Tollywood

5 days ago

115 views

SS Rajamouli's Varanasi To Be Shorter Than RRR?

Hyderabad, February 13 - Director SS Rajamouli's Varanasi is his most ambitious film yet, and everyone got a glimpse of it when the makers released the first-look teaser in November last year. The nearly 4-minute-long promo showcased Rajamouli's massive vision for the global action-adventure. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Ever since the teaser of Mahesh Babu's starrer dropped, social media has been buzzing with speculation about how long the film would be. Seeing the massive scale, fans believe that it can't be fit into one film, and that Rajamouli might have to split it into two parts or keep it as a super lenghty one part epic. While everyone is speculating multiple parts or a high runtime, Rajamouli seems to have a clear-cut plan to complete the story in one part. What is interesting is that the legendary filmmaker intends to keep the film's theatrical runtime under 3 hours. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) “At this point, I’m assuming @VaranasiMovie run time will be less than 3hour” - @ssrajamouli ▶️ https://t.co/SeOUk2PDRn #MaheshBabu | #Varanasi pic.twitter.com/1tpLtlRQli— VardhanDHFM (@_VardhanDHFM_) February 13, 2026 During an interview with Collider, the Baabubali director said that as things are proceeding, he believes that the final runtime of Varanasi will be less than 3 hours, which will be less than his last film, RRR. Released in 2022, RRR was huge in scale with the official runtime of 3 hours and 2 minutes, and to have a shorter runtime than the last film for the upcoming film, which is bigger than RRR in terms of everything, is insane. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Of course, a lot of shooting is still pending, and the final runtime might vary, but it is clear that Rajamouli is not looking to expand the film in multiple parts (as of now). When it comes to filmmaking, no one does things better than Rajamouli, but it will be interesting to see how he fits such a massive scale in a film with under 3 hours, while keeping it engaging and the spectacle he is known for. Also starring Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, Varanasi is scheduled to release on April 7, 2027. Stay tuned...

Tollywood

5 days ago

294 views

SS Rajamouli Picks One of The Greatest Cinematic Moments In Varanasi

Hyderabad, February 13 - Director SS Rajamouli has often spoken about cinema transcending realism, and the scene he associates with one of the greatest cinematic moments in Varanasi perfectly reflects that philosophy. During an interview with Collider, the maverick filmmaker picked the moment in the film which he feels is going to be a peak cinematic moment. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The filmmaker was asked at what point he thought of making Varanasi. While he didn't pinpoint an instance which led him to make this global action adventure, he did point out the scene featuring the titular character, Rudra, played by Mahesh Babu. The visual captures a ferocious warrior charging through the ancient city atop a raging bull, with dust, chaos, and towering temples framing the spectacle. It is not designed to depict everyday Varanasi, but its eternal spirit—raw, powerful, and deeply spiritual. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) What elevates this moment into cinematic greatness is its symbolism. The bull instantly evokes Nandi, the sacred mount of Lord Shiva, who is intrinsically linked to Varanasi. By placing his protagonist on the bull, Rajamouli fuses man and epicness into a single visual idea. For Rajamouli, this moment represents cinema at its most elemental—where culture, history, movement, and emotion collide in a single frame. It is the kind of shot that, Rajamouli feel, will remain etched in the audience's memory long after the film ends. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Also starring Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, Varanasi is being filmed for IMAX and is scheduled to release on April 7, 2027, in multiple languages. Stay tuned...

Hollywood

6 days ago

97 views

Priyanka Chopra To Star In Next James Bond Film?

Mumbai, February 12 - Priyanka Chopra is taking giant steps in her career. Having built a successful career both in Indian cinema and Hollywood, the actress might be in line to feature in the next James Bond film, which is in the early stages of development. Over the past few years, Amazon MGM Studio has solidified its relationship with the Indian star, collaborating with her on last year's action thriller Heads of State opposite John Cena and Idris Elba. An internal report of Amazon found that twice as much buzz as her co-stars based on volume, headlines and quoting intensity for Heads of State, which was a big hit on the platform. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Amazon MGM acquired the James Bond franchise a couple of years back, and the next Bond movie will be the first in the franchise to be made under Amazon. According to the report by Variety, the studio is so bullish on the Jamshedpur-born actress, so much so that rumours continue to swirl that she will land somewhere in Bond 26, the tech giant's first foray into the 007 franchise. While Priyanka didn't reveal anything, the actress acknowledged that the James Bond franchise could be truly global now with Amazon having storng distribution network worldwide, be it theatrical or streaming. The actress is curious to see which lane the studi pick for the widely popular franchise. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) At present, the next James Bond film is still in the early stages of development. With Daniel Craig having exited the role after No Time To Die, the makers are yet to officially announce the next actor to play 007, let alone the supporting cast. Casting decisions are being closely guarded by the studio, and no names have been confirmed so far. Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra Jonas returns to Indian cinema with possibly the biggest film of her career, director SS Rajamouli's Varanasi. The global action adventure, headed by Mahesh Babu and also starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, is currently in production for an April 7, 2027, release. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Stay tuned...

