Southscope Magazine 2012 Issue

VOL 03 | ISSUE 06

40

MARCH 2012

‘Prabhu Anna has always been a brother to me’

- Hansika Motwani

‘Tell the world to keep an eye on me’

- Kannada Superstar Upendra

‘I’ve known Vishal for donkey’s years and I am not bothered about what people say’

- Varalaxmi Sarathkumar

‘Privacy is a price worth paying’

- Tamannaah

‘Being Rajinikanth’s son-in-law has its own pros and cons’ - Aishwarya Rajinikanth Dhanush says it all

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12/22/11 3:22:34 PM

After a smash hit February issue, Southscope March 2012 is high on action, romance, ambition and of course, intimate details of the thought processes of some gorgeous stars in tinsel town.

I must confess, I’ve been a big fan of Southscope ever since I saw the first issue in 2009.

I am now thrilled to be a part of this magnificent magazine as Partner and Managing Editor. Southscope is dynamic and is evolving constantly, with a clear focus on offering a gorgeous magazine that celebrates south cinema in the most glamorous way possible!

On that note, here’s wishing all the films scheduled for release in March, the very best of luck and success at the BO. Cheers!

Aruna R Krishnan Managing Editor

Bridal collection A treasure of inventive designs, faultless artistry, and a varied culture. Come over to South India Shopping Mall, today!

Managing Editor

Aruna R Krishnan

Founder & Advisor

Allu Sirish

Editorial Consultant

InkWell Publishing

Editorial Coordinator

Maureen Fernando

Contributors

Aravind G Shivakamal Martina Niranjini Nandini T Reddy Pavithra Srinivasan Rinku Gupta Richard Mahesh Richa Tilokani Radhika Rajamani Unni R Nair

Cover & Star of the Month

Design Marketing Manager Publication Consultant

Photographer: Munna S; Styling: Nischay Niyogi; Wardrobe: Silhouette; Location: Le Waterina, Chennai.

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PUBLISHED FOR THE MONTH OF March 2012 RNI NO.: APENG/2009/29389

PREVIEW A whisper here, a rumour there, our Roving Eye is always near! Get the low-down on everything that’s happening in the south cinema with our ‘eye for detail’

No. 66 Madurai Bus

100

Godfather

102

Naa Ishtam

104

3

106

This film is high on emotions and has a dose of action

It does not get bigger than this for Upendra (Uppi)!

Rana Daggubati and Genelia scorch up the screen in this one

Looks like the film will live up to the much-hyped song… do we need to name it?

12 ~ 35

90

Hero This film sees Prithviraj and director Diphan coming together once again

92

Lakshmi A suspense thriller awaits

94

Rachha The low-down on the much-awaited Ram Charan Teja-Tamannaah starrer.

Alex Pandian

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Karthi will return to the silverscreen with this one

Some of south cinema’s best women-centric roles; who looked HOT and who didn’t make the cut... discover all this and more! Also, read about stars who have a humane touch

Catch our hot cover girl Tamannaah in her most contemplative interview to date…

76 ~ 89

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PREVIEW Check out what some cool punch lines sound like, when you’ve translated them into English!

98

Rekha

44

Upendra

47

Hansika Motwani

50

Aadhi Pinisetty

54

Varalaxmi Sarathkumar

56

Devi Sri Prasad

60

Aishwarya Rajinikanth Dhanush

64

Kriti Kharbanda

68

Ganesh

72

Asif Ali

74

‘I have an edge over some actors in certain aspects’

‘Tell the world to keep an eye on me’

‘Prabhu anna has always been a brother to me’

‘Aravaan is an experience of a lifetime’

‘I have known Vishal for donkey’s years and I am not bothered about what people say’

‘I am a hardcore Michael Jackson fan’

‘Being Rajinikanth’s son-in-law has its own pros and cons’

‘People who tried to pull me down, are now claiming credit for my success’

‘I have lived a dream’

‘I am a die-hard fan of Kamal sir’

Find out what the stars have in store for our tinsel towners

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Aravaan on March 2 Vasantha Balan’s Aravaan, which has been in the pipeline for some time now, hit the theatres on March 2. Aravaan is a period film by this director, and he is supposed to have thoroughly researched the script. Aadhi, Pasupathy, Archana Kavi and Dhanshika play the lead roles in this film with Bollywood veteran, Kabir Bedi appearing in a significant role. Anjali and Bharath have played the cameos. The movie is based on a novel titled Kaval Kottam by Su Venkatesan that won the Sahitya Akademi Award. The trailers have already raised a lot of curiosity about the film.

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ADVT

Karthi’s villains Following his recent hit Siruthai, Karthi is now awaiting the release of Saguni while working for Alex Pandian with Suraj and featuring Anushka. The title has caused a few ripples in the industry, and it is rumoured that the film is based on the character played by Superstar Rajinikanth in Moondru Mugam.

The latest news is that two villains have joined the cast – Milind Soman and Suman. Remember the hunky Soman playing a baddie in Gautham Menon’s Pachailkili Muthucharam?

Among heroes who contend to bag offers to work in back-to-back projects, Karthi sure stands out.

He appears to be choosing his projects with care, ensuring they suit his careless romance-humour tinged persona, and displaying an unhurried approach while at it. It’s been a good one and a half years since we last saw him in the marquee and we still can’t wait to see his Saguni! Adding vintage value to your projects Karthi?

Mr. Right, always Ravi, part-2 Jayam Ravi is tired of toeing the straight line. Most of his recent outings have not fared well and Ravi is not going to be a quiet witness to the downward trail his career is taking. He is trying to resurrect his innings with the Prabhudeva directed Engeyum Kadhal that is going to release in Telugu shortly. Soon after, he will be teaming with master storyteller Samuthirakani. Unlike his slowpaced Aadhi Bhagawan, Kani’s movie will be a quickie after which Ravi will move on to Boologam and an untitled project with his fave director S.PJananathan.

Singer Roop Kumar Rathod renders his voice for Hindi film ‘PARENTS’ Recently first song of film Parents to be produced by Deepak Entertainment was recorded at Krishna Recording Studio in Mumbai, the words of love song is aankhe bolti hai… and second title song recorded at Re n Raga studio, which was composed by Zoheb, the words of title song is Sansar Yu hi chlata hai, chalta rahega, it is melodious song and singer Roop Kumar Rathod gave it classical touch by his voice, as he is famous for.

Parents is a hindi film, being produced under the banner of Deepak Entertainment, producers are, Kishore R. Jangid, Murtuza Hussain, and executive producer is Dolly Tomar, being directed by Daanish Abdul Karim, there are six songs in the film, which are written by Kishore R. Jangid and Murtuza Hussain, story concept of the film is

by Kishore R. Jangid, Producer Mr. Kishore R. Jnagid reveals that his company, Deepak Entertainment will give break to the hard working and talented artists and technicians in their film and other under upcoming projects, Deepak Entertainment has constructed their own Sanjay Film Studio, at Changodar, which is very close to Ahmadabad, the business hub of Gujarat, which will host full facility, the under construction studio will include, recording studio, studio floors for shooting, editing dubbing and mixing facilities, As stated by Kishore R. Jnagid, in the western region of country, excluding Mumbai, there is no such all in house facility for a medium and low budget Producer, who goes through very hard time when his film is under production to control the budget, this studio will helps such producers to complete their films at a single place instead of hovering here and there at pre-under- and post production stage, there will be additional facility such as Riyaz room for singers and rehearsal hall for the artists too, Sanjay Film Studio will be ready by the end of March 2012, Email: deepakentertainment@yahoo.com, sanjayfilmstudio@yahoo.co.in

NEP teaser is here Cashing in on the Valentine’s Day mood, a teaser trailer of Neethane En Ponvasantham was released by Gautham Menon on February 14. “The teaser is a big hit on social networking sites. Within hours of its launch, it was shared by thousands of users. This clearly goes to show the expectations from the film,” say sources close to the unit. The film brings together Ilayaraja and Gautham for the first time, and has Jiiva and Samantha in the lead roles. The trilingual is being made simultaneously in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi and features Samantha as the heroine in all three versions. Must say, what a masterstroke of luck for Samantha! For the Tamil version, Jiiva and Samantha have sung the title song of the movie in their own style. Interestingly, Neethane En Ponvasantham is the beginning line of an evergreen Ilayaraja song.

