6 Days to Diwali!

Only six days to Diwali 2008! It looks like there are only three biggies - Aegan, Vaaranam Aayiram and Seval for Diwali this year!
There are simply no theatres to screen more than three biggies in many centers in Tamilnadu. As of now all the best screens in most areas have been taken up by these films.
Suddenly Vaaranam Aayiram has got a short in the arm as Gautham Menon and his team is aggressively marketing the film. Many theatres in the state have shown a marked preference for the film.
The release dates are as follows-
Aegan- Release date, October 25, Saturday, Advance Booking in Chennai city from Oct 22.
Vaaranam Aayiram- Release Date, October 27, Monday, Diwali Day.
Seval. Release Date, October 27, Diwali Day.

Prying cameras messed up Karva Chauth: Big B

Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan says that prying cameras disturbed the Karva Chauth, a festival that celebrates wedded bliss, at his house.
"The prying electronic media positioned themselves at vantage points to invade private space inside our home. It is callous, abhorrent act. Our privacy was invaded without our consent," Amitabh lashed out.
Karva Chauth was on Friday and Amitabh was discharged from Lilavati Hospital here the same day after being treated for six days for an abdominal condition. This was his daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai's second Karva Chauth.
"Otherwise, the ladies of the house were happy and content. They involved themselves with all the rituals connected with the occasion and the evening went off delightfully well," he added.
On Aishwarya's first Karva Chauth too secret TV cameras planted behind bushes ruined the solemnity and sanctity of the occasion.

Ajay Devgan explains Golmaal Returns

Ajay Devgan returns with Golmaal Returns and reveals what he thinks about Shreyas Thalpade, making a sequel, the audience in Britain and much more.
You return with Golmaal again. Are you looking forward to it?
Of course I am, because the first part was really appreciated and still people come up to me and say that they've formed Golmaal Returns groups which is on the net also. When we started Golmaal Returns, we were very hesitant as it had to be funnier than or at least as funny as the first part. So there were many scripts we looked at but eventually we found one and we all thought that it was funnier than the first one.
Did Sharman Joshi's absence make you feel vulnerable?
Initially, we were wondering how we were going to fit in Sharman in the film. But the first day when Shreyas performed, we were all at ease. I think that Shreyas is fantastic.
Are you happy that you all have a woman in your life now?
Yeah, you're right. We were missing them in the first one. But the fact is that the script demanded it and female leads were not forced in Golmaal Returns.
You've worked with Kareena in Omkara and now in Golmaal Returns. How was it to unite back?
It feels great. I've known her since many years now. It is very important for the co-actors to get along especially in a film like Golmaal Returns because you improvise a lot where humour is concerned and when you keep jelling and then pulling each others leg, it works both ways, isn't it?
Tell us a bit about the comic song where Celina holds you on the ship.
That was really funny. You have to see it to believe it. It was a bit difficult to shoot that song but it all went well. It is the funniest song of the film.
Do you think Rohit Shetty making comedy instead of action is working for him?
Rohit joined us as an assistant in Phool Aur Kaante. Since then, he has been with us. Then he joined Devgan Films. So as a kid brother, as a colleague and as a friend he has been with me for more than 15 years. I know he is good at action but right now he is doing good for himself by making comic films. I always knew that he had a great potential of becoming a director and that's why he started Zameen and now that he has proved himself, there is no looking back for Rohit.
U.K audiences are the most unpredictable. Good films are being rejected here. What have you to say?
That's all over the world. It's happening everywhere right now. But I think that good scripts eventually work and something must be terribly wrong with some films which don't work. What has happened is that people now a days only want to be entertained. So when they are depressed, they don't want to watch another depressing story. But if you show them comedy and family dramas, it works. The problem with such audiences is that they don't want to experiment. They want to forget their personal issues and want to go and enjoy with family. They aren't bothered in which way you entertain them, but they have to be and that's the bottom line.

