​Hyderabad: Bael Tree Hotels, a prominent name in the city’s hospitality sector, has further expanded its services by launching a state-of-the-art kitchen facility. The new section was grandly inaugurated on Saturday morning by popular film actress and ‘Kumbhamela’ fame, Monalisa.
​Upon her arrival, the hotel management and staff accorded her a warm welcome. Following the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony and the lighting of the lamp, Monalisa toured the new kitchen department. The hotel premises were packed with fans who gathered to catch a glimpse of the actress.
​International Standards and Personal Touches

​Speaking after the inauguration, Monalisa expressed her delight:

​I am very happy to see that the kitchen at Bael Tree Hotels is maintained with such cleanliness and international standards. I am confident that food lovers will enjoy wonderful flavors here. The hospitality and the overall vibe of this place are exceptional.
​In a delightful gesture, she personally inspected some dishes and even prepared coffee in the kitchen, much to the surprise and joy of everyone present. She also took a moment to appreciate the expertise of the chefs.
​The Spiritual Essence Behind Bael Tree

​During the event, Raja Reddy, the Chairman of Bael Tree Hotels, shared the interesting spiritual backstory of the brand name and his devotion to Lord Shiva.
​The primary reason we named our hotel ‘Bael Tree’ is Lord Shiva. In Telugu, it is known as the Bilva Vruksham. The Bilva leaf is extremely dear to Lord Shiva. It is a matter of pride for us to name our institution after the tree of the ‘Tridalam Trigunakaram’ (the three-leafed Bilva). Lord Shiva is also the provider of food—the Annadata. We seek the blessings of Lord Vishweshwara and Kashi Annapurneshwari.
​He further added:
We want every meal served to our customers to feel like Prasadam, providing them with complete satisfaction. I believe that the power to provide that fulfillment comes from Bholenath. While there are many commercial names available, choosing the Bael Tree brings a positive vibration. Every time we hear the name, we are reminded of Shiva. Our goal is for our guests to experience that same peace and sanctity.

​Commitment to Quality
​Bapi Reddy, Co-owner of Bael Tree Hotels, emphasized that the new kitchen was designed with a focus on customer health and taste. The kitchen is equipped with modern appliances and follows strict sanitization protocols. He mentioned that specialized chefs have been appointed to serve South Indian, North Indian, and Continental cuisines, using fresh vegetables and high-quality ingredients to provide a “home-cooked” taste.
​The event concluded on a high note as Monalisa interacted warmly with her fans, waving to the crowd and posing for selfies. With its commitment to quality food and a spiritual foundation, Bael Tree Hotels is poised to become a favorite destination for food enthusiasts in the city.

Death becomes the starting point, not the end, in Dhandoraa, an upcoming rural drama produced by Ravindra Banerjee Muppaneni under the Loukya Entertainments banner and directed by Muralikant. Rooted in the social and cultural landscape of Telangana, the film positions itself as an idea-driven narrative that confronts caste, dignity, and human conscience through grounded storytelling. Designed as a raw yet emotionally charged cinematic experience, Dhandoraa places performance, dialogue, and lived realism at the centre of its vision, signalling the makers’ intent to deliver a film that resonates beyond conventional commercial frameworks.

▶️https://youtu.be/5P7pEqSTojo

The trailer opens on a haunting image of a dead body being carried across villages, immediately establishing death as the film’s emotional and ideological trigger. An innocent question from a child about why his grandmother’s body must travel so far is met with the chilling line, “మన చావు పుట్టకలన్ని ఆ ఊరి అవతల రాసిండు రా దేవుడు,” quietly exposing the rigid social boundaries that govern the village. The visuals linger on faces, silences, and pauses, grounding the film in lived rural reality. What begins with everyday village movement and understated native humour gradually unfolds into a tense confrontation around dignity, belonging, and exclusion.

As the trailer progresses, the mood hardens and the conflict sharpens. Discussions around cremation escalate into outright rejection, pushing the body and the people attached to it to the margins. Intercut personal moments add emotional texture, while the background score intensifies and the edit tightens, culminating in the chant of “దండోరా… దండోరా,” transforming the narrative into a collective alarm. Powerful dialogues land with ideological force “చావు నుంచి అయిన తప్పించుకోవచ్చు కాని కులం నుంచి తప్పించుకోలేము,” “పెళ్లి దగ్గర, చావు దగ్గర… ఈ రెండిటి దగ్గరే కదా వీళ్ళ ఆట సాగేది,” and “మన బ్రతుకులు మారాలంటే మనకి కావాల్సింది ఒక్కటే… చదువు చదువు చదువు,” firmly positioning Dhandoraa as a film that confronts caste not as subtext, but as an inescapable reality shaping life and death.

