Tamil Cinema

Indian cinema stars from various regions celebrated Diwali with family reunions and fan interactions, sharing festive moments nationwide.

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.

Amid speculation surrounding actor Dhanush's potential entry into Tamil Nadu politics, Tamil Nadu Congress Chief Manickam Tagore has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh of executing 'Operation D' from Delhi to capture AIADMK's traditional cinema-oriented voter base. Speaking on the political developments, Tagore alleged that Union Home Minister Amit Shah is controlling operations remotely to create confusion in the state after earlier attempts involving Rajinikanth. He labelled the move as the BJP's Plan D. While television actor Adhav Arjuna of TVK welcomed new entrants, noting political fatigue with DMK, Congress claimed the Delhi-backed strategy aims to hijack AIADMK's space. Though Dhanush has not officially declared a political plunge, his recent fan club conversions into social movements have triggered intense debate across party lines.

A huge crowd of enthusiastic fans gathered in Coimbatore today to catch a glimpse of actor Trisha Krishnan. Fans cheered loudly and went wild as Trisha made her public appearance in the city, prompting calls for a massive round of applause from those present at the gathering.

A veteran music composer has passed away at the age of 76 at a private hospital in Chennai due to health issues. Having made a debut in 1986, the composer scored music for over 400 films across Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam cinema. Known for scoring iconic themes and tracks for leading film stars, the composer maintained decades of close collaboration within the film industry. Tributes and condolences were offered by political leaders and cinema personalities, with industry members paying their last respects.

A debate on whether Tamil Nadu politics is witnessing a structural transformation beyond traditional Dravidian parties, featuring political analyst Dr Sumanth C. Raman and senior journalist Shekhar Iyer. Dr Raman argued that neither actor Dhanush nor former state BJP chief Annamalai match the cinematic mass appeal commanded by TVK chief Vijay. Emphasising the political landscape, Dr Raman remarked, 'Vijay owes his office to the DMK and its ruinous governance of five years.' Shekhar Iyer noted that Annamalai's initial momentum and social media drive had plateaued, leaving him unable to sustain his base for civic polls. The panellists examined whether actors such as Dhanush and Sivakarthikeyan can successfully convert fan associations into viable political vehicles, highlighting the critical role played by caste coalitions, minority backing, and women voters in deciding electoral outcomes across Tamil Nadu.

Fans gathered in huge numbers at Kasie Theatre to celebrate the worldwide release of Rajinikanth's film Jailer 2. Admirers described the superstar's 51-year career and his ability to inspire multiple generations even at the age of seventy-five. Moviegoers highlighted their family traditions of attending first-day-first-shows since films like Annamalai and Chandramukhi, calling the superstar a powerhouse whose unmatched aura never rests. Fans expressed strong excitement for director Nelson Dilipkumar's sequel, sharing anticipation to witness the actor in another avatar on the big screen.

A recent fan club meeting addressed by Kollywood actor Sivakarthikeyan has triggered speculation regarding his potential entry into Tamil Nadu politics. Fan members gathered in white shirts and khaki or black trousers, mirroring traditional political gatherings in southern India. During his address to administrators of the Sivakarthikeyan Narpani Iyakkam, the actor cited iconic figures such as Dr MGR, Captain Vijayakanth, Ratan Tata, and Mother Teresa, urging attendees to serve society and transform lives without regard to caste or region. The development follows a similar public address by actor Dhanush, drawing parallels to Vijay's political trajectory. While neither Sivakarthikeyan nor Dhanush has formally declared political ambitions, political observers in Tamil Nadu are assessing whether new cinema entrants could crowd an active field featuring key leaders, looking ahead toward future state assembly elections.

Speaking at the India Today Conclave, actor Amala Paul discussed navigating stereotypes, taking creative risks, and choosing unconventional cinema throughout her career. Reflecting on her bold role in Aadai, she looked back at her younger self and noted, "Bro, you had guts," sharing that she needed strong creative trust with her director before taking up vulnerable parts. Addressing the representation of female actors in superstar-driven film industries, Paul emphasised, "I believe that it's through her craft," stating that dedicated preparation and strong performances allow actresses to make their presence felt. She also highlighted how Malayalam cinema stands out due to rooted realism and fearless storytelling. Additionally, Paul opened up about taking a conscious break for motherhood, finding emotional balance, and returning to cinema as more women claim substantial space across Indian industries.

Fans of actor Ajith Kumar organised a meeting across various districts in Tamil Nadu to launch a political party, projecting the actor as the chief minister candidate for 2031. Supporters displayed banners, performed rituals, and announced a car as the proposed party symbol alongside releasing a flag. The group also articulated political stances, including opposition to the NEET examination. However, representatives and sources close to the actor clarified that Ajith Kumar has no connection to the initiative and has previously maintained a clear stance against joining politics or endorsing any political outfits. The actor's team maintained complete unawareness of the unauthorized gathering and the use of the actor's image or racing car visuals for political activities.

A debate has emerged over actor Vijay Sethupathi's remarks as the host of Tamil Bigg Boss, with comments on leadership and accountability being interpreted by many as subtle political commentary. Broadcaster Vijay TV issued a statement clarifying that the comments had no connection to politics and were purely fictional. Vijay Sethupathi has not commented on the matter.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has criticised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay over his comments in the legislative assembly, alleging that cinema dialogues will not resolve issues faced by the public. The opposition questioned the government regarding the law and order situation, drug abuse, and rising crimes, including over 400 reported sexual assault cases and child murders. The criticism followed Chief Minister Vijay asking opposition members not to stage walkouts when he responds to queries in the House. Opposition Leader Udhayanidhi Stalin had earlier raised allegations concerning governance and public safety. BJP leader Nainar Nagendran stated that the Chief Minister should address critical matters concerning crime rather than resorting to cinematic rhetoric, while the assembly prepares for further debate on the state's law and order situation.

In an exclusive conversation with India Today's Rajdeep Sardesai, BJP leader, actor, and former National Commission for Women (NCW) member Khushbu Sundar expressed outrage over political remarks directed at actor Trisha, describing them as crude and repulsive.

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.

The Tamil Nadu government has rejected the three-language formula proposed under the National Education Policy, reaffirming its commitment to a two-language system.

The Tamil Nadu government faces political turbulence as Chief Minister Vijay appoints a personal astrologer as an Officer on Special Duty, drawing criticism over administrative credentials. Ahead of a crucial assembly floor test, thirty rebel AIADMK MLAs led by S.P. Velumani and C.V. Shanmugham have pledged support to the TVK-led government, officially severing ties with the BJP. During the session, Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin reiterated his controversial stance on Sanatana Dharma. Administratively, the state announced the closure of seven hundred liquor shops near schools and temples, alongside new bans on political hoardings and the creation of women's safety task forces. In Kerala, a leadership struggle for the Chief Minister post has emerged between K.C. Venugopal and V.D. Satheesan following the UDF election victory. Meanwhile, in Telangana, a POCSO case was filed against Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar's son, Bandi Sai Bhagirath. The broadcast also confirmed the return of actor Mohanlal for the third installment of the Drishyam film franchise.

The Axis My India exit poll projected a massive victory for Tamil superstar Vijay's newly formed political party TVK in the just concluded Tamil Nadu assembly elections.

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.

In an interview with India Today, film director and critic K Hariharan discusses actor Vijay's entry into politics and upcoming Tamil Nadu elections. Hariharan states that Vijay cannot immediately replicate the political success of former Chief Minister MGR.

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.