Tollywood

12 days ago

90 views

SS Rajamouli's Mega Blockbuster RRR To Be Made In Animation

Hyderabad, February 7 - Director SS Rajamouli is currently working on his next, titled Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran. Touted as a global adventure rooted in Indian culture, Varanasi has been announced for a worldwide release on April 7, 2027, in multiple formats and languages. As the maverick filmmaker is busy making the next Indian phenomenon, his last film, RRR, could also return to the big screens in a new form. Released in 2022, the period action drama opened new markets for Rajamouli and team by becoming one of the biggest Indian grossers ever. Now, the Baahubali director is working to bring the film as an animation. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) During a recent Varanasi promotional interview with Polygon, SS Rajamouli revealed, "We have been in talks with a few studios in Japan to make RRR in anime. So I'm waiting for things to get through. Hopefully it happens, and hopefully we can announce a cool continuation of RRR anime". Rajamouli has become a fan of anime lately, after expressing admiration for animated films like Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan. While work to bring RRR as an anime is ongoing, the director's Baahubali is already in development as an animation for a 2027 release. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Recently, the filmmaker's Baahubali (both parts) re-released as a single part epic, and with this, an animated film, titled Baahubali: The Eternal War, was announced with the epic first look teaser. Directed by Ishan Shukla, the animated film will be released in two parts, with the first part confirmed to hit the big screens in 2027. In the animated movie, the murdered Prince Baahubali enters the afterlife and joins an eternal war between gods and demons across 14 realms. Released in March 2022, RRR stars Jr. NTR and Ram Charan, along with Alia Bhatt, Ajay Devgn, Ray Stevenson, Alison Doody, Olivia Morris, Shriya Saran, and Samuthirakani in key roles. The film was a massive hit at the box office, grossing over 1200 crores worldwide. Stay tuned...

Tollywood

12 days ago

77 views

SS Rajamouli's Dharna for IMAX: How Mahesh Babu's Varanasi Could Finally Bring True 1.43:1 Screens to India

In the world of global cinema, S.S. Rajamouli is no longer just a filmmaker; he is a visionary architect of spectacle. Following the historic global success of RRR, Rajamouli is now setting his sights on a new frontier—one that isn't just about the story on screen, but the screen itself.His upcoming globe-trotting adventure, officially titled Varanasi (formerly #SSMB29), starring Superstar Mahesh Babu, is being positioned as a cultural and technological inflection point for India. During a high-profile interaction, Rajamouli issued a playful yet pointed ultimatum to the tech giants in Los Angeles, sparking a viral conversation about India's theatrical infrastructure. The filmmaker's frustration centers on the lack of True IMAX screens in India—specifically those capable of the immersive 1.43:1 aspect ratio. To emphasize his point, Rajamouli shared a sentiment that has now become the rallying cry for Indian cinephiles: In India, we call something like Dharna that says like if you are not happy with someone we pitch tents outside their office and say we demand some theatre. So I am going to pitch tent outside IMAX in LA and demand them... we need big screens here in India. This isn't just a joke; it is a signal of intent from a director who refuses to let his 1,300-crore vision be compressed into standard formats. The irony of the current situation is hard to ignore. India is already IMAX's 7th largest market, with a staggering footprint growth of nearly 60% since 2020. The audience's appetite for premium large-format experiences is undeniable, yet the infrastructure lags behind the ambition. While most Indian IMAX screens are digital versions on smaller 1.90:1 displays, Rajamouli's Varanasi is being filmed specifically for the towering 1.43:1 format. For a story that spans multiple worlds—from the spiritual ghats of Varanasi to the frozen wastes of Antarctica and even the mythic Treta Yuga—the director insists that only the vertical scale of a True IMAX can do justice to the magnificent visuals. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Perhaps the most stinging irony lies in Hyderabad, the heart of Telugu cinema. Despite producing the country's biggest blockbusters and housing a massive fan base, the city currently lacks a confirmed, top-tier IMAX screen. This gap between the industry's creative ambition and its technical infrastructure is precisely what Varanasi hopes to bridge. With a star-studded cast including Mahesh Babu as the protagonist Rudhra, Priyanka Chopra Jonas as Mandakini, and Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist Kumbha, the film is designed for scale, myth, and immersion. Rajamouli has even noted that for the film's teaser launch, they audaciously built a custom 100-foot by 130-foot screen just to show the footage as intended. The ball is now firmly in the court of Indian exhibitors. IMAX has already responded to Rajamouli's Dharna comment with a clear we're ready, signaling that they are open for business and eager to expand.If Varanasi receives the IMAX treatment it deserves by its April 7, 2027 release, it won't just elevate one film; it will reset the expectations for how Indian blockbusters are experienced. It could finally normalize IMAX-first filmmaking in India, turning it from a premium afterthought into a standard for excellence. As Rajamouli prepares to take his fight to LA, the message is clear: Indian cinema has the vision—it's time for the theaters to provide the canvas.

