AK 64 sees Shalini Ajith Kumar taking over production as Ajith Kumar reunites with Adhik Ravichandran for a Mass Entertainer

BY SACNILK

Ajith Kumar is set to begin work on his 64th feature film, tentatively titled AK 64, which brings a new production dynamic to the actor's career. The project is gaining attention for its star power and the specific involvement of his family in the production process. As the film enters extensive pre-production, the primary focus is on setting up a mass commercial entertainer that reunites a successful director-actor duo. One of the most discussed aspects of AK 64 is the official involvement of Shalini Ajith Kumar. It has been reported that she will be producing the film under the home banner, and her name is set to appear prominently on both the posters and the title cards. Beyond just being a presenter, industry sources suggest that Shalini is actively overseeing the project's finances, production operations, and overall progress. This hands-on approach from the family has added an extra layer of excitement for the fans and the trade alike. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) On the creative side, the film sees Ajith Kumar reuniting with director Adhik Ravichandran. This collaboration comes right after their work on Good Bad Ugly, marking a rare instance of the actor working with the same director for two consecutive projects. The film is being designed as a mass commercial family entertainer, a genre that has traditionally worked very well for Ajith. Adhik is currently in the middle of extensive pre-production, with the team having already initiated the casting process and location scouting to ensure a smooth transition into filming. Anirudh Ravichander is set to compose the music for AK 64, marking another collaboration in a busy period for the actor and composer. This project follows their work on two other major Tamil films, including the 2025 action thriller Vidaamuyarchi and the action comedy Good Bad Ugly. By bringing Anirudh on board for this third project, the team is maintaining a consistent musical partnership that has defined Ajith Kumar's most recent filmography. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) While the official title and more specific cast details are yet to be revealed, the current progress indicates that the team is leaving no stone unturned in the planning phase. The combination of a family-backed production, a director who understands Ajith's mass appeal, and a top-tier music composer makes AK 64 one of the most anticipated Tamil films in the coming year.

BY SACNILK

Chennai, January 27 - Superstar Ajith Kumar's over a decade-old action thriller film Mankatha was re-released amid much anticipation, and the movie didn't disappoint with a superb collection over the Republic Day weekend at the domestic and worldwide box office. The Venkat Prabhu-directed blockbuster opened to a very strong response, collecting over 4 crore gross domestically on its first day. It maintained steady momentum throughout the four-day weekend and comfortably crossed the double-digit mark at the Indian box office, driven largely by strong collections from Tamil Nadu. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Mankatha has grossed around 11.75 crore in India in four days, including nearly 11 crore from Tamil Nadu alone. The film also collected approximately 1.25 crore from overseas markets, taking its total worldwide gross to an impressive 13 crore. With this, the Ajith starrer has already emerged as the third-highest-grossing Tamil re-release of all time, behind Rajinikanth's Padayappa (18+ crore gross) and Thalapathy Vijay's Ghilli (30+ crore gross). Among the biggest South Indian re-releases grossers, Mankatha currently ranks fourth, with SS Rajamouli's Baahubali: The Epic holding the top position with over 50 crore in worldwide gross collections. The Ajith Kumar starrer is eyeing to surpass Padayappa to become the third-highest-grossing South Indian re-release of all time. Originally released in August 2011, Mankatha was a massive blockbuster and went on to gross over 75 crore worldwide, although exact figures vary due to the absence of consolidated records. The film revolves around Vinayak Mahadev, a corrupt ACP in Mumbai, who teams up with a group of four criminals to execute a daring heist involving illegal cricket betting money. Stay tuned...

