Political heavyweights in Tamil Nadu cast votes as polling begins

<p>Political heavyweights including actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth, Congress leader and former finance minister P Chidambaram,&nbsp;Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan,&nbsp;Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palanisamy and&nbsp;Kiran Bedi&nbsp;among others cast their votes minutes after polling began in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on Thursday.</p>

<p>Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan and his daughter Shruti Haasan cast their votes at Alwarpet Corporation School in Chennai to cast their votes while Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palanisamy cast his vote at a polling station in Edappadi, Selam.</p>

<p>Kiran Bedi, Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, exercised her franchise at a polling station in Puducherry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rajinikanth cast his vote at the polling station in Stella Maris College, in Chennai Central parliamentary constituency while P Chidambaram exercised his franchise a polling station in Karaikudi, Sivaganga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nalini Chidambaram, Karti Chidambaram and his wife Srinidi Rangarajan also cast their vote at the same polling station in Karaikudi.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tamil Nadu: Actor turned politician Rajinikanth casts his vote at the polling station in Stella Maris College, in Chennai Central parliamentary constituency. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/NfD3llN4J1">pic.twitter.com/NfD3llN4J1</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1118692991978352646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Polling began Thursday morning for 95 Lok Sabha seats spread across 11 states and the union territory of Puducherry with Tamil Nadu witnessing contest in 38 constituencies.</p>

<p>Voting was also underway in 35 assembly constituencies in Odisha and in 18 assembly seats in Tamil Nadu.</p>

<p>Prominent faces in the fray in the Lok Sabha contest are Union ministers Jitendra Singh, Jual Oram, Sadananda Gowda and Pon Radhakrishnan; former prime minister H D Deve Gowda; DMK's Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja and Kanimozhi; Congress leaders Verappa Moily and Raj Babbar; National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and BJP's Hema Malini.</p>

<p>Over 15.80 crore voters will decide the fate of the 1,600-odd contestants.<br />
In Tamil Nadu, polling is being held in 38 of the 39 Lok Sabha seats. Polling in Vellore Lok Sabha seat was cancelled Tuesday by the Election Commission following the recovery of a huge amount of cash allegedly from an associate of a DMK leader recently.</p>

<p>The EC also announced postponement of polling in Tripura (East) Lok Sabha seat to the third phase on April 23, saying the prevailing law-and-order situation there is not conducive for holding free and fair polls.</p>

<p>Besides Tamil Nadu, polling is being held in 14 seats in Karnataka, 10 in Maharashtra, eight in Uttar Pradesh, five each in Assam, Bihar and Odisha, three each in Chhattisgarh and West Bengal, two in Jammu and Kashmir and one seat each in Manipur and Puducherry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from PTI)</em></p>


Political heavyweights including actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth, Congress leader and former finance minister P Chidambaram, Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan, Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palanisamy and Kiran Bedi among others cast their votes minutes after polling began in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on Thursday.

Political heavyweights including actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth, Congress leader and former finance minister P Chidambaram, Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan, Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palanisamy and Kiran Bedi among others cast their votes minutes after polling began in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on Thursday. Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan and his daughter Shruti Haasan cast their votes at Alwarpet Corporation School in Chennai to cast their votes while Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palanisamy cast his vote at a polling station in Edappadi, Selam. Kiran Bedi, Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, exercised her franchise at a polling station in Puducherry. Rajinikanth cast his vote at the polling station in Stella Maris College, in Chennai Central parliamentary constituency while P Chidambaram exercised his franchise a polling station in Karaikudi, Sivaganga. Nalini Chidambaram, Karti Chidambaram and his wife Srinidi Rangarajan also cast their vote at the same polling station in Karaikudi. Tamil Nadu: Actor turned politician Rajinikanth casts his vote at the polling station in Stella Maris College, in Chennai Central parliamentary constituency. #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/NfD3llN4J1 — ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2019 × Polling began Thursday morning for 95 Lok Sabha seats spread across 11 states and the union territory of Puducherry with Tamil Nadu witnessing contest in 38 constituencies. Voting was also underway in 35 assembly constituencies in Odisha and in 18 assembly seats in Tamil Nadu. Prominent faces in the fray in the Lok Sabha contest are Union ministers Jitendra Singh, Jual Oram, Sadananda Gowda and Pon Radhakrishnan; former prime minister H D Deve Gowda; DMK's Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja and Kanimozhi; Congress leaders Verappa Moily and Raj Babbar; National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and BJP's Hema Malini. Over 15.80 crore voters will decide the fate of the 1,600-odd contestants. In Tamil Nadu, polling is being held in 38 of the 39 Lok Sabha seats. Polling in Vellore Lok Sabha seat was cancelled Tuesday by the Election Commission following the recovery of a huge amount of cash allegedly from an associate of a DMK leader recently. The EC also announced postponement of polling in Tripura (East) Lok Sabha seat to the third phase on April 23, saying the prevailing law-and-order situation there is not conducive for holding free and fair polls. Besides Tamil Nadu, polling is being held in 14 seats in Karnataka, 10 in Maharashtra, eight in Uttar Pradesh, five each in Assam, Bihar and Odisha, three each in Chhattisgarh and West Bengal, two in Jammu and Kashmir and one seat each in Manipur and Puducherry. (With inputs from PTI)

Political heavyweights in Tamil Nadu cast their votes as polling begins 

<p>The much anticipated first look of Rajinikanth's 167th flick 'Darbar' is out and the film goes on floors from tomorrow in Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be directed by AR Murugadoss while the music director will be 'Kolaveri' fame Anirudh Ravichander. Nayanthara who is regarded as the 'Lady Superstar' in the Tamil industry will be playing the female lead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While this film is Rajini's first outing with AR Murugadoss, it will bring back the on-screen pair of Rajini and Nayanthara after 11 years. They have done films such as ‘Chandramukhi’, ‘Kuselan’ and ‘Sivaji the boss’.</p>

<p>‘Darbar’ is bankrolled by Lyca productions and this also makes it Rajini's second association with the production house after the 2018 magnum opus ‘2.0’ that is India's most expensive film and also the first time that Rajini enthralled his fans in 3D.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Santhosh Sivan will be cranking the camera for this film and the last time he shot a Rajini film was 28 years ago. This is also the third time that Santhosh Sivan will be teaming up with Murugadoss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rumours have been doing the rounds that Rajini's next could be a cop flick and if the first look is anything to go by, Rajini will certainly be donning the Khaki.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The poster drops enough hints including that of weapons, handcuffs, IPS insignia, the police cap and belt, and also a police hound, set in the background of the Gateway of India. To top it all, Rajini is seen sporting a menacing smile and what looks like a salt-and-pepper look.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You decide whether you want me to be good bad or worse" is a striking punch dialogue that makes an appearance on the poster, hinting that this could be a fans delight and a typical Superstar film.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rajini had a great run at the box office in late 2018 and also early 2019 with two releases- ‘2.0’ and ‘Petta’ in quick succession. Both the films were massive hits with 2.0 becoming the highest grossing Indian film ever. ‘2.0’ had Rajini playing the roles of scientist Vaseegaran and Chitti the robot. Whereas in ‘Petta’, Rajini played a hostel warden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The film is expected to have a Pongal release in 2020.&nbsp;</p>


The much anticipated first look of Rajinikanth's 167th flick 'Darbar' is out and the film goes on floors from tomorrow in Mumbai. It will be directed by AR Murugadoss while the music director will be 'Kolaveri' fame Anirudh Ravichander.

The much anticipated first look of Rajinikanth's 167th flick 'Darbar' is out and the film goes on floors from tomorrow in Mumbai. It will be directed by AR Murugadoss while the music director will be 'Kolaveri' fame Anirudh Ravichander. Nayanthara who is regarded as the 'Lady Superstar' in the Tamil industry will be playing the female lead. While this film is Rajini's first outing with AR Murugadoss, it will bring back the on-screen pair of Rajini and Nayanthara after 11 years. They have done films such as ‘Chandramukhi’, ‘Kuselan’ and ‘Sivaji the boss’. ‘Darbar’ is bankrolled by Lyca productions and this also makes it Rajini's second association with the production house after the 2018 magnum opus ‘2.0’ that is India's most expensive film and also the first time that Rajini enthralled his fans in 3D. Santhosh Sivan will be cranking the camera for this film and the last time he shot a Rajini film was 28 years ago. This is also the third time that Santhosh Sivan will be teaming up with Murugadoss. Rumours have been doing the rounds that Rajini's next could be a cop flick and if the first look is anything to go by, Rajini will certainly be donning the Khaki. The poster drops enough hints including that of weapons, handcuffs, IPS insignia, the police cap and belt, and also a police hound, set in the background of the Gateway of India. To top it all, Rajini is seen sporting a menacing smile and what looks like a salt-and-pepper look. "You decide whether you want me to be good bad or worse" is a striking punch dialogue that makes an appearance on the poster, hinting that this could be a fans delight and a typical Superstar film. Rajini had a great run at the box office in late 2018 and also early 2019 with two releases- ‘2.0’ and ‘Petta’ in quick succession. Both the films were massive hits with 2.0 becoming the highest grossing Indian film ever. ‘2.0’ had Rajini playing the roles of scientist Vaseegaran and Chitti the robot. Whereas in ‘Petta’, Rajini played a hostel warden. The film is expected to have a Pongal release in 2020.

First look of Rajinikanth's cop film 'Darbar' is finally out

<p>Superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday clarified his stance over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/national-security-is-bjps-sankalp-as-party-manifesto-vows-to-repeal-articles-370-35a-and-end-left-wing-extremism-208930">Bharatiya Janata Party's election manifesto</a> that was released yesterday.</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters outside his Chennai residence, Rajinikanth termed the mention of linking rivers in the manifesto as a "welcome move".</p>

<p>"In the manifesto that the BJP released yesterday they have said that they would link the country’s rivers and they would appoint a committee for the same, that is a welcome move. With God’s blessings and people’s support, (we don’t know what result they will give) if the NDA front forms a government at the central level, they should first link all the rivers in the country, " he said.</p>

<p>Rajini also added that, if that (river-linking) alone is done half the poverty in the country can be eradicated, crores of people can be employed, farmers lives and condition can be improved. "Hence, I request them to implement it".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He, however, ended on a cautious note, and said, “Please don’t mistake me, this a very sensitive time (election season), I don’t wish to speak anything further.”</p>

<p>Rajinikanth who was to leave for Mumbai, where his latest film ‘Darbar’ is to go on floors from tomorrow, further recollected that he had been a long time supporter of the project to link India’s rivers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It was the dream of our Late Prime Minister AB Vajpayee. When he was the prime minister I had met him once and discussed with him about the same. Since it was a big project I also requested him to name it Bhageeratha Yojana, which he liked very much and smiled. Bhageeratham means making the impossible possible, he said.</p>

<p>When asked about his political stance, Rajini said that it was as mentioned earlier and it remains unchanged.</p>

<p>In a statement issued in February this year, Rajini had mentioned that he or his party will not contest the Lok Sabha polls and that their party’s aim would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls that are slated for 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Responding to questions about him backing fellow veteran actor Kamal Hassan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam, Rajini said, “I don’t wish to speak anything about this anymore. Kindly don’t blow up this issue and spoil our friendship”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While he ducked the question pertaining to Kamal Hassan’s party and his support for it, Rajini spoke at length about his admiration for the project to link India’s rivers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But there seems to be a larger context to what Rajini has spoken. In the statement that he issued on February 17, he had mentioned that “Water shortage is the main issue that Tamil Nadu faces. Ahead of the upcoming polls I lovingly request you to analyse, think and vote for a decisive majority at the national level, which you think could solve the water woes of Tamil Nadu and introduce adequate schemes to bring a permanent solution.”</p>

<p>Despite Rajini not contesting in the upcoming polls, his words could certainly be of significance for millions of his fans who are to cast their vote.</p>


Superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday clarified his stance over Bharatiya Janata Party's election manifesto that was released yesterday. Speaking to reporters outside his Chennai residence, Rajinikanth termed the mention of linking rivers in the manifesto as a "welcome move".

Superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday clarified his stance over Bharatiya Janata Party's election manifesto that was released yesterday. Speaking to reporters outside his Chennai residence, Rajinikanth termed the mention of linking rivers in the manifesto as a "welcome move". "In the manifesto that the BJP released yesterday they have said that they would link the country’s rivers and they would appoint a committee for the same, that is a welcome move. With God’s blessings and people’s support, (we don’t know what result they will give) if the NDA front forms a government at the central level, they should first link all the rivers in the country, " he said. Rajini also added that, if that (river-linking) alone is done half the poverty in the country can be eradicated, crores of people can be employed, farmers lives and condition can be improved. "Hence, I request them to implement it". He, however, ended on a cautious note, and said, “Please don’t mistake me, this a very sensitive time (election season), I don’t wish to speak anything further.” Rajinikanth who was to leave for Mumbai, where his latest film ‘Darbar’ is to go on floors from tomorrow, further recollected that he had been a long time supporter of the project to link India’s rivers. “It was the dream of our Late Prime Minister AB Vajpayee. When he was the prime minister I had met him once and discussed with him about the same. Since it was a big project I also requested him to name it Bhageeratha Yojana, which he liked very much and smiled. Bhageeratham means making the impossible possible, he said. When asked about his political stance, Rajini said that it was as mentioned earlier and it remains unchanged. In a statement issued in February this year, Rajini had mentioned that he or his party will not contest the Lok Sabha polls and that their party’s aim would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls that are slated for 2021. Responding to questions about him backing fellow veteran actor Kamal Hassan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam, Rajini said, “I don’t wish to speak anything about this anymore. Kindly don’t blow up this issue and spoil our friendship”. While he ducked the question pertaining to Kamal Hassan’s party and his support for it, Rajini spoke at length about his admiration for the project to link India’s rivers. But there seems to be a larger context to what Rajini has spoken. In the statement that he issued on February 17, he had mentioned that “Water shortage is the main issue that Tamil Nadu faces. Ahead of the upcoming polls I lovingly request you to analyse, think and vote for a decisive majority at the national level, which you think could solve the water woes of Tamil Nadu and introduce adequate schemes to bring a permanent solution.” Despite Rajini not contesting in the upcoming polls, his words could certainly be of significance for millions of his fans who are to cast their vote.

