BIG B KBC 25th year gets 26 Sponsors / BB7 Malayalam Opens BIG / Shanthnu Bhagyaraj with Shane Nigam

 Kaun Banega Crorepati marks 25 years with record 26-brand sponsorship line-up. Maruti Suzuki and the Aditya Birla Group have come aboard as Co-Presenting Sponsors, while the State Bank of India joins as Banking Partner and the Reserve Bank of India as Special Sponsor, underscoring KBC’s deep association with empowerment and trust.

The Co-Powered By category features UPI, Ultratech Cement, Stable Money App, Asian Paints, and Gowardhan Ghee, representing sectors from digital finance to FMCG. Special Partners include Patanjali Dant Kanti, BHIM Payments App, Polycab India Ltd., Dr. Fixit (Pidilite Industries), Vida powered by Hero Motocorp, and WinZO Games.

Further expanding its sponsor base, Associate Partners feature Amazon India, Kalyan Jewellers, Godrej & Boyce, Laxmipati Sarees, Groww, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), National Stock Exchange (NSE), Plasto Tanks and Pipes, Aashirvaad Select Atta, Director’s Elaichi, and Bikaji — reflecting the show’s pan-India consumer connect.

The season’s opening clocked 12.6 crore minutes of cumulative watch time—a staggering 225% surge over previous seasons. Connected TV has emerged as a significant growth driver, contributing nearly 30% of opening watch time—a 154% surge over the previous two seasons—signalling a shift toward immersive, large-screen viewing.

Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 7 is presented by MyG Digital; co-presented by Berger Paints and Healthy Grocer; co-powered by Sunrich Refined Sunflower Oil and MYK Laticrete. Other partners include Regal Jewellers and Merino Laminates as Special Partners, Dazzler Etertna as Beauty Partner, and Cera as Associate Sponsor.

Shanthnu Bhagyaraj Returns to Malayalam Cinema After 16 Years with Balti  

After a 16-year hiatus, Malayalam cinema is set to witness the much-anticipated return of Shanthnu Bhagyaraj in Balti, an action-packed sports thriller that pairs him alongside the talented Shane Nigam. Directed and written by Unni Sivalingam, the film promises a compelling blend of adrenaline-fueled sports sequences and emotionally rich storytelling. More than just a high-octane sports drama, the film explores themes of teamwork, resilience, and the personal battles faced by its characters—offering viewers both thrilling action and heartfelt moments.
Adding to the film’s unique appeal is an impressive ensemble cast, including celebrated filmmaker Alphonse Puthren in a pivotal role as Soda Babu, along with a powerful musical score composed by Sai Abhyankkar. With such a dynamic lineup, Balti 2025 is shaping up to be a cinematic treat for fans of Malayalam cinema.

Shanthnu’s return has been eagerly awaited since his last Malayalam appearance in the 2007 fantasy drama Angel John, where he starred alongside Mohanlal. Though widely appreciated, especially during its television run, Angel John marked the beginning of Shanthnu’s focus on Tamil cinema, where he went on to build a successful career. Speaking about his comeback, Shanthnu shared, “It’s truly special to return to Malayalam cinema after so many years. This film is a fresh experience for me, and I couldn’t have asked for a better role to step back into the industry.”

The film industry is abuzz with the details of an exciting new project, a high-octane sports action thriller written and directed by debutant Unni Sivalingam. The movie, which is being produced by Santhosh T. Kuruvilla and Binu George Alexander under the banners of STK Frames and Binu George Alexander Productions, is generating significant anticipation.

The film's impressive technical crew and production team have caught the attention of many. Young music sensation Sai Abhyankkar, known for his viral hits, is composing the music and original score. This marks Abhyankkar's debut in Malayalam cinema, and his collaboration with lyricist Vinayak Sasikumar is highly awaited.

