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- 'Kushi' movie review and release LIVE Updates: Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Ruth Prabhu's musical extravaganza hits Rs 30.1 cr worldwide
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Sep 02, 2023, 22:45:11 IST
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'Kushi' movie review and release LIVE Updates: Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Ruth Prabhu's musical extravaganza hits Rs 30.1 cr worldwide
Welcome to our live blog coverage of the much-anticipated movie release of the year, 'Kushi'! The wait is finally over, as the film graces theatres today, September 1, 2023. 'Kushi' boasts an ensemble cast featuring the charismatic Vijay Deverakonda and the talented Samantha Ruth Prabhu in the lead roles. The film also showcases the incredible acting prowess of Sachin Khedekar, Saranya Ponvannan, Murali Sharma, Lakshmi, Rohini, Vennela Kishore, Jayaram, Rahul Ramakrishna, Ali, Srikanth Iyengar, and Bharath Reddy in crucial roles. The creative genius behind 'Kushi' is none other than the multi-talented Shiva Nirvana, who not only wrote the captivating story but also directed the film. The movie's music is a key element in its storytelling, and the brilliant composer Hesham Abdul Wahab has delivered an enchanting soundtrack. All the song lyrics were penned by the talented director Shiva Nirvana himself, adding a personal touch to the musical experience. Cinematographer Murali G has beautifully captured the essence of "Kushi," providing audiences with breathtaking visuals that enhance the narrative and emotions of the film. And the magic of the visuals is further enhanced by the skilled hands of editor Prawin Pudi, who has meticulously crafted the final cut. Stay tuned with us as we provide live updates, reactions, and more about the monumental release of 'Kushi.'
22:45 (IST) Sep 02
'Kushi' hits $1 million at the US box office
18:43 (IST) Sep 02
Samantha is thrilled and grateful for the overwhelming response to her latest release 'Kushi'. She expressed her happiness on Instagram, describing herself as the "luckiest girl alive." She shared images and a video, including one where confetti is thrown in the air during a song sequence, capturing her excitement.
16:21 (IST) Sep 02
'Kushi,' starring Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Ruth Prabhu, had a successful opening day, earning a solid 30.1 Cr worldwide. The romantic drama received widespread love from fans and audiences due to the fresh pairing of the lead cast. Family audiences flocked to theaters, surpassing expectations and delivering on its promise of a musical extravaganza. The official poster was shared by Mythi Movie makers, showcasing the pleasing chemistry between the lead actors.
11:15 (IST) Sep 02
On its opening day, the Telugu film 'Kushi,' starring Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Ruth Prabhu, collected an impressive Rs 16 crore at the box office in India. The movie showed strong performance in Telugu-speaking regions, with a 59.13 percent occupancy rate on Friday. The majority of the audience turned up for night shows, contributing to 74.13 percent of the total footfalls. With no major competing Telugu films in theaters at the moment, "Kushi" has a favorable opportunity to perform exceptionally well at the box office.
21:52 (IST) Sep 01
Shiva Nirvana on convincing Vijay to do 'Kushi'
"The character of Vibhav is inherently straightforward, and I believe in the power of simplicity. I've crafted the revolutionary character in alignment with the storyline. Vijay showed a keen interest in the comedic aspect set in Kashmir, which is why he readily agreed."
21:50 (IST) Sep 01
In a career spanning just a few years, Vijay Deverakonda has become a beloved figure in the Telugu film industry. His ability to connect with audiences through his lover boy roles is a testament to his acting prowess and relatability. As 'Kushi' graces the screens, it's another exciting chapter in the book of Vijay's romantic journey, and fans can't wait to see what he has in store for them next. Vijay Deverakonda's charisma and talent continue to make him the ultimate lover boy of Tollywood.
21:17 (IST) Sep 01
Shiva Nirvana on developing the character of Vijay
Shiva Nirvana explained, "In every middle-class family, there exists a hero; there's a heroism in standing up for the principles we believe in, and I wholeheartedly subscribe to that notion. This perspective greatly influenced the shaping of both the story and its characters. The film opens with the powerful message that winning as a human being holds greater significance than mere theories and beliefs. I was extremely mindful of the specific message I aimed to convey, intending to provoke deeper contemplation within the audience, particularly in the last half-hour of the movie. I can confidently say it was a 100 percent success, and I am genuinely delighted with the outcome."
