Sekhar Kammula on Leader 2: “People Have Changed More Than Politicians”

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Sekhar Kammula on Leader 2: “People Have Changed More Than Politicians”

Leader 2 in the Making? Sekhar Kammula Shares His Thoughts

As anticipation builds for Kuberaa, filmmaker Sekhar Kammula has finally addressed the long-standing fan demand surrounding Leader 2—a sequel to his 2010 political drama Leader that launched Rana Daggubati into Telugu cinema.

In a recent interview during Kuberaa promotions, Kammula confirmed that the idea of Leader 2 is still alive, but the changing political and social climate has made him rethink its narrative direction.

“I wanted to make a sequel to Leader. I had the thought initially, but now politics have changed—and more than that, people have changed. I need that one strong line to build the story,” Kammula said.

 The Legacy of a Leader

When Leader was released in 2010, it stood out for its realistic portrayal of youth leadership, political morality, and public service. Though it had a modest box office run, it garnered a cult following over the years, especially among politically aware youth. The film’s message, nuanced storytelling, and Rana Daggubati’s impactful debut turned it into a modern classic in Telugu cinema.

 What’s Holding Back Leader 2?

Kammula revealed that while he has a rough script for the sequel, he’s not sure if it reflects the complexities of current-day politics.

“The mindset of people has evolved more than that of politicians,” he noted, hinting that a mere continuation of Leader won’t suffice—the story needs to speak to today’s India.

Both Rana and Kammula have previously acknowledged public interest in the sequel, and the filmmaker’s latest remarks offer hope that Leader 2 could happen when the timing and message align just right.

 What’s Next for Sekhar Kammula?

For now, Kammula is focused on the release of Kuberaa, a social thriller starring Dhanush, Nagarjuna, and Rashmika Mandanna, releasing this Friday. He is also in early talks with Nani for another project under Sree Venkateswara Cinemas LLP, the banner behind Love Story and Kuberaa.

Vishnu Manchu Introduces Son Avaram as Young Tinnadu in Kannappa Movie

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Vishnu Manchu Introduces Son Avaram as Young Tinnadu in Kannappa Movie

Vishnu Manchu Introduces Son Avaram as Young Tinnadu in Kannappa

The mythological action epic Kannappa is turning into a true family affair for the Manchu clan. After announcing that his daughters would be a part of the film, Vishnu Manchu has now officially introduced his younger son, Avaram, as a part of the film’s cast.

The big-budget devotional saga, set for release on June 27, features Vishnu in the titular role, alongside his father, Mohan Babu, and now, all three of Vishnu’s children.

 Avaram Debuts as Young Tinnadu

The film’s team released a heartwarming behind-the-scenes video revealing Avaram Manchu’s role as young Tinnadu—the fearless boy who would eventually grow into the legendary devotee of Lord Shiva, Kannappa.

In the clip, Avaram is seen transforming into the character with remarkable ease, donning traditional attire and showing a spark that has impressed early viewers.

“Little warrior. Big dreams,” the caption from the official announcement read.
“A behind-the-scenes peek into Avaram’s transformation as young Tinnadu — the fearless boy who grew up to become the epic devotee of Lord Shiva in #Kannappa! Har Har Mahadev Har Ghar Mahadev.”

 The Manchu Family Onscreen Together

With Mohan Babu, Vishnu Manchu, Ariana & Viviana Manchu, and now Avaram, Kannappa becomes a rare film that features an entire star family across three generations.

Shot on a grand scale, Kannappa is inspired by the life of the legendary Shaivite devotee and is expected to blend mythology with high-octane action and emotion. The film has already created a strong buzz for its visuals, scale, and multi-star presence.

Prabhas’ Spirit Buzz Rises as Upendra Limaye Sparks Casting Rumours

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Prabhas’ Spirit Buzz Rises as Upendra Limaye Sparks Casting Rumours

Prabhas’ Spirit Buzz Grows Stronger With Upendra Limaye Rumours

A casual photo. A cryptic caption. That’s all it took for the hype around Prabhas’ upcoming film Spirit to spike yet again.

While director Sandeep Reddy Vanga is knee-deep in pre-production, acclaimed actor Upendra Limaye has now entered the spotlight, hinting at a potential collaboration that fans are already buzzing about.

 A Photo That Sparked Frenzy

Limaye, fresh off his intense and memorable performances in Animal (as Freddy) and Sankranthiki Vasthunnam (as George Antony), paid a visit to Sandeep Reddy Vanga at his new Bhadrakali Pictures office in Hyderabad. What followed was a photo on Instagram with the caption:
“The Reddy Brothers are in high ‘SPIRITS.’”

