Pushpa 2: The Rule director Sukumar has shared the first review of S Shankar’s directorial Game Changer starring Ram Charan and Kiara Advani in the lead. Speaking at a promotional event for the film in Dallas, US, on Saturday, the director stated that Ram Charan’s performance was so remarkable that he hopes the actor receives a National Award for it. Sukumar reviews Game Changer: At the promotional event of the film Game Changer in the USA, Sukumar revealed that he had watched the film with Ram Charan’s father, actor Chiranjeevi. Sharing his thoughts, he said, “I will tell you a secret. I watched this film with Chiranjeevi sir, Game Changer. So, I want to give the first review. First half, awesome. Interval, blockbuster. Trust me. Second half, the flashback episode gave me goosebumps—phenomenal. I enjoyed it as much as Shankar’s Gentleman and Bharateeyudu (Indian).” The director also expressed his long-held belief that Ram Charan deserved a National Award for his performance in 'Rangasthalam' and hoped that 'Game Changer' would fulfill that dream. He said, “I was so sure Charan would receive a National Award for 'Rangasthalam', so did others. But the way he essayed emotions in the film’s climax, I got the feeling again. He performed so well, he will definitely get a National Award for it.” Sukumar’s next film will see him collaborating with Ram Charan for the second time after their blockbuster Rangasthalam. Speaking about their bond, Sukumar said, “I love every hero who works with me because we work together for at least 3 years. But when the film is released, I don’t stay in touch with most of them. Charan is the only exception because we stayed in touch even after Rangasthalam. He is my brother; I love him more than anything. We often meet and discuss various things.” About the teaser of Game Changer The teaser of the film was lauched in Lucknow at a grand event attended by the team of the 'Game Changer' including Kiara and director S Shankar. Notably, Ram Charan attended the teaser launch event of 'Game Changer' barefoot in Lucknow. He was spotted wearing an all-black ethnic outfit - kurta, pyjama and stole. The over-one-minute-long 'Game Changer' teaser shows Ram Charan going from academia to action. In the clip, he can be seen fighting goons and even romancing Kiara Advani. Reportedly, the film is set in the world of politics and centres around the story of an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer who takes on corrupt politicians and fights for fair elections
23 December,2024 12:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentOn Sunday evening, a group of vandals pelted stones at Telugu superstar Allu Arjun's Hyderabad home. The actor was not at home when the incident occurred. The vandal staged a protest outside his home demanding monetary compensation to victims of Sandhya theatre stampede during 'Pushpa 2- The Rule' premiere night. The vandals also destroyed flower pots, mounted compound walls and threw tomatoes. Amid this, Allu Arjun's kids- Allu Araha and All Ayaan- have been moved to a different place. A video has surfaced online where the little kids along with a few family members are seen entering a car and leaving the premises. The action was taken after vandals attacked their home. While Allu Arjun has maintained his silence on the matter, his father, noted film producer Allu Aravind addressed the press. “Everyone has seen what happened at our house today. But it is time for us to act accordingly. Now is not the right time for us to react to anything." He further said that the police have arrested the vandals and have filed a case against them. “The police are ready to take away anyone else who comes here to create a ruckus. No one should encourage incidents like these," he said. “But I will not react just because the media is here. Now is the time to practice restraint. The law will take its own course," he concluded. Police register case against 6 vandals Hours after the incident, a case was registered against six members of the Osmania University Joint Action Committee (OU-JAC) for allegedly vandalising actor's residence amid the row over Sandhya Theatre Tragedy. DCP West Zone, Hyderabad, said that stringent action has been initiated against the accused. The incident happened around 4:45 pm on Sunday, when some started sloganeering outside the 'Pushpa' actor's residence. The protestors also allegedly manhandled the security staff and damaged some flower pots along the ramp. The visuals from the spot showed broken pots, shattered glass, and damaged plants outside the Pushpa 2 actor's home, which were reportedly caused by the stone pelting. "Today at around 4.45 pm, some persons holding placards in their hands suddenly rushed to the residence of actor Allu Arjun in Jubilee Hills and started sloganeering and one of them mounted the compound and started throwing tomatoes. When the security staff objected and persuaded them to get down from the wall, they got into an altercation. They climbed down the wall, manhandled the security staff and damaged some flower pots kept along the ramp," the DCP stated. "On receiving the information, Jubilee Hills Police reached the place and took the 6 persons into custody. They all claim to be part of the Osmania University Joint Action Committee (OU-JAC)," the official added.
