Gayathri Kallukaran is a Junior Journalist with Eastern Eye. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from St. Paul’s College, Bengaluru, and brings over five years of experience in content creation, including two years in digital journalism. She covers stories across culture, lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, with a creative yet fact-driven approach to reporting. Known for her sensitivity towards human interest narratives, Gayathri’s storytelling often aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Her journey began as a layout designer and reporter for her college’s daily newsletter, where she also contributed short films and editorial features. Since then, she has worked with platforms like FWD Media, Pepper Content, and Petrons.com, where several of her interviews and features have gained spotlight recognition. Fluent in English, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi, she writes in English and Malayalam, continuing to explore inclusive, people-focused storytelling in the digital space.
Marge Simpson dies in The Simpsons season 36 finale, “Estranger Things”
The episode is a flash-forward set decades in the future, showing Bart and Lisa as estranged adults
Her death marks a shift towards more character-driven, high-stakes storytelling
Follows Bart’s death in season 35 and Larry the Barfly’s in season 34
Reflects a recent trend of The Simpsons embracing both temporary and permanent character deaths
Critical reception for later seasons has improved due to bolder creative decisions
Season 36 finale surprises fans with Marge’s death
The Simpsons Marge death storyline in the season 36 finale, “Estranger Things”, marks a striking departure from the show's earlier approach to character safety. The episode, which takes place more than three decades into the future, reveals that Marge has died, making her one of the most prominent characters in the series to be written out, even if temporarily.
The storyline focused on the estranged adult lives of Bart and Lisa and used Marge’s passing as a turning point in their relationship. The emotional impact of the episode caught many long-time viewers off guard, given the show’s previous reluctance to risk major character changes.
A show known for its stability embraces unpredictability
For most of its 35+ years on air, The Simpsons maintained a relatively consistent status quo. Major characters rarely died, and if they did, the consequences were often minimal or undone for comedic effect. Earlier deaths included Maude Flanders, Bleeding Gums Murphy, and Edna Krabappel—often side characters or those whose voice actors left the show.
Marge’s death, even though presented in a future timeline, carried significant emotional weight and was used to enhance the narrative stakes. Combined with Bart’s comedic death in season 35’s “It’s a Blunderful Life” and Larry the Barfly’s more serious departure in season 34, the show is beginning to treat mortality with greater narrative purpose.
Early seasons avoided character deaths
During its first 25 seasons, The Simpsons killed off fewer than a dozen characters permanently. Even then, most were background or one-off roles. Characters like Fat Tony were quickly replaced with lookalikes in throwaway gags, while others like Homer’s Vegas wife or Grampa’s love interest had little impact.
The Simpsons is embracing riskier storytellingIMDb
In contrast, more recent seasons have embraced meaningful and sometimes shocking deaths. The Simpsons Marge death moment exemplifies this shift, presenting emotional consequences while breaking from the show's usual reset button.
Creative risks behind improved critical reception
Over the past few years—particularly since season 33—The Simpsons has experienced a quiet critical revival. Outlets like Vulture and YouTube creators such as SuperEyepatchWolf have highlighted how the show has improved thanks to its willingness to take creative risks and defy fan expectations.
- YouTube YouTube/ captainmidnight
Rather than recycling familiar plotlines, the show has embraced new approaches, including flash-forwards, unexpected character arcs, and themes of loss and legacy. While the canon remains flexible, the impact of episodes like “Estranger Things” resonates with long-time fans looking for more substance.
The Simpsons has long featured flash-forward episodes to explore the adult lives of its main characters. Lisa’s university years, Maggie as a future rock star, or Bart’s troubled adulthood have all featured in past storylines. However, these episodes typically avoided any real consequence.
The Simpsons Marge death moment in season 36 subverts this trend by introducing lasting consequences that affect the emotional tone of the episode. It builds tension and drives character development in ways that previous future-set episodes often avoided.
Permanent character deaths now shaping stories
Alongside temporary future deaths, The Simpsons has started including permanent departures that impact the main timeline. Nick the Realtor’s death in season 36 triggered a full murder mystery plot, and Larry the Barfly’s death in season 34 caused Homer and his friends to re-evaluate their lives.
Though these were minor characters, the fact that the show acknowledged their deaths and used them to propel meaningful storylines reflects a growing interest in lasting consequences.
This shift stands in contrast to previous changes, such as quietly dropping Apu from the show without explanation. Rather than erasing characters silently, the show now seems willing to engage with its long history and evolving cast more directly.
