If you loved Kantara then there's good news for you. As Kantara completed 100 days, the film's star Rishabh Shetty recently celebrated the milestone with the team. At an event, Rishabh announced the film's prequel. Yes, you read it right.
He said, "We are very pleased and thankful to the audience who had shown immense love and support to Kantara and taking the journey ahead, with the blessing of almighty Daiva the film has successfully completed 100 days and I would like to take this opportunity to announce the prequel of Kantara. What you have seen is actually Part 2, Part 1 will come next year. The idea has been flashed into my mind while I was shooting for Kantara because the history of Kantara has more depth to it, and currently, if the writing part is concerned we are in the middle of digging into more details. As the research is still progressing, it would be very early to reveal details about the film."
Having graced the occasion, the producer, Vijay Kiragandur also opened about the same and said, "Kantara introduced the audience to a new cinema altogether and we would love to sustain and in fact boost the rage that the film has created among the audience on the screens by announcing the sequel, as the film has now completed its 100 days. Rishab and our team have been working on the story rigorously as the film has many more things to tell to the audience while opening the back story of Kantara and we can just guarantee that the sequel of Kantara is going to be more massive and grand than before."
Written and directed by Rishab Shetty, who also plays the lead, the film revolves around a Kambala champion who is at loggerheads with a forest officer.
Kantara was hailed for its visual excellence that captured the folklore from coastal Karnataka. Kambala is an annual race, held from November to March in coastal Karnataka, in which a jockey drives a pair of buffaloes, tied to the plough, through muddy tracks.
OpenAI is facing legal challenges in India, with publishers and news outlets accusing it of using their content without permission to train ChatGPT. (Photo: Reuters)
OPENAI, the company behind ChatGPT, will open its first India office in New Delhi later this year as it expands in its second-largest market by user numbers.
The Microsoft-backed firm has been registered as a legal entity in India and has started hiring for a local team, the company said in a statement shared with Reuters on Friday.
India is a key market for ChatGPT, which launched its lowest-priced monthly plan at $4.60 earlier this week. The move aims at reaching nearly one billion internet users in the country.
OpenAI is facing legal challenges in India, with publishers and news outlets accusing it of using their content without permission to train ChatGPT. The company has denied these claims.
"Opening our first office and building a local team is an important first step in our commitment to make advanced AI more accessible across the country and to build AI for India, and with India," OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said in the statement.
Competition in India is intensifying, with Google’s Gemini and AI startup Perplexity offering plans that give many users free access to advanced features.
India has the largest student user base for ChatGPT, and weekly active users have quadrupled in the past year, according to market data shared by OpenAI on Friday.
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The tournament begins on September 30 and the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai will host up to five fixtures - including the tournament opener, a semifinal and potentially the final on November 2. (Photo: Getty Images)
MUMBAI will host next month’s Women's ODI World Cup, instead of Bengaluru, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Friday (22), citing "unforeseen circumstances".
Eleven people died on June 4 at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's victory celebrations in the Indian Premier League.
"While unforeseen circumstances required us to adjust the schedule and replace a venue, we are pleased to now have a line-up of five world-class venues that will showcase the very best of the women's game," ICC chairman Jay Shah said in a statement.
"The stage is set, and I am confident this tournament will capture imaginations and inspire a new generation of fans," he added.
The tournament begins on September 30 and the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai will host up to five fixtures - including the tournament opener, a semifinal and potentially the final on November 2.
Though no reason was cited, the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru failed to secure the required administrative and security clearances.
The ICC Women's ODI World Cup returns to India after a 12-year hiatus.
Shah noted Navi Mumbai's reputation as a hub for women's cricket.
"Navi Mumbai has emerged as a genuine home for women's cricket in recent years. The support it has received during international fixtures and the Women's Premier League has been remarkable, creating an atmosphere that elevates the players and inspires fans.
"I am certain that the same energy will define the big matches of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup as it returns to India after 12 years," Shah said.
The other confirmed venues for the eight-team tournament include Guwahati, Indore, Visakhapatnam, and Colombo.
Colombo is a neutral venue to host the India-Pakistan clash.
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Khan, 72, in a social media post following the verdict, said the end of the 'night of oppression' in his country was near. (Photo: Getty Images)
PAKISTAN's Supreme Court on Thursday granted bail to former prime minister Imran Khan in eight cases linked to the May 9 violence.
