Telangana Minister Konda Surekha's recent comments targeting the Akkineni family and Samantha Ruth Prabhu have sparked outrage within the Telugu film industry (Tollywood). Several celebrities, including Nagarjuna, Naga Chaitanya, Samantha, Amala Akkineni, NTR Jr., Mahesh Babu, and Vijay Deverakonda, have strongly condemned her remarks.

Rajamouli and Ram Charan Take a Stand

Joining the chorus of disapproval, top director S.S. Rajamouli and mega power star Ram Charan have also voiced their concerns. Both have dismissed Surekha's comments as baseless allegations.

Rajamouli Calls for Respect

Taking to Twitter, Rajamouli urged for respect and restraint. He tweeted, "Keep your cool. Be respectful. As representatives of the government, such baseless allegations are intolerable," adding the hashtag #FilmIndustryWillNotTolerate.

Ram Charan Denounces Irresponsible Remarks

Ram Charan, in his response, called Surekha's comments "irresponsible" and "shocking" for a political leader to make. He further stated that her accusations are unsubstantiated and detrimental to social values. He reiterated the film industry's stance of not tolerating such inappropriate comments.

Industry Unites Against Baseless Attacks

The incident has prompted Tollywood producers, actors, and directors to unite and speak out against using celebrities for political mileage. The Akkineni family has also taken legal action against the minister by filing a defamation suit for damaging their family's reputation. Notably, reports suggest that Surekha has retracted her statements.

Movie News

Rajamouli - Charan warns Surekha 

Rajamouli - Ram Charan counters Konda Surekha

The highly anticipated film Vettaiyan, starring the legendary Rajinikanth, is set to hit theaters on October 10, 2024, in multiple languages. While excitement for the film is building, there was a recent health scare that caused concern among fans.\r\nA few days ago, Rajinikanth was admitted to Apollo Hospital in Chennai for an elective procedure performed by interventional cardiologist Dr. Sai Satish. Thankfully, the procedure was a success, and the superstar was discharged from the hospital yesterday. He is currently resting at home and is expected to make a full recovery.\r\nAs Rajinikanth recovers, the Vettaiyan team has been busy with promotions, including a recent visit to Hyderabad for Telugu events. Due to his recent health concerns, it is unlikely that Rajinikanth will be able to attend these promotional activities.\r\nIn addition to Vettaiyan, Rajinikanth is also working on another exciting project, Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. Fans are eagerly awaiting updates on both films as the superstar continues his illustrious career.

Super Star returns home

Rajinikanth discharged from hospital

Swag and others releasing today. Flurry of Telugu films are releasing on 4 October and among them Sree Vishnu\'s Swag is capturing the imagination of all. Swag stars Sree Vishnu in the lead under the direction of Hasith Golli. The film is the sequel to the hit film Raja Raja Chora. The film stars Ritu Varma, Meera Jasmine and Daksha Nagarkar in important roles.\r\nApart from Swag films like Ramnagar Bunny, Dakshina, Kali, Chitti Potti, Mr.Celebrity,&nbsp; Peta Rap, Bahirbhoomi are releasing on the same day, Chandrahaass and Vismaya Sri are the stars in Ramnagar Bunny directed by Srinivas Mahath, Dakshina stars Sai Dhansika in the lead under the direction of Osho Tulasiram.\r\nKali features NareshAgasthya under the direction of Siva Sashu,Chitti Potti stars Ram Mittakanti and Akkala Kashvi in lead under the direction of Bhaskar Yadav Dasari. Parachuri Sudarshan and Varalakshmi Sarath Kumar are starring in Mr.Celebrity directed b y Chandina Ravi Kishore Babu while Peta Rap features Prabhu Deva, Vedika under the direction of SJ.Sinu. Bahirbhoomi features Garima Singh under the direction of Ram Prasad Konduru.\r\nStay tuned for the reviews of the above films in couple of hours from now from Cinejosh team.