The trailer culminates in a courtroom moment that distils the film’s core conflict with striking restraint. When a judge questions whether it took three years to recognise a mistake, Shivaji responds with a quiet smile and a line that lands with devastating clarity “కల్లు మత్తు కాదు కదా సార్… రాత్రి తాగింది పొద్దున్న దిగడానికి. కులం మత్తు… time పట్టింది.” The trailer ends on this unresolved yet ideologically sharp note, reinforcing the film’s moral urgency and emotional weight.

Music has played a key role in building Dhandoraa’s pre-release buzz. The first single “Pilla” introduced a softer, romantic emotional layer and emerged as a strong digital success, crossing 3.2 million views, with its hook step trending widely across social media platforms. This was followed by the release of the film’s title track, composed by Mark K. Robin, which marked a sharp tonal shift. Intense, raw, and confrontational, the title song functions as the ideological spine of the film. This musical momentum was earlier set in motion by the film’s teaser, which signalled its intent through grounded rural imagery and the striking line “చావు అనేది మనిషి ఇచ్చే ఆఖరి మర్యాద.”

With growing anticipation, Dhandoraa has generated strong pre-release traction across territories, reflecting solid trade confidence. The film’s Nizam rights have been acquired by Mythri Movies, while Prime Show is handling distribution across Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Ceeded regions. Overseas distribution is secured by Atharvana Bhadrakali Pictures, ensuring a wide international rollout, and the audio rights are with T-Series, strengthening the film’s musical footprint.

Dhandoraa is set for early overseas premieres starting December 23, 2025, across 200+ theatres in key international markets. The film will release IN CINEMAS WORLDWIDE on December 25, 2025, positioning itself as a bold, socially resonant year-end release crafted to spark conversation across regions and audiences.

Cast:
Shivaji, Navadeep, Nandu, Ravikrishna, Manika Chikkala, Mounika Reddy, Bindu Madhavi, Radhya, Aditi Bhavaraju and others.

Crew:
Banner: Loukya Entertainments
Producer: Ravindra Banerjee Muppaneni
Director: Muralikant
Cinematography: Venkat R. Shakamuri
Editor: Srujana Adusumilli
Music: Mark K. Robin
Art Director: Kranti Priyam
Executive Producer: Edward Stevenson Perez
Costume Designer: Rekha Boggarapu
Line Producer: Kondaru Venkatesh
Audio: T-Series
Nizam Distribution: Mythri Movies
Andhra – Ceeded & Karnataka : PrimeShow
Overseas Release: Atharvana Bhadrakali Pictures
PRO: Naidu Surendra Kumar – Phani Kandukuri (Beyond Media)
Marketing: Ticket Factory

Starring versatile actor Aadi Saikumar in the lead, Shambala is produced by Rajashekhar Annabhimoju and Mahidhar Reddy under the Shining Pictures banner, and directed by Ugandhar Muni. The film features Archana Iyer, Swasika, Ravi Varma, Madhunandan, and Shiva Karthik in key roles. Music is composed by Sricharan Pakala. The film is set for a grand theatrical release on December 25. As part of the promotions, music director Sricharan Pakala interacted with the media and shared insights about the film. Excerpts from his interaction:

Shambala has multiple themes. I began working on the film the very next day after the director narrated the story. Director Ugandhar Muni has a strong understanding of sound, and his entire direction team is extremely passionate and particular about every detail. I have worked on many thrillers, but composing for a scientific and mythological thriller like Shambala was a completely new experience.

Everyone has access to the usual set of instruments, but I always try to create something new and distinctive in terms of sound. For films like this, which need to keep audiences on the edge of their seats, the sound has to be extraordinary. Through sound, we often need to mislead the audience intentionally as part of the narrative. The four songs that appear within the story are outstanding.

I grew up listening to mythological stories, and it feels special to compose music for a story rooted in that genre. For this film, I used a wide variety of instruments and even employed some custom equipment that I personally developed for my own work.

The producers never pressured anyone at any point. They gave us ample time and spent generously to ensure a high-quality output. Shambala was made without any compromises.

The songs and background score were completed seamlessly, almost in a single flow. The songs have turned out very well, though the team is releasing them gradually. The freshness in my sound largely comes from my team. The background scores in my films have consistently earned a good reputation.