23 December,2024 11:19 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentOn Sunday, Telugu superstar Allu Arjun's Hyderabad house was vandalised by a group of people who threw stones at the house. They also entered the gate and destroyed flower pots placed at the entrance. Visuals also show pelters threw tomatoes at the house. Hours after the incident, a case was registered against six members of the Osmania University Joint Action Committee (OU-JAC) for allegedly vandalising actor's residence amid the row over Sandhya Theatre Tragedy. Police take action against vandals DCP West Zone, Hyderabad, said that stringent action has been initiated against the accused. The incident happened around 4:45 pm on Sunday, when some started sloganeering outside the 'Pushpa' actor's residence. One of the protestors mounted the compound gate and started throwing tomatoes. The protestors also allegedly manhandled the security staff and damaged some flower pots along the ramp. The visuals from the spot showed broken pots, shattered glass, and damaged plants outside Allu Arjun's home, which were reportedly caused by the stone pelting. "Today at around 4.45 pm, some persons holding placards in their hands suddenly rushed to the residence of actor Allu Arjun in Jubilee Hills and started sloganeering and one of them mounted the compound and started throwing tomatoes. When the security staff objected and persuaded them to get down from the wall, they got into an altercation. They climbed down the wall, manhandled the security staff and damaged some flower pots kept along the ramp," the DCP stated. "On receiving the information, Jubilee Hills Police reached the place and took the 6 persons into custody. They all claim to be part of the Osmania University Joint Action Committee (OU-JAC)," the official added. According to Jubilee Hills Police, members of the Osmania University Joint Action Committee (OUJAC) staged a protest outside Allu Arjun's residence on Sunday, holding placards and chanting slogans. However, neither the actor nor his family has filed a complaint thus far. Allu Arjun requests fans to not get abusive Through an Instagram post, Allu Arjun urged his fans to maintain decorum and avoid abusive behaviour or language, both online and offline. The tragedy occurred on December 4 when Allu Arjun attended the premiere of 'Pushpa 2: The Rule.' Taking to his X account, the actor wrote, "I appeal to all my fans to express their feelings responsibly, as always, and not resort to any kind of abusive language or behavior both online and offline." He further continued, "Misrepresenting as my fans with fake IDs and fake profiles—if someone indulges in abusive posts, strong action will be taken against them. I request the fans to not engage with such posts." About the stampede A massive crowd gathered to see him, and the situation escalated when he waved to fans from the sunroof of his car. This resulted in the death of a woman named Revathi and injuries to her child. Following the incident, Allu Arjun was arrested and later released on bail after furnishing a Rs 50,000 bond. The film Pushpa 2- The Rule, directed by Sukumar, is the sequel to the blockbuster Pushpa: The Rise and is breaking several records at the box office.
