A court bench led by Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan has directed the makers of a controversial film to change its title, observing that the wording could denigrate a section of society and potentially violate standards of morality and public order.
The title, which combines slang associated with corruption with a term linked to a Brahmin identity, drew criticism from several community groups. Protests were reported in multiple cities, including Bhopal, where demonstrators burned posters, while an FIR was registered in Lucknow following directions from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
During the proceedings, filmmakers — including producer Neeraj Pandey — clarified that the film revolves around a fictional corrupt police officer named Ajay Dikshit. They stated that the word “Pandat” was used merely as a colloquial character name and was not intended to reference or offend any community.
However, the court maintained that public perception and potential impact on social harmony must be considered. The filmmakers have since withdrawn promotional material carrying the disputed title and have been instructed to submit an affidavit confirming a new title by February 19.
The ruling highlights the delicate balance between creative freedom and social sensitivity in India’s entertainment landscape. Legal experts note that the case underscores how film titles and promotional messaging can become focal points for broader debates on identity, representation, and public sentiment.
Mumbai | February 2026: Entrepreneur, music artist and business leader Ananya Birla has announced the launch of Birla Studios, a new film production venture aimed at creating high-concept, prestige-driven commercial cinema that bridges artistic storytelling with wide audience appeal.
The newly launched studio plans to develop a diverse slate of films spanning multiple languages and cultures, reflecting a vision of cinema that is both globally relevant and rooted in regional storytelling. According to the announcement, Birla Studios will focus on narratives that balance commercial success with creative distinction, positioning itself as a platform for bold, contemporary filmmaking.
Birla Studios is currently developing projects across Hindi, Gujarati and Malayalam, alongside other regional Indian languages, while also exploring English-language international productions. The multi-language approach highlights the studio’s ambition to connect with audiences across borders and bring regional voices into the global cinematic conversation.
Industry observers view the move as part of a growing trend where new-age creators and entrepreneurs are investing in content-driven storytelling, expanding India’s influence in the global entertainment ecosystem.
While specific film announcements are yet to be revealed, Birla Studios has confirmed that details of its upcoming projects will be unveiled soon, generating anticipation within the film and media industry.
With its focus on prestige-driven storytelling and cross-cultural narratives, Birla Studios aims to create cinema that resonates with modern audiences while pushing creative boundaries.
Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycral Entertainment Desk
Rajinikanth’s 75th birthday arrives with a historic weight this year, as it also marks his extraordinary 50th year in cinema — a golden jubilee that has transformed generations, shaped cultures, and redefined the meaning of stardom. The celebrations have spread across India and beyond, reflecting the admiration and love he continues to inspire. Born as Shivaji Rao Gaikwad, Rajinikanth’s journey from a bus conductor in Bengaluru to one of the most influential figures in Indian cinema is a story that has been told countless times, yet remains just as powerful every time it is revisited. His unmatched style, his humility, and his ability to connect with audiences with both simplicity and charisma have made him not just a star but a cultural phenomenon.
As the Superstar turns 75, wishes poured in from across the world, celebrating not just the birthday of a legend but five decades of his cinematic brilliance. Kamal Haasan led the tributes, honouring “75 years of a remarkable life and 50 years of legendary cinema,” calling Rajinikanth an eternal symbol of discipline and dedication. Mohanlal extended his wishes, celebrating the double milestone and praising the Superstar’s unmatched journey. Dhanush posted a heartfelt message for his former father-in-law, calling him Thalaiva and acknowledging how 50 years later, he continues to inspire millions. Karthik Subbaraj shared his admiration, saluting Rajinikanth’s golden jubilee and wishing him health and joy. SJ Suryah, ever the admirer, called him the “icon of icons,” while Jackie Shroff sent warm blessing-filled wishes. Khushbu Sundar went emotional, calling Rajinikanth “God’s favourite child,” celebrating his humility and strength. Soundarya Rajinikanth shared a personal message honouring her father’s incredible journey and the privilege of witnessing his growth both on and off screen.