Needless to say, that was all it took for fans and media circles to start speculating that Limaye might be joining the cast of Spirit. While there’s no official confirmation yet, the phrasing feels like a soft launch rather than a random post.

 A Bold Actor for a Bold Director?

Known for his intense, layered characters, Upendra Limaye’s rumored inclusion makes perfect sense for a filmmaker like Sandeep Reddy Vanga, who thrives on complex emotional narratives. Whether he’s playing an antagonist or a morally gray supporting character, Limaye brings gravitas that could elevate Spirit even further.

What We Know So Far About Spirit

  • Prabhas headlines the film in a gritty, emotional action role.

  • Tripti Dimri is confirmed as the female lead.

  • Backed by T-Series and Bhadrakali Pictures, the film boasts Harshavardhan Rameshwar as the music composer.

  • The cast is still under wraps, with new names expected to drop in the coming weeks.

With expectations already sky-high after Animal and Kalki 2898 AD, the addition of someone like Upendra Limaye would only push Spirit further into mass anticipation.

And judging by that cheeky caption, it looks like the team is only getting started.

Sai Pallavi’s Bollywood Debut Teaser to Premiere with Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par

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Sai Pallavi’s Bollywood Debut Teaser to Premiere with Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par

Sai Pallavi’s Bollywood Debut Teaser to Be Attached to Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par

With the release of Aamir Khan’s upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par just around the corner, the buzz around the film has been relatively underwhelming. However, the team is now banking on a strategic move to boost attention—by attaching the teaser of Sai Pallavi’s Bollywood debut film, Ek Din, to its theatrical release.

According to reports, the teaser of Ek Din, starring Junaid Khan and Sai Pallavi, will play ahead of Sitaare Zameen Par in cinemas starting June 20. This dual rollout hopes to give both films some much-needed momentum at the box office, especially following the lukewarm response to Loveyapa, another recent Junaid Khan outing.

About Ek Din: A Remake with a Romantic Soul

Ek Din, directed by Sunil Pandey, is the official Hindi remake of the acclaimed Korean romantic drama One Day. The film has been quietly in production for the past two years, with shoot locations spanning Mumbai and Japan, and promises to be a gentle, emotional love story.

While the film has not been heavily promoted so far, the pairing of Sai Pallavi, known for her powerful screen presence in South Indian cinema, with Junaid Khan, Aamir Khan’s son, gives it a unique appeal.

Sai Pallavi’s Entry into Bollywood

This marks Sai Pallavi’s much-anticipated Hindi film debut, and industry insiders believe her performance could elevate Ek Din beyond its modest expectations. Her natural acting style and emotional depth are seen as major assets for the film.

Attaching the teaser to Sitaare Zameen Par is a smart cross-promotional move. With Sitaare Zameen Par expected to draw family audiences and fans of Aamir Khan, Ek Din might find early support and curiosity through this exposure.

Whether this teaser release strategy translates into traction for the full film remains to be seen, but for now, June 20 could be a crucial date for both films.

Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2 Casts Aamir Khan; SRK Cameo Rumored in Coolie

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Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2 Casts Aamir Khan; SRK Cameo Rumored in Coolie

Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2 Ropes In Bollywood Giant Aamir Khan—SRK Rumored to Join the Cast

When Superstar Rajinikanth headlines a film, the hype is unmatched. But his upcoming project—the much-awaited Jailer 2 (tentatively titled Coolie) directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj—is on track to become a pan-India cinematic spectacle.

What’s fueling this excitement is the star-studded lineup reportedly assembled for the film. Bollywood icon Aamir Khan has officially come on board, playing a power-packed cameo of about 10 minutes that insiders say will leave a lasting impact on the narrative. This marks a rare on-screen combination of two acting legends: Rajinikanth and Aamir Khan.

Joining the cast are also several other powerhouses of Indian cinema:

  • Akkineni Nagarjuna (Tollywood)

  • Upendra (Sandalwood)

  • Soubin Shahir (Mollywood)

  • Shruti Haasan

  • Sathyaraj (beloved as Kattappa)

SRK + Rajini? The Multi-Starrer Dream

And if that isn’t already a massive lineup, the latest buzz is even more jaw-dropping. Shah Rukh Khan is rumored to be making a pivotal appearance in Jailer 2. While there’s no official confirmation yet, sources speculate it may be a gesture of goodwill, returning the favor Rajinikanth made by appearing in SRK’s 2011 film Ra.One.

