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Rekha Steals the Spotlight with Heartwarming Gesture for Agastya Nanda at ‘Ikkis’ Premiere

Rashika Sharma
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Rekha Steals the Spotlight with Heartwarming Gesture for Agastya Nanda at ‘Ikkis’ Premiere

December 30, 2025 – The Mumbai screening of Sriram Raghavan’s highly anticipated war drama, Ikkis, was more than just a star-studded event; it became a canvas for emotional tributes and cross-generational affection. While the evening saw a galaxy of stars, it was the timeless Rekha who captured everyone’s hearts with a deeply personal and heartwarming gesture toward debutant Agastya Nanda.

A Touching Tribute to Legacy

As Rekha arrived at the venue, looking ethereal in a signature light green and gold saree, she didn’t just walk the red carpet—she paused to honor the legends of the industry. Before entering the hall, the veteran actress stopped in front of a large poster of the late legendary actor Dharmendra, who plays a pivotal role in the film. In a moment of quiet reverence, she stood with folded hands and a bowed head, paying her respects to her former co-star.

However, the moment that set social media abuzz followed immediately after. Moving toward the poster of the film’s lead, Agastya Nanda—the grandson of Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan—Rekha displayed a rare moment of maternal affection. She was seen gently placing her hand on Agastya’s face in the poster and blowing a flying kiss, effectively “blessing” the young actor ahead of his major theatrical debut.

Highlights of the ‘Ikkis’ Premiere

The event was a significant gathering for the film fraternity, serving as a tribute to Dharmendra’s final on-screen performance.

  • Salman Khan’s Emotional Moment: Much like Rekha, Salman Khan was visibly moved, appearing teary-eyed while standing before Dharmendra’s poster.
  • The Deol Family Presence: Sunny Deol, debuting a surprising clean-shaven look, and Bobby Deol were present to celebrate their father’s legacy, with Bobby reportedly becoming emotional after the screening.
  • Star-Studded Guest List: The red carpet saw the likes of Tabu, Jeetendra, Genelia D’Souza, Riteish Deshmukh, and Manish Malhotra, all turning up to support the next generation of talent.

About the Film: ‘Ikkis’

Directed by the master of suspense, Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis is a war biopic based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. Agastya Nanda takes on the mantle of the martyred hero, a role that has already earned him high praise from his grandfather, Amitabh Bachchan. The film, which also stars Jaideep Ahlawat and Sikandar Kher, is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on January 1, 2026.

Rekha’s gesture has been described by fans as a “poetic link” between the golden era of Bollywood and its future. By celebrating Agastya’s milestone with such warmth, she once again proved that her grace transcends the silver screen.

4 Dead in Mumbai as BEST Bus Reverses into Pedestrians

Rahul Kaushik
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4 Dead in Mumbai as BEST Bus Reverses into Pedestrians

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: A horrific accident late Monday night turned a routine commute into a nightmare at Bhandup (West), as a civic-run BEST bus crashed into a crowd of pedestrians while reversing. The incident, which occurred around 10:05 PM on December 29, 2025, has left four people dead and at least nine others injured.

The Chilling Moment

CCTV footage captured by a local textile shop shows the harrowing seconds when the midi-bus suddenly surged backward at the busy Station Road. Pedestrians, many of whom were commuters waiting for buses or navigating the congested street, were seen scrambling in panic. Some were unable to escape the vehicle’s path and were pinned beneath it.

Eyewitnesses described a scene of absolute chaos. Shopkeepers and locals were the first to respond, rushing to lift the stationary bus to rescue those trapped underneath. “I heard a massive crash and ran out to see people lying on the road. The bus had climbed onto the footpath,” said Dinesh Jain, a local shop owner who assisted in the rescue.

Details of the Incident

The bus, an electric midi-vehicle from Olectra Greentech operating on route A-606, was reportedly at the end of its journey. According to preliminary police reports, the driver, Santosh Ramesh Sawant (52), was attempting to maneuver a U-turn or reposition the vehicle when he lost control.