If NDA wins they should first implement river-linking project: Rajinikanth

<p>Rajinikanth's influence is not just restricted to India alone. Filmmaker Joe Russo- one half of the Russo Brothers- the directors of 'Avengers: Endgame'- has revealed that how he was influenced Rajini's 2010 blockbuster 'Robot' and wanted to have a similar climax for the film 'Avengers: Age of Ultron'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"'Robot' almost influenced the climatic moments in 'Avengers: Age of Ultron'... In one of the final scenes all the Ultrons were supposed to form a large Ultron and Avengers were set to fight that but the sequence got cut for time. It was this close. I was inspired directly by 'Robot'," said the director while addressing the press in Mumbai on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russo is in India <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/avengers-endgame-director-joe-russo-arrives-in-india-to-launch-ar-rahmans-anthem-for-the-film-207114">to promote his upcoming film 'Avengers: Endgame' </a>which he co-directed with his brother Anthony Russo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The filmmaker seemed to be quite impressed by Indian films and revealed how he is in talks with Priyanka Chopra for a project.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 47-year-old filmmaker, who is known for giving Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) a grounded tone along with his brother Anthony Russo, finds Priyanka "fantastic" and would love to work with her.</p>

<p>"Priyanka is transitioning into global status now. She is fantastic... (I would) Love to work with her... I am potentially talking to Priyanka for something. I am not going to say what it is," Russo said in a group interview here.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige had said that they are planning to make a standalone on superhero Ms Marvel aka Kamala Khan. After the news broke, many fans on social media expressed their desire to see Priyanka playing the character of Marvel's first Muslim superhero.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The filmmaker said as an action director, Indian films like 'Dabangg' series were an interesting watch for him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm an action director so I saw 'Dabangg' many years ago. I still have to see 'Dabangg 2'. I thought the camera work was great in those movies. The tone and energy is also great. So, I certainly know Salman Khan," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russo also said that how it was important to promote the film in India and Marvel has a strong fan base in the country. "There was a recording of an Indian audience watching the 'Infinity War' and the moment Thor lands, the cheers sounded like a football stadium. We used to play that recording whenever we would get tired (working) on 'Endgame' because it took us two years to make that movie.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We would just play that recording and get reinspired.This response from the audience is why we make these movies. We know there is an excited fanbase here."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russo added that if Marvel planned&nbsp;to introduce an Indian superhero, he would bat for a Bollywood star to play the part.&nbsp;"I will pick Bollywood stars to play Indian superheroes. I think moving forward, you are going to see a really diverse Marvel universe.&nbsp;It is really important for all the audiences around the world because these movies are so global. They should be able to identify with a character on the screen. I think you are going to see that really soon," the filmmaker said.</p>

<p>'Avengers: Endgame' marks the final film within the Marvel Cinematic Universe's current generation. It comprises 22 films, including 'Spider-Man: Homecoming' and recently released 'Captain Marvel'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The movie features an ensemble cast of Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Paul Rudd, Brie Larson, Karen Gillan, Danai Gurira, Bradley Cooper, Tessa Thompson and Josh Brolin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The film will release in India in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu, with a special <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/presenting-ar-rahmans-marvel-anthem-from-the-film-avengers-endgame-207331">theme song composed by music maestro AR Rahman.</a></p>


Rajinikanth's influence is not just restricted to India alone. Filmmaker Joe Russo- one half of the Russo Brothers- the directors of 'Avengers: Endgame'- has revealed that how he was influenced Rajini's 2010 blockbuster 'Robot' and wanted to have a similar climax for the film 'Avengers: Age of Ultron'.

Rajinikanth's influence is not just restricted to India alone. Filmmaker Joe Russo- one half of the Russo Brothers- the directors of 'Avengers: Endgame'- has revealed that how he was influenced Rajini's 2010 blockbuster 'Robot' and wanted to have a similar climax for the film 'Avengers: Age of Ultron'. "'Robot' almost influenced the climatic moments in 'Avengers: Age of Ultron'... In one of the final scenes all the Ultrons were supposed to form a large Ultron and Avengers were set to fight that but the sequence got cut for time. It was this close. I was inspired directly by 'Robot'," said the director while addressing the press in Mumbai on Monday. Russo is in India to promote his upcoming film 'Avengers: Endgame' which he co-directed with his brother Anthony Russo. The filmmaker seemed to be quite impressed by Indian films and revealed how he is in talks with Priyanka Chopra for a project. The 47-year-old filmmaker, who is known for giving Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) a grounded tone along with his brother Anthony Russo, finds Priyanka "fantastic" and would love to work with her. "Priyanka is transitioning into global status now. She is fantastic... (I would) Love to work with her... I am potentially talking to Priyanka for something. I am not going to say what it is," Russo said in a group interview here. Last year, Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige had said that they are planning to make a standalone on superhero Ms Marvel aka Kamala Khan. After the news broke, many fans on social media expressed their desire to see Priyanka playing the character of Marvel's first Muslim superhero. The filmmaker said as an action director, Indian films like 'Dabangg' series were an interesting watch for him. "I'm an action director so I saw 'Dabangg' many years ago. I still have to see 'Dabangg 2'. I thought the camera work was great in those movies. The tone and energy is also great. So, I certainly know Salman Khan," he added. Russo also said that how it was important to promote the film in India and Marvel has a strong fan base in the country. "There was a recording of an Indian audience watching the 'Infinity War' and the moment Thor lands, the cheers sounded like a football stadium. We used to play that recording whenever we would get tired (working) on 'Endgame' because it took us two years to make that movie. "We would just play that recording and get reinspired.This response from the audience is why we make these movies. We know there is an excited fanbase here." Russo added that if Marvel planned to introduce an Indian superhero, he would bat for a Bollywood star to play the part. "I will pick Bollywood stars to play Indian superheroes. I think moving forward, you are going to see a really diverse Marvel universe. It is really important for all the audiences around the world because these movies are so global. They should be able to identify with a character on the screen. I think you are going to see that really soon," the filmmaker said. 'Avengers: Endgame' marks the final film within the Marvel Cinematic Universe's current generation. It comprises 22 films, including 'Spider-Man: Homecoming' and recently released 'Captain Marvel'. The movie features an ensemble cast of Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Paul Rudd, Brie Larson, Karen Gillan, Danai Gurira, Bradley Cooper, Tessa Thompson and Josh Brolin. The film will release in India in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu, with a special theme song composed by music maestro AR Rahman.

Rajinikanth's 'Robot' almost influenced a scene in 'Avengers: Age Of Ultron', reveals director Joe Russo

<p>Veteran Tamil filmmaker J Mahendran died on Tuesday, April 2 at his residence in Chennai.</p>

<p>Mahendran’s health became critical last week and was admitted to a hospital in Chennai.</p>

<p>His body was kept for public homage throughout the day as the final rites will be performed today evening.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news of his death was announced by the director’s son, John Mahendran. John took to Twitter and wrote: "DIRECTOR MAHENDRAN PASSED AWAY THIS MORNING.”</p>

<p>Soon after the news came out, A R Murugadoss among others paid tribute. He took to his Twitter and wrote: "It is deeply saddening to hear the demise of one of the pioneer filmmaker #Mahendran sir. You and your films live forever in our hearts sir. Rest in peace."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It is deeply saddening to hear the demise of one of the pioneer filmmaker <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mahendran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mahendran</a> sir. You and your films live forever in our hearts sir. Rest in peace.</p>
— A.R.Murugadoss (@ARMurugadoss) <a href="https://twitter.com/ARMurugadoss/status/1112907589270949888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Director Ahmed also tweeted, "Deeply saddened to hear this..RIP #Mahendran sir. Rest in peace." Well, the Kollywood industry has lost a talented actor and director. J Mahendran was last seen on the big screen in Rajinikanth’s Petta, which was a huge hit at the box office.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deeply saddened to hear this..RIP <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mahendran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mahendran</a> sir. Rest in peace.</p>
— Director Ahmed (@Ahmed_filmmaker) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ahmed_filmmaker/status/1112916463889739776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mahendran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mahendran</a><br />
He spoke less and his films spoke more.<br />
To me his films were of great inspiration<br />
How can I forget the sleepless night I had after watching "uthripookal"<br />
May his soul rest on peace.</p>
— pcsreeram (@pcsreeram) <a href="https://twitter.com/pcsreeram/status/1112912451673088000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Veteran Tamil filmmaker J Mahendran died on Tuesday, April 2 at his residence in Chennai. Mahendran’s health became critical last week and was admitted to a hospital in Chennai.

Veteran Tamil filmmaker J Mahendran died on Tuesday, April 2 at his residence in Chennai. Mahendran’s health became critical last week and was admitted to a hospital in Chennai. His body was kept for public homage throughout the day as the final rites will be performed today evening. The news of his death was announced by the director’s son, John Mahendran. John took to Twitter and wrote: "DIRECTOR MAHENDRAN PASSED AWAY THIS MORNING.” Soon after the news came out, A R Murugadoss among others paid tribute. He took to his Twitter and wrote: "It is deeply saddening to hear the demise of one of the pioneer filmmaker #Mahendran sir. You and your films live forever in our hearts sir. Rest in peace." It is deeply saddening to hear the demise of one of the pioneer filmmaker #Mahendran sir. You and your films live forever in our hearts sir. Rest in peace. — A.R.Murugadoss (@ARMurugadoss) April 2, 2019 × Director Ahmed also tweeted, "Deeply saddened to hear this..RIP #Mahendran sir. Rest in peace." Well, the Kollywood industry has lost a talented actor and director. J Mahendran was last seen on the big screen in Rajinikanth’s Petta, which was a huge hit at the box office. Deeply saddened to hear this..RIP #Mahendran sir. Rest in peace. — Director Ahmed (@Ahmed_filmmaker) April 2, 2019 × #Mahendran He spoke less and his films spoke more. To me his films were of great inspiration How can I forget the sleepless night I had after watching "uthripookal" May his soul rest on peace. — pcsreeram (@pcsreeram) April 2, 2019 ×

Rajinikanth and others arrive at the condolence prayer meet of legendary filmmaker J Mahendran

<p>Rajinikanth paid a courtesy visit to actor-turned-politician Vijayakanth who returned to Chennai last week after receiving treatment in the United States. This comes at a time when the AIADMK and Congress are said to be making attempts to rope in the Vijayakanth-led DMDK into their fold.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Rajinikanth said that “I visited Vijayakanth to inquire about his health and wish him well. When I was unwell, Vijayakanth was the first to meet and greet me. There’s not even an iota of politics in this meeting and I have clarified my plans earlier," he added. &nbsp;</p>

<p>After announcing his intention to foray into Indian politics in late-2017, expectations have been high regarding Rajinikanth’s announcement. However, Rajinikanth recently issued a statement, saying his party would not be contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, and that their target would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls. However, Rajini’s statement urged the public to think and decide wisely about a party that could solve Tamil Nadu’s water woes and vote them into power.</p>

<p>In the last few days, Union Minister Piyush Goyal and former Tamil Nadu Congress Chief Thirunavakkarasar paid a visit to the DMDK supremo at his residence. Piyush Goyal stated that his visit was on account of a personal relationship with an old friend, but Thirunavakkarasar said that they had a conversation about elections, related developments and that he expected the captain to take a good decision.</p>

<p>This morning, Vijayakanth’s party issued a statement inviting applications from candidates who wish to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from 40 constituencies spread across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later today, actor turned politician Kamal Hassan too is expected to meet Vijayakanth. Though Rajini and Kamal are veterans of the film industry, Vijayakanth has an edge over Rajini and Kamal in terms of his experience as a politician. Popular actor Vijayakanth started the DMDK in 2005. The peak of his party’s performance was ruing the 2011 elections when they allied with Jayalalithaa’s AIADMK and won 29 of the 41 seats that they contested.&nbsp;</p>


Rajinikanth paid a courtesy visit to actor-turned-politician Vijayakanth who returned to Chennai last week after receiving treatment in the United States. This comes at a time when the AIADMK and Congress are said to be making attempts to rope in the Vijayakanth-led DMDK into their fold.

Rajinikanth paid a courtesy visit to actor-turned-politician Vijayakanth who returned to Chennai last week after receiving treatment in the United States. This comes at a time when the AIADMK and Congress are said to be making attempts to rope in the Vijayakanth-led DMDK into their fold. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Rajinikanth said that “I visited Vijayakanth to inquire about his health and wish him well. When I was unwell, Vijayakanth was the first to meet and greet me. There’s not even an iota of politics in this meeting and I have clarified my plans earlier," he added. After announcing his intention to foray into Indian politics in late-2017, expectations have been high regarding Rajinikanth’s announcement. However, Rajinikanth recently issued a statement, saying his party would not be contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, and that their target would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls. However, Rajini’s statement urged the public to think and decide wisely about a party that could solve Tamil Nadu’s water woes and vote them into power. In the last few days, Union Minister Piyush Goyal and former Tamil Nadu Congress Chief Thirunavakkarasar paid a visit to the DMDK supremo at his residence. Piyush Goyal stated that his visit was on account of a personal relationship with an old friend, but Thirunavakkarasar said that they had a conversation about elections, related developments and that he expected the captain to take a good decision. This morning, Vijayakanth’s party issued a statement inviting applications from candidates who wish to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from 40 constituencies spread across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Later today, actor turned politician Kamal Hassan too is expected to meet Vijayakanth. Though Rajini and Kamal are veterans of the film industry, Vijayakanth has an edge over Rajini and Kamal in terms of his experience as a politician. Popular actor Vijayakanth started the DMDK in 2005. The peak of his party’s performance was ruing the 2011 elections when they allied with Jayalalithaa’s AIADMK and won 29 of the 41 seats that they contested.

Rajinikanth's meeting with DMDK leader Vijayakanth didn't have even 'an iota of politics in it'

<p>Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth on Sunday said that he will not contest the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajinikanth-meets-his-forum-members-136089">upcoming parliament election</a> and added, his picture or party symbol should not be used for any election campaign or propaganda.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;"I will not be contesting in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ready-to-face-polls-even-in-six-months-rajinikanth-29915?amp">Lok Sabha elections</a>. I don't support any political party. I also ask political parties to refrain from using my pictures or Rajini Makkal Mandram’s flag for election campaigns," the actor said in a statement.</p>

<p>Rajinikanth had announced his political entry on New Year’s Eve 2018 and was expected to announce the launch of his political party last year on December 12, his birthday but superstar said that he was in no hurry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We don’t have any plan to launch the party and introduce the flag on my birthday. It will take some more time as we have to complete certain works and be ready,” Rajinikanth had said.</p>


Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth on Sunday said that he will not contest the upcoming parliament election and added, his picture or party symbol should not be used for any election campaign or propaganda.

Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth on Sunday said that he will not contest the upcoming parliament election and added, his picture or party symbol should not be used for any election campaign or propaganda. "I will not be contesting in the Lok Sabha elections. I don't support any political party. I also ask political parties to refrain from using my pictures or Rajini Makkal Mandram’s flag for election campaigns," the actor said in a statement. Rajinikanth had announced his political entry on New Year’s Eve 2018 and was expected to announce the launch of his political party last year on December 12, his birthday but superstar said that he was in no hurry. “We don’t have any plan to launch the party and introduce the flag on my birthday. It will take some more time as we have to complete certain works and be ready,” Rajinikanth had said.

Actor Rajinikanth says he will not contest upcoming Lok Sabha elections

<p>Putting an end to speculations about his plans to contest in the upcoming <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajinikanth-meets-his-forum-members-136089">Lok Sabha polls</a>, superstar Rajinikanth has issued a statement saying that he would not be contesting in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls and that their target would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The actor said that he has not offered his support to any of the parties and asked political parties to refrain from using his photo/party flag under the banner of Rajini Makkal Mandram or <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ready-to-face-polls-even-in-six-months-rajinikanth-29915?amp">Rajini Rasigar Mandram</a> (fans association) to campaign or promote any political party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Water shortage is the main issue that Tamil Nadu faces, he said in the statement. ''Ahead of the upcoming polls I lovingly request you to analyse, think and vote for a decisive majority at the national level, which you think could solve the water woes of Tamil Nadu and introduce adequate schemes to bring a permanent solution,'' the statement added.</p>

<p>Rajinikanth had announced his decision to foray into politics in late 2017, amid much cheer and fanfare. While Rajinikanth unified his fan clubs under the banner "Rajini Makkal Mandram", he did not formally launch a political party or get it registered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Actors started foraying into politics after they saw a vacuum in the Tamil Nadu political sphere after the demise of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa in late 2016. During the same period, DMK supremo M Karunanidhi was also out of active politics due to age-related issues, until his demise in August 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rajinikanth is not the only actor to have announced his political foray.&nbsp;<br />
Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan too has his political party called &nbsp;"Makkal Needhi Maiam". But Kamal is a step ahead, as he has registered his party with the election commission of India and has also started campaigning in rural areas across Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kamal has also expressed interest to contest in the Lok Sabha polls but hasn't really given further details regarding his plans or electoral alliances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All through 2018, Rajinikanth made political statements and also hinted that he had an ideological inclination towards the ruling BJP.</p>

<p>On a few occasions, he also made statements in support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These statements fuelled speculations about Rajini being the BJP's probable trump card in Tamil Nadu where on-screen idols such as MGR and Jayalalithaa have been able to convert popularity into votes.</p>

<p>Even former five-time chief minister M Karunanidhi, who was a screenwriter had used films as a medium to express his political messaging.&nbsp;</p>


Putting an end to speculations about his plans to contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, superstar Rajinikanth has issued a statement saying that he would not be contesting in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls and that their target would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls.

Putting an end to speculations about his plans to contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, superstar Rajinikanth has issued a statement saying that he would not be contesting in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls and that their target would be the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls. The actor said that he has not offered his support to any of the parties and asked political parties to refrain from using his photo/party flag under the banner of Rajini Makkal Mandram or Rajini Rasigar Mandram (fans association) to campaign or promote any political party. Water shortage is the main issue that Tamil Nadu faces, he said in the statement. ''Ahead of the upcoming polls I lovingly request you to analyse, think and vote for a decisive majority at the national level, which you think could solve the water woes of Tamil Nadu and introduce adequate schemes to bring a permanent solution,'' the statement added. Rajinikanth had announced his decision to foray into politics in late 2017, amid much cheer and fanfare. While Rajinikanth unified his fan clubs under the banner "Rajini Makkal Mandram", he did not formally launch a political party or get it registered. Actors started foraying into politics after they saw a vacuum in the Tamil Nadu political sphere after the demise of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa in late 2016. During the same period, DMK supremo M Karunanidhi was also out of active politics due to age-related issues, until his demise in August 2018. Rajinikanth is not the only actor to have announced his political foray. Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan too has his political party called "Makkal Needhi Maiam". But Kamal is a step ahead, as he has registered his party with the election commission of India and has also started campaigning in rural areas across Tamil Nadu. Kamal has also expressed interest to contest in the Lok Sabha polls but hasn't really given further details regarding his plans or electoral alliances. All through 2018, Rajinikanth made political statements and also hinted that he had an ideological inclination towards the ruling BJP. On a few occasions, he also made statements in support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These statements fuelled speculations about Rajini being the BJP's probable trump card in Tamil Nadu where on-screen idols such as MGR and Jayalalithaa have been able to convert popularity into votes. Even former five-time chief minister M Karunanidhi, who was a screenwriter had used films as a medium to express his political messaging.

Rajinikanth says he will not contest Lok Sabha polls, targets Assembly election

<p>The death of Ms Jayalalithaa, former Tamil Nadu chief minister and leader of the ADMK, has left a profound vacuum in the state’s politics. That this was followed by prolonged illness, and eventual demise, of M Karunanidhi, the supreme leader of the DMK, makes this vacuum even more disturbing. And what happens here matters as Tamil Nadu will play a crucial role in 2019 elections.</p>

<p>A question, which would have been unthinkable just a few years ago, is now doing the rounds: “Is there a political alternative for Tamil Nadu, away from the two Dravidian parties?”</p>

<p>A brief history of Tamil Nadu should be mentioned: Pre-1947: DK Party launched by Periyar. 1947-1967: Congress Party rules the state. 1967: DMK wins assembly elections. 1972: MGR leaves DMK to form the ADMK. 1987: Death of MGR, Jayalalithaa eventually takes over. 1987-2018: Political power alternates between DMK and ADMK, with the latter dominating.</p>

<p>That times change, as also the mood of the electorate, is not always appreciated by political parties. Let us trace the evolution of political ideas in Tamil Nadu during the past half-century. From 1947 to 67, when the Congress was the ruling party, the dominant political philosophy was Democratic Socialism. Between 1967 and 1972, DMK gave a new direction with the eradication of the caste system and establishing a strong Tamil identity.<br />
<br />
From 1972 to 1987, the ADMK pursued poverty alleviation and social justice. Again from 1987 to 2015, both DMK and ADMK, with the latter dominating, continued with further poverty alleviation and social justice. From 2015 till now, the ADMK effected a paradigm shift in the political narrative with the state-wide launch of the Amma canteen, which has been a big, bold attempt at food security in the state.</p>

<p>Coming up with new narratives is a big challenge that calls for imagination and foresight. Clearly, narratives do not drop from heaven. But they creep into the mind that has struggled to understand and cope with major problems. Here is a list of such problems/questions: With a million Indians entering the labour market every month, the country faces a formidable social and economic challenge, aggravated by the relentless march of technology. A problem crying out for an innovative response, such as the Congress Party’s 100-day National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme.</p>

<p>The long-held dream of linking the country’s major rivers. Where do we start and how do we go about it? Is the steady flow of subsidies from the state robbing the average citizen of his will to work? How do we counter this trend, without abandoning the core idea of social justice? Inter-state disputes are on the rise, eg. sharing of river waters. Can we not come up with an approach to such disputes that encourages spontaneous, inter-state cooperation? Should politics continue to be characterised by bitter, inter-party rivalry? Can we not move to an era of mutual respect, cooperation and power sharing? What about the monster of corruption, which seems to have buried its tentacles deep into the body politic? How do we slay this monster?</p>

<p>Tamil Nadu has witnessed much excitement lately with two superstars entering the political arena: Rajinikanth, and Kamal Haasan. That these two titans of Tamil cinema chose this precise, psychological moment to enter politics, after nearly half a century of dominance by the two Dravidian parties, points to a possible paradigm shift in the politics of this state — a discontinuity, if you like, with profound implications for the future of politics in the state.</p>

<p>The two Dravidian parties seem rather puzzled that their old slogans no longer elicit the same response as in the past. They are beginning to wonder whether there is more to political leadership than just organising protest rallies and rushing to the TV camera.</p>

<p>Tamil Nadu is at the crossroads, with a profound political vacuum blurring the vision of most players on the political stage. The state’s two major Dravidian parties seem to be discovering, rather suddenly, that their old slogans and narratives no longer have the same appeal to the electorate as in the past — a problem compounded by the entry of two titans of Tamil cinema into the political arena. Both these parties, as also others in the state’s political arena, need to re-invent themselves, and come up with new narratives, if they are to remain relevant.</p>

<p><em>(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-in-search-of-a-new-political-narrative-in-tamil-nadu-2719710">original article</a>)</em></p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)</em></p>


The death of Ms Jayalalithaa, former Tamil Nadu chief minister and leader of the ADMK, has left a profound vacuum in the state’s politics. That this was followed by prolonged illness, and eventual demise, of M Karunanidhi, the supreme leader of the DMK, makes this vacuum even more disturbing.

The death of Ms Jayalalithaa, former Tamil Nadu chief minister and leader of the ADMK, has left a profound vacuum in the state’s politics. That this was followed by prolonged illness, and eventual demise, of M Karunanidhi, the supreme leader of the DMK, makes this vacuum even more disturbing. And what happens here matters as Tamil Nadu will play a crucial role in 2019 elections. A question, which would have been unthinkable just a few years ago, is now doing the rounds: “Is there a political alternative for Tamil Nadu, away from the two Dravidian parties?” A brief history of Tamil Nadu should be mentioned: Pre-1947: DK Party launched by Periyar. 1947-1967: Congress Party rules the state. 1967: DMK wins assembly elections. 1972: MGR leaves DMK to form the ADMK. 1987: Death of MGR, Jayalalithaa eventually takes over. 1987-2018: Political power alternates between DMK and ADMK, with the latter dominating. That times change, as also the mood of the electorate, is not always appreciated by political parties. Let us trace the evolution of political ideas in Tamil Nadu during the past half-century. From 1947 to 67, when the Congress was the ruling party, the dominant political philosophy was Democratic Socialism. Between 1967 and 1972, DMK gave a new direction with the eradication of the caste system and establishing a strong Tamil identity. From 1972 to 1987, the ADMK pursued poverty alleviation and social justice. Again from 1987 to 2015, both DMK and ADMK, with the latter dominating, continued with further poverty alleviation and social justice. From 2015 till now, the ADMK effected a paradigm shift in the political narrative with the state-wide launch of the Amma canteen, which has been a big, bold attempt at food security in the state. Coming up with new narratives is a big challenge that calls for imagination and foresight. Clearly, narratives do not drop from heaven. But they creep into the mind that has struggled to understand and cope with major problems. Here is a list of such problems/questions: With a million Indians entering the labour market every month, the country faces a formidable social and economic challenge, aggravated by the relentless march of technology. A problem crying out for an innovative response, such as the Congress Party’s 100-day National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. The long-held dream of linking the country’s major rivers. Where do we start and how do we go about it? Is the steady flow of subsidies from the state robbing the average citizen of his will to work? How do we counter this trend, without abandoning the core idea of social justice? Inter-state disputes are on the rise, eg. sharing of river waters. Can we not come up with an approach to such disputes that encourages spontaneous, inter-state cooperation? Should politics continue to be characterised by bitter, inter-party rivalry? Can we not move to an era of mutual respect, cooperation and power sharing? What about the monster of corruption, which seems to have buried its tentacles deep into the body politic? How do we slay this monster? Tamil Nadu has witnessed much excitement lately with two superstars entering the political arena: Rajinikanth, and Kamal Haasan. That these two titans of Tamil cinema chose this precise, psychological moment to enter politics, after nearly half a century of dominance by the two Dravidian parties, points to a possible paradigm shift in the politics of this state — a discontinuity, if you like, with profound implications for the future of politics in the state. The two Dravidian parties seem rather puzzled that their old slogans no longer elicit the same response as in the past. They are beginning to wonder whether there is more to political leadership than just organising protest rallies and rushing to the TV camera. Tamil Nadu is at the crossroads, with a profound political vacuum blurring the vision of most players on the political stage. The state’s two major Dravidian parties seem to be discovering, rather suddenly, that their old slogans and narratives no longer have the same appeal to the electorate as in the past — a problem compounded by the entry of two titans of Tamil cinema into the political arena. Both these parties, as also others in the state’s political arena, need to re-invent themselves, and come up with new narratives, if they are to remain relevant. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

In search of a new political narrative in Tamil Nadu

<p>Rajinikanth played the perfect host as his younger daughter Soundarya got married Vishagan Vanangamudi at the Leela Palace Hotel in Chennai on Monday.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Soon after their wedding ceremony got over, the couple posed for the media who had lined up since morning to click the newlyweds.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tamil Nadu: Newly married couple Soundarya Rajinikanth and Vishagan Vanangamudi, the two tied knot at The Leela Palace hotel in Chennai today. <a href="https://t.co/2Vo6N8KTiK">pic.twitter.com/2Vo6N8KTiK</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094839253706698752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Soundarya wore a heavy embroidered pink saree for her wedding which was designed by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Btuqn94nNEa/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">✨Look 5 | Presenting to you the gorgeous bride #soundaryarajinikanth ‘s much awaited wedding #muhurtham look! Traditional Braid, Smoked out Liner &amp; a Custom Raspberry lip using a custom mix from @gerardcosmetics to compliment her stunning @abujanisandeepkhosla #kancheepuram #silksaree. Wishing the lovely couple a happy happy married life!✨💄❤️💋#prakatwork @tiethethali @wedmegoodsouth @southindianbridalfashion @southindianbrides @weddingsutra</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prakatwork/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> ✨Prakruthi Ananth 💄🎨✨</a> (@prakatwork) on <time datetime="2019-02-11T05:06:30+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Feb 10, 2019 at 9:06pm PST</time></p>
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<p>Veteran actor Rajinikanth was earlier seen arriving at the venue where his younger daughter wed the actor-businessman.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tamil Nadu: Actor Rajinikanth and other guests at The Leela Palace hotel in Chennai where his daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth is tying the knot with actor Vishagan Vanangamudi today. <a href="https://t.co/SwtLjRrouG">pic.twitter.com/SwtLjRrouG</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094800823866011648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rajinikanth`s elder son-in-law Dhanush too was seen arriving at the event wearing a white kurta.<br />
<br />
Soundarya had taken to her Twitter page to share a few moments from the pre-wedding celebrations as well.&nbsp;<br />
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She captioned the post, "Blessed &amp; grateful beyond words !!!! The three most important men in my life ... my darling father ... my angel son ... and now you my Vishagan."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Blessed &amp; grateful beyond words !!!! The three most important men in my life ... my darling father ... my angel son ... and now you my Vishagan ❤️❤️❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 <a href="https://t.co/v7Ra32oiYe">pic.twitter.com/v7Ra32oiYe</a></p>
— soundarya rajnikanth (@soundaryaarajni) <a href="https://twitter.com/soundaryaarajni/status/1094482695785132032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>This is Soundarya and Vishagan`s second marriage.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Rajinikanth`s younger daughter was earlier married to businessman R Ashwin, with whom she has a three-year-old son.<br />
<br />
Vishagan Vanangamudi, on the other hand, was married to magazine editor Kanikha Kumaran.<br />
<br />
From Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E. Palaniswami to actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan, it rained VIP guests at the wedding.</p>

<p>The list of guests included actors Mohan Babu, Vishnu Manchu, Prabhu, Vikram Prabhu, Aditi Rao Hydari, Andrea Jeremiah and Manjima Mohan among others.</p>

<p>Filmmakers P. Vasu, K.S. Ravikumar, Selvaraghavan and Kasthuri Raja also attended the nuptial.</p>


Rajinikanth played the perfect host as his younger daughter Soundarya got married Vishagan Vanangamudi at the Leela Palace Hotel in Chennai on Monday. Soon after their wedding ceremony got over, the couple posed for the media who had lined up since morning to click the newlyweds.

