven once again that Anil Ravipudi can create a sensation with his comedy. The cinematography is average. It must be said that such comedy films don't require exceptional cinematography. The cinematography is adequate for the film. Some scenes in the second half could have been trimmed. The production values ​​are quite good, in line with the story.  Analysis: With five films releasing for Sankranthi, especially with a pan-India superstar like Prabhas's Raja Saab also releasing, some expressed doubts about what kind of result our Manasankaravaraprasad would achieve. However, those who had faith in Anil Ravipudi's content and his comedy expressed the opinion from the beginning that Manasankaravaraprasad had a strong chance of being a big hit. And as expected, Anil Ravipudi has once again proven his mettle with this film.  Except for one or two scenes in the second half, the entire film was a full-fledged entertainer. Especially the comedy in the first half and the vintage songs featuring the Venky-Chiru combo in the second half are undoubtedly the highlights of the film. If a little more care had been taken with the second half, it would have been on another level. Even now, without a doubt, this film stands as a full-length entertainer for this Sankranthi.  For the fans and audience who were waiting to see what kind of comedy Anil Ravipudi would deliver with a megastar like Chiranjeevi, it can be said that the film provided entertaining content without any disappointment. With a couple of sentimental scenes, some action sequences, and songs, the film is good in all aspects.  Plus Points: Comedy, Chiranjeevi, Venky, Music, First Half  Minus Points: Some scenes in the second half  Finally... Just like Sankranthi 2025, there is no doubt that Sankranthi 2026 will also belong to Anil's entertainment.  Banner: Shine Screens, Gold Box Entertainments  Producers: Sahu Garapati, Sushmita Konidela  Director: Anil Ravipudi  Music: Bheems Ceciroleo  Cast: Chiranjeevi, Venkatesh, Nayanthara, Catherine Tresa, Sachin Khedekar, Sharath Saxena, Harshavardhan, Abhinav Gomatam and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWQCvAIvOtkhBRbE_MSVPG2.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-01-11T20:06:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4CbAkPb468"}},"uid":"review-mana-shankaravaraprasad-garu"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: The RajaSaab"},"content":{"text":"Ever since Baahubali made him a pan-India superstar, expectations around Prabhas have been sky-high. Naturally, fans expect every film of his to match that scale. At such a time, when it was announced that Prabhas would be doing a film with Maruthi, a director known mainly for small-budget entertainers, many fans openly opposed the combination. There were even protests urging Prabhas not to do the film. However, ignoring fan pressure, Prabhas listened to Maruthi’s story and went ahead with Raja Saab. So how did the film turn out? Did it live up to Maruthi’s claims, or did it end up being the disappointment fans feared? Let’s find out in this review. Story: Raju, aka Raja Saab (Prabhas), shares a deep emotional