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Hrudhayam Murali Review: Familiar Yet Impactful Romantic Drama

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Movie Name Hrudhayam Murali
Rating 3/5
Cast Atharvaa Murali, Fahadh Faasil, Preity Mukhundhan, Kayadu Lohar, Natarajan Subramaniam, S. Thaman, Niharika NM, VJ Rakshan, Dravid Selvam, Angelin B., Sudhakar Jeyaraman, Anju Kurian, Yashashree Rao
Director Aakash Baskaran
Produced By Dawn Pictures
Release Date 11th July, 2026

Hrudhayam Murali is the Telugu dubbed version of Idhayam Murali, a coming-of-age romantic drama directed by Aakash Baskaran and starring Atharvaa Murali (who was last seen in Sivakarthikeyan’s Parasakthi) as the lead. The film holds special significance as it’s named in honor of Atharvaa’s father Murali’s 1991 classic Idhayam. The Tamil version released on July 10, 2026, and received positive response from audiences.

Story

Hruday (Atharvaa) is an extremely shy young man who has never been able to express his feelings. Since childhood, he keeps losing the girls he loves simply because he cannot confess his love. During his teenage years, he falls deeply in love with Samantha (Preethi Mukundan), but never gathers the courage to tell her. Later, Amudha (Kayadu Lohar) enters his life, yet he once again fails to express his feelings. Does Hriday finally find the courage to confess his love? Who does he eventually marry? The rest of the story unfolds the answers.

Performances

Atharvaa delivers a convincing performance that perfectly suits the character. He portrays the pain and frustration of an introvert struggling to express his emotions with sincerity, making the audience connect with his journey.

Preethi Mukundan looks charming and performs her role with confidence. Kayadu Lohar impresses with her screen presence, charm, and natural acting. Natti, Thaman S, Niharika, Rakshana, Dravid Selvam, and the rest of the supporting cast do their parts well. Fahadh Faasil makes a delightful appearance in a special cameo.

Analysis

Director Aakash Baskaran’s core story isn’t particularly new, but he presents Hrudhayam Murali in a warm and engaging manner that keeps the film enjoyable throughout.

Both the first and second halves feature several effective romantic and emotional moments. The comedy between the friends also lands well and adds a pleasant touch to the narrative. One of the film’s biggest strengths is how consistently it portrays the lead character’s introverted personality from beginning to end. The director maintains this character trait authentically without compromising for commercial convenience.

The final thirty minutes stand out, blending fun and emotion beautifully to deliver a satisfying climax. On the downside, the screenplay slows down at a few places, and some proceedings become predictable, slightly affecting the film’s overall pace.

Plus Points

  • Atharvaa’s sincere and relatable performance
  • Emotional depth and genuine romantic moments
  • Strong climax with satisfying resolution
  • Consistent character portrayal throughout

Minus Points

  • Predictable screenplay in several stretches
  • Slow pacing in the middle portions
  • Familiar storyline without major novelty
  • Limited freshness in the overall narrative

Hrudhayam Murali Review: Final Verdict

Hrudhayam Murali may have a familiar premise, but it succeeds as a breezy and heartfelt romantic drama. Atharvaa’s sincere performance, emotional scenes, and the well-executed climax make it an enjoyable watch despite its predictable moments. For those who appreciate character-driven romantic films, this marks Aakash Baskaran’s confident directorial debut. More details about the film can be found on IMDb.

Official: Ramayana Trailer Premieres July 24, 2026

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One of the most anticipated films of 2026, Ramayana, is shaping up to be a grand cinematic spectacle. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the epic stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita, making it one of the biggest visual fantasy films ever produced in Indian cinema.

India’s First IMAX Epic

Mounted on a massive scale, Ramayana is also being made as India’s first feature film designed for an IMAX experience, with production values matching Hollywood standards.

Comic-Con Rumors Officially Cleared

Over the past few days, strong rumors suggested that the film’s trailer would be unveiled on July 18 at the prestigious San Diego Comic-Con. However, the makers have now officially put those speculations to rest.

Trailer Premiere Set for July 24

The team has confirmed that the most anticipated Ramayana trailer premiere will take place on July 24. Fans will now have to wait a little longer to witness the first glimpse of this much-awaited epic.