Rajinikanth played the perfect host as his younger daughter Soundarya got married Vishagan Vanangamudi at the Leela Palace Hotel in Chennai on Monday. Soon after their wedding ceremony got over, the couple posed for the media who had lined up since morning to click the newlyweds. Tamil Nadu: Newly married couple Soundarya Rajinikanth and Vishagan Vanangamudi, the two tied knot at The Leela Palace hotel in Chennai today. pic.twitter.com/2Vo6N8KTiK — ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2019 × Soundarya wore a heavy embroidered pink saree for her wedding which was designed by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla. View this post on Instagram ✨Look 5 | Presenting to you the gorgeous bride #soundaryarajinikanth ‘s much awaited wedding #muhurtham look! Traditional Braid, Smoked out Liner & a Custom Raspberry lip using a custom mix from @gerardcosmetics to compliment her stunning @abujanisandeepkhosla #kancheepuram #silksaree. Wishing the lovely couple a happy happy married life!✨💄❤️💋#prakatwork @tiethethali @wedmegoodsouth @southindianbridalfashion @southindianbrides @weddingsutra A post shared by ✨Prakruthi Ananth 💄🎨✨ (@prakatwork) on Feb 10, 2019 at 9:06pm PST × Veteran actor Rajinikanth was earlier seen arriving at the venue where his younger daughter wed the actor-businessman. Tamil Nadu: Actor Rajinikanth and other guests at The Leela Palace hotel in Chennai where his daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth is tying the knot with actor Vishagan Vanangamudi today. pic.twitter.com/SwtLjRrouG — ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2019 × Rajinikanth`s elder son-in-law Dhanush too was seen arriving at the event wearing a white kurta. Soundarya had taken to her Twitter page to share a few moments from the pre-wedding celebrations as well. She captioned the post, "Blessed & grateful beyond words !!!! The three most important men in my life ... my darling father ... my angel son ... and now you my Vishagan." Blessed & grateful beyond words !!!! The three most important men in my life ... my darling father ... my angel son ... and now you my Vishagan ❤️❤️❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/v7Ra32oiYe — soundarya rajnikanth (@soundaryaarajni) February 10, 2019 × This is Soundarya and Vishagan`s second marriage. Rajinikanth`s younger daughter was earlier married to businessman R Ashwin, with whom she has a three-year-old son. Vishagan Vanangamudi, on the other hand, was married to magazine editor Kanikha Kumaran. From Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E. Palaniswami to actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan, it rained VIP guests at the wedding. The list of guests included actors Mohan Babu, Vishnu Manchu, Prabhu, Vikram Prabhu, Aditi Rao Hydari, Andrea Jeremiah and Manjima Mohan among others. Filmmakers P. Vasu, K.S. Ravikumar, Selvaraghavan and Kasthuri Raja also attended the nuptial.

Rajinikanth's daughter Soundarya marries Vishagan in a grand ceremony

<p>They may be rivals on the big screen and in the political arena, but on Thursday Rajinikanth invited Kamal Haasan to his daughter Soundarya's wedding with a warm hug.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, superstar Rajinikanth invited founder of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), Kamal Haasan for his daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth`s wedding which is set to take place on 11th February at Rajinikanth's residence in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Filmmaker Soundarya Rajinikanth will wed businessman-actor Vishagan Vanangamudi whom she has been dating for the past two years. The preparations of the grand wedding are on in full swing. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/these-are-first-pictures-of-soundarya-rajinikanths-pre-wedding-celebrations-196052">Check out the first pictures from the wedding celebrations here.&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Thalaivar, who entered into politics in December 2017, is yet to launch his political party and is uncertain about contesting the Lok Sabha polls. Meanwhile, Haasan, on Thursday, said that his party is gearing up for contesting all 40 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in the coming Parliamentary polls.</p>

<p>Though the actor didn’t disclose from where is he likely to contest the election, he clearly indicated that he would not form an alliance with any `tainted` group.</p>

<p>"Our aim is to not go with any tainted group. We are preparing to contest 40 seats in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. I cannot say at this moment from where I will contest," Haasan told media persons while clearing the air with the announcement that his party MNM was indeed gearing up for contesting all 40 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in the coming Parliamentary polls.</p>

<p>Haasan had earlier said that his party would contest the Lok Sabha polls in alliance with like-minded parties.&nbsp;</p>


They may be rivals on the big screen and in the political arena, but on Thursday Rajinikanth invited Kamal Haasan to his daughter Soundarya's wedding with a warm hug.

They may be rivals on the big screen and in the political arena, but on Thursday Rajinikanth invited Kamal Haasan to his daughter Soundarya's wedding with a warm hug. According to reports, superstar Rajinikanth invited founder of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), Kamal Haasan for his daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth`s wedding which is set to take place on 11th February at Rajinikanth's residence in Chennai. Filmmaker Soundarya Rajinikanth will wed businessman-actor Vishagan Vanangamudi whom she has been dating for the past two years. The preparations of the grand wedding are on in full swing. Check out the first pictures from the wedding celebrations here. Thalaivar, who entered into politics in December 2017, is yet to launch his political party and is uncertain about contesting the Lok Sabha polls. Meanwhile, Haasan, on Thursday, said that his party is gearing up for contesting all 40 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in the coming Parliamentary polls. Though the actor didn’t disclose from where is he likely to contest the election, he clearly indicated that he would not form an alliance with any `tainted` group. "Our aim is to not go with any tainted group. We are preparing to contest 40 seats in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. I cannot say at this moment from where I will contest," Haasan told media persons while clearing the air with the announcement that his party MNM was indeed gearing up for contesting all 40 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in the coming Parliamentary polls. Haasan had earlier said that his party would contest the Lok Sabha polls in alliance with like-minded parties.

Rajinikanth invites Kamal Haasan for daughter Soundarya's wedding with a hug

South superstar Rajinikanth’s daughter Soundarya is ready to tie the knot with fiance Vishagan Vanangamudi on February 11. The ceremony is said to be a grand affair, planned by the doting father.

South superstar Rajinikanth’s daughter Soundarya is ready to tie the knot with fiance Vishagan Vanangamudi on February 11. The ceremony is said to be a grand affair, planned by the doting father. #OneWeekToGo #BrideMode #Blessed 😊😊😊🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 #VedVishaganSoundarya #Family ❤️❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/fJYkHp8J1l — soundarya rajnikanth (@soundaryaarajni) February 4, 2019 × In a pre-wedding photoshoot, Soundarya and fiance were seen smiling as a happy couple and we can’t get enough of them. The wedding will take place at Rajinikanth’s residence in Chennai. Their pre-wedding festivities will kickstart from February 9. See photos here: View this post on Instagram ❤️ #SoundaryaRajinikanth ❤️ #Vishagan A post shared by Happy Sharing By Dks (@happysharingbydks) on Feb 8, 2019 at 12:29am PST × They also hosted a pre-wedding reception at Raghavendra Kalyanamandapam in Chennai. Draped in a gorgeous blue and gold silk saree, Soundarya was seen accompanied by her fiancé Vishagan, who is dressed in a cream shirt and veshti. Pictures from the ceremony show the bride’ family members including father and actor Rajinikanth wearing a simple white kurta pyjama, sister Aishwarya and mother Latha wearing a lime green saree. View this post on Instagram ❤️ #SoundaryaRajinikanth ❤️ #Vishagan Wedding stills ❤️ A post shared by Happy Sharing By Dks (@happysharingbydks) on Feb 8, 2019 at 12:21am PST × View this post on Instagram ❤️ #SoundaryaRajinikanth ❤️ #Vishagan Wedding stills ❤️ A post shared by Happy Sharing By Dks (@happysharingbydks) on Feb 8, 2019 at 12:21am PST × Vishagan Vanangamudi is a businessman-actor. He made his acting debut in 2018 with Vanjagar Ulagam and is the son of SS Vanangamudi, Founder of Apex Laboratories Pvt Ltd., a Chennai based pharmaceutical company.

These are first pictures of Soundarya Rajinikanth’s pre-wedding celebrations

<p>Indian dairy traders have lodged a police complaint after cinema fans stole huge amounts of milk to pour on film posters for an upcoming movie to bring it good luck.</p>

<p>"Paal abhishekam" is a Hindu religious practice involving pouring milk on the idols of deities.</p>

<p>But film buffs often perform the same ritual on huge cut-outs and posters of actors, particularly in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu where temples dedicated to film stars are not uncommon.</p>

<p>Actor Silambarasan took it to a new level, however, with a recent video message asking fans to splash not just cartons but barrels of milk on posters for his new film, releasing February 1. As his message went viral, milk traders started to report large losses due to theft.</p>

<p>"Such appeals would misguide the youth and create a law and order problem in the state," said S.A. Ponnusamy, president of the Tamil Nadu Milk Dealers Employees Welfare Association.</p>

<p>The association has reported a theft of nearly 10,000 litres (2,600 US gallons) of milk in two days across the state this week.</p>

<p>The custom is particularly pronounced for Rajinikanth, a former bus conductor who became the biggest star in the history of Tamil-language cinema. He was widely credited for almost single-handedly defeating a state government in 1996 by asking his fans days before the election to vote it out.</p>

<p>Ponnusamy has been campaigning against the wasteful practice for many years, even reaching out to the film stars themselves. "This has been going on for 20 years... People consider celebrities as demigods here," he added.&nbsp;</p>


Indian dairy traders have lodged a police complaint after cinema fans stole huge amounts of milk to pour on film posters for an upcoming movie to bring it good luck.

Indian dairy traders have lodged a police complaint after cinema fans stole huge amounts of milk to pour on film posters for an upcoming movie to bring it good luck. "Paal abhishekam" is a Hindu religious practice involving pouring milk on the idols of deities. But film buffs often perform the same ritual on huge cut-outs and posters of actors, particularly in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu where temples dedicated to film stars are not uncommon. Actor Silambarasan took it to a new level, however, with a recent video message asking fans to splash not just cartons but barrels of milk on posters for his new film, releasing February 1. As his message went viral, milk traders started to report large losses due to theft. "Such appeals would misguide the youth and create a law and order problem in the state," said S.A. Ponnusamy, president of the Tamil Nadu Milk Dealers Employees Welfare Association. The association has reported a theft of nearly 10,000 litres (2,600 US gallons) of milk in two days across the state this week. The custom is particularly pronounced for Rajinikanth, a former bus conductor who became the biggest star in the history of Tamil-language cinema. He was widely credited for almost single-handedly defeating a state government in 1996 by asking his fans days before the election to vote it out. Ponnusamy has been campaigning against the wasteful practice for many years, even reaching out to the film stars themselves. "This has been going on for 20 years... People consider celebrities as demigods here," he added.

Indian fans steal milk for movie poster antics

<p>It's celebration time at superstar Rajinikanth house as the actor's younger daughter Soundarya is all set to tie the knot with actor-businessman Vishagan Vanangamudi in February. According to media reports, Soundarya and Vishagan will tie the knot on 11th February in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pre-wedding ceremonies will begin from 9th February onwards and a ceremonial puja will take place at Rajinikanth's residence in Poes Garden in the first week of February.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The wedding is expected to be large scale with the bride's elder sister, Aishwaryaa, actor Dhanush's wife, taking charge of the invitations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports state that Soundarya was seen shopping for her Soundarya trousseau at a saree store in Chennai recently. She &nbsp;got engaged to Vishagan last year.</p>

<p>This will be Soundarya and Vishagan Vanangamudi's second marriage. Soundarya was earlier married to R Ashwin from 2010-2017 and has a three-year-old son with him. Vishagan was married to magazine editor Kanikha Kumaran earlier.</p>

<p>Soundarya is an animator and a filmmaker. She has in the past directed 'Kochadaiiyaan' which featured her father and Deepika Padukone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The family has not yet confirmed the news of the wedding&nbsp;to the press.&nbsp;</p>


It's celebration time at superstar Rajinikanth house as the actor's younger daughter Soundarya is all set to tie the knot with actor-businessman Vishagan Vanangamudi in February.

It's celebration time at superstar Rajinikanth house as the actor's younger daughter Soundarya is all set to tie the knot with actor-businessman Vishagan Vanangamudi in February. According to media reports, Soundarya and Vishagan will tie the knot on 11th February in Chennai. Pre-wedding ceremonies will begin from 9th February onwards and a ceremonial puja will take place at Rajinikanth's residence in Poes Garden in the first week of February. The wedding is expected to be large scale with the bride's elder sister, Aishwaryaa, actor Dhanush's wife, taking charge of the invitations. Media reports state that Soundarya was seen shopping for her Soundarya trousseau at a saree store in Chennai recently. She got engaged to Vishagan last year. This will be Soundarya and Vishagan Vanangamudi's second marriage. Soundarya was earlier married to R Ashwin from 2010-2017 and has a three-year-old son with him. Vishagan was married to magazine editor Kanikha Kumaran earlier. Soundarya is an animator and a filmmaker. She has in the past directed 'Kochadaiiyaan' which featured her father and Deepika Padukone. The family has not yet confirmed the news of the wedding to the press.

