Acclaimed filmmaker and two-time former Member of Legislative Assembly, P.T. Kunju Muhammed, was recently arrested in connection with a sexual assault complaint. He was subsequently released on bail, considering the conditions laid down in the anticipatory bail granted to him by the court. Kunju Muhammed arrested Both the arrest and release happened on Tuesday, following an order issued by the Thiruvananthapuram Seventh Additional Sessions Court on December 20. The order granted anticipatory bail to Kunju Muhammed while imposing stringent conditions. The bail order stated that if the police found it necessary to arrest the accused during the course of the investigation, Kunju should be released on bail immediately after arrest. The court passed the order after hearing the detailed arguments from both the prosecution and the defence earlier this week. About the case The case was reportedly registered by the police on December 8, based on a complaint submitted by the woman to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on November 27. The complainant claimed that Kunju Muhammed sexually assaulted her while he was serving as the chairman of the jury responsible for selecting films for the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), a position that is considered highly prestigious within the Malayalam film industry. According to the prosecution, the accused misused his influence and public stature to subject the complainant to sexual assault. Opposing the bail plea, the prosecution argued that the seriousness of the allegations, coupled with the social standing of the accused, warranted a strict approach. Police informed the court that their investigation revealed that the accused had called the complainant to a room, forcibly restrained her and committed sexual assault. A detailed case diary and investigation report were produced before the court to substantiate the claims. The defence, however, questioned the credibility of the complaint, pointing to an alleged delay in reporting the incident. It was submitted that the incident was said to have occurred on November 6, while the complaint was filed on November 27. The prosecution countered this by stating that the delay was due to health issues faced by the complainant and that such delays are common in sexual assault cases. (With inputs from IANS)
24 December,2025 12:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWell known south Indian star Prakash Raj, who plays a pivotal role in director S S Rajamouli's eagerly awaited magnum opus Varanasi, featuring actor Mahesh Babu in the lead, has now announced that he has just wrapped a schedule of the film and that he can't wait to resume the next schedule. Taking to his X timeline to express his joy at the kind of work he was able to deliver in this schedule of the film, the versatile actor wrote, "Wrapped up a wonderful schedule of Varanasi .. a joy to the hungry actor within me .. thank you ssrajamouli urstrulyMahesh PrithviOfficial priyankachopra. It was exhilarating to work with you all .. can’t wait to resume the next schedule." Wrapped up a wonderful schedule of #Varanasi .. a joy to the hungry actor within me .. thank you @ssrajamouli @urstrulyMahesh @PrithviOfficial @priyankachopra ❤️❤️❤️ it was exhilarating to work with you all .. can’t wait to resume the next schedule 🥰🥰🥰 — Prakash Raj (@prakashraaj) December 23, 2025 The film has triggered huge interest in fans and film buffs. The interest levels shot up even more after the title announcement event of Varanasi. The title of the film, which was until then being referred to as GlobeTrotter, was revealed at a grand event organised at the Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad in the presence of several thousand of excited fans in November this year. The event, being hailed as a once-in-a-generation spectacle, saw fans in the thousands turning up for the event, making it one of the largest live fan congregations ever seen in the Indian entertainment space. The event featured one of the biggest stages ever erected for a film event, with a 100 ft height and a 130 ft wide screen to supplement it. At the event, Rajamouli disclosed details of a sequence they had shot for the film. The ace director went on to claim that the sequence would be among the most memorable sequences of all his films. "From my childhood, I have told several times that I like the Ramayana and the Mahabharatha a lot. That making Mahabharatha was my dream project. Even when I began working on this film, I did not realise that I would be shooting an important sequence from the Ramayana for this film. But while writing every scene, I felt like I was walking on air. On the first day, when I saw Mahesh dressed as Rama and doing a photoshoot, I had goosebumps," Rajamouli had said. "We had a great time shooting for this episode. We shot for 60 days. It got completed only recently. Every day was a challenge as every sub episode in the huge episode was like a cinema in itself. It needed fresh planning. We overcame all of it and completed that sequence. It will be one of the most memorable sequences of my films," the director informed. The makers of the film have already revealed the character and looks of actors Mahesh Babu, Prithviraj and Priyanka Chopra in the film. While Mahesh Babu plays Rudhra, Prithviraj plays the antagonist Kumbha and Priyanka Chopra plays Mandakini in the film. Another interesting aspect of the film is that 95 per cent of all the African scenes that will be seen in the film have been shot in Kenya. This was disclosed by Kenya's Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign & Diaspora Affairs Musalia W Mudavadi. 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