After U, Me Aur Hum, what next Mr Director Devgan?
I am working on a script right now. I don't want to make films which are just regular films. It has to really come from my heart. The script has to move me. U, Me Aur Hum, in fact, did well in the U.K and now I'm working on something which is a little whacko. Devgan Films is also working on two or three more scripts which I won't be directing.
We also know that the inbox of your email is filled with more than 250 emails from fans across the globe. Hows the idea of interacting with your fans in the UK working?
I am interacting with everybody and not only the UK audiences. It's just that I am in the country right now shooting for London Dreams and I thought that this can be a fantastic way of interacting with one of Indian Film Industry's biggest market after India, London. U.K is like a second home to us.
Did Shreyas Talpade get along well with you?
He jelled in the first day itself. In fact you should ask him how he did that. He got so comfortable with all of us. Maybe everyone knew what to expect from everyone after having seen Golmaal, the prequel. I like the crew to sit down together and eat. I knew that Shreyas was the new one in the gang and if we did not make an effort of making him comfortable, I believe it could've messed up many things. It was just about breaking the ice on the first day and everything from then onwards was a smooth ride.
How was the experience of stretching your legs between two hummers?
I didn't stretch my legs in between the hummer, I was standing on it. The stretching was done in Phool Aur Kaante. It was comfortable and Rohit wanted to continue where I left from Golmaal part one where I was seen on bikes. He wanted to elaborate a more and thus, went for the hummers.
You've won the National Awards twice but we all know that they're under a big scrutiny. Do you think it's losing its national pride?
I really don't know what happens where, and what leads to what. But I hope things remain good so that the credibility of the National Awards is maintained. That gives you a high or else they'll fall flat.
You're happy that Studio 18 is marketing and distributing your film Golmaal Returns? Your last film saw Eros International doing the same.
It's not about name here. Both are good. There are so many films coming up and so many means of entertainment. Everybody is so busy. So you need to divert their attention and inform them that it's time for some light entertainment. Though this may sound simple and easy but it's not and Studio 18 knows it. But, ultimately it's all decided after that Friday night when reality hits you. So you really need to market your films to grab the audience's attention in today's time.
Golmaal is returning two years after its prequel. Did you see the first part before you started shooting the second?
No. The film has a very different story all together. It's got similar characters but their characterisation is different. It's another script at another level. It has nothing to do with part one but it will make you laugh more than part one, I'm sure.
How are you going to celebrate Diwali this year?
By watching Golmaal Returns I guess. Diwali is a time of happiness. That's why I think Golmaal Returns is releasing at the appropriate time. It's an entertainer. So go, watch and laugh this Diwali. It's going to be fun unlimited.

The day Akshay Kumar cried

A director had once told her that she cannot act. But years later, Hema Malini became famous as Bollywood's 'dream girl'. A composer once told him that he could never become a singer but Yeshudas went on to become a legendary singer. Similarly, some people from the ad world told him that he will never find success, but today he is known as the 'Khiladi of Bollywood'.
Akshay Kumar was the special guest in this week's episode of Sajid Khan's television show, Sajid's Superstars. The host, in his usual manner digs out facts about Akshay's struggling days.
The superstar talks about his first big break. "I remember I was chosen to go to Bangalore to do an ad. I was told to come to the airport at 5:30 and was signed for Rs. 11,000, which at that time was a big amount." Akshay confesseD that he was so happy about getting this assignment that he went and raved about it to his parents and sister.
"It was an opportunity of a lifetime for me. I was very excited," he states.
But things were not destined to work out the way Akshay had planned. The actor added: "Suddenly, early morning next day, I got a call asking, kahan hai tu bewakoof, we are all waiting at the airport. Where are you?' Actually, there was some confusion. They told me to report at the airport at 5:30 in the morning and I misunderstood it. I thought I had to reach there in the evening."
But what happened after that made the Singh Is Kinng star cry. "They told me that people like me who are so unprofessional in life can never make it big. I cried a lot, all my dreams were shattered," revealed Akshay.

Meet Sonu Sood, the new Prem

Rajshri productions has found its new Prem, a character immortalised by Salman Khan over the years thanks to films like Maine Paar Kiya, Hum Aapke Hai Kaun and Hum Saath Saath Hai. As Sonu Sood steps into the shoes of Salman Khan in Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi, a lot is being expected from the new Prem who is all excited to play this role.

