Divine Power made me Hero - Pradeep / Rowdy Baby with Dhanush

During the promotional event of his upcoming film Dude in the Telugu states, Tamil actor Pradeep Ranganathan was asked an uncomfortable question by a Telugu journalist, which quickly stirred debate across social media. The journalist began with a dismissive remark, saying, “Please don’t take it otherwise, but you don’t look like a film hero. You’ve achieved so much success with just two films; is this your luck?” Pradeep Ranganathan also replied gracefully, saying that apart from talent, he believes divine grace has played a role in his success. He mentioned that audiences might see themselves in his characters, which makes his films more relatable. Veteran actor Sarath Kumar, who was present at the Dude promotional event alongside Pradeep, stepped in to respond. He stated that such questions are inappropriate and emphasized that there is no fixed standard for what a hero should look like. He added that anyone whose actions benefit society can be considered a hero. The film Dude appears to follow the familiar formula seen in “Return of the Dragon”: Pradeep dating a vibrant girl, only for a past love story to surface later. In “Dragon,” Kayadu Lohar and Anupama Parameswaran played those roles, while in “Dude,” Mamitha Baiju and Neha Shetty take on similar parts. As per the latest buzz, Pradeep Ranganathan will be taking a long break of 3 to 4 months after the release of his next project, Love Insurance Kompany (LIK). Also starring Krithi Shetty in a lead role, the sci-fi romantic comedy is slated for a December 18th release. Apparently, during his 4-month-long break, Pradeep Ranganathan will be focusing on completing a script. He may also consider directing the film, apart from starring in it. The talented actor-director will discuss scripts narrated by other directors during the break. Pradeep Ranganathan has amassed a decent fan base across the twin Telugu states, and his Telugu fans are eagerly waiting for his next projects.

Actress Sai Pallavi and Dhanush were seen together in Maari 2 (2018), and their song, Rowdy Baby, is a sensational hit, and even today many fans enjoy that song. The latest news is that Dhanush and Sai Pallavi will reunite for Mari Selvaraj’s upcoming film. Mari Selvaraj’s next film, Bison, starring Dhruv Vikram, is slated for release this Diwali, and the actor signed two projects after this: one with Dhanush and the second one is the first movie of Udhay Stalin’s son Inbanithi’s debut movie.Pallavi was last seen in Thandel earlier this year and in Amaran in Tamil last year. She has Mere Raho and 2 parts of Nitish Tiwari's Ramayana in the pipeline. Dhanush, on the other hand, is fresh off the release of his fourth directorial, Idli Kadai. The actor is awaiting the release of Tere Ishk Mein, directed by his Raanjhanaa filmmaker Aanand L Rai. He is set to portray former President APJ Abdul Kalam in Kalam: The Missile Man of India, directed by Om Raut, and Ilaiyaraaja in a biopic from his Captain Miller filmmaker Arun Matheswaran. Dhanush's upcoming projects also include one film with Amaran director Rajkumar Periasamy and D54 with Vignesh Raja.

Dune composer joins A R Rahman for Ramayana / Simran- Jyothika spat for Tourist Family Promotion ?

 A R Rahman will join hands with Hollywood composer to create music for Ranbir Kapoor starrer Ramayana. Hollywood’s finest Music Director, Hans Zimmer ( Dune) is joining A R Rahman. Zimmer was to score for Sonu Sood’s Fateh.

Hans Zimmer is one of the most celebrated and influential, not to say the greatest movie composers of our time. Known for his innovative soundscapes and groundbreaking use of technology, Zimmer has composed scores for over 150 films, earning numerous awards, including Golden Globes, Grammy Awards and a brace of Oscars along the way.

Best Hans Zimmer scores: ranking the music of a cinematic...

• Pirates of the Caribbean – At World's End (2007)
• Rain Man (1988)
• The Lion King (1994)
• The Dark Knight (2008)
• Inception (2010)
• Gladiator (2000)
• Dune / Dune: Part Two (2021 / 2024)
• Interstellar (2014)

·         A.R. Rahman will be showcasing The Wonderment Tour on May 3 in Mumbai at DY Patil Stadium, which will have its global premiere.

