Tamil ZEE5 has begun 2026 on a high note, reinforcing its commitment to delivering edge-of-the-seat thrillers and high-octane entertainment for its audiences. With a strong pipeline of gripping films and series, the platform is positioned this year as one that promises intense storytelling and immersive viewing experiences like never before. ZEE5 unveils Pongal slate The momentum for Tamil ZEE5 has already been set with the massive response to the ‘audio launch of Jana Nayagan’, of Thalapathy Vijay, which recorded the highest first-day subscriptions ever for any ZEE5 content. This was further strengthened by the encouraging viewership for Kevin’s ‘Mask’, signaling a robust start to the year for the platform. Continuing this momentum, Tamil ZEE5 has unveiled a special Pongal brand film featuring Jiiva and Andrea Jeremiah, reinforcing its promise of delivering thrilling entertainment to viewers. Hence, ‘Zee5-il Indha Pongal, Thigil Pongal’, (on Zee5, this Pongal is thrilling Pongal) the campaign assures audiences that this festive season will be packed with suspense, excitement, and engaging storytelling. Set against a traditional Pongal celebration, the brand film takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious incident triggers a tense investigation. Jiiva steps into the role of a determined investigator, while Andrea becomes central to the unfolding mystery. Blending festive warmth with noir-style suspense, the narrative reflects Tamil ZEE5’s diverse thriller-led content strategy for 2026. Parasakthi to premiere on ZEE5 after theatrical run From this Pongal, Tamil ZEE5 is also bringing audiences a strong lineup of films, including the critically acclaimed Sirai, starring Vikram Prabhu and L.K. Akshay Kumar, followed by highly anticipated titles such as Parasakthi featuring Sivakarthikeyan, Jayam Ravi, and Sree Leela, and the sequel to the blockbuster thriller Demonte Colony. Original series starring Samuthirakani’s ‘Partha Naybhagam Illayo’ and ‘Once Upon A Time In Kayamkulam.’ Speaking about Tamil ZEE5’s 2026 content vision, Lloyd C. Xavier, Business Head – Tamil Malayalam ZEE5, SVP – Marketing South, said, “Tamil ZEE5 has entered 2026 with a clear focus on delivering thrilling, high-impact entertainment. The strong response to Jana Nayagan and Kevin’s Mask reflects our audience’s appetite for powerful content. With our Pongal campaign and an exciting lineup of films and series, we are committed to raising the bar for Tamil OTT entertainment and keeping viewers engaged with compelling, edge-of-the-seat content throughout the year.”
12 January,2026 05:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActress Malavika Mohanan made her Telugu language debut with the film The RajaSaab. The film starring Prabhas in the lead was released in theatres on January 9. Malavika played one of the three heroines in the horror fantasy drama. After the release of the film, Malavika shared a BTS video of her fight sequence in the film and disclosed that she loves to do stunts. Malavika Mohanan shares BTS Taking to her social media timelines, Malavika Mohanan shared a BTS video clip of her fight sequence in the film. She wrote, "As girls we rarely get to do action in films, but I love doing stunts and had so much fun doing this scene! Did you like this scene?" Her question on X received a number of responses from both her followers and fans, with many of her fans praising her for stunts in the film. One follower praised her confidence, her body language and intensity in the stunt, saying everything worked perfectly. Another praised her for choosing to do the stunt herself instead of opting for a body double. The actress was also complimented for the stunt sequence, which her fans said was one of the most striking scenes in the film. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Malavika Mohanan (@malavikamohanan_) New scenes added to The RajaSaab A day after the film's theatrical release, the makers added a four-minute sequence featuring Prabhas as an old man. Speaking at the press conference, director Maruthi said, “Prabhas fans aren’t disappointed with the film, but they aren’t fully satisfied either. That’s because we showcased him in an old get-up with attitude and swag in the trailer. While searching for that look, the fans couldn’t process the story I was presenting.” He added, “Keeping that in mind, I sat down last evening to sharpen the second half and include the missing scenes starting from today’s 6 PM show. I’m confident that the 8–9 minute episode will be mind-blowing. No film has depicted a fight sequence on a rooftop like this before. Prabhas worked very hard for it.” Producer TG Vishwa Prasad of People’s Media Factory officially announced the update while addressing the media. “There is four minutes of content featuring Prabhas in his old avatar that was missing. Due to an unfortunate incident and a server issue last week, the output needed cleanup and minor corrections. That has now been done and sent to theatres,” he said. He also clarified that the film’s runtime remains unchanged, as a portion of the end credits was trimmed to accommodate the new scene.