Despite the critical resurgence, The Simpsons continues to face declining viewership figures. With no plans in place for The Simpsons Movie 2, the main series has become the only vehicle for large-scale storytelling.
Embracing dramatic story arcs, such as the Simpsons Marge death, may be one way the show seeks to revitalise audience interest and explore more mature themes within its unique animated format.
A promising shift, even if not permanent
While Marge’s death may not be permanent, given the series’ long-standing use of alternate timelines, it still represents a significant creative choice. The impact on viewers and its contribution to character-driven storytelling demonstrate that The Simpsons is far from finished trying new ideas.
As the series heads into season 37, it appears that The Simpsons is more willing than ever to surprise fans, take risks, and evolve—something that bodes well for its future, even as it approaches its fourth decade on air.
Ed Sheeran and Arijit Singh drop a Hindi-Punjabi remix of Sapphire, recorded in Goa
The duo blended English, Hindi, and Punjabi lyrics for the new version
Music video features scenes from Ed’s India tour and a cameo by Shah Rukh Khan
Sapphire becomes first English track to top Spotify India since 2021
British pop star Ed Sheeran has joined forces with Indian playback sensation Arijit Singh for a special multilingual version of his track Sapphire, released today. The remix combines Hindi, Punjabi, and English lyrics and was recorded earlier this year during Sheeran’s India tour.
Ed Sheeran sings in Hindi and Punjabi for Sapphire remix with Arijit Singh Liam Pethick / @liampethickphoto
What’s new in the Sapphire remix with Arijit Singh?
Unlike the original version released last month, this reimagined track includes new vocals by Arijit Singh, who sings in both Hindi and Punjabi. Ed Sheeran, for the first time, also sings a chorus segment using the two Indian languages alongside English.
The track retains its original South Asian percussion elements but adds layers of cultural nuance, fusing vocal styles and languages in a way that celebrates musical collaboration across borders. The song was produced by Ilya Salmanzadeh, Johnny McDaid, and Savan Kotecha, top names known for their global pop hits.
Where was Sapphire recorded and what was Ed Sheeran’s India experience?
The remix and original version were both crafted during Ed Sheeran’s visit to Goa and West Bengal earlier this year. Speaking about the experience, Sheeran described it as “a pilgrimage of music” as he travelled to Arijit’s hometown of Jiaganj Azimganj with his father.
In a heartfelt note, Ed shared: “We talked, ate, drank coffee. Arijit taught me how to sing in Punjabi and play the sitar. Then we went on a scooter ride through the town late at night while listening to music.”
He added that the remix version is his personal favourite and one he listens to with his daughters every morning.
The official music video, released last month, features Ed Sheeran performing on rooftops at dawn, wandering through Indian markets, beaches, kitchens, and scenic riversides. Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan makes a special cameo appearance.
Also featured are moments from Ed’s trip, including a studio session with Arijit and a visit to AR Rahman’s music school, where Ed performed with local musicians. The video has now crossed 130 million views on YouTube, while the track has exploded on TikTok with over 1.5 billion views.
Shah Rukh Khan makes a special appearance in the Sapphire music video www.easterneye.biz
How has the remix of Sapphire performed so far?
Sapphire made history by becoming the first English-language song to reach No. 1 on Spotify India since 2021, proving the track’s unique regional appeal and Ed’s growing popularity in South Asia.
This collaboration also hints at a deeper musical relationship, with Ed confirming that Arijit Singh may be featured in more songs on his upcoming album Play, set to release on 12 September 2025.
During a recent podcast, Ed said, “I worked a lot with Arijit Singh, who’s really incredible. He told me, ‘If you want the vocals, you’ll have to come to me.’ And I did. It was worth every mile.”
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Shocking casting couch confessions that reveal how Bollywood exploitation has evolved
You know what’s worse than silence? The kind of silence that sounds like applause. Applause for a director who’s known for "launching careers." Praise for a superstar who’s worshipped on-screen but whispers vile things off it. This is the silence that kept Bollywood’s casting couch culture alive for decades.
Forget the dance numbers and the dreamy close-ups. Strip away the sequins, and you often find something ugly festering in Bollywood's shadows. An ugly tradition that’s still thriving. It’s not new. It’s not gone.
But something is shifting.
Bollywood begin to say no to powerful predatorsiStock
Not because some studio rolled out a policy or because men suddenly found a conscience. The shift is because women, real, working, talented women decided they were done keeping secrets. Not just for themselves, but for every other girl sitting in an autorickshaw on her way to a dodgy audition, thinking "Maybe this one will be different."