23 December,2024 09:21 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCelebrating his 13th wedding anniversary on Sunday actor Dulquer Salmaan shared a heartfelt anniversary post for his wife Amaal Salmaan which beautifully captured their long journey together. Taking to his Instagram handle, the actor reflected on their transition from being husband-wife to 'Maryam's papa and mamma.' "From trying to get used to calling each other husband and wife, to now being known as Maryams papa and mamma we've come a long way. Life is quite akin to the roads I like to drive on. Twists and turns and ups and downs." wrote Dulquer Salmaan. Accompanied by a bunch of adorable photos, the 'Lucky Bhaskar' actor further talked about the importance of his wife Amaal Salmaan and how her presence boosts him to live his life despite numerous challenges. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dulquer Salmaan (@dqsalmaan) "Sometimes speed breakers and potholes. But at the best times silky smooth with the greatest of views. Through it all, as long as I have your hand to hold I believe that we can reach anywhere. And in style. Here's to us being Mr & Mrs for life. Happy 13th Am ! I love you long time." added Dulquer Salmaan. The fans and friends of the couple flooded the comment section with heart and compliments. Dulquer and Amaal have been married since 2011 and the couple is blessed with a daughter named Maryam Ameerah Salmaan. Dulquer Salmaan was last seen in the film 'Lucky Baskar.' It is currently streaming on Netflix. Dulquer plays the role of a simple bank cashier in a never-seen-before avatar. Meenakshi Chaudhary is playing the leading lady role, opposite Dulquer Salmaan in the film. Set in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the film chronicles the interesting, turbulent, and extraordinary life journey of a simple bank cashier, Lucky Baskhar. The movie is directed by writer-director Venky Atluri. His previous film, Sir/Vaathi earned appreciation from critics and audiences. Dulquer Salmaan also played a prominent role in the blockbuster Kalki 2898 AD. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
23 December,2024 08:06 AM IST | Mumbai (Maharashtra) | ANIThe stampede case that occurred outside Sandhya Theatre on Dec 4 seems far from over, as with each passing day, a new problem arises for the Pushpa 2: The Rule star. Now, several members of Osmania University reportedly pelted stones outside Telugu actor Allu Arjun's residence in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, on Sunday. This has sparked serious outrage among the icon star's fans, who are questioning the authorities regarding his security. Stone pelting outside Allu Arjun’s residence The police have started their investigation, and as per Moneycontrol, about eight members of the university's Joint Action Committee (JAC) have been arrested in connection with this incident outside Allu Arjun's residence in Jubilee Hills. These individuals have been taken to the Jubilee Hills Police Station for further questioning. BREAKING: Stones PELTED at Allu Arjun's house🏚️ pic.twitter.com/tO4fAAPB26 — Manobala Vijayabalan (@ManobalaV) December 22, 2024 While police officials are investigating the matter, they have assured them that appropriate action will be taken against those involved in this law-breaking incident. Reportedly, leaders from the Osmania University Joint Action Committee (JAC) attempted to breach the Pushpa star's house, allegedly demanding compensation of one crore for the family of the 35-year-old woman who tragically lost her life on December 4 during a stampede at a cinema hall in Hyderabad. Allu Arjun speaks to the media about the Pushpa 2 stampede case While speaking to the media, the Telugu superstar also said that he left the theatre few minutes after the film's screening began. He said that he left the theatre early as the place was getting overcrowded. He also said that he left behind his kids in the theatre so that they can watch the whole movie. "I was informed that it was overcrowded and asked to leave. I did so immediately. No officials told me or came to me and told me anything. It was only in the morning that I got the information that the lady died, and it was unfortunate," he said at the press meet. "I only had the best intentions. I left my two kids behind, who are of the same age as the child who was injured. I could not visit the injured child because a case was already filed against me. I wanted to do it. That's why I left a video message. I asked my father, producers and my director Sukumar to go check," he added.
22 December,2024 07:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA day after Pushpa 2: The Rule Allu Arjun held a press meet to deny allegations against him, the Telangana DGP Jitender and ACP Ramesh have made shocking revelations that are sure to take you aback. While addressing the press, ACP Ramesh stated that the actor was informed about the fan's death during the stampede outside the Sandhya Theatre, but Arjun wanted to complete the movie. The official also stated that the actor was denied permission to visit the theatre during the premiere. Chikkadapally CI Raju Nayak mentioned that he feels bad he "couldn't save a life." DGP Jitender - Police has nothing against Allu Arjun DGP Jitender clarified that the police have nothing against the Pushpa 2 star personally but emphasized that "all should be responsible citizens of the state." Speaking to reporters, DGP Jitender said, "They are heroes in films. But, on the ground, they should understand the problems of society. The promotion of a film is not as important as the safety of the citizens. Something wrong has happened. We all should understand that such incidents are not good for the safety and security of the citizens." Allu Arjun was informed about the death Further, while making a shocking revelation about Allu Arjun being informed about the death and the boy being hospitalized, ACP Ramesh stated, "Allu Arjun's manager Santosh was the first to be informed about the death while they were in the theatre. We also told him the situation was losing control and that a boy was hospitalized. But we weren't allowed to meet the actor by Santosh and another man." He insisted on completing the film “You are a celebrity; our officers have cleared a way for you,” ACP Ramesh said, adding, “I told him, asking him to leave. But he insisted on completing the film. When the DGP came in and gave him 10 minutes to leave, only then did he budge," HT quoted ACP Ramesh. Meanwhile, Allu Arjun, while addressing the press yesterday, claimed, "There is a lot of misinformation that I behaved in a particular way. These are wrong allegations. It’s humiliating and a character assassination. There is a lot of misinformation going on, a lot of false allegations, especially character assassination." “I am getting hourly updates about how the kid is doing. He is progressing. The only good thing is that the boy is getting better. My whole attempt is to produce good entertainment for the audience and ensure people leave with a smile,” he further added.
