Box office stories pertain to commercial performance of films all around the world and in India.
In this India Today Special conversation, filmmaker Meghna Gulzar and actor Prithviraj Sukumaran discuss their film Daayra, addressing thematic complexities surrounding sexual assault cases, extrajudicial encounter killings, and growing public disillusionment with the criminal justice system. The discussion explores how systemic bottlenecks and an overburdened judiciary with millions of pending cases lead to public frustration, often driving societal support for immediate retribution and police encounters over constitutional due process. Reflecting on landmark events such as the 2012 Nirbhaya case and the 2019 Hyderabad police encounter, the creators dissect the moral conflicts faced by law enforcement and citizens alike. Prithviraj Sukumaran elaborates on his role as DCP Raman, explaining how the narrative juxtaposes violent crimes against women with retaliatory police actions to prompt societal dialogue without validating vigilantism or offering simplistic moral conclusions. Additionally, Meghna Gulzar highlights the civic function of cinema in confronting uncomfortable social realities rather than relying on standard commercial tropes. The panel also covers casting decisions, the shifting dynamics between theatrical exhibition and digital streaming platforms, and the increasing convergence between regional and mainstream Indian film industries.
A special broadcast highlights the box office run of the devotional film Hanuman Ansh, made on a budget of about two crore rupees, which crossed 231 crore rupees in India net collection and over 272.9 crore rupees in India gross by day 40. The film's director, Dr Vishal Chaturvedi, discussed how word-of-mouth publicity, spiritual devotion, and audience support across generations propelled the film after opening to just 10 lakh rupees. Chaturvedi detailed his spiritual inspiration drawn from Neem Karoli Baba at Kainchi Dham, which shaped the movie's narrative and music, including Bundelkhand folk traditions. Addressing the refusal by major streaming services, he expressed disappointment over the initial rejection of Neem Karoli Baba's story, noting the saint's global influence on figures like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. Chaturvedi also emphasised the immense potential of clean, family-oriented cinema rooted in Indian civilization and culture, and shared plans for his upcoming project focusing on Goswami Tulsidas.
This special broadcast covers major national security, geopolitical, and cultural developments. The programme details the maritime incident in international waters near the Gulf of Oman, where Pakistan Navy offshore patrol vessel PNS Hunain executed an unsafe manoeuvre and collided with a frontline Indian Navy warship, prompting India to lodge formal diplomatic protests citing the 1991 bilateral military agreement.
The discussion highlights how streaming platforms are transforming women-led narratives and breaking traditional storytelling archetypes in Indian entertainment. Focusing on creative freedom given to creators, the conversation details how recent film releases subvert conventional tropes by presenting nuanced, flawed, and authentic female protagonists rather than idealized figures. While theatrical releases face challenges with women-centric projects, streaming services offer a dedicated space for bold, specific, and unconventional stories to thrive. The narrative strategy emphasizes sensitivity, diverse perspectives, and meaningful agency for women characters both in front of and behind the camera. Additionally, leadership dynamics at streaming major Netflix India showcase the impact of women executives driving content decisions, fostering collaboration, and creating opportunities for inclusive filmmaking.
The Tamil Nadu government has rejected the three-language formula proposed under the National Education Policy, reaffirming its commitment to a two-language system.
Ahead of the Tamil Nadu election results, TVK chief Vijay visited the Tiruchendur Murugan and Shirdi Saibaba temples.
Dhurandhar 2, starring Ranveer Singh, has sparked political controversy, with opposition leaders accusing the filmmakers of promoting the ruling party's agenda.
The Siddaramaiah-led Congress government in Karnataka faces intense heat as the BJP alleges the illegal allotment of 24 civic amenity sites to the party at discounted rates.
This report highlights the growing viewer dissatisfaction following the OTT debut of Ranbir Singh's action thriller 'Dhurandhar' on Netflix. Despite a successful theatrical run, the film's digital release has sparked criticism due to significant alterations. One major point of contention is that 'the Netflix version included censored language and cut nearly 10 minutes of footage.' Social media platforms have been flooded with complaints regarding muted dialogues and edited scenes, which surprised audiences expecting uncut content for a mature, adult-only rating. Viewers expressed disappointment that the streaming version did not maintain the integrity of the original theatrical cut. Despite this backlash, 'Dhurandhar' remains a strong performer in its eighth week of release and continues to dominate discussions regarding streaming standards and content regulation in India. The report also confirms that the highly anticipated sequel to this blockbuster is scheduled for a theatrical release on the 19th of March, keeping the franchise in the spotlight amidst the current controversy.
This news report details the ban on the Sunny Deol starrer 'Border 2' in Gulf countries including Dubai and Kuwait. The speaker notes that the film is being 'perceived as anti-park by Gulf countries' and follows a trend where films presenting an Indian narrative face restrictions. The report highlights that despite the trailer receiving an 'extremely good response' and the film releasing across India today with positive word of mouth, makers were unsuccessful in their talks with Gulf officials. The bulletin draws parallels with previous films like 'Dhurandar', 'Article 370', and the 'Tiger' franchise, which faced similar bans in the region due to their themes involving Pakistan. While the film is described as looking 'absolutely amazing on screen' by the reporter, it will not see the light of day in the Gulf market.