18:13 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Ruth Prabhu's film 'Kushi' has been released and is garnering positive reviews from both audiences and celebrities. The director of 'Pushpa,' Sukumar, along with SS Rajamouli and others, attended screenings of the romantic film in Hyderabad. Vijay Deverakonda's parents also watched 'Kushi' in a theatre on the first day, and pictures of SS Rajamouli enjoying the film in a theatre have surfaced on social media.
17:39 (IST) Sep 01
Verdict
'Kushi' may have its shortcomings, including a languid pace and a lengthy duration, but it manages to redeem itself with its enchanting music and the magnetic presence of Vijay Deverakonda. For those who appreciate a well-crafted story and can overlook its flaws, 'Kushi' is a decent watch that offers moments of genuine emotional connection and entertainment.
17:34 (IST) Sep 01
Rajamouli watches 'Kushi'
SS Rajamouli and Rama Rajamouli are in the company of numerous other movie industry luminaries as they enjoy a screening of 'Kushi' at Prasad’s Imax.
17:31 (IST) Sep 01
Team 'Kushi' is delighted and celebrated the success
17:29 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Ruth Prabhu have been leaving no stone unturned to promote their upcoming film, 'Kushi'. Ahead of the release of the film, the actors engaged in a fun banter on social media and their fans just can't keep calm!
17:28 (IST) Sep 01
Engaging in an active promotional campaign, Vijay Deverakonda is generating excitement ahead of the release of 'Kushi.' During his promotional tour in Tamil Nadu for the movie directed by Shiva Nirvana, a reporter asked him a question that has piqued the interest of netizens. Instead of being surprised by the directness of the question, Vijay promptly and openly responded. His candid reply is going viral on the internet.
15:27 (IST) Sep 01
Setting the standard
Many would call 'Kushi' more than just a film; it is a testament to Vijay Deverakonda's evolution as a romantic icon. His ability to seamlessly transition from a heartthrob to a seasoned husband highlights his versatility as an actor. With his charming demeanor and captivating performances, including the recent 'Kushi,' Vijay continues to hold the crown as the king of romance, setting a standard that aspiring actors can only hope to achieve.
14:49 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay's layered performance
The superstar's portrayal of the husband is layered with sensitivity, which has audiences connecting with him on a deeper level. Vijay Deverakonda showcases his acting prowess by effectively conveying the emotional nuances of his character's journey. Fans and netizens alike have taken to the internet to express their admiration, turning social media into a sea of praise for Vijay Deverakonda's stellar performance in 'Kushi.'
14:28 (IST) Sep 01
Exploring post-marriage life
While Vijay Deverakonda's romantic roles in the past, including 'Dear Comrade,' 'Arjun Reddy,' 'Geeta Govindam,' and 'World Famous Lover,' have always struck a chord with fans, 'Kushi' marks a departure from his usual lover boy persona. This time, he embarks on a journey that delves into the complexities of life after marriage. The film portrays a realistic and relatable portrayal of the challenges and joys faced by couples. Beyond his captivating looks and charming smile, Vijay brings a depth to his character that is both refreshing and endearing.
14:08 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay on his dream roles
"There are no dream roles that I consider to be particularly special. The current film industry is producing movies with exceptional scripts, including 'Khushi.' I never anticipated having the opportunity to act in such compelling narratives. I admire the introductory scenes of the protagonist Mahesh Babu in the film 'Pokiri,' and I hope to have a similar impactful scene in one of my future projects. I have a strong desire to collaborate with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, although I cannot provide a specific timeline for such a collaboration. Additionally, my brother, Anna, also has an inclination towards socio-fantasy genres, and if I come across a compelling script in this genre, I would certainly consider it. I've had the privilege of hearing script ideas from Arun Matheswaran and Arun Prabhu, and they are currently in the process of developing their scripts. If I am confident in their projects, I may venture into film production in the near future."
