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Urvashi’s 700 films ‘Appatha’ set for world TV premiere on Colors Tamil
Mumbai: Colors Tamil, Viacom18’s Tamil entertainment channel presents the captivating comedy ‘Appatha’ this Sunday, November 26, as part of its ‘Movie of the Month’ series.
The family drama, with special partner ‘Gold Winner – Muppathu Varuda Nambikkai’, stars legendary actor Urvashi and will mark the world television premiere of the movie. To be aired at 2.00PM, ‘Appatha’ is Urvashi’s 700 film. Written and directed by Priyadarshan, the movie is produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Suresh Balaje and George Pius. It is presented by Jio Studios and comes under the banner of Wide-Angle Creations Production. Music is composed by Rajesh Murugesan while cinematography and editing are handled by Madhu Ambat and MS Aiyyappan Nair respectively.
‘Appatha’ takes viewers into the world of Kannamma, also known as Appatha who has spent all her life in the village of Kaayilanpatti. She raises her son all by herself after losing her husband even as she tries to make a name for herself with her business. Strong and fearless, her one and only true fear is her fear of dogs. Many years later, Kannamma tries to reconnect with her estranged son, who has settled down in Chennai. Everything seems fine until the family goes on a vacation, leaving Kannamma to keep an eye on the family dog Zeus.
In a series of hilarious developments, the duo goes from trying to stay away from each other to becoming nearly inseparable. The film stars Urvashi and Aruldoss in the lead roles and boasts of an ensemble cast, including Amit Bhargav, Kaveri Jha, Meghali, Halam, Sidharth Babu, Semmalar Annam, and Y. G. Mahendran in supporting roles.
Talking about the movie and sharing her experience, actress Urvashi said, “As my 700 films, Appatha was an extraordinary experience and holds a special place in my heart. The story beautifully captures the essence of family bonds, personal growth, and the importance of facing our fears. Working with the talented team led by Priyadarshan has been an absolute delight. I am eagerly looking forward for its Television premiere on Colors Tamil and am confident that the audience will be bowled over by the genuine emotions and warmth that ‘Appatha’ has to offer.”
Director Priyadarshan shared his experience on his journey with the team, “I feel honoured to be a part of this project, bringing this heartfelt story to the screen. Through this film, we explore the dynamics of human connections and personal growth as Kannamma reconnects with her estranged son and confronts her fear of dogs. The genuine chemistry between the actors and the journey they embark on has made this project truly special. I am eagerly looking forward to sharing the emotions and depth of ‘Appatha’ with the Colors Tamil viewers and am hoping that it leaves a lasting impression on their hearts.”
Get ready to immerse yourself in the loving world of ‘Appatha’ premiering on 26 November 2023 at 2 PM only on Colors Tamil.
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.
