Just days after actress Mouni Roy shared a horrifying harassment incident in Karnal, Bengali actress Mimi Chakraborty has now raised her voice against a similar issue, claiming she too was harassed and humiliated. Mimi, best known for starring in films like Sudhu Tomar Jonyo, Kelor Kirti, Proloy and more, opened up about facing public harassment at an event in Bongaon. Mimi faces harassment on stage Taking to social media, Mimi revealed that she was 'abruptly asked to get off stage' during her performance. She has also alleged that after leaving the stage, derogatory remarks followed on the microphone, which was 'not just humiliating, but it defamed her publicly.' The actress and politician has also admitted taking legal action in the matter. Mimi shared a detailed post on X (formerly known as Twitter), where she spoke about choosing Republic Day for opening up about the harassment incident. She wrote, "As we celebrate Republic Day, we speak of freedom and equality. But the independence and dignity of women and artists are still too easily violated.I have built my image and career on my own over the years. Staying silent today would only normalise the humiliation of artists." Opening up about the incident, she added, "I was invited by Naya Gopal Gunj Yubak Sango Club to perform at an event in Bongaon. Mid-performance, I was abruptly asked to leave the stage without any prior communication, in front of the audience. There were many people waiting to see me and meet me, including fans who had come for a picture." The actress revealed that after she left the stage abruptly, she was faced with derogatory remarks on the microphone, which was humiliating and that it defamed her publicly. She added, "Leaving the stage that way, followed by derogatory remarks on the microphone, was not just humiliating; it defamed me publicly." In her note, Mimi said that at the time, she decided to leave quietly to maintain decorum. However, now she has "taken the matter to the appropriate legal authorities and believes in due process." Concluding the note she wrote, "If I keep quiet today, this behaviour will be repeated tomorrow. Dignity on stage is non-negotiable." Oraganisers allegations On the other hand, the organisers of the event have alleged that Mimi Chakraborty took the stage at around 11:45 pm, which was nearly an hour later than the scheduled time. They said that she was asked to step away from the stage because of this delay. They further added that Mimi, given her stature as a prominent artiste, may have taken the request as disrespectful. They have also demanded an apology from the actress.
27 January,2026 11:28 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDirector Lokesh Kanagaraj confirmed a reunion with his Master and Leo actor Vijay. The filmmaker confirmed his involvement in the upcoming Tamil film Jana Nayagan, saying he has a cameo in Vijay's final film. Lokesh had a rare public interaction with the media on Monday, where he shared the news while also addressing long-standing speculations about his upcoming projects, Lokesh Kanagraj confirms cameo in Jana Nayagan While sharing updates on his directorial ventures and responding to recent criticisms, the filmmaker confirmed that he will appear in a cameo role in the film, which is said to be actor Vijay's final cinematic appearance before his full-fledged switch into politics. "H Vinoth anna and Vijay anna called me and asked me to do it. I have done a cameo, that is all I can say for now," Kanagaraj shared, confirming his on-screen reunion with the actor. Jana Nayagan is directed by Vinoth, and was originally scheduled to release on January 9; however, has faced delays due to ongoing legal and censorship hurdles with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). During the interaction, Kanagaraj also confirmed that fellow filmmakers Atlee and Nelson Dilipkumar will also be making cameo appearances in Vijay's political action drama as well. Lokesh Kanagraj shares updates on his upcoming projects The director, known for hits like 'Vikram' and 'Leo', chose the occasion of Republic Day to break a six-month silence following the release of his film Coolie. Such press meets are considered a rarity for Kanagaraj, who typically avoids the spotlight between projects. Since the release of Coolie, he had remained largely inaccessible to the press, missing customary post-release success meets due to a busy schedule. Addressing the media, Kanagaraj explained that the primary purpose of the gathering was to clear the air. "I wanted to address two or three things that have been circulating on social media before moving on to my next film. That is why I am here," he said. Providing a major update on the highly anticipated multi-starrer featuring Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, the director revealed the project was born out of a meeting during the release of Coolie. "The fact that they are coming together after nearly 46 years and asked me to direct them was a big deal. I could not miss this opportunity," Kanagaraj stated. He further clarified that while Kaithi 2 was originally planned as his immediate next project, he requested the production side for time to pursue the legendary collaboration. "I told the production side that I would finish this and come back, as I would not get such an opportunity again. I wrote sincerely for about a month and a half and gave separate narrations to both," he added. Reflecting on the reception of his last film, Coolie, Kanagaraj expressed gratitude to the audience while acknowledging the feedback from reviewers. "The critiques have made me think about many things. I have taken it as a learning experience to understand what is expected of me. In my upcoming films, I will try to deliver movies that do not attract that much criticism," he noted. The director also touched upon his acting debut in the upcoming film titled VC, where he plays a character named Devadas, and confirmed that a project with Telugu star Allu Arjun is also in the pipeline. (With inputs from PTI)