BY SACNILK

Over a decade after its original release, Ajith Kumar's 50th film, Mankatha, has once again stormed the box office, proving that its cult status remains untouched. Re-released on January 23rd in a digitally remastered format, the film set a staggering new record for the highest opening day pre-sales in Tamil Nadu. The movie had recorded pre-sales of around ₹2.25 crore for the opening day. This feat allowed it to surpass the previous record held by the re-release of Ghilli (₹2+ crore), as well as other major titles like Padayappa, Sachein, and Kushi. The success of the Mankatha Rage was not limited to Tamil Nadu, as the film also made a significant impact in the neighbouring state of Karnataka. It secured the third-largest opening for a Kollywood re-release in the state, collecting ₹20 lakhs. It trailed only behind the re-releases of Padayappa and Ghilli. This strong performance in Karnataka highlights the pan-South Indian appeal of the heist thriller and Ajith Kumar's massive stardom beyond state borders. Overall, the film grossed 4+ crore in India on day 1 as per estimates. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The atmosphere inside theatres was electric, as fans celebrated the return of the iconic anti-hero, Vinayak Mahadev. Reports from various cities described scenes of Milk Abhishekam on posters, heavy confetti showers, and fans dancing to Yuvan Shankar Raja's legendary background score. The re-release also saw active participation from the film's industry admirers; director Adhik Ravichandran and Ajith's manager, Suresh Chandra, were seen celebrating with the crowd at Kamala Cinemas in Chennai. Meanwhile, actor Premji Amaren, who played a key role in the film, interacted with fans on social media, further fueling the nostalgia and excitement surrounding the event. Industry analysts suggest that this re-release is more than just a nostalgic trip; it is a testament to the film's enduring legacy and its ability to compete with modern-day releases. With over 100,000 tickets sold on BookMyShow within the first 24 hours of booking, Mankatha is now on track to challenge the lifetime gross records of other major re-releases. As the film continues its run, it reinforces the unique bond between the fans and this Venkat Prabhu directorial, cementing its place as one of the most successful and profitable re-releases in the history of Tamil cinema.

BY SACNILK

The Mankatha Rage is reaching a boiling point as the 2011 cult classic prepares for its grand 4K re-entry into theaters on January 23, 2026. With only a few hours left before the first shows begin, the pre-sales data suggests that the film is on the cusp of creating a new history for re-releases in South India. The hype surrounding the return of Vinayak Mahadev has resulted in one of the most aggressive advance booking phases seen in recent years. In Tamil Nadu, Mankatha has officially entered the elite club of re-releases, with pre-sales grossing over ₹2.00 crore for the opening day through tracked cinemas. According to reports from Cinetrak, the film is now within striking distance of the final pre-sales record held by Vijay's Ghilli, which stands at ₹2.15 crore. The trend is equally massive in Bengaluru. According to Karnataka Talkies, the Mankatha re-release has already crossed ₹13.75 lakh in Bengaluru pre-sales. This performance has already overtaken the pre-sales of Rajinikanth's Padayappa (₹12.65 lakh) at the same stage. While it has already surpassed Padayappa's trend, it is currently on track to challenge the final Bengaluru pre-sales record of ₹16 lakh to become the highest pre-booked Tamil re-release in the city. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   This surge in demand highlights the timeless appeal of the Venkat Prabhu directorial and Yuvan Shankar Raja's iconic score. With fans across both states rushing to grab the remaining tickets for a celebratory opening day, all eyes are now on the final numbers to see if Mankatha will officially set a new benchmark for Tamil film re-releases. Mankatha remains a landmark heist thriller that marked Ajith Kumar's milestone 50th film. At the time of its original release in 2011, it was produced on a budget of approximately ₹24 crore and went on to become the second-highest-grossing Tamil film of that year, trailing only Enthiran. The film was a commercial juggernaut from day one, shattering records for the highest opening day in Chennai. In its first week alone, it grossed over ₹53 crore worldwide, with ₹33.4 crore coming from Tamil Nadu. Its success extended well beyond state borders, earning roughly ₹14.3 crore ($3.10 million) overseas and emerging as a major hit in Kerala (~₹3.4 cr) and Karnataka (~₹2.75 cr). Given its historic 2011 run, this 4K re-release is more than just a screening—it is a tribute to one of Kollywood's most impactful blockbusters.