Let me tell you, these aren't gossip tidbits. These are stories of courage, shame, dignity, and rage. Here's what Bollywood didn’t expect: women who wouldn't just say no but say it out loud.
Surveen Chawla: The one who refused to break
Imagine this: You're married. You think you've earned some respect. Then, sitting in a director's office in Mumbai, discussing work, he lunges to kiss you. That was Surveen's reality. Not once, but multiple times. From being sexually harassed as a child to enduring repeated casting couch proposals, even after marriage, her journey is a full-blown testament to what women face in Indian cinema. She pushed him back. She shouted. She got out. But saying "no" cost her. Roles vanished. Opportunities dried up. She felt so filthy, so dirty just stepping outside her door, she almost quit acting altogether. That’s the price of dignity in this game.
Surveen Chawla recounts a post-marriage assault that nearly made her quit the industryInstagram/surveenchawla
Isha Sharvani: The one who walked away
You know Isha; graceful, poised, electrifying on screen. Then a superstar, the kind of name that makes headlines. He looked at Isha Sharvani, a talented dancer and actress, and didn't see her skill. He saw an object. His demand was blunt, brutal: "Sleep with me." That’s it. No subtlety. Just the raw abuse of power. Isha didn't bargain. She didn't play the game. She packed her bags and walked straight out of Bollywood. The mental strain, the constant fear, it wasn't worth the spotlight. She chose peace over the poison.
Isha Sharvani walked away from Bollywood after a superstar made an indecent demandInstagram/isha.sharvani
Jamie Lever: The industry kid who found out no one’s really safe
Think being a legend's kid buys you safety? Think again. Being Johnny Lever’s daughter didn’t shield Jamie. A man claiming to be an international director asked her to strip on camera for an audition. Jamie said no. Slammed that virtual door shut. Later, she realised it was pure blackmail bait. The shock wasn't just the request, it was realising her famous father's shadow meant nothing to these predators. The lesson was brutal: No one is safe. Not even the ones you think are untouchable. This industry eats its young.
Jamie Lever recounted the experience of realising how even being Johnny Lever’s daughter couldn’t shield herInstagram/its_jamielever
Barkha Singh: The one calling out exploitation in your inbox
Think the casting couch only happens in dimly lit offices? Think again. Barkha Singh, fresh off acclaim in Criminal Justice 4, opened her inbox. There it was: an email dangling a role in a South Indian film. The catch? A "compromise." Just like that. No meeting. No pretence. A cold, digital proposition reducing her talent to a transaction. It’s disgusting. It’s cowardly. And Barkha called it out. Loud and clear. This is the new age of coercion, digital and disguised. And Barkha made sure it didn’t stay hidden behind a screen.
Barkha Singh exposed digital casting couch tactics through a disturbing film offer emailInstagram/barkhasingh0308
Saiyami Kher: The one who saw the face of a female predator
Saiyami Kher was just 18, fresh into the Telugu scene, when a female agent leaned in. "You’ll have to compromise for roles." Compromise. A slick word for selling yourself. Saiyami refused. Flat out. But it stuck with her. Because exploitation isn’t always from men. And “support” doesn’t always come from women. Her story rips off another layer: Exploitation doesn't wear a gender.
Saiyami Kher recalled being pressured by a female agent to compromise for roles early in her careerInstagram/saiyami
This isn’t a trend. It’s a reckoning
They tried to make the casting couch a norm. A rite of passage. Something you whispered about but never challenged. But these women, they shattered the mould. The old story was silence. The new story is these women writing their own endings. Resisting. Walking away. Calling it out. Setting boundaries. On their terms.
They are not anomalies. In fact, they’re the beginning of something bigger. And no, this isn't a happy ending. Because there isn’t one. Not yet.
Sure, there's talk of change since #MeToo. More awareness, maybe some awkward HR seminars. But Surveen nailed it: Fear has to become the predator's problem, not the prey's. We need actual teeth: enforced policies, unions with backbone, real legal consequences. Not just whispers of "time's up," but concrete action that makes the cost of harassment too damn high.
What looks like a conversation can often carry unspoken threats in the world of castingiStock
This isn't about gossip. It’s the weight, the shame, and the words that cut deeper than offers.
This is the part where I should say "the industry is changing."
But is it?
Maybe. Slowly. Unevenly.
For every Surveen, there are a dozen others too scared to speak. For every Barkha, a hundred emails still land in inboxes daily. But something is undeniable now: the silence has lost its grip.
