Latest news with #HyderabadTimes
Time of India
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Newly re-elected TFCC chief Suniel Narang steps down
Veteran film producer Suniel Narang on Sunday resigned as president of the Telangana Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC), only a day after being elected to a third consecutive term. Speaking to Hyderabad Times, he said he quit because he felt 'hurt and disrespected' by public remarks linking him to issues he 'had no involvement in.' 'My secretary said something and it was upsetting, especially since I wasn't responsible for the issues being discussed. I don't want to take names, but it was all too overwhelming at that moment. I felt stepping down was the best course of action. My decision may have seemed sudden, but it came from a place of feeling hurt and disrespected,' he said. Background At a TFCC press meet on Saturday, secretary V L Sreedhar criticised a proposed theatre bandh by some exhibitors and distributors that had been planned from June 1 but was later withdrawn. Sreedhar claimed, 'The bandh was driven by two producers and two directors.' Commenting on the postponement of Hari Hara Veera Mallu, he added, 'Due to the sudden postponement, lots of theatres that had already been blocked for the film's release are now lying empty. ' - Divya Shree
Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
I've been facing the camera for 25 years now; That gives you a certain edge: Ajay
Ajay In a career that began without ambition or design, Ajay has spent the last 25 years steadily carving out a space for himself in Indian cinema. Born in Vijayawada with no film aspirations, he stumbled into acting by chance. What followed was an unexpectedly enduring journey — over 250 films across Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada. Speaking to Hyderabad Times, Ajay reflects on a career built not on stardom, but on staying power — and how evolving with the times has kept him in the frame. 'Films were never part of the plan — not even in my wildest dreams' Ajay didn't grow up with cinematic ambitions. Born in Vijayawada, he believed he was headed for a future in engineering — until a coaching stint in Hyderabad altered his course. 'I enrolled for a long-term EAMCET coaching programme at a college in Jubilee Hills. There were a lot of film shoots happening in and around the area. I used to watch the actors and the shoots, and somehow, I got attracted to that world,' he shares. When the exam didn't work out, his father admitted him into an engineering college in Nagpur. But Ajay couldn't see himself continuing. 'I didn't like it there, so I came back and joined Madhu Film Institute in Hyderabad. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo It was a six-month course, but I never completed it. During the course itself, I got a couple of film offers. It all started immediately — no photo shoots, no big plans. It just happened.' Ajay with his pet 'Work kept coming — and that itself is a big deal in this industry' Ajay's acting career began in the early 2000s, without the backing of a star launch or a big banner. Still, he remained a visible and reliable presence — often playing the friend, brother, henchman, or villain. 'I started at the right time — alongside Mahesh Babu, Jr NTR, Prabhas. I kept getting work, and in this industry, that itself is a big deal,' he says. His first major breakthrough came with Vikramarkudu , where he played the lead antagonist. The role brought him recognition, but sustaining that visibility wasn't always easy. 'After Vikramarkudu , there was a lull. Then Ishq brought things back on track. I've always been lucky in that way, I guess — whenever I needed something big to happen, it did.' From Kushi (2001) to Pushpa 2: The Rule (2024), Ajay has been part of nearly 250 films across multiple languages. 'At 46, I've crossed that awkward phase in an actor's life' Two and a half decades in, Ajay says his career has reached a point of quiet confidence. 'That phase — where you're too old to play a college guy and too young for a father's role — is really tough. But now, at 46, I've crossed that zone,' he says. His recent role in Pushpa 2: The Rule marks what he sees as a meaningful shift. 'Just being in a film like that is a privilege,' he says. 'It'll go down like Baahubali , like Maya Bazaar — films people will remember for years.' Ajay credits his longevity to adapting with changing trends and expectations. 'Earlier, it was all about loud performances, but now it's about realism — and I've had to keep upgrading my craft,' he explains. 'I've been facing the camera for 25 years now. That gives you a certain edge.' Ajay Highlights: 'I started my journey in the film industry when I was 21, and that awkward phase between youth and maturity is brutal. But now, at 46, I've crossed that stage.' 'This year, I've decided to accept only roles I truly like. Most of my career, I've done 90% of the roles that came my way. Now, after 25 years, I can afford to be choosy.' 'Since my debut, I've done around 250 films. I never kept count, but that's roughly where it stands. I was lucky to get roles immediately after film school. Work kept coming — whether it was long or short, good or bad, I always had something.' 'I've mostly played similar characters throughout my career — the villain's brother, son. Now, I want nuance. Like Paatal Lok — grey shades, inner conflict. That's the space I'm eyeing.' Ajay in Pottel (2024)