12 January,2026 05:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, Chiranjeevi's eagerly anticipated film, debuted on the big screen today (January 12). The film marks Chiranjeevi’s comeback to the big screen after three years, and audiences are showering it with love. However, a very sad incident occurred at a theatre in Hyderabad, as a fan passed away while watching the movie. Fan dies while watching Chiranjeevi’s film According to Telugu Scribe, a fan who was watching Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu died at Kukatpally’s Arjun Theatre. They also shared a video of the incident on X (formerly Twitter), showing the man being rushed out. Police suspect that he passed away due to a heart attack. The fan’s death while watching the film has shocked one and all. చిరంజీవి సినిమా చూస్తూ గుండెపోటుతో అభిమాని మృతిహైదరాబాద్ – కూకట్ పల్లిలోని అర్జున్ థియేటర్లో, చిరంజీవి మన శంకర వరప్రసాద్ సినిమా చూస్తూ మృతి చెందిన అభిమానిగుండెపోటుతో మృతిచెంది ఉంటాడని అనుమానిస్తున్న పోలీసులు pic.twitter.com/zgXIHmEB3L — Telugu Scribe (@TeluguScribe) January 12, 2026 MSVPG audience reaction Viewers took to X (formerly Twitter) to share their views on Chiranjeevi’s film. Most cinegoers praised the first half of the movie and thanked director Anil Ravipudi for bringing back Chiranjeevi’s ‘vintage charm’ on screen. One X user wrote, “Chiru sets the screen ablaze, Nayanthara adds stunning presence, Anil Ravipudi delivers expected magic! Songs are highlights. Clean family entertainer – perfect Sankranti watch!” Another tweet read, “Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu is thoroughly @KChiruTweets’s show, supported by a well-placed cameo from Venkatesh, Nayanthara doing what she does best, and @AnilRavipudi’s trademark family-friendly comedy drama.” About Chiranjeevi’s film Directed by Anil Ravipudi, Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu is positioned as a mass entertainer with strong family appeal and is one of the most anticipated Telugu releases of the festive season. The film also features a special appearance by Venkatesh, adding to the buzz surrounding its release. Notably, this marks the first time two top Telugu stars will share screen space. The film also reunites Chiranjeevi with Nayanthara. The film found itself at the centre of online discussion after ratings and reviews were disabled on BookMyShow following a court order. The move, taken before the film’s theatrical release, triggered mixed reactions among audiences, with many questioning the need to block public feedback. According to industry chatter, the makers sought legal intervention amid concerns over fake reviews and coordinated negative rating campaigns that often surface around major releases. Over the past few years, several films have been impacted by manipulated online ratings, which producers argue can influence audience perception even before people watch the film.
