A couple of days ago, we informed our readers that Colors’ popular offering Shakti – Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki was in for a massive overhaul after its lead pair Vivian Dsena and Rubina Dilaik quit the show as they were not comfortable playing parents to grown-up kids post lead. While Dsena had walked out of the show a couple of months ago, Dilaik put her papers down only recently.
After the exit of the original lead pair, the makers decided to bring in a new pair to take the story forward. The revamped version stars Jigyasa Singh as the new female lead. Last seen in supernatural show Nazar on Star Plus, Singh will play a grown-up Heer, a transgender character, on Shakti – Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki.
Talking to a portal, Jigyasa Singh said that initially she was apprehensive about playing a transgender on television. “I was a little apprehensive about the character but slowly I felt comfortable. But I know for a fact that the transgender community still faces a lot of difficulties and they are still fighting for basic rights as their identity is still not accepted by people. The show is about accepting who we are and knowing our inner power and we’re trying our best to spread the message,” said the actress.
She also added, “It is a very challenging role and for any actor it will be an honor to play this role. I have always wanted to do such strong and challenging roles and continuing the legacy of Rubina (Dilaik) was interesting to me and the transition into my character was a little easy for me because she has portrayed the character for three long years and it has received a lot of love and support from the audience.”
These 10 films weren’t just hits; they started conversations and held up a mirror
Malayalam cinema leads the list, with 4 standout films pushing boundaries
Stories tackle caste, grief, gender, and class without sugar-coating
From indie gems to box office smashes, they prove truth sells too
Some films punch you in the gut. Others sit quietly with you after the credits roll, refusing to leave. This year, South Asian cinema has delivered both, and more. It hasn't been about larger-than-life heroes or formula plots. It's been about discomfort. Tenderness. Grief. Guts. From sun-drenched fields in rural Maharashtra to gritty courtrooms in Kerala, filmmakers across the region are telling stories with a kind of bravery that feels new and honestly overdue.
Here’s a list of 10 films from 2025 that haven’t just made money but also moved people. If you haven't seen these yet, fix that.
1. Ponman (Malayalam)
Dowry culture in Kerala? This black-comedy thriller doesn't just expose it, it truly sets it on fire. Basil Joseph is phenomenal as a gold broker trapped in a wedding scheme gone horribly criminal. Made on a small budget of £285,000 (₹3 crore), the film earned £1.73 million (₹18 crore+). Proof you don't need a mega-budget, just a killer story and guts. Beneath the dry humour is a grim look at how tradition twists into greed, and how no one comes out clean.
A heartbroken college dropout slides into online fraud to numb the sting of failure. But lies have limits, and this one drags him back to where it all went wrong. It’s funny, sad, and painfully honest about how young people drown quietly in pressure and heartbreak. And damn, did people watch – £14.2 million (₹150 crore) says they felt it too.
Imagine giving up everything for your sick mum. Now imagine your neighbours using that love to blackmail you. Moushumi Chatterjee, back after 12 years? Her performance is a quiet masterclass. You feel every sigh, every unspoken pain. It’s about sacrifice, rage, and the quiet grief of being trapped by love. You’ll want to call your mother after this one.
A failing basketball coach stumbles into teaching neurodivergent adults, and learns he's not the only one looking for redemption. It’s messy, warm, and awkward in the best way. No easy solutions, but plenty of real moments that catch you off guard. It’s warm, sometimes chaotic, but ultimately about seeing people truly seeing them. £9.5 million+ (₹100 crore+) and counting? People are feeling it.
Remember making stupid movies with your friends? These guys in 90s Maharashtra did it with pure, chaotic passion, spoofing Bollywood to save their video shop. In a dusty town where money’s tight but dreams run wild, a group of boys try to make a film with zero budget and all heart. It’s not about success, but about doing something that makes you feel alive. You’ll laugh, maybe cry, and definitely smile.
No songs. No glamour. Just Abhishek Banerjee, jaw clenched! A tribal mother and two estranged brothers tear through the filth of a child-trafficking ring. It’s grimy. It’s urgent. It exposes the rot of class privilege exploiting the desperate. And Banerjee? Forget “good.” This is career-defining. It’s the underrated gut-punch of the year.
A city guy grieving. A rural farmer. A 10-day funeral ritual. Oh, and they’re both gay, navigating isolation amidst tradition. Rohan Kanawade’s debut is revolutionary precisely because it’s so quiet. No grand speeches, just aching glances and shared silence. Won Sundance. Won Guadalajara. It’s a lot about loneliness, ritual, and finding softness in the most unlikely corners of grief.
