\r\nIn a starstudded event, global football sensation Lionel Messi and Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan came together in Kolkata on Saturday as part of the GOAT Tour India 2025. The two icons shared the spotlight, blending sports and entertainment in a memorable encounter.\r\nThe highlight of the event was Messi\'s virtual unveiling of a record-breaking 70-foot iron statue of himself at the Sree Bhumi Sporting Club in Lake Town. The statue, depicting Messi holding the FIFA World Cup trophy, was completed in just 40 days and has been touted as the world\'s largest statue of the Argentine footballer. West Bengal Minister Sujit Bose, who oversaw the project, revealed that Messi and his team were \"happy\" with the statue and had approved its installation.\r\nMessi\'s return to India after 14 years generated massive excitement, with fans thronging the airport and streets to catch a glimpse of the World Cup-winning captain. His previous visit was in 2011, when Argentina played a friendly against Venezuela at Salt Lake Stadium. The Argentine legend arrived in Kolkata from Miami, greeted by a sea of blue and white jerseys and Argentina flags, before heading to the Salt Lake Stadium for a packed schedule of events.\r\nShah Rukh Khan, accompanied by his son AbRam, joined Messi at the stadium, adding Bollywood glamour to the football frenzy. The actor, known for his deep connection with Kolkata through the IPL\'s Kolkata Knight Riders, expressed his excitement on social media, saying, \"Hoping the day Ride is completely \'Messi\'.\" Messi\'s Kolkata agenda also includes meetings with cricket legend Sourav Ganguly and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.\r\n

Movie News

Two Icons In One City

Shahrukh Khan With Messi At Kolkata

\r\nThe title song of Dhandoraa a thought-provoking track penned by Kasarla Shyam and composed by Mark K. Robin, is out. Muralikanth&rsquo;s directorial debut, starring Sivaji, Navdeep, Bindu Madhavi, and more, hits theaters on December 25, 2025. The song, sung by Anthony Daasan with his raw folk voice and Mark K. Robin, captures the film&rsquo;s rural essence and tackles sensitive themes like honour killing and social divisions.\r\nThe lyrics hit hard, &ldquo;Chandurini painaa aduge peduthunna, oori chivaraney uri nakenaa\", a poignant reflection on humanity&rsquo;s progress versus persisting village divides. The song is a confrontation, not commentary, questioning caste hierarchies with urgency and anger turned into assertion. With militant rhythms and unpolished vocals, it feels like a rallying cry.\r\nThe film revolves around a death, presenting a serious subject in an engaging way, inspired by real incidents in Telangana and Hyderabad. Sivaji, Navdeep, and others praise its impactful storytelling. Dhandoraa has strong pre-release buzz, with Mythri Movies acquiring Nizam rights, Prime Show handling AP and Karnataka.\r\n8 Atharvana Bhadrakali Pictures overseeing overseas distribution. T-Series holds the audio rights. Dhandoraa premieres overseas on December 23, 2025, in 200+ theatres, and hits cinemas worldwide on December 25, 2025. A bold, idea driven film crafted to resonate across audiences.\r\n

Dhandoraa Title Song Out

Thought Provoking Dhandoraa Title Track Is Out

Why Kollywood Stars failing to create Pan India Sensation. Tollywood stars Prabhas, Ram Charan, NTR, Allu Arjun became pan India stars and now Mahesh Babu will soon join them. Already even young heroes Nikhil, Teja Sajja and others also impressed viewers at pan India level. Sandalwood stars Yash, Rishabh Shetty and others made an impact at pan India level.

However, Kollywood stars are failing to create pan India sensation though they are known for their versatile acting. Among Kollywood stars only Dhanush made a name for himself. Though Suriya tried his luck he failed to make an impact. Vikram, Vishal, Suriya , Vijay Sethupathi and others are there but they failed to get pan India stardom.

Though Suriya tried his best with Kanguva, he failed and then decided to confine to regional market. Vikram also is planning films at regional level. Though Vikram is known for his impactful performances, he is not trying at pan india level. Many feel Vijay Sethupathi has that talent but he is unable to expand his market across the country and is doing only special roles in various roles. Vishal also can do any role to perfection and same is Karthi. But all of them are not even thing on that scale.It has to be seen whether they will change their thoughtprocess in the next year.