27 January,2026 10:58 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRanbir Kapoor is currently buckling up for a line-up of starry projects, including Ramayana and Love and War, both of which are planned to release this year. Following these, the actor also has Animal Park, the sequel to the 2023 hit Anima,l in his kitty. Now, Ranbir Kapoor has shared an update on Animal Park saying it is still some time away from going into production. Ranbir Kapoor shares an update on Animal Park During an interview with Deadline Hollywood, Ranbir Kapoor was asked if Animal 2 was in production, to which he said, “The director is right now making another film. We should start that film in 2027. It’s a bit away." When asked if he had seen the script, the actor replied, “He (Reddy Vanga) just kind of flirted with what he really wants to do with the movie. He wants to make it in three parts. The second part is called Animal Park." He went on to add, “We have been sharing ideas from the first film itself. How he wants to take the story forward. It’s very exciting because now I get to play two characters, the antagonist and the protagonist. So extremely exciting project and an extremely original director, and I’m very excited to be a part of it." Ranbir Kapoor was further asked to explain his dual roles in the film for those who haven’t seen Animal. He shared how the antagonist undergoes plastic surgery and turns himself into a body double to eventually come to resemble the protagonist. About Animal For the unversed, 2023's Animal is a hyperviolent action drama helmed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, which explores a father and son’s twisted, obsessive connection. Ranbir portrays Ranvijay ‘Vijay Singh’, a violent man shaped by childhood trauma caused by his emotionally distant father, played by Anil Kapoor. After an assassination attempt on his father, Vijay embarks on a ruthless quest for vengeance. Meanwhile, on the workfront, Ranbir is currently working on Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love and War, which is a 1960s-set historical drama also starring Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. The film is slated for release in June 2026. Later this year, Ranbir will be seen in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana: Part One, where he takes on the role of Lord Ram.
27 January,2026 10:01 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna are one of the most loved on-screen pairs. The actors are all set to mark their third collaboration, and it has got their fans excited. The actor is coming to the big screen with his next film, VD 14, helmed by Rahul Sankrityan. After months of anticipation and growing buzz around the project, the makers officially announced the film’s title and release date. First look of Vijay, Rashmika’s next out The makers announced the title as Rana Baali, starring Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna in the lead roles. They shared that the film is set to release worldwide on September 11, 2026. Sharing the glimpse, Vijay wrote, “The British called him a ‘SAVAGE.’ I do not disagree. He was ‘OUR’ savage! Introducing the one and only ‘RANA BAALI’ and setting the record straight on our history which they tried to bury.” The British called him a “SAVAGE”I do not Disagree :)He was “OUR” Savage!Introducing THE one and Only“RANABAALI”And setting the record straight on our history which they tried to Bury. #RANABAALI pic.twitter.com/o10IpsfdGu — Vijay Deverakonda (@TheDeverakonda) January 26, 2026 About Rana Baali Set in the 19th century, Rana Baali is inspired by real historical events that took place between 1854 and 1878 and is being mounted as a massive pan-India project. In the glimpse, before introducing the “Cursed Land” and its legendary hero, the makers portray the brutality of British rule in India through intense visuals and a gripping narrative. Rahul Sankrityan’s narration highlights the suffering caused by colonial policies, especially in regions turned into drought zones under officials like Sir Richard Temple and Sir Theodore Hector. The glimpse draws parallels to a genocide worse than Hitler’s Holocaust and exposes India’s economic exploitation. Vijay Deverakonda delivers a fierce, commanding presence as Rana Baali in a striking new look, while Rashmika Mandanna plays Jayamma. Arnold Vosloo appears as the antagonist, Sir Theodore Hector, adding to the film’s impact. About Vijay and Rashmika’s reunion Rana Baali brings Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna together once again after Geetha Govindam and Dear Comrade, reviving their much-loved on-screen pairing. The film marks Vijay Deverakonda’s third collaboration with the prestigious banner Mythri Movie Makers, headed by Naveen Yerneni and Y. Ravi Shankar, known globally for delivering the Pushpa franchise. It also reunites him with director Rahul Sankrityan after their superhit Taxiwaala. The film is presented by T-Series, and the music is composed by the iconic duo Ajay–Atul, adding further scale and grandeur to the project.
