Latest news with #Simbu
Time of India
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Simbu to sport dual looks in Vetrimaran's film?
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) If sources in the industry are to be believed, actor Simbu will be sporting not one but two looks in director Vetrimaran's upcoming film that will be set in the world of his cult classic 'Vada Chennai'. It may be recalled that director Vetrimaran, a couple of days ago, had put an end to all the speculation surrounding the second part of his eagerly-awaited film 'Vada Chennai'. Vetri Maran had said that his next film would feature Simbu in the lead but that this would not be Vada Chennai 2 as was being speculated in some sections of the media. He made it clear that however, the story of this film would be set in the world of Vada Chennai. In an interview to his own YouTube channel, Vetrimaran had said, "My next film is to be produced by Kalaipuli S Thanu and will feature Simbu in the lead." Dismissing the speculation that this film with Simbu was Vada Chennai 2, Vetri Maran said, "There is a lot of speculation if this will be Vada Chennai 2. I want to clear that speculation as well. This is not Vada Chennai 2. What Dhanush acts in will be Vada Chennai 2. However, this story will also be set in the world of Vada Chennai, which means certain aspects of that world will be there in this story as well. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Upto 15% Discount for Salaried Individuals ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo This story will also be in a similar timeline. " Now, sources in the industry say that Simbu will sport one one but two looks in the film. They claim that apart from a look that will make him look his age, Simbu will also sport a younger look. Sources claim that a shoot took place a couple of weeks ago with Simbu sporting his normal look. They say that another shoot is scheduled to take place with Simbu sporting a younger look. Both shoots are for an announcement video that is to release next week.
RNZ News
24-06-2025
- Politics
- RNZ News
Building peace from the ground up: Angela Apa and Kup women for peace
Angela Apa, who heads an organization called Kup Women for Peace (KWP), spearheads a powerful movement for change in Papua New Guinea's Simbu Province. Photo: Scott Waide Angela Apa, who heads an organization called Kup Women for Peace (KWP), spearheads a powerful movement for change in Papua New Guinea's Simbu Province. For 25 years, this women-led organization has been a beacon of hope, working tirelessly to address conflict, violence, and injustice at the community level, often in the face of daunting challenges and a lack of official recognition. Since its inception in 2000, KWP has rescued over 200 women survivors of sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV) and tribal conflicts across Simbu Province. They have also repatriated hundreds more, both within Simbu and to other provinces, particularly those affected by SARV. The organization consistently provides support, receiving approximately 10 clients each week, offering counseling and crisis support. "Out of the 10, five would usually be women, three, on average would be girls and two would be men," Angela said. Violence affects everyone in the community. Angela points to a fact that many ignore. The primary victim of any form of violence usually seeks help with other members of her family. "When a women comes, she comes with others. They're either her children or other family members. For most women, they are denied justice. Lawyers are expensive and the process of getting justice is difficult. We have to help them." One of the most challenging aspects of KWP's work involves personally supporting victims of SARV. Because KWP lacks a safe house or support centre, the organization's staff and human rights defenders often accommodate survivors themselves. This exposes them to significant personal risk; Angela notes that if she supports someone accused of sorcery, she herself may be accused. Despite these dangers, they continue to provide this crucial, hands-on support. In neighboring Jiwaka Province, another organization, Voice for Change, led by Lilly BeSoer , also does similar work. Voice for Change has been caring for victims of violence for more than a decade and the cost of taking care of families displaced by violence is high. "The cost of food is high. We have to find money from somewhere to pay for a rice bag. Many of the women come to us because they have nowhere to go. We can't turn them away." While exact national figures are difficult to obtain due to fragmented data and a high rate of unreported incidents, research indicates an alarming scale of the problem. For instance, a study covering four hotspot provinces between January 2016 and June 2020 recorded 1,039 accusation incidents involving 1,553 accused persons, of which 298 (29 percent) led to violence, affecting 546 victims. Within this period, 65 individuals were killed, 86 suffered permanent injuries, and 141 endured other serious harm like burning or cutting. Nationally, estimates suggest over 6,000 violent SARV incidents occurred between 2000 and June 2020, resulting in approximately 3,000 deaths. This violence is not only claiming lives and causing severe injuries but also leads to inter-generational stigmatization, property destruction, and the displacement of entire communities, highlighting the grave and multifaceted impact of SARV on PNG society. KWP's core mission is multifaceted, stemming from the unique needs of its community. Initially, the organization took the initiative to combat gun violence, a prevalent issue in the highlands region, to protect women and girls. But their work has morphed into providing mediation and training to community members, including youth, church, and women leaders. These training programs focus on behavioral change and educate participants on their human rights and the laws and Constitution of Papua New Guinea. "We show them the way to go and get justice at the police station," Angela explains, emphasizing KWP's role in guiding survivors through legal processes. A crucial aspect of KWP's work is providing crisis support to women who have experienced abuse. This includes assisting women from coastal areas who have married into the region and face violence, helping them return to their homes. KWP also operates a strong rapid response system to address violence related to social accusations. Angela highlights their robust network with service providers like the police, particularly the Family and Sexual Violence Unit, and Family Support Centers. They also collaborate closely with Catholic and other missionary churches to deliver training and support. "I made a promise that I will build peace until, you know, our organization or the end of the world," Angela said.
Time of India
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'STR 49' faces twists and turns: Was there a creative clash between Silambarasan and Santhanam over Ramkumar Balakrishnan's directorial?
