Category: Exclusive

Anupam Kher returns to the director’s chair after more than two decades with Tanvi: The Great, releasing in theatres on July 18. The film stars Shubhangi Dutt in a stunning debut alongside Anupam Kher, Pallavi Joshi, Jackie Shroff, Boman Irani, Arvind Swamy, Nassar, and a special cameo by Iain Glen. Far from being a loud, emotionally manipulative film, Tanvi: The Great gently and thoughtfully explores themes of autism, familial bonds, and military life—without ever resorting to melodrama or nationalism. A Story That Whispers, But Resonates At its core, Tanvi: The Great isn’t just a film—it’s an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. With quiet grace, it navigates sensitive themes, choosing subtlety over spectacle. Set against the serene military backdrop of Lansdowne, the story follows young Tanvi, a girl on the autism spectrum, and her evolving relationship with her grandfather, Colonel Raina, played by Anupam Kher. The film never tries to shout to be heard. Instead, it uses silences, glances, and heartfelt moments to connect. It speaks of the Indian Army without fanfare, and of autism without condescension—its strength lies in its simplicity. Performances that Breathe Life into the Film The soul of the film is Shubhangi Dutt, whose portrayal of Tanvi is both raw and radiant. She doesn’t merely act—she is Tanvi. Anupam Kher’s performance as the initially stern but slowly softening Colonel Raina is filled with nuance and warmth. Jackie Shroff leaves an impression in a short but powerful role as Brigadier Joshi, while Arvind Swamy’s portrayal of Major Srinivasan—haunted by his past—adds emotional depth. Boman Irani’s Raza Saab brings a lyrical warmth to the narrative, and Nassar’s brief appearance in the climax adds quiet intensity. A surprise cameo by Game of Thrones star Iain Glen brings a touch of global flair, without distracting from the story’s heart. Emotional Intelligence at Its Core What truly sets Tanvi: The Great apart is its emotional intelligence. It doesn’t spoon-feed its audience or engineer tears—it trusts viewers to feel. Moments like Tanvi calling her grandfather “Dadu” for the first time, or the understated revelation that she is the daughter of a man who once saved Major Srinivasan’s life, are deeply moving because they’re so honestly portrayed. More than a story of war or sacrifice, Tanvi: The Great is a story of connection—between generations, between friends, and between those who unexpectedly become family. It’s a film that speaks softly, but its voice echoes powerfully.

Legendary Tamil filmmaker and actor Velu Prabhakaran passed away on Friday, July 18, at a hospital in Chennai. He was 67. The acclaimed director, known for pushing boundaries with bold themes of atheism, caste, and sexuality in Tamil cinema, had been battling a prolonged illness and was admitted to the ICU a day prior to his death. He was on ventilator support. Prabhakaran’s mortal remains will be kept for public homage at his residence in Valasaravakkam, Chennai, from Saturday evening to Sunday afternoon. A private cremation ceremony with close family and friends will take place on Sunday evening. A Pioneering Voice in Tamil Cinema Born on May 6, 1957, Velu Prabhakaran began his journey in the film industry as a cinematographer. He made his directorial debut with the 1989 horror film Nalaya Manithan. Known for his fearless and unconventional storytelling, he went on to helm several thought-provoking films such as Puratchikkaaran, Asuran (1995), Rajali, Kadavul, Sivan, and Puthiya Aatchi. Among his notable and controversial works are Oru Iyakkunarin Kadhal Diary, Kadhal Kadhai, and Adhisa Manithan. His storytelling often stirred debate for its socio-political undertones and treatment of taboo topics. Personal Life and Later Years Velu Prabhakaran’s life, both personal and professional, was marked by controversies. He was first married to actor and filmmaker P. Jayadevi. Later, at the age of 60, he married Shirley Das, the lead actress of his film Kadhal Kadhai. Following a series of commercial failures, Prabhakaran shifted his focus from direction to acting. In recent years, he appeared in supporting roles in films like Gangs of Madras, Jango, Cadaver, Weapon, and Gajaana. One of his memorable contributions to Tamil cinema, the song Chakku Chakku Vathikuchi from Asuran (1995), found a new wave of popularity after it was reused in Lokesh Kanagaraj’s 2022 hit Vikram, starring Kamal Haasan. His final directorial venture, Yaar Antha Sir? featuring Mansoor Ali Khan, has yet to secure a theatrical release. Velu Prabhakaran leaves behind a legacy of fearless cinema that challenged norms and provoked conversations, making him a unique voice in Tamil filmmaking.

Actor Urvashi Rautela made a striking appearance at the Wimbledon Championship 2025 in London, but it wasn’t just her elegant white lace gown that stole the show — it was the four Labubu dolls she carried with her that had fans and the internet buzzing. Dressed in a sophisticated white gown with bow straps and a cinched bodice, Urvashi channelled a regal, English wedding-inspired look blended with contemporary fashion. Her outfit, paired with the quirky dolls, sparked a social media frenzy. Fans poured in with hilarious comments. One user quipped, “1st Indian woman to carry 4 Labubus,” while another joked, “Stadium me doll khadi kardiya hai kya?” The Labubu dolls — a popular collectible item — have recently become a quirky celebrity trend. Social media influencer Orry recently dressed up as a Labubu in a viral video that also featured Boney Kapoor, leaving fans amused. Khushi Kapoor has also been spotted embracing the trend, making Labubu dolls the latest accessory of the season. Meanwhile, Janhvi Kapoor and Shikhar Pahariya were seen enjoying the Wimbledon 2025 semi-finals at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 11, attending the match alongside other celebrities and sports fans. Urvashi’s Latest Film On the professional front, Urvashi was last seen in ‘Daaku Maharaj’ alongside Nandamuri Balakrishna. The action-packed entertainer, which also stars Bobby Deol and Pragya Jaiswal, performed well at the box office and further cemented Urvashi’s standing in pan-Indian cinema. As fashion and fandom collide, Urvashi’s Wimbledon moment — complete with lace and Labubus — proves once again that she knows how to make a statement, both on and off the red carpet.