Sparks fly as Amala applauds Samantha - first moment since the latter's divorce from Naga Chaitanya

At the recent Zee Telugu Awards, actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu marked a significant professional milestone—15 years in the Telugu film industry. But what truly drew public interest was her unexpected appearance alongside Amala Akkineni on stage, a moment that swiftly captured digital attention.

The event, meant to celebrate achievements across television and cinema, took a turn towards personal nostalgia when Samantha and Amala were seen sharing the limelight. For many, this marked the first time the two had appeared in the same venue in public since Samantha's separation from Naga Chaitanya. Their brief interaction was enough to stir conversation across social media platforms.

A promotional video released by the channel offered a glimpse of Samantha addressing the audience with gratitude. Amala, present at the venue, was seen observing the proceedings from the sidelines and later joined the stage. Their brief but visible connection sparked speculation and reactions from viewers online. Some pointed out the cordial atmosphere, while others expressed surprise over the shared moment.

The ceremony itself was a star-studded affair, drawing attendance from prominent figures in the Telugu entertainment circuit. Directors, actors, and technicians gathered to celebrate contributions to the industry. Among them were filmmaker Sukumar and actress Ramya Krishnan, both of whom have had longstanding associations with regional cinema.

Samantha, who began her film career in 2010, has been active in both mainstream and independent projects. Post her split with Chaitanya in 2021, she has remained focused on her work, branching into production and exploring different genres. Her recent venture as a producer, Subham, opened to a fairly positive reception, indicating a promising shift in her career trajectory.

Meanwhile, Amala Akkineni, known for her selective screen presence in the past, continues to be involved in various cultural and philanthropic activities. Her appearance at the awards, though subtle, did not go unnoticed.

Samantha’s upcoming films include Maa Inti Bangaram and Rakt Brahmand, both expected to release later this year. Her evolving filmography continues to reflect a dynamic blend of commercial and narrative-driven choices.