Today, when the world is witnessing the US and Israel’s war with Iran, Rana Daggubati’s production Neelira takes us back to another war — the Eelam conflict in Sri Lanka. What drew him to the Tamil release was how it zoomed in to examine the effects of a war on ordinary lives. He shares, “You’ve seen so many films about war, but this one takes a human angle. Today, we’re constantly hearing what world leaders are saying — [Donald] Trump said this, someone else said that — but that’s a high-level view of what’s going on. Every place has people and their everyday life gets affected because of wars.” A still from the film. Pic/By Special Arrangement That point is highlighted in Neelira. Set in 1988, Someetharan’s directorial venture tells the story of a family preparing for a wedding, only to get caught in crossfire between the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Daggubati adds, “Most war films take sides. One side is good, the other is bad. That’s the usual narrative. This film throws that out; it doesn’t stand with anyone. It’s humans against war.” According to him, such movies are a way of “recreating time” and understanding chapters of history. Yet, they are steadily shrinking in Indian cinema. Daggubati reflects, “A lot of drama has moved to long-form series. People are also consuming short-form content. So, cinema is stuck in the middle, and it starts playing safe.” However, as a producer, he is certain of the kind of stories he wants to tell. “Films like this age well. They’re not here for a three-week run. As long as war exists, there will be people dealing with its trauma. If we don’t tell these stories, we lose something much bigger than a film.” All We Imagine as Light; (right) Gargi. Pics/Instagram Before this, Rana Daggubati produced films like ‘Gargi’, and presented ‘All We Imagine as Light’ and ‘Sabar Bonda’
07 April,2026 07:16 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuActor Subashini Balasubramaniyam, known for her role in the popular Tamil television serial Kayal, died in Chennai. She reportedly died by suicide. Her death has left industry members and her fans in shock. Subashini dies by suicide Subashini was reportedly living in an apartment in Iyyappanthangal when the incident happened. The actress, who had Sri Lankan origins, was found dead in the apartment, and when officials received information, they rushed to the spot. Her body was sent for medical examination. A detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death is currently underway. Initial findings indicate that the actor may have been going through a period of emotional distress before the incident occurred. According to emerging reports, she was involved in an argument with her husband during a video call shortly before the tragedy. Investigating officers have suggested that this emotional strain could have played a role in her taking such an extreme step. However, authorities have clarified that the investigation is still ongoing, and they are carefully examining all possible angles before drawing any final conclusions. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Subashini balasubramaniyam (@subashini_balasubramaniyam) More about the Kayal actress Known to audiences by her screen name Shaashvi Bala, Subashini had earned significant recognition for portraying a negative role in the popular television show Kayal. The news of her untimely demise has left her co-actors and members of the television industry deeply shocked and saddened, with many taking to social media to express their grief and share heartfelt tributes. In addition to her work on television, she had also featured in films such as Ellaam Mela Irukuravan Paathuppan (2023) and Web (2023), showcasing her versatility as a performer. Subashini frequently shared glimpses of her personal life on social media, often posting pictures with her husband Bibin Chandra along with emotional and affectionate captions. In the wake of the incident, several of these images have resurfaced online, drawing attention from fans and followers remembering her life and career.
06 April,2026 07:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVignesh Shivan is currently gearing up for the release of his film LIK (Love Insurance Kompany). The film, starring Pradeep Ranganathan and Krithi Shetty, was initially scheduled to be released last year but was delayed. The film will now hit theatres on April 10. During the promotions of the film, Vignesh spoke about being married to superstar Nayanthara and being known by her identity in public. Vignesh Shivan on being identified as Nayanthara's wife In an interaction with YouTuber Gopinath Chandran, Vignesh addressed claims that Nayanthara might be overshadowing him in his career. Dismissing the idea, he said such things have no place in a relationship. "There is nothing of that sort. When we think like that, we can't move forward in life. In relationships like father-son, brothers, and husband and wife, there is no concept of ‘overshadowing’,” he explained. The filmmaker further shared a heartwarming incident and how being Nayanthara's husband saved him from a tricky situation. He said that he had once stopped by a roadside stall for a glass of juice. He did not have any digital payment options with him at the time. However, the shopkeeper recognised him and referred to him by Nayanthara's name. He allowed him to leave without paying. “I called up Nayan and told her that she saved me that day,” he said, recalling the moment. Vignesh and Nayanthara are also parents to twin boys. He said that such identification brings him joy rather than discomfort. “When people refer to me as Uyir and Ulag’s father, it feels beautiful. It’s the same happiness when I’m recognised by my wife’s name. There is no jealousy or ego. It comes purely from love,” he added. Vignesh Shivan and Nayanthara began dating after working together on Naanum Rowdy Dhaan in 2015. The couple got engaged in 2021 and got married in 2022. They later welcomed twin boys through surrogacy. About LIK The trailer introduces a futuristic world where relationships are validated not by instinct, but by an algorithm. Pradeep plays a spirited youngster who crosses paths with Dheena at a rehab centre, only to realise she is completely glued to her phone. She values digital judgment more than human connection. What follows is the hero’s heartfelt mission to prove that real love doesn’t need tech approval. The trailer presents Pradeep in an energetic avatar. Krithi Shetty brings freshness to the role of Dheena. S. J. Suryah, with his signature flair, adds intrigue, and the supporting cast, Yogi Babu, Seeman, and Gouri Kishan, promise solid entertainment. The film is slated to hit screens on April 10.