26 January,2026 08:54 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentChiranjeevi is currently basking in the success of his latest release Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu directed by Anil Ravipudi. The film released for the Pongal season beat other films like Prabhas’ TheRajaSaab, Sivakarthikeyan’s Parasakthi, Ravi Teja’s Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi, and Naveen Polishetty’s Anaganaga Oka Raju at the box office. To celebrate the success of the film, Chiranjeevi attended the press meet of the film in Hyderabad. Chiranjeevi on casting couch At the press meet, the megastar who has been at the helm of his acting career for decades, termed the Telugu cinema industry as a largely welcoming and good place to work at. He also addressed reports of casting couch in the industry. He said that if someone has had bitter experiences, personal choices and situations may have also contributed to it. “There may be references to casting couch or related incidents, but one must remember that if you work professionally and genuinely, the other person will also behave accordingly. If you are firm with your principles, no one will attempt to take advantage of you. This is something I strongly believe in. Be professional and straightforward, and everyone will understand,” he said. Chiranjeevi says he is a product of audience’s love After the success of his film, Chiranjeevi expressed his gratitude towards his admirers. Last week, the actor took to his Instagram, and shared a long note in which he reciprocated his love to the audience, and thanked them for showering love on his latest release, ‘Mana Shankaravara Prasad Garu’. He wrote, “Looking at the humongous success of our Film ‘Mana Shankaravara Prasad Garu’, my heart is filled with gratitude. I have always said that I am a product of your love, and today, you have proven it yet again. This success belongs to my Telugu audience, my dear beloved Mega Fans, Distributors, the movie team who worked relentlessly for this film and who have stood by me for decades”. He further mentioned, “Your whistles in the theater are the energy that keeps me going. Records come and go, but the love you shower upon me stays Forever. This blockbuster success is a tribute to the hard work of our HIT MACHINE, Director Anil Ravipudi, Producers Sahu and Sushmita along with the entire team and the unwavering faith you all have in me. Let's continue the celebration... Love you all”. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chiranjeevi Konidela (@chiranjeevikonidela)
26 January,2026 04:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAparshakti Khurana starrer Root - Running Out Of Time is building significant buzz as the actor marks his debut in Tamil cinema. On Monday, filmmaker A R Murugadoss unveiled Aparshakti's promising new look from the upcoming Tamil sci-fi thriller, written and directed by Sooriyaprathap S. On the occasion of Republic Day, the filmmaker shared the poster on his social media handle, officially introducing Aparshakti Khurana’s character from the film. Aparshakti Khurana's first look unveiled Going by the poster, it seems like Aparshakti steps into a crucial role with a mysterious edge around it. He is dressed in a white kurta with a brown shawl wrapped around his shoulders, sporting round, wide-rimmed glasses, which collectively give him a serious and powerful air. The background shows old colonial-style buildings, hinting at a historical narrative. His chilling stare and still appeal indicate his dark, intriguing avatar, pointing out that the character is deeply connected to the film’s sci-fi narrative. The filmmaker wrote, “Happy to reveal the second look from the world of ROOT – This is where it begins,” he wrote along with the reveal. