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Thammudu, directed by Venu Sriram, tries to be a gut-wrenching, action-packed drama, but in my opinion, it wasn’t able to leave the desired impact for a number of reasons. I believe what makes a protagonist or an antagonist stand out is their flaws, their weaknesses. An ideal villain for me has some goodness within him, and a hero has some weakness that he or she tries to overcome. Stories can become monotonous if a protagonist is portrayed to be flawless. Thammudu does not leave any room for speculation, as everything is either black or white in the narrative. The villain is cruel; he is the worst human being alive, whereas our protagonist is infallible. Take any memorable negative character in the history of cinema, and you will understand that only those characters who exist in the shades of gray, or are at least driven by a strong sense of purpose,...

Thammudu Ott Release Date Update (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Thammudu, featuring Nithiin, is all geared up for its digital release after its theatrical run. The film is set to make another attempt at impressing audiences. It combines action and intense emotions, particularly the relationship between a brother and sister, but it didn’t make a huge impact on screens. However, now, it is entering the Ott platforms, hoping to strike the right notes among family audiences. The makers hope that this digital release will give the movie wider chances across South India. Directed by Venu Sriram and produced by Dil Raju, this film looked promising, gathering a talented cast and an emotional storyline.

When & Where To Watch Thammudu?

Thammudu was released in theatres on July 4, 2025, and is now gearing up for its Ott debut. The streaming giant Netflix took to its social media to announce the digital release. The announcement post on X roughly translates to,...

After fifty days of shooting, the supernatural thriller Jatadhara has officially wrapped its principal photography.

Producer Prerna Arora says Jatadhara is an experience never seen in Indian cinema. “My saying so sounds like bragging. And honestly, every filmmaker praises her film. It’ s the my-baby-is-the-cutest syndrome. But this time, take my word: we have created a supernatural universe that is out of this world. Jatadhara is poised to redefine genre storytelling across Telugu and Hindi cinema.”

Presented by Zee Studios, and helmed by Umesh K R Bansal and Prerna Arora, Jatadhara brings together an interesting cast led by Sudheer Babu and Sonakshi Sinha with Shilpa Shirodkar, Ravi Prakash, Indira Krishna, Naveen Neni, Shreya Sharma ,Subhalekha Sudhakar, Rajeev Kanakala, Jhansi.

Another actor is also part of the film, whose name is currently under wraps.

Jatadhara is directed by Venkat Kalyan and Abhishek Jaiswal. The producers are Shivin Narang, Aruna Agarwal, Shilpa...

Everything you need to know about Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi Ott release (Photo Credit – Instagram)

The entertaining comedy film, Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbay, directed by Nitin & Bharat (the duo behind the successful TV show Jabardasth), this film carries a special blend of humour, rural backdrop, and crazy narration.

While the movie did not make a lot of noise at the box office, it found a place on a digital medium for more people to discover and watch. Here’s everything you need to know about its Ott release.

The Plot Summary

Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi story revolves around Krishna, a civil engineer from Hyderabad who lives by a peculiar motto: “never help anyone.” His life takes an unexpected turn when he’s assigned to build toilets in the isolated village of Bhairi Lanka. However, the village has an unusual rule: no outsider is allowed to interact with Raja, the only woman in the village.

Here’s When & Where You Can Watch Ashok Galla’s Devaki Nandana Vasudeva On Ott (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Mahesh Babu’s nephew Ashok Galla was recently seen in the mythological drama Devaki Nandana Vasudeva. Telugu filmmaker Prasanth Varma wrote the film’s story, which was released in theatres on November 22, 2024. The film did not perform well at the box office, and for a long time, no Ott platform was ready to stream it.

Now, the film has finally found a digital platform. According to Hindustan Times, Devaki Nandana Vasudeva will be available on Disney Plus Hotstar starting February 8. It will also have its world television premiere on Colors Cineplex, a Hindi TV channel.

The story of Devaki Nandana Vasudeva revolves around Kamsa Raju, a cruel ruler. During a visit to Kashi, a sage of Lord Shiva predicts his death, and the sage says that Raju will be killed by his sister’s third child.

Nani’s Film Overseas Release ( Photo Credit – Instagram )

Last year, Nani came to the silver screen with the crime-action drama Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, directed by Vivek Athreya. The film was originally released in India on August 29, 2024. Now, the film is set to release in Japan. According to 123 Telugu, the movie will hit Japanese theatres on February 14, 2025. An official announcement regarding the Japanese release has been made, and bookings are now open.

Saripodhaa Sanivaaram is directed and written by Vivek Athreya and features an impressive cast. Nani stars as Surya, with Priyanka Arulmohan as Charulatha, S.J. Suryah as Daya, Murli Sharma as Koormanand, Ajay as Govardhan, Aditi Balan as Bhadra, Sai Kumar as Sankaram, Jhansi as Vasudha, Harshavardhan as Si Sudhakar, Ajay Ghosh as Narayana Prabha, and Subhalekha Sudhakar as Hc Kamalakar N.

The film’s cinematography is by Murali G, editing by Karthika Srinivas, music composed by Jakes Bejoy, and art direction by G.M. Sekhar.