Rajinikanth's daughter Soundarya to get married in February: Reports

<p>Rajinikanth is on a roll! Just two months after the roaring success of his last release '2.0', he is back on the big screen with 'Petta'. The actor's film, predioctably, opened to packed houses in Tamil Nadu on Thursday.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Directed by Karthik Subbaraj the film, on the first day, earned about Rs 1.12 crore from the Chennai box office alone. It is also dominating the international market of Tamil cinema.<br />
<br />
On day two the film has been doing consistant business. According to trade ananlyst, the film's actual collection and performance at the Box Office will be judged after the first week's collections are in.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a> BO - Thursday at 6 PM PST:<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Petta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Petta</a> (Tamil &amp; Telugu) - $133K from 194 locations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vishwasam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vishwasam</a> - $18K from 71 Locations</p>
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1083547965287878656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Petta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Petta</a> leads <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Viswasam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Viswasam</a> at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> City Box office on Day 1.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Petta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Petta</a> - 1.12 Crs<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Viswasam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Viswasam</a> - 0.88 Crs<br />
<br />
Both had almost 100% occupancy..<br />
<br />
The Bigger auditoriums in the 'Plexes played <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Petta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Petta</a> on Day 1..<br />
<br />
Regular weekdays 4 shows only in city limits..</p>
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1083571209403392000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Early reviews have stated that the film presents superstar Rajinikanth in an '90s avatar and fans have been lauding his performance.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The superstar meanwhile addressed reporters at his residence on Friday and credited his director for the success of the film.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"First, I express my new year and Pongal wishes to one and all. I came to know that the movie is liked by everyone. Very happy for that. The credits should go to Sun Pictures (film producer), Karthik Subbaraj (director) and his unit," Rajinikanth said.<br />
<br />
The superstar said as an actor, his utmost priority is that his films should deliver on the expectations of his fans.<br />
<br />
"My job is to make them happy. That is very important. I am happy that they are happy. As I said earlier, the credits should go to Karthik Subbaraj. He made sure that he got the best from me in every shot, every scene."<br />
<br />
'Petta' hit screens worldwide amid much fanfare Thursday with two couples choosing the occasion to tie the knot.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Produced by Sun Pictures, the music is scored by Anirudh.<br />
<br />
The film's cast also includes Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vijay Sethupathy, Simran, Trisha and actor-director Sasikumar.</p>


Rajinikanth is on a roll! Just two months after the roaring success of his last release '2.0', he is back on the big screen with 'Petta'. The actor's film, predioctably, opened to packed houses in Tamil Nadu on Thursday.

Rajinikanth is on a roll! Just two months after the roaring success of his last release '2.0', he is back on the big screen with 'Petta'. The actor's film, predioctably, opened to packed houses in Tamil Nadu on Thursday. Directed by Karthik Subbaraj the film, on the first day, earned about Rs 1.12 crore from the Chennai box office alone. It is also dominating the international market of Tamil cinema. On day two the film has been doing consistant business. According to trade ananlyst, the film's actual collection and performance at the Box Office will be judged after the first week's collections are in. #USA BO - Thursday at 6 PM PST:#Petta (Tamil & Telugu) - $133K from 194 locations #Vishwasam - $18K from 71 Locations — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) January 11, 2019 × #Petta leads #Viswasam at the #Chennai City Box office on Day 1.. #Petta - 1.12 Crs#Viswasam - 0.88 Crs Both had almost 100% occupancy.. The Bigger auditoriums in the 'Plexes played #Petta on Day 1.. Regular weekdays 4 shows only in city limits.. — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) January 11, 2019 × Early reviews have stated that the film presents superstar Rajinikanth in an '90s avatar and fans have been lauding his performance. The superstar meanwhile addressed reporters at his residence on Friday and credited his director for the success of the film. "First, I express my new year and Pongal wishes to one and all. I came to know that the movie is liked by everyone. Very happy for that. The credits should go to Sun Pictures (film producer), Karthik Subbaraj (director) and his unit," Rajinikanth said. The superstar said as an actor, his utmost priority is that his films should deliver on the expectations of his fans. "My job is to make them happy. That is very important. I am happy that they are happy. As I said earlier, the credits should go to Karthik Subbaraj. He made sure that he got the best from me in every shot, every scene." 'Petta' hit screens worldwide amid much fanfare Thursday with two couples choosing the occasion to tie the knot. Produced by Sun Pictures, the music is scored by Anirudh. The film's cast also includes Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vijay Sethupathy, Simran, Trisha and actor-director Sasikumar.

Here's how much Rajinikanth's 'Petta' earned on its first day

<p>After enthralling fans by playing scientist Vaseegaran and Chitti the robot in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-is-now-the-4th-highest-earning-movie-of-2018-182907">2018 year-end film '2.0'</a>, Rajinikanth is back on screens in his latest flick 'Petta' which releases this Friday.</p>

<p>The superstar plays a hostel warden in the film. In Tamil, the word 'Petta' means hood, or the area under one's control. The film is directed by Karthik Subbaraj who is an ardent Rajini fan himself. "Usually, I write my scripts first then think of the actors, or I have a reference of someone. This is the first time I wrote for a hero," Subbaraj said ahead of the release of the film.</p>

<p>Rajinikanth's last few films have not broken the box office records, as they are known to do, but the filmmaker said this was not something that he worried about.</p>

<p>"There was no worry. The makers are not worried. There is no effect of all that," he added.</p>

<p><img alt="petta fan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1880b64d-2bb0-4c37-9849-13d5dc719192" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/petta-fan.jpg" /></p>

<p><em>(Fane queue up outside a theatre in Chennai to buy tickets for 'Petta'). (Pic: ANI)</em></p>

<p>Subbraj said the film is based on the relationship between the superstar's character and the students.</p>

<p>'Petta' is releasing at a time when a few theaters are still running '2.0', which was touted as India's most expensive film.</p>

<p>'Petta' is being released right ahead of the Pongal, an important festival in the Tamil calendar and coincides with Sankranti which is celebrated across India. Family audiences flock to theaters during Pongal holidays. Rajini being the phenomenon that he is, his films have a massive global reception, especially in the countries with large Indian diaspora.</p>

<p>But 'Petta' has some competition in the form of Ajith Kumar's 'Viswasam'. The two big ticket films will be battling it out at the box office. It is being said that 'Petta' will be a delight for Rajini fans. With the usual punchlines, style statements and gestures 'Petta' will bring back the classic Rajinikanth. Its trailer has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/watch-trailer-petta-looks-all-about-superstar-rajinikanths-swag-and-nawazuddin-siddiqui-186961">trademark Rajinikanth moments</a> - from the way he flips cigarettes to wearing his sunglasses.</p>

<p>Subbaraj said he consciously kept those whistle-worthy moments in the script. "I wanted to show his style on screen. I wanted to watch it on screen. I was not only a fan but a director too who was watching his idol performing. Every moment was great," he said.</p>

<p>The film also stars Simran, Trisha, Vijay Sethupathi, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Bobby Simha and Sasikumar.</p>


After enthralling fans by playing scientist Vaseegaran and Chitti the robot in 2018 year-end film '2.0', Rajinikanth is back on screens in his latest flick 'Petta' which releases this Friday.

After enthralling fans by playing scientist Vaseegaran and Chitti the robot in 2018 year-end film '2.0', Rajinikanth is back on screens in his latest flick 'Petta' which releases this Friday. The superstar plays a hostel warden in the film. In Tamil, the word 'Petta' means hood, or the area under one's control. The film is directed by Karthik Subbaraj who is an ardent Rajini fan himself. "Usually, I write my scripts first then think of the actors, or I have a reference of someone. This is the first time I wrote for a hero," Subbaraj said ahead of the release of the film. Rajinikanth's last few films have not broken the box office records, as they are known to do, but the filmmaker said this was not something that he worried about. "There was no worry. The makers are not worried. There is no effect of all that," he added. (Fane queue up outside a theatre in Chennai to buy tickets for 'Petta'). (Pic: ANI) Subbraj said the film is based on the relationship between the superstar's character and the students. 'Petta' is releasing at a time when a few theaters are still running '2.0', which was touted as India's most expensive film. 'Petta' is being released right ahead of the Pongal, an important festival in the Tamil calendar and coincides with Sankranti which is celebrated across India. Family audiences flock to theaters during Pongal holidays. Rajini being the phenomenon that he is, his films have a massive global reception, especially in the countries with large Indian diaspora. But 'Petta' has some competition in the form of Ajith Kumar's 'Viswasam'. The two big ticket films will be battling it out at the box office. It is being said that 'Petta' will be a delight for Rajini fans. With the usual punchlines, style statements and gestures 'Petta' will bring back the classic Rajinikanth. Its trailer has trademark Rajinikanth moments - from the way he flips cigarettes to wearing his sunglasses. Subbaraj said he consciously kept those whistle-worthy moments in the script. "I wanted to show his style on screen. I wanted to watch it on screen. I was not only a fan but a director too who was watching his idol performing. Every moment was great," he said. The film also stars Simran, Trisha, Vijay Sethupathi, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Bobby Simha and Sasikumar.

Rajinikanth back to enthrall fans with 'Petta', his first release of 2019

<p>Rajinikanth is back, not that he was gone anywhere after giving back-to-back successful films -- ‘Kaala’ and ‘2.0’. What we mean is that the superstar is back with another film, ‘Petta’ as the makers released the much-awaited trailer today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Directed by Karthik Subbaraj, the film from the first look of the trailer rests on Rajinikanth’s swag and some powerful performances by Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vijay Sethupathi, Trisha Krishnan and Simran Bagga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As is witnessed by the trailer, Rajinikanth plays the role of a hostel owner who has a dark past. He doesn't come across as a person one should cross. Full of action, the trailer will leave you asking for more.</p>

<p>‘Petta’ is slated for Pongal release in 2019.</p>

<p><em>Watch the trailer here:</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FCB0ZfQ9Rzs" width="560"></iframe></p>


Rajinikanth is back, not that he was gone anywhere after giving back-to-back successful films -- ‘Kaala’ and ‘2.0’. What we mean is that the superstar is back with another film, ‘Petta’ as the makers released the much-awaited trailer today.

Rajinikanth is back, not that he was gone anywhere after giving back-to-back successful films -- ‘Kaala’ and ‘2.0’. What we mean is that the superstar is back with another film, ‘Petta’ as the makers released the much-awaited trailer today. Directed by Karthik Subbaraj, the film from the first look of the trailer rests on Rajinikanth’s swag and some powerful performances by Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vijay Sethupathi, Trisha Krishnan and Simran Bagga. As is witnessed by the trailer, Rajinikanth plays the role of a hostel owner who has a dark past. He doesn't come across as a person one should cross. Full of action, the trailer will leave you asking for more. ‘Petta’ is slated for Pongal release in 2019. Watch the trailer here:

Watch trailer: 'Petta' looks all about superstar Rajinikanth's swag and Nawazuddin Siddiqui

<p>Ahead of the launch of superstar Rajinikanth's political party, efforts are underway for starting a television channel by a forum floated by him, with the actor authorising the use of his name and photograph in its logo.</p>

<p>Rajinikanth has informed in a letter to the Registrar of Trademarks that an application made by the forum chief for trademarks be processed and he had no objection to the use of his name and photo in the logo of the proposed channel.</p>

<p>The matter came to light after the letter went viral on social media and sources close to the Tamil actor Friday confirmed its veracity.</p>

<p>Administrator of the Rajini Makkal Mandram, seen as a precursor to his party, V M Sudhakar applied for the trademarks 'SUPERSTAR TV, RAJINI TV, THALAIVAR TV,' all references to the actor.</p>

<p>The move is seen as keeping in line with the tradition of political parties in Tamil Nadu having their own TV channels to effectively propagate their policies and programmes.</p>

<p>While the ruling AIADMK had recently launched 'News J' to propagate its views, a bouquet of channels under the 'Kalaignar TV' and the Marans-owned 'Sun TV' are said to be backing the opposition DMK.</p>

<p>'Jaya TV', managed by the relatives of jailed aide of late chief minister J Jayalalithaa, V K Sasikala was originally a mouthpiece of the AIADMK, but now backs sidelined party leader T T V Dhinakaran since his fallout with current Chief Minister K Palaniswami last year.</p>

<p>In his letter to the Trademarks Registrar, Rajinikanth said he had "no objection to use my name, photo on the logo and label", adding the applications may be processed to the "next level".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 68-year old actor had announced taking the political plunge in December 2017 while interacting with his fans here.</p>

<p>He had then said his to-be-launched political party will contest in all the 234 assembly segments in Tamil Nadu in the next elections, due in 2021.</p>

<p>Speculations of Rajini's political entry had started way back in 1996 when he made some 'frank' criticism of the then Jayalalithaa government.</p>

<p>He extended open support to the then DMK-Tamil Maanila Congress (TMC) combine, which swept the 1996 assembly polls.</p>

<p>TMC was floated by veteran Congressman, late G K Mooapanar, after he quit the national party.&nbsp;</p>


Ahead of the launch of superstar Rajinikanth's political party, efforts are underway for starting a television channel by a forum floated by him, with the actor authorising the use of his name and photograph in its logo.