The newly released poster beautifully captures Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana leaving their home in Ayodhya to begin their exile, setting the emotional tone for the legendary story.

Earlier this year, the makers released a glimpse of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama that showcased the film’s stunning visual world-building and divine aesthetic.

With excitement reaching new heights, all eyes are now on July 24 to see whether the trailer of this most anticipated Ramayana lives up to the enormous expectations surrounding the epic magnum opus.

Pawan Kalyan Undergoes Successful Shoulder Surgery in Mumbai

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Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan has successfully undergone shoulder surgery at a leading hospital in Mumbai. The procedure was performed to provide a permanent solution to the shoulder pain that has troubled him for a long time.

Surgery Details and Recovery

According to reports, Pawan Kalyan suffered rotator cuff injuries in both shoulders. Doctors first operated on his right shoulder, and the surgery, which lasted nearly three and a half hours, was completed successfully. The news has brought great relief to his family, fans, and Jana Sainiks.

Following the successful surgery, doctors have advised him to take adequate rest for a full recovery. His left shoulder also requires surgery. However, doctors have decided against operating on both shoulders simultaneously, as it would make recovery much more difficult. The second surgery is expected to take place after about two months.

Years of Physical Strain Behind the Injury

The injuries are believed to have developed over several years. Pawan Kalyan reportedly sustained shoulder injuries during a film shoot in 2016. His extensive political campaigns for the Jana Sena Party, along with long road trips and continuous public meetings in harsh weather conditions, further worsened the problem.

Doctors also revealed that the repeated force of supporters grabbing and pulling his hands during public interactions and handshakes added significant strain to his shoulder muscles, making the condition more severe.

Despite enduring intense pain, Pawan Kalyan continued to carry out his political responsibilities and campaign commitments. The Deputy CM’s dedication to his duties meant he delayed necessary medical intervention for years.

Fans Pour in Support and Well Wishes

Fans and well-wishers have flooded social media with heartfelt messages, wishing Pawan Kalyan a speedy recovery. The Jana Sena Party cadre has been closely monitoring updates on their leader’s health, with previous health concerns requiring medical attention earlier this year.

The successful completion of the first surgery marks an important step toward resolving the chronic shoulder pain that has affected his daily activities and public duties.

Lenin First Day Collections: ₹12.5 Cr Worldwide Gross

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Akhil Akkineni’s latest film Lenin has delivered a strong opening at the box office. The rural revenge drama witnessed better-than-expected response on its Lenin first day, collecting an estimated ₹12.5 Cr worldwide gross, including hires.

Strong Word of Mouth Drives Collections

While the advances were average, positive word of mouth kicked in during the evening and night shows, bringing in good footfalls across both domestic and overseas markets. The day 1 performance has exceeded trade expectations for the Akhil starrer.

The film's release on June 26 came after multiple postponements, but the wait seems to have paid off. Early ticket booking trends for day 2 and day 3 are showing superb response, indicating strong momentum for the weekend.

Akkineni fans are celebrating the positive reception for this rural revenge drama, hoping Lenin continues its good run in theaters over the coming days.

Dhanush and Vetrimaaran Reunite for Thamizh Murugan

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One of Kollywood’s most successful actor-director combinations, versatile star Dhanush and acclaimed filmmaker Vetrimaaran, are set to reunite for an exciting new project titled Thamizh Murugan. The official announcement has already created a huge buzz across social media, with fans celebrating the return of the blockbuster duo.

A Proven Hit Combination Returns

Dhanush and Vetrimaaran have previously delivered critically acclaimed and commercially successful films such as Polladhavan, Aadukalam (which won the National Award), Vada Chennai, and Asuran. Their latest collaboration was officially announced by the makers, who also unveiled the film’s powerful title, Thamizh Murugan.

The Murugan Controversy Context

Interestingly, the announcement comes amid the recent controversy surrounding the poster of NTR and Trivikram Srinivas‘ upcoming pan-India film. The use of the word “Murugan” in that project sparked strong reactions from many Tamil film fans and several political leaders, with social media witnessing widespread debates under the sentiment that “Murugan is our deity.”

Amid those discussions, Dhanush and Vetrimaaran surprised everyone by officially unveiling Thamizh Murugan through a visually stunning AI-powered announcement teaser, instantly grabbing the attention of movie lovers.

