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Zee5 enters Kannada originals with eerie thriller Ayyana Mane
MUMBAI: Zee5, is making its much-anticipated Kannada original debut with Ayyana Mane—a gripping supernatural crime drama that unravels dark family secrets hidden behind ancestral doors.
Directed by Ramesh Indira and produced by Shruthi Naidu Productions, the seven-episode mini-series stars Kushee Ravi, Akshya Nayak, and Manasi Sudheer. Set in the 1990s in the mist-laden hills of Chikmagalur, the story follows Jaji (played by Ravi), a newlywed bride who enters her husband’s ancestral home, unaware of the chilling history that awaits her.
The Ayyana Mane household has seen three mysterious deaths—each one a daughter-in-law, each one linked to the family’s powerful deity, Kondayya. When Jaji arrives, what begins as a hopeful new chapter soon turns into a descent into fear, where whispers of curses and eerie coincidences blur the line between reality and superstition. With the help of the loyal maid Taayavva and police officer Mahanthesh, Jaji begins to piece together a horrifying puzzle—one that might cost her life.
Zee5 spokesperson shared, “Kannada cinema has a rich legacy of storytelling, with audiences deeply connected to stories that blend culture, mystery, and emotion. Ayyana Mane is a perfect example of this—a crime drama infused with supernatural suspense, set in the breathtaking yet enigmatic town of Chikmagalur, where mist-covered hills and age-old traditions create the perfect backdrop for an eerie mystery. The show’s authentic locations, high-tech visuals, and immersive storytelling bring the haunting atmosphere to life, making it a truly amazing experience. We’re excited to expand our regional content slate with such interesting shows and Ayyana Mane is just the beginning of what’s to come for Kannada viewers on Zee5.”
Director Indira stated, “With Ayyana Mane, I wanted to create more than just a mystery; I wanted to take the audience on a journey where fear, faith, and family secrets intertwine. This story is deeply rooted in Kannada culture, exploring the weight of traditions, the power of belief, and the darkness that sometimes hides within the familiar. The eerie ’90s setting adds to the tension, making the house feel like a character with secrets. Working with such a talented cast, especially Ravi, Nayak, Sudheer and producer Shruti Janardhana Naidu, who has brought this vision to life in the most haunting way. I hope Ayyana Mane keeps viewers on the edge of their seats and makes them question how much of what we fear is real and how much is created by those around us.”
Ravi reflected, “Stepping into Jaji’s world felt like walking into a beautifully woven nightmare—one where every corner hides a secret, and every shadow whispers a warning! She starts off as an innocent, loving wife, deeply respectful of traditions, but as eerie events unfold, her quiet curiosity becomes her greatest strength—and possibly her biggest danger. Playing her was an intense experience, as she’s caught between fear, faith, and the desperate need to survive. Ayyana Mane isn’t just a mystery; it’s an emotional rollercoaster, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience its chilling secrets firsthand!”
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
