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The Hindu
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
When Tamil cinema and railways cross tracks
There's a track where Tamil cinema and the railways intersect in Madras. Several hit films and iconic scenes, which are etched in the memory of filmgoers, were shot on railway premises. These places provide perfect backdrop to several films, so much so, that they are remembered more for being set in these locations than their actors. A film song dedicated to the train itself featured in Gentleman, where Prabhudeva danced to the hit number Chikku Bukku Chikku Bukku Raile. The way the song, which also introduced music director G.V. Prakash as a child singer, sways in sync with the train's movement endeared both the song and the railway station to audiences. M. Senthamil Selvan, Chief Public Relations Officer of Southern Railway, said revenue from film shooting permission was a good source of non-fare income for the railways. The Public Relations Department is in charge of giving permissions for film shooting, which necessitates several formalities as passengers or train operations should not be affected. Southern Railway earned around ₹60 lakh from the fee collected for film shooting licences during 2024-25, he added. D. Om Prakash, Senior Public Relations Officer, Southern Railway, said some of the favourite films that were shot on railway premises were Alaipayuthey at the Tambaram railway station, Gentleman at the Egmore railway station, and Agni Natchathiram and Singaravelan at the Southern Railway Headquarters, located next to the Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station. Many film directors, including Mani Ratnam, Shankar, Myskin, and Fazil, feature trains along with railway stations either as a key setting or backdrop during memorable scenes. A notable example was Thodari, a film entirely set on a running train, not to mention Bharathiraja's classic Kizhekke Pogum Rail, which includes a song sequence on a moving train. Additionally, movies such as Chennai Express and Anbu Karangal have train-related sequences, though they may not be entirely train-based flicks. The Tondiarpet railway yard was featured in Kamal's hit film 'Vikram 2'. The Royapuram railway station, from where the first train in south India was operated, is a heritage station and is popular shooting spot in the Tamil film industry. 'Rail' Ravi, a retired officer from the railways, reminisces about the films that were shot on railway premises. Actor Sivaji in Pachai Vilakku stars as a train driver, with the film having been shot at the Basin Bridge railway station. Also, actor Kamal's hit films Anbe Sivam, Kurudhipunal, Vasool Raja MBBS, and actor Rajinikanth's Sivaji had scenes that were shot at the railway headquarters, he said. Interestingly, for the film Madrasapattinam, the producers, instead of renting the Chennai Central railway station, built an entirely new set of the station to bring the feel of the Pre-Independence era.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Rajinikanth marks 50 years of stardom: DSP, Gopichand Malineni, and others share wishes for Thalaivar
Picture Credit: X Superstar Rajinikanth has completed 50 years in the film industry, a milestone very few actors ever reach. As the legendary actor celebrates this golden jubilee, celebrities and fans from all corners are sending their love and wishes. Among them, music composer Devi Sri Prasad and filmmaker Gopichand Malineni shared heartfelt messages. 50 glorious years of style Among the wishers, celebrated music composer Devi Sri Prasad, popularly known as DSP. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the hitmaker behind countless chartbusters wrote, "50 Glorious Years of STYLE, SWAG & Ultimate Entertainment… Our Dearest SUPERSTAR @rajinikanth sir… CONGRATULATIONS on your GOLDEN JUBILEE, sir, and THANK YOU, THALAIVA." DSP's words captured the admiration and respect felt by millions who have been touched by Rajinikanth's work over the decades. Telugu filmmaker Gopichand Malineni, known for his mass entertainers, also joined in the celebrations. Sharing a striking picture of the superstar on X, he wrote, "Hearty congratulations to Thalaivar, Superstar @rajinikanthgaru — 50 years of STYLE and SWAG." Director S Shankar, who has collaborated with Rajinikanth on blockbusters like Sivaji, Endhiran, and 2.0, shared an