Swag and others releasing today

Today Reviews: Swag and others

Telangana Minister\'s Drug Accusations Spark Outrage, Rakul Preet Singh Denounces Remarks\r\nTelangana Minister Konda Surekha has faced widespread criticism following her controversial remarks against BRS leader KTR, which implicated several high-profile actors, including Samantha, Naga Chaitanya, and Rakul Preet Singh, in alleged drug-related activities.\r\nSurekha\'s accusations, made during a press conference on October 2nd, claimed that KTR hosted drug-fueled parties and introduced actresses to drugs. She specifically named Rakul Preet Singh, alleging that the actress\' early marriage was a result of KTR\'s influence and the subsequent drug-related pressures.\r\nResponding to the Minister\'s comments, Rakul Preet Singh took to X (formerly Twitter) to denounce the baseless and vicious rumors, stating that it was disheartening to see a woman in a position of power spreading such harmful claims.\r\n\"Telugu Film Industry is known worldwide for its creativity and professionalism. I\'ve had a great journey in this beautiful industry and still very much connected,\" she wrote. \"It pains to hear such baseless and vicious rumours being spread about the women of this fraternity. What\'s more disheartening is the fact that this is being done by another woman who&rsquo;s supposedly in a very responsible position. For the sake of dignity, we choose to remain silent but it is misconstrued as our weakness.\"\r\nThe actress, who has maintained her apolitical stance, urged the Minister to stop using her name for political gain. \"I am absolutely apolitical and have nothing to do with any person/political party, whatsoever. I urge to stop using my name in a malicious way to gain political mileage.\"\r\nFollowing Surekha\'s accusations, KTR and Nagarjuna, father of Naga Chaitanya, have filed legal cases against the minister.

Rakul asks Surekha not to drag her name

Rakul Preet reacts to Konda Surekha controversial statement

Jr NTR\'s Devara: Part 1 has been met with widespread acclaim since its release last week. The Siva Koratala-directed film, starring Janhvi Kapoor, has impressed both audiences and critics alike.\r\nWhile the film\'s overall reception has been positive, one notable omission left fans disappointed: the popular duet \"Daavudi\" was absent from the theatrical cut, even in the end credits. However, recent rumors suggest that the makers may have plans to include the song this Friday.\r\nIf these rumors prove to be true, it would undoubtedly be a pleasant surprise for fans who have been eagerly anticipating the opportunity to experience \"Daavudi\" on the big screen. The exact placement of the song within the film remains uncertain, adding to the anticipation and excitement surrounding its potential inclusion.\r\nApart from Jr NTR, Janhvi Kapoor, and the aforementioned popular song, Devara also boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Saif Ali Khan, Prakash Raj, Ajay, Murali Sharma, and others. Produced on a grand scale by NTR Arts and Yuvasudha Arts, the film features a captivating soundtrack composed by the acclaimed Anirudh.

Daavudi from Devara from tomorrow

Daavudi song treat from Devara in theatres tomorrow

Mega Prince Varun Tej faces a tough challenge as he tries to bounce back from a series of underwhelming performances. His upcoming Pan-Indian film, Matka, directed by Karuna Kumar, was initially seen as a promising endeavor. However, the recent announcement of its release date on November 14 has placed him in direct competition with Suriya\'s highly anticipated Kanguva.\r\nTo generate buzz and attract audiences, the makers of Matka have unveiled plans to launch its teaser on October 5th at G3 theaters in Vijayawada. The success of this teaser will be crucial in determining the film\'s opening weekend performance.\r\nThe film boasts a talented cast, featuring Meenakshi Chaudhary in the female lead and Bollywood actress Nora Fatehi in a pivotal role. Matka, produced on a grand scale by Dr. Vijender Reddy Teegala and Rajani Thalluri, aims to recreate the nostalgic charm of Vizag from a bygone era with meticulously crafted sets at RFC.\r\n<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"></div>

Matka teaser on this date

Matka teaser launch on this day

Minister Konda Surekha for Defamation

Telugu actor Nagarjuna Akkineni has filed a criminal and civil defamation case against Telangana Congress Minister Konda Surekha in Nampally court. This comes after Surekha made controversial remarks about Nagarjuna's family and the divorce of his son Naga Chaitanya and actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu.

