ZEE5 known for impressing audiences with unique content in web series and films, is all set to stream a brand-new web series, Vikkatakavi, starting November 28. The series will be available in both Telugu and Tamil. Produced by the renowned SRT Entertainments banner, Vikkatakavi stars Naresh Agastya and Megha Akash in lead roles, with Ram Talluri as the passionate producer and director Pradeep Maddali, who previously directed the blockbuster web series &lsquo;Sarvam Shaktimayam&rsquo;, has directed this series as well.. This is notably the first-ever detective web series set against a Telangana backdrop. Director Pradeep Maddali has shared some intriguing insights about this period series.\r\nHow did the journey of Vikkatakavi begin?\r\nThe story of Vikkatakavi was written by teja desraj, a writer who had previously worked with director prashanth Varma on films like Awe and Kalki. Teja, who is a good friend of mine, pitched this story to ZEE5 and got their approval to develop it as a series. As ZEE5 began discussing the project with various actors and directors, I happened to meet Teja. During our conversation, he told me about Vikkatakavi and asked if I would be interested in directing it. I listened to the story and found it to be quite challenging. SRT Entertainments\' Ram Talluri and the ZEE5 team asked if I could complete it within a specified budget, to which I agreed. That&rsquo;s how my journey with Vikkatakavi began.\r\nWhat kind of experience did creating a period series bring?\r\nWorking on a period series like Vikkatakavi was a rewarding experience for me as a director, and it gave my team a unique challenge as well. The story has multiple layers, set in the 1940s and 1970s, so creating and capturing that world on screen was exhilarating. Recreating the sets, costumes, language, looks, lighting, and overall working mood from those eras was quite challenging. We aimed to present the series with a royal look while also delivering a strong thriller element that complements the storyline.\r\nHow challenging was it to direct a series with a period concept?\r\nDirecting a series or film with a period concept is a significant challenge for every technician involved. Every detail needs to be observed meticulously. Translating our vision onto the screen is a big task, as it requires perfect alignment between the director\'s ideas and those of the production designer, costume designer, and cinematographer. Fortunately, I had an incredible team, where each member treated this project as their own and worked with a strong desire to prove themselves.\r\nTell us about the cinematographer\'s working style during the making of Vikatakavi.\r\nCinematographer Shoaib worked on Vikkatakavi. Although he had previously done only one project and over 300 Punjabi music videos, I decided to bring him on board, which surprised many. Some questioned why I chose a Punjabi cinematographer when there are so many talented cinematographers and friends in the industry. However, the drama in Vikkatakavi is quite unique, and I felt that a fresh perspective would be beneficial. Additionally, I was inspired by the texture in a Bengali film, where a technician named Sanjeev had worked as the colorist. Luckily, Sanjeev happens to be friends with Shoaib, so he also joined our project. Alongside them, we had skilled technicians like costume designer Gayatri and production designer Kiran, making it a strong team.\r\nHow many sets were created for the Vikkatakavi series?\r\nFor Vikkatakavi, we built a palace set, and we used VFX sparingly, only where necessary. Most of the series was shot on real locations, including Ramoji Film City (RFC) and the Aluminum Factory. We adapted these locations to fit the story, with great support from the production design team and RFC&rsquo;s team. To my knowledge, no other series has utilized RFC on such a grand scale. We worked so deeply that, when you watch it, you won&rsquo;t even realize it\'s RFC&mdash;we&rsquo;ve integrated it seamlessly into the series.\r\nWhat inspired the concept of the Amaragiri estate in the story?\r\nBefore India&rsquo;s independence, there were many princely states across the country. Among them, Amaragiri represents a fictional estate in Telangana. When writer Teja wanted to tell a unique story, he came up with this idea. The backdrop involves a village that is set to submerge after the completion of the Srisailam project, forming a fictional element around Vikkatakavi in this setting.\r\nWhy was the title Vikkatakavi chosen for this fictional detective series?\r\nThe title Vikkatakavi was chosen by writer Teja. In Telugu culture, Vikatakavi often brings to mind Tenali Ramakrishna, the witty poet who served in the Vijayanagara empire. Teja explained that Tenali Ramakrishna also acted as a spy for King Krishnadevaraya, playing a key role in safeguarding the kingdom against the Bahmani Sultanate. Since our story\'s hero has similar qualities, Teja felt Vikatakavi was a fitting title.\r\nWhat was the reason for casting Naresh Agastya as the lead?\r\nBefore I came on board as the director, the makers approached a few other actors, but it didn&rsquo;t work out. Once I joined, I suggested Naresh Agastya for the role. I had seen his performances in Senapathi, Mathu Vadalara and I was impressed by his acting skills. At that time, ZEE5 was working with Naresh on Paruvu, so it was easy to meet him. After a look test, the entire team agreed that Naresh was perfect for the role of Vikkatakavi. He completely immersed himself in the retro look of the character.\r\nHow was Naresh Agastya\'s character designed?\r\nNaresh&rsquo;s character was crafted to embody the cleverness associated with Tenali Ramakrishna, ensuring his wit remained central. His character is a young man from Hyderabad, speaking both Urdu and Telugu, which we researched to accurately depict his style and demeanor. In the story, Naresh plays a detective who arrives in the fictional Amaragiri region to solve a local problem for money, which leads to unexpected events. Naresh is a talented actor, known for naturally holding his characters with strength and depth.\r\nWhat is Megha Akash&rsquo;s role like?\r\nSenior actor Siju Menon plays the aging king of Amaragiri. Megha Akash portrays his granddaughter, the princess of Amaragiri. Her character is a doctor studying psychiatry, adding a modern touch to her royal heritage.\r\nWhat secret in the Amaragiri region will you be showing?\r\nIn the 1940s, an event takes place in the Amaragiri region, which is later repeated in 1970. The local people regard it as a curse. The hero, upon arriving in the region, investigates whether this is truly a curse or if there is another explanation. To find out more, you\'ll have to watch the series to discover the mystery.\r\nWill there be a Vikkatakavi Season 2?\r\nYes, there will be a Vikkatakavi Season 2. Writer Teja is already working on it. If everything falls into place, Vikkatakavi 2 will be made on an even bigger scale.\r\nWhat kind of care was taken with the music?\r\nThe music for Vikkatakavi was composed by Ajay Arasada, who recently worked on the music for Ai. He and I have been close friends since 2016, and we always wanted to work together. After I came on board, I asked him to join the project. At that time, the pre-production of Ai had already started. Ajay composed the theme music for the Vikkatakavi motion poster, which everyone liked. Since the series is a period drama, he crafted the background score with a vintage touch to match the setting.\r\nWhat are the other key roles in Vikkatakavi?\r\nApart from Naresh Agastya and Megha Akash, the series features several key roles. Siju Menon plays the character of the king, Raghu Kunchi portrays an MLA, while Mukhtar Khan, Tarak Ponnappa, Ramya Ramakrishna, Ashok Kumar, and Amit Tiwari also appear in significant roles.\r\nWhat are your upcoming projects?\r\nI\'m currently working on a new-age sci-fi horror story. Additionally, I\'m developing an action thriller fantasy project.

