ENGLISH actress Amy Jackson has described her love of India – which she calls her “second home” – where she has become popular for her performances in south Indian films.
In an exclusive interview with Eastern Eye, the star said her time in India had been her “most spectacular experience to date”. She also discussed her ambition to carve out a career in the UK and her support for philanthropic projects, including a new campaign by animal welfare charity Elephant Family.
After more than a decade of working in the Indian film industry, Jackson has become a familiar face in the country. She rose to prominence after being spotted by Indian film producers on the Miss Teen World website. In 2010, she was cast as the co-lead in Madrasapattinam, a Tamil language film. Its success catapulted her to superstar status in Asia, and she has since starred in more than 15 films.
Although she has acquired a huge fan following in India, Jackson has not acted in a Bollywood film since 2018. Her last film, 2.0, a Tamil-language science fiction action movie, is ranked as the second-highest grossing release in the country.
Asked if she would be returning to the Indian film industry any time soon, Jackson said, “without a doubt. It’s forever in my blood.”
Amy Jackson(C) poses with Indian Bollywood actors (L-R) Sohail Khan, Salman Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Jas Arora during the trailer launch of their home production Hindi film 'Freaky Ali in Mumbai. 2016.
Despite not currently working or living in India (Jackson lived there from 2012 until 2016, before moving to London), the country will “forever hold a special place in (my) heart”, she said.
She told Eastern Eye, “As a 16-year-old schoolgirl who had never travelled further than Spain on her holidays, to then being welcomed to a country and industry I knew nothing about with open arms says a lot.”
Meeting “so many incredible people” during her time there and being able to appreciate and explore a culture “so vast and rich” at such an early age “transformed my small-town girl mentality”. “It opened my eyes to a whole new way of life. I believe that the most valuable lessons in life come from experiences, and India has been my most spectacular experience to date,” she added.
Jackson is currently taking a break from Bollywood and is spending her time supporting causes close to her heart. Alongside actress Joanna Lumley and TV presenter Donna Air, she recently backed the Elephant Family’s latest campaign.
Last month, the charity set up a herd of 100 life-sized elephant sculptures in London’s Royal Parks. The exhibition, which ends on Wednesday (14), invited the public to discover more about the elephants and the ways in which human beings can coexist with wildlife and better protect the planet’s biodiversity. It is part of the charity’s CoExistence campaign, a response to the increasing overlap between the human and animal world.
The actress has recently showed support for the latest campaign by animal welfare charity Elephant Family
During her time in India, Jackson, who is an ambassador for the charity, recalled her encounters with the animal. Although she said some were “breathtakingly wonderful,” others were “heart-wrenching.”
“As a self-confessed animal fanatic, I vowed to do all that I could to help and protect them,” she said. “As elephants are the icons of India, they too have a special place in my heart.”
Jackson was introduced to the Elephant Family in 2018. During her first meeting with the charity, she recalled “falling in love with its morals, ethics, and overall wonder” for the animals.
“They dedicate so much of themselves to preserving Asia’s giants – from securing a network of wildlife corridors, to relocating busy highways that slice through primary forests. Their projects help humans and wildlife more effectively share space and I’m so proud to be part of their family,” she said.
There is an urgent need to support the coexistence of humans and animals across the world, she added. “There couldn’t have been a more appropriate time for the Coexistence Great Migration to take place. We only have to look at how the pandemic kickstarted the ‘anthropause’ (the global reduction in human activity during the crisis) and how nature blossomed as we took a step back and allowed our world to breathe.”
Jackson said she has been “utterly obsessed” with animals since she can remember. As a young girl, she would often plead with her mother to let her adopt dogs and cats from the local animal rescue shelter.
Amy Jackson and husband George Panayiotou, pictured in 2019
At one point, the family had four pets in their Liverpool home, as well as a couple of rescue ponies, kept at a stable where her mother worked. “I’ve always felt an instant and intense bond with animals, and I want to be able to use that to help protect them,” Jackson said. “We humans are their mouthpiece.”
Not only has she established herself as a successful actress, Jackson has also acquired a large following on social media. She currently boasts 9.7 million followers on Instagram and 2.7 million on Twitter.
Aware of her influence, she is keen to give back and regularly uses her social media platforms to help raise awareness for the various charities and causes that she supports.
“We’re all in this journey together and yes, social media is great for a bit of work and fun, but it can be used for a much deeper meaning,” she said.
The majority of Jackson’s career has been Asia-based, although she has begun to make waves internationally too. In 2017, she starred as Imra Ardeen (otherwise known as Saturn Girl) in superhero drama series Supergirl. It was her first Hollywood role.
Jackson spoke about her ambitions to work in the entertainment industry in the UK too. The actress confirmed the next chapter of her career would be in her home country.
