Latest news with #SouthIndian
India.com
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Meet actress who was abandoned by her father, made her debut at age of 12, worked in 180 films, net worth is Rs..., her name is…
The Indian film industry has seen many actresses whose performances and personal lives have captivated fans and the media alike. However, one actress stands out, not only for her talent but also for the constant attention her personal life received, sometimes overshadowing her film work. The Evergreen Rekha We are referring to Bhanurekha Ganesan, popularly known as Rekha. She began her career as a child artist and eventually became a superstar. Born in 1954 to South Indian actors Gemini Ganesan and Pushpavalli, her parents never married, despite their long-term affair. They also had another daughter, Radha, born in 1955. Rekha's childhood was tumultuous, marked by an absent father who refused to acknowledge her. This contributed to her decision to keep her family background private until the mid-1970s. Despite these challenges, Rekha was destined for professional success. Rekha made her film debut at the age of 12 in the Telugu movie 'Rangula Ratnam.' She later appeared in the Kannada film 'Operation Jackpot Nalli C.I.D 999' in 1969. That same year, she also acted in her first Hindi film, 'Anjana Safar,' which faced a ten-year delay due to censorship issues. Ultimately, her first Hindi film to be released was 'Sawan Bhadon' (1970), a major hit that established her as a rising star. Over her extensive career, Rekha has appeared in more than 180 films, including 'Umrao Jaan' (1981), 'Muqaddar Ka Sikandar' (1978), 'Khoobsurat' (1980), Ijaazat' (1987), 'Khoon Bhari Maang' (1988), and 'Silsila' (1981). Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, she was among the top actresses in Hindi cinema. More About Rekha In 1990, Rekha took marriage vows with Mukesh Aggarwal, an industrialist from Delhi and the owner of the kitchenware brand Hotline. Mukesh, who struggled with depression for a long time, took his own life just months after their wedding while Rekha was in London. This event deeply affected Rekha, leading her to remain single for the rest of her life. Rekha is a self-made individual with a remarkable career and a net worth exceeding Rs 300 crore, which includes luxury cars, a lavish bungalow valued at 100 crore in Mumbai, and various other assets.
Pink Villa
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
EXCLUSIVE: Aamir Khan on why Sitaare Zameen Par's success is important; Says, "Audience will only get action films if..."
Aamir Khan is one of India's most beloved actors. He continues to charm audiences with his latest film, Sitaare Zameen Par. The Ghajini and Lagaan star sat down with Pinkvilla for an exclusive masterclass, sharing insights on the movie's theatrical success, his bold decision to delay selling its digital rights, and his fight to preserve the magic of cinema. Aamir Khan Shares Why He Thought Of Not Selling The Digital Rights Of His Movie Sitaare Zameen Par Before Release When asked why he didn't sell Sitaare Zameen Par's OTT rights before its release, Aamir Khan was refreshingly honest. 'I'm not a practical guy,' he said with a grin. 'I do what feels right.' He explained his choice to prioritize theatres, pointing out that the industry's current model of releasing films on OTT platforms just four weeks after their South Indian debut or eight weeks in Bollywood is hurting cinemas. 'We're killing the theatre business ourselves,' he said. Using a simple analogy, Aamir pointed to a bottle in front of him. 'It's like saying, 'Buy this bottle now, or get it free in eight weeks.' Why would anyone pay?' he asked. He believes this approach is why the theatrical business is struggling worldwide. For Aamir, the theatre experience is unmatched. 'Picture 300-400 people laughing and crying together in a dark hall,' he said. 'Watching Lagaan alone at home can't compare to cheering 'Kachra! Kachra!' with a crowd", the actor justified. Watch Pinkvilla's Masterclass Featuring Aamir Khan Aamir Khan Feels It Is Audience's Responsibility To Support All Kinds Of Films And Not Just Action Films Aamir stressed that theatres aren't just for action films or grand spectacles. 'People love stories. All kinds of stories,' he said. But he urged audiences to take responsibility. 'If you only support action films, that's all filmmakers will make. And then you will have to watch only action movies in theatres. If you like all types of films and want to watch all types of films, go to theatres. Your support gives creators the freedom to tell diverse stories', the PK actor explained. He also highlighted the pressure filmmakers face, adding, 'Studios often command us to make a certain kind of film, and we have to follow. But when audiences back unique stories, it gives us the strength to create what's in our hearts.' Aamir Khan Shares Why He Didn't Immediately Start Work On An Action Film After The Debacle Of Laal Singh Chaddha When asked about being offered action roles, Aamir shared that after Laal Singh Chaddha, many pushed him toward action projects. But Sitaare Zameen Par's sensitive story won him over. 'It's such a beautiful tale,' he said. He recalled a similar experience with Taare Zameen Par, when people questioned his choice to make a 'documentary-like' film about dyslexia, where he appeared only in the second half. 'I've always had to fight for what I believe in. I follow my heart.' Aamir Khan concluded. Sitaare Zameen Par is now playing in theatres. Stay tuned to Pinkvilla for more updates on Aamir Khan and Sitaare Zameen Par.
