Actor Sudeep needs no introduction. He is one of the finest actors of Kannada cinema, who has made his presence felt in other industries also. Most recently seen in a multilingual sports drama called Pailwan (2019), Sudeep is presently looking forward to the release of his high-profile Hindi film Dabangg 3.
The actor, who continues stacking up a great resume of work, is new to the highly profitable Bollywood franchise which has superstar Salman Khan and Sonakshi Sinha fronting the cast since 2010. Recently, Eastern Eye caught up with Sudeep in Mumbai and talked to him about his experience of stepping into the world of Dabangg, how he bagged the part, the kind of roles that he loves to do and much more. Excerpts…
How excited or nervous are you ahead of the release of Dabangg 3?
After so many years in the industry, I don’t think I should be thinking a lot. One should go with one’s heart. I thought a lot earlier as to how to craft myself or how to groom myself, but I think after the industry has offered me so much, time is again giving me an opportunity to work with certain people. It is my perspective. They may have hundred and one reasons to call few people, not call few people, but then my perspective says, you know, when time is offering you such beautiful moments, you should grab them and cherish them because I am not going to lose anything. I don’t think I am a hero, and I do this and that. I don’t think about it.
I didn’t think much when I accepted my first role. I had no options anyway. So, it was Salman Khan who is somebody I have seen from the beginning. Today, time is just throwing something to me. I never will have the intention to overtake certain people in life, never will I have a chance to draw line with equities. There is a chance to stand next to him and work and be submissive in certain things. So just do it and enjoy the work.
Who approached you for the film?
Sohail Khan is the main guy. He is very close to me from beginning. Very adamant he was. He didn’t ask me. He just told me that I was doing this part.
After seeing you in Baahubali: The Beginning (2015), we thought we would see more of you in Bahubali: The Conclusion (2017).
I don’t know why I was not in Bahubali: The Conclusion as I didn’t get a call. I didn’t think much why was I not there. Basically, Prabhas was the main hero. I think only Rajamouli can answer that question. I never got a call. Rajamouli does a lot of homework. He will not do something on a random basis.
Weren’t you informed that you would not be there in Bahubali: The Conclusion?
Why should I sit around waiting for the information? They are the makers. They had their own reasons to cast me in the first part. They must have all the reasons not to call me for the second part. There won’t be anything personal in that.
Which is more comfortable for you: positive or negative roles?
There is nothing like a comfort zone. So, I get excited. When I get excited, I do it. If I don’t get excited, there is nothing to do in it. It’s like a meat. Something is not exciting me, I can’t push myself because it is in front of me, and if it is something nice, I would probably have a bite of it. I won’t think twice about it. For me, when I did Makkhi (2012) or Eega for Rajamouli, he narrated the script in about 20 seconds. He just told me that there is a couple. When you start liking the girl, and you kill the boy. And he returns as a fly and wants to take revenge from you. So, this is my story, this is all he said.
In that moment, what came to me, in my mind, was the film Batman. I didn’t find any difference between both the films. He is the Batman, masked always, because he has no value when he is out of the outfit. The outfit is what makes him Batman. I do something which will excite the crowd as a content. So, I guess, I just went by it.
You are a director, actor, singer and producer down south. How do you multi-task so efficiently?
You have no idea what is it like. This is a cinema part. This has got nothing to do with personal talent. I don’t think I am that talented to be doing all these things. It is a just a curiosity to know things and wanting to do things in my life. I think one or two films I have directed. I produced my own directorial, and sometimes I directed because suddenly the directors who were supposed to do the film, went back. Something happened and I came in as a second choice. That also has happened. I recently learned carpentry. I like to do carpentry. There is nothing that I don’t try. It’s about practice and what we like to do.
Have you seen the first two instalments of the Dabangg franchise?
Frankly speaking, my offering to the film has got nothing to do with them. As a viewer, I watched the films. Dabangg (2010) was fabulous because it had a genre which not many people had touched before. Approach to the script was something which had not happened before. So, there was a lot of uniqueness in Dabangg, like the background score, imaginary, the character called Chulbul Pandey and sarcasm being his forte, the way he speaks, etc. So, there are certain good things about the film which had to be there in the second part obviously. But those two films have nothing to do with this film. For me, this is another film and a film which features Salman Khan and has something that excited me. One day I will look back and see that these were the people I worked with. I have a set of films which has given me a platform, but I guess we all need a little bit of vacation, we all need a little bit of journey in our lives where we go and come back home happily. Trust me, these kinds of journeys have always made me richer. I got to know more people. I got to learn more things.
Did you get to learn anything from Salman Khan?
I got to understand that how it is to be as simple as him after being a superstar. He is very grounded.