SRK’s cameos are known to be scene-stealers, whether in Luck By Chance, Brahmastra, or Tiger 3. If this collaboration materializes, it could mark one of Indian cinema’s biggest-ever multi-starrers

Coolie: More Than Just a Film

Helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, who previously delivered hits like Vikram and Leo, Coolie promises to be more than just a sequel to Jailer. It’s shaping up to be a full-scale cinematic event with an ensemble cast rarely seen under one banner.

With megastars from across industries, surprise cameos, and a gripping storyline in the works, Jailer 2 might just set new benchmarks for Indian multi-starrer blockbusters.

Manchu Vishnu Quits Tollywood Stars’ WhatsApp Group | Why He Left

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Manchu Vishnu Quits Tollywood Stars’ WhatsApp Group | Why He Left

Manchu Vishnu Quits Tollywood Stars’ WhatsApp Group: Here’s Why

In a candid revelation during a national media interview, Manchu Vishnu surprised fans by sharing that he has quit a star-studded Tollywood WhatsApp group that includes top names like Rana Daggubati, Ram Charan, and Allu Arjun.

The group, reportedly started by Rana and Allu Arjun, has been a hot topic among fans curious about the private connections between Telugu cinema’s biggest stars. Vishnu revealed that although he was once part of this exclusive chat, he chose to step away for a simple yet relatable reason.

“There were many heroines in the group, and I felt shy to speak up,” Vishnu explained. “So, I told Bunny and Rana to message me directly if something important comes up.” Despite leaving the group chat, Vishnu emphasized that the emotional bonds between them remain strong. “We all grew up together. If anyone needs anything, a single call is enough. That emotional connection has always been there—it’s something our parents passed on to us, and we’re keeping that alive.”

Inside Tollywood’s Massive WhatsApp Network

This isn’t the first time Tollywood’s WhatsApp groups have been in the spotlight. Actor Nani had previously revealed the existence of a massive group chat involving over 140 actors, serving as a hub for sharing trailers, updates, and industry news.

Vishnu’s reason for stepping away adds a personal, relatable dimension to the usual celebrity chatter, reminding fans that even stars sometimes seek a bit of privacy and simplicity amidst the buzz.

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Jr. NTR Brings Pushpa Writer Nagendra Kasi Into Dragon After Script Struggles

The buzz around Jr. NTR’s upcoming high-octane action film Dragon is heating up, and fresh updates have revealed a fascinating twist behind the scenes. Directed by Prashanth Neel, the creative force behind KGF and Salaar, Dragon is gearing up to be another blockbuster, featuring Kannada actress Rukmini Vasanth as the female lead and produced by Mythri Movie Makers alongside NTR Arts.

However, the journey to a finalized script was far from smooth. Sources say Jr. NTR was not fully convinced by the initial story pitch, even after multiple rewrites by Neel’s team. The narrative failed to resonate with the actor, causing a crucial pause in the project’s development.

Enter Nagendra Kasi, a rising writer celebrated for his work on Pushpa 2 and the forthcoming Ram Charan starrer Peddi. Kasi’s fresh take on the storyline finally aligned with both Jr. NTR’s vision and Prashanth Neel’s directorial style, reigniting momentum for the project.

Known for his intense storytelling, Neel reportedly drew inspiration from Kasi’s ability to refine and sharpen the film’s core narrative. With the script now locked, Dragon is moving full throttle towards production.

Star-Studded Lineup and Music

Joining the cast is Malayalam star Tovino Thomas in a pivotal role, adding to the film’s pan-Indian appeal. The background score is being crafted by Ravi Basrur, composer of the KGF franchise, promising a powerful auditory experience.

Set for a worldwide release on June 25, 2026, Dragon is shaping up to be a mass entertainer with a modern edge, powered by a talented team both in front of and behind the camera.

For fans of Jr. NTR and Prashanth Neel, this collaboration could be the perfect blend of style and substance, delivering a story that goes beyond mere spectacle.

Meet Divyendu Sharma, Birthday Boy and Key Character RamBujji in Ram Charan’s Peddi

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Meet Divyendu Sharma, Birthday Boy and Key Character RamBujji in Ram Charan’s Peddi

 Meet birthday boy Divyendu Sharma from Ram Charan’s ‘Peddi’ sets!

Excitement is building for Mega Hero Ram Charan’s upcoming sports action extravaganza, Peddi, slated for a global release on March 27, 2026. The film is being produced on a massive scale with high production values and promises to be a thrilling cinematic experience.