bond with his grandmother Gangadevi (Zarina Wahab). Though she belongs to a zamindar family, she chooses to live a simple life with her grandson. As age catches up with her, Gangadevi begins to suffer from health issues, particularly memory loss. She repeatedly tells Raju about her late husband Kanakaraju (Sanjay Dutt), who appears in her dreams, and asks him to find and bring him back. Raju’s search leads him to a deserted royal palace hidden deep inside the Narsapur forest. Once there, shocking events unfold. Raju realizes that Kanakaraju is trying to kill both Gangadevi and him. What is hidden inside the palace? Why would a man who is supposedly dead want to kill his own wife and grandson? These questions form the crux of the story. Performances: Prabhas shoulders the entire film. In recent times, he has faced criticism for weak screen presence and limited screen time in some films. However, in Raja Saab, Prabhas is present throughout and impresses with his comic timing. That said, his romantic scenes with the heroines feel underwhelming, as usual. He performs well in action sequences and especially shines in the emotional moments during the climax. After a long time, audiences get to see a somewhat fresh version of Prabhas. There was a lot of buzz around Sanjay Dutt’s role, but unfortunately, his character offers very little scope for performance. Zarina Wahab stands out in her key role and shares a good on-screen rapport with Prabhas. The comedy by Satya and Saptagiri works to an extent, while VTV Ganesh once again succeeds in making Telugu audiences laugh. However, many of these characters feel familiar, as if we’ve seen them in similar roles before. Technical Aspects: Director Maruthi seems to have completely lost grip on the story. In trying to present Prabhas in a comedy-oriented role, he fails to maintain control over the screenplay. Both the narration and direction lack clarity and consistency. Maruthi’s direction ends up being one of the biggest drawbacks. Thaman’s music is disappointing from the start. None of the songs released before the film made an impact. Fans who had high hopes for the background score will also be let down, as it works only in one or two scenes. Cinematography is average and not particularly noteworthy. The VFX are a major letdown—despite claims of heavy investment and long production time, the visuals do not reflect that effort. Production values, however, are decent. Analysis: Everyone knows Prabhas is no longer a small-time hero, but Raja Saab makes one wonder if Maruthi forgot that fact. Showing Prabhas’ comic side does not require reducing his stature. His star image doesn’t need to be compromised for comedy. Audiences expect to see him presented at his current level, but Maruthi seems to have completely missed the opportunity. It’s hard to understand why Prabhas agreed to this film and how he believed Maruthi could deliver a movie that matches his stature. If the sole intention was to make a comedy film, choosing Maruthi turns out to be a big mistake. The same errors Prabhas made with Radhe Shyam seem to have been repeated here. Films that don’t match his level