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Verus Productions (@verusproductionsofficial) Celebrated for his performances in films like Dangal, Stree, Pati Patni Aur Woh and Stree 2, as well as the series Jubilee, Aparshakti’s Tamil debut has skyrocketed expectations surrounding Root - Running Out Of Time. About Root Running Out of Time In addition to Aparshati Khurana, the film also stars Gautham Ram Karthik, whose poster was unveiled earlier this month by superstar Rajinikanth. Written and directed by Sooriyaprathap S, Root – Running Out of Time is produced by Shaik Mujeeb, RajaRajan Gnanasambandam, Sanjai Shankar and Dhanishtan Fernando under the banner of Verus Productions. The film has been shot in Chennai and is described as a high-concept narrative blending emotional depth with genre storytelling. The ensemble cast includes Narain, Bhavya Trikha, Y Gee Mahendra, Pavni Reddy, Linga and RJ Anandhi in key roles. Currently, the film is in its post-production stage. Previously, Aparshakti had shared his excitement, stating, “I am absolutely thrilled to be making my debut in Tamil cinema with Root - Running Out of time. It’s a challenging and unique script, and I’m excited to explore this new territory. The opportunity to work with such a talented team and to connect with a new audience is something I’m truly looking forward to.”
26 January,2026 03:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFilmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj hosted a press meet in Chennai on Monday morning, where he spoke about the timeline of his upcoming films. He also addressed reports about being associated with Rajinikanth’s next and rumours of him backing out of Kaithi 2. Lokesh Kanagaraj on Thalaivar173 Lokesh last made the film Coolie, which was released in theatres in August last year. Starring Rajinikanth in the lead, the film opened to mixed reviews. However, despite that, it ran for 35 days. Speaking about the film, Lokesh said, “Sun Pictures told me the movie was profitable, so thanks for that. The criticism helped me understand what audiences expect from me, and I’ll make improvements in future films.” He further clarified that while he is not associated with Thalaivar 173, he was approached for a Rajinikanth–Kamal Haasan project before the release of Coolie. However, the actors were not keen on the genre he proposed and preferred a light-hearted film. “I worked on the script for one-and-a-half months, but Kamal sir and Rajini sir had different ideas. Both had done back-to-back action films and were consciously looking for something lighter. That’s not my cup of tea,” he said.\ Lokesh on why Kaithi 2 got delayed Kanagaraj added that when he was in talks with Dream Warrior Pictures for Kaithi and a potential Rajinikanth project, he informed the production house that he would focus on that film instead of Kaithi 2, which they accepted. However, the project did not materialise, and by the time he returned to Kaithi 2, lead actor Karthi had already committed his dates to another project, prompting the team to wait. “This is why Kaithi 2 was delayed, not because I demanded a salary hike,” Lokesh clarified. “When Kaithi 2 got delayed and Thalaivar 173 didn’t work out, I decided to honour a long-pending commitment with Mythri Movie Makers. That’s how my project with Allu Arjun took shape.” On both him and Atlee working with Allu Arjun back-to-back, Lokesh said there was no competition. “Tamil cinema is our foundation. We want our films to make the industry proud. As for box office numbers, we’ll be happy for each other’s success.”