·         Sukhwinder Singh, Neeti Mohan, and Jonita Gandhi will perform alongside the maestro, which highlights the significance of this production, as it is being termed a once-in-a-lifetime concert

As per reports, before the first set of filming for Ramayana, Yash is expected to go to the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple in Ujjain. This temple pilgrimage is important not just for the actor on a personal level, but also because it also sets the spiritual atmosphere for a film that has Indian mythology and culture at its core. The film also casts Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash, who plays a strong yet undisclosed character that many believe is Ravana, under the direction of Nitesh Tiwari.

We had reported about Simran’s speech at the JFW award  event and that  she was talking about Jyothika who acted in Dabba Cartel Hindi web series. Read; https://southfilmy.blogspot.com/2025/04/vijay-re-release-opened-bigger-than.html

Simran had played the college Principal in Ziddi Girls the Hindi web series. Both were streamed in February end and in a day difference. ZIddi streamed on Amazon Prime and Dabba on Netflix. According to Simran the actress who she congratulated replied that it was better than playing aunty roles and that it was referring to her present on screen roles . Could it not be the actress was talking about her own choice of roles ?

Anyway, the latest to this episode is that JFW show that hardly created any ripple in March is now doing so with the Simran portion alone coming on X and YouTube . Is this a promotion for Tourist Family releasing in May 2 and starring Simran and Sasikumar. Incidentally Jyothika is co- producer of Retro starring her hubby Suriya and releasing on May 1.

Tailpiece; Instagram post from pritishnandy; Not forgetting Simran in her gorgeous sequinned sari. Abou Simran at Ziddi Girls Mumbai event.

 

Car Racing only a hobby says Naga Chaitanya

'Dhandel' is the biggest budget film in my film career. Car racing is just a hobby, but there is no proper training for it - Naga Chaitanya 'Dhandel' - It's a love story - Naga Chaitanya Expectations are increasing for the Naga Chaitanya-Sai Pallavi co-starring film 'Dhandel', which is set to release on February 7th, not only in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana but also across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and North India. The film crew is actively promoting the film 'Dhandel', which centers on the patriotic and emotional love story of a young fisherman, to reach out to fans from all walks of life across India. Directed by Sandhu Mondetti, the film titled Thandel stars Naga Chaitanya, Sai Pallavi, Karunakaran, Aadukalam, Naren Bablu and many others. The cinematography of this film is done by Shyam Dutt and Rockstar Devi Sri Prasad has produced it. The film, which will be released worldwide in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi on the 7th, is produced by producer Bunny Vas under Geetha Arts. The film is presented by Allu Aravind. In Tamil, the film is presented by producer SR Prabhu under Dream Warrior Pictures. As fans' expectations for the film skyrocket, hero Naga Chaitanya shares his experiences about the film. About Chennai...? Chennai has always been special to me. My life began here. I have many unforgettable experiences in Chennai. What inspired you to act in this film? After hearing the story of this film, despite all the commercial aspects, it is basically a love story. I liked it a lot. The fans who watch the film will also feel this love intimately. You look different in this movie than the usual Naga Chaitanya.. Regarding this..!? Director Sandhu had explained the screenplay of my character in this film when he met me. After hearing that, I believed that it was the right opportunity for the actor to showcase his talent. The story of the film is also a long journey, traveling from Sri Ka Kulam near Visakhapatnam, going to Gujarat, from there to Pakistan, going to jail there, and then returning to his homeland. This really impressed me. After that, I went to Sri Ka Kulam in person and met the fishermen there, and talked to them and learned about their lifestyle - their pronunciation style - their physical appearance - and their professional style. What challenges do they face when they go to sea? How do they face them? I asked them about all this in detail. When they go into the sea to catch fish, they stay in the sea for about a month. While they are in the sea, their cell phones do not work. They have no connection with this world. After hearing all this, I became inspired and started preparing myself for this role. This made a big difference in my film journey. Be it my appearance... my body language... my local dialect and pronunciation... I was immersed in this for almost a year. This journey gave me an unforgettable experience. The character Raju that I played in the film 'Dhandel' affected me in many ways. All the feelings related to the evolution of a human being came to me while playing this character. It also made me realize that we should treat people with love. How was your experience working with the director? This is the third film I am acting in under the direction of director Sandhu Mondetti. Every film is in a different genre. The story of this film. The budget of this film. Its grandeur. The quality of production.. everything is new to me and to the director. It has never been done in any film before. It is huge. This shows the growth of the director. Sandhu thinks a lot for me. He has shown me in a new way in this film. Be it a love scene... be it a fight scene... be it a dance scene... Sandhu will always be there for me. For this, I thank him at this moment. What are your hobbies besides acting? Apart from acting, I am involved in car racing. For this, I thank Chennai again. I have visited the car races held at the car racing ground in Irungattu Fort, Chennai. I have enjoyed it. It is just my hobby. I have not taken any formal training for it. However, I have driven racing cars when I get some free time. A fisherman fishing in the sea - The neighboring Pakistani government arrests and imprisons fishermen for fishing across the border. How did they escape from prison? How was the struggle of their family members? The film 'Dandel', which is being prepared as an emotional work based on this true incident, reflects the feelings of Tamil Nadu fishermen and is expected to be a huge success in Tamil Nadu as well. The film will be released in theaters worldwide on the 7th.