Political leaders added to the wave of heartfelt messages. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him on both milestones, praising his journey, values and influence across India. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin honoured the Superstar’s career, calling his 50-year journey “historic and unforgettable.” Fans across India celebrated with the same enthusiasm — from trending hashtags to theatre screenings, with films like Padayappa being re-released as a tribute to his legacy. Social media turned into a festival of memories, clips, fan art, and emotional posts, proving once again that Rajinikanth’s connection with people goes far beyond the screen.
Rajinikanth’s story is one of grit, destiny, hard work, and magic — the kind of magic only he can create. At 75, with 50 years behind him and a lifetime ahead to inspire millions more, the Superstar stands tall as an icon who has defined an era and continues to shape the next. Today is not just a birthday. It is a celebration of a journey, a phenomenon, and a man whose legacy will forever remain unmatched in the world of cinema.
The opening parade of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa delivered a stunning visual spectacle, featuring a vibrant mix of cultural troupes and creative entries from production houses across the country. Among these, the NFDC (National Film Development Corporation) tableau stood out as one of the most eye-catching and thoughtfully crafted highlights of the event.
This year’s NFDC tableau captured widespread admiration for its elegant design and engaging moving components. The centrepiece—a massive projector equipped with dynamic projection lights—brought an immersive visual energy to the parade. Through this striking installation, NFDC creatively portrayed the evolution and milestones of Indian cinema.
Widely regarded as an organisation that reshaped Indian filmmaking and pioneered the new wave cinema movement, NFDC used the tableau to beautifully narrate its cinematic journey. The display also integrated its aligned verticals—NMIC (National Museum of Indian Cinema) and NFAI (National Film Archive of India)—through seamless and artistic visual representation.
The content curation was led by Satyajit Mandle, DGM, NMIC, while the art direction and production design were executed by Mahendra Potadar, under the guidance of NFDC’s Managing Director Prakash Magdum.
Commanding attention for its creativity, sophistication, and storytelling depth, the NFDC tableau emerged as one of the most memorable and classy installations at the IFFI 56 parade, earning praise from visitors, filmmakers, and festival participants alike.
The Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), in collaboration with the Government of Goa, has announced the much-awaited Aakash Kandil (lantern-making) competition as part of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025).
This annual celebration of light, art, and community encourages Goans to express their creativity through traditional and modern lantern designs — a visual representation of Goa’s vibrant culture and artistic legacy.
✨ Competition Highlights:
Participation: Open to all residents of Goa
Entry Limit: A total of 600 entries, with a cap of 50 entries per Taluka, accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Participation Reward: Every participant will receive ₹500 as a token of appreciation.
Submission Deadline: 18th November 2025 (by 5 PM)
Submission Venue: ESG Office, between 10 AM – 12:30 PM on 20th November.
For registration, participants can contact Neelai Naik at 7350019149.
🌿 Environmentally Friendly Theme
Participants are encouraged to craft their Aakash Kandils using eco-friendly materials, avoiding thermocol, to promote sustainability and environmental awareness. ESG will provide holders, bulbs, and electrical connections for display.
🏆 Judging & Rewards
A distinguished panel of judges will select three winners from each Taluka, who will receive the following prizes:
🥇 First Prize: ₹5000
🥈 Second Prize: ₹3000
🥉 Third Prize: ₹2000
All decisions by the judges will be final and binding.
💫 A Celebration of Creativity and Culture
The competition aims to foster artistic talent and community pride, illuminating the streets of Goa with handcrafted brilliance during IFFI 2025. Beyond the festive glow, the initiative stands as a tribute to Goan craftsmanship, cultural unity, and sustainable creativity.
As IFFI 2025 approaches, ESG invites everyone across the state to participate, create, and celebrate — turning Goa into a vibrant canvas of light and imagination.
📍 For more details, visit allycaral.com #IFFI2025 #IFFIGoa #ESG #AakashKandil #GoaCulture #FestivalOfLights #ConnectingGlobal #Allycaral