So, you are the new Prem after Salman Khan!
Oh yes, after Salman Khan and also after Shahid Kapur. Even Shahid did a great job as Prem. This is one character I have always loved to watch since Maine Pyar Kiya, but never thought I would be playing Prem one day. So it's a great feeling.
So finally you are getting your dues as an actor…
You know something… (pauses). I somehow feel that patience pays and may be it's my mother's blessings who passed away last year. I have put in so much in this industry and have learnt it the hard way and suddenly things have started paying off. So I can only be happy.
You mean your last two films, Jodhaa Akhbar and Singh Is Kinng, which have gone on to become the biggest hits of the year?
Of course what else can I ask for and I am sure Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi is again going to be a hit… probably a bigger hit. Everyone, every actor waits for things to happen. Even I waited and now I think it's my turn to enjoy things and I am doing it.
So you accept that this is the best phase of your career so far?
Why deny it? This is by far the best phase. I am playing Prem, a romantic lead. I have done action films, comedy but not a romantic hero. So this will be a big thing for me.
Okay, but doesn't that also make you nervous?
Oh no…not at all. As an actor I am ready to play all kinds of roles. The audiences might not have seen me in a romantic role but that doesn't mean I am not fit for playing a romantic hero. Rajshri is known for making romantic, family dramas. Prem has always been a loveable character and this Prem too would be liked by everyone.
But don't you think comparisons will be drawn with the earlier Prem too?
This is something that is unavoidable. And I don't have any problems with that. I am ready to accept whatever one has to say. Right now I am happy that I am playing this character that has been accepted and loved by the Indian audience. You won't believe, when the trials were going for Prem, Sooraj-ji and his father Raj babu said, "The industry is going to get its next romantic hero in the form of Sonu". That was the most encouraging compliment for me.

That sounds really interesting!
(Laughs). You won't believe since then I have been getting offers, quite a few and all are from the biggest banners and they are only coming up with romantic leads. I am going through a few of them… (sighs) I really don't know what's going to happen next.
So how different is this Prem from the earlier ones?
Like the earlier ones this Prem too is a very lovable character, someone with whom every common Indian can connect… but this Prem is not just a lovey-dovey character only. I have tried to incorporate the humorous side of Prem too but at the same time Prem is a very practical man.
Tell me something, what is playing in your mind right now? Are you going to give it a go?
Why not? I am ready for romantic leads. And it's not just romantic films I am doing a lot of comedy. In fact my next film Dhoondte Reh Jaaoge is a comedy with Soha Ali Khan and Paresh Rawal.
In fact Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi will also see you as a solo lead for the first time?
Yes, and that is what has given a boost to my confidence. Even Dhoondte Reh Jaaoge will have me as the solo lead. Then next year I start for J P Dutta's film. And as I said now the offers are only for romantic leads. I hope everything goes fine for me from now on. I have done good films earlier too but now I am getting offers for playing a variety of roles.

Aamir returns to blog with 'ants'

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan who has been missing from cyber space for over two months, has posted on his blog his strange encounter with a colony of ants that bit him en mass while he was sleeping.
“After a long day at work, I went to bed at around 3 a.m. A couple of hours later, deep in sleep I had this vague feeling of being bitten on my ear. Gradually I was being bitten on my stomach, legs, neck. I was so sleepy that I just kept cursing, scratching, turning and tossing. Finally it got really unbearable, and I kind of woke up to see my bed filled with ants,” Aamir wrote on his blog www.aamirkhan.com on Friday.
“There were hundreds of them! Crawling all over and giving me hell. I had to jump under the shower and then went and crashed on my couch,” he added.
Considering that ants swarm around anything that has some sugar level as they feed on it, the actor joked: “I guess they found something really sweet on that bed, and since K (wife Kiran) was out on a night shoot I am assuming it was me.”
Aamir also apologised for his uninformed absence from writing regularly on his blog.
“I suppose you all want to know why I have been away so long. Well I'm not sure I can explain. I guess I needed to be by myself for a while. Still, I should have expressed that. My apologies,” the actor wrote.

