~ As the Tamil Zee 5 slate goes live, the much-awaited blockbuster JanaNayakudu (Jananayagan) emerges as one of the platform’s most exciting multilingual properties. ~

As Tamil Zee 5’s content slate goes live, the platform is set to bring one of its most anticipated titles, JanaNayakudu (Jananayagan), to audiences. The political action drama, directed by H. Vinoth and headlined by Honourable CM C. Joseph Vijay, will premiere on Tamil Zee 5 on August 21 and will also be available in Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada, bringing this high-profile cinematic event to audiences across four South Indian languages.

More than just a blockbuster, JanaNayakudu (Jananayagan) holds a defining place in Honourable Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s cinematic journey, marking his first release after entering politics and his final theatrical appearance on the big screen. For millions of fans, the film serves as an emotional farewell to one of Tamil cinema’s most celebrated stars, as the actor-turned-politician takes his final bow in what is set to be his last feature film.

Directed by H. Vinoth, JanaNayakudu (Jananayagan) follows the protagonist Vetri Kondan, an upright former police officer who takes a stand against corruption and injustice. As he finds himself drawn into a larger battle against powerful forces, Vetri evolves into a people’s hero and a symbol of hope and leadership. Blending high-octane action with emotion, family relationships, and socio-political themes, the film also features an ensemble cast including Bobby Deol, Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju, Prakash Raj, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Priyamani, Nassar and Narain.

Packed with fan-favourite moments, iconic mannerisms, and signature on-screen elements synonymous with the star, JanaNayakudu (Jananayagan) offers audiences a nostalgic celebration of the charisma and legacy that have endeared him to generations of fans. At its heart, the film tells the story of an ordinary man who rises to stand up for what is right, making it both an action-packed entertainer and an emotionally significant farewell.

Lloyd C Xavier, Business Head, Tamil, Telugu & Malayalam, Zee 5 said, “JanaNayakudu (Jananayagan) is a film that carries immense emotional and cultural significance for audiences, especially the millions of fans who have followed Honourable Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s journey over the decades. As his final feature film, it represents a landmark moment for Tamil cinema and offers audiences an opportunity to celebrate the star, the performer, and the legacy he leaves behind. With its blend of action, emotion, family values, and social themes, the film serves as a fitting and spectacular farewell for fans across generations. We are beyond proud to bring this magnum opus to our platform and give millions of viewers the opportunity to revisit and cherish this historic cinematic milestone for years to come. We are delighted to bring this much-awaited title to audiences on ZEE5 Tamil in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam, and believe its digital premiere will enable even more families and fans to experience this landmark film together.”

JanaNayakudu (Jananayagan) premieres 21 August exclusively on Tamil Zee 5, and will also be available in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada.

Tamil star Suriya’s latest film ‘VISWANATH & SONS’, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Venky Atluri, features Mamitha Baiju as the female lead. Presented by Srikara Studios and produced jointly by Suryadevara Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas, the film hit theatres on August 14, 2026.

With its natural humour, heartfelt emotions and relatable family drama, ‘VISWANATH & SONS’ is receiving an overwhelming response from audiences. The film has crossed the ₹150 crore gross mark worldwide within just four days and is continuing its successful run.

In a recent interaction with the media, director Venky Atluri shared his happiness over the film’s success and spoke about Suriya’s faith in the story, the writing process, the film’s art work, Trivikram Srinivas’s reaction, Mamitha Baiju’s casting and several other interesting aspects of the film.

How does it feel to receive such an overwhelming response for ‘VISWANATH & SONS’?

I am extremely happy. The response has been phenomenal and far beyond what we expected. It is truly gratifying to see audiences embracing the film with so much love.

What was Suriya sir’s reaction when he first heard the story?

Suriya sir immediately liked the story. In fact, he was looking for a family-oriented film, and he had mentioned that to me. I already had this story ready, so I narrated it to him. He really connected with it.

He felt that we should tell the story honestly without unnecessarily adding comedy or commercial elements. That is why we were particularly careful with the climax. We also made sure that no character was compromised in the process.

