The fifth of January proved to be a day of significant activity and mixed emotions for the South Indian film fraternity. Social media platforms were flooded with updates ranging from somber news of a veteran's passing to glamorous celebrity sightings and reassuring health bulletins, capturing the full spectrum of life in the spotlight.
A Sombre Farewell to a Veteran
The Malayalam film industry was plunged into mourning with the passing of actor and veteran production controller Kannan Pattambi. He died at 11.40 pm on Sunday, as confirmed by his elder brother, filmmaker Major Ravi, through an emotional Facebook post. Major Ravi also shared that the last rites would be conducted at 4 pm on Monday at their family residence in Nhangattiri, Pattambi.
Kannan Pattambi was a respected figure who served the Malayalam film industry for over three decades as a production controller, earning a reputation as one of the most reliable professionals in his field. He also had a stint in acting, appearing in 23 films, predominantly in supporting roles, leaving behind a legacy of dedication.
Airport Glamour & Fan Frenzy
In contrast to the grief, airports became hotspots for fan excitement as two high-profile couples returned from their New Year getaways. Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, the Dear Comrade co-stars perpetually surrounded by wedding rumours, were spotted at the terminal under tight security.
Vijay led the way in an all-black ensemble with a mask, while Rashmika followed in a baggy black jacket and grey pants. The duo avoided media interactions, heading straight to their car, but their brief appearance was enough to send the internet into a tizzy, with fans flooding social media with heart emojis and dubbing them a "super jodi."
Similarly, newlyweds Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipala were also captured at the airport, looking relaxed and cheerful. Naga Chaitanya sported white denim joggers and a white T-shirt, while Sobhita chose a loose white-grey T-shirt with blue pants. The couple, who tied the knot in a traditional Telugu ceremony on December 4, 2024, after dating for nearly one and a half years, continue to be celebrated as Hyderabad's style icons for their effortless fashion sense.
Health Update & Industry Praise
In a piece of reassuring news, veteran Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja is reported to be in stable condition under ICU care at a Chennai hospital. He was admitted for a lung infection. A medical bulletin from MGM Healthcare stated he is receiving appropriate treatment for associated liver and kidney complications under the supervision of critical care specialists.
The bulletin clarified that while his condition is stable, he continues to require expert monitoring in the critical care unit. Doctors added that he is responding well to treatment, offering much-needed relief to his well-wishers across the industry.
Meanwhile, actor-director Rishab Shetty took to social media to praise upcoming film trailers. He hailed the trailer of Vijay's Jana Nayagan as "on fire," appreciating its blend of emotion, power, and politics, particularly Vijay's role as a principled police officer. He also commended the film's sound design and music. Additionally, Shetty described the teaser for Parasakthi as "brilliant," extending his best wishes to its team including Sivakarthikeyan, Ravi Mohan, Sudha Kongara, and Atharvaa Murali.
