Dhanush, the versatile actor and producer, is all set to thrill the audience with his upcoming movie D51, which is a political drama inspired by the political, mafia setup and the incidents which happened 40 years back. The movie is directed by Sekhar Kammula, who has previously collaborated with Dhanush in critically acclaimed films like Aadukalam, Vada Chennai and Asuran.
D51 is said to be based on the life and times of a notorious gangster-politician, who ruled the underworld in Tamil Nadu in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The movie will explore the rise and fall of this controversial figure, who had connections with powerful politicians, businessmen and film personalities. The movie will also depict the socio-political scenario of that era, and how it influenced the lives of common people.
Dhanush will play the role of the protagonist, who is a charismatic and ruthless leader, who commands respect and fear...
D51 is said to be based on the life and times of a notorious gangster-politician, who ruled the underworld in Tamil Nadu in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The movie will explore the rise and fall of this controversial figure, who had connections with powerful politicians, businessmen and film personalities. The movie will also depict the socio-political scenario of that era, and how it influenced the lives of common people.
Dhanush will play the role of the protagonist, who is a charismatic and ruthless leader, who commands respect and fear...
- 8/30/2023
- by amalprasadappu
- https://thecinemanews.online/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/IMG_4649
Tnm Follow-UPSinger Chinmayi Sripada was axed from the South Indian Cine, Television Artistes and Dubbing Artistes Union in 2018, weeks after she voiced support to women who accused union president Radha Ravi of sexual misconduct.Saradha UCourtesy: Photographer Manoj YDDecember is the follow-up month at Tnm where we go back to headlines of the past for a status update. In this series, we strive to bring the focus back to promises made by governments, revisit official investigations that should have been completed by now and exhume issues of public interest that lost steam over time. It has been four years since singer Chinmayi Sripada’s membership from the the South Indian Cine, Television Artistes and Dubbing Artistes Union (Sictadau) was axed, just weeks after she came out in support of the women who had named actor-politician Radha Ravi, president of the dubbing union, in the Me Too movement. Chinmayi had eventually...
- 12/29/2022
- by AditiKumar
- The News Minute
The creator of earthy Tamil movies, V Gouthaman, known for projects like ‘Kanave Kalaiyathe’ and Magizhchi’, is now coming out with a movie on Tamil valour and virtues of yore. He is writing and directing the film titled ‘Maveera’.
The film is produced by V K Production Group. Director V Gowthaman assures that the movie highlighting the heroism, virtue and warmth of the Tamils will connect with each and every member of the audience, impress all sections and will be a huge success.
Sharing more information about ‘Maveeran’, he said: “My lifetime aim is to give the world the uncompromised history of the heroes who lived in Santhanakadu, Mundhirikadu and Vannikadu regions, which are inseparable from the history of Tamils. The film ‘Maveera’ is the epic story of a real hero who protected the land and honour.”
Speaking further, he expressed happiness over G V Prakash taking charge of the...
The film is produced by V K Production Group. Director V Gowthaman assures that the movie highlighting the heroism, virtue and warmth of the Tamils will connect with each and every member of the audience, impress all sections and will be a huge success.
Sharing more information about ‘Maveeran’, he said: “My lifetime aim is to give the world the uncompromised history of the heroes who lived in Santhanakadu, Mundhirikadu and Vannikadu regions, which are inseparable from the history of Tamils. The film ‘Maveera’ is the epic story of a real hero who protected the land and honour.”
Speaking further, he expressed happiness over G V Prakash taking charge of the...
- 9/12/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
Late director K. Balachander’s Kavithalayaa Productions, which produced director Mani Ratnam’s blockbuster ‘Roja’, has recalled the words of K. Balachander when he introduced A.R. Rahman as a music director on the occasion of the film completing a glorious 30 years.
Taking to Twitter, Kavithalayaa Productions, on its timeline, posted two videos. The first video clip, which was a speech of the late director, was posted by the production house saying, “In his own inimitable style, Kb sir expressed his appreciation for ‘Roja’ artistes and technicians on the occasion of the silver jubilee of the film. Today, we offer this as Kavithalayaa’s tribute to them.”
The second video, which was posted on Tuesday night by the production house, was one that had clips of a recent A. R. Rahman performance.
In the video, music director A. R. Rahman is seen on stage saying, “Thirty years of ‘Roja’. I want...
Taking to Twitter, Kavithalayaa Productions, on its timeline, posted two videos. The first video clip, which was a speech of the late director, was posted by the production house saying, “In his own inimitable style, Kb sir expressed his appreciation for ‘Roja’ artistes and technicians on the occasion of the silver jubilee of the film. Today, we offer this as Kavithalayaa’s tribute to them.”
The second video, which was posted on Tuesday night by the production house, was one that had clips of a recent A. R. Rahman performance.
In the video, music director A. R. Rahman is seen on stage saying, “Thirty years of ‘Roja’. I want...
- 8/17/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
Kollywood‘The Legend’ marks the debut film of businessman Saravanan, who is the owner of a chain of shopping stores. Tnm StaffScreengrab/ YouTubeThe trailer of businessman Saravanan’s film The Legend was unveiled on Sunday, May 29. Saravanan is popularly known as Legend Saravanan. Helmed by filmmaker duo Jd-Jerry, the film features an ensemble cast of actors including Urvashi Rautela, Suman, Geethika, Pugazh, Prabhu, late Vivek, Vijayakumar, Yogi Babu, Vamsi Krishna and Nasser. Sarvana is seen as a reputed scientist. However, he faces obstacles from his enemies. The second half of the trailer focuses on sequences where he fights back. The film has music by Harris Jayaraj, cinematography by Velraj and editing by Ruben. SS Moorthy is on board as the art director, while Raju Sundaram, Brindha, and Dinesh have been roped in as choreographers. The Legend’s songs are penned by lyricists Kabilan, PR Vijay, Snekan, Madhan Karky, and Vairamuthu.