Bollywood

13 days ago

105 views

Priyanka Chopra To Return For Krrish 4? Here Is What The Actress Has To Say

Mumbai, February 5 - India's international star Priyanka Chopra is all set to make a grand comeback to Indian cinema with director SS Rajamouli's ambitious action adventure Varanasi, fronted by Mahesh Babu and also starring Prithviraj Sukumaran. Varanasi isn't the only Indian film Priyanka is doing. The actress is also part of Farhan Akhtar's Jee Le Zaraa, and she might return to reprise her role in the fourth instalment of the superhero franchise, Krrish. During the interview, Varanasi cast gave after teaser reveal, the actress spoke about her return to Indian cinema and seemingly confirmed Krrish 4. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The interviewer asked the Don actress if she would be part of the upcoming Don 3 and Krrish 4. Instead of giving a clear yes or no, the actress chose to remain tight-lipped, saying that she did not know if she could talk about those projects at all. Her evasive yet playful reply was enough to fuel speculation. Adding to the excitement, Mahesh Babu jokingly reacted to her comment, suggesting that "something is definitely happening," which further amplified the buzz online. Clips of this exchange quickly went viral, with fans interpreting Priyanka's reaction as a subtle hint rather than a denial. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) While there has been no official confirmation from the makers of Krrish 4 or from Hrithik Roshan regarding the cast, a recent report revealed that Hrithik met Priyanka in the US and both discussed the much-awaited film. Reports strongly stated that the actress would be returning to reprise her role as Priya Mehra, and he reaction in the interview had said it all, but confirmed the reports. As for Don 3, the project has currently been put on hold indefinitely after Ranveer Singh, who was cast to play the titular role, exited the film due to reasons known to the makers. Krrish 4, meanwhile, is expected to start shooting sometime this year, though exact timeline is not revealed yet. Stay tuned...

Tollywood

14 days ago

203 views

S.S. Rajamouli's Varanasi: Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Reveal Mind-Bending Plot Details in Global Interview