K wood stars Failing in Pan-India Strike

Why Kollywood Stars failing to create Pan India Sensation

&nbsp;\r\nThe makers of Mega Star Chiranjeevi\'s upcoming hilarious entertainer Mana Shankar Vara Prasad Garu couple of minutes back announced the release date.&nbsp;\r\nFew minutes back the makers announced the release date and the film will be releasing on 12th January 2026 as Sankranthi Special. The makers announced the film release in a press conference held at Hyderabad. Confirming the release date, the makers released the new poster in which Mega Star Chiranjeevi seen having tea, sitting on the posh car and sporting a stylish look in black suit and sun glasses.&nbsp;\r\nAnil Ravipudi is directing the film which is increasing the interest levels as Mega Star Chiranjeevi is touching the comedy genre after a long time.&nbsp; Anil Ravipudi is keen to continue his success run at the box office with this film during Sankranthi.&nbsp;\r\nNayantara as the female lead in the film which stars Chiranjeevi as the PT master. Victory Venkatesh is playing a powerful cameo in the film for which music is tuned by Bheems Ceciroleo.Catherine Tresa is playing an important role in the film produced by Sahu Garapati and Sushmita Konidela under the banners of Shine Screens and Gold Box Entertainments.&nbsp;

MSVG confirms grand arrival 

Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu gears up for Sankranthi strike

Generally, when top stars\' films releases, no small films dare to enter into the fray. They are under the impression that they will only be affected, and so they remain silent. So they release their films when star heroes films are not releasing.\r\nEven then producers of small films are getting impacted. When top stars films are getting impacted due to some or the other reasons they are targetting the release dates of small films and they without any second thoughts announce their release dates. But this is forcing the small filmmakers to backoff resulting in huge losses.\r\nEverything become haphazard and their plans become impacted as they gave the release dates and also locked the theatres but with top stars films releasing on the same dates, all their promotionsl cost will be going for nothing. This happened both in case of Hari Hara Veera Mallu and Akhanda2. Both the films announced release dates multiple times and changed and then forced to chance on some occasions.\r\nSome say top producers and top stars should show some concern for the small films and only then small films producers can survice. The question is will anyone spare a though on the makers and producers of small films.&nbsp;\r\n<div></div>

No one care about Small films

Top Filmmakers do not care about Small films

Power Star Pawan Kalyan 's Ustaad Bhagat Singh is the most awaited film and expectations are high on the project as Pawan Kalyan and Harish Shankar earlier came up with the the blockbuster Gabbar Singh.
The film's shooting is progressing at a brisk pace and the makers have started the promotions. The makers today released the first single Dekh Lenge couple of minutes back in an extravagant manner in the presence of one lakh die hard fans of Pawan Kalyan.&nbsp;
In the song Pawan Kalyan came up with dazzling, pulsating and breathtaking dance moves. The lyrics of Bhaskara Bhatla are powerful and Vishal Dadlani sang it with energetic manner. The song is shot in the backdrop of lavishly erected sets. The song is choreographed by Dinesh master&nbsp; in with captivating dance moves. Devi Sri Prasad came up foottapping and rocking beats for the party song.&nbsp;
Sreeleela and Raashi Khanna are playing the roles of the female leads. Mythri Movie Makers banner is bankrolling the project in a prestigious manner. Pawan Kalyan is playing the role of a powerful police officer.