Sanju Baba turns expensive

Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt is on a signing spree and accepting new projects at a price he never commanded before - a staggering Rs.15 crores/150 million per film.
Even at his new price the actor is now booked till the end of 2010 for 28 assignments, so much so that director Rohit Jugraj will be able to start his bio-pic with the actor only in 2011.
The new rate is thanks to good friend and colleague Suniel Shetty, who generously hiked Sanjay's price when he signed on the actor for a multi-film deal for his production house Popcorn Entertainment.
Dharam Oberoi, CEO of Sanjay Dutt Productions, said: "It is true Anna (Suniel) raised Baba's (Sanjay) price in the market. Before that Baba was being taken for granted price-wise by all and sundry. Anna was adamant about Baba's price and started a new precedent by paying him far above what Baba got from others."
He added: "Suniel is one of his dearest friends and responsible for initiating the remuneration that you've quoted."
Having completed EMI with Suniel, Sanjay has now signed another big project with his company that will feature the two actors as warring heroes locked in a dramatic conflict. The big-budgeted Sanjay-Suniel action drama is to go on the floors soon, all thanks to Sanjay who magically accommodated the new assignment into his schedule even if it meant working a little harder.
"Anything for Suniel is Baba's motto," said Oberoi. "Baba has accommodated a new assignment with Anna into his schedule at a time when he couldn't afford to. It means he has to work harder."
Suniel is co-producing EMI with Ekta Kapoor and the film is being directed by debutant Saurav Kabra.
Sanjay recently suffered a leg injury in the gym, but he left for Bangkok to do action scenes for director Anthony D'Souza's Blue against doctors' orders. He was advised by doctors to let the limb heal itself out.
"Baba can't afford to delay any project. In fact, he was really concerned when he had to cancel a small portion of the dubbing for Anna's EMI on the day he injured his leg. While he was on the cycle, something gave way in his leg and Baba was in acute pain. In his typical way, he tried to brush it off as no big deal. But then the pain got unbearable and it came to a point where he could barely walk.
"With his tight schedule and his typical attitude of bravado, Baba refused to take the injury seriously. But he was forced to undergo tests. It was revealed that there was severe swelling in his leg that would take quite some time to heal."
Disregarding doctors' diktats Sanjay flew off to Bangkok to join the already-waiting cast of Blue even if the stunts slowed down the healing process of his legs.
"That's Baba for you. Even when going underwater was potentially harmful to his already weak lungs he went 40-feet under for Blue in the Bahamas. And now he's doing stunts in Bangkok with his injured leg with Akshay Kumar."

Amitabh thanks fans, hits out at media on blog

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who was discharged Friday from the Lilavati Hospital here after being treated for an abdominal condition, has thanked his fans for their good wishes but has hit out at the media for being "insensitive" while reporting on his illness.
“My sincerest thanks to all who gave me strength to fight another medical battle. The fans and well-wishers. The media friends who wrote in on my mobile. Friends who visited me at the hospital and those that wrote in. Strangers who I never met or know,” Amitabh wrote on his blog www.bigb.bigadda.com Friday.
“Your love overwhelms me. Your concern for my well-being humbles me. I owe so much to you,” the blog further read.
Amitabh slammed the media in the blog and mocked at their paparazzi approach when he was being taken to hospital in an ambulance after he had complained of abdominal pain on his 66th birthday on October 11.
“There is a muted silence outside. No one says a word, except the media. They clamour and scream for that exclusive shot, invading the sanctity of the ambulance. They would never understand the sensitivity of the situation,” he wrote.
He added: “Media is an added hindrance to a smooth, quick emergent ride to Nanavati. If they had their way they would ideally want to be seated on the stretcher with me and have me answering questions - 'What would be the celebrations for the birthday sir and will you be inviting Shah Rukh'. Insensitive. Callous.”
Posting two back-to-back notes Friday evening, Amitabh also explained his hospital experience in detail from the time he was rushed first to Nanavati Hospital and followed by his stay in Lilavati hospital where he was shifted the same day.
Diagnosed with incisional hernia, the Big B had been in hospital for a week. He went back home in his own car and was accompanied by son Abhishek and daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai.
The star said he had plans of “rest and recuperation” at home apart from giving company to the women in his house for a quick glance of the moon from the roof to break their fast on Karva Chauth, which he termed a “torturous practice”.