emotional note recalling his earliest memories of the actor. From first spotting him on screen in Moondru Mudichu to directing him in some of Indian cinema's most ambitious projects, Shankar described his admiration as something that "has never diminished by the slightest" in 50 years. Malayalam superstar Mohanlal also shared his praises on social media, writing, "Fifty years of unmatched charisma, dedication, and magic on screen! Congratulations to the one and only @rajinikanth sir on this monumental milestone. Here's to #Coolie and many more iconic moments ahead." Coolie release adds to Golden Jubilee celebrations Currently, Rajinikanth is riding high on the release of his latest film Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. Released on August 14 to massive fanfare, the high-octane gangster drama features a star-studded cast including Nagarjuna, Aamir Khan, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, Upendra, and Soubin Shahir. "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
News18
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Devi Sri Prasad Salutes Rajinikanth's 50 Glorious Years Of Style, Swag & Ultimate Entertainment
Last Updated: Celebrated music composer Devi Sri Prasad (DSP) took to social media to express his admiration and salute Rajinikanth's journey. It's a landmark moment in Indian cinema as Superstar Rajinikanth celebrates 50 glorious years in the film industry. Ever since his debut in Apoorva Raagangal in 1975, Thalaiva has remained a towering figure across generations. He has redefined style, stardom, and screen presence like no other actor. Marking this monumental milestone, celebrities from across industries are pouring in heartfelt wishes for the legend, who is currently riding high on the release of his latest action drama Coolie. Devi Sri Prasad's Salute to Thalaiva Celebrated music composer Devi Sri Prasad (DSP) took to social media to express his admiration. Sharing a post on X (formerly Twitter), DSP wrote, '50 Glorious Years of STYLE, SWAG & Ultimate Entertainment… Our Dearest SUPERSTAR @rajinikanth sir… CONGRATULATIONS on your GOLDEN JUBILEE, sir, and THANK YOU, THALAIVA." He also wished the best for Rajinikanth's new film, adding, 'And Wishing #Coolie & the Entire Team a Phenomenal Blockbuster!!!" 50 Glorious Years of STYLE, SWAG & Ultimate Dearest SUPERSTAR @rajinikanth on ur GOLDEN JUBILEE Sir & THANK YOU THALAIVA 🎶🙏🏻❤️ #Rajinikanth50 And Wishing #Coolie & the Entire Team a Phenomenal Blockbuster !!! @Dir_Lokesh,… — DEVI SRI PRASAD (@ThisIsDSP) August 14, 2025 Other Celebrities who wished Rajinikanth on completing 50 years Several other cinema stalwarts also took to their social platforms to salute Rajinikanth's incredible journey. Kamal Haasan posted on X, 'Marking half a century of cinematic brilliance, my dear friend @rajinikanth celebrates 50 glorious years in cinema today. I celebrate our Super Star with affection and admiration, and wish #Coolie resounding global success befitting this golden jubilee." Marking half a century of cinematic brilliance, my dear friend @rajinikanth celebrates 50 glorious years in cinema today. I celebrate our Super Star with affection and admiration, and wish #Coolie resounding global success befitting this golden by the powerhouse… — Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) August 13, 2025 Director S Shankar, who worked with Rajinikanth on films like Sivaji, Endhiran, and 2.0, penned, 'Dear @rajinikanth sir. The awe I felt from the day I first saw you on screen in Moondru Mudichu, seeing you in person on the sets of Johnny, meeting you as a director, narrating my stories, making Sivaji, Endhiran, 2.0 and up until a couple of weeks ago when I saw you last- 50 years of awe that has never diminished by the slightest." 