The title track of the film received flak from a certain section of the audience because priests are dancing in the background and that, according to some, not how the culture works. Do you think people have become more critical nowadays?
Everybody has got the right to voice their opinions. If they are on any platform, they will speak. If they are paying for your tickets, they have the right to speak. It’s about how you take it. Each one has got a perspective. They have got the right to opinion. Each one has got the right to reaction. If you ask me, I am a person who will not react because if I have done something, I accept it. I may have gone wrong maybe. The way you said it is a little bit harsh. That’s you, why should I react to your harshness? I will take what you said. If I find it sensible, I will accept it. If I don’t find it sensible, I will leave it with you. I guess being nice, being polite is there in you. Also, for what reason you are trying to be harsh with us we wouldn’t know.
So, when they have so many choices of words, they will use certain words to put across their opinions. Again, that reflects only their personality. I don’t think we should give much importance to that. It takes time to start a war. You are not heading anywhere, and if there is something or a mistake, the team would have learnt. But if there is no mistake, I think the team would have been aware of it too. I don’t think we should give importance to these things because it has got nothing to do with us. Yes, if there is something to do with the society, if it is an awareness you are talking about, then maybe yes. I am sure they have been in the industry many more years than us. They would have either learnt what they should not do or either they know what they are doing.
You are an actor who has a strong screen presence and, in the film Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy (2019), where there were so many actors, but people went crazy with your performance. How do you feel to be a part of such a good film?
I feel lucky as I got away with something because that’s the truth. For me, the best advantage of Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy was that nobody knew how my character walked, spoke. I was in my beard and doing what I do in real life. The character offered me that freedom. So, I got away with that.
In an exclusive interview with Eastern Eye, Kajol pulls back the curtain on her most daring role yet. Forget the dimples and that signature bindi for a moment. Kajol, the powerhouse we know for fiery roles and infectious energy, is stepping into chilling new territory. Her upcoming film, Maa, which hits screens on 27 June, isn’t built around cheap jump scares. It’s a raw look at the everyday fears that haunt parents, especially mothers. Chatting with her felt less like a fluff piece and more like an honest heart-to-heart.
Kajol wastes no time explaining what makes Maa stand out. “We’re tackling things mainstream cinema tiptoes around,” she says. “Child safety. The constant pressure of raising kids. The unspoken worries when you have a daughter. Even menstruation.” She lets each topic hang in the air before adding, “That’s exactly what drew me to it. It’s a gripping horror story, yes, but it’s also a chance to sneak in conversations most of us avoid.” Her hope however is simple: people might not dissect every theme consciously, but they’ll walk away questioning what we accept as “normal.”
Stills from the trailer of MaaInstagram/devgnfilms
A horror newcomer finds her groove
Fans know Kajol for her loud performances, energy and fiery roles. In Maa, though, her character radiates a quiet, simmering intensity. Did she have to unlearn her signature style? "Not unlearn," Kajol clarified, "but I was a total horror newbie!" She confessed she rarely watches the genre. "I walked in blind. I had no idea how emotionally and physically draining it would be." The biggest surprise? Finding the right pitch. "Horror has its own frequency. My director, Vishal Furia, kept gently nudging me, 'Ma’am, this is horror. You need to sync with the audience's fear, there are things happening behind."
Stills from the trailer of MaaInstagram/devgnfilms
Three decades in: Embracing freedom
With almost thirty years on screen and sky-high expectations, taking on something so different might sound daunting. Not to Kajol. “Daunting? Nah. I feel free. Freer than most, honestly." She dismissed the idea of proving anything. "I’ve never been in the rat race. I don’t have that 'chase, chase, chase' ambition. I’m perfectly happy chilling at home for a year or two, waiting for something that truly sparks my interest." Ironically, her 33rd year is her busiest in two decades. "But it’s because I want to work, not because I have to. Work is part of my life, not my whole life. That balance is very important to me."
Stills from the trailer of MaaInstagram/devgnfilms
Behind the scenes: Producer’s hat
Wearing a producer's hat this time, was there a hill she was willing to die on creatively? Kajol quickly deflected praise. "Honestly, huge credit goes to Ajay Devgn. He was the driving force ensuring 'Maa' looks and feels premium. Ajay made sure Maa looks and sounds top notch,” she admits. “In today’s world, a movie must hit a certain visual and technical bar just to get noticed.” From VFX and music to the film’s overall vibe and marketing push, they poured everything into creating a polished experience. “We can’t wait to see how audiences react on the 27th.”