UBS: Power Star pulversises in Dekh Lenge Sala

Dekh Lenge Sala from Ustaad Bhagat Singh released

\'Bad Girlz\' is an entertainer directed by Phani Pradeep Dhulipudi, who has previously directed the successful \'30 Rojullo Preminchadam Ela\'. The film is being produced under the banners of Prashvitha Entertai9ment, Neeli Neeli Aakasam Creations, and NVL Creations.\r\nAnchal Gowda, Payal Chengappa, Roshini, Yashna, Rohan Surya, and Moin are the main actors in \'Bad Girlz\'. The tagline for the film, \'Kani Chala Manchodlu\', contradicts with the title in an interesting way. Sasidhar Nalla, Emmadi Soma Narsaiah, Ramisetti Rambabu, and Ravula Ramesh are producing this film.\r\nThis Entertainer film is set to release on December 25th.\r\nDirector Phani Pradeep&nbsp; Dhulipudi has described his movie as a complete entertainer that explores what it would be like if female characters headlined a Jathi Ratnalu or a MAD. \"We are very happy with how the film has shaped up. It\'s for everyone to like. You are in for a thorough entertainer,\" the director said. He added that the talented Anup Rubens has provided excellent music, and that the Oscar-winner Chandra Bose penned the lyrics for all the songs. \"The songs have come out very well. The song \'Ila Chusukuntane\', which was recently released, received a good response and got 6 Million views. The recent release Bad Girlz Anthem song is getting a good response in Social Media. We will be releasing the remaining songs soon. Please watch our movie in theatres on December 25th,\".\r\nCast: Anchal Gowda, Payal Chengappa, Roshini, Yashna, Rohan Surya, Moin and others.&nbsp;

Bad Girlz to hit the cinemas on December 

Bad Girlz to hit the cinemas on December 25th

Mahesh Babu-Rajamouli\'s Varanasi happens to be the most awaited film across the country. Since the film is an adventure thriller in the African jungle backdrop, excitement is increasing. People are wondering about Rajamouli\'s taking and how Mahesh Babu will be in the role of a globetrotter. Speculation is increasing over Vijayendra Prasad\'s story.\r\nIt is known that many films under forest backdrop scored hits. They include Rajamouli\'s RRR, Allu Arjun\'s Pushpa, Sandalwood film Kantara. All have forest backdrop but however the buzz over forest backdrop started with Varanasi.\r\nVaranasi has forest backdrop and now the upcoming films with forest backdrops are gaing attention. Naga Chaitanya-Karthik Dandu\'s Vrushakarma has the caves backdrop under forest and is a mystical thriller. Similarly NTR\'s next with Prashanth Varma also has forest backdrop. Inside talk is the scenes would be shot in the jungles of Karnataka.\r\nSai Tej\'s Sambarala Yetigattu will also have forest backdrop. Inside talk is Sharwanand-Sampath Nandi\'s film also has forest backdrop and Sharwanand will be delivering dialogues in Telangana accent.\r\n<div></div>

All Stars drawing Varanasi inspiration

Stars getting inspiration from Varanasi

Bigg Boss 9 Telugu is gearing up for its grand finale, and the excitement is palpable as two contestants bid farewell this weekend. Suman Shetty and Bharani are evicted, narrowing the competition to five: Tanuja, Kalyan, Pavan, Sanjana, and Emanuel. Notably, commoners Kalyan and Pavan have made history by reaching the finale, boosting the chances of an underdog triumph.

Suman, once a top contender, and Bharani, a wild-card entrant, didn&rsquo;t resonate with viewers enough to advance. Their departure follows last week&rsquo;s unexpected elimination of Ritu Chowdhury, who was predicted to be in the top 5. Suman&rsquo;s steady 14-week run was marked by minimal gameplay, making this twist a shocker for fans.

Six contestants were up for elimination this week: Bharani, Tanuja, Pavan, Sanjana, Emanuel, and Suman. Tanuja leads the vote with 26%, while Suman trailed at 6%. Here&rsquo;s the voting split: Tanuja (26%), Bharani (20%), Pavan (19%), Sanjana (17%), Emanuel (14%), Suman (6%).

Online polls pointed to Suman&rsquo;s exit (46%), followed by Sanjana (25%). But Bigg Boss is known for twists, last week, a strong player was eliminated, and Suman survived earlier expectations. The show&rsquo;s management decides the outcome, not just votes, adding to the suspense. With the grand finale airing next Sunday, the remaining contestants are in for makeovers and vote appeals.&nbsp;