or lack strong content will no longer be accepted by audiences. Despite being promoted as a horror-comedy, Raja Saab lacks both genuine horror and effective comedy. This film proves that such a genre may not suit Prabhas. Maruthi is likely to face heavy criticism. Prabhas, however, does his part, offering some consolation to fans. Those expecting Bujjigadu or Darling-level comedy will be disappointed, but die-hard fans may still enjoy a few entertaining moments. Plus Points: Prabhas One or two comedy scenes Thaman’s background score in a few scenes Minus Points: Story and screenplay Maruthi’s direction Weak VFX Film not matching Prabhas’ star image Final Verdict: This is not the kind of film that should be made with a pan-India star like Prabhas. Banner: People’s Media Factory\nProducer: T.G. Vishwa Prasad\nDirector: Maruthi\nMusic: Thaman\nCast: Prabhas, Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, Riddhi Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, Zarina Wahab, VTV Ganesh, Samuthirakani, Satya, Saptagiri, and others."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWDKmQIvOtkhBMzr_RSB.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-01-09T09:31:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-8w5yDwukA"}},"uid":"review-the-rajasaab"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri'"},"content":{"text":"Young heartthrob Kartik Aaryan and hot and glamorous Ananya Panday starrer Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri has finally hit the theatres. Let’s find out how the film fares.  The story revolves around Rehaan (Kartik Aaryan) and Rumi (Ananya Panday), who meet during a trip journey. As the trip progresses, the bond between them grows stronger. Before they even realise it, this closeness turns into love. Rehaan eventually proposes marriage to Rumi, but Rumi is worried about her father, played by Jackie Shroff. She fears that if she marries Rehaan and moves to the US, who will stay with her father in India—especially since her younger sister is also set to move to Canada after her marriage. Will Rehaan and Rumi be able to get married or not? For that, you’ll have to watch the film.  Directed by Sameer Vidwans, the film is handled with great finesse. His direction is impressive, and the screenplay is well-structured. The cinematography is visually appealing and adds freshness to the narrative. The first half of the film is stronger and more engaging compared to the second half. The music album is another highlight—almost all the songs are melodious and look beautiful on screen as well. The dialogues are witty and genuinely funny, keeping the audience entertained.  Talking about performances, Kartik Aaryan delivers a solid act. He brings charm and depth to the character of Rehaan with his powerful performance. Ananya Panday also does a commendable job, especially in several emotional scenes where she surprises with her expressive acting. Neena Gupta shines as Kartik Aaryan’s mother and plays her role with warmth and conviction. Jackie Shroff leaves a mark with his restrained yet impactful performance. The supporting cast also does justice to their respective roles.  