The story of a Housefly Telugu moviemaker, SS Rajamouli makes his entry in Tamil with Nani (of ‘Veppam’ fame) and Samantha in the lead.

Rajamouli’s dad has apparently inspired this untried storyline. The Magadheera fame director says, “The experimental script was narrated to me by my dad. Graphics were not so popular then. Now, with state-of-the-art technology, it has become possible.” It is going to be a bilingual movie named Naan Ee in Tamil and Eega in Telugu. The latest news is that Crazy Mohan has been roped in to write the script, and will also feature in an important role in the film.

Aadhi moves on Yes, Aadhi has bagged an exciting and interesting offer. Lakshmi Manchu’s Kollywood venture Maranden Mannippen soon to leap to Tollywood will see Aadhi as one among the four lead actors.

Based on the 1986 floods and the lives of four afflicted individuals, Aadhi is expected to have a meaty role to play in the film. We’d definitely like to see more of Aadhi, especially after his eightpack avatar in Aravaan!

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Dhanush’s strategy Dhanush seems to attach his public image around being a pure Tamilian and not being fluent in English. The actor who shot to fame through his award-winning performance in Aadukalam and his recent musical hit Kolaveri had delivered a one-and-half hour speech at the IIM Ahmedabad for 130 students of Contemporary Film Industry Course recently. Incidentally, “I don kno good english. but who cares, I’m an indian. not english (sic),” was what the actor tweeted before the event.

Dhanush’s success wave After Kolaveri Di, it sure looks like Dhanush can’t put a wrong foot forward! The actor, after the massive success of the song, created an anthem for Sachin, which was taken off for legal reasons, but soon restored by Youtube.

Right now, he is on the throes of learning Hindi for his first Bollywood film, Raanjhaa to be directed by Anand L Rai of Tanu Weds Manu fame. The actor’s Hindi is still shaky, but Dhanush is confident he’ll master it in time for the shoot. Knowing Dhanush’s hit-rate, it seems quite likely.

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Arya and Santhanam confirmed for Delhi Belly remake There was a great competition amongst Kollywood filmmakers to get the remake rights of Delhi Belly. Simbu was the first preference for the film followed by Jeyam Ravi and Naga Chaitanya. But now, it is reported that Arya will be signing the project. The film is going to be produced by UTV Motion Pictures, and Kannan will direct it.

Sources say that Santhanam will be playing one of the characters, and the actor for the third role is yet to be confirmed. The official confirmations will be made shortly.

Kamal leaving no stone unturned for Viswaroopam Kamal Haasan was mighty impressed with the lyrics of the song penned by Vairamuthu and gifted him a pen that was made from Italy’s Mount Etna’s volcanic lava. Kamal has donned the role of a Kathak dance master in Viswaroopam, for which he had been trained personally by the famous exponent, Pandit Birju Maharaj. A fascinating bit of information for action lovers is that Black Hawk, Cobra and Chinook helicopters have been used while shooting the sequences in Jordan, and a neat, sleek wild car chase sequence was shot in one of the main streets of New York.

March 20 1 2 | So u th s c o p e

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Anirudh flooded The real success story of Kolaveri Di may well be Anirudh. After the many stage shows and appearances, he is now sitting on nearly 20-30 offers, and can really take his pick. Anirudh is also ‘making hay while the sun shines’, as sources reveal that the young musician is demanding nearly 1 crore for each project. If these figures are true, then Anirudh could indeed be the biggest gainer from the movie 3.

Lal Jose tries his next Masala His Spanish Masala came out all wrong; in a nutshell, the ‘masala’ in it wasn’t that tasty…But Lal Jose, the maker of many notable hits such as Classmates, Meesha Madhavan, Achchanurangaatha Veedu, etc. remains unfazed, and has gone on to get his next film, Diamond Necklace ready. Scripted by Dr Iqbal Kuttipuram, the shooting for Diamond Necklace has begun in Dubai with Fahadh Fazil, Samvritha Sunil and Amala Paul in the lead roles. The film is produced by Pradeep of Anitha Productions, and will be completed in a schedule of 55 days.

Charges against Prabhu Deva’s dad Prabhu Deva is indeed going through a rough patch now. His divorce was all over the papers, his last movie didn’t do well, his relationship with Nayan is well and truly over, and now his dad is in the midst of an embarrassing controversy with one Thara alleging that veteran dance master Sundaram, had cheated her after being in a relationship with her for years. “Suddenly, he has started ignoring me and stopped coming home.

As a result, my son and I are suffering,” she claims. Stating that she would soon approach the Chennai family court in this regard, Thara said she had kept quiet for many years since she did not want to disturb Sundaram’s peace of mind. Wonder what caused her to want to do so now?

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Malayalam flick, Traffic’s remake on cards The superhit Malayam film, Traffic directed by Rajesh Pillai starring Sreenivasan, Rahman, Kunchako Boban, Asif Ali, Anoop Menon, Vineeth, Sandhya, Remya Nambeesan and others is an emotional thriller based on a road trip from Kochi to Palakkad.

Sources say that the film will be remade in Tamil by Rajesh Pillai himself.

Remya Nambeesan has apparently been retained from the original cast by the makers, who also wanted to cast the handsome Prithviraj. However, the actor has date issues as he is busy with his Bollywood debut, Ayya. He was quoted saying, “I’ve been offered the film, but can’t be a part of it owing to my dates.”

Kadhalil Sodhapuvadhu Yeppadi to be remade in Hindi Director Balaji’s short film, Kadhalil Sodhapuvadhu Yeppadi, has taken a feature form, and is running successfully with Siddarth and Amala Paul in the lead roles. The film is produced by Y Not Studios while Siddarth and Nirav Shah are the co-producers. Reports now say that it will be remade in Hindi. “Many are approaching us for the remake rights. This film will soon be remade in Hindi and will be produced by me in association with Y Not Studios,” says Sidharth.

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Nayan charges a whopping amount for her next with Ajith!

It was earlier reported that Nayantara, who is making a comeback after her alleged breakup with long time beau Prabhu Deva, was being paid a handsome amount of 1.5 crores for a Telugu film opposite Nagarjuna.

This is by far the biggest salary a south Indian actor has charged so far! No wonder, her competitors and detractors are fuming green with envy!

Bollywood beckons Tamannaah The Hindi film industry beckons Tamannaah, who has been rocking the Tamil and Telugu film industries. But the news is that the pretty actor is not willing to take up any projects even though she got an opportunity to pair with Ajay Devgn. According to her father, “Tamannaah has got four offers in Hindi, but she has refused them all because of her dates which have been given to Telugu films. Besides, she is not very keen on Hindi films. Her interest now lies in Tamil films. The reason for her long gap in Kollywood is because she did not get suitable roles.� Tamannaah was in fact, first introduced in a Hindi film titled Chand Sa Roshan Chehra. The film bombed at the BO, and she started concentrating in the Tamil and Telugu industries going on to become the most sought-after heroine down south, even bagging the Number 1 position.