Stills from the trailer of MaaInstagram/devgnfilms
The Real Takeaway? Just Enjoy Yourself
So, what big truth does Maa hold up for viewers? Kajol cut through expectations: “It’s not a preachy film. You won’t leave thinking, ‘Oh, that was the lesson!’” Instead, she insists, “You might have more fun than you expect. This one sneaks up on you.” For her and Ajay, that’s the point: “We make films to be felt and savoured, not overanalysed. So, relax and feel it and just have a lot of fun.”
Playing a mother pushed beyond reason in Maa. So, how did Kajol the real-life mom handle that? “Protecting your child is primal,” she says without hesitation. What shook her most was her character’s unyielding grit. “In reality, most of us would crumble under that kind of pressure. But she keeps going, even when all hope seems lost. That drive like that ‘I have to do something’ energy, that’s what I want everyone to take away.”
Kajol’s journey with Maa is all about confronting societal shadows and embracing genre challenges she never saw coming. This is a film that confronts real fears head on, guided by a performer unafraid to strip away artifice. Ready to see Kajol like never before? Maa arrives 27 June.
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Facing strong criticism on social media for questioning the survival story
Actor and singer Suchitra Krishnamoorthi has issued a public apology after facing strong criticism on social media for questioning the survival story of Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, the sole survivor of the recent Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.
Deleted post sparks backlash
The controversy began when Krishnamoorthi, known for her role in Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, shared a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter) alleging that Vishwas Kumar Ramesh had fabricated his account of surviving the 12 June crash. In her post, she wrote: “So this #vishwaskumarramesh lied about being a passenger on the plane & the only survivor? This is seriously weird. Didn't his family in the UK corroborate his story? What about his brother's funeral that he was seen giving kandha to? Deserve not only some serious punishment but some mental asylum time if this is true uff.”
Krishnamoorthi deleted the post and issued a statement of apologyX/ suchitrak
Her comments appeared to have been influenced by unverified social media speculation claiming that Ramesh’s survival narrative was false. The post drew significant backlash from users who criticised her for spreading misinformation and making insensitive remarks without confirmation.
Public apology issued
In response to the mounting criticism, Krishnamoorthi deleted the post and issued a statement of apology, also on X. She wrote: “Took out my last tweet on the Air India crash survivor. Seems to be false news circulated for God knows what reason. My apologies.”
The apology was shared on 19 June 2025, but reactions have remained mixed, with some social media users accepting the clarification while others questioned the haste in making the original accusation.
Who is Vishwas Kumar Ramesh?
Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British national, is the only known survivor of the Air India crash that occurred in Ahmedabad on 12 June. The crash claimed the lives of at least 260 people.
Ramesh was reportedly seated in seat 11A, close to an emergency exit on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, and managed to escape the burning aircraft. He was treated for injuries at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital and was later seen attending the funeral of his brother Ajay, who also boarded the same flight to London but did not survive.
Suchitra Krishnamoorthi’s comments on social media questioning the legitimacy of a plane crash survivor’s account have drawn widespread criticism. Following the backlash, she deleted the post and issued a public apology, admitting the claim was based on false information.
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Janhvi Kapoor and Shikhar Pahariya walk the streets of London together fans react to viral video
Actor Janhvi Kapoor was recently spotted in London, walking hand-in-hand with rumoured boyfriend Shikhar Pahariya in a video that has since gone viral. Captured by a passerby, the clip shows the duo casually strolling through the streets. Dressed in relaxed outfits, Janhvi in a black tube top and joggers, and Shikhar in a mint green tee with white trousers, the pair looked at ease in each other’s presence. Janhvi’s sister Khushi Kapoor was also seen walking nearby, playing third wheel.
While Janhvi and Shikhar have never publicly confirmed their relationship, moments like these continue to fuel speculation. From dinner outings to joint appearances at major events, the signs have long been there. Janhvi has also worn a necklace with Shikhar’s name in the past, and he frequently posts photos of her on social media.
This isn’t the first time the internet has buzzed with talk of the two. Their quiet presence together over the years, including a joint appearance at this year’s Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of Janhvi’s upcoming film Homebound, has kept fans guessing. The film, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, also stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa.
Janhvi had briefly opened up about her dynamic with Shikhar on Koffee With Karan Season 8. When Karan Johar cheekily asked if she had gone back to dating Shikhar after a break, Janhvi smiled and said, “Have you heard that song Nadaan Parindey Ghar Aaja? Shikhar used to sing that to me a lot.”
Shikhar Pahariya's Instagram post on Diwali Instagram/shikharpahariya
Shikhar Pahariya, the grandson of former Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde and son of producer-actor Smruti Shinde, has kept a relatively low profile despite the public curiosity. His brother, Veer Pahariya, recently debuted in Bollywood with Sky Force.