In Which TV Show Did SS Rajamouli’s Wife Rama Rajamouli’s TV Act In? (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Rama Rajamouli is an Indian costume designer and film stylist. She debuted with the 2001 film Student No: 1, directed by her husband, the most celebrated Telugu director SS Rajamouli. Rama is known for her work in the films Magadheera (2009), Eega (2012), Baahubali: The Beginning (2015), Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017), and Rrr (2022).

She has also worked as an additional dialogue writer and has a connection with the TV industry. Rama entered the industry in 2001 as an actor by doing various small roles in the TV sitcom Amrutham, created and produced by her cousin Gangaraju Gunnam. She played a newsreader in Amrutham and appeared as a news presenter in one of the initial episodes of the show.

SS Rajamouli’s wife also appeared in another episode as a homemaker and shared screen space with the late artist Gundu Hanumantha Rao.

The Mystery of Moksha Island is the brand-new Telugu language Disney+ Hotstar Original that explores the life led by Dr. Viswak Sen, who was a genius doctor and scientist but was notoriously known to have had many relationships. Dr. Viswak Sen has children from those relationships, making his clan a big one, but none of them were proud to be linked to him. His death brought together his dysfunctional family to his private island named “Moksha Island.” As a result, there are many from his family who are potential heirs to the pharmaceutical company and his other assets. The heirs are given the option of staying back on the island for a week, and in return they are promised a share in his Inr 24,000 crore net worth.

Spoilers Ahead

Vicky

Nandhu, as Vicky in The Mystery of Moksha Island, is a sharpshooter who has memories from his childhood witnessing his...

The Mystery of Moksha Island is a 2024 Telugu language mystery series that revolves around Dr. Viswak Sen, a renowned doctor and scientist known for his many innovations. His family life was not what you would call a successful one, and as we saw through the conflicts between everyone who had gathered on Viswak’s private island to get a share of his wealth after his death. The article below will describe everything that happens between the members of the family over the course of the week after his death.

Spoilers Ahead

Who was invited to Moksha Island?

The news of Dr. Viswak Sen’s death spread like wildfire across the country. He was a renowned doctor and scientist who was known to be living on an isolated island in the Indian Ocean. The island was his home and lab, where everyone claimed he conducted crazy experiments. In short, Dr. Viswak...

Bollywood has seen several actresses deliver remarkable performances in period roles, bringing historical figures and settings to life with depth and authenticity. Here are some notable Bollywood divas who have excelled in period dramas:

1. Deepika Padukone- Padmaavat (2018)

– Deepika Padukone’s portrayal of Rani Padmavati in Padmaavat was both powerful and graceful. Her performance captured the queen’s strength, beauty, and tragic fate, and the film itself was noted for its lavish production and historical detail.

2. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan – Jodhaa Akbar (2008)

– Aishwarya Rai Bachchan played the role of Jodhaa Bai, the Rajput princess and wife of Mughal Emperor Akbar, in Jodhaa Akbar. Her performance was praised for its elegance and emotional depth, set against a backdrop of historical grandeur.

3. Kangana Ranaut – Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi (2019)

– Kangana Ranaut portrayed Rani Lakshmibai, the valiant queen of Jhansi, in Manikarnika. Her portrayal of the warrior queen was both fierce and inspiring, showcasing...

The film industry is celebrating Maharashtra Day on Wednesday. The day is recognised for the creation of the state of Maharashtra after the Samyukta Maharashtra movement advocated for the formation of a separate Marathi-speaking state on May 1, 1960.

The leading ladies of cinema have portrayed memorable Marathi characters on screen. Ians takes a look at some of the most memorable performances by the actresses of Hindi cinema where they aced the role of a Marathi character.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas has portrayed Marathi characters in three of her films ‘Kaminey’, ‘Agneepath’ and ‘Bajirao Mastani’. Each time, the actress brought something new to the table with regard to her portrayal. While in ‘Kaminey’ she played the role of a gangster’s sister from a lower middle-class background, in ‘Agneepath’ she played a girl belonging to the downtrodden section from Dongri area of Mumbai. However, it was her performance in ‘Bajirao Mastani’ as Kashibai,...

Actress Sohaila Kapur, who is known for ‘Phantom’, ‘Aarya’, ‘The Family Man’ and ‘Special Ops’, will be seen portraying the role of a queen in the upcoming period drama film ‘Bengal 1947: An Untold Love Story’.

The film delves into the intricacies of a unique love story woven by the writer-director Akashaditya Lama. The actress said that playing a compassionate and caring queen offered a completely new and engaging experience.

Talking about what attracted her towards the character, she said, “The opportunity to portray a royal person who engaged with the people during a rebellion against the British was particularly appealing. It evoked images of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi and the many other warrior queens who defied invaders.”

The film also stars Devoleena Bhattacharjee, Omkar Das Manikpuri, Aditya Lakhia, Anil Rastogi, Pramod Pawar, Ankur Armam, Surabhi Srivastava, Falaq Rahi, Vikram Tdr and Atul Gangwar.

Shedding light on the film’s subject,...

