The excitement is palpable as the countdown to the much-anticipated release of Rajinikanth's film Coolie begins. With just 100 days left until its premiere on August 14, 2025, the film is generating significant buzz across India and beyond. Directed by the acclaimed Lokesh Kanagaraj, known for his larger-than-life cinematic style, Coolie promises to be a thrilling spectacle, backed by a colossal budget of Rs. 400 crore.
On May 6, 2025, the film's producers, Sun Pictures, in collaboration with music composer Anirudh Ravichander, released an electrifying teaser video on Instagram, which has already gone viral. The teaser, accompanied by the caption "Arangam Adhirattume, Whistle Parakkattume! #CoolieIn100Days #Coolie worldwide from August 14th," showcases the film's high-energy vibe and sets the tone for what fans can expect.
Rajinikanth, at 72, continues to command the spotlight, reportedly earning between Rs. 260-280 crore for his role in Coolie, making him Asia’s highest-paid actor. This staggering figure not only eclipses the earnings of other prominent actors, including Aamir Khan and Jackie Chan, but also reinforces Rajinikanth's status as a cinematic icon. The film also features a stellar cast, including Nagarjuna, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, and Upendra Rao, with Nagarjuna reportedly charging Rs. 24 crore for his role.
Adding to the star power, Bollywood's Aamir Khan will make a special cameo in the film, with reports suggesting his fee to be between Rs. 25-30 crore. Additionally, actress Pooja Hegde, fresh off a hit with Retro, will appear in a song, earning Rs. 2 crore for her cameo. With such an impressive lineup and a high-budget production, Coolie is poised to set new records at the box office.
Meanwhile, the 2025 Met Gala, held recently in New York, showcased a dazzling array of fashion statements, with celebrities pushing the boundaries of style. One of the most talked-about moments came from Shah Rukh Khan, who made headlines as the first Indian male actor to grace the Met Gala red carpet. Dressed in an elegant black outfit designed by Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Khan's appearance was momentous, but it was marred by an awkward interaction with a foreign reporter who asked him to introduce himself.
“Hi, I’m Shah Rukh,” he replied with a smile, though many fans were quick to express their disbelief that such a globally recognized star needed to introduce himself. Sabyasachi, standing beside Khan, later addressed the situation, reminding the press of the actor’s immense fame and legacy.
The Met Gala's theme this year, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” was reflected in the bold fashion choices of attendees. Among the standout looks was Halle Berry, who turned heads in a nearly-nude LaQuan Smith gown that divided opinions online. K-pop star Lisa made her Met Gala debut in a lingerie-style Louis Vuitton bodysuit, which sparked controversy due to its resemblance to civil rights icon Rosa Parks.
Kim Kardashian's futuristic Balenciaga ensemble, featuring a chrome mask, also drew mixed reactions, while Amelia Gray Hamlin embraced the pantless trend in a daring red Valentino outfit. André 3000 made a statement with a baby grand piano backpack, showcasing the creativity that often defines the Met Gala.
This year’s event also saw a remarkable representation of expectant mothers, with stars like Rihanna, Karlie Kloss, Kiara Advani, and Zinzi Coogler redefining maternity fashion. Rihanna's announcement of her pregnancy during the gala, paired with a stunning custom Marc Jacobs ensemble, was a highlight. Karlie Kloss, expecting her third child, wore a sculptural black dress, while Kiara Advani made a striking debut in a black gown adorned with a gold breastplate.
Zinzi Coogler showcased tailored elegance in a fitted black bodycon dress and oversized blazer, proving that maternity can be both chic and empowering. The message was clear: pregnancy should not be an afterthought in fashion but rather a powerful statement.
As the countdown to Coolie continues, fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a thrilling cinematic experience. With its star-studded cast, impressive budget, and the creative vision of Lokesh Kanagaraj, the film is set to make waves in the industry.
In the world of entertainment, where fashion and film often intersect, the Met Gala and the upcoming release of Coolie highlight the vibrant tapestry of creativity and cultural expression that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. As both events unfold, they remind us of the power of storytelling, whether through the lens of cinema or the artistry of fashion.
