Amid viral claims suggesting that Allu Arjun has 42 rules for meeting people, the superstar has issued an official clarification. In a statement, he dismissed the comments as “baseless and untrue” and warned of legal action against those spreading misinformation. Viral claims about Allu Arjun The controversy erupted after brand manager Kaveri Baruah shared her experience of meeting the actor during an appearance on the Sweekriti Talks podcast. She spoke about certain rules that allegedly had to be followed before meeting the Telugu superstar, putting him in a negative light. Kaveri, who reportedly worked with Royal Enfield’s brand strategy team, claimed, “Before meeting him, we had a note which had 42 dos and don’ts — don’t look into sir’s eyes, don’t shake your hand.” She further alleged that the actor operates with multiple layers of management. “They have a manager’s manager’s manager. They are very strict,” she said. However, when pressed for more details, Kaveri declined to elaborate further, saying, “Mere ko kya pata? Aur nahi bataungi main (How would I know? I won’t say anything else),” which left many netizens sceptical about the authenticity of her claims. Allu Arjun's team warns legal action The clip from the podcast soon went viral, sparking widespread discussion on social media. As the comments gained traction, Allu Arjun’s team released an official statement of clarification. The statement read, “Certain recent comments made about Mr. Allu Arjun are completely baseless and untrue. He has always conducted himself with the utmost dignity and honour. We take these false allegations seriously. Our legal team is initiating defamation proceedings against those responsible. We request everyone to refrain from spreading unverified information.” An official note from Icon star @alluarjun’s Office. A recent video spreading baseless allegations about @alluarjun is completely false. The matter is being taken seriously, and legal action is being initiated against those responsible. Kindly refrain from sharing unverified… pic.twitter.com/sXhSNRsB36 — Team Allu Arjun (@TeamAAOfficial) February 10, 2026 Allu Arjun's work front The actor was last seen in the film Pushpa 2 which was released in theatres in December 2025. The film directed by Sukumar also stars Rashmika Mandanna in the lead. It broke several box office records and made a mark in Indian cinema. The actor is currently working on his next with Atlee. The sci-fi drama is mounted on a huge scale and also stars Deepika Padukone. The film reportedly also stars Janhvi Kapoor and Mrunal Thakur.
10 February,2026 08:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Jayaram, who gained acclaim for playing King Rajasekhara in Rishab Shetty's Kantara: Chapter 1, has been named in the ongoing Sabarimala gold theft case. According to the latest reports, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned him for interrogation. Notably, this comes after Jayaram recorded his statement with a Special Investigation Team (SIT) a few days ago. Jayaram summoned by ED The Kochi unit of ED registered an ECIR (Enforcement Case Information Report) under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) about a month ago. As per the latest summons, the ED has asked Jayaram to appear on February 17 in the gold theft case associated with Unnikrishnan Potty, the primary accused. According to reports, temple artefacts, including gold-covered copper plates, were used for a private religious ceremony back in 2019, which was allegedly organised by Unnikrishnan Potty. The ED had reportedly issued summons to 12 people after the gold theft case was lodged in October 2025. Jayaram is allegedly being investigated for his role in the ceremonies and financial connections with the primary accused. SIT questioned Jayaram Earlier, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) had questioned Jayaram at his Chennai residence. He was asked about his participation in such rituals organised by Potty and how many times he has been a part of them. The case involves two incidents. One is the alleged removal of gold from the Dwarapalaka and the Sreekovil doorframes at the Sabarimala temple. The SIT has arrested 12 people in the matter, including two former Travancore Devaswom Board presidents, B Murari Babu and S Sreekumar. Although Jayaram hasn’t been named as an accused in the case, his questioning is limited to his participation in the puja. During the earlier SIT questioning, his statement was expected to provide additional information. Unnikrishnan Potty is a Bengaluru-based Malayali businessman as well as a former temple priest. He has been accused of conspiring to steal gold during maintenance works of the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple. The Kollam Vigilance Court has granted him statutory (default) bail as the SIT failed to file the charge sheet within the stipulated 90-day period. Meanwhile, ED would reportedly be summoning him for further investigation.
