Entertainment
Devara Part 1 Review: Jr NTR, Janhvi Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan’s Magnum Opus Masters The Art Of Excess
Title: Devara: Part 1
Director: Koratala Siva
Cast: NTR Jr., Saif Ali Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, Shruti Marathe, Prakash Raj, Srikanth, Shine Tom Chacko, Narain, Kalaiyarasan, Murali Sharma, Zarina Wahab
Where to watch: In theatres near you
Rating: 3 stars
At the very onset, it’s best to park logic at the door and strap in for a ride designed for the masses. This is not a film that concerns itself with minor inconveniences like subtlety or realism. No, this is a full-blown spectacle, bursting at the seams with larger-than-life characters and a bloated narrative that typifies a magnum opus. The film embraces cinematic liberties with gay abandon, much like a pirate plundering in the deep sea, and questioning its sensibilities would be as pointless as questioning the laws of physics in a superhero flick—futile, really, because some things are just meant to be enjoyed.
The nearly 10-minute prologue itself is a verbose declaration of what’s to come – an ambitious 2-hour-45-minute narrative of good versus bad. Set on the Western coast of India during the late 1980s, the plot unfolds like a legend being passed down from generation to generation, dripping with tradition, machismo, and the smell of the sea.
The tale revolves around Devara (NTR Jr.), a fearless leader of a seafaring community who, much to the dismay of his brethren, decides that aiding smugglers might not be the most virtuous calling. This moral awakening sets him on a collision course with Bhaira (Saif Ali Khan), who, once like a brother to Devara, now feels deeply betrayed and cheated by his sudden change of heart, turning their bond into a bitter rivalry.
The first half is an all-out showcase for NTR Jr., who is introduced with adrenaline-pumping fanfare that could resurrect the dead. Action-packed sequences, replete with a myriad of well-choreographed shots and pulsating music, cement his legendary status. Whether dispatching over two dozen attackers on the beach or emerging victorious from the waves like a mythic hero, Devara is the epitome of the larger-than-life protagonist. But the real cherry on top is the fact that, in the middle of these impossibly choreographed skirmishes, our hero finds time to splash water on his face – because of course, one must always look serious while fending off attackers.
The second half sees a 12-year leap and a noticeable tone shift, focusing more on Devara’s son, Vara (also NTR Jr., for maximum effect), who despite being timid, carries forward his father’s legacy. This section dips into romance, emotion, and songs – lighter and more engaging, perhaps, but still peppered with absurdly entertaining moments.
Visually, the film is a feast. Every frame is atmospheric, poster-worthy, and gorgeous to behold. You’d almost want to frame a few shots if it weren’t for the jarring clash between the supposed 1980s setting and the distinctly medieval set design. It’s a strange but oddly amusing oversight.
NTR Jr. tackles both roles with flair, though the script offers little depth beyond the surface. Saif Ali Khan, as Bhaira, plays his part with sincerity, though he essentially recycles his villainous act from previous roles. Janhvi Kapoor, unfortunately, is woefully underutilized, reduced to being little more than arm candy.
Overall, the film is a spectacle – bloated, brash, and utterly unapologetic about the narrative. You might laugh, you might roll your eyes, but you won’t look away.
Bollywood
Hrithik Roshan’s says ‘What a joy’ after attending Joy Awards 2025
Mumbai, Jan 29: The prestigious entertainment awards from the Arab world, Joy Awards were held in Riyadh a couple of days ago. Hrithik Roshan represented India at the global event, along with actress Shraddha Kapoor. Now, the “War” actor has taken to his official Instagram account to pen a thank you note.
Showing his gratitude for being a part of the prestigious event, Hrithik Roshan wrote, “What a joy it was to be at the @joyawards 2025 in the presence of some of the best talents from across the globe! Thank you @turkialalshik for having me be a part of this celebration of Global Entertainment and cinema.”
Previously, the official Instagram handle of Joy Awards shared a group portrait of numerous celebrities from around the world who were a part of the event. While Hrithik Roshan looked all handsome in a red pantsuit, Shraddha Kapoor was a sight to behold in an abaya-inspired corset gown.
In the meantime, Hrithik Roshan recently used social media to wish his sister Sunaina Roshan on her birthday. Posting a picture of his sister after her incredible weight loss journey, the ‘Super 30’ wrote, “Happy birthday Didi. Your newfound attitude to life and the things you have accomplished this past year are nothing less than extraordinary! In fact it’s almost magical. Keep going didi ! You are amazing and I love you”.
Furthermore, Hrithik Roshan celebrated 25 years of his debut film “Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai” with a special Instagram post. Sharing many pictures of the notes that he wrote ahead of the shooting of the film as part of his preparation, he wrote in the caption, “My notes from 27 years ago. Prepping as an ACTOR for my first movie ‘Kaho Na Pyaar Hai’, I remember how nervous I was. Still am when starting a movie. I’d be embarrassed sharing these, but after 25 years of being in the industry I guess I can handle it. Then to now, what’s changed? I see these pages and realise, absolutely nothing. Good thing? Bad thing? It’s just how it is (sic)”.
Bollywood
Saif Ali Khan Stabbing Case: Bandra Court Sends Accused Shariful Islam To 14 Days Of Judicial Custody, Rejects Police Demand For 2-Day Extension
Mumbai: In the Saif Ali Khan stabbing case, the Metropolitan Magistrate Court, Bandra sent the accused, Shariful Islam, to judicial custody for 14 days.
The court has rejected the police’s demand for a two-day extension of custody.
The court advised the police to read the new BNS. It also stated that if new evidence emerges during the investigation, police custody can be sought again as per the new BNS laws.
The court said in the current situation, extending the accused’s police custody cannot be justified.
Bollywood
‘What A Shame, Face Consequences’: Prakash Raj Files Complaint Against Those Sharing His FAKE Maha Kumbh Photo
Veteran actor Prakash Raj, who often makes headlines for his controversial statements, has slammed those spreading his fake photo from Sangam amid Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. A picture is being widely circulated on social media platforms, showing the actor taking a holy dip. However, on Wednesday (January 29), Prakash Raj took to his official X account to inform that the photo is fake.
The Singham actor shared a screenshot of the picture, which was originally shared by a Facebook user with the caption, “Hope all his sins are forgiven and removed.”
Reacting to the picture, the actor said that it is a ‘shame’ that people are spreading fake news during Maha Kumbh. He also mentioned in his post that he has filed a police complaint against those who shared the AI-generated photo.
“FAKE NEWS ALERT… The last resort of bigots and coward army of ‘Feku Maharaj’ is to stoop down and spread FAKE NEWS.. even during their Holy ceremony.. what a SHAME .. Complaint has been filed against the Jokers .. face the consequences,” he wrote.
Take a look:
Prakash Raj is no stranger to controversies, given his outspoken nature when it comes to sharing his political views. The renowned actor frequently finds himself entangled in such situations.
Meanwhile, on the work front, the actor will be seen in films like Retro, Jana Nayagan, Father, Big Picture, Miracle, Sathuranga Vettai 2, Goodachari 2, Pen Adimai Illai, Agni Siragugal and more.
It may be noted that Bollywood celebrities like Kabir Khan, Remo D’Souza, Anupam Kher, Hema Malini and Mamta Kulkarni visited Maha Kumbh and took the holy dip.
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