“The Sound of Music Child Star Reveals Cast’s 60-Year Friendship Secret”

The former child stars of “The Sound of Music,” who have maintained a friendship spanning 60 years, recently reunited in Florence, Italy.

Kym Karath, known for her role as the youngest von Trapp sibling, Gretl, shared snapshots on Instagram showcasing a joyful reunion with her on-screen siblings. Surrounded by bottles of wine, the group included Nicholas Hammond, 75, who portrayed Friedrich; Duane Chase, 74, who played Kurt; Angela Cartwright, 72, known as Brigitta; and Debbie Turner, 68, who portrayed Marta.

While the reunion was filled with joy, it was also bittersweet due to the absence of Heather Menzies-Urich (Louisa) and Charmian Carr (Liesl), who passed away in 2017 and 2016, respectively. Christopher Plummer, who famously played Captain von Trapp, died in 2021.

“Celebrating together in Florence with all my film siblings was a complete delight,” Karath expressed to Fox News Digital.

The cast gathered in Florence’s historic Teatro Niccolini. Karath noted the city’s beauty and the warmth of the fans and press, exclaiming, “The press was wonderful, and the fans were overwhelmingly warm and enthusiastic.”

Reflecting on their long-standing friendship, Karath shared, “I think the secret behind our friendship is the secret of all enduring friendships, although ours began at a film studio; staying close, loyal, and being there for one another.”

The lasting charm of “The Sound of Music,” which premiered on March 2, 1965, is attributed to its portrayal of a real family and their courage. The film, an Oscar winner inspired by the von Trapp family’s true story, follows a governess and her impact on the family she cares for amidst the backdrop of the Nazi regime.

“Here is a little-known fact – the film family is friends with the real family,” Karath remarked. She mentioned her friendship with Elizabeth von Trapp and the unique bond that existed between Duane Chase and Werner von Trapp.

The cast’s reunion in Italy was not just for nostalgia. “We are currently working on a documentary and filmed [it] while we were in Florence together!” Karath revealed, hinting at a project that fans can look forward to.

Karath’s career began serendipitously when she was discovered at age three while enjoying a cheeseburger in her father’s restaurant in California. However, her fame soared with “The Sound of Music,” which sparked her lifelong love for Europe and history. She fondly remembers the camaraderie among the cast in Salzburg, Austria, noting that the group truly became a family.

Julie Andrews, who played Maria, quickly formed a remarkable bond with the child actors. Now 86, Andrews’ kindness and talent left a lasting impression on Karath, who described her as “a gift.”

Karath recalled, “There is never a bad moment with Julie Andrews – never. She’s just the sweetest, most unbelievable, talented, brilliant human.” One cherished memory is when Andrews entertained the children between scenes by strumming her guitar and singing with them.

In contrast, Karath’s early impressions of Plummer were mixed. “At the time, he was kind of standoffish,” she said, reflecting on her five-year-old perspective. However, her views softened over the years.

As the cast members continue to hold onto their shared memories and strong bond, their story profoundly resonates with audiences, further solidifying the timelessness of “The Sound of Music.”

Mohanlal Steps Down; Boban, Vijayaraghavan Lead 2025 AMMA Election

The Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) is set to undergo a significant leadership transition as superstar Mohanlal steps down as president, with Kunchacko Boban and Vijayaraghavan emerging as frontrunners for the position.

The AMMA, which represents actors in the Malayalam film industry, is preparing for a pivotal leadership change with current president Mohanlal announcing he will not seek re-election. This decision has ignited excitement and speculation within the industry as new candidates emerge. The upcoming elections are scheduled for August 15, 2025, with preparations already underway.

Nominations for the election, which began on July 17, will decide 17 key positions, including six officer roles and eleven executive committee seats. The opening of the nomination window has generated significant interest, with at least five members collecting nomination forms on the first day and over 30 members expected to compete for various posts.

With Mohanlal stepping aside, the focus has turned to two prominent actors: Kunchacko Boban, representing the younger generation of actors, and veteran Vijayaraghavan, who has considerable support from senior artists. Sources close to AMMA suggest that should Vijayaraghavan officially declare his candidacy, he may secure an uncontested victory, given the respect he commands among peers.