10 February,2026 05:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEven before it sets the box office on fire, Toxic has already rewritten the rules of the game. The film first made headlines by becoming the first non-Telugu film to seal a historic Rs 120 crore distribution deal with Dil Raju’s powerhouse banner Sri Venkateswara Creations (SVC) in the AP–TG market - a move that sent shockwaves across the Indian film industry. And now, the phenomenon has grown even bigger. Toxic makes historic deal for international distribution On the international front, Toxic has been acquired by Phars Film, one of the leading and most dominant overseas distributors, marking yet another colossal milestone in the film’s extraordinary pre-release journey. The deal is being touted as one of the highest-ever overseas acquisitions for an Indian film, with Rs 105 crore secured as advance on a commission basis, a staggering vote of confidence from the global market. The numbers show confidence of the market in the film and Rocking Star Yash, an indicator of ground-level buzz. Importantly, this landmark deal applies exclusively to the Indian-language versions (Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam) of Toxic, and does not include the English version - a crucial distinction that further underscores the immense standalone strength of the film’s Indian-language appeal overseas. The faith placed in Toxic isn’t without precedent. Yash’s previous outing, KGF: Chapter 2, delivered phenomenal and historic business across global markets, emerging as the highest-grossing Indian film in the GCC region and clocking extraordinary numbers across several international territories. That roaring global success has now laid the foundation for Toxic to aim even higher. The Yash-starrer is now gearing up for what is being planned as the widest international rollout ever for an Indian film, with releases scheduled across the entire world, except Nepal, Japan, and China. It’s an audacious move that firmly positions Toxic as a global cinematic event in the making. Toxic speaks universal cinematic language Mr Ahmad Golchin CEO & Founder of Phars Films says, "With Toxic, our goal was to tell a story that resonates beyond borders. We are proud to bring this film to international audiences and to see its themes connect across cultures. This overseas release marks an important milestone for Phars Film, and we’re excited for viewers worldwide to experience the intensity and emotional depth of Toxic.” Venkat K Narayana from KVN Productions adds, "Toxic has been envisioned as a film that speaks a universal cinematic language, and for a vision of this scale, we needed a partner with extraordinary global strength and credibility. Phars Films has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled ability to position Indian cinema powerfully across international markets, and we are proud to join hands with them for what is truly a landmark overseas distribution deal. With their expansive reach and strategic expertise, we are confident that Toxic will open to audiences worldwide with the scale, impact, and momentum it deserves, setting new benchmarks for global releases from Indian cinema." Written by Yash and Geetu Mohandas and directed by Geetu , Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups has been simultaneously shot in Kannada and English, with dubbed versions planned in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and several other languages, underscoring the film’s global ambition. The film boasts a formidable technical lineup, with National Award-winning cinematographer Rajeev Ravi behind the lens, music composed by Ravi Basrur, editing by Ujwal Kulkarni, and production design by TP Abid.
