Actor-turned-politician Vijay grabbed attention during a recent campaign rally in Puducherry after a video showed him losing his cool at a member of his security team for pushing an elderly man in the crowd. Vijay steps down from the van The incident took place during a roadshow held as part of his political campaign. Large crowds had gathered to catch a glimpse of the actor, who was seen standing atop his vehicle and waving to supporters. Amid the tightly packed surroundings, security personnel were trying to manage the crowd and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle. However, things took a turn when an elderly man, seemingly eager to greet Vijay, came too close to the convoy. A security guard quickly pushed the man aside in an attempt to clear the path. The act did not go unnoticed by Vijay, who immediately reacted. Eyewitness videos circulating online show Vijay visibly upset as he pointed towards the guard and reprimanded him for his behaviour. He appeared to signal that such treatment, especially towards senior citizens, was unacceptable. The moment was brief, but it stood out during the otherwise energetic rally. Vijay scolds the guard for his behaviour After expressing his displeasure, Vijay regained composure and continued interacting with the crowd, waving at supporters as his vehicle moved forward. The rally itself witnessed a massive turnout, reflecting his growing political presence ahead of upcoming elections. The video quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread reactions from users. Many praised Vijay for stepping in and defending the elderly man, calling it a sign of empathy and strong leadership. Comments highlighting his “care for people” and “leader-like qualities” flooded online platforms soon after the clip surfaced. The incident has also reignited conversations around crowd control and the conduct of security personnel during large political gatherings. Managing enthusiastic crowds remains a significant challenge, especially when public figures attract massive turnouts during campaigns. Vijay, who recently launched his political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, has been actively engaging with supporters across regions as part of his campaign efforts. Moments like these continue to shape public perception of him—not just as a film star, but as a leader navigating the complexities of public life. While the rally moved on without further disruption, the viral clip has ensured that the brief exchange remains a talking point, highlighting the delicate balance between security and sensitivity in high-profile public events.
04 April,2026 10:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSuperstar Rajinikanth recently interacted with the media in Chennai, where he addressed questions about his upcoming film Jailer 2 but chose to remain silent on the ongoing Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. His brief yet measured response has once again highlighted his consistent stance of staying away from political commentary despite frequent public curiosity. Rajinikanth skips political questions When approached by reporters at the airport, Rajinikanth greeted them warmly and answered select questions about his work. Speaking about Jailer 2, the actor confirmed that the film’s shooting has been completed and that it is currently in its final stages of post-production. He added that the makers will soon make an official announcement regarding the film’s release date, sparking excitement among fans eagerly awaiting the sequel. Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, Jailer 2 is one of the most anticipated Tamil films in the pipeline. The sequel follows the massive success of the 2023 blockbuster Jailer, with Rajinikanth reprising his popular role as Tiger Muthuvel Pandian. The film is expected to deliver high-octane action along with the signature style that made its predecessor a hit. However, when questions shifted towards the upcoming Tamil Nadu elections, the veteran actor politely declined to comment. With a simple smile and a courteous “Vanakkam,” he avoided engaging in any political discussion. This response aligns with his earlier decisions to distance himself from electoral politics, even after once expressing intentions to enter the political arena. Rajinikanth’s relationship with politics has often been a topic of public interest. In the past, he had announced plans to launch a political party but later stepped back, citing health concerns and personal reasons. Since then, he has maintained that he prefers to serve people in other ways rather than through active political participation. Rajinikanth updates about Jailer 2 Meanwhile, the focus remains firmly on his film career. Apart from Jailer 2, Rajinikanth also has other projects lined up, including a collaboration with Kamal Haasan, further adding to the anticipation surrounding his upcoming slate. As fans await an official release date for Jailer 2, Rajinikanth’s latest appearance reinforces his priority: cinema over politics, even amid ongoing public and media speculation.