In his legal complaint, Nagarjuna accused Surekha of making defamatory statements with the intent to damage the Akkineni family's reputation. The charges include criminal defamation, which could lead to significant legal repercussions. Nagarjuna is also seeking financial compensation for the harm caused.

Surekha's remarks sparked controversy when she accused BRS leader KTR of being involved in drug-related activities and linked him to the divorce of Chaitanya and Samantha. She also made derogatory statements about the Akkineni family and alleged that many female actors in the Telugu film industry had their careers cut short due to KTR's involvement.

Nagarjuna and his family have strongly condemned Surekha's remarks, calling them "completely irrelevant and false." They have urged her to respect people's privacy and refrain from making such baseless accusations.

Chaitanya and Samantha announced their separation in 2021 and later divorced. Chaitanya has since been engaged to actress Sobhita Dhulipala.

Nagarjuna sues Konda Surekha 

Nagarjuna acts against Konda Surekha

Acclaimed director Dr. VN Aditya has announced the title of his upcoming pan-India film, \"Phani,\" a thrilling movie produced by Dr. Meenakshi under O.M.G. Productions and presented by AU&amp;I Studio. The film features Catherine Tresa in the lead role and will be released in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.\r\nThe title unveiling ceremony took place in Dallas, America, where Dr. Thotakura Prasad launched the title, and renowned producer Anil Sunkara unveiled the banner logo. Catherine Tresa expressed excitement about playing the lead role in this female-oriented edge-of-seat thriller, stating that working with Dr. VN Aditya has been a wonderful experience.\r\n\"Phani\" boasts an impressive cast, including Mahesh Sriram, Neha Krishna, Tanikella Bharani, and Kasi Vishwanath. The film is being shot entirely in America, with producer Dr. Meenakshi Anipindi also unveiling the brochure for her upcoming \"Fish Eye\" studio in Waco City, created by Master Dhanvin Paka and Master Srikar Kalluri.\r\nWith \"Phani,\" Catherine Tresa is set to deliver a challenging performance, and audiences can expect a thrilling cinematic experience. The film\'s release is highly anticipated, given its unique blend of suspense and drama.

Catherine Tresa Is Excited About Phani

Catherine Tresa Stars In Pan India Thriller Phani

Sree Vishnu Nine Sensation in Swag.TG Vishwa Prasad Backs \"Swag\": A Hilarious Ride with a Powerful Message.\r\nProducer TG Vishwa Prasad is confident about the upcoming release of \"Swag,\" starring Sree Vishnu and directed by Hasith Goli. The film, which has garnered positive buzz, promises a blend of hilarious entertainment and a powerful social message.\r\nVishwa Prasad highlights Sree Vishnu\'s versatility, stating that the actor plays four distinct characters in the film, showcasing his range with nine unique get-ups. He emphasizes that while \"Swag\" delivers non-stop laughs, it also carries a poignant message about evolving gender dynamics across generations.\r\nThe producer praises Hasith Goli\'s writing prowess, stating that he effortlessly weaves humor into the narrative. \"The story presents a compelling message about changing gender dominance across generations in a captivating way. The screenplay is engaging, packed with thrills and surprises in the first half, leading to a powerful revelation in the second half,\" he explains.\r\nVishwa Prasad acknowledges the challenges of condensing such a vast narrative within the 2.36-hour runtime but assures audiences of a fresh and captivating cinematic experience. With a strong cast, a compelling story, and a seasoned producer at the helm, \"Swag\" promises to be a memorable film that entertains and provokes thought.\r\n<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"></div>

