Gautham Menon to sign Vikram

Actor Vikram and Gautham Menon were supposed to work together before 7 years that was for ‘Kaakha Kaakha’. Initially, Gautham Menon had Vikram to play the lead role and somehow it didn’t happen due to some reasons. Later the actor was busy with more films, amongst which most of them were long term projects (extending up to a schedule of 2-3 years).

Now as the actor has understood the need to work on more projects at the same time, he is constantly discussing more scripts now. Before couple of days, it was heard that Vikram will work with newcomer Kannan, a top-charting graphic artist in a movie titled ‘Karikalan’. There was also news that Katrina Kaif will be starring opposite him and Harris Jayaraj is scoring music.

But latest buzzes are that both Vikram and Gautham Menon recently had long hours of meeting.

Manisha Koirala Doing Sex Worker Role In Her Next Project

In spite having a marital life, Manisha Koriala is busy and on her toes with various projects in Bollywood and south as well.

While audience is waiting to see her in Dhanush starrer ‘Mappillai’, the actress has signed in for Deepti Naval's forthcoming Hindi project. Titled 'Do Paise Ki Dhoop Char Aane Ki Baarish', Manisha features here as a sex worker and the story is said to be inspired from a real-life one.

According to sources, Manisha plays Juhi, who also is a mother of a handicapped son. One night, she happens to come across a struggling gay lyricist. Soon an emotional bond binds the three together.

Manisha was said to be quite excited to hear that her character had been inspired by a real sex worker whose story Deepti had heard through a friend. However, it was a challenge to portray Manisha as an ordinary woman. For the director wanted to show a sari-clad sex worker and not a mini-skirt clad one someone who is a bit neglected. “She wears dark red lipstick, keeps her hair open and wears dark and bright colours like red, maroon and purple. She had to look like a mother and struggler," added the sources about Koirala’s look in the film.

Currently Manisha is waiting for the release of her another Hindi film ‘I Am’. Directed by Onir, ‘I Am’ comprises of four different short stories – where in one of them the ‘Mudalvan’ famed beauty plays a Kashmiri woman. Besides, Manisha recently made her screen debut in a Malayalam movie.  Looks like Ms. MK is back to the filmy ground in full form….

Vivek Reach 25 Years Milestone In Kollywood

He began with a small role in ‘Manadhil Urudhi Vendum.’ He was introduced by the famous K. Balachander. We are discussing Vivek, an actor who has laughed his way in to the hearts of his millions of fans. He began his stint with minor roles way back in 1986 and now after 25 fantastic years has a stable, unshakable place in Tamil cinema as well as in the hearts of the people of Tamil Nadu.

The actor revealed that he was 25 years old in Tamil cinema during the audio launch of his upcoming film ‘Mappillai’ starring Dhanush and Hansika Motwani. Vivek’s previous film with Dhanush was ‘Padikadhavan’ and the comedy track in the film was received very well. The best part of Vivek’s comedy is that the actor beautifully infuses contemporary issues in his comedy also providing a solution which goes right into the mind of the viewer and makes him think.

He is rightly called the present day “Kalaivannar” Vivek has also done a full length film titled ‘Magane En Marumagane’ as a hero, which sees the actor as a hero with a huge dollop of comedy. We also informed you previously that he will be delivering a speech at the IIS campus Bangaluru on April 15.

Way to go Vivek! We hope you rule the comedy world and celebrate your 50th anniversary in Tamil cinema!

Selvaraghavan’s ‘Irandam Ulagam’ Moves To The Final Schedule

elva usually takes his time to perfect his projects. Attention to detail is the core of his films. But it looks like the director is getting on top gear for his upcoming film ‘Irandam Ulagam’ which sees Dhanush and Andrea Jeremiah in the lead roles. The music score for this film is being done by Yuvan Shankar Raja.

There is a track record for the combo of Selva and Yuvan resulting in blockbusters in terms of music and the film, so hopes are running high on this duo to create their magic again. The director has almost completed half of the film. The ‘Irandam Ulagam’ team is getting ready for its third and final shooting schedule which will commence on April 11th.

Reports suggest that the director has to shoot nearly four songs and sit through the talkie part of the film. And if he completes this quickly then UTV would be able to take the film to the theatres by June as stated prior.

‘Irandam Ulagam’ is the story of a married couple and their lives before marriage. The lead pairing in the film itself has created a kind of curiosity. This film once complete is sure to have film lovers queue up at the theatres.

We will get you more updates on the latest happenings in Tamil Cinema as the news breaks!

‘Kadhal 2 Kalyanam’: The journey of love!

Bored of the realistic films that are churning out endlessly out of Kollywood with their loud dialogues and gruesome scenes? Get set for some family entertainer this summer with ‘Kadhal 2 Kalyanam’. From the minute the boy meets girl to the hiccups that happen post marriage, this film has it all.

