The Madras High Court has now cleared the way for Parasakthi, directed by Sudha Kongara and starring Sivakarthikeyan, ahead of its Pongal release. This comes after the film faced a legal challenge alleging plagiarism. The judgment was delivered by Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy after hearing detailed arguments from all parties involved in the case. Parasakthi cleared by Madras High Court The film also features Ravi Mohan, Atharvaa, and Sreeleela laong with Sivakarthikeyan. The film is scheduled for release on January 10. However, before its release, an assistant director named KV Rajendran had filed a petition in the Chennai High Court, claiming that the film's story was stolen from his registered work, Chemmozhi. Senior advocate PS Raman represented director Sudha Kongara, while producer Dawn Pictures, the production of Parasakthi, was represented by senior advocate Aravind Pandian. Both sides presented their arguments in the court, which ultimately refused to grant a stay on the film’s release. The plagiarism claims stemmed from the similarities between the script of Parasakthi and the petitioner’s earlier work. After considering due submissions and the investigation order, the court stated that it found no grounds to prevent the release. The court also directed the South Indian Film Writers’ Association to look into the plagiarism claim and submit a detailed report by January 2. Notably, the order required both the petitioner and the filmmakers to present their cases as part of the investigation. During the proceedings, questions about whether Parasakthi could proceed with its planned release amid the dispute were raised. However, the court's decision has now confirmed that the film will be released in theatres as scheduled during the Pongal week. About Parasakthi Parasakthi had been anticipated as one of the biggest releases during the festival season. As a result, the outcome of the legal proceedings was being closely watched by the industry and fans alike. Given the promos and posters of the film released so far the film is likely to be based on anti-Hindi protests of the 1960s. With Parasakthi scheduled to release on January 10, it is set to take on Vijay's farewell film, Jana Nayagan, which will be hitting theatres on January 9, 2025.
02 January,2026 05:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentReel World Entertainment’s wrestling-infused action entertainer Chatha Pacha has officially locked January 22, 2026, as its theatrical release date, setting the tone for how Malayalam cinema begins the year. Loud, kinetic, and bursting with charisma, Chatha Pacha is all set to storm theatres. The film taps into the raw and visceral world of Kerala’s wrestling culture, drawing from the colourful chaos of Fort Kochi. Backed by creative producer Shihan Shoukath, with producers Ritesh & Ramesh S. Ramakrishnan and Shoukath Ali, the film marks the directorial debut of Adhvaith Nayar. It unfolds a world of bravado, brotherhood, rivalry, and humour, shaped by sweat, spectacle, and street-smart swagger. Chatha Pacha poster hints at Mammootty's appearance? The release date poster of Chatha Pacha, dominated by raw gold tones, flying currency, roaring crowds, and a wrestler frozen mid-air, captures a moment of controlled chaos. Yet, amid all this spectacle, what truly commands attention is the phrase “IN CINE‘M’AS,” where the “M” stands tall, deliberately highlighted. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chatha Pacha: The Ring of Rowdies (@chathapachathefilm) This visual emphasis subtly but decisively steers the gaze toward the unmistakable aura of actor extraordinaire Mammootty, a name synonymous with towering screen presence and cinematic gravitas. Set against a wrestling ring that celebrates strength, authority, and mass appeal, the suggestion of Mammootty’s presence feels instinctively right. What makes the moment even more charged is the buzz that had already been building around Chatha Pacha, with one speculation dominating the conversation - the possibility of Mammootty’s appearance. Fans and audiences had been actively predicting his association with the film, and the release date poster now reads like confirmation for this. In a film already brimming with intensity and swagger, this powerful nod adds scale and weight, lifting Chatha Pacha beyond the space of a conventional action entertainer and positioning it as a true cinematic event in recent Malayalam cinema. More about Chatha Pacha The theatrical release of Chatha Pacha is being powered by some of the most influential names in Indian cinema today. The Kerala release is anchored by Dulquer Salmaan’s Wayfarer Films. PVR INOX Pictures handles Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, while Mythri Movie Makers takes charge in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. In North India, Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions brings its formidable distribution strength to the table. Internationally, The Plot Pictures is set to take the film across nearly 100 countries, giving this story a truly global reach. Composer trio Shankar Ehsaan Loy make their Malayalam cinema debut, delivering a soundscape that is as punchy and playful as the world the film inhabits. Lyrics are penned by Vinayak Sasikumar. The background score is composed by Mujeeb Majeed. Cinematography is handled by Anend C. Chandran, while action choreography is led by Kalai Kingson. Editing is by Praveen Prabhakar, and the screenplay is written by Sanoop Thykoodam. The film features an ensemble cast led by Arjun Ashokan, Roshan Mathew, and Vishak Nair, along with several prominent actors from the industry, each stepping into sharply defined roles that drive the narrative forward. The bell rings on January 22. The ring is ready. And so are the rowdies.