'They say the most positive aura extends fifty feet from its source, your Awe-ra engulfs the whole world sir. Your life is a lesson for humility, staying grounded, respect, dedication, punctuality, hard work and perseverance. A golden jubilee has never shined brighter. My best ever wishes for #Coolie and the whole team. Arangam Adhirattum," he added. Dear @rajinikanth sir The awe I felt from the day I first saw you on screen in Moondru Mudichu, seeing you in person on the sets of Johnny, meeting you as a director, narrating my stories, making Sivaji, Endhiran, 2.0 and up until a couple of weeks ago when I saw you last- 50… — Shankar Shanmugham (@shankarshanmugh) August 13, 2025 Mohanlal added, 'Fifty years of unmatched charisma, dedication, and magic on screen! Congratulations to the one and only @rajinikanth sir on this monumental milestone. Here's to #Coolie and many more iconic moments ahead." Fifty years of unmatched charisma, dedication, and magic on screen! Congratulations to the one and only @rajinikanth sir on this monumental milestone. Here's to #Coolie and many more iconic moments ahead. — Mohanlal (@Mohanlal) August 13, 2025 Rajinikanth's Coolie The actor's latest film Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, has been released to massive fanfare today, August 14. Produced by Kalanithi Maran under the Sun Pictures banner, the action-packed gangster drama features a powerhouse ensemble including Nagarjuna, Aamir Khan, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, Upendra, and Soubin Shahir. Supporting actors include Rachita Ram, Monisha Blessy, Kaali Venkat, Reba Monica John, Junior MGR, Kanna Ravi, and Charle, adding to the film's strong on-screen presence. Set in a gritty coastal port town, Coolie follows Deva, a once-powerful underworld figure who returns to reclaim his lost empire using antique gold watches. Packed with adrenaline-fueled action, emotion, and Lokesh's signature storytelling, Coolie is positioned as one of Rajinikanth's most ambitious films in every sense. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Saroja Devi passes away: 10 iconic Tamil songs to remember the late legendary actor
When the news about the demise of veteran actor B Saroja Devi broke out earlier today, I found a fellow passenger on the Metro train humming the tune of 'Unnai Ondru Ketpen' from the actor's 1964 film Puthiya Paravai. Speak to your mother about Saroja Devi, and she would sing 'Chittu Kuruvi,' from the same film, reminiscing about the times when the 'Abhinaya Saraswathi' ruled the silverscreen. A veteran who has starred in over 200 films in Kannada, Tamil and Telugu, Saroja Devi is best remembered for featuring in some iconic songs during the Golden Age of Tamil cinema. Here are 10 iconic Tamil songs to remember the 'Kannadathu Paingili' who ruled the hearts of film audiences. Interestingly, late acclaimed singer P. Susheela was the voice behind Saroja Devi in all of these popular songs, while M.S. Viswanathan, independently or as part of the popular duo Viswanathan–Ramamoorthy, composed the music. You might be surprised to find many entries from films starring M.G. Ramachandran; the Tamil superstar had starred in over 20 films with Saroja Devi. 'Naan Pesa Ninaippathellam' from Palum Pazhamum (1961) A duet track with the late legendary Sivaji Ganesan, 'Naan Pesa Ninaippathellam' is undoubtedly one of the most famous romantic songs of the '60s. The beautiful romance track features Sivaji and Saroja Devi dancing on a hilltop. Do watch out for Saroja's expressions when she sings, 'Paalodu pazham yaavum unakaga vendum, paavai un mugam paarthu pasiyaara vendum.' 'Unnai Ondru Ketpen' from Puthiya Paravai (1964) An evergreen Susheela rendition, this had to be on the list. 'Unnai Ondru Ketpen' is not only remembered for its elegant tune but also for its picturisation. The song features Saroja Devi, in a gorgeous red saree, singing in a ballroom, while Sivaji plays the piano. Lyricist Kannadan seizes the day when he goes, 'Kaadhal paatu paada, kaalam innum illai; thaalaatu paada thaai aagavillai.' 'Thottal Poo Malarum' from Padagotti (1964) A staple late-night melody, 'Thottal Poo Malarum' is adored by audiences for its breezy, laid-back composition. We doubt if there's a record of a Tamil mother from the '60s changing a television channel playing this iconic song, which features MGR and Saroja Devi as a couple from the fishing community, dancing and clapping in sync with the beats. The song was remixed by A.R. Rahman for the movie New decades later. 'Chittu Kuruvi' from Puthiya Paravai (1964) Another song that is so close to the hearts of the female audiences who grew up in the '60s and '70s. The percussion in the background, Viswanathan-Ramamoorthy's ever-refreshing music, Susheela's mesmerising voice, and the unbeatable 'Abhinaya Saraswathi' at her best. Life is good when 'Chittu Kuruvi' is playing. 