BY SACNILK

Chennai, January 19 - Ajith Kumar's cult-classic action thriller Mankatha is gearing up for a grand return to theatres, reigniting excitement among fans and trade alike. Even years after its original release, the film continues to command immense popularity, with its re-release creating strong buzz in Tamil Nadu. The anticipation reflects the film’s lasting impact and Ajith's unmatched fan following, and the early advance bookings trends confirm the same. Scheduled to release on January 23, the pre-sales of the movie have started, with tickets getting sold within minutes. On BookMyShow, the film is selling 4K tickets per hour, which shows the craze for it among the fans. Originally released in 2011 and directed by Venkat Prabhu, Mankatha marked a defining moment in Ajith Kumar's career. His bold portrayal of the ruthless Vinayak Mahadev broke away from traditional heroic norms and struck a chord with audiences. Backed by Yuvan Shankar Raja's electrifying background score and a stylish, fast-paced narrative, the film emerged as a massive blockbuster and later achieved cult status. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The announcement of the re-release has triggered widespread celebration on social media, with fans revisiting iconic dialogues, scenes, and moments from the film. For many, Mankatha is not just a movie but an emotion, while for younger audiences, it presents a chance to experience the high-voltage heist drama on the big screen for the first time. With the trend of successful re-releases gaining momentum, Mankatha is expected to start strongly, and possibly on a record note, given the initial response in pre-sales. Its gripping screenplay, unexpected twists, and Ajith Kumar's commanding screen presence continue to feel fresh even today, positioning the film to once again set the box office on fire. Stay tuned...

BY SACNILK

Chennai, November 10 - The Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC) introduced a series of resolutions aimed at bringing greater balance, transparency, and sustainability to the Tamil film industry in a landmark meeting held recently. These measures, if implemented, could significantly reshape production, distribution, and exhibition dynamics in Kollywood. Profit-Sharing Model Introduced In a move set to cut down the budget in Tamil cinema, the TFPC has proposed that leading actors and top technicians will no longer receive full remuneration upfront. Instead, they will adopt a profit-and-loss sharing model with producers, something some of the actors are already doing across industries. This change is intended to ensure accountability and encourage collaborative risk-taking, allowing everyone involved to benefit from a film's success—or share responsibility in case of losses. Revised OTT Streaming Window The short theatrical window for Tamil films has been a major concern for the exhibition sector. The council has also proposed a new structure for OTT release timelines, introducing tiered streaming windows based on film scale: Big-star films: 8 weeks; Mid-range films: 6 weeks; and Smaller films: 4 weeks. This revision in the OTT window seeks to strike a balance between theatrical revenues and digital demand, offering theatres a fairer window while accommodating changing viewing habits. Call for Official Ticketing Platform Addressing long-standing concerns over online ticketing service charges and lack of transparency, the TFPC has urged the Tamil Nadu Government to introduce an official state-backed online ticketing platform. The platform would aim to reduce service charges, enhance transparency, and make moviegoing more affordable for the public, while ensuring producers and theatres receive accurate box-office data. New Film Release Regulation Committee Another key proposal from the meeting was the formation of a joint regulatory committee comprising representatives from the Theatre Owners' Association and the Distributors' Association. This body will work towards ensuring fair access to theatres for small and medium-budget films, addressing a long-standing imbalance in screen allocation dominated by star-driven releases. The proposed resolutions mark one of the most comprehensive reform packages by TFPC in recent years. If adopted, they could pave the way for a more equitable, transparent, and sustainable future for Tamil cinema, ensuring that creativity and commerce coexist in harmony. Stay tuned...