04 April,2026 09:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe much-anticipated trailer of Patriot has finally heightened excitement among fans, marking the grand reunion of Malayalam cinema legends Mammootty and Mohanlal after nearly two decades. Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, the film promises a gripping blend of espionage, action, and political intrigue. Trailer leaves the fans impressed The trailer offers a glimpse into a high-stakes spy drama where national security and personal loyalties collide. Both Mammootty and Mohanlal appear in intense, layered roles, hinting at a narrative driven by secrecy, surveillance, and power struggles. Packed with slick visuals and fast-paced sequences, the film positions itself as a large-scale action thriller with global appeal. One of the biggest highlights of Patriot is the reunion of the two iconic actors, who last shared screen space years ago. Their return together has sparked nostalgia among fans while also raising expectations for a powerful on-screen dynamic. The trailer teases moments of confrontation and collaboration, suggesting a complex relationship between their characters. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mohanlal (@mohanlal) Beyond its leading stars, the film boasts a strong ensemble cast, including Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Nayanthara, and Revathy. Their presence adds depth to the narrative, hinting at multiple intersecting storylines within the espionage framework. The storyline is believed to explore contemporary themes such as surveillance, data privacy, and dissent, making it both relevant and thought-provoking. The trailer reflects this tone through its gritty atmosphere and morally complex characters, indicating that the film will go beyond conventional action tropes. With high production values, international locations, and a compelling narrative, Patriot is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious Malayalam films in recent times. The film is slated for a theatrical release in 2026, further adding to the anticipation. All about the reunion and film Overall, the trailer sets the stage for an intense cinematic experience, combining star power, storytelling, and scale. As expectations soar, Patriot is already being viewed as a landmark project that could redefine the spy thriller genre in Malayalam cinema. Despite all the delays and road blocks, the trailer has left the fans in anticipation for a stellar film. The reunion is set to have a grand footfall in theatres to see the film.
04 April,2026 07:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMalayalam filmmaker Ranjith has been remanded to three days of police custody in connection with a sexual assault case that has sent shockwaves through the film industry. The development comes after a Special Investigation Team (SIT) took over the probe to examine serious allegations made against the director-producer. Ranjith remanded to three days of police custody According to reports, the complainant has accused Ranjith of sexual misconduct during a professional interaction. The alleged incident is said to have taken place under the pretext of work, raising concerns about misuse of power and authority within the industry. Following the complaint, authorities initiated a detailed inquiry, eventually leading to his custody for further questioning. The SIT is now actively investigating the claims, collecting evidence, and recording statements from individuals who may have been associated with the case. Officials are reportedly focusing on verifying the sequence of events, as well as examining any supporting material that could substantiate the allegations. The custody period is expected to play a crucial role in helping investigators piece together the facts. SIT probe deepens in the case investigation Ranjith, a prominent name in Malayalam cinema known for his contributions as both a director and producer, has denied the accusations. His legal team has maintained that the claims are baseless and that he will fully cooperate with the investigation. Despite the denial, the case has intensified scrutiny on the functioning of the film industry, particularly regarding workplace safety and accountability. The controversy has also reignited conversations around the need for stronger mechanisms to address harassment and abuse in the entertainment sector. Several voices within the industry have called for a fair and transparent probe, emphasizing the importance of justice for the complainant while ensuring due process for the accused. As the investigation unfolds, all eyes remain on the SIT’s findings, which are expected to determine the next course of action. The case continues to develop, with further updates likely as authorities proceed with questioning and evidence gathering.