Swag: Sree Vishnu to spring a surprise

Sree Vishnu Nine Sensation In Swag

Producer Naga Vamsi apologises to fans.After a five-year hiatus, NTR\'s \"Devara\" has taken Tollywood by storm, reigniting the box office and captivating audiences. While a grand pre-release event was unfortunately canceled due to fan conflicts, the film\'s success has sparked anticipation for a celebratory success meet.\r\nProducer Naga Vamsi, the film\'s distributor in Telugu states, acknowledged the overwhelming response to \"Devara\" and thanked everyone for their support. He also addressed the fans\' disappointment over the canceled pre-release event, stating that NTR himself is eager to connect with them.\r\n\"Tarak Anna also wants to talk to the fans about \'Devara,\'\" Naga Vamsi revealed, \"He understands that the fans were disappointed with the canceled event.\" He assured fans that organizers are working hard to make the success meet a grand celebration.\r\nThe producer\'s statement has fueled speculation about a large-scale event with NTR delivering a special address. While details are still being finalized, fans are eagerly anticipating a grand celebration and the opportunity to hear from their beloved star.\r\n&nbsp;

Naga Vamsi apologises for this reason

Producer Naga Vamsi Apologises To Fans

Samantha turns co founder for a wellness brand.Samantha Prabhu Joins Forces with Secret Alchemist as Co-Founder.\r\nSamantha Prabhu has taken a significant step in the wellness space, joining forces with Secret Alchemist as a co-founder. This move follows the company\'s successful $500,000 seed funding round led by Inflection Point Ventures (IPV), with participation from prominent figures like Siddharth Shah (Pharmeasy founder) and Rishubh Satiya (Plix founder).\r\nSecret Alchemist, a 30-year-old aromatherapy company founded by Ankita Thadani and Akash Valia, is known for its commitment to natural, sustainable, and non-toxic, premium ingredients. With this funding, the company aims to expand its operations, bolster its inventory for the upcoming festive season, grow its team, and amplify its marketing efforts. Additionally, Secret Alchemist plans to expand its product range to include pure-grade essential oils in formats like creams, mists, and shower gels, further enhancing its wellness offerings.\r\nSamantha Prabhu, known for her passionate advocacy for holistic well-being, shared her personal experience with aromatherapy: \"During my healing journey abroad, aromatherapy became an unexpected source of comfort and healing. I witnessed firsthand how extensively healers in the West were using essential oils to enhance well-being. The profound impact it had on my health led me to seek out a trustworthy brand upon returning, and that\'s when I discovered Secret Alchemist.\"\r\nSamantha\'s decision to join Secret Alchemist highlights the increasing popularity of natural and holistic approaches to wellness. Her personal experience, coupled with the company\'s commitment to sustainability and high-quality ingredients, promises to create a powerful partnership that will empower individuals to embrace a more natural and balanced approach to well-being.

Samantha turns co founder

Samantha Turns Co Founder For A Wellness Brand

The popular Telugu OTT talk show, Unstoppable with NBK, is gearing up for its fourth season, scheduled to air from October. Hosted by Nandamuri Balakrishna, the show has completed three successful seasons. According to exclusive updates, Balakrishna will commence shooting for the new season in the second week of October.\r\nBefore starting the talk show, Balakrishna will wrap up a significant portion of his upcoming film, directed by Bobby. The actor will simultaneously shoot for both the film and the talk show. Meanwhile, producer Allu Aravind is making efforts to bring Megastar Chiranjeevi on the show, a feat that didn\'t materialize in the previous three seasons.\r\nChiranjeevi\'s appearance on Unstoppable with NBK is highly anticipated, especially given the love-and-hate relationship between him and Balakrishna. Fans were delighted to see them share the stage at the recent IIFA Awards. Previous seasons featured prominent guests like Prabhas, Mahesh Babu, and Ravi Teja, making the show a massive hit.\r\nThe fourth season promises to be exciting, with Balakrishna\'s engaging hosting skills and the possibility of Chiranjeevi gracing the finale episode. Fans eagerly await the new season, curious to see what the makers have in store.