Telugu actor Sivaji, who landed in a controversy and received a lot of flak online, has now issued a public apology over his remarks about women’s clothing. He apologised after his comment at the pre-release event of Dhandoraa went viral, attracting widespread criticism. He has now clarified his statement of using "unparliamentary words." Sibaji apologises for sexist comments The actor clarified that he didn't mean to "insult or humiliate anyone" by his statement. He also mentioned he meant to emphasise how female actors can avoid problems by being careful about their clothing. He said, "These days, heroines have faced difficult situations. While trying to say a few good words, I ended up using a few unparliamentary words. I was not referring to all women. What I meant was that when heroines go out, if they are careful about the clothes they wear, maybe such problems wouldn’t arise. It was not said with the intention of insulting or humiliating anyone," he said in Telugu in a post on X (formerly Twitter) captioned "I sincerely apologise for my words during the Dhandoraa pre-release event last night." In the video apology, Sivaji, seemed visibly tense and emotional, regretted making the statement. "My intention was good, but it would have been better if those two words hadn’t slipped out. Other than wanting to say something good, I had no intention of insulting or degrading anyone," he concluded his statement. What did Sivaji say? The controversy started when Sivaji addressed the audience at an event of his upcoming film Dhandoraa and praised the female host for her choice of wearing a saree. He then addressed how he felt heroines should dress, and made remarks that many found to be unsolicited and moralising. Sivaji said, "I request all heroines not to wear revealing outfits. Please wear sarees or dresses that cover the body fully. Beauty lies in complete attire or a saree, not in displaying physical assets." He added, "A woman is like nature. When nature is beautiful, we respect it. A woman is like my mother, whom I hold close to my heart." Sivaji also spoke about yesteryear actresses, as well as Rashmika Mandanna, to support his views about what he referred to as "modest" dressing. Sivaji added, "Freedom is precious – don't lose it. People will respect you based on your conduct. Glamour should have limits; it should not cross a certain line." These remarks faced sharp criticism across social media from fans and industry alike. Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma, actors Lakshmi Manchu, Manchu Manoj, and Anasuya Bharadwaj, among others, reacted to his statement.
23 December,2025 08:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a moment steeped in emotion and anticipation, the makers of Thalapathy Vijay’s much-awaited upcoming film have officially announced its Hindi title as Jan Neta. Along with the title reveal, a striking new poster featuring Thalapathy Vijay and Bobby Deol was unveiled, while also confirming that Zee Studios will handle the film’s release across the North Indian market. Jana Nayagan titled Jan Neta in Hindi The newly released poster presents an intense face-off between Vijay and Bobby Deol, set against a backdrop of fire, destruction, and chaos. The powerful imagery hints at a high-stakes conflict driven by conviction, power, and ideology—signaling a narrative that extends far beyond physical combat. Rooted in political and emotional upheaval, Jana Nayagan promises a clash where beliefs collide as fiercely as the characters themselves. Thalapathy Vijay is seen in a rugged, grounded avatar, exuding quiet authority and resilience, while Bobby Deol’s commanding, militaristic presence adds scale and tension to the visual narrative. The explosive setting, punctuated by helicopters and large-scale destruction, suggests a story unfolding on a vast political and national canvas. Sharing the poster on social media, KVN Productions wrote, “Aavoo together bhaiya bhaiya to witness his one last dance.” Aavoo together bhaiya bhaiya to witness his one last dance 🔥@ZeeStudios_ has bagged the North India theatrical rights ♥️#JanNeta#JanNetaFromJan9#Thalapathy @actorvijay @KvnProductions #HVinoth @hegdepooja @anirudhofficial @thedeol @_mamithabaiju @Jagadishbliss @LohithNK01… pic.twitter.com/mJmz3LJ1tO — KVN Productions (@KvnProductions) December 23, 2025 More about Jana Nayagan Adding to the mounting buzz, the film has already opened to record-breaking pre-sales across key overseas markets, underlining the massive global anticipation surrounding the release. Expectations are sky-high as Jana Nayagan marks Thalapathy Vijay’s final film, making it one of the most emotionally significant releases of his illustrious career. With Zee Studios spearheading the North India release, the film is also poised to be one of the biggest releases in the region, backed by strong advance interest and robust opening expectations across the Hindi-speaking belt. Directed by H. Vinoth, known for his compelling narratives and layered storytelling, the film promises a story driven by purpose, consequence, and conviction. The music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander, while the film boasts a strong ensemble cast including Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju, Prakash Raj, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Priyamani, and Narain, adding further depth to its expansive world. Further amplifying the excitement, the film’s grand audio launch is scheduled to take place on December 27 in Malaysia, setting the stage for a large-scale celebration that mirrors the film’s ambition and emotional resonance. Backed by KVN Productions under producer Venkat K. Narayana, Jana Nayagan (Jan Neta in Hindi) is slated for a grand worldwide theatrical release on January 9, 2026, perfectly timed with the festive Pongal weekend.