06 April,2026 06:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAmid ongoing speculation about her personal life, Trisha Krishnan has shared a cryptic message on social media that has caught widespread attention. The post comes at a time when rumours linking her with actor-politician Vijay continue to dominate headlines. Trisha posts a cryptic note Taking to Instagram, Trisha posted a short but thought-provoking note centered on love, peace, and emotional clarity. While she did not directly address the rumours, the timing of her message led many fans to read between the lines. Her post read, “Choose love. Choose peace,” a simple yet powerful statement that quickly went viral online. The actress, known for maintaining a relatively private personal life, has neither confirmed nor denied the ongoing speculation. However, her message has sparked conversations among fans and social media users, with many interpreting it as a subtle response to the noise surrounding her. The rumours about Trisha and Vijay intensified after the two were spotted attending a wedding together in Chennai earlier this year. Their appearance fueled fresh discussions, especially as it came amid reports about Vijay’s personal life. Despite the growing chatter, Trisha has chosen to remain silent publicly, letting her social media activity do the talking. Her recent post appears to emphasize calmness and positivity, even as public scrutiny continues to build. Fans react to the note Fans flooded the comments section with supportive messages, praising her for promoting peace over controversy. Some users felt the note reflected her mindset amid the rumours, while others saw it as a general life philosophy rather than a targeted response. Interestingly, this is not the first time Trisha has shared reflective or philosophical posts during periods of intense media attention. In the past as well, she has used social media to express thoughts on love and life without directly engaging with speculation. Meanwhile, neither Trisha nor Vijay has issued any official statement addressing the nature of their relationship. The ambiguity has only added to public curiosity, keeping the rumour mill active. For now, Trisha’s message stands as a reminder to focus on positivity. Whether intentional or coincidental, her words, “Choose love. Choose peace”, have struck a chord, offering a calm counterpoint to the ongoing buzz surrounding her personal life.
06 April,2026 12:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Bengali film and television industry has announced an indefinite strike following the tragic death of actor Rahul Arunoday Banerjee during a shoot. The decision was taken at an emergency meeting attended by leading industry members, including Prosenjit Chatterjee and Rituparna Sengupta. The forum has demanded stricter safety measures on sets, stating that work will resume only after concrete steps are taken to ensure artists’ and technicians’ safety. Bengali film industry declares indefinite strike The official statement from the West Bengal Motion Pictures Artists Forum was shared on Facebook after a meeting that was attended by Prosenjit Chatterjee, Rituparna Sengupta, Shantilal Mukherjee, Swaroop Biswas, along with several directors, producers, and channel representatives. The statement read in Bengali, “Dear members, all of us are aware that on March 29, during the shoot of the Bengali soap Bholebaba Paar Karega, our friend and forum member Rahul Arunoday Banerjee died. We are still not aware of the reasons for his sudden demise.” The statement continued, “Taking that into consideration, we had organised an emergency meeting on April 5. It was attended by members of the Artists Forum, Federation, television producers, and directors. It was decided that, from April 7, 2026, at 7 AM, we, the artists and technicians, will go on an indefinite strike. Until there is a step taken to ensure the safety and security of artists and technicians during shoots (both indoors and outdoors), the strike will continue.” Another meeting will take place on April 7. About Rahul Banerjee’s death The 42-year-old actor drowned on March 29 while shooting for the television series Bhole Baba Paar Karega at Talsari in Odisha. Reports said he entered the water just as the tide rose and was swept away. Technicians later pulled him out, but he could not be saved. Preliminary findings indicated death due to drowning. An unnatural death case has been registered at Digha Police Station. The incident has brought the Bengali film and television industry to a standstill, with actors, directors, and technicians expressing shock and grief. Rahul Banerjee is survived by his mother, wife — actor Priyanka Sarkar — and their 13-year-old son. Nearly a week after the tragic passing of the 43-year-old actor, his wife, Priyanka Sarkar, has approached the police seeking a thorough investigation into the incident. The West Bengal Motion Picture Artists’ Forum on Saturday lodged a police complaint against the production house. Kolkata Police treated this as a “Zero FIR,” allowing the case to be transferred to the appropriate jurisdiction.