Overall, Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri is a delightful romantic comedy. The film conveys a beautiful message—that while parents always compromise for their children, it is equally important for children to make compromises for their parents. If you are a young couple who values love along with family emotions, this film is definitely worth watching.  Director: Sameer Vidwans,  Producers: Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, Bhumika Tewari   Cast: Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday, Neena Gupta, Jackie Shroff and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aU12MHNYClf9opAS_tumerina.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2025-12-25T05:36:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jStzDYz2ajI"}},"uid":"review-tu-meri-main-tera-main-tera-tu-meri"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"'అఖండ 2' రివ్యూ... ఫ్యాన్స్‌కి పూనకాలు"},"content":{"text":"నందమూరి బాలకృష్ణ, బోయపాటి కాంబో మూవీ అనగానే ఫ్యాన్స్‌కి మాత్రమే కాకుండా అన్ని వర్గాల ప్రేక్షకులకు ఆసక్తి ఉండటం చాలా సహజం. ఎందుకంటే వీరి కాంబోలో ఇప్పటికే సింహా, లెజెండ్‌, అఖండ వంటి సూపర్‌ హిట్‌ సినిమాలు వచ్చాయి. మూడు సినిమాలు సూపర్‌ హిట్‌ కావడంతో పాటు, అఖండకు సీక్వెల్‌గా రూపొందిన సినిమా కావడంతో అఖండ 2 పై అంచనాలు భారీగా ఉన్నాయి. మరి ఆ అంచనాలకు ఈ సినిమా తగ్గట్లుగా ఉందా? ఈ కాంబోలో నాల్గవ హిట్‌ నమోదు అయిందా అనేది ఈ రివ్యూలో చూద్దాం.  కథ : సైనిక చర్య ద్వారా ఇండియాపై విజయాన్ని సొంతం చేసుకోలేక పోయిన శత్రు దేశంకు చెందిన దుర్మార్ఘులు కుట్రపూరితంగా ప్రవర్తించి, ఇండియాలోనే ఉంటూ అధికారం కోసం ఎంతకైనా తెగించే రాజకీయ నాయకుడి సహాయంతో వినాశనంకు ప్లాన్‌ చేస్తారు. అందుకు మహాకుంభమేళను ఎంపిక చేసుకుంటారు. వేలాది మంది ప్రాణాలు తీసేందుకు ఒక వైరస్‌ను క్రియేట్‌ చేస్తారు. దాంతో ఇండియా మొత్తం అల్లకల్లోలం అవుతుంది.  ఆ వైరస్‌కి వెంటనే వ్యాక్సిన్‌ను కనిపెట్టిన భారత శాస్త్రవేత్తలు దాన్ని జనాలకు ఇచ్చేందుకు ప్రయత్నం చేస్తారు. ఆ సమయంలో మరోసారి శత్రుదేశంకు చెందిన వారు దాడి చేస్తారు.  ఆ సమయంలో అఖండ(బాలకృష్ణ) ఆ వ్యాక్సిన్‌ను ఎలా రక్షించాడు? అసలు అఖండ ఏం చేస్తున్నాడు అనేది సినిమా కథాంశం.  నటీనటుల నటన : నందమూరి బాలకృష్ణ రెండు విభిన్నమైన పాత్రల్లో నటించి మెప్పించాడు. ముఖ్యంగా అఖండ పాత్రలో బాలయ్య లుక్ కి ఫ్యాన్స్ మతి పోవడం ఖాయం. గతంలోనే ఆయన అఖండ పాత్రలో అఘోరగా నటించి మెప్పించిన విషయం తెల్సిందే. ఇప్పుడు అంతకు మించి అన్నట్లుగా ఎక్కువ నిడివి ఉన్న పాత్రలో కనిపించాడు. బాలకృష్ణ అటువంటి గెటప్‌ లో కనిపించడమే గొప్ప విషయం అంటే, ఆ లుక్‌ తో చేసిన యాక్షన్‌ సీన్స్ నెవ్వర్‌ బిఫోర్‌ అన్నట్లుగా సాగాయి. మరో పాత్రలో ఫ్యామిలీ మ్యాన్‌ గా బాలకృష్ణ ఆకట్టుకున్నాడు. మొత్తంగా బాలకృష్ణ వన్‌మ్యాన్‌ షో అన్నట్లుగా నడిపించాడు.  హీరోయిన్‌ సంయుక్త మీనన్‌ ఒక్క పాటకే పరిమితం అయింది. ఒక యాక్షన్‌ సన్నివేశంలోనూ ఆమె కనిపించింది. అయితే ఆమె పాత్ర నిడివి కొంత మేరకు ఉండటం జరిగింది. అయితే ఉన్నంతలో గ్లామర్‌ తో అలరించింది. సినిమాలో మొదటి నుంచి కూడా హర్షాలి పాత్ర గురించి ప్రముఖంగా చెబుతూ వచ్చారు. అన్నట్లుగానే ఈ సినిమాలో ఆమె పాత్రకు వెయిట్‌ ఉంది. అయితే ఆమె స్క్రీన్‌ ప్రజెన్స్ ఎక్కువ సమయం ఏమీ లేదు. ఉన్నంతలో పర్వాలేదు అనిపించింది.  ఆది పినిశెట్టి విలన్‌గా ఆకట్టుకున్నాడు. సెకండ్‌ హాఫ్‌ లో వచ్చే అతడు క్రూరమైన మాయావిగా కనిపించి మెప్పించాడు. ఇతర పాత్రల్లో నటించిన వారు వారి పాత్రల పరిధిలో పర్వాలేదు అనిపించారు.  