Suriya sir watched the film a few days before its release. He was very happy because what he had believed in was exactly what he saw on screen. I feel very happy that we could live up to the faith he placed in the story.

You are being praised for having the strength of writing seen in Trivikram Srinivas’s films. How do you feel about that comparison?

Mani Ratnam sir and Trivikram sir are two of the biggest inspirations behind my decision to enter the film industry. So, being compared with Trivikram sir is a great honour for me.

I also understand the responsibility that comes with such a compliment, and I will work even harder to live up to it. I particularly love Trivikram sir’s ‘Nuvvu Naaku Nachav’. The dialogues are entertaining and humorous, yet they convey profound truths about life. That film inspired me tremendously, and I enjoy writing in a similar space.

How did the story of ‘VISWANATH & SONS’ originate?

Initially, I wanted to write a story around a relationship involving a significant age difference. If a person reaches the age of 40 without getting married, there has to be a strong reason behind that decision. The story evolved around that idea.

I believe that people are not inherently bad. Circumstances make them behave differently. That is one of the central ideas we tried to convey through the film.

I conceived this story back in 2022. At that time, I did not write it keeping Suriya sir in mind. Once he liked the story, we made certain changes to suit his body language and screen presence.

The art work, particularly the house set, has become one of the highlights of the film. What kind of homework went into creating it?

Our production designer Banglan, cinematographer Nimesh and I sat together and discussed the visual design extensively.

When we thought about the house, we did not want it to be merely spacious. We wanted it to feel fresh and different. At the same time, it had to reflect richness and grandeur while retaining a sense of novelty. We worked closely on achieving that balance.

What was Trivikram sir’s reaction after watching ‘VISWANATH & SONS’?

Trivikram sir really liked the film. Since he is involved in the production of films made under the Sithara Entertainments banner, he watches almost all the films associated with the banner.

Usually, after watching a film, he suggests small changes or additions. But in the case of ‘VISWANATH & SONS’, he did not suggest any changes. He simply said that the film was very good. That meant a lot to me.

How important was the editing process in shaping the film?

In my view, every film becomes better on the editing table. We should not feel that everything we shoot necessarily has to be part of the final film.

If we give the editor the freedom to make the best decisions for the film, the output will definitely improve. We followed the same approach with ‘VISWANATH & SONS’, and the editing played an important role in shaping the final product.

The film was shot in Tamil, but the Telugu version is currently generating higher collections. What is your take on this?

We shot the film in Tamil keeping Suriya sir’s market in mind. Compared to the Telugu states, Tamil Nadu has fewer theatres, and there is also a difference in ticket pricing. I feel that these factors have contributed to the difference in the initial collections.

However, Tamil films generally have longer theatrical runs. We saw the same thing happen with ‘Karuppu’. I believe ‘VISWANATH & SONS’ will also have a strong long run in Tamil Nadu and eventually deliver substantial collections there.

How did Mamitha Baiju come on board?

After watching ‘Premalu’, I felt that Mamitha Baiju would be perfect for this role. She also has a good command of Tamil.

To perform comedy effectively, an actor needs to have a strong understanding of the language and its nuances. Mamitha proved that she had exactly what the role required and did complete justice to the character.

What is the reason behind continuing to make films with Sithara Entertainments?

My relationship with the Sithara banner goes beyond money and agreements. It has evolved into a bond built on trust.

They believed in me and gave me opportunities, and I would love to continue making more films with a banner that has placed such faith in me.

Family films are once again witnessing strong theatrical collections. What do you think is the reason?

There was a time when films across different genres were being made regularly. But over the last few years, the number of family-oriented films has reduced considerably.

That is why, whenever a genuinely good family film comes along, audiences are eager to return to theatres. I believe the response to ‘VISWANATH & SONS’ is a reflection of that audience appetite for wholesome family entertainers.

Hyderabad: A new beautiful entertainer is set to make its way onto the Telugu screen. The upcoming film ‘Village Stars’, being produced under the NSV Productions banner, was officially launched with a grand pooja ceremony at the Venkateswara Veeranjaneya Swamy Temple in Venkatagiri. Actor Sameer attended the event as the chief guest and blessed the entire film team.