06 April,2026 10:04 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFilmmaker Vignesh Shivan and Dhanush are no longer on good terms following the latter’s fallout with Nayanthara over a clip from her Netflix docuseries, Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairytale. Opening up about their strained bond, Vignesh admitted he regrets losing the friendship, calling Dhanush an important figure in his life and reflecting on their past equation. Vignesh Shivan on bond with Dhanush During a recent interview, Vignesh said in Tamil, “I like Dhanush sir a lot. His birthday is on July 28… and on that same day, my father passed away. I feel a fatherly presence in him; I identify him that way. My biggest loss is losing that relationship. That is also something I feel ashamed about. There must have been a mistake somewhere at some point. For the life I’m living now, Dhanush sir is a very important person to me.” He added, “I was with him for two years during the VIP shoot. I used to eat only after he ate. Sometimes, we don’t even understand the situation when something happens between people.” About Nayanthara and Dhanush fallout In November 2024, Dhanush filed a civil suit against Nayanthara, her husband Vignesh Shivan, and their production house, Rowdy Pictures Private Limited. The suit alleges that the filmmakers used visuals from Dhanush’s film Naanum Rowdy Dhaan in the Netflix original Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairy Tale. Following this, Dhanush sent a Rs 10 crore legal notice to the actress. On November 16, Nayanthara lashed out at Dhanush for sending her a legal notice. A part of her note read, “It’s almost been 10 years since the release of the film, and it is a long time for someone to continue to be this vile while wearing a mask in front of the world. I have not forgotten all the horrible things that you said about the film that was one of your biggest hits as a producer and a film that is loved by all even today. The words you said pre-release have left some unhealable scars for us already. I learnt through film circles that your ego was supremely hurt after the film became a blockbuster.” Workwise, Nayanthara will be seen next in Patriot and Toxic: A Fairytale for GrownUps. Dhanush will next be seen in the action thriller Kara. Meanwhile, Vignesh is helming Love Insurance Kompany (LIK), starring Pradeep Ranganathan and Krithi Shetty, which is scheduled for release on April 10, 2026.
05 April,2026 08:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFive days before its grand release, the makers of actor Tovino Thomas's upcoming film Pallichattambi dropped the trailer of the film. The film directed by Dijo Jose Antony marks the second Malayalam film of Dragon fame actress Kayadu Lohar. The newly released trailer give a glimpse into the world of the film. Pallichattambi trailer Taking to his X timeline to share the trailer, actor Tovino Thomas wrote, "Much-awaited Pallichattambi Official Trailer Out Now! In cinemas worldwide from April 10, 2026. A Film by Dijo Jose Antony." The just released trailer begins with a voice-over saying, "He will come to burn that ground to ashes. He will come to cut the nerves of this nation and throw it out. The true master of this place (will come)!" We then see one of the villagers saying, "Very soon, we must find an intelligent fighter -- no matter where he is and how much it costs -- and bring him and bestow on him the title 'Christopher'." "But where can we find such a person," asks another person. It is then that Tovino Thomas's character in the film is introduced. A glimpse of his romantic sequences with Kayadu Lohar follow. She is seen telling him, "You seem to have mesmerised my entire village." Tovino's character, while speaking to an elderly villager, says in the trailer, "It is only the village that is different. The people and the soil are the same everywhere." We are also introduced to a ruthless cop, who is vicious and bloodthirsty in the trailer, that shows Tovino's character training the villagers in martial arts. Needless to say, the trailer has added to the excitement of fans. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pallichattambi (@pallichattambi_movie) What Tovino said about the film It may be recalled that actor Tovino Thomas, had in an exclusive interview to IANS, disclosed for the first time the basic plot of his eagerly awaited period action entertainer. Tovino had said, "What I can tell about the movie is, this movie is set in 1957-58 -- a time period when the socio-political scenario in Kerala was very different. New reformations came into existence. There were resistances against that. So, that is the premise, not the story. So, in this premise, there is a story happening and this story is completely fictional."