With a jam-packed work schedule, actress Anushka Sen is currently delighting her fans with exciting behind-the-scenes snippets from various sets and cities on social media. On the Valentine’s Day, the ‘Baal Veer’ fame diva, who is currently riding high on both professional and personal fronts, announced that she is on board a new project. However, she did not reveale the details of the project.

Since then, Anushka is treating fans with photos and videos, giving a glimpse into her busy work life.

Now, on Thursday, the ‘Jhansi Ki Rani’ fame took to Instagram, where she enjoys 39.5 million followers and shared a fun reel.

In the video, Anushka is seen grooving to the tunes of ‘Sadqay’ sung by Aashir Wajahat, Nayel and Nehaal Naseem. She is wearing a blue half sleeves crop top, and a matching joggers.

With no-makeup on, Anushka is flaunting her long hair, which is styled in soft curls.

Uday Pandhi from Delhi was declared the undisputed champion of ‘MTV Hustle 03 Represent’. The Dee Mc Dynamites champion won millions of hearts throughout his extraordinary journey of 10 competitive weeks.

Super-talented Bassick from Jhansi was declared the runner-up, while conscious rapper 100Rbh from Amravati won the ‘Og Hustler trophy’.

Ecstatic about the win, Uday said: “Poco MTV Hustle 03 Represent has been more than a stage; it’s been an unbelievable trajectory of learning, hard work, and experimentation. I was fortunate to be a part of this phenomenon that allowed me to push boundaries, get out of my comfort zone, and grow as an artist. My Squad Boss, Dee Mc was my unshakeable support in this process. Winning this trophy is like a dream and I am humbled by this honour!”

The grand finale was a true-blue battleground, with stellar performances by finalists, Mrunal Shankar, Kayden Sharma, Vijay Dada, Bassick, 100Rbh and Uday Pandhi,...

New Delhi, July 28(Ians) While hepatitis primarily affects the liver, it is also linked with other chronic diseases like diabetes and HIV and often leads to worse outcomes, said doctors on World Hepatitis Day on Friday.

World Hepatitis Day is celebrated every year on July 28 to create awareness and the theme this year is ‘One life, one liver.’

Studies have shown that chronic Hepatitis virus infection can increase the risk of someone developing diabetes.

This is because the virus impacts the liver, which is involved in storing glucose. If the liver cannot function as it should, it can lead to high blood glucose levels and insulin resistance.

“Hepatitis and diabetes share a complex relationship. Patients with diabetes have high risk of hepatitis B or C and higher risk of worse outcomes of their hepatitis infection,” Dr Anshul Agrawal, MD, Dm Endocrinology, Vinayak Hospital, Jhansi, told Ians.

A study led by...

Kashish Duggal, who plays Suman Yadav in the show ‘Sapnon Ki Chhalaang’, is excited to be a part of the show and shared that she had to put a lot of effort and hard work to grab the opportunity.

The actress said: “From several auditions, mock shoots, readings, rehearsals to re-shoots, I had done it all. I also had to work really hard on the diction and dialect as it’s a story of Jhansi and we were expected to speak Bundelkhandi, which I had never tried before. I enjoy such challenges.”

Suman, is a graduate, homemaker and wanted to become a teacher but her aspirations were suppressed.

While briefing about her character, Kashish said: “In the process she lost herself somewhere in bringing up her kids and looking after the family. But, the pain of not being able to fulfil her dreams persists somewhere deep down. I personally don...

Actor Sanjeev Jotangia, who plays the role of Radheshyam Yadav in ‘Sapnon Ki Chhalaang’, said that he aspires to be known globally and is inspired by megastar Amitabh Bachchan, veteran singer Kishore Kumar, and Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal.

Talking about his dreams and aspirations, he said: “My aspiration is to be globally known as one of the best actors of our great nation for which I’ve been trying relentlessly. I am inspired by Kishore Da, Bachchan Saab and Rafael Nadal. God willing, I’ll fulfill this aspiration one day and continue being a student of art, be it acting or writing or producing or directing later on.”

“I keep reading, keep myself abreast with regional and world cinema. I also watch good theatre and have a lot of interactive sessions with interesting actors and colleagues. I also dabble in selective voice acting assignments,” he adds.

Elaborating more about...

Musical Theatre composer-lyricist Tanvi Rajgarhia, who is professionally known as ‘Jhansi’ has shot a Broadway-style music video titled ‘We Break Up Because Of Family Reasons’, which was released on Wednesday. Jhansi is the first Indian to be invited into ‘The Harvard of Broadway’ BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop.

The video has been shot in collaboration with director Priyanka Banerjee, who is known for her multi-starrer short film ‘Devi’ starring Kajol, Shruti Haasan and Neha Dhupia.

The theatrical video was shot in Mumbai in one day.

Talking about her concept, Jhansi shared, “The meaning of this song and title is literally whatever the listener is bringing to the table with their life experience. The story of ‘Breaking Up because of Family Reasons’ applies to your life. Could be your own breakup, a relationship you never began because you knew your parents would object, or your friend crying on your shoulder...