- 5/30/2022
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
Seven-time National Award winning lyricist Vairamuthu on Saturday said that language was something that was based only on one’s need and not on imposition. Taking to Twitter, Vairamuthu penned his thoughts on the issue in Tamil. The senior lyricist, who has penned over 7,500 songs and poems in his 40-year career, said that those Tamilians […]...
- 4/9/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
KollywoodHarris Jayaraj has been roped in as the music composer, while Antony Ruben is on board as the editor for the venture. Tnm StaffScreengrab/ YouTubeThe title of businessman Saravanan’s debut movie and the film's first-look motion poster was unveiled on Friday, March 4. Helmed by director duo Jd-Jerry, the film co-stars actor Urvashi Rautela in the lead. Titled The Legend, the film marks the first production venture of the businessman-turned actor’s production banner, The New Legend Saravana Stores Production. The title of the film is based on businessman Saravanan’s name, since he is also popularly known as ‘Legend’ Saravanan. He is the son of famous Kannada businessman Saravanan Selvarathinam. Legend Saravanan is the owner of the chain of shopping stores — The Legend New Saravana Stores, The Legend Saravana and Saravana Selvarathinam among others. He became popular when he started appearing in ads along with leading female actors in...
- 3/4/2022
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
KollywoodPooja is Sai Pallavi's sister and is playing a medical student in the film while Rima plays a cop.Tnm StaffFight choreographer-turned-director 'Stunt' Silva's film Chithirai Sevvaanam will release on Ott platform on December 3. Produced by director Al Vijay, the film features Pooja Kannan, Samuthirakani and Rima Kallingal. One of the reasons why fans have been eagerly waiting for this film is because Pooja, who plays one of the leads, is the younger sister of popular actor Sai Pallavi. Many feel that the sisters have striking similarities and quite a number of people are eager to see if Pooja is as good a dancer as Sai Pallavi. Meanwhile, Rima Kallingal, who plays a pivotal character in the film, had recently said that essaying the role of a police officer was “quite a ride.” “Asha Nayyar - The first time playing a Police officer was quite a ride,” she said,...
- 12/1/2021
- by Sanyukta
- The News Minute
MollywoodThe survivors have said that Vedan did not reach out to them and that his apology is insincere.Tnm StaffParvathy/ InstagramMalayalam actor Parvathy Thiruvothu posted an apology on her Instagram page on Monday for ‘liking’ Hirandas Murali aka rapper Vedan's post in connection to allegations of sexual harassment made against him. Several days after the allegations were made on social media, Vedan finally acknowledged his behaviour and posted an apology. However, this was seen as insincere by many, including the survivors. In an Instagram post, actor Parvathy expressed her apologies to the survivors who have spoken up against Vedan. “I apologise sincerely to the survivors who have so bravely spoken up against the accused singer Vedan,” she wrote. Explaining the reason behind liking the post, she cited how several men fail to even acknowledge their actions. However, she also noted that the apology cannot be celebrated. “I had liked his...
- 6/15/2021
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
CinemaDirector Anjali Menon stated that late poet Onv means much to Malayalees and it was distressing that the Onv Academy has chosen an alleged perpetrator for the honour.Tnm StaffFacebookTamil poet and lyricist Vairamuthu was conferred with the fifth Onv literary award instituted by the Onv Cultural Academy in Kerala on Wednesday. However, many voices from the Malayalam film industry, who are members of the Women in Cinema Collective have questioned the jury’s decision to confer the award on the poet who has faced a slew of allegations of sexual harassment from many women, including singer Chinmayi. Actor Parvathy took to social media to criticize the jury and called the choice of recipient a huge disrespect to late poet Onv Kurup. "Onv Sir is our pride. His contribution as a poet and lyricist is incomparable. How it has nourished our culture. Our hearts and minds have benefited through his body of work.
- 5/27/2021
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
Social mediaWhile sharing memes has become a favourite activity for people across all generations, some elements that make people laugh are problematic and in poor taste.Akchayaa RajkumarFacebookThe Tamil memeverse can be a confusing place. On one end of the spectrum are meme pages that engage in anti-caste and feminist discourse, keeping in line with the Dravidian ideology. On the other end are those that take on the role of a patriarch and ‘advise’ women to dress modestly, not consume alcohol and/or cigarettes, not engage in pre-marital sex, among others, under the guise of preserving ‘Tamil culture’. Unfortunately, the latter is more popular and is perceived as ‘mainstream’ meme culture. It would be unfair to say that these meme pages have not evolved. ‘Dupatta podunga doli’ has evolved to ‘Leggings potta short top podathinga’ (Avoid wearing short tops with leggings). Instead of asking women directly to wear sarees more often,...
- 3/19/2021
- by AjayR
- The News Minute
Tollywood The actor will be sharing the screen space with Sathyadev in this flick to be directed by Gopi Ganesh Pattabhi. Digital NativeAishwarya Lekshmi is one of the fastest rising heroines in the Malayalam film industry as she is bagging some of the prestigious offers consistently. She is now all set to step into the Telugu film industry with Godse directed by Gopi Ganesh Pattabhi. The actor will be sharing the screen space with Sathyadev in this flick to be directed by Gopi Ganesh Pattabhi. Nasser, Kishore, Bhramaji, and Aditya Menon have been roped in to play supporting roles in this flick. “Welcome on-board @aishu__. I'm sure this will be the start of a successful journey in Telugu film industry,” actor Satyadev said in his social media post, welcoming Aishwarya Lekshmi onboard. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Satyadev (@actorsatyadev) Aishwarya Lekshmi at present has a number...