Following the monumental global success of RRR, visionary director S.S. Rajamouli is set to return with his most ambitious project to date, titled Varanasi. Scheduled for a 2027 release, the film has already ignited a massive conversation across the globe. In a recent high-profile interview with DiscussingFilm, the lead cast—Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran—shared deep insights into the movie's plot, its decade-long development, and the grueling production process that took them into the heart of the African wilderness. The road to Varanasi has been a testament to Rajamouli's unwavering commitment. Mahesh Babu revealed that he has been waiting for this collaboration for over 15 years. He noted that he first met the director long before the Baahubali franchise changed the landscape of Indian cinema. Despite the massive delays caused by Rajamouli's other commitments and the pandemic, the director stuck to his word. Mahesh confessed that when he finally heard the narration after the release of RRR, the sheer scale of the vision was so intimidating that he felt a sense of nervousness, though he has since embraced the challenge of playing the lead role of Rudhra. In terms of plot, Varanasi is described as a high-concept, time-travel action epic. Mahesh Babu portrays Rudhra, a fervent devotee of Lord Shiva, the God of destruction and transformation. The narrative follows Rudhra as he is sent on a perilous mission through time to secure an ancient cosmic artifact. The journey is fraught with danger, as he discovers that he is being hunted by a brilliant but evil mastermind who intends to use the artifact for global domination. This blend of ancient Indian mythology and futuristic sci-fi elements marks a new chapter for Indian cinema, aiming for a truly globetrotting feel. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The primary antagonist, Kumbha, is played by Malayalam superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran, who described the role as the most unpredictable character arc of his career. Kumbha is a technologically advanced villain, characterized by his use of a high-tech wheelchair and Doctor Octopus-esque mechanical arms. Prithviraj highlighted Rajamouli's unique directorial style, noting that despite the humongous visual effects and sets, the director’s priority remains the actor's close-up. He emphasized that Rajamouli pushes his actors out of their comfort zones to ensure an honest and powerful performance, making the villainous Kumbha a truly formidable threat. The production of Varanasi has also broken new ground in terms of filming locations. A significant portion of the movie was shot in Maasai Mara, Kenya, where the cast had unprecedented access to wildlife. Priyanka Chopra Jonas remarked that the support from the Kenyan government allowed the team to film in a way that has rarely been attempted in cinema before, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Mahesh Babu added that the first day of shooting in Africa, surrounded by wild animals, was a memory he would never forget. With a budget estimated to exceed ₹1,000 crore and a release planned for the premium IMAX 1.43:1 format, Varanasi is shaping up to be a historic cinematic event in 2027.

Tollywood

18 days ago

254 views

SS Rajamouli, Mahesh Babu's Varanasi Plot Revealed: A Time-Bending Global Epic

Hyderabad, January 31 - SS Rajamouli's much-anticipated collaboration with Mahesh Babu, titled Varanasi, is shaping up to be a high-concept action-adventure that blends science fiction and large-scale spectacle. Also starring Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, the film has been announced for global release on April 7, 2027. As the anticipation around the film continues to grow, the plot has reportedly been revealed, which offers what the movie is about. According to the core plot, mentioned in Letterboxd, Varanasi revolves around a catastrophic event, when an asteroid strikes the ancient city of Vāranāsi in India, triggering a chain of events that could potentially alter the fate of the entire world. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The asteroid impact is not just a moment of destruction but the starting point of a far bigger mystery. As chaos unfolds, questions arise about whether this incident marks the beginning of the end for humanity. Is Earth heading towards inevitable doom, or is there still a chance to change destiny? The film reportedly explores how this single event becomes a turning point in the history of the planet. "When an asteroid hits the city of Vāranāsi in India, what are the events that it leads to? Is the world about to be doomed? Does it need a saviour who has to traverse across the continents and timelines to influence the most crucial moment in the history of Earth?" says the plot. At the centre of this, Mahesh Babu as Rudra embarks on a globe-spanning and time-bending journey, influencing key moments in Earth's history to ensure survival. This unique blend of time travel and global adventure makes Varanasi one of Rajamouli's most ambitious concepts to date. The film also takes inspiration from one of the key episodes of Ramayana, which is said to be the highlight of the movie. By linking the spiritual significance of Vāranāsi with a global, timeline-altering crisis, the film is expected to deliver a visually spectacular and emotionally charged experience, redefining the scope of Indian cinema on the world stage. Stay tuned...

Tollywood

20 days ago

197 views

Release Date of SS Rajamouli, Mahesh Babu's Varanasi Locked

Mumbai, January 29 - Speculation around director SS Rajamouli's much-anticipated film Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, has intensified after viral hoardings surfaced in the holy city, triggering fresh discussions about the film's release date. Images of the hoardings went viral on social media, instantly catching the attention of fans and trade circles alike, given the massive buzz surrounding the project. The hoardings prominently mention April 7, 2027, a date that has led many to believe that the makers may be subtly hinting at the film's theatrical release, before they officially confirmed the same. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Interestingly, the date coincides with the Ugadi festival period, making it a strategically attractive window for a film of this scale. Earlier trade reports had already pointed towards a Ram Navami 2027 release window, with April being the likely month. Varanasi is touted as one of the biggest Indian films ever made. With expectations already sky-high, even unconfirmed promotional elements like these hoardings are enough to set the internet buzzing, underlining the unparalleled anticipation surrounding the project. Stay tuned...