12 January,2026 04:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSivakarthikeyan’s latest film Parasakthi was released in theatres on January 10. Directed by Sudha Kongara, the film faced its share of issues with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) ahead of release. Parasakthi was originally set to clash at the box office with Vijay’s Jana Nayagan, but the latter did not release due to certification delays. Now, Parasakthi creative director Dev Ramnath has slammed a section of Vijay’s fans for allegedly spreading negativity about the film. Parasakthi producer slams Vijay fans On Monday, Dev Ramnath took to his X handle and criticised certain netizens for attempting to sabotage Parasakthi. He claimed that negative reviews were being circulated, outdated videos were being used to influence audience opinion, and there were deliberate attempts to lower the film’s ratings on ticketing platforms. He also shared screenshots to support his claims. He wrote, “Just because we’re releasing alongside your film doesn’t give you the right to sabotage ours. We announced our release date first. Did we try to stop your film? Never.” He added, “I was at the CBFC office every single day, in Chennai and Mumbai, to overcome hurdles. We were dealing with our censor issues just the way your team was. We got ours less than 18 hours before the release.” “Negative reviews, using old videos, influencing people, shouting political slogans in theatres, messing with BMS ratings. This isn’t competition. You did the same to a big film last year,” he further wrote. Concluding his statement, he said, “Talking as a cinema lover, this isn’t healthy for any of us. Parasakthi is about a student movement that we Tamils should be proud of. We will fight this, just the way our students did.” Just because we’re releasing alongside your film doesn’t give you the right to sabotage ours.We announced our release date first. Did we try to stop your film? Never.I was at the CBFC office every single day, in chennai and Mumbai, to overcome hurdles. We were dealing with… pic.twitter.com/UdaHfW3JQL — Dev Ramnath (@DevRamnath) January 11, 2026 Sivakarthikeyan on Parasakthi’s certification In an exclusive interview with India Today Digital, Sivakarthikeyan spoke about the long wait for the censor certificate. “The Censor Board operates according to their own regulations and criteria. Our team’s complete focus was on implementing the changes they suggested without affecting the creativity of the film. We didn’t have time to question why the changes were suggested,” he said. The CBFC reportedly asked the makers to modify a dialogue from “Hindi has erased my dream” to “My only dream is to oppose Hindi imposition.” A voiceover referencing language imposition in other countries was also altered. Addressing the delay, Sivakarthikeyan said, “We received the changes at the last minute. After that, we had to implement them and upload the revised version to QUBE. Our main focus was releasing the film on time. The Censor Board functions as per its regulations, and we didn’t have the time to analyse whether it was an advantage or disadvantage.” He added, “Our entire team functioned like a military camp. Everyone was on standby for 24 hours because it was extremely challenging to execute the changes. The more advanced technology becomes, the more difficult things get in certain ways.”
12 January,2026 03:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPrime Video unveiled a riveting trailer of Cheekatilo, an emotionally-charged Telugu crime suspense drama. Against the backdrop of a dynamic, fast-growing Hyderabad, the narrative follows Sandhya, a true crime podcaster portrayed by Sobhita Dhulipala, as she uses her podcast to uncover the two-decade-old secrets of a long-dormant serial killer. Cheekatilo trailer The trailer offers a gripping glimpse into Hyderabad’s underbelly, where Sandhya, a criminology graduate and true crime podcaster, is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse. The shocking murder exposes a trail of past crimes, setting off a tense pursuit of truth and justice. Using her podcast as an investigative tool, Sandhya attempts to challenge and draw out a cold-blooded killer. As the tension escalates, the narrative builds toward a chilling revelation. But will the truth come to light, or will Sandhya become the killer’s next victim? Packed with suspense and emotion, the trailer sets the stage for a nerve-racking hunt. View this post on Instagram A post shared by prime video IN (@primevideoin) About Cheekatilo Directed by Sharan Kopishetty and produced by D. Suresh Babu under the banner of Suresh Productions Pvt Ltd., the thrilling narrative is written by Chandra Pemmaraju and Sharan Kopishetty. The movie stars Sobhita Dhulipala and Viswadev Rachakonda in lead roles, alongside Chaitanya Visalakshmi, Esha Chawla, Jhansi, Aamani, and Vadlamani Srinivas in pivotal roles. The Telugu movie will premiere exclusively on Prime Video across India and in over 240 countries and territories worldwide, on January 23. Sharan Kopishetty, director and co-writer of Cheekatilo, shared, “Directing Cheekatilo has been a deeply rewarding journey, one that pushed me to explore the darker, more human layers beneath a seemingly straightforward crime story. At its heart, this movie is more than a crime suspense; it is a reflection on resilience, the fight against silence and power, and the courage it takes to bring justice to the fore. With the trailer now out, audiences can glimpse the tense, suspenseful world we have created. The film’s talented cast, with their exceptional performances, has been central in shaping this vision." Sobhita Dhulipala discusses her role Sobhita Dhulipala shared, "Playing ‘Sandhya’ has been a superb experience - she’s a front-footed young woman who is an independent thinker, deeply committed to standing by her belief system no matter the resistance. Her choices are shaped by a unique stubbornness that has a history of its own. Playing a character rooted in the by-lanes of Hyderabad and other Telugu localities and coming from a cultural background as my real self, the integration between the character and my own expression was seamless and utterly enjoyable. Grateful for this wonderful experience and our exceptional cast and crew - everyone brought their heart to the set every single day."
