Pooja Pillai is an entertainment journalist with Asian Media Group, where she covers cinema, pop culture, internet trends, and the politics of representation. Her work spans interviews, cultural features, and social commentary across digital platforms.
She began her reporting career as a news anchor, scripting and presenting stories for a regional newsroom. With a background in journalism and media studies, she has since built a body of work exploring how entertainment intersects with social and cultural shifts, particularly through a South Indian lens.
She brings both newsroom rigour and narrative curiosity to her work, and believes the best stories don’t just inform — they reveal what we didn’t know we needed to hear.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas is set to star in SS Rajamouli’s highly anticipated film, SSMB29, alongside Mahesh Babu, following the monumental success of RRR. Rajamouli’s next project, with a budget exceeding Rs. 1000 crore, is expected to be a massive cinematic experience, and fans are eagerly awaiting the fresh pairing of Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra.
While excitement builds around the film's grand scale, another major talking point is Priyanka Chopra's reported remuneration for the project. The actress, known for her global appeal, is said to be charging a hefty Rs. 30 crore for SSMB29, making her the highest-paid actress in the Indian film industry. This has reportedly pushed Deepika Padukone, who was previously the highest-paid with a salary of Rs. 15 to 20 crore per film, into second place. Priyanka’s fee has surpassed Deepika’s by a significant margin.
The film, which will be directed by Rajamouli, is expected to showcase breathtaking visuals and a compelling story. Rajamouli is known for his larger-than-life approach to filmmaking, and with SSMB29, he is set to deliver another grand spectacle. The movie is rumored to include filming locations in exotic destinations, such as Kenya, in addition to scenes in Hyderabad.
Along with Priyanka and Mahesh, the project has also generated buzz for its potential star-studded cast, with rumors suggesting John Abraham could join the ensemble. Despite reports about Priyanka’s significant paycheck, there has been no official confirmation from the film’s producers regarding her salary. However, her fee underscores the film’s colossal scale and the star power involved.
As production for SSMB29 continues behind closed doors, with tight security measures and NDAs in place, fans eagerly await what is expected to be one of the biggest releases in Indian cinema. With the combination of Rajamouli’s direction, Mahesh Babu’s stardom, and Priyanka Chopra’s global fanbase, SSMB29 is poised for international success.
Bollywood’s favorite couple shared their daughter Dua's first photos on Instagram.
All 3 in matching Sabyasachi outfits for Diwali 2025.
Fans debated whether Dua takes after Deepika or Ranveer.
Little Dua, nicknamed ‘Tingu’ by her maasi (maternal aunt), stole hearts instantly.
Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh finally shared the first official photos of Dua Padukone Singh on social media. The family portrait, shot by their long-time collaborator Sabyasachi, instantly set the internet alight, shifting the focus from festival vibes to the toddler’s debut.
Deepika Padukone and Dua twinning in red anarkalis for Diwali 2025 Instagram/deepikapadukone/ranveersingh
Why Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh picked Sabyasachi for Dua’s first photos
Deepika has been wearing Sabyasachi for years. Magazines. Runways. Even her wedding in Lake Como. This Diwali she picked him again. Red anarkali. Green-gold earrings and bangles. Ranveer in ivory. Beads around his neck. Small brooch pinned on.
The photo appeared on the designer’s Instagram. It featured Deepika, Ranveer, and Dua. Tiny Dua was in red, matching her mother. It was hard not to notice how everything just clicked.
As expected, social media exploded. Fans debated fiercely over who Dua resembled more. Some said, “She has Deepika’s eyes and dimples, but Ranveer’s expressions.” Others spotted more of Ranveer’s features. Celebrities joined in too. Singer Shreya Ghoshal wrote, “God bless. Baby Dua is a perfect mix of mumma and papa,” while Bipasha Basu called her “mini mamma.”
Little Dua steals the spotlight as fans see her for the first timeInstagram Screengrab/deepikapadukone/ranveersingh
Dua’s special nickname and meaning
Dua’s aunt, Anisha Padukone, revealed her niece’s adorable nickname: ‘Tingu’. She called the little one “a piece of her heart,” adding to the sweet family moment.
The name Dua is Arabic for “prayers.” It also means “love” in Albanian, a beautiful choice that perfectly fits the little girl who has captured millions of hearts.
The Sabyasachi ensemble, the photos, and the glowing smiles all made for a perfect Diwali moment. And for fans, a first look at Bollywood’s most guarded little star.
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