Tollywood

30 days ago

59 views

Netflix South Unveils a Powerhouse Telugu Slate for 2026: From Nani's Paradise to Pawan Kalyan's Ustaad

Netflix South has officially set the stage for a monumental year in Telugu cinema, pulling back the curtain on its star-studded movie slate for 2026. In what has become an eagerly awaited tradition, the streaming giant has revealed a lineup brimming with the industry's titans, visionary directors, and high-concept narratives that promise to resonate on a global scale. Featuring highly anticipated projects from Megastar Chiranjeevi, Prabhas, and Pawan Kalyan, alongside new-age stars like Nani and Vijay Deverakonda, this announcement signals a golden era for Tollywood on the digital stage. Following their theatrical runs, these films will be available exclusively on Netflix. 1. Peddi – Ram Charan The collaboration between Global Star Ram Charan and director Buchi Babu Sana for Peddi has already achieved pre-release blockbuster status. Netflix secured the digital rights for a record-breaking ₹105–₹130 crore, while T-Series acquired the music rights for ₹35 crore, helping the film recover a massive chunk of its ₹250–₹300 crore budget before its theatrical debut. Set in 1980s rural Andhra Pradesh, the film features Ram Charan in a starkly rugged transformation—complete with a nose ring and heavy beard—playing a villager who uses sports like cricket to defend his community's pride. The film's musical landscape, composed by A.R. Rahman, has already created history; the first single Chikiri Chikiri (a local term for beautiful women) garnered 46 million views in 24 hours and has since surpassed the 200 million mark. Mentored by Sukumar, Buchi Babu Sana has crafted a deeply rooted narrative that blends fictional and real-life rural tales into a high-stakes emotional drama. 2. Adarsha Kutumbam – Venkatesh One of the most significant entries on the slate is Aadarsha Kutumbam House No: 47 (popularly known as AK47), which marks the long-awaited collaboration between veteran actor Venkatesh Daggubati and the Wizard of Words, director Trivikram Srinivas. Moving away from extravagant action spectacles, the film is envisioned as a deeply grounded and relatable family entertainer, as hinted by its intriguing title and first-look materials. Produced by S. Radha Krishna (Chinababu) under the prestigious Haarika & Hassine Creations, the project pairs Venkatesh with Srinidhi Shetty for the first time. The film’s musical landscape is being crafted by Harshavardhan Rameshwar, ensuring a fresh sound for this family drama. Aiming for a grand Summer 2026 theatrical release, AK47 has already finalized its post-theatrical streaming deal with Netflix, making it a key highlight of the year for fans of clean, wholesome cinema. 3. VD14 – Vijay Deverakonda Reuniting after their 2018 hit Taxiwala, Vijay Deverakonda and director Rahul Sankrityan are crafting a massive period epic set against the backdrop of British colonial rule between 1854 and 1878. Rooted in the history of the Rayalaseema region, the film explores an untold story of revolution under the evocative theme, Legend of the Cursed Land. Produced by Mythri Movie Makers on a high-octane budget of approximately ₹100+ crore, the project features Vijay in a rugged, meditating hermit avatar, with the director promising a Vishwaroopam (magnificent) performance that will shock the audience. Adding international flair, South African actor Arnold Vosloo (The Mummy) is reported to play a formidable British officer, while Rashmika Mandanna and the legendary Amitabh Bachchan are strongly linked to pivotal roles. Complemented by a powerful score from renowned composers Ajay-Atul, VD14 stands as a major Pan-India spectacle on the 2026 Netflix roster. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   4. 418 – Charan Lakkaraju Expanding the slate's reach into the suspense and supernatural genre is 418, a high-concept thriller written and directed by Kirtan Nagagouda. The film centers on the chilling mystery of Room 418, anchored by an eerie tagline: Some warnings are not suggestions, and room 418 remembers. Featuring a fresh and talented cast including Charan Lakkaraju, Preethi, Chaitra Achar, and Shree Vaishnav, the movie promises to be a gripping edge-of-the-seat experience that blurs the lines between psychological thriller and horror. Recognizing the universal appeal of its premise, the makers have planned a massive Pan-India release across Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada. Netflix has officially secured the digital streaming rights, ensuring that this atmospheric mystery reaches a global audience shortly after its theatrical run. 5. Biker – Sharwanand Aiming to be India's first authentic motor racing film based on high-octane motocross, Biker is one of the most unique offerings on the Netflix 2026 slate. Directed by Abhilash Reddy Kankara and produced by UV Creations, the film features Sharwanand in a lean, rugged avatar following a significant physical transformation. To maintain racing authenticity, the actor underwent rigorous training on real motocross tracks in Chennai and Coimbatore. The narrative is an ambitious multi-generational sports drama unfolding across two timelines—the early 90s and the 2020s—covering three generations of characters. Adding immense emotional depth to the adrenaline-fueled action is senior actor Dr. Rajasekhar in a pivotal role as Sharwanand's father, alongside a supporting cast including Malavika Nair and Atul Kulkarni. With an intense score by the acclaimed Ghibran, Biker promises a high-speed cinematic experience that will be available on Netflix following its theatrical run. 6. Raakaasa –Sangeeth Shobhan Adding to the diversity of the 2026 slate is Raakaasa, a gripping thriller that headlines the talented Sangeeth Shobhan.The film is being marketed with the intense themes of atyasa (greed) and prateekaram (revenge), promising a dark and layered narrative. Written and directed by Manasa Sharma, who previously garnered acclaim for her work in the OTT space, the project also features writing credits for Mahesh Uppala, marking a reunion of the creative force behind hit digital content. The film boasts a versatile supporting cast including Nayan Sarika, Tanikella Bharani, Ashish Vidyarthi, and Vennela Kishore, with music composed by Anudeep Dev.As one of the key acquisitions for the year, Raakaasa highlights Netflix's commitment to high-quality, character-driven thrillers that push the boundaries of traditional Telugu storytelling. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   7. Production No. 37 – Harsh Roshan Continuing their successful association with Netflix, the prestigious Sithara Entertainments brings Production No. 37, a project that has already sparked curiosity with its eerie yet intriguing tagline: Some roommates don’t knock before entering. The film marks the return of director Kalyan Shankar, who previously delivered the youth-centric blockbuster MAD, suggesting a unique blend of humor and suspense. Starring a fresh and talented pairing of Anna Ben and Harsh Roshan, the movie is produced by Naga Vamsi Suryadevara and Sai Soujanya. As part of the Netflix Pandaga 2026 lineup, the streaming giant has secured the post-theatrical rights for a wide release in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada. With Kalyan Shankar at the helm and a high-profile production value, Production No. 37 is poised to be one of the most exciting genre-bending films of the year. 8. Funky – Vishwak Sen Funky brings together the Mass Ka Das Vishwak Sen and director Anudeep KV, known for the cult classic Jathi Ratnalu. Ensuring a brand of eccentric and witty humor, the film is described as a wacky satire on the film industry, featuring Vishwak Sen as a quirky filmmaker whose career hits a slump, only for his failures to ironically turn into his biggest successes. Kayadu Lohar makes her Telugu debut as the female lead in this project, which is produced by Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya under the prestigious Sitara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas. Initially planned for an earlier release, the film has shifted its theatrical window to February 13, 2026, positioning it as a major Valentine's Day attraction before its exclusive post-theatrical streaming debut on Netflix. 9. Don't Trouble the Trouble:Fahadh Faasil Don't Trouble the Trouble, a fantasy-tinged emotional drama that marks a significant collaboration between celebrated actor Fahadh Faasil and director Shashank Yeleti. Adding a monumental layer of prestige to the project, the film is presented by the legendary SS Rajamouli under the Arka Mediaworks banner. Described as an offbeat story with surreal twists, the narrative reportedly centers on a character named Suri who counts his fortune amidst sirens and screams,hinting at a unique and atmospheric cinematic journey. Following its highly anticipated theatrical run, the film is set for a massive global digital premiere on Netflix, where it will be available in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada. 10. Champion – Roshan Meka Set to be a powerful addition to the sports-drama genre, Champion is a period action film directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Pradeep Advaitham. Starring Roshan Meka and Anaswara Rajan, the movie follows the aspirational journey of a young football player from Secunderabad who dreams of playing in London. Beyond the sporting arena, the film carries immense historical weight, as the narrative is inspired by true incidents involving the Bairanpally village revolt against the Razakars during the Nizam's rule. Produced with a reported budget of ₹40 crore, Champion promises to blend intense patriotism with the grit of competitive athletics. As one of the earliest digital premieres of the year, the film is set to stream on Netflix starting January 23, 2026, and will be available to a wide audience in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   11. Aakasam Lo Oka Tara – Dulquer Salmaan Dulquer Salmaan, who has built a stellar reputation for choosing unique scripts in Telugu cinema, returns with a deeply inspiring narrative in Aakasam Lo Oka Tara. The film tells the poignant story of a village girl who aspires to go to space, exploring themes of resilience against social limitations with the evocative tagline: Some journeys to space begin on broken roads. While Dulquer leads the project, the film introduces Satvika Veeravalli in her acting debut as the female lead, with Shruti Haasan appearing in a prominent role. This ambitious project is bankrolled by a powerhouse collaboration of Vyjayanthi Movies, Geetha Arts, Swapna Cinemas, and Light Box, featuring a soulful musical score by G.V. Prakash Kumar. Aiming for a grand theatrical release in Summer 2026—with reports pointing toward a March 26 launch to coincide with Ram Navami—the film will subsequently be available for global streaming on Netflix in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi. 12. Paradise – Nani Reunited with Dasara director Srikanth Odela, Natural Star Nani is set to unleash what he describes as India's Mad Max with his upcoming rustic actioner, The Paradise. Set in the gritty, socially rooted backdrop of 1980s Secunderabad, the film chronicles a marginalized community’s fierce struggle for survival and dignity. The project features a powerhouse face-off, with the legendary Mohan Babu playing the primary antagonist, while popular actor Raghav Juyal makes his much-anticipated Telugu debut. Adding to the film’s high stakes is a thunderous musical score by Anirudh Ravichander, ensuring the technical values match the film’s wild intensity. With its theatrical release locked for March 26, 2026, the film has already established significant trade value, with Netflix reportedly acquiring the digital rights for a staggering ₹65 crore. 13. Ustaad Bhagat Singh – Pawan Kalyan Ustaad Bhagat Singh, starring Power Star Pawan Kalyan. In a major update that has excited fans, director Harish Shankar officially confirmed in December 2025 that the film is a fresh, original script specifically tailored for Pawan Kalyan, putting to rest earlier reports of it being a remake. Produced by Mythri Movie Makers on a grand scale with a budget of ₹150–170 crore, the film features the actor in a powerful role as a charismatic police officer, starring alongside Sreeleela and Raashii Khanna. Reflecting its massive anticipation, Netflix reportedly secured the digital rights in a substantial deal valued between ₹80–100 crore. Following its theatrical run, this mass spectacle will be available for global streaming in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada, ensuring a blockbuster digital debut for one of the year’s biggest theatrical releases.