13:39 (IST) Sep 01
Power of on-screen chemistry
'Kushi' brings together two of the country's most beloved stars – Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Prabhu. The pairing of these two charismatic actors had been the talk of the town ever since the film was announced, and now that the film has hit the screens, their electrifying chemistry has exceeded expectations. As Vijay portrays the character of a husband, his dynamics with Samantha on-screen resonate with authenticity, allowing the audience to become fully immersed in their story. The sizzling chemistry between the two leads is undeniably one of the film's strongest assets.
13:09 (IST) Sep 01
In his debut film Ninnu Kori, director Shiva Nirvana explored the dynamic between a married woman and her ex-lover. In Majili, he told the tale of a heartbroken man who’s so stuck in the past, he cannot see the happiness that lies in front of him. And Kushi explores the tale of a couple who get what they want, only to realise, they might not be equipped for it.
13:09 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay on balancing dreams
"Besides my passion for acting, I also find myself increasingly drawn to the world of directing. The notion of taking a hiatus from acting and venturing into directing a film has crossed my mind. However, the compelling scripts that keep coming my way have convinced me to continue acting for a bit longer. Despite my age, I'm determined to put in the effort and persevere as an actor. Directing is undoubtedly in my future plans, as I harbor a deep desire to accomplish many more things in life. Growing up in a middle-class family, I experienced the constant struggle to cover our monthly expenses, including rent and bills. This upbringing fueled my aspirations for a more comfortable and dignified life, one that was different from the circumstances I faced. That's why I've always been driven to work tirelessly towards these goals."
12:54 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay Deverakonda, after a five-year wait, celebrates the success of his film 'Kushi,' which marks his first hit since 2019. Overwhelmed with emotions, he expressed gratitude to his fans on Instagram for their unwavering support and the flood of messages he received upon the film's release. He thanked them for waiting patiently and urged them to enjoy the movie with their loved ones.
12:41 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay on embracing love
"If you're considering marriage, go ahead and make the decision. There isn't a specific timeline set for it. I'm seeking a smart, caring partner who will look after my needs as my life companion. When I'm at work, I tend to forget everything, including my personal life, thoughts, and interests. Currently, my mother is the one taking care of me. I wish for my wedding to occur without unnecessary haste. Over the years, I've dedicated myself to work tirelessly. Recently, I've started dedicating my Sundays and holidays to spending quality time with my family, rather than working."
12:31 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay praises Hesham Abdul Wahab
Vijay Deverakonda praises Hesham Abdul Wahab's music for elevating the film's romantic atmosphere, remarking, "Songs like Na Roja Nuvve, Aradhya, Osi Pellama, and the title track are uplifting and contribute significantly to the film's overall mood." In alignment with its title, Vijay anticipates that "Kushi" will bring immense joy to its audience, emphasizing, "This movie is designed for the grand cinema experience, ideally with your loved ones. It's guaranteed to bring smiles, laughter, and even tug at your heartstrings."
12:17 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay's life beyond movies
Apart from movies, I love traveling and sports. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the Maldives, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The days I spent in Kashmir for the film 'Kushi' will also remain etched in my memory forever. I frequently engage in basketball games with my friends. Additionally, I have a great appreciation for delicious food, thanks to Anna's culinary skills. I actively engage in discussions about business with both my family members and my team. My passion for architecture is another significant aspect of my life. Looking ahead, I have plans to purchase a farm and develop it according to my preferences in the future.
12:05 (IST) Sep 01
Shiva Nirvana's diverse directorial palette
Shiva's name has become closely associated with romantic dramas like 'Ninnu Kori,' 'Majili,' and 'Kushi.' 'Tuck Jagadish' stood out as a departure from this trend. Surprisingly, romance wasn't Shiva's preferred genre when he was an aspiring filmmaker. He often pitched action-packed dramas, thrilling suspense stories, and mass-appeal entertainers to producers. The inspiration for 'Ninnu Kori' came from a simple observation among his friends. He noticed that many young men felt heartbroken as they struggled to establish their careers, only to find that the girls they loved had married someone in the USA during that time. Shiva decided to tackle this issue through an entertaining narrative. It was during this journey that Naga Chaitanya approached him, asking if he could direct a romance drama, which led to the creation of 'Majili.'