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What next, Venkat?

Given his jovial nature and easy camaraderie with the actors, Venkat Prabhu is also a very ambitious director. The trend-setting Mankatha with Ajith has moved him to coveted A-list. However, insiders are reading more into his recent Tweets about meeting Ajith and reminiscing their Mankatha days. Seems like Venkat is hoping to do another film with Ajith.

Even at the audio launch of Vettai, when he was seen with Arya, Jayam Ravi, Jiiva and Vishal, he spontaneously suggested a project involving all of them. So, what’s cooking Venkat?

Pony Verma’s directorial dreams Actor Prakash Raj’s wife and popular choreographer, Pony Verma is all set for her directorial debut in Bollywood soon. She says, “I’ve always been wanting to try something new in the industry, and direction has caught my fancy. There are so many choreographers who are successful directors these days.

I’ve been working on an idea and will soon commence work, which will be a total ‘masala’ entertainer.” Hmmm… Pony is taking the Farah Khan route.

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Kochadaiyaan on the fast track The first look of Superstar Rajinikanth’s forthcoming film, Kochadaiyaan was unveiled with advertisements in the daily newspapers. Superstar’s eight pack and the artistic shots were more than enough to get his eager fans tremendously excited.

They promptly celebrated by bursting crackers and distributing sweets. “The start of our Thalaivar’s film is like a festival for us. The only thing that can bring us more joy is the release of his movie. The ad is excellent, and Rajini’s pose resembling Lord Shiva is stunning,” said Thanigai Ravi, an ardent Rajini fan. Directed by his daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth Ashwin, the movie has Deepika Padukone, Sarathkumar, Jackie Shroff, Aadhi and Rukkumini in key roles, and the project is progressing rapidly. To be simultaneously made in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi, Kochadaiyaan will be shot using state-of-the-art technology.

The story, screenplay and dialogues have been written by KS Ravikumar, while the music is by AR Rahman.

Kochadaiyaan might have a worldwide release The makers of the film are also planning a huge subtitled release in Japan and China, as the superstar has a great-fan following in the East Asian countries after his film, Muthu made waves in Japan. His Sivaji and Endhiran have also created massive ripples in China. Sources confirm that a Telugu and Malayalam dubbed release has also been spoken of, and the dubbing rights of film is touted to be sold for a whopping amount of approximately 30 and 20 crore respectively. Sources say there will be a 3-minute song sequence of Lord Shiva’s Rudra Thaandavam choreographed by Shiva Shankar in the film.

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Priyamani upset Priyamani had a tough time rubbishing rumours that littleknown Hindi actor, Sachin Joshi allegedly misbehaved with her during one of the post-match parties of CCL. To make matters worse, a leading newspaper made it frontpage news, leading to severe embarrassment for Priyamani as well as for Sachin. Eventually, the actor had to issue a clarification to state that no such incident ever took place.

She even offered to hold a joint press conference with Sachin to clear the air. Should we accept this explanation with a pinch of salt?

Vishal is a busy, busy bee!

It is reported that Vishal has signed Sundar C’s film that will depict him in three different roles. The pre-production work is nearing completion, and the script was discussed in Mahabalipuram recently. Meanwhile, his Sandakozhi II (a sequel to Sandakozhi) with director Lingusamy will reportedly go on floors in May. Close sources have also reported the sequel will go on the floors in May. “I’m joining director, Lingusamy again for this commercial potboiler,” reported Vishal. For now, it is certain that the heroine will change, considering that the original leading lady doesn’t have much of a career left now. When asked about whether Meera Jasmine would be on board in the sequel, Vishal tactfully replied, “Nothing has been confirmed about the cast and crew. Meera Jasmine is a wonderful actor, and I would like to work with her again. It is up to the director to decide whom to cast in the film,” Vishal said. Right now, the actor is busy shooting for Samaran with Trisha, which is nearing completion.

Deeksha still uneasy with dubbing Deeksha Seth may be going great guns in Telugu movies, but the language still appears to be alien for her! Normally, non-Telugu actors prefer to dub for their own roles after a while. But Deeksha Seth does not want to take any risk by dubbing for her own films. We know that she is not fluent in spoken Telugu, and the actor admits that she is yet to master the language. Hmmm!

Dubbing apart, Deeksha is eagerly awaiting the release of her next big project, Nippu opposite Ravi Teja.

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Film strike taking its toll

Kodambakkam has been hit hard by the ongoing strike between TFPC and FEFSI, with both sides unable to come to any sort of understanding on the issue of wages. Various movies and shoots have come to a standstill, and producers are wringing their hands about what to do next. There are some who are seeing a windfall in this tragedy too – event organisers say that star attendance in award functions and other events has been quite high over the last month, ostensibly because of all the cancellations and delays in their shooting schedules! Nevertheless, we do hope the issues are resolved soon, and tinsel town will go back to storytelling.

Jayaram is the new baddie Malayalam star, Jayaram’s image is usually one of bubbly goodness. The guy has always had it in him to make his audiences gurgle with laughter both on-screen and off. Recently, he’s also had a ball playing the villain, which highlighted another side to his versatility. Now, news is out that he’s signed on to play an important character in AR Murugadoss’s Vijay-starrer, Thuppakki.

Knowing the director’s penchant for anything new, we’re hoping Jayaram’s role really knocks our socks off!

Critics pan Ekk Deewana Tha You would’ve have thought that a movie that practically re-wrote romance on the Tamil scene would have set Bollywood ablaze, but Ekk Deewana Tha, the remake of Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya has turned out to be a disappointment. Critics have panned the film for dialogues that are literally translated from the Tamil version, and the lack of chemistry between the lead pair. The super-talented maker of the film Gautham Menon isn’t too worried though, “Ignore the critics and watch the film,” he says via Twitter.

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Pooja Gandhi takes the plunge Yes, yes, our first reaction too was ‘What? But didn’t she go topless for her forthcoming movie because ‘the role demanded it’?’ Anyway, the actor recently joined the Janata Dal (Secular), a political party headed by the former Prime Minister, HD Deve Gowda. Some insiders contended that she decided to join JD(S) to take on Ramya, who is with the rival political party, Congress.

But Pooja rubbishes such arguments as baseless. The actor has been seen on the party platform on various occasions speaking on women’s rights. With the Assembly elections due in 2013, it is clear that Pooja is preparing to contest the elections and make it to the list of elected representatives from the film fraternity. Good luck!

Nayan in a Kannada film?

If Sandalwood sources are to be believed, Nayan will soon sign a film opposite one of the A-listers. There is even a kind of guessing game doing the rounds in Gandhinagar, the hub of the Kannada film industry, about which producer will be able to convince her. But it is not clear whether she will be paired with Upendra or Shivarajkumar. Upendra introduced Nayantara to Kannada films with his blockbuster, Super.

Since then, several producers have been trying to rope in the stunning actor. But will you bite the bait, Nayan?