04 April,2026 05:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMalayalam filmmaker Ranjith Balakrishnan, who continues to be in police custody, has faced a setback in his sexual assault case after his lawyer, Mohammed Siyad, quit the case. Siyad will no longer represent him in the ongoing sexual assault case, and has also informed Ranjith's family to look for a new counsel. Ranjith's lawyer quits the case Notably, Mohammed Siyad faced criticism for also being a member of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) for the film, on which the incident occurred. Siyad announced his decision to quit the case and revealed that he has asked the filmmaker’s family to hire another lawyer ahead of the upcoming bail proceedings. The lawyer reportedly told OnManorama, “As the legal advisor to numerous production houses, I have been a member of several Internal Complaints Committees, including the ICC for the film cited in this case. It is important to note that the complainant never raised any allegations of harassment during the shooting, nor did she ever approach the ICC." Siyad’s resignation came hours after he filed a bail plea on Ranjit’s behalf. The plea reportedly claims that the actress filed a harassment case because of disagreements between her and the filmmaker during the shoot. About sexual assault allegations against Ranjith Earlier this week, Ranjith was taken into police custody after a woman actor accused the filmmaker of attempting to sexually assault her on a film set. According to police, a complaint was filed with Kochi City Police. The woman claimed that Ranjith lured her into a caravan during a shoot and tried to sexually assault her, encouraging immediate action from authorities. Talking about the case, Kochi City Police Commissioner S Kaliraj Mahesh Kumar shared that a Special Investigation Team was formed after the actress filed a complaint. He also revealed that the allegations were discreetly verified before Ranjith was arrested. “It should not happen to any woman, especially at the workplace," he said. Following the complaint, Ranjith was arrested and then sent to 14-day police custody. Recently, the WCC also issued a long statement calling the allegations against Ranjith ‘grave’. They also questioned the industry’s power structures and criticised the showbiz world.
04 April,2026 10:19 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSouth superstar Allu Arjun took to his social media account to wish his little son Allu Ayaan on his birthday and shared an adorable picture. Sharing a heartwarming post, he wrote, “Many happy returns of the day to the love of my life. Happy Birthday, my chinni babu. HBDAlluAyaan AyaanisaVibe”. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Allu Arjun (@alluarjunonline) In the picture, Allu Arjun is seen dressed in a maroon traditional kurta, smiling as he holds Ayaan close. The young boy, also dressed in an ethnic outfit, is seen striking a playful pose. For the uninitiated, Allu Ayaan, the elder son of Allu Arjun and Sneha Reddy, was born on April 3, 2014, and turned 12 this year. The young boy often features in his father’s social media posts, and Ayaan has become a familiar face among fans. Talking about South star Allu Arjun, on the professional front, has achieved massive success with the blockbuster franchise Pushpa: The Rise, where he starred opposite Rashmika Mandanna. The actor has delivered several memorable hits over the years, including the popular dance number ‘A Ante Amalapuram’. On the personal front, Allu Arjun tied the knot with Sneha Reddy in March 2011 after reportedly meeting through mutual friends. They initially were good friends, and their love story soon blossomed, leading to marriage. On March 6, the actor celebrated his wedding anniversary with wife Sneha Reddy by sharing a heartfelt message and romantic pictures on his social media account. Marking 15 years of togetherness, the actor posted a couple of stunning photographs of the two and wrote, “Happy Anniversary, Cutie. 15 years of togetherness. The journey could not have been this without you.” In another post, he shared a monochrome picture with Sneha and wrote, “15th anniversary . Life of Laughter & companionship @allusnehareddy.” They are parents to two children, son Allu Ayaan and daughter Allu Arha. 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
04 April,2026 09:41 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSDacoit’s teaser, which was unveiled last December, showed us exactly what to expect from the Adivi Sesh and Mrunal Thakur-starrer. The one-minute-36-second promo was all about car chases, heists, and action. Ahead of the film’s trailer dropping today, leading man and co-writer Sesh revealed that he performed many of the chase sequences, instead of relying on body doubles. The actor shared, “Dacoit has some intense car chase sequences, and many of them were filmed with me [behind the wheel]. When you’re inside the car, surrounded by cameras, stunt coordinators, and a tightly planned set-up, you realise how much precision is required to get it right. These are the kinds of action sequences where you can’t afford too many retakes because every movement, skid, and turn has been carefully designed.” Shaneil Deo has directed the upcoming action drama, which also stars Anurag Kashyap.