The violence erupted on May 9, 2023, when Khan’s supporters engaged in vandalism and rioting after his detention by law enforcement in Islamabad. Multiple cases were registered against Khan and leaders of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party for their alleged involvement.
A three-member bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, granted bail after hearing arguments from Khan’s lawyer Salman Safdar and Punjab Special Prosecutor Zulfiqar Naqvi, who represented the state.
Khan, 72, in a social media post following the verdict, said the end of the “night of oppression” in his country was near.
“My message to the entire nation, to my workers and to the party leadership is that your captain is still standing tall with his head held high. Have no fear," Khan said.
“We must not, under any circumstances, bow our heads down before tyranny and oppression. Remember -- no matter how long and dark the night may be, dawn is certain to break. The end of this night of oppression is near. God willing, the sun of justice and freedom will soon rise," he said.
PTI welcomed the ruling with the hashtag “Victory For Imran Khan” on X. Its international spokesman Zulfiqar Bukhari said Khan now required bail in just one case.
“Supreme Court has granted bail to Imran Khan for May 9th cases, now bail is needed for just one more case (Al Qadir case) for Mr Khan to come out of jail,” he said.
Bukhari added that despite the relief, Khan would not be released because of his conviction in the Al-Qadir Trust case.
Khan had earlier filed a bail petition before a Lahore anti-terrorism court in cases related to the May 9 riots, including the attack on the Lahore corps commander’s residence, but it was dismissed in November 2024. His plea was later rejected by the Lahore High Court on June 24 this year. Khan then challenged the decision in the Supreme Court.
The former prime minister continues to face multiple other cases filed against him after his ouster from office in April 2022. He has been imprisoned since August 2023 and is serving a sentence in the 190 million pounds Al-Qadir graft case at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Lil Nas X’s arrest comes ahead of his anticipated second album Dreamboy
Rapper Lil Nas X detained after incident on Ventura Boulevard in Los Angeles
Police say the singer was taken to hospital for suspected overdose before being jailed
TMZ footage shows the star in underwear and cowboy boots inviting people to a “party”
The Old Town Road star is due to release his second album Dreamboy later this year
US rapper Lil Nas X has been arrested in Los Angeles after police were called to reports of a man walking in his underwear on a busy street. The Grammy-winning star, whose real name is Montero Lamar Hill, was detained on suspicion of battery after allegedly charging at officers. Authorities confirmed he was taken to hospital for a suspected overdose before being transferred to a local jail. The incident has sparked huge discussion online, with “Lil Nas X arrested” quickly trending worldwide.
Lil Nas X’s arrest comes ahead of his anticipated second album Dreamboy Getty Images
Why was Lil Nas X arrested in Los Angeles?
The Los Angeles Police Department said officers were called to Ventura Boulevard in Studio City shortly before 6am on Thursday. Witnesses had reported a man wandering the street in just underwear and cowboy boots. When officers arrived, they allege that Lil Nas X ran towards them and struck one officer, leading to his arrest on suspicion of battery and obstructing an officer.
A police spokesperson confirmed he was first taken to hospital for treatment related to a possible overdose. Hours later, he was discharged and booked at Valley Jail in Van Nuys. Officials have not provided further details about his condition.
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Was Lil Nas X under the influence?
Authorities have not confirmed whether Lil Nas X was intoxicated or experiencing a medical emergency at the time. A law enforcement source told NBC News it was unclear if he was suffering from a potential overdose or mental distress. TMZ published unverified video footage showing the rapper strutting along Ventura Boulevard, posing and telling drivers to “come to the party.” In one clip, he appeared to balance a traffic cone on his head.
The video quickly spread across social media, drawing concern from fans but also fuelling debate about the pressures faced by high-profile musicians. Representatives for Lil Nas X have not commented publicly.
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What happens next for the rapper?
Lil Nas X was booked on misdemeanour charges and remains in custody while legal proceedings are pending. The arrest comes at a crucial time for the 26-year-old Atlanta-born artist, who has been teasing new music ahead of the release of his much-anticipated second studio album Dreamboy later this year.
His debut hit Old Town Road broke records in 2019, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for 17 consecutive weeks and winning two Grammy Awards. It also made him the first openly gay man to receive a Country Music Association award. Since then, he has built a reputation for bold visuals and provocative performances, often drawing criticism from conservatives in the US.
