{"data":{"all":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["Videos"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Nag Speech at Lenin Grand Pre-Release"},"content":{"text":"Nag Speech at Lenin Grand Pre-Release"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/XvBh3TK3w8IcgRgr_nagspeech.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T18:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O99nOhO5bcE"}},"uid":"nag-speech-at-lenin-grand-pre-release"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","two"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Court Backs Ilaiyaraaja in Copyright Row"},"content":{"text":"The Madras High Court has restrained the makers of the Tamil film 'Happy Raj' from using a song originally composed by Ilaiyaraaja, finding a prima facie case of alleged copyright infringement. The interim order was passed by Justice M. Kumaresh Babu while hearing a civil suit filed by Ilaiyaraaja. He contended that his iconic composition \"Podhuvaga En Manasu Thangam\" from the 1980 blockbuster 'Murattu Kaalai' had been adapted and incorporated into 'Happy Raj' without obtaining his prior permission or a valid licence. The film, which was released in theatres on March 27, allegedly featured a modified version of the popular song. According to the composer, the work had been altered and used without his consent, constituting a violation of his copyright in the musical composition. Appearing for Ilaiyaraaja, counsel submitted that the defendants had unlawfully adapted the original composition and commercially exploited it without authorisation from the copyright holder. The petition sought an immediate injunction restraining further use of the song in the film. After considering the submissions, Justice Kumaresh Babu directed that the disputed song should not be used in 'Happy Raj' until further orders. The court also issued notices to the film's director and producer, calling upon them to file their response to the allegations. The interim order is expected to have implications beyond the film's theatrical run. Unless the contentious portion is removed or the required permission is obtained from Ilaiyaraaja, the restriction could affect future television broadcasts, satellite telecasts and releases on over-the-top (OTT) streaming platforms. Under the Copyright Act, musical compositions enjoy statutory protection, and any reproduction, adaptation or alteration of such works generally requires prior authorisation from the copyright owner. The case once again highlights the legal obligations of filmmakers and production houses when incorporating existing musical works into new productions. Ilaiyaraaja has, on several occasions in recent years, approached courts to safeguard his intellectual property rights and prevent the unauthorised use of his compositions. The present case adds to a series of legal battles initiated by the veteran composer to enforce copyright protection over his vast catalogue of music."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aIecnVGsbswqTXMO_ilayaraja.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T12:55:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"court-backs-ilaiyaraaja-in-copyright-row"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Nagabandham' Hits Gold at BO"},"content":{"text":"Nagabandham: The Secret Treasure, starring Virat Karrna, has made an impressive mark at the box office, crossing the ₹12 crore mark worldwide after its opening weekend. Despite a slight decrease in the number of shows, the Telugu action-adventure drama maintained steady collections throughout its first three days in Indian cinemas. As it enters the crucial Monday, all eyes are on its performance during the weekdays.  According to box office tracking platform Sacnilk, the film collected ₹3.02 crore net in India on Day 3, bringing its total India net collection to ₹9.47 crore. In addition, the film's India gross collection stands at ₹11.06 crore, with overseas earnings reaching ₹1.25 crore, resulting in a worldwide gross collection of approximately ₹12.31 crore by the end of the opening weekend. Nagabandham: The Secret Treasure kicked off its box office journey with ₹3.40 crore net on Friday across 3,202 shows, followed by ₹3.05 crore net on Saturday from 2,924 shows. On Day 3 (Sunday), it earned ₹3.02 crore net across 1,904 shows. Despite the decline in the number of shows, the film saw an increase in occupancy on Sunday, reaching 27%.  The film's performance on Monday will be critical in determining its sustained momentum after the opening weekend. Directed by Abhishek Nama, Nagabandham: The Secret Treasure delves into the enigmatic world of India's ancient Vishnu temples and the ritual of Nagabandham, blending mythology, suspense, and adventure. Alongside Virat Karrna, the film features Nabha Natesh, Aishwarya Menon, Daksha Nagarkar, Mahesh Manjrekar, Jagapathi Babu, and Murali Sharma in pivotal roles. "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aYYnDd0YXLCxVgZ2_nagabandhamlook.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T11:15:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"nagabandham-hits-gold-at-bo"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics","featured","three"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Microsoft announces 4,800 layoffs"},"content":{"text":"Microsoft has announced another round of job cuts, eliminating around 4,800 positions, or approximately 2.1 per cent of its global workforce, as the technology giant continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) while seeking to improve operational efficiency.  The latest layoffs come amid a broader trend across the technology industry, where companies are balancing massive AI investments with efforts to control costs. Industry leaders such as Amazon and Meta have also reduced their workforces this year as spending on AI infrastructure continues to rise. Global AI-related investments by major technology companies are expected to surpass $700 billion in 2026. The announcement follows a challenging first half of the year for Microsoft, with the company's shares declining nearly 23 per cent during the first six months of 2026, marking their weakest first-half performance since 2022. Earlier this year, Microsoft had already offered voluntary buyouts to nearly 9,000 employees in the United States, representing about seven per cent of its domestic workforce. The company has traditionally made workforce adjustments near the end of its fiscal year in June as it prepares budgets and spending plans for the new financial year. While Microsoft's Azure cloud computing business has continued to benefit from strong demand for AI services, the company is facing mounting costs associated with expanding its data centre infrastructure. Until April, Azure was the exclusive cloud provider for OpenAI's models, helping drive strong growth in Microsoft's cloud business. However, the significant investments required to support AI services have increased pressure on the company's cash flows. Despite the financial strain, Microsoft remains optimistic about its AI business. In April, the company forecast quarterly Azure revenue above Wall Street expectations and projected capital expenditure of $190 billion for 2026, substantially higher than analysts' estimates. The company is scheduled to announce its latest financial results later this month. The rapid adoption of AI is also reshaping Microsoft's traditional software business by automating routine tasks, while rising memory chip prices driven by demand for AI data centres have increased production costs. Those higher costs have prompted Microsoft to raise Xbox console prices at a time when demand for the gaming hardware has remained subdued."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/d65d5a05-f72a-4dbc-b30d-8a74e08b971f_microsoft+tams.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T14:37:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"microsoft-announces-4800-layoffs"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","four"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Atlee's Unfinished Romance Dream"},"content":{"text":"Renowned filmmaker Atlee, celebrated for his dynamic contributions to the action genre, has expressed a poignant regret regarding his cinematic repertoire. Despite achieving remarkable success with blockbuster hits such as 'Theri', 'Mersal', and 'Bigil'—collaborations that have solidified his partnership with actor Vijay—Atlee revealed a lingering desire to explore the realm of romantic storytelling. This sentiment surfaced during a pre-release event for 'Idhayam Murali', where he candidly recalled his debut film, Raja Rani, and its lasting impact, stating that it remains an indelible part of his identity in the industry. Atlee's candid remarks shed light on the dichotomy of his career; while the accolades from his action films have elevated him to national prominence, they have simultaneously overshadowed his aspirations within the romantic genre. Speaking about his collaboration with producer Aakash Baskaran, whom he affectionately referred to as a brother, Atlee articulated a yearning to back projects that resonate with the emotional depth of love stories. “There is always a yearning inside my heart that we couldn't do a love film,” he lamented, emphasizing the vital role 'Raja Rani' played in shaping his career and public perception. 'Raja Rani', featuring an ensemble cast that includes Arya, Nayanthara, and Nazriya Nazim, tells the story of reluctant lovers discovering affection amidst their complex pasts. The film was not just a commercial triumph but also garnered critical acclaim, leading to remakes in Bengali and Sinhala. Its heartfelt narrative resonated deeply with audiences, establishing its place in Tamil cinema history. In contrast, Atlee's recent works, characterized by high-octane action and intricate plots, have dominated the box office, further entrenching him in the action genre while the romantic narrative hangs unfulfilled. The upcoming 'Idhayam Murali' diverges from Atlee's usual oeuvre, promising a narrative centered around unrequited love. The film, which stars Atharvaa and Preity Mukhundhan, explores the complexities of longing and rejection, a theme that Atlee himself seems to connect with on a personal level. As the film prepares for its release on July 10, it stands as a testament to Atlee's willingness to venture into new territory, even as he acknowledges the bittersweet nature of his unfulfilled dreams in the realm of romance."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2116deff-2bc8-4982-ad89-5122fae08d7f_atlee.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T09:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"atlees-unfinished-romance-dream"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"BRS Crosses Hurdles, Reaches Kaleshwaram"},"content":{"text":"A convoy of BRS leaders led by party working president K. T. Rama Rao from Hyderabad reached Kaleshwaram in Jayashankar Bhupalapally district on Sunday amid tension as police allegedly tried to stop them at various points en route. The delegation of the Opposition party leaders was on its way to Kannepalli Pump House. Tension prevailed at Kaleshwaram village as police tried to stop the convoy. The BRS leaders removed barricades to head towards Kannepalli. Kannepalli Pump House is part of the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project constructed by the previous BRS government, and the BRS leaders, through their visit, are trying to highlight that the Congress government is deliberately allowing Godavari River water to go waste.  The convoy comprising 40 cars was first stopped by police at Pemburti in Warangal district. Police officials told KTR that there is no permission for such a large convoy. However, the BRS working president raised an objection and insisted that all cars in the convoy be allowed without any obstruction. After an argument between both sides, the convoy resumed the journey.  KTR told media persons that the fear has gripped the Congress government, and hence it was repeatedly stopping the convoy. He stated that 1 lakh cusecs of Godavari water was flowing waste downstream towards the sea.  The BRS leader said they would continue their fight till the government utilises the water for irrigation. KTR said that while 1 lakh cusecs of water were being wasted downstream, all the reservoirs upstream were lying empty. “Whether it is Mid Manair, Kaleshwaram, or any other reservoir in the entire project, there is currently no water. Farmers are unable to even sow seeds,” he said The BRS leader said former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) designed the Kaleshwaram project in such a way that, by simply operating the motors at the Kannepalli pump house, all of Telangana can be transformed into a lush and fertile land. KTR challenged the government to hand over the project to KCR for one week if it was incapable of supplying water to farmers. “If the motors at the Kannepalli pump house are operated, abundant water can be supplied, allowing farmers to proceed with sowing of seeds,” he said. The BRS leader alleged that the Chief Minister was deliberately depriving farmers of water, as he fears that if he provides it, he will also have to supply them urea, procure their produce, pay them support price and bonus.  Terming the Congress government ‘anti-farmer’, he said it effectively shelved a system capable of delivering abundant water. “Yet, when we set out to expose this, they are obstructing our people—our MLAs and MPs. We will show the entire farming community of Telangana just how incompetent and inept this government is.”"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/U_wKfqTVGHWMX5Hx_BRSleaders.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T12:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"brs-crosses-hurdles-reaches-kaleshwaram"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Landmark Verdict: 9 Maha Cops Get Life Sentence"},"content":{"text":"In a significant ruling, a Maharashtra court has handed down life imprisonment to nine police personnel for the brutal 2011 custodial death of Begya Pawar, highlighting the grave repercussions of police misconduct and misuse of authority. The Washim district court found the actions of the police officers to be 'serious and brutal,' involving illegal custody and vicious beatings to extract a confession. Begya Pawar sustained 44 injuries, leading to his tragic demise, while another victim suffered severe fractures.  The police attempted to cover up the crime with a fabricated First Information Report (FIR) and by pressuring medical staff. However, a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) probe and compelling prosecution evidence, including 47 witnesses and medical reports, resulted in the conviction. The court condemned the officers' actions, emphasizing that they failed in their duty to protect citizens. The court dismissed claims that the personnel were carrying out official duties, asserting that their conduct was neither justifiable nor in the public interest. The judgment highlighted the serious and brutal nature of the incident, underscoring the illegal detention and merciless assault that led to Begya Pawar's tragic demise. The convicted officers, including then Risod police station in charge Madhav Dhande and several other personnel, were found guilty of murder, wrongful restraint, wrongful confinement, voluntarily causing grievous hurt to extort confession, and causing disappearance of evidence under the Indian Penal Code (IPC).  The case revolved around the unlawful custody and brutal treatment of Begya Pawar and another individual, resulting in Begya Pawar's untimely death. The victims were subjected to severe physical and mental torture to extract a confession regarding a dacoity case. The policemen used brutal methods, including fibre sticks, iron pipes, and bamboos, to assault the victims. This resulted in Begya Pawar's rapid deterioration and eventual death, while the other victim suffered severe fractures. Following Begya Pawar's demise, the police team filed a false FIR, claiming that the victims were involved in a scuffle while resisting arrest. Additionally, they attempted to coerce medical staff into attributing the injuries to local residents.  However, the truth came to light following a thorough CID investigation. The prosecution presented compelling evidence, including the testimony of 47 witnesses and the victim's medical report, which was corroborated by a panel of three doctors. The post-mortem report confirmed the cause of death as 'shock and haemorrhage following multiple contusions all over the body with multiple fractures.' After evaluating all the evidence, the court concluded that the prosecution had substantiated its case beyond reasonable doubt against all the accused. Despite this, the judge ruled that it was not a 'rarest of rare' case warranting the death sentence. Ultimately, the court handed down life imprisonment to the convicted officers, deeming it appropriate to meet the ends of justice."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F299af8c6-3acf-4498-82c6-20ae23ad67e7_sentence+jailj.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C86%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T18:31:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"landmark-verdict-9-maha-cops-get-life-sentence"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"YouTuber sent to jail after Andhra Police invokes UAPA"},"content":{"text":"A court at Gannavaram in Andhra Pradesh's Krishna district has sent YouTuber and political commentator Bachalakuri Joseph alias Prashna Raavan, to judicial custody for 14 days in the case relating to alleged derogatory remarks against the state's Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan. Arrested for the fifth time in less than a week, Raavan was produced before a judge late on Sunday night. After hearing arguments from both the sides, the judge remanded Raavan to judicial remand till July 18. He was subsequently shifted to Nellore Central Jail. Soon after the YouTuber secured bail for the fourth time on July 4, Gannavaram Police had arrested him on a complaint lodged by a local leader of Pawan Kalyan-led Jana Sena. This time, the police invoked stringent sections not only under the Bharatiya Nyana Sanhita (BNS) but also under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The FIR was registered against the YouTuber under BNS Sections 147, 148, 152, 192, 197(1)(d), and 353(1)(b) and UAPA Sections 13 and 39.  The charges include waging war against the Indian government, attempting to wage war, or abetting the waging of war, criminal conspiracy, threats to public order, acts threatening the sovereignty and integrity of India, support for unlawful activities, and support for a terrorist organisation. The Gannavaram police also invoked Section 148, which deals with conspiracy to commit an offence punishable under Section 147, or conspiracy to overawe the Central or a state government by criminal force or by the show of criminal force. Raavan is also facing charges under Section 152, which criminalises acts that endanger the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India. The offence is punishable with death or imprisonment for life, in addition to a fine. eanwhile, Raavan's wife Anusha said in Hyderabad that her husband spoke the very same language that Pawan Kalyan used. \"File such cases against Pawan Kalyan first, and then against my husband. They are creating morphed videos and spreading false propaganda against Raavan,\" she told media. The Pithampuram police had arrested the YouTuber from Hyderabad on June 30 for allegedly making derogatory comments against the Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and others during a Dalit Christian meeting at Eluru on June 28. Jana Sena workers had filed a case against Raavan at several police stations in the state, citing videos on Ravan's YouTube channel 'Prashna'. After, Raavan was granted bail by a court in Pithapuram, he was arrested by the police at another police station. As Raavan granted bail even after he was arrested in the fourth case, police booked stringent sections under BNS and UAPA to rule out his chances of securing a bail. The Telugu Desam Party-led coalition government in the state has come under sharp criticism from Opposition YSR Congress Party and various groups for its 'vendetta'. Actor Prakash Raj accused the Andhra Pradesh government of pursuing vendetta politics by resorting to repeated arrests of Raavan. \"How far are you planning to go by abusing power,\" he asked and demanded Raavan's immediate release. "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/g-Q8DuL2VnKwnqXU_prashnayoutuber.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T21:10:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"youtuber-sent-to-jail-after-andhra-police-invokes-"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment","featured","one"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Tabu to Lock Horns With Nag in 'King 100'?"},"content":{"text":"Akkineni Nagarjuna's milestone 100th film has become one of the most talked-about projects in Tollywood, with excitement growing ahead of its official announcement. During the pre-release event of Akhil Akkineni's Lenin, Nagarjuna revealed that a major update about his landmark film would be unveiled after July 10, 2026. Since then, speculation surrounding the cast, storyline, and crew has intensified, with fresh industry buzz hinting at a surprising addition that has caught everyone's attention. According to the latest reports, Bollywood actress Tabu is being considered for a pivotal role in King 100. Unlike her previous collaborations with Nagarjuna, where the duo shared memorable on-screen chemistry, this time she is reportedly being eyed for the film's primary antagonist. If the rumours prove true, it would mark the first time the two stars face off as rivals on screen instead of romantic leads. However, the makers have not issued any official confirmation, and the reports remain speculative. Directed by Ra. Karthik, King 100 is said to be an emotional rags-to-riches drama centered on the bond between a father and daughter. The film is reportedly being produced by Annapurna Studios on a grand scale, with actress Sushmita Bhatt expected to play a key role. With Nagarjuna promising a full-fledged announcement after July 10, fans are eagerly awaiting details about the title, cast, first look, and shooting schedule. Meanwhile, the rumoured inclusion of Tabu as the film's villain has only added to the anticipation, making King 100 one of the most awaited Telugu films in development."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/4bhp273AUSJ1cWKa_nagtabu.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T08:47:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"tabu-to-lock-horns-with-nag-in-king-100"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Satluj' Suddenly Disappears From OTT!"},"content":{"text":"Only days after release, Diljit Dosanjh starrer 'Satluj' has been taken down from the OTT platform Zee5. The OTT platform published an official statement on its Instagram handle, saying that although they have decided to ‘pause’ the drama in India, they ‘firmly stand by the film’. They further informed that they have taken the decision keeping in view the ‘current developments’. Expressing their gratitude to the audience for an overwhelming response, the statement read, \"The response to Satluj since its release has been truly overwhelming. We are deeply grateful to every viewer who chose to subscribe, watch and champion the film. Your love and support have meant a great deal to us and to everyone who brought this story to life.” They also added that they stand behind the film’s team, writing, “At Zee 5, we stand firmly by Satluj and the creative vision behind it. We believe powerful storytelling has the ability to inspire, endure and leave a lasting impact. We remain committed to championing authentic and meaningful narratives (sic).” They went on to add, “In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice. We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity. Our commitment to creators and to stories told with conviction, artistic integrity and purpose remains unwavering.” Earlier titled ‘Punjab 95’, the project fought a long battle against censorship before finally getting a digital release."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/VUeJD9l1YQ15jqte_sutlej.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T18:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"satluj-suddenly-disappears-from-ott"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Neymar retires from international football"},"content":{"text":"Neymar announced his international retirement following Brazil's heartbreaking Round of 16 defeat to Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday (IST). Carlo Ancelotti's side suffered a stunning 2-1 defeat to Norway in the last 16 of the tournament, with Neymar scoring a late penalty in added time after coming off the bench. After the final whistle, Neymar broke down in tears and announced that he has played his final match for the Selecao in an interview with Globo Esporte TV. “I tried. I tried,\" he said after the game. \"It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over,\" he said. Neymar made two appearances, both as a substitute, at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He made a cameo appearance in the second half against Scotland during the group stage before he scored his lone goal of the tournament from the penalty spot in stoppage time against Norway on Monday. The 34-year-old forward finished his career as the top goalscorer in the history of the Brazilian men's national team with 80 goals and 58 assists in 130 appearances. He also competed in two Olympic tournaments, winning a silver medal in 2012 and leading Brazil to a gold medal in 2016. While he has enjoyed a trophy-laden career at club level, his only senior silverware with Brazil remains the 2013 Confederations Cup. Neyamr made his senior international debut in 2010 and appeared in four World Cup tournaments. He took just 28 minutes to open his account – uncharacteristically with a forcible header – in a 2-0 win against USA in East Rutherford. He also competed in two Olympic tournaments, winning a silver medal in 2012 and leading Brazil to a gold medal in 2016. He was the golden boy of the 2014 World Cup on home soil, but was stretchered off with a back injury in the quarter-final win over Colombia. He gained redemption when he led Brazil to Olympic gold at Rio 2016, scoring the winning penalty in front of his own fans at the Maracana. But at the 2018 World Cup, the former Barcelona forward was only just fit after more injury troubles and failed to make a great impact. Brazil lost in the quarterfinals. In 2022 World Cup, after the opener he suffered ankle ligament damage and missed two group games. In the quarter-final match against Croatia, Neymar lit the match up in extra time with a \"magical\" run before scoring. Brazil, however, suffered a shock defeat, losing 4–2 in the ensuing penalty shootout following a 1–1 draw after extra time, before Neymar was able to take Brazil's final penalty."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/4JSohKTFW19R5eM5_neymar.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T02:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"neymar-retires-from-international-football"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"'Rao Bahadur' Dazzles at the Box Office"},"content":{"text":"In a promising start to its theatrical run, the Telugu psychological drama 'Rao Bahadur', headlined by Satyadev, has garnered significant box office attention, surpassing ₹8.5 crore in global collections by the end of its third day. Released on July 3, the film experienced a robust opening, with Saturday yielding its highest earnings before a slight decline was observed on Sunday. As it transitions into the weekday phase, industry analysts are closely monitoring its performance to gauge long-term viability in an increasingly competitive market. The film's initial net earnings on Day 1 amounted to ₹1.40 crore from 883 screenings, reflecting a 33% occupancy rate. This figure escalated dramatically on Saturday, with a collection of ₹2.43 crore net, although the occupancy dipped slightly to 29% from 851 shows. Sunday brought a slower pace, netting ₹1.02 crore across 925 shows, culminating in a total Indian net collection of ₹4.85 crore. The worldwide gross now stands at approximately ₹8.52 crore, combining domestic revenues of ₹5.52 crore with overseas earnings of ₹3 crore, setting a commendable tone for the film’s future. 'Rao Bahadur', directed, written, and edited by Venkatesh Maha, weaves a narrative rich in suspense, dark comedy, and elements of magical realism, set against the backdrop of a declining aristocracy. The film follows a royal figure grappling with the weight of his historical legacy, resonating with audiences who appreciate complex character arcs. The star-studded cast not only features Satyadev in the lead but also includes Vikas Muppala and Deepa Thomas, supported by a talented ensemble cast that adds depth to this multifaceted story. Produced under the banners of GMB Entertainment and several partnering studios, the film's technical finesse is apparent, with Kartik Parmar overseeing cinematography and Smaran Sai composing the score. As the film continues to unfold its narrative layers, its Monday performance will be critical; weekday box office trends often dictate whether a film can maintain momentum or fade quickly from theaters. The initial reception, paired with a compelling storyline, suggests that 'Rao Bahadur' could well be on its way to solidify its place within the cinematic landscape of 2023."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/58Q51Xlegb7Z28M5_raobahadur.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T09:33:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rao-bahadur-dazzles-at-the-box-office"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Big Court Win for Ravi Kishan"},"content":{"text":"The Delhi High Court has granted an ex parte ad-interim injunction in favour of actor and BJP MP, Ravi Kishan, restraining multiple entities from unauthorised commercial exploitation of his name, image, voice and other personality attributes, including through Artificial Intelligence (AI), deepfake technology and other digital tools.  