The makers of director Thiru’s upcoming Telugu web series ‘Jhansi’ have now released the character poster of actor Raj Arjun, who plays villain ‘Caleb’ in the series. The series is to premiere on Disney+ Hotstar from October 27.

Raj Arjun, who is known for his work in films like ‘Secret Superstar’, ‘Dear Comrade’ and ‘Thalaivi’, says: “Yes, the poster is very intriguing. Caleb is a very intense but calm, composed, natural and realistic person who does things on his own terms and conditions.

“He has his own world without being affected by anyone. So, whoever tries to create a problem in his world faces the consequences and suffers losses. He’s very raw, stylish and modern and has big vision and ambition in his life.”

Talking about what prompted him to take up this role, he says, “Krishna Vardhan, who is an actor and a friend of mine, is the...

Chennai, Aug 17 (Ians) Director S S Rajamouli’s protégé Ashwin Gangaraju, who assisted his mentor in ‘Eega’ and ‘Baahubali’ (both parts) and is best known for directing ‘Aakashvani’ in 2021, is to direct the magnum opus ‘1770’, which will be based on Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s Bengali novel ‘Anandamath’.

The producers of the film — Shhailendra Kumar, Sujayy Kuttiy, Krishna Kumar B and Suraj Sharma — released a motion poster of the film on Wednesday to mark 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’.

“This subject was a huge challenge for me, but with legendary V Vijayendra Prasad sir writing the adapted story and screenplay, I think what we have on paper is a blockbuster cinematic experience,” says director Ashwin Gangaraju.

“As a filmmaker, I’m more drawn towards the stories which have periodic setups, bigger emotions, scope for larger than life action and this is something that sits in perfectly for me. Initially, I was a...

Celebrating the glorious 75th Independence Day of India, producers Shailendra Kumar, Sujay Kuttiy, Krishna Kumar B and Suraj Sharma announced their much talked about magnum opus 1770, based on Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s Bengali novel Anandamath. Produced under the banner of SS1 Entertainment and Pk Entertainment, this multilingual film will be helmed by acclaimed director Ashwin Gangaraju, who assisted S S Rajamouli in Eega and Baahubali (both series). He made his debut as director with critically acclaimed Aakashvani in 2021.

This year also marks 150 years of Vande Mataram, the song that appeared first in Bankim Chandra’s novel Anandamath, which almost shook the roots of the British Empire. India’s most celebrated storyteller V Vijayendra Prasad who penned the screenplay of ‘1770’ says, “I feel that Vande Mataram was a magical word. It was a mantra that was given by Maharishi Bankim Chandra for a Nation to unite against tyranny and injustice. In...

ReviewThe performances of actors Gopichand, Sathyaraj and Rao Ramesh are convincing. Raashii Khanna however deserves much of the appreciation for experimenting with comedy and succeeding with it. Balakrishna GaneshanDirector Maruthi’s Pakka Commercial is one of those films that end up making a satire of themselves unintentionally. The film, while ironically making fun of how television soaps present court proceedings to the audience – with monologues, silly staged and unrealistic depiction of events, ends up making a commentary about how this film belongs to the same category. Pakka Commercial stars actors Gopichand and Raashii Khanna, along with Sathyaraj, Rao Ramesh, Ajay Ghosh and others. The film is a courtroom drama. And one should not expect it to be anywhere close to reality, as the film amply makes it clear in the very title that it is a 'commercial' film. For the uninitiated, a typical commercial film is devoid of reality, logic and reasoning.

67th National Film AwardsThe Best Feature Film has been awarded to Mohanlal’s unreleased epic historical war drama 'Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham'.Tnm StaffThe 67th National Film awards for films that released in the year 2019 were announced on Monday. A number of notable films from south Indian states bagged awards. The award for the Best Actor was this time shared between Dhanush for the Tamil film Asuran and Manoj Bajpayee for the Hindi film Bhonsle. This is actor Dhanush's second National Film Award after Aadukalam in 2011. Actor Kangana Ranaut won Best Actress award for her performance in Manikarnika-The Queen of Jhansi and Panga. Actor Vijay Sethupathi won Best Supporting Actor for his performance in the Tamil film Super Deluxe. The Best Feature Film has been awarded to Mohanlal’s unreleased epic historical war drama Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham. The film that is based on the life of Kunjali Marakkar IV, a Malayali naval chieftain,...

Actress Kangana Ranaut will star in the second installment of the Manikarnika franchise, titled Manikarnika Returns: The Legend Of Didda.

Kangana made the announcement on her verified Twitter account @KanganaTeam in Hindi. She wrote: "Humara bharatvarsh sakshi raha hai Jhansi Ki Rani jaisi kai viranganao ki kahaani ka. Aisi hi ek aur ankahi veergatha hai Kashmir ki ek rani ki, jisne Mahmood Ghaznavi ko ek nahi do baar haaraya. Le kar aa rahe hain Kamal Jain aur main #ManikarnikaReturns: The Legend of Didda.

(India has been witness to the story of many bravehearts such as Rani of Jhansi. Another such untold heroic story is that of queen of Kashmir, who defeated Mahmud Ghaznavi not once but twice. @KamalJain_TheKJ and me are coming up with #ManikarnikaReturns : The Legend of Didda)."

