Category: Bollywood

Aamir Khan’s latest film, “Sitaare Zameen Par,” has made history by becoming the first Indian movie to be fully accessible to audiences with visual, hearing, or speech impairments, grossing over ₹200 crore worldwide.

Aamir Khan’s “Sitaare Zameen Par” has taken the box office by storm and reached a diverse audience, earning a place among the highest-grossing films of 2025. Heralded as the spiritual sequel to the critically acclaimed “Taare Zameen Par,” this film has marked a pivotal moment in Indian cinema by grossing over ₹200 crore worldwide, according to industry tracker Sacnilk.

Released on June 20, 2025, “Sitaare Zameen Par” stands out not just financially but also in its pioneering approach to inclusivity. The film has been crafted with closed captions, audio descriptions, and Indian Sign Language (ISL), ensuring it can be thoroughly enjoyed by viewers with disabilities. This achievement highlights Aamir Khan’s vision to create a film experience that transcends traditional barriers, offering accessibility to a wider demographic.

The movie’s impressive accessibility features have set a new benchmark in an industry where such inclusive practices have been limited. While international films often incorporate various accessibility tools, “Sitaare Zameen Par” is a trailblazer in Indian cinema for its integration of ISL. This has been facilitated through the innovative use of the XL Cinema app, which synchronizes with the audio track in theaters and provides real-time interpretation for deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences.

The XL Cinema app allows users to access an ISL interpreter directly on their mobile devices, enhancing the viewing experience for those with hearing impairments. By providing closed captions and detailed audio cues, it ensures that essential elements of the storyline and ambient audio are communicated effectively, thereby bringing a richer, more engaging cinematic experience to all viewers regardless of their sensory capabilities.

Aamir Khan’s dedication to inclusivity in “Sitaare Zameen Par” illustrates a significant step forward in making entertainment accessible and enjoyable for everyone. With this film, the Indian film industry not only acknowledges the diverse needs of its audience but also sets a global example of how cinema can cater to all kinds of people, bridging gaps in understanding and enjoyment through thoughtful inclusivity.

Kannappa is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Telugu films following the recent success of Kuberaa. The historical drama is not only notable for its grand scale and big names but also for a rare cinematic occurrence — three generations of the Mohan Babu family will be appearing in key roles. Spearheaded by Vishnu Manchu, who is both the lead actor and the producer, the film boasts a star-studded cast, including South Indian superstars Prabhas and Mohanlal, as well as Bollywood’s Akshay Kumar, who takes on the divine role of Lord Shiva.

Scheduled for release on June 27, 2025, Kannappa is a big-budget production that carries significant emotional and cinematic weight. One of the most remarkable elements of the film is its inclusion of multiple generations from a single film family — a rarity in Indian cinema. Leading the charge is Manchu Mohan Babu, a legendary actor in Telugu film history, who plays a powerful and pivotal priest in the story. His son, Vishnu Manchu, is cast in the title role of Kannappa, the central character around whom the film revolves.

The next generation of the Mohan Babu family is also making a splash in this project. Vishnu Manchu’s twin daughters, Ariana and Viviana, have lent their voices to a song in the film and will also make brief on-screen appearances in cameo roles. In addition, Vishnu’s young son, Avram Manchu, will portray the childhood version of Kannappa, allowing the audience to witness the character’s journey from a young age. Rounding out the familial presence is Vishnu’s daughter, Arya Vidya, who is also set to make a special appearance.

This multi-generational involvement adds a unique layer of intimacy and depth to the film. In an interview, Vishnu Manchu discussed his decision to bring his family into the project, highlighting that the narrative provided a natural opportunity to include them. “Kannappa had a good scope to include three generations of my family in the film, and I did not think twice before making everyone act in the movie,” he stated.

Such a combination of three generations in one film is highly unusual and marks a rare moment in Indian cinema. The last time something similar occurred in Telugu films was with the critically acclaimed and commercially successful Manam. That film starred three generations of the Akkineni family — the iconic Akkineni Nageswara Rao, his son Nagarjuna, and grandson Naga Chaitanya — all of whom played significant roles. Manam was widely celebrated not just for its emotional storytelling but also for bringing together a lineage of talent in a meaningful way.

Kannappa aims to replicate that magic while carving out its own legacy. With a production budget exceeding ₹150 crore, the film is being crafted on an epic scale. Apart from the central family members, the cast features a host of prominent names from Indian cinema. Mukesh Rishi, known for his strong screen presence, will be seen in a key supporting role. Veteran actors Sarath Kumar and Madhoo bring their years of experience to the ensemble, while popular actress Kajal Aggarwal adds star value. Comedian Brahmanandam, a beloved figure in Telugu cinema, will also feature, likely providing some comic relief in this otherwise intense narrative.

The music, an essential component of any Indian film, is composed by Stephen Devassy, who has crafted the film’s score to match the grandeur of the storyline. The runtime has been finalized at 182 minutes, suggesting an expansive and layered narrative that takes its time in unfolding.