Vijay Sethupathi as Vibhishana / Rekhachitram big Profit / Sasikumar in Raju Murugan next

Vijay Sethupathi revealed that he has signed two Hindi films .Now, the ensemble of Ramayana is set to expand further with Vijay Sethupathi reportedly stepping into the role of Vibhishana. Director Nitesh Tiwari's project, Ramayana, featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Yash confirmed that Lara Dutta is set to join the cast, portraying the character of Kaikeyi. Sai Pallavi is slated to portray Sita, while Yash will bring Ravana to life on screen. Additionally, speculations are rife about Sunny Deol's potential portrayal of Hanuman in the film. The shooting is expected to extend till the end of May, with Yash joining the sets in June/July to complete his portrayal of Ravana within 15 days. Ranbir Kapoor is slated to commence filming in Mumbai on March 2, with an additional schedule planned for April and May 2024. The production of Ramayana: Part One is set to conclude by July, following which the team will dedicate approximately a year and a half to post-production activities.

Why Asif Ali Rekhachitram is a bigger hit than Tamil film Madha Gaja Raja and Venky’s Sankranthiki vasthunam ? Sankranthiki Vasthunam has been mounted on a budget of 50 crore and it has earned 140.90 crore* in India, making a profit of almost 90 crore* registering 181.8%* return on investments. Madha Gaja Raja earned 41.85 crore* in its lifetime. With a budget of 15 crore, it registered a profit of 26.85 crore* delivering 179%* return on investment. The film Rekhachitram has been reportedly mounted on a budget of 6 crore and earned a profit of 17.54 crore*. It registered 292.33%* return on investment and has surpassed all profitable Malayalam films of 2024 except four. If you think Rekhachitram is top on list of films with low investment and high returns , you are wrong. Rekhachithram has still not surpassed the profits made by Premalu: 745.5%, Manjummel Boys: 610%, Asif Ali’s Kishkindha Kaandam: 493.5% and Vaazha: 369.2%.

The first look of the film 'My Lord', starring Tamil star Sasikumar in the lead role, has been released. Five film personalities - Tamil star Arya, Bollywood actor and director Anurag Kashyap, Kannada film director Raj P. Shetty, Telugu film director Girish Jagarlamudi, and Malayalam film director Lijo Jose Pellichery - have jointly released it on their social media pages and congratulated the film crew. The film 'My Lord', directed by leading director Raju Murugan, stars Sasikumar, Chaitra J. Achar, Guru Somasundaram, Asha Sarath, director Gopi Nainar, Vasumithra and many others. Cinematography is by Nirav Shah, lyrics by Yugabharathi and music by Sean Roldan. Art direction is by Muni Palraj and editing is by Sathyaraj Natarajan. D. R. Poornima is the costume designer, dance is by M. Sharif and fight scenes are by Stunt P. C. . This emotional film is being produced by producer Jayanthi Ambedkumar on behalf of Olympia Movies. Ambedkumar is presenting it. The shooting of the film has been completed and the post-production work has now begun. In this context, the first look of the film 'My Lord' has been released. In it, the appearance of the hero of the story, Sasikumar, has been beautifully designed and has impressed the fans. National Award-winning director Raju Murugan and Sasikumar, who have been delivering successful films for a long time, are teaming up for the first time in 'My Lord', which has created a lot of anticipation among fans and film industry professionals.

