The sixth day of January turned out to be a blockbuster day off-screen for the South Indian film industry, packed with a rollercoaster of announcements, denials, legal developments, and tributes that kept fans and followers thoroughly engaged.
Meenakshi Chaudhary Calls Marriage Gossip 'Stupid and Boring'
Actress Meenakshi Chaudhary took a firm stand against persistent online speculation about her impending marriage. While promoting her film Anaganaga Oka Raju, she dismissed the trending gossip as "stupid and boring." The actress issued a clear statement on her social media platforms, categorically denying the reports. In an interview with Deccan Chronicle, she expressed fatigue over the constant speculation, clarifying that she has no plans to get married and never made any such announcement. She emphasised that her team is also not validating these rumours and requested the public to focus on her professional work instead of her personal life.
Court Adjourns Censor Case for Vijay's 'Jana Nayagan'
The release of superstar Vijay's much-anticipated film Jana Nayagan, scheduled for January 9, hit a legal hurdle. The Madras High Court heard a plea from the film's producers, KVN Productions, regarding the censor certificate. The court has now adjourned the case to January 7. The producers' counsel argued that the film is fully eligible for a U/A certificate and all objections from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) have been addressed, attributing the delay to administrative reasons. The petition also raised a serious procedural concern, alleging that the CBFC's reconsideration involved an individual who had not even watched the film. The court sought a formal complaint on allegations of hurt religious sentiments and inquired if the release could be shifted to January 10, leaving fans in suspense about the final release date.
First Review Heaps Praise on Vijay's Performance
Amidst the legal tussle, the first informal review of Jana Nayagan surfaced online, adding to the excitement. YouTuber Anthanan shared his views, dismissing rumours of it being a remake and calling it a fresh, politically charged story. He hailed Vijay's performance as one of the best in his career and described the nearly three-hour-long film as completely immersive. Key highlights he mentioned include the handling of political themes, references to MGR, Vijay singing Naan Anaiyittaal, and a gripping theatre-fire sequence. Anthanan confidently stated the film has "no chance" of failing, boosting expectations for what is touted as Vijay's swan song in cinema.
Bollywood Action in Pan-India Flick? Tiger Shroff's Cameo Buzz
In a development that thrilled pan-India cinema fans, rumours swirled about Bollywood action star Tiger Shroff making a special appearance in the upcoming Allu Arjun and Atlee collaboration, tentatively titled AA22 x A6. While the makers have maintained strict secrecy, the speculation suggests that Tiger's inclusion could bring a high-octane Bollywood-style action element to the South Indian mega-project. A leaked set picture of Allu Arjun further fuelled this buzz. If confirmed, this crossover is expected to significantly boost the film's action quotient and its appeal across the nation.
Veteran Malayalam Actor Punnapra Appachan Passes Away
The day also brought sombre news with the passing of veteran Malayalam actor Punnapra Appachan at the age of 77. The actor succumbed to internal bleeding caused by a fall. He was initially treated at Ernakulam Medical Trust Hospital before being moved to Vandanam Medical College Hospital, where he breathed his last. Appachan began his illustrious career in 1965 with the film Othenante Makan and went on to act in over a thousand films. He was widely celebrated for his powerful portrayals of negative characters, carving a unique niche in Malayalam cinema. Renowned filmmakers like Adoor Gopalakrishnan and Vinayan mourned his loss, remembering him as a true actor whose work left an indelible mark on cinema lovers for generations.
The events of January 6 perfectly captured the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the film industry, blending personal drama, professional hurdles, exciting collaborations, and heartfelt farewells into a single news cycle.