Sources close to the development revealed that the new film will be bigger and mounted on an international scale,...

Devika Bhise as the widowed monarch Rani Lakshmibai shows the Victorian Brits, including Rupert Everett, what she’s capable of in this impressive drama

As Rani Lakshmibai (Devika Bhise), the titular queen in this colourful historical epic, slices and dices her way through a battlefield towards the end of the film, her foe Sir Hugh Rose (a spectacularly muttonchopped Rupert Everett) looks on with awe, intoning solemnly: “She’s like Joan of Arc!” The moment somehow sums the movie up, encapsulating The Warrior Queen of Jhansi’s signature blend of impressiveness, ridiculousness, and lustily on-the-nose messaging in one neat package.

Although the story of this young, legendary widowed monarch who became one of the leading figures in the Indian rebellion of 1857 has been told before in countless books, films, TV shows and even video games from all over the world, the makers of this international co-production have found a reasonably fresh way into the story,...

Superstar Amitabh Bachchan will now provide a voice-over for a light-and-sound show to be held in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the life and ideology of Lord Buddha.

According to divisional commissioner Deepak Agrawal, the company that is producing the show has started preparations for the recording.

The show had to be ready for screening by September 30 as per the initial plan, but Bachchan tested positive for Covid-19 and the recording was delayed.

"Fresh dates have been given to the company and recording will complete by October 25 after which sound mixing will take some time and so the show is likely to be ready for screening by the year-end," the commissioner added.

Tourism joint director Avinash Mishra said the content of the show had been finalised long ago and the content creator who developed the light and sound show of Agra and Jhansi was on this project too.

Efforts to rope...

Tollywood In an interview, the actor-turned director said that he was low after Manmadhudhu 2 failed to attain box office success. Digital NativeRahul Ravindran made his debut as actor and then turned his attention to film direction. His maiden film was the Telugu movie Chi La Sow which fetched him the National Award for Best Original Screenplay. Chi La Sow was a breezy romantic entertainer that had Sushanth and Ruhani Sharma in the lead roles. The star cast also included Rohini, Anu Haasan, Vennela Kishore, Rahul Ramakrishnan, Sanjay Swaroop, and Vidyulekha Raman. The technical crew of the film comprised Prashanth R Vihari for composing music and M Sukumar for cranking the camera. Following its success, Rahul went on to direct Manmadhudu 2 with Nagarjuna in the lead role. Reports at that time were that Nagarjuna chose Rahul Ravindran to wield the megaphone for the Manmadhudu sequel after he was impressed with...

Another 12 months passed, another seemingly thousands of Bollywood songs having passed our ears. 2019 has been the year of the remake, a combination of Punjabi pop making it big in Bollywood, some obvious versions of some lesser known classics and a few that took an old song to new heights. So much so has this been the case, that even when trying to narrow down to the top 20 songs of the year, it was impossible to leave them out altogether… but some were magnificent enough to make the cut. As for musical styles, there’s no lack of range in genres, from very slow love ballads, all the way to hardcore freestyle rap and plenty in between. Some are for dancing, some are for listening, some are for holding close, some are for letting go; some drive on, while some find peace exactly where they are. As usual, Bollywood’s 2019 has...

Even after two and half centuries, the valiant queen Rani of Jhansi stands as a role model and her tale of bravery is strongly instilled in the hearts and minds of the people. Director Swati Bhise brings to screen the incredible backstory of the Rani in her film ?The Warrior Queen of Jhansi?.

The director of ?The Warrior Queen of Jhansi?, Swati Bhise prepared for all the visual aesthetics of the film while the lead actress Devika Bhise stepped up a rigorous physical regime.

?I went through really intensive training to grow the muscles that would be required for this kind of role!? she says. Unfortunately, the costumes designed by her mother for the Rani didn?t allow her to show off her new-found physique. ?That was the only thing I regret ? we couldn?t find a way to rip my sleeves off and show my biceps!?

Also read:?"I...

Every Indian has grown up listening to the tales and adventures of the valiant and fearless Rani of Jhansi. Even though everyone knows her name and her bravery, her backstory is less well known, even in her country of origin.

The film ?The Warrior Queen of Jhansi? tells the story of the Rani and her indomitable spirit.

Also read:?"I had to have an emergency eye surgery" - Devika Bhise

Swati Bhise found her star in New York-raised Devika Bhise, who was not only physically adept for the role but also linguistically perfect, capable of speaking both Hindi and Marathi. ?It meant that I could get her to break into Marathi and Hindi dialogues to keep the authenticity of the script,? says Swati.

While Devika is able to understand both Hindi and Marathi, switching between both languages and English was anything but easy. ?I was terrified of it? she admits.

Sir Hugh Rose rightly once said, ?Rani Jhansi Laxmi Bai is like an Indian Joan of Arc?. The incredible story of Rani of Jhansi is synonymous with feminine strength and courage.

Director Swati Bhise brings to light the story of one of the most inspiring icons of India in the film ?The Warrior Queen of Jhansi?.