04 April,2026 07:33 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuUnseen pictures from Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s wedding celebrations have surfaced online, offering a glimpse into their intimate and culturally rich ceremonies. The couple, who tied the knot in a private ceremony in Udaipur, kept their festivities largely away from the public eye, making these newly revealed moments even more special for fans. Vijay Deverakonda's mother gifts heirloom bangles Among the highlights from the celebrations is a touching ritual involving Vijay’s mother, Madhavi Deverakonda. During one of the pre-wedding events, she presented Rashmika with heirloom gold bangles, a gesture deeply rooted in tradition. The gift symbolised acceptance into the family, along with love, blessings, and the continuation of legacy. The ceremony, believed to be part of the sangeet festivities, reflected a blend of modern celebration and age-old customs. The unseen images showcase candid, emotional moments shared between the families, highlighting the warmth and close-knit nature of the gathering. Unlike grand celebrity weddings, the couple opted for a more personal affair, attended only by close friends and relatives. The pictures also capture Rashmika dressed in traditional attire, adorned with elaborate gold jewellery that complemented the heritage theme of the wedding. Vijay, too, embraced a classic ethnic look, matching the cultural tone of the event. Together, the couple’s styling reflected a deep respect for tradition while maintaining understated elegance. Wedding memories of Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda Their wedding, which had been the subject of speculation for years, marked the culmination of a long-standing relationship that began with their on-screen chemistry and gradually evolved into real life. The unseen photos further add to the narrative of their journey, showing moments of joy, rituals, and emotional exchanges that were not part of the official releases. Fans have been quick to react to these glimpses, praising the couple’s simplicity and the meaningful traditions incorporated into their celebrations. The images not only highlight the grandeur of Indian weddings but also emphasise the emotional significance of familial bonds and rituals. Overall, the newly surfaced pictures provide a deeper look into Rashmika and Vijay’s wedding, capturing heartfelt traditions, private moments, and the essence of a celebration rooted in love and heritage.
03 April,2026 07:42 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Rana Daggubati recently opened up about the immense physical and mental strain he experienced while working on the Baahubali franchise, describing it as one of the most demanding phases of his career. The actor, who played the powerful antagonist Bhallaladeva, revealed that the scale and ambition of the project pushed everyone involved to their limits. Rana Daggubati talks about Baahubali Directed by S. S. Rajamouli, the Baahubali films redefined Indian cinema with their grand storytelling, elaborate action sequences, and groundbreaking visuals. However, behind the spectacle was a long and challenging journey that tested the endurance of the cast and crew over several years. Reflecting on the experience, Rana shared that it is difficult to single out one particular scene that was the most exhausting because nearly every sequence demanded intense effort. He said, “We shot that for like six years or something. So most of those were like that.” His statement highlights the prolonged and physically taxing nature of the shoot, which required sustained commitment from everyone involved. He further explained that the team was venturing into relatively uncharted territory while making the film. “It’s not about one scene because, at that point, we were discovering how to make that film as well,” he said, emphasizing the experimental nature of the process. Unlike typical productions, the team had limited references for large-scale war sequences and advanced visual effects at the time. On facing challenges Rana also credited the vision of Rajamouli for steering the project through its challenges. According to him, the film required a filmmaker who could bring together a massive team and push boundaries to achieve something unprecedented. “It was pushing everyone’s boundaries. It needed a master like Rajamouli and a team that came together for that vision,” he added. The franchise, which also starred Prabhas in the lead role, went on to become a cultural phenomenon and a benchmark for large-scale filmmaking in India. Despite the toll it took, Rana acknowledged that the experience was transformative and career-defining. Looking back, the actor noted that such long and demanding projects are rare, as sustaining that level of intensity over years is not easy. Yet, the challenges ultimately contributed to the film’s monumental success and lasting legacy. Today, Baahubali remains a landmark achievement, not just for its box office success but also for the dedication and perseverance of the team that brought its epic vision to life.