Adding to the stellar team is veteran cinematographer Alex J. Pulickal, whose recent work on "RDX: Robert Dony Xavier" was widely acclaimed.

 

 

Lokah - Kalyani as Superwoman for ONAM / Coolie set to Break Pushpa 2

 Kalyani and Naslen in a Youth Vibe! "Lokah – Chapter One: Chandra" in Theatres for Onam

The seventh production from Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer Films, "Lokah – Chapter One: Chandra", will arrive in theatres as an Onam release. The makers have now unveiled the film's latest poster. The project is significant for being the first in Indian cinema to introduce a lady superhero. "Lokah" will reach audiences worldwide through Dulquer's Wayfarer Films.

Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen play the lead roles in this superhero entertainer, written and directed by Dominic Arun. Mounted on a mega budget, "Chandra" is the first instalment in a superhero cinematic universe titled "Lokah". Kalyani Priyadarshan essays the role of a superhero in the film. Following the release of the teaser, the project has generated tremendous hype. Cinephiles are eagerly anticipating its theatrical release.

The first look poster was unveiled earlier. Both the teaser and the initial poster hinted at a storyline and setting never before seen by Malayalam audiences. The film also stars Chandhu Salim Kumar, Arun Kurian and Shanthy Balachandran in pivotal roles. As the opening chapter of a multi-part cinematic universe, "Lokah – Chapter One: Chandra" carries massive expectations.

Cinematography: Nimish Ravi, Music: Jakes Bejoy, Editor: Chaman Chacko,Executive Producers: Jom Varghese, Bibin Perumbally, Additional Screenplay: Shanthy Balachandran, Production Designer: Banglan, Art Director: Jithu Sebastian, Make-up: Ronex Xavier, Costume Designers: Melvy J, Archana Rao, Stills: Rohith K Suresh, Amal K Sadar, Action Choreographer: Yannick Ben, Production Controllers: Rini Divakar, Vinosh Kaimal, Chief Associate:

 Sujith Suresh , Pro : Yuvraaj

 Coolie is chasing a never-before South Cinema record. 

Till now, no film has collected a double-digit gross in all 5 southern states: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala. Rajinikanth’s Coolie now has a chance of chasing this never-before South Cinema record. 

The film starting with a double-digit opening in Tamil Nadu is obvious, and in Kerala, the advance sales have already crossed the 5 Cr mark, with high chances for a 10 Cr+ start. Karnataka advances have crossed the 4 Cr mark, with full-fledged bookings yet to open.

So, a double-digit opening for the film in Karnataka is also certain, and Coolie has a higher chance of opening with a double-digit gross opening in Telugu states as well.

For any film, this chance is very rare, but Rajinikanth and Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Coolie has a high chance of achieving this. Even Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2 has failed to achieve this, as the film opened in Kerala with a single-digit number.

Kalidas Jayram in Prasanth Varma Mahakali / Mrunal with SK shocks Dhanush Fans

 Jayram and family prayed at Tirupati temple for th success of son Kalidas who signed his first Telugu film Mahakali. Earlier Akshyae Khanna was signed. The film announcement came two years back as first woman superhero film but in between Kalyani Priyadarshan has a Onam release and that is said to be her in a first woman superhero film

Prasanth Varma’s first film from PVCU- HanuMan was a sensational hit, and the second movie with Nandamuri Mokshagnya was announced recently. , PVCU3 was announced through an astonishing poster. Mokshagnya  is the grandson of the Indian matinee idol, N. T. Rama Rao, who was also the former Chief Minister of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, and son of Indian actor and politician Nandamuri Balakrishna.

The movie set in Bengali where Goddess Kali is worshipped is titled Mahakali, and this which marks first Indian female superhero film will be helmed by a lady director Puja Aparna Kolluru.

India’s leading distribution company RKD Studios is venturing into production with this movie to be mounted on a large canvas with a big budget and lavish technical standards. The film written by Prasanth Varma will be produced by Riwaz Ramesh Duggal on RKD Studios and presented by RK Duggal.

