Entertainment
Salaar: Part 1: The Ceasefire Review: Prashanth Neel Scripts A Worthy Comeback Film For Prabhas Despite The Cliched Trappings
Director: Prashanth Neel
Cast: Prabhas, Prithviraj Sukumaran, Shruti Haasan, Jagapathi Babu, Sriya Reddy, Easwari Rao, Bobby Simha, Tinnu Anand
Where: In theatres near you
Rating: 3 stars
The stakes are undeniably high for everyone involved in Salaar: Part 1: The Ceasefire. Filmmaker Prashanth Neel, having set a formidable standard with the monumental success of the K.G.F. franchise, understands the imperative of maintaining the expectations of his audience. Additionally, lead actor Prabhas, having transcended his status as Telugu cinema’s Darling Rebel Star to become a Pan-Indian superstar, seeks a much-needed hit after a string of disappointments with Saaho, Radhe Shyam, and Adipurush. Meanwhile, Prithviraj Sukumaran, a trailblazer in Malayalam cinema, has long embraced the foresight of exploring diverse content in various Indian languages, both as an actor and a producer. Moreover, an inevitable showdown with a reigning global superstar at the box office, this weekend, has only intensified the intrigue around the film’s release. Does the film deliver or does it crumble under the weight of expectations, let’s figure.
Salaar: Part 1: The Ceasefire unfolds the narrative of Deva (Prabhas) and Vardharaja Mannar’s (Prithviraj) friendship in the fictional town of Khansaar. Their camaraderie takes a tumultuous turn when political circumstances transform them into bitter rivals, compelling Deva to depart from the city along with his mother. Several years later, as Aadhya (Shruti Haasan) returns to India from the US, she becomes the target of Mannar’s extended family. It falls upon Deva to uphold and protect her, presenting an opportunity for the estranged friends to reunite for a cause that will reshape the destiny of Khansaar.
Neel draws inspiration from Game of Thrones, Baahubali, and his own 2014 Kannada debut, Ugramm, to craft a project that aligns seamlessly with the commanding presence of his main leads. While the screenplay could have benefited with tighter editing, given the filmmaker’s penchant for establishing Prabhas’ on-screen persona, the extended shots of the actor may become overwhelming for the audience after a certain point. Ravi Basrur’s musical composition, while not reaching the exceptional heights as observed in Neel’s K.G.F., nevertheless contributes effectively to the stylishly choreographed action sequences in the film, with his background score. Bhuvan Gowda’s cinematography and T.L. Venkatachalapathi’s skillful production design collaborate seamlessly to enable Neel in providing an exceptional world-building experience, particularly in the way Khansaar is designed. It’s a city that spells doom and dread.
Without the finely orchestrated action sequences by Anbarivu, Salaar might risk becoming a rather dull affair. The action director skillfully uses the impressive physiques of Prabhas and Prithviraj, creating exhilarating action moments that are worth cherishing at the theatres. Examining the film solely based on its script, the premise appears, quite frankly, outdated and redundant.
Salaar succeeds due to the commendable performances of both Prabhas and Prithviraj. Prabhas, openly acknowledging his own laziness in past interviews, benefits from a capable director like Neel, whose vision effectively brings out at least the bare minimum effort from the actor on screen. The man can now witness the spell of failure being broken. He exercises pain and power, in equal measure Yet, from a personal perspective, I would prefer to commend Prithviraj’s performance. He is restrained yet effective. Shruti has minimal screentime, and it remains interesting to see whether she will play a more substantial role in the subsequent films of the Salaar franchise. Jagapathi Babu, portraying Raja Mannaar, has a restricted on-screen presence, yet his effectiveness is notable. Bobby Simha performs commendably in his limited role as Vardha’s brother-in-law Bhaarava. Sriya Reddy and Easwari Rao deliver fine performances in their pivotal roles as Radha Rama and Deva’s mother.
With Salaar Part 1: The Ceasefire, Neel scripts a much-needed comeback vehicle for his leading man. Never mind the cliches though.
Bollywood
Dharmendra’s Fan, An Auto-Rickshaw Driver, Breaks Down Outside Actor’s Mumbai Home After His Discharge, Says ‘Admired Him Since Childhood