02 January,2026 05:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDirected by Srikanth Odela and starring Natural Star Nani, The Paradise is one of the biggest pan-Indian films of 2026. As the new year kickstarts, Natural star Nani made a blockbuster entry to 2026 with the poster announcing the release date of his upcoming and much anticipated film, The Paradise. Nani releases The Paradise poster Nani took to his Instagram account to introduce his character 'Jadal' and share that the film is set to release on 26 March, 2026. In a powerful caption on social media, Nani wrote, “Welcome to 2026 aka JADAL ZAMANA Happy New Year TheParadise in cinemas 26th March, 2026. Releasing in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali, English, and Spanish.“ View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Paradise (@theparadisemovie) In the poster, Nani is seen in a rugged and intense avatar, exuding ferocity. He is seen sporting long hair and a beard and donning a black vest. He is wearing multiple earrings and bracelets, paired with red sunglasses. He appears to be in prison or a place where multiple people have been fighting, conveyed by the heap of bodies behind him. He is seen in a fighting stance, while throngs of people cheer him on from above. About The Paradise Produced by SLV Cinemas, The Paradise is slated for a massive theatrical release on March 26, 2026, in eight languages: Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, English, Spanish, Bengali, Kannada, and Malayalam. Elevating the anticipation further is the film’s original soundtrack composed by Anirudh Ravichander. Featuring powerful vocals by Anirudh himself along with Arjun Chandy, the music creates an intense and immersive atmosphere, perfectly complementing the narrative and amplifying the film’s overall cinematic experience. In a move that underlines the film’s global ambitions, the makers have reportedly approached Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds to present The Paradise across international markets. When it came to zeroing in on Hollywood stars, the Deadpool actor was a natural fit, according to the makers. The source reasons, “Given that the film is an action drama with quirky elements, the team felt there could be no one better than Ryan Reynolds as his actioners have a similar feel.” With its visionary director, powerhouse cast, and global scale, The Paradise is not just a film; it’s a cultural phenomenon in the making.
02 January,2026 05:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThalapathy Vijay's Jana Nayagan will be released in theatres on January 9. The film is extra special as it marks Vijay's final film before he dedicates his time to his political career. The advance sales of Jana Nayagan have already gone live in limited screens. More screens will be opened up closer to the release date. Reportedly, the advance booking sales now stand at Rs 15 crore for its opening day. Advance bookings of Jana Nayagan In India, select theatres in Kerala and Karnataka have started booking for Jana Nayagan, which also stars Pooja Hegde and Mamitha Baiju. So far, sales of Rs 3 crore have been made between the two states. Around Rs 11–12 crore in pre-sales have been made in the global market. The majority of the contributions are from North America, the United Kingdom, and Australia, where Vijay continues to enjoy a massive fandom. Bookings in Tamil Nadu and other Indian states are yet to start. FDFS show details for Jana Nayagan Fans of Thalapathy Vijay are bracing themselves for the historic moment of the actor’s farewell film. Several locations are gearing up for grand FDFS celebrations of Jana Nayagan, which is slated for a January 9 release. An official statement by SSR Entertainment, which has gone viral, reads: “We made every possible effort to conduct the first show of Jana Nayagan in Kerala at 4 am. Initially, permission for the 4 am show was granted from the producer’s side. However, due to the current situation and certain issues arising in Tamil Nadu, the 4 am show licence could not be approved. “Therefore, the first show of Jana Nayagan in Kerala will be at 6 am. We sincerely apologise to all Kerala Thalapathy fans for the inconvenience caused. We strongly believe that the January 9, 6 am show will be wholeheartedly supported and made a grand success by the fans.” Vijay on quitting cinema The audio launch event for Jana Nayagan was held in Malaysia on Saturday. The event was graced by the cast and crew of the film along with Thalapathy Vijay. While addressing his fans, Vijay spoke about retiring from movies and dedicating rest of his life for public service. “When I entered the cinema, I thought I was building a small sand house here. But you all have built me a palace. Fans helped me build a fort… That’s why I’ve decided to stand for them. For the fans who gave up everything for me, I’m giving up cinema itself,” the actor said. “My fans come to see me in theatres. Now, I will stand up for them for the next 30 to 33 years. They have been very loyal, even when I faced criticism from others. This Vijay will pay back his debt of gratitude,” said the superstar.