- 1/13/2021
- by Sreedevi
- The News Minute
By Githa Vanan and Swarup Chakravarthy
In society, we are taught to venerate the polymaths, the ones who seem to be good at everything. The world lost another one of these on the 25th of September 2020 in Sripathi Panditaradhyula Balasubrahmanyam or S.P. Bala or Spb for short. A career spanning over 40,000 songs in 16 languages, for the Bollywood fan he is best associated with the early films of Kamal Hassan like Ek Duuje Ke Liye and Saagar, or Salman Khan for whom he sang exclusively till about 1998.
If somehow the name is not instantly recognisable, the voice certainly will be and especially for those in the South his career is no less than Kishore Kumar in breadth and scope. He was a musician, playback singer, music director, actor, dubbing artist, and film producer throughout the South without any discrimination to language for which he won nearly 40 accolades and holds several...
In society, we are taught to venerate the polymaths, the ones who seem to be good at everything. The world lost another one of these on the 25th of September 2020 in Sripathi Panditaradhyula Balasubrahmanyam or S.P. Bala or Spb for short. A career spanning over 40,000 songs in 16 languages, for the Bollywood fan he is best associated with the early films of Kamal Hassan like Ek Duuje Ke Liye and Saagar, or Salman Khan for whom he sang exclusively till about 1998.
If somehow the name is not instantly recognisable, the voice certainly will be and especially for those in the South his career is no less than Kishore Kumar in breadth and scope. He was a musician, playback singer, music director, actor, dubbing artist, and film producer throughout the South without any discrimination to language for which he won nearly 40 accolades and holds several...
- 10/14/2020
- by Swarup Chakravarthy
- Bollyspice
KollywoodThe director has said that Ilaiyaraaja, Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Vairamuthu, Ar Rahman and several others would join in.Tnm StaffSince August 5, National Award winning singer Sp Balasubrahmanyam has been undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Chennai for Covid-19. The singer has been admitted to the critical care unit where he’s being given round the clock monitoring by doctors. Director Bharathiraja in his latest press release has called for a “mass prayer” by the singer’s fans on August 20, to enable his speedy recovery. In order to be a part of it, fans spread across the globe will have to play Spb’s songs at 6.00 pm on Thursday and pray that he recovers soon. Singer Sp Balasubrahmanyam with his extraordinary voice has enthralled fans for decades, recording over 40,000 songs in 16 Indian languages over the period of his career. “Let's all pray to Mother Nature to give Spb to us.
- 8/19/2020
- by Anjana
- The News Minute
ControversyThe article, which praised Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu and his work, made no references to the multiple allegations of sexual assault against him.Tnm StaffFACEBOOK: @Kaviperarasuvairamuthufca day after ‘Hindu Tamil’ published an article in praise of Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu, the newspaper, part of The Hindu Group, expressed regret. The development comes after the newspaper was called out by many on social media, including singer Chinmayi Sripaada, who along with multiple women, have accused Vairamuthu of sexual harassment. The article, published on the poet's birthday, waxed eloquent on Vairamuthu and his works over the years, while failing to reference the MeToo movement, which encouraged multiple women to come forward and call out the men who had abused and harassed them, especially those in positions of power and influence. Acknowledging the backlash that the article had caused, the Tamil daily published an account titled ‘An explanation and regret’. On Monday, Malini Parthasarathy, co-chair...
- 7/14/2020
- by Manasa
- The News Minute
InterviewWith two flawed, very real characters – one casteist and the other sexist – the film has led to a lot of discussion on social media. Sowmya RajendranDhinah Chandra Mohan's short film Modi and a Beer has been creating ripples on social media ever since it was released on YouTube on Monday. Presented by Pa Ranjith's Neelam, the film is a conversation between a couple which begins casually, turns into a heated argument, and ends with the two of them calling it quits. It's a conversation that happens often in real life, but has rarely found its way to cinema, given how cautious filmmakers are about politically loaded subjects. Actors Deepthi and Rishikanth play Shruti and Arun, an inter-caste couple that's on the verge of getting married. The woman, a Tamil Brahmin, is dressed in orange, while the man, who is from an Obc caste, is dressed in black. The colours clearly...
- 6/3/2020
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
InterviewWith two flawed, very real characters – one casteist and the other sexist – the film has led to a lot of discussion on social media. Sowmya RajendranDhinah Chandra Mohan's short film Modi and a Beer has been creating ripples on social media ever since it was released on YouTube on Monday. Presented by Pa Ranjith's Neelam, the film is a conversation between a couple which begins casually, turns into a heated argument, and ends with the two of them calling it quits. It's a conversation that happens often in real life, but has rarely found its way to cinema, given how cautious filmmakers are about politically loaded subjects. Actors Deepthi and Rishikanth play Shruti and Arun, an inter-caste couple that's on the verge of getting married. The woman, a Tamil Brahmin, is dressed in orange, while the man, who is from an Obc caste, is dressed in black. The colours clearly...
- 6/3/2020
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
KollywoodAR Rahman, who is the composer for ‘Ponniyin Selvan’, was answering a question from a reporter on the alleged removal of lyricist Vairamuthu from the film’s crew.Tnm StaffPonniyin Selvan is filmmaker Mani Ratnam’s biggest film yet and recently the film’s crew was announced. The absence of Vairamuthu’s name from the poster raised doubts over the lyricist’s removal from the film’s team, since early reports suggested that Mani Ratnam was to collaborate with his long-time associate Vairamuthu in spite of the sexual harassment accusations against him from several woman, including singer Chinmayi, last year. The conspicuous absence of the ‘lyricist’ category from the poster was unusual, with the makers not coming forward to issue a clarification. In this scenario, in an interview with Puthiya Thalaimurai TV channel on Monday the film's music composer Ar Rahman said that an official announcement regarding the same would...
