'Varanasi' controversy: Ram Gopal Varma defends SS Rajamouli
Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has publicly defended SS Rajamouli after the director faced backlash for declaring himself an atheist. Varma argued that atheism is constitutionally protected and that an artist's personal beliefs shouldn't limit their creative expression. He suggested critics' jealousy fuels the controversy, asserting Rajamouli's success will continue regardless.
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Filmmaker SS Rajamouli faces a police complaint from the Vanara Sena organization for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments with remarks about Lord Hanuman during the 'Varanasi' film promotions. Rajamouli, who identifies as an atheist, expressed disappointment in the deity after a technical glitch, leading to the complaint. Police are investigating the matter.
Bella Thorne backs PC after old video claims she hired fans
Priyanka Chopra faced social media backlash over a video of fans repeatedly seeking autographs, with some alleging a staged PR stunt. Actress Bella Thorne defended Chopra, suggesting the fans were persistent and Chopra was simply being kind. Meanwhile, Chopra is set to return to Indian cinema with SS Rajamouli's 'Varanasi' in 2027, alongside other international projects.
Varanasi Title Dispute Will Be Sorted, Says Bharat Bushan
The disagreement arose after director S S Rajamouli announced his forthcoming film starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran with the title Varanasi.
Superstar Mahesh Babu's old video has resurfaced online, in which he explains why he rejected Bollywood offers. Currently, the actor is focused on his upcoming pan-India epic Varanasi with SS Rajamouli, co-starring Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film is slated for a Summer 2027 release. Read on to know why Mahesh Babu chose to stay away from Bollywood.
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Varanasi official synopsis: Film to be a time-travel saga
Visionary director SS Rajamouli's next epic, 'Varanasi', starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj, promises a grand time-travel adventure. The film's synopsis hints at an asteroid strike in Varanasi triggering a saga where a savior must journey across continents and timelines to alter Earth's crucial historical moments, potentially involving Lord Ram.
Fan pays Mahesh Babus Range Rover challans in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: Mahesh Babu, one of the biggest superstars in South Indian cinema, is known for his charm, massive box office pull, and a fan base that treats him like a real-life prince. As he prepares for his next global adventure film Varanasi, popularly known as SSMB29, directed by SS Rajamouli, the excitement around his career Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Inside The Codeine Cartel: How Varanasi's 'Cough Syrup King' Built His Multi-Crore Empire
Authorities in Uttar Pradesh probe Shubham Jaiswals alleged multi-crore codeine syrup trade, with over 130 businessmen under scrutiny and links to Bangladesh diversion emerging
UP: Six cattle smugglers caught in encounter with Ghazipur cops
Ghazipur police, with SWAT and local teams, apprehended eight cattle smugglers after an exchange of fire. Three smugglers sustained leg injuries and were hospitalized. The operation led to the recovery of three pistols, cartridges, an SUV, and a pickup truck carrying six cattle.
Capital punishment awarded to accused of brutally killing 8-year-old girl after rape in UP
A Ramnagar man, Irshad, has been sentenced to death by hanging for the brutal rape and murder of an 8-year-old girl. The special POCSO court delivered the verdict within 11 months of the incident, also imposing a Rs 60,000 fine. The court described Irshad as 'savage' and a danger to society.
Dreaded looter caught in encounter with cops in Azamgarh
Kotwali police in Azamgarh district apprehended a criminal during a midnight raid. The accused sustained a leg injury during an exchange of fire. He was found with a motorcycle, pistol, and a stolen gold chain. The arrested individual, identified as Pintu alias Ashok from Varanasi, has multiple cases registered against him. He confessed to a recent chain-snatching incident.
Priyanka CONFIRMS she will dub her own Telugu lines
Priyanka Chopra Jonas is making a grand return to Indian cinema with SS Rajamouli's upcoming film 'Varanasi'. She will be dubbing her own Telugu dialogues for the role of Mandakini. This sci-fi action adventure stars Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film's teaser has already generated significant buzz among fans.
