A.R. Rahman: Rumors of an Affair With A.R. Rahman Spark Reaction From His Assistant
Recent reports about A.R. Rahman and his wife Saira Banu's divorce have caused quite a stir. Following the announcement made by Saira Banu’s lawyer, another development drew attention: Mohini Dey, a musician in Rahman’s team, also filed for divorce. Speculations arose that A.R. Rahman and Mohini were in a relationship, with some suggesting that both gave up their marriages to be together. Mohini has now addressed these rumors, clarifying her stance on her relationship with Rahman.
“Accusations Are Unfair”
Mohini Dey, a renowned bass player, strongly denied the negative rumors about her relationship with A.R. Rahman. She stated that Rahman is like a father figure to her and highlighted that she is the same age as his daughters. Mohini explained that Rahman has always treated her as a daughter and that she has been working with him for eight years. She expressed deep respect for Rahman and shared her disappointment over the baseless rumors. “It’s heartbreaking that such things are being said. Making accusations without sensitivity is not right. Please put an end to this misinformation,” she urged. Mohini also revealed that after losing her father this year, Rahman and his team have been like family to her.
https://twitter.com/GemCinemas/status/1861288712652628193
Ex-Wife Releases an Audio Statement
Rahman’s ex-wife, Saira Banu, also spoke out against the rumors surrounding Rahman. She released an audio message requesting media outlets, YouTubers, and others to stop spreading false stories about Rahman. She described him as one of the kindest people in the world and urged people to refrain from misinforming others. Additionally, Saira Banu’s lawyer clarified that the divorces of both couples are unrelated. They emphasized that Rahman and Saira separated amicably due to personal reasons and mutual understanding. “There were many challenges in their marriage that led to this decision,” the lawyer stated.
https://twitter.com/sunnewstamil/status/1860585811940352492
Who is Saira Banu?
Saira Banu, A.R. Rahman’s former wife was born in Gujarat and is the niece of popular Malayalam actor Rasheen Rahman. Rahman’s mother reportedly admired Saira after meeting her at a Dargah and arranged the marriage. Saira was an active participant in Rahman’s social service initiatives. The couple has three children: Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen. In 2022, they celebrated the grand wedding of their eldest daughter, Khatija.
Rahman on a Career High
Despite the personal challenges, A.R. Rahman is currently thriving professionally. This year alone, he worked on three movies, including Ayalaan and Lal Salaam, which received significant praise for their music. Rahman is also working on RC 16, the highly anticipated project starring Ram Charan and directed by Buchi Babu. This marks Rahman’s return to composing for a direct Telugu film after a long gap, raising high expectations among music lovers for what’s to come.
ARM Movie Review: A Gripping Performance but a Predictable Plot.
Cast: Tovino Thomas, Krithi Shetty, Aishwarya Rajesh, Surabhi Lakshmi, Basil Joseph, Jagadish, Kabir Duhan Singh, and others
Director: Jithin Lal
Writer: Sujith Nambiar
Music: Thibu Ninan Thomas
Cinematography: Jomon T. John
Editing: Shameer Muhammad
Malayalam actor Tovino Thomas has also gained recognition in Telugu cinema. His lead roles in ‘Minnal Murali’ and ‘2018’ have been successful in Telugu as well. His latest film 'ARM' has now been released, featuring Tovino Thomas and Krithi Shetty in lead roles. In Malayalam, the film is titled ‘Ajayante Random Motionam’ (ARM), which translates in Telugu to ‘Ajayan’s Second Theft.’ How did the pan-India release 'ARM' fare? Did it enchant the Telugu audience? Has Tovino Thomas scored another hit? Let’s find out in this review.
Plot
Ajay (Tovino Thomas) lives a simple life in his village, doing small jobs and living with his mother (Rohini). His grandfather Maniyan (Tovino Thomas) was once a notorious thief, which leads villagers to suspect Ajay whenever a theft occurs. Meanwhile, the Sreebhuthi Lamp (an idol) in the village temple, more valuable than gold, attracts the attention of Sudeva Varma (Harish Uthaman), who plans to steal it and frame Ajay for the theft. However, Ajay’s family has been protecting this lamp for generations. How does Ajay save it this time? What is the history behind the idol? What role does the legendary hero Kunjikelu (Tovino Thomas) play in this history? What about Ajay’s love track with Lakshmi (Krithi Shetty)? You have to watch the movie to find out.
Performances
Tovino Thomas impressively portrays three different roles. His portrayal as the heroic Kunjikelu, with significant battle scenes, is captivating. His performance as grandfather Maniyan is also commendable, showing great versatility across his roles, from heroic to serene in Ajay’s character. Each character variation highlights his depth in acting. Krithi Shetty delivers a fine performance as Lakshmi, embodying a 90s girl perfectly. Surabhi Lakshmi’s role is engaging, appearing in a dual capacity that adds to the narrative. Rohini and Harish Uthaman’s characters are pivotal to the storyline.
Direction
Despite being his debut, director Jithin Lal’s execution of a story intertwined across three generations is clear and engaging. The entry of the legendary Kunjikelu accelerates the pace of the film with his heroics and the boon he asks from the king after saving the kingdom, followed by revelations that add intrigue. The portrayal of Maniyan’s character by the director stands out, particularly how he discovers where the lamp is and plans its theft. The confrontational scenes when Maniyan and Ajayan’s paths cross are emotionally powerful. However, other characters lack impact, a weak love track, predictable plot points, and a feeble climax detract from the film.
Technically
Technically, the film is high-quality. Thibu’s background score and songs add a fresh flair to the film. Jomon T. John’s cinematography is captivating. The editing is adequate, and the production values are high.
Plus Points
- Tovino Thomas’s acting
- Historical backdrop
- Music
Minus Points
- Predictable storyline
- Weak climax
Telugu.yousay.tv Rating: 3/5