I unlearned my horse riding skills in Khan: Rajeev Khandelwal

Actor Rajeev Khandelwal of Aamir fame plays a jockey in forthcoming film Khan, but says he had to unlearn his horse riding skills for the movie since riding as a hobby is different from being a professional jockey.
"I've been riding horses from childhood. My father was in the army. So I was exposed to an equestrian life from the start. However, I've realised there's a vast difference between riding as a hobby and riding professionally. I've been unlearning my horse riding to play the jockey in Khan. It's a fascinating but tough process. I can't say I'm not enjoying it," said Rajeev.
This is Rajeev's second film after critically acclaimed Aamir and he has been spending considerable time on the race tracks with reputed jockeys of Mumbai to learn to be a professional horse rider.
The actor is establishing a rapport with the horse, which he compares with the boy's friendship with the donkey in Santosh Sivan's Tahaan.
"But I don't really need to get friendly with the horse. In my experiences with jockeys, I've been told that horses respond to being controlled. If you are in-charge and fearless on a horse, it will carry you well. In that sense, horse riding is a lot like my career," said Rajeev who became a household name after his stint in the TV series Kahiin To Hoga.
About the title of the film, Rajeev joked that "after Aamir doing Khan will prove once and for all whom I'd like to model my career on".
The film is being produced by Pritish Nandy Communications Ltd (PNC), which has produced films like Jhankaar Beats, Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi and Chameli.
Said producer Pritish Nandy: "Khan is a film about the relationship between a jockey who's on a downward slide in life and his horse. Its sub-title is Second Chances Don't Come Easily. Rajeev will have a girl. But the main relationship would be between the jockey and the horse."
Apparently, the first and most natural choice for the role was Randeep Hooda. "We did think of Randeep first because his pictures with horses are all over the place. But then I thought he was too big-built to play a jockey. Hence we never approached him. Rajeev was hungry and eager for an exciting challenge. And in my lexicon that makes for a great actor. The fact that he's fresh and new also contributed to our decision to sign him. We at PNC constantly want to promote new or renewed talent," said Nandy.

EMI opts out of Diwali race

Suneil Shetty and Ekta Kapoor's joint venture EMI was slated for release this Diwali, alongside Golmaal Returns and Fashion. But news is that EMI has been postponed to November 7. The reason being shortage of theatres as Golmaal Returns and Fashion have blocked a majority of the screens.
By playing safe, EMI will now get its pick of theatres.

Hrishita Bhatt's cameo in Heroes

Next week sees the release of the multi-starrer Heroes, starring the Khan brothers (Salman & Sohail), Deol brothers, Katrina Kaif and a host of other actors.

However, apart from the actors featured in the promos, there is a surprise element in the film. Hrishita Bhatt would be seen in a guest appearance.

Director Samir Karnik confirmed the news saying, "Yes, Hrishita is there in the film. She plays the role of Sunny Deol's girlfriend."

Illamai Saravedi in Kalaignar Tv

Social media and Kalaignar Tv are gearing up to celebrate this festive season with much fanfare and exuberance. The team has roped in some of the popular singers in tinsel town like Karthik, Benny Dayal, Jessie Gift, Suchitra, Chinmayai,Deepa Mariam and Belly Raj.Popular pairs Lokesh- Suji Bala and Ranjeet -Aiswarya from 'Manada Mayilada'(Kalaignar TV's popular show) and comedians would also perform for this special Deepavali event titled as 'ILLAMAI SARAVEDI' which would provide a wholesome entertainment for the viewers.This on ground event will be held on 18th of October at the venue of University Centenary Hall from 6pm onwards and the show will be aired on Kalaignar Tv as a part of special programmes for Deepavali.Earlier Social media and Kalaignar had organized the first ever 'Tamil Music Award', which was later telecasted on 'Isaiaruvi', a music channel. The show garnered a channel's share of 27% and this time around they are confident of repeating the success.

Asin to do Vettaikaran opposite Vijay

Is Asin going to act opposite Vijay for his forthcoming film for AVM Balasubramaniam titled Vettaikaran?
The buzz in Kollywood circles is that Asin has been offered a whopping Rs 2 crore, the highest ever offered to a Tamil film heroine of south Indian origin (Aiswarya Rai considered a Bollywood actress is being paid Rs 6 crore to do Rajinikanth's Enthiren).
Ilayathalapathy Vijay is very particular that his lucky heroine be considered for his 49th film. Remember Vijay-Asin as a pair was simply rocking in Sivakasi and Pokkiri, both super hits?
When contacted in London where she is shooting with Salman Khan- Ajay Devgan , Vipul Shah directed London Dreams, Asin says that she has been approached by the producers of the film, and would love to do the hat trick film with Vijay.
Says Asin: "I had a great time working with Vijay in the two films that I had done with him and his wife Sangeetha is one of my closest friends in the industry. I have told the producers that I want a complete narration of the script, when I'm back in Mumbai in November. It also depends on whether I can adjust my dates as my next film in Hindi, is likely to start in February".

Censors certify all Diwali releases

All the films due for Diwali have been censored. The regional censor board and its members saw on Sunday (Oct 19), back to back the three remaining films due for Diwali- Aegan, Vaaranam Aayiram, Seval.