Sathya, younger sibling of Arya makes his debut into films with ‘Kadhal 2 Kalyanam’ he plays the role of an RJ. Sources close to the director have revealed that the hero was sent to Anupam Kher’s acting school for improving his acting skills and getting the expressions right before the camera. The heroine is Divya Spandana and she plays a workaholic financial consultant.

Milind who has been assisting Mani Ratnam in films like ‘Kannathil Muthamittal’, ‘Ayitha Ezhuthu’, ‘Yuva’ and ‘Guru’ has called the shots for this film. The music for ‘Kadhal 2 Kalyanam’ has been set to tunes by Yuvan Shankar Raja and is sure to be a hit with the youth. There are rapid numbers and slow melodies which will stay in the minds of youngsters for long.

This family entertainer is sure to entertain you with the refreshing lead pair and the cast which so much resembles a normal upper middle class Chennai family. The director has also subtly brought in the emotional battle the bride and the groom face in the other’s homestead and how the young couple overcome it and win the love of the in-laws.

The teaser posters of ‘Kadhal 2 Kalyanam’ look stunning. Sathya has got the looks and the attitude, we will have to wait to see if he is able to transform this on screen.

Katrina Kaif Roped For Deiva Thirumagan

Vikram has wrapped up his part in his upcoming film ‘Deiva Thirumagan.’ Director Vijay who won critical acclaim with his ‘Madraspattinam’ is helming this project. The film sees Vikram in the lead role with Anushka as his pair. Supporting the lead pair would be performances from Amala Paul and comedian Santhanam.

Vijay has revealed that the film has come out much better than expected thanks to the total involvement of the lead guy Vikram, who used to give the director many options for a single shot, say sources. The director also reveals that ‘Deiva Thirumagan’ is about the matters of the head and heart and the battle between the two.

Now there is news doing the rounds that Vikram will be doing his next with Kannan who is behind the computer graphics in most of Shankar’s films. The film which is reported to have been titled ‘Karikalan’ is touted to involve a mega budget and show some magic on screen in terms of visual effects. There are reports that the director and hero are trying to rope in Bollywood babe Katrina Kaif!

Now if this works out then this will be Katrina’s first take in Kollywood, and she would be lucky to share screen space with a versatile actor like Vikram.

Mappillai Movie Trailer

 

Sneha In ‘Mad Dad” By Revathy Varma

The latest passenger from Kollywood to get a ticket to Bollywood is Sneha. The smiling beauty of Tamil cinema has been roped in for an upcoming Hindi movie, to be directed by Revathy Varma.

Sneha will play Naseeruddin Shah’s wife in the film titled ‘Mad Dad’. Popular Bollywood actress Ayesha Takia will play her daughter. “It is a challenging role and I love being part of the film,” she says.

According to Revathy Varma, Sneha’s looks in the film will be in 1980s style. “Sneha is a talented actor. She can perform any role with ease. This is the reason behind selecting her for the role,” the director says.

Sneha, who was last seen in ‘Bhavani’, is currently acting in ‘Vidiyal’, ‘Ponnar Sankar’ and ‘Murattu Kaalai’ in Tamil. “She has given bulk dates to Mad Dad and is eager to shoot for her maiden Hindi film,” sources close to her say.

Azhagarsamiyin Kudhirai Movie Preview

Star Cast: Appukutty, Prabhakaran, Saranya Mohan,   Adwaitha, Soori, Aruldass
Direction: Suseendran
Music: Illayaraja

After tasting back-to-back hits in ‘Venilla Kabbadi Kuzhu’ and ‘Naan Mahaan Alla’, director Suseendran is keen to repeat the magic in his third venture-  ‘Azhagasamiyin Kudhirai’.

A wooden horse forms the central character in the film, produced by Madhan and to be released in association with Dhayanidhi Alagiri’s Cloud Nine Movies. Music is by maestro Illayaraja, with Appukutty and Saranya Mohan of ‘Vennila Kabbadi Kuzhu’ fame playing the lead roles.

Suseendran has attempted a full-length comedy, liberally sprinkled with emotion. The characterisation is also said to be unique. The story is set in a village called Mallayapuram near Theni. The villagers believe the Rain God will favour them after the annual Thiruvizha, during which the deity is taken around the hamlet on a wooden horse. They are in for a rude shock when the horse goes missing.

At the same time, Azhagarsami, a youngster who earns his livelihood by ferrying loads on his horse in Aagamalai village in Periyakulam, gets ready for his marriage. His horse also goes missing, and his marriage is put on hold. Do the villagers and Azhagarsami find their respective horses? This forms the crux of the story, according to sources close to the unit.