Movie News

Vikkatakavi Period Series -Director Pradeep Maddali

Vikkatakavi Offers Audiences a unique experience as a period series -Director Pradeep Maddali

Ram Gopal Varma seeks time to attend police probe. Maverick Director Ram Gopal Varma who is facing the heat with cases filed against him for his obscene and indecent posts on social media, now found a lame excuse to avoid police questioning. Ram Gopal Varma sought more time from the cops to attend the investigation and cited his busy schedule for his upcoming films. He intimated the same to the cops through his lawyers.\r\n<h2>Police respond to RGV Delay</h2>\r\nIt is known that cops from Prakasam district went to Ram Gopal Varma\'s house at Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad and served notice personally and issued summons asking him to appear before the cops for investigation. Prakasam district SP Damodar said Ram Gopal Varma skipped the questioning and instead sent written representation through his lawyers seeking 4-5 days time to appear before the investigation.\r\n<h2>The Controversy and What Next</h2>\r\nSP hoped that Ram Gopal Varma will cooperate with the cops during the questioning in the coming days. It is known that Ram Gopal Varma posed indecent morphed photos of Chandra Babu Naidu, Pawan Kalyan and their family members in a demeaning manner. Cops said if Ram Gopal Varma\'s reasons for seeking time are found false,they will decide and send a team of cops to Ram Gopal Varma.&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"></div>