24 December,2025 10:51 AM IST | Hyderabad | IANSAs Nivin Pauly gears up for his upcoming film, Sarvam Maya, which is one of the most highly anticipated films of the year, the actor recently opened up about his box office failures. For the unversed, many of the actor's films have underperformed at the box office and turned out to be flops. Nivin broke his silence, sharing what he thinks went wrong with the films he chose. Nivin Pauly on box office failures During a recent chat with Pearle Manney on her YouTube channel, Nivin reflected on his career and shared how he was advised to try different genres as an actor and told he needed to improve. Nivin said in Malayalam, “There was a point in my life when I was confused. My friends and people close to me kept telling me that I shouldn’t just do entertainer films and that, as an actor, I should improve like others.” He added, "They kept advising me that I wasn’t showcasing my full potential as an actor. They wanted me to do thriller films and other genres, not just comedy films. They felt that if I continued to do only comedy movies, I would become forgettable. At that moment, I also felt that maybe they were right. Maybe I should try different things as an actor. However, after I changed my choice of films to suit other genres, the same people came back and told me how much they missed my comedy films. I was like, ‘Weren’t you the ones who asked me to change?’” Nivin Pauly's filmography Nivin is best known for some of his most loved films, including Premam, Om Shanti Oshana, Bangalore Days, Neram and Thattathin Marayathu. He has witnessed consecutive box office failures with his recent films, like Kanakam Kaamini Kalaham, Padavettu and Thuramukham. Meanwhile, he will next be seen in the fantasy horror comedy film Sarvam Maya, which also stars Aju Varghese, Janardhanan, Preity Mukhundhan, Arun Ajikumar and Raghunath Paleri. The film is scheduled to release on December 25. It is a horror mixed with comedy and revolves around the story of a young Hindu priest who dreams of becoming a guitarist. His life transforms when a friendly ghost enters his world.
24 December,2025 10:43 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTelugu actor Sivaji, who landed in a controversy and received a lot of flak online, has now issued a public apology over his remarks about women’s clothing. He apologised after his comment at the pre-release event of Dhandoraa went viral, attracting widespread criticism. He has now clarified his statement of using "unparliamentary words." Sibaji apologises for sexist comments The actor clarified that he didn't mean to "insult or humiliate anyone" by his statement. He also mentioned he meant to emphasise how female actors can avoid problems by being careful about their clothing. He said, "These days, heroines have faced difficult situations. While trying to say a few good words, I ended up using a few unparliamentary words. I was not referring to all women. What I meant was that when heroines go out, if they are careful about the clothes they wear, maybe such problems wouldn’t arise. It was not said with the intention of insulting or humiliating anyone," he said in Telugu in a post on X (formerly Twitter) captioned "I sincerely apologise for my words during the Dhandoraa pre-release event last night." In the video apology, Sivaji, seemed visibly tense and emotional, regretted making the statement. "My intention was good, but it would have been better if those two words hadn’t slipped out. Other than wanting to say something good, I had no intention of insulting or degrading anyone," he concluded his statement. What did Sivaji say? The controversy started when Sivaji addressed the audience at an event of his upcoming film Dhandoraa and praised the female host for her choice of wearing a saree. He then addressed how he felt heroines should dress, and made remarks that many found to be unsolicited and moralising. Sivaji said, "I request all heroines not to wear revealing outfits. Please wear sarees or dresses that cover the body fully. Beauty lies in complete attire or a saree, not in displaying physical assets." He added, "A woman is like nature. When nature is beautiful, we respect it. A woman is like my mother, whom I hold close to my heart." Sivaji also spoke about yesteryear actresses, as well as Rashmika Mandanna, to support his views about what he referred to as "modest" dressing. Sivaji added, "Freedom is precious – don't lose it. People will respect you based on your conduct. Glamour should have limits; it should not cross a certain line." These remarks faced sharp criticism across social media from fans and industry alike. Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma, actors Lakshmi Manchu, Manchu Manoj, and Anasuya Bharadwaj, among others, reacted to his statement.