10 February,2026 04:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Ajith Kumar is an active part of the international racing circuit as he continues to explore his passion for motorsport. The actor, who is currently in Abu Dhabi for a racing event, recently had an unpleasant interaction with a fan, which prompted him to step in and address the situation. A video of the actor schooling a fan at the event has since surfaced on social media. Ajith schools fan at racing event In the video, Ajith is seen interacting with fans who had gathered around him at the racing venue. However, the actor lost his cool when the crowd grew larger and chaotic, with fans pushing each other. Ajith was seen scolding the crowd for making noise during the event, saying, “Please behave yourself. This is not a theatre.” The actor then walked away from the location. This is not the first time Ajith has silenced unruly crowds. In October last year, the Tamil superstar visited the Tirumala temple for darshan. Several fans who spotted him began shouting to get his attention. However, Ajith calmly silenced them with a simple gesture. எப்படி da இவனுக்கு fans ahh இருக்கிறீங்க! சொந்த ரசிகரியே மதிக்கத் தெரியாத தற்குறி!🤦🏻அந்த ரசிகன் இல்ல na நீ எல்லாம் oru ஆளே கிடையாது! @Akracingoffl 😤pic.twitter.com/ZHJ1cqxhpD — ⚡ᴾᴷ ＡＪＩＴＨ ᴍᴀғɪᴀ😈 (@mafia_ajit85265) February 10, 2026 Celebrities who visited Ajith Sivakarthikeyan is the latest Tamil star to visit Ajith, whose team is currently participating in a series of international car racing competitions. A few days earlier, music director Yuvan Shankar Raja met Ajith Kumar at the Dubai Autodrome. This meeting came at a time when Ajith’s superhit film Mankatha, which was recently re-released, was performing strongly at the box office. Prior to this, actor Madhavan had also interacted with Ajith at the Dubai Autodrome. Earlier this month, actress Nayanthara and her director-husband Vignesh Shivan arrived at the circuit to cheer for Ajith during the Dubai 24H Series event. Before their visit, actor Sibi Sathyaraj had shared a video on X showing Ajith warmly welcoming him and his family at the circuit. Before Sibi, one of India's top music directors Anirudh had called on actor Ajith Kumar on the Marina Race Circuit in Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, actor Ajith Kumar's efforts on the race track are to be made into a docu-film, which sources say will be released in theatres on May 1 this year on the occasion of his birthday. Sources close to the actor had confirmed to IANS that ace Tamil film director A L Vijay is directing this docu-film, which will be around 90 minutes long and will seek to inspire scores of youngsters to pursue their dreams.
10 February,2026 04:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe legal hurdles surrounding Vijay’s highly anticipated Tamil film Jana Nayagan appear to have been resolved, with the Madras High Court clearing the path for the film’s certification and eventual theatrical release. The development comes after the film’s producers chose to withdraw their petition against the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), bringing an end to a dispute that had stalled the project. All about the censorship row The controversy began when the CBFC’s examining committee reviewed the film in December 2025 and reportedly suggested several cuts before granting it a U/A certificate. The producers accepted the recommended changes and resubmitted the film, expecting the certification process to move forward smoothly. However, matters took an unexpected turn when a complaint from one of the committee members raised concerns about certain themes and visuals in the movie, particularly regarding their potential impact on public sentiment. As a result, the film was referred to a revising committee, delaying certification and prompting the makers to approach the court. The producers argued that the hold-up was affecting the film’s release plans and causing uncertainty within the industry. Originally scheduled to hit theatres on January 9, 2026, the film’s future became unclear as the legal proceedings unfolded. Madras HC paves way for the film During a hearing held on February 10, the Madras High Court permitted the producers to withdraw their plea. This decision effectively closed the legal chapter of the dispute and allows the film to continue through the CBFC’s standard review process. Industry observers view the move as a strategic choice by the makers, who appear to have opted for cooperation with the certification body rather than prolonging a courtroom battle. Although the film has now crossed a major obstacle, an official release date has yet to be announced. The timeline will likely depend on how quickly the revising committee completes its evaluation and grants the required certificate. Jana Nayagan has generated significant buzz among fans, with many eagerly awaiting updates. With the legal roadblock now removed, attention shifts to the certification process, which is expected to determine when the much-talked-about Vijay starrer finally arrives in cinemas.