RGV lame excuse to avoid police questioning

Ram Gopal Varma Seeks Time To Attend Police Probe

Rana Naidu2 toning down obscenity. Movie lovers cannot forget the webseries Rana Naidu as it marked the debut of Victory Venkatesh and his nephew hot hunk Rana's debut on OTT platform. Rana Naidu happens to be the adaptation of American Series Ray Donovan.

However the excitement of movie lovers turned out to be into a disappointment after the release as they got shocked to see Venkatesh deliver obscene and cuss words. This transformation stunned all his fans as Venkatesh is known for his family entertainers. Now all eyes are on the webseries season 2.

Rana sharing his thoughts on Rana Naidu said from the beginning they have asked movie lovers to stay away from the webseries as it has adult content and obscene dialogues and the content should be said in the same manner as it was shown. He added that no one listened to them and they got offended.

Speaking about Season 2, Rana Naidu 2,he said the shooting has been completed and this time, they have toned down the adult content drastically.&nbsp;

Rana Naidu 2 taking startling decision

Rana Naidu 2 Toning Down Obscenity

Salman Khan is set to make a blockbuster comeback with AR Murugadoss\' Sikandar, produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, during Eid 2025. The film\'s marathon schedule is currently underway in Hyderabad, featuring an ensemble cast, including Rashmika Mandanna, Sathyaraj, and Sharman Joshi.\r\nWith half of the shoot already completed, producers aim to wrap up production by January 2025. Music composer Pritam, Sajid Nadiadwala, and AR Murugadoss are collaborating to create an energetic album for Eid 2025. Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna have already filmed two dance routines, including a Holi song and an Eid Qawali-inspired track.\r\nSikandar promises exciting action sequences and visual surprises, with Sajid Nadiadwala having filmed two stunning action sequences and planning two more. The film\'s unique action flavor will delight audiences. Additionally, two more songs, including a love ballad, are in the works.\r\nFollowing Sikandar\'s completion, Salman Khan will focus on scriptwriting for his next project with Atlee.\r\n<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"></div>

Sikandar Songs Are Being Picturised

Salman Khan Sikandar Eid 2025 Release Confirmed

Zebra done with the censor. Satyadev made an impression with riveting performances. His upcoming film Zebra is attracting the attention of all with the unique title.\r\nThe film directed by Eashvar Karthic is releasing on 22 November 2024. The film\'s promotions increased expectations on the plot and according to the latest it is coming out that the film completed its censor formalities.\r\nThe film got U/A certificate from the Censor Board and this cleared decks for the film\'s release across the world. The film also stars Daali Dhananjaya in an important role. The film stars Priya Bhavani Shankar as the female lead while Sathyaraj, Amrutha Iyengar are playing key roles.\r\nMusic for the film is tuned by Ravi Basrur and the film is bankrolled in a prestigious manner on OldTown Production and Padmaja Films Private Limited, With none other than Mega Star Chiranjeevi launching the film\'s trailer, expectations on the film increased tremendously among movie lovers.&nbsp;