BY SACNILK

Ajith Kumar rarely sits down for interviews, and when he does, he brings the same clarity and calmness that fans admire him for. In his latest chat, the star opened up about his world beyond cinema — racing instincts, middle-class grounding, family life, and how he navigates fame with discipline and gratitude. “Pushing your limits makes you value life more” Talking about racing, Ajith drew a poetic parallel with life. For him, pushing limits on track helps appreciate life even more. He sees racing and acting as similar crafts — in films you want a blockbuster, on track the car wants to win.“But the biggest difference?” he smiled. “There’s no retake in sports.” He also corrected a common perception: many racers crash, but when he does, it becomes a headline only because he's an actor. Over the years, he’s undergone 29 surgeries — and yet, his takeaway is pure optimism: learn, get up, and move like a warrior. Motorsport mission & India’s overlooked talent Ajith spoke passionately about motorsports in India. He wants to participate in as many events as possible and wishes the country paid more attention to the racers already representing India internationally.“Many are representing India but they go unnoticed. Please follow them — they are doing a lot for the sport.”When asked about the talk of reviving a Formula-1-style motorsport setup in India — with him as a possible brand ambassador and Pradeep Ranganathan being groomed as a young racer — Ajith kept it grounded and humble:“If it happens organically, I’m happy. I hope and pray motorsports grows here. We need sponsors, we need people to support these talents. I just want to make all of us proud… Acting philosophy: “I give not days, but 33 years” Ajith also gave a rare insight into his mindset while approaching films.“I approach every film like it’s my first. I tell my directors — I’m not giving you 100 days, I’m giving you my 33 years. “I’m not asking you to lift me higher. Just don’t set me back. We’ll progress together — that’s my only request.”His approach to both acting and racing is the same — wake up every day like it’s a fresh start, learn something new and move forward with focus.He also hinted at his film update, adding confidently:“I may start filming. By January, you will have announcements.” Middle-class roots, self-reliance and Dubai life Ajith spoke with affection about growing up middle-class — being raised to do things on his own, learning cooking at seven, and being independent. He chooses to live in Dubai not for glamour, but simplicity — to stay grounded and away from the bubble that fame can create.“When you stay in that environment too long, expectations grow, and that hurts. I’d rather remain as independent as possible.” Money, success and staying same He reflected on what success and money teach you: “When you are financially settled, you understand what money can buy and what it can’t. You understand whether you’re a giver or a taker.” Success, he said, is like a wild horse — if you can tame it, you’ll ride ahead and win. If you can’t, it won’t wait for you; someone else will get on and take it forward. For him, the key is humility and gratitude, not complaints, as he keeps moving with focus and grace. Family: “I’m not the easiest person, she never stopped me” Ajith turned emotional speaking about his family. He called Shalini his backbone — “I am not an easy person to live with,” he admitted, grateful that she never stopped him from doing anything he loved.Their daughter, now 17, plays badminton and loves piano and guitar. Their son, 11, is into football.“Education is essential,” he said, “but sports and music shape your personality in a way nothing else can.”Despite his global stardom, his favourite thing remains quality time at home. The curse and blessing of stardom “Fame is a double-edged sword. It gives us so much, but it takes away a lot that truly matters.” He loves simple joys — dropping his son at school — but crowd frenzy often turns even that impossible. In India, he says, he can’t even drive freely without 50 motorcycles chasing him just for a photo, risking everyone’s lives. is the meaning you are trying to say is ight the word without is confusing there..change that part alone. He’s thankful for the love — but hopes for responsibility from fans too. “There’s a moral code in public spaces — it applies to everyone. We love the support, that’s why we work. There are better ways to express that love.Even in private messages to friends, he signs off with the same thoughtfulness:“I wish you and your loved ones a good life.” A star who chooses simplicity Ajith’s interview wasn’t about promotion or hype. It was a window into a man who has lived boldly, paid the price for his passion, and still smiles with gratitude.A superstar who prefers calm to chaos, independence to indulgence, and real life over noise — that’s Ajith Kumar today. And yet, even in this phase of reflection and racing focus, he quietly slipped in the update every fan was hoping to hear — shooting is around the corner, and official announcements will land by January. No build-up, no big reveal… just Ajith being Ajith.Grounded, honest, and already preparing for the next chapter on his own terms.Now, it’s our turn to wait — calmly, proudly — just as he has taught his fans over the years.