23 December,2025 07:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPrabhas' upcoming film, The Raja Saab, has already been creating a lot of buzz. As the film inches closer to its grand theatrical release on January 9, 2026, the Maruthi directoria has cleared the CBFC cut with a U/A certificate. Additionally, the runtime of the film, which was rumoured to be over three-hour-long, has also been locked. The Raja Saab runtime revealed According to a 123 Telugu report, The Raja Saab has wrapped up its censor certification with a runtime of about 183 minutes (3 hours and 3 minutes). It is reported that the movie received a U/A certificate from CBFC ahead of its release day on Sanranthi 2026. Recently, the makers released the second song titled Sahana Sahana from the film, which immediately went viral. The song includes stunning visuals and the sizzling chemistry between Prabhas and Nidhhi Agerwal. The makers had earlier shared a trailer of the film that starts with Prabhas sitting in a hypnotist’s office, asked to focus while the classic Bappi Lahiri and Usha Uthup song Koi Yahan Nache Nache plays in the background. The actor appears visibly shocked by the visions that unfold, showing eerie creatures and a haunted mansion. Sanjay Dutt also stars in the film, and his character is introduced by Boman Irani as an “exorcist, psychiatrist, and hypnotist" in the trailer. Prabhas prepares to encounter Dutt’s character, while referencing Star Wars humorously. The trailer ends with Prabhas’ older avatar, indicating at his role as the evil grandfather as Zareena Wahab plays his grandmother. About The Raja Saab The Raja Saab cast includes Prabhas in dual roles, Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, Riddhi Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, and Nayanthara in a special song. Interestingly, this film marks Malavika's Telugu debut. Meanwhile, it also marks a massive shift for Prabhas, who will be seen in an all-new genre, breaking away from his action roles. The Raja Saab is directed by Maruthi, who is considered a pioneer in the horror-comedy genre in Telugu cinema. The film is produced by Viswa Prasad under the People Media Factory banner. The film will release across five languages, including Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.