Zebra completes censor

Zebra Done With The Censor

Surprise twist to Rashmika role in Pushpa The Rule. Icon Star Allu Arjun's upcoming project Pushpa The Rule is the most anticipated project across the world. The film directed by Sukumar is slated for a spectacular release on 5 December 2024. Expectations are high on the project as it happens to be the sequel to the blockbuster film Pushpa The Rise.
Already the film's promotions are reaching new heights and the trailer released in an extraordinary manner in Patna, Bihar is capturing the imagination of all. The powerpacked and action filled trailer is going viral on social media. In the meantime, reports are coming about Rashmika's role in Srivalli.
<h2>Rashmika's Role-Shocking Turn</h2>
Inside talk is Rashmika's role as Srivalli will end on a tragic note in the film's second half. Buzz is the tragic demise of Srivalli will take the emotions in the film's story to new heights. Fans of Rashmika are delighted to see Rashmika getting more importance and dominate Allu Arjun in the trailer.
<h2>Fans&nbsp; divided over Speculations</h2>
But few pointed that the funeral scenes that were shown in the trailer were that of the character Srivalli. Some fans however are not taking these speculations and say that Pushpa The Rule is incomplete without Srivalli and the power of Pushparaj will be weakened if he couldn't save his wife from the enemies who dread him to the core. Only time will tell as to how much truth is there in these rumours.&nbsp;

Pushpa 2:Shocking twist to Rashmika 

Surprise Twist To Rashmika Role In Pushpa 2 The Rule

Mechanic Rocky, starring Vishwak Sen, is gearing up for release on November 22nd. The film's promotional activities are in full swing, following a grand pre-release event. The latest trailer 2.0 offers a deeper glimpse into the story, showcasing Rocky's emotional attachment to his mechanic shed and his fight for justice.

Directed by debutant Ravi Teja Mullapudi and produced by Ram Talluri under SRT Entertainments, Mechanic Rocky promises a mix of emotion, entertainment, action, and romance. The trailer highlights Vishwak Sen's power-packed performance, Sunil's ferocious antagonist role, and Meenakshi Chaudhary and Shraddha Srinath's effective portrayals.

Manojh Katasani's remarkable camera work and Jakes Bejoy's lively BGM add value to the narrative. The grand production values of SRT Entertainments are evident throughout. With positive reports already circulating, trailer 2.0 sets the bar high for the movie.

Mechanic Rocky's cast includes Vishwak Sen, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Shraddha Srinath, Naresh, Sunil, and Viva Harsha. The technical crew comprises Ravi Teja Mullapudi (writer-director), Ram Talluri (producer), Jakes Bejoy (music), Manojh Katasani (DOP), and Anwar Ali (editor).

Mechanic Rocky Trailer 2 0 Unveiled

Vishwak Sen Mechanic Rocky Trailer 2 0 Review

Police lathicharge as Ram Charan visits Kadapa. Global Star Ram Charan enjoys tremendous fan following across the world. He recently visited the famous Ameen Peer Dargah&nbsp; and also the Durga Devi temple. But coming to know the news about Ram Charan\'s visit to Kadapa, many people thronged to catch the glimpse of their hero in real life.\r\nThis resulted in utter chaos as police found it difficult to control the crowd. In order to bring the situation under control and restore normalcy, police resorted to lathicharge.\r\n<h2>Spiritual Journey and Community Engagement</h2>\r\nRam Charan is seen in complete black dress as he started practicing Ayyappa Deeksha. Ram Charan after offering prayers at the Durga Devi temple and Ameen Peer Dargh, also attended the 80th National Mushaira Ghazal event at the Dargah as the chief guest.\r\n<h2>Upcoming Projects Elevating Expectations</h2>\r\nRam Charan on the professional front is set to entertain movie lovers with the upcoming political thriller Game Changer. The film directed by Shankar is slated for release on 10 Jan 2025. Apart from it, Ram Charan is starring in the direction of Buchi Babu Sana for which music is tuned by oscar winner AR.Rahman and also has his next with Sukumar. Ram Charan\'s Kadapa visit comes after the promise he made to oscar winner AR.Rahman.&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"></div>