Sai Pallavi next Thandel song release - Simran - Sasikumar film wrapped

 Hail The Mahadev, Sing In His Glory, The Shiva Shakti Song Namo Namah Shivaya From Allu Aravind Presents - Naga Chaitanya, Sai Pallavi, Devi Sri Prasad, Chandoo Mondeti, Bunny Vasu, Geetha Arts - Thandel Unveiled

The musical promotions of Yuva Samrat Naga Chaitanya’s much-awaited love and action entertainer Thandel, directed by Chandoo Mondeti and produced by Bunny Vasu under the prestigious Geetha Arts banner, with Allu Aravind presenting it, have started on a blockbuster note. The first single, "Bujji Thalli," became a sensational hit. The talented Sai Pallavi stars as the female lead in this movie, which features music by Rockstar Devi Sri Prasad. After teasing the audience with a promo, the makers have now unveiled the lyrical video of the highly anticipated second single, "Namo Namah Shivaya."

Hail Mahadev and sing in His glory, as this Shiva Shakti song is a breathtaking masterpiece, blending dance, devotion, and grandeur into an unparalleled audio-visual experience. The track is a divine fusion that elevates the spiritual connection, transporting the viewers into a trance of reverence and awe.

The electrifying beats, composed by Rockstar Devi Sri Prasad, pulse with intensity, stirring the soul and igniting a fire within the listener. The track is a powerful force that reverberates through the body, creating an atmosphere of euphoria and devotion. It seamlessly blends traditional sounds with modern beats. The lyrics, penned by Jonnavithula, perfectly capture the essence of Shiva’s omnipotence and mysticism, while Mahalingam vocals are dynamic, and Haripriya adds serenity with her soulful voice.

The choreography by Shekar Master is another highlight, making this performance an unforgettable experience. The choreography feels like a sacred offering to Lord Shiva, beautifully narrating the tale of devotion through dance.

The lead pair, Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi, who previously charmed audiences with their on-screen chemistry in Love Story, are simply mesmerizing in this song. Naga Chaitanya’s poised and powerful presence complements Sai Pallavi’s ethereal grace and captivating expressions.

The grandeur of the sets further elevates the overall experience. The attention to detail in the set design is spectacular, with opulent structures, majestic backdrops, and captivating visuals that reflect the divine realm of Lord Shiva.

On the whole, the Namo Namah Shivaya song is a celebration of Lord Shiva's glory through an artistic and spiritual fusion. This track is destined to become one of the biggest chartbusters in the years to come.

The movie also boasts a talented crew, with National Award-winning composer Devi Sri Prasad scoring the music, Shamdat handling the cinematography, National Award-winning Naveen Nooli as the editor, and Srinagendra Tangala leading the art department.

Thandel is set for release on February 7th.

Cast: Naga Chaitanya, Sai Pallavi

Technical Crew:
Writer, Director: Chandoo Mondeti
Presents: Allu Aravind
Producer: Bunny Vasu
Banner: Geetha Arts
Music: Devi Sri Prasad
DOP: Shamdat
Editor: Naveen Nooli
Art: Srinagendra Tangala
PRO: Yuvraaj

Sasikumar &  Simran-Starrer Tourist Family Shoot Wrapped

The much-anticipated Tamil film Tourist Family, featuring Sasikumar and Simran in lead roles, has officially wrapped up its shooting schedule. The production team shared the exciting news through a special video, expressing their delight and enthusiasm for the project.

Directed by debutant Abhishan Jeevinth, Tourist Family promises to be a feel-good family entertainer. The film boasts a stellar cast, including Sasikumar, Simran, Yogi Babu, Mithun Jayashankar, Kamalesh, M.S. Bhaskar, Ramesh Thilak, Bhagavathi Perumal (Bucks), Ilango Kumaravel, and Sreeja Ravi, among others.

With cinematography by Aravind Viswanathan and music composed by Sean Roldan, the film features editing by Bharat Vikraman and art direction by Rajkamal. The movie is produced by Nazarene Basilian, Mahesh Raj Basilian, and Yuvaraj Ganesan under the banners Million Dollar Studios and MRP Entertainment.

The first-look poster and title video of Tourist Family received an overwhelming response, generating significant buzz among fans. Following the completion of filming, the team released an exclusive video showcasing some humorous moments from the movie, which has already struck a chord with viewers.