The post of general secretary has also attracted interest, with actor Baburaj preparing to file his nomination. Rumors suggest that actress Shwetha Menon, a former AMMA officeholder and seen as a formidable female candidate, may also join the race, although her participation remains unconfirmed. Many are keenly observing whether she will officially enter the contest.

Several well-known figures, including former executive members such as Tovino Thomas, Tini Tom, Vinu Mohan, Kalabhavan Shajohn, Jayan Cherthala, and Suresh Krishna, are expected to contest in the elections. Their involvement indicates active engagement from both senior and younger actors in shaping AMMA’s future leadership.

Candidates wishing to contest in the election have until July 24 to submit their nominations. As voting day approaches, the coming weeks are anticipated to reveal more contenders. This election is expected to herald a new era for AMMA, bringing fresh direction and energy, as all eyes focus on who will succeed Mohanlal as president.

In his final acting endeavor before stepping down, Mohanlal was featured in the crime thriller ‘Thudarum,’ directed by Tharun Moorthy. He portrayed Shanmugham “Benz,” a challenging role met with acclaim for its compelling narrative and strong performances, including Mohanlal’s own.

Source: Original article

Mohanlal’s Film ‘Swapnamalika’ Finally Set for Release

After a 16-year delay, “Swapnamalika,” the first film penned by Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, is set for a theatrical release this October.

After languishing in post-production limbo for more than a decade and a half, “Swapnamalika” is finally poised to make its debut on the big screen. Directed by the late Adv K A Devarajan, the film stars Mohanlal, who also wrote the original story. Completed in the early 2000s but beset by numerous setbacks, the film is expected to resonate with audiences this October.

The storyline of “Swapnamalika” is based on “Tharpanam,” a short story written by Mohanlal. Screenplay adaptation was handled by S Suresh Babu, ensuring that the emotional depth and complexity of the original narrative are vividly brought to life. The film initially generated significant excitement upon production, only to be shelved due to unforeseen issues after filming wrapped.

In the movie, Mohanlal takes on the role of Dr. Appu Nair, an oncologist traveling to Varanasi on a poignant mission to immerse his father’s ashes. During his journey, Dr. Nair encounters Radha Carmel, a foreigner played by Israeli actress Eleena. This meeting and the evolving events form the crux of the narrative, promising an emotional exploration of themes like grief and cross-cultural connection.

The film’s cast also features some of the stalwarts of Indian cinema, including the late Thilakan, Innocent, and Sukumari, along with Urmila Unni, Kottayam Nazeer, Saju Kodiyan, Kulappulli Leela, Shivani, and Vidya, among others. The music, composed by Rajamani and Jayakishan, is set to complementary lyrics written by Aparna, daughter of the late director Devarajan.

The path to this release has been fraught with challenges, involving script revisions and other disputes that indefinitely stalled its progress. Unfortunately, the director, Devarajan, passed away in April of the previous year, unable to witness the premiere of his long-awaited project.

Despite these hurdles, “Swapnamalika” offers fans an opportunity to appreciate Mohanlal’s unique storytelling and artistic vision, presenting a film that seemed destined to remain a lost piece of cinematic history.

For an audience that has waited so long, the release of “Swapnamalika” marks a significant cultural moment and a return to a project that had risked fading away over the years.

According to Mathrubhumi, the impending release brings a sense of closure to a project that has been deeply anticipated by fans and cinephiles alike.

Source: Original article

Pre-Release Screening of ‘The Bengal Files’ in New Jersey

Filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri’s latest historical drama, “The Bengal Files,” offers a gripping portrayal of Bengal’s past and invites audiences in New Jersey for an exclusive pre-release screening and interaction with the filmmakers.

The renowned filmmaker behind “The Kashmir Files,” Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, alongside actress Pallavi Joshi, presents another thought-provoking film, “The Bengal Files,” which delves into the lesser-known chapters of Bengal’s history. This compelling film, already generating significant anticipation, is set to captivate audiences with its powerful narrative and historical revelations.