The 29-year-old has recently finished filming a cameo role in a film with a British director who she “has always dreamed of working with.” The as-yet secret project will be announced later this year. In addition, Jackson said she is currently in talks with a few possibilities in the TV world. “I feel like presenting could be my calling in life – I love to have a chat with quite literally anyone,” the actress revealed.
The star has also been working to raise awareness of the efforts being made to help India in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic. The country made global headlines earlier this year as it struggled to cope with a huge spike in Covid cases.
In response, Jackson has been working with a charity called Breathe for India. Its focus is to help the country recover from the devastating aftereffects of the crisis.
As well as her philanthropy work, Jackson is concentrating on enjoying family life. She became a mother to a young son, Andreas Jax, in 2019. Talking about motherhood, Jackson described it as both demanding and rewarding. “It’s by far my most favourite role,” she said.
Her son has changed her whole life dynamic, she admitted. “Life before was so fast paced – I was here, there and everywhere which was fun, but it can be extremely draining,” said Jackson, whose partner is multi-millionaire businessman George Panayiotou. “Now, Andreas is at the forefront of every decision and choice, and that means my time and energy are preserved for people and projects I truly love and admire.”
To buy a CoExistence elephant statue, visit coexistence.org/elephant-shop
Reports claim Ajith opted for no-salary model in AK64
Actor allegedly set to earn from OTT and satellite rights instead
Srinidhi Shetty and GV Prakash linked to the film’s team
Production to begin in November under director Adhik Ravichandran
Ajith Kumar’s upcoming film AK64 has created a stir after reports suggested the actor has signed a unique “no-salary” deal, making AK64 a hot topic in Tamil cinema. The move has attracted attention not only for its scale but also for Ajith’s decision to forgo a traditional fee, instead securing rights revenue. The news follows the mixed response to Vidaamuyarchi and the blockbuster success of Good Bad Ugly, directed by Adhik Ravichandran.
Ajith Kumar’s AK64 has become the most discussed Tamil film of the year Instagram
What is Ajith Kumar’s AK64 salary deal?
According to industry sources, Ajith Kumar initially demanded a staggering £19 million (₹200 crore) salary for AK64. This figure reportedly prompted several major studios to withdraw from talks, raising doubts about the film’s financial viability. Eventually, Rahul of Romeo Pictures, who had earlier distributed Ajith’s films, stepped in as producer.
To make the project feasible, reports suggest Ajith agreed to waive his upfront salary. Instead, the actor would pocket revenue from OTT and satellite rights, while the producer would retain theatrical earnings. If true, this marks the first time Ajith has agreed to a no-salary arrangement in his career.
Ajith Kumar AK64 production sparks buzz over salary claim www.easterneye.biz
Has the AK64 salary deal been confirmed?
While the story has been widely circulated, Ajith’s team has not officially confirmed the details. Sources close to the actor have also denied that a final agreement has been signed. The ambiguity has kept fans and trade circles guessing, especially given the size of the numbers involved.
Nevertheless, the unusual arrangement has generated debate within the industry, with many calling it a bold step that could change how star-led films are financed in future.
Ajith Kumar AK64 salary deal raises new questions in Tamil cinema www.easterneye.biz
Who is in the cast and crew of AK64 ?
Director Adhik Ravichandran, who helmed Ajith’s hit Good Bad Ugly, is set to lead AK64. The actor was reportedly impressed by Ravichandran’s approach and wanted him to direct again.
Srinidhi Shetty, best known for her role in KGF, is said to be the frontrunner for the female lead, though no official announcement has been made. Music will be composed by GV Prakash Kumar, adding to the buzz around the project.
Production work has begun, with filming expected to start in November. Industry insiders suggest the movie could be a gangster drama, though details remain tightly under wraps.
Ajith Kumar returns to full mass mode in Good Bad Ugly, a high-octane action drama Mythri Movie Makers
Why is AK64 significant for Ajith Kumar’s career?
Ajith has had an eventful year, with two contrasting releases. Vidaamuyarchi failed to live up to expectations in February, but the April release Good Bad Ugly became a major commercial success. Fans now see AK64 as a crucial film that could consolidate the actor’s position after mixed results at the box office.
Ajith’s car reportedly collided with a stationary vehicle on the racetrack Instagram/ ajithkumarracing
Away from films, Ajith has been pursuing his passion for motorsport, competing in international racing events. This balance between cinema and racing has further heightened curiosity about his career moves, making AK64 one of the most anticipated Tamil films of the year.
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Mammootty confirms full recovery and returns with Mohanlal in Patriot
Mammootty confirms complete recovery after recent health issues.
The actor will resume shoots for Mahesh Narayanan’s Patriot in September.
Malayalam film personalities including Mohanlal and Prithviraj welcomed his return.
Fans are eagerly awaiting his next releases including Kalamkaval.