Varanasi budget: SS Rajamouli spends less than Ramayan, A6 on Mahesh Babu epic
Varanasi budget: SS Rajamouli spends less than Ramayan, A6 on Mahesh Babu epic
SS Rajamoulis Varanasi sparks title clash
SS Rajamouli's upcoming film with Mahesh Babu, tentatively titled 'Varanasi,' faces a title clash as another production company, Rama Bramha Hanuma Creations, claims prior registration. Producers Council records confirm the title's earlier registration, adding a layer of complexity to the ownership dispute. This controversy emerges alongside religious sentiments reportedly stirred by Rajamouli's comments at the film's grand reveal.
Varanasi: Title dispute over SS Rajamouli, Mahesh Babu`s film
Days after SS Rajamouli announced the title of his upcoming film, Varanasi, with Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra, an alleged dispute has erupted over the rights of the title. The name is reportedly already registered by CH Subba Reddy
Title dispute erupts over Rajamouli's 'Varanasi'
A title dispute has emerged over the upcoming film Varanasi, directed by SS Rajamouli. The disagreement is about the legal ownership of the movie's name.
Filmmaker SS Rajamouli is facing a police complaint from the Vanara Sena organization for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments with his remarks about Lord Hanuman. The comments were reportedly made during a promotional event for his upcoming film 'Varanasi' in Hyderabad. The police have received the complaint and are currently investigating the matter.
Plaint against SS Rajamouli for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments
The Vanara Sena organisation has lodged a complaint accusing ace filmmaker SS Rajamouli of allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments with his remarks against Lord Hanuman during a recent promotional event in Hyderabad for his upcoming film Varanasi, police said on Tuesday. The filmmaker had participated on November 15 at the Globe Trotter event to promote his []
Priyanka calls working with Mahesh Babu & SS Rajamouli in Varanasi a privilege
As movie buffs await the release of Varanasi, Global sensation Priyanka Chopra called working with Tollywood heartthrobs Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran, and acclaimed director SS Rajamouli a privilege. Sharing a string of photos with Mahesh Babu, Rajamouli, and Prithviraj on her Instagram handle, PeeCee wrote, Working with these two legends of the Telugu and []
Sonbhadra mine collapse: Toll mounts to 7
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As per reports, Priyanka Chopra is charging Rs 30 crore for Varanasi, making her the highest-paid Indian actress. The SS Rajamouli directorial also stars Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran in the leading roles.
IIT-BHU, Niigata University, Japan Joint Symposium for mutual cooperation, foster new opportunities
IIT-BHU and Niigata University concluded a two-day symposium to bolster academic and research collaboration. The event facilitated discussions on intensifying mutual cooperation in advanced research, student exchange, and academic development. This partnership aims to strengthen institutional ties and foster cultural understanding between India and Japan.
Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 pre-event activities begin with Ghat Walk, railway to run special trains
Pre-event activities for Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 commenced with a 'Ghat Walk' in Varanasi, raising awareness for the cultural confluence. Special trains will operate from Kanyakumari and Coimbatore to accommodate increased pilgrim and visitor demand during the event, scheduled from December 2 to 15.
Azamgarh police have attached land valued at Rs 31,29,840 belonging to cattle smuggler Abu Talib. The action was taken under the Gangster Act to dismantle his illicit financial empire. Talib faces multiple cases for cow slaughtering and cattle smuggling, with the attached property reportedly purchased with illegally earned money.
2 looters arrested after exchange of fire with police in UP's Azamgarh
Two notorious looters were apprehended in Azamgarh after a police encounter in Kandhrapur. The duo, identified as Tribhuvan Singh and Pankaj Paswan, sustained leg injuries during an exchange of fire. Police recovered a firearm and a motorcycle from the arrested individuals, who have multiple cases registered against them.
Never liked Lord Ram: Rajamoulis controversial remarks spark outrage
Hyderabad: Tollywoods ace director SS Rajamouli has created massive anticipation with his upcoming film Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film carries a huge budget and expectations are high because Rajamouli is known for large scale storytelling. The first look and teaser launch at Ramoji Film City recently added to the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
SS Rajamouli in BIG trouble: Complaint filed against Varanasi director for 'hurtful' remarks on...
