Latest news with #Thandel
The Hindu
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Telugu film industry intensifies measures to curb piracy, after suffering loss of ₹3700 crore in 2024. Court orders to restrain websites and other measures are being explored
It was barely a few minutes into the 8.45 a.m. show of Thammudu on July 4 when the routine calm of Prasads' multiplex in Hyderabad was broken. A staff member called out a viewer spotted filming a scene from the Telugu action drama, headlined by Nithiin and produced by Dil Raju's Sri Venkateswara Creations. The man, as it turned out, was just a zealous fan hoping to grab a quick snapshot for social media. But the theatre management wasn't willing to take chances. In normal times, this might have been brushed off with a warning. But the atmosphere around film piracy has shifted — and for good reason. The increased scrutiny follows the arrest of Jana Kiran Kumar, a 29-year-old air-conditioner technician from Vanasthalipuram, Hyderabad, at the beginning of this month. He is accused of illegally recording and leaking nearly 40 Telugu films. His operations, police said, were closely tied to major piracy platforms. The arrest is likely just the beginning, as law enforcement agencies tighten the noose around piracy syndicates that are bleeding the industry dry. Rajkumar Akella, chairperson of the anti-piracy cell of the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce, says the Telugu film industry alone lost an estimated ₹3,700 crore to piracy in 2024. Infobox 1: ₹23,000 crore revenue loss According to the anti-piracy cell of the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce, the Indian film industry has suffered an estimated loss of ₹23,000 crore, and the Telugu film industry alone has suffered an estimated loss of ₹3700 crore in 2024, owing to piracy. 'This loss is far more than the legitimate revenue of the industry,' says Rajkumar. The estimate was made taking into account the admission rates in cinema halls and the number of downloads from piracy websites. 'More than 3,70,00,000 pirated links have been downloaded for films released in 2024. This is only 50% of the illegal downloads we were able to track, since not all websites disclose the number of downloads,' he adds. Silent killer Piracy is a silent killer that the Telugu film industry is grappling with, one that continues to operate in the shadows, chipping away at revenues with alarming consistency. This summer, the director of a star-led Telugu film, which was dubbed and released in multiple languages, confided to this journalist that both he and the lead actor chose to stay quiet about the piracy issue. Their fear? Drawing attention to it might inadvertently lead more people to these illegal sites. 'A team is working round the clock to take down pirated links and film clippings from all digital platforms. If we talk about it, even those who are unaware of these websites might get curious,' the director had said. That fear is not unfounded. Back in February, soon after Chandoo Mondeti's Thandel starring Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi hit theatres, pirated versions of the film began doing the rounds online. The film's producers Bunny Vasu and Allu Aravind highlighted the issue during a media interaction. But soon after, the film's team noticed a spike in visits to piracy platforms. 'Our intention was to condemn the practice, but it had an unexpected fallout,' says producer Srinivas aka SKN, a longtime associate of Aravind's Geetha Arts. Actor-producer Vishnu Manchu, too, recently revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that more than 30,000 pirated links of his film Kannappa had to be taken down. It is no surprise, then that many filmmakers continue to tread carefully, deliberately avoiding mentioning piracy websites in public. These platforms have come to be treated like the Voldemort of the film world: those that shall not be named. Proactive measures However, they now want to go a step further, by raising awareness that piracy isn't limited to just recording or sharing film content. Even watching pirated movies is a punishable offence under the law. To that end, several representatives of the Telugu film industry have been working closely with both State and Central government authorities to devise a comprehensive plan to combat piracy. A prominent producer, who is part of these efforts, says on condition of anonymity: 'Private tech teams hired by production houses can only do so much. They are focused on taking down pirated links that have already been uploaded. And new ones will surface. The problem has to be tackled at its root — nab those who illegally record films for piracy websites, track the servers that host these websites and hold them responsible. Nothing will change unless the culprits are arrested, named and shamed. This is possible only with help of the government and the cyber crime wing.' Infobox 2: Watching pirated content is illegal Following the arrest of Jana Kiran Kumar, the Hyderabad police have reminded the public that piracy is a punishable offence under the Copyright Act, 1957, and Cinematograph Act, 1952 (amended in 2008). Recording or exhibiting pirated films, or even possessing them for profit, can attract up to three years of imprisonment, a fine of ₹1 lakh, and an additional ₹20,000 fine for each day the offence continues. In cases involving forgery and organised sharing, the punishment can extend to life imprisonment. Quantum of losses The producer admits that, in the larger scheme of governance, film piracy might appear like a trivial concern — especially when the government deals with far more pressing issues. But the magnitude of the problem tells a different story. Piracy doesn't just drain revenue from the film industry, it also robs the government of substantial tax income. Rajkumar explains, 'In recent years, the footfall in cinema halls has fallen by 50% and the major reason is piracy.' He points out that the Telugu film industry was the first in India to set up a dedicated anti-piracy cell. 