11:49 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay on hits and flops
Each film evokes a unique emotion during this journey as a protagonist. "Evade Subramaniam?" marked my debut in the industry. As I sat in the theater with my friends, watching the film, I couldn't help but notice the audience's excitement as they watched my scenes on the big screen. I wondered if they were cheering as loudly as they seemed to be when they saw me on screen. After the screening, people recognized me and approached me. Unfortunately, I wasn't in the city when "Pellichoopulu" was released, but my producers called to inform me that the theater was filled with laughter. On the day "Arjun Reddy" was released, my phone wouldn't stop ringing, and tears welled up in my eyes as I read the heartfelt messages. These are cherished memories gifted to me by the audience. It felt like this love would remain with us forever, even more enduring than hits and flops
11:14 (IST) Sep 01
Shiva Nirvana on chasing dreams
Shiva reminisces about the time when he packed his bags and headed to Chennai years ago with the intention of assisting Mani Ratnam. "I found refuge in bus shelters, left my bags at a spot in Spencer Plaza, and positioned myself outside Mani Ratnam's residence, patiently waiting for a chance to catch a glimpse of him and seek an opportunity. Before long, my funds dwindled, leading me to return home. Following my father's advice, I pursued my studies, completing M.Sc and B.Ed, and spent two years teaching biological sciences. It was then that I made the decision to venture into the world of movies, driven by the fear of regretting not having taken the chance."
11:00 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay's admiration for Samantha
Vijay, the actor, has nothing but admiration for his co-star Samantha. "Collaborating with Samantha was an absolute delight; she truly stands out as one of the best in our industry. Her intelligence, sensitivity, and her ability to provide valuable insights are remarkable. Furthermore, she maintains a calm and composed demeanor on set, even amidst the chaos," commends Vijay.
10:49 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay's pursuit of happiness
"I have amazing fans. After 'Liger,' when I stepped out and went to the airport, they expressed their support in a heartfelt manner, saying, 'Anna, you'll bounce back stronger.' I no longer seek pity; my aim with 'Khushi' is to bring happiness to everyone's faces. I'm confident you'll find success in this endeavor. I had an incredible time working on this film. Samantha, Siva Nirvana... What a fantastic team! In the first half, I portray a loverboy, and later, a married young man. 'Khushi' is a movie filled with entertainment and drama. Surprisingly, I found myself enjoying the comedy scenes even more than the romantic and emotional ones. Siva Nirvana is an exceptional director who captured our performances beautifully. Samantha and I share many personal similarities, making our on-screen chemistry even more satisfying."
10:37 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay on overcoming setbacks
Everyone is bound to encounter failure at some point in their lives. What's crucial is what we glean from these experiences, rather than viewing them as setbacks. As Vijay Devarakonda once said, 'I don't mind making mistakes, but I firmly believe in the idea of not repeating the same ones.
10:08 (IST) Sep 01
Vijay on 'Kushi'
"This time I didn’t say yes to do the film just because I loved my role. I said yes because I really loved the script and there's a greater purpose all the characters in the film serve. I'm sure everyone will agree with me when they see it," explains Vijay Deverakonda.
09:44 (IST) Sep 01
Shiva Nirvana about the influence of 'Sakhi' in 'Kushi'
When questioned about the social media comparisons between 'Kushi' and Mani Ratnam's 'Alaipayuthey' (known as "Sakhi" in Telugu), Shiva Nirvana responds with a smile. "Any film delving into the narrative of a couple defying parental advice is likely to share a few common elements, such as a visit to the registrar's office and the young couple's determination to prove the validity of their marriage to their parents," he explains. Shiva acknowledges the timeless classic status of 'Sakhi' and humbly admits, "Even if I were to attempt it, I couldn't match up to its brilliance."Additionally, Shiva goes on to emphasize that 'Kushi' explores a broader theme beyond post-marriage romance, stating, "We haven't unveiled this aspect in the trailer, but I've tackled a sensitive issue within the film."