Narendra and Lilly Ballu are playing the lead roles, while Srinivas, Syed Abzal, Vijay and others will be seen in key roles. The film is directed by A. Narendra, with the story penned by Nagoor NGR.

Speaking on the occasion, actor Sameer said, “Narendra is a very talented person and has worked with me in the past. Every member of this film team has a strong work ethic. I hope this team goes on to make many more big films in the future. My heartfelt wishes to the entire team of ‘Village Stars’.”

Hero and director Narendra said, “We have come this far by working on several small projects. Now, we are coming before the audience with a full-fledged feature film. I request everyone to support and bless ‘Village Stars’.”

Heroine Lilly Ballu said, “I am from Odisha. I am especially thankful to Narendra garu for giving me the opportunity to be part of ‘Village Stars’. I am extremely happy about this opportunity and look forward to the love and support of the audience.”

Jabardasth actor Vasu said, “The launch ceremony of ‘Village Stars’ was held on a grand scale. The first step of the film itself has been a positive sign for its success. My best wishes to this energetic team.”

Social activist Sampath, actor Radhakrishna and others congratulated the film unit and wished the team success. They emphasized the importance of encouraging new talent and urged audiences to support emerging artists and filmmakers.

The upcoming film ‘Village Stars’, which is being made with a fresh storyline, will soon commence its regular shooting.

Cast: Narendra, Lilly Ballu, Srinivas, Syed Abzal, Vijay and others
Banner: NSV Productions
Direction: A. Narendra
Story: Nagoor NGR

PRO: Ashok Dayyala

 
Ameer Log marks the maiden production venture of Madhavi Reddy Soma under the banner of Awwal Number Productions. The film is directed by Ramana Reddy Soma, with Manohar Reddy Manchuri serving as co-producer. MC Hari, Manoj, and Sashidhar play the lead roles, while Veda Jalandhar, Ravan Nittooru, Vishwender Reddy, and Sai Yogi appear in key roles.
Rana Daggubati’s Spirit Media is set to release the film grandly in Telugu on August 21. A press meet was held on Wednesday, with the following members of the team sharing their thoughts:
 
Director Ramana Reddy Soma said : “We have watched Ameer Log several times by now, and it is definitely a hit film. A movie like this has never been made before. I have made a great attempt with this film. Looking at the response to the premieres, we understood that we had achieved what we set out to do. People often say that films like those made in Malayalam are not being made here. I believe the Hyderabad era has now begun. The sound that starts in Nizam on August 21 will reach all the other ‘woods’ as well.”
 
Producer Madhavi Reddy Soma said : “I thank my husband Ramana, who has always stood by me and guided me. He took care of everything as the writer, director, and producer. He crafted Ameer Log like a beautiful painting. When audiences walk out of the theatre after watching this film, each one of them will take home some kind of emotion.”
 
Actor MC Hari said : “Ameer Log gave me a wonderful opportunity, a family, and a great experience. Rohith’s editing is outstanding, and Smaran has given fantastic music. Manoj, Shashi, and I had a lot of fun together on the sets. We learned something new every day during the shoot. I thank Sandeep, SVK, Madhavi garu, and Ramana anna for supporting me throughout this journey. The theatres were absolutely rocking wherever the premieres were held. We hope to receive the same response on August 21.”
 
Actor Manoj said : “I am happy that a film like Ameer Log came my way at the beginning of my career. With this movie, I believe we will be able to sustain ourselves for another ten years. The response to the premieres has been phenomenal everywhere. Smaran’s music has taken the film to the next level. Our movie represents the spirit and culture of Telangana.”
 
Actress Veda Jalandhar said : “The premieres of Ameer Log are receiving a very good response. I heard that everyone who watched the film in my hometown Karimnagar was asking about me (laughs). There is honesty and innocence in our film. Please watch our movie on August 21. The film has all kinds of emotions. Smaran’s music, Rohith’s editing, and the efforts of all the artistes have contributed immensely to the movie. I thank Madhavi garu and Ramana Reddy garu for supporting us. After watching the film, you will feel completely satisfied, like you have had a full meal.”
 