As Jodhi May puts it, ?The Rani?s story is one that audiences today need to be told. We know so little about this history and it needs to be brought to light. It?s really important that it?s part of the public consciousness, that it?s not just a minor tract of history but it becomes part of the greater narrative of Indian cultural history and the British Empire, and that there are female characters at the centre of defining that history.?

Ultimately, ?The Warrior Queen of Jhansi? is a story of...

Brave. Fearless. Inspirational. These are the words which aptly define the Rani of Jhansi. ?The Warrior Queen of Jhansi? narrates the exemplary story of the Rani who is a symbol of valour and national pride.

The film celebrates the Rani of Jhansi who went down in the annals of history as a freedom fighter who believed in the unyielding feminine force.

While the director of the film, Swati Bhise prepared for all the visual aesthetics of the film, the actress who plays the role of the queen, Devika Bhise, stepped up into a rigorous physical regime to play the role to perfection.

Devika not only trained extensively in London with top notch stuntmen Marcus Shakesheff but also studied the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu under Master Gopakumar in India. ?It?s the oldest martial art in the world,? she explains.

?It was really tough, because you are using real weapons and can easily injure yourself.

The part Rani Lakshmibai (Devika Bhise) played during the 1857 Indian mutiny against the British East India Company is massive. A great moment of perseverance and rebellion on its own, this queen became a much-needed symbol for whom her persecuted people and dwindling allies could rally behind. Widowed five years earlier with an adopted son set to inherit the throne, England presumed a moment of weakness to seize her kingdom as its own. Believing Jhansi’s allegiance to this point gave them cause to simply take over, they didn’t anticipate her staunch opposition. Lakshmibai instead decides to train the women under her rule to sword fight like her father taught her when she was a young commoner not yet wed to the maharaja. The Company had guns; she had purpose.

It’s the type of tale born for an epic cinematic adaptation a la Braveheart with rousing speeches, violent battles,...

The Trey Edward Shults family drama Waves surfed into New York at the Angelika and AMC Lincoln Square, as well as the Arclight Hollywood and Landmark Los Angeles. With its strong festival run, emotionally wrought performances (specifically from the mesmerizing Kelvin Harrison Jr.), and its 91% Rotten Tomatoes rating, the stunning A24 pic made a splash in its debut, earning an estimated weekend gross of $144,562. With an expansion next week, A24 is expecting word-of-mouth will hopefully pad these numbers as the film enters the awards season race.

Gunpowder & Sky’s Lil Peep documentary Everybody’s Everything kicked off its release with an impressive run of fan event screenings, with an estimated $400,000 across three days. The film, produced by Terrence Malick, puts a spotlight on the late rapper Lil Peep, and its release coincided with the release of his posthumous album of the same name. Earning an estimated $61,281 over the weekend, the docu...

Early in “The Warrior Queen of Jhansi,” there’s a scene that feels like something you’d find in a Bollywood take on “Wonder Woman,” during which Rani Lakshmibai, the feisty monarch of the title, takes time from serving as drill instructor for a unit of female troops to deal with the harrumphing skepticism of a male visitor. “Do you really think you can train these women to fight like men?” he asks. “No,” Lakshmibai confidently replies. Pause. “I will train them to fight better than men.”

Yes, “The Warrior Queen of Jhansi” is that kind of movie.

Specifically, it’s the kind of old school historical epic where charismatic upstarts lead idealistic revolts against tyrannical colonialists, outnumbered revolutionaries are by turns anxiously dreaded and condescendingly underestimated, and scowling louts periodically reveal the full depths of their industrial-strength nastiness by bellowing lines such as, “She will never surrender! She needs to be broken and destroyed!

Since her death over 160 years ago, stories have been told across India about the great warrior Rani of Jhansi. Now, her tale comes to life for a broader audience in the brand new film The Warrior Queen of Jhansi.

Directed by Swati Bhise, The Warrior Queen of Jhansi tells the true story of the legendary Rani (translation: Queen) of Jhansi, an icon in India and a fearless freedom fighter. After being wronged by the East India Company Rani resolves to defend her late husband’s kingdom. Rani instructs her all female army in the art of swordplay, a tactic unheard of during this time. Then in 1857, this 24-year old General led her people into battle against the British Empire. While the Rani’s fate is shadowed in mystery, the courageous rebellion she inspired proved instrumental in changing the balance of power in the region. The Armani’s fight for what...

Directed by Swati Bhise and starring Devika Bhise, The Warrior Queen of Jhansi tells the true story of the legendary Rani of Jhansi, a feminist icon in India and a fearless freedom fighter. In 1857 India, this 24-year old General led her people into battle against the British Empire earning the reputation as the Joan of Arc of the East. This real-life Wonder Woman’s insurrection shifted the balance of power in the region and set in motion the demise of the notorious British East India Company and the beginning of the British Raj under Queen Victoria.

The film, which opens in North America on November 15th, boasts an incredible cast including Rupert Everett, Nathaniel Parker, Ben Lamb with Jodhi May and Derek Jacobi.

To set the scene let’s take a look at the trailer!

I was able to catch Director Swati Bhise and star of the film Devika Bhise...