టెక్నికల్‌ : అఖండ సినిమా పేరు ఎత్తగానే ప్రతి ఒక్కరికీ ఆ సినిమా కోసం తమన్‌ ఇచ్చిన బ్యాక్ గ్రౌండ్ స్కోర్ గుర్తుకు వస్తుంది అనడంలో సందేహం లేదు. అందుకే అఖండ 2 సినిమాలో తమన్‌ ఇచ్చిన బ్యాక్‌గ్రౌండ్‌ స్కోర్ ఎలా ఉంటుందా అని అంతా ఆసక్తిగా ఎదురు చూశారు. సినిమా విడుదలకు ముందే టీజర్‌, గ్లిమ్స్‌, ట్రైలర్‌ లో తమన్‌ తన మ్యూజిక్‌ తో హైప్‌ క్రియేట్‌ చేయడంలో సక్సెస్‌ అయ్యాడు. అంతే కాకుండా ఒక పాటతోనూ మెప్పించాడు. బాలకృష్ణ మాస్ ఇమేజ్‌ కి తగ్గట్లుగా తమన్ బీజీఎం ఇవ్వడంతో సినిమా స్థాయి పెరిగింది. యాక్షన్ సన్నివేశాల్లో తమన్‌ మ్యూజిక్‌ కుర్చీ అంచున కూర్చోబెట్టింది అనడంలో సందేహం లేదు.  దర్శకుడు బోయపాటి శ్రీను ఈసారి కథ విషయంలో ఇంకాస్త ఎక్కువ శ్రద్ద పెట్టాల్సింది అనిపించింది. అఖండ 2 సినిమా కథ విషయంలో అసంతృప్తిగా ఉంది. ఇక స్క్రీన్‌ ప్లే విషయంలోనూ చాలా లోపాలు ఉన్నాయి. కథ చిన్న లైన్‌తోనే ఉన్నప్పటికీ స్క్రీన్‌ ప్లేను అందుకు తగ్గట్లుగా ఆకట్టుకునే విధంగా నడిపించాల్సిన అవసరం ఉంది. కానీ దర్శకుడు ఆ దిశగా కథను నడిపించడంలో విఫలం అయ్యాడు. వీఎఫ్‌ఎక్స్‌ మరీ పేలవంగా ఉంది. సినిమాటోగ్రఫీ బాగుంది. కొన్ని హిమాలయ షాట్స్ ను చక్కగా చూపించారు. నిర్మాణాత్మక విలువలు కథానుసారంగా బాగున్నాయి.  విశ్లేషణ : అనుకోని అవాంతరం కారణంగా ఆలస్యం అయిన అఖండ 2 సినిమా విషయంలో అభిమానులతో పాటు అన్ని వర్గాల వారు మొదటి నుంచి పాజిటివ్‌ హోప్‌ ను కలిగి ఉన్నారు. ఎప్పుడైతే అవాంతరాలు రావడం మొదలైందో అప్పటి నుంచే సినిమా పై అనుమానాలు వ్యక్తం అయ్యాయి. ఫలితం విషయంలో ఈసారి ఏమైనా తేడా కొట్టేనా అన్నట్లుగా కొందరు మాట్లాడుతూ వచ్చారు. అదే జరిగింది అనే అభిప్రాయం వ్యక్తం అవుతోంది. అభిమానులు బాలకృష్ణ కోసం అఖండ 2 సినిమాను చూసి ఎంజాయ్‌ చేయవచ్చు. కానీ రెగ్యులర్‌ ప్రేక్షకులు ఈ సినిమాను చూసి ఆనందించే ఎలిమెంట్స్ ఎక్కువగా లేవని చెప్పాలి. కథను సరిగ్గా చెప్పక పోవడంతో పాటు, స్క్రీన్‌ ప్లే విషయంలో నిరుత్సాహ పరిచారు.  తమన్‌ బ్యాక్‌ గ్రౌండ్‌ స్కోర్ బాగున్నా అందుకు తగ్గట్లుగా యాక్షన్ సీన్స్ పండలేదు. బాలయ్య యాక్షన్ సీన్స్ ను ఆయన అభిమానులు ఎంజాయ్‌ చేస్తారు, కానీ ఆయన మార్క్ డ్రామా, ఎమోషన్‌ సీన్స్ లేకపోవడంతో రెగ్యులర్‌ ప్రేక్షకులు బోర్‌ ఫీల్‌ అయ్యే అవకాశం ఉంది. ఒకటి రెండు సీన్స్ మినహా రెగ్యులర్‌ ఆడియన్స్ ను కట్టి పడేసే సీన్స్ లేవని చెప్పక తప్పదు. మరి థియేట్రికల్‌ రన్‌ లో ఫ్యాన్స్ తో పాటు ప్రేక్షకుల నుంచి ఎలాంటి స్పందన వస్తుందా అనేది చూడాలి.  ప్లస్ పాయింట్స్ :  బాలకృష్ణ,  తమన్ సంగీతం. కొన్ని యాక్షన్‌ సీన్స్‌. మైనస్ పాయింట్స్ :  కథ, కథనం, ఎమోషన్‌ లేకపోవడం, ఓవర్‌ స్టంట్స్‌. చివరగా... అఖండ 2 అభిమానుల వరకు మాత్రమే..! బ్యానర్ : 14 రీల్స్‌ ప్లస్‌ నిర్మాత : రామ్ ఆచంట, గోపీ ఆచంట దర్శకత్వం : బోయపాటి శ్రీను సంగీతం : తమన్‌ తారాగణం : బాలకృష్ణ, సంయుక్త మీనన్‌, హర్షాలి మల్హోత్ర, ఆది పినిశెట్టి, పూర్ణ, అయ్యప్ప పి శర్మ తదితరులు"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aTsrEXNYClf9oFJC_Akhanda2.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2025-12-13T04:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dL3T1yJxisc"}},"uid":"akhanda-2-review....poonakaalu-for-fans"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Dhurandhar‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌'"},"content":{"text":"Dhurandhar hits the audience like a cyclone—untamed, persistent, and spectacularly dhamakedaar. Aditya Dhar's latest triumph is far from just a movie; it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a cinematic event of the year that completely breaks the clutter of Indian espionage thrillers. With Indian heart and international standard, Dhar weaves a story full of human touch, intricacy, and spark, reaffirming that he belongs among the very few directors capable of conceiving on a grand scale while still keeping the story deeply character-driven.  