03 April,2026 03:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMohanlal’s Drishyam 3 is one of the most anticipated films. However, the film has found itself in legal trouble over a copyright issue. Well-known brand Amazon has now issued a public notice in which it has strongly stated that it is the sole and exclusive holder of all digital rights of actor Mohanlal's eagerly awaited film Drishyam 3. The streaming platform has warned the public and industry stakeholders against engaging in any digital distribution. Amazon claims sole rights of Drishyam 3 In a statement, Amazon Seller Services Private Limited said, “Notice is hereby given that Amazon Seller Services Private Limited (Amazon), pursuant to the valid exercise of its rights under subsisting agreements between Aashirvad Cinemas and Amazon, is the sole and exclusive holder of all digital rights (including but not limited to SVOD, TVOD, AVOD, FVOD and EST) in the film Drishyam 3 (Malayalam) (the film).” Amazon further said, “The public is hereby cautioned that Amazon holds these rights to the exclusion of all others, and Aashirvad Cinemas (including its assignees, licensees and any other person purportedly authorized by Aashirvad Cinemas) has no authority to sell, license, or in any manner create any third-party interest, lien, or charge over the digital rights for the film.” It warned, “Any person, entity, or digital platform dealing with the film or its digital rights in contravention of Amazon's exclusivity shall do so at their own risk, cost, and consequences. Amazon reserves the right to initiate appropriate legal proceedings, including seeking injunctive relief and damages, against any party found to be infringing upon its exclusive rights or interfering with its contractual relationship regarding the film.” More about Drishyam 3 For the unaware, Drishyam 3, the third instalment in the highly rated franchise, was formally launched with a traditional puja ceremony held at a law college near Kochi in September last year. Director Jeethu Joseph, addressing the media ahead of the launch, revealed that Drishyam 3 would explore the next chapter in the life of Georgekutty, the iconic character played by Mohanlal in the film. “The film focuses on what happens in Georgekutty’s life after four-and-a-half years. That is the crux of the story,” Joseph explained. The Drishyam films have achieved cult status in Indian cinema for their gripping storytelling, intricate suspense, and Mohanlal’s acclaimed performance. The first film, released in 2013, set new benchmarks in Malayalam cinema, while its sequel, released in 2021, drew record-breaking viewership both in theatres and on streaming platforms.
03 April,2026 01:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActress Malavika Mohanan, who is now working on director Thiagarajan Kumararaja's upcoming film Pocket Novel has now disclosed what recently made her fall in love with Mumbai a little more. The actress has confessed that a sunset boat ride in Mumbai has made her fall in love with the city a little more now. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Malavika Mohanan (@malavikamohanan_) Taking to her Instagram page to update her followers on how the month of March had been for her, the actress wrote, "March was a mixed bag for me. The biggest highlight? Filming for Pocket Novel and being directed by Thiagarajan Kumararaja. Unarguably, one of the finest filmmakers of our generation. Watching his process, being guided and shaped by him, has been one of the most special creative experiences in my career so far. (I’ll write more about this later, it’s a long one)." She then went on to explain how she spent quite a while in Chennai as she had to shoot for the film. "I spent most of the month in Chennai for the shoot. And while the work itself was incredible, being away from home for so long hit me harder than I expected. Coming back to an empty room after a long day doesn’t get easier, even though one would think it gets easier the more you do it. I found myself really grappling with loneliness this time," she explained. "When my family came to visit for a couple of days, it was like a respite for my spirit. We wandered through some beautiful temples in Chennai and Mahabalipuram, tried all sorts of local food, and it felt so good just to be with them. Especially since my grandmother visited as well, which she rarely does," she recalled. "Got back to Mumbai a few days ago, after being away for most of the month, and went for a lovely sunset boat ride a couple of days back. The sky was breathtaking, the ocean air healing, and the waves so soothing. That evening, along with having missed home terribly, made me fall in love with Mumbai a little more," she wrote. 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
03 April,2026 09:31 AM IST | Chennai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