'We did extensive spadework and gathered data on piracy links and identified the hosting servers of websites, and submitted them to the State and Central government authorities so that the police can swiftly act on complaints.' While social media platforms like YouTube, X, Facebook and Instagram usually comply with takedown requests and remove pirated clips or links, dedicated piracy websites are a tougher nut to crack. Many of them lack any redressal mechanism, and those that do often ignore complaints. It is not as simple as tracking down an IP address, he says, adding, 'Rogue websites such as movierulz, ibomma and several others operate anonymously using offshore hosting servers such as Cloudflare. These servers feign ignorance of the content being distributed on their problems. Despite repeated complaints, they do not respond.' Telegram, adds Rajkumar, has also proved to be a thorn in the flesh, as pirated links continue to be shared widely on the messaging platform, making enforcement even harder. Modus operandi Piracy has typically been found to take place at two stages. The first is during a film's theatrical release, when people hired by piracy websites illegally record footage inside cinema halls. These recordings are then passed on to website operators, who upload the content online within hours. The second phase begins when a film releases on OTT platforms. Pirates use sophisticated software tools to bypass encryption and extract high-definition footage, which is then uploaded to their own websites. This dual threat impacts both box office collections and digital streaming revenues. In the case of Jana Kiran Kumar, cyber crime authorities disclosed in a press statement that his entry into the piracy network began with a meme referring to the piracy group '1TamilMV'. Intrigued, Kumar contacted the group via a Proton Mail address, eventually shifting the conversation to Telegram. There, he was assigned the job of recording Telugu film releases in exchange for payments ranging from USD 300 to 400, all of it routed through cryptocurrency. To carry out his assignments, Kumar booked tickets online, smuggled a mobile phone into the theatre by hiding it in his shirt pocket and discreetly recorded the films. The raw footage was then transferred to the piracy group through Telegram. He received payments in Bitcoin, which were later converted into rupees via Indian crypto platforms such as ZebPay and CoinDCX. Among the films he is accused of pirating are Single, Pellikani Prasad, 14 Days Love, Thandel, Game On, Kismat and Rajadhani Files. Kumar's arrest was the result of a formal complaint filed on June 5 by Yarra Manindra Babu from the anti-piracy cell of the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce, in connection with HD pirated versions of Single, a Geetha Arts production starring Sree Vishnu and Vennela Kishore. The film, which released on May 9, had its pirated versions circulating across multiple platforms within hours of its theatrical debut. According to police, forensic watermark analysis helped trace the source of the leak to a specific cinema hall. Based on this evidence, an FIR was registered, invoking multiple sections of the Information Technology Act, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Copyright Act and Cinematograph Act. Shape-shifting piracy In the analog era, piracy existed in the form of video cassettes and CD-ROMs, typically sold a few days after a film's release, in select pockets of urban markets. 'Back then, several films enjoyed a 50-day or a 100-day theatrical run and the pirated copies were mostly of inferior quality. Digital technology has made it possible for pirates to upload HD-quality prints within a few hours of a film's release, and these are shared widely. We have also seen important sequences of a film being streamed as clippings on Instagram Live. It is tough to keep tabs,' SKN points out. The impact of piracy in the digital age has been especially damaging for an industry already reeling from falling footfall in theatres. Multiple factors are behind this decline — the shrinking window between theatrical and OTT releases, high ticket prices and the escalating cost of food and beverages in cinema halls. Piracy has only worsened the situation. Today, only those films that generate enough buzz prior to release manage to draw crowds during the opening weekend. If the word-of-mouth is strong, the momentum carries through for the next couple of weeks. But for films that receive mixed reviews or poor word-of-mouth, piracy delivers a lethal blow. Industry observers note that such films are particularly vulnerable — audiences on the fence often skip a theatre visit, opting instead to wait for the OTT release or watch pirated versions online. Even in the case of successful films, the availability of pirated links affects repeat viewership. SKN recalls the release of his 2018 film Taxiwaala, starring Vijay Deverakonda, which faced a major piracy scare due to a data storage leak. 'Luckily, social media was not as pervasive then. The movie managed to do well in theatres. But not every film is that lucky.' Swift action and awareness Time is of essence to crack down on piracy so that a new film is not affected, says a producer: 'FIRs have to be filed at the earliest and the police have to help arrest the culprits swiftly.' Industry representatives also point out that several users of piracy apps and websites are unaware that they are watching illegal content. A producer adds, 'Some of these websites have even begun showing advertisements, thereby legitimising the platform's revenue earning mechanism. There is a need to step up awareness.' Restraining order Industry insiders reveal that for two recently released Telugu films, both backed by prominent production houses, the Hyderabad district court issued restraining orders against more than 110 websites known for circulating pirated content. The court directed those sites not to host, share or stream the films without authorisation. Copies of the court orders are with The Hindu. Akella calls the court's intervention a milestone in the industry's long-standing battle against piracy. In one of the two cases, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting also stepped in, issuing a notification warning all websites against illegally publishing content and stating that stringent legal action would follow in case of non-compliance. But the fight is far from over. Industry observers say further legal measures are being explored. Despite the court's orders, piracy websites may adopt evasive tactics by masking their identities, redirecting users to alternate links or renaming their website extensions. Even so, in an industry where every Friday counts, the hope is that with each crackdown, the screen gets a little safer and the shadows where piracy thrives grow a little smaller.