Every film of Aadi garu usually features a chartbuster song, and Shambala also has a beautiful melody of that kind, which will be released soon. The end-title song will also leave a strong impression. This is a very new and different film for Aadi. Working with a strong team, we have made a good film together.

We took extreme care with sound design. The film truly delivers its impact only when experienced in a theatre. The background score is exceptional, and the soundscape is very unique. Shambala’s sound can be fully enjoyed only on the big screen. I even created several sound effects using my own voice, all of which the director really liked.

Shambala will mesmerize audiences and transport them into a new world. This is my 49th film, while Anumanapu Pakshi will be my 50th. Both films are very special to me. I put in the same level of effort for every project—working sleeplessly and taking as much time as needed, but never resorting to copying. Even when inspired, I make sure my own style is clearly reflected.

In the vibrant world of Indian cinema, especially in the South, the Sankranti (or Pongal) season isn’t just a festival of harvest and kites—it is the ultimate “Battleground of Blockbusters.”

For decades, this mid-January period has been the most coveted release window, where the biggest stars, massive budgets, and high-stakes family dramas collide at the box office.

Similarly Sankranti 2027 will also be special as – NBK teams up with Boyapati under Geetha Arts — aiming for Sankranti 2027 release.

Chiranjeevi’s #Mega158 is already locked for Sankranti 2027 under Bobby’s direction.

Sankranti 2027 is shaping up to be a Mass entertainment season.

Popular Choreographer Jani Master’s wife Smt. V. V. Sumalatha Devi was elected as the President of the Telugu Film and TV Dancers and Dance Directors Association (TFTDDA). In this regard, the swearing-in ceremony was grandly held in Hyderabad on Thursday. Srisailam Yadav and Jubilee Hills MLA Naveen Yadav attended the event as chief guests. At the event…

Jubilee Hills MLA Naveen Yadav said… “I am happy that for the first time, a woman has been elected as the president of this union. I believe that Sumalatha’s victory will bring a new dimension to the union. Jani Master has earned fame and recognition across the country. Jani Master, who rose from humble beginnings to great heights, and his wife Sumalatha were elected based on the trust placed in them. I will always be indebted to the film workers who treat my family as their own. I will always stand by this union.”

Smt. V. V. Sumalatha Devi said… “My thanks to everyone who contributed to this victory and to everyone who voted. I assure you that I will resolve every problem within the union.”

Speaking, Srisailam Yadav said… “Congratulations to Sumalatha Devi, who won the elections. There are some minor issues in the union. Let’s resolve them among ourselves. Filing cases outside will only make us look bad. Let’s all move forward together. My best wishes to everyone who won in these elections.”

Speaking, prominent producer C. Kalyan said… “Srisailam Yadav was the first to donate money to this organization. He was always at the forefront whenever the film industry faced any difficulties. His son Naveen is a great person. Srisailam’s wife provided financial assistance to many female artists and dancers. Many tried to pull Jani down, but now he has risen to great heights. Sumalatha’s victory will bring good days to this union. On our behalf, we will also provide all kinds of support and cooperation to this union.”

Speaking, Jani Master said… “Thanks to everyone who voted for us and made us win with their trust. As promised, with the cooperation of the winning body, we will work for the welfare of the union. Every member of the union should have health insurance. When I mentioned this to Ram Charan, he immediately provided financial assistance. Thanks to Srisailam Yadav and Naveen Yadav for assuring that every member of the union will get a plot of land. My wish is that when a member of our union retires, we should plan to give them approximately ten to fifteen lakhs at that time.” “I am praying to God that this wish will be fulfilled,” he said.

K. Srinivasa Rao took oath as General Secretary, P. Chiranjeevi Kumar as Treasurer, K. Suresh and M. Raju as Vice Presidents, K. Kiran Kumar and A. Ramu as Joint Secretaries, U. Shiva Krishna as Executive Secretary, and K. Satish Goud, K. Sridevi, P. Suresh, S. Vedant, Manohar, L. Krishna, B. Suman, R. Bose, and S. Shruti as committee members.

The event was attended by Telugu Film Chamber President Bharat Bhushan, Telugu Film Chamber General Secretary K.L. Damodar Prasad, Rangareddy District Joint Commissioner of Labour Shyam Sundar Reddy, Telugu Film Federation President Anil Kumar Vallabhaneni, Telugu Film Federation General Secretary Ammiraju, Telugu Film Federation Treasurer G. Bheemudu (Srikanth), and others.