12 January,2026 02:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday started a detailed questioning of actor-turned-politician Vijay as part of its probe into the Karur stampede incident. The CBI will focus on grilling the actor about alleged delays, crowd management lapses, and organisational responsibilities related to the event, according to reports. Notably, the CBI took over the investigation from the Tamil Nadu Police in October last year following a Supreme Court order. CBI questions Vijay in Karur stampede incident One of the key issues that will be a part of the questioning is the alleged seven-hour delay at the venue. Investigators are investigating the discrepancy between the programme's scheduled start time and Vijay's actual arrival. They want to find out whether the delay contributed to the crowd increasing and loss of control. The agency also questioned if the party workers on the ground coordinated adequately with the local police and district administration, since the crowd reportedly grew from an estimated 10,000 people to around 30,000. Delays in Vijay's movement and his party workers' movement are also being examined to evaluate their impact on crowd dynamics.Investigators are also scrutinising documents related to permissions sought for the event. They are seeking clarity on who organised the Karur rally. Within the TVK party, the CBI is examining the organisational structure to understand the responsibility for planning and execution. This includes who decided to hold the event in Karur and when Vijay was informed.Another point of scrutiny is whether Vijay's team conducted any prior risk assessment in coordination with the district administration, and if the basic arrangements, such as drinking water facilities and designated entry and exit points, were provided for the crowd.The CBI is also investigating the movement of Vijay's modified caravan through the gathering to examine how it passed through the dense crowd and if there was adequate coordination with local police.The agency is further interrogating when Vijay became aware of the stampede and the sequence of events that followed. The CBI will also question Vijay about the exact time of his arrival and departure from the venue. Earlier on Monday, actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay arrived in Delhi for questioning. The CBI had earlier issued a notice to Vijay under Section 179 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), asking him to present himself for examination. The notice was served earlier this month, with summons dated January 6. According to TVK sources, Vijay flew from Chennai to New Delhi on a chartered flight and is expected to visit the CBI headquarters later on Monday to cooperate with the investigation. Investigation transferred to CBI The Supreme Court had earlier transferred the investigation into the incident to the CBI. As part of the probe, the agency has already questioned several senior TVK functionaries in New Delhi. Party leaders have submitted video footage to investigators, alleging lapses by the Tamil Nadu government.The CBI has also examined the campaign vehicle used by Vijay during the event, and the driver has been questioned as part of the ongoing investigation. The Karur stampede occurred during a massive political gathering, resulting in the deaths of 41 people and leaving several others injured. The incident triggered widespread public outrage and prompted judicial and legal scrutiny.Earlier in December, the Tamil Nadu government had also filed its response (counter-affidavit) in the Supreme Court seeking directions to set aside its decision to order a CBI probe into the Karur stampede case.In its response, the TVK had claimed that the Tamil Nadu government's plea (counter-affidavit) lacks material facts and provides no valid reason to remove the jurisdiction of the CBI and the supervisory committee, constituted by the top court.TVK asserts that several statements in the State government's counter-affidavit are false and misleading. TVK added that such claims would hinder the ongoing investigation and its supervision. (With inputs from ANI)