Tollywood

31 days ago

2027 views

Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2: The Rule Opens Low At Japan Box Office

Hyderabad, January 18 - Icon Star Allu Arjun's all-time blockbuster Pushpa 2: The Rule has taken a surprisingly slow start at the Japanese box office. The Sukumar-directed action drama, which released in Japan on January 16, failed to generate strong opening-day traction, despite extensive promotions and the actor's presence in Tokyo ahead of release. As per early box office tracking, Pushpa 2 recorded only 886 admissions, a modest number on its first day, significantly lower than expectations for a film of its scale. In contrast, films like RRR (8,230 admissions), Saaho (6,510), and Kalki 2898 AD (3,700) recorded 1,000+ footfalls on their opening day in Japan. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The opening was not enough for Pushpa 2 to enter the list of top-performing Indian films in Japan in terms of footfalls, indicating limited initial reach among local audiences. The muted response comes as a surprise, especially considering the strong promotional push and the growing curiosity for Indian cinema in Japan following the success of titles like RRR. While Pushpa 2 boasts high-octane action, mass appeal, and Allu Arjun's star power, the film appears to have struggled to convert awareness into ticket sales in its opening phase. It needs to be seen if it can find audiences in the coming days, as movies can have a long run in Japan if they connect with locals. That said, the film's performance in Japan remains a small part of its overall global box office journey. Pushpa 2: The Rule has already cemented its place as one of the biggest Indian blockbusters worldwide, delivering record-breaking numbers across several markets. It grossed over 1740 crores worldwide in its original run, placing itself as the third biggest Indian grosser ever. Stay tuned...