Ahead of the launch of superstar Rajinikanth's political party, efforts are underway for starting a television channel by a forum floated by him, with the actor authorising the use of his name and photograph in its logo. Rajinikanth has informed in a letter to the Registrar of Trademarks that an application made by the forum chief for trademarks be processed and he had no objection to the use of his name and photo in the logo of the proposed channel. The matter came to light after the letter went viral on social media and sources close to the Tamil actor Friday confirmed its veracity. Administrator of the Rajini Makkal Mandram, seen as a precursor to his party, V M Sudhakar applied for the trademarks 'SUPERSTAR TV, RAJINI TV, THALAIVAR TV,' all references to the actor. The move is seen as keeping in line with the tradition of political parties in Tamil Nadu having their own TV channels to effectively propagate their policies and programmes. While the ruling AIADMK had recently launched 'News J' to propagate its views, a bouquet of channels under the 'Kalaignar TV' and the Marans-owned 'Sun TV' are said to be backing the opposition DMK. 'Jaya TV', managed by the relatives of jailed aide of late chief minister J Jayalalithaa, V K Sasikala was originally a mouthpiece of the AIADMK, but now backs sidelined party leader T T V Dhinakaran since his fallout with current Chief Minister K Palaniswami last year. In his letter to the Trademarks Registrar, Rajinikanth said he had "no objection to use my name, photo on the logo and label", adding the applications may be processed to the "next level". The 68-year old actor had announced taking the political plunge in December 2017 while interacting with his fans here. He had then said his to-be-launched political party will contest in all the 234 assembly segments in Tamil Nadu in the next elections, due in 2021. Speculations of Rajini's political entry had started way back in 1996 when he made some 'frank' criticism of the then Jayalalithaa government. He extended open support to the then DMK-Tamil Maanila Congress (TMC) combine, which swept the 1996 assembly polls. TMC was floated by veteran Congressman, late G K Mooapanar, after he quit the national party.

Rajini forum files for TV channel trademark

Isha Ambani's wedding: Politicians, sportsmen & film stars gather under one roof

<p>All roads in Mumbai led to Pedar road where Mukesh Ambani hosted celebrities, politicians and sportsmen at his residence Antilla for his daughter Isha Ambani's wedding on Wednesday night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Almost entire of Bollywood was present at the bash. From Shah Rukh Khan to Amitabh Bachchan to Aamir Khan to even the newlyweds Deepika Padukone-Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas made their presence felt at the wedding ceremony which began early evening on Wednesday.<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/isha-ambanis-wedding-mukesh-ambani-brings-politicians-sportsmen-and-film-stars-under-one-roof-183668"> See all the&nbsp;photos of the ceremony here.</a></p>

<p><img alt="isha" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16a082cc-730d-4025-8577-2be938d3af06" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ambani6.jpg" /></p>

<p><img alt="isha" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="85e828d9-11a7-4cc9-a36b-2995f7ed3ad2" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ambani7.jpg" /></p>

<p>Sportsmen like Mahesh Bhupathi, Anil Kumble, Virendra Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh and others also attended the ceremony with their better halves.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="isha" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e55976ae-9631-463a-8ec0-73f1af1f472f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ambani8.jpg" /><br />
The Ambanis who hosted a two day long pre-wedding festivities in Udaipur a few days back also invited almost all prominent political leaders.</p>

<p><img alt="isha" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aabdbcd7-b414-41fc-ab91-fb14a0c04b08" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ambani5.jpg" /><br />
&nbsp;<br />
Hillary Clinton, who was also seen<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/inside-isha-ambani-sangeet-priyanka-chopra-katrina-kaif-salman-khan-182899"> in Udaipur for pre-wedding festivities</a>, came for the Mumbai ceremony as well. Also see:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/inside-isha-ambanis-grand-pre-wedding-bash-shah-rukh-aamir-salman-perform-aishwarya-dances-with-abhishek-182805">Inside Isha Ambani's pre-wedding bash: SRK, Aamir, Salman perform, Aishwarya dances with Abhishek</a></p>

<p><img alt="isha" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d9f06515-a7dd-4ccc-873b-3b144af67184" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ambani1.jpg" /></p>

<p>The marriage brings together two of India`s most influential families. The bride, Isha Ambani, 27, is the head of the vast Reliance conglomerate whose net worth Forbes put at $43 billion.</p>

<p>Her groom, Anand Piramal, 33, is heir to a real-estate and pharmaceutical business.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The wedding bash took place at Ambani`s Mumbai residence, an extraordinary 27-storey structure known as one of the most expensive homes in the world. It was covered in red roses and decorated with lights and flowers for the occasion.</p>

<p><img alt="isha" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9ee8b3d-95f4-4862-88f4-3d669d671dd1" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ambani%20house%202_0.jpg" /></p>

<p>The groom and his family arrived in vintage cars as security guards onlookers and photographers from the narrow lane in south Mumbai that leads to the residence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(Images by Yogen Shah)</p>


All roads in Mumbai led to Pedar road where Mukesh Ambani hosted celebrities, politicians and sportsmen at his residence Antilla for his daughter Isha Ambani's wedding on Wednesday night.

All roads in Mumbai led to Pedar road where Mukesh Ambani hosted celebrities, politicians and sportsmen at his residence Antilla for his daughter Isha Ambani's wedding on Wednesday night. Almost entire of Bollywood was present at the bash. From Shah Rukh Khan to Amitabh Bachchan to Aamir Khan to even the newlyweds Deepika Padukone-Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas made their presence felt at the wedding ceremony which began early evening on Wednesday. See all the photos of the ceremony here. Sportsmen like Mahesh Bhupathi, Anil Kumble, Virendra Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh and others also attended the ceremony with their better halves. The Ambanis who hosted a two day long pre-wedding festivities in Udaipur a few days back also invited almost all prominent political leaders. Hillary Clinton, who was also seen in Udaipur for pre-wedding festivities, came for the Mumbai ceremony as well. Also see: Inside Isha Ambani's pre-wedding bash: SRK, Aamir, Salman perform, Aishwarya dances with Abhishek The marriage brings together two of India`s most influential families. The bride, Isha Ambani, 27, is the head of the vast Reliance conglomerate whose net worth Forbes put at $43 billion. Her groom, Anand Piramal, 33, is heir to a real-estate and pharmaceutical business. The wedding bash took place at Ambani`s Mumbai residence, an extraordinary 27-storey structure known as one of the most expensive homes in the world. It was covered in red roses and decorated with lights and flowers for the occasion. The groom and his family arrived in vintage cars as security guards onlookers and photographers from the narrow lane in south Mumbai that leads to the residence. (Images by Yogen Shah)

Isha Ambani wedding: Bollywood stars, politicians attend grand ceremony

<p>It's Rajinikanth's birthday and he has the perfect gift&nbsp;for his fans. The makers of 'Petta' will be releasing the first teaser of the film on Wednesday morning. Rajinikanth and Simran star in the film whose first look and music were released a few weeks back.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Since it is the superstar's birthday, makers have decided to use the best moments of the actor from the film and make a special video around him. The film also stars Trisha Krishnan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Rajinikanth collaborates with director Karthik Subbaraj for the first time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Petta" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="65741d0a-71c5-4e0f-8069-4b9045f61172" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/petta%20posters.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Subbaraj took to Twitter to wish the superstar ahead of the release of the teaser.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
He tweeted, " Happy birthday Thalaivaaaaaa!!! Wish you many many more happy returns of this day.... You are always the ONE , the ONLY ONE, the SUPER ONE.... Love you SUPERSTAR!! Thanks for giving me the bestest moments of my life to cherish forever!!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday Thalaivaaaaaa!!! Wish you many many more happy returns of this day.... You are always the ONE , the ONLY ONE, the SUPER ONE.... Love you SUPERSTAR!! Thanks for giving me the bestest moments of my life to cherish forever!! <a href="https://t.co/s2nEconWJq">pic.twitter.com/s2nEconWJq</a></p>
— karthik subbaraj (@karthiksubbaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/karthiksubbaraj/status/1072566580196896774?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, Rajinikanth's last release, Shankar's '2.0' is still going strong at the box office. The film has&nbsp;become<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-becomes-the-biggest-hit-of-2018-earns-more-than-rs-600-crores-worldwide-183402"> the&nbsp;highest grosser of 2018</a> and earned more than Rs 600 crores worldwide.<br />
<br />
The film was a sequel of Shankar's earlier film 'Enthiran' and has Rajinikanth playing a double role- that of a scientist and a Robot. Akshay Kumar plays the baddie in the film.&nbsp;</p>


It's Rajinikanth's birthday and he has the perfect gift for his fans. The makers of 'Petta' will be releasing the first teaser of the film on Wednesday morning. Rajinikanth and Simran star in the film whose first look and music were released a few weeks back.

It's Rajinikanth's birthday and he has the perfect gift for his fans. The makers of 'Petta' will be releasing the first teaser of the film on Wednesday morning. Rajinikanth and Simran star in the film whose first look and music were released a few weeks back. Since it is the superstar's birthday, makers have decided to use the best moments of the actor from the film and make a special video around him. The film also stars Trisha Krishnan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Rajinikanth collaborates with director Karthik Subbaraj for the first time. Subbaraj took to Twitter to wish the superstar ahead of the release of the teaser. He tweeted, " Happy birthday Thalaivaaaaaa!!! Wish you many many more happy returns of this day.... You are always the ONE , the ONLY ONE, the SUPER ONE.... Love you SUPERSTAR!! Thanks for giving me the bestest moments of my life to cherish forever!!" Happy birthday Thalaivaaaaaa!!! Wish you many many more happy returns of this day.... You are always the ONE , the ONLY ONE, the SUPER ONE.... Love you SUPERSTAR!! Thanks for giving me the bestest moments of my life to cherish forever!! pic.twitter.com/s2nEconWJq — karthik subbaraj (@karthiksubbaraj) December 11, 2018 × Meanwhile, Rajinikanth's last release, Shankar's '2.0' is still going strong at the box office. The film has become the highest grosser of 2018 and earned more than Rs 600 crores worldwide. The film was a sequel of Shankar's earlier film 'Enthiran' and has Rajinikanth playing a double role- that of a scientist and a Robot. Akshay Kumar plays the baddie in the film.

On Rajinikanth's birthday, fans to be treated with the teaser of his next 'Petta'

<p>It's finally here! Fans have been counting by the minute to catch a glimpse of superstar Rajinikanth in 'Petta' and the makers have now finally released the film's teaser.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
A montage of some of the actor's shots from the film, the teaser pays the superstar a tribute of sorts on his 68th birthday.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Director Karthik Subbaraj himself took to Twitter to share the teaser of the film as he wished the actor.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here it is!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Petta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Petta</a> official teaser<br />
<br />
Happy birthday Thalaivaaaaaa!!<a href="https://t.co/JGJo2cBuFb">https://t.co/JGJo2cBuFb</a><a href="https://twitter.com/sunpictures?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sunpictures</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PettaBirthdayTrEAtSER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PettaBirthdayTrEAtSER</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HBDSuperstarRajinikanth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HBDSuperstarRajinikanth</a></p>
— karthik subbaraj (@karthiksubbaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/karthiksubbaraj/status/1072725924481687552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Apart from Rajinikanth, the film also features Simran, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Trisha Krishnan.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The film's music has already been released and being loved by the fans.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The film will release in theatres in January 2019.&nbsp;</p>


It's finally here! Fans have been counting by the minute to catch a glimpse of superstar Rajinikanth in 'Petta' and the makers have now finally released the film's teaser.

It's finally here! Fans have been counting by the minute to catch a glimpse of superstar Rajinikanth in 'Petta' and the makers have now finally released the film's teaser. A montage of some of the actor's shots from the film, the teaser pays the superstar a tribute of sorts on his 68th birthday. Director Karthik Subbaraj himself took to Twitter to share the teaser of the film as he wished the actor. Here it is!! #Petta official teaser Happy birthday Thalaivaaaaaa!!https://t.co/JGJo2cBuFb@sunpictures #PettaBirthdayTrEAtSER #HBDSuperstarRajinikanth — karthik subbaraj (@karthiksubbaraj) December 12, 2018 × Apart from Rajinikanth, the film also features Simran, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Trisha Krishnan. The film's music has already been released and being loved by the fans. The film will release in theatres in January 2019.

'Petta' teaser: Rajinikanth's quintessential swag is on full display

<p>Rajinikanth’s ‘2.0’ knows no stopping as the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-box-office-collection-day-2-rajnikanths-and-akshay-kumars-film-continues-its-monstrous-run-180687">hugely-successful film</a> has become the 4th highest earning one this year. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-review-vfx-is-the-real-hero-in-this-rajinikanth-akshay-kumar-starrer-180194">Read </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-review-vfx-is-the-real-hero-in-this-rajinikanth-akshay-kumar-starrer-180194">review</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-review-vfx-is-the-real-hero-in-this-rajinikanth-akshay-kumar-starrer-180194"> here.</a></p>

<p>The Hindi version of the Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer has, till it's 11th day on the box office, earned Rs 164 crore. It is now only behind ‘Sanju’ (Rs 342 crore), ‘Padmaavat’ (Rs 302 crore) and ‘Race 3’(Rs 166 crore).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Directed by S Shankar, the film is said to be in the&nbsp;race in for the 3rd position, replacing Salman Khan’s ‘Race 3’ as it might cross the lifetime collection of it too by the end of this day, according to BoxOffice India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The film is holding well across the country... The film had a majority of the single screens in week two as Kedarnath had a limited single screen release. The second weekend is at par with the new release Kedarnath," stated the Box Office India report.</p>

<p>‘2.0’ crossed the Rs 500 crore mark <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-worldwide-box-office-collection-rajinikanth-akshay-kumars-film-earns-rs-400-crore-181120">worldwide</a> at the end of the first week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the media at the audio launch of his work-in-progress film ‘Petta’, Rajinikanth was quoted by IANS, thanking his fans and said, "I need to thank audiences across the globe for the success of 2.0. The entire credit for the victory goes to director Shankar, producer Subaskaran of Lyca Productions and the technicians.”</p>

<p>‘2.0’ is the sequel to Rajinikanth's ‘Enthiran’. It also stars Amy Jackson, Adil Hussain and Sudhanshu Panday.</p>


Rajinikanth’s ‘2.0’ knows no stopping as the hugely-successful film has become the 4th highest earning one this year. Read review here. The Hindi version of the Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer has, till it's 11th day on the box office, earned Rs 164 crore.

Rajinikanth’s ‘2.0’ knows no stopping as the hugely-successful film has become the 4th highest earning one this year. Read review here. The Hindi version of the Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer has, till it's 11th day on the box office, earned Rs 164 crore. It is now only behind ‘Sanju’ (Rs 342 crore), ‘Padmaavat’ (Rs 302 crore) and ‘Race 3’(Rs 166 crore). Directed by S Shankar, the film is said to be in the race in for the 3rd position, replacing Salman Khan’s ‘Race 3’ as it might cross the lifetime collection of it too by the end of this day, according to BoxOffice India. "The film is holding well across the country... The film had a majority of the single screens in week two as Kedarnath had a limited single screen release. The second weekend is at par with the new release Kedarnath," stated the Box Office India report. ‘2.0’ crossed the Rs 500 crore mark worldwide at the end of the first week. Speaking to the media at the audio launch of his work-in-progress film ‘Petta’, Rajinikanth was quoted by IANS, thanking his fans and said, "I need to thank audiences across the globe for the success of 2.0. The entire credit for the victory goes to director Shankar, producer Subaskaran of Lyca Productions and the technicians.” ‘2.0’ is the sequel to Rajinikanth's ‘Enthiran’. It also stars Amy Jackson, Adil Hussain and Sudhanshu Panday.