22 December,2024 06:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentToday marks six years since the release of Yash's film KGF. Yash portrayed Rocky, as a rebellious and strong character, but also a deeply emotional figure. One of te most memorable scenes from the movie is where Rocky helps a distressed mother and delivers the profound line, "The greatest warrior is a mother." This scene, filled with emotional depth, became the highlight of the movie. On the 6th anniversary of the film, Yash shared some emotional parts of his journey with the film. Yash shares an anecdote from the film Yash said “I think I give that space for even the last assistant director he’ll be coming and telling me the previous take was good, boss. I always do that because you give that kind of space when there are so many instances where people come and give us great ideas, even in KGF, I and Prashant were sitting and watching the edit and we were working on it and the mothers in the famous scene was not with the mother. It was with some old lady crossing the road. I just took out my gun and it was supposed to be the gun scene. So my episode editor Mr Ramrao was watching, and he just came and said the whole Cinema is about mother. Why can’t mother be there in that scene? Just sitting in both of us looked at each other. It was a Damn good idea! Then I said what to do, to which Prashant said don’t worry we will reshoot this scene then we brought one lady with a small kid. Then he thinks of his mother and then I go out and talk to her and tell her then you know while discussing we had to come up with some line, then the line came well, so it’s like you don’t know. You never know we have done that script work for 4-5 years. I don’t know how many years from 2014, we were working, but we didn’t realise it was the person who is taking care of production came and told us something you have to take it if it is good. I think that should be the mindset and atmosphere. Otherwise, nobody knows everything. It’s a collaborative thing. Cinema is collaborative, Director, all of them should come together, and that’s when the magic happens! This change not only amplified the emotional resonance of the film but also added a layer of universality to Rocky's character. Yash credited the collaborative spirit of the KGF team for such impactful creative decisions, which have contributed to the film's commercial success. Yash and his upcoming projects Meanwhile, on the work front, Yash will next be seen in Toxic, Ramayana, and KGF 3. He is also co-producing Ramayana and Toxic.
22 December,2024 04:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMore often than usual, celebs’ fans indulge in social media wars over their favourite stars. These fights sometimes stoop to a level where they resort to abusive language, and if not online, they sometimes lead to physical altercations. But this isn’t new. What is new is an actor coming out on social media to request people not to engage in such behaviour. Allu Arjun took to his X account and put out a note for his fans, requesting them to be mindful of the words they use and their behaviour both online and offline. Allu Arjun appeals fans to refrain from using abusive language The Pushpa 2: The Rule actor, who is currently riding high on the success of his recently released film, has requested his fans to refrain from using abusive language. He also warned people not to use fake profiles and pretend to be his fans. Taking to his X account, the actor wrote, "I appeal to all my fans to express their feelings responsibly, as always, and not resort to any kind of abusive language or behavior both online and offline." He further continued, "Misrepresenting as my fans with fake IDs and fake profiles—if someone indulges in abusive posts, strong action will be taken against them. I request the fans to not engage with such posts." This post by Allu Arjun came just a day after he hosted a press meet where he reacted to CM Revanth’s allegations over the stampede. During the press meet, the actor denied the claims of him behaving irresponsibly during his visit to Sandhya Theatres and stated, "There is a lot of misinformation that I behaved in a particular way. These are wrong allegations. It’s humiliating and a character assassination. There is a lot of misinformation going on, a lot of false allegations, especially character assassination." He further talked about the boy who got injured during the stampede on December 4 and stated, "I am getting hourly updates about how the kid is doing. He is progressing. The only good thing is that the boy is getting better. My whole attempt is to produce good entertainment for the audience and want people to leave with a smile." More About Pushpa 2 As the pan-India film continues to rake in at the box office, there has been an update that the film will soon stream on the OTT platform Netflix. Netflix has reportedly bought the film’s streaming rights for a staggering Rs 275 crore. While there has been no official announcement regarding the streaming date, action-drama films are typically released on OTT within six to eight weeks of their theatrical release. Fans can expect the movie to stream on the platform around February 2025.