A single-judge Bench of Justice Jyoti Singh passed the interim order in a commercial suit filed by Ravi Kishan alias Ravindra Shukla against several defendants, including social media accounts, websites, domain name registrars, intermediaries and unidentified \"John Doe\" entities allegedly involved in the unauthorised use of his persona. The suit alleged widespread misuse of the actor-politician's personality and publicity rights through AI-generated content, vulgar and obscene videos, fabricated statements circulated on social media, unauthorised commercial exploitation of his identity, and pornographic content falsely associated with him. It also alleged that several websites were using Ravi Kishan's name in relation to sexually explicit and pornographic material, while social media accounts had uploaded fabricated and offensive content that tarnished his image and reputation. In its order, the Delhi High Court observed that Ravi Kishan is a renowned actor with an illustrious career spanning over three decades and has also earned recognition as a public representative, enjoying substantial goodwill, reputation and commercial value. Justice Singh recorded that the plaintiff has starred in over 750 films across multiple languages and that his commercial identity is intrinsically linked with his name, image, likeness, voice, signature catchphrases and other distinctive personality attributes, which constitute valuable personality and publicity rights. \"Plaintiff has made out a prima facie case for grant of ex parte ad-interim injunction. Balance of convenience lies in favour of the Plaintiff and he is likely to suffer irreparable harm in case interim injunction is not granted,\" the Delhi High Court said. It further observed that Ravi Kishan has the exclusive right to protect the various attributes of his personality and restrain third parties from using or commercially exploiting them without his express permission. \"As rightly flagged by the Plaintiff, he has the exclusive right to protect the various attributes of his personality such as name, image, voice, likeness and restrain third parties from using and commercially exploiting these attributes without his express permission and authority,\" the order said. Justice Singh observed that personality rights are now judicially recognised and deserve legal protection, particularly where unauthorised use results in commercial detriment, invasion of privacy and injury to a person's dignity. \"Plaintiff is thus entitled to complain against any content which violates his personality rights and/or is vulgar or obscene or has sexually explicit or pornographic content and tarnishes his image, goodwill and reputation in the public and amongst family and friends and seek protection as well as action against the wrongdoers,\" the order said. Accordingly, the Delhi High Court restrained the defendants and all others acting on their behalf from using or exploiting Ravi Kishan's name, image, likeness or any other identifiable aspect of his persona for commercial or personal gain through any technology, including Artificial Intelligence, Generative Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and deepfakes, across physical, virtual and social media platforms. It also restrained the defendants from posting any audio-visual, vulgar, obscene or pornographic content using any of the actor's personality attributes through AI or other technologies. Directing immediate remedial action, the Delhi High Court ordered the identified defendants and domain name registrars to take down the infringing URLs listed in the order within three days of receiving a copy of the order. It further directed intermediaries, including Meta, Google and X Corp., to remove the identified content within 72 hours upon being notified by the plaintiff if the concerned defendants failed to comply. The matter has been listed before the Joint Registrar on August 13 for completion of pleadings and before the Delhi High Court on October 16 for further hearing. The Ravi Kishan case adds to a growing list of high-profile personalities invoking their personality and publicity rights before the Delhi High Court. In recent months, former cricketer and current head coach Gautam Gambhir, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, actors Arjun Kapoor, Allu Arjun, Nagarjuna, Varun Dhawan, Kajol, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan, singer Jubin Nautiyal, filmmaker Karan Johar, podcaster Raj Shamani, and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor have secured or sought court protection against the unauthorised use of their identity, likeness, or AI-generated imitations."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/qrb2TytF0XXAc47f_ravikishan.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T09:43:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"big-court-win-for-ravi-kishan"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Vance rejects 'zero-sum' view of US"},"content":{"text":"US Vice President JD Vance used America's 250th Independence Day celebrations on Saturday to push back against what he called a \"two-dimensional\" view of the country, urging Americans to reject narratives centred only on the nation's failures and instead embrace a shared history of achievement and unity. Aboard the USS Kearsarge in New York Harbour during the US Navy's 250th anniversary celebration, Vance said the country's history should be understood through the collective efforts of generations of Americans rather than through political or ideological divisions. \"As much as all of us, whether we're Democrat or Republican, whatever our political persuasion, all of us are celebrating,\" Vance said. He acknowledged that critics would offer a different interpretation of America's past. \"You will hear a couple small but loud voices today speak obsessively not of our national greatness but of our national imperfections,\" he said. \"They will speak of the powerless and the dispossessed. They will tell you that America is just another country where the weak struggle against the strong and if they acknowledge that there is anything to be proud of in our history, they'll say it's the fact that sometimes the powerless have won a zero-sum battle.\" \"They're wrong.\" Vance argued that America's story was built on cooperation across generations and professions rather than conflict between competing groups. \"America's greatness is built by cooperation between all of our citizens from every single walk of American life,\" he said while recounting the contributions of historical figures including George Washington, engineer James Buchanan Eads and industrialist Henry Kaiser. The Vice President said every generation had contributed to the country's development, from soldiers who fought for independence to factory workers, engineers and shipbuilders who helped build the nation's industrial and military strength. \"Our history is one of people carving a great civilization out of the wilderness,\" he said. Vance urged Americans to reject what he described as simplistic portrayals of both their fellow citizens and their country. \"So what I'd ask you to do, my fellow Americans, on our 250th birthday is to reject the two-dimensional view of your fellow citizens and reject the two-dimensional view of your country.\" \"Reject that America is a place for zero-sum thinking because it is not.\" He also appealed for a more balanced understanding of the country's past. \"Reject the view of your nation that sees only its sins but not its grace and its greatness.\" According to Vance, America's accomplishments were possible because citizens worked together despite political and social differences. \"Everything that we have done as a country, we have done together. Not as citizens divided against each other, but as a common people working towards a common future.\" He concluded by calling on Americans to carry that spirit forward. \"All of us will need to do our part to create the next 250 years of American greatness,\" Vance said. \"Today, my friends, we celebrate, and tomorrow we get back to work.\" The speech came as the United States marked the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with ceremonies across the country."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/Zp48kR5LeNNTxWIO_vance.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-04T18:33:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"vance-rejects-zero-sum-view-of-us"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Ketan's grandfather dies weeks after realtor's murder"},"content":{"text":"The Agarwal family, still mourning the death of 26-year-old Pune-based realtor Ketan Agarwal, has been struck by another tragedy. Ketan's paternal grandfather, Devichand Agarwal, passed away at a private hospital in Pune, where he had been undergoing treatment for serious health complications. Ketan's father, Vishal Agarwal, expressed his grief by sharing a heartfelt message on his social media status that read, \"Miss You Dad,\" paying tribute to the family's patriarch. According to sources familiar with the family's circumstances, Devichand had undergone a major heart surgery some time ago and had been battling recurring health issues since then. His health reportedly remained fragile in the months that followed the procedure. Family sources said the tragic death of his grandson deeply affected Devichand emotionally, leaving the family devastated during an already difficult period. The loss is said to have taken a significant toll on him. Earlier this week, Devichand's condition reportedly deteriorated suddenly, following which he was admitted to a private hospital in Pune for emergency treatment. As his health worsened, doctors placed him on ventilator support and continued intensive medical care. Despite sustained efforts by the medical team, he could not be revived and eventually succumbed to his condition. Devichand's death comes just weeks after Ketan Agarwal allegedly lost his life after being pushed into a deep gorge from Pune's Lohagad Fort by his fiancee, Siya Goyal (20), and her boyfriend, Chetan Chaudhary (22). According to the purported findings of the ongoing investigation, police have uncovered alleged online searches, deleted messages and evidence suggesting detailed planning in the days leading up to Ketan's death. Investigators have allegedly found that Goyal and Chaudhary searched Google and YouTube for various methods of killing Ketan before allegedly deciding that pushing him from Lohagad Fort would be the easiest way to carry out the crime. During questioning, Goyal has purportedly told investigators that she did not want to marry Ketan. She allegedly claimed that she conspired with Chaudhary to kill him because she believed calling off the wedding would bring disrepute to her family."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/BBgyQYUqBD2LcwYT_ketanGF.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T03:00:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"ketans-grandfather-dies-weeks-after-realtors-murde"}},{"node":{"tags":["NRI"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Indian American leaders celebrate US at 250"},"content":{"text":"Prominent Indian American political leaders from across the ideological spectrum marked the United States' 250th Independence Day by reflecting on their immigrant roots, their families' journeys from India and their differing visions of America, while expressing gratitude for the opportunities the country has offered.  Former Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai recalled how his parents arrived in the United States in 1971 carrying little more than hope for a better future. \"$8 , a transistor radio, and an unshakeable belief in the American dream: that's what my parents brought with them in 1971,\" Pai wrote. \"We've lived that dream ever since. So grateful to the United States, this nation of freedom and opportunity. Happy 250th!\" Pai also looked back at another milestone in his public life, recalling a 2020 post in which he said he was looking forward to travelling to India with then President Donald Trump and other US officials \"and participating in bilateral meetings aimed at deepening the friendship between our two nations.\" Republican Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy tied the country's 250th anniversary to a personal celebration, marking both Independence Day and the fourth birthday of his son, Arjun. Calling July 4, 1776, \"the most important date in the history of our universe for human freedom and human flourishing,\" Ramaswamy said America's founding remained a defining moment for liberty. \"We know it was successful because here we are, 250 years later, living in a country that allows free Americans like you and me to dream big, to work hard, to take risks, sometimes fail, pick ourselves up and do it again, to raise our families, to pursue our calling, to worship as we see fit, to speak our minds,\" he said. He added that he was \"grateful to be a citizen of the greatest nation known to the history of man.\" Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna reflected on growing up as the son of Indian immigrants in Pennsylvania after his parents arrived in the United States in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Born during America's bicentenary in 1976, Khanna said the country's history shaped his understanding of its ideals. \"The founders would be amazed to see some of the progress we have made, the abolition of slavery, the empowering of women's rights, the ending of Jim Crow, the embrace of immigrants like my family from around the world,\" Khanna said. He argued that providing \"economic security and economic hope\" would allow Americans to \"all be for Team America.\" Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal recounted how her parents, while living in India and Indonesia, sent her alone to the United States at the age of 16 to pursue higher education. She said it took her 17 years, multiple degrees and \"an alphabet soup of visas\" before she became an American citizen. \"Today, as the Trump administration terrorises immigrants and severely restricts legal pathways to citizenship, we need to remember that our American identity is uniquely tied to immigration,\" Jayapal said. She called for \"real, humane immigration reform\" and urged Americans to commit to \"protecting the promise of America\" and \"building a more perfect union together.\" New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, who became a US citizen nearly a decade ago, also centred his Independence Day message on immigration and citizenship. Addressing newly naturalised Americans, he said they held \"the power to determine what America means\" and described patriotism as \"every act of righteous dissent.\" He added: \"It is precisely because we love this nation that we will not leave it.\" Despite representing sharply different political philosophies, the leaders' messages shared a common theme: each drew on a personal or family immigration story to explain their connection to the United States and what the country's founding ideals mean to them 250 years after independence. Indian Americans today number more than five million and have emerged as one of the fastest-growing and most influential immigrant communities in the United States. The United States marked its 250th Independence Day with celebrations across the country, including official ceremonies, military displays and community events. For many Indian Americans, the anniversary also became an occasion to reflect on the journeys that brought their families from India to the United States and on their growing contribution to the nation's political, economic and civic landscape."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/dLDOnpi_wpGbusJe_USAT250.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T01:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indian-american-leaders-celebrate-us-at-250"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Aamir Khan gets married for 3rd time"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan and Gauri Spratt are now officially the man and the wife. The couple tied the knot in a close knit affair on Sunday, July 5 in the presence of his kids elder son, Junaid Khan, his daughter Ira Khan and Azad, prominent figures, family members and friends. The couple were dressed in traditional outfits of cream and beige colour. A picture shared by the actor’s publicist shows him signing the marriage papers as Gauri sits next to him in presence of family and friends. Filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, actor-director Vir Das, and politician Raj Thackeray were seen arriving for the wedding despite the rain casting a long spell over the city, and a red alert declared by the authorities. This marks the superstar's 3rd marriage after Reena Dutta and Kiran Rao. Aamir married Reena Dutta in 1986, and they have two children, actor Junaid Khan and Ira Khan. The couple parted ways in 2002. The actor went on to marry Kiran Rao in 2005. The couple welcomed their son, Azad Rao Khan, through surrogacy. However, the couple announced their separation in 2021. Gauri has worked in the fashion and beauty industry, including with a Bengaluru-based salon business, and later became associated with Aamir Khan Productions. She and Aamir Khan have reportedly known each other for over 25 years, though they began a romantic relationship only in recent years. She was previously married and has a son from that marriage. Last year, on his 60th birthday in March, the actor shed light on his relationship with Gauri. The actor confirmed that he was marrying Gauri on July 5 at the screening of Rajkumar Hirani’s recently released series, ‘Pritam and Pedro’. He said, “Shaadi hai 5 July ko. Ghar pe hi kar rahe hain. Bahut hi choti shaadi hai. Bahut hi khaas din hai 5 tarikh hamare liye. Dono families hain aur kuch khaas dost hain. (The wedding is on 5 July. We are hosting it at home; it's a very small, intimate affair. It is a very special day for us. Both families and a few close friends will be there)”."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/Yo0DvTvhnQdYWPV9_aamirmarriage.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T08:52:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"aamir-khan-gets-married-for-3rd-time"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Indian family stuck at Hong Kong airport"},"content":{"text":"Andhra Pradesh Minister for Human Resources Development and Information Technology, Nara Lokesh, on Sunday appealed to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to provide immediate assistance to a Telugu family stranded at Hong Kong Airport after they lost their passports.  Lokesh, son of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, took to ‘X’ on Sunday to make an appeal to the External Affairs Minister. He appealed after one Rajeswari Bolla tagged Lokesh, seeking his help. The family, while travelling from Hyderabad to Chicago via Hong Kong, lost their passports.  Rajeswari Bolla posted that they are in an emergency. “My family were supposed to travel from Hyderabad to Chicago via Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific airlines on July 2nd, but we lost our passports on the airplane. We are stranded in Hong Kong Airport for the last 52 hrs. We have little kids aged 5 yrs and 3 yrs with us and we are really in a difficult situation. Requesting your team’s urgent intervention or guidance to help us reach the right authorities to help us get replacement passports issued. Please help,” reads the post. Responding to the request, Lokesh wrote that he was terribly sorry to learn about the family’s ordeal. He appeared to External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to ‘kindly look into this issue and provide immediate assistance to the family’. Rajeswari Bolla posted their picture waiting at Hong Kong Airport. She also posted a picture of their boarding pass.  She posted an appeal to people to help them find the lost passports. The bag, containing two Indian passports and two USA passports, was lost during their journey from Hyderabad to Hong Kong. The flight CX 672 departed from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, at 2.43 a.m. on July 2. “Please check if you or anyone you know travelled in the same flight. Even the smallest lean can help us reunite with our documents,” reads the appeal."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/oeqFYuWIb4Wo3imK_indfmlyhongkong.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T07:48:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indian-family-stuck-at-hong-kong-airport"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"How Hema Malini got her name 'Dream Girl'"},"content":{"text":"Veteran actress and politician Hema Malini once revealed how she got the title of 'Dream Girl'.  Talking during her appearance on the 'Kapil Sharma Show', Hema Malini shared that she had already been given the title of 'Dream Girl' even before her movie of the same name reached the audience. Speaking to the host Kapil Sharma, Hema Malini said that the producer of her first Hindi movie, \"Sapno Ka Saudagar\" (1968), B. Ananthaswami, came up with a fantastic idea of introducing Hema Malini in the industry as 'Dream Girl coming to town'. \"I was also like, the movie is close to release, and my name is nowhere to be seen. What are they doing this 'Dream Girl, Dream Girl'. But he said, \"That is how your name is going to be. Later on, we will reveal who is that 'Dream Girl' - Hema Malini\". It was his idea which ended up becoming so popular.\" Made under the direction of Mahesh Kaul, \"Sapno Ka Saudagar\" has been backed by B. Ananthaswami. The primary cast of the drama includes Raj Kapoor, Hema Malini, Tanuja, and Nadira, along with others. The music for the film was composed by Shankar Jaikishan. Later in 1977, Hema Malini even went on to lead a movie named \"Dream Girl\", co-starring Ashok Kumar, Dharmendra, and Prem Chopra, along with others. Helmed by Pramod Chakravorty, the movie shares the tale of a young woman (Played by Hema Malini), who pretends to be five different people in the film – Sapna, Padma, Champabai, Dream girl, and Rajkumari, to steal money in order to maintain a home for orphans. The music of this movie, provided by popular composer duo Laxmikant–Pyarelal, also enjoys a massive fanbase. The song \"Dream Girl,\" sung by Kishore Kumar from the movie, turned out to be an evergreen hit."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/d24ed652-16cf-4d75-a203-8942692f3c59_hema+malini.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T10:18:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"how-hema-malini-got-her-name-dream-girl"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Kajal Flags FSSAI Scandal"},"content":{"text":"Actress Kajal Aggarwal, who is gearing up for the release of her upcoming film ‘The India Story’, has spoken up on the corruption in the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The FSSAI has been under public scrutiny for flouting safety norms, and granting food safety certificates to sub par products of late putting the nation’s health at risk. The actress spoke with media during the promotions of the film, and shared her opinion on India’s food safety. The actress told, “So it is a sad reality. Even I have heard of these things, and bad practices, and a lot of things going wrong. This definitely does put the nation's health at risk. Especially, considering that we have the youngest population here, and we have so many young adults and children in our nation who need to be fed. They need to be catered to health and immunity needs to happen. We do not live in the best of sanitation conditions. So, that is another risk. That we are dealing with at any given point of time”. She further mentioned, “There is pollution, there are stress factors. It is all a mixed bag. So, it is definitely not the easiest of environments for us to navigate. But, there are people like Tukaram Munde, the newly elected FDA Commissioner. He governs the entire food channels, and he has carried out more than 700 raids in 22 days of his posting”. “So there are genuine people, there are honest people, who are actually fighting the good fight. And, I just hope that People's conscience really evolves through the course of our film”, she added. ‘The India Story’ is produced by Swati Vinayak Saindane, Anita Jadhav, Vinayak Saindane, Kalpesh Shah, Devyani Khorate, and Prem Joshi. The film is set to release in cinemas on July 24, 2026."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ELKuJRwK1rTr-d6Q_kajal.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T03:40:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"kajal-flags-fssai-scandal"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"116-Year-Old Reaches Tirumala on Foot"},"content":{"text":"Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Sunday that he was awestruck by a 116-year-old woman who trekked up to Tirumala on foot to worship at Sri Venkateswara temple. The Chief Minister posted on social media that age is truly just a number when it comes to pure devotion. “Absolutely awestruck by this 116-year-old grandmother from Karnataka who trekked all the way up to Tirumala on foot to have the divine darshan of Lord Venkateswara Swamy. Wonderful to see her family supporting her lifelong faith. Truly inspiring!” the Chief Minister posted on X. The woman reached the hill shrine after scaling the Alipiri footpath on foot. The Alipiri trekking route comprises about 3,550 steps cutting through the Seshachalam hills. The video of the centenarian trekking the Alipiri route has gone viral on social media. Reacting to this, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) Chairman B. R. Naidu on Sunday announced that he will arrange a special darshan of the Lord for her and her family members “The unwavering devotion of the elderly female devotee who reached Tirumala on foot for the darshan of Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy at the age of 116 is truly inspiring,” he said. B. R. Naidu posted on X that he has decided to arrange a special darshan of the Lord for her and her family members. “If anyone has details about her, please contact the TTD Chairman's camp office in Tirumala directly. I sincerely pray that the blessings of Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy remain with her and her family members always,” he said. The TTD chairman later tweeted that, responding to his request, TTD Vigilance officials identified the details of the 116-year-old female devotee. “She has been identified as Smt. Navaneethamma from Tamil Nadu, currently staying with relatives in Jeevakona, Tirupati. It brings me great joy that Smt. Navaneethamma and her family members will have the privilege of the VIP Break Darshan of Lord Sri Venkateswara tomorrow morning,” he added."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/Nnxsssjb35Up2Qyu_116yrold.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T11:04:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"116-year-old-reaches-tirumala-on-foot"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"When Chunky Panday took advantage of Salman's stardom"},"content":{"text":"Salman Khan is one of the biggest stars in Bollywood, and once, fellow actor Chunky Panday decided to take advantage of his massive stardom. Akshay Kumar, who appeared on \"The Kapil Sharma Show\" with Chunky, narrated the funny incident. The 'Houseful' actor revealed that once Salman Khan was doing a show with Chunky Panday in South Africa and the show went extremely well, so being the organizer, Chunky graciously offered to take Salman for shopping. As they were in a shop, Chunky told Salman, \"Pick 3-4 jeans and 2-3 shirts\". So, Salman picked what he liked. The owner of the shop came, \"We want to take a picture with Salman sir.\" The 'Ek Tha Tiger' actor took a few pictures with the owner and his family. Salman left the shop extremely happy. However, only after a couple of days did he come to know that Chunky had taken 20,000 dollars from the shop owner to get Salman to his shop. For those who do not know, Akshay has worked with Chunky in \"Aankhen (1993)\", \"Housefull (2010)\", \"Housefull 3 (2016)\", and \"Housefull 5 (2025).\" In the meantime, Akshay was recently seen leading the latest instalment in the popular 'Welcome' franchise that arrived in the cinema halls on June 26th. Made under the direction of Ahmed Khan, \"Welcome to the Jungle\" boasts a massive ensemble cast of over 30 actors including Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff, Raveena Tandon, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Johnny lever, Aftab Shivdasani, Lara Dutta, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Daler Mehndi, Farida Jalal, Krishna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Kiran Kumar, Mukesh Tiwari, Yashpal Sharma, Vindu Dara Singh, Nawab Shah, Urvashi Rautela, Puneet Issar, Arjun Firoz Khan, Late Pankaj Dheer, Sudesh Berry, Hemant Pandey, Zakir Hussain, and Sayaji Shinde, along with others. Up next, Akshay will also be a part of Rohit Shetty's \"Golmaal 5\"."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/8LLx3cDmcPR9PexQ_chunkysalman.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-04T13:20:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"when-chunky-panday-took-advantage-of-salmans-stard"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Wedding prep begins at Aamir's Pali Hill home"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood's 'Mr Perfectionist' is all set to enter matrimony for the third time with his ladylove Gauri Spratt this Sunday, July 5. Ahead of the D-day, the wedding preparations have already commenced at Aamir's Pali Hill residence. A video that has surfaced on social media shows the house decorated with lights. We could also see chairs for the upcoming guests at the venue.  However, massive rain was also visible in the clip from Aamir's Mumbai home. With the rain making things more challenging, many workers were seen wearing raincoats as they progressed with the wedding arrangements. Before this, Aamir spoke about his upcoming nuptials as he attended the screening of Rajkumar Hirani's web show, 'Pritam and Pedro'.  The '3 idiots' actor revealed that it is going to be an intimate affair with only their close family members and friends in attendance. He was heard saying, \"Yes, we are getting married on the 5th. It's a very small wedding; we are doing it at home. The 5th is a very special day for us. There will only be both the families, along with some close friends. We are getting married at home only. We only want everyone's blessings that we remain happy.\" Jogging your memory, Aamir introduced his ladylove, Gauri, on his 60th birthday in March last year. During a fun meet and greet with the media, he gave his ladylove an adorable shoutout.  Aamir had shared that despite being friends for almost 25 years, he and Gauri developed romantic feelings for each other only some time back. This is going to be Aamir's third wedding. He first got married to Reena Dutta, with whom he has two children - Junaid and Ira Khan. However, these two decided to part ways in 2002.  He decided to take the plunge for the second time in 2005 when he got married to Kiran Rao. They also have a son together, Azad Rao Khan. Aamir and Kiran also got divorced in 2021."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiAyxAeQX7-eWqYv_aamirmarry.jpg?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-04T11:24:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"wedding-prep-begins-at-aamirs-pali-hill-home"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Mamata announces herself as TMC’s Bengal chief"},"content":{"text":"In a swift political move aimed at consolidating her control over the party organisation amid a deepening internal crisis, former West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress national chairperson Mamata Banerjee on Saturday took over as the party's West Bengal state president, hours after Chandrima Bhattacharya resigned from the post following her decision to join the rebel faction led by expelled legislator Ritabrata Banerjee. Shortly after Bhattacharya officially announced her resignation from that post on Saturday afternoon, Mamata Banerjee went live on Facebook, announcing her decision not to appoint anyone to the post of state president and instead to operate from that chair herself. At the same time, she announced the names of the party legislators, namely Kunal Ghosh and Madan Mitra, who continue to be loyal to her, as the two state general secretaries of Trinamool Congress in West Bengal. In her Facebook Live message, the former West Bengal Chief Minister also issued an appeal to those legislators and leaders who have united under the \"rebel by majority\" faction under the leadership of the expelled party legislator Ritabrata Banerjee, to directly join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), instead of continuing to claim themselves as the \"real Trinamool Congress\". \"I know you are doing all these things to grab the party name, election symbol and the party funds. I know that ultimately you might not be able to get control over the election symbol. But even if you are successful in doing that, courtesy of the Election Commission of India, I will not be bothered. A is what the common people and the grassroots workers accept. When I first got the symbol, I contested the election with it just 1 month and 22 days later. Now, if necessary, I will go out to the people with the symbol hanging around my neck. Will you be able to silence my voice? It will not be that easy. You will have to kill me to silence my voice,\" Mamata Banerjee said. Speaking on the occasion, she also gave a message to her followers about the uncertainties surrounding the party's annual Martyrs' Day rally on July 21, with the Kolkata Police already having granted permission to hold the rally at the traditional venue in front of the CESC office at Esplanade in Central Kolkata. \"Be assured that the Martyrs' Day Programme will be conducted as usual this time also. If necessary, I will stand on a rickshaw and organise the rally,\" Mamata Banerjee said."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F2ecd161d-bb1b-46a5-842d-05d905a41a58_mamata.