Tollywood

35 days ago

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Pushpa 2: The Rule – Allu Arjun's Magnum Opus Shatters Records with ₹1742 Cr Worldwide; Lands in Japan for Next Frontier

Pushpa 2: The Rule has not just performed at the box office; it has redefined the very scale of Indian cinema. Directed by Sukumar and starring Icon Star Allu Arjun, the film has officially been declared an All Time Blockbuster, rewriting history books both domestically and internationally. As the film continues its historic run, the momentum has now shifted toward the Far East, with Allu Arjun recently landing in Japan to a heartwarming reception ahead of the film's grand release there on January 16, 2026. Icon Star @alluarjun lands in Japan with a heartwarming welcome from fans ❤️#Pushpa2TheRule Grand release in Japan on January 16th 💥💥#Pushpa2#WildFirePushpa#Pushpa2InJapan #PushpaKunrinIcon Star @alluarjun @iamRashmika @aryasukku #FahadhFaasil @ThisIsDSP @resulp… pic.twitter.com/Yklno3fTTx— Mythri Movie Makers (@MythriOfficial) January 13, 2026 Pushpa 2 set the tone for its legendary run right from its opening week. It achieved the unthinkable by becoming the fastest Indian film to reach the ₹1000 crore mark worldwide, hitting the milestone in just 7 days. Currently, the film stands at a staggering worldwide gross of ₹1742.1 Crore. This monumental figure cements its position as the highest-grossing Indian film of 2024 and the third-highest-grossing film of all time in the Indian market. The film's performance within India has been nothing short of a revolution, specifically in the North markets. While it is a Telugu original, the Hindi-dubbed version emerged as the primary engine of its success. The Hindi version alone has collected a massive ₹812.14 Crore Net, significantly outpacing the original Telugu version's ₹341.48 Crore Net. This dominance highlights Allu Arjun's unprecedented pan-India appeal and the growing appetite for Mass entertainers in the Hindi belt. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The film's sustainability has been remarkable, maintaining a strong grip on theaters for over two months. This journey began with an explosive start on the global stage, where it raked in ₹66.00 Cr from overseas markets on Day 1 alone, topping the list of the highest opening day overseas grossers for any Indian film in 2024.After a record-shattering Week 1 collection of ₹725.8 Cr, the film continued to pull audiences, recording ₹264.8 Cr in Week 2 and ₹129.5 Cr in Week 3. Even in its ninth week, the film managed to add to its tally, showcasing the incredible longevity of the Pushpa brand. Pushpa 2: The Rule - India Net Collection Breakdown TIME PERIOD INDIA NET COLLECTION Day 1 (Opening Day) ₹ 174.9 Cr Week 1 Total ₹ 725.8 Cr Week 2 ₹ 264.8 Cr Week 3 ₹ 129.5 Cr Week 4 ₹ 69.65 Cr Week 5 ₹ 25.25 Cr Week 6 ₹ 9.7 Cr Week 7 ₹ 5.85 Cr Week 8 ₹ 2.85 Cr Week 9 ₹ 0.7 Cr Total India Net (To Date) ₹ 1234.1 Cr Beyond the borders of India, Pushpa 2 has been a massive draw, raking in ₹271 Crore from overseas markets. To further expand this global footprint, the makers (Mythri Movie Makers) have scheduled a grand release in Japan on January 16, 2026. Allu Arjun's arrival in Japan on January 13 was met with immense fanfare, with Japanese Pushpa loyalists greeting the Icon Star with flowers and posters, signaling a potential box office storm in the Japanese market, which has historically been welcoming to Indian blockbusters like RRR and Muthu. Language-wise Net Box Office Breakdown: Hindi: ₹812.14 Cr Telugu: ₹341.48 Cr Tamil: ₹58.56 Cr Malayalam: ₹14.15 Cr Kannada: ₹7.77 Cr Total India Net: ₹1234.1 Cr With a total India Gross of ₹1471.1 Crore and a worldwide standing of over ₹1742 Crore, Pushpa 2: The Rule has moved past being just a sequel to becoming a cultural phenomenon. The combination of Devi Sri Prasad's viral music, Sukumar's gritty storytelling, and Allu Arjun's career-defining performance as Pushpa Raj has ensured that the film remains a benchmark for the Pan-India model. As it prepares to conquer Japan, the industry is watching closely to see how much higher this Wildfire can climb.