The pre-release screening of “The Bengal Files” promises to be a unique experience for attendees, providing them not only the opportunity to be among the first to see the film but also to engage in a live Q&A session. Filmmakers Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri and Pallavi Joshi will be present to discuss the creative process behind their latest project, answer questions, and interact with the audience.

This exclusive event is organized by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), the Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora (GKPD), and the I am Buddha Foundation, providing a platform for film enthusiasts to connect with the creators and delve deeper into the film’s themes.

The screening will take place at AMC New Brunswick 18, located at 17 US-1, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901. Following the film, a dinner will be held at Royal Albert’s Palace, situated at 1050 King Georges Post Rd., Fords, NJ, 08863, offering further opportunities for attendees to discuss the film and its impact.

As seating is limited, interested individuals are encouraged to secure their tickets promptly to ensure they do not miss this rare cinematic experience.

According to Eventbrite, this event provides a significant opportunity to witness an epic drama expected to leave audiences both enlightened and contemplative.

Source: Original article

A.R. Rahman to Score Music for S.J. Suryah’s ‘Killer’ Film

Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman will score the music for “Killer,” marking the highly anticipated directorial comeback of renowned Tamil filmmaker and actor S.J. Suryah.

CHENNAI — Renowned composer A.R. Rahman, known for his Academy Award-winning music, has officially joined the team of “Killer,” the eagerly awaited directorial return of celebrated Tamil filmmaker S.J. Suryah. Suryah announced the collaboration on Monday, expressing his excitement and highlighting Rahman’s participation as a significant enhancement to the project.

The filmmaker took to his X (formerly Twitter) account to share photos with the legendary composer, writing: “Yah, it’s none other than our Isai Puyal (musical storm), the musical legend, Indian pride, our one and only @arrahman sir. Sirrrr welcome on board sir. Immensely happy joining you again sir. #Killer”

“Killer” marks S.J. Suryah’s return to directing after finding success in recent years as an actor. Earlier on X, he described the film as his dream project, expressing joy about his return to the director’s chair. “Hi folks, your director S.J. Suryah is back with his dream project titled, yeah you know it — #KILLER. Feeling blessed and happy to collaborate with the prestigious @GokulamMovies and Gokulam Gopalan sir. Need your love and support as always. Love you all,” he posted.

The film is being produced by Sree Gokulam Movies, a noted production house within the Malayalam film industry. It will feature actress Preethi Asrani, known for her acclaimed performance in the Tamil film “Ayothya,” in a lead role.

Industry insiders describe “Killer” as a stylish action-drama about the life of a hitman, incorporating elements of action, comedy, and romance. The story reportedly took shape during the COVID-19 lockdown, written by Suryah himself, adding a personal touch to the project.

While much of “Killer” will be filmed in India, key scenes are planned to be shot in Mexico to enhance its international appeal. The film is intended as a pan-Indian release, aiming to reach a broad audience by being made in five languages.

With A.R. Rahman on board, S.J. Suryah’s return to directing is set to be one of the most anticipated releases on the Indian cinematic scene, according to IANS.

Source: Original article

Docu-Drama on Biscuit King Rajan Pillai Underway

Filmmakers Sanjeev Sivan and Deepthi Pillay have embarked on a feature docu-drama exploring the compelling life story of Rajan Pillai, famously known as the ‘Biscuit King’ of Kerala.

Rajan Pillai’s life and legacy, marked by both success and controversy, are set to be chronicled in a new feature docu-drama by filmmaker Sanjeev Sivan and his wife, Deepthi Pillay. Pillai, a renowned businessman, remains a figure of fascination, known for his meteoric rise and tragic fall.

Sanjeev Sivan, who hails from the same region as Pillai, spoke with IANS about the project. Although he never met Rajan Pillai personally, Sanjeev was deeply influenced by Pillai’s reputation during his formative years. “He was what most young Malayalis of our generation aspired to become,” Sanjeev said, describing Pillai as an emblem of success and vision. The filmmaker’s connection to Pillai’s family extends through his own father, Sivan, a celebrated filmmaker who was a close friend of Rajan’s father, Janardhan Pillai.