The victims have been identified as:

  • Pranita Sandip Rasam (35)
  • Varsha Sawant (25)
  • Mansi Meghshyam Gurav (49)
  • Prashant Shinde (53)

Among the nine injured currently being treated at Rajawadi and MT Agarwal Hospitals is a 12-year-old girl. While most are reported to be in stable condition, the tragedy has sent shockwaves through the suburban community.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

The driver has been taken into police custody, and a First Information Report (FIR) is being registered. While initial reports suggested a mechanical failure or an error involving the handbrake during a shift change, the police are conducting a thorough mechanical inspection to determine the exact cause.

This tragedy comes almost exactly one year after a similar fatal accident in Kurla, raising serious questions about the safety of wet-leased electric buses and the training of their operators. Local residents and political leaders have pointed to the severe congestion and lack of adequate turning space at Bhandup station as contributing factors.

Government Response

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his deepest condolences, describing the incident as “extremely unfortunate.” He has announced a financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and directed hospitals to ensure the best possible care for the injured.

Viral Video Sparks Heated Clash Over TSA Security Etiquette

Rahul Kaushik
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Viral Video Sparks Heated Clash Over TSA Security Etiquette

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: A simple task at the airport has transformed into a major point of contention following a viral video that has divided passengers across the globe. On December 29, 2025, a clip began circulating on social media showing a traveler meticulously stacking their used plastic bins after passing through a TSA security checkpoint. While intended as a helpful gesture to clear the way for others, the act has ignited a fierce debate regarding whether passengers should actively handle security bins or leave the task entirely to airport personnel.

Arguments for the ‘Stacking’ Culture

A segment of the traveling public was observed praising the behavior as a display of basic etiquette and civic responsibility. It has been argued by proponents that stacking bins helps prevent bottlenecks at the end of the X-ray belt, especially during the high-volume holiday travel season of late 2025. Former security employees were even heard chiming in on the viral thread, expressing their gratitude for travelers who help keep the lanes uncluttered. For many, the act of “putting your tray away” is viewed as an essential part of being a prepared and considerate traveler.

Also Read: Brutal Machete Attack on Migrant Worker in Thiruvallur

The Health and Safety Counter-Narrative

However, a significant number of passengers were observed taking the opposite stance, citing hygiene concerns as a primary reason to avoid the bins. It was noted by travel experts that plastic security trays are frequently identified as the most germ-laden surfaces in an airport, often harboring more respiratory viruses than public restrooms. Many travelers were heard stating that they strictly avoid touching the bins more than necessary to reduce the risk of illness. Additionally, some passengers reported being reprimanded by TSA agents in the past for stacking bins, as certain automated systems are designed to process them in a specific, unstacked manner.

Official Stance and Regional Variations

The confusion among passengers is often exacerbated by the lack of a uniform national policy. It has been observed that while some airports in the U.S. have installed Automated Screening Lanes (ASL) that automatically return bins to the starting point, others still rely on manual labor. In cities like Salt Lake City, signs have been observed explicitly asking travelers not to stack trays, as it can jam the return belts. Conversely, in smaller regional hubs, passengers are often encouraged to help out. This inconsistency has led to many travelers feeling “damned if they do and damned if they don’t” when reaching the end of the conveyor.

Navigating the Gray Area of Airport Etiquette

As the year 2025 draws to a close, the consensus remains elusive. Travelers are being advised by industry veterans to take their cues from the local environment; if a stack is clearly visible and staff seem overwhelmed, a quick stack may be appreciated. However, if an automated system is in place, the “hands-off” approach is usually best. Regardless of the choice made, the use of hand sanitizer immediately after the screening process is being recommended as a mandatory final step for all passengers to combat the high bacterial load associated with the trays.

