The much anticipated sequel Devara 2, starring Jr NTR, is finally set to move forward after months of speculation surrounding its status. Recent updates have brought relief to fans, confirming that the film is very much on track and expected to go on floors in the coming months. The sequel follows the massive success of Devara Part 1, which released in 2024 and emerged as one of the biggest box office performers of the year. Details on Devara's sequel Directed by Koratala Siva, Devara Part 1 introduced audiences to an intense coastal drama led by Jr NTR in a powerful dual role. The film’s grand scale, action sequences and world building created strong curiosity about the second installment, especially after the first part ended on a note that clearly set the stage for continuation. However, delays due to scheduling conflicts and extensive pre production work led to rumours about the sequel being postponed indefinitely. Putting all speculation to rest, producer Sudhakar Mikkilineni recently confirmed that Devara 2 is progressing steadily. He revealed that the makers are currently in the final stages of preparation and are planning to begin shooting soon. According to the team, the delay has allowed the creators to refine the script and ensure that the sequel expands the story in a more impactful way. Koratala Siva is expected to return as director, bringing continuity to the narrative while addressing feedback received from the first film. The sequel is likely to dive deeper into the emotional and moral conflicts of Jr NTR’s character, while escalating the action and drama. Janhvi Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan, who played key roles in the first part, are also expected to return, although an official announcement regarding the full cast is still awaited. All about Jr NTR's juggle Jr NTR has reportedly been carefully balancing his commitments to ensure he can dedicate sufficient time to the demanding shoot of Devara 2. With large scale action sequences and extensive set work planned, the film is expected to require a lengthy production schedule. With filming expected to begin soon and a tentative release planned for 2027, Devara 2 is shaping up to be one of the most awaited Telugu films in the coming years, promising a bigger and more intense cinematic experience.
27 January,2026 07:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna are all set to reunite on screen for their upcoming film RanaBaali. The makers announced the film’s title on Republic Day. The period drama is directed by Rahul Sankrityan. To unveil the title, the makers also shared a power-packed teaser. However, some claimed that the visuals were generated using AI, prompting the director to respond to the criticism. Did RanaBaali have AI footage? Reacting to the teaser announcement, a Telugu cinema website wrote, “RanaBaali glimpse is sensational. Largely created using AI, it highlights key aspects of the pre-Independence era, exposing how the British plundered India’s wealth and carried out genocide.” Rahul Sankrityan responded to the post and firmly denied the use of AI. “Thank you idlebrainjeevi garu. But AI was not used—every frame was created using traditional methods, with months of hard work invested,” he said. RanaBaali marks Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s third film together. The announcement comes just a month ahead of their rumoured wedding. Talking about RanaBaali, the Pan-India movie set in 19th-century India is based on real historical events. The movie will see the third collaboration between Vijay Deverakonda and Mythri after Dear Comrade and Khushi, and music has been given by iconic music director Ajay-Atul. The makers announced the title as RanaBaali’, starring Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna in the lead roles on the eve of Republic Day. They also shared that the film is set to release worldwide on September 11, 2026. About RanaBaali Set in the 19th century, RanaBaali 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 in the video also draws parallels to a genocide worse than Hitler’s Holocaust and exposes India’s economic exploitation. Vijay Deverakonda delivers a fierce, commanding presence as RanaBaali 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.