Yogi gets lucky Yogi seems to be on Cloud 9 ever since Ramya acted opposite him in Siddlingu. Until last year, leading female actors were reluctant to work in Yogi’s films, apparently because of his looks and style. The actor is seen mostly in rustic characters and movies that give less importance to female roles. But that’s not the scene anymore. Star actors, Radhika Pandit and Ragini Dwivedi are working with Yogi now, who owes it all to Ramya. The actor had confided several times that it was his dream to act opposite Ramya, and she turned out to be his Lady Luck.

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T for Tamannaah In more news of Tamannaah that really confounds us, why would she reject an offer to act with Mahesh Babu and later with Jiiva - the former being one of the most sought after and bankable stars in Tollywood and the latter a rising hero in Kollywood? When asked, the pretty lady came up with a token apology saying that it was purely a professional decision. With Rachcha, Rebel and Endukante Premanta taking up her dates, Tamannaah could not allot her time for Mahesh Babu and Jiiva, we hear. But for ardent fans of the Prince, Tamannaah’s professional decision seems more like a sorry miscalculation.

Selva to direct Bunny?

There was a piece of news earlier that Selvaraghavan will be directing a film in Tamil and Telugu which will have hot Telugu star, Allu Arjun in the lead role. But this project was shelved.

However, now it looks like the project will soon be back on track.

Once Selva completes his current film, Erandam Ulagam with Arya and Anushka in the lead, he will commence work on this film with Allu Arjun and Shruti Haasan in the lead roles. A stellar debut for Allu Arjun in Tamil, what say?

Senthil to film Dabbang 2 KK Senthil Kumar, the cinematographer who shot to fame with Magadheera, is now crossing over to Hindi to do Dabbang 2. It is Senthil’s first Hindi film as DOP and he is really happy, “It’s a jump start to my career in Hindi. And that too, I am breaking into an A plus film. To be working with Salman Khan, the biggest superstar, is one thing, and working in the sequel to Dabbang is another. It feels good to be part of one of the most happening films.” Dabbang 2 is already in its pre-production stage, and Senthil is shuttling between Hyderabad (where he is busy with the post production of SS Rajamouli’s Eega) and Mumbai (for Dabbang 2). Way to go Senthil!

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When will Marudhanayagam come alive?

Everything Kamal Haasan does or says always makes news. But this time, it was his long-forgotten historical project, Marudhanayagam that hit the headlines as rumours flew thick and fast that he had roped in Superstar Rajinikanth for the movie! This rumour is at least 10 years old and hence terribly tiresome to hear again! Thankfully, sources were quick to clarify that this was false, and no such decision had been taken. Sad news for diehard Kamal enthusiasts and historybuffs, though. Guess we’ll just have to wait for the Universal Hero to bring it back to life all by himself.

Sneha’s métier With news about danseuse Rukkumini replacing Sneha in Kochadaiyaan, perceptive audiences are looking at it from the point of view of Sneha’s dwindling opportunities and her falling career. Is slinking work a good move Sneha?

Sad split Nayantara and Prabhudeva’s alleged break-up came as sad news on Valentine’s Day. Though Nayan has been known to vacillate throughout the relationship, friends in and out of the industry have been solicitous enough to motivate her through it all. In fact it was with their counsel that she managed to tide over several rough points in their affair of over three years. However with the breakup, Nayan is said to have completely abandoned everyone’s help and sunken into a shell. Why blow hot, blow cold Nayan?

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A Reformed Darshan A stint behind bars seems to have disciplined actor Darshan, if Kannada film producers are to be believed! Until recently, he had an image of being contemptuously impertinent, remaining off-limits even for the media. But there has been a dramatic shift in his approach these days. He has become easily accessible for everyone, including TV channels, which he despised all these years. Complementing the paradigm shift, two of his recent films have become super hits! Should we say the change is for the good?

Prakash Raj and Mohan Lal team up A mega Malayalam movie is bringing together two biggies of south Indian cinema, Mohan Lal and Prakash Raj. The latter was in Cochin recently to sign the project, and has confirmed this on his microblogging page, which says, “Finalized a film in Malayalam. Due for a long time. Mohanlal + Kaniha + Prakash Raj in director Renjith’s “SPIRIT”. Shoot in March.

Cheers!” Now, that’s something to cheer about, indeed!

Meanwhile, the actor-producer-director is happy with the response to Dhoni, his directorial endeavour, which hit the screens a couple of weeks ago.

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Asin is busy in Bollywood, or so she claims While on the subject of Malabar beauty Asin, sources close to her recently claimed her mentioning, “I am also doing SRK’s next film, and will be working with Ranbir in Two States. I loved the book and agreed to do the film. The film’s final script isn’t ready yet. I have been planning my ‘look’ for it in detail, which I will reveal soon.”

However, immediately after the story broke out, the Ghajini heroine sprang into action. She sent out a press release denying all reports, which read, “I am shocked and surprised at these rumours. I don’t know how a particular journalist can write all this when I haven’t spoken anything to anyone.

It’s wrong. I’m not the kind of person to talk about my films before I have signed them. I have never done that before and those are not my ethics. If I have signed something, I let the production house announce it first. Of course, I would love to work with SRK, Ranbir, Rohit and Sajid again for their respective films, but as of now, it’s too early to say anything.”

Okay, but what do we make of the news of a director lashing out at three leading actors, Asin, Deepika Padukone and Kareena Kapoor saying that they were planting rumours of having bagged the lead role in his next film with SRK?

Asin rubbishes rumors of wedding bells with Sallu First they said she was hosting a TV show, now Asin’s rumoured wedding plans hit headlines. The exciting twist to the rumour was that that the groom was none other than Salman Khan. “Salman is just a friend and a co-star. If you read something in between, I shall not be blamed for your own wild imagination,” Asin lashed out. “I come from an orthodox family which follows customs and rituals stringently.

Salman has nothing to do with the rumours either,” she added.

I am not in for politics, says Ajith Thala Ajith has made his stand on politics very clear yet again. “I know only acting, and I have no idea about politics. I will only act and will never step into politics,” he says emphatically. Speaking about his career and his future plans, he said that there are enough people who have taken the political ‘oath’, and he is definitely not one of them. It isn’t everyday that you come across an actor and star like Ajith Kumar.

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Esha gets engaged Suriya’s love interest in Mani Ratnam’s Aayitha Ezhuthu, Esha Deol got engaged to boyfriend Bharat Takhtani in a private ceremony that took place at her Juhu bungalow in Mumbai. Esha is the daughter of Bollywood’s dream couple, Dharmendra and Hemamalini. Esha and Bharat have been dating for a while now, and their engagement was apparently their parents’ Valentines’ Day gift to them. Though the media was not informed, an army of photographers and videographers thronged the venue. Following the ceremony, Esha posed for the camera with Bharat, flashing her ring. The jubilant Esha was wearing a pink and green with traditional jewellery on her neck, hands and forehead, while Bharat was seen in a suit.

‘Big fat Indian wedding’ for Genelia Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D’Souza finally got hitched after dating for eight years and denying it all along. The couple, who have been together since their debut flick, Tujhe Meri Kasam in 2003, tied the knot at the Grand Hyatt in Mumbai. The groom, wearing a white sherwani and a red feta (turban), entered the hotel riding a white ghodi (mare), while Genelia wore a red and gold lehenga designed by Ritu Kumar. The baaraat started from the grounds near Grand Hyatt, and amidst the singing and dancing, Riteish waved excitedly while sitting on the horse, his face covered with a sehra (flower veil). Since Riteish is the son of former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Vilasrao Deshmukh, who is now a minister in the Union Cabinet, the lavish wedding saw quite a large number of politicians in attendance. Completely overshadowing most of them though, were our flamboyant celebrities of the tinsel town.