The title poster sees a cozy moment between the girl and the tiger. It also sees circus set-up in the background, and crowd is fleeing as the giant wheel is set on fire. Like in HanuMan, there is a special object that can be observed in the title logo of Mahakali. Mahakali will be released in all Indian languages and also foreign languages in 3D IMAX format. Smaran Sai scores the music, while Sri Nagendra Tangalla is the production designer. The film’s lead cast and other technicians will be revealed later.

Is Dhanush- Mrunal Thakur romance just a media creation ? Why we feel so is that Venkar Prabhu is said to have approached Mrunal for his next film with Sivakarthikeyan. We all know that SK has lot of grudges against Dhanush and the latter too on SK. One being that Dhanush tried to keep SK under his thumb as a mentor by dictating which films to do and the latter that he went out of the way with SK to promote him at the start of the career but later moved over to turn into a rival. In fact it even soured Dhanush- Anirudh ties. Dhanush was overjoyed when GVP won his national award for Sir/ Vaathi as he was the hero. Anyway, SK after the Amaran box office hit has moved to Rs 400 crore club. So Dhanush fans are wondering whether Mrunal Anni ( sister) will join SK.

 

Kiara Bikini gets CUTS / Sivaji Grandson Dhaarshan -Gangai Amaran new / Ashiani Directs

 The CBFC has asked the makers of WAR 2 to reduce “sensual visuals” by 50%, which amounts to a 9-second trim. It is widely understood that these visuals are from the song Aavan Jaavan, featuring Kiara Advani in a bikini scene. The sequence, teased in the trailer, has already generated immense buzz for Kiara’s glamorous avatar, and the reduction may be a point of discussion for fans looking forward to the song. Initially, after the CBFC-mandated cuts were made, War 2 was certified with a runtime of 179.49 minutes (2 hours, 59 minutes, and 49 seconds). However, in a surprising move, the filmmakers approached the CBFC again on August 8 to make voluntary cuts. The final, locked runtime for War 2 is now 171.44 minutes, which translates to 2 hours, 51 minutes, and 44 seconds. This strategic decision shaves off over eight minutes from its previous length.

Kannada actress Aishani Shetty, who made a mark for herself with films like Vaastu Prakara, Hondisai Bareyiri, Naduver Antaravirali and many more is all set to direct her first full-length feature film in the coming days. She had previously directed a short film titled Kaaji that premiered in multiple International Short Film festivals. the actress has now shared that she will soon direct her first full-length feature film for which she has already penned the story. While she is finalising the drafts of her screenplay, she is hoping to make the official announcement about the movie in June. That's not all, she will also be playing the female centric role in the commercial film, which is set in her hometown Puttur in Dakshina Kannada district.

Well known director-singer Gangai Amaran is stepping into the spotlight as the lead for the first time in a new film titled Lenin Pandiyan. Joining Gangai Amaran is yesteryear legend Sivaji Ganesan’s grandson, Dhaarshan Ganesan, who is making his acting debut. The upcoming film is written and directed by DD Balachandran. Dhaarshan is second son Ram kumar Eldest son of Sivaji Ganesan.

Shrita Rao, known for Aatral (2022) and Badava (2025), stars as the female lead in Lenin Pandiyan. Archana Ravichandran is also set to have a prominent role in the film.

While Dhaarshan Ganesan plays a police officer, Gangai Amaran seems to be playing a humble farmer. Going by the first poster, Lenin Pandiyan looks to be a rural-based film. Much details about the rest of the cast, story and a potential release date have not been announced.

On the technical team, Lenin Pandiyan has cinematography by AM Edwin Sakay, editing by Nagooran Ramachandran and art direction by Athuuri Jeykumaar. The upcoming film is backed by Sathya Jyothi films with TG Thyagarajan presenting.