Rocking Star Manchu Manoj is starring in a new film titled David Reddy. The movie is being produced by Venkat Reddy and Bharat Motukuri under the banners Velvet Soul Motion Pictures and True Radix. The film is directed by Hanuma Reddy Yakkanti. Set against a British-era backdrop, David Reddy is being made as a large-scale pan-India film with an intense action drama storyline. Maria Ryaboshapka plays the female lead. The movie is being made in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada. The David Reddy glimpse launch event was held grandly in Hyderabad today. At the event:

Stunt choreographer Supreme Sundar said, “Manchu Manoj’s films always have special fans for action. David Reddy will bring him great recognition as a powerful action movie. I wish the entire team of this film all the very best.”

Producer Venkat Reddy said, “You will see Manchu Manoj in a way you have never seen before in this film. What you saw in the glimpse is not even one percent of the movie. That’s how good it is. I thank Manoj garu for trusting our new team and giving us this opportunity. Director Hanuma is my friend. He made this film with great passion. Ravi Basrur, Supreme Sundar – he has assembled a strong team. These technicians are going to take our movie to the next level. We will continue to give updates about David Reddy. Thank you for all your support.”

Producer Bharat Motukuri said, “David Reddy is a film that only Manoj garu can do. This story is about the rage that is born after enduring countless hardships, and how that rage turns against the British. We carefully selected the most suitable technicians required for this film. This movie will definitely impress all of you.”

Music director Ravi Basrur said, “Fans have been loving my music since KGF, and with Salaar, that love has grown even more. I proudly say that I have Telugu fans for my music. David Reddy will also become a favorite for everyone in terms of music. What you saw in the glimpse is just a small portion. You will see much stronger content in the movie.”

Director Hanuma Reddy Yakkanti said, “The subject of David Reddy is very big. After completing the story, I was searching for the right hero. After watching Bhairavam, I contacted Manoj garu and sent him a small poster. He immediately called me after seeing it. Once he heard the story, he instantly said we are doing this film. After Manoj garu agreed, I started searching for technicians. Ravi Basrur garu, Supreme Sundar garu, DOP Acharya Venu – everyone is extremely busy with big films, but after hearing the story of David Reddy, they happily came forward to work on it. There is only one Bhagat Singh, one Subhash Chandra Bose, and one David Reddy. David Reddy is a true pan-India film. It is written as a fictional character based on real incidents. What you saw in the glimpse is only a small part. As a debut director, I shouldn’t speak more than this. You should watch the rest in the theater.”

Rocking Star Manchu Manoj said, “As long as you all are there with your love, no one can do anything to me. I bow down in respect for the love and affection you have been giving me for so many years. You always encourage me to act as a hero again. At a time when I was thinking about what kind of film I should return with as a hero, my friend Ram called me and asked me to listen to a good story. That story is David Reddy. I loved it the moment I heard it. Director Hanuma Reddy crafted exactly the kind of story in which I should be seen and the kind of movie you want to see me in. This is a period action film set between 1897 and 1922. Producers Venkat Reddy and Bharat garu invested crores of rupees without compromising on production quality, trusting director Hanuma completely.

David Reddy considers not only the British but even Indians as his enemies. Peace is not in David Reddy’s nature – he believes in going and taking things by force. I thank director Hanuma for believing that I can portray such a powerful character and making this film with me. I also thank Ravi Basrur garu, Supreme Sundar garu, editor Ujwal garu, and DOP Acharya Venu garu for being part of our team.

David Reddy’s bike is called War Dog, and the stick in his hand is called Death Note. These are his weapons. David Reddy’s belief is that India’s freedom should not be begged for but taken by force. When the British burn down villages, David Reddy emerges as a warrior who responds to violence with violence. There are rumors that Ram Charan and Simbu will appear as guest roles in this film. There is scope for guest roles in the story, but we have not approached any hero so far. We will share those details later.

When I did supporting and villain roles, fans supported me immensely and put me on a pedestal. This movie will be like a full meals feast for them. David Reddy will show how it would be if one man stood up to face certain brutal incidents and atrocities that never came out in history.”

Cast: Manchu Manoj, Maria Ryaboshapka, R. Parthiban, Kanchana, and others

Technical Team:
Art Director – Ravi Jakkula
Costumes – Haindhavi Sudha
Action – Supreme Sundar
Editing – Ujwal Kulkarni
DOP – Acharya Venu
Music – Ravi Basrur
Executive Producer – Kottu Ravikumar
PRO – GSK Media (Suresh – Sreenivas)
Producers – Bharat Motukuri, Venkat Reddy
Script & Director – Hanuma Reddy Yakkanti