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C2000%2C986&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-04T14:42:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"mamata-announces-herself-as-tmcs-bengal-chief"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Samantha Makes Bold Career Move"},"content":{"text":"Actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu has joined hands with Sony LIV for a new collaboration, shortly after announcing her pregnancy. She has stepped into this exciting new phase both personally and professionally, marking another notable development in her journey. Samantha is in talks with Sony LIV for their new project. It is being said that the “Oo Antava” actress has teamed up with Sony LIV for a long association and that she might also produce it. Sharing her excitement, Samantha said in a statement, “This year has reminded me to embrace change, trust the journey and welcome new beginnings. I'm so happy to be starting this new chapter with Sony LIV Tamil. We've been working on something really exciting, and I'm looking forward to sharing it with all of you very soon.” On the personal front, the actress is all set to embrace motherhood, as she and her husband—filmmaker Raj Nidimoru—are expecting their first child together. During a thank-you event for her recent film ‘Maa Inti Bangaaram’ in Hyderabad, Samantha officially confirmed her pregnancy and shared that she would be stepping away from work for a short period to begin her maternity break. She was quoted as saying, “Sorry guys, one more small gap and then I will be back. I know I have to take maternity leave now. But I am very happy.” Recently, Samantha posted a heartfelt picture on social media, flaunting her baby bump. With a hint of humor, she accompanied the post with the caption, “My six-pack. I’ll see you when I see you.” For the unversed, Samantha and Raj Nidimoru got married in 2025, marking the second marriage for both. Samantha was earlier married to actor Naga Chaitanya from 2017 to 2021, while Raj Nidimoru was previously married to Shhyamali De."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F96147017-eb75-435d-9568-7b2bb73b5271_3.+samantha.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-04T06:46:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"samantha-makes-bold-career-move"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Kriti steps out for dinner with rumoured beau Kabir"},"content":{"text":"Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon was spotted stepping out for a dinner outing with her rumoured boyfriend, Kabir Bahia, in Mumbai on Friday evening.  Though the duo arrived at the same venue, they entered the restaurant separately. In a video doing the rounds on social media, Kabir was seen arriving first, dressed casually in an oversized white T-shirt paired with light blue denims and sneakers. A few moments later, Kriti arrived in a chic all-black ensemble, looking classy. Before heading inside, the actress smiled, waved at the paparazzi and flashed a victory sign. For the uninitiated, Kriti and Kabir have been making headlines for their rumoured relationship over the past year. Although neither of them has publicly confirmed dating each other, they have frequently been spotted together during vacations, family celebrations and social gatherings. Most recently, the rumoured couple was seen enjoying a holiday alongside Kriti's sister Nupur Sanon and singer Stebin Ben. For the uninitiated, talking about Kabir Bahia, he is reportedly a UK-based entrepreneur and businessman with interests in the travel and hospitality sector. He has largely stayed away from the entertainment industry despite often making headlines due to his alleged relationship with Kriti. On the work front, Kriti was recently seen in Cocktail 2, where her performance as Ally received appreciation from audiences and critics alike. The actress made her acting debut in Bollywood with Heropanti alongside Tiger Shroff. Over the past 12 years, she has established herself as one of Hindi cinema's leading actresses with films such as 'Bareilly Ki Barfi', 'Luka Chuppi', 'Mimi', 'Bhediya', 'Crew', 'Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya' and 'Do Patti'. She also turned producer recently with 'Do Patti' under her banner, Blue Butterfly Films."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/L1ErRIfm8PvGTrLT_kritikabir.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C80%2C449%2C221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-04T02:00:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"kriti-steps-out-for-dinner-with-rumoured-beau-kabi"}},{"node":{"tags":["NRI"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Indra Nooyi: A Global Game-Changer"},"content":{"text":"Indra Nooyi’s remarkable journey from the streets of Chennai to the helm of PepsiCo stands as a testament to her unparalleled leadership and transformative vision. As the first woman of color to lead a Fortune 500 company, Nooyi not only revolutionized the global food and beverage landscape but also championed a corporate culture that emphasized meritocracy and inclusivity. Her recent statements affirming the unique opportunities afforded by the American system underscore her belief that hard work and talent can transcend barriers, a sentiment that resonates deeply with aspiring leaders worldwide. Born Indira Krishnamurthy on October 28, 1955, Nooyi's early life was marked by a blend of ambition and familial support. Growing up in a middle-class household, she excelled academically and defied societal norms by pursuing her passions, including playing in a rock band. Her educational journey took her from Madras Christian College to the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, and ultimately to Yale University, where she secured a scholarship despite her family's financial constraints. This trajectory laid the groundwork for her future successes in the corporate arena, where she would face and overcome myriad challenges. Nooyi's ascent in the corporate world began with her tenure at Motorola and ABB, honing her skills in strategy and management before joining PepsiCo in 1994. Tasked with revitalizing a company facing stagnation, she implemented bold strategies that included divesting restaurant chains and acquiring successful brands like Tropicana and Gatorade. Her innovative approach not only bolstered PepsiCo’s financial performance—growing revenues from $35 billion to $63 billion during her leadership—but also positioned the company as a proactive advocate for environmental sustainability. Her mantra, 'Performance with a Purpose,' encapsulated her vision for a corporate entity that balances profitability with social responsibility. Since stepping down as CEO in 2018, Nooyi has continued to shape the business landscape through her roles in corporate governance and mentoring future leaders. She lends her expertise to prominent organizations such as Amazon and Royal Philips and has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan and induction into the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Nooyi's compelling narrative serves as an inspiration for those navigating the complexities of career and family, as she articulates in her memoir 'My Life in Full,' emphasizing that true support systems transcend traditional gender roles. Her legacy endures, not just as a business leader but as a beacon for women everywhere seeking to break barriers and redefine success."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/8f8013fc-7edf-4e75-b42a-73527662bfab_indra+nooyi.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-03T19:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indra-nooyi-a-global-game-changer"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"T'gana challenges Centre's rural job scheme in SC"},"content":{"text":"Telangana has decided to challenge the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) scheme in the Supreme Court. The state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, has expressed strong reservations over key provisions of the scheme and criticized the Centre for ignoring the state's objections and recommendations. The state government had earlier passed a resolution against the scheme in the Jan assembly session, which was disregarded by the Centre. Despite this, Telangana has agreed to implement the law from July 1 to prevent disruption of employment for rural workers.  The state's principal objection is the 60:40 funding formula, which requires states to bear 40% of the scheme expenditure. Telangana estimates its annual share at around Rs 2,500 crore, whereas the previous MGNREGA programme was entirely funded by the Centre. The cabinet also opposes the provision mandating a 60-day break for beneficiaries, arguing that it would adversely affect poor rural households and agricultural labourers dependent on employment guarantee works. In addition to the legal challenge against the scheme, the cabinet has made key decisions in welfare, healthcare, and infrastructure sectors. These include extending the breakfast, milk, and mid-day meal programme to schools and junior colleges, large-scale recruitment for new super-speciality hospitals, and administrative approval for the Musi riverfront development project.  The cabinet has also approved land allotments for the construction of warehouses for essential commodities and for the establishment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas and Kendriya Vidyalaya. Tribal leaders have also raised concerns and sought additional housing allocation and support for tribal development initiatives. The state continues to pursue its objections to the rural job scheme while advancing various other important initiatives."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/f2cf12a7-b7cf-4b37-be6e-889086e09b34_SC.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-03T19:08:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"tgana-challenges-centres-rural-job-scheme-in-sc"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"When PC shared her painful first-class experience"},"content":{"text":"Once global sensation Priyanka Chopra shared her painful experience in first class while speaking to filmmaker Karan Johar during his popular chat show, 'Koffee With Karan'. PeeCee revealed to Karan how once an air host stopped her from using a first-class loo as he believed that she did not seem like someone who could fly first class. KJo asked the 'Desi Girl', \"I don't mean it as cliché as racism, but do you feel like any kind of treatment difference in where you come from and who you are on set in America? Because God knows that racism, I mean, is a global phenomenon.\" In response, she shared her experience. The 'Barfi' actress said, \"I was flying back from Europe to New York, and it was one of the small planes, you know. I went to the front, the first class loo, and the air host, he goes, \"Oh, the loo is at the back\". I said, \"What about that?\" He said, \"Oh, that's just for first class.\" As Priyanka looked at him with a stern gaze, he realized that she was flying first class. After that, he apologized, saying, \"Oh, I'm sorry.\" To this PeeCee replied, \"I'm sitting right there.\" Realizing his mistake, the air host got all awkward. Coming to Priyanka's professional lineup, she will be seen as one of the leads in SS Rajamouli's much-anticipated 'Varanasi'. The movie will mark her first professional association with South superstar Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran. Produced by Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business, the project talks about the adventures of Rudhra (Played by Mahesh Babu) as the city of Varanasi faces the impending arrival of an asteroid. In addition to this, Priyanka has also been roped in for the latest instalment in the popular franchise \"Krrish 4\". She will be seen reprising her role as Priya in the project that will mark the directorial debut of Hrithik Roshan."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/O5ge9S81IVg_oT45_PC.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C31%2C449%2C221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-03T18:09:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"when-pc-shared-her-painful-first-class-experience"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Twists and Turns in Ketan Agarwal Murder Probe"},"content":{"text":"In the lead-up to the tragic death of Pune realtor Ketan Agarwal, the events surrounding his relationship with his fiancée Siya Goyal are now the focus of intense scrutiny. One significant incident under investigation is their planned pre-wedding trip to Bali in June. According to a cab driver who transported Siya to Mumbai airport, she seemed hesitant to enter the cab. The driver stated that it was Siya's brother Sahil Goyal who eventually persuaded her to get in, but the journey was marred by continuous arguments between the siblings.  The Bali trip was disrupted when Ketan's passport mysteriously disappeared. Police suspect that Siya orchestrated this by taking the passport, allegedly due to opposition from Chetan Chaudhary, whom authorities claim she was involved with. It is alleged that Siya removed the passport from the car near the Khalapur toll plaza, damaged it, and disposed of it in a women's washroom at a food mall. The police are currently investigating the possibility of recovering the passport as part of their wider probe into the conspiracy to murder Ketan. Siya Goyal and Chetan Chaudhary have been arrested for their alleged involvement in Ketan Agarwal's murder, accused of pushing him off Lohagad Fort in Pune district on June 18. Authorities claim that the motive behind the crime was the pair's perceived hindrance to their relationship.  This complex web of events is now at the center of a comprehensive investigation, with law enforcement delving into the movements of the suspects, digital evidence, deleted communications, and the underlying motive for the crime. "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/-ZByP-QHLtnuQD7o_ketansiya.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-03T19:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"twists-and-turns-in-ketan-agarwal-murder-probe"}}]},"featured":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Atlee's Unfinished Romance Dream"},"content":{"text":"Renowned filmmaker Atlee, celebrated for his dynamic contributions to the action genre, has expressed a poignant regret regarding his cinematic repertoire. Despite achieving remarkable success with blockbuster hits such as 'Theri', 'Mersal', and 'Bigil'—collaborations that have solidified his partnership with actor Vijay—Atlee revealed a lingering desire to explore the realm of romantic storytelling. This sentiment surfaced during a pre-release event for 'Idhayam Murali', where he candidly recalled his debut film, Raja Rani, and its lasting impact, stating that it remains an indelible part of his identity in the industry. Atlee's candid remarks shed light on the dichotomy of his career; while the accolades from his action films have elevated him to national prominence, they have simultaneously overshadowed his aspirations within the romantic genre. Speaking about his collaboration with producer Aakash Baskaran, whom he affectionately referred to as a brother, Atlee articulated a yearning to back projects that resonate with the emotional depth of love stories. “There is always a yearning inside my heart that we couldn't do a love film,” he lamented, emphasizing the vital role 'Raja Rani' played in shaping his career and public perception. 'Raja Rani', featuring an ensemble cast that includes Arya, Nayanthara, and Nazriya Nazim, tells the story of reluctant lovers discovering affection amidst their complex pasts. The film was not just a commercial triumph but also garnered critical acclaim, leading to remakes in Bengali and Sinhala. Its heartfelt narrative resonated deeply with audiences, establishing its place in Tamil cinema history. In contrast, Atlee's recent works, characterized by high-octane action and intricate plots, have dominated the box office, further entrenching him in the action genre while the romantic narrative hangs unfulfilled. The upcoming 'Idhayam Murali' diverges from Atlee's usual oeuvre, promising a narrative centered around unrequited love. The film, which stars Atharvaa and Preity Mukhundhan, explores the complexities of longing and rejection, a theme that Atlee himself seems to connect with on a personal level. As the film prepares for its release on July 10, it stands as a testament to Atlee's willingness to venture into new territory, even as he acknowledges the bittersweet nature of his unfulfilled dreams in the realm of romance."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2116deff-2bc8-4982-ad89-5122fae08d7f_atlee.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T09:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"atlees-unfinished-romance-dream"}}]},"politics":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Microsoft announces 4,800 layoffs"},"content":{"text":"Microsoft has announced another round of job cuts, eliminating around 4,800 positions, or approximately 2.1 per cent of its global workforce, as the technology giant continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) while seeking to improve operational efficiency.  The latest layoffs come amid a broader trend across the technology industry, where companies are balancing massive AI investments with efforts to control costs. Industry leaders such as Amazon and Meta have also reduced their workforces this year as spending on AI infrastructure continues to rise. Global AI-related investments by major technology companies are expected to surpass $700 billion in 2026. The announcement follows a challenging first half of the year for Microsoft, with the company's shares declining nearly 23 per cent during the first six months of 2026, marking their weakest first-half performance since 2022. Earlier this year, Microsoft had already offered voluntary buyouts to nearly 9,000 employees in the United States, representing about seven per cent of its domestic workforce. The company has traditionally made workforce adjustments near the end of its fiscal year in June as it prepares budgets and spending plans for the new financial year. While Microsoft's Azure cloud computing business has continued to benefit from strong demand for AI services, the company is facing mounting costs associated with expanding its data centre infrastructure. Until April, Azure was the exclusive cloud provider for OpenAI's models, helping drive strong growth in Microsoft's cloud business. However, the significant investments required to support AI services have increased pressure on the company's cash flows. Despite the financial strain, Microsoft remains optimistic about its AI business. In April, the company forecast quarterly Azure revenue above Wall Street expectations and projected capital expenditure of $190 billion for 2026, substantially higher than analysts' estimates. The company is scheduled to announce its latest financial results later this month. The rapid adoption of AI is also reshaping Microsoft's traditional software business by automating routine tasks, while rising memory chip prices driven by demand for AI data centres have increased production costs. Those higher costs have prompted Microsoft to raise Xbox console prices at a time when demand for the gaming hardware has remained subdued."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/d65d5a05-f72a-4dbc-b30d-8a74e08b971f_microsoft+tams.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T14:37:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"microsoft-announces-4800-layoffs"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"BRS Crosses Hurdles, Reaches Kaleshwaram"},"content":{"text":"A convoy of BRS leaders led by party working president K. T. Rama Rao from Hyderabad reached Kaleshwaram in Jayashankar Bhupalapally district on Sunday amid tension as police allegedly tried to stop them at various points en route. The delegation of the Opposition party leaders was on its way to Kannepalli Pump House. Tension prevailed at Kaleshwaram village as police tried to stop the convoy. The BRS leaders removed barricades to head towards Kannepalli. Kannepalli Pump House is part of the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project constructed by the previous BRS government, and the BRS leaders, through their visit, are trying to highlight that the Congress government is deliberately allowing Godavari River water to go waste.  The convoy comprising 40 cars was first stopped by police at Pemburti in Warangal district. Police officials told KTR that there is no permission for such a large convoy. However, the BRS working president raised an objection and insisted that all cars in the convoy be allowed without any obstruction. After an argument between both sides, the convoy resumed the journey.  KTR told media persons that the fear has gripped the Congress government, and hence it was repeatedly stopping the convoy. He stated that 1 lakh cusecs of Godavari water was flowing waste downstream towards the sea.  The BRS leader said they would continue their fight till the government utilises the water for irrigation. KTR said that while 1 lakh cusecs of water were being wasted downstream, all the reservoirs upstream were lying empty. “Whether it is Mid Manair, Kaleshwaram, or any other reservoir in the entire project, there is currently no water. Farmers are unable to even sow seeds,” he said The BRS leader said former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) designed the Kaleshwaram project in such a way that, by simply operating the motors at the Kannepalli pump house, all of Telangana can be transformed into a lush and fertile land. KTR challenged the government to hand over the project to KCR for one week if it was incapable of supplying water to farmers. “If the motors at the Kannepalli pump house are operated, abundant water can be supplied, allowing farmers to proceed with sowing of seeds,” he said. The BRS leader alleged that the Chief Minister was deliberately depriving farmers of water, as he fears that if he provides it, he will also have to supply them urea, procure their produce, pay them support price and bonus.  Terming the Congress government ‘anti-farmer’, he said it effectively shelved a system capable of delivering abundant water. “Yet, when we set out to expose this, they are obstructing our people—our MLAs and MPs. We will show the entire farming community of Telangana just how incompetent and inept this government is.”"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/U_wKfqTVGHWMX5Hx_BRSleaders.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T12:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"brs-crosses-hurdles-reaches-kaleshwaram"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Landmark Verdict: 9 Maha Cops Get Life Sentence"},"content":{"text":"In a significant ruling, a Maharashtra court has handed down life imprisonment to nine police personnel for the brutal 2011 custodial death of Begya Pawar, highlighting the grave repercussions of police misconduct and misuse of authority. The Washim district court found the actions of the police officers to be 'serious and brutal,' involving illegal custody and vicious beatings to extract a confession. Begya Pawar sustained 44 injuries, leading to his tragic demise, while another victim suffered severe fractures.  The police attempted to cover up the crime with a fabricated First Information Report (FIR) and by pressuring medical staff. However, a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) probe and compelling prosecution evidence, including 47 witnesses and medical reports, resulted in the conviction. The court condemned the officers' actions, emphasizing that they failed in their duty to protect citizens. The court dismissed claims that the personnel were carrying out official duties, asserting that their conduct was neither justifiable nor in the public interest. The judgment highlighted the serious and brutal nature of the incident, underscoring the illegal detention and merciless assault that led to Begya Pawar's tragic demise. The convicted officers, including then Risod police station in charge Madhav Dhande and several other personnel, were found guilty of murder, wrongful restraint, wrongful confinement, voluntarily causing grievous hurt to extort confession, and causing disappearance of evidence under the Indian Penal Code (IPC).  The case revolved around the unlawful custody and brutal treatment of Begya Pawar and another individual, resulting in Begya Pawar's untimely death. The victims were subjected to severe physical and mental torture to extract a confession regarding a dacoity case. The policemen used brutal methods, including fibre sticks, iron pipes, and bamboos, to assault the victims. This resulted in Begya Pawar's rapid deterioration and eventual death, while the other victim suffered severe fractures. Following Begya Pawar's demise, the police team filed a false FIR, claiming that the victims were involved in a scuffle while resisting arrest. Additionally, they attempted to coerce medical staff into attributing the injuries to local residents.  However, the truth came to light following a thorough CID investigation. The prosecution presented compelling evidence, including the testimony of 47 witnesses and the victim's medical report, which was corroborated by a panel of three doctors. The post-mortem report confirmed the cause of death as 'shock and haemorrhage following multiple contusions all over the body with multiple fractures.' After evaluating all the evidence, the court concluded that the prosecution had substantiated its case beyond reasonable doubt against all the accused. Despite this, the judge ruled that it was not a 'rarest of rare' case warranting the death sentence. Ultimately, the court handed down life imprisonment to the convicted officers, deeming it appropriate to meet the ends of justice."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad%2F299af8c6-3acf-4498-82c6-20ae23ad67e7_sentence+jailj.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C86%2C1200%2C592&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T18:31:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"landmark-verdict-9-maha-cops-get-life-sentence"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"YouTuber sent to jail after Andhra Police invokes UAPA"},"content":{"text":"A court at Gannavaram in Andhra Pradesh's Krishna district has sent YouTuber and political commentator Bachalakuri Joseph alias Prashna Raavan, to judicial custody for 14 days in the case relating to alleged derogatory remarks against the state's Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan. Arrested for the fifth time in less than a week, Raavan was produced before a judge late on Sunday night. After hearing arguments from both the sides, the judge remanded Raavan to judicial remand till July 18. He was subsequently shifted to Nellore Central Jail. Soon after the YouTuber secured bail for the fourth time on July 4, Gannavaram Police had arrested him on a complaint lodged by a local leader of Pawan Kalyan-led Jana Sena. This time, the police invoked stringent sections not only under the Bharatiya Nyana Sanhita (BNS) but also under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The FIR was registered against the YouTuber under BNS Sections 147, 148, 152, 192, 197(1)(d), and 353(1)(b) and UAPA Sections 13 and 39.  The charges include waging war against the Indian government, attempting to wage war, or abetting the waging of war, criminal conspiracy, threats to public order, acts threatening the sovereignty and integrity of India, support for unlawful activities, and support for a terrorist organisation. The Gannavaram police also invoked Section 148, which deals with conspiracy to commit an offence punishable under Section 147, or conspiracy to overawe the Central or a state government by criminal force or by the show of criminal force. Raavan is also facing charges under Section 152, which criminalises acts that endanger the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India. The offence is punishable with death or imprisonment for life, in addition to a fine. eanwhile, Raavan's wife Anusha said in Hyderabad that her husband spoke the very same language that Pawan Kalyan used. \"File such cases against Pawan Kalyan first, and then against my husband. They are creating morphed videos and spreading false propaganda against Raavan,\" she told media. The Pithampuram police had arrested the YouTuber from Hyderabad on June 30 for allegedly making derogatory comments against the Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and others during a Dalit Christian meeting at Eluru on June 28. Jana Sena workers had filed a case against Raavan at several police stations in the state, citing videos on Ravan's YouTube channel 'Prashna'. After, Raavan was granted bail by a court in Pithapuram, he was arrested by the police at another police station. As Raavan granted bail even after he was arrested in the fourth case, police booked stringent sections under BNS and UAPA to rule out his chances of securing a bail. The Telugu Desam Party-led coalition government in the state has come under sharp criticism from Opposition YSR Congress Party and various groups for its 'vendetta'. Actor Prakash Raj accused the Andhra Pradesh government of pursuing vendetta politics by resorting to repeated arrests of Raavan. \"How far are you planning to go by abusing power,\" he asked and demanded Raavan's immediate release. "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/g-Q8DuL2VnKwnqXU_prashnayoutuber.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T21:10:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"youtuber-sent-to-jail-after-andhra-police-invokes-"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Neymar retires from international football"},"content":{"text":"Neymar announced his international retirement following Brazil's heartbreaking Round of 16 defeat to Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday (IST). Carlo Ancelotti's side suffered a stunning 2-1 defeat to Norway in the last 16 of the tournament, with Neymar scoring a late penalty in added time after coming off the bench. After the final whistle, Neymar broke down in tears and announced that he has played his final match for the Selecao in an interview with Globo Esporte TV. “I tried. I tried,\" he said after the game. \"It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over,\" he said. Neymar made two appearances, both as a substitute, at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He made a cameo appearance in the second half against Scotland during the group stage before he scored his lone goal of the tournament from the penalty spot in stoppage time against Norway on Monday. The 34-year-old forward finished his career as the top goalscorer in the history of the Brazilian men's national team with 80 goals and 58 assists in 130 appearances. He also competed in two Olympic tournaments, winning a silver medal in 2012 and leading Brazil to a gold medal in 2016. While he has enjoyed a trophy-laden career at club level, his only senior silverware with Brazil remains the 2013 Confederations Cup. Neyamr made his senior international debut in 2010 and appeared in four World Cup tournaments. He took just 28 minutes to open his account – uncharacteristically with a forcible header – in a 2-0 win against USA in East Rutherford. He also competed in two Olympic tournaments, winning a silver medal in 2012 and leading Brazil to a gold medal in 2016. He was the golden boy of the 2014 World Cup on home soil, but was stretchered off with a back injury in the quarter-final win over Colombia. He gained redemption when he led Brazil to Olympic gold at Rio 2016, scoring the winning penalty in front of his own fans at the Maracana. But at the 2018 World Cup, the former Barcelona forward was only just fit after more injury troubles and failed to make a great impact. Brazil lost in the quarterfinals. In 2022 World Cup, after the opener he suffered ankle ligament damage and missed two group games. In the quarter-final match against Croatia, Neymar lit the match up in extra time with a \"magical\" run before scoring. Brazil, however, suffered a shock defeat, losing 4–2 in the ensuing penalty shootout following a 1–1 draw after extra time, before Neymar was able to take Brazil's final penalty."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/4JSohKTFW19R5eM5_neymar.