Rajan Pillai’s story is one of transformation and ambition. He started as a cashew exporter, eventually becoming a key player in Britannia, a major name in the food industry that brought immense pride to Kerala. However, Sanjeev notes that Pillai’s trusting nature played a significant role in his downfall, describing it as his most fatal flaw.

The Sivan family is steeped in cinematic heritage; Sanjeev’s father was a National Award-winning filmmaker, while his brother, Santosh Sivan, is a celebrated cinematographer. Another brother, the late Sangeeth Sivan, was a noted director.

The docu-drama stems from exhaustive research undertaken by Sanjeev, Deepthi, and writer-researcher Anirban Bhattacharya. To craft the narrative, they have enlisted top international talent, including Zach Sklar, known for scripting Oliver Stone’s Oscar-winning film JFK.

A critical part of the film’s preparation involved connecting with Rajan Pillai’s widow, Nina Pillai, and their sons, Shiva and Krish. Sanjeev acknowledged that gaining the family’s trust was a significant hurdle. Nevertheless, the encounter became a pivotal moment, revealing untold stories and hidden aspects of Pillai’s life. “Nina now trusts us fully — we’re like family,” Sanjeev remarked, emphasizing their commitment to unveiling the true narrative of Rajan Pillai’s life.

The filmmakers aim to portray not only the triumphs of Rajan’s life but also the elements of trust and betrayal that led to his downfall. “His story is shrouded in mystery, but we’re determined to bring it all to light,” Sanjeev said. He views the project as not only a tribute to Rajan Pillai but also as a cautionary tale rich with lessons about misplaced trust and political manipulation.

As work on the feature docu-drama progresses, Sanjeev Sivan and his team are dedicated to presenting a comprehensive account of Rajan Pillai’s life. “This is the least I can do for a man who inspired an entire generation of Keralites to dream big,” Sanjeev stated, underscoring the importance of preserving and examining this remarkable figure’s legacy for future generations.

According to World Malayalee Voice.

Source: Original article

Karisma Kapoor Interested in Malayalam Cinema Collaboration

Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor has voiced her admiration for the Malayalam film industry, expressing a desire to be part of its storytelling legacy.

During a visit to Kerala in 2024 for an inauguration event, Bollywood luminary Karisma Kapoor shared her deep appreciation for the Malayalam film industry. Known for its rich storytelling and exceptional talent, the Malayalam cinema has captivated audiences, and Kapoor is no exception in her admiration.

Speaking to the press, Kapoor remarked on the remarkable talent and brilliant scripts the regional industry produces, citing her hope to one day work in a South Indian film. Despite her successful Bollywood career, she expressed a wistful longing to explore Malayalam cinema.

“I have come to Kerala before. I’ve done some shooting here many years ago,” Kapoor said warmly, addressing the local press at the event. “Malayalam cinema is absolutely fantastic. There’s such great talent here, and the scripts are brilliant. I never had the opportunity to work in a South Indian film… but maybe someday. I’d love to be a part of it.”

Karisma further emphasized her admiration for the industry, highlighting the incredible abundance of talent, saying, “There’s so much talent out here, which is amazing. We love to see all our cinemas converge together.”

The actress’s praise extended to Malayalam legends Mammootty and Mohanlal, whom she acknowledged with great respect and admiration. “Kya bole… Itni great legends hain woh. God bless everyone — such great talent,” she expressed, leaving no doubt about her genuine admiration for these iconic figures in Malayalam cinema.

Her enthusiastic words reflect a broader appreciation for the collaborative and innovatively creative space that regional cinema like Malayalam offers to artists and audiences alike.

Source: Original article

Drishyam 3 Confirmed: Mohanlal and Jeethu Joseph Set to Continue the Thriller Saga

After a long wait, director Jeethu Joseph is returning with the next chapter in the Drishyam series.

On Thursday, actor Mohanlal delighted his fans by announcing on social media that Drishyam 3 is in development. The first installment of the Malayalam thriller, Drishyam, was released in 2013. After a break, its sequel, Drishyam 2, followed in 2021.