26 January,2026 02:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentOn Republic Day, when patriotism often arrives wrapped in platitudes, actor Parvathy Thiruvothu turned the spotlight back to the Constitution itself in collaboration with United For Human Rights. As part of its ‘Read Me My Rights’ campaign, the National Award-winning actor took to social media to read out two of the most foundational promises of Indian democracy - fundamental rights that feel as urgent today as they did the day they were written. Parvathy Thiruvothu She began with Article 14, reading aloud: “The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.” She then followed it with Article 15, driving the point home: “The state shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds only of religion, caste, race, sex, place of birth or any of them.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Born Free and Equal (@bornfree_equal) In just two articles, Parvathy distilled the soul of the Republic - equality not as an idea, but as a right; justice not as a favour, but as a guarantee. She added, "These are rights that have to upheld in the Republic Of India - always speak up for them, for yourself and for your fellow citizens." Parvathy's upcoming projects On the work front, Parvathy will next be seen in the Malayalam films Pradhama Dhrishtya Kuttakkar and I, Nobody. Dhrishtya Kuttakkar is a crime thriller, and Parvathy will be essaying the role of a cop. The film’s title poster shows a dramatic scene where a police officer's leg steps over a blood-stained surface, intriguing fans. She will also be seen in the web series Storm, produced by Hrithik Roshan, continuing a career built on substance. Roshan, who announced his entry into the streaming space as a producer on October 10, 2025, took his first production, Storm, on floors in November 2025. The makers worked on the script for over three years before taking the series on floors. “The shooting for Storm is in full swing. Ajitpal Singh serves as the show’s director, writer, and creator. It’s largely a start-to-end schedule. Ajit is looking at wrapping it by February,” said a source of the series, which stars Parvathy Thiruvothu, Alaya F, Saba Azad, Srishti Shrivastava, Rrama Sharma, Ashish Vidyarthi, and Rajit Kapur.
26 January,2026 01:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDelighted with the phenomenal success of his recently released film Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, Chiranjeevi has gifted the film's director, Anil Ravipudi, a brand new car. The gesture comes after Pawan Kalyan also gifted his They Call Him OG director a car. The acts signify how the directors, too, are gaining recognition and acknowledgement for the films with the actor. Chiranjeevi gifts director Anil Ravipudi a new car Photos showing Chiranjeevi presenting the director a new Range Rover car have now gone viral on the internet. The film was released earlier this month during the festival of Sankranthi. It went on to emerge as a huge blockbuster. Telugu megastar Chiranjeevi was so moved by the roaring success of the film that he had poured his heart out in a deeply emotional message. Notably, the film grossed a whopping Rs 300 Crore worldwide, In his heartfelt note, Chiranjeevi reflected on the journey of bringing the film to this milestone and reiterated that every landmark in his career had been shaped by the affection of generations of movie lovers. Megastar Chiranjeevi's message read, "Looking at the humongous success of our MSG, my heart is filled with gratitude. I have always said that I am a product of your love, and today, you have proven it yet again. This record belongs to the Telugu audience, beloved distributors and my dear Mega fans who have stood by me for decades. Your whistles in the theatre are the energy that keeps me going. Records come and go, but the love you shower upon me stays forever." Chiranjeevi also put on record the hard work of director Anil Ravipudi for the film, saying, "This blockbuster success is a tribute to the hard work of our Anil Ravipudi, producers Sahu and Sushmita, along with the entire team and the unwavering faith you have in me. Let's continue the celebration Love you all!" About Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu The film, which was initially referred to as Mega157, had triggered huge expectations even before its release, as after Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy and Godfather, Nayanthara was to be seen sharing screen space with Chiranjeevi for the third time in this film. Also, Venkatesh and Chiranjeevi, two of Telugu cinema's top stars, shared screenspace for the first time in this film. The film boasted top-tier technical talent. It had Bheems Ceciroleo scoring music and Sameer Reddy as its cinematographer. Editing for the film was by Tammiraju and A S Prakash was its art director. (With inputs from IANS)