Editor Rohith said : “I have shared a bond with Ramana for the past seven years. He worked extremely hard for Ameer Log. The reward for all that effort will come on August 21. The film has turned out wonderfully, and I am confident that everyone will like it.”
 
Co-Producer Manohar Reddy said : “I recently returned from the US, and people there are also asking about this movie. Ramana carried the entire film on his shoulders and gave it his all.”
 
Actor Sai Yogi said : “Ramana anna is going to showcase his love for Hyderabad through Ameer Log. The premieres held in Andhra Pradesh also received a good response. The premieres in Karimnagar and Warangal received an excellent response.”
 
Cast : MC Hari, Manoj, Sashidhar Kocharlakota, Veda Jalandhar, Ravan Nittooru, Vishwender Reddy, Sai Yogi and others.
 
Technical Crew

Banner: Awwal Number Productions
Director: Ramana Reddy Soma
Producer: Madhavi Reddy Soma
Co-Producer: Manohar Reddy Manchuri
Telugu Release: Spirit Media, Rana Daggubati
DOP: SVK
Editor: Rohith Penumatsa
Music: Smaran Sai
Posters: Shakti
Sync Sound & Mixing: Swapnik Rao
Chief AD: Sai Yogi
Executive Producer: Sandeep Borreddy
Line Producer: Sharath Polavarapu
PRO: Sai Satish

Following the commercial success of “K-Ramp,” RUUDRANSH CELLULOIDS is gearing up to produce another new film. Successful producer Bommak Shiva is producing the movie, which features “Kingdom” fame Venkatesh V.P. as the hero. Suresh Tej is directing the film. The movie has been given the working title “DGP”

Venkatesh V.P. has earned recognition in the Malayalam television and film industries. He also successfully runs the restaurant startup “Suda Suda Idly.” He gained appreciation for his role as Murugan in “Kingdom,” starring Vijay Deverakonda. Now, he is making his debut as a lead actor with the film currently titled “D.G.P.”

On the occasion of Venkatesh V.P.’s birthday today, the makers extended their birthday wishes and warmly welcomed him on board as the lead actor of their film. The video glimpse released on the occasion is entertaining and has already caught attention. In the video, producer Bommak Shiva and director Suresh Tej call Venkatesh, who is busy taking orders at his restaurant in Thiruvananthapuram, and inform him that they want him to play the lead in their film.

Initially, Venkatesh assumes that they are offering him a villain’s role and shows little interest. However, when they clarify that they are approaching him to play the hero, he is pleasantly surprised. He becomes even more impressed after hearing the film’s script. The makers have presented the announcement in a fun and humorous manner, making the glimpse entertaining and sure to bring a smile to viewers.

Cast:
Venkatesh V.P., and others

Technical Crew:
Costumes – Gnaneshwari
Art Director – Tirumala M. Tirupati (MFA)
Editor – Carthic Ved
Dialogues – Gaddam Suresh
DOP – Hari Varan
Music – Gyaani
CEO – Dheeraj Nyathi
Producer – Bommak Shiva
Script & Direction – Suresh Tej
PRO – Suresh (SK Media)

Music Maestro M. M. Keeravani’s music label continues to champion independent artists with yet another promising musical offering

Hyderabad: Renowned music composer M. M. Keeravani recently launched Lethowis, a music label dedicated to encouraging and providing a platform for independent artists. In a short span, the label has already created a strong buzz among music lovers with four distinctive songs that have received an encouraging response.

The label’s first release, ‘Mummukussu’, garnered attention for its unique presentation and multilingual versions. It was followed by the soulful track ‘Raasindhi Keeravani, Koosindhi Chandrabose’, featuring the vocals of popular singer Lipsika. The third release, ‘Sarpanch Kuthuru’, sung by Rahul Sipligunj, went viral and became a talking point among music enthusiasts. The fourth release, ‘Unfair Life’, stood out with its innovative short-film-style presentation.

Now, Lethowis is gearing up for its fifth musical release, ‘Chaayurang’, which promises to be another special addition to the label’s growing catalogue.