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T02:05:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"neymar-retires-from-international-football"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Vance rejects 'zero-sum' view of US"},"content":{"text":"US Vice President JD Vance used America's 250th Independence Day celebrations on Saturday to push back against what he called a \"two-dimensional\" view of the country, urging Americans to reject narratives centred only on the nation's failures and instead embrace a shared history of achievement and unity. Aboard the USS Kearsarge in New York Harbour during the US Navy's 250th anniversary celebration, Vance said the country's history should be understood through the collective efforts of generations of Americans rather than through political or ideological divisions. \"As much as all of us, whether we're Democrat or Republican, whatever our political persuasion, all of us are celebrating,\" Vance said. He acknowledged that critics would offer a different interpretation of America's past. \"You will hear a couple small but loud voices today speak obsessively not of our national greatness but of our national imperfections,\" he said. \"They will speak of the powerless and the dispossessed. They will tell you that America is just another country where the weak struggle against the strong and if they acknowledge that there is anything to be proud of in our history, they'll say it's the fact that sometimes the powerless have won a zero-sum battle.\" \"They're wrong.\" Vance argued that America's story was built on cooperation across generations and professions rather than conflict between competing groups. \"America's greatness is built by cooperation between all of our citizens from every single walk of American life,\" he said while recounting the contributions of historical figures including George Washington, engineer James Buchanan Eads and industrialist Henry Kaiser. The Vice President said every generation had contributed to the country's development, from soldiers who fought for independence to factory workers, engineers and shipbuilders who helped build the nation's industrial and military strength. \"Our history is one of people carving a great civilization out of the wilderness,\" he said. Vance urged Americans to reject what he described as simplistic portrayals of both their fellow citizens and their country. \"So what I'd ask you to do, my fellow Americans, on our 250th birthday is to reject the two-dimensional view of your fellow citizens and reject the two-dimensional view of your country.\" \"Reject that America is a place for zero-sum thinking because it is not.\" He also appealed for a more balanced understanding of the country's past. \"Reject the view of your nation that sees only its sins but not its grace and its greatness.\" According to Vance, America's accomplishments were possible because citizens worked together despite political and social differences. \"Everything that we have done as a country, we have done together. Not as citizens divided against each other, but as a common people working towards a common future.\" He concluded by calling on Americans to carry that spirit forward. \"All of us will need to do our part to create the next 250 years of American greatness,\" Vance said. \"Today, my friends, we celebrate, and tomorrow we get back to work.\" The speech came as the United States marked the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with ceremonies across the country."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/Zp48kR5LeNNTxWIO_vance.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-04T18:33:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"vance-rejects-zero-sum-view-of-us"}}]},"entertainment":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Court Backs Ilaiyaraaja in Copyright Row"},"content":{"text":"The Madras High Court has restrained the makers of the Tamil film 'Happy Raj' from using a song originally composed by Ilaiyaraaja, finding a prima facie case of alleged copyright infringement. The interim order was passed by Justice M. Kumaresh Babu while hearing a civil suit filed by Ilaiyaraaja. He contended that his iconic composition \"Podhuvaga En Manasu Thangam\" from the 1980 blockbuster 'Murattu Kaalai' had been adapted and incorporated into 'Happy Raj' without obtaining his prior permission or a valid licence. The film, which was released in theatres on March 27, allegedly featured a modified version of the popular song. According to the composer, the work had been altered and used without his consent, constituting a violation of his copyright in the musical composition. Appearing for Ilaiyaraaja, counsel submitted that the defendants had unlawfully adapted the original composition and commercially exploited it without authorisation from the copyright holder. The petition sought an immediate injunction restraining further use of the song in the film. After considering the submissions, Justice Kumaresh Babu directed that the disputed song should not be used in 'Happy Raj' until further orders. The court also issued notices to the film's director and producer, calling upon them to file their response to the allegations. The interim order is expected to have implications beyond the film's theatrical run. Unless the contentious portion is removed or the required permission is obtained from Ilaiyaraaja, the restriction could affect future television broadcasts, satellite telecasts and releases on over-the-top (OTT) streaming platforms. Under the Copyright Act, musical compositions enjoy statutory protection, and any reproduction, adaptation or alteration of such works generally requires prior authorisation from the copyright owner. The case once again highlights the legal obligations of filmmakers and production houses when incorporating existing musical works into new productions. Ilaiyaraaja has, on several occasions in recent years, approached courts to safeguard his intellectual property rights and prevent the unauthorised use of his compositions. The present case adds to a series of legal battles initiated by the veteran composer to enforce copyright protection over his vast catalogue of music."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aIecnVGsbswqTXMO_ilayaraja.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T12:55:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"court-backs-ilaiyaraaja-in-copyright-row"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Nagabandham' Hits Gold at BO"},"content":{"text":"Nagabandham: The Secret Treasure, starring Virat Karrna, has made an impressive mark at the box office, crossing the ₹12 crore mark worldwide after its opening weekend. Despite a slight decrease in the number of shows, the Telugu action-adventure drama maintained steady collections throughout its first three days in Indian cinemas. As it enters the crucial Monday, all eyes are on its performance during the weekdays.  According to box office tracking platform Sacnilk, the film collected ₹3.02 crore net in India on Day 3, bringing its total India net collection to ₹9.47 crore. In addition, the film's India gross collection stands at ₹11.06 crore, with overseas earnings reaching ₹1.25 crore, resulting in a worldwide gross collection of approximately ₹12.31 crore by the end of the opening weekend. Nagabandham: The Secret Treasure kicked off its box office journey with ₹3.40 crore net on Friday across 3,202 shows, followed by ₹3.05 crore net on Saturday from 2,924 shows. On Day 3 (Sunday), it earned ₹3.02 crore net across 1,904 shows. Despite the decline in the number of shows, the film saw an increase in occupancy on Sunday, reaching 27%.  The film's performance on Monday will be critical in determining its sustained momentum after the opening weekend. Directed by Abhishek Nama, Nagabandham: The Secret Treasure delves into the enigmatic world of India's ancient Vishnu temples and the ritual of Nagabandham, blending mythology, suspense, and adventure. Alongside Virat Karrna, the film features Nabha Natesh, Aishwarya Menon, Daksha Nagarkar, Mahesh Manjrekar, Jagapathi Babu, and Murali Sharma in pivotal roles. "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aYYnDd0YXLCxVgZ2_nagabandhamlook.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T11:15:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"nagabandham-hits-gold-at-bo"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Atlee's Unfinished Romance Dream"},"content":{"text":"Renowned filmmaker Atlee, celebrated for his dynamic contributions to the action genre, has expressed a poignant regret regarding his cinematic repertoire. Despite achieving remarkable success with blockbuster hits such as 'Theri', 'Mersal', and 'Bigil'—collaborations that have solidified his partnership with actor Vijay—Atlee revealed a lingering desire to explore the realm of romantic storytelling. This sentiment surfaced during a pre-release event for 'Idhayam Murali', where he candidly recalled his debut film, Raja Rani, and its lasting impact, stating that it remains an indelible part of his identity in the industry. Atlee's candid remarks shed light on the dichotomy of his career; while the accolades from his action films have elevated him to national prominence, they have simultaneously overshadowed his aspirations within the romantic genre. Speaking about his collaboration with producer Aakash Baskaran, whom he affectionately referred to as a brother, Atlee articulated a yearning to back projects that resonate with the emotional depth of love stories. “There is always a yearning inside my heart that we couldn't do a love film,” he lamented, emphasizing the vital role 'Raja Rani' played in shaping his career and public perception. 'Raja Rani', featuring an ensemble cast that includes Arya, Nayanthara, and Nazriya Nazim, tells the story of reluctant lovers discovering affection amidst their complex pasts. The film was not just a commercial triumph but also garnered critical acclaim, leading to remakes in Bengali and Sinhala. Its heartfelt narrative resonated deeply with audiences, establishing its place in Tamil cinema history. In contrast, Atlee's recent works, characterized by high-octane action and intricate plots, have dominated the box office, further entrenching him in the action genre while the romantic narrative hangs unfulfilled. The upcoming 'Idhayam Murali' diverges from Atlee's usual oeuvre, promising a narrative centered around unrequited love. The film, which stars Atharvaa and Preity Mukhundhan, explores the complexities of longing and rejection, a theme that Atlee himself seems to connect with on a personal level. As the film prepares for its release on July 10, it stands as a testament to Atlee's willingness to venture into new territory, even as he acknowledges the bittersweet nature of his unfulfilled dreams in the realm of romance."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2116deff-2bc8-4982-ad89-5122fae08d7f_atlee.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T09:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"atlees-unfinished-romance-dream"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Tabu to Lock Horns With Nag in 'King 100'?"},"content":{"text":"Akkineni Nagarjuna's milestone 100th film has become one of the most talked-about projects in Tollywood, with excitement growing ahead of its official announcement. During the pre-release event of Akhil Akkineni's Lenin, Nagarjuna revealed that a major update about his landmark film would be unveiled after July 10, 2026. Since then, speculation surrounding the cast, storyline, and crew has intensified, with fresh industry buzz hinting at a surprising addition that has caught everyone's attention. According to the latest reports, Bollywood actress Tabu is being considered for a pivotal role in King 100. Unlike her previous collaborations with Nagarjuna, where the duo shared memorable on-screen chemistry, this time she is reportedly being eyed for the film's primary antagonist. If the rumours prove true, it would mark the first time the two stars face off as rivals on screen instead of romantic leads. However, the makers have not issued any official confirmation, and the reports remain speculative. Directed by Ra. Karthik, King 100 is said to be an emotional rags-to-riches drama centered on the bond between a father and daughter. The film is reportedly being produced by Annapurna Studios on a grand scale, with actress Sushmita Bhatt expected to play a key role. With Nagarjuna promising a full-fledged announcement after July 10, fans are eagerly awaiting details about the title, cast, first look, and shooting schedule. Meanwhile, the rumoured inclusion of Tabu as the film's villain has only added to the anticipation, making King 100 one of the most awaited Telugu films in development."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/4bhp273AUSJ1cWKa_nagtabu.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T08:47:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"tabu-to-lock-horns-with-nag-in-king-100"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Satluj' Suddenly Disappears From OTT!"},"content":{"text":"Only days after release, Diljit Dosanjh starrer 'Satluj' has been taken down from the OTT platform Zee5. The OTT platform published an official statement on its Instagram handle, saying that although they have decided to ‘pause’ the drama in India, they ‘firmly stand by the film’. They further informed that they have taken the decision keeping in view the ‘current developments’. Expressing their gratitude to the audience for an overwhelming response, the statement read, \"The response to Satluj since its release has been truly overwhelming. We are deeply grateful to every viewer who chose to subscribe, watch and champion the film. Your love and support have meant a great deal to us and to everyone who brought this story to life.” They also added that they stand behind the film’s team, writing, “At Zee 5, we stand firmly by Satluj and the creative vision behind it. We believe powerful storytelling has the ability to inspire, endure and leave a lasting impact. We remain committed to championing authentic and meaningful narratives (sic).” They went on to add, “In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice. We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity. Our commitment to creators and to stories told with conviction, artistic integrity and purpose remains unwavering.” Earlier titled ‘Punjab 95’, the project fought a long battle against censorship before finally getting a digital release."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/VUeJD9l1YQ15jqte_sutlej.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T18:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"satluj-suddenly-disappears-from-ott"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Rao Bahadur' Dazzles at the Box Office"},"content":{"text":"In a promising start to its theatrical run, the Telugu psychological drama 'Rao Bahadur', headlined by Satyadev, has garnered significant box office attention, surpassing ₹8.5 crore in global collections by the end of its third day. Released on July 3, the film experienced a robust opening, with Saturday yielding its highest earnings before a slight decline was observed on Sunday. As it transitions into the weekday phase, industry analysts are closely monitoring its performance to gauge long-term viability in an increasingly competitive market. The film's initial net earnings on Day 1 amounted to ₹1.40 crore from 883 screenings, reflecting a 33% occupancy rate. This figure escalated dramatically on Saturday, with a collection of ₹2.43 crore net, although the occupancy dipped slightly to 29% from 851 shows. Sunday brought a slower pace, netting ₹1.02 crore across 925 shows, culminating in a total Indian net collection of ₹4.85 crore. The worldwide gross now stands at approximately ₹8.52 crore, combining domestic revenues of ₹5.52 crore with overseas earnings of ₹3 crore, setting a commendable tone for the film’s future. 'Rao Bahadur', directed, written, and edited by Venkatesh Maha, weaves a narrative rich in suspense, dark comedy, and elements of magical realism, set against the backdrop of a declining aristocracy. The film follows a royal figure grappling with the weight of his historical legacy, resonating with audiences who appreciate complex character arcs. The star-studded cast not only features Satyadev in the lead but also includes Vikas Muppala and Deepa Thomas, supported by a talented ensemble cast that adds depth to this multifaceted story. Produced under the banners of GMB Entertainment and several partnering studios, the film's technical finesse is apparent, with Kartik Parmar overseeing cinematography and Smaran Sai composing the score. As the film continues to unfold its narrative layers, its Monday performance will be critical; weekday box office trends often dictate whether a film can maintain momentum or fade quickly from theaters. The initial reception, paired with a compelling storyline, suggests that 'Rao Bahadur' could well be on its way to solidify its place within the cinematic landscape of 2023."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/58Q51Xlegb7Z28M5_raobahadur.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T09:33:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"rao-bahadur-dazzles-at-the-box-office"}}]},"tech":{"edges":[]},"fashion":{"edges":[]},"business":{"edges":[]},"health":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"How Smoking Hurts Pregnancy!"},"content":{"text":"When planning to start a family, many couples focus on preparing for pregnancy by discussing nursery plans and choosing baby names. However, what often goes unnoticed is the detrimental impact of smoking on fertility and pregnancy. Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that can damage reproductive cells in both men and women, making it harder to conceive and increasing the risk of pregnancy complications and poor outcomes for babies.  Dr. Vandana Bhatia, a Senior Fertility Specialist, emphasizes that smoking silently affects fertility, pregnancy, and the long-term development of the child. Both partners play a crucial role in protecting fertility as smoking can reduce sperm count, affect sperm movement, and damage egg quality, hormone levels, and ovarian reserve. Additionally, passive smoking also poses risks to fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Quitting smoking as a couple not only improves motivation and emotional support but also encourages healthier habits, leading to improved fertility and overall health.  The quality of eggs and sperm before conception significantly influences the health of the future child, making it essential for both parents to quit smoking before starting a family. Dr. Bhatia recommends practical steps for quitting smoking together, emphasizing that healthy choices are crucial in building a healthy family. Parenthood begins with the quiet promise of choosing health together, even before the first heartbeat is heard on an ultrasound."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/akDOG1bRV8_Qf8Cd_smokefertility.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-27T19:33:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"how-smoking-hurts-pregnancy"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Even 1% Sleep Loss Could Heighten Dementia Risk"},"content":{"text":"A recent study published in JAMA Neurology has shed light on the potential link between minimal sleep loss and an increased risk of dementia. The research suggests that as little as a 1% reduction in deep sleep per year for individuals over 60 could translate to a 27% elevated risk of developing dementia. Deep sleep, also known as slow-wave sleep, plays a crucial role in the body's repair processes and the clearance of toxic proteins associated with dementia.  Associate Professor Matthew Pase from Monash University's Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health emphasized the significance of deep sleep in supporting the aging brain and facilitating the removal of metabolic waste, including proteins linked to Alzheimer's disease. The study, which drew from the Framingham Heart Study, examined 346 participants over 60 years of age, tracking their sleep patterns and dementia development over a 17-year period. Even after adjusting for various factors, including age, genetic predisposition, and medication use, the findings consistently pointed to a 27% increased dementia risk for each percentage decrease in deep sleep annually.  It's important to note that the natural decline in deep sleep with age is gradual, peaking between 75 and 80 years old and then stabilizing. However, the cumulative effect of a 27% increase per percentage-point decrease underscores the long-term impact on dementia risk. While there's no straightforward solution to preserving deep sleep, maintaining consistent sleep schedules, avoiding alcohol before bedtime, creating a conducive sleep environment, and addressing conditions like sleep apnea can potentially support better sleep quality. Additionally, regular exercise has been linked to improved slow-wave sleep in older adults. Although these measures aren't a guarantee, the study highlights the importance of prioritizing deep sleep for brain health as individuals age."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/50a54145-f24c-4c83-80b9-e6d19ba52027_sleep.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-25T06:59:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"even-1-sleep-loss-could-heighten-dementia-risk"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Is Your Soda Habit Causing Hair Loss?"},"content":{"text":"Are your beloved sodas harming your hair? While soft drinks have long been criticized for their impact on weight, diabetes, and heart health, a new concern has emerged regarding their potential effects on hair. The discussion gained traction after hair transplant surgeon Dr. Abhishek Pilani highlighted the issue on Raj Shamani's Figuring Out podcast.  According to Dr. Pilani, regular consumption of sugary cold drinks may create conditions within the body that are not conducive to healthy hair growth. While consuming one soda is unlikely to cause sudden hair loss, a study published in the journal Nutrients in 2023 found a link between higher consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and male-pattern hair loss in young men. However, it's essential to note that the study established a correlation, not causation. The potential connection between soft drinks and hair health lies in the impact of high-sugar beverages on overall health.  Excessive sugar consumption can lead to repeated spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, potentially contributing to inflammation and metabolic issues that affect the body, including hair growth. However, hair loss is rarely attributed to a single factor and is typically the result of various elements accumulating over time, including genetics, hormones, nutrition, lifestyle, and overall health. Healthy hair growth relies on a balanced intake of nutrients such as iron, protein, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins. While soft drinks don't directly deplete these nutrients, excessive consumption may lead to healthier options being replaced.  The concern lies in long-term habits rather than occasional consumption. The normal range of daily hair loss is between 50 and 100 strands, but concerns arise when lost hairs aren't adequately replaced. While soft drinks may not directly cause hair loss, their impact on overall health could potentially affect hair growth. Instead of fixating on individual cans of soda, experts emphasize the importance of considering overall lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress management, balanced nutrition, and reduced sugar intake. Ultimately, addressing concerns about hair health may begin with dietary and lifestyle adjustments."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aDbfAydWJ-7kSniS_jucessoda.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-11T18:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"is-your-soda-habit-causing-hair-loss"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Recognizing the Early Signs of Ovarian Cancer"},"content":{"text":"Ovarian cancer is a significant concern for women in India, being the third most common cancer among them. However, many women with ovarian cancer often experience symptoms for several months before receiving a proper diagnosis. In India, a staggering 70 to 80 percent of ovarian cancer patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, mainly because the early signs are easily mistaken for other health issues. Oncologists have dubbed ovarian cancer as a 'silent disease' due to its subtle progression without clear, alarming symptoms.  Dr. Sampada Desai, a Consultant Gynaecological Cancer and Robotic Surgeon, emphasizes that ovarian cancer does not remain silent but instead 'whispers' through nonspecific symptoms such as upper abdominal discomfort, bloating, feeling full too early, and digestive problems, which are often mistaken for other conditions. Persistent bloating and extreme fullness even after consuming small portions of food, coupled with lower abdominal or pelvic pain, should prompt a visit to the doctor. Changes in menstrual patterns, irregular bleeding, or any bleeding post-menopause also warrant attention.  It is crucial for individuals experiencing these symptoms to keep a record for a month and consult a gynecologic oncologist if any symptoms persist for more than two weeks or occur frequently. Women with a family history of ovarian, breast, or colon cancer should be particularly vigilant, as they have a higher genetic predisposition to cancer. Early detection is key, as there are no routine screening tests for ovarian cancer. Clinical examination, ultrasonography, and blood tests may be part of the evaluation for potential ovarian cancer. Recognizing the subtle signs and listening to the 'whisper' of ovarian cancer may significantly aid in early detection and improved survival rates."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aigpQAeQX7-eXEpI_overaincancer.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-08T18:42:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"recognizing-the-early-signs-of-ovarian-cancer"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"How Thyroid Health Affects Fertility"},"content":{"text":"For women trying to conceive, the road to pregnancy can be fraught with challenges. While the reasons for delayed conception may not always be obvious, thyroid health could be a significant factor. As the world marks World Thyroid Day on May 25, experts emphasize the often overlooked influence of hypothyroidism on reproductive health. Dr. Alimileti Jhansi Rani, a Fertility Specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF Hyderabad, stresses the critical role of the thyroid in reproductive health.  Research has shown that hypothyroidism can disrupt ovulation, menstruation, and hormonal regulation, leading to fertility struggles and potential complications during pregnancy. It's important to note that even 'normal' thyroid levels may not be ideal for conception, with specialists recommending optimized levels for fertility. Treatment and lifestyle changes, including medication, proper nutrition, stress management, and monitoring menstrual and ovulation patterns, can significantly improve the chances of conception.  Additionally, testing for thyroid antibodies can provide valuable insights, especially for women facing recurrent miscarriages or fertility challenges. Understanding the impact of thyroid health on fertility and seeking timely medical guidance can save valuable time for women struggling to conceive."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/1c687669-969a-426e-b643-acc2ccc20607_thyroid.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-25T06:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"how-thyroid-health-affects-fertility"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Shortness of Breath? Take It Seriously"},"content":{"text":"Feeling winded when doing everyday tasks like climbing stairs may seem normal, but according to Dr. Rajesh Rajani, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, it can be a red flag for an underlying heart problem. Many people dismiss breathlessness as a sign of aging or lack of fitness, but this could be dangerous thinking. The gradual decline in your ability to perform tasks without getting breathless may go unnoticed, leading to delayed diagnosis of potential heart issues.  Dr. Rajani warns that breathlessness should not be normalized, as it could indicate serious heart conditions such as blocked arteries, heart valve disease, irregular heart rhythms, or weakening of the heart muscles. Recognizing and evaluating these symptoms early can help identify underlying health risks and prevent more serious complications later. It's crucial not to make excuses for these symptoms and to seek medical advice if you experience increasing shortness of breath.  This article provides insights from Dr. Rajesh Rajani, shedding light on why breathlessness should not be ignored and how it can signify an underlying heart condition."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agwbIKYofJOwHWqT_breath.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-18T18:56:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"dont-ignore-it-when-shortness-of-breath-signals-a-serious-health-concern-mpcc9z9u"}}]},"nri":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Indian American leaders celebrate US at 250"},"content":{"text":"Prominent Indian American political leaders from across the ideological spectrum marked the United States' 250th Independence Day by reflecting on their immigrant roots, their families' journeys from India and their differing visions of America, while expressing gratitude for the opportunities the country has offered.  Former Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai recalled how his parents arrived in the United States in 1971 carrying little more than hope for a better future. \"$8 , a transistor radio, and an unshakeable belief in the American dream: that's what my parents brought with them in 1971,\" Pai wrote. \"We've lived that dream ever since. So grateful to the United States, this nation of freedom and opportunity. Happy 250th!\" Pai also looked back at another milestone in his public life, recalling a 2020 post in which he said he was looking forward to travelling to India with then President Donald Trump and other US officials \"and participating in bilateral meetings aimed at deepening the friendship between our two nations.\" Republican Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy tied the country's 250th anniversary to a personal celebration, marking both Independence Day and the fourth birthday of his son, Arjun. Calling July 4, 1776, \"the most important date in the history of our universe for human freedom and human flourishing,\" Ramaswamy said America's founding remained a defining moment for liberty. \"We know it was successful because here we are, 250 years later, living in a country that allows free Americans like you and me to dream big, to work hard, to take risks, sometimes fail, pick ourselves up and do it again, to raise our families, to pursue our calling, to worship as we see fit, to speak our minds,\" he said. He added that he was \"grateful to be a citizen of the greatest nation known to the history of man.\" Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna reflected on growing up as the son of Indian immigrants in Pennsylvania after his parents arrived in the United States in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Born during America's bicentenary in 1976, Khanna said the country's history shaped his understanding of its ideals. \"The founders would be amazed to see some of the progress we have made, the abolition of slavery, the empowering of women's rights, the ending of Jim Crow, the embrace of immigrants like my family from around the world,\" Khanna said. He argued that providing \"economic security and economic hope\" would allow Americans to \"all be for Team America.\" Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal recounted how her parents, while living in India and Indonesia, sent her alone to the United States at the age of 16 to pursue higher education. She said it took her 17 years, multiple degrees and \"an alphabet soup of visas\" before she became an American citizen. \"Today, as the Trump administration terrorises immigrants and severely restricts legal pathways to citizenship, we need to remember that our American identity is uniquely tied to immigration,\" Jayapal said. She called for \"real, humane immigration reform\" and urged Americans to commit to \"protecting the promise of America\" and \"building a more perfect union together.\" New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, who became a US citizen nearly a decade ago, also centred his Independence Day message on immigration and citizenship. Addressing newly naturalised Americans, he said they held \"the power to determine what America means\" and described patriotism as \"every act of righteous dissent.\" He added: \"It is precisely because we love this nation that we will not leave it.