Vada Chennai 2 Fans Left Surprised

For the past few months, reports suggested that the duo would reunite for the sequel to Vada Chennai. However, the sudden announcement of an entirely new project titled Thamizh Murugan has taken both fans and industry circles by surprise.

Epic Scale Visuals Promise Grand Spectacle

Dhanush shared the announcement glimpse on his official social media handles. The teaser hints at a grand cinematic spectacle, featuring breathtaking visuals of Dhanush seated majestically on a massive elephant in the middle of a battlefield surrounded by thousands of soldiers.

The powerful voice-over and intense background score further elevate the scale and promise an epic big-screen experience. With Thamizh Murugan, the National Award-winning duo is set to deliver yet another memorable cinematic journey.

I Nobody Review: Unconventional Thriller Gone Wrong

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Movie Name I, Nobody
Rating 2.5/5
Cast Prithviraj Sukumaran, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Hakkim Shahjahan, Ashokan, Vijayaraghavan
Director Nissam Basheer
Produced By Prithviraj Productions, E4 Experiments
Release Date 10th July, 2026

I, Nobody is a Malayalam crime action-thriller starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and Parvathy Thiruvothu, released theatrically on July 9, 2026. The Telugu version hit screens today, July 10. This I Nobody review examines how director Nissam Basheer’s thriller builds intrigue in the first half but loses momentum when it matters most.

Story

Rajeev (Prithviraj Sukumaran) is an ordinary government clerk living a quiet life with his wife Meera (Parvathy Thiruvothu) and their two daughters. A routine bank visit turns into a nightmare when three robbers steal Rs. 17 crore and take Rajeev hostage. During an unexpected accident, the robbers die, but the stolen money vanishes.

Suspicion immediately falls on Rajeev. Police and media treat him as the prime suspect, questioning where the cash went and whether he was involved. The film follows Rajeev and his family as they face public outrage, investigative pressure, and desperate choices to prove his innocence.

Performances

Prithviraj Sukumaran delivers a measured, convincing performance, balancing subtlety and intensity as the story demands. Parvathy Thiruvothu brings depth and emotional weight to Meera, doing full justice to her role.

Supporting actors like Hakeem Shah and Ashokan contribute effectively. Child actor Ira stands out with her natural, affecting presence in several scenes.

Analysis

Director Nissam Basheer opens I, Nobody with a gripping bank robbery sequence that hooks you immediately. The film smartly examines how suspicion spreads among ordinary people and how social media amplifies negative narratives. The way public opinion shifts against an innocent man feels disturbingly real.

The first half maintains strong momentum. But the second half loses focus. What begins with a clever interval twist gradually unravels. The protagonist’s escape plan feels unconvincing, and repetitive chase sequences with police and other groups lack depth. The climax involving a Chief Minister feels oddly staged and undermines the film’s earlier seriousness.

Plus Points

  • Gripping opening sequence
  • Effective portrayal of hero’s struggle
  • Clever twist near the interval
  • Strong performances from lead actors

Minus Points

  • Unconvincing second half
  • Illogical changes in public perception
  • Weak climax execution
  • Repetitive chase sequences

I Nobody Review: Final Verdict

I, Nobody starts strong with solid performances and a timely theme about reputation and the power of rumor. The first half works well, building tension effectively. But the narrative falters badly in the second half, and the conclusion lacks the clarity and impact the setup promised. Worth a watch for Prithviraj’s performance, but don’t expect a fully satisfying thriller.

Lenin Review: Watchable Revenge Drama with Highs and Lows

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Movie Name Lenin
Rating 2.75/5
Cast Akhil Akkineni, Bhagyashri Borse, Sivaji, Brahmaji, Sunil, Rajeev Kanakala, Easwari Rao, Getup Srinu, Pramod Panju, Bharathi, Ramesh Indira
Director Murali Kishor Abburu
Produced By Sithara Entertainments, Manam Enterprises LLP, Annapurna Studios
Release Date 10th July, 2026

After three years since Agent (2023), Akhil Akkineni returns to the big screen with Lenin, hitting theaters today. The film generated positive buzz in industry circles, with the team expressing strong confidence in their final product. Does this revenge drama deliver on its promise? Here’s our detailed Lenin Review.