- 1/7/2020
- by Vidya
- The News Minute
KollywoodEarlier reports said that Vairamuthu was the lyricist for the film but Madras Talkies has been tight-lipped about whether he's on board the project or not.Tnm StaffThe first poster of Mani Ratnam’s upcoming film Ponniyin Selvan was released on January 2, confirming the film’s progress. The poster shows a sword with a golden hilt, bearing the tiger insignia, the Chola’s emblem along with the words 'Beginning of the golden era'. Behind it is a fiery streak in the pink skies. Are you ready to witness the beginning of the golden era on the big screen? #PonniyinSelvan Shooting in progress #Kalki #ManiRatnam @LycaProductions @arrahman #RaviVarman @sreekar_prasad #ThottaTharani #Jeyamohan @ShamKaushal @ekalakhani @BrindhaGopal1 @bagapath pic.twitter.com/KNaQTX15Rb — Madras Talkies (@MadrasTalkies_) January 2, 2020 Among the crew members listed are Ar Rahman for music, Ravi Varman for cinematography, Sreekar Prasad for editing, Thotta Tharani for production design and writer Jeyamohan for dialogues.
- 1/2/2020
- by Anjana
- The News Minute
KollywoodThe film is expected to be shot across a span of 120 days and the first schedule will last for 50 days.Digital NativeDigital Native Arjun Chidambaram who was last seen in Dhanush's Ennai Nokki Paayum Thotta has landed a role in Mani Ratnam's multi-starrer Ponniyin Selvan. After year-long pre-production, the highly anticipated project recently went on the floors in Thailand. The film is expected to be shot across a span of 120 days and the first schedule will last for 50 days. Inspired by the classic novel Ponniyin Selvan, the film traces the life of the most popular among the Chozha kings, Raja Raja Chozhan 1. It is in fact about his early life when he was known as Arul Mozhi Varman. The film has a huge star cast that includes Aishwarya Rai, Vikram, Jayam Ravi, Karthi, Sarath Kumar, Jayaram, Ashwin, Trisha and Aishwarya Lekshmi. Elango Kumaravel will be co-writing the adaptation along with Mani Ratnam,...
- 12/21/2019
- by Luke
- The News Minute
KollywoodThis film will be produced by Saravanan.Tnm StaffSaravana stores owner Saravanan, who became popular by appearing in TV commercials shot for his store, will now be making his debut as an actor and a producer in a Tamil cinema soon. The announcement came on Sunday following a puja that was held at Avm Studios in Vadapalani, Chennai. Saravanan who goes by the name “Legend” Saravanan, has appeared alongside actors like Tamannaah and Hansika on the television commercials shot for his store, the Saravana Stores. Soon, rumours abounded that the entrepreneur will be making his acting debut on the big screen. This film, called “Production No. 1” for now, will be directed by Jd and Jerry (Joseph D Sami and Jerald Arockiam), of Ullaasam fame. Starring Ajith, Vikram and Maheswari, Ullaasam was released in 1997. Interestingly, this film was produced by Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan and received a good response from the audience.
- 12/1/2019
- by Anjana
- The News Minute
KollywoodAmong those present at the celebrations marking 60 years of Kamal in Indian cinema were Rajinikanth, Ks Ravikumar, Vijay Sethupathi, Tamannaah and Mani Ratnam.Anjana ShekarUngal Naan, a celebratory event marking 60 years of Kamal Haasan in indian cinema was held in Chennai on November 17. As hundreds of eager fans awaited the star's entry into the stadium, with some flashing torch lights in their hands, the symbol of Kamal's political party Makkal Needhi Maiam, a short audio-visual flashed on the big screens. Kamal's entry was preceded by the star thanking 60 important people in his life and the list started with producer Av Meiyappan who introduced him into the world of cinema and ended with his mother Rajalakshmi Srinivasan and finally the people of Tamil Nadu. Ilaiyaraaja who then came up on stage began the musical evening with his usual inaugural song "Janani Janani". Ar Rahman who made a quick appearance, greeted both...
- 11/18/2019
- by Anjana
- The News Minute
MollywoodThe Tamil superstar came to watch the Malayalam film, in which his long time co-star Y Gee Mahendra plays an important role. Digital NativeVeteran drama artist and comedian, Y Gee Mahendra, has played a pivotal role in the Malayalam film Shyama Raagam and a special screening was organised by him recently for which several noted film personalities were invited. But the biggest surprise for the audience was the presence of the Tamil superstar Rajinikanth. The star was present for the screening along with his wife Latha and daughter Aishwarya Dhanush. It may be noted here that Y Gee Mahendra and Rajini are close relatives and have worked together in several films during the early days of their career. Veteran actors Vyjayanthimala Bali, Rajashree, Sachu, Lakshmi and Vennira Aadai Nirmala were also present at the event along with noted classical dancer VP Dhananjayan and singers Chithra and Jaya Rajagopalan. We hear...
- 11/10/2019
- by Cris
- The News Minute
Me TooSharing the dais along with 'Me Too' accused lyricist Vairamuthu were actor Rajinikanth and director Mani Ratnam among a host of other celebrities.Manasa RaoAlmost exactly a year ago, actor-politician-social commentator, Kamal Haasan, spoke up in support of the #MeToo movement at a music launch event. “As a society, we need to provide a safe atmosphere for women,” Kamal had said, adding, “And that lies in the hands of men.” Cut to November 8, 2019, and Kamal Haasan invited the who’s-who of the film industry for the launch of his new office in Chennai. And among the chief guests on the dais: Superstar Rajinikanth, Acclaimed Director Mani Ratnam, and Sexual Harassment Accused Vairamuthu. Kamal Haasan had invited the important people (read: men) in the industry for the inauguration of the new office of his production house, Raaj Kamal Films International, a day after his birthday. As the boys...