\" Despite representing sharply different political philosophies, the leaders' messages shared a common theme: each drew on a personal or family immigration story to explain their connection to the United States and what the country's founding ideals mean to them 250 years after independence. Indian Americans today number more than five million and have emerged as one of the fastest-growing and most influential immigrant communities in the United States. The United States marked its 250th Independence Day with celebrations across the country, including official ceremonies, military displays and community events. For many Indian Americans, the anniversary also became an occasion to reflect on the journeys that brought their families from India to the United States and on their growing contribution to the nation's political, economic and civic landscape."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/dLDOnpi_wpGbusJe_USAT250.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T01:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indian-american-leaders-celebrate-us-at-250"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Indra Nooyi: A Global Game-Changer"},"content":{"text":"Indra Nooyi’s remarkable journey from the streets of Chennai to the helm of PepsiCo stands as a testament to her unparalleled leadership and transformative vision. As the first woman of color to lead a Fortune 500 company, Nooyi not only revolutionized the global food and beverage landscape but also championed a corporate culture that emphasized meritocracy and inclusivity. Her recent statements affirming the unique opportunities afforded by the American system underscore her belief that hard work and talent can transcend barriers, a sentiment that resonates deeply with aspiring leaders worldwide. Born Indira Krishnamurthy on October 28, 1955, Nooyi's early life was marked by a blend of ambition and familial support. Growing up in a middle-class household, she excelled academically and defied societal norms by pursuing her passions, including playing in a rock band. Her educational journey took her from Madras Christian College to the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, and ultimately to Yale University, where she secured a scholarship despite her family's financial constraints. This trajectory laid the groundwork for her future successes in the corporate arena, where she would face and overcome myriad challenges. Nooyi's ascent in the corporate world began with her tenure at Motorola and ABB, honing her skills in strategy and management before joining PepsiCo in 1994. Tasked with revitalizing a company facing stagnation, she implemented bold strategies that included divesting restaurant chains and acquiring successful brands like Tropicana and Gatorade. Her innovative approach not only bolstered PepsiCo’s financial performance—growing revenues from $35 billion to $63 billion during her leadership—but also positioned the company as a proactive advocate for environmental sustainability. Her mantra, 'Performance with a Purpose,' encapsulated her vision for a corporate entity that balances profitability with social responsibility. Since stepping down as CEO in 2018, Nooyi has continued to shape the business landscape through her roles in corporate governance and mentoring future leaders. She lends her expertise to prominent organizations such as Amazon and Royal Philips and has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan and induction into the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Nooyi's compelling narrative serves as an inspiration for those navigating the complexities of career and family, as she articulates in her memoir 'My Life in Full,' emphasizing that true support systems transcend traditional gender roles. Her legacy endures, not just as a business leader but as a beacon for women everywhere seeking to break barriers and redefine success."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/8f8013fc-7edf-4e75-b42a-73527662bfab_indra+nooyi.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-03T19:25:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"indra-nooyi-a-global-game-changer"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"US: 3 members of Gujarat family die in fire at Ohio motel"},"content":{"text":"Three members of a family from Gujarat died after a fire swept through a motel in Wooster, Ohio, early on Thursday, trapping them inside their living quarters despite desperate attempts to seek help before the blaze engulfed the building. The victims were identified as Hitesh Suthar, his wife Hina and their 20-year-old daughter, Ishani. The family, originally from Nadiad in Gujarat's Kheda district, had moved to the United States about two years ago and had been living at the Econo Lodge motel where Hitesh was employed. The fire broke out at about 1.30 a.m. local time at the Econo Lodge motel, where Hitesh worked. The family lived at the motel as part of their accommodation.  According to available information, the family was inside their room when the blaze started. As smoke and flames spread through the building, Hitesh called the motel's front desk seeking help. Hotel employee April Graser, who was on duty when the fire broke out, said the overnight shift had begun routinely before the alarms suddenly sounded. She said the trapped family contacted the front desk, where they were advised to turn on the water in the bathroom and remain there while emergency services were called. Recalling the call, Graser said she could hear the family crying as they were unable to escape.  \"He pleaded with me to get help because they were trapped inside the building and could not get out of their room. I could hear them crying and screaming,\" Graser said. The family locked themselves inside the bathroom in an attempt to protect themselves from the smoke and flames. However, the fire took time to bring under control, and all three died of suspected suffocation before rescuers could reach them. When firefighters arrived, they found heavy smoke and flames coming through the motel's roof. According to local reports, crews made repeated attempts to rescue people trapped inside the building. \"We saw multiple units on fire, fire through the roof, made multiple rescue attempts, and unfortunately, those were unsuccessful, and there are confirmed three deceased occupants from the motel,\" officials said. Images from the scene showed extensive damage to a detached rear section of the motel, located about 96 kilometres south of Cleveland. The cause of the fire has not yet been established. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ac8ePBev-Rt_cNZl_gujfmly.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-02T15:42:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"us-3-members-of-gujarat-family-die-in-fire-at-ohio"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Political Push Against Anti-Hindu Hate in US"},"content":{"text":"Amid growing concerns over anti-Hindu hate and the targeting of Indian immigrants in the United States, Indian-American leaders and students made a strong push on Capitol Hill during the fifth annual Hindu Day of Advocacy. Organized by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), the event saw nearly 160 delegates from 14 states meet with dozens of US lawmakers, raising issues ranging from attacks on Hindu temples and online hate campaigns to the misrepresentation of Hindu identity and the need for stronger political representation. The event also highlighted the rising political influence of the Indian-American community, with organizers calling on more young Hindu Americans to participate in public life and policymaking. India's Deputy Chief of Mission in Washington, Namgya C. Khampa, emphasized the critical role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening India-US relations. Community leaders said that as Indian Americans become one of the fastest-growing and most influential immigrant groups in the US, active civic engagement is essential to protecting their interests, preserving their identity, and shaping America's political future."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/CtUlO3jYKBt0hJLs_NRI.png?auto=format,compress&rect=0,58,449,221&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-01T06:54:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"political-push-against-anti-hindu-hate-in-us"}}]},"videos":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Nag Speech at Lenin Grand Pre-Release"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/XvBh3TK3w8IcgRgr_nagspeech.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-05T18:30:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"nag-speech-at-lenin-grand-pre-release"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Why Is Europe Baking?"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/cbc7cbe8-ede0-4641-bc31-8ce61dd824e7_heat+wave.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-01T06:43:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"why-is-europe-baking"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"'Lenin' Movie Trailer"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/lHByY5qo3LD7cDbD_lenin.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-01T05:27:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"lenin-movie-trailer"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Ladies & Ladies- Toxic"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/K10mAN33LJO63Yfk_ladiesandladiew.JPG?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C158%2C450%2C222&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-07-01T06:56:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"ladies--ladies--toxic"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"‘The India Story: Slow Poison’ Teaser"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aj6bVlbRV8_Qf655_theindiastoryteasseer.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-26T07:24:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"the-india-story-slow-poison-teaser"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Bahubali the TORCHBEARER"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aj6o1VbRV8_Qf6_z_BBtorchbearer.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-26T11:29:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"bahubali-the-torchbearer"}}]},"editorial":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"The Prime-Time 'Kauwa Kaate' Show"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/wcJv7C2igQiq8WZj_arnabramtemple.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-02T06:30:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"the-prime-time-kauwa-kaate-show"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Indian Passport: A Proof For Geopolitical Trishanku?"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aj5S-lbRV8_Qf6TC_passportelections.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-26T09:22:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"indian-passport-a-proof-for-geopolitical-trishanku"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Iran's Invite: A Diplomatic Googly?"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aj0kNVbRV8_Qf4Ab_usiran.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-25T12:51:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"irans-invite-a-diplomatic-googly"}},{"node":{"data":{"title":{"text":"Real-Life Thrillers: When Saying 'No' Feels Harder Than Murder"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ajvLQVbRV8_Qf0Eb_fianceemuder.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-24T10:19:00+0000","third_party_url":null},"uid":"real-life-thrillers-when-saying-no-feels-harder-th"}}]},"gallery":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-06-27T18:04:47+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Aakankshaa Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Aakankshaa Glam Stills"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aj-0fFbRV8_Qf7sW_aakankshaa.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"aakankshaa-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-06-27T18:04:47+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Anasuya Bharadwaj Saree Pics"},"content":{"text":"Anasuya Bharadwaj is an Indian television presenter and actress who works in Telugu films and television. She has received two SIIMA Awards, an IIFA Utsavam Award and a Filmfare Award South for her performances in Kshanam and Rangasthalam."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aj-3gFbRV8_Qf7se_anasuya2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"anasuya-bharadwaj-saree-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-05-02T12:20:57+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Kajal Aggarwal Stunning Stills"},"content":{"text":"Kajal A Kitchlu, known professionally as Kajal Aggarwal, is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi films. Aggarwal is considered one of the highest paid actresses of South Indian cinema. She is a recipient of three SIIMA Awards and a Filmfare Award."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/afXrHcBOoF08xjQk_kajal2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"kajal-aggarwal-stunning-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-04-14T10:45:57+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Janhvi Kapoor Radiant Look Stills "},"content":{"text":"Janhvi Kapoor is an Indian actress who works predominantly in Hindi films. Born to film actress Sridevi and producer Boney Kapoor, she made her acting debut in 2018 with the romantic drama Dhadak, which was a commercial success."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ad3-7Z1ZCF7ETKag_janhvi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"janhvi-kapoor-radiant-look-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-04-02T15:03:07+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Nabha Natesh Glam Pics"},"content":{"text":"Nabha Natesh is an Indian actress and model who primarily appears in Telugu films. She made her debut with Kannada film Vajrakaya and later in Telugu with Nannu Dochukunduvate. She had her breakthrough with iSmart Shankar in 2019 due to which she is popularly referred as \"Ismart Beauty\" in the media."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ac6Er5GXnQHGZNWp_nabha2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"nabha-natesh-glam-pics"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-29T11:03:07+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Nidhhi Agerwal Royal Blue Sari Stills"},"content":{"text":"Nidhhi Agerwal is an Indian actress who primarily works in Telugu and Tamil films. After participating in Miss Diva Universe 2014, Agerwal made her acting debut with the Hindi film Munna Michael, for which she received Zee Cine Award for Best Female Debut."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ackGR5GXnQHGZEvS_nidhhi2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"nidhhi-agerwal-royal-blue-sari-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-29T07:22:02+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rakul New Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Rakul Preet Singh is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Telugu, Hindi and Tamil films. She has won a South Indian International Movie Award, in addition to four nominations at the Filmfare Awards South. Singh made her acting debut with the Kannada film Gilli."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/acjShZGXnQHGZErj_RPS2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rakul-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-17T09:44:26+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rashi Khanna New Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Rashii Khanna (born 30 November 1990) is an Indian actress and playback singer who predominantly works in Telugu and Tamil film industries. She made her acting debut in a supporting role with the Hindi film Madras Cafe (2013) and subsequently made her debut as female lead with Telugu film Oohalu Gusagusalade (2014), in Tamil with Imaikkaa Nodigal (2018) and Malayalam with Villain (2017)."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/abkhxbbci2UF6Gme_rashikhanna.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rashi-khanna-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-12T18:30:32+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Meenakshi Chaudhary Red Bold Stills"},"content":{"text":"Meenakshi Chaudhary is an Indian actress and beauty pageant titleholder who works predominantly in Telugu and Tamil films. She represented the state of Haryana at the Femina Miss India 2018 pageant, where she was crowned as Femina Miss India Grand International 2018."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/abMFmVxvIZEnjoQC_meenakshi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"meenakshi-chaudhary-red-bold-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-10T18:35:00+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Shruti Haasan Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Shruti Haasan is an Indian actress and singer who works in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi films. She is the recipient of various accolades, including two Filmfare Award South and seven South Indian International Movie Awards. Haasan has appeared in Forbes India's Celebrity 100 list of 2015 and 2016."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aa__a1xvIZEnjhl8_shruthi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"shruti-haasan-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-03-03T18:03:05+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Bhagyashri Borse New Stills"},"content":{"text":"Bhagyashri Borse is an Indian actress who appears primarily in South films. After doing cameo appearances in Hindi films Yaariyan 2 and Chandu Champion, she made her lead debut in South with the Telugu film Mr. Bachchan for which she has won the SIIMA Award for Best Female Debut – Telugu."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aachiFxvIZEnjSV9_bhagya2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"bhagyashri-borse-new-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-02-27T11:14:55+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"ViRosh Wedding Stills"},"content":{"text":"ViRosh Wedding Stills"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aaF4t8FoBIGEg6zW_virosh.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"virosh-wedding-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-02-21T12:37:04+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Niharika Konidela New Stills"},"content":{"text":"Niharika Konidela is an Indian actress and producer who predominantly works in Telugu films. She made her debut with the film Oka Manasu. She produces films and web series under her banner. "},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aZmdKsFoBIGEgndO_niharika2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"niharika-konidela-new-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-02-01T18:21:28+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rashmi Gautam Red Hot Sills"},"content":{"text":"Rashmi Gautam is an Indian actress and television presenter who appears in Telugu-language films and TV. She hosts the Telugu television comedy show Extra Jabardasth and is a conceptual team leader in reality dance show Dhee."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aX-WA90YXLCxVPdl_rashmi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rashmi-gautam-red-hot-sills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2026-01-29T19:41:55+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Rithu Chowdary Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Rithu Chowdary is an Indian actress and anchor known for her work in Telugu television and films. She began her career as an anchor on Star Maa Music and gained popularity through reality shows like Pelli Choopulu (2018). She debuted in Telugu TV with the serial Gorintaku (2019) and later appeared in Suryavamsam and Inti Guttu. Her film debut was in Mouname Ishtam (2019), followed by a role in Uppena (2021). Rithu is also a regular on comedy shows like Jabardasth and Sridevi Drama Company, known for her comedic timing and charm. In 2021, she launched her YouTube channel, Rithu Chowdhary, with over 70,000 subscribers. She participated in Bigg Boss Telugu Season 8 (2024)."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aXu3QAIvOtkhCGJU_rithuchoudhary.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"rithu-chowdary-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-12-16T17:05:55+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Shriya Saran Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Shriya Saran Bhatnagar is an Indian actress who primarily works in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi films. Although Saran aspired to become a well-known dancer, she became an actress and made her film debut with the Telugu film Ishtam. Saran had her first commercial success with Santosham."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aUGQvnNYClf9oSUB_shriya2028.jpg?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"shriya-saran-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-12-06T17:46:28+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Guess This Heroine"},"content":{"text":"guess this heroine"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aTLHu3NYClf9n2n7_gs1.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"guess-this-heroine"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-09-23T11:53:49+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Priya Prakash Varrier New Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Priya Prakash Varrier is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Malayalam films. Her wink in the film Oru Adaar Love went viral, making her the most searched-for personality through Google in India in 2018."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aNJDd55xUNkB1AGF_priyapvarrier2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"priya-prakash-varrier-new-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-09-20T17:01:37+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Disha Patani Glam Stills"},"content":{"text":"Disha Patani is an Indian actress who primarily work in Hindi films. Patani began her acting career with the Telugu film Loafer, and had her first Hindi film release with the biopic M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, for which she won the IIFA Award for Star Debut of the Year"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aM7X1J5xUNkB07Ue_disha2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"disha-patani-glam-stills"}},{"node":{"tags":["gallery"],"last_publication_date":"2025-08-27T16:52:16+0000","data":{"title":{"text":"Raai Laxmi Hot Bikini Stills"},"content":{"text":"Lakshmi Rai, professionally credited as Raai Laxmi is an Indian actress and model who predominantly works in Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, Kannada and Hindi languages."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aK8262GNHVfTOYIc_raailakshmi2028.JPG?auto=format,compress"}},"uid":"raai-laxmi-hot-bikini-stills"}}]},"one":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Tabu to Lock Horns With Nag in 'King 100'?"},"content":{"text":"Akkineni Nagarjuna's milestone 100th film has become one of the most talked-about projects in Tollywood, with excitement growing ahead of its official announcement. During the pre-release event of Akhil Akkineni's Lenin, Nagarjuna revealed that a major update about his landmark film would be unveiled after July 10, 2026. Since then, speculation surrounding the cast, storyline, and crew has intensified, with fresh industry buzz hinting at a surprising addition that has caught everyone's attention. According to the latest reports, Bollywood actress Tabu is being considered for a pivotal role in King 100. Unlike her previous collaborations with Nagarjuna, where the duo shared memorable on-screen chemistry, this time she is reportedly being eyed for the film's primary antagonist. If the rumours prove true, it would mark the first time the two stars face off as rivals on screen instead of romantic leads. However, the makers have not issued any official confirmation, and the reports remain speculative. Directed by Ra. Karthik, King 100 is said to be an emotional rags-to-riches drama centered on the bond between a father and daughter. The film is reportedly being produced by Annapurna Studios on a grand scale, with actress Sushmita Bhatt expected to play a key role. With Nagarjuna promising a full-fledged announcement after July 10, fans are eagerly awaiting details about the title, cast, first look, and shooting schedule. Meanwhile, the rumoured inclusion of Tabu as the film's villain has only added to the anticipation, making King 100 one of the most awaited Telugu films in development."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/4bhp273AUSJ1cWKa_nagtabu.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T08:47:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"tabu-to-lock-horns-with-nag-in-king-100"}}]},"two":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Court Backs Ilaiyaraaja in Copyright Row"},"content":{"text":"The Madras High Court has restrained the makers of the Tamil film 'Happy Raj' from using a song originally composed by Ilaiyaraaja, finding a prima facie case of alleged copyright infringement. The interim order was passed by Justice M. Kumaresh Babu while hearing a civil suit filed by Ilaiyaraaja. He contended that his iconic composition \"Podhuvaga En Manasu Thangam\" from the 1980 blockbuster 'Murattu Kaalai' had been adapted and incorporated into 'Happy Raj' without obtaining his prior permission or a valid licence. The film, which was released in theatres on March 27, allegedly featured a modified version of the popular song. According to the composer, the work had been altered and used without his consent, constituting a violation of his copyright in the musical composition. Appearing for Ilaiyaraaja, counsel submitted that the defendants had unlawfully adapted the original composition and commercially exploited it without authorisation from the copyright holder. The petition sought an immediate injunction restraining further use of the song in the film. After considering the submissions, Justice Kumaresh Babu directed that the disputed song should not be used in 'Happy Raj' until further orders. The court also issued notices to the film's director and producer, calling upon them to file their response to the allegations. The interim order is expected to have implications beyond the film's theatrical run. Unless the contentious portion is removed or the required permission is obtained from Ilaiyaraaja, the restriction could affect future television broadcasts, satellite telecasts and releases on over-the-top (OTT) streaming platforms. Under the Copyright Act, musical compositions enjoy statutory protection, and any reproduction, adaptation or alteration of such works generally requires prior authorisation from the copyright owner. The case once again highlights the legal obligations of filmmakers and production houses when incorporating existing musical works into new productions. Ilaiyaraaja has, on several occasions in recent years, approached courts to safeguard his intellectual property rights and prevent the unauthorised use of his compositions. The present case adds to a series of legal battles initiated by the veteran composer to enforce copyright protection over his vast catalogue of music."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aIecnVGsbswqTXMO_ilayaraja.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T12:55:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"court-backs-ilaiyaraaja-in-copyright-row"}}]},"three":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Microsoft announces 4,800 layoffs"},"content":{"text":"Microsoft has announced another round of job cuts, eliminating around 4,800 positions, or approximately 2.1 per cent of its global workforce, as the technology giant continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) while seeking to improve operational efficiency.  The latest layoffs come amid a broader trend across the technology industry, where companies are balancing massive AI investments with efforts to control costs. Industry leaders such as Amazon and Meta have also reduced their workforces this year as spending on AI infrastructure continues to rise. Global AI-related investments by major technology companies are expected to surpass $700 billion in 2026. The announcement follows a challenging first half of the year for Microsoft, with the company's shares declining nearly 23 per cent during the first six months of 2026, marking their weakest first-half performance since 2022. Earlier this year, Microsoft had already offered voluntary buyouts to nearly 9,000 employees in the United States, representing about seven per cent of its domestic workforce. The company has traditionally made workforce adjustments near the end of its fiscal year in June as it prepares budgets and spending plans for the new financial year. While Microsoft's Azure cloud computing business has continued to benefit from strong demand for AI services, the company is facing mounting costs associated with expanding its data centre infrastructure. Until April, Azure was the exclusive cloud provider for OpenAI's models, helping drive strong growth in Microsoft's cloud business. However, the significant investments required to support AI services have increased pressure on the company's cash flows. Despite the financial strain, Microsoft remains optimistic about its AI business. In April, the company forecast quarterly Azure revenue above Wall Street expectations and projected capital expenditure of $190 billion for 2026, substantially higher than analysts' estimates. The company is scheduled to announce its latest financial results later this month. The rapid adoption of AI is also reshaping Microsoft's traditional software business by automating routine tasks, while rising memory chip prices driven by demand for AI data centres have increased production costs. Those higher costs have prompted Microsoft to raise Xbox console prices at a time when demand for the gaming hardware has remained subdued."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/d65d5a05-f72a-4dbc-b30d-8a74e08b971f_microsoft+tams.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T14:37:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"microsoft-announces-4800-layoffs"}}]},"four":{"edges":[{"node":{"data":{"third_party_url":null,"title":{"text":"Atlee's Unfinished Romance Dream"},"content":{"text":"Renowned filmmaker Atlee, celebrated for his dynamic contributions to the action genre, has expressed a poignant regret regarding his cinematic repertoire. Despite achieving remarkable success with blockbuster hits such as 'Theri', 'Mersal', and 'Bigil'—collaborations that have solidified his partnership with actor Vijay—Atlee revealed a lingering desire to explore the realm of romantic storytelling. This sentiment surfaced during a pre-release event for 'Idhayam Murali', where he candidly recalled his debut film, Raja Rani, and its lasting impact, stating that it remains an indelible part of his identity in the industry. Atlee's candid remarks shed light on the dichotomy of his career; while the accolades from his action films have elevated him to national prominence, they have simultaneously overshadowed his aspirations within the romantic genre. Speaking about his collaboration with producer Aakash Baskaran, whom he affectionately referred to as a brother, Atlee articulated a yearning to back projects that resonate with the emotional depth of love stories. “There is always a yearning inside my heart that we couldn't do a love film,” he lamented, emphasizing the vital role 'Raja Rani' played in shaping his career and public perception. 'Raja Rani', featuring an ensemble cast that includes Arya, Nayanthara, and Nazriya Nazim, tells the story of reluctant lovers discovering affection amidst their complex pasts. The film was not just a commercial triumph but also garnered critical acclaim, leading to remakes in Bengali and Sinhala. Its heartfelt narrative resonated deeply with audiences, establishing its place in Tamil cinema history. In contrast, Atlee's recent works, characterized by high-octane action and intricate plots, have dominated the box office, further entrenching him in the action genre while the romantic narrative hangs unfulfilled. The upcoming 'Idhayam Murali' diverges from Atlee's usual oeuvre, promising a narrative centered around unrequited love. The film, which stars Atharvaa and Preity Mukhundhan, explores the complexities of longing and rejection, a theme that Atlee himself seems to connect with on a personal level. As the film prepares for its release on July 10, it stands as a testament to Atlee's willingness to venture into new territory, even as he acknowledges the bittersweet nature of his unfulfilled dreams in the realm of romance."