Pink Villa
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Maa Day 1 India Box Office: Kajol's film springs a surprise; Nets Rs 4.25 crore amidst competition from F1 and Sitaare Zameen Par
Kajol led Maa, directed by Vishal Furia, has opened to a respectable Rs 4-4.50 crore at the Indian box office. This is a solid start for the film, especially considering the tough competition it faces. The holdover juggernaut Sitaare Zameen Par, the Hollywood biggie F1, and the new South Indian ensemble Kannappa are all craving for audience attention. Despite this, Maa has managed to carve out its space, and that's no small feat. Maa Opens To Rs 4.25 Crore Net On Day 1 In India; Good Start Amidst Stiff Competition The film released across 1500 screens in India, which is a modest count. Many screens are sharing shows with other movies, limiting Maa's showtimes. Yet, the Rs 4.25 crore opening is a pleasant surprise. The film's connection to the Shaitaan universe has played a big role in drawing audiences. Without this link, the opening could have been lower. Fans of Shaitaan are curious to see how Maa fits into this supernatural world, and that curiosity has given the film a boost. The Day Wise India Net Collections Of Maa Are As Under Maa Shall Have To Show Strong Growth Over The Weekend And Then Steady Itself Over The Weekdays A Rs 4 crore start gives Maa a strong foundation to grow. If word-of-mouth is positive, the film could see a good jump over the weekend. The target now is to sustain this momentum. A healthy weekend performance could put Maa on the path to success. The film's budget is on the higher side for a female-led project, which makes these early numbers crucial. However, Maa has secured strong non-theatrical deals, thanks to its Shaitaan connection. These deals provide a financial cushion, easing some of the pressure on box office performance. Maa Is Aided By Ticket Booking Offers One key factor in Maa's day 1 collections is the Buy 2 Get 1 offer on BookMyShow. This deal has encouraged group bookings, thus boosting ticket sales. The offer has been a smart move, especially in a crowded market where audiences have multiple options. It's helped Maa attract families and younger viewers, who are drawn to Kajol 's star power and the film's intriguing premise. All Eyes Are On How Maa Performs In The Days To Follow If Maa maintains steady collections after a good first weekend of around Rs 17 crore, it could emerge as a success story. For now, Maa's Rs 4.25 crore opening is a promising start. The stage is set for Kajol's film to shine. You can watch Maa in theatres, now. Stay tuned to Pinkvilla for more updates on Maa.
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Tabu: The timeless star who played mother, wife and lover to the same hero—And redefined Indian cinema on her terms
In the Bollywood industry, , whose certified name is Tabassum Fatima Hashmi, has long been delivering her performances with grace, nuance, and bold decisions all her life. Throughout her more than three-decade generational career, she has moved between Bollywood and South Indian movies with simplicity, leaving a legacy of standout performances and still is. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now However, her portrayal of three different roles—mother, wife, and lover—to the same actor, , is among the most intriguing aspects of her journey. The Balakrishna trilogy: A rare cinematic feat In a rare and interesting twist of casting, Tabu played Balakrishna's wife and mother in the 2002 Telugu action drama 'Chennakesava Reddy,' where the actor portrayed dual roles. Then, in 2008's 'Pandurangadu', she returned as his romantic partner. This unusual character set not only showcased her acting skills but also highlighted the flexibility with which often forgets the generational lines in storytelling. From child artiste to global icon At the age of 11, Tabu landed a small part in the 1982 film 'Bazaar,' which marked the beginning of his cinematic career. She got her first big break in Telugu cinema in 1991 when she played her role with Venkatesh in 'Coolie No. 1.' 'Prem' was supposed to be her Bollywood debut, but due to delays, "Pehla Pehla Pyar" was released in 1994 instead. She and began an on-screen collaboration for a long time that same year when they co-starred in 'Vijaypath.' A Legacy of layered characters Whether it's the rebellious Veeran in 'Maachis,' the bar dancer in 'Chandni Bar,' or the morally ambiguous Simi in 'Andhadhun,' Tabu has consistently chosen roles that challenge stereotypes. Her performances have earned her multiple 'National Awards' and a place among the most respected actors in Indian cinema. Still single, still sovereign Tabu is 53 years old and still single, a fact that frequently garners media attention but never overshadows her career. She has demonstrated that her appeal cuts across boundaries and formats by continuing to shine on OTT platforms and even making her Hollywood debut in "Dune: Prophecy."
News18
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Prakash Belawadi Recalls SHOCKING Experience On Kannada Film Set: ‘They Defecated In My Vanity Van'
Veteran actor Prakash Belawadi revealed a shocking incident on a Kannada film set, where his vanity van was vandalised and defecated in after he refused to lower his fee. Respected theatre veteran and acclaimed film actor Prakash Belawadi has opened up about a deeply distressing incident from his past, revealing how a prominent Kannada film banner subjected him to shocking mistreatment after he refused to lower his acting fees. Speaking to Just Curious India, Belawadi shared that he was part of a film produced by a major production house, the name of which he chose not to disclose — not out of professional fear, but due to the disturbing extent of the ordeal. 'I acted in a movie under a big banner. I won't tell the name because I'm scared of them—not in the sense that they won't give me a role, but because even if they offer me ₹10 lakh per day, I'll never work with them again," he stated bluntly. According to the seasoned actor, tensions began when the director asked him to reduce his fee, a request Belawadi respectfully declined. In retaliation, he claims the team withheld part of his payment and, on the final day of shooting, resorted to outright vandalism. 'Four people were sent to my vanity van. They ate inside, threw meat all around, emptied the water tank, and defecated inside. It was unbearably hot, and I was forced to sit outside because of the stench," he recalled. Belawadi clarified that while this incident was deeply traumatic, it doesn't reflect the entire Kannada film industry. He pointed out that such behaviour is often exhibited by those who aren't native to Karnataka. 'Most of the producers who behave this way aren't Kannadigas. If you work with the Rajkumar family, it's a completely different experience—they are extremely cultured," he added, drawing a clear line between respectful and exploitative working environments. Known for his integrity and powerful performances, Prakash Belawadi has long been a respected figure in Kannada theatre and cinema. His filmography spans both South Indian and Hindi films, with standout roles in Madras Cafe, India Lockdown, The Kashmir Files, Airlift, and The Tashkent Files. In Kannada cinema, he has featured in critically acclaimed films like Thandel, Pentagon, Vrithra, and Made in Bengaluru. First Published: June 27, 2025, 21:03 IST