Drawing inspiration from the IC-814 hijacking and the 2001 Parliament attack, the film sets the stage on a historic backdrop without wasting a moment. Dhar then skillfully expands the narrative to show the political tremors that pushed the Indian intelligence system beyond its limits. Madhavan as IB Chief Ajay Sanyal is the rock on which the story stands. His portrayal, full of precision and gravitas, earns seeti maar reactions in every scene. The dialogues are crisp, the energy is infectious, and the immersion into this high-stakes world is so real that it grips from the first frame.  One of the most striking elements is the use of archival footage, including 9/11 and other terror attacks, interspersed with chilling audio of attackers plotting against India. These sequences evoke patriotism without jingoism, reminding the audience of the stakes while highlighting India’s strategic resilience. It’s a cinematic call to awareness and courage that makes the story even more gripping.  Ranveer Singh delivers arguably his career-best performance—raw, gritty, massy, and explosively powerful. Hamza is hurt, angry, unpredictable, yet inexplicably charming. The transformation from a rage-driven youth to a cold, calculated underworld operative is executed with staggering emotional finesse. Ranveer doesn’t just perform; he literally “blows up” the screen, particularly in the latter half, becoming almost synonymous with the storyline—a 10/10 hardcore action avatar.  The supporting cast matches this energy brilliantly. Akshaye Khanna, as Rehman Dakait, is eerie, sparkling, and dreadful—a mind-is-the-weapon villain whose expressions and timing make him unforgettable. Sanjay Dutt is pure cannon fire as SP Chaudhary Aslam, “The Jinn,” bringing raw toughness to every frame. Arjun Rampal’s Major Iqbal commands attention with his silent menace, while Sara Arjun impresses in her star-studded debut. Every actor is fully into their character, creating a dangerously immersive atmosphere.  The film’s pace is relentless, thanks to Aditya Dhar’s mastery over tempo. And crucially, despite its 214-minute runtime, the length never feels distracting. Every scene is deliberate, every beat perfect, making the infiltration plan genuinely nerve-wracking. The background music is another major highlight—the BGM keeps the energy flowing continuously, never letting the audience feel a dull moment. The soundtrack is one of the strongest pillars of the film, arguably the album of the year or even the decade, turning tension, discovery, and climax into cinematic thunder.  Violence is used sparingly—just three sequences are truly explicit, each dramatically justified. The real intensity comes from the emotional stakes, character development, and political intrigue. The first half showcases masterful world-building, with the interval delivering pure goosebumps and doubling audience excitement. Post-interval, conspiracies intertwine, political power shifts, and Hamza consolidates the mafia core through strategy, betrayal, and even a calculated marriage, setting up a perfect stage for the explosive Part Two coming Eid 2026.  