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/2116deff-2bc8-4982-ad89-5122fae08d7f_atlee.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-06T09:32:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"atlees-unfinished-romance-dream"}}]},"five":{"edges":[]},"review":{"edges":[{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Rao Bahadur'"},"content":{"text":"Satyadev has carved a unique niche for himself as an actor by choosing diverse films. Meanwhile, director Venkatesh Maha has already earned a strong reputation for delivering distinctive movies. Expectations soared when a superstar like Mahesh Babu stepped forward to present this collaboration between the two. Let us see in this review whether the film lives up to those expectations. Story: Bhuvanam Ramappa Rao Bahadur (Satyadev), a man of royal lineage, grapples with severe mental turmoil in his old age. He harbors suspicions regarding his younger son, Kusumappa—who passed away in childhood—doubting whether the boy was truly his biological son. Driven by this doubt, he clings to life for years despite suffering from cancer. Ramappa’s wife, Renuka, is also confined to a single room. The story unfolds by exploring the reasons behind Ramappa’s condition and Renuka’s confinement, as well as how it was ultimately confirmed that Kusumappa was indeed Ramappa’s son. Performances: A notable aspect of the film is that, apart from Satyadev, the entire cast consists of newcomers. It is commendable that Satyadev committed to such a role; not every actor could pull off a character like this. He delivered a brilliant performance, nailing the makeover, expressions, and body language. Satyadev truly embodied the persona of a scion of the Rao Bahadur lineage. He impressed everyone with a look that perfectly captured the persona of an elderly king. Furthermore, Satyadev deserves full marks for his acting and dialogue delivery. Generally, young heroes are reluctant to take on such roles, but Satyadev put in immense effort to breathe life into this character. It was revealed that the makeup process took four hours; seeing the 'Ramappa' character on screen, one feels that the actual time spent on makeup might have been even longer. Deepa Thomas, playing the female lead, impressed with her distinctive look. There is a growing opinion that she might secure good opportunities in Tollywood in the future. Vikas Muppala also impressed with his acting, and the supporting cast performed well within the scope of their roles. Venkatesh Maha, appearing in a guest role, also made a strong impression. Technical: Director Venkatesh Maha presented a completely fresh concept to the audience. However, the narrative pacing felt somewhat tedious. The first half moved slowly. While he attempted to pick up the pace in the second half, the twists introduced towards the end felt unintentionally funny. He failed in the attempt to blend humor into what otherwise seemed like a serious story. Some of the dialogues were good. The cinematography was impressive; it effectively brought the atmosphere of the 1960s and 1990s to life. The music was also decent. The songs failed to impress, but the background score was certainly impressive. The production values ​​are good; it is truly commendable that such a significant budget was allocated for an experimental story like this. There are flaws in the editing; some scenes in the first half should have been trimmed. Overall, the film would have benefited from a runtime reduction of 20 to 25 minutes. Analysis: Director Venkatesh attempted an experiment by utilizing a talented actor like Satyadev. Satyadev deserves praise for agreeing to be part of this experimental project. The story revolves around the consequences arising from a suspicion harbored by an elderly man. In an era where films generally achieve commercial success only with compelling storylines and narratives, Director Venkatesh brought this film to the audience without worrying about how such an experiment would be received. He attempted to drive the film using screenplay wizardry. Although the story itself is simple, his execution deserves appreciation. However, the inclusion of more thrilling elements would have improved the film; the first half, in particular, is somewhat underwhelming. The climax manages to generate interest, though the final twist lacks a sense of realism. Ultimately, instead of leaving the audience with the impression of having watched a serious film, the movie ends up feeling more like a comedy.  Plus Points: Satyadev Background music, cinematography Second half, climax Minus Points: Boring first half Illogical scenes Climax twist Verdict: 'Rao Bahadur' is for those looking to watch a thriller rather than a regular commercial movie. Banner: Sree Chakras Entertainments, Mahayana Motion Pictures Producers: Anurag Reddy, Sharath Chandra, Chinta Gopalakrishna Reddy, Eswaran Vijayaraghavan Directior: Venkatesh Maha Music: Smaran Sai Cast: Satyadev, Deepa Thomas, Vikas Muppala, Bala Parasar, Kunal Kaushik, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ruDZrQh1uyTKyATR_RaoBahadur.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-03T09:26:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-rao-bahadur"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Nagabandham' "},"content":{"text":"South makers have done wonders once again. At a time when audiences are craving larger-than-life cinematic experiences rooted in Indian culture and mythology, Nagabandham arrives as an ambitious spectacle that blends mystery, mythology, fantasy and adventure into an engrossing big-screen entertainer. Foremost credit goes to the producers Nishitha Nagireddy and Kishore Annapureddy, the duo under the banners of NIK Studios and Abhishek Pictures, have given the film the scale, craft and budget it demands. The budget, the scale and the vision of the film is at par in comparison with some of the biggies. Mounted on a lavish scale, the film starts on a very intriguing note and right from the first frame it captures you into the world, the drama. As it progresses it continues to impresses with its visual ambition, the character introduction, immersive world-building and sincere storytelling, making it one of the most ambitious pan-India releases of the year. Without wasting any single time the film sticks to the subject. The unfolding of mysterious universe where ancient secrets, divine legends and hidden treasures shape the narrative. Rather than rushing through its mythology, the film gradually builds intrigue around the ancients and what 'Nagabandham' is. This measured approach keeps the audience invested while continuously expanding the film's rich cinematic universe. The film begins with the impresive introduction of Rishabh Sawhney who is olayiytge main antagonist in the film and then transports us to the drama that is very interesting. Director Abhishek Nama deserves appreciation for attempting a genre that demands conviction and imagination. His vision remains consistent throughout, balancing mythology with fantasy while ensuring the emotional core never gets lost beneath the visual grandeur. The screenplay unfolds like an adventure, introducing fresh mysteries at regular intervals and maintaining curiosity until the very end. Visuals are Nagabandham's undoubtedly the biggest strengths. Every frame reflects meticulous craftsmanship, from magnificent temple architecture and ancient kingdoms to breathtaking action sequences and mystical landscapes. The production values are first-rate, while the VFX complement the storytelling without overwhelming it. The film consistently feels designed for the biggest screens. Virat Karrna, who is essaying the main protoganist delivers a confident performance, carrying the narrative with sincerity and intensity. Nabha Natesh lends grace and emotional depth to her character, while Rishabh Sawhney leaves a strong impression with his commanding screen presence in the character of the main antagonist. Mahesh Manjrekar stands out in a pivotal role of saint ,adding gravitas whenever he appears. Daksha Nagarkar and the supporting cast contribute effectively, making the expansive world feel believable. The action choreography especially the Interval block and CLIMAX deserves special mention. Instead of relying solely on spectacle, the action sequences are integrated into the mythology, making every confrontation feel purposeful. Several moments involving serpents, ancient rituals and large-scale battles generate genuine goosebumps and showcase the makers' ambition. Technically, Nagabandham is polished across departments. The cinematography captures both the grandeur and mysticism beautifully, while the background score elevates the emotional and adventurous moments. The editing keeps the narrative engaging despite the film's expansive scale, and the sound design enhances the theatrical experience. One of the film's biggest achievements is how it respects Indian mythology while presenting it through an entertaining fantasy-adventure lens. Rather than merely recreating familiar legends, it creates its own mythology-inspired universe that feels fresh and cinematic. If there is one area where the film occasionally slows down, it is during portions dedicated to explaining the mythology, which may slightly affect the pace. However, the narrative quickly regains momentum with compelling twists, visually stunning sequences and emotionally satisfying payoffs. With Nagabandham, South filmmakers once again demonstrate why they continue to lead the way in creating ambitious, pan-India cinematic spectacles. The film combines mythology, fantasy, adventure and emotion into an entertaining package that is tailor-made for the theatrical experience. For audiences looking for a grand visual adventure filled with mystery, ancient legends, spectacular action and impressive world-building, Nagabandham is a rewarding watch. Banner: NIK Studios, Abhishek Pictures Producer: Nishitha Nagireddy, Kishore Annapureddy Director: Abhishek Nama Cast: John Vijay, Nabha Natesh, Iswarya Menon, Mahesh Manjrekar and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/S_t-IVjB2yqa78-Q_nagabandham.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-07-02T16:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-nagabandham-"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Welcome To The Jungle'"},"content":{"text":"There was a time when Bollywood regularly produced big, unapologetic comedy entertainers that families could watch together. Films weren't trying to preach, surprise audiences with complicated twists or leave behind social messages. They existed for one simple reason—to make people laugh. Welcome To The Jungle embraces exactly that philosophy, and that's what makes it work. Director Ahmed Khan doesn't try to reinvent the Welcome franchise. Instead, he understands its DNA and amplifies it. The laughs are bigger, the cast is bigger, the scale is grander and the madness is turned up several notches. The result is a film that knows exactly what it wants to be—and rarely loses sight of it. The story itself is delightfully ridiculous. A billionaire comes up with an absurd plan to convert his black money into losses by deliberately producing a flop film. To execute this bizarre mission, he assembles a film full of struggling stars, forgotten heroes and eccentric personalities. Among them are Yeda Anna (Suniel Shetty), the brother of Anna from the Welcome universe, and Romeo (Arshad Warsi), Majnu's equally eccentric brother. Just when the production begins, an Income Tax raid wipes out the financier's money, forcing the crew to abandon the expensive setup and continue the shoot in a remote village with real people—while the actors remain blissfully convinced that everything happening around them is part of the script. From there, the film spirals into complete comic chaos involving mistaken identities, fake heroics, terrorists, villagers and nonstop confusion. If there is one actor who reminds audiences why he has ruled Bollywood comedy for decades, it is Akshay Kumar. This is comfortably one of his strongest comic performances in recent years. His expressions, dialogue delivery, body language and effortless timing hold the enormous ensemble together without trying to dominate it. He lets the humour breathe and trusts the situations to generate laughs. Suniel Shetty is undoubtedly one of the film's biggest surprises. His Yeda Anna is wonderfully eccentric and consistently entertaining, delivering several laugh-out-loud moments. Arshad Warsi slips into the franchise's familiar madness with ease, while Lara Dutta, as the Army trainer preparing the clueless actors, adds another enjoyable layer to the comedy. The supporting cast is where the film truly shines. Veterans like Paresh Rawal, Johnny Lever and Rajpal Yadav prove once again why they remain among Hindi cinema's finest comic performers. But the film's biggest scene-stealers are undoubtedly Farida Jalal and Kiran Kumar. Every single time they appear on screen, the theatre erupts in laughter. Farida Jalal's delightfully confused character, speaking in her own hilarious gibberish language, becomes one of the film's biggest highlights. Kiran Kumar matches her brilliantly with his exaggerated, heavily Urdu-laced dialogues delivered with complete conviction. Their chemistry, impeccable comic timing and effortless performances produce some of the loudest laughs in the film. There's another emotional layer that longtime Bollywood lovers will instantly appreciate. Watching Akshay Kumar reunite with Suniel Shetty and Raveena Tandon brings back memories of an era when entertainers were built around fun rather than formulas. Thankfully, these reunions never feel forced. They blend naturally into the narrative while allowing the film to create its own identity instead of living entirely on nostalgia. Managing such a massive ensemble is never easy, yet Ahmed Khan deserves credit for ensuring almost every actor gets at least one memorable moment. Despite featuring dozens of familiar faces, the screenplay rarely feels overcrowded. The humour constantly shifts between situational comedy, visual gags, witty one-liners, misunderstandings and complete comic mayhem, ensuring the energy rarely drops. The adventure angle also gives the franchise a refreshing twist. Instead of repeating the exact template of the earlier films, Welcome To The Jungle expands its canvas with larger action set pieces and a more adventurous narrative while still retaining the flavour that fans associate with the franchise. Visually, the film looks colourful and vibrant. The production design suits the exaggerated world perfectly, while the songs arrive naturally without disturbing the pace. The background score effectively enhances both the comic situations and the action sequences. What deserves appreciation is that the film never pretends to be more intelligent than it is. It doesn't chase awards, social commentary or emotional manipulation. It simply focuses on entertaining its audience for over two hours—and judging by the laughter echoing through the auditorium, it succeeds. Welcome To The Jungle is designed for the big-screen experience. Many jokes become funnier because they are enjoyed collectively. The whistles, applause and laughter inside a packed theatre become an extension of the film itself. That's something no OTT platform can replicate. Directed by Ahmed Khan, the film boasts one of the biggest ensemble casts in recent Hindi cinema, featuring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Jackie Shroff, Paresh Rawal, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Farida Jalal, Johnny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Rajpal Yadav, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Daler Mehndi, Aftab Shivdasani, Mukesh Tiwari, Yashpal Sharma, Kiran Kumar, Zakir Hussain, Vindu Dara Singh, Urvashi Rautela, Hemant Pandey, Brijendra Kala, Feroze Khan (Arjun), Late Pankaj Dheer, Puneet Issar, Sudesh Berry, Jeetu Verma, Vrihi Kodvara, Adityaa Singgh and Bhagya Bhanushali. Presented by A.A. Nadiadwala, Cape of Good Films and Star Studios in association with Seeta Films and Rakesh Dang, the film is a Base Industries Group production produced by Rakesh Dang and Vedant Vikaas Baali, and produced by Firoz A. Nadiadwala. If your expectation is meaningful cinema, look elsewhere. But if you simply want to laugh, switch off your brain and enjoy a grand Bollywood entertainer with your family, Welcome To The Jungle delivers exactly what it promises. Sometimes, that's more than enough. Director : Ahmed Khan, Producer : Firoz A Nadiadwala Cast : Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Arshad Warsi and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aj1hFVbRV8_Qf44R_welcometothejungle.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-25T15:45:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-welcome-to-the-jungle"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Cocktail 2'"},"content":{"text":"Some relationships don’t end because people stop loving each other. They end because love alone isn’t always enough. Backed by Maddock Films and producer Dinesh Vijan, a banner known for delivering some of the most memorable entertainers and relationship dramas in recent years, Cocktail 2 is yet another winner. Directed by Homi Adajania, the film explores modern relationships with warmth, maturity and emotional honesty, resulting in a story that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. While the original film thrived on youthful chaos, Cocktail 2 takes a more mature route. It examines what happens when comfort begins to replace excitement, when commitment feels heavier than romance, and when life forces people to question whether the relationship they’ve built is still the one they truly want. The Story: Kunal (Shahid Kapoor) and Diya (Rashmika Mandanna) have been together for years. What started as a college romance has survived distance, changing priorities and the challenges of adulthood. Their relationship is comfortable, familiar and seemingly stable, but beneath the surface, cracks have begun to appear. Diya finds herself grappling with expectations around marriage and commitment, while Kunal continues holding on to a version of their relationship that may no longer exist. Their lives take an unexpected turn during a trip to Sicily, where they meet Ally (Kriti Sanon), a free spirited woman who lives entirely on her own terms. As the three grow closer, the film gradually unfolds into something far more complex than a traditional love triangle. Friendships blur into emotional attachments, loyalties are tested and difficult questions emerge about love, compatibility and personal happiness. What makes the narrative work is that it never reduces its characters to heroes or villains. Everyone is flawed, everyone makes mistakes and that honesty gives the film its emotional weight. Performances: Shahid Kapoor delivers one of his most mature performances in recent years. Kunal is a character filled with contradictions and Shahid captures every shade beautifully. Whether he’s expressing quiet heartbreak, frustration or vulnerability, he keeps the audience invested throughout. Rashmika Mandanna brings warmth and authenticity to Diya. Many of her moments feel incredibly relatable, particularly when she navigates the pressures placed on women regarding relationships and life choices. She handles both the lighter and emotionally intense scenes with confidence and restraint. Kriti Sanon is exceptional as Ally. What initially appears to be a carefree and impulsive character slowly reveals surprising emotional depth. Kriti balances Ally’s charm, unpredictability and vulnerability effortlessly, creating one of the film’s most memorable performances. Together, the trio share terrific chemistry. Their interactions feel natural and lived-in, making every friendship, confrontation and emotional conflict feel genuine. Kriti and Rashmika also share some thoroughly entertaining moments, adding another engaging layer to the film’s relationship dynamics. Writing, Dialogues and Relationships: One of the film’s biggest strengths is its writing. The relationships feel layered and believable, with conversations that reflect how people actually communicate rather than how movie characters are expected to speak. The dialogues are sharp, mature and emotionally effective. Several confrontations land with impact because they come from a place of truth rather than melodrama. The film consistently keeps you invested in its characters and the choices they make, while balancing romance, friendship and self-discovery with remarkable ease. Music and Visuals: Pritam’s music blends seamlessly into the storytelling, elevating both the emotional and romantic moments. The songs never interrupt the narrative and instead become a natural extension of it. Visually, the film is stunning. Sicily provides a breathtaking backdrop, with every frame looking postcard worthy without ever feeling excessive. The cinematography, fashion and overall production design add tremendous richness to the viewing experience, making the film as beautiful to look at as it is emotionally engaging. What Could Have Worked Better: A few emotional stretches in the latter half could have been slightly more concise. The Verdict: Cocktail 2 is a beautifully crafted film about love, friendship, self discovery and the difficult choices that come with growing up. It doesn’t offer easy answers and that’s precisely what makes it work. Produced by Maddock Films and Luv Films, backed by outstanding performances from Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna, thoughtful writing, gorgeous visuals and strong emotional payoffs, the film delivers a deeply satisfying experience. A heartfelt, visually stunning and emotionally resonant drama that reminds us that sometimes the hardest part of love isn’t finding it, it’s understanding what to do with it once you have it. The result is a relationship drama that stays with you long after the credits roll. Banner: Maddock Films and Luv Films Producer: Dinesh Vijan Director: Homi Adajania Music: Pritam Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, Kriti Sanon and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ah7YRgeQX7-eWjSA_cocktail2.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-19T04:48:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-cocktail-2"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Maa Inti Bangaram'"},"content":{"text":"At a time when it was widely assumed Samantha had limited her career to Bollywood, all eyes are on this Telugu film she has undertaken. It is well known that Samantha has previously worked under Nandini Reddy's direction; their collaboration naturally generates positive buzz. Furthermore, expectations have soared because the film is produced by Raj Nidimoru. Let us see in this review whether the movie lives up to those expectations. Story: Swarna (Samantha), who entered into a love marriage with Anirudh (Diganth Manchale), steps into her in-laws' home after a long time due to certain circumstances. She struggles to fit into the joint family environment. Despite the difficulties, she makes earnest efforts to bond with the family members and win their approval. Swarna carries a past—a flashback—associated with her love marriage. This flashback becomes the source of emerging problems within her in-laws' household.  What are these problems? What exactly is Swarna's flashback? To find out what Swarna did at her in-laws' house, one simply has to watch the movie. Performances: Samantha’s acting needs no special introduction. The action sequences she performed in this film are impressive; seeing her execute action scenes while dressed in a traditional saree felt fresh and novel. She delivered a performance that felt distinct—and even better—than her work in previous films. Beyond action, she also showcased her acting prowess in emotional and dramatic scenes. It is evident that she poured her experience into the role, truly doing justice to the character of Swarna. Her appearance seemed slightly different compared to the past, but that change suited the character perfectly.  Overall, Samantha succeeded in fully justifying the role she chose. The supporting cast performed well within the scope of their roles; Gulshan Devaiah, in particular, stood out, and his portrayal of the villain was impressive. Gautami had limited screen time but made a good impression within that scope. Sreemukhi also impressed with a different look. Technical: Director Nandini Reddy has once again presented a unique concept to the audience, and her direction is impressive. The storytelling and screenplay could have benefited from a bit more detail. Some of the dialogues are excellent, particularly those in the emotional scenes, which are truly touching. The music is decent; one or two songs have already gained popularity among the audience, though there isn't much else to highlight regarding the soundtrack beyond those tracks.  However, the background score was impressive. The cinematography was good; Om Prakash’s work made the action scenes appear quite realistic, ensuring the film remained engaging. The cinematography also deserves praise for how it presented Samantha’s look. The production values ​​align well with the story. Apart from minor editing flaws, everything else was solid. Analysis: The mere mention of a Samantha film generates audience interest comparable to that of movies starring big male stars. Director Nandini Reddy lived up to this expectation by weaving the story around a massive flashback sequence, much like those seen in big-star films. However, there are some illogical scenes. More care could have been taken with the dramatic elements; specifically, the portrayal of the new daughter-in-law's conduct in her in-laws' home didn't feel quite right.  Additionally, there were some issues in seamlessly connecting the flashback episode to the present-day narrative. An effort was made to deliver good entertainment. Overall, the film appeals to the average viewer, particularly family audiences. If one overlooks a few illogical scenes, the movie is enjoyable. It is a must-watch for Samantha’s fans and serves as a good \"time-pass\" movie for general audiences. Plus Points: Samantha, Flashback scenes, Action sequences.  Minus Points: Some illogical scenes, Boring moments here and there, Lack of mass elements. Verdict: A film that Samantha's fans will appreciate Banner: Tralala Moving Pictures Producers: Samantha, Raj Nidimoru, Himank Reddy Duvvuru Director: B.V. Nandini Reddy Music: Santhosh Narayanan Cast: Samantha, Sreemukhi, Gulshan Devaiah, Diganth Manchale, Gautami, Srinivas Gavireddy, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ajUbm41P9HI4UuRN_MIB.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-19T07:36:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-maa-inti-bangaram"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai'"},"content":{"text":"Some films are designed to make you think. Others are designed to make you laugh till your cheeks hurt. Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, directed by David Dhawan, proudly belongs to the latter category. Loaded with misunderstandings, larger-than-life characters, romance, family drama and non-stop comedy, the film embraces the classic Bollywood entertainer template and delivers exactly what it promises. Written by David Dhawan with screenplay by Yunus Sajawal and dialogues by Farhad Samji, the film thrives on its energetic storytelling and unapologetically chaotic humour. The Story: At the heart of the film is Jass, a lovable and impulsive man whose life takes an unexpected turn when personal relationships, family expectations and a series of unfortunate circumstances collide at the same time. Without revealing too much, the story follows Jass as he finds himself caught in an increasingly complicated situation involving his estranged wife Baani and Preet, a woman who unexpectedly enters his life. What begins as a relationship drama soon snowballs into a full-fledged comedy of errors, leading to a chain of misunderstandings, secrets and hilarious situations. The narrative constantly throws Jass from one problem into another, ensuring there is never a dull moment. While the premise is outrageous, the film fully commits to its madness, making the ride entertaining from start to finish. Performances: Varun Dhawan is in his element as Jass. His comic timing, boundless energy and natural screen presence carry the film effortlessly. He understands the rhythm of David Dhawan's brand of comedy and delivers a performance that is both charming and consistently entertaining. Mrunal Thakur brings warmth and emotional depth to Baani, ensuring that the character remains relatable amidst the chaos unfolding around her. She balances the film's emotional moments effectively and shares a comfortable chemistry with Varun. Pooja Hegde lights up the screen as Preet. Confident, glamorous and full of spark, she adds freshness to the narrative and keeps the momentum alive whenever she appears. Among the supporting cast, Maniesh Paul is a scene stealer, delivering several laugh-out-loud moments with effortless ease. Jimmy Sheirgill, Chunky Pandey, Kubbra Sait, Rakesh Bedi and Mouni Roy contribute well to the ensemble, each adding their own flavour to the madness. Dialogues and Humour: Farhad Samji's dialogues play a major role in keeping the entertainment quotient high. The punchlines land well, the situational comedy works and several one-liners are likely to draw applause from audiences in packed theatres. The film embraces old-school Bollywood comedy while updating it for contemporary viewers, creating a blend that feels familiar yet accessible. Music and Technical Aspects: The music complements the film's upbeat tone, while the vibrant visuals and colourful production design add to its festive appeal. David Dhawan keeps the pace brisk for most parts, ensuring the narrative rarely loses momentum. What Could Have Worked Better: Some comedic stretches feel slightly overextended and a few situations require audiences to completely suspend disbelief. However, these are minor concerns in a film that is more interested in entertaining than being realistic. Final Word: Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai is a quintessential David Dhawan entertainer that embraces confusion, comedy and chaos with complete conviction. Powered by Varun Dhawan's infectious energy, solid support from Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, the film delivers a thoroughly enjoyable big-screen experience. If you're looking for logic, this may not be your destination. If you're looking for laughter, fun and a dose of classic Bollywood masala, this film delivers in abundance."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiKZMAeQX7-eW1yO_HaiJawaniTohIshqHonaHai.jpg?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-06-05T03:39:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-hai-jawani-toh-ishq-hona-hai"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Peddi'"},"content":{"text":"Buchi Babu grabbed everyone's attention with his debut film, 'Uppena'. Having grossed over 100 crores with his very first movie, he caught the eye of several star heroes. Even NTR expressed interest in working with him. A project with NTR was confirmed; however, for various reasons, it never materialized.  Buchi Babu subsequently spent the last two years collaborating closely with Ram Charan to bring this film to life. Given the massive hype surrounding it, let's see how the movie actually turned out in this review. Story: The story of 'Peddi' revolves around the journey of a 'sports laborer'—a man named Peddi (Ram Charan)—who is driven by an unwavering determination to showcase the existence of his village to the world. Hailing from a village that doesn't even have a name, Peddi earns his livelihood as a sports laborer. While he has built a good reputation as a cricketer, he eventually comes to believe that true recognition for his village can be achieved not through cricket, but through wrestling. However, recognition for the village does not come through wrestling either. So, how did the entire world eventually come to talk about this nameless village—exactly as 'Peddi' had wished? What daring feat did 'Peddi' undertake to make that happen? That forms the crux of the story.  