12 January,2026 02:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThalapathy Vijay’s upcoming film Jana Nayagan has been at the centre of controversy due to a delay in certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film was scheduled to hit theatres on January 9 but missed the release date because of an ongoing legal battle with the CBFC. While the matter is currently being heard in the Madras High Court, the makers have now moved the Supreme Court, challenging the order passed by the High Court’s division bench. Jana Nayagan makers approach SC The plea in the Supreme Court was filed by KVN Productions, which is backing Vijay’s final film. Notably, the petition was filed on the same day the actor arrived in Delhi for questioning by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the Karur stampede during his TVK rally, in which 41 people lost their lives on September 27, 2025. Dramatic court events of January 9 On the morning of January 9, a single-judge bench of the Madras High Court directed the CBFC to grant a censor certificate to actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Jana Nayagan. However, shortly after the verdict, the CBFC appealed for a stay on the order. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G Arul Murugan granted the stay after Additional Solicitor General ARL Sundaresan and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta (appearing via video conferencing) presented the grounds for the CBFC’s appeal and argued the matter. The January 6 letter of CBFC, which was communicated to the producer of the film, informing him that the matter was referred to the revising committee, was not at all under challenge. But the single judge set aside the letter and gave the above direction. In its order, the division bench said the petition was filed on January 6, and the CBFC was not granted sufficient opportunity to file its reply. There shall be a stay, the bench added and ordered notice to the producer of the movie and posted the matter to January 21. KVN production on CBFC controversy After the film failed to release on January 9, Venkat K Narayana, the founder of KVN produtions clarified the issue sharing their perspective on the whole situation. Taking to their official social media handles, KVN Productions has uploaded a video clarifying the entire controversy. They said, "To everyone who has been waiting for our film Jana Nayagan with immense love and anticipation, we extend our sincere gratitude. Over the past few days, we have received countless calls and messages and each one reminds us how deeply this film is already love. We wish to place certain facts before you while respectfully acknowledging that the matter is currently subjoined which limits what we can and cannot say." Watch full video here
12 January,2026 01:54 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDirector Kishore Tirumala’s much-anticipated action-comedy entertainer Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi has officially received a U/A certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), clearing the way for its grand theatrical release this Sankranthi. The film stars Ravi Teja in the lead, alongside Ashika Ranganath and Dimple Hayathi, and is gearing up to hit cinemas worldwide on January 13, 2026. Team announces the certification Announcing the certification, production house SLV Cinemas shared the update on X, expressing confidence in the film’s commercial appeal. “It’s U/A for Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi. Blockbuster vibes already. This Sankranthi will have top class entertainment. Bookings open soon! BMW GRAND RELEASE WORLDWIDE ON JANUARY 13th, 2026,” the post read. The makers also unveiled a new poster featuring the phrase “Censored U/A,” further building anticipation among fans. Produced by Sudhakar Cherukuri under the SLV Cinemas banner and presented by Zee Studios, the film is being touted as a full-fledged action-comedy designed to appeal to family audiences. Ravi Teja, known for his energetic screen presence and comic timing, headlines the project, while Ashika Ranganath and Dimple Hayathi play the female leads. The supporting cast includes popular actors Sunil, Satya, Vennala Kishore, Sudhakar, and Muralidhar, adding to the film’s strong ensemble. Actress Dimple Hayathi, who plays one of the two heroines, recently spoke about her role during the launch event of the song Bella Bella. She revealed that her character is named Balamani and described it as one of her most satisfying roles in recent times. “The name itself has a vibration to it. The credit for creating this character should go to my director Kishore garu,” she said. All about the film On the technical front, Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi boasts an impressive lineup. Music has been composed by Bheems Ciceroleo, while Prasad Murella has handled cinematography. National Award-winning editor Sreekar Prasad is in charge of editing, and art direction has been overseen by A S Prakash. With a U/A certification secured and Sankranthi festivities around the corner, the film is positioned as a festive entertainer promising action, comedy, and mass appeal for audiences of all ages. Fans are waiting for the release.