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Samantha is a busy bee in Tollywood Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa was her first film, and after a substantial period of time, she has now taken up some interesting projects in K town - Naan Ee. On a visit to Chennai for a promotion, an excited Sam reveals, “It is a refreshing role! The villain kills my lover. He is reborn as an Ee (housefly) and recalls what happened to him in his last birth.

How I help him take revenge forms the rest of the story.”

Puri ready with Pawan Kalyan script Rana to sport a six-pack!

Here’s something for Rana’s die-hard fans to drool over. The tall and handsome actor is working on his abs to show off his six-pack! Well, this is not a rumour, but a confirmed development. His fans may not be able to see much of it in his next film, Naa Ishtam, but we hear he will sport his six-pack in his next action film. Rana, as we know, is a strict disciplinarian, and his fans can be assured that he will indeed have one of the best six-packs in the film industry! Bring it on, Rana!

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This one is for Pawan Kalyan’s legion of fans… ace director Puri Jagannadh has completed the script for his next venture, Cameraman Gangatho RamBabu. The maverick filmmaker was away in Bangkok to complete the script for Pawan Kalyan’s movie, which has an unconventional title. Incidentally, Puri is also playing an important role in the movie. Pawan Kalyan and Puri have joined hands after a long gap of 11 years. Their previous venture, Badri was a sensational hit. We hope the duo repeats the same success with their next

Will she or won’t she?

Baasha 2 in Kannada

Sameera Reddy recently hogged the limelight of the Bengaluru media after a producer claimed that he had signed her on for a Kannada project. One local newspaper even quoted her saying that she had agreed to play the female lead of a big budget movie. Well, it is not a secret that Sameera wants to act in Kannada movies because her mother is a Kannadiga, but what shocked the actor was the unconfirmed announcement by the producer that she had already signed the project! The very next day, Sameera made it clear to the media that she had not signed any Kannada movie. Hmmm, there appears to be many a slip between the cup and the lip, for Sameera.

Baasha was remade earlier in Sandalwood with the name, Kotigobba with Vishnuvardhan in the lead. The film turned out to be a super hit. Now, there are plans to make a sequel in the same language with Sudeep in the lead, say sources, who have heard Suresh Krissna (of the original Baasha fame) confirming, “Yes there are plans for a sequel. But, the talks are still in the preliminary stage.” Suresh Krissna is presently involved in the shooting of the Kannada film, Katari Veera Surasundarangi in 3D featuring Upendra and Divya Spandana in the lead roles.

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Photographer: Munna S, Styling: Nischay Niyogi, Wardrobe: Silhouette, Location: Le Waterina, Chennai

‘Privacy is a price worth paying’ Her trademark hips, bee-stung lips and porcelain skin have already earned her stardom. But there is more to Tamannaah than just drop-dead gorgeous looks. Stepping into tinsel town 7 years ago as a teenager and a rank outsider, today at all of 22 with name, fame and accolades to her credit, Tamannaah has achieved what very few at her age can even dream of. In her most contemplative interview to date, Tamannaah comes across to Radhika Rajamani as a sharp, determined and pragmatic young girl, who is every bit the star she is made out to be

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You had three film releases in 2011 – 100% Love, Badrinath and Oosaravelli.

Each was different in its own way. How do you feel after doing these films?

When we take up films, one goes with the overall feeling of the project. At least that’s how I choose my films – based on the storyline, the director, the co-stars and the cinematographer - because I feel that’s what eventually makes a film. I was looking forward to working on 100% Love and Badrinath, both of which were produced

by Geetha Arts - a banner that I consider an honour to work with. I was very lucky to work with Sukumar Sir and (Naga) Chaitanya in 100% Love. The entire team was very young, the subject was very simple and I particularly related to it very much. What worked best was the chemistry between Chaitanya and me. Badrinath, for me, was a completely new experience because I hadn’t done an out-and-out commercial film in Telugu until then. It was on a really huge scale. Everybody put their best foot forward be it Bunny (Allu Arjun), (VV) Vinayak sir (director) or me.

I liked the storyline of Oosaravelli, because I played a new character. In recent times, no leading lady has had an opportunity to don a get-up like that – a character with really short hair and no make-up. Moreover, it had such a strong link with the story – that’s what appealed to me. And, I was looking forward to acting with Tarak (Junior NTR).

I’ve always been a huge fan of his – be it his dance or performances. I also liked Surendar Reddy sir’s previous film, Kick.

You are now shooting for two films - Racha and Endukante Premanta - back-to-back. This is your first film with Ram Charan Teja and Ram respectively. Tell us about the films and the experience of shooting them... about working with Charan and Ram…

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Charan is very grounded and very downto-earth. Anybody can work with him in absolute harmony. I particularly enjoyed shooting the songs with him. He’s very understanding on the sets. Most of the locations where we have shot for Racha have been treacherous to say the least, and very difficult to shoot in. We needed to travel a lot. We shot in Sri Lanka, China and parts of Kerala. The locations we shot in were not easy to reach, not easy to practically work in. Nevertheless, we had an amazing crew – Sampath Nandi sir (director), Sameer Reddy (cinematographer)... It was such a cool team.

I still remember the first day of shoot; Charan and I were in a forest in Sri Lanka. The place was so full of leeches that we couldn’t even put our feet on the ground! But even in that kind of an ambience, we enjoyed ourselves in the 10-day schedule, merely because of the moral support around us.

I’m hoping the film shapes up well. We’ve shot two songs till now. One was by Shobi Master - Vana Vana which was Chiranjeevi sir’s song. I enjoyed shooting it, more so because it’s such a huge hit and now it stars Charan, who looks fabulous and dances brilliantly. Overall, Racha should appeal to Charan’s fans, who are eagerly awaiting its release. My role will be interesting too; there are a couple of layers to it. It’s in a very commercial format but still, there is a certain element, that will make my character special in its own way.

I have a lengthy role in Endukante Premanta.

I have always wanted to work with Karunakaran sir. I’ve seen Darling and I did not know him at that time, but I had called him to say that he portrays his actors like flowers... they look lovely on screen. Now that I’m working with him, I really enjoy the care he takes in every shot, and his eye for detail. Even now, the way he corrects me about small things has really groomed me as an actor. I enjoy working with him because I feel that the small minuses an actor has, get polished by him. I look forward to working with such people who bring out that subtle change in you.

Ram is a very energetic actor. He works very hard for his films. He’s very passionate about whatever he does. This film gives both of

us a lot of scope to perform and it will be a very interesting love story with a commercial packaging. Plus this film is a bi-lingual, we are shooting it in Tamil and Telugu. So, that is a completely new experience for me.

What are your other projects in Telugu?

I’m working on Rebel. I have shot a song with Lawrence sir. I am thankful to him for giving me this song in the film – it actually made me feel like I could dance.

What do you mean...

He’s not just the director of the film, he’s also a choreographer. The way he has portrayed me in this one particular song - I couldn’t believe it was me (laughs). He also made me believe in myself. I feel like I’m a better dancer when I dance to his steps.

This is another first film with Prabhas...

We have worked for a short duration, but still haven’t done much of the shoot. He is utterly professional, down-to-earth and very sweet. You know, what’s exciting is that I am working with most of the people I have looked up to and liked as an audience. It’s the ultimate pleasure to be around them and know how they work, how they are as people and professionals.

You’ve had big hits in Tamil with Suriya and Karthi. Why aren’t you doing more films in Tamil? You seem to be doing more Telugu movies now...