Brutal Machete Attack on Migrant Worker in Thiruvallur

Rahul Kaushik
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Brutal Machete Attack on Migrant Worker in Thiruvallur

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: A disturbing incident of violence was witnessed in the Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu, where a migrant worker was brutally assaulted by a group of four minors. On Friday, December 26, 2025, the victim, identified as Suraj, a 34-year-old worker originally from Maharashtra (with some reports initially mentioning Odisha or Madhya Pradesh), was targeted by the teenagers near the Tiruttani railway station. The assault, which involved the use of sickles and machetes, was recorded by the attackers themselves, later surfacing on social media and triggering nationwide outrage.

A Confrontation Beginning on a Train

The sequence of events was reported to have started aboard a Chennai-Tiruttani EMU local train. It was observed that the four minors, all approximately 17 years of age, boarded the compartment while allegedly in an intoxicated state. A brief exchange in Hindi between the group and Suraj escalated into a heated argument. The situation turned menacing when the teenagers were seen brandishing a knife to the victim’s neck while the train was still in motion. This initial act of intimidation was filmed by the group with the apparent intent of creating a viral “reel.”

Also Read: Mumbai Rickshaw Driver Threatens Rapido Rider in Viral Video

The Assault Near Railway Quarters

Upon reaching the Tiruttani station, the victim was reportedly forced by the group to a secluded spot near the railway quarters. It was here that the intimidation transitioned into a murderous frenzy. Suraj was repeatedly hacked with sickles, resulting in severe deep-cut injuries. In the viral footage, one of the attackers was seen flashing a victory sign while another continued to record the brutality. Despite being heavily bloodied, the victim managed to stagger to a nearby road, where passers-by alerted the railway police, leading to his rescue and immediate hospitalization.

Police Action and Political Outrage

Following the spread of the video, a swift investigation was launched by the Tiruttani police. By December 29, 2025, all four juveniles from the Nemili area were detained. According to police sources, three of the minors have been sent to a government observation home in Chengalpattu, while the fourth was released to his parents on bail due to physical disability. The incident has drawn sharp criticism from political leaders, including former CM Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) and BJP state president Annamalai, who described the trend of minors wielding machetes for social media clout as a “barbaric” failure of law and order.

The Rising Trend of Digital Violence

As the year 2025 draws to a close, this case serves as a grim example of the growing “reel culture” where violence is glorified for digital engagement. The victim, Suraj, is currently reported to be in stable condition at the Tiruvallur Government Medical College Hospital, though the psychological impact of the ordeal remains significant. The incident has prompted calls for stricter monitoring of social media content and increased security on public transport to protect migrant workers and prevent the normalisation of such horrific acts among the youth.

Mumbai Rickshaw Driver Threatens Rapido Rider in Viral Video

Rahul Kaushik
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Mumbai Rickshaw Driver Threatens Rapido Rider in Viral Video

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: A shocking display of road rage and professional rivalry was witnessed on the streets of Mumbai this week as a viral video captured a heated confrontation between a local autorickshaw driver and a Rapido bike-taxi rider. On December 28, 2025, the footage began circulating across social media platforms, showing the rickshaw driver intercepting the bike rider in the middle of a busy road. The driver was observed using aggressive language and physical gestures to intimidate the rider, shouting the threatening phrase, “Lagau kya tere ko ek?” (Should I slap you?), which has since become a focal point of public outrage.

Intimidation Caught on Camera

The incident was recorded by a bystander and subsequently shared by several citizen journalism handles. In the clip, the rickshaw driver is observed parking his vehicle abruptly to block the Rapido rider’s path. He was seen accusing the rider of “stealing business” and operating an “illegal service” that bypasses traditional transport permits. The bike rider was observed attempting to de-escalate the situation with a calm demeanor, yet the driver continued his verbal assault, at one point leaning in close to the rider’s face while reiterating his threat of physical violence.