Adding further excitement to the release, popular Malayalam singer Sithara Krishnakumar has lent her voice to the song. In another special highlight, Keeravani Garu will be seen on screen alongside Sithara Krishnakumar for the first time in the upcoming music video.

‘Chaayurang’ is slated for release on August 28, and the recently unveiled poster has already generated considerable curiosity among music lovers. With the previous releases from Lethowis receiving a warm response, expectations are high for what the fifth offering has in store.

Those familiar with the song describe ‘Chaayurang’ as a deeply personal musical creation that emerged from Keeravani’s heart, further raising anticipation around the track and its unique musical experience.

With Lethowis continuing its journey of discovering, encouraging and showcasing independent musical talent, several more songs are expected to be released through the label in the coming months.

Music lovers can now look forward to August 28, when ‘Chaayurang’ arrives, adding another distinctive chapter to Keeravani’s Lethowis musical journey.

MUTA MESTRI is not just a film.
It is an unforgettable chapter in the legacy of MEGA STAR CHIRANJEEVI garu.

The love and excitement for the 4K re-release has been truly overwhelming. ❤️‍🔥

We want to bring MUTA MESTRI back to the big screen in the grandest way possible with the quality, grandeur and experience that this legendary film deserves.

Due to unforeseen technical delays in receiving the final output, we have decided to POSTPONE the re-release to a later date.

This is not a compromise.
It is a commitment to giving you the MUTA MESTRI experience at its absolute BEST. 💥

A NEW RELEASE DATE WILL BE ANNOUNCED VERY SOON.

MUTA MESTRI will return.
BIGGER. BETTER. GRANDER. 🔥

Cult Producer SKN Launches Teaser for ‘Missing Meghana’
The teaser for the upcoming film ‘Missing Meghana’, produced by Panchumarthi Naresh Babu under the banners of First Copy Movies and KD & Co and directed by Vachaspathi, was grandly launched by cult producer SKN.
The film stars Ram Karthik, Ammu Abhirami, Vaidika Senjaliya, and Ankit Koyya in the lead roles, alongside Goparaju Ramana, Vempa Kasi, Koushik, Mahipal, Ruchitha, Nalini, Srinivas, Azeem, and Pandu in pivotal roles. Recently, the film’s first look and title motion poster were unveiled by sensational director V. V. Vinayak, while the first single, ‘Pilla Pilla Pilla’, was launched by legendary producer Suresh Babu. Now, producer SKN has officially released the film’s teaser. The cinematography is handled by Chota K. Naidu’s contemporary Sam K. Naidu, with music composed by R. R. Dhruvan.

Cult Producer SKN said:

“The teaser looks great, and the core concept of the film is very innovative. Audiences today genuinely appreciate unique storylines. Watching the teaser gives a fresh feel, and I am confident that this film will be a grand success.”

Director Vachaspathi said:

“A huge thanks to SKN Garu for launching our teaser. Not everyone comes forward to promote small-budget films, so we are immensely grateful to him on behalf of our entire team. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks once again to V. V. Vinayak Garu for releasing our first look motion poster and Suresh Babu Garu for launching the ‘Pilla Pilla’ song.”

Producer Naresh Babu said:

“SKN Garu started his career as a journalist and has now grown into a major producer in the industry. Audiences automatically trust that a film will be a hit whenever he is associated with it. Having our teaser launched by him gives us immense confidence. We firmly believe this film will resonate well with both youth and family audiences.”
Hero Ram Karthik said:
“SKN Garu has a golden touch, and we hope his good luck rubs off on our team as well. We are extremely thankful to him for liking our content and releasing the teaser. It makes us very happy to see such a positive buzz surrounding all the content we have released so far.”

Music Director R. R. Dhruvan said:

“It is a privilege to have our teaser launched by dynamic producer SKN Garu, who continues to deliver back-to-back hits while encouraging new talent. The ‘Pilla Pilla’ song released by Suresh Babu Garu is already going viral across social media platforms, and I thank everyone creating reels for it. I promise that the film will be just as engaging and entertaining as the teaser.”

