Decision to separate from Samantha was in best interests of both: Naga Chaitanya

Telugu star Naga Chaitanya has said that the decision to part ways with his wife Samantha was taken in their mutual best interests.

“My entire family stood by me during those difficult times. It was a decision taken in the best interests of the two of us. She’s happy. I’m also happy. Both of us are doing well professionally too,” Naga Chaitanya replied to a media query on how he overcame the tough times in his personal life.

Naga Chaitanya was speaking at a program to mark the completion of his latest movie outing ‘Bangarraju’. The movie starring his father Nagarjuna, and directed by Kalyan Krishna, is slated for theatrical release on January 14 coinciding with the Sankranti festival. The movie also stars Kriti Shetty.

Samantha and Naga Chaitanya had announced their seperation in October last year. The announcement on social media, coming four days ahead of their fourth wedding anniversary had led to much curiosity in public and media circles. So far, both of them have not divulged the reasons for their split.

While Naga Chaitanya’s last movie ‘Love Story’ directed by Sekhar Kammula, did well at the box-office, Samantha’s item number in Allu Arjun-starrer ‘Pushpa’ has become a national sensation. Both of them, separately, have several movie projects lined up in the days ahead.

Director Sasi’s film with Harish Kalyan titled ‘Nooru Kodi Vanavil’

Director Sasi’s much awaited romantic entertainer, featuring actors Harish Kalyan and Siddhi Idnani in the lead, has been titled ‘Nooru Kodi Vanavil’.

On Wednesday, the makers of the film released a motion poster of the film which was shared by actor Harish Kalyan on his Twitter timeline.

Harish said, “‘Nooru Kodi Vaanavil’ – a Sasi directorial. This wouldn’t have been possible without the love and support of you people. We wanted to give it back a 100 times and so we decided to drop this surprise motion poster for you all.”

Harish Kalyan plays a character called Vino while Siddhi Idnani plays Fenny in the film that the makers chose to describe as an ‘intense love tale’.

Produced by Balaji Kappa and Arun Arunachalam, the film has music by Siddhu Kumar and cinematography by Prasanna S Kumar.

Shreya Ghoshal comes up with her first single of 2022 titled ‘Uff’

Ace singer Shreya Ghoshal talks about her upcoming single, ‘Uff’, featuring ‘Naagin 3’ fame Heli Daruwala and ‘Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai’ actor Mohsin Khan.

‘Uff’ is an independent track which portrays heartbreak. Through its lyrics the song brings out innermost emotions of agony and pain that one experiences during those tough times.

Commenting on the same, Shreya says: “It’s always a great experience while working with Indie Music Label. Being my first song of 2022, it’s personally very close to my heart and I must compliment the entire team for working towards the vision we set out with. I have had a great time working on this song and I hope the listeners enjoy it just as much.”

‘Uff’ features Heli Daruwala and Mohsin Khan, music by Shreyas Puranik, lyrics by Kumaar and directed by Arif Khan. It will be released on Indie Music Label’s official YouTube channel on January 14.

Hansika plays an ad filmmaker in ‘My Name is Shruthi’

Actress Hansika plays an ad filmmaker in director Srinivas Omkar’s upcoming Telugu action thriller ‘My Name is Shruthi’, a teaser of which the filmmakers have chosen to release now.

On Wednesday, Hansika tweeted the teaser, which shows that the film is a gripping crime thriller that revolves around a gang that is into human skin trading.

Apart from Hansika, ‘My Name is Shruthi’ also features Prema, Murali Sharma, Pooja Ramachandran, Raja Ravindra and Aadukalam Naren among others.

The film, which has music by Mark K. Robin, has cinematography by Kishore Boyidapu and editing by Chotai K Prasad.

The film, which throws light on the organ mafia networks, shows that India is right behind Nepal when it comes to supplying human skin.

The film, which was started in July last year, was shot with the unit taking all the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of Covid.

Bhumi Pednekar comes on board for Ajay Bahl’s ‘The Lady Killer’

Bhumi Pednekar has joined the cast of the suspense drama ‘The Lady Killer’. The actress will be leading the film along with Arjun Kapoor.

For her, the film’s narrative was gripping from the word go and that’s what appealed to the actor in her.

The film, directed by Ajay Bahl (‘B.A. Pass’, 2012) and produced by Bhushan Kumar of T-Series and Shaailesh R. Singh, narrates the story of a small town playboy, who falls in love with a self-destructive beauty.

Thrilled to embark on the journey, Bhumi says, “I’m always excited when something new and challenging comes my way and ‘The Lady Killer’ gripped me from the very start. As an artiste, this role pushes me out of my comfort zone and gives me a lot to bite into. I can’t wait to start work on the film with Arjun, my director Ajay Bahl and my stellar producers Bhushan sir and Shaailesh sir.”

Talking about the film, director Ajay Bahl says, “There is a rollercoaster of emotions in ‘The Lady Killer’ and for that we needed actors who could ride it every step of the way. I’m so happy to have Arjun Kapoor and Bhumi Pednekar essay these roles because not only do they suit it to the T but also bring in their signature styles and flair.”