02 January,2026 05:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAfter the 2025 action thriller Kingdom, starring Vijay Deverakonda, tanked at the box office despite the high hopes, a sequel to the film has officially been shelved. Producer Naga Vamsi recently confirmed the decision during an interview, putting an end to ongoing rumours about the proposed franchise. Notably, the original film was helmed by Gowtam Tinnanuri and also featured Satyadev Kancharana and Bhagyashri Borse in pivotal roles. Naga Vamsi confirms Kingdom 2 has been shelved During an interview with Idlebrain, Naga Vamsi shared, "Yeah, there is no Kingdom 2." He was asked about making Kingdom initially as a one-part film, Vamsi wasn't keen on talking about it as he said, "There is no point in talking about it, other than hurting Gowtam." Further, Naga Vamsi also confirmed that he is working on another film with director Gowtam. "But yeah, we will collaborate with Gowtam. He is doing a different film now. After that, we will do a film," he said. In another interview, Naga Vamsi had earlier revealed that they have worked on a film titled Magic with Gowtam. Although the film's production has been wrapped up, the film has yet to see the light of day. About Kingdom Kingdom was earlier called VD12 during its development. Interestingly, it was initially planned as the beginning of a multi-film series. However, now the cancellation of the sequel has surprised many fans, especially because the first film's narrative was created to expand in future instalments. The first instalment showed Vijay Deverakonda as a troubled police officer who is on an undercover assignment. A task that required him to confront his own personal struggles as the case became increasingly dangerous. The film mixed together action and psychological drama, garnering attention from viewers. The unresolved threads in the film released on July 31, 2025, were expected to continue in the next chapter. On the box office front, Kingdom received mixed reviews and failed to make any impact. Although the franchise is no longer being made, Vijay Deverakonda's fans can look forward to his upcoming project, titled Rowdy Janardhana, which is believed to be an intense action film with a planned release in 2026.