Cast:

Ram Karthik, Ammu Abhirami, Vaidika Senjaliya, Ankit Koyya, Goparaju Ramana, Vempa Kasi, Koushik, Mahipal, Ruchitha, Nalini, Srinivas, Azeem, Pandu, and others.

Technical Crew:

• Producer: Panchumarthi Naresh Babu
• Co-Producer: Divela Srinivasa Rao
• Banners: First Copy Movies, KD & Co
• Director: Vachaspathi
• Story & Screenplay: Vanaraj
• Dialogues: Venkat Baddigam

*Additional screenplay :
Sreedhar parigi

*Executive producers :

Maddineni harikrishna
Kishore thokala

• Music: R. R. Dhruvan
• Cinematography (DOP): Sam K. Naidu
• Editing: Basava
• Choreography: JD, Eeshwar Penti
• Stunts: Ramakrishna, Stunt Shankar
• Lyrics: R. R. Dhruvan, Alaraju
• PRO: Somisetty Nageswara Rao (SNR), Thirumalasetty Venkatesh

Created and directed by Palnati Surya Pratap and produced by Sushmita Konidela, Jagamae Sangeetham will premiere in Telugu with English subtitles, along with dubs in Tamil across India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide on September 4

Prime Video, India’s largest streaming service for exclusive Originals, has announced September 4 as the worldwide premiere of its upcoming Prime Original series in Telugu, Jagamae Sangeetham. Inspired by Prime Video’s Original Hindi series Bandish Bandits, Jagamae Sangeetham is created and directed by Palnati Surya Pratap and produced by Sushmita Konidela. The musical drama is written by Vangala Surya Manoj, Shravani Samudrala, and A.R. Prabhav, with music composed by Vishal Chandrasekar, whose musical score serves as the backbone of the series, bringing its rich emotional world to life through soulful compositions that beautifully weave together the traditions of Carnatic music with a contemporary sound. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Prakash Raj, Meka Srikanth, Madhubala, Akshay Lagusani, and Sushmita Shetty, the series also stars Suman, Sijju Menon, Shafi, Jhansi, Raghu Babu Yerra, Rocket Raghava, Nagi Jabardasth, Mirchi Kiran, Keshav Deepak, Priyanka Nalkari, Manik Reddy, Prachi Thaker, and Roopa Lakshmi in pivotal roles. Jagamae Sangeetham will stream exclusively on Prime Video in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide in Telugu with English subtitles and dubs in Tamil.

Set against the rich world of Carnatic music, Jagamae Sangeetham follows Balu, heir to his grandfather Shastri’s legendary musical legacy, as he grapples with the weight of tradition, fractured family ties, and long-buried secrets. When old rivalries resurface and threaten to unravel generations of heritage, Balu finds himself torn between preserving what his family built and discovering his own artistic voice. Music lies at the heart of this story. Rooted in the Carnatic tradition to which Shastri has devoted his life, the series gradually expands its musical landscape as Balu discovers a world beyond the boundaries of tradition. Here, song becomes the family’s second language — expressing the devotion, resentment, longing and emotions they struggle to put into words.

“Jagamae Sangeetham is a deeply moving story that celebrates the emotional power of music while exploring universal themes of family, legacy, and self-discovery,” said Director and Head of SVOD Originals, Prime Video India. “At its heart, the series asks timeless questions about tradition, ambition, and the courage it takes to chart your own path. Under Palnati Surya Pratap’s distinctive creative vision, supported by Sushmita Konidela’s passionate production, and elevated by Vishal Chandrasekar’s soul-stirring music, the series delivers an experience that is both culturally rooted and universally relatable.”

“From the outset, our vision for Jagamae Sangeetham was to tell a story where music is not merely part of the world but becomes the emotional language through which a family expresses what it cannot always put into words: love, conflict, longing, pride, hope, and ultimately healing,” said producer Sushmita Konidela. While the series is deeply rooted in the world of Carnatic music, its themes of legacy, belonging, and finding your own voice are universal. Bringing together such an exceptional cast and creative team has been an incredibly fulfilling journey, and we invite audiences across India and the world to step into the world of Jagamae Sangeetham and experience it for themselves on Prime Video.”