Also Read: Minneapolis Daycare Denies Allegations Federal Probe

Rising Tensions Between Aggregators and Traditional Unions

This confrontation is being viewed as a symptom of a much larger, ongoing conflict within Mumbai’s transport sector. Throughout December 2025, several protests have been staged by autorickshaw unions against app-based aggregators like Rapido and Uber. It has been argued by union leaders that bike-taxis are operating without the mandatory commercial permits required for passenger transport, leading to a significant dip in daily earnings for licensed rickshaw drivers. The viral video has been cited by critics as evidence of a “thug culture” emerging within certain sections of the transport unions.

Mumbai Police and RTO Intervention

Following the viral spread of the video, a swift response was demanded by netizens, many of whom tagged the Mumbai Police and the Regional Transport Office (RTO). It was reported on December 30, 2025, that an investigation has been initiated to identify the rickshaw driver based on the vehicle registration number visible in the footage. Authorities were heard clarifying that while the legality of bike-taxis is currently under judicial review, no individual has the right to “take the law into their own hands” or harass workers on the road. The police have urged the Rapido rider to come forward and file a formal complaint to facilitate further legal action.

The Battle for Mumbai’s Commuters

As the year 2025 draws to a close, the “Rickshaw vs. Rapido” feud remains one of the most pressing urban challenges for the city administration. Commuters have been observed expressing their frustration online, noting that while rickshaw drivers often refuse short-distance fares, they are simultaneously preventing alternative services from operating. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the safety risks faced by gig workers and the urgent need for a clear, enforceable regulatory framework that balances the interests of traditional transport workers with the modern demands of app-based mobility.

Minneapolis Daycare Denies Allegations Federal Probe

Rahul Kaushik
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Minneapolis Daycare Denies Allegations Federal Probe

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: A heated national debate over government oversight has been centered on a Minneapolis child care center this week following a viral social media exposé. On Friday, December 26, 2025, a 43-minute video was posted by conservative YouTuber Nick Shirley, alleging that a group of Somali-run daycares in Minnesota had misappropriated upwards of $110 million in public funds. The footage, which featured the Quality Learning Center on Nicollet Avenue, highlighted a misspelled sign and an apparently empty facility, prompting immediate calls for investigation from high-ranking officials including FBI Director Kash Patel and Vice President JD Vance.

Daycare Management Fires Back

The allegations were met with a firm and public denial by the management of the Quality Learning Center on Monday, December 29, 2025. Ibrahim Ali, a manager at the facility, was heard stating that “there is no fraud going on whatsoever” and invited skeptics to visit during actual business hours. It was clarified by Ali that the video was recorded at 11:00 a.m., while the center’s posted hours for the school-age children it serves are 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. The misspelled sign, which read “Learing Center,” was dismissed as a graphic designer’s error that is currently being corrected.

Also Read: BPSSC Bihar SI Admit Card 2025 Released: Download Your Prelims Hall Ticket Now

Federal Agents Launch “Door-to-Door” Surge

Despite the daycare’s defense, a massive federal response was witnessed across the Twin Cities on Monday. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) were being deployed for “door-to-door” checks at suspected fraud sites. This surge has been described by federal prosecutors as part of a broader crackdown on what they estimate could be $9 billion in stolen Medicaid and social service funds in Minnesota. The daycare center was observed being visited by state auditors for the fifth time this year as part of this intensified scrutiny.

State Regulators Find “No Evidence” of Fraud

In a surprising twist, state regulators have expressed caution regarding the viral claims. Tikki Brown, Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families, was heard stating that while the video raised serious concerns, every facility mentioned had been visited by unannounced inspectors within the last six months. It was reported that during those prior checks, children were found to be present and attendance numbers were consistent with state records. While some safety and training citations were noted, the commissioner confirmed that no hard evidence of fraud had been uncovered at the 10 sites featured in the YouTube clip.