23 December,2025 08:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a moment steeped in emotion and anticipation, the makers of Thalapathy Vijay’s much-awaited upcoming film have officially announced its Hindi title as Jan Neta. Along with the title reveal, a striking new poster featuring Thalapathy Vijay and Bobby Deol was unveiled, while also confirming that Zee Studios will handle the film’s release across the North Indian market. Jana Nayagan titled Jan Neta in Hindi The newly released poster presents an intense face-off between Vijay and Bobby Deol, set against a backdrop of fire, destruction, and chaos. The powerful imagery hints at a high-stakes conflict driven by conviction, power, and ideology—signaling a narrative that extends far beyond physical combat. Rooted in political and emotional upheaval, Jana Nayagan promises a clash where beliefs collide as fiercely as the characters themselves. Thalapathy Vijay is seen in a rugged, grounded avatar, exuding quiet authority and resilience, while Bobby Deol’s commanding, militaristic presence adds scale and tension to the visual narrative. The explosive setting, punctuated by helicopters and large-scale destruction, suggests a story unfolding on a vast political and national canvas. Sharing the poster on social media, KVN Productions wrote, “Aavoo together bhaiya bhaiya to witness his one last dance.” Aavoo together bhaiya bhaiya to witness his one last dance 🔥@ZeeStudios_ has bagged the North India theatrical rights ♥️#JanNeta#JanNetaFromJan9#Thalapathy @actorvijay @KvnProductions #HVinoth @hegdepooja @anirudhofficial @thedeol @_mamithabaiju @Jagadishbliss @LohithNK01… pic.twitter.com/mJmz3LJ1tO — KVN Productions (@KvnProductions) December 23, 2025 More about Jana Nayagan Adding to the mounting buzz, the film has already opened to record-breaking pre-sales across key overseas markets, underlining the massive global anticipation surrounding the release. Expectations are sky-high as Jana Nayagan marks Thalapathy Vijay’s final film, making it one of the most emotionally significant releases of his illustrious career. With Zee Studios spearheading the North India release, the film is also poised to be one of the biggest releases in the region, backed by strong advance interest and robust opening expectations across the Hindi-speaking belt. Directed by H. Vinoth, known for his compelling narratives and layered storytelling, the film promises a story driven by purpose, consequence, and conviction. The music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander, while the film boasts a strong ensemble cast including Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju, Prakash Raj, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Priyamani, and Narain, adding further depth to its expansive world. Further amplifying the excitement, the film’s grand audio launch is scheduled to take place on December 27 in Malaysia, setting the stage for a large-scale celebration that mirrors the film’s ambition and emotional resonance. Backed by KVN Productions under producer Venkat K. Narayana, Jana Nayagan (Jan Neta in Hindi) is slated for a grand worldwide theatrical release on January 9, 2026, perfectly timed with the festive Pongal weekend.