Rajinikanth's '2.0' is now the 4th highest earning movie of 2018

<p>Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer enters Rs 500 crore club in just 7 days of its release and the makers can’t stop raving about it. The film was released in theatres on November 29. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-hindi-crosses-rs-100-crore-mark-in-box-office-collections-181639">This is how much it has earned from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-hindi-crosses-rs-100-crore-mark-in-box-office-collections-181639">Hindi</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-hindi-crosses-rs-100-crore-mark-in-box-office-collections-181639"> version.</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karan Johar, co-producer of the film (Hindi version) tweeted about the success of the film and wrote: “A box office PHENOMENA!!!! 500 crores worldwide!!!!! We at @DharmaMovies are so proud to be associated with the HINDI version of this movie marvel!!!! @shankarshanmugh #RAJNISIR @akshaykumar @LycaProductions”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A box office PHENOMENA!!!! 500 crores worldwide!!!!! We at <a href="https://twitter.com/DharmaMovies?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DharmaMovies</a> are so proud to be associated with the HINDI version of this movie marvel!!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/shankarshanmugh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shankarshanmugh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RAJNISIR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RAJNISIR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/akshaykumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshaykumar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/LycaProductions?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LycaProductions</a> <a href="https://t.co/JNJaeCaR1X">pic.twitter.com/JNJaeCaR1X</a></p>
— Karan Johar (@karanjohar) <a href="https://twitter.com/karanjohar/status/1070535283203022848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, the film is not ready to slow down as the makers also plan on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanth-and-akshay-kumar-starrer-20-set-to-release-in-56000-screens-in-china-181580">releasing the film in China </a>in May 2019. The film will get a release in 56,000 screens including 47,000 3D screens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A statement from Lyca Productions read, “Lyca Productions Pvt. Ltd is proud to associate with HY Media, one of China’s most prominent production and distribution companies, for the Chinese release of 2.0, the magnum opus of director Shankar, starring pan-Asian Superstar Rajinikanth and Bollywood megastar Akshay Kumar.”</p>

<p>The film starred Rajinikanth in a double role (one human being and three versions of the robot Chitti). It also saw Akshay Kumar in his debut role in Tamil film industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>‘2.0’ is India’s most expensive film made till date and has successfully recovered its money (almost) as it is already in one of the top five all-time highest grossing south Indian films at the US box office.&nbsp;</p>


Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer enters Rs 500 crore club in just 7 days of its release and the makers can’t stop raving about it. The film was released in theatres on November 29.

Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer enters Rs 500 crore club in just 7 days of its release and the makers can’t stop raving about it. The film was released in theatres on November 29. This is how much it has earned from Hindi version. Karan Johar, co-producer of the film (Hindi version) tweeted about the success of the film and wrote: “A box office PHENOMENA!!!! 500 crores worldwide!!!!! We at @DharmaMovies are so proud to be associated with the HINDI version of this movie marvel!!!! @shankarshanmugh #RAJNISIR @akshaykumar @LycaProductions” A box office PHENOMENA!!!! 500 crores worldwide!!!!! We at @DharmaMovies are so proud to be associated with the HINDI version of this movie marvel!!!! @shankarshanmugh #RAJNISIR @akshaykumar @LycaProductions pic.twitter.com/JNJaeCaR1X — Karan Johar (@karanjohar) December 6, 2018 × Meanwhile, the film is not ready to slow down as the makers also plan on releasing the film in China in May 2019. The film will get a release in 56,000 screens including 47,000 3D screens. A statement from Lyca Productions read, “Lyca Productions Pvt. Ltd is proud to associate with HY Media, one of China’s most prominent production and distribution companies, for the Chinese release of 2.0, the magnum opus of director Shankar, starring pan-Asian Superstar Rajinikanth and Bollywood megastar Akshay Kumar.” The film starred Rajinikanth in a double role (one human being and three versions of the robot Chitti). It also saw Akshay Kumar in his debut role in Tamil film industry. ‘2.0’ is India’s most expensive film made till date and has successfully recovered its money (almost) as it is already in one of the top five all-time highest grossing south Indian films at the US box office.

'2.0' enters Rs 500 crore club within seven days of its release

<p>There’s no stopping for Rajinikanth starrer ‘2.0’ that has been making noise all over the world. The film has already <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-worldwide-box-office-collection-rajinikanth-akshay-kumars-film-earns-rs-400-crore-181120">crossed Rs 400 crores in its first week in worldwide box office collections</a> and plans on getting a major release in China to tap that market. It&nbsp;has had the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-box-office-collection-day-2-rajnikanths-and-akshay-kumars-film-continues-its-monstrous-run-180687">7th best opening of 2018 for an Indian film.</a>&nbsp;It also recorded the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-day-1-collection-rajinikanth-and-akshay-kumar-starrer-record-highest-opening-of-2018-180419">highest opening for a film in 2018 with respect to its Day 1 collection</a>.</p>

<p>According to the makers, ‘2.0’ is set to release in across 56,000 screens.</p>

<p>In a statement, Lyca Productions confirmed the news. They will release the film in association with HY Media in China. Out of 56,000 of the total screens, at least 47,000 will be playing the sci-fi thriller in 3D format. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-review-vfx-is-the-real-hero-in-this-rajinikanth-akshay-kumar-starrer-180194">Read the film's review here.</a></p>

<p>The statement said: "2.0’ will release in China in May 2019 and it will be the widest 3D release for any foreign language film in history.”</p>

<p>The film is a sequel to director Shankar’s 2010 blockbuster ‘Enthiran’ which has been produced by Lyca Productions and was released in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi on November 29. It has superstar Rajinikanth in three avatars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bollywood star Akshay Kumar plays the role of an antagonist accompanied with Amy Jackson, Adil Hussain and Sudhanshu Pandey. With this, he marks his debut in South Indian film industry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-cleared-for-release-in-pakistan-sees-record-breaking-advance-booking-180023"><em>Also read:&nbsp;Rajinikanth’s '2.0' cleared for release in Pakistan, sees record-breaking advance booking</em></a></p>

<p>The film is one of the most expensive Indian films ever made.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In another news,&nbsp;Madras High Court <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-madras-high-court-blocks-12000-websites-to-prevent-film-piracy-180272">blocked 12000 websites </a>to prevent film piracy on the day of its release and yet some sites managed to leak the film.</p>


There’s no stopping for Rajinikanth starrer ‘2.0’ that has been making noise all over the world. The film has already crossed Rs 400 crores in its first week in worldwide box office collections and plans on getting a major release in China to tap that market.

There’s no stopping for Rajinikanth starrer ‘2.0’ that has been making noise all over the world. The film has already crossed Rs 400 crores in its first week in worldwide box office collections and plans on getting a major release in China to tap that market. It has had the 7th best opening of 2018 for an Indian film. It also recorded the highest opening for a film in 2018 with respect to its Day 1 collection. According to the makers, ‘2.0’ is set to release in across 56,000 screens. In a statement, Lyca Productions confirmed the news. They will release the film in association with HY Media in China. Out of 56,000 of the total screens, at least 47,000 will be playing the sci-fi thriller in 3D format. Read the film's review here. The statement said: "2.0’ will release in China in May 2019 and it will be the widest 3D release for any foreign language film in history.” The film is a sequel to director Shankar’s 2010 blockbuster ‘Enthiran’ which has been produced by Lyca Productions and was released in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi on November 29. It has superstar Rajinikanth in three avatars. Bollywood star Akshay Kumar plays the role of an antagonist accompanied with Amy Jackson, Adil Hussain and Sudhanshu Pandey. With this, he marks his debut in South Indian film industry. Also read: Rajinikanth’s '2.0' cleared for release in Pakistan, sees record-breaking advance booking The film is one of the most expensive Indian films ever made. In another news, Madras High Court blocked 12000 websites to prevent film piracy on the day of its release and yet some sites managed to leak the film.

Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer '2.0' set to release in 56,000 screens in China

<p>Rajinikanth’s latest film ‘2.0’ (Hindi language box office collections) has now crossed Rs 100 crore mark. The Hindi version of the film has in total made Rs 122.50 crore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Starting with Rs 20 crore on Day 1, subsequently earning Rs 18 crore, Rs 25 crore and Rs 34 crore on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, respectively.</p>

<p>With ‘2.0’ raking in the numbers, trade analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted: “The distribution and exhibition sectors are in a joyous mood,” and added, “2.0 brings abundant cheer, boosts the morale of exhibitors, who were shocked after the disastrous response to Thugs of Hindostan. Optimism is back.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2Point0?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2Point0</a> sets the BO on 🔥🔥🔥... Double digits yet again on Day 6 [Tue]… The trending on weekdays is EXCELLENT... Thu 20.25 cr, Fri 18 cr, Sat 25 cr, Sun 34 cr, Mon 13.75 cr, Tue 11.50 cr. Total: ₹ 122.50 cr. India biz. Note: HINDI version.</p>
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1070176689341124608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to trade website Box Office India, ‘2.0’ has earned Rs 229 crore in box office collections at last count, including the Hindi, Tamil and Telugu versions. The collections have beaten the franchise’s previous film, ‘Enthiran’ which made Rs 205 crore net collection. &nbsp;</p>

<p>‘2.0’ is also ready for a mega release in China with makers <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanth-and-akshay-kumar-starrer-20-set-to-release-in-56000-screens-in-china-181580">booking 56,000 screens.</a> It will hit the country in May 2019.&nbsp;</p>


Rajinikanth’s latest film ‘2.0’ (Hindi language box office collections) has now crossed Rs 100 crore mark. The Hindi version of the film has in total made Rs 122.

Rajinikanth’s latest film ‘2.0’ (Hindi language box office collections) has now crossed Rs 100 crore mark. The Hindi version of the film has in total made Rs 122.50 crore. Starting with Rs 20 crore on Day 1, subsequently earning Rs 18 crore, Rs 25 crore and Rs 34 crore on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, respectively. With ‘2.0’ raking in the numbers, trade analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted: “The distribution and exhibition sectors are in a joyous mood,” and added, “2.0 brings abundant cheer, boosts the morale of exhibitors, who were shocked after the disastrous response to Thugs of Hindostan. Optimism is back.” #2Point0 sets the BO on 🔥🔥🔥... Double digits yet again on Day 6 [Tue]… The trending on weekdays is EXCELLENT... Thu 20.25 cr, Fri 18 cr, Sat 25 cr, Sun 34 cr, Mon 13.75 cr, Tue 11.50 cr. Total: ₹ 122.50 cr. India biz. Note: HINDI version. — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) December 5, 2018 × According to trade website Box Office India, ‘2.0’ has earned Rs 229 crore in box office collections at last count, including the Hindi, Tamil and Telugu versions. The collections have beaten the franchise’s previous film, ‘Enthiran’ which made Rs 205 crore net collection. ‘2.0’ is also ready for a mega release in China with makers booking 56,000 screens. It will hit the country in May 2019.

Rajinikanth's '2.0' Hindi crosses Rs 100 crore mark in box-office collections

<p>There’s no stopping for Rajinikanth’s new film ‘2.0’ that has now earned Rs 400 crore worldwide in its first week. The Indian film has even surpassed its competitor ‘Fantastic Beasts’ that slipped to the second position in worldwide numbers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While ‘2.0’ amassed $57.14 million, Fantastic Beasts earned $51.40 million worldwide.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Official: History in the making! 400 CRORES WORLDWIDE! Not just a blockbuster, it's a MEGA BLOCKBUSTER! 🎉🎊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2Point0MegaBlockbuster?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2Point0MegaBlockbuster</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2Point0?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2Point0</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/lBrN8DiQLs">pic.twitter.com/lBrN8DiQLs</a></p>
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1069496212963831808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Trade analyst Ramesh Bala disclosed the numbers in a post on Twitter. He tweeted: “#2Point0 is the No.1 Movie in the World for the Nov 29th – Dec 2nd Weekend with ~ ₹ 400 Crs [₹ 57.14 M] Gross WW Opening Weekend, it beats No.2 #FantasticBeasts ‘s this Weekend Gross of $51.40 M.”</p>

<p>The film starring Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar in lead roles -- has become this year’s highest-grossing south Indian movie in the US. It has surpassed the lifetime numbers of ‘Rangatsthalam’ in just four days of its release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramesh tweeted: “#2Point0 with $3,588,450 is now 2018’s Highest Grossing South Movie in #USA. It overtakes #Rangasthalam ‘Lifetimeme gross of $3,513,450.. * #2Point0 – 3 Lang Versions.. #Rangasthalam – Only Telugu.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2Point0?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2Point0</a> with $3,588,450 is now 2018's Highest Grossing South Movie in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a><br />
<br />
It overtakes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rangasthalam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rangasthalam</a> 's Life-time gross of $3,513,450..<br />
<br />
* <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2Point0?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2Point0</a> - 3 Lang Versions.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rangasthalam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rangasthalam</a> - Only Telugu..</p>
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1069405239638249472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Directed by Shankar, ‘2.0’ brings good news to the director as it enters the club of one of the top five all-time highest-grossing south Indian films at the US box office. The first two are still with ‘Baahubali’ and ‘Baahubali 2’, ‘2.0’ stands at fourth position and then ‘Rangasthalam’.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">All-time Top 5 South Indian Origin Movies @ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a> BO:<br />
<br />
1. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Baahubali2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Baahubali2</a> - $20,571,695<br />
<br />
2. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Baahubali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Baahubali</a> - $6,999,312<br />
<br />
3. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabali</a> - $4,585,808<br />
<br />
4. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2Point0?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2Point0</a> - $3,588,450 (4 Days)<br />
<br />
5. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rangasthalam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rangasthalam</a> - $3,513,450</p>
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1069406208455434241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


There’s no stopping for Rajinikanth’s new film ‘2.0’ that has now earned Rs 400 crore worldwide in its first week. The Indian film has even surpassed its competitor ‘Fantastic Beasts’ that slipped to the second position in worldwide numbers.