Disgraced cop. Forty-year-old murder. The twist? It’s tangled up in the real history of Malayalam cinema. They used AI to recreate old film scenes and it was mind-blowing. Asif Ali’s great, but this is for Mollywood nerds. It’s niche, clever as hell, and made bank: £5.44 million (₹57 crore+). It’s a slow burn, like a love letter to film itself, coded in celluloid secret.
A teen falsely accused. A lawyer fighting caste bias inside the courtroom. Ram Jagadeesh holds up a mirror to legal corruption, and it’s ugly. Lawyers praised its real courtroom vibe. Sivaji’s villain might steal the show, but the rage against a broken system? That’s the real takeaway. It’s claustrophobic, brutal, and terrifyingly real.
Mohanlal. An old Ambassador car. Starts as a sweet family drama about his bond with the taxi... then spirals into a criminal nightmare. Mohanlal is just phenomenal, as usual. It’s Drishyam’s tension meets raw emotional realism. £22.4 million (₹235 crore) globally? Yeah, people connected. Hard. Director Tharun Moorthy keeps the pace slow and deliberate, letting the tension build quietly. Shobhana is understated but powerful, her presence brings a quiet weight to the story that stays long after it ends.
This isn't just a “top 10.” It's proof. Proof that right now, in cinemas and on your screens, South Asian stories are exploding with a courage and honesty that’s impossible to ignore. Malayalam’s on fire. New directors like Kanawade (Sabar Bonda) and Jothish Shankar (Ponman) are arriving fully formed, swinging hammers. Seven out of ten are staring down hard truths like displacement, caste, gender, corruption.
They don’t all have happy endings. Some don’t even have closure. But that’s what makes them matter. Because real life isn’t tied up in neat little bows, and neither are these films.
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Jury reaches partial verdict in Diddy trial but stalls on racketeering charge
• Jury reaches verdict on 4 out of 5 charges in Sean Combs’ federal trial
• No consensus yet on racketeering conspiracy charge carrying life sentence
• Deliberations to continue Wednesday after just 13 hours behind closed doors
• Combs faces decades in prison if convicted of sex trafficking or racketeering
The jury in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial has delivered a partial verdict, agreeing on four of the five serious charges against the music mogul. However, jurors remain split on the most severe charge of racketeering conspiracy, a count that could send Combs to prison for life if convicted.
After two full days of deliberation in a New York courtroom, the 12-member panel told Judge Arun Subramanian that they had reached unanimous decisions on two counts of sex trafficking and two counts related to transportation for prostitution. These verdicts remain sealed for now.
Sean "Puffy" Combs arrives at New York State Supreme Court in New York city 29 February, 2000Getty Images
Jury stalled over racketeering conspiracy charge
The panel informed the judge on Tuesday evening that they were unable to agree on the racketeering conspiracy charge due to “unpersuadable opinions on both sides.” The charge is the most complex, requiring jurors to determine if Combs operated a coordinated criminal enterprise involving at least two crimes across several years.
Combs has denied all five charges. He sat quietly in court as Judge Subramanian declined to accept a partial verdict and ordered deliberations to continue. His defence team had requested more time to try for full consensus.
Jury reaches partial verdict in Diddy trial but stalls on racketeering charge Getty Images
Sex trafficking and prostitution charges under wraps
Though the jury has reached decisions on the remaining charges, the court has not revealed those verdicts yet. If found guilty of sex trafficking, Combs faces a minimum sentence of 15 years, while convictions on the prostitution-related charges carry up to 10 years each.
The case is based on disturbing testimony from 34 witnesses, including two of Combs’ ex-girlfriends. The government alleges that the Bad Boy Records founder orchestrated “Freak Offs” or sex marathons involving drugs, male escorts, and coercion, often across state lines.
Sean "P. Diddy" Combs performs during taping for the opening of the MTV Beach HouseGetty Images
Cassie’s testimony and surveillance video central to case
One of the most damning pieces of evidence came from R&B singer Cassie Ventura, who testified that Combs abused her physically and sexually during their decade-long relationship. The jury reviewed her account of a 2016 hotel hallway assault, captured on surveillance video, where Combs was seen kicking and dragging her.