Adding to the buzz, the makers recently released a striking new poster featuring Bollywood actor Divyendu Sharma, who is making his South Indian cinema debut with this film. Divyendu, widely recognized for his iconic role in Amazon Prime’s hit series Mirzapur, is stepping into Telugu cinema with a unique and raw look that immediately grabs attention.

On the occasion of Divyendu’s birthday, the Peddi team unveiled the poster confirming his character’s name as RamBujji—a pivotal and intriguing figure from the gritty and rustic world of the film. The team wished the actor a happy birthday and hinted at his role being one of the most captivating in the narrative.

Divyendu Sharma’s powerful presence and acting prowess are expected to bring fresh energy to the film alongside Ram Charan, making Peddi a must-watch for fans of action-packed sports dramas.

Nagarjuna on Kuberaa: Clash of Three Classes, Not Just Two Individuals

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Nagarjuna on Kuberaa: Clash of Three Classes, Not Just Two Individuals

Kuberaa Isn’t a Clash Between Two Individuals, But Three Classes: Nagarjuna on Sekhar Kammula’s Social Drama

Ahead of the release of Sekhar Kammula’s socially charged drama Kuberaa, lead actor Nagarjuna opened up about the unique themes and characters in the film. Starring alongside Dhanush and Rashmika Mandanna, Nagarjuna shared insights into how Kuberaa differs from typical multi-starrer films.

“I enjoy working in multi-starrers,” Nagarjuna said, “but Kuberaa is different. It’s not a story focused on the conflict between two individuals. Instead, it’s a clash between three societal classes—the ultra-rich, the middle class, and the poor.”

Nagarjuna’s Role: The Middle-Class Dilemma

Nagarjuna plays a CBI officer from a middle-class background, a character caught between moral dilemmas. “My character struggles with choices—he knows when he’s doing wrong but is compelled by family circumstances,” he explained. The role demanded nuanced changes in his body language, dialogue delivery, and reactions, all shaped by Sekhar Kammula’s distinctive filmmaking style.

He also praised co-star Dhanush, who dubbed for his role in the Tamil version, calling him a versatile actor who deeply immerses himself in his characters. Nagarjuna further appreciated Rashmika Mandanna’s role, describing it as refreshing and highlighting the pressures borne by the lower-middle-class background her character represents.

Inspired by Real-Life Incidents

Nagarjuna revealed that the film’s story and his character draw inspiration from real-life events. “The narrative focuses more on situations and how people exploit each other, including the character played by Dhanush.”

He also extended gratitude to producers Suniel Narang and Puskur Ram Mohan Rao, commending their commitment to the film’s vision without compromises.

Nagarjuna’s Upcoming Announcements

In addition to discussing Kuberaa, Nagarjuna teased that he will soon announce his 100th film and confirmed the 4K re-release of his classic hit Shiva, much to fans’ excitement.

Kuberaa Gets Ticket Price Hike in Andhra Pradesh Ahead of Release

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Kuberaa Gets Ticket Price Hike in Andhra Pradesh Ahead of Release

Kuberaa Gets Ticket Price Hike in Andhra Pradesh Ahead of Release

In a notable move just ahead of its release, Sekhar Kammula’s social thriller Kuberaa has been granted a temporary ticket price hike in Andhra Pradesh, with the government officially approving a premium on higher-class ticket rates.

As per the order dated June 19, 2025, theaters across the state—including both multiplexes and single screens—can charge up to ₹75 + GST more per higher-class ticket. The hike will remain in effect for 10 days, starting from the film’s release on June 20, 2025.

The price revision follows a formal application from Sree Venkateswara Cinemas LLP, supported by the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce and routed through the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Cinematography. This approval marks another example of the relaxed pricing norms introduced after the recent political changes in the state.

A Growing Trend in AP Cinema Policy

Kuberaa now joins other recent releases like Sankranthiki Vasthunnam, Thandel, Mad Square, and HIT 3, all of which received similar ticket hike approvals, signaling a more inclusive policy that benefits both small and mid-range films, not just mega-budget ventures.

While the move provides producers with a potential revenue boost during opening weekend, there’s also a risk factor involved. Unlike blockbusters such as RRR or Pushpa, Kuberaa is a content-driven thriller without heavy commercial packaging or mass-oriented elements.

With only modest pre-release buzz and starring Dhanush, Nagarjuna, and Rashmika Mandanna, the film’s box office outcome will depend significantly on audience word-of-mouth and critical reception. The ticket hike could deter price-sensitive moviegoers, especially if early reviews don’t strongly favor the film.

As Kuberaa gears up for release within hours, the big question remains: Will the ticket hike be a gamble or a game-changer?

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