Actor Silambarasan TR 's 49th film, tentatively titled 'STR 49,' was officially launched with a pooja under the direction of 'Parking' fame Ramkumar. Shooting was initially scheduled to begin in June. However, unexpected roadblocks emerged after the film's producer was caught in an Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation. Following this, it was reported that Simbu had creative disagreements with the team, leading to delays and internal tensions. Reported rift between Simbu and Santhanam Comedian Santhanam was initially announced as part of 'STR 49,' marking a shift from lead roles back to a comedian's role. According to Asianet, Santhanam placed certain conditions particularly that his character should have equal importance to Silambarasan's. These demands reportedly created friction between the two, making Simbu temporarily shelve the film. While neither the actor has officially spoken about the reported issue, the sources in the industry indicated that the fallout made Simbu rethink the film and its cast. Change in direction after script concerns Another obstacle allegedly originated from Ramkumar's final script, which did not satisfy Silambarasan. With increasing creative issues and production uncertainties, Simbu said that he has dropped the project in its current form and has opted for a change in the director. Ramkumar is now asked to contact other prominent actors for new undertakings, while Silambarasan has moved forward with other collaborations, including directors with films Desingh Periasamy and Ashwath Marimuthu . 'STR 49' gets a new life with Vetri Maaran The latest buzz confirms that Vetri Maaran has taken over with music composed by GV Prakash Kumar. Based on a North Chennai backdrop, the story reportedly draws from the 'Rajan Vagaira' script originally penned for Ken Karunas. The film features a star-studded cast including Kavin, Nelson, Andrea, and Samuthirakani, and the shoot is already in progress.
News18
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Simbu-Vetri Maaran Film Begins Shooting, Jailer Director Nelson To Make Cameo
Last Updated: Director Vetri Maaran has started his new film with actor Silambarasan. A working still from the set featuring director Nelson Dilipkumar has gone viral. Director Vetri Maaran has officially started work on his much-anticipated film with actor Silambarasan (Simbu). A behind-the-scenes still from the shoot has made its way online and is already being shared all over. But what really caught everyone's eye is director Nelson Dilipkumar, known for hits like Doctor and Jailer, as he was spotted on the set. According to India Today, Nelson is doing a cameo appearance in the upcoming film. Right now, the team has finished shooting a promo, and the main shoot is expected to start in the next few weeks. This film is reportedly set in the same universe as Vetri Maaran's cult classic, Vada Chennai, the gangster drama that starred Dhanush and became a massive hit. That's not all. Apart from Nelson, actors Kavin and Manikandan are also expected to appear in cameo roles. Andrea Jeremiah, Samuthirakani, and Kishore, who were all part of Vada Chennai, are returning in this film too. Interestingly, Simbu was originally supposed to play the lead in Vada Chennai when it was first announced years ago. However, that plan didn't work out, and the film went ahead with Dhanush instead. Vada Chennai was originally planned as a trilogy, and Vetri Maaran has often spoken about spin-offs and web series based on the same universe. Fans have been asking for Vada Chennai 2 for years. In fact, just recently, Dhanush confirmed at an event that the sequel will definitely happen. We don't know the official title yet of the film. Talking about Silambarasan, better known as Simbu or STR, he is a popular Indian actor, playback singer, and film producer known for his work in Tamil cinema. He is the eldest son of filmmaker T. Rajendar. Simbu started his journey in the film industry as a child artist in his father's movies, and later made his debut as a lead actor in Kadhal Azhivathillai (2002), which was also directed by his father. Over the years, he won several awards, including two Edison Awards and three SIIMA Awards for his performances. First Published:
Time of India
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Simbu-Vetri Maaran film begins; 'Jailer' director Nelson Dilipkumar to make cameo
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) Director Vetri Maaran's much-anticipated collaboration with actor Silambarasan, aka Simbu, has officially gone on floors. A working still from the sets has surfaced online, creating a buzz among fans. The image features Vetri Maaran, Simbu, and Jailer director Nelson Dilipkumar, sparking intrigue over Nelson's unexpected presence on set. Nelson Dilipkumar to appear in a cameo role According to India Today report, the 'Jailer', 'Beast' director Nelson Dilipkumar will be making a cameo appearance in the untitled film. Actors Kavin and Manikandan are also expected to appear in cameo roles, further raising the film's star power. Set in the 'Vada Chennai' universe The film is said to be set in the same gritty underworld as Vetri Maaran and Dhanush's cult classic 'Vada Chennai'. Familiar faces from that film—Andrea Jeremiah, Samuthirakani, and Kishore—will reprise their roles, connecting the narrative threads. While the official title and release details are yet to be announced, shooting has commenced with a promo shoot, with principal photography expected to start in the coming weeks. Simbu's 'Thug Life' Thug Life | Song - Muththa Mazhai Meanwhile, Simbu has impressed the audiences with his stunning performance in the recently released Kamal Haasan starrer 'Thug Life'. Unfortunately the Mani Ratnam's directorial failed to impress the audiences. ETimes review for the film read, "Thug Life becomes a slog. The latter half goes haywire with many of the sub-plots from the earlier portions either being diluted or largely getting shoved away for a long amount of time. Even Amaran goes missing for quite some time. Instead what we get are preposterous scenes of Sakthivel's survival after being shot at or stabbed multiple times. The threat of Sadanand ceases to exist and Deepak feels like a weak antagonist who makes moves that are predictable. Even AR Rahman seems to lose interest and delivers a background score that feels random. The rich production values, especially Ravi K Chandran's glossy visuals, the mystery around the fate of Chandra and the inevitable face-off between Sakthivel and Amaran make us stay invested."