BB 9 Pre Finale Double Eviction  

Unexpected Eliminations Ahead Bigg Boss 9 Telugu Final

\r\nOfflate many Directors turn producers introducing new talent. Now, Director Venky Kudumula, celebrated for his unique storytelling and youthful filmmaking style, has embarked on a new venture as a producer with the launch of What Next Entertainments. This marks a significant milestone in his career, reflecting his passion for cinema and commitment to nurturing fresh talent.\r\nThe banner\'s first project, #NewGuyInTown, is set to be revealed tomorrow with its title and first look. The film stars Malayalam actress Anaswara Rajan and is helmed by debutant director Mahesh Uppala. S Thaman is on board as the music composer, while Raja Mahadhevan, a new face in cinematography, adds to the creative lineup.\r\n&ldquo;Cinema has always been my passion. I want to create a platform for creative voices and stories waiting to be told,&rdquo; says Venky, emphasizing support for emerging talent. With What Next Entertainments, Venky Kudumula aims to foster originality and innovation, encouraging fresh narratives in the industry.\r\nThis move highlights his evolution as a filmmaker invested in shaping new ideas and backing upcoming voices. More details about #NewGuyInTown will be unveiled soon, promising an exciting addition to Telugu cinema.\r\n

Another Director Turns Producer

Director Venky Kudumula Steps Into Production with What Next Entertainments

\r\nExhibitors support Telangana cinematography minister Komati Reddy on ticket rates hike. Telangana Cinematography Minister Komati Reddy Venkata Reddy made clear that he is against the ticket rates hikes for films and added that from now on producers and filmmakers should stop coming to the government to seek ticke rates hikes for their films.\r\nVijayender Reddy, president of the Telangana Controllers and Exhibitors Association, which represents around 300 exhibitors across the state, supported the minister and said &ldquo;With inflated ticket rates, audiences have stopped coming to theatres, and we are going through very tough times,&rdquo;. He requested&nbsp; the state government to fix ticket prices in the range of Rs 100 to Rs 200, or Rs 75 to Rs 175, for two classes, instead of permitting rates of Rs 400 to Rs 600 for big-budget films.\r\nHe revealed &ldquo;Prices are increased four to five times, and audiences naturally shy away from theatres. To protect single screens, we even organised a partial bandh a few months ago, as most theatres are running under losses. Some theatres have locked their gates, while many are cancelling shows due to poor attendance, sometimes with fewer than ten viewers.&rdquo;\r\nHe questioned &ldquo;How can we equate the income of a rickshaw puller in a village with that of an IT employee in a city and fix the same ticket price?&rdquo; and criticised the earlier government for allowing uniform ticket rates across gram panchayats, municipalities and municipal corporations.\r\nOn higher ticket rates increasing the collections in theatres, he said &ldquo;This is a misconception. We do not get any extra benefit from inflated collections. For instance, on normal ticket rates, if a film collects Rs 45,000 from four shows, we receive Rs 15,000 as rent. Even if a film collects Rs 3 lakh a day due to hiked prices, we still get only Rs 15,000. So where is the extra money for theatres?&rdquo;\r\nHe said &ldquo;We are left helpless. Theatres in places like Nizamabad, Karimnagar, Gadwal, Nalgonda, Miryalaguda and Warangal are facing different kinds of problems,&rdquo; and revealed \"distributors pressure theatre owners by negotiating aggressively and cutting rentals to screen big films.\"\r\n

Ticket Hike: Exhibitors hail TS Minister

Exhibitors support Telangana cinematography minister Komati Reddy on ticket rates hike

\r\nWill Trivikram propel second ones in Aadarsha Kutumbam?. Venkatesh and Trivikram Srinivas\' project is titled Aadarsha Kutumbam and this is exciting everyone. The film stars Srinidhi Shetty as the female lead. In the meantime, speculation is increasing whether Trivikram will propel his second ones atleast this time.\r\nIt is known that in his films he will not elevate second heroines and turn them into inconsequential ones. In Guntur Kaaram, Meenakshi Chaudhary acted as the second lead, as Mahesh Babu\'s Maradalu. She did it without any second thought as the director was Trivikram Srinivas. But all her fans got hurt as she didnot get important role. In NTR\'s Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava Eesha Rebba didnot get prominent role. Same is the case with Nivetha Pethuraj in Allu Arjun\'s Ala Vaikunthapuramlo.\r\nFans are saying at least this time, he should give some value to the second heroine. If the second heroine role is just confined to side kick, then it will be a negative impact to the project. Fans are advising Trivikram to address this issue. Trivikram and Venkatesh earlier worked for Malliswari and Nuvvu Naaku Nachhav. It has to be seen how Trivikram will show Venkatesh in the film.\r\n

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