The Warrior Queen of Jhansi, based on a true story, opens next week on November 15th. Directed by Swati Bhise and starring Devika Bhise, the cast also includes Rupert Everett, Nathaniel Parker, Ben Lamb with Jodhi May and Derek Jacobi.

The Warrior Queen Of Jhansi tells the true story of the legendary Rani (translation: Queen) of Jhansi, a feminist icon in India and a fearless freedom fighter. In 1857 India, this 24-year old General led her people into battle against the British Empire earning the reputation as the Joan of Arc of the East. This real-life Wonder Woman’s insurrection shifted the balance of power in the region and set in motion the demise of the notorious British East India Company and the beginning of the British Raj under Queen Victoria.

We have an exclusive clip just for BollySpice!

Coming up we also have a special interview with Swati and Devika...

TollywoodThe film has its moments but holds itself back too much and Nagarjuna's character, especially, needs more work.Krishna SripadaTo set the record straight, Manmadhudu 2, despite the title which evokes memories of the cult hit predecessor, is a Rahul Ravindran movie, and it has the Chi La Sow vibes - women who are not mere caricatures, no misogynistic jokes, no cheap thrills or crassness. The only problem is how the film was marketed. It is not really a love story of an older man and a younger woman, to begin with. Manmadhudu 2, the remake of a French film, is about Samba Siva Rao (Nagarjuna), a perfumer (brownie points for creativity in profession) beyond his middle age, who doesn't believe in marriage, just flings. But, he is pressured by his three sisters and mom (Lakshmi) to enter wedlock, given he is well past his prime. In order to solve the problem,...

TollywoodThe star said he was scared that the scene would be chopped by the Censor Board and even expressed his anxiety to his late father and film star A Nageswara Rao.Digital NativeAfter all these years, Nagarjuna has opened up on the iconic climax kissing scene in his 1989 film Geethanjali. In an interview, the star revealed that he was scared that the emotional kissing scene would be chopped by the Censor Board and even expressed his anxiety to his late father and film star A Nageswara Rao before the film’s screening prior to the censor certification. According to India Today, the actor recalled, “Before the show started, I told my father that there is a long, unbroken kissing scene that is very aesthetic. After the show, he told me that’s the best scene in the movie. He also assured me that no Censor Board member will remove that...

TollywoodThe director is currently awaiting the release of the Nagarjuna starrer 'Manmadhudhu 2'.Digital NativeActor-turned-director Rahul Ravindran is currently busy wielding the megaphone for Mamadhudu 2, which has Nagarjuna playing the main lead. While this film is in progress, reports have surface that the director’s next will feature the Akkineni brothers – Naga Chaitanya and Akhil Akkineni. It is true that several of the Akkineni fans are hoping to see them share the screen space in a movie and perhaps this is the reason for such reports surfacing time and again. It may be noted here that Akhil Akkineni played a cameo in Manam in which he got to share the screen space with Naga Chaitanya. However, in an interview published on in.com, Rahul Ravindran has denied it outright by saying, “I do not know from where such rumours arise. I am completely focused on Manmadhudu 2 right now and...

TollywoodThe actor plays the role of Sam, a bachelor who is totally averse to the idea of marriage.Tnm StaffThe makers of Manmadhudhu 2, Nagarjuna’s sequel to the 2002 romcom Manmadhudhu, released the trailer of the movie on Thursday. Directed by Rahul Ravindran, Nagarjuna plays the role of a Casanova who is totally averse to the idea of ‘marriage’. The two-minute long teaser has Nagarjuna playing the role of Sam, a bachelor, who is pressured by his family to get married to a woman within the next three months. Unaware of Sam’s playboy character, Lakshmi (who plays mother to Nagarjuna) is happy and at the same wonders why someone as young as Rakul Preet's character is interested in marrying her son, who is much older in age. Sam is seen romancing a lot of women in the trailer as he makes his life’s philosophy clear through one of the dialogues.

TollywoodWhile she had maintained a stoic silence over this issue, Rakul finally opened up in an interview. Digital NativeDigital NativeRakul Preet Singh has become controversy’s favourite child for her smoking scene in the teaser of the upcoming film Manmadhudu 2. Ever since the teaser was released, she has been subjected to trolling by netizens. While she had maintained a stoic silence over this issue, Rakul finally opened up in an interview to Pinkvilla.com and gave a befitting reply. She said, “I don't really get bothered by trolls. I think logo ka kaam hai kehna, kuch toh log kahenge. We are playing characters.” Reacting to the allegation that she is promoting smoking, Rakul said, “People should disassociate to what we are playing onscreen is different and it is a story of that one person... we are not putting the entire girl clan into girls not showing in the right way.

KollywoodDirected by Don Sandy, ‘Gorilla’ is a confused film that feels like a half-hearted effort right from the start.Anjana ShekarHeist comedy is an exciting genre. There’s plenty of action, risky plans that involve extreme stunts and, more importantly, there’s plenty of thrills. Often for us the audience, there’s excitement from having watched a perfectly executed heist on screen, the more impossible it looks the more thrilled we are. But in actor Jiiva’s Gorilla we only end up feeling robbed of our time and money, and generally sad from realising that such films are still being made. Turns out, the film’s posters showing a group of people, armed and striking a pose, standing along with a stylish looking gorilla carrying a machine gun is the most elaborate trick the makers pulled on us. Gorilla, directed by Don Sandy who made his debut with Mahabalipuram in...