Performances: Ram Charan’s performance is magnificent. Throughout the entire first half of the film, he captivates the audience in his role as a cricketer. He appears to execute spectacular shots, just like a professional cricketer would; indeed, one feels as though they are watching a genuine cricketer in Ram Charan. It is often said that Ram Charan naturally excels in emotional scenes, and there is absolutely no doubt that he truly lived the emotional moments leading up to the interval and during the film's climax. Furthermore, he elevated the musical numbers to extraordinary heights through his dancing—going above and beyond what was expected. Ram Charan showcases his absolute best dancing skills in this movie. He also impresses equally in both the action sequences and the sports-centric scenes. As for the female lead, Janhvi Kapoor—while she is credited as the heroine, she has very little scope to perform and is not an integral part of the core narrative. Moreover, her screen presence is shockingly brief. Janhvi Kapoor practically disappears entirely during the second half of the film. However, it must be noted that she did manage to grab some attention in the first half by flaunting her physique.  Jagapathi Babu, who appears in the first half, delivers a captivating performance in his emotional scenes. Meanwhile, Kannada superstar Shivarajkumar impresses in his role as a wrestling mentor; his mere look alone wins over half the audience, and his acting prowess requires no special mention. Finally, it must be stated that none of the other supporting characters were given any significant prominence. Technical: The film's music has been a prominent topic of discussion right from the very beginning. Director Buchi Babu made a deliberate and specific choice to enlist A.R. Rahman as the music director for the film. Consequently, everyone anticipated that 'Peddi' would capture the audience's attention primarily through its musical elements. True to expectations, the songs proved to be a resounding success. Furthermore, the background score was equally impressive; with the exception of one or two isolated moments, Rahman's background music was captivating throughout the rest of the film. The cinematography also earns high marks. A commendable effort was made to authentically depict the atmosphere and conditions of the 1990s era. The camera work was particularly effective in a few sequences—most notably during the sports scenes. The first half of the film felt somewhat dragged out, suggesting that the editing could have been tighter. The production values, however, were excellent. Director Buchi Babu selected a compelling core concept; yet, it felt as though he was unable to craft a screenplay that did full justice to that premise. Some of the dialogues were well-written. Analysis: Buchi Babu has garnered a strong reputation as a director who managed to achieve a ₹100-crore box office collection with his very first film. Moreover, since the outset, there has been considerable buzz suggesting that he is in no way inferior to his mentor, Sukumar. Reports have surfaced claiming that this particular story—which was originally penned with NTR in mind—was ultimately filmed with Ram Charan. Leaving aside the veracity of those reports, it appears that Ram Charan gave his approval to the project based solely on the strength of the story's core premise. However, watching the film makes it evident that a compelling premise alone is not sufficient to carry an entire movie. The narrative centers on the protagonist participating in three distinct sports to showcase the existence and identity of his hometown to the world. Given this premise, it was imperative that the portrayal of these specific sports be significantly elevated and given greater prominence within the film. Apart from cricket, no other sport was given significant prominence.  The first half dragged on in a boring manner. The second half was somewhat passable, barring a few emotional scenes. It must be said that Director Buchi Babu failed to effectively showcase the sports elements—which are absolutely crucial to the screenplay. With the exception of a few sequences, the majority of the film feels tedious. However, there is no doubt that this serves as a delightful treat for Ram Charan's fans. Viewed from a fan's perspective, the film earns high marks; yet, it must be acknowledged that for a regular moviegoer, it may not quite hit the mark. Plus Points: Ram Charan A few sports sequences The songs Minus Points: The slow pacing of the first half The screenplay The heroine's role The lack of prominence given to the villains Conclusion... The 'Peddi' games are boring. Banners: Vriddhi Cinemas, Mythri Movie Makers Producers: Venkata Satish Kilaru, Ishan Saxena Direction: Buchi Babu Music: A.R. Rahman Cast: Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, Divyendu, Boman Irani, Upendra, Satya, Chammak Chandra, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aiCF9AeQX7-eWrDe_peddi.jpg?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-03T19:52:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-peddi"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: Made in India – A Titan Story"},"content":{"text":"Rarely does a series manage to be both inspiring and cinematically gripping—but Made in India – A Titan Story achieves exactly that, and does it with remarkable finesse. The Story: Where Vision Meets Legacy   At its core, the series is a tribute to belief—the kind that builds institutions. It traces the journey of Xerxes Desai, a man driven by vision, and the unwavering faith J.R.D. Tata placed in him. What unfolds is not just the story of Titan Watches, but of an idea that refused to stay small. It is about ambition, risk, and the quiet power of trust that turns dreams into legacy. Performances That Stay With You   Jim Sarbh delivers one of his most layered performances to date. His portrayal of Xerxes Desai is controlled yet deeply emotional, capturing the vulnerability and determination of a man chasing something bigger than himself. Naseeruddin Shah, as J.R.D. Tata, is understated brilliance. Even with limited screen time, his presence defines the emotional spine of the series—commanding, graceful, and quietly powerful. The ensemble cast adds richness to the narrative. Each character feels lived-in and purposeful—whether it’s Namita Dubey’s sincerity, Lakshveer Saran’s emotional weight, or Kaveri Seth’s authenticity. Supporting performances from Vaibhav Tatwawadi, Paresh Ganatra, Ashwath Bhatt, Viraf Patel, Joy Sengupta, and Prateeksha Lonkar create a world that feels real and immersive. Craft, Scale, and Storytelling :  Director Robbie Grewal handles the material with precision and maturity, allowing the story to breathe while maintaining a steady narrative grip. The storytelling never feels rushed, yet never loses momentum. The writing by Karan Vyas is sharp and confident, with dialogues that feel organic yet impactful. Visually, the show carries a cinematic scale—elegant production design, carefully chosen locations, and a background score that subtly amplifies the emotional beats. The integration of classic music adds texture without overwhelming the narrative. Final Word: Backing a story like this requires both courage and conviction, and Almighty Motion Picture deserves credit for bringing it to life. Co-produced with T-Series Films, Made in India – A Titan Story is not just a series—it’s an experience that fills you with immense pride for India and reminds you of the power of vision, perseverance, and nation-building. Patriotism naturally seeps in as the story unfolds. It’s one of a kind story that inspires, engages, and stays with you long after it ends."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ah_UIAeQX7-eWo7C_madeinindia.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-06-03T05:14:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-made-in-india--a-titan-story"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Drishyam 3'"},"content":{"text":"This film serves as a sequel to 'Drishyam 1' (released in 2013) and 'Drishyam 2' (released in 2021). With the 'Drishyam' franchise, Jeethu Joseph garnered a nationwide fan base. Consequently, whenever a new 'Drishyam 3' installment is announced, it immediately sparks immense curiosity among audiences.  Venkatesh had previously remade the first two 'Drishyam' films, bringing them to the Telugu audience. However, for this third installment, Mohanlal himself has presented the film directly to the Telugu audience today. Despite being a dubbed film, the expectations and interest among the Telugu audience are exceptionally high. Let's see in this review whether the film lives up to those expectations. Story: George (Mohanlal) produces a feature film titled 'Drishyam', based on the actual events that unfolded in his own life. The movie receives a positive reception and garners massive box-office collections. Meanwhile, discussions regarding Varun's murder resurface once again. As the topic of Varun's murder gains traction on social media, George begins looking for suitable alliances to arrange the marriage of his eldest daughter, Anu.  In this sequence of events, Varun's father, Prabhakar (Siddique), devises a plan to reopen the Varun murder case and execute an arrest precisely on the day of Anu's wedding. However, George cleverly manages to evade capture. Nevertheless, George and his family members find themselves in deep trouble due to another plan orchestrated by Prabhakar.  What are these troubles? And how does George manage to protect his family from them? That forms the crux of the film's story. Performances: Just as he impressed audiences with his nuanced and understated acting in the first two installments, Mohanlal once again delivers a captivating performance in this film as a responsible and devoted father. In particular, the anguish he portrays in certain scenes makes him feel truly like a real-life father. There is absolutely no doubt that Mohanlal has delivered a stellar performance as an average father who constantly worries about the future of his two daughters—never going overboard, yet never holding back. There isn't much to say regarding Meena's role, as she was given very little scope to showcase her acting prowess. However, she was impressive in terms of her appearance in the role of a mother, and she performed aptly in accordance with the demands of a character who is a mother to two children. The actresses who played George's daughters were also impressive; their characters have been a continuous presence since the very first installment. Much like in the first two films, their acting and on-screen presence were captivating in this installment as well. However, it must be noted that in this particular film, their screen time and scope for acting were significantly limited. As for the actors playing the supporting roles, their performances were decent and adequate for their respective characters.  Technical: Music director Anil Johnson does not appear to have put in much effort. He relied heavily on the background score used in the first installment. During suspense sequences, the music felt formulaic and uninspired; it should have been composed in a manner that heightened the intrigue.  There are significant flaws in the editing; specifically, many scenes in the first half felt dragged out. Despite the first half being relatively short in duration, it still came across as boring. It appears that director Jeethu Joseph focused more on the protagonist's character and on maintaining the suspense than on the narrative itself this time around.  The production values, as always, remained modest and aligned with the requirements of the story. Analysis: For audiences who have previously watched both installments of the 'Drushyam' franchise in Telugu, watching the dubbed version this time around might feel somewhat unfamiliar. In other words, viewers accustomed to seeing Venkatesh and the other actors in those roles across the first two films may feel slightly disoriented upon seeing Mohanlal and the Malayalam cast. Many scenes also retain a distinct \"Malayalam flavor,\" placing the film quite far removed from a typical Telugu cultural context.  Consequently, it may not be particularly easy for Telugu audiences to fully connect with the story. Nevertheless, for those who enjoyed the previous two installments of the 'Drushyam' franchise, this film is worth a one-time watch. The first half unfolded very slowly and failed to effectively draw the audience into the narrative. Conversely, the second half felt rushed, as if hurrying to reach the climax. Some of the suspense sequences felt forced and shoehorned into the plot.  However, one or two of the twists introduced within the story were engaging. However, on the whole, it must be admitted that the film failed to captivate audiences in the way its predecessors did. Towards the end, a hint was dropped suggesting the possibility of a 'Drishyam 4'. It remains to be seen when that installment will arrive and what form it will take. Plus Points: Mohanlal's performance, The twists in the plot, The main storyline. Minus Points: Slow-paced screenplay in the first half, Editing, Lack of prominence given to characters other than George. Conclusion: This Malayalam 'Drishyam' sequel feels somewhat forced Banner: Aashirvad Cinemas Producer: Antony Perumbavoor Direction: Jeethu Joseph Music: Anil Johnson Cast: Mohanlal, Meena, Ansiba Hassan, Esther Anil, Asha Sharath, Shanthi Mayadevi, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ag7UpaYofJOwHelj_Drushyam3.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-21T09:20:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-drishyam-3"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Aakhri Sawal'"},"content":{"text":"There are films that entertain, there are films that provoke, and then there are films like Aakhri Sawal that arrive like a storm and force an entire nation to confront the questions it has avoided for decades. Directed by Abhijeet Mohan Warang and Produced by Nikhil Nanda, this hard-hitting political drama is not designed to comfort the audience. It is designed to challenge them, disturb them, and leave them thinking long after the credits roll. At a time when mainstream cinema often plays safe, Aakhri Sawal chooses courage. The film openly touches upon some of the nation’s most controversial and emotionally charged subjects — from the demolition of the Babri Masjid to the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi — and raises questions that generations have debated but never fully answered. What makes the film even more shocking is the unapologetic honesty with which these conversations are presented. The narrative dares to ask whether organizations like the RSS had deeper involvement in these historic events, and the way the film lays out its perspective and facts leaves the audience stunned. There are moments where the sheer boldness of the writing genuinely makes your jaw drop. Sanjay Dutt delivers what can easily be called one of the most intense performances of his career. This is not the larger-than-life Sanjay Dutt audiences are used to seeing. This is a restrained, wounded, fearless performer carrying the weight of history, anger, and truth in his eyes. Every dialogue lands with impact, and every silent moment speaks even louder. His performance elevates the film from being just politically relevant to emotionally unforgettable. The biggest surprise package, however, is Namashi Chakraborty. He emerges as the soul of the film and proves that he is far more than what audiences expected. His sincerity, emotional depth, and screen presence add an unpredictable energy to the narrative. Several scenes involving him leave a lasting impact and showcase an actor ready for much bigger recognition. One of the strongest aspects of Aakhri Sawal is its newsroom debate sequences. These portions are written with remarkable intensity and intelligence, constantly keeping the audience intrigued. The confrontations feel raw and real, almost like watching a nation argue with itself on screen. Some sequences are so emotionally charged and haunting that they genuinely stir your soul. Visually, the film maintains tension throughout. Every frame carries weight and purpose, ensuring that the audience remains invested till the very end. The storytelling never loses grip despite dealing with layered political and historical themes. Instead of becoming preachy, the film remains emotionally engaging and deeply human. The supporting cast including Amit Sadh, Sameera Reddy, Neetu Chandra and Tridha Choudhury deliver some of their most impactful performances ever, adding further strength to the film’s emotionally heavy narrative. Producer Nikhil Nanda deserves appreciation for backing a subject this fearless and uncompromising. Aakhri Sawal does not feel like just another film. It feels like a conversation India was never prepared to have openly. Bold, unsettling, emotional, and brutally honest, the film succeeds in doing what very few political dramas achieve it makes the audience uncomfortable while also keeping them completely engaged. This is courageous cinema in its purest form."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/agbLRqYofJOwHQ43_aakhrisawal.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-15T06:29:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-aakhri-sawal"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: Daadi Ki Shaadi"},"content":{"text":"The film revolves around Kapil, who is navigating an arranged marriage setup when he meets Sadia Khateeb, his prospective match. Just when things begin to settle into a traditional roka, the situation takes an unexpected turn, Sadia’s daadi announces her own decision to get married, completely shifting the emotional and social dynamics of the family. The story moves to Shimla, where the daadi (Neetu Kapoor) lives alone. Her two sons and daughter rush to Shimla after reading online about her decision to remarry at this age, especially as her phone is switched off, leaving them worried and unable to reach her. Caught in the middle of this chaos is Kapil, who is deeply in love with Sadia Khateeb. Even after his own roka is called off under the belief that his union cannot continue if the daadi is remarrying, he chooses to stay connected to Sadia. He eventually joins the family’s chaotic mission, though with a very different intent: to stop the daadi’s wedding and salvage his own love story in the process. What unfolds is a mix of emotional clashes, comedic misunderstandings, and generational conflict, eventually building towards a surprisingly heartfelt resolution that touches upon family, acceptance, and letting go. Performances: Neetu Kapoor is the undeniable anchor of the film, delivering a graceful yet fearless performance as the daadi. She brings warmth, dignity, and emotional unpredictability, making her character both endearing and impactful. Kapil Sharma balances humour and emotion with ease. His performance feels natural, especially as his character transitions from a hopeful groom to someone emotionally entangled in a much larger family conflict. Sadia Khateeb lends quiet strength to her role, portraying confusion, affection, and emotional restraint with sincerity. She remains the emotional bridge between the chaotic family dynamics. The supporting cast, playing the daadi’s children, effectively drives the central conflict, bringing in frustration, humour, and generational resistance that fuels the narrative. Direction and Writing: The film stands out for its emotional clarity and grounded storytelling, leaning into relatable family dynamics and human reactions. The writing is on point and effective, allowing situations to unfold naturally rather than forcefully. Ashish R Mohan’s direction is confident and patient, often letting silence, reactions, and awkward family exchanges carry as much weight as dialogue. This gives the film its authenticity and emotional depth. Music and Visuals: The music complements the narrative without overwhelming it, subtly enhancing emotional and light-hearted moments. Visually, the film maintains a warm, accessible tone, making the world feel familiar and lived-in. Verdict: A heartfelt, well-crafted family entertainer that blends generational conflict, humour, and emotion into a cohesive experience. It works because of its sincerity and its ability to find humour within emotional chaos. Final Word: Warm, chaotic, and deeply human, this is family cinema done right."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/af2G8qYofJOwG-KX_KapilDaadiKiShaadi.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&rect=0%2C0%2C874%2C431&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-05-08T05:59:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"daadi-ki-shaadi-movie-review"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Raja Shivaji'"},"content":{"text":"Riteish Deshmukh returns to direction with Raja Shivaji, and the ambition here is immediately evident. Taking on the roles of actor, writer, and director, he reshapes the familiar historical biopic into something more reflective and immersive. Told through a chapter-based narrative in a bilingual format, the film unfolds less like a conventional drama and more like a carefully written manuscript, measured, deliberate, and emotionally layered. What stands out most is the film’s clear intent: this is not a story of war, but of a warrior. There are no overwhelming, large-scale battle sequences designed purely for spectacle. Instead, the narrative chooses to focus on the making of Shivaji Maharaj, his thoughts, his influences, and the journey that shaped him into a leader. This approach gives the film a quieter strength, allowing it to connect on a more personal level. A significant portion of the film is devoted to Shivaji’s early years and coming-of-age. It thoughtfully explores the lesser-known aspects of his upbringing, placing strong emphasis on the role of his mother, Jijabai. Her presence becomes the emotional anchor of the story, illustrating how values, vision, and resilience were instilled in him long before he became a legendary figure. The focus on family and formative relationships adds richness, making his evolution feel deeply human rather than mythic. At the center, Riteish Deshmukh delivers a restrained and composed performance. His portrayal avoids excessive grandeur, instead leaning into stillness and quiet intensity. As a filmmaker, he shows notable control allowing moments to breathe and trusting the material rather than overdramatizing it. Genelia Deshmukh’s involvement is felt in the film’s emotional texture. There’s a softness in how relationships are handled, a sensitivity that balances the larger historical canvas. This is especially evident in the film’s quieter passages, where personal moments are given as much importance as political developments. Young Rahyl Deshmukh brings a natural charm to the role of the young Shivaji, capturing innocence and curiosity in a way that makes the early chapters particularly engaging and heartfelt. Among the supporting cast, Vidya Balan as Badi Begam leaves a strong impression with a performance marked by subtlety and intelligence. She brings both emotional depth and political nuance without resorting to overt dramatics. Sanjay Dutt’s Afzal Khan is equally compelling - his portrayal carries an underlying tension, defined by cunning, cruelty, and a quiet, looming menace that makes him deeply unsettling.   Fardeen Khan’s Shah Jahan is defined by restraint. Much of his presence is built around observation and waiting particularly in moments linked to the completion of the Taj Mahal giving the character a composed, watchful quality rather than overt authority. Abhishek Bachchan, as Sambhaji, delivers one of the film’s more emotionally layered performances, reflecting the burden of legacy with quiet internal conflict. A brief but impactful cameo by Salman Khan as Jiva Mahala adds emotional weight. The moment resonates not because of scale, but because of the personal loyalty it represents. The supporting ensemble including Bhagyashree as Jijabai, Sachin Khedekar, Mahesh Manjrekar, Boman Irani, Jitendra Joshi, and Amole Gupte ensures that the world feels complete and intentional. Each character contributes meaningfully to the narrative’s emotional and political fabric. Visually, Santosh Sivan’s cinematography lends the film a grounded grandeur. The landscapes feel authentic, and even the action is staged with clarity rather than chaos. Ajay–Atul’s music further elevates the experience, maintaining an emotional rhythm that complements the storytelling without overwhelming it. The blend of Marathi and Hindi elements adds cultural authenticity. Backed by Jio Studios and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under Mumbai Film Company, the film maintains a fine balance between scale and discipline. Its ambition is evident, but it never loses control of its narrative focus. While Raja Shivaji is designed as a Pan-India film, it carries a special resonance for audiences in Mumbai and Maharashtra. Releasing around Maharashtra Day, it feels like more than just a cinematic event, it comes across as a heartfelt cultural tribute.  More than a tale of war, it stands as a lesson in leadership, resilience, and pride, one that deserves to be known and felt by every Indian. Director: Riteish Deshmukh,   Cast: Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, Genelia Deshmukh and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/afRcDsBOoF08xh7T_rajashivaji.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-05-01T06:54:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-raja-shivaji"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Decoit'"},"content":{"text":"Known for consistently choosing unique scripts and achieving back-to-back successes in his career, Adivi Sesh took a brief hiatus before making this film. Initially, Shruti Haasan was selected as the female lead; however, she stepped down due to various reasons. Subsequently, Mrunal Thakur was cast as the heroine. With Mrunal's inclusion, expectations surrounding the film soared even higher. Let's see in this review to what extent the film managed to live up to those expectations. Story:  Haridas (Adivi Sesh) and Saraswathi (Mrunal Thakur)—a couple who fell in love and got married—end up separating amidst a series of unexpected circumstances. Haridas lands in prison in connection with a murder case. It is due to Saraswathi that Haridas finds himself incarcerated for the murder. Consequently, he resolves to exact revenge upon her. After escaping from prison, Haridas hatches a plan to flee to Dubai.To facilitate this, he requires a certain amount of money. In the process of trying to acquire those funds, he crosses paths with Saraswathi—only to discover that she has since remarried.  While her husband suffers from a severe illness, Saraswathi faces immense hardships while raising their child. At this critical juncture, what steps does Haridas—who is intent on exacting revenge upon Saraswathi—take? Furthermore, why did Haridas and Saraswathi—who had fallen deeply in love and married—eventually part ways? And how did Haridas become entangled in a murder case? To uncover the answers to these questions, one must watch the film. Performances: It is a well-known fact that Adivi Sesh has repeatedly proven his mettle as an actor. Once again, he has impressed audiences with his performance. Rather than merely acting in the role of Haridas, one could say he truly lived the character; such was the caliber of Adivi Sesh's performance. He earns high praise, particularly for his work in several emotional and action sequences. He also captivated viewers with a look that perfectly suited the demands of the role. Additionally, Adivi Sesh impressed with his acting in the romantic scenes. Overall, although his character in this film is quite distinct from his previous roles, he adapted to it seamlessly and delivered a compelling performance. Mrunal Thakur’s character holds immense significance within the film's narrative. However, in terms of the screenplay, her role did not receive as much prominence as it deserved. It must be noted that there were no specific scenes that truly challenged her to deliver a tour-de-force performance. Mrunal’s acting in the romantic scenes was engaging, while her performance in some of the emotional sequences was merely passable.  Atul Kulkarni did complete justice to his role. As for Anurag Kashyap, he made a strong impression within the limited screen time he was allotted; however, his character certainly warranted greater prominence. The actors who played the supporting roles delivered decent performances. Technical: Director Shaniel Deo chose a unique premise for the story. However, it must be said that he failed to flesh it out into a cohesive narrative. He drove the plot forward using routine sequences; in particular, several scenes felt like rehashes of moments seen in countless other films. There is nothing particularly noteworthy to mention regarding the screenplay either.  As for the music provided by Bheems, there is little to discuss; only one song felt somewhat passable. Bheems failed to impress even with the background score. Although it felt adequate in a scene or two, the music ultimately proved to be a detriment to the film as a whole.  The cinematography was good in certain sequences—specifically, some shots effectively conveyed the sense of being transported back in time. The production values ​​were commendable. Analysis: Compared to Adivi Sesh's previous films, this movie stands out as a distinctly different kind of project. However, the outcome of this film implicitly suggests that if Adivi Sesh were to attempt a movie within a conventional, formulaic format, his dedicated fan base would likely reject it.  The director steered the film using a stereotypical story and narrative structure. Despite Adivi Sesh's undeniable talent, the lack of a strong grip on the screenplay rendered the entire effort futile—much like pouring precious perfume into the ashes. Rumors had already surfaced during the filming stage regarding creative differences over certain scenes.  It appears that, this time around, Adivi Sesh's judgment may have faltered. Mrunal Thakur did justice to her role; however, she should have been given a bit more prominence. The director ought to have exercised greater care regarding the screenplay. Plus Points: Adivi Sesh Cinematography Anurag Kashyap Minus Points: The Heroine's Role Music Story and Screenplay In Conclusion: A story and screenplay that fail to impress. Banner: Annapurna Studios, SS Creations Direction: Shaniyel Deo Producers: Supriya Yarlagadda, Sunil Narang Music: Bheems Ceciroleo Cast: Adivi Sesh, Mrunal Thakur, Atul Kulkarni, Vaibhav, Anurag Kashyap, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/adjfdp1ZCF7ETENe_dacoit.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-04-10T06:31:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-decoit"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Biker'"},"content":{"text":"It is a well-known fact that the summer season is crucial for Tollywood. This summer was originally scheduled to kick off with a major release starring Ram Charan; however, due to various reasons, that film was postponed. Stepping in to fill that void, Sharwanand has arrived before the audience today with his film, 'Biker.'  The filmmakers have consistently asserted that—until now—no full-fledged bike racing movie has ever graced the Indian screen, making this the very first of its kind. Having assured the public that the film would captivate audiences, let us see in this review whether 'Biker' lives up to those claims. Story: Vikas Narayan—known as Vicky (Sharwanand)—is a top-tier motocross racer who suddenly decides to quit the sport. While fully immersed in leading a family life, Vicky unexpectedly finds his interest and passion for racing reignited due to unforeseen circumstances. Consequently, he returns to his father and mentor, Sunil Narayan (Rajasekhar).  What events unfold during this reunion? Furthermore, what is the true nature of the bond shared between this father-son duo—Sunil and Vicky? The film's premise revolves around why Vicky gives up racing, only to return to the sport many years later. Although the storyline itself is quite simple, the film is driven primarily by its screenplay. Performances: Regardless of the film or the nature of the role, we consistently see Sharwanand impressing audiences with his acting prowess. In this latest outing, he once again poured his heart and soul into the character of Vicky. Sharwanand appears in two distinct age groups within the film, and he delivers a convincing performance tailored perfectly to each phase of the character's life.  