A Community Under Pressure

The fallout from the video has extended beyond legal probes, with the local Somali community reporting a surge in harassment. Managers at the targeted centers were observed describing a “bombardment” of hateful phone calls and accusations linked to the Feeding Our Future scandal from previous years. As the year 2025 ends, the “Quality Learning Center” incident has become a flashpoint for a larger battle between state defenders of the program and federal investigators. The investigation remains ongoing, with further results from the Monday inspections expected to be released as the new year begins.

BPSSC Bihar SI Admit Card 2025 Released: Download Your Prelims Hall Ticket Now

Maanshii Sharma
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New Delhi, December 30, 2025: The Bihar Police Subordinate Services Commission (BPSSC) has officially released the e-Admit Cards for the Bihar Police Sub-Inspector (SI) Preliminary Written Examination 2025.1 This recruitment drive aims to fill 1,799 vacancies for the post of Police Sub-Inspector under Advertisement No. 05/2025.

Candidates who successfully submitted their applications can now download their hall tickets from the official BPSSC website. Below is a comprehensive guide on the exam schedule, download steps, and important instructions.

Bihar Police SI 2025: Key Highlights

EventDetails
Recruiting BodyBihar Police Subordinate Services Commission (BPSSC)
Post NamePolice Sub-Inspector (Daroga)
Advertisement No.05/2025
Total Vacancies1,799
Admit Card StatusReleased (December 30, 2025)
Exam DatesJanuary 18 and January 21, 2026
Official Websitebpssc.bihar.gov.in

Bihar SI Exam Schedule and Shift Timings

To accommodate the large number of applicants, the BPSSC will conduct the preliminary examination over two days in multiple shifts.4

Exam Dates: January 18 & 21, 2026

  • Shift 1: 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon (Reporting Time: 08:30 AM)5
  • Shift 2: 02:30 PM to 04:30 PM (Reporting Time: 01:00 PM)6

How to Download Bihar Police SI Admit Card 2025

Follow these simple steps to download your hall ticket in one click:

  1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to bpssc.bihar.gov.in.
  2. Locate the Link: On the homepage, click on the link titled “Download Admit Card of Preliminary Written Examination for the post of Police Sub-Inspector in Home (Police) Dept.”7
  3. Enter Credentials: A new login page will open. Enter your Registration ID or Mobile Number along with your Date of Birth.
  4. Captcha Verification: Fill in the captcha code exactly as shown on the screen.
  5. Submit & Download: Click on the ‘Submit’ button. Your admit card will appear. Download the PDF and take a clear color printout.

Important Instructions for Exam Day

  • Mandatory Documents: You must carry a printed copy of your e-Admit Card and a valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, or Driving License) in original.8
  • Photograph: If your photograph on the admit card is not clear, carry two identical passport-sized photographs (the same ones used in the application) to the center.9
  • Prohibited Items: Electronic gadgets, mobile phones, calculators, and smartwatches are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.10
  • OMR Sheet: Use only a blue or black ballpoint pen to fill the OMR sheet.

What to check on your Admit Card?

Once you download the file, verify the following details:

  • Candidate’s Name and Roll Number
  • Exam Date and Shift Timing
  • Full Address of the Exam Center
  • Reporting Time and Gate Closing Time

Out-of-Control Truck Crushes Bolero Driver in Rampur

Rahul Kaushik
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Out-of-Control Truck Crushes Bolero Driver in Rampur

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: A horrifying road accident was witnessed in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, this weekend, sparking a wave of shock across social media. On the evening of Sunday, December 28, 2025, a massive truck loaded with wooden scrap or husk was observed losing control and overturning directly onto a moving Bolero SUV. The incident, which occurred near the Pahadi Gate crossing on the busy Delhi-Nainital Highway, was captured in chilling detail by a nearby CCTV camera, with the footage later going viral as a stark warning on road safety.

A Split-Second Maneuver Leads to Disaster

The viral video reveals the moments leading up to the tragedy, where the Bolero was seen attempting to take a turn at a highway cut. The following truck, reportedly overloaded, was observed swerving sharply to avoid a direct collision. However, the momentum caused the truck’s wheels to mount the central divider, leading the vehicle to tilt and eventually topple over the SUV. The weight of the truck and its spilled cargo completely flattened the Bolero, leaving the driver with no chance of escape.