Pink Villa
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Thandel: Naga Chaitanya's romantic actioner clocks in record TRP on Television premiere
Thandel, starring Naga Chaitanya in the lead role, hit the big screens on February 7, 2025. Following its theatrical run and OTT debut, the movie created history in television, making a record in TRP numbers. Thandel clocks in the second-highest record in TRP Taking to X (formerly Twitter) handle, Thandel's makers confirmed that the movie has become a sensation after its television premiere. The film is said to have clocked in a TRP of 10.32, making it the second-highest record of 2025 in the channel Zee Telugu. Sharing the official post, Geetha Arts penned, 'The Epic Love Story Continues to Reign in Every Heart. A Blockbuster Reception on the Small Screen Too! #Thandel records a sensational rating of 10.32 for its World Television Premiere on Zee Telugu.' Here's the official post: A report by Gulte states that in 2025, only 3 Telugu movies managed to cross double digits in TRP. With Venkatesh Daggubati's Sankranthiki Vasthunnam topping the list, Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2 (Star Maa) came in second, followed by Thandel. Interestingly, Sankranthiki Vasthunnam also premiered on Zee Telugu, making it the highest record in TRP on the channel, with Thandel close behind it. About Thandel Thandel featured the story of Raju, a brave fisherman who accidentally enters Pakistani waters. The movie focuses on the man's passion for fishing and his love for Sathya, also known as Bujji Thalli. Interestingly, it was based on an actual incident endured by a man from Srikakulam. Apart from Chay, the film had Sai Pallavi, Aadukalam Naren, Divya Pillai, Karunakaran, Kalpa Latha, Babloo Prithiveeraj, and many more in key parts. It is available for streaming on Netflix. Naga Chaitanya's next movie Naga Chaitanya is next set to appear in the lead role for the movie, tentatively titled NC24. It is said to be one of the highest-budget films ever made in Chay's career. His character would be seen in a brand new avatar and is expected to be significantly different from his other movies. The upcoming movie is helmed by Virupshaka and Kartikeya director Karthik Varma Dandu, with Sukumar penning the story. As the film is bankrolled by BVSN Prasad, Sukumar, and Bapineedu, it will have cinematography handled by Ragul Dharuman.
Pink Villa
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Sai Pallavi's Hindi debut film Ek Din with Junaid Khan gets release date, Aamir Khan and Mansoor Khan reunite after 17 years
Sai Pallavi is one of the talented artists who has been contributing to Indian cinema for several decades. She has worked in films in Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam languages over the years. After starring in Thandel earlier this year, Sai Pallavi is set to make her Hindi film debut with Ek Din, co-starring Junaid Khan. Aamir Khan will co-produce the film with Mansoor Khan. Release date of Junaid Khan and Sai Pallavi's Ek Din out, Aamir Khan to co-produce it Trade analyst Taran Adarsh took to X to share the news that Aamir Khan will be co-producing Ek Din with filmmaker Mansoor Khan. The upcoming film will star Aamir's son, actor Junaid Khan, and South actress Sai Pallavi as the main leads. They will work together for the first time. It will also be her debut in Bollywood. Ek Din will hit the screens on November 7, 2025. Directed by Sunil Pandey, it also marks the reunion of Aamir Khan and Mansoor Ali Khan after a 17-year gap. Check out the tweet below: Aamir Khan and Mansoor Khan's previous collaborations Aamir Khan and Mansoor Khan last collaborated as producers in the 2008 film Jaane Jaane Na, which starred the actor's nephew, Imran Khan, and actress Genelia D'Souza. It is worth noting that Mansoor directed Aamir Khan's debut film, Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, as the main lead in 1988. He also helmed Aamir's Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander (1992) and Akele Hum Akele Tum (1995). Aamir Khan, Junaid Khan and Sai Pallavi's work fronts Apart from being an actor, Aamir Khan is also a director and producer. Aamir was last seen in Sitaare Zameen Par, which was released on June 20, 2025. Apart from Ek Din, Aamir is also producing Lahore 1947, co-starring Sunny Deol and Preity Zinta. Meanwhile, Junaid Khan made his acting debut with Sidharth P Malhotra's directorial, Maharaj, in 2024. Junaid was last seen in Advait Chandan's Loveyapa, co-starring Khushi Kapoor earlier this year. Sai Pallavi 's latest appearance was in Naga Chaitanya's 2025 film Thandel in February. She is now gearing up for Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming magnum opus, Ramayana, in which she will be paired opposite Ranbir Kapoor. While Ranbir is playing Lord Rama, the actress has been cast as Goddess Sita in it.