23 December,2025 07:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTelugu actor Sivaji made a controversial statement at the pre-release event of his upcoming film Dhandoraa. He doled out unsolicited advice targeted at women and heroines, asking them to dress modestly. The 54-year-old actor, who is also known for his participation in Bigg Boss Telugu 7, has landed in the eye of the storm after his comments went viral on social media, with many slamming him for his remarks. What did Sivaji say? Speaking on stage at the pre-release event of the Telugu movie, Sivaji said, "I request all heroines not to wear revealing outfits. Please wear sarees or dresses that cover the body fully. Beauty lies in complete attire or a saree, not in displaying physical assets." He further added, "People may not openly say anything because they feel it is your freedom, but inside they may not like it. A woman is like nature. When nature is beautiful, we respect it. A woman is like my mother, whom I hold close to my heart." Speaking further about women’s dressing, he cited the examples of legendary actors Savitri and Soundarya, along with new-age star Rashmika Mandanna, for their graceful outfits. He said, "They created an impact through their attire, which is why I can name them". He went on to say, "Freedom is precious - don't lose it. People will respect you based on your conduct. Glamour should have limits; it should not cross a certain line." Reportedly, Sivaji also mentioned on stage that he might be criticised for his comments. Chinmayi Sripaada slams Sivaji Singer Chinmayi Sripaada, who is known for voicing her opinions on social issues, was among the first to react to Sivaji’s remarks. She called out the actor for giving “unnecessary advice” to female actors. She wrote on X, "Telugu Actor Sivaji doles out unnecessary advice to Actresses using slurs like ‘Daridrapu Munda’ saying they need to wear Saris to cover their ‘Saamaan’ - a word incels use." She further wrote, "Actor Shivaji played a villain in a fantastic film and end up becoming the hero for incel boys. The point is - these are professional spaces where Shivaji is using words like ‘Daridrapu Munda’." She added, "He himself wears Jeans and Hoodie. He should wear only Dhotis and follow Indian culture. Wear bottu and if he is married wear the Kankanam and Mettelu to signify he is married." Expressing disbelief over Sivaji’s remarks on a public platform, the singer concluded, "Unbelievable how women are treated here. Just unbelievable."
23 December,2025 03:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTollywood actor Vijay Deverakonda has announced his next titled, Rowdy Janardhana, leaving his admirers excited for what he has in store for them next. Joining them, actress Rashmika Mandanna, who is rumoured to be engaged to the Liger actor, also gave a shout-out to him with a social media post. Rashmika re-shared the announcement post for the movie on her X (Earlier known as Twitter) handle and penned, "Let’s go! Lets go! Let’s goooo!! TheDeverakonda (sic)". However, the Pushpa actress did not stop there and compiled another encouraging message for Vijay on her Instagram Stories. "You Rowdy fellow. Such mental stuff this is! What visuals! What music! What vibe! What an actor! You boys are crazy and I love it (sic)," wrote Rashmika. Announcing his next, VD treated the netizens with a power-packed first promo from the project on Instagram. Vijay was seen in a fierce avatar for his next. Shirtless, he posed drenched in blood, with long hair and a thick moustache. Wearing a dark lungi, he was seen wielding a machete. VD will essay the role of a feared rowdy from Kalingapatnam in the forthcoming drama. Vijay wrote, “The Biography of a Wounded man. in 1 year. RowdyJanardhana December 2026 (sic)." Apart from their professional commitments, Vijay and Rashmika also keep making headlines for their alleged relationship. The speculations of the Dear Comrade co-stars being romantically involved have been doing the rounds for some time now. From appearing at airports at the same time to going on vacations at similar locations, these two have been keeping the netizens on their toes for years now. Now, going by the latest reports, Vijay and Rashmika are finally engaged after years of being in a relationship. The reports also claim that the lovebirds plan to tie the knot in February next year. However, there has been no official announcement from either side until now. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
23 December,2025 12:45 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSVijay Deverakonda and Keerthy Suresh's upcoming film finally has a name. The title of the upcoming actioner was revealed on Monday as Rowdy Janardhana. Along with the name, the makers also dropped a title announcement video of Vijay Deverakonda's first look from his next film with Ravi Kiran Kola. The first look was screened for fans on Monday evening before it was officially unveiled online. Vijay Deverakonda’s first look in Rowdy Janardhana revealed Rowdy Janardhana's first look shows Vijay covered in blood and looking unrecognisable. He is seen in thick hair and a moustache, shirtless and dressed in a dark lungi with a machete in his hand. In the video, he is seen hacking through men for standing up against him before he says, “Kalingapatnam lo intikokka l***akoduku nenu rowdy ni ani chepuku tirugutunnadu. Kaani inti peru ne rowdy ga marchukunnodu okkade unnadu (Every son of a b***h in Kalingapatnam goes around calling himself a rowdy. But there’s only one who changed his surname to it).” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda) The dialogue apparently seems to be a reference to how he addresses his fans as Rowdy. Vijay then unveiled the film’s title and his character’s name as Rowdy Janardhana. Apart from a new look, the actor can also be seen shedding his trademark Telangana twang for a more rustic accent in the film. Shared the title announcement and first look on his Instagram handle, Vijay Deverakonda captioned it as, “The Biography of a Wounded man. in 1 year. RowdyJanardhana December 2026.” About Rowdy Janardhana Rowdy Janardhana is being directed by Ravi Kiran Kola. The film also features Keerthy Suresh as the female lead. The film is expected to be released in Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam simultaneously in December 2026. It is believed to be the biography of a wounded man, as suggested by Vijay. However, the makers have not shared the name of the person from whom Vijay Deverakonda’s character takes inspiration from. Rowdy Janardhana marks the second collaboration of Keerthy Suresh and Vijay Deverakonda after the hit film Mahanati. Viajy Deverakonda was last seen in Kingdom, also starring Satyadev, Bhagyashri Borse, Manish Chaudhari and others in pivotal roles.