Days after Varanasi first look launch, SS Rajamouli has landed into major trouble. Read on to know more.
Anjali, Sara Tendulkar seek blessings at Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi
Anjali and Sara Tendulkar visited the Kashi Vishwanath Temple with deep devotion, participating in rituals and receiving holy offerings. The mother-daughter duo admired the spiritual ambiance of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor during their visit. Both were presented with Rudraksha garlands, a shawl, and a memento by temple authorities.
Priyanka Chopra Calls Working With Mahesh Babu, Prithviraj in Varanasi a 'Privilege'
Mahesh Babu will be seen as Rudhra, a divine character who is both globe-trotting and time-travelling.
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Mahesh Babu's dedication to fitness is evident as he trains 365 days a year, not just for roles. His trainer revealed a disciplined five-day-a-week workout routine and a balanced diet of five to six nutrient-rich meals, emphasising consistency for his lean and muscular physique. Read on to know everything in detail.
Vehant Technologies gets Rs 40 cr order from AAI to install explosive detectors at airports
MUMBAI, Nov 17: Vehant Technologies on Monday said it has secured an order worth Rs 40 crore from Airports Authority of India for supply, installation and maintenance of 232 units of Explosive Trace Detectors (ETDs) at over 60 airports in the country. The airports include Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, Varanasi, Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Port Blair, Coimbatore, among others, the company said. The company had received an order for 20 units of ETD NanoSniffer from AAI for deployment on trial basis, [] The post Vehant Technologies gets Rs 40 cr order from AAI to install explosive detectors at airports appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
SS Rajamouli's magnum opus Varanasi isn't just a globetrotter, but also a timetrotter, spun across different time spaces and yugas. Mahesh Babu isn't just playing Rudhra, but also the role of Lord Rama.
Priyanka Chopra has delivered some truly unforgettable performances across Bollywood and global cinema. From intense biopics to emotionally rich dramas, she has consistently proven her range as an actor. In this slideshow, we revisit her most powerful roles that shaped her career. These performances remain must-watch gems for every cinema lover.
UP's Sonbhadra stone quarry collapse: Death toll climbs to four
SONBHADRA: Three more bodies have been recovered from the rubble of a stone quarry that collapsed in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh, taking the death toll to four, an official said on Monday. District Magistrate, Sonbhadra, BN Singh said the bodies were recovered on the intervening night of Sunday and Monday. One body was recovered in the night. The deceased was identified as Indrajit (30), a resident of Panari, Obra. The other two bodies have not been identified and efforts are on to identify them, Singh said. The quarry collapsed on Saturday evening. Additional Director General of Police (ADG), Varanasi Zone, Piyush Mordia on Sunday said clearing the rubble is taking time due to presence of several heavy stones. Sonbhadra Superintendent of Police (SP) Abhishek Verma had said they were informed about the collapse at around 4.30 pm on Saturday at Obra Police Station. The caller said that several workers were buried under the debris after a portion of a stone quarry operated by Krishna Mining Works collapsed. The police have booked the owner of Krishna Mining Works and his business partners, Madhusudan Singh and Dilip Keshari, both residents of Obra, on the complaint of Chhotu Yadav, a resident of Parsoi Tola, who said his two brothers are trapped under the rubble, the SP said. The three are yet to be arrested. Samajwadi Party's Robertsganj MP, Chotelal Kharwar, alleged that the mine was illegally run by mafia in collusion with the local police. There is a possibility that 12 to 15 people are trapped under the stones. Tribals are being killed in many ways, and large-scale illegal mining is being carried out in this area. One or two such incidents occur every month in this region, but how the mining mafia manages everything remains unknown, he said. Illegal mining is being carried out with the connivance of police and administration officials, the MP alleged. Kharwar alleged that he was stopped by the police from meeting the kin of the trapped mine workers. He also demanded Rs 50 lakh in compensation for the victim's family and a government job for each family.
Priyanka Chopra looked like a living goddess in this ethereal white lehenga
Priyanka Chopra captivated at the Varanasi title reveal, embodying an ethereal apsara in an Anamika Khanna white creation. Her ivory lehenga, adorned with delicate florals and antique gold work, was complemented by South Indian bridal jewellery. This look offers timeless inspiration for brides seeking a divine and classic pre-wedding ensemble.