Veteran Malayalam actor Mammootty has confirmed his full recovery following recent health concerns, bringing relief to fans and colleagues alike. The much-awaited Mammootty health update comes as the megastar prepares to resume filming Patriot, directed by Mahesh Narayanan, alongside Mohanlal. The actor is also expected to complete dubbing for Kalamkaval, keeping his packed release slate on track.
Mammootty confirms full recovery and returns with Mohanlal in Patriot Instagram/mammootty
What is the latest Mammootty health update?
The 72-year-old star had been away from the spotlight for several months after reports surfaced about a possible health issue. While his team consistently denied rumours of a cancer diagnosis, the actor had taken time off for treatment and recovery.
Now, close aides including producer Anto Joseph and his long-time associate George confirmed through social media that Mammootty has “fully regained his health” and is ready to return. George posted a heartfelt message of gratitude, thanking everyone who prayed and supported the actor during the difficult period.
Mammootty is set to return to sets in September for Mahesh Narayanan’s big-budget drama Patriot. The film also features an extended cameo by Mohanlal, with Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban and Nayanthara playing key roles. Produced by Anto Joseph, C.R. Salim and Shubash Manuel, the project is among the most anticipated Malayalam releases of 2025.
Apart from Patriot, the actor is also finishing work on Kalamkaval, a crime-action thriller directed by debutant Jithin K Jose. In the film, Mammootty reportedly portrays serial killer Cyanide Mohan, with Vinayakan as co-lead and Meera Jasmine, Rajisha Vijayan, and Gayatri Arun in supporting roles. Kalamkaval is expected to release later this year.
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How did the industry react to Mammootty’s recovery?
News of Mammootty’s recovery sparked widespread joy across the Malayalam film industry. Mohanlal shared a candid photo with the actor, while Prithviraj Sukumaran, Manju Warrier, and Maala Parvathi expressed their happiness online.
Producer Anto Joseph described the development as an “answered prayer,” and director Ratheena PT, who worked with Mammootty in Puzhu, called it “double OK.” Political leaders including Kerala opposition leader V.D. Satheesan and Speaker A.N. Shamseer also welcomed the news, underlining the actor’s immense cultural influence.
For fans, the Mammootty health update signals the continuation of a prolific career spanning more than four decades. The actor, known for recent hits like Kaathal and Bramayugam, remains one of the busiest stars in Malayalam cinema. His upcoming slate combines mainstream entertainers with challenging character-driven roles, reinforcing his ability to adapt across generations. With Patriot bringing Mammootty and Mohanlal together once again, anticipation is high for what promises to be a landmark film in the industry.
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Thama marks the first love story in Maddock Films’ hit horror comedy universe
Maddock Films unveils teaser for Thama, the first love story in its horror-comedy universe
Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna star as star-crossed lovers in a tale of passion and horror
Nawazuddin Siddiqui introduced as Yakshasan, the “King of Darkness”
Malaika Arora, Paresh Rawal and Faisal Malik add glamour and humour to the dark saga
The much-anticipated Thama teaser is finally out, and it has given audiences a chilling glimpse into Maddock Films’ next addition to its successful horror-comedy universe. Starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna, the film has been pitched as Bollywood’s first “bloody love story”, bringing together romance with gothic horror. With Nawazuddin Siddiqui stepping in as a vampire overlord, and a surprise cameo from Malaika Arora, the teaser has set social media abuzz with excitement.
Thama marks the first love story in Maddock Films’ hit horror comedy universe Instagram/maddockfilms
What is shown in the Thama teaser?
The teaser begins on a romantic note, with Ayushmann’s Alok asking Rashmika’s Tadaka if she can live without him for a hundred years. Her reply: “Not even for a moment” sets the stage for a tender love story. But within seconds, the tone darkens with flashes of supernatural forces, blood-soaked chaos and Rashmika screaming in fury.
Malaika Arora makes a striking appearance in what appears to be a special dance sequence, while Paresh Rawal and Faisal Malik provide lighter moments to balance the horror. The final frame delivers the biggest punch: Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s entry as Yakshasan, menacingly introduced as the “Andhere ka Badshah” (King of Darkness).
Character posters released earlier revealed that Ayushmann plays Alok, described as “Insaaniyat ki aakhri umeed” (the last hope for humanity). Rashmika steps into the role of Tadaka, “Roshni ki pehli kiran” (the first ray of light), symbolising strength and resilience.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Yakshasan represents the opposing force, the king of darkness who threatens their love. Veteran actor Paresh Rawal plays Ram Bajaj Goyal, a character designed to bring humour to the otherwise chilling narrative. The supporting cast also features Faisal Malik, while Malaika Arora’s cameo adds glamour to the supernatural tale.
Thama is the fourth instalment in Maddock’s expanding horror-comedy universe, which began with Stree (2018), followed by Bhediya (2022), Munjya (2024) and Stree 2 (2024). Each film has explored folklore-inspired horror with a comic twist, and Thama continues this tradition by introducing a desi vampire romance.