Aegan has been given a ‘U’ certificate, with some cuts.

Vaaranam Aayiram has been given a ‘U” certificate with voluntary cuts.

Seval has also been given a ‘U’ certificate with some cuts.

Earlier the censors had cleared Guru En Aalu with an ‘UA’ certificate.

Now all Diwali films have been censored and raedy for release. All the producers of Diwali films are keeping the release date close to their heart. It is almost certain that these films will either release on Sunday (Oct 26) or Diwali day (Oct 27)

Kathir kick-starts with his project

One cannot forget the best romantic flicks of ‘Kadhal Desam’, ‘Kadhalar Dinam’ directed by Kathir. Director had presented these flicks so fantastically with an excellent cinematography, best script and obviously, the best work by A.R. Rahman.
But, then with ‘Kadhal Virus’ flunking at box office, Kathir had to remain silent for a long period of time and finally Ayngaran Productions shores him up for a greater fortune. Yup! Kathir makes his comeback with the film titled ‘Students Day’ - “Manavar Dhinam”starring Srikanth in lead role. The film was launched at Ayngaran Corporate during first week on the occasion of Vijayadhasmy.
Buzzes are that Kathir is looking out for more and more new faces for this peppy college subject…Yet, music director for the film is not confirmed and looks like Rahman may comeback joining hands with Kathir

Trisha on Abhiyum Naanum

Trisha says she is not responsible for the delay of Abhiyum Naanum. She says, “There is no truth in this. I am not in a position to answer such questions when somebody writes false news. It is the imagination of the person who wrote it. This film is a combination of great artistes. So the call sheet of everybody should synchronize.
There is a never a time that I have not completed the film which I have committed. I will not do this even in future. Abhiyum Naanum is my film and I have really enjoyed acting in the role of Abhi. I have done this role with dedication. This film is about the emotions and sentiments between a daughter and father.”

Ramya scared of speeding bikes

The pride of Kannada cinema, actress Ramya (the highest paid actress in Kannada) was scared to sit on the motorbike with her co star, the national bike champion Vijay Kumar during the shoot of the film 'Ullasa'.
Ramya made it very clear at the media briefing on last Monday morning and explained it to the director Prakash and producer Nagaraj that she is not interested in taking part in the bike shots where the hero drives in high speed.
“ I am scared of racy bikes. The fifteen minutes drive with Vijaykumar made me nervous” said Ramya. She has 25 percent shoot in Australia and Finland for 'Ullasa'.
'Ullasa' starring Vijaykumar and ravishing Ramya in the lead is produced by Ramesh and Nagaraj in 'Nagaraj Cine combines' went on the floor as the Transport minister Ashok switched the camera while hat trick hero Shivarajakumar sounded the clap board at Embassy Business Park at Nagavara that is just opposite to the house of Shivarajakumar.
The shooting will take place in Bangalore, Mysore, Finland and Autralia in a lavish scale. Debutant actor Vijayakumar is all set to give chilling moments on the screen. He is doing bogey to bogey jump in his TVS specially made motorbike, jumping high above the running train (at this time the heroine Ramya is thrilled who is in a car watching this) and building to building jump is another mind blowing stunt from Vijaykumar. Emil is scoring music for this film.

Two hits bring cheer to the industry

After a few months of pathetic performance of films at the Kannada box-office, two films Budhivantha starring Upendra and Vamshi starring Puneeth Rajakumar has brought smiles to the trade.
Upendra's Budhivantha in three weeks has given Rs.5 crores net share for the producers Mohan and SV Rajendra Singh Babu and the gross collection in the three weeks is Rs.7.5 crores.
After Raktha Kanneeru an Upendra film is seeing upward trend in the collection only now. In some of the Telugu belt areas like Kolar, Chintamani, Chickballapur, Budhivantha has made record collection and beaten the earlier reports.
The punchlines of Upendra, taming of five heroines, and the cinematography has been lapped up by the audience. The family audience and repeated audience are increasing says producer Mohan.
Puneeth Rajakumar's 'Vamshi' that had very average reviews has recorded massive collection. The major force Puneeth Rajakumar and actress Lakshmi plus director Prakash's charisma is adding up to the collection.
In two weeks Chakreshwari Combines has got back the investment and the film is a hit. The action image of Puneeth Rajakumar has been fully utilized by the director Prakash who gave 'Milana' earlier.