- 11/8/2019
- by Manasa
- The News Minute
KollywoodWhen the shooting of this film began, Karthi wrote on social media that he was thrilled to work with his sister-in-law.Digital NativeKarthi is basking in glory over the success of his Diwali release Kaithi doing well at the box office. The film clashed at the Bo with the Vijay starrer Bigil. Kaithi’s success has upped the expectation levels for Karthi’s next, which will be a Jeethu Joseph directorial. The untitled film also has Karthi’s real life sister-in-law Jyothika in the star cast. This is the first time they are sharing the screen space in a feature film. While all details about this untitled film is being kept a secret, Karthi opened up about it while promoting the Telugu version of Kaithi. He was quoted by India Today as saying, “My next is a family thriller, which is directed by Jeethu Joseph of Drishyam fame. My sister-in-law...
- 11/2/2019
- by Haripriya
- The News Minute
KollywoodThis has given rise to speculations that Lal will be playing an important role in Mani Ratnam’s 'Ponniyin Selvan'.Digital NativeActor Lal has posted a picture on his social media page raising speculations that he is a part of Mani Ratnam's upcoming magnum opus. The Malayalam actor had posted picture with the veteran director and wrote, “This black and white photo is hiding wonderful colors that will soon paint an old dream to life. Wait and watch #masterstroke #heightsoverheight." This black and white photo is hiding wonderful colors that will soon paint an old dream to life. Wait and watch#masterstrocke #heightsoverheight pic.twitter.com/IAJjfOxTpQ — Lal (@Lal_Director) October 25, 2019 This has given rise to speculations that Lal will be playing an important role in Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan, which is based on the classic novel of the same name. Ponniyin Selvan traces the life of...
- 10/31/2019
- by Anjana
- The News Minute
#1YearOfMeTooIn Tn, Chinmayi and Vairamuthu became the locus of the #MeToo story and Tamil activists, political leaders, journos and others lost no time in launching a comprehensive attack on the singer.Lois SofiaWe are at the one year anniversary of India’s #MeToo movement. When Tanushree Dutta spoke about her experience of being sexually harassed while working in Bollywood, it set off a wave of testimonies from Indian women on social media. If the LoSHA (List of Sexual Harassers in Academia) touched on the issue of sexual harassment in the academia, this time the storm swirled mostly within the realms of journalism, entertainment and the non-profit sector. A number of women, including some who enjoy a high public profile, began sharing their accounts, throwing open the doors for others to recount their experiences. Even as some female journalists in the English media were doggedly collating and putting out reports from women,...
- 10/17/2019
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
#OneYearOfMeTooA criticism against #MeToo was that women can 'get away' without proving the allegations while the men have to 'suffer' the consequences; here’s a look at the new projects signed by the men who were accused.Anjana ShekarThis October marks a year since the #MeToo movement shook the deep bowels of the south Indian film industries, with several women levelling allegations of sexual harassment against their colleagues. While some allies came out in support of the women, they were also subjected to abuse and ostracism from their respective industries and social media. Some of them have also had defamation cases slapped on them. Meanwhile, the accused men remain largely unscathed, going on about their daily lives and signing new projects. One of the criticisms made against #MeToo was that women can “get away” without proving the allegations while the men have to “suffer” the consequences. The contrasting responses show...
- 10/7/2019
- by Anjana
- The News Minute
KollywoodSources tell us that the director is set on working with Vairamuthu despite widespread criticism.Digital NativeAce director Mani Ratnam is gearing up to take the most awaited film based on the epic novel Ponniyin Selvan to the floors. The groundwork for this project is on and reports have it that the shooting will begin later this year. An interesting piece of info doing rounds about this magnum opus is that there will be 12 songs in the album. Also, Mani Ratnam will be retaining his core team. Oscar-winning music composer Ar Rahman will score the music and lyricist Vairamuthu will be penning the lyrics for all the songs. Sources tell us that the director is set on working with Vairamuthu despite the widespread criticism. The lyricist has been accused of sexual misconduct during the recent #MeToo movement. This is an ambitious project inspired by the classic novel Ponniyin Selvan. The...
- 9/9/2019
- by Anjana
- The News Minute
OpinionWhile the first half of the film has some remarkable writing, the second half dissolves into a confused mess about 'maanam' and culture-keeping.Ranjani Krishnakumar*Some spoilers ahead. Do not read if you haven't watched the film and dislike spoilers. Aadai begins 200 years ago, with the story of Nangeli and her fight to wear what she wants. After the animated prologue and the moral science lesson (“all freedoms we live today have claimed many lives in the past”), we move to the present. We meet Kamini. Kamini — given name 'Suthanthira Kodi', literally 'freedom flag', which she rejects summarily — is a television producer. She is successful, her ‘bold’ ideas and relentless perseverance give the show its Trp boost. She is purportedly a feminist, much to her mother’s chagrin. But it is somewhat refreshing that she is a feminist not of the Magalir Mattum Prabha kind. Because she is very flawed.
- 7/22/2019
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
Me TooSusi Ganeshan's lengthy complaint has a long list of attachments to "prove" that Leena is of bad character - from her support for a queer film festival to her stand against the right wing.Sowmya RajendranDirector Susi Ganeshan has filed a complaint against writer and filmmaker Leena Manimekalai for leveling allegations of sexual harassment against him in October last year. Leena first spoke of the incident, which allegedly took place 13 years ago, without mentioning the director in February 2017, but later decided to reveal his identity in the wake of the Me Too movement through a Facebook post. The complaint filed by Susi Ganeshan runs into several pages and has 16 attachments. The director has filed a complaint under section 200 of the CrPC for charges under section 500 (punishment for defamation). Susi Ganeshan has also asked for adequate compensation under section 357 and costs of litigation under section 359. However, reading through the complaint,...