12 January,2026 01:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Vivek Oberoi recently praised Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: Chapter 1 after it qualified for the Best Picture race at the 98th Academy Awards. However, the actor faced backlash online for mistakenly referring to the film as a Telugu-language movie instead of Kannada. Vivek Oberoi praises Kantara Chapter 1 On Saturday, Oberoi took to X and reposted Hombale Films’ announcement about Kantara: Chapter 1 entering the Oscars race. He wrote, “What was once a sacred ritual, guarded by the ancient spirits of Tulunad, has now erupted into a global inferno. Bhuta Kola has transcended borders, shattering the silence to become a worldwide phenomenon. Massive congratulations, my brother shetty_rishab, on qualifying for the Best Picture race at the 98th Academy Awards! This isn’t just a nomination; it is the roar of our ancestors echoing on the world’s most prestigious stage. You have carried the raw, beating heart of Bharat into the global spotlight. The soil of our land now claims its place in cinematic history.” He ended the post with a Telugu line: “Oscars ni intiki teeskostunnam!” What was once a sacred ritual, guarded by the ancient spirits of Tulunad, has now erupted into a global inferno. Bhuta Kola has transcended borders, shattering the silence to become a worldwide phenomenon.Massive congratulations, my brother @shetty_rishab on qualifying for the… https://t.co/s17gsphCME — Vivek Anand Oberoi (@vivekoberoi) January 10, 2026 Netizens were quick to slam the actor for using a Telugu phrase instead of Kannada. One user commented, “Intiki teeskostunnam is a Telugu word. ‘Ee saala Oscar nammade’ is Kannada.” Another angry user wrote, “It’s a Kannada movie! You talk about Bharat but don’t know half of it. Your negligence is infuriating.” A third user added, “Since it’s a Kannada movie, you could have ended your post in Kannada instead of using a Telugu word.” Several users also pointed out that a simple Google search could have avoided the confusion, criticising the tendency to generalise South Indian languages. Kantara: Chapter 1, Tanvi: The Great join eligible films at Oscars 2026 Two Indian films — Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 and Anupam Kher’s Tanvi: The Great — have joined the list of 201 feature films eligible for consideration at the 98th Academy Awards. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced the list, according to Variety. As per Academy rules, the films met additional eligibility requirements, including theatrical runs and the submission of a confidential Academy Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry (RAISE) form. They were also required to meet at least two of the four Academy inclusion standards and complete a qualifying theatrical run in 10 of the top 50 US markets within 45 days of their initial release in 2025. Having fulfilled all requirements, both films have emerged as potential contenders on the global stage. Earlier, in November 2025, the Academy had announced eligible films for Best Documentary, Animated Feature, and International Feature Film. The official Oscar nominations will be revealed on January 22, 2026.