10 February,2026 04:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVeteran Malayalam actor Biju Menon has been publicly criticised by the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) for allegedly failing to attend essential promotional events for his films, a lapse that, according to industry officials, has resulted in significant financial losses for producers. The issue was highlighted at a press conference held on February 9 by B Unnikrishnan, the general secretary of FEFKA, who called out Menon’s conduct and stressed the importance of professionalism in the Malayalam film industry. Biju Menon accused of not honouring the contract Unnikrishnan accused Menon of not honouring his contractual obligations to participate in promotional activities, particularly for the recent release Valathu Vashathe Kallan, directed by Jeethu Joseph. The general secretary alleged that one producer, who is also a director, lost around Rs 25 lakh because Menon’s absence meant a television promotional deal could not be finalised. He emphasised that attending promotional events is part of the standard agreement under the Producers’ Association and should be treated with the same seriousness as negotiating salaries. According to Unnikrishnan, this issue is symptomatic of broader professional challenges within the industry. He also criticised the habitual late arrival of actors on set, which has reportedly delayed shooting schedules and driven up production costs. FEFKA has been pushing for improved discipline and stronger enforcement of contractual commitments to help films reach their commercial potential and protect the interests of technicians and crew members. FEFKA condemns the actor In response to these broader concerns, FEFKA announced a revised agreement with the Kerala Film Producers’ Association that reduces daily working hours on set from 16 to 12 hours, intended to improve working conditions for film workers. However, wage changes tied to this agreement are expected to take effect only after a year. Producer-director Anoop Kannan has also shared his frustration, recounting that Menon made only a brief appearance for promotions of an earlier film despite contractual requirements for multiple days of engagement, further aggravating financial and promotional setbacks. So far, Biju Menon has not issued a public statement addressing the allegations or explaining his absence from promotional duties, and the controversy continues to spark discussion within the Malayalam film fraternity about actor responsibilities and contract enforcement.
10 February,2026 01:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Supreme Court is scheduled to hear on Tuesday a plea filed by renowned classical vocalist Ustad Faiyaz Wasifuddin Dagar against music composer A.R. Rahman, alleging that the song Veera Raja Veera featured in the Tamil film Ponniyin Selvan II is inspired by his family’s traditional composition Shiva Stuti. As per the cause list published on the website of the apex court, the matter is listed before a bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria for hearing on February 10. Earlier, the Delhi High Court, in a judgment passed on September 24, 2025, had set aside an interim order directing Rahman and the film’s producers to deposit Rs 2 crore and to modify song credits in favour of the Junior Dagar Brothers. A division bench of Justices C. Hari Shankar and Om Prakash Shukla had held that there was no prima facie material to establish that the late Ustad N. Faiyazuddin Dagar and Ustad N. Zahiruddin Dagar, popularly known as the Junior Dagar Brothers, were the authors or composers of Shiva Stuti. The Delhi High Court drew a clear distinction between a performer’s rights and authorship, observing that "mere performance or fixation of a musical piece does not, by itself, confer copyright in the underlying composition". Setting aside the single-judge Bench’s order, the Justice Hari Shankar-led Bench had ruled that the materials relied upon by Wasifuddin Dagar, including recordings of performances and album inlay cards, at best demonstrated performance rights under the Copyright Act and could not be treated as proof of authorship. It further observed that the Shiva Stuti forms part of the broader Dagarvani or Dhrupad tradition of Hindustani classical music, which has historically evolved through oral transmission across generations, and allowing exclusive copyright claims over such compositions could have serious implications for the guru-shishya parampara. Aggrieved by the setting aside of interim relief, Wasifuddin Dagar has now approached the Supreme Court, seeking restoration of recognition and protection of the moral and copyright interests of the Junior Dagar Brothers. 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