02 January,2026 03:23 PM IST | MumbaiActress Namrata Shirodkar has welcomed the New Year and treated fans of husband, Mahesh Babu, by sharing a few glimpses of him living his happiest moments with their kids. The actress shared a few pictures on her social media account, where Mahesh was seen laying a peck on the cheeks of his daughter, Sitara. In another picture, the young girl can be seen wearing a New Year-embedded hairband. In another picture, Namrata, along with her elder son Gautam, can be seen posing for the selfie as they gear up for 2026. She captioned it as, “Looking ahead with gratitude, surrounded by family, and welcoming 2026 with an open heart. HappyNewYear Looking ahead with gratitude, surrounded by family, and welcoming 2026 with an open heart HappyNewYear.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Namrata Shirodkar (@namratashirodkar) On Dec 31, Namrata had shared a recap featuring all the happy and happening moments of her life from the year 2025. In the video montage shared by the actress, happy moments from the actress’ life were included that featured her children, her husband Mahesh Babu, her sister Shilpa Shirodkar, her house staff, her work team members and others. The glimpses showcased her exciting vacations, a few family moments, and much more. For the uninitiated, Namrata Shirodkar, before quitting Bollywood to marry South superstar Mahesh Babu, was a well-known actress of her time in the 90s. From movies like Pukar and Vaastav to Jab Pyar Kisise Hota Hai and others, the actress was known for her acting abilities. On the personal front, Namrata Shirodkar got married to Mahesh Babu on 10 February 2005 in Mumbai. The couple are blessed with two children: their son Gautam Krishna Ghattamaneni and their daughter Sitara Ghattamaneni. 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
02 January,2026 10:56 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSOn the occasion of New Year, the makers of director Madhan's upcoming romantic entertainer With Love announced the release date of their film. The film features Tourist Family director Abishan Jeevinth and Anaswara Rajan in the lead. The makers have locked a February 6 release for the film. The film is being produced by Superstar Rajinikanth's daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth along with producer Magesh Raj Pasilian. Release date for With Love locked On New Year, Soundarya Rajinikanth took to her X timeline to announce the release date of her film. She wrote, "A new year brings a new feeling… and new love. #WithLove arrives in cinemas worldwide from Feb 06. Starring Abishanjeevinth, AnaswaraRajan_. A RSeanRoldan musical. Written and Directed by madhann_n. Produced by soundaryaarajni, mageshraj." A new year brings a new feeling… and new love ♥️#WithLove arrives in cinemas worldwide from Feb 06 🎬✨Starring @Abishanjeevinth. ♥️ @AnaswaraRajan_A @RSeanRoldan musical 🎶 Written ♥️ Directed by @madhann_nProduced by @soundaryaarajni ♥️@mageshraj @MRP_ENTERTAIN… pic.twitter.com/Cs7cCgvoLv — soundarya rajnikanth (@soundaryaarajni) January 1, 2026 Rajinikanth releases teaser It may be recalled that the film's title teaser had been released by none other than Rajinikanth himself. Taking to his X timeline to release the title teaser, Superstar Rajinikanth had said, "Wishing my daughter @soundaryaarajni and the entire team of the film #WithLove all the very best. God bless. @mageshraj" Soundarya Rajinikanth, for her part, responded to her dad saying, "Biggest blessing ever. Thank you so much appa. You are my life !" The title teaser released opened with Abishan Jeevinth, who plays a character called Sathya, calling a friend over phone in the presence of Anaswara Rajan who plays a character called Monisha in the film. Sathya blows a fuse as his friend answers the call. Monisha, however, calmly asks the person at the other end if he has the contact of a person called Anisha. The person at the other end asks her who she is to which, Sathya in a fit of rage, screams "She's my fiancee. You shut up and speak!" The next sequence we see in the teaser is Monisha explaining to Sathya that suspicion is different from possessiveness and that his possessiveness must not be expressed directly but discreetly through his actions. Poor Sathya is completely at sea and begs her not to expect anything on those lines from him. The teaser gives the impression that both these individuals have contrasting natures. For the unaware, the film's makers have already announced that shooting for the film had been wrapped up.