Says the director, “When I conceived the story, I decided that Appukutty should do it. It is a feel-good film and I am elated at the way every frame has shaped up. The movie has got a fresh look thanks to the involvement of maestro Ilayaraja. It was my dream to work with the Isaignani. No one else can do better justice that him for the subject.”

The album has three songs. Illayaraja has come up with scintillating tunes, he adds. Unarguably the best in the trade as far as re-recording is concerned, Illayaraja, pleased with the film, recorded the background score with a talented band of musicians specially flown down from Hungary.

Suseendran is optimistic that the movie would be commercial successful. Besides he plans to send it to various international film festivals. All said, ‘Azhagarsamiyin Kudhirai’ promises to be a treat this summer.

Anwar Movie Preview

Star Cast: Prithviraj, Mamta Mohandas, Prakash Raj, Lal, Salim Kumar, Saikumar, Geetha
Direction: Amal Neerath
Production: Rajesh Zacharias
Music: Gopi Sundar

Anwar is the Tamil version of the Malayalam film by the same name starring Prakash Raj, Prithviraj, Mamta Mohandas in lead roles. The duo of Prakash Raj and Prithviraj is already a name to reckon in Kollywood after quality films like ‘Mozhi’ and ‘Vellithirai’.

After those soft films the duo is back with a thriller Anwar which is set in the backdrop of terrorism. Loosely inspired from the Coimbatore serial blasts, the film talks about how the youth are purposely lured by terror modules operating in the country. ‘Anwar’ is a stylish thriller filled with events that are sure to give you a déjà vu feel

The story goes like this. Anwar (Prithviraj) is an orphan youth who ends up in jail when once his hawala transaction fails. In jail he meets Babu Sait (Lal), a community leader cum businessman accused of masterminding the Coimbatore serial blasts. In jail Sait rescues Anwar from the attacks of the inmates and the police and takes him under his hood.

Also in jail is Ayesha (Mamta Mohandas) who works in a chemical factory. She is arrested for allegedly providing materials for the explosives used in the Coimbatore blasts. When released with the help of Sait, Anwar joins with Sait and becomes his right hand man.

Though he joins the terror group under the influence of Sait, Anwar has another hidden agenda in joining them. Anwar is later introduced to Basheer Bhai (Sampath), who assigns him to spearhead a serial blasts in Mumbai. But Anwar has different plans.

Stalin Manimaran (Prakash Raj) is the Chief of Anti-Terrorist Squad of Tamil Nadu police who arrested Anwar and Sait before and is now again after the terror duo. The twists that follow should make an interesting viewing.

Anwar is directed by Amal Neerad, a cinematographer-turned-director who started his career with Ram Gopal Varma’s Factory.Though an action thriller, ‘Anwar’ is said to have good music by Gopi Sundar.

Vinnaithandi Vaaruvaaya Hindi version of VTV

‘Vinnaithandi Vaaruvaaya’ was a smashing hit in Tamil. The film was directed by Gautham Menon with Simbu and Trisha in the lead. Now the National Award winning director is all set to make another hit with the Hindi version of VTV. The film will get on the floors on April 4, say reports. Right from his first film ‘Minnale,’ Gautham has been receiving offers from producers for Hindi remakes of all most all his films.

Apart from a good script another winning streak in all Gautham films are the songs. Be it Rehman or Harris, most of the songs in all his films have been chartbusters in the south. Then the directot came out with an out and out psychological thriller film ‘Nadunisi Naigal’ with Sameera Reddy in the lead. Sans any songs, because of a very fast paced and thrilling story the film received mixed reviews from critics.

The director has roped in Prateik Babbar, son of late actress Smita Patel and actor- politician Raj Babbar, for the lead role and Amy Jackson will play the female lead. The shoot for this film which was supposed to have begun already was delayed because the hero of the film being tied up with Aamir’s ‘Dhobi Ghat’, suggest reports. Now we also hear that Ms. Jackson who made her debut appearance in ‘Madarasapattinam’ opposite Arya is learning her Hindi lessons for getting the language right for the film. The music for this Hindi remake too will be authored by A.R. Rahman.

So we can expect some great fireworks on screen with splendid music and great locations, yet again for the Hindi VTV.

Vivek Suggested Instead OF A.P.J Abdul Kalam

While many stars are wielding the mic for election propaganda actor Vivek too is wielding the mic - but for a very different reason.
Recently the students of Indian Institute of Sciences (IIS), Bangalore, met former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, inviting him to deliver a speech on ‘My Contribution to the society’. The President who will be unable to attend the event due to prior commitments has suggested another person in his place to speak on the topic.