I did a spate of films which were good in Tamil and now I’m doing films which are good in Telugu. I haven’t really thought so much about the language I’m working in.

I’m concentrating on the kind of makers I’m working with, the production houses, actors – that’s a bigger priority for me. I will not just do a Tamil film because it’s a Tamil film. Yes, I am listening to scripts in Tamil and Telugu.

But I have a certain commitment to finishing films on priority. Once these films are done, I will take up more work.

It is believed that Telugu producers pamper their heroines more than other industries. Is that so?

The producers in the Telugu industry are sweet and very professional. I don’t think pampering happens here. They give the artistes their space, the respect and the creative freedom to do their job.

You have surmounted the language barrier pretty well. You have started speaking Telugu and Tamil. Do you have any plans of dubbing in due course?

I really hope I do. It’s just that I am a little overpacked, which often hinders me in taking that final leap and dubbing for the film. But I’m sure I will dub for my films very soon.

I just need that one film to push me into doing it and the day that happens, I will continue.

Why did you make the effort to learn these languages?

I did it to make my process of working easier, so that I don’t have to strain to remember my lines. The initial three years were really tough, starting from not following a word to having to learn one or two words at a time and then how to frame a sentence and how to make a conversation, how to talk to the media when you are talking in their language and so on. For me, very often, the practice ground was a press conference which is a very difficult space because it’s all like a monologue. So that’s when my language got fine-tuned, to some extent. I did make a bum of myself several times using the wrong words, but I got to know how the language should be spoken, through these experiences (laughs).

So, the South is second home for you?

It’s almost home. I call it home.

Many from the North debut in the South and then go back to do their maiden Hindi film. What are your plans?

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My favourite food: French fries, chips My favourite film: Dil To Pagal Hai My favourite perfume: Davidoff My favourite song: All the songs of Ajab Prem ki Ghazab Kahani My favourite dress: Sari My favourite pastime: Watching movies I don’t like to eat: Sweets I don’t like to dress in: Extremely skimpy clothes I don’t like to miss out on: Sleep I don’t step out of the house without: My cellphone

A lot of offers keep coming to me but I am just waiting for the right one. When I feel the time is right and that I should take the next step to do a Hindi film – I’ll do it.

Which is the one role you can relate to amongst the films you have done so far?

Happy Days and 100% Love. I can’t say it was fully me, but it was a part of me in 100% Love.

How do you handle work pressure since you are doing many films back-to-back?

Family support is what keeps me grounded and makes me feel comfortable. My mom always travels with me and because of that, I don’t miss being at home or around family.

Whenever I’m away and if I’m feeling low,

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my father visits me – he flies down just to be with me for a few days. This New Year, I was shooting for Rebel and my father flew to Bangkok to spend a week with my mom and me. We make this a regular practice because I am constantly travelling. I can’t directly battle work pressure in any way. I enjoy doing my job. For the physical wear-out, sleep and rest is the cure and I try doing that as much as possible.

Have you felt disheartened by anyone’s comments?

The most disappointing thing in my career is when I’m not able to reach up to my own expectations and that often happens.

So, do you set a benchmark for yourself?

Maybe not consciously, but sub-consciously, I do. I’m mostly battling my own standards.

So that’s very exhausting for me, because I am never satisfied (laughs)! It’s never-ending.

Today, there are so many actors in the fray.

Lots more of them keep coming up. Do you feel a sense of competition? How do you look at it?

I think competition is very healthy, because it’s good to have people around you who are doing very well for themselves. Personally, I have taken competition in very good spirit.

It’s boring to run a race alone; It’s probably the worst feeling ever. It’s good to have competition.

Do you miss your privacy, especially in the south, where you are a wellrecognised face?

To be honest, I do miss it but to get something, you have to give up something.

You can’t have everything. Privacy is a price worth paying, if you are getting so much of love and adulation from people. People dance to the songs you dance to, they look up to you. This is something not everybody gets. If privacy is what it demands as price, then so be it.

Is it possible to have friends in the industry? Could you name some of them?

It’s absolutely possible to have friends in the industry. It depends on an individual’s intention. My friends are Poonam Bajwa, Vedhika (Kumar), Shruti Haasan, Hansika (Motwani), Kajal (Aggarwal), Samantha (Kajal, Sam and I try catching up when we are in town) and Ileana (D’Cruz). I’m in touch with all these people on a regular basis.

I think we have so much in common; I feel it’s easier to be friends with people whose lives are similar to yours. I think it’s all in the mind.

Who among the contemporary actors do you admire?

Ileana and Kajal.

How do you handle adulation from fans?

What I understand is that they can be both happy and upset with the things you do. You have to be prepared for both sides of the coin. That’s what I do. Whatever feedback I get from the audience, from the internet or from people who come up and speak to me, I take it in my stride. At the end of the day, our job is to entertain people.

We are waiting to see how they react to what we do. We are always waiting to know what they think.

You’ve said that your parents always encouraged you. How supportive has their role been in shaping you as an actress?

I think there’s a huge connection between what you become on screen and what you have developed into as a person. Without my parents’ constant support and advice, I don’t think I could have taken a single step. I’ve always been under their wing, so I’m very comforted and protected. Because I continue to get this kind of support from them, I’m able to grow; otherwise it would be very difficult for a person like me.

You haven’t had a ‘normal’ teenage life.

Has this affected you?

Whenever I meet my friends, there is a unanimous complaint – ‘You are so formal.’

I’ve become like that because I have been in a working ambience for most of my life.

I guess there are phases in everybody’s life.

Some people work harder when they are younger, so that they can enjoy family life and being with friends in the latter part of their life or vice versa. It depends on every individual’s life. In my case. I’ve been working very hard since I was very young, and I guess I’ll have my time in the sun as well (smiles).

Don’t you miss all the fun you could have had as a teenager?

You are assuming I would have had fun! I don’t know if I would have; I can’t be sure right now. Maybe that’s why I don’t miss it that much. The grass always looks green on the other side, you know...

You are 22. And yet you are mature, successful and an achiever so early on in life. How do you feel mentally about all the achievements?

I have made a conscious decision that as time lapses, I will not look back. There’s no point in dwelling on what I have achieved because

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that is history. Nobody wants to know what happened. I want to concentrate on whatever I have today. I think I’m blessed and lucky to have achieved whatever I’ve been able to, and I’m trying to make the most of it today.

Fortunately, I don’t look too much into the future or my past.

Do you feel like a 22-year old or older?

Compared to my friends, I probably don’t talk like a 22-year-old, but I believe every individual shapes up based on his/her experiences in life. I am enjoying life and I’m not trying to confuse my biological age with my mental age. When I have grown up experiencing what an adult experiences, it’s not necessary that mental age should match my biological age.

You haven’t been dragged into any major controversies. How do you steer clear of it?

I stay mostly at shoot. That way, there’s no time to create any controversies! Fortunately, I’ve been too busy to be part of any.

Perhaps the allegation against you is that you don’t have dates for films. Producers are always queuing up. How do you contend with that?

I wish there were 500 days in a year (laughs)!

That would be the best thing that could ever happen to me. Unfortunately, there are only 365 days (sighs).

There were date allocation hassles...

This has recently come about. I had dealt with it in the best possible way with my father by my side. Still, these things happen – don’t know why. But everything is sorted now. It’s all good.

How do you react to generalisations like ‘Actresses are glam dolls or bimbettes’?