01 January,2026 08:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Dhanush decided to commence 2026 with a heart full of gratitude. 2025 has been extremely phenomenal for him, with three hits in three different languages. Dhanush pens note after successful 2025 Pouring his heart out, Dhanush's heartfelt note on social media read, "Thank you for making 2025 truly unforgettable. Three films in three different languages and seeing each of them become a superhit has been a blessing I will cherish forever, and it was possible only because of your love and support. (sic)" He wished the netizens a great 2026, saying, "As we welcome 2026, I wish you and your families a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. May it bring you joy, success, and everything your heart desires." Dhanush also gave a special shout-out to his admirers for always having his back. "Finally, To all my incredible fans, my pillars of strenght, thank you as always for the unwavering support and love. Wish everyone blessed 2026," he added. Dhanush concluded the note with "Om Nama Shivaya...With love". Dhanush's first hit came in the form of Kuberaa. Directed by Sekhar Kammula, the drama enjoys some powerful performances by Nagarjuna, Rashmika Mandanna, and Jim Sarbh. Backed by Sree Venkateswara Cinemas LLP in collaboration with Amigos Creations, the film was simultaneously shot in Telugu and Tamil. Kuberaa got a theatrical release on April 10, 2025. Next was Dhanush's Tamil outing, Idli Kadai. Co-produced by Dhanush under Wunderbar Films, in association with Dawn Pictures, the movie enjoys an ensemble cast comprising Arun Vijay, Sathyaraj, P. Samuthirakani, Nithya Menen, Shalini Pandey, Rajkiran, and R. Parthiban. Dhanush's last release of 2025, Tere Ishk Mein, was also equally impactful. The romantic entertainer helmed by Aanand L. Rai, featuring Kriti Sanon as the leading lady, reached the audience on November 28, 2025. A spiritual sequel to Raanjhanaa, the drama brought a lot of appreciation to Dhanush for his performance. Dhanush says happiness is a choice Earlier, speaking at the audio launch event of his film, Kuberaa, he said, "What is meant for you is yours. Nobody else can take it. Be happy. Don't look for happiness outside. Happiness is a choice. It is inside you." "I have been in a situation where I haven't been able to afford a meal and today I am also in a good state. No matter what state I am in, I will always be happy. That is because I have never searched for happiness outside. There can be nothing more important than happiness and peace of mind," he said.
01 January,2026 03:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMovie superstar Rajinikanth on Thursday greeted and wished his fans who had gathered outside his residence a happy New Year. The actor does this as part of his annual tradition on New Year morning. He steps out of his home in Chennai and happily waves to the people who have gathered to see him. Meanwhile, on social media, he shared a video clip that contained an iconic dialogue from his film Muthu as part of his New Year greeting. Rajinikanth greets fans on New Year Continuing the practice of meeting fans every new year, Superstar Rajinikanth on Thursday greeted loyal fans who had turned up in front of his residence, braving cold weather. After greeting his fans, the superstar visited the Sri Raghavendra Swamy Temple in Triplicane to offer prayers. He was seen dressed in a white shirt and mundu as he sought blessings of the almighty on New Year day. Superstar #Rajinikanth greets fans gathered to see him..❣️🤩🌟 pic.twitter.com/eLinXKOAD7 — Laxmi Kanth (@iammoviebuff007) January 1, 2026 Today, #Superstar @rajinikanth went to Sri Raghavendra Swamy Temple/Mutt in Triplicane to offer prayers for #NewYear2026 pic.twitter.com/9LCQ8s2dva — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) January 1, 2026 Taking to his social media timelines, the actor shared a video clip from his superhit film 'Muthu'. In the clip that the actor shared, Rajinikanth is seen riding a chariot with actress Meena seated next to him. Meena asks Rajini,"The route we are taking is correct, isn't it?" To this Rajinikanth replies, "Who knows? I never bother about the route I take. I put my burden on God and take the path my vehicle picks, chanting 'Shiva'!" The actor went on to write "Wishing you all a very happy new year 2026. God Bless" on the clip. pic.twitter.com/MFgRTOVqmJ — Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) January 1, 2026 Rajinikanth's work front On the work front, Rajinikanth next has director Nelson's eagerly awaited action thriller Jailer 2 gearing up for release. In fact, the actor had celebrated his most recent birthday on December 12 on the sets of the film while shooting for it. Sun Pictures, the production house producing the film, had taken to its X timeline to post a video clip of the cake cutting celebrations that took place on the sets. Sharing the clip, the production house had said, "Happy Birthday Superstar rajinikanth! From the sets of Jailer2." Jailer 2 has triggered huge interest, thanks to the phenomenal reach of the first part of the film, which went on to emerge a huge blockbuster, raking in around Rs 650 crores.