The former president is also believed to have mentioned to the students that actor Vivek would tell what he (the President) would be able to convey on the particular topic. When Vivek heard what was said about him and by whom, he was elated. Usually the Indian Institute of Sciences (IIS) invites personalities from the field of Science, but this time they will meet someone from a totally different field but we can assure one thing, they will remember what actor Vivek is going to tell them for a long time!

The actor has confirmed to us that he will be meeting the students of the IIS Bangalore on April 14. Vivek is in high spirits because this is the first time someone from the film world will be delivering a speech in the IIS grounds. Well not only that, the students have requested the actor to deliver his speech in Tamil because a majority of the student population attending the event are Tamil.
Well congrats Vivek sir, we are sure you will do a very good job in speaking about your contribution to the society! Anything when delivered with a dose of comedy is sure to make a huge impact in the minds of people.

TR Said ‘Money Play A Crucial Role’

The inevitable voice of Tamil Nadu political arena was heard on Friday, however much to the disappointment of lakhs of fans and supporters. With heavy heart, Vijaya T Rajendar announced his decision to boycott the Assembly elections.

Talking to journalists in Chennai, the founder of Latchiya Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam said, “Money is playing a crucial role in elections these days. Those without it have no other option than to stay away.”

“My party would not be taking part in the elections this time,” the actor-director said and added: “Polls here are along the lines of a cricket game. The entire process is commercialised a lot.”

“Rather than be a part of such a game, I shall be content to remain a spectator. I would like to make it clear that our party would not support anyone in the coming elections to the Tamil Nadu Assembly,” he said.

Ahmed Khan choreographs a song in ‘Vaanam’

The music album of ‘Vaanam’ recently released and was received well by the public. Yuvan is the music composer of the film. ‘Vaanam’ sees Simbu pair with Anushka for the first time. The other hero in the film is Bharath. Like all Simbu films ‘Vaanman’ is expected to have the much-awaited dance numbers, and with Yuvan-Simbu combo the dance buffs will sure be treated with feet tapping and hip shaking numbers.

The lead actor Simbu has crooned a song in the film which goes like ‘Yevende unna pethan… yenkayile kedecha sethan..’ which is sure to be a hit with the younger crowd. Though nothing philosophic can be looked forward to when it comes to the inner meaning of the song, the music and dance moves are sure to rock!

One more novelty of this song is that Bollywood dance choreographer Ahmed Khan was roped in to choreograph the dance moves for this song. While the local choreographers are paid around two lakhs rupees for choreographing a dance sequence for a film, Ahmed Khan was paid a whooping 25 lakhs for choreographing this song.

Well we are eagerly awaiting the film to hit theatres. We will let you know once the release date is announced by the production house.

‘Marupatta Cinema’ From April 3rd 2011

There will be an event to promote upcoming and new short film makers which will be held across theatres in Chennai. The event is organized by Capture Studios and the event has been accurately named ‘Marupatta Cinema’. The event will be held for five days starting from April 3 – 7. The event will see seven short films screened per day. And there will be four shows per day. The guests while entering for each show will be given a questionnaire which will have the names of the short films, directors and the cast. The best film, director will be judged by the audience depending on the maximum number of votes they get. There will be personalities from the film field too who will judge the films.

Kamal Haasan’s Next Project Viswaroobham

Yes! The Kollywood circuits are at a buzz that this title has been finalized for Kamal’s next which is a psychological thriller. Kamal and director Selvaraghavan has completed the script work for the film. Though Selva confesses that the film is not the replica of Hollywood film Hannibal, but speculation is that it’s a pure Indian version of Hannibal.

Viswaroobham will move on to the floors in the mid of April in Hyderabad and later it will continue in Chennai. After the Chennai schedule the unit will be moving to London and the idea of the unit is to finish the film in less than 90 days as the film heroine can’t adjust her dates.
In an interview to a newspaper Sonakshi Sinha said “When director Selva narrated the plot to me I was very excited as the script reminded me by Bollywood debut. The whole package was very interesting and happy to be a part of the film”.
Sonakshi will take her flight to Chennai during the first week of April. She is going to meet Kamal and will hold some final discussions with the director regarding her role, her outfits and rest of the things.
Viswaroobham is being made in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi.

Enthiran-2 Revamp up Once Again

Good news awaits Rajini fans even before the start of their Thalaivar’s next venture ‘Rana’. Yes, the Superstar is preparing himself for a sequel to ‘Enthiran’, his biggest blockbuster till date.

This has been revealed by none other than cinematographer Rathnavelu, who picturised ‘Enthiran’ and now getting ready to wield the camera for ‘Rana’ too. “Talks are currently on,” he says.

Shedding more light, he says, “Rajini sir, Sun Pictures, Shankar, Rahman and myself will come together for Enthiran-2 too. Most members of Enthiran team will be retained. Shankar is currently making the script ready.”