22 December,2025 09:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVeteran Malayalam actor-filmmaker Sreenivasan passed away on Saturday, December 20. He was 69. His death came as a shock to admirers across the country, with several dignitaries from the film fraternity arriving to pay their last respects. Multiple visuals from Sreenivasan’s funeral and last rites went viral on social media. Amid this, actor Prithviraj Sukumaran’s wife, Supriya Menon, who is also a producer, strongly called out those clicking pictures and documenting every moment of grief. Supriya slams selfie takers at Sreenivasan's funeral On Sunday, Supriya took to her Instagram Stories to express her anguish over how Sreenivasan’s family was denied the space to mourn, surrounded by cameras and mobile phones. “Grief is such a personal emotion. To see a grieving family not have any space to mourn their beloved is so tragic. Multitudes of cameras\mobile phones everywhere. Selfie takers in the corners, people pointing to the actors walking in. Many of whom are mourning their beloved colleague,” she wrote. She further urged people to reflect and show respect to the departed and their loved ones. “Don't the dead & the living they leave behind deserve better? What a spectacle every moment of life has become...Cannot imagine the pain of the family who are in the midst of this tragedy. Shouldn't we self reflect & course correct? How much coverage is too much? Do we need to crowd around the last rites beaming it for everyone to see ... a broken down family, trying to say goodbye to their Beloved.” Sreenivasan passed away at a private hospital on Saturday morning, according to film industry sources. He had been admitted to a hospital in Tripunithura on Friday night following prolonged illness. As news of his demise spread, fans and colleagues mourned the loss, with condolences pouring in from across the country. About Sreenivasan Born on April 6, 1956, in Patyam near Thalassery in Kerala’s Kannur district, Sreenivasan emerged as one of the most influential voices in Malayalam cinema, celebrated for blending sharp social satire with accessible storytelling. Over a career spanning nearly five decades, he acted in more than 225 films and wrote several landmark screenplays. He made his acting debut in P. A. Backer’s Manimuzhakkam in 1976, with his first lead role in Sanghaganam (1979). He was formally trained at the Film and Television Institute of Tamil Nadu in Chennai. Beyond acting and writing, Sreenivasan was also a producer and co-produced Katha Parayumpol and Thattathin Marayathu under Lumiere Film Company with actor Mukesh. His writing credits include classics such as Odaruthammava Aalariyam, Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam, Gandhinagar 2nd Street, Katha Parayumpol, and Njan Prakashan. He received several honours during his career, including a National Film Award, two Filmfare Awards South, and six Kerala State Film Awards.