Director Aditya Sarpotdar, who also helmed Munjya, alternates the story between modern-day India and the ancient kingdom of Vijayanagar. This layered narrative hints at mythological roots of vampirism while presenting a love story that crosses timelines.
Produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, Thama is scheduled for a grand theatrical release this Diwali 2025. The studio has confirmed a worldwide rollout, with expectations of a large-scale box office opening. Given the success of earlier films in the horror-comedy universe, many of which grossed over £12 million (₹12 crore), industry insiders anticipate that Thama could emerge as one of the biggest releases of the festive season.
BRITAIN needs more talented migrants who can create jobs and wealth in this country, a media expert has said, citing evidence from the latest edition of Eastern Eye’s Asian Rich List 2025.
Writing in the Independent on Saturday (16), Chris Blackhurst argued that “against the present backdrop of protests against immigration, the Asian Rich List illustrates that the UK has so much to be thankful for.” He added, “It is hard to imagine where the economy, wider society, would be without the loyalty, tenacity and public spirit of those on the list and the ones ascending fast. We urgently need more like them, not less.”
Blackhurst is an experienced business journalist and was previously the editor of the Independent from 2011-2013.In his comment piece, he noted how businessman Surinder Arora is one the leading hoteliers in the UK, having arrived in this country with very little money.
Arora owns Renaissance Hotel at Heathrow, where he was employed as a waiter, as well as the Fairmont Windsor Park, the InterContinental in east London, near the O2, and Luton Hoo, which he is developing as a luxury golf and health spa. “Arora’s story typifies the members of this year’s Asian Rich List,” Blackhurst said, adding, “what characterises many is a strong work ethic, coupled with relentless drive and determination to succeed.”
He also cited the examples of former prime minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty, whose father NR Narayana Murthy co-founded Infosys, the Indian IT giant.
Among other insights, Blackhurst noted the younger generation of Asian immigrants stepping up to take over the business empires built by their parents, such as the Arora’s son Sanjay and the Hinduja family. This year’s Asian Rich List includes 17 billionaires, while it is estimated the combined wealth of the 101 richest British Asians in the country is £126.26 billion, an increase of £6.22bn from the previous year.
Many Asians have made their mark in the hospitality and hotels sector. It was reported on Monday (18) that Arora has acquired the Ministry of Justice’s £245 million, with a view to revamping it into a luxury hotel in central London.
“Arora Group, owned by the billionaire Surinder Arora, has bought Queen Anne’s Mansions, near Buckingham Palace, from Land Securities, the FTSE 100 landlord,” the Times said, adding “the fourteen-storey building is fully let to the MoJ, which is due to move out in 2028 when its £15 million-a-year lease expires.”
The Hinduja family restored the former Old War Office Building in Whitehall into a luxury 120-room Raffles Hotel and with 85 serviced apartments.Another Asian businessman making headlines is Sharan Pasricha whose Estelle Manor, a country house hotel in Oxfordshire, was the venue for the wedding of Eve Jobs (the daughter of Steve Jobs) for her recent wedding.
Pasricha bought The Hoxton in London, in 2012 as well as Gleneagles in Scotland before transforming the hotel and golfing complex. While growing their wealth, many Asians are also committed to philanthropy, Blackhurst noted, among them Nirmal Sethia and Cyrus and Priya Vandrevala. Sethia provided funds for victims of the Grenfell fire and supports the Museum of London, while the Vandrevala couple are known for their work in mental health and are also patrons of Elephant Family.
London. A five-day Shiv Katha has begun at the International Siddhashram Shakti Centre to honour the victims of the tragic Air India crash, with prayers offered for their eternal peace. The programme, running from 18 to 22 August, is being led by HH Shri Rajrajeshwar Guruji with recitations by PP Shri Jogi Dada, and attended by devotees and dignitaries from India and abroad.
Opening the Katha, Shri Jogi Dada called it both a spiritual gathering and a heartfelt tribute to the passengers of the Ahmedabad–London flight. “Mahadev’s darshan equals a pilgrimage. It is inspiring to see the younger generation engaging in bhakti, which is vital for preserving our heritage."
Guruji spoke on the eternal energy of Shiv Shakti and chetna (consciousness). “Shiva is not just a deity but the ultimate consciousness. Through Shiv Katha we awaken inner energy and spread vibrations of peace across the world. May the departed souls attain eternal peace, and may their memories guide us towards compassion and unity,” he said.
The inaugural day saw the presence of Chaitanya Shambhu Maharaj, Shri Maheshbhai Bhatt, Dhruvbhai Bhatt and Rajendrabhai Thakkar. The evening concluded with Aarti and a sacred Rudrabhishek, performed in memory of the crash victims.