Producer Shaailesh R. Singh adds, “Bhumi Pednekar is a talent to reckon with and brings just the right vibe and flavour to ‘The Lady Killer’. We are extremely happy to have her play the lead alongside Arjun Kapoor. This one is definitely going to be a crazy, enriching ride.”

The Ajay Bahl directorial is presented by Gulshan Kumar & T-Series in association with Karma Media & Entertainment.

Trisha recovers from Covid-19, to fly back from London

Actress Trisha, who had tested positive for Covid-19 in London, announced on Wednesday that she had completely recovered. She also said she expects to fly back to India soon.

Taking to social media to make the announcement, Trisha said, “Never been happier to read the word ‘negative’ on a report. Thank you all for your love and prayers. Now, I’m ready for you 2022.”

The actress, who had gone to London to celebrate the New Year, is believed to have picked up the infection there. Trisha said that despite taking all the necessary precautions and safety measures, she tested positive shortly before New Year. She also asked people to get themselves vaccinated as soon as they can.

Samantha thanks Allu Arjun for success of her item number in ‘Pushpa’

Samantha Ruth Prabhu, who allured the audience with her sensuous dance moves in ‘Pushpa’, is currently being lauded for her screen presence in the item song.

‘Oo Antava’ being her first special song, Samantha said that she was reluctant to do it, but Allu Arjun’s motivation made her grab this opportunity.

Starring Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna in the lead roles, Sukumar’s directorial ‘Pushpa: The Rise’ is one of the most hyped movies in India right now. Samantha, who struck the right chords with her item number, thanks Allu Arjun for assuring her to take up the song.

“There were many inhibitions. I was not ready as I feared how the song would turn out to be. But, Allu Arjun, sat down and convinced me. Without his encouragement, I would not have accepted to do ‘Oo Antava'”, Samantha said.

“Now that this song has become viral all over the country, I have to thank Allu Arjun”, the ‘Ye Mayachesave’ actress said.

Allu Arjun and Samantha shared their screen presence in Trivikram Srinivas’ super hit movie ‘S/O Satyamurthy’ earlier.

Samantha is currently working on two multilingual projects, while she has been offered a couple of Bollywood ventures, which are to be announced soon.

Amrita Tanganiya delighted to make her Bollywood debut

‘Kumkum Bhagya’ actress Amrita Tanganiya is delighted about her Bollywood debut. She will be seen as a nomad in upcoming thriller ‘Dreamy Singh’ which also features Kashmira Shah and Ashmit Patel and is directed by Sameer Bhatnagar.

Revealing about her role she says: “I will be seen portraying the character of Mrudula, who is a ‘banjaran’ (nomad). It is something very creative and interesting role I’m enjoying acting for. My audience will get to see me in a completely new role. We are currently shooting in Haridwar for the same.”

The actress who was last seen playing a Naagin in the show, ‘Phir Laut Aayi Naagin’ dreams to make her name in Bollywood and wishes to work with superstars.

She adds: “After acting in television and web shows, finally I’m enjoying working for a Bollywood movie. I’m delighted to feature on the big screen and looking forward to exploring it more with time. I hope to work with popular actors like Ayushmann Khurrana, Salman Khan, Ajay Devgan, among others. Hope my hard work and dedication will make my dreams come true.”

Keerthy Suresh also tests positive for Covid-19

Actress Keerthy Suresh, one of the top actresses in the Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam film industries, on Tuesday announced that she had tested positive for Covid-19.

Taking to social media, Keerthy said, “Hi everyone, I have tested positive for Covid 19, experiencing mild symptoms, despite taking all necessary precautions and safety measures, which is a scary reminder of the rate at which the virus is spreading.

“Please follow all the Covid safety norms and stay safe. I am currently in isolation and under safe care. Those who came in close contact with me, kindly do get tested.

“If you haven’t been vaccinated yet, please take your vaccines at the earliest to avoid severe symptoms and for the better health of you and your loved ones.

“Hoping for a speedy recovery and will be back in action soon.”

There has been a sudden spurt in the number of celebrities from the Tamil and Telugu film industries testing positive for Covid ever since the new year began and Keerthy is the latest south Indian actor to announce that she has tested positive for Covid.

Actor Sathyaraj recovers from Covid, discharged from hospital

Tamil actor Sathyaraj, who was undergoing treatment for Covid at a private hospital in the city, has been discharged.

Says a source close to the actor, who is known across the country for his role as Kattappa in the blockbuster ‘Baahubali’, “Sathyaraj sir responded well to the treatment. He has now recovered from Covid and was discharged from the hospital on Monday night. He has returned home.”

The source says that although the actor has completely recovered, he has been advised to quarantine himself in his home for a week.

There has been a sudden spurt in the number of celebrities from the Tamil and Telugu film industries testing positive for Covid ever since the new year began.

Actor Sathyaraj and director Priyadarshan were among the first this year to announce that they had tested positive for Covid.