BY SACNILK

Chennai, April 25 - Tamil superstar Ajith Kumar's action comedy Good Bad Ugly is nearing the 250 crores mark at the global box office, as at the end of the second week (15 days), it has grossed around 237 crores which includes around 172 crores domestic collection. ## GBU has already become the highest-grossing Tamil movie of the year and also the biggest grosser of Ajith Kumar. In this process, the blockbuster movie has emerged as the actor's biggest hit in the home state, Tamil Nadu, by beating Viswasam. ## Directed by Adhik Ravichandran, GBU has scored approximately 144.50 crores gross in Tamil Nadu in 15 days, making it the biggest grosser for the AK in the state. Viswasam had generated an estimated 139 crores in the state, and this record has been broken after nearly 6 years. ## The film is produced by Mythri Movie Makers, and this marks the studio's debut production in Tamil cinema. It stars Ajith Kumar, alongside Trisha Krishnan, Arjun Das, Sunil, Karthikeya Dev, Priya Prakash Varrier, Prabhu, Prasanna, Tinnu Anand, and Raghu Ram in key roles. ## Stay tuned...

BY SACNILK

Chennai, April 19 - Thala Ajith Kumar's action comedy Good Bad Ugly has surpassed 200 crores gross worldwide, becoming the first Tamil movie of the year. The movie entered this prestigious club on its 9th day as one of the fastest Tamil titles to do so. ## GBU has been doing excellent business since its opening day and eventually stormed past the double century at the global box office. In the 9 days so far, the film has grossed approximately 205+ crores, and with this, it has also become the biggest grosser for the Tamil superstar, beating Viswasam and Thunivu. ## In India, the blockbuster has grossed around 148 crores, which includes around 123 crores gross collection in the home state, Tamil Nadu. It is now Ajith Kumar's second biggest grosser in the state behind Viswasam. Overseas, the film has minted an estimated 57 crores so far. ## Good Bad Ugly is expected to see big gains on the second Saturday and Sunday, and at this point, it looks certain to enter the 250 crores club, which will be the first for AK. The movie proves to be a blockbuster entry of the Telugu production house, Mythri Movie Makers, in the Tamil cinema. ## Stay tuned...

BY SACNILK

Chennai, April 16 - Superstar Ajith Kumar's action comedy Good Bad Ugly has taken the box office by storm and is nearing 200 crores gross, which will make it only the second film of the actor to achieve the feat at the worldwide box office. ## Directed by Adhik Ravichandran, the film has grossed approximately 180 crores worldwide in the first 6 days. It will enter the 200 crores club by the second Friday and will also become the highest-grossing film of Thala Ajith by beating Viswasam globally. ## Meanwhile, GBU has entered the 100 crores club at the Tamil Nadu box office, becoming the third movie of the Tamil superstar to do so after Viswasam (139 crores) and Thunivu (121+ crores). The latest blockbuster hit the milestone of 100 crores gross in the state in just 6 days, which makes it the fastest for the actor to do so. ## In 6 days, the movie has minted approximately 106+ crores gross in the state and it will become to biggest grosser during the second weekend. The film is on its way to finish with 150+ crores gross, a milestone that only 8 films have achieved so far in TN. ## Stay tuned...

BY SACNILK

Chennai, April 14 - Tamil superstar Ajith Kumar has scripted a solid comeback with the action comedy Good Bad Ugly after getting a big shock earlier this year in the form of action thriller Vidaamuyarchi, which bombed at the box office. ## Directed by Adhik Ravichandran, the latest blockbuster has not only outgrossed Vidaamuyarchi's lifetime total (136 crores gross) but has also become the highest-grossing Tamil movie of 2025 by crossing Pradeep Ranganathan's Dragon (152 crores) in just less than 5 days. ## Good Bad Ugly had an excellent first 4-day weekday in which it grossed approximately 148.50 crores worldwide, including over 100 crores domestically, which includes around 84 crores of Tamil Nadu collection. At the time of writing this piece, the movie has topped Dragon to become the biggest Tamil hit of the year. ## GBU is having a solid first Monday due to the holiday, and a 5-day extended weekend is likely to be over 170 crores gross at the worldwide box office. The movie will cross 200 crores gross worldwide at the end of the first week and will become only the second movie of Ajith Kumar to do so. ## The film is produced by Mythri Movie Makers, and it marks the studio's maiden Tamil production. It stars Ajith Kumar in the lead role, alongside Trisha Krishnan, Arjun Das, Sunil, Karthikeya Dev, Priya Prakash Varrier, Prabhu, Prasanna, Tinnu Anand, and Raghu Ram. ## Stay tuned...