23 December,2025 07:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPrabhas' upcoming film, The Raja Saab, has already been creating a lot of buzz. As the film inches closer to its grand theatrical release on January 9, 2026, the Maruthi directoria has cleared the CBFC cut with a U/A certificate. Additionally, the runtime of the film, which was rumoured to be over three-hour-long, has also been locked. The Raja Saab runtime revealed According to a 123 Telugu report, The Raja Saab has wrapped up its censor certification with a runtime of about 183 minutes (3 hours and 3 minutes). It is reported that the movie received a U/A certificate from CBFC ahead of its release day on Sanranthi 2026. Recently, the makers released the second song titled Sahana Sahana from the film, which immediately went viral. The song includes stunning visuals and the sizzling chemistry between Prabhas and Nidhhi Agerwal. The makers had earlier shared a trailer of the film that starts with Prabhas sitting in a hypnotist’s office, asked to focus while the classic Bappi Lahiri and Usha Uthup song Koi Yahan Nache Nache plays in the background. The actor appears visibly shocked by the visions that unfold, showing eerie creatures and a haunted mansion. Sanjay Dutt also stars in the film, and his character is introduced by Boman Irani as an “exorcist, psychiatrist, and hypnotist" in the trailer. Prabhas prepares to encounter Dutt’s character, while referencing Star Wars humorously. The trailer ends with Prabhas’ older avatar, indicating at his role as the evil grandfather as Zareena Wahab plays his grandmother. About The Raja Saab The Raja Saab cast includes Prabhas in dual roles, Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, Riddhi Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, and Nayanthara in a special song. Interestingly, this film marks Malavika's Telugu debut. Meanwhile, it also marks a massive shift for Prabhas, who will be seen in an all-new genre, breaking away from his action roles. The Raja Saab is directed by Maruthi, who is considered a pioneer in the horror-comedy genre in Telugu cinema. The film is produced by Viswa Prasad under the People Media Factory banner. The film will release across five languages, including Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.
23 December,2025 07:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTelugu actor Sivaji made a controversial statement at the pre-release event of his upcoming film Dhandoraa. He doled out unsolicited advice targeted at women and heroines, asking them to dress modestly. The 54-year-old actor, who is also known for his participation in Bigg Boss Telugu 7, has landed in the eye of the storm after his comments went viral on social media, with many slamming him for his remarks. What did Sivaji say? Speaking on stage at the pre-release event of the Telugu movie, Sivaji said, "I request all heroines not to wear revealing outfits. Please wear sarees or dresses that cover the body fully. Beauty lies in complete attire or a saree, not in displaying physical assets." He further added, "People may not openly say anything because they feel it is your freedom, but inside they may not like it. A woman is like nature. When nature is beautiful, we respect it. A woman is like my mother, whom I hold close to my heart." Speaking further about women’s dressing, he cited the examples of legendary actors Savitri and Soundarya, along with new-age star Rashmika Mandanna, for their graceful outfits. He said, "They created an impact through their attire, which is why I can name them". He went on to say, "Freedom is precious - don't lose it. People will respect you based on your conduct. Glamour should have limits; it should not cross a certain line." Reportedly, Sivaji also mentioned on stage that he might be criticised for his comments. Chinmayi Sripaada slams Sivaji Singer Chinmayi Sripaada, who is known for voicing her opinions on social issues, was among the first to react to Sivaji’s remarks. She called out the actor for giving “unnecessary advice” to female actors. She wrote on X, "Telugu Actor Sivaji doles out unnecessary advice to Actresses using slurs like ‘Daridrapu Munda’ saying they need to wear Saris to cover their ‘Saamaan’ - a word incels use." She further wrote, "Actor Shivaji played a villain in a fantastic film and end up becoming the hero for incel boys. The point is - these are professional spaces where Shivaji is using words like ‘Daridrapu Munda’." She added, "He himself wears Jeans and Hoodie. He should wear only Dhotis and follow Indian culture. Wear bottu and if he is married wear the Kankanam and Mettelu to signify he is married." Expressing disbelief over Sivaji’s remarks on a public platform, the singer concluded, "Unbelievable how women are treated here. Just unbelievable."