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
I want to quit, but audience wants me to keep playing Krishna: Nitish Bharadwaj
For over three decades, Nitish Bharadwaj has been inseparable from the image of Lord Krishna, from his iconic portrayal in BR Chopra's Mahabharat in 1988 to powerful stage performances that continue to draw packed audiences. Though he often feels ready to move on, the enduring love from viewers keeps bringing him back to the role. Currently in Hyderabad to perform Chakravyuh this Sunday, the actor reflects on his journey, the timeless appeal of Krishna, and why the Mahabharata's wisdom still resonates today. In conversation with Hyderabad Times, Nitish Bharadwaj reflects on the enduring allure of Krishna, and why the wisdom of the Mahabharata continues to resonate today Excerpts: 'Atul rewrote the script several times to highlight issues still relevant today' Earlier, the play had a different title and narrative. I suggested changes so the story could be told from Krishna's perspective, offering a deeper and more reflective view of life. Director Atul Satya Koushik rewrote the script multiple times, and together we shaped it to highlight themes that still feel relevant today. Chakravyuh has since toured across the country and continues to captivate audiences with over 150 screenings and now, for the first time, it will be staged in Hyderabad, which I'm very excited about. 'The depth of Krishna's role makes it endlessly engaging' At a recent show, I asked the audience, 'I've been playing Krishna since 1988. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Dark spots can age you by 10 years! Just take this from Guardian URUHIME MOMOKO Learn More Undo How long should I continue? I feel like it's time to move on.' But their response was overwhelming, they said, 'No, no, we want you to keep playing Krishna!' Now, I've have been offered another chance to play Krishna, which I might also direct. Krishna's persona remains endlessly fascinating with so many layers and stories to tell, so it's fun to play the character. I'm truly humbled by the continued love from audiences. It keeps me grounded and grateful. 'Today's Adaptations Prioritise VFX and Grandeur, They miss the philosophical core' When I see how Mahabharat is adapted today, I feel the problem is that some versions are made like daily soaps. And I don't mean to undermine that format, but Mahabharat is a layered human drama that needs time and depth. What made BR Chopra's version work was the strong writing and a deep understanding of the characters. Today's adaptations often prioritise VFX and grandeur, but they miss the emotional and philosophical core. - Biswajit Talukdar Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘I want to quit, but audience wants me to keep playing Krishna'
For over three decades, Nitish Bharadwaj has been inseparable from the image of Lord Krishna, from his iconic portrayal in BR Chopra's Mahabharat in 1988 to powerful stage performances that continue to draw packed audiences. Though he often feels ready to move on, the enduring love from viewers keeps bringing him back to the role. Currently in Hyderabad to perform Chakravyuh this Sunday, the actor reflects on his journey, the timeless appeal of Krishna, and why the Mahabharata's wisdom still resonates today. In conversation with Hyderabad Times, Nitish Bharadwaj reflects on the enduring allure of Krishna, and why the wisdom of the Mahabharata continues to resonate today Excerpts: 'Atul rewrote the script several times to highlight issues still relevant today' Earlier, the play had a different title and narrative. I suggested changes so the story could be told from Krishna's perspective, offering a deeper and more reflective view of life. Director Atul Satya Koushik rewrote the script multiple times, and together we shaped it to highlight themes that still feel relevant today. Chakravyuh has since toured across the country and continues to captivate audiences with over 150 screenings and now, for the first time, it will be staged in Hyderabad, which I'm very excited about. 'The depth of Krishna's role makes it endlessly engaging' At a recent show, I asked the audience, 'I've been playing Krishna since 1988. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 오스템 임플란트 받아가세요 임플란터 더 알아보기 Undo How long should I continue? I feel like it's time to move on.' But their response was overwhelming, they said, 'No, no, we want you to keep playing Krishna!' Now, I've have been offered another chance to play Krishna, which I might also direct. Krishna's persona remains endlessly fascinating with so many layers and stories to tell, so it's fun to play the character. I'm truly humbled by the continued love from audiences. It keeps me grounded and grateful. 'Today's Adaptations Prioritise VFX and Grandeur, They miss the philosophical core' When I see how Mahabharat is adapted today, I feel the problem is that some versions are made like daily soaps. And I don't mean to undermine that format, but Mahabharat is a layered human drama that needs time and depth. What made BR Chopra's version work was the strong writing and a deep understanding of the characters. Today's adaptations often prioritise VFX and grandeur, but they miss the emotional and philosophical core. - Biswajit Talukdar
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Filmmaking is my first love, acting happened by accident'
Tharun Bhascker burst onto the scene with Pelli Choopulu, a film that not only revitalised Telugu rom-coms but also cemented his reputation as a bold new voice in indie storytelling. What truly sets him apart, however, is the seamless transition he's made from director to actor — an evolution few filmmakers attempt, and even fewer pull off. What began as blink-and-miss cameos in his own films gradually evolved into complex, meatier roles that showcased his versatility. Today, he stands as a rare talent who wears multiple hats — director, actor, voice actor and writer. In a candid chat with Hyderabad Times, Tharun reflects on this shift from calling the shots to taking direction, his upcoming projects, and why the director in him will always have the final word. 'Adapting to a Godavari accent changed a lot for me' Currently shooting for the Telugu remake of the Malayalam blockbuster Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey, Tharun steps into a role that's a stark departure from his real-life persona. 'He's a deeply insecure man who asserts dominance in disturbing ways — that felt completely alien to me,' he shares. The challenge, however, was part of the appeal. 'It pushed me to tap into emotions I didn't even know I had. I had to unlearn my Telangana accent and adopt a Godavari dialect. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo That lived-in experience changed me as a performer. I feel more prepared now to write characters from that region with authenticity,' he says. 'I don't mind being the antagonist or even just a side character' Though he's received acclaim for his on-screen performances in films like Sita Ramam and Mahanati, the National Award-winning director is clear about priorities: 'I treat acting as a secondary profession. Directing is my core.' That clarity gives him space to explore unusual or offbeat roles. 'I'm not chasing the lead role. I don't mind playing the antagonist or a quirky side character — even if it doesn't always work in my favour. ' His approach has become more fluid over time. 'Initially, acting felt lonely and mentally draining. Your success depends on so many external things — dialogues, styling, promotions. And when it fails, it feels personal, even if it's not.' 'We seek therapy in cinema — it becomes a shared emotion' Cinema, for Tharun, is more than a profession, it's a social and emotional ritual. 'We're just cinema lovers,' he says. 'I see a lot of people crying after watching movies who usually don't cry. I think it evokes some sense of emotion inside them… it's like therapy for us. Movies have a similar effect, if not more. That's why we have a religious attachment towards films, its makers and the heroes we worship.' 'I still see myself as a timid, introverted person' Acting may seem like a natural progression for many filmmakers, but for Tharun, it came more by accident than design. 'I've always been timid and introverted — I still am. Entering the industry pushed me far out of my comfort zone,' he says. However, support from some of his close friends played a pivotal role in marking the shift. 'People like Vishwak Sen, Vijay Deverakonda and Nag Ashwin really encouraged me. But a rude awakening came during Pelli Choopulu promotions when I was trolled for something I said on a TV promo. That's when I realised how brutal public life can be. People will judge everything except your actual talent.' Quote: Comedy has always been my comfort zone, but I'm a huge fan of the Russo Brothers and their exploration of darker themes like death and grief. My goal has always been to dive into different genres and discover new layers I can bring to them - Divya Shree Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