Story

Lenin kicks off with Lenin (Akhil Akkineni) walking out of jail. The narrative then shifts to his past, exploring unfinished business and the ancient village tradition of Bharatham Mitta that becomes central to his journey.

Performances

Akhil Akkineni anchors the film with a mostly subtle performance that suits his character well. He particularly shines in a couple of emotional sequences, showcasing improved range. Bhagyashree Borse does a fine job within her limited scope and could have made a stronger impact with more screen time.

Pramod Panju delivers neat work in a crucial role, while Sivaji makes his presence felt effectively. Easwari Rao, Brahmaji, Sunil, Ramki, and others handle their parts adequately.

Analysis

Director Murali Kishor Abburu establishes the Bharatham Mitta tradition effectively in the opening sequence. However, the backstory that follows feels ordinary and lacks the desired dramatic impact. The setup introduces several interesting characters and their motives, but the execution doesn’t fully deliver on this promise.

The love track between Akhil and Bhagyashree Borse never rises above familiar territory, missing the emotional intensity it needed. Overall, the first half’s writing could have been significantly sharper.

The narration gains momentum towards the interval with a couple of unexpected turns. The first half concludes on an intriguing note with a solid twist that hooks you in effectively.

The second half continues this momentum well, with character dynamics and dramatic confrontations landing much better. Several crucial twists pepper the narrative, particularly one near the climax that proves very effective. This twist adds significant value to Akhil Akkineni’s character arc and gives him strong material to work with.

However, the film’s path becomes somewhat predictable once all character motives are revealed. Additionally, the violence feels excessive at several points.

Plus Points

  • Akhil’s Performance
  • Engaging Second Half
  • Effective Climax Twist

Minus Points

  • Weak First Half Writing
  • Underutilized Side Characters
  • Predictable Moments
  • Excessive Violence

Lenin Review: Final Verdict

Lenin delivers a rural revenge drama fueled by Akhil Akkineni’s heartfelt performance, combined with powerful twists and intense dramatic sequences. The second half works particularly well despite first-half inconsistencies. Stronger, more consistent writing would have elevated it further, yet it remains a watchable experience for fans of the genre.

Vijay’s Jana Nayagan Gets A Certificate After 6-Month Wait

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Finally, the most-awaited day has arrived for Vijay fans and Kollywood alike as the months-long censor saga for Jana Nayagan has ended on a positive note. The film has officially received its censor certificate, clearing the path for its theatrical release.

A Certificate Granted with 183-Minute Runtime

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has granted Jana Nayagan an A certificate (adults only) with a runtime of 183 minutes. This development comes after the film faced censor struggles that began in January 2026, involving multiple review committees and even Election Commission scrutiny due to its political content.

CertificateRuntimeStatus
A (Adults Only)183 minutesCleared

End of a Six-Month Censor Battle

The certification marks the end of a challenging period for the most-awaited political action thriller. After the Revising Committee screening in March, the film had to navigate additional clearances before receiving final approval.

This is particularly significant as Jana Nayagan represents Thalapathy Vijay’s farewell to cinema before his full-time entry into politics. Directed by H. Vinoth and produced by KVN Productions, the film has been highly anticipated by Tamil cinema fans across the country.

Release Date Announcement Expected Soon

With the censor certificate now in hand, the film’s release date announcement is expected very soon. Tamil cinema fans eagerly await the chance to watch Vijay’s final performance on the big screen.

As of now, there is no official update on the Telugu version’s release plans.

Rashmika Mandanna Mysaa: India’s First Female Underwater Fight

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Rashmika Mandanna is set to make history with Mysaa, an ambitious pan-Indian action thriller that has just wrapped filming of India’s first female underwater fight sequence.

The makers officially announced the completion of this groundbreaking action set-piece, which features Rashmika Mandanna in intense underwater combat. The actress filmed the sequence entirely without a body double, spending nearly 20 hours underwater across two days to perfect the choreography.

Rashmika described the experience as “the most challenging thing I’ve ever had to do in life” in a recent statement. The production team believes this sequence will be one of the film’s biggest highlights and promises audiences a spectacle unlike anything seen before in Indian cinema.

The actress has been undergoing intensive combat training for her role in Mysaa, which marks her first full-fledged action role. The underwater fight represents the culmination of months of physical preparation and stunt training for the demanding character.