To make the announcement, Mohanlal shared a picture of himself with director Jeethu Joseph and producer Antony Perumbavoor. All three were dressed in matching black shirts and posed happily for the camera. Alongside the image, he wrote, “The past never stays silent. Drishyam 3 confirmed.”

Fans Celebrate Drishyam 3 Announcement

As soon as Mohanlal’s post surfaced online, fans expressed their excitement across social media platforms. One user referred to the trio as “The OG,” while another commented, “He’s coming again.” Another enthusiastic fan wrote on X, “The suspense continues! Can’t wait to see how the Drishyam saga unfolds.”

Drishyam’s Widespread Popularity

Drishyam has been a massive success across India, inspiring remakes in multiple languages. The original 2013 Malayalam film starred Mohanlal, Meena, Ansiba Hassan, and Esther Anil in key roles.

Following its success, the film was remade in Telugu as Drushyam and in Kannada as Drishya in 2014. In 2015, it was adapted into Tamil as Papanasam and into Hindi under the same title, Drishyam. The popularity of the film extended beyond India, leading to Sinhalese and Chinese versions titled Withanage and The Witness, respectively.

The sequel, Drishyam 2, also garnered significant acclaim. It was subsequently remade in Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada, with leading actors like Ajay Devgn, Venkatesh, Kamal Haasan, and Ravichandran stepping into Mohanlal’s iconic role. An English adaptation of the film is also in the works.

Director Jeethu Joseph Speaks About Drishyam 3

Discussing the upcoming third installment, Jeethu Joseph shared insights during an interview with RedFM in Malayalam. He explained, “When I made Drishyam in 2013, I did not have a plan for a sequel. It took me five years to zero in on an idea. I had problems in one particular area in the film. Similarly, I am stuck in cracking a certain area in Drishyam 3. I know how to end the movie, but I’m clueless about other areas. The climax of Drishyam 3 is already in my head. I narrated it to Mohanlal Sir, and he liked it as well. But, I want to crack that one area.”

With Jeethu Joseph working through the storyline and Mohanlal returning to lead the film, expectations for Drishyam 3 are already running high. Fans eagerly await to see how the next chapter unfolds in this gripping thriller series.

Chhaava’s OTT Release: Vicky Kaushal’s Historical Drama Set to Premiere on Netflix

The Bollywood film Chhaava, featuring Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna, is gearing up for its OTT release. The movie, which presents a gripping historical drama based on the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, has captured significant attention since its theatrical debut. With an expected release on Netflix, audiences will soon be able to witness this epic tale from the comfort of their homes.

Chhaava made its theatrical debut on February 14, 2025, earning widespread acclaim from critics and viewers alike. The film’s compelling storytelling and rich historical narrative contributed to its success at the box office. Given its strong performance in theaters, anticipation has been steadily building for its digital release, allowing a broader audience to experience the cinematic grandeur of the movie.

The movie boasts an impressive cast led by Vicky Kaushal, who portrays Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Rashmika Mandanna plays the role of Maharani Yesubai, while Akshaye Khanna takes on the character of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The film’s star-studded lineup enhances its authenticity, making it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas. The performances by the lead actors bring depth to the portrayal of these significant historical figures, adding to the film’s overall impact.

OTT enthusiasts can look forward to watching Chhaava on Netflix, where the film is set to be released. While the exact release date has yet to be confirmed, subscribers can expect the film to arrive on the platform soon. With its gripping storyline and stellar performances, the movie promises to be a compelling watch for global audiences.

Bollywood films typically make their way to OTT platforms within 45 to 60 days after their theatrical release. If Chhaava follows this trend, it is likely to be available for streaming on Netflix by early April 2025. This timeline aligns with recent Bollywood releases that have transitioned from theaters to digital platforms, allowing fans to revisit the film without waiting too long.

The movie draws inspiration from the book Chhaava, which explores the courageous journey of Sambhaji Maharaj and his relentless fight to protect the Maratha empire. Through its historical depth and emotional storytelling, Chhaava offers an immersive cinematic experience, highlighting the valor and resilience of its central characters.

As fans eagerly await the OTT release, Chhaava remains a testament to the power of historical storytelling in Bollywood. The film’s arrival on Netflix will provide an opportunity for a wider audience to appreciate the legacy of Sambhaji Maharaj and the rich history of the Maratha empire.