05 April,2026 02:57 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe makers of director Rahul Sankrityan's eagerly awaited period film, 'Ranabaali, featuring actors Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna in the lead, have now announced that the unit had wrapped up a crucial schedule of the film at Rayalaseema. Mythri Movie Makers, the production house producing the film, took to its X timeline to make the announcement. It also released a video that showed the actors being accorded a warm welcome in the region. Mythri Movie Makers wrote, "'MAA SEEMA RAAYALASEEMA' Rayalaseema showered all its love for the #Ranabaali couple. The team wrapped up a key schedule in the region. #Ranabaali Grand release worldwide on September 11th." In the video clip released, Vijay Deverakonda is seen addressing a gathering of fans. He says, "It feels like coming back to my own village. When I was here for the shoot, Anantapur feels like my second hometown. I always have a seema feeling inside me." For the unaware, Vijay Deverakonda essays the role of Ranabaali, while Rashmika Mandanna plays his wife Jayamma in the film. Arnold Vosloo, best known for his work in 'The Mummy', plays the antagonist Sir Theodore Hector. 'Ranabaali' is being produced on a grand scale by Naveen Yerneni and Y. Ravi Shankar, with T-Series presenting the film. The movie is set against a British-era backdrop and is being made as a period action drama. Set in the 19th century, the film is based on real historical events that took place between 1854 and 1878, and is being mounted as a massive pan-India project. Sources claim 'Ranabaali' is inspired by real incidents from the 1850s that never found space in mainstream history books. They say it will be based on real incidents in the time period of 1850-1900 and that the film will look to showcase incidents that the British misrepresented in history. Sources claim that Ranabaali will not be a biopic, and not a textbook retelling but will be a cinematic reconstruction of an era built from multiple real accounts, oral histories, and suppressed records. After 'Geetha Govindam' and 'Dear Comrade', 'Ranabaali' will be the third film in which Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda will be seen appearing together as a pair.
05 April,2026 02:33 PM IST | Hyderabad | IANSActor Prabhas is currently shooting for his upcoming film titled Fauzi. The film, directed by Hanu Raghavapudi, also stars Imanvi and will be released in two parts. Now, the makers have issued a strict warning after visuals from the sets of the film were leaked online. They warned of strict action against social media accounts that are sharing pictures from the sets. Fauzi makers react to pictures leaking online Taking to their official X account, the makers of Fauzi said, “It has come to our attention that certain accounts are circulating leaked images from the sets of #Fauzi. Please treat this as a strict warning, any such content will be reported, and necessary action will be taken against those involved.” The statement continued, “These leaks compromise the experience we are carefully building. What’s coming on the big screen will be far bigger and worth the wait. We urge everyone to refrain from sharing or engaging with leaked content.” Resharing the post, director Hanu Raghavapudi wrote, “We’ve poured our hearts into #Fauzi to give you something truly special. Humbly requesting everyone, please don’t spoil the magic with leaks. Let’s experience it the way it’s meant to be, together in theatres.” We’ve poured our hearts into #Fauzi to give you something truly special.Humbly requesting everyone, please don’t spoil the magic with leaks.Let’s experience it the way it’s meant to be… together in theatres. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 https://t.co/n4w3xDi8Fm — Hanu Raghavapudi (@hanurpudi) April 4, 2026 Fauzi to be made in two parts Fauzi marks Prabhas’ grand return to the world of epic period dramas after Baahubali, promising a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience. Touted as Mythri Movie Makers’ most ambitious film, it unites Prabhas, the Pushpa makers, and Sita Ramam director Hanu Raghavapudi in what’s hailed as “a union of generations.” With the tagline “The bravest tale of a soldier,” Fauzi unravels a forgotten legend of courage and heroism. Interestingly, Fauzi has a vast world waiting to be explored, with the director confirming that the film will be released in two parts. In a statement released in 2025, the filmmaker shared, “We’re portraying one world of Prabhas in this movie, and the second installment will explore another dimension. There’s abundant material from our colonial past—stories that ended tragically but could’ve been fairy tales in another reality. I’ve also woven in a few real-life experiences that inspired me personally.”