 

COOLIE RECENSOR ; DETAILS / WAR 2 REVIEW/ COMPARISON WITH COOLIE

 

Coolie was censored a while ago with an A, but as the post-production is underway, it has been re-censored with some exciting things.

• Thalaivar will have a special “50 Years of Rajni” title card, which will be an upgraded version of his classic one- with Lokesh’s red chip touch.
• Muted the word “Banchoth”, and brand names of the liqueur used in the film.
• Permissions obtained to use songs from other films, in this film with the granted NOC.
• Anirudh has added several rap songs to different parts of the film, such as introductions, and fight scenes.

“Added the song, You’ve Got That Look, in the already certified visuals of a lady killing others and remembering her past.”

Looks like we are going to get another Agent Tina sort of moment in the film, but with someone else. Intriguing.

An additional 25 seconds have been added to the film from the original censored version, and new theme tracks have been added to crucial parts of the film.

Music work is done for the film.

It has been given a U/A in most of the parts of the world except India, where it’s an A.

• War 2 is alright. It won’t sweep you off your feet, nor is it too difficult to sit through.
• The action set pieces are well-staged and executed. The VFX, though vastly improved, might still bother elitist nit-pickers (whisper: Coolie fans).
• The songs are decent, and the dance sequence featuring Hrithik and NTR is a treat to watch.
• Alia Bhatt appears in an extended cameo as Agent Alpha. Yes, SRK makes an appearance as Pathaan in a solid cameo.
• The movie is not boring by any standards—it keeps you hooked with its well-established action sequences.
• The Hrithik-Kiara love track is the only weak link; it just stretches the runtime unnecessarily.
• NTR absolutely steals the show in the confrontation episodes with Hrithik. They’ve cleverly built NTR’s rage around an emotional issue.
• Hrithik looks really good and plays Kabir with ease. His entrance involves a katana fight with "Wolf."
• NTR's first fight is what we saw in the trailer. His six-pack is revealed in the same scene.
• There’s an underlying layer of suspense and thrill throughout the movie.
• Ayan did a decent job. He executed the action set pieces well with decent VFX. However, he faltered with the emotional core—which is ironically his strength. He succeeds in patches. He gets NTR’s emotional arc right, but Hrithik’s emotional conflict isn’t convincingly portrayed.
• Music and BGM are strictly adequate. They should’ve gone for someone from the South.
• Comparatively, the second half is better than the first—especially if you're into action.

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Coolie vs War 2 — Quick Comparison

• Better Story: Coolie
• Screenplay: First Half – Coolie Second Half – War 2
• Action: War 2
• Music: Coolie
• Fan Moments: Equal
• Direction: Coolie
• Acting: Equal

With these two dream-teams competing for theater screens in India despite their regional differences, it has come to notice that Yash Raj Films has reserved all of the 30+ IMAX screens in the country for their movie War 2. This includes the one IMAX screen in Coimbatore, and the two in Chennai, Tamil Nadu which is supposed to be the home turf for Superstar Rajinikanth and Coolie. 

 

It is worth mentioning here that as of July 2025, there are 84 IMAX-labelled theater venues across India. However only 30+ are reflected in IMAX Corporation's official digital screen count, focusing on screens they directly operate or license. It remains to be seen if Sun Pictures manage to get IMAX screens for Coolie in India. 

Aamir Khan enters Coolie v/s War 2 in North / Mammootty film on October 9

 Coolie Hindi is getting a raw deal in North markets as YRF the Producer of War 2 are using the clout and taken all premium slots in theatres. Sun Pictures has flooded Mumbai Metro with posters but the fact that they are a Madhrasi company and with a Madhrasi hero is playing out big . Aamir has reportedly called PVR-Inox boss Ajay Bijli directly, aggressively requesting premium showcasing for Coolie across the country, and has even pushed the multiplex chain to do a marketing tie-up with the Rajinikanth starrer in North India. The call has left the PVR-Inox team stunned. “Aamir has no financial stake in Coolie. This wasn’t expected,” said a source close to the matter to Bollywood Hungama.