What’s next for Janhvi Kapoor
Janhvi, meanwhile, has a packed schedule. She stars in Param Sundari, a romantic comedy with Sidharth Malhotra set in Kerala, releasing on 25 July. She’s also reuniting with Varun Dhawan for Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, a family entertainer slated for September. A sports-action film titled Peddi, co-starring Ram Charan and scored by AR Rahman, is also on the list for 2026.
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Kuberaa Twitter reviews call Dhanush’s performance his best and praise Sekhar Kammula’s storytelling
Sekhar Kammula’s Kuberaa, starring Dhanush, Nagarjuna, and Rashmika Mandanna, hit theatres on 20 June and has quickly made waves online. Reactions across social media, particularly Twitter, have described the film as a bold, emotionally rich crime drama with standout performances, especially from Dhanush. Audiences have called it a “rare gem” in today’s commercial landscape and one of the best Telugu-Tamil bilingual films of 2025 so far.
Dhanush’s career-best, Rashmika’s surprise, and Nagarjuna’s steady hand
The highlight of most audience reviews is Dhanush’s performance, hailed by many as his “career-best” and even “National Award-worthy.” His portrayal of Deva, a beggar caught in a complex web of crime and morality, has been described as transformative and deeply immersive. One viewer wrote that few actors could pull off such a layered character with the same mannerisms in multiple avatars. Fans have also praised Rashmika Mandanna, calling this her strongest performance yet. Her portrayal is described as subtle yet powerful, giving the character both vulnerability and resilience. Nagarjuna’s presence, though noted to be slightly underused, was still appreciated for its gravitas and emotional weight.
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Sekhar Kammula’s direction was lauded for steering clear of formulaic mass elements, there are no item numbers or excessive heroism and instead relying on a grounded narrative. Viewers appreciated the film’s quiet intensity, emotional pacing, and the director’s ability to build tension without gimmicks. Cinematographer Niketh Bommireddy received special praise for his frames and lighting, with many calling the visuals “painterly” and emotionally charged. Devi Sri Prasad’s background score was also credited for amplifying the film’s emotional beats.
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Long runtime, uneven pacing but still worth the ride
Despite widespread acclaim, some viewers felt Kuberaa’s three-hour-plus runtime could have been tighter. A few pointed out that the second half dragged slightly and the climax felt rushed compared to the strong build-up. Others mentioned that some of Kammula’s philosophical themes did not fully land in execution. Still, even the critics agreed the film is a worthwhile experience that deviates from standard commercial fare.
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In all, Kuberaa is being celebrated as a rare cinematic effort: emotionally grounded, superbly acted, and visually distinctive. Whether or not it’s a perfect film, audiences seem to agree that this is Dhanush’s show, and it’s one worth watching.
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Stephen Fry says JK Rowling's views on trans rights have crossed the line
Stephen Fry has spoken out against JK Rowling’s stance on trans issues, saying the author has become “radicalised” and calling her views “cruel” and “mocking”. This is, in fact, a significant shift from Fry, who had previously refused to take sides in the heated debate surrounding Rowling’s statements on gender identity.
In a recent interview, the 66-year-old British actor, author and longtime LGBTQ+ advocate said Rowling’s repeated comments had crossed a line. “She has been radicalised, I fear, perhaps by TERFs, but also by the sheer backlash she’s faced,” he said. “I’m afraid she seems to be a lost cause for us.”
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Fry says Rowling’s tone has changed for the worse
Fry, who famously narrated all seven Harry Potter audiobooks, said he once enjoyed Rowling’s company and admired her wit, but feels her recent behaviour is no longer something he can overlook. “She says things that are inflammatory, contemptuous, and mocking,” he said. “It’s a terribly distressing time for trans people, and her words only make it worse.”
He added that while public debate is important, Rowling’s rhetoric has contributed to a toxic atmosphere. “There’s bullying, violence, and suicide in the trans community,” he said. “It’s not the time for smugness or cigar selfies on yachts.” This was in reference to Rowling’s post celebrating a recent UK Supreme Court ruling that defined women by biological sex, something LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall called “deeply worrying” for trans people.
Fry joins Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson in supporting the trans communityGetty Images
Fry also reflected on the damage done by shouting on both sides of the issue: “Screaming ‘transphobe’ at anyone who doesn’t agree with every detail doesn’t help either. You have to let people love you.”
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Cast and colleagues have also distanced themselves from Rowling
Fry now joins Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint in publicly rejecting Rowling’s stance. All three actors have declared support for trans rights in recent years. By contrast, Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy, has remained neutral, choosing instead to focus on Rowling’s legacy as a writer.
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This growing divide among those closest to the Harry Potter universe shows how Rowling’s position has shifted the conversation from literary legacy to personal ethics and how even long-time allies like Fry are no longer staying silent.