'Love Birds' from Anbe Vaa (1966) A great companion piece to 'Chittu Kuruvi,' this was the song you play when you feel the butterflies in your stomach. Saroja Devi, in a modern attire, captured the hearts of a million fans, especially fans of MG Ramachandran, who remember this comedy film dearly. Both 'Love Birds' and the film, Anbe Vaa, are highly recommended. 'Naan Paarththathile' from Anbe Vaa (1966) A portion of this romantic track, from the same film, was recently viral on Instagram for the lyrics: 'Endha kalaignanum avalai silai vadipaan, endha pulavanum avalai paatil vaipaan. Andha iyarkaiyum aval mel kaadhal kollum, aval ninaivaalae en kaalam sellum.' We agree, Mr. Vaali; who could resist singing about the beautiful Saroja Devi? 'Kodi Asaindhathum' from Parthal Pasi Theerum (1962) Did the flower bloom after the moonrise? Or did the moon arrive after the flower bloomed? Sivaji Ganesan and Saroja Devi promenade along a misty terrain, wondering about the same. One of the most famous tracks from Parthal Pasi Theerum, this song deserves a special place in our list. 'Aalaya Mainiyin Osayai' from Palum Pazhamum (1961) A Saroja Devi retrospective without this song would do it no justice. An evergreen lullaby, 'Aalaya Mainiyin,' from Paalum Pazhamum, features innumerable close-ups of the ever-radiant Saroja in a light-coloured saree, winning a million hearts with her expressions. 'Thanimayile Inimai' from Aadi Perukku (1962) This is for the loners who are feeling the Monday blues. Gemini Ganesan and Saroja Devi engage in a musical back-and-forth under the full moon, pondering if one could seek pleasure from solitude. 'Naam kaanum ulagil yedhum thanimai illai,' says lyricist KD Santhanam. 'Andru Vanthathum Idhe Nila' from Periya Idathu Penn (1963) Many would recommend the usual, chirpy version of this song, but we recommend you check out the sad version, which features Saroja and MGR sharing an intimate, vulnerable moment. 'Inbam thandhadhum orae nilaa, yenga vaippadhum orae nilaa,' goes a lyric and it's hard not to imagine her as that enchanting moon. Rest in peace, Saroja Devi. Special mentions: 'Sange Muzhangu' from Kalangarai Vilakkam (1965) 'Oru Pennai Paarthu' from Deiva Thai (1964) 'Kumari Pennin' from Enga Veettu Pillai (1965)
The Hindu
09-07-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Bharat Bandh: Brawl between police and protesters in Ramanathapuram
A brawl erupted between protesters and police during a picket organised by Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) and All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) as part of Bharat Bandh here on Wednesday. The protesters organised a picket outside the head post office and raised a slew of demands including revocation of contentious four labour laws, filling of existing vacancies and dropping of privatisation plans of public sectors and workers' outsourcing practice. M. Sivaji, CITU district secretary, said their demands included fixing a minimum wage of ₹26,000 a month and a minimum pension of ₹9,000 a month. Other demands included declaring the jobs of ASHA workers and Anganwadi workers permanent as their roles were important. 'The workers by being a medium between society and government have strengthened rural health care and childcare to an unimaginable level,' he added. When their jobs themselves were precarious, how would they think of delivering fair and sincere work, Mr. Sivaji said. As the system of contractual labour was being taken up in almost all sectors, the protection of unorganised workers was indispensable. 'Only by constituting a central finance commission would the unorganised workers be safeguarded. Despite laws mandating job protection to the labours, none of the employers have taken that seriously,' he noted. 'To protect farmers and agricultural produce, the government should fix a decent minimum support price for the produces. Only by securing a good return for farmers, the intrusion of corporates and middlemen into agriculture sector can be controlled,' he stated. Also, he condemned the unbecoming behaviour of the police against protesters who attempted to hold a peaceful protest. During the brawl, Mr. Sivaji experienced suffocation and was taken to a hospital for treatment. More than 500 protesters in different places such as Ramanathapuram, Paramakudi, Thiruvadanai, Sikkal, Kamuthi and Mudukulathur were detained by the police and were later released in the evening. The Labour Progressive Federation (LPF) staged a separate demonstration raising similar demands.