- 6/18/2019
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
KollywoodIn an interview with Tnm, the director opened up about his upcoming film 'Ngk', the Me Too movement and the controversy surrounding Vairamuthu, who was initially reported to have worked on the film. Manasa RaoEven as director Selvaraghavan is gearing up for the release of his film Ngk on Friday, he addressed a number of topics surrounding the film as well as the Tamil film industry in a chat with Tnm. Ngk, starring actors Suriya, Rakul Preet and Sai Pallavi, comes after a three-year gap for the director who has a cult following among audiences. Selvaraghavan recently apologised for the ‘Adida Avala’ song from his 2011 film Mayakkam Enna, which was slammed for its misogyny. Asked whether more filmmakers should similarly engage critics and audiences on their art, Selvaraghavan said, “When you are making a movie and you know something like that may affect women— I think we made a mistake.
- 5/29/2019
- by Manasa
- The News Minute
Social media It's pretty common for women on social media to get such uncouth requests and Chinmayi's reply won praise from her followers.Tnm StaffThere is no dearth of people on the internet who will slide into your DMs and make no effort to even make civil conversation before turning creepy. From unsolicited dick pics to inappropriate messages, a lot of women have seen it all. So when singer Chinmayi Sripada had a creep send her an inappropriate message, she turned the tables on him, making him a laughing stock. A Twitter user messaged Chinmayi asking her to “send nudes” or in other words, share explicit photos of herself. As random and offensive as that was, Chinmayi responded to him in a witty manner, and posted a screenshot of their interaction on Twitter. And it was quite entertaining. In the meanwhile.. for some entertainment pic.twitter.com/JwarkEaKDz — Chinmayi Sripaada...
- 5/21/2019
- by Geetika
- The News Minute
KollywoodIn the Tamil social psyche, May Day holds an indelible place by way of songs and movies.Kavitha MuralidharanTamil Nadu shares a cherished link with May Day and its history. In 1923, it was in Chennai that May Day was first celebrated in India – led by veteran communist leader Singaravelar. But the bond goes beyond such unionist measures. In the Tamil social psyche, May Day holds an indelible place by way of songs and movies. Writer and scholar Stalin Rajangam points out that in Tamil cinema, the songs around May Day, on labour and its issues, are far more in number than other celebratory songs, including those meant for festivals like Deepavali and Pongal, or say New Year. “It started with lyricists like Patukottai Kalyanasundaram and Udumalai Narayana Kavi who wrote songs in the 1950s. Bharathidasan’s songs were also used in some films. But it was not until the 1980s...
- 5/1/2019
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
MeTooPa Ranjith said that it was time for the film industry to accept that sexual harassment was a reality. Tnm StaffYoutube ScreengrabWhile film personalities indulging in misogyny and slut-shaming on stage is nothing new, calling out those who do so on the very same stage, is something we’ve probably never seen before. Setting the precedent is director Pa Ranjith who called out producer K Rajan’s misogyny and open threats to singer Chinmayi soon after the producer aired his repellent views. Speaking at an audio launch a few days ago, producer K Rajan had threatened to "destroy" Chinmayi for accusing lyricist Vairamuthu of sexual harassment. “I have some people with me who can destroy you,” he had said. He had also claimed that Chinmayi’s intention was to seek "publicity". Director Pa Ranjith, who came up on stage soon after, condemned Rajan’s attitude in turning the tables against...
- 4/16/2019
- by Anjana
- The News Minute
Controversy This comes after Radha Ravi’s slut shaming remarks against Nayanthara at the trailer release of her film ‘Kolaiyuthir Kaalam.’ Tnm StaffFollowing the derogatory comments made against Lady Superstar Nayanthara by actor Radha Ravi at a film event, a few members of the film industry have come forward to slam him. Among the first to react was Bollywood actor Taapsee Pannu, who has also acted in several Tamil and Telugu films. “This is disgusting beyond words. Who asked him about casting pre requisites and is he the president of character certificate association? This comes for one of the strongest actresses of the industry,I can only wonder what he might have to say about others,” she tweeted. This is disgusting beyond words. Who asked him about casting pre requisites and is he the president of character certificate association? This comes for one of the strongest actresses of the industry,...
- 3/25/2019
- by Nimeshika
- The News Minute
ControversyIf Nayanthara and Vignesh Shivn want, they can come to his house or ask him to come to their house where he will express regret but not apologise, Radha Ravi said. Anjana ShekarOne of India’s Trumps-without-a-Twitter-account, Radha Ravi, pretty much has no moral compass, no concept of right and wrong. The has-been actor from a famous film industry family, who slut shamed Lady Superstar Nayanthara, who is at the top of her game, on Saturday, has openly declared that he will not apologise. Because he has done “nothing wrong”, he says. He further condescended, saying if Nayanthara and her partner Vignesh Shivn wanted, they could come to his place and he would express regret because they felt bad. Or he’d be willing to meet them in their homes if they called him there. “Media should never say no (to opinions). Views should come out,” Radha Ravi said,...
- 3/25/2019
- by Anjana
- The News Minute
OpinionIn his article for a newspaper, Suriya has made several relevant points, but it's also important to ask why our film celebrities do not speak up for survivors in their own industry.Sowmya RajendranThe Pollachi sexual assault case has sent shockwaves across Tamil Nadu. Several celebrities have tweeted about the incident, asking for justice for the victims. Going one step ahead, actor and producer Suriya has written a powerful column for Tamil The Hindu titled, "Don't we have any role to play in violence against women?". Suriya, who is known for his philanthropic activities, has raised several important questions in the article, observing that even a god in our mythology does not have the courage to say a woman's "chastity" is of no greater importance than her well-being. In a society where "Tamil culture" is considered to be dependent on the "modesty" of women, Suriya boldly asserts that there is...