Saying that the movie would go on floors once Rajini completes ‘Rana’ and Shankar completes ‘Nanban’, a remake of ‘Three Idiots’, Randy says he would soon leave for Scotland to zero in on locations for ‘Rana’.

SPB, Jayaram, Tabu get Padma awards

President of India Pratibha Patil on Thursday presented the first set of the Padma awards for the current year to 61 recipients, including singing legend S P Balasubrahmanyam, actor Jayaram and actress Tabu.

The President presented the awards at a function attended by Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and other high profile guests at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday evening.

While S P Balasubrahmanyam was honoured with the Padma Bhusan, both Jayaram and Tabu were presented Padma Shri. All the three expressed happiness for receiving one of the highest honours of the country.

In all, the government on the eve of the Republic Day had announced a list of 128 Padma awards winners —13 Padma Vibhushan, 31 Padma Bhushan and 84 Padma Shri. Another investiture ceremony is scheduled for April 1 to honour the remaining awardees.

Illeana Replace Rekha In ‘Rana”

Goa beauty Ileana D Cruz is all set to romance Superstar Rajinikanth in his upcoming film 'Rana'. Rajini plays triple role in this movie which will be directed by K S Ravikumar. While Bollywood beauty Deepika Padukone will romance one of the Rajinis', Ileana is said to be a heroine for the other Rajini.

The movie shoot will start on April 18th. For senior Rajni look, though Rekha was contacted to be starred with Rajnikanth, the producers backed out as she demanded Rs 4 crore for the role. Now we hear Hemamalni is being roped in to star with older look of Rajinikanth.

K S Ravikumar and Superstar Rajini are likely to visit UK next month to finalise look of Rajini in this movie. A lot of last minute changes are being taken up in the script to ensure the movie works wonders at the box office.

"Ileana has signed this movie and we will annonce the details of her role soon" a source said.

'Rana' Will Begin After Election

The shooting for Superstar Rajnikanth's next film 'Rana' will begin after State Assembly elections, director K S Ravikumar said today.

Speaking to reporters in Chennai, Ravikumar said, "Rana has story by the Superstar himself and it is based ion a historical event that occurred in 17th century. It features him in triple role".

To be made at a cost of Rs 100 crore, 'Rana' will feature Deepika Padukone in the female lead, while talks are on to accommodate Vidya Balan in the movie, he said.

Ravikumar, who had worked with Rajnikanth in films like 'Muthu, Padayapa' before, said, "We are planning to shoot a major portion of the movie in England. The locations have been finalised".

Queried there would be punchlines that one would normally associate with Rajnikanth's films, Ravikumar said, 'Of course yes. There can be no Rajnikanth movie without catchy punch dialogues,. There are many in Rana too".

Also present on the occasion was Soundarya, daughter of Rajnikanth and co-producer of 'Rana'.

Tamannah Wants To Dub In Her Own Voice

It has been a great innings for Tammannah in Tamil. The ‘Ayan’ actress has a good fan base in Tamil and Telugu. Tamannah has ‘100% Love’ and ‘Badhrinath’ in Telugu and in Tamil she is doing ‘Venghai’ opposite Dhanush. The film is being directed by Hari and this is the lead pair’s second stint together; the first being ‘Padikadhavan’.

Like his films director Hari is quite fast-paced in completing the film quickly. Reports close to the film’s crew indicate that a song has been shot with the lead pair in attendance.

This is the only Tamil film for Tamannah as of now. There are also reports that the actress is now concentrating on her Tamil diction. Tamannah wants to dub in her own voice for her Tamil films in future and seems to be learning the language, suggest reports.

That’s a pretty decent move Tamannah, considering her many roles in Tamil it will do the actress good if she is able to dub in her own voice. There are many actresses who dub in their voice for their films. It helps a lot in getting the expressions right suggest experts.

Venkat Prabhu Play A Role in ‘Mankaatha’?

The star cast of ‘Mankaatha’ seems to get bigger and bigger. The latest addition to the cast has been Andrea. We have very reliable sources close to the director of ‘Mankaatha’ revealing that the team will be leaving to Mumbai on Sunday for the next schedule of shooting. Venkat Prabhu will be shooting portions involving the hero of the film Ajith and lead lady Trisha. Arjun and Andrea too will be a part of the team leaving to Mumbai.

This is the first film which sees Ajith and ‘action king’ Arjun sharing screen space. The film also has an entire list of popular artists with the likes of Lakshmi Rai, Andrea, and Premji Amaren to just name a few. Though the actors have a short duration on screen the director has made sure that each has got an important role to play in taking the story forward.

When Venkat Prabhu decided to direct ‘Mankaatha’ and managed to get the call sheets of all the artists involved, he did not know that he would face a time crunch in releasing the movie. Since a host of busy stars are involved bringing them together for a shoot was a big challenge due to their dates clashing. This issue seems to have been sorted out with the main cast and the crew heading to Mumbai now.