Haage Summane audio launched

In the presence of well known personalities the Kannada film industry Haage Summane the debut direction of 'Mungaru Male' story writer Preetham Gubbi - audio was released in a grand style.
Directors Yogaraj Bhat, Soori, Ramesh Aravind, KSL Swamee, Jayanth Kaikini, Amoolya, Neethusri, Nanjunde Gowda, Diganth, Kiran, Suhasi, Chandrasekhar had come for audio release.
Perhaps this is for the first time that Jayanth Kaikini had written all the six songs for one film like how Kaviraj had done for 'Sangama'. The lyrics are nothing new but the wordings are new said Jayanth Kaikini.
”Even at 50 I have been able to think on the young genes” explained JK on his confidence? I have locked JK for writing the lyrics in one resort disclosed director Preetham Gubbi. Zee Motion Pictures has bought the television rights of the film 'Haage Summane' starring Kiran and Suhasi.
Haage Summane is shot in super 35 mm camera in exotic locations like Thirthahalli, Mysore and Kumta. Mano Murthy the melody maker has scored the music. Anand Audio has brought the audio to the market.

Vishnu engaged to Veronica Reddy

Vishnu, son of veteran actor Mohan Babu got engaged to Veronica Reddy (Y. Rajashekar Reddy's niece) took place at Hitex on October 19.

A grand function was being organized by Mohan Babu who was able to bring all the political party leaders onto one stage during the occasion.

Everyone was wondering if Mohanbabu would invite Chiranjeevi for the occasion or would Chiranjeevi attend the engagement party? But Mohan Babu and Chiranjeevi gave no room for rumors to media or to a common man to talk about their relationship.

Everyone can now talk about only their healthy relationship. Mohan Babu not only brought Chiranjeevi, but also YSR (of course its his function too), Chandrababu Naidu, JP, Venkaih Naidu, Home Minister Jana Reddy, Lok Satta Chief Jaya Prakash Narayan, M Satyanarayana and many other politicians or the so called political rivals on to one platform.

Apart from all top political leaders, all top movie stars and celebrities like Balakrishna, Venkatesh, NTR, ANR, Ramcharan,Charmee, K Raghavender Rao, Sumalatha, Ravi Teja, Rajashekar, Jeevitha, Tamanna and many more attended the engagement ceremony.

Sushanth's new film Current launched

The new film of Sushanth titled Current was launched to heavy fanfare. The venture is made on Sri Nag Corporation with presentation by Annapurna Studios. The venue, Annapurna Studios, was bedecked with publicity designs and was jampacked with fans from all over Andhra Pradesh.
Akkineni Nageswara Rao switched on the camera. Nagarjuna clapped the muhurat shot on hero Sushanth and Sneha Ullal, while Akkineni Venkat rendered the first shot direction.
Speaking on this occasion, Nagarjuna said that he was happy to see the Akkineni fans in big numbers. "I am sure that you will once again bless Sushant as you had done for his debut film Kalidasu."
Nagasusheela (hero's mother and Nag's sister) said: "I met you all at the Kalidasu Karachalana Yatra. I wish that your blessings should continue to be with Sushant."
Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao said: "You have been continuously with our family right from my times to the present and even for the future generation. You always maintained the dignity as Akkineni's fans without doing any wrong things. I am confident that you will make Current film also a big hit."
Sushanth said: "I became closer to all of you with my Karachalana Yatra for my debut film Kalidasu. I am very happy now for meeting you all again. My hearty thanks to one and all who have come here to bless me."
Devi Sri Prasad, the music director of the film, sang a number from King (its audio not yet released) and made the fans go into rapture.
Producer Chintalapudi Srinivasa Rao (Ex-journalist) hoped that Sushanth will join the league of big heroes with Current.
The cast also includes Tannikella Bhrani, Brahmanandam, Sunil, Dharmavarapu Subramanyam, Raghu Babu, Kondavalasa, Shafi, Sudha, Telangana Sakuntala and others.

Music – Devi Sri Prasad;

Cinematography – Vijay C Kumar;

Editing – Marthand K Venkatesh;

Stunts – Kanal Kannan;

Story, screenplay, direction – Surya Pratap.