09:35 (IST) Sep 01
USA box office
'Kushi' makes a strong debut at the USA box office, with early indications pointing towards an estimated $500k in earnings from its premiere screenings. Surprisingly, the underwhelming performance of #Liger hasn't significantly impacted Kushi's opening box office numbers in the US.
09:28 (IST) Sep 01
Reclaiming Glory
'Kushi' holds importance for both Vijay and Samantha, given their previous high-budget releases' lackluster box office performances. Vijay's introduction to Hindi cinema was through the film 'Liger' alongside Ananya Panday, which received negative feedback from both reviewers and audiences last year. Similarly, Samantha's highly anticipated movie 'Shaakuntalam,' despite its extensive visual effects, fell short of the creators' envisioned success.
09:17 (IST) Sep 01
'Kushi' ticket prices in Hyderabad
Tickets for the movie 'Kushi' can be purchased at varying prices across different cinemas throughout the city. Major multiplex chains are offering tickets within the price range of Rs 180 to Rs 350. A notable departure from this trend is observed at a multiplex located in Gachibowli, where tickets are being retailed at a premium rate of Rs 500, marking the highest pricing point in Hyderabad.
09:10 (IST) Sep 01
Reunion
'Kushi' signifies the reunion of Samantha and Vijay after their last collaboration in the 2018 film 'Mahanati.' Additionally, it marks Samantha's second project with director Shiva Nirvana, following their successful partnership in the 2019 film 'Majili,' which notably featured her former spouse, Akkineni Naga Chaitanya.
08:47 (IST) Sep 01
Shiva Nirvana about lengthy run time
This romantic comedy boasts a runtime of 163 minutes. During a recent interview, the director was questioned about whether the film's extended duration might pose a challenge for a romantic genre. Shiva Nirvana responded by revealing that he had screened the entire film for his team, and their feedback had been overwhelmingly positive. He emphasized that he would have been concerned about the runtime if anyone on his team had raised objections. According to Shiva Nirvana, the film's length had never been a topic of discussion. He firmly believed that what truly matters is the overall emotional experience the film delivers, rather than its duration.
08:36 (IST) Sep 01
The highly anticipated musical romantic drama 'Kushi,' featuring the charismatic pairing of Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Ruth Prabhu, has set the stage for a cinematic spectacle that has fans buzzing with excitement. With its captivating trailer and enchanting music already making waves, here are five compelling reasons why 'Kushi' is a must-watch movie that demands to be experienced on the big screen.
08:31 (IST) Sep 01
'Kushi' has already set hearts aflutter with its captivating trailers and melodious songs. The sneak peeks into the movie's plot and chemistry between the lead actors have left fans buzzing with excitement. The movie, touted as a love story with family elements, has managed to strike a chord with diverse audiences, increasing its buzz and generating high anticipation
08:21 (IST) Sep 01
CBFC certification and run time
'Kushi,' starring the dynamic duo of Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Ruth Prabhu, is a cinematic masterpiece that has garnered the much-coveted U/A certificate from the censor board. This certification ensures that the film strikes a balance between entertaining the adult audience while remaining suitable for children above the age of twelve.With a runtime of 2 hours and 45 minutes, 'Kushi' offers an immersive and emotionally charged experience that will keep audiences engaged from the very beginning to the end.
08:17 (IST) Sep 01
Unconventional Love
The story of this movie begins in Kashmir when Viplav (Vijay Deverakonda) becomes captivated upon seeing Aradhya (Samantha), also known as Begum, and believes she is his child. Viplav falls in love at first sight, unaware that he is a Brahmin. In a surprising turn of events, he attempts to persuade the elders. However, Viplav is a Christian boy. Since both families do not agree, they decide to defy their elders and get married to prove that their love is the greatest in the world. 'Kushi narrates the subsequent developments in their story.
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