Yuvan has composed music for this Venkat Prabhu creation too and the album will be released May 1, on Ajith’s birthday! The director is confident that the music of ‘Mankaatha’ will set the music charts of the state on fire.

There are rumors running rife that Venkat Prabhu might play a role in front of the camera too. We do not have any reports confirming this but we will let you know the moment it is confirmed.

Ashwini Dutt Brings Junior NTR

Veteran producer Ashwini Dutt made all efforts to launch Junior NTR in Kollywood with his new bilingual Om Shakthi.

Directed by Ramesh Mehar, the audio of the film’s Tamil version was held at Residency Towers in Chennai on Monday evening.

This film marks the debut of NTR in Tamil cinema. Said Mehar Ramesh: “The film was shot in exotic locations including Cairo, Leh, Ladakh and Hampi. It is a mass action masala entertainer and we hope tha Tamil audience will give a rousing reception to the talented actor.”

The story revolves around some mythological events and Ileana is playing as the lady love of Junior NTR. Tamil actors Prabhu and Nasser doing important roles in the film. Mani Sharma scores music and Stun Siva composed the stunt sequences with a difference.

Om Shakthi is releasing worldwide on March 30 including Tamilnadu and Kerala.

IT Raid On Famous Actor Nagarjuna, Anushka, Ravi Teja houses

According to a senior official, the investigations wing of the Department carried out the searches.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Film industry sources said the action was prompted when the department found out about large number of land transactions involving film personalities in Visakhapatnam, the second-largest city in the State after Hyderabad.

“The searches were conducted at the offices and other premises of other film personalities also, including actors Ravi Teja, Anushka, and also at Annapurna Studio owned by Mr. Nagarjuna’s family,” the sources say.

Searches were also carried out at the residences of Shiva Prasad Reddy, who has made several movies with Nagarjuna.

The IT Department seized several documents and cash during the operation, the sources

‘7am Arivu’ Shoot A Song At Ranganathan Street

The always-crowded Ranganathan Street at T Nagar became more crowded recently, when Suriya and director A R Murugadoss were there to shoot a song for their forthcoming venture ‘7am Arivu’.

“Since filming a song on Ranganathan Street is no easy task, we rehearshed the sequence many a time at AVM Studios for three days. Thanks to all, we managed to achieve what we conceived, on the busy street,” says Murugadoss.

It is said that the entire shot was completed in just 10 minutes and the unit immediately left the spot, as crowd started to swell to have a glimpse of Suriya. “Special permission was obtained earlier,” sources say.

Produced by Udhayanidhi Stalin on Red Giant Movies banner, ‘7am Arivu’, being made on a high budget, has Shruthi Haasan opposite Suriya. Music is by Harris Jayaraj. “All is well so far. The shoot is expected to get over soon,” add sources.

Karthi’s next Project is ‘Kagidha Kappal’

Mutually impressed, Karthi Sivakumar and director Rajesh are planning to do a movie together. If sources are to be believed, their film has been titled ‘Kagidha Kappal’ and would be called ‘KK’ for practical purposes.

It is said that the movie would go on floors once Rajesh and Karthi come out of their present commitments, that is, by the third quarter of 2011. “A top heroine will be roped in for the project,” say sources.

“While Karthi is known for playing a fun-loving youth (‘Paruthiveeran’, ‘Naan Mahaan Alla’ and ‘Siruthai’), Rajesh is a name to reckon with in for penning such scripts. So their combo has created expectations,” they add.

The ‘Siva Manasula Sakthi’ and ‘Boss Engira Baskaran’ director is currently busy with ‘Oru Kal Oru Kannadi’, which is the debut acting venture of young producer Udhayanidhi Stalin.

Jyothirmayi filed a petition

Jyothirmayi on Wednesday filed a petition at the Ernakulam Family court, seeking divorce from husband Nishanth, who is a software engineer. A childhood friend, the actress married Nishanth in 2003.

If sources are to be believed, the marriage was on the rocks for the last couple of years, as Jyothirmayi wanted to concentrate on acting profession, with her husband strongly opposing her decision.

A noted actress in Mollywood, Jyothirmayi is popular in Kollywood too, where she was part of movies such as ‘Thalainagaram’, ‘Arai Enn 305il Kadavul’, ‘Naan Avan Illai’ and ‘Vedigundu Murugesan’.

It is said that the actress was in love with Nishanth for many years before marrying him. Circles close to her say there is a misunderstanding with Nishanth and she left him some months ago and hence she has now applied for divorce.