Ekta Kapoor's production house Balaji Telefims on Wednesday issued an apology after receiving widespread flak by the media fraternity over actress Kangana Ranaut's ugly spat with a journalist at a recent promotional press event here for the film Judgementtal Hai Kya, which is produced by the banner.

"A lot is being reported about the debate that ensued between our film Judgementtal Hai Kya?actor?Kangana Ranaut?and a journalist, at the film's song launch event on July 7. Unfortunately, the event took an unpleasant turn."

Also Read:?Entertainment Journalists' Guild boycott Kangana Ranaut

"While the people involved in it fairly held their own perspectives but because it happened at the event of our film, we, as the producers, would like to apologise and express regret for this untoward incident," read the Balaji statement.

Things turned nasty at the launch of the song, The wakhra swag, when Kangana questioned a...

Actress Kangana Ranaut got into a heated argument with a wire service journalist at an event.

The incident happened while the actress was interacting with the media at the launch of the song, "Wakhra swag", from her forthcoming film Judgemental?Hai Kya?on Sunday. Co-star Rajkummar Rao, producer Ekta Kapoor, writer Kanika Dhillon, choreographer Bosco Martis and director Prakash Kovelamudi were also present at the event.

Also Read:?Kangana Ranaut: People should be ready to take dig at themselves

It started when Kangana Ranaut questioned the journalist over his negative comments on her last release, Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi.

An ugly exchange followed, and things only got worse with others getting involved.

Ekta Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao were seen trying to intervene in order to control the situation.

Kangana Ranaut?is among the few actresses in mainstream Bollywood who have made brave film choices, and when asked if she...

Mallesham - the gentle, beautiful and moving story of Chintakindi Mallesham, the handloom weaver from Andhra Pradesh who revolutionised the weavers' profession by inventing a mechanical loom -- why, because his mother's shoulder threatened to collapse with all the manual weaving -- is a testimony of truth and tenacity.

There are many flaws in the narrative. Scenes often lack a sense of flow and rhythm and move with the awkward gait of the protagonist who, let me tell you, is played by a relatively unknown actor who owns Mallesham's part to an extent that he could easily exchange identities with the real Mallesham.

The story of Mallesham's determined bid to beat destiny is not a rarefied experience. There is no room for subtle sighs and stifled sobs in the storytelling. Not that the characters are shown indulging in exaggerated breastbeating. But the raw feel of emotions that are unpolished...

TollywoodThe remake has Aishwarya Rajesh who will be reprising her role from the original and Rajendra Prasad stepping into the shoes of Sathyaraj.Digital NativeActor Siva Karthikeyan’s first production venture Kanaa that had hit the silver screens last December opened to positive reviews. Starring Aishwarya Rajesh, the film marked the directorial debut of popular lyricist Arunraja Kamaraj. It is a sports drama which is about women’s cricket that was well received by the movie buffs. Following its success, the filmmakers are remaking the film in Telugu. The remake has Aishwarya who is reprising her role and Rajendra Prasad stepping into the shoes of Sathyaraj for the Telugu remake which has been titled Kowsalya Krishnamurthy…Cricketer and directed by Bhimaneni Srinivasa Rao. Bankrolled by Ks Rama Rao, the film will also star Rajendra Prasad, Vennela Kishore, Jhansi and Shashank among others. The Tamil version had Sivakarthikeyan in an extended...

TollywoodRaj Rachakonda, director and co-producer, should be lauded for the warmhearted sincerity with which he approaches the subject.Krishna SripadaMallesham - the biopic of Padma Shri award winner Chintakindi Mallesham - opens on a moribund note. A weaver's family, including two kids, kill themselves, unable to pay back their debts. Despite being ingenious from a young age, Mallesham has to drop out of school after the seventh grade to help his dad out. He grows up watching his mom and a lot of other women in his village suffer with shoulder pain, their bodies wearing out. That is the bottleneck he resolves to solve.  In the Pochampally style of weaving, the women help the men by painstakingly winding a silk thread, which pivots around one peg on one side and 40 on the other side - a process that is crucial for any design. Without this assistance, the weaver slows down drastically.

TollywoodThe makers are tight-lipped about the original version and do not want to reveal details before the film hits theatres.Digital NativeThere have been rumours that the Nagarjuna starrer Manmadhudu 2 is a remake. Reports are that it is a remake of a foreign film but the title has not been disclosed yet. The filmmakers are playing the cards close to their chest so that the suspense factor remains intact. From what we understand, Manmadhudu 2 will be modified completely to suit the sensibilities of the local audiences. Sources told Deccan Chronicle, “The filmmakers have kept the name of the original under wraps and don’t want to reveal it as they worry that the audience might watch the movie with pre-conceived notions. And they are apprehensive that the film will be judged much before they see it onscreen.” Nagarjuna plays the lead role in this romantic entertainer which has...