Akshaye Khanna’s Chilling Portrayal of Aurangzeb in Chhaava Leaves a Lasting Impact

One of the most defining traits of a great actor is their ability to display a wide range of emotions. Another important quality is how well they interact with their co-stars. However, the most compelling sign of an exceptional performer is their capacity to be so convincing in a role that audiences fail to see the actor behind the character.

This was precisely the case while watching Chhaava. As the film ended and the credits rolled, the name Akshaye Khanna appeared on screen, leaving me puzzled. I had completely missed the promotional material that revealed he was portraying the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.

Akshaye Khanna, known for his impressive acting prowess, delivered a subtle yet powerful performance as Aurangzeb, a ruler who valued kingship over kinship and had no hesitation in eliminating family members to retain power. His quiet yet menacing presence was the perfect foil to Vicky Kaushal’s intense and war-driven portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.

Aurangzeb has long been a captivating figure in Indian cinema, much like the Mughal Empire itself. The grandeur of its courts, decorated with intricate ornaments, rich golden and crimson drapes, and vast, lush gardens, has often inspired filmmakers to reimagine this historical period. Over the years, emperors have been depicted in various lights—from the stern and disciplined Akbar in Mughal-e-Azam (1960) to the romantic and visionary Akbar in Jodhaa Akbar (2008).

Chhaava continues this tradition by presenting yet another cinematic perspective on Mughal history, this time centered on one of its most feared emperors. As one of the most controversial figures in Indian history, Aurangzeb has been portrayed in different shades, ranging from a ruthless despot to a calculated strategist.

Several historical dramas have depicted Aurangzeb’s reign, which spanned nearly five decades from 1658 to 1707. He took the throne by imprisoning his father, Shah Jahan, and ordering the execution of his elder brother. In Shyam Benegal’s acclaimed TV series Bharat Ek Khoj (1988), Om Puri gave a remarkable performance as a proud and imperious Aurangzeb, perfectly embodying the character’s complexities.

Actor Ashutosh Rana, who plays Hombirrao Mohite, Sambhaji’s uncle in Chhaava, also took on the role of Aurangzeb in MX Player’s 2021 web series Chhatrasal. This 20-episode historical drama chronicled Maharaja Chhatrasal’s struggle for Bundelkhand, and Rana delivered a chilling performance as a merciless usurper.

Reflecting on the challenges of portraying historical figures, Rana once remarked, “The biggest challenge in playing a historical character is that people have already read about that character and have formed his/her image in their head. An actor never knows of that image, so meeting that expectation of the audience is tough.”

He further elaborated that an actor must capture not only the physical presence of a historical figure but also their emotional, psychological, spiritual, and social dimensions. “All that needs to be done is to get the psyche of a character right,” he explained. Before stepping into Aurangzeb’s shoes, he sought to understand the ruler’s core nature and instincts.

In Marathi television, Yatin Karyekar earned widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Aurangzeb in Swarajya Saudamini Tararani and Raja Shivchhatrapati, proving that the character continues to captivate audiences across different platforms.

In Chhaava, Akshaye Khanna presents Aurangzeb as both formidable and composed. While the film primarily revolves around Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s courage and resilience, Akshaye ensures that Aurangzeb is more than a one-dimensional antagonist. Instead, he captures the emperor’s calculated brutality with a measured performance. His silence alone conveys an overwhelming sense of menace.

Even after leaving the theater, one cannot help but appreciate Akshaye’s ability to emote through facial expressions rather than dialogue, especially when considering the film’s otherwise unimpressive lines. His performance proves that sometimes, less is more.

One particularly chilling moment involves Diana Penty as Zinatunissa, Aurangzeb’s fearless daughter, who delivers a monotonous dialogue about Sambhaji resisting their torture. Meanwhile, Akshaye does something far more powerful—he merely munches on grapes and subtly signals for Sambhaji’s eyes to be targeted next. This quiet but ruthless gesture sends shivers down the spine, making the audience wonder what horrors will unfold next.

