The invitation marks a significant diplomatic engagement following the death of the 86-year-old leader, who was killed in a joint US-Israeli airstrike on February 28.
Actor-entrepreneur Rhea Chakraborty and her brother Showik Chakraborty opened up about the realities of working together as siblings during their appearance on Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi’s chat show Double Date. The sibling duo co-founded Chapter 2 Drip, a unisex streetwear brand and are also involved in the Chapter 2 podcast.
During the conversation, Neha Dhupia asked the siblings whether starting a business together was an easy decision. Responding to it, Rhea admitted that working with a sibling comes with its own set of complications.
Also Read: Rhea Chakraborty Reveals Aryan Khan’s Drug Case Reminded Her of Brother Showik’s Ordeal
Veteran actor Mammootty’s recent Padma Bhushan honour has become the occasion for yet another celebration. The makers of Om, the upcoming action drama headlined by Dhanush, have unveiled a special poster featuring the legendary actor, offering audiences their first glimpse of his look from the film.
The poster was released shortly after Mammootty received the Padma Bhushan from President Droupadi Murmu at the Padma Awards Investiture Ceremony held in New Delhi on June 23. While the makers stopped short of revealing details about his character, the poster has already heightened anticipation surrounding his role in the ambitious project.
Director Rajkumar Periyasamy shared the poster on X while congratulating Mammootty on the prestigious civilian honour.
“Hearty Congratulations to our very own Mammukka on being conferred upon with The Prestigious Padma Bhushan award for his exceptional contribution to the Indian Cinema for more than 5 decades,” he wrote.
The filmmaker then teased what fans can expect from the actor’s appearance in the film, adding, “Now wait for Ikka’s entry from Om. It will be worth all your wait!”
Rajkumar Periyasamy says Mammootty’s entry will be worth the wait
Produced by Dawn Pictures, Om is one of the most anticipated Tamil films currently in production. Headlined by Dhanush, the film also stars Sai Pallavi and Sreeleela in pivotal roles, while composer Sai Abhyankkar is scoring the music. Although the makers are keeping Mammootty’s character firmly under wraps, the decision to reveal his look immediately after his Padma Bhushan recognition has added another layer of excitement around the project.
The Malayalam superstar also has an exciting slate ahead. Apart from Om, he will next headline Mattanchery Mafia, directed by Khalid Rahman, whose recent outing Alappuzha Gymkhana received widespread appreciation. The film will also feature Asif Ali and Naslen, bringing together an exciting ensemble.
Mammootty dedicates Padma Bhushan to cinema and his audience
Meanwhile, Mammootty took to social media to express his gratitude after receiving the Padma Bhushan, India’s third highest civilian award. Sharing an emotional note, the actor reflected on a career spanning more than five decades.
“Deeply Humbled and honored to be conferred with the Padma Bhushan. My sincere gratitude to the Government of India for this prestigious recognition.”
He continued, “An honor like this is a reflection of a 5 decade long journey that wouldn’t exist without you, my incredible audience. Thank you for the endless love, trust, and support that keeps me going every single day. I dedicate this to the beautiful world of cinema and all of you.”
The investiture ceremony in New Delhi was attended by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Mammootty was accompanied by members of his family, including wife Sulfath, son and actor Dulquer Salmaan, daughter Surumi, and daughter in law Amal Sufiya.
Following the ceremony, the family also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dulquer later shared photographs from the meeting and penned a heartfelt message on social media.
“An absolute privilege to meet and spend time with our Honourable Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi Ji as we witnessed my father, Shri Mammootty being honoured for a lifetime of extraordinary work. A truly unforgettable day for our family.”
With a Padma Bhushan now added to an already extraordinary legacy and major projects like Om and Mattanchery Mafia on the horizon, Mammootty continues to prove that his remarkable journey in Indian cinema is far from over.
Also Read: ‘My Gratitude to The Motherland’: Mammootty Reacts to His Padma Bhushan Honour