22 December,2025 07:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe makers of director Sudha Kongara's eagerly awaited upcoming period film, Parasakthi, featuring actors Sivakarthikeyan, Ravi Mohan, Atharvaa and Sreeleela in the lead, have now announced that the film's release had been advanced to January 10. The film was earlier scheduled to be released in theatres on January 14. The festival of Pongal is a favourite release date for films in the South. Parasakthi release preponed Taking to its social media timelines, Dawn Pictures, the firm producing the film, shared a statement that read, "We wish to inform the media, trade, and audiences that the release of 'Parasakthi' has been preponed to January 10, 2026. This decision has been taken after extensive discussions and repeated requests from exhibitors and distributors worldwide, who have expressed strong confidence in the film's theatrical potential during this period. 'Parasakthi' will now release in theatres worldwide on January 10, 2026." Now, the film will clash with Vijay's Jana Nayagan. There is massive excitement around Vijay's film as it will mark his final movie bringing his acting career to an end. The actor will be shifting his focus on politics. More about Parasakthi The film has triggered huge expectations in both fans and film buffs. It may be recalled that Sivakarthikeyan had begun dubbing for the film in the last week of November. Both actress Sreeleela, who plays the female lead, and actor Ravi Mohan, who plays the antagonist in the film, have dubbed for their portions. Interestingly, Sreeleela has dubbed in her own voice for this film. The makers had officially confirmed on October 21 this year that the unit had wrapped up the shooting of the film. In August, the unit wrapped up its Pollachi schedule. Parasakthi has triggered huge interest among fans and film buffs. The period film is believed to be set in the 1960s in the then state of Madras. A teaser released by the unit shows that the story takes place in the Pachaiyappa’s college in Madras where Sivakarthikeyan is seen going door to door, in search of something. He comes across as a fearless leader, looking to lead students on a violent protest in rebellion against an unjust system which seems to have imposed orders such as ‘Students - do not touch’. Incidentally, the teaser shows this order printed on a wall changed to ‘Do not touch students’.
22 December,2025 07:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMalayalam film actor and producer Dulquer Salmaan, on Monday, took to social media to express his love and gratitude for his wife, Amal Sufiya on their wedding anniversary. In a heartfelt post, he reflected on their 14 years together. The actor celebrated the life they’ve built, their shared dreams, and the special bond they continue to nurture. Dulquer Salmaan pens note for wife Amal Sufiya Taking to his Instagram handle, Dulquer posted a couple of his romantic photos with Amal and penned a heartfelt note where he recalled how, as newlyweds from different homes, they were nervous yet hopeful about the future. In the caption, the Sita Ramam actor mentioned how they continue to pursue both individual and shared dreams in their careers and personal life. He expressed gratitude, love, and pride for his wife, affectionately calling her the “better half.” Dulquer Salmaan wrote, “14 years ago today, we were two different individuals from two different homes newly married, standing together on a stage. Nervous. Hopeful. Excited about what lay ahead. Today we have built a wonderful home and this life together and that too with our biggest blessing. And now we are pursuing our independent and collective dreams both in our careers and home.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dulquer Salmaan (@dqsalmaan) “I’m so grateful, blessed and proud to be your other half. Though the world will agree that you will always be the better half Happy 14th my Jaan. I love you long time,” he added. The couple tied the knot on December 22, 2011, in Chennai. The couple welcomed their daughter, Maryam, in May 2017. Dulquer Salmaan's work front The actor was last seen in the Tamil film Kaantha which also starred Rana Daggubati. He will next be seen in the Malayalam movie I'm Game which will mark his comeback to Malayalam film. The film marks director Nahas Hidayath’s next venture after the blockbuster hit 'RDX'. Produced by Dulquer along with Jom Verghese, I'm Game happens to be the actor’s 40th film. The film also features actors Antony Varghese, Mysskin, Kathir, Parth Thiwari, and Tamil actress Samyuktha Viswanathan. The actor also had a great year as a producer with the blockbuster film Lokah: Chapter 1. The film starring Kalyani Priyadarshan became the first Malayalam film to cross Rs 300 crore worldwide.