And that’s how revolutions begin.
Not with fireworks.
But with one woman saying “no.”
Then another.
Then another.
And suddenly, the whole system starts to sweat.
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Prithviraj Sukumaran reveals how Rajamouli uses scale as storytelling in SSMB 29
SSMB 29 is an upcoming jungle adventure featuring Mahesh Babu, directed by S.S. Rajamouli
Prithviraj Sukumaran joins the cast alongside Priyanka Chopra
Sukumaran calls Rajamouli a master of “scale as canvas”
The actor also addressed trolling faced by Ibrahim Ali Khan in a separate interview
SSMB 29, the much-anticipated collaboration between Mahesh Babu and visionary director S.S. Rajamouli, continues to generate massive buzz across Indian cinema circles. The jungle-themed action adventure, currently in production, boasts a star-studded cast including Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, making it one of the biggest PAN-India spectacles in the works.
In a recent interview, Prithviraj Sukumaran offered a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on Rajamouli’s directorial style. “Scale can never be the story; it’s just the canvas,” the Malayalam superstar explained. “Rajamouli sir chooses large backdrops because he excels at telling a story through big, visual strokes.”
This subtle but telling remark sheds light on what sets Rajamouli apart, not just his ability to deliver grand visuals, but his commitment to narrative depth.
What is SSMB 29 about, and why is there so much hype?
While official plot details remain tightly under wraps, industry insiders describe SSMB 29 as a high-octane, jungle-based action-adventure rooted in mythology and survival themes. With Mahesh Babu leading the charge, and Prithviraj and Priyanka Chopra playing key roles, the project is shaping up to be a high-concept action drama meant for global appeal.
Given Rajamouli’s track record, Baahubali and RRR being massive box-office and streaming hits, the anticipation is sky-high. The film is expected to push cinematic boundaries much like his previous ventures.
Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran joins SSMB29 Getty Images
Why Prithviraj’s Rajamouli remark matters
Prithviraj’s praise for Rajamouli cuts deeper than surface-level flattery. In calling scale “just a canvas,” he, in fact, points to the director’s rare ability to balance spectacle with substance, something often lost in big-budget filmmaking.
Rajamouli is known for building emotional arcs into massive story worlds. Whether it’s Amarendra Baahubali’s journey or Komaram Bheem’s rebellion in RRR, the characters never get lost in CGI or grandeur. Sukumaran’s comment suggests that SSMB 29 will follow a similar formula: world-building that never loses sight of the story’s heart.
Prithviraj calls Rajamouli a master of visual storytelling in SSMB 29Instagram/therealprithvi
Prithviraj also defends Ibrahim Ali Khan amid criticism
In a separate interview, Prithviraj also weighed in on the backlash faced by his Sarzameen co-star Ibrahim Ali Khan for his Netflix debut Nadaaniyan. Responding to the criticism, he said, “If Shah Rukh Khan sir can still be criticised, why can’t Ibrahim Ali Khan be criticised?”
The actor pointed out that even industry giants like Mohanlal and Mammootty continue to face criticism in Kerala. “There’s nothing bigger than that to understand this never ends. You just keep trying. It never gets easier.”
He added that Ibrahim is “one of the most well-prepared debutants” he has worked with and praised the young actor’s dedication. “The camera really loves him,” he said.
There’s no official release date yet, but production is currently underway. Given the scale and ambition of the project, a late 2025 or early 2026 release seems likely.
SS Rajamouli recreates Varanasi at Ramoji Film City for a key action sequence in SSMB29 Getty Images
Until then, fans will have to wait for more official updates, but with Rajamouli at the helm and a powerful cast in place, SSMB 29 already promises to be one of Indian cinema’s biggest cinematic events.
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Kamal Haasan says Maareesan made him laugh and reflect as Fahadh Faasil and Vadivelu return with bold new roles
Kamal Haasan praised Maareesan as a film that “dances between wit and depth” in a social media post.
The Tamil comedy thriller stars Fahadh Faasil and Vadivelu, directed by Sudheesh Sankar.
Kamal noted the film’s humour, emotional core, and commentary on societal issues.
Maareesan is set for theatrical release on 25 July 2025.
Veteran actor Kamal Haasan has given his stamp of approval to Fahadh Faasil and Vadivelu’s upcoming Tamil film Maareesan, calling it a refreshing mix of comedy, social insight, and strong performances.