23 December,2025 03:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTollywood actor Vijay Deverakonda has announced his next titled, Rowdy Janardhana, leaving his admirers excited for what he has in store for them next. Joining them, actress Rashmika Mandanna, who is rumoured to be engaged to the Liger actor, also gave a shout-out to him with a social media post. Rashmika re-shared the announcement post for the movie on her X (Earlier known as Twitter) handle and penned, "Let’s go! Lets go! Let’s goooo!! TheDeverakonda (sic)". However, the Pushpa actress did not stop there and compiled another encouraging message for Vijay on her Instagram Stories. "You Rowdy fellow. Such mental stuff this is! What visuals! What music! What vibe! What an actor! You boys are crazy and I love it (sic)," wrote Rashmika. Announcing his next, VD treated the netizens with a power-packed first promo from the project on Instagram. Vijay was seen in a fierce avatar for his next. Shirtless, he posed drenched in blood, with long hair and a thick moustache. Wearing a dark lungi, he was seen wielding a machete. VD will essay the role of a feared rowdy from Kalingapatnam in the forthcoming drama. Vijay wrote, “The Biography of a Wounded man. in 1 year. RowdyJanardhana December 2026 (sic)." Apart from their professional commitments, Vijay and Rashmika also keep making headlines for their alleged relationship. The speculations of the Dear Comrade co-stars being romantically involved have been doing the rounds for some time now. From appearing at airports at the same time to going on vacations at similar locations, these two have been keeping the netizens on their toes for years now. Now, going by the latest reports, Vijay and Rashmika are finally engaged after years of being in a relationship. The reports also claim that the lovebirds plan to tie the knot in February next year. However, there has been no official announcement from either side until now. 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,2025 12:45 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSVijay Deverakonda and Keerthy Suresh's upcoming film finally has a name. The title of the upcoming actioner was revealed on Monday as Rowdy Janardhana. Along with the name, the makers also dropped a title announcement video of Vijay Deverakonda's first look from his next film with Ravi Kiran Kola. The first look was screened for fans on Monday evening before it was officially unveiled online. Vijay Deverakonda’s first look in Rowdy Janardhana revealed Rowdy Janardhana's first look shows Vijay covered in blood and looking unrecognisable. He is seen in thick hair and a moustache, shirtless and dressed in a dark lungi with a machete in his hand. In the video, he is seen hacking through men for standing up against him before he says, “Kalingapatnam lo intikokka l***akoduku nenu rowdy ni ani chepuku tirugutunnadu. Kaani inti peru ne rowdy ga marchukunnodu okkade unnadu (Every son of a b***h in Kalingapatnam goes around calling himself a rowdy. But there’s only one who changed his surname to it).” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda) The dialogue apparently seems to be a reference to how he addresses his fans as Rowdy. Vijay then unveiled the film’s title and his character’s name as Rowdy Janardhana. Apart from a new look, the actor can also be seen shedding his trademark Telangana twang for a more rustic accent in the film. Shared the title announcement and first look on his Instagram handle, Vijay Deverakonda captioned it as, “The Biography of a Wounded man. in 1 year. RowdyJanardhana December 2026.” About Rowdy Janardhana Rowdy Janardhana is being directed by Ravi Kiran Kola. The film also features Keerthy Suresh as the female lead. The film is expected to be released in Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam simultaneously in December 2026. It is believed to be the biography of a wounded man, as suggested by Vijay. However, the makers have not shared the name of the person from whom Vijay Deverakonda’s character takes inspiration from. Rowdy Janardhana marks the second collaboration of Keerthy Suresh and Vijay Deverakonda after the hit film Mahanati. Viajy Deverakonda was last seen in Kingdom, also starring Satyadev, Bhagyashri Borse, Manish Chaudhari and others in pivotal roles.