01 January,2026 02:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Teja Sajja, who rose to nationwide fame with Prasanth Varma’s 2024 blockbuster HanuMan, has dismissed reports claiming that he has exited the film’s much-anticipated sequel, Jai Hanuman. The sequel, which will star Rishab Shetty in the titular role, has been the subject of speculation in recent days due to a lack of official updates, leading to widespread rumours about Teja’s alleged departure. Teja Sajja reacts to the rumours Earlier this week, several social media posts and reports suggested that Teja was no longer associated with Jai Hanuman. According to these claims, the actor had walked out of the project citing reasons such as limited screen time, creative differences, and a desire to distance himself from the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU). Some reports even hinted that Teja had become cautious about the roles he was choosing post the success of HanuMan. However, Teja has now firmly denied these rumours. Speaking to Hindustan Times, the actor clarified that the reports were “false news” and stressed that he has not stepped away from Jai Hanuman or the PVCU. By addressing the speculation directly, Teja put to rest claims that he was severing ties with the cinematic universe that played a major role in shaping his recent success. Jai Hanuman serves as a follow-up to HanuMan, but with a different narrative focus. While HanuMan revolved around Teja’s superhero character inspired by Lord Hanuman, the sequel will centre on the deity himself, portrayed by Rishab Shetty. Teja had earlier expressed excitement about being part of the sequel and working on a story rooted deeply in Indian mythology. Teja Sajja had confirmed being a part of Jai Hanuman In previous interviews, Teja had confirmed his involvement in the project, saying, “I will also be a part of Jai Hanuman. The film will be about Lord Hanuman, and I can’t wait to be on that set.” In December 2024, he reiterated his enthusiasm, calling the experience “exciting” and expressing eagerness to begin filming. At the end of HanuMan, Teja’s character witnesses the emergence of Lord Hanuman from the Himalayas, teasing a larger conflict and setting the stage for the sequel. Rishab Shetty’s casting as Hanuman was officially announced in October 2024, although the film has yet to go on floors. Jai Hanuman is part of the expanding PVCU, which will also include upcoming projects such as Adhira and Mahakali.
01 January,2026 12:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentKeeping his tradition of New Year unveils intact, filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga released the first poster of his much-awaited next, Spirit, at midnight on January 1. The poster features a wounded Prabhas standing by a window, while Triptii can be seen lighting his cigarette. The look has amped up excitement for the release of the much-awaited intense saga. Spirit first look out! A bare-chested Prabhas is posed in off-white pants and dark glasses, with a bottle of liquor and a cigarette in his hands. His body bears visible bruises and multiple bandages across his shoulder, arm and back, suggesting a character shaped by violence and conflict. Triptii, on the other hand, wore a beige outfit along with a gold bangle on her right wrist. View this post on Instagram A post shared by tseriesfilms (@tseriesfilms) Sharing the primary look of Spirit on social media, Sandeep Reddy Vanga wrote, “INDIAN CINEMA…. witness your AJANUBAHUDU / AJANUBAHU. Happy New Year 2026” (sic). Social media users were thrilled by the first look and flooded the comment section to share their excitement. More about Spirit It must be noted that while Spirit marks the filmmaker’s first professional association with Prabhas. He has worked with Triptii in Animal, co-starring Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna. Spirit went on the floor in November 2025. The mahurat ceremony was attended by several big names from the entertainment industry, including megastar Chiranjeevi, who was part of the event as a special guest. Marking Prabhas’ birthday on October 23, the makers also released a promotional teaser from the movie, titled Sound Story, using Prakash Raj and Prabhas’ voices to introduce the film’s world. The teaser offers an intriguing glimpse into Prakash Raj’s character — a strict, no-nonsense IPS officer known for his discipline and dominance. The highlight of the clip comes when Prabhas says in his intense style, “Mr Superintendent, bachpan se meri ek buri aadat hai.” Apart from Prabhas and Triptii, the project will also see Prakash Raj, Vivek Oberoi and Kanchana as part of the ancillary cast. Backed by T-Series and Bhadrakali Pictures, Spirit is set to be a grand-scale pan-world entertainer. To note, before Triptii Dimri, Deepika Padukone was confirmed as the leading lady of the film. However, she was ousted from the project, sparking a working-hours debate.
01 January,2026 08:57 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