Industry insiders believe this is less about friendship and more about business. War 2, starring Hrithik Roshan, NTR Jr., and Kiara Advani, and backed by Aditya Chopra’s YRF, is being positioned as the next mega franchise event. Caught in the middle is PVR-Inox, now walking a tightrope between two giants: YRF and Sun Pictures. The phone call from Aamir, insiders say, has caused nervous murmurs within the exhibition chain, given his long-standing relationship with Ajay Bijli and a history of last-minute interventions reported Bollywood Hungama

What should have been a straightforward release has now turned into a battleground of egos, leverage, and legacy. And as always in Bollywood, the real show begins off-screen. Interestingly, both Aamir Khan and NTR Jr. are doing a film on DadaSaheb, and the off-screen battle makes things even more intense.

In a statement released to the media, the spokesperson for Aamir Khan Productions set the record straight. “Neither Aamir Khan, nor anyone from his team is involved in the distribution of Coolie. Mr Khan has not made any calls to any exhibitor or distributor,” the statement read.

If rumours doing the rounds in the industry are to be believed, director Jithin K Jose’s much-awaited film Kalamkaval, featuring Malayalam superstar Mammootty and Vinayakan in the lead, is likely to release on October 9 this year. Sources in the industry claim that Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer .. Films, which is distributing the film, has informed theatre  . Mammootty plays a character with shades of grey in it. ..This is will be the first film to release after Mammootty went for medical treatment.

 

 

 

Dhanush- Mrunal Thakur dating gets UPGRADED - SISTERS OK IT

 Dhanush and Mrunal dating just got upgraded/ Dhanush two sisters Dr Karthika Karthik and Vimala Geetha followed Mrunal Instagram Page. Both his sisters have seemingly followed her back. This means that the relationship has got a nod. Dhanush father- mom- sisters have never got along with Dhanush ex wife Aishwarya Rajinikanth. Next news is that  Dhanush and Mrunal share birthdays just a few days apart, both actors share the same zodiac sign.  Both of them are a Leo!. According to The Free Press Journal, Mrunal Thakur was previously in a relationship with writer Sharad Tripathi. Both he and the Son of Sardaar 2 actress participated in Nach Baliya Season 7 together, but eventually broke up.

On the other hand, Dhanush was previously married to Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth. The couple had tied the knot on November 8, 2004. After nearly 18 years of marriage, the Captain Miller actor and Aishwaryaa announced their separation in 2022.

Another fan defended the actors. The commented read "All these can be created by ardent fans as well. Remember that Salman Khan post on this sub that said he had a air hostess wife in USA and also a son? I smell something similar. Either that or they're starting a movie promotion soon". One fan posted "Who is even surprised here? He is an infamous boy who has dated virtually all his co actors and even some who he hasn’t worked with." Another fan said "ab may month aadha india shreyas iyer ko sarpanch bol raha tha tab sutro ke dawara khabar aayi thi ki mrunal aur iyer date kar rahe hai." (Cricketer Shreyas Iyer and Mrunal Thakur were allegedly dating each other.)

A month ago, Dhanush completed the shoot of director Anand L Rai's Tere Ishk Mein and took part in the film's wrap up party. The special event was attended by Tamannaah, Kanika Dhillon, Mrunal Thakur and Bhumi Pednekar. Dhanush and Mrunal Thakur. Actors Dhanush and Mrunal Thakur were spotted once again at the screening of Kajol's film Maa. The two were also spotted at the premiere of Son Of Sardar 2 in which Mrunal Thakur plays the lead. A video of the two sharing a warm interaction with each other has sparked dating rumours among fans. 

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Read; https://southfilmy.blogspot.com/2025/08/dhanush-mrunal-thakur-share-spotify.html