Renowned filmmaker Sudha Kongara joins RD India Today to discuss her latest cinematic venture, Parasakthi, and her 26-year journey in the industry. Reflecting on the challenges of being a female director, Kongara highlights the 'male saviour' trope she navigated in Irudhi Suttru and expresses deep gratitude to actor Madhavan for his support during a career low. The conversation delves into the intense online harassment she faced following the release of Parasakthi, where she notes, "If you cannot kill a woman's dreams, you character assassinate her." Kongara also addresses the rigorous 20-day censorship battle involving 25 cuts to her film, which explores the 1960s anti-Hindi imposition student movement. Despite the hurdles, she emphasizes the importance of linguistic identity, stating that mother tongue and mother are inseparable. The director also clarifies her admiration for actor Vijay, dismissing rumors of a political clash despite their films' overlapping schedules.
On this Special Report, India Today correspondent Anagha Keshav provides details on the postponement of the re-release of actor Vijay's 2016 blockbuster 'Theri'. Originally scheduled for January 15 to mark its 10th anniversary and coincide with the Pongal festival, the re-release has been delayed following requests from other filmmakers. Anagha Keshav notes that producer Kalaipulli S. Thanu explained the decision on social media, stating that other films like Jeeva's 'Triple T' are also slated for a Pongal release. The reporter mentions that 'the filmmakers of other films have requested the filmmakers of Theri to push their re-release date so that their films can run well'. This development follows the ongoing controversy and uncertainty surrounding the release of Vijay's upcoming movie 'Jananayagam', which was initially expected to premiere earlier in January. The programme explores how the 'Theri' delay adds to the setbacks for fans during the festive season.
This edition of Newstrack focusses on actor-turned-politician and TVK chief Vijay, who was questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation for over seven hours in New Delhi in connection with Karur stampede that resulted in 41 deaths three months ago.
As uncertainty continues over his final film 'Jana Nayagan', fans of Thalapathy Vijay have a reason to celebrate this Pongal. India Today correspondent Anagha Keshav reports that Vijay's 2016 blockbuster 'Theri' will be re-released on January 15 to mark its 10th anniversary. This move is seen as a consolation for fans, ensuring the actor has a festival release. Keshav notes, 'there was a lot of pressure to release at least one Vijay film because every year, there has been a Pongal release for Vijay'. The delay of 'Jana Nayagan' has led its makers to approach the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the re-release of 'Theri', directed by Atlee, provides a festive treat for Vijay's massive fanbase in Tamil Nadu.
Reporting from Chennai's Rohini Theatre, India Today's Principal Correspondent Apoorva Jayachandran covers the indefinite delay of actor Vijay's highly anticipated film, 'Jananayakan'. Originally scheduled for release today, January 9, the movie faces certification hurdles and an ongoing hearing at the Madras High Court. Apoorva speaks to disheartened fans who gathered for the 'first day, first show', only to find empty screens. One fan remarks, 'Fight with the politician Vijay, not actor Vijay', alluding to political motives behind the stall. The report highlights the massive financial stakes, the production costs involved, and the somber mood among supporters of the actor-turned-politician as they await the court's final verdict.
In a significant show of solidarity within the Tamil film industry, actors Simbu and Ravi Mohan have extended their support to actor Vijay following the delay of his film 'Jana Nayagan'. The news bulletin highlights that despite his own film 'Parasakthi' being set to clash with Vijay's release, Ravi Mohan has chosen to stand by his colleague. Actor Simbu also shared a heartfelt message on social media, addressing Vijay directly. Quoting the transcript, Simbu stated, 'You've crossed bigger storms than this.' The report notes that Simbu referred to Vijay as 'Anna' and emphasized that the real celebration begins when the film releases. This outpouring of support comes as the industry rallies behind Vijay during the uncertainty surrounding his highly anticipated movie.
This edition of Super 6 focusses on political shifts in Tamil Nadu ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court permitted the ritual, dismissing the state government's objections related to law and order and the shrine's proximity to the Sikandar Badusha Dargah.
On this episode of NewsTrack, Maria Shakeel discusses the massive success of Aditya Dhar’s spy thriller 'Dhurandhar', which has crossed the ₹1000 crore mark in just 21 days. Actor Rakesh Bedi, who plays the role of Pakistani politician Jameel Jamali, joins film trade analyst Komal Nahata, critic Mayank Shekhar, and author Advaita Kala to analyze the film's impact. The panel debates whether the film's triumph is due to its 'fiercely patriotic stance' or cinematic excellence, while addressing criticisms of glorifying violence. Bedi shares his experience portraying a 'cunning politician' in the film, stating, 'I studied a lot of Pakistani politicians... to create my own kind of a character.'
In this edition of Newstrack, the focus is on Aditya Dhar’s spy thriller 'Dhurandhar', which has created history by becoming the first Indian film of 2025 to cross the ₹1,000 crore mark in just 21 days.