Prosecutors say the footage supports Ventura’s claim that she tried to flee a coerced sex party. They argue Combs used threats, money, and fear of public humiliation to control and exploit her.
Sean "Puffy" Combs arrives at Manhattan Supreme Court February 28, 2001Getty Images
Defence paints alternate picture of consensual lifestyle
Combs’ attorneys insist the trial is a smear campaign aimed at criminalising the artist’s consensual swinger lifestyle. They argue his personal relationships were toxic but not criminal, and the alleged abuse, while serious, does not meet the bar for federal sex trafficking or racketeering.
Marc Agnifilo, attorney for Sean "Diddy" Combs, arrives at federal court Getty Images
They also reject claims that his employees helped facilitate illegal acts, saying any staff involvement was limited to professional duties, not criminal collaboration.
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Rachel Zegler stuns in Jamie Lloyd’s Evita as Palladium crowds grow nightly
Rachel Zegler plays Eva Perón in Jamie Lloyd’s radical Evita revival at the London Palladium.
A viral moment features Zegler singing live from the theatre’s balcony to crowds on the street.
Lloyd’s stripped-down staging amps up visuals and sound but sacrifices storytelling depth.
Talks are on for a Broadway transfer as early as 2026 with Zegler confirmed to reprise her role.
Rachel Zegler commands the London stage as Eva Perón in Jamie Lloyd’s daring reimagining of Evita, a production that trades subtlety for spectacle and could soon be heading to Broadway.
Following the success of Sunset Boulevard, Lloyd’s signature stripped-down style meets rock concert intensity in this revived version of the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical. Zegler, in only her second major stage role, dazzles with commanding vocals and presence, even as critics debate the show’s dramatic clarity.
Jamie Lloyd’s Evita with Rachel Zegler set for Broadway after London triumphInstagram/officialevita
Zegler’s Evita performance leaves no doubt
From her first note, Rachel Zegler proves she’s no newcomer to the stage. Her performance, both vocally and physically, carries the entire show, even when the production leans more into visual punch than emotional depth. Zegler’s rendition of Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, performed from the Palladium’s real-life balcony to street crowds below, has already become the production’s signature moment. The scene is filmed live and broadcast inside, symbolically capturing Eva Perón’s manipulation of public adoration.
Staging pushes boundaries with video and spectacle
Jamie Lloyd’s direction strips the production down to a giant grey staircase and replaces traditional storytelling with flashing lights, camera close-ups, and muscular choreography. While critics say some scenes lose emotional resonance, especially in the second act, others land with undeniable theatrical force. Some note the live camera work, booming lighting, and thundering score often feel closer to a Beyoncé tour than traditional West End fare.
After drawing big names on opening night, from Pedro Pascal and Keanu Reeves to Elaine Paige, the show’s success has sparked conversations about a Broadway transfer. Lloyd, backed by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, is pushing for an early 2026 New York run. Logistics are already in motion, with plans to replicate the live balcony scene in the heart of Manhattan, pending city approval for crowd management.
Though visually electrifying, the production has drawn criticism for flattening the emotional arc of Eva Perón’s story. Supporting roles, including Diego Andres Rodriguez as Che and James Olivas as Juan Perón, offer committed performances, but critics say the narrative lacks clarity. Still, audiences have been captivated, and the show has crossed into public conversation beyond theatre circles, exactly the kind of impact Lloyd seems to be chasing.
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Fans await Ramayana teaser as early reviews spark buzz online
First glimpse of Ramayana to release on 3 July; teaser is three minutes long.
Taran Adarsh calls it “a film for generations,” praises vision and visuals.
Ranbir Kapoor leads as Lord Ram, alongside Sai Pallavi and Yash.
The film is split into two parts: Diwali 2026 and Diwali 2027 releases confirmed.
Nitesh Tiwari’s much-awaited cinematic adaptation of Ramayana is finally ready to be unveiled. The first official glimpse of the mythological epic drops on 3 July, but even before its release, early reactions are adding to the anticipation.
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh, who got an exclusive preview of the three-minute teaser and an extended seven-minute vision reel, has described the film as “a timeless saga” that will not only captivate today’s audience but also resonate with generations to come.
Producer Namit Malhotra reveals how AI will make Ramayana resonate globally with native-language realism IMDB/Reddit
“Box office hurricane loading,” says Taran Adarsh after preview
Taking to social media platform X, Taran Adarsh shared his first impression of the teaser and vision reel, writing, “Just watched the first glimpse and a seven-minute vision showreel of the most-awaited epic, Ramayana. This glimpse of the timeless saga leaves you awestruck. Strong feeling: Ramayana is not just a film for today, but for generations to come. #BoxOffice hurricane loading.”