Ram Charan Kadapa visit turns chaotic

Police Lathicharge During Ram Charan Visits Kadapa

Dhruva Sarja\'s Martin, made on a massive budget of over â‚¹100 crores, needed a strong box office performance to break even. Despite a good opening fueled by the actor\'s fan base, the film crashed due to overwhelmingly negative reviews.\r\nAfter its theatrical run, Martin surprisingly dropped on Amazon Prime Video for US and UK viewers, contrary to earlier reports suggesting Zee Network had acquired the rights. Now, the film is available on Prime Video as well as aha.\r\nPrime Video and aha holds the film\'s streaming rights and the film is now streaming. Meanwhile, Zee Kannada secured the satellite rights for the Kannada version.\r\nMartin\'s overseas OTT release has reignited criticism, with viewers sharing cringe-worthy scenes and sympathizing with those who watched it in theaters. Based on Action King Arjun Sarja\'s story, Martin features Dhruva in a double role as customs officer Arjun and gangster Martin, with a cat-and-mouse chase driving the narrative.\r\n<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"></div>

Colossal Disaster Now On OTT

Martin Now Streaming On Amazon Prime And Aha

Mahesh Babu surprises Nayanthara. Nayanthara is hogging the limelight of late for various reasons. It is known that Nayanthara's wedding documentary titled Nayanthara-Beyond The Fairytale started streaming on Netflix as her birthday treat to all her fans and movie lovers.

In the meantime, Super Star Mahesh Babu surprised all the fans of Nayanthara by sharing Nayanthara and Vignesh Sivan's picture along with their twins and also captioning it with three hearts. Mahesh Babu's message is going viral on social media though he did not write any other message except the heart symbols.

It is known that Nayanthara locked horns with hero Dhanush after he did not permit her to use the clips of their film Naanum Rowdy Thaan and slapped with copyright infringement notice. This resulted in huge controversy with Nayanthara accusing Dhanush of insensitive and adamant and not respecting the female actresses and many actresses came in support of Nayanthara.

Dhanush however maintained a stoic silence but his legal team took the matters in their hands and acted accordingly.

Super Star delights Nayanthara

Mahesh Babu Surprises Nayanthara

Wedding bells ringing for Keerthy Suresh. Keerthy Suresh is renowned for her captivating performances and riveting roles. She captured the imagination of all with her performance in Mahanati, a biopic on legendary actress Savitri for which she won the national award for the best actress.

Now reports are coming that Keerthy Suresh is all set to enter into wedlock. Inside talk is she will be marrying her longtime boyfriend. The groom is from Kochi and happens to be Keerthy Suresh's schoolmate. Reports have it, that the groom owns a popular resorts in Kerala.

When inquired Keerthy Suresh said that she would reveal more details at the appropriate time. Currently Keerthy Suresh is starring in a Bollywood film Baby John. The film is a remake of Tamil hit Theri, which featured Vijay in the lead role. Apart from it,she is also starring in films like Kanni Vedi, Revolver Rita, Uppu Kappurambu, and Akka, a webseries.&nbsp;

Cute Beauty entering into wedlock

Wedding Bells Ringing For Keerthy Suresh

Naga Chaitanya racing team wins title. Naga Chaitanya is not only known for his loverboy roles and romantic entertainers on screen but also for his love and passion for cars. It is known that Naga Chaitanya owned a racing team named Hyderabad Blackbirds and the team is taking part in Indian Racing Festival.

Now it is coming out that Naga Chaitanya's Hyderabad Blackbirds is setting the race track on fire with its performances. According to the latest, the team won the R4 racing title much to the delight of all the fans and sportslovers and also made Naga Chaitanya a proud owner.

Raoul Hyman and Gabriela Jilkova not only delivered a 1-2 finish for Goa Aces JA Racing but also helped the team clinch the Indian Racing League Championship as the curtains came down on the 2024 edition at the Kari Motor Speedway on Sunday.Bengaluru-based Ruhaan Alva (Shrachi Rarh Royal Bengal Tigers) notched a grand double in the FIA-certified Formula 4 Indian Championship, but it did not prevent South African teenager Aqil Alibhai (Hyderabad Blackbirds) from clinching the title. Alva finished second in the Championship.

Alibhai, enjoying a successful season with six wins, had two podium finishes (P2 and P3) which fetched sufficient points to win him the crown.