Mahesh Babu is currently shooting for SS Rajamoulis much-awaited film, now officially titled Varanasi. The makers organised a star-studded mega event on November 15, where they unveiled the actors first look along with a short clip announcing the title. Recently, Rajamouli revealed a rare habit of the Telugu superstar, and fans are curious to know what it is. Read on to find out!
Sonbhadra mine collapse: Toll rises to 4; rescue operations continue as several still trapped
The death toll in the Sonbhadra mine collapse has risen to four after three more bodies were recovered. The incident occurred Saturday afternoon at the Billi Markundi mining site, burying several laborers. An FIR has been lodged against Krishna Mining Works and two staff members for alleged negligence.
BHU researchers revive timeless rice variety Adam Chini with innovation
NEW DELHI: Farmers in the eastern districts of Uttar Pradesh are seeing their dreams take flight with the revival of the aromatic black rice variety, Adamchini. This initiative, led by agricultural scientists at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), has recently achieved significant breakthroughs in improving the varietys resilience and productivity. The Adamchini rice, known for its sugar-crystal-like grains, pleasant aroma and superior cooking qualities, has long faced challenges due to its tall stature and slow maturation. Historically, its height, reaching up to 165 cm, made it vulnerable to lodging in adverse weather, damaging the texture and yield. Additionally, the rices long maturity period (155 days) and low yields (20-23 quintals per hectare) discouraged farmers from scaling up production, despite strong market demand, particularly from Australia and New Zealand. In response to these challenges, Professor Shravan Kumar Singh and his team at BHUs Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding have spent over 14 years researching ways to enhance Adamchini without compromising its core qualities. The breakthrough came with the use of mutagenesis, a technique that has successfully reduced the rices height, shortened its maturity period and increased its yield, all while retaining the signature aroma and grain type. The research team has developed 23 novel mutant lines of Adamchini, including varieties with a reduced height (105 cm for mutant-14), earlier maturity (120 days for mutant-19), and higher yields (30-35 quintals per hectare for mutants 14, 15, 19, and 20). These improvements have made the rice more suitable for mass production while retaining its coveted fragrance, which is said to surpass that of popular Basmati. These advancements have been particularly welcomed by farmers in the eastern foothills of the Vindhya mountain ranges, spanning districts like Chandauli, Mirzapur, Sonbhadra and parts of Varanasi. The state government has since branded Adamchini as Vindhya Black Rice.
Priyanka Chopra got a special shout-out from her husband Nick Jonas. The musical star penned a special note after the film's first look was revealed.
Gang which supplied Rs100cr codeine cough syrup busted
Actors Mahesh Babu, front, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas during the announcement of their upcoming film Varanasi in Hyderabad, Telangana, on Saturday. (PTI)
Several still trapped in Sonbhadra mine as rescue operation continues
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LUCKNOW: In a major mishap, a stone mine collapsed in Sonbhadra district of eastern Uttar Pradesh on Saturday, in which one person lost his life and over 15 are fear trapped under the debris. Rescue operations are underway. The exact number of those trapped is not yet known. The collapse occurred in the Billi Markundi mining area under the Obra police station limits in Sonbhadra. Relief teams, including the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police, reached the quarry and began the rescue operation. Debris removal continued throughout the night and was still ongoing on Sunday. While one body was recovered from the site, the search for others was still underway. Uttar Pradesh minister and local MLA Sanjeev Kumar Gond, who visited the spot in the Billi Markundi mining area on Saturday evening, said around a dozen labourers might be trapped under the debris. The authorities concerned ordered a probe into the collapse, to be conducted by Additional District Magistrate (Finance/Revenue) Vagish Singh. On the basis of the probe report, further action would be taken, said district administration sources. According to Sonbhadra district magistrate Badrinath Singh, besides the NDRF and SDRF, rescue teams from two private companies and the Obra Thermal Power Project also carried out rescue operations. He added that additional equipment and machinery were being brought in to assist the teams. While the cause