His post has sparked widespread buzz online, with fans and film critics alike flooding timelines with excitement for the film’s grand vision.
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All-star cast and production scale impress fans
The film brings together a powerful cast: Ranbir Kapoor takes on the role of Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi plays Sita, and KGF star Yash portrays the feared Raavan.
Other roles include Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Laxman, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, and Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari.
Directed by Dangal filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in collaboration with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, the project aims to bring India’s most beloved epic to the big screen with high-standard VFX and global storytelling appeal.
The music is composed by two Oscar-winning giants: Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman, adding further gravitas to the scale.
Ranbir Kapoor’s personal transformation for Lord Ram
Ranbir Kapoor has undergone a complete lifestyle transformation to play Lord Ram. According to reports, he followed a strict regimen, including quitting alcohol and non-vegetarian food, adopting natural fitness routines, and even learning archery.
His dedication has been widely praised, especially after a heartfelt video from the shoot wrap surfaced. In the clip, Ranbir calls this “the most important role of my life” and emotionally thanks his co-stars and crew for their hard work.
The shoot for Part 1 has officially wrapped, and filming for Part 2 will commence in August.
Ranbir Kapoor hugs Ravi Dubey after wrap speech on Ramayana set Twitter/Raymond/Cinegeek
Nationwide teaser launch and global ambitions
The teaser will be launched simultaneously across nine major Indian cities on 3 July. While fans will get their first look then, the seven-minute “vision reel” will remain exclusive until a later date, likely closer to the theatrical release.
Interestingly, the film is also expected to have a global rollout, with Warner Bros reportedly handling international distribution, another sign of the scale the makers are targeting.
Yash in discussion with stunt director Guy Norris during Ramayana shoot Twitter/@SumitkadeI
Producer Namit Malhotra earlier wrote on Instagram, “More than a decade ago, I embarked on a noble quest to bring this epic to the big screen… Our teams work tirelessly with one purpose: to present the most authentic, sacred, and visually stunning adaptation of our history, our truth, and our culture.”
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Vismaya Mohanlal makes her film debut with Malayalam project Thudakkam
Vismaya Mohanlal to debut in Thudakkam, helmed by Jude Anthany Joseph.
The Malayalam film is produced by Antony Perumbavoor under Aashirvad Cinemas.
Mohanlal and Pranav Mohanlal posted heartfelt messages welcoming Vismaya to cinema.
Vismaya is also a published poet and visual artist with a book titled Grains of Stardust.
Malayalam superstar Mohanlal’s daughter, Vismaya Mohanlal, is stepping into cinema with Thudakkam, a Malayalam feature directed by 2018 filmmaker Jude Anthany Joseph. The announcement, made on social media by her father and production house Aashirvad Cinemas, marks Vismaya’s formal entry into acting after years of working quietly as a poet and artist.
Vismaya Mohanlal transitions from poetry and art to acting in ThudakkamInstagram/mayamohanlal
Jude Anthany Joseph teams up with Aashirvad Cinemas for Thudakkam
The upcoming film Thudakkam is being produced by Aashirvad Cinemas, the renowned banner behind many of Mohanlal’s blockbusters. Director Jude Anthany Joseph, known for 2018: Everyone Is a Hero, said he felt a personal responsibility when entrusted with Vismaya’s debut.
“It’s a humble film, but one made from the heart,” he shared, promising to honour the trust shown by Mohanlal and his wife, Suchitra. Details about the film’s plot and cast remain under wraps, though early hints suggest an action-driven storyline, possibly tapping into Vismaya’s martial arts background.
— (@)
Vismaya Mohanlal brings her artistic journey to screen
Before venturing into films, Vismaya carved a creative path through literature and painting. In 2021, she published Grains of Stardust, a collection of poems and illustrations that offered glimpses into her introspective world. Written in a raw, spontaneous style, many of the poems were jotted down during subway rides or inspired by fleeting moments in nature.
Her brother, actor Pranav Mohanlal, encouraged her to compile them into a book. With both siblings now in the film industry, Thudakkam also adds to the growing list of second-generation talents in Malayalam cinema, including Dulquer Salmaan, Keerthy Suresh, and Kalidas Jayaram.