The latest incident has cast uncertainty over his upcoming projects, with fans questioning whether promotional plans for Dreamboy will be affected.
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How has Lil Nas X responded to controversy in the past?
Throughout his career, Lil Nas X has not shied away from controversy. The video for his 2021 single Montero (Call Me By Your Name) was condemned by right-wing commentators, who called it “depraved.” The rapper hit back with humour, posting a fake apology video that cut into the track’s infamous lap-dancing scene.
Lil Nas X arrested in Los Angeles after charging at police and hospitalised for suspected overdoseGetty Images
He has often said that criticism only fuels his creativity, telling fans he channels negativity into his music and public persona. Whether this latest arrest becomes another chapter in his defiant approach or marks a more serious turning point remains to be seen.
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James Cameron is tipped to unveil SS Rajamouli’s SSMB 29 during his India visit for Avatar 3 promotions
James Cameron reportedly being approached to launch Rajamouli’s next big film
Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra lead the globe-trotting action adventure
Cameron earlier praised Rajamouli and RRR at Critics’ Choice Awards
First look expected in November 2025 ahead of Avatar 3 promotions in India
The much-awaited collaboration between SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu, tentatively titled SSMB 29, has taken an exciting turn with fresh reports suggesting that James Cameron may unveil its first look. The Hollywood director of Avatar and Titanic, who publicly praised RRR and Rajamouli’s vision, is expected to visit India later this year to promote Avatar 3. This has sparked speculation that he could officially reveal the teaser of the Rajamouli–Mahesh Babu action adventure.
James Cameron is tipped to unveil SS Rajamouli’s SSMB 29 during his India visit for Avatar 3 promotions Instagram/ssrajamouli
What is the connection between James Cameron and SS Rajamouli?
Cameron and Rajamouli first met at the Critics’ Choice Awards in Los Angeles, where RRR won Best Foreign Language Film. At the event, Cameron not only praised the Telugu blockbuster but also held a lengthy conversation with Rajamouli about its craft. He later told Rajamouli he would be open to supporting him in the future. This professional admiration has now paved the way for rumours that he may be chosen to launch SSMB 29’s first look in India.
Why is James Cameron’s presence significant for SSMB 29 ?
If Cameron does unveil the teaser, it will mark a landmark moment in Indian cinema. His association would elevate the project’s international visibility, particularly in Western markets. Cameron’s films, including Titanic and the Avatar series, have grossed over £5.5 billion (₹58,000 crore) worldwide, giving him unmatched global reach. For SSMB 29, which already carries immense expectations after RRR, Cameron’s involvement could offer a grand platform that few Indian films have enjoyed.
James Cameron set to give SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu’s SSMB 29 a historic global launch Getty Images
What do we know about SSMB 29 so far?
While the official title has not been confirmed, the makers dropped a pre-look glimpse tagged with the word “Globetrotter,” sparking speculation that it could be the film’s name. Starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra in the lead, with Prithviraj Sukumaran also attached, the movie is described as a globe-trotting adventure inspired by the Indiana Jones franchise. Rajamouli has promised fans a “never-seen-before” cinematic experience, with the first look scheduled for November 2025. The film is currently in production and is expected to release in 2026.
Mahesh Babu’s rugged first look from SS Rajamouli’s SSMB29 GlobeTrotter ignites fan excitement Instagram/urstrulymahesh
How are fans reacting to the James Cameron speculation?
Fans of both directors have flooded social media with excitement. Many see it as a historic collaboration bridging Hollywood and Indian cinema, while others believe the launch would underline Rajamouli’s growing global reputation. Some users have also debated the choice of India for the reveal, suggesting that global events like Comic-Con would have given it even wider reach. Despite this, Rajamouli’s Indian audience and Cameron’s promotional tour for Avatar 3 make the timing a perfect fit.
SS Rajamouli builds\u00a0Varanasi set in Hyderabad for SSMB29 shoot Getty Images
Could this redefine Indian cinema’s global footprint?
Rajamouli has already placed Indian cinema on the world map with RRR, which grossed over £120 million (₹1,250 crore) worldwide and earned an Oscar for Best Original Song. If James Cameron indeed unveils SSMB 29’s first look, it would further cement Rajamouli’s standing as a filmmaker with worldwide influence. For Mahesh Babu, the project is set to be his most ambitious outing yet, while Priyanka Chopra’s presence adds to its global crossover appeal.