South Indian superstar Chiyaan Vikram’s much-anticipated film Veera Dheera Sooran has run into legal trouble, resulting in the cancellation of its premiere shows both in India and the United States. The movie, which was scheduled for theatrical release today, March 27, 2025, has now been partially stalled following an interim stay by the Delhi High Court.

Due to ongoing legal issues, early morning screenings of Veera Dheera Sooran have been withdrawn from major multiplex chains including PVR Inox in cities like Hyderabad. Media reports suggest that the film’s producer, Riya Shibu, is actively working to resolve the legal situation. However, no official statement has been released by the filmmakers yet.

Legal row over OTT rights leads to court intervention

According to reports, media company B4U approached the Delhi High Court seeking a stay on the film’s release, claiming that its producer breached an agreement regarding the sale of the film’s OTT rights prior to its theatrical launch. The petition requested the court to delay the film’s release until the dispute with HR Pictures, the production house, is resolved.

Following the court’s intervention, an interim stay was reportedly imposed on the film’s release until 10:30 am on Thursday. In line with the court’s directions, the producer was instructed to immediately deposit ₹7 crore and submit all case-related documents within 48 hours.

The legal tangle has had international repercussions as well. The film’s US premiere shows, which had garnered significant interest among fans, have also been cancelled due to the same legal dispute, according to media sources.

Release clash with big titles

Veera Dheera Sooran was set to clash with multiple high-profile films at the box office, including Salman Khan’s Sikandar and South Indian releases like L2: Empuraan, Robinhood, and Mad 2. With its release now uncertain, fans await clarity on when Vikram’s film will finally hit the screens.

Chiyaan Vikram was last seen in the historical drama Thangalaan, and Veera Dheera Sooran was being widely anticipated as his next major outing.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday spoke about the essential role of honest work in serving the nation, stating that slogans and speeches are not enough. He reflected on his eight years of leadership, during which he believes the state has transformed into a “growth engine.”

Addressing an event for distributing appointment letters to medical officers in the Ayush department, Adityanath pointed out that Uttar Pradesh was once labeled a ‘bimaru’ (sick) state due to ineffective governance rather than the state itself being inherently flawed.

He explained, “Eight years ago, the system was failing. The working methods of previous governments were inadequate, which created a state unable to make effective decisions or deliver results.” Today, he argues, “we see a revitalized Uttar Pradesh characterized by careful and transparent decision-making—qualities that have sparked significant change within the region.”

According to Adityanath, the state has made remarkable strides, especially in administrative reforms. He praised the state’s economic growth, asserting that the bureaucratic inefficiencies that once held it back have now been addressed, positioning Uttar Pradesh as a critical player in India’s overall development. He also highlighted the recent success of the Maha Kumbh, attributing it to a combination of teamwork and technology.

Adityanath spoke proudly of the increasing international recognition of India’s traditional practices, particularly yoga, which has gained traction under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “Today, 193 countries celebrate World Yoga Day, showcasing the importance of India’s rich heritage,” he noted.

In discussing the AYUSH system, which promotes ancient health practices, he remarked, “It encourages us not only to treat ailments but to pursue a healthier and longer life.” He emphasized that Uttar Pradesh is leading the charge in this arena, with a growing number of Ayurveda and homeopathy hospitals.

Continuing his remarks, CM Adityanath reiterated that true service to the nation requires diligent work. “Slogans and speeches are empty without action. Delaying our responsibilities means failing to serve our duty,” he asserted.

On World Theatre Day, actor Sumeet Vyas opened up about his deep connection with theatre despite his success on screen. Known widely for his breakout role in Permanent Roommates (2014), Sumeet revealed that his journey with acting began much earlier, in 2000, rooted firmly in the world of theatre.

“Theatre is essentially an actor’s medium,” Sumeet said. He explained that while cinema heavily depends on editing and presentation, theatre allows the actor to own the stage. “Once the actor starts performing on stage, he’s pretty much running the show,” he noted, adding that stage gives actors more space to indulge in their craft—something often missing in film.

Despite achieving fame and financial success in cinema, Sumeet continues to return to theatre, a choice not many actors make. He believes the allure of fame and higher pay in the film industry keeps most away from the stage. “But for me, it’s where I grew up,” he said, expressing a personal bond with the medium.

He has also explored directing in theatre, which he finds more intimate than directing on screen. “It’s lighter because there’s less people to deal with. You’re essentially only working on the text and your actors,” he said. Unlike screen projects, which require elaborate setups and long waits for audience feedback, theatre offers immediacy. “You direct something and soon enough, you have a show, and you immediately get a reaction,” he added.

Sumeet’s love for theatre underscores the medium’s enduring impact—even in an age of streaming and mass digital entertainment.