Come to think of it, many actresses in the south are in films for their glamour quotient...

I completely understand why this kind of a comment is made. Somehow, I’ve never related to it because I’ve had several performance-oriented roles coming to me in Telugu. Happy Days was a path-breaking film. It had glamour to the extent that I looked good in the langa-odhni. Then 100%

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Love gave me huge scope to perform. I had a good role in Konchem Ishtam Konchem Kashtam as well. Oosaravelli was interesting as well. More than my Tamil films, Telugu films have given me the opportunity to perform. So when people say that heroines are just on signed for their glamour, it doesn’t make sense to me. But I guess it’s not applicable to everybody.

What do you like to do in your ‘me time’?

down to doing. What I miss a lot is watching movies. There was a point when I used to watch six-seven films a day on DVDs. It’s not an exaggerated number, I really used to watch that many! Now I’m working too much to sit and watch even one film. Many times, I’ve missed my own movies; I’ve had to watch them about three weeks after the release! I want some time to paint or draw and do something artistic and unconnected to acting, but have never got down to doing it.

There’s a lot on my list, which I have not got

I want to travel to a few places that I haven’t

been to. I just want to go there with my family and chill. Egypt is one such, I’ve never been able to go there. I’ve shot in Paris, but I want to go there in a more relaxed frame of mind. In fact, Paris is on the cards for my next vacation.

What are the pressures of being an actor?

The first thing that hits is your food habits.

For me, it was really tough because I used to love junk food. I still love it. You have to make a lot of dietary changes to be an actor. It starts with something as basic as food. Once you get used to that change, you learn to live with it. Some people think my metabolism can handle it, but I still miss doing the binging.

How is the bonding with your brother?

Anand is more like a friend; he is two-and-ahalf years elder to me. He is abroad studying medicine. He’s protective but in a caring, friendly way. We share common friends and if he’s not in the country, I hang out with his friends.

What do you think of the film industry today? Is it also a great time to act in movies as an artiste?

I think the industry is more open to newer subjects than ever before. This is a very good time to be an actor because people are not getting typecasted, audiences are willing to accept people doing different things. So if you are good, there will always be space for you, some kind of movie for you.

characters. Kalloori was an important film in my career, so was Happy Days.

What has kept you going?

Actually, it’s an obsessive, compulsive urge to act. I don’t even know how you can describe it or categorise it. It’s a drive, a feeling in you –you perform till it lasts, the moment the feeling ceases to exist, you will automatically go out. I’ve always felt strongly about acting.

With a hectic schedule and date problem, you must be facing the same ‘date issues? What are your views on romance and dating?

It’s such a nice feeling to be in love, such a blissful feeling to have, because you can’t think too much... you are basically happy. Movies constantly keep playing romance, portraying love in its best avatar. God knows if it’s really like that, but the world we create out of it is extremely beautiful.

So, would you want to experience that kind of a world in real life?

Oh, most definitely! I’m sure I’ll find my Prince Charming some day...

You acted in a movie and disappeared from the Telugu scene before coming back in Sekhar Kammula’s Happy Days.

Did people discourage you?

Fortunately, most of my colleagues and the people I worked with saw something in me which I myself didn’t. They always believed in me much more than I did. I have to be thankful to every director and actor I have worked with, because somewhere they knew that I had something good in me to make it big. Especially in the early stages of my career, I was always encouraged. I was fortunate to meet the right kind of people who also moulded me correctly into different

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‘I have an edge over some actors in certain aspects’ Rekha can easily be counted as one of the most successful actors in Kannada in recent times. Aravind G Shivakamal in conversation with this cheery actor...

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Her foray into films, the number of critically acclaimed roles that she has performed, and the demand that she has maintained, is unparalleled. If there is any other actor who could be ranked alongside Rekha in terms of the longevity, success and demand ratio, it is Ramya (Divya Spandana).

Like Ramya, Rekha has also acted in Telugu and Tamil films, some of which were hits. So what is the secret of her success?

Rekha has a prepared answer, “I have been punctual on the sets, never missed a single day of shooting, and am accessible and affable. These characteristics can make one successful in any career. Have you heard of any complaints against me from filmmakers or actors?”

It is not an exaggeration that Rekha is one of the few actors with the cleanest reputation in the film industry. She does not party or get into controversies. Besides, she has made Mumbai her home, preferring to stay away from the hullabaloo of the tinsel town. “Yes, it is true that I stayed away from the industry.

It has helped me but sometimes, it has alienated me from the film fraternity. My first Tamil film, Punnagai Poove was a hit. But a major communication error stopped me from bagging an important project in Tamil. I am looking forward to acting in Tamil movies,” she reveals.

But why is she keen on Tamil cinema? Rekha has acted in over 30 movies, majority of them being in Kannada and Telugu. “Tamil cinema is a distinct class apart. There is a lot of scope for portrayal of a character, the way the scripting is done and the manner in which the films are narrated on the big screen. It is always challenging to act in a Tamil movie.

When compared to Kannada and Telugu, my presence in Tamil cinema has paled out,” she explains.

The actor has already made two trips to Chennai in the recent past, and is playing her cards very close to her heart about her next venture in Tamil. If everything works out well, she may soon be seen in a major Tamil

project. “Look, I don’t want to say that I like X or Y in Tamil cinema. I have had the best of opportunities to work with immensely talented people like Prabhu Deva (in the Telugu movie, Nayudamma) and several others. I am eager to work in Tamil cinema, and I am clear about my intent,” Rekha smiles.

In real life too, Rekha is the simple and humble person she portrays on screen. She’s earned the sobriquet ‘Jinke Mari’ (fawn) in Kannada after the song specially shot on her became an overnight sensation. That was in her Kannada film, Chitra opposite Prabhu Deva’s youngest brother, Nagendra Prasad.

Her plate is full in Sandalwood too, with three films scheduled for release this year, including the highly anticipated Paramashiva opposite V Ravichandran. Last year, she had two hits in a row proving her versatility with the roles of a glamorous NRI in Chitra and a traditional rural girl in Huchcha. “Yeah, people did not believe it when they saw me performing the role of a naïve, innocent character sans any glamour in Huchcha. I can say I have an edge over some actors in these aspects,” she quips.

Rekha is very particular about the roles she chooses because she does not want to a part of movies that are easily forgotten. Whether the critically acclaimed Accident, directed

by Ramesh Aravind, or Hudugaata, Rekha is best remembered for her performances.

Incidentally, it was Rekha, who indirectly gave actor Ganesh a break, now considered a superstar. During his struggling years, Ganesh found it difficult to convince established actors to act opposite him. But Rekha consented, and Ganesh’s debut film, Chellata was a big hit; the actor hasn’t looked back since. Returning the favour, Ganesh and Rekha acted together in Hudugaata, which also went on to become a commercially successful film.

“I know I have been successful in Kannada and Telugu. So, why not replicate the same in Tamil?” says an emphatic Rekha.

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‘Tell the world to keep an eye on me’ His off-screen life is as versatile and colourful as his on-screen roles. It is not an exaggeration that Upendra (fondly called Uppi) is a journalist’s delight! In conversation with Aravind G Shivakamal

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More than an actor and creative director, Uppi gives you the impression of a politician... sometimes even a dictator! Other times, he becomes a philosopher and friend.

But why such frequent changes of character?

He has an instant answer, “I have been in this industry for close to two decades. Do you think I would have survived without out-ofthe-box ideas? People demand change and I give them change!”

detractors wrong. But he once again started accepting roles in films being directed by other filmmakers. The superstar of Kannada interjects, “Please don’t get me wrong.