10 February,2026 10:04 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSOne of the most beloved couples in Tollywood, Ram Charan and Upasana Kamineni, recently embraced parenthood for the second time as they welcomed twin babies—a son and a daughter. Overwhelmed by the love being showered on her newborns and family, Upasana decided to share a gratitude note on social media for everyone who prayed for her and the babies, and who has been a part of this beautiful journey in one way or another. Ram Charan, Upasana express gratitude She uploaded a video that encapsulated her twins’ birth journey. The footage begins with the Game Changer star and Upasana walking into Apollo Hospital. The video highlights the meticulous preparation involved, revealing that two separate medical teams were stationed to ensure the safety and well-being of both the mother and the newborns. It was further revealed that Upasana gave birth to the twins in the very same hospital room where she had earlier welcomed her daughter, Klin. The video also shows Ram Charan and Upasana entering the hospital premises, with Chiranjeevi waiting patiently. Upasana included clips of Chiranjeevi announcing the twins’ birth and Ram Charan’s fans beaming with joy as they celebrated the babies’ arrival. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Upasana Kamineni Konidela (@upasanakaminenikonidela) Upasana’s heartfelt post read, “Every time I watch this, my heart feels full. I’m deeply grateful for the love, strength and positivity that surrounds us. With folded hands, THANK YOU. My family is truly blessed. Tejesvirao & the entire theapollohospitals team—your care and commitment meant everything to us.” (sic) She further thanked all of Ram Charan’s fans for their love and prayers. “To RC’s fans and well-wishers, I know your love comes from a place of goodness. I trust you will always protect our children and respect their safety. To everyone across the world who prayed for us—your blessings will be cherished forever,” the note further read. More about Ram Charan and Upasana To refresh your memory, Ram Charan and Upasana announced their second pregnancy during Diwali 2025. Upasana treated netizens to a video from her Seemantham (baby shower) and penned, “This Diwali was all about double the celebration, double the love and double the blessings.” Ram Charan and Upasana tied the knot in June 2012 and welcomed their firstborn in June 2023. On the work front, the actor will next be seen in Peddi, alongside Janhvi Kapoor.
10 February,2026 08:58 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAmid the ongoing legal row and release delay, the producer of Vijay's Jana Nayagan has now filed a plea to withdraw the case against the Central Borad of Film Certification. The hearing for the same is scheduled for February 10, 2026. Jana Nayagan makers to withdraw case According to reports, the producer of Jana Nayagan has officially moved the court to withdraw its writ petition against the CBFC. The producer submitted a letter submitted to the Madras High Court Registry, wherein he confirmed they have opted to take the film before a revising committee instead of continuing the legal battle. Legal sources suggest that the petition is scheduled to appear before Justice P.T. Asha on Tuesday, February 10, specifically for withdrawal. This comes after KVN Productions LLP’s counsel, Vijayan Subramanian, formally communicated that his client did not wish to move forward with the lawsuit anymore. Jana Nayagan censor row Jana Nayagan was initially scheduled for a January 9, 2026, release. However, after the CBFC’s five-member panel screened the film on December 19, 2025, the production house was later reportedly notified on December 22 that the board was prepared to grant a U/A 16+ certificate if certain requested cuts were made. Instead of challenging the board for a ‘U’ certificate through the revising committee, KVN chose to accept the recommendations and completed all the requested cuts. Likewise, they resubmitted the edited version of the movie on December 24, 2025. However, they faced a roadblock when a member of the monitoring committee filed a complaint with CBFC Chairman Prasoon Joshi in Mumbai. The letter of complaint read, "Dear Sir, It has come to my attention that the upcoming movie Jana Nayagan received approval from the Chennai board despite procedural lapses. The film portrays foreign powers fueling significant religious conflict in India—content that I believe could disturb the social and religious peace of our country." "There are many Army related references in the film but no defence expert has been included in the Examining Committee to address these issues. There are procedural lapses during examination of the film which is gross violation of the Cinematograph Act and Rules. I am an APM (Advisory Panel Member) member and I have watched the film on December 19, 2025 but my objections were not considered during examination of the film. So, we humbly request you to intervene in the procedure and direct the competent authority to re-examine the film," the complaint added. Acting on the complaint, the CBFC took action on December 29, 2025, ordering its Chennai Regional Office to halt the certification of Jana Nayagan. On January 5, 2026, the production team was notified that the chairman had semt the film to a revising committee for a secondary review. KVN Productions filed a writ petition with the Madras High Court, seeking a court order to compel the CBFC to issue the U/A 16+ certificate within a 24-hour window.