Time of India
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
When Samantha Ruth Prabhu openly questioned genuineness of ex husband Naga Chaitanya's proposal: 'Say it like you mean it'
and 's relationship never fails to make headlines, as fans still feel heartbroken about their divorce in 2021. Chay and were seen attending an interview in the past, where the 'Thandel' actor was asked to propose to Samantha. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now It was her reply that went viral on social media after their separation. Samantha Ruth Prabhu's reaction to Naga Chaitanya's proposal In the clip, which appears to be from an old TFPC interview, Naga hesitantly tried to propose to her, and Samantha teasingly demanded, "Say it like you mean it." Eventually, he gathered his nerves and sincerely uttered, "Samantha, I love you from the bottom of my heart." Did Samantha Ruth Prabhu avoid Naga Chaitanya during a recent event? Here's what we know However, Samantha didn't let the moment pass without a cheeky remark. She asked the anchor of the show, "Did you believe it? I didn't buy it." About Naga Chaitanya and Samantha Ruth Prabhu's love, marriage and divorce The former couple first met on the sets of Ye Maaya Chesave, which was Samantha's acting debut, and they began dating shortly afterwards. They tied the knot in 2017 and announced their separation in 2021. Samantha opened up about her emotional journey in various interviews, especially addressing the swirling rumours around alimony. On the other hand, Naga Chaitanya maintained a dignified silence and never spoke ill of Samantha. Samantha was later diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, myositis, the year after their divorce and took a hiatus from the industry. Naga Chaitanya married Sobhita Dhulipala Naga Chaitanya tied the knot with actress Sobhita Dhulipala in a traditional wedding ceremony in 2024. Samantha's work front Samantha is currently busy shooting for her upcoming movie Rakt Brahmand: The Bloody Kingdom from Raj & DK. She will also make a comeback to the Telugu industry with Maa Inti Bangaram.
Hans India
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Naga Chaitanya's ‘NC24' enters crucial second schedule
After delivering a blockbuster with Thandel, Yuvasamrat Naga Chaitanya is now diving into a bold new genre with #NC24, a mythological thriller directed by Virupaksha fame Karthik Dandu. The film, touted to be the biggest project of Chaitanya's career, is being produced on a grand scale by BVSN Prasad and Sukumar under Sri Venkateswara Cine Chitra LLP and Sukumar Writings, with Bapineedu presenting. The production team recently wrapped up the first schedule and expressed satisfaction with the initial footage. Riding on that momentum, the crucial second schedule has now commenced in Hyderabad. This month-long phase will see the shooting of key sequences featuring Chaitanya and prominent actors from various film industries. The shoot will span three major Hyderabad locations, with a top-tier technical team supporting the effort. A new poster was unveiled, featuring Naga Chaitanya in a rugged avatar—holding a pickaxe in one hand and a jute rope in the other, accompanied by the tagline: 'One step deeper, one swing closer.' The striking image has added to the growing anticipation surrounding the film. Earlier, the makers generated buzz with the release of a gripping concept video titled 'NC24 – The Excavation Begins', which offered a haunting and cinematic glimpse into the film's scale and mood, earning a thunderous response from fans. The project boasts an accomplished technical crew, including Ajaneesh B Loknath for music, Ragul Dharuman for cinematography, Sri Nagendra Tangala as Production Designer, and Naveen Nooli handling editing. The film's title and full cast will be revealed soon.
