Regional cinema covers films from various parts of India that do not fall in the purview of Bollywood or Hollywood cinema. These include films in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Konkani, Tulu, Marathi, Bengali, Bhojpuri, Gujarati, Punjabi, Odia, Kashmiri, Chhattisgarhi, Bodo, Manipuri, Assamese and Northeast languages, among others.
Nayanthara visited the famous Kalikambal temple in Chennai and performed a puja ahead of Mookuthi Amman 2 release. The actor plays the role of a Goddess in the Sundar C directorial, which is set for a release on November 6.
A senior leader and former minister from Tamil Nadu's AIADMK has publicly invited a prominent film actor to join the political party. The invitation followed the actor's recent decision to restructure fan clubs into a welfare movement, sparking political speculation. Speaking at a public rally in Sivakasi, the politician stated that the party welcomes young actors whose work creates an impact among the poor and the public. However, the political outfit noted a specific condition for entry, stating that any newcomer must accept the leadership of the party chief. The outreach comes amid shifts in the regional political landscape where cinema figures transition into political leadership.
In a special broadcast, journalist Rajdeep Sardesai reflects on the life, cinematic brilliance, and enduring legacy of veteran actor Nana Patekar in conversation with news anchor Anisha. Describing Patekar as an intense titan of Indian cinema, the discussion traces his evolution from Marathi theater and regional cinema to national stardom. Known for iconic performances in films like Krantiveer, Parinda, Ab Tak Chhappan, Welcome, and the acclaimed Marathi drama Natasamrat, Patekar stood out for his explosive vocal delivery and wide artistic range across gritty crime thrillers, hard-hitting dramas, and commercial comedies. Sardesai highlights Patekar's uncompromising originality, noting that his roots in Marathi culture and theater shaped him as an actor who placed craft above celebrity status. The discussion also touches upon Patekar's grounded lifestyle outside the film industry, including his preference for his Pune farm and simple attire, remembering him as a straight-talking, authentic performer who never lost touch with his middle-class and rural roots.
Veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan believes cinema should do more than simply give audiences an escape. Speaking at the India Today South Conclave 2026 in Kochi, Adoor criticised commercial filmmaking for often underestimating viewers and assuming they don't want to think.
Shruti Haasan spoke at the India Today South Conclave in Kochi about legacy, scrutiny and her career across films and music. She said her effort has been to stand as Shruti first while navigating expectations around her surname.
Adoor Gopalakrishnan has announced his return to direction with Padayaatra after a decade. The film also reunites him with Mammootty as the veteran filmmaker reiterates his faith in theatres.
Prominent session violin maestro Francis Xavier brought music to the India Today South Conclave in Kochi on Tuesday with a soulful performance during the session, Music to the Ears.
Actor Amala Paul graced the first day of India Today South Conclave 2026 at Kochi on Tuesday. During her session, she spoke about breaking stereotypes, taking the least travelled path and navigating motherhood.
Meenakshi Chaudhary offered prayers at Tirumala temple in Tirupati on Monday, participating in the Suprabhata Seva with her family. She also revealed that her upcoming film Vrushakarma, co-starring Naga Chaitanya, will release on December 4.
At the India Today Karnataka Roundtable, actors Aashika Ranganath and Saptami Gowda discussed the evolution, achievements, and untapped potential of the Kannada film industry, commonly known as Sandalwood. Reflecting on global hits like Kantara and upcoming projects like Toxic, both actors emphasized that rooted cultural authenticity defines Sandalwood. Saptami Gowda highlighted scriptwriting as the core of filmmaking success, remarking, 'ninety percent of the story or movies rest on the writing,' while advocating for better respect and due diligence for writers. Addressing industry challenges, they pointed out the issue of pay disparity between male and female actors, calling for higher remuneration for female leads while noting positive shifts toward progressive female-led roles. Both actors also shared recommendations of classic and modern Kannada movies, highlighting Sandalwood's rich history and audience support.
Pranita Subhash discussed celebrity support for Gen Z protests and student activism at the India Today Karnataka Roundtable. In an exclusive interview, the actor shared her take on why celebrities were cautious about protests against examination irregularities.
At the India Today Karnataka Roundtable session titled 'What Youth Want', actors Pranitha Subhash and Samyukta Hornad joined Jordindian creators Naser Al Azzeh and Vineeth Kumar to address youth culture, Gen Z political awareness, digital activism, and urban growth in Bengaluru. The panelists examined how politicians utilize social media platforms like Instagram for outreach, noting how youth engagement and ground protests demand political accountability. The discussion focused on Bengaluru's expansion, infrastructure challenges, road repairs, waste management initiatives, real estate costs, traffic congestion, and road rage, alongside broader issues such as unemployment and human-animal conflicts. Emphasizing civic integration and local identity, the speakers highlighted the importance of learning Kannada, respecting local culture and heritage, and practicing civic responsibility as the technology hub expands. The panel concluded with calls for sustainable urban planning, effective digital communication, and mutual respect between long-term residents and newcomers moving to the city.
Actor-director Dhanush greeted his fans gathered outside his house on his 43rd birthday. He also cut the cake presented by them outside his home.
Visuals of veteran filmmaker K Bhagyaraj’s mortal remains being taken have surfaced, with actor Radikaa seen requesting the media to respect the family’s privacy. Bhagyaraj died at 73 after a heart attack.
Actors Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor, Boman Irani and Divyendu spoke to India Today about Peddi ahead of its release. Their conversation focused on the sports drama, their reasons for joining it and working with director Buchi Babu Sana.
Actor-politician Vijay got emotional while consoling late Tamil producer RB Choudary’s son Jiiva at his residence in Chennai.
Exit poll projections for the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections indicate a potential shift in the state's political landscape. Axis My India projects a significant debut for actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), predicting the party could secure between 98 and 120 seats with a 35 percent vote share.
Actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief Vijay visited Shiridi Sai Baba temple on April 29. Earlier, he had offered prayers at the Tiruchendur Murugan temple.
In this special show on assembly elections, we break down for you the big players of Tamil Nadu, what's at stake, and what makes this election so interesting.
The 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections signal a potential shift from traditional bipolar politics toward a multi-cornered contest. The entry of actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam targets young voters, threatening established vote banks and the anti-incumbency landscape.
