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Time of India
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Vijay Deverakonda reacts to 'The' tag controversy: "Nobody else got any backlash"
Vijay Deverakonda 's decision to briefly add 'The' before his name during Liger promotions sparked unexpected backlash. Now, in a candid new interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, the actor has addressed the controversy head-on—explaining the thought process behind it, how it was meant to be subtle, and why he ultimately dropped it altogether. 'Nobody Else Gets Backlash' Vijay recalled how the branding became a bigger issue than he ever expected. 'That was one whole situation in itself,' he said. 'There was a crazy amount of backlash because 'The' was added to my name. Interestingly, no other person ever got backlash for something like that.' He pointed out that titles are common across the industry—be it Mega Star, Universal Star, or People's Star. 'People younger than me, older than me, those who debuted before me—everyone has a tagline. I was probably the only one without one. And yet, I'm the one who got called out,' he said, calling the criticism both ironic and unfair. From Reluctance to Realisation The actor explained that it was his marketing team that initially suggested the idea and claimed that he resisted for a long time because "I didn't want a tag. I just wanted to be known by my name,' he said. However, during Liger promotions, media outlets frequently labelled him with varying nicknames like Rowdy Star and Southern Sensation. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo That last one, in particular, struck a nerve. Calling it 'limiting,' Vijay said, 'I didn't like being boxed into a region or label.' So, in search of a neutral yet distinctive tag, they landed on 'The Vijay Deverakonda'—something he hoped would feel minimal and unique. But when even that drew unnecessary flak, Vijay decided to strip it all back. 'I told my team—just call me Vijay Deverakonda. That's how I want to be known. Nothing more, nothing less.' A Spy Thriller Comeback Vijay is now turning his focus to 'Kingdom', his upcoming spy thriller directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri (Jersey). Slated for release on July 31, the expectations are high for the film. Vijay Deverakonda's previous impressive outing was in 'Kalki 2898 AD' where he played a cameo. Vijay Devarakonda speaks during the promotion of Liger


Pink Villa
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Chiranjeevi wishes Sekhar Kammula to do THIS for next 25 years as he pens a heartfelt note to Kuberaa director
Chiranjeevi recently took to the internet to present a thoughtful gift to director Sekhar Kammula, who has been working in Telugu cinema for 25 years. In a social media post, the Mega Star gifted the director a luxury pen and wrote a touching note for him. Unveiling his pictures with the director, the JVAS actor said, 'My dear Sekhar, it is just as happy to have a fan like you. Now, I am even happier to know that I inspired your arrival into Telugu cinema. I am proud to be a part of your 25-year journey, and I love it when your movies are thoughtfully taken with a social comment, along with gentle entertainment.' Continuing his post, the actor wished the director to spend another 25 years in the industry, penning down and making such great movies as he has done till now. Chiranjeevi's wish to Sekhar Kammula Regarding director Sekhar Kammula, the filmmaker recently crossed the milestone of working in Telugu cinema for 25 years. The writer-director, known for his critically acclaimed ventures, debuted in Telugu cinema in 2000 with the indie film Dollar Dreams, which was primarily shot in Telugu and English. Moving forward in his career, the director has a notable list of films that are considered favorites by many, including Anand, Happy Days, and the Rana Daggubati-starrer Leader, among others. Now, the filmmaker will soon be hitting the big screens with the Dhanush and Nagarjuna Akkineni starrer Kuberaa. The social thriller is slated to release on June 20, 2025, with actors Rashmika Mandanna, Jim Sarbh, and many more playing key roles. On the other hand, Chiranjeevi is next set to appear in the lead role for the movie Vishwambhara. The fantasy flick is written and directed by Mallidi Vassishta, with Trisha Krishnan playing the female lead. Moreover, the veteran star is currently working on his film with director Anil Ravipudi, which is touted to be a comedy entertainer featuring Nayanthara as the co-lead. The actor has also announced a movie with The Paradise director Srikanth Odela.


Hans India
21-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Dr Rama Reddy earns 11 more degrees, takes tally to 61
Rajamahendravaram: Renowned psychiatrist and Dr BC Roy Award recipient Dr Karri Rama Reddy has added 11 more degrees to his name, taking his total academic achievements to a remarkable 61. Addressing the media at Manasa Hospital here on Tuesday, Dr Rama Reddy shared that the latest 11 courses were completed through NPTEL (National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning) between January and June this year. He said most of these courses were passed with 'Elite Plus Silver' and 'Elite Plus Gold' grades (Distinction equivalent), awarded for scoring above 90%. He stated that he ranked among the top in eight of the 11 courses. In the previous semester, he topped six courses, which earned him the prestigious NPTEL 'Mega Star' recognition, a feat he has now achieved again. He said that these are not honorary degrees or fellowships and he earned each of them by studying and appearing for examinations. His academic journey includes three doctorates, five LLMs, MBA, MCA, MTech, MA, MCom, and more. Dr Rama Reddy, who is in his 70s, said he completes two to three degrees every year till 2024 and, afterward, plans to take up certificate courses as well. He said that he enjoys the process of education and he believes age should never be a barrier to learning. GSL Medical College Chairman Dr Ganni Bhaskar Rao praised Dr Rama Reddy's commitment, stating that earning 61 degrees at the age of 70 is extraordinary and deserving of national recognition, such as the Padma Shri award. RSS State leader Oleti Satyanarayana opined that Dr Rama Reddy, while serving as a district Sanghchalak in RSS and continuing his medical practice, has achieved this rare academic feat. IMA City Chapter Secretary Dr Datla Satish and social worker PVS Krishnarao also lauded Dr Rama Reddy's achievements during the event.