Amitabh Bachchan joins Rajini in ‘Raana’

Finally the titans of the cinema will come together on screens after many years…

The two superstars Rajinikanth and Amitabh Bachchan will soon share the work space in K S Ravikumar's mega project ‘Raana’. The news is making rounds that that Bachchan will feature in a special role in the action epic. While it’s said that he will appear in the second half of the film, other details of Amitabh’s character is not yet known.

As all know, Rajini and Amitabh are thickest of friends and both of them have been opened about their special bonding in various events. The two will be seen together in ‘Raana’ nearly after 20 years – their last film together was ‘Hum’ in 1991. Besides they have worked before in Hindi movies like ‘Andha Kanoon’ and ‘Giraftar’. Moreover, in his early career Rajini had mostly done remakes of Amitabh’s movies.

First Rajini’s leading ladies, next technical crew, then A R Rahman….. And now Mr. Bachchan… Hmmm, ‘Raana’ is really growing, from big to bigger….

Camera-man P.C. Sreeram In Ponniyin Selvan

Ace camera man P.C. Sreeram! While director Mani Ratnam approached Sreeram for wielding the camera the director was struck by the in-depth knowledge the lens man had about the epic novel Ponniyin Selvan. Sreeram, who has read through the novel more than five or six times started categorizing each shot on how it can be filmed and which shots can be chromakeyed and so on.

Now Mani is really impressed with his team because he already has director Vasanth who has a good knowledge of the novel co-ordinating with him in the entire process of filming. Now with lens man P.C. Sreeram the team will only get better. Incidentally it was P.C. Sreeram’s mom, who is a great fan of the novel Ponniyin Selvan, who gifted the book to Sreeram.

There are also talks going on in some circles that since the novel is too huge to be completed as a single film, so the makers might be planning at least a couple of sequels with different heroes in each sequel, but the fact remains to be seen regarding this. Whatever might be the case ‘Ponniyin Selvan’ which will start the filming session soon will have Vijay as the hero. There are also talks that Sathyaraj might get to play the role of Buddha Bikku in the film. But nothing has been confirmed regarding this.

The director is taking much care in picking up artists for each character in the film. We will bring you more updates regarding the progress of ‘Ponniyin Selvan’ as and when it happens!

Shaam will appear in three different get-ups

Director V Z Durai is known for trying different things. And his films 'Mugavari'. 'Thotti Jaya' and 'Nepali' stand testimony to this claim.

After a break, the director is back, this time with Shaam for a movie titled '6'. The actor, who is making waves in Tollywood after the stupendous hit of 'Kick', has taken a break from other films to complete this project of Duari.

"Shaam will appear in three different get-ups in this film. He has been vigorously training for the last two weeks for one of his roles. The director and the actor even have a physician by their side to help them out to get the looks right," says a press release.

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Divya Spandana banned for a year

The Kannada Film Producers' Association on Tuesday decided to boycott Divya Spandana aka ‘Kuthu’ Ramya for a year, over her not attending a promotional event of a forthcoming film.

The controversy boiled over when the actress kept away from the promotional programmes of ‘Dandam Dashagunam’, a film produced by Ganesh, who is the KFCC general secretary.

He had reportedly taken a loan of Rs 10 lakh from Divya to complete the film but delayed in repaying Rs 3.7 lakh. Annoyed by this, it is said that the actress kept away from the film's audio release.

Meanwhile, the Artistes’ Association which supports Divya has decided to ban producer Ganesh till he apologises. Reacting to the development, the actress said, “I had already announced I had quit Sandalwood. So banning me makes little sense. I am still waiting for Ganesh to return my money.”

Toranto ‘Star 67’ Thriller Movie

Thrillers have always had their own share of audience. And if narrated in a gripping manner, they would work big time in the box office. One such attempt is ‘Star 67’, a crime thriller by Kathi Selvakumar and Triden V Balasingam.

A joint venture by Kathi Selvakumar and Triden V Balasingam of Wotar Sound Pictures, Toranto, ‘Star 67’ has story by Kathi Selvakumar himself. Screenplay and direction is by both.

The duo had already come together for ‘1999’, a venture starring Kannan, Imaan, Jenisa Manimaaran and Yaso. “An additional treat of veterans is Stand-Up comedian Ganapathy Raveendran, and a surprise new comer Ramesh with Seeyon Alfons,” a press release said.

According to Selvakumar and Balasingam, ‘Star 67’ would be a definite box office hit with its star cast and technologically advanced equipment and crew. Director of cinematography is Kuhenthiran and music director is C H Prasanth.

A complete Canadian based production, ‘Star 67’ will be premiered soon.

Superstar Rajinikanth Plan To Visit Japan

Yesterday we read that Superstar Rajinikanth took part in a meeting conducted in Chennai on Monday to express solidarity to the people of Japan, who are affected by the recent natural calamity.