Jyoti Deshpande, Lokesh Dhar, and Aditya Dhar, backed by B62 Studios and Jio Studios, leave no stone unturned in creating a universe that is vast, real, and cinematically rich. Their unwavering support for large sets, hard action, bold storytelling, and a stellar ensemble cast shines in every frame, elevating Indian genre cinema to new heights.  Dhurandhar is a genre-defining spectacle that combines ferocious execution, meticulous craft, and unforgettable impact. With Aditya Dhar’s finest direction and Ranveer Singh’s career-best performance, it makes a solid case for being one of the boldest, most compelling thrillers of the year. The game is set, the pieces are moving, and the wait for Part Two is fervent—completely justified by the high stakes, breathtaking performances, and mind-blowing storytelling.  Cast: Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sara Arjun, Rakesh Bedi and others  Director/Writer: Aditya Dhar"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aTK2Z3NYClf9n2ee_dhurandar.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2025-12-05T08:15:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKOVzHcjEIo"}},"uid":"review-dhurandhar"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"'ఆంధ్రాకింగ్‌ తాలూకా' రివ్యూ... ఫ్యాన్స్‌ మూవీ"},"content":{"text":"రామ్‌ వరుస విజయాలతో ఎనర్జిటిక్ స్టార్‌ ఇమేజ్‌ని సొంతం చేసుకుని కెరీర్‌ ఆరంభంలో అందరి దృష్టిని ఆకర్షించాడు. కానీ గత కొంత కాలంగా ఆయన పూర్తిగా గాడి తప్పినట్లుగా కనిపిస్తున్నాడు. ఏమాత్రం ఆకట్టుకోని కథ, కథనాలను, దర్శకులను ఎంపిక చేసుకోవడంతో ఆయనకు వరుస ఫ్లాప్‌లు తప్పలేదు. ఇస్మార్ట్‌ శంకర్ తర్వాత రామ్‌ ఒక మంచి హిట్‌ కోసం ఎదురు చూస్తున్నాడు. ఆ హిట్‌ ఈ సినిమాతో వచ్చిందా అనేది ఈ రివ్యూలో చూద్దాం.  కథ :  సూర్య(ఉపేంద్ర) తెలుగు సినిమా ఇండస్ట్రీలో స్టార్‌ హీరో. అభిమానులు ఆయన్ను ఆంధ్రా కింగ్‌ అనే బిరుదుతో పిలుచుకుంటూ ఉంటారు. వరుస విజయాలు దక్కించుకుంటూ వచ్చిన సూర్యకు వందవ సినిమాకు ముందు కెరీర్‌ పరంగా ఒడిదొడుకులు ఎదుర్కోవాల్సి వస్తుంది. వరుస ఫ్లాప్స్‌ పడటంతో సూర్య ను విమర్శించే వారు, తిట్టేవారు ఎక్కువ అవుతారు. ఆయన పనైపోయిందని విమర్శిస్తూ ఉంటారు. ఆ సమయంలో సూర్య 100వ సినిమాను మొదలు పెడతాడు.  సినిమాపై అంచనాలు లేకపోవడం, అసలు సూర్య సినిమాను ఎవరు చూస్తారు అని జనాలు అనుకుంటూ ఉండటంతో ఆ సినిమా ఆర్థిక సమస్యలు ఎదుర్కొంటుంది. సినిమా పూర్తి చేయడానికి రూ.3 కోట్లు అవసరం అవుతుంది. ఆ సమయంలో సూర్యను అమితంగా అభిమానించే సాగర్‌ (రామ్‌) ముందుకు వస్తాడు. తాను ఎంతో కష్టపడి సంపాదించిన ఆస్తిని అమ్మి, ఆ డబ్బును తన అభిమాన హీరో, ఆంధ్రాకింగ్‌ సూర్యకి చేరేలా చేస్తాడు.  తీవ్ర ఆర్థిక ఇబ్బందుల్లో ఉన్న సూర్య తన అకౌంట్‌లో పడ్డ రూ.3 కోట్లు చూసి షాక్‌ అవుతాడు. ఆ డబ్బును తన అభిమాని అయిన సాగర్‌ పంపించినట్లు తెలిసి షాక్‌ అవుతాడు. తన అభిమానిని కలుసుకునేందుకు సూర్య బయలుజేరుతాడు. ఆ క్రమంలో సాగర్‌ గురించి పలు విషయాలను సూర్య తెలుసుకుంటాడు. ఒక అభిమానిని స్టార్‌ హీరో ఎలా కలుసుకున్నాడు? ఆ తర్వాత ఏం జరిగింది? అనేది కథ. నటీనటుల నటన :  రామ్‌ మొత్తం బాధ్యత తన భుజాలపై వేసుకున్నాడు. ఎప్పటిలాగే ఈ సినిమాతో మరోసారి తన ఎనర్జిటిక్ పెర్ఫార్మెన్స్‌ను చూపించాడు. సాగర్‌ పాత్రకి రామ్‌ ఎంత వరకు చేయాలో అంతకు