Kannappa, both as a cinematic offering and as a family collaboration, is clearly a labor of love for Vishnu Manchu. The film tells the story of a legendary devotee of Lord Shiva, and the actor-producer appears to have invested not just money but heart into every frame. With its spiritual overtones, historical setting, and mythological depth, the film is expected to strike a chord with audiences across generations.

Adding to its wide appeal is the strategic casting of actors from across India. Akshay Kumar, playing the role of Lord Shiva, brings a pan-Indian appeal and is likely to draw in North Indian audiences. Meanwhile, the presence of Malayalam superstar Mohanlal and Telugu icon Prabhas ensures that the film commands attention in the South. The multilingual cast serves as a strong signal that Kannappa is being positioned not just as a regional release, but as a film with national, and potentially international, ambitions.

While much of the film’s plot remains under wraps, the combination of historical fiction, devotional elements, and family drama is expected to be a compelling mix. The personal investment of the Manchu family, combined with the rich storytelling tradition of Telugu cinema, sets the stage for a film that is as much a cultural event as it is a movie.

Kannappa is more than just a big-budget Telugu film. It is a project that brings together generations of cinematic legacy, star power from various industries, and a deeply rooted mythological tale. With the emotional draw of a family acting together and the production values to support its grand vision, Kannappa is gearing up to be one of the landmark films of 2025. As the release date draws closer, expectations continue to rise for what promises to be a film rich in both substance and spectacle.

Kuberaa has taken the Telugu film industry by storm, receiving glowing praise from both critics and audiences alike. In recent memory, very few Telugu films have enjoyed such unanimous approval. This wave of acclaim is largely attributed to the expert direction of Sekhar Kammula and the powerful performances delivered by lead actors Dhanush, Nagarjuna, and Rashmika Mandanna.

The film has emerged as a cinematic success story, with its narrative and performances resonating deeply with viewers. At a time when the Telugu film landscape is constantly evolving, Kuberaa has managed to strike a chord across a broad spectrum of moviegoers, making it one of the most appreciated films in recent times.

Celebrating this triumph, a grand success event was held in Hyderabad last night. The highlight of the evening was the presence of Megastar Chiranjeevi, who attended as the chief guest. During his speech, Chiranjeevi didn’t hold back in expressing his admiration for the film, especially for Dhanush’s portrayal of the central character Deva.

In a moment that quickly captured public attention, Chiranjeevi lavished praise on Dhanush’s performance, noting the exceptional depth and nuance the actor brought to the role. He stated with conviction, “No one could have portrayed the role of Deva with such perfection, not even myself.” This remark drew cheers from the audience and underscored the level of respect and recognition Dhanush has garnered for his role.

Further amplifying his praise, Chiranjeevi added that Dhanush is deserving of the prestigious National Award for his work in Kuberaa. His exact words were, “If he doesn’t receive it, then those awards lose their meaning.” This bold and candid endorsement made in front of a live crowd swiftly became a hot topic of discussion both in the media and among fans online. It is rare for a veteran like Chiranjeevi to be so openly appreciative of another actor’s performance, making his comments all the more significant.

The film Kuberaa also benefits from a robust ensemble cast that includes acclaimed actors such as Jim Sarbh and Sayaji Shinde, who play pivotal roles. Their contributions add further depth and complexity to the storyline, complementing the work of the lead trio. These performances have been praised for their intensity and authenticity, enhancing the overall impact of the film.

Kuberaa is a product of the combined efforts of two production houses—Sree Venkateswara Cinemas LLP and Amigos Creations. Both banners have supported director Sekhar Kammula’s vision with significant backing, allowing him to execute a story that is both emotionally stirring and visually compelling. Known for his ability to bring out the best in actors and craft meaningful narratives, Kammula has once again proven his mettle with Kuberaa.

Another major factor contributing to the film’s positive reception is its music. The film’s soundtrack and background score are composed by Devi Sri Prasad, one of the most celebrated music directors in the Telugu film industry. His compositions for Kuberaa have been described as both haunting and powerful, aligning seamlessly with the film’s emotional arcs and dramatic beats. The music not only supports the narrative but elevates it, creating a memorable auditory experience for the audience.

With such strong elements working in its favor—compelling direction, a talented cast, and an evocative musical score—Kuberaa has positioned itself as a major contender in the Telugu film scene this year. The early reviews have been nothing short of glowing, with critics praising the film for its balanced storytelling, striking visuals, and powerful performances. Many have already begun predicting that Kuberaa could sweep multiple award categories in the months to come.

Now, all eyes are set on the box office. Given the initial reception, there is considerable anticipation surrounding how Kuberaa will perform commercially. While artistic and critical success is already secured, a strong box office performance would further cement the film’s status as one of the year’s standout releases. Industry analysts are closely monitoring its ticket sales and occupancy rates across various centers, both domestic and overseas.

The positive word-of-mouth and star power associated with the film are expected to drive consistent footfalls in theaters in the coming days. The combination of an emotionally engaging story, technical finesse, and stellar performances is proving to be a winning formula, and Kuberaa is riding high on that momentum.