26 January,2026 01:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Ravi Teja teamed up with director Shiva Nirvana for his 77th film, RT77, sparking strong buzz thanks to the fresh and exciting combination. The film is being produced by the leading Pan-India banner Mythri Movie Makers. Marking the superstar Ravi Teja’s birthday, the makers unveiled the film’s title and its striking first-look poster on 26th January, 2026. Ravi Teja's first look from Irumudi Titled powerfully Irumudi, the name carries deep spiritual significance, symbolizing a devotee’s sacred offering and surrender to Lord Ayyappa. The striking first look presents Ravi Teja in a powerful spiritual avatar- draped in traditional Ayyappa mala attire, with the symbolic Irumudi bag, vibhuti, rudraksha, and a garland around his neck. He is seen in an ecstatic mood at a vibrant celebratory procession filled with devotees and musicians and rich cultural detailing, creating a trance-like atmosphere. Adding emotional resonance, Ravi Teja is seen carrying a young girl in his arms, hinting at a warm father–daughter dynamic. His radiant smile and charismatic presence instantly grab attention. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mythri Movie Makers (@mythriofficial) Expressing his excitement, Ravi Teja wrote, “Some stories choose you at the right moment in life. Feeling blessed to be part of one such story again, letting belief lead the way (folded hands emoji) Excited to begin this new journey called Irumudi with ShivaNirvana & MythriOfficial Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa (black heart emoji).” About Irumudi Director Shiva Nirvana has crafted a powerful script that fuses devotional depth, emotional weight, and mass appeal in equal measure. At its core lies a strong father–daughter bond, offering Ravi Teja a character arc unlike anything seen before. Besides playing a first-of-its-kind role, he also undergoes a transformation. The film promises well-defined roles for every character, adding richness to the narrative. Priya Bhavani Shankar plays the female lead, with Baby Nakshathra portraying Ravi Teja’s daughter. The cast also includes Sai Kumar, Ajay Ghosh, Ramesh Indira, and Swasika in key roles, along with Meesala Lakshman, Rajkumar Kasireddy, Ramana Bhargav, Kishore Kancherapalem, Karthik Adusumalli, and Mahesh. Backed by producers Naveen Yerneni and Y Ravi Shankar, Irumudi boasts a solid technical crew, with GV Prakash Kumar scoring the music, Vishnu Sarma handling cinematography, Sahi Suresh leading production design, and Prawin Pudi on the editing table. Shiva Nirvana has penned the story, screenplay, and dialogues, with Naresh Babu P serving as script coordinator. The shoot of Irumudi is currently progressing at a brisk pace.
26 January,2026 12:42 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe makers of director Mahesh Narayanan's eagerly-awaited thriller Patriot has finally locked the release date of the film. The film marks the reunion of actors Mammootty and Mohanlal after a long gap. The film which also stars Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban and Nayanthara will be releasing in theatres on April 23, 2026. Patriot release date Actor Mohanlal, who plays one of the leads in one of the most-anticipated films of the year, took to his X timeline on Republic Day to make the announcement. He wrote, “Unleashing the spirit of fearless voices, this Republic Day. PATRIOT arrives worldwide on April 23 , 2026. The countdown begins NOW." The shoot of the film was wrapped at the beginning of the year. Initially, Patriot was supposed to hit screens in 2025. However, owing to Mammootty's illness, the film's shoot was delayed. “Unleashing the spirit of fearless voices, this Republic Day”#PATRIOT arrives worldwide on April 23 , 2026The countdown begins NOW#Antojoseph #MaheshNarayanan pic.twitter.com/1OwJ0QZZ3p — Mohanlal (@Mohanlal) January 26, 2026 About Patriot The film, which has triggered huge expectations ever since it was announced, also features acclaimed actors Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Nayanthara, and Revathy in addition to the two Malayalam superstars. A teaser which the makers released last year went on to amplify the expectations of fans and film buffs. The teaser begins with a voiceover which says, " I remember there was a time when this nation was controlled by the two of them. Together. Over these years, what they earned wasn't just followers. Faith. Trust." We then see a series of intriguing but intense scenes and hear Mammootty's voice say, "They are going to bring social score to people." We next hear Mohanlal, who appears to play an army general in the film, say, "There are three of us. Do you think you can stop us?" The teaser then gives us an idea that there is a program called Periscope and that Kunchacko Boban plays a character called Daniel. Nayanthara is heard asking,"This program which is part of the student laptop scheme. Is that similar to Periscope?" We also hear another voice, asking,"Is this program watching them secretly?" The teaser ends with Mammootty asking someone to complete the sentence, "Great Indian traitor... or Patriot." Overall, the teaser gives the impression that the film will revolve around a group of socially responsible individuals trying to thwart an illegal attempt by the government to monitor its citizens.
26 January,2026 11:36 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