Furthermore, Sharwanand earns high marks once again for his execution of both emotional and romantic scenes. As a biker, he makes a sincere effort to impress through his body language. His romantic scenes with the female lead are engaging. Overall, Sharwanand delivers a commendable performance as a biker. Rajasekhar makes a return to the silver screen after a long hiatus. He is cast in the role of Sharwanand's father—a character that, despite being a paternal figure, is accorded significant importance within the narrative. Rajasekhar effectively conveys the emotional depth of the role, bringing the character to life with great conviction. Rajasekhar's acting requires no special mention; he has once again proven his mettle as a performer.  Regarding the female lead, while her character holds significance within the story's plot, it must be noted that she does not receive the expected level of prominence in the actual screenplay. Nevertheless, she delivers a decent performance within the scope provided to her. There is not much to specifically discuss regarding the performances of the other supporting cast members.  Technical: Director Abhilash should have chosen a stronger storyline. It appears he intended to carry the film solely through his direction and screenplay. He really should have put more effort into refining the story itself. Such a thin storyline demands a robust screenplay; however, the director did not fully succeed in that regard either. There are flaws in the editing.  Some of the bike racing sequences occasionally feel tedious. While the film might appeal to racing enthusiasts, regular audiences are likely to wear expressions of exasperation, thinking, \"That's enough—please make it stop!\"  The cinematography is commendable; the camera work in certain racing sequences is particularly impressive. As for the music, there is nothing particularly noteworthy to mention, though it must be acknowledged that the music director did manage to succeed with the background score in a few isolated moments. The production values ​​are good. Analysis: It would have been more effective had the director first provided the audience with a foundational understanding of bike racing before immersing them in the narrative. As it stands, the film is truly engaging only for those who already possess prior knowledge of racing. Specifically, racing aficionados are the ones who will likely watch and enjoy this movie.  However, the average commercial audience is bound to be left bewildered—staring blankly and wondering, \"What exactly is this?\" While the audience may connect with a few of the emotional scenes scattered throughout the film, that connection often feels abruptly severed almost immediately. Overall, the director failed to craft a film that would truly resonate with the audience or leave a lasting impression on their hearts.  The director steered the film as if its sole purpose were to showcase bike racing. It remains unclear whether he simply forgot that a movie requires a blend of various elements, or if he naively assumed that the presence of emotion and racing sequences alone would suffice to bring everything else together. However, it must be stated that the average moviegoer is unlikely to enjoy 'Biker'.  Sharwanand put in a tremendous amount of effort. It was a wise decision to cast Rajasekhar in this role; the combination of these two actors held the potential to create something truly spectacular. Unfortunately, the director failed to effectively utilize their talents to deliver a hit film. Apart from those with a specific passion for bike racing, regular family audiences will find it difficult to connect with this movie. It is simply not possible to carry an entire film on the strength of just a few emotional scenes. Plus Points: Sharwanand Rajasekhar A few racing sequences Minus Points: Story and Screenplay Slow pacing in the first half Some racing sequences felt tedious Certain scenes were overly melodramatic Conclusion: While Sharwanand was impressive in his portrayal of a biker, the film ultimately failed to appeal to family audiences. Banner: UV Creations Producers: Vamsi, Pramod Direction: Abhilash Reddy Music: Ghibran Cast: Sharwanand, Rajasekhar, Malavika Nair, Atul Kulkarni, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/ac96upGXnQHGZPjo_biker.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-04-03T06:31:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-biker---for-those-who-love-racing"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Ustaad Bhagat Singh'"},"content":{"text":"Everyone is well aware of the massive success achieved by Gabbar Singh—a film released many years ago, starring Pawan Kalyan as the lead and directed by Harish Shankar. Consequently, expectations for this film have soared to great heights. In this review, let us see whether Director Harish Shankar has managed to live up to those expectations. Story: A teacher (K.S. Ravikumar), who dedicates himself to supporting the education of tribal children, notices a particular young boy in the region who stands out as truly special. The teacher adopts the boy, raises him, and molds him into a police officer.  That officer is Ustaad Bhagat Singh (Pawan Kalyan)—a man who not only accomplishes whatever he sets his mind to but also stands at the forefront whenever and wherever corruption or injustice rears its head.  The story revolves around how Ustaad Bhagat Singh thwarts the schemes of an individual who seeks to seize power by assassinating the state's Chief Minister. Simply put, this is the story of a powerful police officer. Performances: There is no need to speak separately about Pawan Kalyan's performance; it speaks for itself. There is absolutely no doubt that he does complete justice to any role assigned to him. Pawan Kalyan has done full justice to the character of Ustaad Bhagat Singh as well. Delivering a powerful performance in a commanding role, he captivated the audience without ever compromising on his signature style of entertainment.  Furthermore, his impeccable comedic timing earned him the appreciation of his fans. Pawan Kalyan was equally impressive in the romantic sequences. He also delighted the audience by showcasing a few dance moves in the musical numbers.  Overall, Pawan Kalyan delivered a captivating performance that truly defined the concept of a \"one-man show.\" Typically, heroines do not play a very significant role in Pawan Kalyan's films; this trend continued in this movie as well. The character played by the lead actress, Sreeleela, lacked substantial importance. Nevertheless, she delivered a decent performance within the limited scope of her role. The other heroine, Raashi Khanna, was confined to a single song sequence. She did not feel integral to the plot; in fact, her absence from the film would not have made any significant difference to the narrative.  The supporting cast members performed adequately within the confines of their respective roles. Technical: It appeared that Director Harish Shankar focused his attention entirely on the screenplay and Pawan Kalyan's character, rather than on the core storyline itself. Several of his dialogues were crafted to deliver a definite \"kick\" to the fans. Moreover, the director clearly understood exactly how the fans wished to see Pawan Kalyan portrayed on screen, and he presented him in the film accordingly.  The director succeeded in crafting dialogues that perfectly complemented Pawan Kalyan's distinct body language. The screenplay was passable. The direction falls short, the storyline is weak, and the cinematography is merely passable.  The music provided by Devi Sri Prasad is decent, to a certain extent. The fact that the songs did not turn out to be blockbusters is a drawback; however, the background score provided by Thaman stands out as a major highlight of the film. The production values ​​are commendable, though there are occasional flaws in the editing. Analysis: Whenever a Pawan Kalyan film is announced, it captures the attention not only of his fans but of audiences from all walks of life. Speculations abound—regarding the kind of story he might choose or whether the film will live up to the stature he currently commands—and expectations inevitably soar. There is absolutely no doubt that meeting such high expectations is a monumental challenge for any director.  In this film, Director Harish Shankar presents Pawan Kalyan in a simple, straightforward manner—devoid of heavy-handed social messages or overly dramatic, \"powerful\" dialogues—while crafting his lines in a way that specifically appeals to his fan base. It has been proven once again that Harish Shankar possesses a keen understanding of exactly what fans expect from a Pawan Kalyan film. Director Harish Shankar knew that if Pawan Kalyan delivered the kind of high-energy entertainment reminiscent of Gabbar Singh, his fans would undoubtedly embrace it wholeheartedly. Consequently, he devised a strategy to focus exclusively on showcasing Pawan Kalyan's persona and delivering pure entertainment, without getting bogged down in the intricacies of the plot or other narrative elements.  While his approach certainly resonates with the fans, the general audience may be left feeling that something more is missing. Ultimately, the film feels as though it was crafted exclusively for the enjoyment of Pawan Kalyan's devoted fan base. Pawan Kalyan's previous film, OG, also felt as though it was made specifically for his fans. Once again, this movie appears to have been crafted solely to satisfy Pawan Kalyan's fan base. General audiences may choose to wait until the film becomes available on OTT platforms. Plus Points: Pawan Kalyan, Comedy Select scenes Minus Points: Story and Screenplay Roles of the Heroines Roles of the Villains Verdict: For Pawan Kalyan's fans..."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/abuyNrbci2UF6P_u_UBS.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-03-19T07:22:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":null}},"uid":"review-ustaad-bhagat-singh---treat-for-fans-only"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Vishnu Vinyasam' - Routine Entertainer"},"content":{"text":"This film, starring Sree Vishnu, who has acquired a special image by choosing different films, did not have much publicity from the beginning. But there was a bit of a rush during the release. The hype for this film increased in the wake of the publicity that two films starring Sree Vishnu were coming out at the same time. So how is this film? Let's see in this review whether the matter in this film is up to the increased hype. Story: Vishnu (Sree Vishnu) is a junior lecturer at Ongole Pragathi Junior College. He believes in Vastu a lot and pays a lot of attention to horoscopes. He believes a little too much in numerology. Manisha (Nayan Sarika) enters Vishnu's life. Manisha loves Vishnu at first sight. Manisha has a problem. Because of that problem, no one comes forward to marry her. But Manisha loves Vishnu without telling him about it.  After both of them fall deeply in love, Manisha tells Vishnu the real thing. Will Vishnu then say okay to marry Manisha? What is that problem that Manisha has so far? You have to watch the movie to know. Actors' performance: Sree Vishnu has been impressing in recent times as he has made a name for himself in comedy roles. He has already earned the reputation of playing confusing roles. Moreover, as expected, since this is a confusing role in this film, Srivishnu impressed. He acted in an impressive manner and impressed. His expressions make you laugh. Apart from that, he acted in a memorable way in his role.  The heroine Nayan Sarika impressed with her beauty. Even though she was mostly seen in a saree, she sparkled with beauty here and there. Along with her impressive beauty, she impressed with her acting. Her acting in some scenes was good. Especially in some scenes, her acting was the main attraction of the film.  The actors who played other roles impressed within the scope of their roles. Technical: Although the subject taken by director Yadunath Maruthirao is very routine, he impressed with the entertainment he handled. More care should have been taken in the screenplay. It seemed that some scenes were jumped. There are errors in editing. Especially some scenes are like front, back... back, front. That makes it confusing at times.  There is nothing much to say about the music. But in some scenes of the film, it seems that the background score is not important. The production values ​​are good. The cinematography is not important. Analysis: It seems that hero Srivishnu has accepted this film after seeing the support that entertainment films have been getting in recent times. The story is very routine. Recently, too, a film came out in which the hero had three beliefs. If you watch this film within a few months of its release, it has been proven once again that if this subject is handled with comedy, the audience will support it.  The director has handled this film in a completely entertaining way. But there are some errors in the screenplay. There is some confusion in the placement of scenes. The first half came out very well. After the entertaining first half, it must be said that the second half has decreased a bit. The director succeeded in revealing the twist. However, even though there is another twist in the climax, it did not work out well. Overall, the movie is a good entertainer, but you have to enjoy the magic without logic. Plus points: Sree Vishnu, Nayan Sarika Comedy, Satya, other comedians Minus points: Some scenes without logic, Some scenes in the second half, Music, editing. Finally.. It would be good if you enjoy the entertainment without looking at whether there is no logic or not. Banner: Sree Subrahmanyeshwara Cinemas Producer: Sumanth Naidu Director: Yadunath Maruthi Rao Music: Rathan Cast: Sree Vishnu, Nayan Sarika, Satya, Murali Sharma, Brahmaji and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aaFsmMFoBIGEg6rI_vishnuvinyasam.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-02-27T09:30:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkkMjnbLZHw"}},"uid":"review-vishnu-vinyasam---routine-entertainer"}},{"node":{"tags":["Entertainment"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'O’Romeo'"},"content":{"text":"Inspired by true events, Sajid Nadiadwala's O'Romeo encompasses layered elements of emotions, story and characters that are thoughtfully crafted. Starring Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Avinash Tiwary, Nana Patekar, Farida Jalal, followed by Disha Patani, Tamannaah Bhatia & Vikrant Massey in a special appearances O'Romeo is a visual treat. Vishal Bhardwaj's direction is seamlessly balanced between the mass and class appeal. His sharp attention to even the minute details truly yet again proves his eye for nuanced filmmaking. The jaw dropping action sequences performed by Shahid Kapoor, Avinash Tiwary is arresting and even Triptii Dimri impresses with her action skills making the hype and high anticipation around the film all worth it. The performances by each actor is refined, outstanding and in one word perfect.Shahid Kapoor as Ustara is mind boggling and O'Romeo surely stands as one of his finest roles. Triptii Dimri as Afshan has the innocence yet when required the zeal and fire for revenge. Avinash Tiwary as Jalal is unexpected and unrecognisable. The head tattoo adds to his menacing look and the ruthless character that he plays on screen. The chemistry between Shahid and Triptii feels fresh, intensely passionate and yet they never make you feel this is the first time they are sharing screen space together. Audiences are in for a visual treat with Farida Jalal's fiery dialogues and Nana Patekar's raw and unfiltered dialogue delivery and magnetic screen presence. The humour of the film is something that is strategically placed and doesn't disrupt the emotional intensity. Vishal Bhardwaj can never go wrong when it comes to music. Each music track is immensely soul stirring and melody that you will connect to. The dance numbers be it Aashiqon ki colony, paan ki dukaan has an unmatched energy and makes you want to shake a leg. What grabs your attention is also what a phenomenal dancer Shahid and Disha are and how beautifully they have been brought together in the popular tracks of the movie. Sajid Nadiadwala adds another impressive visionary movie to his legacy with O'Romeo after some of the most inspiring and milestone movies like Chhichhore, 83,Tamasha, Chandu Champion and more."},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aY7_mFWLo0XkEfK7_ORomeo.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-02-13T06:15:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2M4hKmuBzUU"}},"uid":"review-oromeo"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Anaganaga Oka Raju'"},"content":{"text":"Naveen Polishetty, who gained immense popularity overnight as a hero with the film Jathi Ratnalu, has been making films slowly and steadily without much fanfare. His film with Anushka, Miss Shetty Mr. Polishetty, was considered decent, but some felt it wasn't a film befitting Naveen's image. Naveen started this film with his own script. Even though the director changed, he took the lead in carrying the film forward. From the beginning of the film's production, they have been conducting promotions in a way that raised expectations. Let's see how the film is in this review.  Story: Raju (Naveen Polishetty), who belongs to a zamindar family, lives a respectable life in the village by invoking his ancestors' name, even though he has lost all his properties. Although he is a zamindar's heir in name, Raju faces financial difficulties. Even though he has lost all his fields and properties, he continues to be called a zamindar in the village by mentioning his grandfather's name. He thinks that to solve all his problems, he needs to marry a very wealthy girl. He looks at many prospective matches for this purpose. Finally, he meets Charulata (Meenakshi Chaudhary). Upon learning that she is the daughter of the very wealthy Bhupathi Raju (Rao Ramesh), he undertakes \"Operation Charulata\" to make her fall in love with him.  Charulata falls for his plan, and Raju and Charu get married in a grand ceremony. After the marriage, Raju learns some shocking things, and his situation becomes even worse than before the wedding. How does Raju get out of these circumstances? Does Raju manage to overcome his financial problems as he had hoped? What he does in response to that is the film's plot.  Actors' Performance: It's evident from watching the film that Naveen Polishetty carried the entire burden of the movie on his shoulders. Naveen impressed with his comedic timing. He captivated with his signature mannerisms and also impressed with his dialogues and dance. He also attracted everyone's attention by performing an action sequence. There is no doubt that Naveen's comedic timing is the main attraction of the film. He dominated the entire film with his acting and comedy. Even though the entire film revolved around Naveen, he acted with balance and restraint without going overboard anywhere.  The heroine, Meenakshi Chaudhary, looks very beautiful. She has already earned good marks in terms of her looks. Although she seemed to overact in one or two places, her overall performance was impressive. Rao Ramesh impressed in his limited role. The actors in other roles performed adequately. However, none of them got the scope to deliver a great performance.  Technical Aspects: The director tried to make the story completely entertaining. In that process, the comedy scenes he wrote were somewhat funny. However, every scene felt like something seen before, like something that had made people laugh before. The writing was particularly poor in the second half. It is known that Naveen is one of the writers of this film. It doesn't seem like he gave much importance to other characters except for his own.  There is nothing much to say about the music. While one song was somewhat decent, overall, the songs and background score were not great. The cinematography is good; the beauty of the village was captured well. There are many complaints regarding the editing. The second half, in particular, needed significant trimming. The production values ​​are in line with the story.  Analysis: The fact that Naveen Polishetty is releasing his film knowing that there are big films releasing for Sankranthi suggests he had a lot of confidence in his movie. His statements before the film's release also generated interest. He conducted promotional activities in a way that attracted everyone's attention. However, his complete control over the script and the lack of importance given to any character other than his own resulted in the entire film revolving around Naveen. Despite this, the first half felt decent and progressed with comedy.  However, despite a major problem in the second half, it's unclear why he's contesting in elections and making various attempts to win them. Only Naveen knows why a person from one village is contesting elections in another village. The entire second half proceeded illogically, like magic. While logic isn't always necessary for such entertainment films, assuming that the audience will accept and believe anything shown to them can backfire. That's what happened here. The illogical scenes and screenplay became excessive. The villain had no importance whatsoever; everyone stood before the hero like sheep. The audience won't stand for that. Therefore, it remains to be seen how well the audience will receive the king's entertainment.  Plus points: Naveen Polishetty Some comedy scenes First half.  Minus points: Second half Illogical scenes Routine climax Music  Conclusion... This entertainment is not enough for the Sankranthi competition, Raju.  Banner: Sithara Entertainments  Producers: Naga Vamsi, Sai Soujanya  Director: Mari  Music: Mickey J. Meyer  Cast: Naveen Polishetty, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Rao Ramesh, Tharak Ponnappa and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWdkoQIvOtkhBfM4_AnaganagaOkaRaju.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-01-14T07:42:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSGVbEZHgSQ"}},"uid":"review-anaganaga-oka-raju"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi'"},"content":{"text":"Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja has been struggling with a series of flops. The recent film 'Mass Jathara' further disappointed his fans. Recovering quickly from that flop, Ravi Teja made this film at a very fast pace. Director Kishore Tirumala has crafted this film as a family entertainer. It was promoted as a good family entertainer for this Sankranthi season. Let's see in this review whether the film lives up to those expectations.  Story: Ram (Ravi Teja) and Balamani (Dimple Hayathi) are husband and wife. They lead a very harmonious life together. While their married life is going smoothly, due to some unexpected events, Ram unexpectedly meets Manasa Shetty (Ashika Ranganath) from Spain, and a physical relationship develops between them.  After returning from Spain, Ram is troubled by this incident. That's when Manasa comes to Hyderabad. This leads to more problems for Ram. Ram tries to tell Manasa that he is married. What happens in the end? How do the two women play games with Ram? That's the story of the film.  Actors' Performance: Ravi Teja, as always, impressed with his energetic performance. It has been proven once again that he can easily handle such roles. Although being caught between two women is a somewhat new subject for Ravi Teja, he was still captivating. With his trademark mannerisms, Ravi Teja was decent in creating humor through awkward situations and interactions between the two female leads. However, he failed to impress in the songs. In some scenes, his age was clearly visible. Overall, it must be said that Ravi Teja tried his best to deliver full-fledged entertainment.  Among the heroines, Dimple Hayathi deserves special mention. She played Ravi Teja's wife. Her character was portrayed as both traditional and beautiful. However, in some scenes, it feels like another actress would have been a better fit for this role than Dimple. There wasn't much scope for acting. Dimple was decent with what she had. Ashika impressed with her beauty. She played the role of a girl who takes revenge on the person who cheated her. Her character also had only moderate scope for acting. However, overall, Dimple Hayathi impressed in the role of Manasa that she was given.  Technical Aspects: Director Kishore Tirumala should have written a stronger story. He claimed to have managed with the screenplay despite the simple story. He tried to drive the narrative with entertainment. However, he should have presented the story in a more engaging way for the audience. Some dialogues were good, while others were very clichéd.  Bheems' music was average. The songs were not very impressive. The background score was also just average. The cinematography was average. The cinematography was good in some of the foreign location scenes. There were flaws in the editing. Some scenes in the second half feel dragged out. The production values ​​are in line with the story.  Analysis: From the beginning, the unit members have been saying that this film delivers the kind of entertainment that audiences expect from Ravi Teja. Many films have been made in the past about a man caught between two women. Director Kishore has tried to bring back the same story with a new backdrop. It must be said that the director has succeeded to a certain extent in making the film's screenplay entertaining.  Despite the routine story, he managed to evoke laughter in places with the screenplay he chose. He also kept the story moving forward without becoming boring. However, when there is a very strong family entertainer playing alongside it, this film needed to be even better. It needed to be a superior family entertainer. But since the film is only moderately entertaining, it remains to be seen how much the audience will support this film.  Plus Points: Some comedy scenes First half Serial song  Minus Points: Routine story Narrative Some scenes in the second half  Finally... A request to all husbands... A routine entertainer  Banner: SLV Cinemas  Producer: Sudhakar Cherukuri  Director: Kishore Tirumala  Music: Bheems Ceciroleo  Cast: Ravi Teja, Dimple Hayathi, Ashika Ranganath, Sunil, Tharak Ponnappa, Soni, Vennela Kishore, Satya, and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWYRSgIvOtkhBbFi_BMW.JPG?auto=format,compress&rect=0,0,2028,1000&w=2028&h=1000"},"datetime":"2026-01-13T08:33:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7PJpctfx3Q"}},"uid":"review-bhartha-mahasayulaku-wignyapthi"}},{"node":{"tags":["politics"],"data":{"title":{"text":"Review: 'Mana Shankaravaraprasad Garu'"},"content":{"text":"After delivering the biggest blockbuster with 'Sankranthi Ki Vastunnam' alongside Venkatesh for Sankranthi 2025, Anil Ravipudi is being called the 'Sankranthi Director'. In this context, ever since the announcement that Anil would be coming with a film starring the Megastar for Sankranthi, everyone has been eagerly waiting to see how it would turn out. Moreover, with Venkatesh also in the film and every song released becoming a hit, the expectations increased even further. Let's see in this review whether Anil Ravipudi lived up to the expectations, continued his Sankranthi sentiment, and delivered a hit.  Story: Shankaravaraprasad (Chiranjeevi) is a National Security Officer. Due to certain reasons, he divorces his wife Shashirekha (Nayanthara). At the time of the divorce, they have two children. Shashirekha, who is one of the wealthiest women in the country, takes precautions to prevent Shankaravaraprasad from even meeting his children. After a long time, Shankaravaraprasad gets the opportunity to see his children. At that time, realizing that his children are longing for their father's love, he decides to get closer to Shashirekha again.  What does Shankaravaraprasad do for this? A certain circumstance leads him to become a security officer at Shashirekha's house. What is that circumstance? What happened in the end? Will the divorced couple reunite? This is the storyline of the film.  Actors' Performance: No amount of praise is enough for Megastar Chiranjeevi's performance. From the beginning, fans eagerly awaited seeing Chiranjeevi's vintage comedy in this film. They got exactly what they hoped for from Chiranjeevi. He entertained with his unique mannerisms, just like he did in his brother's film and some other movies. He impressed in dance, action, drama, and everything else. He was particularly outstanding in some of the comedy scenes. The director fully utilized Chiranjeevi's potential. It felt like Chiranjeevi completely surrendered to the director's vision.  Venkatesh impressed in his role. His look and body language were captivating as always. Venkatesh excelled, especially in the scenes with Chiranjeevi. It must be said that the film's second half definitely picked up because of Venkatesh's presence. The story revolves around Nayanthara's character, but she didn't get much scope to perform. The director designed her character to be serious throughout. Except for one or two scenes, there isn't much to say about Nayanthara's performance. However, she impressed with her look. As Chiranjeevi's leading lady and playing the role of the richest woman in the country, Nayanthara fit perfectly into the character. The other actors also performed well within the scope of their respective roles.  Technical Aspects: There is no doubt that the film, which is releasing for Sankranthi, became a super hit because of its musical success. Everyone doubted whether Bheem could deliver such songs and music again. Even Mega fans commented that Bheems was unnecessary. But unexpectedly, Bheem delivered music perfectly suited to Megastar Chiranjeevi's body language and Anil Ravipudi's screenplay and writing. Bheem's music became the main attraction of the film. He deserves credit for elevating the film not only with the songs but also with the background score.  Director Anil Ravipudi once again worked his magic with his screenplay. The story is very simple, and the premise he chose is also very simple, but he impressed with the screenplay woven around it, his direction, dialogues, and writing. It has been proven once again that Anil Ravipudi can create a sensation with his comedy. The cinematography is average. It must be said that such comedy films don't require exceptional cinematography. The cinematography is adequate for the film. Some scenes in the second half could have been trimmed. The production values ​​are quite good, in line with the story.  Analysis: With five films releasing for Sankranthi, especially with a pan-India superstar like Prabhas's Raja Saab also releasing, some expressed doubts about what kind of result our Manasankaravaraprasad would achieve. However, those who had faith in Anil Ravipudi's content and his comedy expressed the opinion from the beginning that Manasankaravaraprasad had a strong chance of being a big hit. And as expected, Anil Ravipudi has once again proven his mettle with this film.  Except for one or two scenes in the second half, the entire film was a full-fledged entertainer. Especially the comedy in the first half and the vintage songs featuring the Venky-Chiru combo in the second half are undoubtedly the highlights of the film. If a little more care had been taken with the second half, it would have been on another level. Even now, without a doubt, this film stands as a full-length entertainer for this Sankranthi.  For the fans and audience who were waiting to see what kind of comedy Anil Ravipudi would deliver with a megastar like Chiranjeevi, it can be said that the film provided entertaining content without any disappointment. With a couple of sentimental scenes, some action sequences, and songs, the film is good in all aspects.  Plus Points: Comedy, Chiranjeevi, Venky, Music, First Half  Minus Points: Some scenes in the second half  Finally... Just like Sankranthi 2025, there is no doubt that Sankranthi 2026 will also belong to Anil's entertainment.  Banner: Shine Screens, Gold Box Entertainments  Producers: Sahu Garapati, Sushmita Konidela  Director: Anil Ravipudi  Music: Bheems Ceciroleo  Cast: Chiranjeevi, Venkatesh, Nayanthara, Catherine Tresa, Sachin Khedekar, Sharath Saxena, Harshavardhan, Abhinav Gomatam and others"},"img":{"url":"https://images.prismic.io/prad/aWQCvAIvOtkhBRbE_MSVPG2.JPG?auto=format,compress"},"datetime":"2026-01-11T20:06:00+0000","embed":{"embed_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4CbAkPb468"}},"uid":"review-mana-shankaravaraprasad-garu"}}]}},"pageContext":{"isCreatedByStatefulCreatePages":true}}