Now the latest buzz is that the top actor might visit the country, where he has a huge fan base, to show his support in person. “Rajini has been getting calls from Japan for a longtime. He is planning a visit now,” say sources.

Meanwhile, politicians, especially those from the ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu, are keeping the Superstar busy, by meeting him one after another, in view of the fast approaching Assembly elections.

On Tuesday, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister and DMK treasurer M K Stalin, who would be contesting from the newly-carved Kolthaur constituency, called on Rajinikanth and sought his blessings.

It was Hasan Mohammed Jinnah, the DMK candidate for Thousand Lights constituency, who met the Superstar on Monday at the latter’s Poes Garden residence in Chennai.

Dhanush-Simbu: Hit The Screen On 8th & 9th April 2011

There are a host of films to be released this summer. For the starters it looks like the fans of Dhanush and Simbu will have reason to fight. Sun Pictures will release its Dhanush starrer ‘Maapillai’ on April 8, which sees the actor pairing up with Hansika Motwani. The film is a remake of the Rajinikanth starrer by the same name that released in 1989.

Just a day post the release of Dhanush’s ‘Maapillai’ will release Simbu’s ‘Vaanam’. This film sees Anushka pairing opposite Simbu. The other hero of the film is Bharath. ‘Vaanam’ will be released by Dayanidhi Alagiri’s Cloud Nine Pictures on April 9. Reports suggest that the film is rapidly wrapping up with the final post-production touches and will be ready by the first week of April.

With the films of two young heroes releasing back to back, the fans of Dhanush and Simbu will virtually clash at the theatres to see whose hero surpasses the other. What ever be the case the present day audience is a good judge to films with content and mass appeal and the film which caters to both will finally gross well at the box office.

Meanwhile you get ready to grab your ticket while they are available to seal yourself a seat for the summer releases, and don’t you forget your bucket of popcorn!

Rekha Denies Rajini ‘Rana’

It may sound very surprising. But the Bollywood’s evergreen actress Rekha has rejected the most speculated movie ‘Raana’ starring superstar Rajinikanth.

According to grapevines, Rekha opted out of the mega-budgeted movie owing to problem in the remuneration. There said to have been some monetary issues between Rekha and the producers, Ocher Studios. Sources added that the actress is not keen to work in the film, unless she is paid what she thinks she deserves. She had allegedly asked for nearly four crores for the film which didn’t go well with the producers. Following which, Rekha chose to walk out of the film.

But there is nothing to be disheartening about…. For speculations are rife that the producers of ‘Raana’ are now considering Bollywood’s yet another evergreen beauty Hema Malini, for the role!

Wait, there’s more to this… It is also heard that Vidya Balan too has given thumbs down to ‘Raana’. Sources revealed that the actress had requested to read the film’s full script – a demand which did not please director K S Ravikumar. However the filmmaker has different point of view. He said to sources that there have been script changes and once it gets finalised than they might get back to Vidya.

Hmmm, in ‘Raana’ Rajini features along side three heroines in different stages – older, middle aged and younger one. Now with Deepika Padukone being the only lady steady in the team, wonder when will be the other two actresses confirmed… Raana’s shooting is slated to start soon in April.

‘AR Rahman: The Spirit Of Music’ On 6th April 2011

Jai Ho!! Music maestro AR Rahman’s first authorized conversational biography ‘AR Rahman: The Spirit Of Music’ is all set be released on 6th April 2011. The book launch will be attended by some well-known celebrities and will have renowned film maker and producer Mani Ratnam doing the honours. 

The book, published by Om Books International, has been written by renowned film historian, Nasreen Munni Kabir, who has also made over 80 documentaries on Indian cinema for Channel 4 TV, U.K. In this book, she provides rare insights into Rahman’s private life and his music. There are photographs from his personal archives as well as a gratis CD of music composed by him (8 tracks).

Said Ajay Mago (Publisher of Om Books International), “It is indeed a rare honour to publish this book. AR Rahman’s journey, like that of most great artists, is one that moves and inspires. Nasreen Munni Kabir has recorded this journey, over the last three years. This book also has a CD with AR Rahman’s compositions for free distribution with the first edition.”

A two-time winner of the Academy Award (Oscars), the BAFTA and the Grammys, AR Rahman is popularly known as the man who has redefined contemporary Indian music. He started his career composing commercials for cinema and television. But after ‘Roja’ (1991), Rahman’s musical genius caught the attention of Andrew Lloyd Webber who invited him to compose music for the stage production of Bombay Dreams.

He is now familiar to the audiences in the West as his song “Jai Ho” from the film ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ topped the charts all around the world. His film soundtrack albums have sold over 150 million copies across the world and he deservedly enjoys iconic status in India.

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