- 3/18/2019
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
MollywoodActor Dhanush and director Vetrimaran would be teaming up for the fourth time with the film.Digital NativeAfter the recent success of Vada Chennai, actor Dhanush and director Vetrimaran are teaming up for the fourth time with Asuran. With the film set to go on floors on January 26, the actor shared the first look of the movie on his official Twitter account. Last seen opposite Mohanlal in Odiyan, Malayalam actor Manju Warrier will be playing the female lead in the film. It will also mark her Tamil debut. It is said that Dhanush will appear in a very different get-up in the film. The first look poster has him in the air, wielding a spear, his forehead marked with layers of thilak and a scowl on his face. Asuran is reported to be based on a Tamil novel called Vekkai written by Poomani. The novel is a revenge drama that...
- 1/25/2019
- by Cris
- The News Minute
Sexual HarassmentThe singer and dubbing artist has been deprived of opportunities in Tamil film industry following her allegations of sexual harassment against lyricist Vairamuthu.Balakrishna Ganeshan Singer and dubbing artist Chinmayi Sripaada, who has been denied opportunities in Kollywood after she accused lyricist Vairamuthu of being a sexual predator in the #MeToo movement, said that if she had been treated better when she spoke up, several other victims would have called out Vairamuthu as well. Chinmayi was speaking at the Hyderabad Literary Festival on Friday, in a session titled ‘#MeToo: The Way Forward’. The panel included Sandhya Menon, one of women leading the movement on Twitter, and Shutapa Paul, one of the women who accused former central minister Mj Akbar of sexual harassment. The singer, who enjoyed incredible success with her previous film 96' in which she dubbed for Trisha as well as sang all the songs, lamented that when she named Vairamuthu,...
- 1/25/2019
- by Balakrishna
- The News Minute
Updated: Rajkumar Hirani, one of India’s most successful filmmakers, has been accused of sexual harassment. His accuser is a woman assistant director who worked on Hirani’s 2018 blockbuster “Sanju.”
Hirani has denied all accusations. The alleged harassment took place during the post production process of “Sanju.” The film was released in June 2018 and grossed $83 million worldwide. It has six nominations at the upcoming Asian Film Awards, including a best director selection for Hirani.
After initially speaking through his lawyer, Hirani issued a media statement on Sunday: “I was completely shocked when these allegations were brought to my notice about two months back. I had suggested immediately that it is essential to take this matter to any committee or any legal body. The complainant has chosen to go to the media instead. I want to very strongly state that this is a false, malicious and mischievous story being spread with...
Hirani has denied all accusations. The alleged harassment took place during the post production process of “Sanju.” The film was released in June 2018 and grossed $83 million worldwide. It has six nominations at the upcoming Asian Film Awards, including a best director selection for Hirani.
After initially speaking through his lawyer, Hirani issued a media statement on Sunday: “I was completely shocked when these allegations were brought to my notice about two months back. I had suggested immediately that it is essential to take this matter to any committee or any legal body. The complainant has chosen to go to the media instead. I want to very strongly state that this is a false, malicious and mischievous story being spread with...
- 1/13/2019
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
OpinionWhile men accused in #MeToo continue to sign new films and be part of prestigious projects, the fallout has been for the women who stood up against them.Sowmya RajendranNawazuddin Siddiqui is in the cast of Karthik Subbaraj's Petta, starring Rajinikanth in the lead role. Dileep has just signed a new film with B Unnikrishnan. Arjun Sarja is in Priyadarshan's ambitious film Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham, which has Mohanlal playing the title role. All of these men have been accused of some form of sexual harassment or abuse, and as if to shut up the ‘oh-but-what-about-their-careers’ whataboutery, there is literally no break in the work they get. In fact, it is as if the #MeToo movement, which created much noise in the last few months, never took place. The #MeToo movement had been incubating in the south Indian film industries for a while, before it exploded in October this year.
- 12/10/2018
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
MeTooThe action on Chinmayi seems a punishment for speaking out on #MeToo.Manasa RaoA week after singer Chinmayi was expelled from the South Indian Cine, Television Artistes and Dubbing Artistes Union, she has clarified on allegations that she had not paid her membership fee to the body. In a 19-minute video published on her YouTube page, Chinmayi said that she had, in fact, paid a lifetime membership fee of Rs 5,000, in excess of the prescribed amount. “Their telling me that my membership automatically expired because I did not pay the subscription fee is false. Because I have paid the lifetime membership fee,” she says. “In 2006, February 11, I have a bank transfer that has gone out to the dubbing union for the payment of a lifetime membership fee. It is pegged at Rs 2,500 in the by-law book which is in Tamil. But they asked me to pay Rs 5,000 and I paid it.
- 11/24/2018
- by Manasa
- The News Minute
ControversyIn October this year, Chinmayi made allegations of sexual misconduct against lyricist Vairamuthu. She had also supported women who came forward and spoke up against Radha Ravi who heads the Dubbing Artistes Union.Tnm StaffTwitter: @ChinmayiWeeks after singer Chinmayi came forward with allegations of sexual misconduct against Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu as part of the ‘MeToo’ movement on social media, she has revealed that her membership of the dubbing union has been axed. Taking to Twitter on Saturday, Chinmayi wrote, “Sooo given to understand that I have been terminated from the dubbing union. Which means I can longer dub in Tamil films henceforth. The reason stated is that I haven’t paid ‘subscription fees’ for 2 years though this hasn’t stopped them from taking 10% off my dubbing income.”(sic) Sooo given to understand that I have been terminated from the dubbing union. Which means I can longer dub in Tamil films henceforth.