09 February,2026 07:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFahadh Faasil is among the busiest actors in South cinema, seamlessly juggling projects across Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu industries, with ongoing rumours of a possible Bollywood debut. The acclaimed actor will next be seen in the much-anticipated Malayalam film Patriot, which brings together the legendary duo Mohanlal and Mammootty. Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, the film boasts a rich ensemble cast and has been generating immense buzz since its announcement. Fahadh Faasil confirms Aavesham 2 Recently, at an event, Fahadh Faasil made a major revelation about his role in the film. The actor confirmed that he will be playing the antagonist in Patriot, a detail that was previously under wraps. “I play the villain in Patriot,” Fahadh said, instantly sending fans into a frenzy, given the scale of the project and the presence of the two biggest superstars of Mollywood. The actor was also asked for an update on the much-loved Aavesham sequel. Responding with excitement, Fahadh confirmed its development and shared a tentative timeline. “Aavesham 2 is there. Hopefully, in 2027 or 2028,” he said. About Patriot Patriot has triggered massive expectations ever since it was announced. In addition to Mohanlal and Mammootty, the film also stars Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Nayanthara and Revathy in pivotal roles. A teaser released last year further amplified the excitement among fans and film buffs. It opens with a voiceover stating, “I remember there was a time when this nation was controlled by the two of them. Together. Over these years, what they earned wasn’t just followers. Faith. Trust.” The teaser then cuts to a series of intense visuals, with Mammootty’s voice saying, “They are going to bring social score to people.” Mohanlal, who appears to play an army general, follows up with the line, “There are three of us. Do you think you can stop us?” Viewers are introduced to a mysterious programme called Periscope, with Kunchacko Boban playing a character named Daniel. Nayanthara’s character questions whether a student laptop scheme is connected to Periscope, while another voice asks, “Is this programme watching them secretly?” The teaser concludes with Mammootty posing a chilling question: “Great Indian traitor… or patriot?” Overall, the teaser suggests that Patriot will revolve around a group of socially responsible individuals attempting to thwart an illegal government surveillance programme, setting the stage for a gripping political thriller. The film will be released in theatres on April 23, 2026.
09 February,2026 06:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDirector Prem has reportedly filed a complaint against senior film producer Kanakapura Srinivas at the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce. Prem alleged that the producer used derogatory remarks at a recent film-related event. The controversy has attracted attention within the Kannada film industry, as Prem alleged the comments targeted him, director AP Arjun, actor Darshan, and other producers, while also including disrespectful language about late actor Puneeth Rajkumar. Filmmaker Prem files a complaint against Kanakapura Srinivas According to Prem, the remarks crossed personal and professional boundaries, which led him to take both legal and industry-level action. He mentioned that he set up an office, formed a team, and began working on the script in 2004; however, repeated attempts to contact the producer yielded no response. According to Deccan Herald, the complaint read, "In 2004, producer Srinivas approached me to direct a film by giving an amount advance of Rs 9 lakh (Rs 5 lakh in cash and rest in cheque). After this, I set up an office for him, formed a team and started working on the pre-production of the film. However, when I contacted him again, I did not receive any response. He wasted my time and that of my team". Prem met Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce president Jayamala, to whom he submitted his complaint, claiming that Srinivas made highly derogatory statements. The director confirmed that he had already approached the police before escalating the issue to the Film Chamber. In his complaint, Prem explained his professional association with Srinivas, noting that he has served the Kannada film industry for 25 years and has maintained a clean professional record. Prem reacts Prem told the media that he chose to respond because Srinivas allegedly made extremely offensive remarks, including comments about mothers. Prem shared that while platforms like the Film Chamber exist to discuss and resolve disputes, he would not stoop to the same level of language or behaviour. “He has spoken disrespectfully about several people, including AP Arjun, Appu (Puneeth Rajkumar), Darshan and me. To question my capability, he must first have credibility himself. One must speak responsibly,” Prem said. The dispute is being reviewed by the police as well as the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce. On the other hand, Srinivas has reportedly issued a counterstatement, in which he challenged Prem to confront him directly. The controversy escalated at a recent film event where the producer allegedly verbally abused several known celebrities of the Kannada film industry for allegedly cheating the producer over the years.
09 February,2026 05:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