There’s no stopping for Rajinikanth’s new film ‘2.0’ that has now earned Rs 400 crore worldwide in its first week. The Indian film has even surpassed its competitor ‘Fantastic Beasts’ that slipped to the second position in worldwide numbers. While ‘2.0’ amassed $57.14 million, Fantastic Beasts earned $51.40 million worldwide. Official: History in the making! 400 CRORES WORLDWIDE! Not just a blockbuster, it's a MEGA BLOCKBUSTER! 🎉🎊#2Point0MegaBlockbuster #2Point0 pic.twitter.com/lBrN8DiQLs — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) December 3, 2018 × Trade analyst Ramesh Bala disclosed the numbers in a post on Twitter. He tweeted: “#2Point0 is the No.1 Movie in the World for the Nov 29th – Dec 2nd Weekend with ~ ₹ 400 Crs [₹ 57.14 M] Gross WW Opening Weekend, it beats No.2 #FantasticBeasts ‘s this Weekend Gross of $51.40 M.” The film starring Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar in lead roles -- has become this year’s highest-grossing south Indian movie in the US. It has surpassed the lifetime numbers of ‘Rangatsthalam’ in just four days of its release. Ramesh tweeted: “#2Point0 with $3,588,450 is now 2018’s Highest Grossing South Movie in #USA. It overtakes #Rangasthalam ‘Lifetimeme gross of $3,513,450.. * #2Point0 – 3 Lang Versions.. #Rangasthalam – Only Telugu.” #2Point0 with $3,588,450 is now 2018's Highest Grossing South Movie in #USA It overtakes #Rangasthalam 's Life-time gross of $3,513,450.. * #2Point0 - 3 Lang Versions.. #Rangasthalam - Only Telugu.. — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) December 3, 2018 × Directed by Shankar, ‘2.0’ brings good news to the director as it enters the club of one of the top five all-time highest-grossing south Indian films at the US box office. The first two are still with ‘Baahubali’ and ‘Baahubali 2’, ‘2.0’ stands at fourth position and then ‘Rangasthalam’. All-time Top 5 South Indian Origin Movies @ #USA BO: 1. #Baahubali2 - $20,571,695 2. #Baahubali - $6,999,312 3. #Kabali - $4,585,808 4. #2Point0 - $3,588,450 (4 Days) 5. #Rangasthalam - $3,513,450 — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) December 3, 2018 ×

'2.0' worldwide box office collection: Rajinikanth-Akshay Kumar’s film earns Rs 400 crore

<p>Torrent website Tamilrockers.com has over the years hampered businesses of several Tamil films. Its latest target is Rajinikanth’s film ‘2.0’ which released on Friday across the world. The film has already found its way to the Internet and website is hosting all versions of ‘2.0’ but with a disclaimer to the audience to watch it on ‘3D in a cinema hall’.</p>

<p>Prior to the release of the film, the Madras high court had directed 37 internet service providers (ISPs) across the country to take steps and prevent the film from getting leaked online.</p>

<p>Tamilrockers had previously also hosted AR Murugadoss’ ‘Sarkar’ and Aamir Khan’s ‘Thugs of Hindostan’ as well. Days before the release of ‘2.0’, Tamilrockers had reportedly claimed on social media that they would be releasing the film on the day of its release as well. However, the administrators of the website have not owned up to the same. &nbsp;</p>

<p>They have though put up a message on their site that reads, “We are not available on Twitter or any other social networks. If someone posts anything using our name on social networks, then that should be fake. Please don’t believe on those kind of id’s and rumours spread by them.”</p>

<p>The original website has been blocked but the film has been made available via proxy servers.</p>

<p>Directed by Shankar, the film has got the biggest opening in India and earned Rs 75 crore on the first day of the release.</p>


Torrent website Tamilrockers.com has over the years hampered businesses of several Tamil films. Its latest target is Rajinikanth’s film ‘2.0’ which released on Friday across the world.

Torrent website Tamilrockers.com has over the years hampered businesses of several Tamil films. Its latest target is Rajinikanth’s film ‘2.0’ which released on Friday across the world. The film has already found its way to the Internet and website is hosting all versions of ‘2.0’ but with a disclaimer to the audience to watch it on ‘3D in a cinema hall’. Prior to the release of the film, the Madras high court had directed 37 internet service providers (ISPs) across the country to take steps and prevent the film from getting leaked online. Tamilrockers had previously also hosted AR Murugadoss’ ‘Sarkar’ and Aamir Khan’s ‘Thugs of Hindostan’ as well. Days before the release of ‘2.0’, Tamilrockers had reportedly claimed on social media that they would be releasing the film on the day of its release as well. However, the administrators of the website have not owned up to the same. They have though put up a message on their site that reads, “We are not available on Twitter or any other social networks. If someone posts anything using our name on social networks, then that should be fake. Please don’t believe on those kind of id’s and rumours spread by them.” The original website has been blocked but the film has been made available via proxy servers. Directed by Shankar, the film has got the biggest opening in India and earned Rs 75 crore on the first day of the release.

Rajinikanth's latest '2.0' leaked online despite HC's directive to block 12,000 websites

<p>Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer ‘2.0’ started on a good note yesterday as the film saw a good number of people lining outside the theatres to catch the show. Despite being a mid-week release, ‘2.0’ saw people dancing inside cinema halls, hooting and praying for Rajinikanth; so that his film becomes a blockbuster hit. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-review-vfx-is-the-real-hero-in-this-rajinikanth-akshay-kumar-starrer-180194">Read </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-review-vfx-is-the-real-hero-in-this-rajinikanth-akshay-kumar-starrer-180194">review</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-review-vfx-is-the-real-hero-in-this-rajinikanth-akshay-kumar-starrer-180194"> here.</a></p>

<p>‘2.0’is the sequel to 2010 blockbuster ‘Enthiran’ that had Rajinikanth play the role of a doctor Vaseegaran and a robot, Chitti. This film also has Akshay Kumar who plays an antagonist, in what happens to be his Tamil debut. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/20-madras-high-court-blocks-12000-websites-to-prevent-film-piracy-180272"><em>Also read:&nbsp;'2.0': Madras High Court blocks 12000 websites to prevent film piracy</em></a></p>

<p>The official ‘2.0’ handle tweeted, “It’s an Overwhelming Response for #2Point0. Thanks all for your Unconditional Love. Experience the Grand Epic in 3D. @rajinikanth @akshaykumar @iamAmyJackson @shankarshanmugh @arrahman @resulp @srinivas_mohan @LycaProductions @DharmaMovies @LycamobileUK @divomovies”</p>

<p>‘2.0’ has so far registered the highest opening of 2018, beating Aamir Khan’s ‘Thugs of &nbsp;Hindostan’ which had collected Rs 52 crore (all versions). The total India collections of ‘2.0’ (all versions) for Day 1 is reported to be around Rs 73.5 crore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trade analyst Taran Adarsh spoke highly of the film’s opening and said: “I would say the opening is very good. Please note it opened on a Thursday and still managed to break records despite advance booking opening late.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneWordReview?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneWordReview</a>…<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2Point0?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2Point0</a>: BLOCKBUSTER.<br />
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2Point0?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2Point0</a> is a cinematic marvel... This has style with substance... Director Shankar is a visionary... He hits the ball out of the park this time... Akshay Kumar is FANTASTIC, while Rajinikanth is THE BOSS... SALUTE! <a href="https://t.co/cPFZxhjsph">pic.twitter.com/cPFZxhjsph</a></p>
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1068023059087413248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Non-holiday release... Non-festival period... Yet, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2Point0?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2Point0</a> takes a SUPER START... Keeping in mind the fact that it’s a dubbed film + advance bookings opened very late, the biz is STRONG... Thu ₹ 20.25 cr. India biz. Note: HINDI version.</p>
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1068418506868219904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The film is expected to cross Rs 100 crore on Day 2 as the word-of-mouth around ‘2.0’ is positive.&nbsp;</p>


Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer ‘2.0’ started on a good note yesterday as the film saw a good number of people lining outside the theatres to catch the show.

Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer ‘2.0’ started on a good note yesterday as the film saw a good number of people lining outside the theatres to catch the show. Despite being a mid-week release, ‘2.0’ saw people dancing inside cinema halls, hooting and praying for Rajinikanth; so that his film becomes a blockbuster hit. Read review here. ‘2.0’is the sequel to 2010 blockbuster ‘Enthiran’ that had Rajinikanth play the role of a doctor Vaseegaran and a robot, Chitti. This film also has Akshay Kumar who plays an antagonist, in what happens to be his Tamil debut. Also read: '2.0': Madras High Court blocks 12000 websites to prevent film piracy The official ‘2.0’ handle tweeted, “It’s an Overwhelming Response for #2Point0. Thanks all for your Unconditional Love. Experience the Grand Epic in 3D. @rajinikanth @akshaykumar @iamAmyJackson @shankarshanmugh @arrahman @resulp @srinivas_mohan @LycaProductions @DharmaMovies @LycamobileUK @divomovies” ‘2.0’ has so far registered the highest opening of 2018, beating Aamir Khan’s ‘Thugs of Hindostan’ which had collected Rs 52 crore (all versions). The total India collections of ‘2.0’ (all versions) for Day 1 is reported to be around Rs 73.5 crore. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh spoke highly of the film’s opening and said: “I would say the opening is very good. Please note it opened on a Thursday and still managed to break records despite advance booking opening late.” #OneWordReview…#2Point0: BLOCKBUSTER. Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️#2Point0 is a cinematic marvel... This has style with substance... Director Shankar is a visionary... He hits the ball out of the park this time... Akshay Kumar is FANTASTIC, while Rajinikanth is THE BOSS... SALUTE! pic.twitter.com/cPFZxhjsph — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) November 29, 2018 × Non-holiday release... Non-festival period... Yet, #2Point0 takes a SUPER START... Keeping in mind the fact that it’s a dubbed film + advance bookings opened very late, the biz is STRONG... Thu ₹ 20.25 cr. India biz. Note: HINDI version. — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) November 30, 2018 × The film is expected to cross Rs 100 crore on Day 2 as the word-of-mouth around ‘2.0’ is positive.

'2.0' Day 1 collection: Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar starrer record highest-opening of 2018

<p>If it's a Rajinikanth film, it has to be big. The superstar's latest '2,0' is getting<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanth-akshay-starrer-20-headed-for-biggest-release-for-an-indian-movie-178897"> one of the biggest releases in recent times</a>. As it hits theatres across the world on Friday, trade analysts predict a record opening day for the film. It has already&nbsp;recorded a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-gets-record-breaking-advance-booking-earns-a-whopping-rs-120-crore-178775">massive advance booking</a>, earning a whopping Rs 120 crore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to a daily, trade analyst Girish Johar said '2.0' will have a mammoth opening at the ticket counters. “The trailer of 2.0 has increased the expectations of the audience who have been waiting for the film’s release for a very long time. With a fantastic director like Shankar, I don’t think the movie will falter even after the first day. Movie buffs in the South will go berserk as superstar Rajinikanth plays the lead role in the movie."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fact that the film pits Rajinikanth against Akshay Kumar, who plays the antagonist, is also a big draw for the audience. Akshay Kumar is a superstar in North India and draws big numbers at the box office with his films. "A strong villain always pulls audience as they get involved in the film and start connecting to the hero because of the villain. So, Akshay’s villainous avatar in 2.0 is definitely something which cinephiles are looking forward to. Also, his popularity in the Hindi speaking belt will help the sci-fi film mint money at the box office. It has the potential of becoming Akshay’s non-holiday highest opener,” said Johar.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/mobile-operators-raise-objection-to-rajinikanths-20-want-film-certificate-to-be-revoked-179872"><em>Also read:&nbsp;Rajinikanth's '2.0': Mobile operators don't like it, want film certificate revoked</em></a></p>

<p>"The Hindi version of the film is expected to earn something between Rs 20-25 crore on the day of its release. If we consider all languages (Tamil and Telugu), the Rajinikanth starrer will touch Rs 100 crore (gross) mark on day one," Johar predicted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-cleared-for-release-in-pakistan-sees-record-breaking-advance-booking-180023"><em>Also read:&nbsp;Rajinikanth’s '2.0' cleared for release in Pakistan, sees record-breaking advance booking</em></a></p>

<p>The film also stars Amy Jackson and Adil Hussain in prominent roles. Directed by Shankar, '2.0' is a sequel of 'Enthiran'.&nbsp;</p>


If it's a Rajinikanth film, it has to be big. The superstar's latest '2,0' is getting one of the biggest releases in recent times. As it hits theatres across the world on Friday, trade analysts predict a record opening day for the film.

If it's a Rajinikanth film, it has to be big. The superstar's latest '2,0' is getting one of the biggest releases in recent times. As it hits theatres across the world on Friday, trade analysts predict a record opening day for the film. It has already recorded a massive advance booking, earning a whopping Rs 120 crore. Speaking to a daily, trade analyst Girish Johar said '2.0' will have a mammoth opening at the ticket counters. “The trailer of 2.0 has increased the expectations of the audience who have been waiting for the film’s release for a very long time. With a fantastic director like Shankar, I don’t think the movie will falter even after the first day. Movie buffs in the South will go berserk as superstar Rajinikanth plays the lead role in the movie." The fact that the film pits Rajinikanth against Akshay Kumar, who plays the antagonist, is also a big draw for the audience. Akshay Kumar is a superstar in North India and draws big numbers at the box office with his films. "A strong villain always pulls audience as they get involved in the film and start connecting to the hero because of the villain. So, Akshay’s villainous avatar in 2.0 is definitely something which cinephiles are looking forward to. Also, his popularity in the Hindi speaking belt will help the sci-fi film mint money at the box office. It has the potential of becoming Akshay’s non-holiday highest opener,” said Johar. Also read: Rajinikanth's '2.0': Mobile operators don't like it, want film certificate revoked "The Hindi version of the film is expected to earn something between Rs 20-25 crore on the day of its release. If we consider all languages (Tamil and Telugu), the Rajinikanth starrer will touch Rs 100 crore (gross) mark on day one," Johar predicted. Also read: Rajinikanth’s '2.0' cleared for release in Pakistan, sees record-breaking advance booking The film also stars Amy Jackson and Adil Hussain in prominent roles. Directed by Shankar, '2.0' is a sequel of 'Enthiran'.

Rajinikanth's '2.0' release day: Film expected to have a record opening

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