22 December,2024 04:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRam Charan and Kiara Advani showed off their electrifying dance moves in the latest song "Dhop" from the upcoming film "Game Changer." The makers have released the teaser of "Dhop," the fourth single from the album on producer Dil Raju’s birthday. The teaser gave a sneak peek into the song's vibrant visuals and refreshing energy. Sung by Thaman, Roshini JKV, and Prudhvi Sruthi Ranjani, with lyrics by Saraswathi Puthra Rama Jogayya Sastry, the foot-tapping number shows Ram and Kiara flaunting their dance moves. The Tamil version, penned by Vivek, features vocals by Thaman S, Aditi Shankar, and Prudhvi Sruthi Ranjani, while the Hindi rendition, written by Raqueeb Alam, comes alive with the voices of Thaman S, Raja Kumari, and Prudhvi Sruthi Ranjani. "Dhop" was launched with great excitement in Dallas, where a thrilling countdown took place. The Game Changer team was welcomed by hundreds of fans who had the opportunity to interact with Ram Charan during an intimate meet-and-greet session. The event escalated into a grand affair, featuring impressive star entrances, engaging conversations, and fascinating anecdotes about the track. On a related note, Ram Charan collaborated with director Shankar for the much-awaited film "Game Changer." The project showcases Charan in a dual role, alongside a stellar cast including Kiara Advani, Anjali, SJ Suryah, Srikanth, and Samuthirakani, who play key roles. "Game Changer" marks the highly anticipated return of director S. Shankar, renowned for his expertise in crafting gripping political thrillers. In this film, Ram plays the role of an IAS officer who challenges a corrupt system, using both intellect and strength. The over-one-minute teaser highlights his transformation from a determined student preparing for his UPSC exams to a fearless government officer ready to take on powerful adversaries. Ram Charan’s character delivers impactful line, saying, “I am unpredictable,” teasing the complex depth of his role. Produced by Dil Raju and Sirish under the banners of Sri Venkateswara Creations, Dil Raju Productions, and Zee Studios, the film is set to release on January 10, 2025, in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
22 December,2024 01:44 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSKichcha Sudeepa is currently awaiting the release of his actioner 'Max'. The film will be released in theatres on December 25. The actor who has been busy promoting the film recently responded to a reporter who questioned the English title for a Kannada language film. Clearly amused at the nature of the question, Sudeepa hit back at the reporter with a logical reasoning. English-Kannada language debate "Why English title for your movie? Why not Kannada?" inquired a reporter during a press meet for the film 'Max'. Amused by the questions, Sudeepa took a long pause and continued to look at the reporter. He then said in Kannada, "Why are names of all news channels in English when the viewers and the interviewee like myself are Kannadigas?" He further said, "We’re in Karnataka, having English medium schools and the kids going there are Kannadigas!" He asked the reporter, "Do you have Apple? Why don't you try saying Apple in Kannada? So what exactly is the problem?" Sudeepa's answer left netizens impressed. This comes amid a raging language debate especially in Karnataka. Multiple incidents of people being forced to speak Kannada in Bengaluru has been reported in the recent past. The metro city is home to many working professionals from different parts of the country who are not adept with the local language. This has often caused a rift between the so-called outsiders and locals. About Kiccha Sudeepa's Max Directed by Vijay Kartikeyaa, the high energy thriller unfolds in a single night. Sudeepa plays a cop who returns after a suspension. The actor plays a cop called Arjun Mahakshay, who’s been nicknamed Max for the terror he has unleashed on those that have had a run-in with him. Talking to OTT Play about the challenges faced by the Kannada film industry, the actor said, "The major challenge for the Kannada film industry is a lack of Kannada lovers. If you look at the entire state, wherever there are hardcore Kannada centres, all is well. But that’s not the case with cities, where there is a mix of people from all across the country. I am not against it. The issue is that the core business of Kannada cinema happens in cities and there are not enough people to sustain it. It is a perpetual fight that we have always been having against other languages. Our issues start there, and everything else is an extension of that."