Also Read: Monkey Troop Risks to Save Companion from Crocodile in Odisha

Identity of the Deceased and SDO Connection

The victim has been identified as 54-year-old Firasat Khan, a resident of the Gujjar Tola area in Rampur. It was reported that Firasat was employed as a driver for the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of the electricity department at the Khod substation. On the day of the accident, he had reportedly just dropped off the official and was returning the vehicle when the collision occurred. The presence of the “Uttar Pradesh Government” tag on the vehicle initially led to intense speculation before the victim’s professional background was confirmed by authorities.

Rescue Operations and Traffic Gridlock

Following the accident, a massive rescue operation was launched by the Rampur Police, involving personnel from multiple local stations and the fire department. At least four cranes, two bulldozers, and a JCB machine were observed being deployed to lift the overturned truck and clear the debris of wood shavings that had buried the car. It took rescuers nearly an hour of intensive labor to retrieve Firasat’s body from the mangled remains of the Bolero, which was described by eyewitnesses as “barely recognizable.”

Police Investigation and Hunt for the Driver

As the year 2025 draws to a close, a formal investigation has been initiated by the Ganj Kotwali Police into the cause of the crash. Superintendent of Police Vidyasagar Mishra confirmed that while the truck has been seized, the driver fled the scene immediately after the incident. Efforts are currently underway to trace the owner and the driver of the truck, with a focus on whether the vehicle was dangerously overloaded. The highway remained choked for several hours as the debris was cleared, serving as a grim reminder of the high stakes of highway safety.

Monkey Troop Risks to Save Companion from Crocodile in Odisha

Rahul Kaushik
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Monkey Troop Risks to Save Companion from Crocodile in Odisha

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: An extraordinary and heart-wrenching display of animal solidarity was witnessed in Kendrapara, Odisha, this week, captivating millions across social media. On December 25, 2025, a viral video emerged from the Kharinasi Reserve Forest near the Bhitarkanika National Park, depicting a scene of raw nature and deep-rooted loyalty. While a lone monkey was observed drinking water at the riverbank, it was suddenly ambushed and dragged into the depths by a saltwater crocodile. In a rare act of collective bravery, the victim’s troop was seen leaping into the crocodile-infested waters, refusing to let their companion go without a fight.

A Coordinated Counter-Attack

The dramatic footage, captured by a local youth on a mobile phone, reveals the moment a large troop of monkeys swam in a straight line toward the predator. Instead of fleeing the danger zone, approximately 20 monkeys were observed surrounding the crocodile in the water, creating a chaotic defense. This desperate attempt to intimidate the reptile was noted by wildlife enthusiasts as a rare display of “altruistic behavior” in primates. The troop was seen risking their own lives, swimming alongside the powerful predator in a bid to force it to release its hold on the infant monkey.

Also Read: South Cinema 2025: The Top 7 Box Office Kings

The Tragic Conclusion of a Valiant Effort

Despite the incredible courage shown by the troop, the rescue mission was observed ending in tragedy. It was reported by eyewitnesses from Ramanagar village that the saltwater crocodile, an apex predator of the Mahanadi delta, ultimately overpowered the group. The infant was dragged deeper into the river, and after nearly 45 minutes of searching and frantic splashing, the exhausted troop was seen returning to the riverbank empty-handed. While the rescue failed, the video has been hailed by netizens as a “lesson in unity,” highlighting the emotional depth and protective instincts found within the animal kingdom.

Rising Crocodile-Human Conflict in the Region

The viral incident has also brought renewed attention to the intensifying crocodile menace in the Mahakalapada area. It was noted by forest officials that estuarine crocodiles have become increasingly bold, with 1,826 saltwater crocodiles recorded in the region this year. Local residents, including former sarpanch Narayan Haldar, were heard expressing concern that these predators are now regularly targeting livestock and even humans near the Kharinasi tributary. The video serves as a grim visual reminder of the constant danger faced by both wildlife and riverside communities in Odisha’s mangrove swamps.