Mumbai: Veteran Bollywood legend Dharmendra, 89, was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday morning and will continue his treatment at home, bringing immense relief to fans who had been anxiously following his health updates. The actor, who was admitted over a week ago after complaining of breathlessness, had been under constant medical supervision for several days.
As news of his discharge spread, a large crowd of admirers gathered outside the actor’s Juhu residence today morning to catch a glimpse of their beloved ‘He-Man’ of Indian cinema. Among them stood an auto-rickshaw driver, clutching a handmade poster, wiping his teary eyes and offering prayers for the actor’s recovery, a moment that perfectly captured the emotional bond between Dharmendra and his fans.
The auto driver, speaking to reporters, said with deep affection, “As soon as I heard that Dharmendra had arrived home, I immediately came here with my rickshaw. I couldn’t resist, I have admired his pictures since childhood. Even at his age, his personality is remarkable; he still swims, which is not easy. I pray for his speedy recovery.”
A video shared by paparazzi accounts earlier today showed an ambulance arriving at Dharmendra’s residence, followed by his son Bobby Deol’s car. Moments later, fans were seen cheering as word spread that the actor had safely reached home.
Dr. Pratit Samdani from Breach Candy Hospital confirmed the development, saying, “He was discharged at 7:30 am. His recovery and treatment will continue at home.” Dr. Rajiv Sharma added that Dharmendra “left fully satisfied,” and that his family had made all necessary arrangements for his continued care. “He is in stable condition,” Sharma assured.
Though the Deol family has not yet issued an official statement, sources close to the family said that Dharmendra’s condition has stabilised and he will be closely monitored by doctors at home. Messages of love and prayers have poured in across social media, with fans sharing old movie clips, heartfelt notes and pictures of the actor.
Bollywood
Dharmendra latest health update: Actor is ‘recovering and responding to treatment,’ reveals Sunny Deol’s team

Mumbai, Nov 11: According to the latest update on Dharmendra’s health, the veteran actor is ‘recovering and responding to treatment.’
When media contacted Sunny Deol’s team, they shared an update on the actor’s health, stating, “Sir is recovering and responding to treatment. Let’s all pray for his good health and long life.”
We are in constant touch with Sunny Deol’s PR team. Earlier, the team issued a clarification stating that Dharmendra continues to remain stable. They also urged everyone to refrain from spreading unverified information about the actor’s health. In an official statement, the team had shared, “Mr. Dharmendra is stable and under observation. Further comments and updates will be shared as available. Kindly don’t indulge in spreading false rumours regarding his health. Request everyone to pray for his speedy recovery and respect the family’s right to privacy.”
Meanwhile, false reports about Dharmendra’s death began circulating on social media late last night. Several celebrities and eminent political leaders fell prey to the death hoax and shared condolence messages online. However, the veteran actor’s family intervened to put an end to the rumours.
Hema Malini took to social media to strongly condemn the misinformation, calling it “unforgivable” and “highly irresponsible,” while urging media outlets to respect the family’s privacy. Esha Deol also shared a statement, assuring everyone that her father is stable and recovering well.
Hema wrote, “What is happening is unforgivable! How can responsible channels spread false news about a person who is responding to treatment and is recovering? This is being extremely disrespectful and irresponsible. Please give due respect to the family and its need for privacy.”
Esha Deol also shared a health update about her father, assuring that he is stable and recovering well in the hospital. “The media seems to be in overdrive and spreading false news. My father is stable & recovering. We request everyone to give our family privacy. Thank you for the prayers for papas speedy recovery.” (sic)
Bollywood
Dharmendra: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Mourns Veteran Actor’s Death On X, Later Deletes Post

Veteran actor Dharmendra has been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy hospital. On Tuesday morning, several media reports claimed that the actor breathed his last and is no more.
Around 9 am today, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also confirmed his death. “Deeply saddened by the demise of veteran actor and former MP Shri Dharmendra ji. A versatile actor who brought life to many memorable characters with his unmatched charm and sincerity,” he wrote on X.
“His remarkable contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers,” the Minister added.
However, he deleted his post minutes after posting it.
On November 10, his wife, veteran actress-politician Hema Malini, shared an update about his health, telling fans that he was being continuously monitored at the hospital. Taking to her X (formerly Twitter), Hema wrote on Monday, “I thank everyone for their concern about Dharam ji who is in hospital for observation. He is being continuously monitored and we are all with him. I request you all to pray for his welfare and speedy recovery.”
Following news of his hospitalisation, Hema was seen arriving at the hospital on Monday evening to visit her ailing husband. Shortly after, Dharmendra’s son Sunny Deol arrived with his sons, Karan Deol and Rajveer Deol. Later, Bobby Deol’s wife, Tanya Deol, also reached the hospital.
Later, Govinda, Salman Khan, Ameesha Patel and Shah Rukh Khan, along with Aryan Khan, who shares a close bond with Dharmendra, were seen rushing to the hospital to visit him.
Meanwhile, police and security guards have erected barricades outside Dharmendra’s Mumbai residence to manage the large crowds of media and fans gathering outside his home.
Dharmendra was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital on October 31 for a routine check-up. Later, his team shared that there was absolutely no cause for concern, assuring fans that he was in good health.
“The actor is in good health and visits the hospital often for routine medical tests, which is the reason for his current stay. It seems that someone spotted him there, which has led to a frenzy among his fans, but there is nothing to be worried about as he is absolutely fine,” said the team.
Dharmendra was gearing up for the release of his new film, Ikkis, alongside Agastya Nanda, which was slated to hit theaters on December 25.
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