The highly anticipated comedy thriller, directed by Sudheesh Sankar and written by V Krishna Moorthy, is set to release in theatres this Friday. Kamal took to his X account to praise the film, describing it as the kind of cinema he naturally gravitates towards both as an audience member and a filmmaker.
Fahadh Faasil and Vadivelu team up for an emotional road film in MaareesanInstagram/supergoodfilms
What did Kamal Haasan say about Maareesan?
In his review, Kamal Haasan wrote, “Watched Maareesan – a film that dances effortlessly between wit and depth, leaving me laughing, thinking, and admiring its craft. Had a wonderful conversation with the team to congratulate them on this delightful creation.”
He further added, “Beneath its humour lies a socially conscious lens on human emotion and a keen gaze at the darker shadows of our society. The kind of inventive, spirited cinema I naturally gravitate towards, both as a viewer and a creator.”
Kamal’s review has sparked more interest around the film, with fans praising his support and expressing eagerness to watch it on opening day.
— (@)
What is Maareesan about?
Maareesan tells the story of Dhaya, played by Fahadh Faasil, a thief who sets out to rob an elderly man, Velayudham, played by Vadivelu, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. What begins as a heist turns into an unexpected emotional journey for both characters. The film mixes humour with social reflection, examining themes of trust, memory, and transformation.
The film also features a strong ensemble including Kovai Sarala, Vivek Prasanna, PL Thenappan, Sithara, Renuka, Livingston, and Krishna. Music is composed by Yuvan Shankar Raja, cinematography is by Kalaiselvan Sivaji, and editing by Sreejith Sarang.
Apart from the unusual pairing of Fahadh Faasil and Vadivelu, Maareesan has caught attention for its unique plot and Kamal Haasan’s public endorsement. Both Fahadh and Vadivelu were previously seen together in Maamannan (2023), which earned £4.9 million (₹52 crore) at the box office. Their chemistry and acting prowess have set expectations high for this new collaboration.
Director Sudheesh Sankar is also known for weaving socially relevant themes into commercial cinema, and Maareesan appears to follow that legacy. The backing of Super Good Films and a robust technical crew only adds to the film’s appeal.
Fahadh Faasil and Vadivelu in a still from MaareesanInstagram/supergoodfilms
When and where will Maareesan release?
Maareesan will hit theatres on 25 July 2025, clashing with other major releases including Vijay Sethupathi and Nithya Menen’s Thalaivan Thalaivii, and Pawan Kalyan’s Hari Hara Veera Mallu. Despite the competition, the early buzz and positive word of mouth may give Maareesan an edge, especially among fans of strong storytelling and socially conscious cinema.
With Kamal Haasan’s ringing endorsement and a compelling mix of humour and emotions, Maareesan is poised to be one of the most talked-about Tamil films this month.
As Dear Comrade turns six, fans are drawing comparisons with Vijay Deverakonda’s upcoming biggie Kingdom (Saamraajya), and honestly? The parallels are hard to ignore. From intense roles to trailer release timing, here’s what’s got everyone talking.
6 years after Dear Comrade, Vijay Deverakonda brings back the fire in Kingdom
1. Same date, same energy
Dear Comrade hit theatres on 26th July 2019, and this year, the trailer of Kingdom drops on the same day, 26th July. Coincidence? Maybe. But fans are already calling it a strategic full-circle moment in Vijay's career.
2. The return of intense Vijay
Back in Dear Comrade, Vijay delivered one of his most emotionally raw performances: brooding, aggressive, and deeply vulnerable. From what we’ve seen of Kingdom so far, he’s back in beast mode. Long hair, fierce eyes, that signature slow-burn rage. It’s vintage Deverakonda.
3. Chemistry vs. chaos
While Dear Comrade gave us the unforgettable Vijay–Rashmika pairing, Kingdom seems to shift focus from romance to rebellion. But there’s one common thread: high-stakes emotion. Whether it’s love or legacy, Vijay sure knows how to turn the heat up.
4. From comrade to king
If Dear Comrade was about fighting for love, Kingdom looks like a fight for power. The titles alone: “Comrade” vs. “Kingdom”, suggest an evolution. From a revolutionary rebel to someone stepping into legacy, it feels like a cinematic transformation.
Vijay Deverakonda’s Kingdom mirrors Dear Comrade in more ways than one
Coming soon
Kingdom (Saamraajya) hits theatres on 31st July 2025, just five days after Dear Comrade’s anniversary and the trailer drop. Whether it mirrors the emotional pull of Comrade or takes things to a whole new level, we’ll find out soon enough.