22 December,2025 09:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVeteran Malayalam actor-filmmaker Sreenivasan passed away on Saturday, December 20. He was 69. His death came as a shock to admirers across the country, with several dignitaries from the film fraternity arriving to pay their last respects. Multiple visuals from Sreenivasan’s funeral and last rites went viral on social media. Amid this, actor Prithviraj Sukumaran’s wife, Supriya Menon, who is also a producer, strongly called out those clicking pictures and documenting every moment of grief. Supriya slams selfie takers at Sreenivasan's funeral On Sunday, Supriya took to her Instagram Stories to express her anguish over how Sreenivasan’s family was denied the space to mourn, surrounded by cameras and mobile phones. “Grief is such a personal emotion. To see a grieving family not have any space to mourn their beloved is so tragic. Multitudes of cameras\mobile phones everywhere. Selfie takers in the corners, people pointing to the actors walking in. Many of whom are mourning their beloved colleague,” she wrote. She further urged people to reflect and show respect to the departed and their loved ones. “Don't the dead & the living they leave behind deserve better? What a spectacle every moment of life has become...Cannot imagine the pain of the family who are in the midst of this tragedy. Shouldn't we self reflect & course correct? How much coverage is too much? Do we need to crowd around the last rites beaming it for everyone to see ... a broken down family, trying to say goodbye to their Beloved.” Sreenivasan passed away at a private hospital on Saturday morning, according to film industry sources. He had been admitted to a hospital in Tripunithura on Friday night following prolonged illness. As news of his demise spread, fans and colleagues mourned the loss, with condolences pouring in from across the country. About Sreenivasan Born on April 6, 1956, in Patyam near Thalassery in Kerala’s Kannur district, Sreenivasan emerged as one of the most influential voices in Malayalam cinema, celebrated for blending sharp social satire with accessible storytelling. Over a career spanning nearly five decades, he acted in more than 225 films and wrote several landmark screenplays. He made his acting debut in P. A. Backer’s Manimuzhakkam in 1976, with his first lead role in Sanghaganam (1979). He was formally trained at the Film and Television Institute of Tamil Nadu in Chennai. Beyond acting and writing, Sreenivasan was also a producer and co-produced Katha Parayumpol and Thattathin Marayathu under Lumiere Film Company with actor Mukesh. His writing credits include classics such as Odaruthammava Aalariyam, Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam, Gandhinagar 2nd Street, Katha Parayumpol, and Njan Prakashan. He received several honours during his career, including a National Film Award, two Filmfare Awards South, and six Kerala State Film Awards.
22 December,2025 07:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe makers of director Sudha Kongara's eagerly awaited upcoming period film, Parasakthi, featuring actors Sivakarthikeyan, Ravi Mohan, Atharvaa and Sreeleela in the lead, have now announced that the film's release had been advanced to January 10. The film was earlier scheduled to be released in theatres on January 14. The festival of Pongal is a favourite release date for films in the South. Parasakthi release preponed Taking to its social media timelines, Dawn Pictures, the firm producing the film, shared a statement that read, "We wish to inform the media, trade, and audiences that the release of 'Parasakthi' has been preponed to January 10, 2026. This decision has been taken after extensive discussions and repeated requests from exhibitors and distributors worldwide, who have expressed strong confidence in the film's theatrical potential during this period. 'Parasakthi' will now release in theatres worldwide on January 10, 2026." Now, the film will clash with Vijay's Jana Nayagan. There is massive excitement around Vijay's film as it will mark his final movie bringing his acting career to an end. The actor will be shifting his focus on politics. More about Parasakthi The film has triggered huge expectations in both fans and film buffs. It may be recalled that Sivakarthikeyan had begun dubbing for the film in the last week of November. Both actress Sreeleela, who plays the female lead, and actor Ravi Mohan, who plays the antagonist in the film, have dubbed for their portions. Interestingly, Sreeleela has dubbed in her own voice for this film. The makers had officially confirmed on October 21 this year that the unit had wrapped up the shooting of the film. In August, the unit wrapped up its Pollachi schedule. Parasakthi has triggered huge interest among fans and film buffs. The period film is believed to be set in the 1960s in the then state of Madras. A teaser released by the unit shows that the story takes place in the Pachaiyappa’s college in Madras where Sivakarthikeyan is seen going door to door, in search of something. He comes across as a fearless leader, looking to lead students on a violent protest in rebellion against an unjust system which seems to have imposed orders such as ‘Students - do not touch’. Incidentally, the teaser shows this order printed on a wall changed to ‘Do not touch students’.
22 December,2025 07:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1766417082125_d.png "Vijay Deverakonda in Rowdy Janardhana")