- 11/17/2018
- by Manasa
- The News Minute
KollywoodMarimuthu, who recently acted in ‘Pariyerum Perumal’, said that there was nothing wrong with Vairamuthu calling women to his room, since he was a man and had hormones. Tnm StaffScreenshot/YouTubeActor and director Marimuthu, who has played supporting roles in a number of films and was recently seen in Pariyerum Perumal, has justified sexual harassment as he spoke up in favour of lyricist Vairamuthu against #MeToo allegations. In addition, he used homophobia as a defence of Vairamuthu. Marimuthu has been acquainted with Vairamuthu since his early days in the Tamil film industry. And speaking on the #MeToo movement, Marimuthu did not deny the allegations against Vairamuthu in an interview. Instead, he bizarrely chose to ask what was wrong with such behaviour. “It would have been humiliating if he’d been accused of stealing from a jewellery shop. He’s been accused of calling a woman to his room. So what?...
- 10/30/2018
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
MeTooFollowing the ‘outing’ of his long-time collaborator and Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu during the MeToo movement, many had called on the music composer to speak up.Tnm StaffPTIWeeks after the MeToo movement gained new ground in India with women in the media and entertainment industry speaking up against their alleged sexual harassers, music composer Ar Rahman has broken his silence on the movement, coming out in support of the women. Tweeting late on Monday, the music composer wrote, “Been observing the #metoo movement… Some of the names have shocked me... both the victims and their perpetrators… I would love to see our industry become cleaner and respectful of women… More power to all the victims coming forward!!” Rahman’s statement comes weeks after his long-time collaborator and Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu was accused of predatory behaviour by multiple women who had worked with him, including popular singer Chinmayi. While most of the...
- 10/22/2018
- by Manasa
- The News Minute
The #MeToo movement arrived late in India. But it is a juggernaut that is here to stay, and is having a measurable effect on production.
Aamir Khan Productions is to withdraw from a film where one of the filmmakers is accused of harassment in a 2014 case that is currently sub-judice. “This is an opportunity for the film industry to introspect and take concrete steps towards change,” actor/producer Aamir Khan and producer Kiran Rao tweeted in a joint statement. “For far too long women have borne the brunt of sexual exploitation. It has to stop.”
The movement kicked off with actress Tanushree Dutta accusing veteran actor Nana Patekar of harassment on the sets of “Horn ‘Ok’ Pleasss” in 2008, an allegation she made then and again last week. This was followed by harassment allegations against Phantom Films founding partner Vikas Bahl by an employee. That led to the dissolution of the company.
Aamir Khan Productions is to withdraw from a film where one of the filmmakers is accused of harassment in a 2014 case that is currently sub-judice. “This is an opportunity for the film industry to introspect and take concrete steps towards change,” actor/producer Aamir Khan and producer Kiran Rao tweeted in a joint statement. “For far too long women have borne the brunt of sexual exploitation. It has to stop.”
The movement kicked off with actress Tanushree Dutta accusing veteran actor Nana Patekar of harassment on the sets of “Horn ‘Ok’ Pleasss” in 2008, an allegation she made then and again last week. This was followed by harassment allegations against Phantom Films founding partner Vikas Bahl by an employee. That led to the dissolution of the company.
- 10/11/2018
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
MeTooFrom Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu to Malayalam actor Mukesh and late director Rajesh Pillai, multiple women have come forward with anonymous allegations.Tnm StaffDays after alleged sexual harassers in the Indian media industry have been named and shamed on social media, beginning with the outing of comedian Utsav, women have also accused several popular, powerful men from the film industry in south India. On Tuesday, singer Chinmayi accused Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu of sexual harassment, along with several women who have chosen to remain anonymous. In a veiled response on Wednesday, Vairamuthu said it was an attempt to humiliate him. Malayalam actor Mukesh was accused of harassment by casting director Tess Joseph, and actress Divya Unni has made allegations against Malayalam director (late) Rajesh Pillai. Anonymous allegations of sexual harassment, sexual misconduct and inappropriate behaviour have been made against other celebrities from the south, including Tamil actor Radha Ravi, Tamil actor Tm Karthik,...
- 10/10/2018
- by Manasa
- The News Minute
TollywoodThe film will be released in two parts, with part one making it to the silver screens on January 9 and part two on January 24.Digital NativeActor Rakul Preet Singh has been roped in to play the late actor Sridevi in the Ntr biopic. The first look poster of Rakul as Sridevi in the film is out. The actor, who was celebrating her 28th birthday on Wednesday, herself took to Instagram to share the first look poster and she looks fabulous. View this post on Instagram Presenting first look of #sridevigaru in #ntrbiopic !! hope you like it ! A post shared by Rakul Singh (@rakulpreet) on Oct 9, 2018 at 9:14pm Pdt Rakul recently told Toi in an interview, “I am really excited about the project and I know all eyes will be on me because for the first time someone is going to play Srideviji in a film.” She added, “This is...
- 10/10/2018
- by Vidya
- The News Minute
Me TooSamantha and Varalaxmi Sarathkumar are the only ones from Kollywood to break their silence about Me Too after Chinmayi tweeted on Vairamuthu.Tnm StaffAfter several alleged sexual predators in Indian journalism, standup comedy and Bollywood were named on social media by survivors in a fresh #MeToo wave, the movement has set foot in Kollywood now. Senior lyricist Vairamuthu, who has penned several songs in Tamil, has been accused of sexually harassing women. At least two women anonymously said that they were groped and molested by Vairamuthu. Journalist Sandhya Menon was the first to tweet the screenshot of an anonymous allegation made against the lyricist. In the allegation, the woman says that she had been molested by Vairamuthu when she was 18 years old and had gone to him to work on a project. Vairamuthu had allegedly hugged and kissed the woman in his office in Kodambakkam. Award winning singer Chinmayi,...
- 10/9/2018
- by Balakrishna
- The News Minute
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