Even three centuries after his death, Aurangzeb remains a figure of intrigue in Indian historical dramas, frequently portrayed as a tyrant, a religious zealot, or a ruthless ruler who prioritized power above all else. Many actors have taken on this complex role, yet Akshaye Khanna’s portrayal in Chhaava stands out as one of the most compelling in Indian cinema.

Ironically, Vicky Kaushal was originally set to play Aurangzeb in Karan Johar’s now-shelved film Takht. However, fate had other plans, paving the way for Akshaye Khanna to deliver a masterclass in restraint. His greatest strength lies in his quiet authority, which is evident in Chhaava’s opening sequence. Rather than reacting emotionally to the news of Shivaji Maharaj’s death, Aurangzeb surprises both his courtiers and the audience by coldly declaring state-wide celebrations.

Akshaye’s Aurangzeb lingers in the mind long after the film ends, proving that the most terrifying rulers do not need to shout or rage—they simply need to exist.

Shah Rukh Khan’s Rare Journey with Sequels in His Film Career

Shah Rukh Khan made his debut in the film industry with the 1992 movie Deewana and eventually rose to become the most prominent superstar in Indian cinema.

One distinctive feature of Shah Rukh Khan’s extensive film career is that, despite being in the industry for over three decades, he has appeared in only a handful of remakes and just a single sequel.

At a time when many leading actors are leveraging sequels to deliver major box office successes, Shah Rukh Khan remains one of the few superstars who has taken on only one sequel as a lead actor throughout his career.

That lone sequel came in 2011 when Farhan Akhtar directed him in the heist action thriller Don 2: The King is Back.

Don 2 was a follow-up to the 2006 hit Don: The Chase Begins Again, which itself was an official remake of the 1978 film Don, originally starring Amitabh Bachchan.

Released on December 23, 2011, Don 2 performed well both critically and commercially, achieving box office success with worldwide earnings of Rs 202 crore against a budget of Rs 76 crore.

Although Don 2 remains the only sequel in which Shah Rukh Khan played the lead, he did reprise his role in another sequel—Bhoothnath Returns, released in 2014.

Shah Rukh Khan made a special appearance in the 2008 film Bhoothnath, which featured Amitabh Bachchan in the lead role. In its sequel, Bhoothnath Returns, he reprised his character in a brief cameo, appearing in just one scene, while Amitabh Bachchan once again played the protagonist.

Shah Rukh Khan’s Upcoming Sequel

After a gap of 16 years since Don 2: The King is Back, Shah Rukh Khan is set to return for another sequel—Pathaan 2.

The film will serve as a continuation of his 2023 blockbuster Pathaan and is expected to begin production by the end of 2026.

Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded Version) Dominates Netflix’s Global Charts

Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded Version) has taken the global streaming scene by storm, securing its place on Netflix’s Global Top Ten Films (Non-English) for the second consecutive week. Currently ranked #3 worldwide, the film is trending in 14 countries, amassing an impressive 9.4 million views over two weeks. This milestone underscores the massive reach of the action-packed blockbuster and the electrifying screen presence of its star, Allu Arjun. Available in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali, and English, the film continues to captivate audiences across cultures and languages.

Star-Studded Ensemble and Visionary Filmmaking

Directed by Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers in collaboration with Sukumar Writings, Pushpa 2: The Rule features a powerhouse cast, including Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil, Jagapathi Babu, Sunil, Anasuya Bharadwaj, Rao Ramesh, and Ajay.

Allu Arjun, whose stellar performance has won hearts worldwide, expressed gratitude for the film’s overwhelming success. “The love and adulation for Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded Version) from across the world is truly overwhelming. This film was made with blood, sweat, and heart — and to see it connect with audiences at such a massive scale is beyond gratifying. I am incredibly proud of the film’s success on Netflix. Through the platform, our story is reaching millions across different countries, breaking language and cultural barriers. And I’m deeply grateful to the fans whose unwavering support and excitement continue to fuel this journey,” he shared.

Director Sukumar highlighted how the film builds upon its predecessor’s legacy. “Pushpa: The Rise set the stage for a world and a character that audiences embraced wholeheartedly, and with Pushpa 2: The Rule, we wanted to take that legacy forward in an even bigger, more immersive way. The film’s success on Netflix is a testament to the universal appeal of Indian cinema, and I’m grateful for the love it continues to receive,” he said.