12 January,2026 01:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAndhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and popular actor Pawan Kalyan has left an indelible mark as an actor in Indian cinema. Beyond acting, he has demonstrated his talent as a writer, director, stunt coordinator, choreographer, and singer. Parallel to his artistic journey, he has also carved a strong identity in public life and politics. Serving as the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, he continues to earn respect as a people’s leader. Alongside cinema and public service, martial arts have been a lifelong discipline for Pawan Kalyan. His recent induction into Kenjutsu, one of Japan’s most revered classical sword arts, stands as a rare international honour. This recognition is the result of over three decades of disciplined practice, research, and unwavering dedication to martial arts, particularly the philosophy and traditions of Japanese self-defence systems. Pawan Kalyan creative works shared his martial arts journey video that inspires many. Pawan Kalyan's journey in martial arts With a deep fascination for karate and related combat disciplines, he underwent rigorous training during his early years in Chennai. His practice went beyond physical conditioning; he consistently sought technical precision and philosophical depth. Over time, his commitment evolved into a profound study of Japanese Samurai traditions, where discipline, humility, self-control, and respect form the core of the warrior’s path. His dedication reflects not casual interest, but a lifelong pursuit rooted in respect for Japanese culture and its martial heritage. His understanding of martial arts also found expression on screen. Films such as Thammudu, Kushi, Annavaram, OG, and others showcased authentic martial techniques, contributing to wider awareness and appreciation of these art forms among audiences. Recognising his sustained commitment, several international martial arts organisations have honoured him. One of Japan’s most respected traditional martial institutions, Sogo Budo Kanri Kai, awarded him the Fifth Dan rank. He also became the first Telugu individual to be inducted into the Takeda Shingen Clan under Soke Muramatsu Sensei, an honour rarely bestowed outside Japan. Pawan Kalyan in Tiger of Martial Arts Additionally, the Golden Dragons organisation conferred upon him the distinguished title “Tiger of Martial Arts.” As part of his advanced training, Pawan Kalyan trained under Hanshi Professor Dr. Siddiq Mahmoodi, one of India’s foremost authorities on Japanese martial arts. Under his guidance, Pawan Kalyan received comprehensive training in Kendo, gaining not only advanced technical mastery but also deep philosophical insight into the way of the sword. Through this milestone, Pawan Kalyan has secured a unique place among the very few Indian personalities who have successfully bridged cinema, classical martial arts, and warrior philosophy on an international platform.
12 January,2026 12:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThalapathy Vijay has been in the news after his last film, Jana Nayagan, faced a major CBFC delay, due to which its release is stalled. While fans eagerly await the release of his film, there is some good news for them. Thalapathy Vijay’s 2016 film Theri is set to return to theatres, giving fans a reason to rejoice. Thalapathy Vijay’s Theri to re-release Even as Vijay’s upcoming film Jana Nayagan faces a delay, the re-release of Theri is expected to bring back memories of the star’s popular action role. Producer Kalaipuli S. Thanu of V Creations took to his X account to announce that the film will be re-released on January 15, 2026. This will also mark ten years since the film was first released. The production house shared the news along with a special poster of the film. ஜனவரி 15 முதல் அகிலமெங்கும்Thalapathy @actorvijay @Atlee_dir @gvprakash @Samanthaprabhu2 @iamAmyJackson #ThalapathyVijay #Theri #10YearsOfTheri pic.twitter.com/on3Pr30enp — Kalaippuli S Thanu (@theVcreations) January 10, 2026 About Theri Directed by Atlee, Theri features Vijay in a double role as DCP Vijaya Kumar and Joseph Kuruvilla. The story follows a former police officer who gives up his job to protect and raise his young daughter in peace. Trouble returns when his past resurfaces and puts his daughter’s life in danger. Child actor Nainika played Vijay’s daughter, while Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Amy Jackson also had key roles. The film was remade in Hindi in 2025 and titled Baby John. It starred Varun Dhawan, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Keerthy Suresh in pivotal roles. About Jana Nayagan’s CBFC row The re-release comes at a time when fans are eagerly awaiting Vijay’s next film, Jana Nayagan. The film, which is said to be Vijay’s final movie, has been delayed due to certification issues. It was earlier scheduled to hit theatres on January 9, 2026. Directed by H. Vinoth and produced by Venkat K. Narayana under KVN Productions, Jana Nayagan is being billed as Thalapathy Vijay’s last film. The film was submitted to the CBFC on December 18, 2025, and was viewed by the examining committee. On December 22, 2025, an email was received stating that the film would be granted a U/A 16+ certificate, subject to a few changes. The changes were incorporated, and the film was re-submitted. On January 9, the court put a temporary stay on an earlier order that had directed the CBFC to issue a U/A certificate. The next hearing will take place on January 21.
11 January,2026 07:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
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