Vijay’s 'CM' title card goes viral, Allu Arjun's family supports Pushpa 2 stampede victim, Salman Khan–Nayanthara film update: Top 5 South stories of the day

There’s a mixed bag of emotions in South Indian cinema on May 7, as news ranging from emotional moments and viral trends to exciting updates made headlines today. From superstar Rajinikanth paying tribute to the late producer R. B. Choudary and Vijay’s viral “Chief Minister” title card from Jana Nayagan to buzz around the title of the upcoming Salman Khan and Nayanthara film, here’s a look at the top 5 South cinema stories of the day.Superstar Rajinikanth paid his final respects to the late veteran producer R. B. Choudary, who reportedly passed away in a fatal car accident. Rajinikanth offered flowers near the mortal remains and later revealed the late producer’s unfulfilled dream of collaborating with Vijay for his milestone 100th film. Rajinikanth shared that Choudary had once told him, “I want to complete my 100th film and retire peacefully. You should act in that film.” However, Vijay later announced Jana Nayagan as his final film before fully entering politics. Choudary was remembered as a filmmaker who nurtured fresh talent and backed several successful films over the decades.Meanwhile, Vijay, who has been making headlines after his party’s reported success in the Tamil Nadu 2026 elections, grabbed attention after a viral “Chief Minister” title card from Jana Nayagan surfaced online. In the video circulating on social media, a theatre moment shows Vijay being introduced as the “Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.” As the title card appears, fans can be seen cheering and whistling loudly. However, reports suggest that the viral video was AI-generated and unofficial. The politically charged clip gained traction online, especially following his party’s recent electoral buzz.Coming to Telugu cinema, Allu Arjun’s father and prominent producer Allu Arvind, along with the actor’s wife Sneha Reddy, visited the family of Sritej, who was affected during the tragic Pushpa 2: The Rule stampede incident in Hyderabad. During the meeting, the family assured educational support and extended solidarity to Sritej’s loved ones. The gesture received appreciation online, with fans praising the family’s support.Meanwhile, Salman Khan and Nayanthara’s upcoming film, directed by Vamshi Paidipally, is reportedly titled The Messengers, according to a Dainik Bhaskar report. It has also been reported that the makers recently wrapped up a Mumbai shooting schedule and are now preparing for the next leg in Manali. However, the title is yet to receive official confirmation.Speaking of another highly anticipated project, the makers of Peddi, starring Ram Charan, confirmed that the film’s edit has been locked. Sharing a picture from the editing room, the makers wrote, “The #PEDDI edit has been locked! All set and ready for massive premieres from June 3, 2026. #PEDDI worldwide release in cinemas on June 4th. #GetReadyForPeddi.” The film also stars Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, Divyendu Sharma and Boman Irani.