Netflix Celebrates the Blockbuster’s Success

Monika Shergill, Vice President of Content at Netflix India, emphasized the film’s impact. “Pushpa 2: The Rule Continues, India’s biggest blockbuster, is now one of the most-watched films on Netflix. The raw intensity of its characters, combined with the fearless vision of director Sukumar and the teams at Mythri Movie Makers, has set new benchmarks for Indian cinema. We are proud to bring this reloaded edition featuring new scenes that deliver an even more thrilling experience for our audiences. As its influence continues to break boundaries, this reloaded edition stands as a must-watch for our audiences all over the world,” she stated.

A Cultural Phenomenon

With its high-octane action sequences and the now-iconic ‘Jathara’ scene, where Arjun dons a saree, Pushpa 2: The Rule has earned widespread acclaim from both fans and critics. From India to international markets, the film is redefining mass entertainment, proving that the fire of Pushpa’s legacy burns brighter than ever.

Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded Version) is now streaming on Netflix in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali, and English.

Indian Cinema’s Heritage Shines Bright: Shyam Benegal’s ‘Manthan’ Set for Cannes Revival

During the filming of ‘Manthan’ in the remote Gujarat village Sanganva, director Shyam Benegal instructed his actors, including Naseeruddin Shah, Smita Patil, Girish Karnad, and Amrish Puri, to wear the same clothes for the entire 40-45 day shoot, reflecting the locals’ reality of enduring days without bathing due to water scarcity. Benegal humorously remarked, “if they stank, they would stink jointly!”

The 77th Cannes Film Festival, set to take place from May 14-25, presents an Indian showcase with ‘Manthan’ among the eagerly-awaited films. Payal Kapadia’s ‘All We Imagine As Light’ joins the Competition section, marking 30 years since Shaji N Karun’s ‘Swaham,’ bringing a full Indian summer to the Croisette.

Several other Indian entries grace the festival: Sandhya Suri’s ‘Santosh’ in Un Certain Regard, Karan Kandhari’s ‘Sister Midnight’ in the Director’s Fortnight, Maisam Ali’s ‘In Retreat’ in the ACID program, Chidananda Naik’s ‘Sunflowers Were The First To Know’ in La Cinef competition, and ‘The Shameless’ by Bulgarian director Konstantin Bojanov. Additionally, ‘Sauna Day’ directed by Anna Hints and Tushar Prakash features in Critics’ Week.

Beyond screenings, renowned cinematographer Santosh Sivan receives the Pierre Angenieux award and conducts a masterclass, highlighting the diverse talent representing independent Indian cinema.

‘Manthan,’ Benegal’s third feature, portrays a fictionalized account of India’s successful co-operative movement in milk production, commissioned by Dr. Verghese Kurien, the visionary behind Amul. The film garnered National Awards and served as India’s Oscar submission in 1977, embodying the essence of India’s ‘White Revolution.’

Now, ‘Manthan’ receives a grand revival, presented in the Classics Section of the festival in a restored version, much to Benegal’s delight. Despite health reasons preventing his attendance, Benegal’s wife and key cast members, including Naseeruddin Shah and Prateik Babbar, will be present, alongside Nirmala Kurien, daughter of Dr. Verghese Kurien.

The film’s restoration by Shivendra Dungarpur brings it back to its original brilliance, ensuring its legacy endures. Plans are underway for a wide release across India post-Cannes.

Dungarpur, known for his preservation efforts, continues his Cannes streak with ‘Manthan,’ India’s first crowd-funded film, reflecting the communal effort of 500,000 farmers from Kheda district.

Reflecting on the shoot, Benegal fondly recalls the cast’s immersion in village life, despite the challenges, emphasizing their commitment and camaraderie. The experience, though rugged, remains a cherished memory for Benegal, epitomizing their collective achievement.

‘Manthan’ stands as a testament to India’s cinematic heritage, its restoration and Cannes screening symbolizing its enduring impact and relevance.

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