Directed by debutant Rawindra Pulle and produced by Unformula Films, Mysaa is billed as a mystical action-survival thriller set in tribal lands. The film marks a bold departure for Rashmika Mandanna, positioning her as the lead in a high-octane action drama.

The teaser is expected to be unveiled soon, while the theatrical release is slated for the latter part of 2026. With its groundbreaking action sequences and Rashmika Mandanna’s transformation into an action heroine, Mysaa is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated pan-Indian releases of the year.

5 Must-Watch OTT Releases This Weekend: Peddi & More

Looking for fresh films to stream this weekend? From Ram Charan‘s blockbuster sports drama to an acclaimed musical fantasy, several exciting OTT releases have arrived on Netflix, SonyLIV, and ZEE5. Whether you’re in the mood for courtroom thrillers, dark comedies, or heartwarming stories, this weekend’s lineup delivers variety across Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi cinema.

Here are five must-watch OTT releases you can stream right now.

Peddi

Ram Charan headlines Peddi, directed by Buchi Babu Sana, in one of the biggest Telugu entertainers of 2026. Featuring Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, Divyenndu, and Boman Irani in pivotal roles, this sports action drama blends emotion, action, and powerful performances on a grand scale.

The story follows Peddi, a gifted athlete from a humble village who rallies his people through the power of sport. As political rivalries, personal sacrifices, and fierce competitions threaten to tear his community apart, he rises as an unlikely hero determined to restore their pride.

Peddi emerged as one of the biggest Telugu blockbusters of 2026. Even if you’ve already watched it in theatres, the film deserves another watch for Ram Charan‘s stellar performance and A. R. Rahman’s stirring music, both of which elevate the emotional highs of the story.

Streaming on: Netflix (Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam)

Sing Geetham

Directed by legendary filmmaker Singeetam Srinivasa Rao and backed by Nag Ashwin, Sing Geetham is a musical fantasy that stands apart from conventional commercial entertainers. The film earned widespread critical acclaim and enjoyed a successful theatrical run, winning praise for its imaginative storytelling and heartfelt emotions.

The story follows a group of dreamers brought together by music as they embark on an unforgettable journey filled with hope, self-discovery, and magical moments. Blending fantasy with emotionally resonant storytelling, the film offers a refreshing cinematic experience.

If you’re tired of high-budget pan-Indian spectacles, Sing Geetham is a refreshing change of pace. Complemented by Devi Sri Prasad’s soulful music, it’s the kind of film that reminds you how simple stories can leave a lasting impact.

Streaming on: Netflix (Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam)

Ikka

Veteran actors Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna reunite after nearly three decades in Ikka, a gripping courtroom thriller directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra. With Dia Mirza and Tillotama Shome in important roles, the film promises tense legal battles, compelling drama, and powerhouse performances.

The film follows a celebrated lawyer forced to defend a man he believes may be guilty while a loved one’s life hangs in the balance. As the courtroom battle intensifies, he finds himself torn between professional duty, personal morality, and the pursuit of justice.

Packed with emotionally charged confrontations and unpredictable twists, Ikka is an ideal pick for viewers who enjoy courtroom dramas that keep them invested until the very end.

Streaming on: Netflix (Hindi)

Balti

Balti is a Malayalam entertainer that blends comedy, drama, and slice-of-life storytelling into an engaging cinematic experience. Featuring a talented ensemble cast, the film has been appreciated for its relatable characters, witty writing, and heartwarming moments.

The story follows an ordinary man whose life takes an unexpected turn after a seemingly trivial incident snowballs into a series of hilarious and emotional events. As friendships are tested and relationships evolve, he discovers that life’s biggest lessons often arrive in the most unexpected ways.

If you’re in the mood for a light-hearted entertainer with equal doses of humour and emotion, Balti makes for a delightful weekend watch with the entire family.

Streaming on: SonyLIV (Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi)

Gurthu Kosthunnayi

An original work of ETV Win, Gurthu Kosthunnayi is a light-hearted televison series written and directed by Winod Gali. Produced by Sarath Chandra Naidu, it features Viraj Ashwin and Yashashree Rao. Ajay Arsada is the music composer.

The story follows Santhosh, who loses his memory in an accident just before his wedding, sending him and his childhood friends on an emotional journey to piece together his past, love, and 90s memories.

Streaming on: ETV Win (Telugu)