మించి చేసినట్లుగా అనిపించింది. ఒక పాత్రను చాలా నమ్మడం వల్లే రామ్‌ ఈ స్థాయిలో కష్టపడి ఉంటాడు అనిపించింది. అతడి లుక్‌, డైలాగ్‌ డెలివరీ, యాక్షన్‌ సీన్స్ లో ఆయన ప్రజెన్స్ ఇలా ప్రతి ఒక్క ఎలిమెంట్‌లోనూ రామ్‌ ఆకట్టుకున్నాడు. అందుకే అతడు ఒక ఫ్యాన్  గా సరిగ్గా సెట్‌ అయ్యి, సినిమాను మోశాడు. సూపర్‌ స్టార్‌గా నటించిన ఉపేంద్ర తన పాత్రకు న్యాయం చేశాడు. ఒక అభిమాని కోసం వెతుక్కుంటూ వెళ్తున్న సీన్స్ లో అతడి భావోద్వేగం కనిపించింది. సినిమా కోసం అతడు పడే తపన, అతడు పడే కష్టం తాలూక డిటైల్స్ ను ఉపేంద్ర చక్కగా చూపడం జరిగింది. హీరోయిన్‌గా నటించిన భాగ్యశ్రీ బోర్సేకి తన ప్రతిభ మొత్తం చూపించే అవకాశం దక్కలేదు. అయితే ఆమె ఉన్నంతలో అందంగా కనిపించడంతో పాటు, నటనతో ఆకట్టుకుంది. ఇతర నటీనటులు వారి పాత్రల పరిధిలో నటించారు.  టెక్నికల్‌ :  పాటల గురించి ప్రత్యేకంగా చర్చ జరిగింది. కొత్త సంగీత దర్శకులు కుమ్మేశారు అంటూ అంతా తెగ మాట్లాడారు. కానీ వారి నుంచి వచ్చిన సంగీతం కొత్తగా ఉంది కానీ ఆకట్టుకునే విధంగా మాత్రం లేదు. ఇలాంటి సినిమాలకు పాత సంగీత దర్శకులు అయితే న్యాయం చేసేవారు అనిపిస్తుంది. కాని రామ్‌ కి మాత్రం ఎందుకో వీరు నచ్చారు. ఆయన నిర్ణయం తప్పు అని తేలింది.  ఇక దర్శకుడు మహేష్‌ ఎంపిక చేసుకున్న కథ విషయంలో ఎలాంటి తప్పు లేదు. ముఖ్యంగా స్టోరీ లైన్ మంచి పాయింట్‌. కానీ దాన్ని మలచిన తీరు బాగాలేదు. ముఖ్యంగా స్క్రీన్‌ ప్లే విషయంలో సాగతీసినట్లుగా అనిపించింది. ఎడిటింగ్‌ కి ఇంకా చాలా స్కోప్ ఉంది. ఎందుకో చాలా సీన్స్‌ను అలాగే వదిలేశాడు. నిర్మాణాత్మక విలువలు బాగానే ఉన్నాయి. సినిమాటోగ్రాఫీ అప్పటి నేటివిటీకి దగ్గరగా ప్రేక్షకులను తీసుకు వెళ్లడంలో సక్సెస్ అయిందని చెప్పాలి.  విశ్లేషణ :  రామ్‌ దాదాపు ఏడాది  గ్యాప్ తీసుకుని, వందల కొద్ది కథలు విని, పదుల కొద్ది కథలు పక్కన పెట్టుకుని, చివరకు ఈ కథను ఎంపిక చేసుకున్నాడు అని ఆయన సన్నిహితులు అంటున్నారు. అయితే ఇలాంటి కథను ఆయన ఎలా ఒప్పుకున్నాడు అంటూ చాలా మంది ఆశ్చర్యం వ్యక్తం చేస్తున్నారు. స్టోరీ లైన్‌ బాగుంటే సరిపోతుందా, కథ, కథనం విషయంలో దీన్ని ఎంత వరకు ప్రేక్షకులకు ఆకట్టుకునే విధంగా తీసుకు రాగలరు అనే విషయంను ఆయన చూసుకోలేదు అనిపిస్తుంది.  రామ్‌ సాధారణంగానే ఎనర్జిటిక్‌ పెర్ఫార్మెన్స్‌ తో ఆకట్టుకుంటాడు. ఈ సినిమాలోనూ మరోసారి తన సత్తా చాటాడు. కానీ సినిమాలోని ఆయన పాత్ర ఉన్నంత పవర్‌ ఫుల్‌గా స్క్రీన్‌ ప్లే లేదు. గ్రామీన ప్రాంతంలో ఉండే ప్రేమ కథను చూపించే ప్రయత్నం చేశారు. ఆ కథను ఇంకాస్త ఎక్కువ చూపించినా బాగుండేది. హీరో, అభిమాని మధ్య ఉండే సీన్స్ చాలా తక్కువగా ఉన్నాయి. ప్రేక్షకులు ఆశించిన ఎలిమెంట్స్ ఈ సినిమాలో చాలా తక్కువగా ఉన్నాయి. అందుకే సినిమా రెగ్యులర్‌ ప్రేక్షకులను ఆకట్టుకోవడంలో విఫలం అవుతుంది. కానీ తమను తాము ఒక హీరోకు అభిమాని అని చెప్పుకునే వారికి మాత్రం తప్పకుండా ఈ సినిమా నచ్చుతుంది.  ప్లస్ పాయింట్స్ :  రామ్‌ నటన, స్టోరీలైన్‌, కొన్ని ఎమోషనల్‌ సీన్స్‌ మైనస్ పాయింట్స్ :  ఫస్ట్‌ హాఫ్‌ చాలా స్లోగా సాగింది స్క్రీన్‌ ప్లే, ప్రేమ కథ ఇంకాస్త ఉండాల్సింది. చివరగా... ఫ్యాన్‌గా ఆంధ్రాకింగ్‌ను ఆకట్టుకున్న సాగర్‌, ప్రేక్షకులను ఆకట్టుకోవడం కష్టమే. బ్యానర్ : మైత్రి మూవీ మేకర్స్‌ నిర్మాత : నవీన్‌ యెర్నేని, వై రవి శంకర్‌ దర్శకత్వం : మహేష్‌ బాబు పి సంగీతం : వివేక్‌-మెర్విన్‌ తారాగణం : రామ్‌ పోతినేని, భాగ్యశ్రీ బోర్సే, ఉపేంద్ర తదితరులు"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aSgr23NYClf9nheC_AKT1.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2025-11-27T08:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oeY828c-AXo"}},"uid":"review-andhra-king-talooka---fans-movie"}}]}},"pageContext":{"isCreatedByStatefulCreatePages":true}}