20 poster creates tension in Kerala

The first look posters of the big budget multi-starrer produced by AMMA Twenty:20, has created tension between Mammootty and Mohanlal fans in Kerala.
Mohanlal fans are up in arms against the first look six-sheet poster of Twenty:20. In the poster Mammootty is placed in the centre, with Mohanlal and Dileep on his left and Suresh Gopi and Jayaram on his right.
What has hurt the sentiments of Mohanlal fans is that the actor has not been given the center spot and it looks like Mammootty has been given more importance!
Fans of Mohanlal in Thiruvananthapuram is reported to have cut off Mammootty's head in the posters, while fans of Mammootty in many places in Malabar area has tarred and blackened the face of Mohanlal!
This tit for tat battle is getting uneasy and AMMA the producers of the film has called for peace and understanding between the fans. They say Mammootty appears in the center because he is the senior of the two superstars, and in no way has Mohanlal been played down. After all the two are doing a multistarrer

Dileep - In search of a name

Dileep and director Deepu are in search of a name for their new film for Ullatil Media Vision which is almost complete. The film will introduce Telugu actor Sunitha Varma as Radha Varma in Malayalam. She will be playing Dileep’s heroine in this entertainer.
Now the makers of the film are finding it difficult to find a name for the film. First they called it ‘Run Gopala Run’, soon it became ‘Run, Run, Run’, then it was ‘Dhoom Dhamal Gopala’, and the latest we hear is that it has become ‘Crazy Rascal’!
“ It may sound crazy, but we are yet to finalize the name. I think like Sathyan Anthikad, we will finalize the name of the film only when the posters of the film has to be printed!”, says Dileep with a twinkle in his eye.
In the film once again Dileep is going to do what he does best on screen- playing a thief! He is doing the role of Kattala Gopalan, a thief who is not there in the police records, as he moves from the village to a big city.
The others in the cast are Salim Kumar, Harisri Asokhan, Manoj.K Jayan and others. The film has music by Rahul Raj. The cameraman is D.Kannan of the Tamil Subramaniapuram fame.
Crazy Rascal has been shot in Pondicherry, Pollachi and Ernakulam. It is likely to be Dileep’s Christmas release.

Rajadhi Raja shooting is nearing completion

Rajadhi Raja is almost nearing completion and is likely to hit the screens soon.Rajadhi Raja features Lawrence Raghavendra in the company of six heroines Meenakshi, Sniktha, Mumtaz, Samiksha, Kiran and Kamna Jethamalani. All heroines have an equal part to play in the movie and everyone has got enough scope to show their talent. Though the movie’s title is inspired by yesteryear Rajnikanth hit this film is not a remake. The first half of the film is going to be a laugh riot, while the second half will be full of action.

Dhina has composed the music, while Perarasu has written lyrics for it. The rest of the cast includes Karunaas, Paravai Muniamma, Yugendhran, Bose Venkat, Mayilsamy. The other credits are Suresh devan (cinematography), Kanal Kannan (stunts) and Vijaya Murugan (art). Shakthi Chidambaram has directed this movie apart from penning the story, screenplay and dialogues.

Kollywood in Sri Lankan Tamilians issue

Director Bharathiraja led a rally at Rameshwaram on Sunday, demanding a halt to the Sri Lankan Army’s ongoing offensive in the northern part of the island nation. Over 2000 members of the film fraternity participated in this rally. The members arrived by a special train from Chennai. People gathered in large numbers at the railway station to give a rousing reception to the film personalities. The rally commenced after offering prayers in the famous Ramanathaswamy temple at Rameshwaram. Slogans were raised condemning the genocide of Tamils in Sri Lanka during the rally. They also urged the Centre to take immediate action to prevent the massacre of Tamils.

An effigy of Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa was burnt at Thittakudi junction. Directors S A ChandraSekar, Bala, Manobala, R K Selvamani and Cheran, actors Pandiarajan, Parthipan, Karunas, Vadivelu, Mansur Ali Khan, Livingston and producers Kalaipuli Thanu, Kunjumon, Ramanarayanan and Prabhakaran also took part. Bharathiraja said the film industry selected Rameshwaram Island as venue for the protest because the Sri Lanka Tamil disembarked there. Urging the Centre to stop supplying weapons and defence assistance to Sri Lanka, he said the protest had been launched to urge the government to take speedy action to protect the Tamils. He visited the Mandapam transit refugee camp and offered assistance worth Rs 6 lakh to the inmates. Actor Sarath Kumar, who is the president of the South Indian Film Artistes Association, said that top actors and actresses would stage a fast at Chennai on November 1 on the Sri Lankan Tamil issue.