22 December,2025 05:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentExplaining that he would definitely request Tamil Superstar Rajinikanth to act in Kannada when there was a worthy role for him, Kannada Superstar Dr Shiva Rajkumar said that he should not take advantage of Rajinikanth just because he did a role in the Tamil film Jailer. At a media interaction called to promote his upcoming Kannada film 45, the Kannada megastar was asked if, since the unit of Rajinikanth's Jailer requested him to act in it, he would request Rajinikanth to act in a Kannada film. In response to this question, Shiva Rajkumar said, "It cannot be done just like that when one thinks. It (the project) has to shape up really well. When he comes, it must be something very different. That is what I wish for. I shouldn't simply take advantage of him. Just because I came here and did a role in Jailer, I shouldn't call sir. I am seeing him from the time I was a child. I should not take advantage. If there is a worthy role, I will definitely request Rajini sir." More about 45 The film has been produced by Uma Ramesh Reddy and M Ramesh Reddy and has dialogues by Anil Kumar. Apart from Dr Shiva Rajkumar, the film, which has triggered huge expectations among fans and film buffs, will also feature actors Raj B Shetty and Upendra in pivotal roles. Speaking about the film, Raj B Shetty said, "There are three elements that come in this story. One is the realistic story of a commoner. This meets the cinematic moment of another character, and it ends in a fantasy. But the travel is not jarring, and it travels seamlessly." The film has cinematography by Satya Hegde and editing by K M Prakash. Stunts for the film have been choreographed by Dr K Ravivarma, Jolly Bastian, Different Dany, and Chetan D’souza, while dances have been choreographed by Chinni Prakash and B Dhananjay. Director Arun Janya talks about 45 Interestingly, 45, which is scheduled to hit screens on December 25 this year, will mark the directorial debut of music director Arjun Janya. Director Arjun Janya said, "The film has been titled 45 as the story takes place within this period. The idea for the plot for this film came from certain experiences in my life. That was the starting point. I narrated this script to Shivanna, who asked me to direct this film myself. He is my second inspiration." When asked what genre this film would come under, the director admitted that it would be hard to classify it into one genre. It is for the audience to decide, he said, and sought assistance from actor Raj B Shetty, who plays a pivotal role in the film.
22 December,2025 04:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSS Rajamouli's ambitious time-travel adventure Varanasi has been one of the most anticipated titles, with fans closely watching out for anyupdates or developments about the film. Now, according to the latest development, the lead actor, Mahesh Babu, has been receiving intensive training in the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu. The big-budget production iscurrently in progress, and is believed to be his most demanding role yet. SS Rajamouli trains in Kalaripayattu The Telugu superstar will be seen essaying the role of Rudhra in Rajamouli’s next directorial venture. The news of Mahesh Babu’s martial arts training gained attention after Hyderabad-based instructor Hari Krish shared some photos with the actor on Instagram. On one of the images, he wrote, “I never thought my journey would lead me to train a global star of Indian cinema on Kalaripayattu." Revealing the identity of the star, he added, “Feeling proud and truly blessed to have trained urstrulymahesh sir in the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu. His lifestyle, aura, and hospitality are deeply inspiring." The trainer also appreciated senior actor Nasser and Rajamouli, writing, “Immense gratitude to nasser_unmasked sir for the opportunity and ssrajamouli sir for his acceptance." Kalaripayattu is one of the world’s oldest martial arts, which originated in the state of Kerala. The martial art form combines physical training, spiritual discipline, and unique combat techniques, and is known for its animal-inspired postures, fluid movements, and the use of traditional weapons such as swords and sticks. The art form has been famously used earlier in films such as Commando (2013), Baaghi (2016), and Kantara: Chapter 1 (2025). About Varanasi Varanasi also stars Priyanka Chopra as Mandakini and Prithviraj Sukumaran as Kumbha, along with Mahesh Babu. The project is said to be an adventure spanning continents and timelines. Anticipation for the film skyrocketed after the makers held a grand event named Globetrotter to announce the name of the film in Hyderabad earlier. They later released a short video showcasing glimpses of its expansive world, increasing the intrigue among the fans. As the production for Rajamouli's film continues, industry insiders are calling it one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious projects. The film is eyes a release date of Sankranthi 2027.
22 December,2025 04:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1766417082125_d.png "Vijay Deverakonda in Rowdy Janardhana")