Nature’s Lesson in Solidarity

As the year 2025 draws to a close, this video stands out as one of the most poignant wildlife moments of the year. The bond shared by the monkey troop has been observed by experts as a reflection of the intense social structures within primate groups. While the outcome was heartbreaking, the image of monkeys swimming toward certain death to save one of their own has resonated globally. The incident serves as a powerful testament to the fact that in the face of overwhelming odds, the instinct to protect a loved one remains the strongest force in nature.

South Cinema 2025: The Top 7 Box Office Kings

Rashika Sharma
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South Cinema 2025: The Top 7 Box Office Kings

New Delhi, December 30, 2025: As 2025 comes to a close, South Indian cinema has once again proven its global dominance, shattering box office records and pushing creative boundaries. From the mystical forests of Karnataka to the high-octane streets of Chennai, this year was a celebration of “Pan-India” blockbusters and unexpected regional hits.

Here are the top 7 highest-grossing South Indian films of 2025, ranked by their worldwide collections.

1. Kantara: Chapter 1 (Kannada)

Worldwide Collection: ₹852 Crore+

Rishab Shetty’s prequel to the 2022 phenomenon is the undisputed king of 2025. This historical epic explored the origins of the Bhuta Kola tradition with even more stunning visuals and raw intensity. Despite a competitive release window, it became the highest-grossing South Indian film of the year, solidifying the Kannada film industry’s (KFI) place on the world stage.

2. Coolie (Tamil)

Worldwide Collection: ₹518 Crore

Superstar Rajinikanth teamed up with director Lokesh Kanagaraj for this high-octane action drama. While the film received mixed critical reviews regarding its length, the “Thalaivar” charm ensured massive footfalls. It remains the highest-grossing Tamil film of 2025, buoyed by an ensemble cast that included a surprise cameo by Aamir Khan.

3. Mahavatar Narsimha (Pan-India/Animated)

Worldwide Collection: ₹326 Crore

In a historic win for Indian animation, this mythological epic centered on the Narasimha avatar of Lord Vishnu became a massive sleeper hit. Produced on a modest budget of ₹40 Crore, its high-quality VFX and faithful storytelling resonated across all age groups, making it a rare animated entry in the top charts.

4. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra (Malayalam)

Worldwide Collection: ₹303 Crore

Malayalam cinema made history this year with Lokah, which became the industry’s first film to cross the ₹300 Crore mark globally. Starring Kalyani Priyadarshan as a woman who discovers supernatural abilities, this Dulquer Salmaan-produced superhero flick proved that content-driven cinema can compete with big-budget spectacles.

5. They Call Him OG (Telugu)

Worldwide Collection: ₹295 Crore

Pawan Kalyan returned to the screen with a roar in this stylish gangster drama. While it saw a slight dip after a record-breaking opening day, the “Power Star” craze pushed the film to nearly ₹300 Crore. Its depiction of the Mumbai underworld and 1940s Japan received significant praise for its technical finesse.

6. L2: Empuraan (Malayalam)

Worldwide Collection: ₹268 Crore

The much-awaited sequel to Lucifer saw Mohanlal reprising his role as Khureshi Ab’raam. Directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, this political thriller performed exceptionally well in overseas markets (Middle East and North America), cementing its status as a massive commercial success for Mollywood.

7. Sankrathiki Vastunam (Telugu)

Worldwide Collection: ₹259 Crore

Venkatesh Daggubati kicked off the year with this family-centric action-comedy during the Pongal/Sankranti season. Its relatable humor and “victory” Venkatesh’s classic comic timing made it a favorite among family audiences, helping it beat several big-budget summer releases to stay in the top seven.

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