05 April,2026 10:45 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe makers of director Vignesh Shivan's long-awaited romantic drama 'Love Insurance Kompany (LIK)', featuring Pradeep Ranganathan and Krithi Shetty in the lead, have now released a trailer of the romantic entertainer, much to the delight of fans and film buffs. The trailer introduces a futuristic world where relationships are validated not by instinct, but by an algorithm. Pradeep plays a spirited youngster who crosses paths with Dheena at a rehab centre, only to realise she is completely glued to her phone. She values digital judgement more than human connection. What follows is the hero’s heartfelt mission to prove that real love doesn’t need tech approval. The trailer presents Pradeep in an energetic avatar. Krithi Shetty brings freshness to the role of Dheena. SJ Suryah, with his signature flair, adds intrigue, and the supporting cast- Yogi Babu, Seeman, and Gouri Kishan, promise solid entertainment. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Seven Screen Studio (@7_screenstudio) Ravi Varman’s visuals give the narrative a crisp futuristic sheen, and Anirudh Ravichander’s lively score adds both rhythm and emotional resonance. Vignesh Shivan appears to blend humour, youthfulness, and a relevant message with ease. The production values look grand. The film, which is slated to hit screens on April 10 this year, has been produced by actress Nayanthara along with Seven Screen Studio Lalit Kumar. It may be recalled that the makers of the film have had to postpone its release quite a few times. The film was originally scheduled to hit screens on September 18 last year. However, the makers then chose to push the film's release to October 17 for Deepavali. Just when it looked like the film would hits screens for Deepavali, the makers had to take the tough call of postponing the film again as Pradeep Ranganathan-starrer 'Dude' also picked the same day for release. Seeking to avoid a release day clash between two films of actor Pradeep Ranganathan, the makers of director Vignesh Shivan's 'Love Insurance Kompany (LIK)' decided to postpone their film's release to December 18 last year. However, the makers again decided to postpone their film's release to February this year. Sources in the industry had said that the makers were looking to release the film during the Valentine's Day weekend. However, that did not happen. Finally, director Vignesh Shivan announced last week that his film would release on April 3 this year. However, now, it looks that might also not happen. The film has triggered a lot of excitement among fans as it features Pradeep Ranganthan, who until now, has a 100 per cent success record in the Tamil film industry. Every single film of his until now has emerged a success, with his most recent film 'Dude' going on to emerge a major blockbuster. 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
05 April,2026 09:17 AM IST | Chennai | IANSActor-turned-politician Vijay grabbed attention during a recent campaign rally in Puducherry after a video showed him losing his cool at a member of his security team for pushing an elderly man in the crowd. Vijay steps down from the van The incident took place during a roadshow held as part of his political campaign. Large crowds had gathered to catch a glimpse of the actor, who was seen standing atop his vehicle and waving to supporters. Amid the tightly packed surroundings, security personnel were trying to manage the crowd and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle. However, things took a turn when an elderly man, seemingly eager to greet Vijay, came too close to the convoy. A security guard quickly pushed the man aside in an attempt to clear the path. The act did not go unnoticed by Vijay, who immediately reacted. Eyewitness videos circulating online show Vijay visibly upset as he pointed towards the guard and reprimanded him for his behaviour. He appeared to signal that such treatment, especially towards senior citizens, was unacceptable. The moment was brief, but it stood out during the otherwise energetic rally. Vijay scolds the guard for his behaviour After expressing his displeasure, Vijay regained composure and continued interacting with the crowd, waving at supporters as his vehicle moved forward. The rally itself witnessed a massive turnout, reflecting his growing political presence ahead of upcoming elections. The video quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread reactions from users. Many praised Vijay for stepping in and defending the elderly man, calling it a sign of empathy and strong leadership. Comments highlighting his “care for people” and “leader-like qualities” flooded online platforms soon after the clip surfaced. The incident has also reignited conversations around crowd control and the conduct of security personnel during large political gatherings. Managing enthusiastic crowds remains a significant challenge, especially when public figures attract massive turnouts during campaigns. Vijay, who recently launched his political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, has been actively engaging with supporters across regions as part of his campaign efforts. Moments like these continue to shape public perception of him—not just as a film star, but as a leader navigating the complexities of public life. While the rally moved on without further disruption, the viral clip has ensured that the brief exchange remains a talking point, highlighting the delicate balance between security and sensitivity in high-profile public events.
04 April,2026 10:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
