Legendary filmmaker Mani Ratnam has directed a number of south Indian super-hits that have been remade as commercially successfully Bollywood films.
The first big Bollywood release of 2017, OK Jaanu is a remake of Ratnam’s 2015 romantic drama O Kadhal Kanmani. The Hindi language romance, which reunites Aashiqui 2 lead stars Shraddha Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur, revolves around a live-in couple in Mumbai who have to weigh up love against their respective careers.
OK Jaanu is directed by Shaad Ali, who previously remade Ratnam’s Tamil film Alaipayuthey as blockbuster Bollywood romance Saathiya.
With a top team including acclaimed filmmakers Karan Johar and Mani Ratnam producing, it was no surprise Shraddha Kapoor enjoyed the experience of acting in OK Jaanu. The rising Bollywood star was in good spirits when Eastern Eye caught up with her to talk about the film, romance and more.
You are very much in-demand right now. How are you selecting your cinematic projects?
I feel extremely fortunate so many people are coming to offer me their scripts and films. I have been really lucky that my films have done well and been loved by audiences. I feel fortunate to have been a part of them. But for me, since day one and my first film, it has always been about the script and the story. qThat’s the main focus when selecting a project.
Do you think that the expectations around you are too high to soon?
(Smiles) I think everyone has expectations surrounding them in some way, and anybody who is going to watch a film also has them. Similarly, I would have expectations too as an audience member from my favourite actors and actresses. So yes, there is no escaping that and it is fine. I accepted there are expectations and I have tried my best to work hard each time. I just try to better myself from the last film I did.
Your film Aashiqui 2 was a blockbuster. How does it feel like returning to the romantic genre again with your new film OK Jaanu?
It was awesome. I really enjoy being a part of any film that has romance in it. It’s always a very interesting experience doing this genre.
With OK Jaanu, I get to do my second film with Aditya (Roy Kapur) after Aashiqui 2 and work with director Shaad Ali for the first time. I am a huge fan of his debut Saathiya and really liked the second film he directed too, Bunty Aur Babli. I am thrilled I got to be a part of this film and hope people like it.
OK Jaanu is a remake of smash-hit South Indian film O Kadhal Kanmani. How does it compare to the original?
It is a straight-up adaptation of the Tamil film, which has been adapted to Hindi cinema. When I saw the Tamil version, I completely fell in love with it. I was so happy that Shaad Ali thought I should play Nithya’s (Menen) role from the Tamil version. She is amazing and played the character of Tara so well. I loved the way the character is written and thought it was very interesting. I was very excited to play Tara.
For those that haven’t seen the original version, can you tell us about your character?
Like I said, my character in OK Jaanu is called Tara. She’s from Kanpur and is now based in Mumbai. She is pursuing architecture and is interning with one of the best firms in the city. She is an ambitious girl, very opinionated and extremely scared of getting married. She doesn’t want that at all. She is today’s girl.
Her views are pretty modernised. You can see from the trailer that his and her characters both know what they want. She doesn’t want to get married, but is okay to be in a live-in relationship. She’s very career-driven and not coy in any sense. (Laughs) Tara is a pretty daring girl, if you ask me.
What was it like teaming up with Aditya Roy Kapur again after Aashiqui 2?
It was really lovely. This time around we got to act opposite in a film with each other that is not so intense like how Aashiqui 2 was. Of course, that was an experience of a lifetime. This one is really special as well because the whole mood of the film is more playful and fun. It was nice to play the characters that we did and a departure from the intense movie that we did earlier.
What has been your favourite moment from OK Jaanu?
It’s always hard to choose a favourite moment from any of the projects that I’ve done, because I feel like every film is such a special journey in its own way. You end up spending days and months on a film. Those months of your life are just dedicated to being another character on screen. That has been the case with this film as well, which has been such a lovely journey as a whole.
You play romantic roles really well, but how romantic are you in real life?
Thank you so much for saying that, Asjad! (Laughs) I think I could be quite romantic, but I feel like any kind of relationship also requires a certain amount of time to develop and nurture it. But right now, quite frankly, my days are just consumed with filming.
So I feel like when I would be in a relationship, I do envision myself as being romantic. When I was growing up, I always had this idea of wanting a fairytale romance. I think that is how love should always be – it should be like a fairytale.
What qualities do you like in a guy?
I think I can answer it in a different way. If I feel comfortable enough to be myself around someone; that matters more to me. I think that is something that is really important to me. More than observing how the guy is, I would want to observe how I am around that person first.
Today what inspires you?
People that I meet every single day inspire me in some way or the other. The wonderful teams I get the opportunity to collaborate and work with inspire me because everyone is so passionate and driven when it comes to making a film. All the departments on a film set really.
I feel just being around them and shooting every single day inspires and thrills me. Of course, being actors we are more in the limelight than say maybe the ones who work behind the scenes, but we know first-hand just how hard they work. The director and the entire team who make a film really inspires me every single day. Be it the lighting, art or any other department.
Finally, do you want to give us a message for your fans?
I just want to say a massive thank you to everybody who has supported me and had my back. I hope to work even harder for you in the future. I hope to keep you entertained for as long as I can. I have immense love for everybody out there. I just hope everyone enjoys watching Hindi films more and more. Our industry needs the support from audiences to watch more of our movies, so I hope that happens.
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.