Meanwhile, fans and cinema lovers continue to engage in discussions online, sharing their admiration for the characters, the storyline, and most notably, Dhanush’s performance. Social media platforms are abuzz with clips, reviews, and reactions, further fueling the film’s popularity. The buzz created by Chiranjeevi’s bold statement about Dhanush deserving a National Award has only amplified the conversation, bringing the film to the attention of an even wider audience.

The presence of a legend like Nagarjuna, the charm of Rashmika Mandanna, the versatility of Dhanush, and the creativity of Sekhar Kammula all combine to make Kuberaa a compelling cinematic experience. Each actor has brought something unique to the table, contributing to a well-rounded and emotionally resonant film. Nagarjuna’s mature and seasoned portrayal, Rashmika’s expressive performance, and Dhanush’s intense transformation into Deva have particularly stood out.

As the film continues its theatrical run, its impact is expected to grow, not only through box office numbers but also through cultural resonance. Kuberaa seems poised to be remembered not just as a commercial hit but also as a film that set a new standard for performance-driven narratives in Telugu cinema.

With accolades pouring in and conversations surrounding its excellence gaining traction, Kuberaa has undoubtedly made its mark. As updates on its box office journey unfold, one thing is certain—Kuberaa is not just a film; it’s an experience that has touched both the heart and the mind of its audience.

Kuberaa, featuring Dhanush, Nagarjuna, and Rashmika Mandanna, was among the most eagerly awaited films of the year. The film has managed to garner significant attention with its day one box office performance and favorable audience response. As per a report on Sacnilk.com, the film opened with collections amounting to ₹13 crore on its first day, which sets a strong, if slightly modest, beginning for its theatrical journey.

According to early estimates, Sekhar Kammula’s directorial venture Kuberaa has made ₹13 crore on its opening day. This collection is slightly lower compared to Dhanush’s previous theatrical release, Raayan, which had a more robust debut with ₹15.7 crore. While Kuberaa’s start is commendable, especially given the competitive box office climate, it falls short of surpassing the benchmark set by Raayan.

The film enjoyed considerable interest from the Telugu-speaking audience, with an overall Telugu occupancy rate of 57.36% on Friday. The morning shows began on a somewhat moderate note with an occupancy of 38.94%, but the trend improved over the day. Afternoon shows saw occupancy rise to 54.58%, and by the evening, it climbed further to 57.04%. These figures indicate growing interest and word-of-mouth momentum that could help the film during the weekend.

Positive reception from audiences seems to be working in Kuberaa’s favor. Reviews have especially highlighted Dhanush’s compelling performance. His portrayal in the film has received special appreciation, which is expected to boost ticket sales in the coming days. The momentum is likely to continue into the weekend, although it will face competition, particularly in the Hindi-speaking belt, from the film Sitaare Zameen Par.

Kuberaa is backed by Suniel Narang and Puskur Rammohan Rao of Amigos Creations. Besides Dhanush, the film also features performances from Nagarjuna, Rashmika Mandanna, and Jim Sarbh. Helmed by Shekhar K, the film brings together an ensemble cast and is positioned as a pan-India release.

On the day of release, Dhanush and his son Linga decided to watch the movie at the first day, first show screening at Rohini Silver Screens in Chennai. The atmosphere at the theater was electric, and Dhanush appeared visibly emotional in response to the overwhelming warmth from fans. In one video that surfaced online, the actor was seen getting teary-eyed as the audience erupted in cheers upon his arrival. Fans were seen climbing walls to catch a glimpse of him, with many attempting to shake hands with the star. The chaotic crowd led to security stepping in to manage the situation and urging fans to climb down.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) cleared Kuberaa for a pan-India release with a UA certificate. However, this approval came after the filmmakers agreed to make several changes. A total of 19 scenes were trimmed from the original version, reducing the film’s duration by 13 minutes and 41 seconds. This kind of censorship is not unusual for big-ticket Indian films that aim to appeal to a broader audience base, but it does suggest some sensitivity in the original cut that needed adjustment.

Despite the edits, Kuberaa has struck a chord with the audience, largely thanks to its lead actor’s emotional performance and the strong storytelling by Sekhar Kammula. While it’s too early to predict the film’s long-term box office trajectory, the opening day signals a solid start bolstered by fan enthusiasm and critical praise.

If the positive buzz continues, Kuberaa may well emerge as one of the more successful releases of the year, particularly in the Telugu market. Its performance over the weekend will provide a clearer picture of its staying power, especially with competition from Hindi releases.

The makers will likely be banking on word-of-mouth to maintain steady footfall in cinemas. Dhanush’s connection with his audience, as evidenced by his emotional reaction during the premiere screening, could play a vital role in drawing repeat viewers and encouraging those on the fence to give the film a chance.

In summary, Kuberaa’s day one performance at ₹13 crore places it on a firm, if slightly cautious, path toward commercial success. While it has not matched the opening of Dhanush’s Raayan, the film’s increasing occupancy through the day, positive audience feedback, and enthusiastic fan response suggest a promising run ahead. As the weekend progresses, the true test for Kuberaa will lie in how well it can sustain this early momentum amid stiff box office competition.

As it stands, Kuberaa is off to a solid start, with the team and fans alike hopeful that the journey ahead will only get stronger.