22 December,2024 10:56 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Allu Arjun held a press meet recently after allegations against him by Telangana CM Revanth Reddy in the Assembly. Speaking at a press conference on Saturday evening, the 'Pushpa' actor called the incident "very unfortunate" and said there was "a lot of misinformation" and "character assassination" against him. Allu Arjun speaks to media about Pushpa 2 stampede case While speaking to the media, the Telugu superstar also said that he left the theatre few minutes after the film's screening began. He said that he left the theatre early as the place was getting overcrowded. He also said that he left behind his kids in the theatre so that they can watch the whole movie. "I was informed that it was overcrowded and asked to leave. I did so immediately. No officials told me or came to me and told me anything. It was only in the morning that I got the information that the lady died, and it was unfortunate," he said at the press meet. "I only had the best intentions. I left my two kids behind, who are of the same age as the child who was injured. I could not visit the injured child because a case was already filed against me. I wanted to do it. That's why I left a video message. I asked my father, producers and my director Sukumar to go check," he added. Did Allu Arjun leave the theatre early? However, netizens were not convinced with Allu Arjun's statement on leaving the theatre early. After the press meet, some netizens took to X and shared visuals of Allu enjoying the movie in the theatres. A user shared a video of Allu Arjun interacting with his wife Sneha Reddy and his co-star Rashmika Mandanna during the interval. Allu Arjun eating snacks at interval.... 20 mins lo elaa vachaaru ? @alluarjun garu Cc: @Ajith_Kumar666 , @Alluarjuncult83 , @Johnnie5ir ,@JohnWick_fb ,@satishpawan143 ,@iconoclast175 pic.twitter.com/NfNuiko2zv — గబ్బర్ సింగ్ 🚁✡️ (@bunnykalyan007) December 21, 2024 Another user shared a video of the actor watching the Jatara scene which comes 2 hours into the movie with a runtime of 3 hours ad 20 minutes. Jathara scene movie lo entry scene esaru anukunta Sandhya lo. pic.twitter.com/Rfiw5pDItw — Johnnie Walker🚁 (@Johnnie5ir) December 21, 2024 What Telangana CM said in Assembly Earlier in the day, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy alleged in the Assembly that the police had denied permission for any event at Sandhya Theatre due to safety concerns. He accused Allu Arjun of ignoring warning and doing a roadshow. "Akbaruddin Owaisi submitted a request to the Chikkadpally police station on 2nd December to make arrangements for the cast and crew of Pushpa 2 coming to Sandhya Theatre for the film's release on 4th December. On 3rd December, the Chikkadpally Circle Inspector gave a written reply rejecting the request, citing that since the theatre is in a crowded place and has only one exit and entry point, the police will not be able to control (any bad situation)..." he said. He further added, "Yet, the hero came to watch the movie the next day and got out of the car roof, doing a roadshow at the RTC X road. (After the stampede) The ACP went to ask the hero to leave to gain control of the mob. At first, the actor refused, saying that he would leave after finishing the movie. Then the DCP had to intervene, asking the hero to leave or he would be arrested as two people had already fallen outside... Even while leaving, he again came out of the roof and did a roadshow..."
22 December,2024 10:52 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