of the collapse was not yet known, the district magistrate said that a probe had been launched to ascertain the same. Upon receiving information about the incident, officials rushed to the spot and called in specialised rescue teams, which immediately began efforts to pull out the trapped labourers. Several residents also rushed to the site as news of the collapse spread. The person killed in the incident was identified as Raju Singh Gaur, a resident of Parsoi village in Sonbhadra. According to sources, his identity was confirmed after rescue personnel dialled numbers from the mobile phone recovered from his pocket. According to Piyush Mordia, Additional Director General, Varanasi Zone, due to the large size of the stones, extreme caution was necessary while removing the debris in an open-pit mine. As per local sources, the incident occurred while drilling work was underway to prepare holes for blasting inside the mine. Suddenly, one side of the quarry wall allegedly collapsed, sending debris plunging nearly 150 feet. Several workers were trapped beneath it, they added. Superintendent of Police, Sonbhadra, Abhishek Verma, said that around 4.30 pm on Saturday, the Obra police station received information that some workers were buried under rocks and debris after a portion of a stone quarry at Krishna Mining Works in the Billi Markundi area collapsed. Meanwhile, an FIR was lodged at the Obra police station against the firm Krishna Mines operating the quarry and its two partners, based on a complaint filed by local resident Chhotu Yadav, who was also working at the site. According to police, Chhotu stated that he and his two brothers, Indrajeet Yadav (31) and Santosh Yadav (29), were working in the mine. On 15 November, they were operating a compressor machine when a large portion of the quarry allegedly collapsed. He alleged that the incident occurred because the mine owners and their partners Madhusudan Singh and Dilip Kesari failed to follow mining safety guidelines. However, no arrests have been made so far, with police officials claiming that efforts were underway to trace the accused.
SS Rajamouli's magnum opus Varanasi has references to the Ramayana. The glimpses of Lord Rama and Hanuman left the moviegoers stunned, but netizens are fuming with Rajamouli's recent remark on Lord Pawan Purtra. To make matters worse, his old tweet also went viral.
'Entha mashe, adipoli: S.S Rajamouli speaks Malayalam
During the much-anticipated 'Varanasi' film event, director S.S. Rajamouli caught everyone off guard when he addressed actor Prithviraj Sukumaran in M... 'Entha mashe, adipoli: S.S Rajamouli speaks Malayalam
SS Rajamouli cites drone leak for Varanasi glimpse failure
Hyderabad: The grand GlobeTrotter event at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad turned into an emotional evening when SS Rajamouli unveiled the title and first glimpse of his ambitious film, Varanasi. The event was attended by Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran. Thousands of fans had gathered for the reveal, but technical problems delayed the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
SS Rajamouli's upcoming film with Mahesh Babu, titled Varanasi, has been unveiled with a teaser hinting at an intense, mythology-tinged action drama. Rajamouli revealed a significant sequence that draws inspiration from the Ramayana, a project he has long dreamed of adapting. The film features a stellar cast and a massive budget.
Rajamouli unveils Varanasi starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra
Mumbai: Ever since the grand event of Globe Trotter was announced, audiences had been eagerly counting down to witness Indias biggest-ever reveal. The event that opened in a spectacular manner at the Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, on November 15 saw the unveiling of the title of S.S. Rajamoulis much-awaited project Varanasi, starring Mahesh Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
At the Varanasi first look event, SS Rajamouli faced a technical error, and while giving a speech, he indirectly blamed Lord Hanuman for it. This statement went viral for wrong reasons, and netizens are demanding an apology from the star director.
SS Rajamouli Slams Unscrupulous Drone Operators After Varanasi Teaser Leaked
The makers of the eagerly awaited magnum opus announced the title of the film as 'Varanasi' and also disclosed that Mahesh Babu plays a character called Rudhra in the film.
Hyderabad witnessed the grand title reveal of Globe Trotter as Varanasi, with Mahesh Babu's first look as Rudra unveiled. Director SS Rajamouli presented the teaser, showcasing the actor in a dramatic avatar. Priyanka Chopra's fluent Telugu and enthusiastic fan interaction added to the star-studded event. Read on to know when the film is going to release on big screen.