27 January,2026 06:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentKannada television actress Kavya Gowda and her husband Somasekhar have been caught in a serious family dispute that reportedly escalated into a violent confrontation at their Bengaluru residence, leading to police intervention, hospitalisation and multiple complaints being filed. The incident, which occurred at their home in Ramamurthy Nagar, has brought the family conflict into sharp public focus. All about the shocking incident According to police sources, the clash broke out following long standing disagreements within the joint family. What reportedly began as a verbal argument soon turned physical when several relatives arrived at the couple’s house, resulting in chaos and injuries. Kavya’s sister, Bhavya Gowda, lodged a formal complaint, stating that the situation spiralled out of control after tensions that had been simmering for months finally erupted. During the altercation, Somasekhar allegedly sustained serious injuries after being attacked with sharp objects and rods. He was immediately rushed to a private hospital, where doctors confirmed that his condition is stable. Kavya was also admitted for medical treatment after sustaining injuries in the scuffle. The incident has raised concerns due to the severity of the violence involved and the presence of family members during the clash. In her police statement, Kavya accused her in laws of assaulting her and her husband, naming Somasekhar’s brother Nandish, his wife Prema, Prema’s father Ravikumar and another woman, Priya. She alleged that they used sticks and rods during the attack, restrained the couple and issued threats. Kavya further claimed that the dispute stemmed from unresolved family issues and alleged that the safety of her young child was also put at risk during the confrontation. Everything about Kavya Gowda Kavya has since stated that she is seeking justice through legal means and does not wish to sensationalise the matter. She reportedly informed authorities that CCTV footage from the residence would support her version of events and help establish what transpired. However, the accused relatives have filed a counter complaint, presenting a different account of the incident. They have alleged that Kavya and Somasekhar provoked the altercation, accusing them of verbal abuse and inappropriate behaviour, which they claim led to the physical clash. Police officials from the Ramamurthy Nagar police station have confirmed that multiple complaints have been registered and that the matter is under active investigation. Statements from all parties are being recorded, and medical reports and available video evidence are being examined. As the probe continues, the case highlights how domestic disputes within joint families can escalate into serious legal and safety concerns.
27 January,2026 05:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPrime Video has announced the global streaming premiere of Vaa Vaathiyaar, a lively Tamil adventure-comedy that pays homage to the legendary M.G. Ramachandran (MGR). Directed by Nalan Kumarasamy and produced by K. E. Gnanavel Raja under the Studio Green banner, the film combines humour, heart, and a generous dose of nostalgia. Starting January 28, Vaa Vaathiyaar will be available to stream on Prime Video in India and across more than 240 countries and territories worldwide, in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada. About Vaa Vaathiyaar Vaa Vaathiyaar is headlined by Karthi and Krithi Shetty, alongside an accomplished ensemble cast featuring Sathyaraj, Raj Kiran, Anandraj, Shilpa Manjunath, Karunakaran, G.M. Sundar, Ramesh Thilak, Nivas Adithan, Vadivukkarasi, Nizhalgal Ravi, and Thenappan P.L. Vaa Vaathiyaar follows the story of a die-hard MGR fan, who raises his grandson, Ramu (Played by Karthi), believing he shares a special connection with the beloved star. As the boy grows into a fun-loving police officer, unexpected events put his grandfather’s life in danger, forcing him to confront new responsibilities and transform in ways he never imagined. Packed with spirited performances and energetic music by Santhosh Narayanan, the film offers a delightful blend of adventure and comedy, making it a perfect family watch. Vaa Vaathiyar theatrical release postponed Vaa Vaathiyaar, which was all set to hit screens on 12 December, was postponed just hours before its release. The Madras High Court issued a stay order against the film's release. This came just days after Nandamuri Balakrishna's Akhanda 2 was also postponed at the last minute owing to similar issues. The film was not released on its scheduled date because of the production house Studio Green’s KE Gnanavel Raja's legal case. During the hearing, the Madras High Court noted that despite repeated chances, Gnanavel Raja had failed to repay the debt amount. The court reviewed the producer's repayment history with the repeated extensions already granted. Meanwhile, Gnanavel Raja’s legal team offered to pay Rs 3.75 crore within 24 hours. Additionally, they offered property documents for the remaining amount. However, the proposal was rejected by the division bench, mentioning that the extensions of deadlines had not been honoured in the past. The official court order mentioned, “Until the entire debt is fully repaid, Vaa Vaathiyaar shall not be released in theatres, OTT platforms, or any other medium.”
27 January,2026 01:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentJust 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 correspondentADVERTISEMENT