After directing Super, I accepted interesting projects. But mind you, I have contributed in terms of story selection, screenplay and dialogues for those movies as well. Apart from acting, I am involved in other technical aspects of the films I act in.”

In fact, this line is among the most popular dialogues that Uppi has penned for his films.

Just as I am about to delve deeper into what he just said, Uppi is quick to change the topic of our discussion! “Okay, let us discuss my future prospects… Hmmm please tell the world to keep an eye on me. Watch out for what I intend to announce by the end of 2012!” he grins.

For his next film, Topiwala, Uppi has written the story and the screenplay. And, he has just concluded shooting for the first 3-D Kannada film, Katari Veera Sura Sundarangi (KVSS), for which he has written the dialogues. The actor describes his involvement in these projects as a preparation for something big.

I probe him for more, and he reveals, “I started out as a director and transformed into a full-time hero. After films in which I played the lead roles became hits, I guess I entered the comfort zone. It has been 10 long years…

Don’t you think it is time I returned to my Alma Mater (direction)? Yeah, please let Southscope readers and my fans know that the ‘Old Upendra’ will be back with a bang!” he smiles.

Incidentally, his friends had warned him several times about becoming bored with just acting. In 2010, Uppi finally woke up to face reality. The outcome of this realisation was his untitled film (named Super by his fans), a blockbuster in Kannada with Nayantara in the lead role. The film was dubbed and released in Telugu as well, and it became a hit.

By showcasing his strong hold over direction even after a gap of a decade, Uppi proved his

I ask him for more, and Uppi eventually relents, “See, I have two plans on my mind right now. First, I am working on a sequel to Upendra. It is bothering me too much. If I direct the sequel, it has to be a hit. I cannot afford to let my fans down. I don’t know which producer will come forward to accept my project… but it will materialise by the end of the year,” he declares.

And, what’s the second plan? “Hmmm, let me put it this way. I will direct another film (in addition to a sequel to Upendra). But, I will stop there because we have not yet worked out the details,” he avers.

To make things clearer, the Sandalwood grapevine is abuzz with news that Uppi may direct a film for Shivarajkumar or Sudeep by the end of 2012. But, there are too many loopholes that need to be sorted out before that. In the meanwhile, he wants to continue acting for other directors. Wow! 2012 sure is a busy year for Uppi!

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So, what actually inspires him as a writer when scripting films and writing dialogues?

Uppi is candid, “Look, I don’t know any other trade or art. I am in the film industry… and one can survive here only as long as they can think differently. But that is easier said than done. You have to prove your worth.

That’s why each of my films is different.

Sometimes, I get an idea in just one day, and sometimes it takes months. But until I am satisfied, I never drop the pen.”

Does it mean that he likes to be behind the camera more often than in front of it? “No, they are two different aspects. When I am directing a film, I am the captain of the ship, shouldering the complete responsibility for everything that happens. It is supremely challenging. But when I am acting, it is even more challenging because the director has to be satisfied with my performance. I revel in both roles.”

The actor is excited about his first 3-D film in Kannada, as well. KVSS is a fantasy film with social relevance. “You will enjoy the movie because of the dialogues that I have written. We are releasing the film simultaneously in Telugu,” he reveals.

Talking of Telugu movies, Uppi has a large fan following in Andhra Pradesh as well.

He had acted in several Telugu films until 2007 when he gave up, preferring to release dubbed versions of his Kannada films.

“Let me be honest. I got too engrossed with Kannada films. Of course, plenty of filmmakers want me to act in their Telugu movies. As I told you earlier, 2012 could mark my re-entry into Telugu movies as well. I might do one straight Telugu movie this year,” he says, with a glint in his eyes.

And before he concludes, he insists that 2012 will be a turning point in his career! We are waiting and watching you Uppi...

Ask him how much BO success matters to him, and pat comes the reply, “I am least bothered about my BO success. I deliver what the audiences want, either as an actor or director. It is for the others to be worried about the BO success of my movies!”

It is true that every film of this actor has left a lasting impression on his fans. Be it the trendsetting A or the latest Super, his films are known for his unique and powerful dialogues, laced with a punch.

But the Kannada Superstar’s most favourite film is Raktha Kanneeru (remake of the Tamil hit film Ratha Kanneer). Like the protagonist (MR Radha) in the original film, Uppi’s dialogues are lengthy and delivered breathlessly. “People still want me to repeat the dialogues from Raktha Kanneeru. They have posted them all over the internet, please check it out,” he laughs.

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‘Prabhu Anna has always been a brother to me’ They called her ‘Chinna Khushboo’ when she first entered the industry: such was her resemblance to the yesteryear dream girl, when it came to statuesque figures and fuller proportions. Meet Hansika Motwani, who’s managed to create ripples in the industry with her career so far. Pavithra Srinivasan chats up the sexy siren

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She invaded the Tamil hearts in an instant, even though her films, Mappillai and Engeyum Kaadhal didn’t set the box-office on fire. But destiny wasn’t behind in giving her, her due: she was Ilayathalapathy Vijay’s costar in Velayudham, which successfully re-instated her in the running, as mistress of the marquee.

“Right now, I have OKOK with Udhayanidhi Stalin, Singam 2 with Suriya, and a couple more projects lined up, so I feel God has been extremely kind to me,” says Hansika Motwani with enthusiasm in every word, as we catch up after a hectic gym session. “I’m hoping my audiences continue to shower affection on me – I’m so thankful to them and God, for having brought me this far.”

Her faith, obviously, is something she falls back on, repeatedly. And yes, she’s aware of her title as well, and embraces it with all the eagerness of a southern female star. “I’m grateful to Khushboo madam as well,” she gurgles.

Groomed from childhood to be a movie artiste, did she ever miss out on all the ‘normal’ excitement and delights a child goes through? Her answer is an emphatic, “Absolutely not! My mother made sure I was extremely comfortable, that all my needs were attended to. I worked only four hours a day, never the whole day. I had a personal ayah who took care of my needs, and my own driver to school.” And the decision to join the movies? “I think God decided that for me, and made it all happen,” she laughs, again.

However, success has made her more careful than usual. “I’m very careful with projects.

Sometimes we do go wrong, so I always make sure I see the reach of my character, and how it affects the story. There are times I go with the director’s instinct, and hope he will give me the best, considering my acting abilities. If he happens to be extremely

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she screams with laughter, “What would be the point of that? I’m fantastic this way – why would I wish to change this?”

She’s been working steadily in Telugu and Tamil, delivering hits like Kandireega – doesn’t she have any problems with two such totally new languages? “I haven’t actually,” she says, carefully. “God willing, I haven’t had any issues with either language.”

Her recent popularity hasn’t been without the inevitable controversial fall-out: she’s been named, allegedly, as one of the reasons for the Prabhudeva-Nayantara split. The gossip spun to alarming proportions, so much so that she was forced to tweet her response to them.

“This story has NO spice, so please drop it there and there as a Brother N Sister can be NEVER be linked up! Humble N Respect please (sic)!” went her message on Twitter.

intelligent – then I don’t have to worry about the character. If you take my past movies, for example, Engeyum Kaadhal was all about a posh Paris girl, but Velayudham? That was about a cow-girl,” she giggles. “They were such extremes. Though as far as I’m concerned, both worked.”

Needless to say, much of her charm is her bubbly spirit and her voluptuous figure – both of which she’s thankful for. “I like myself exactly the way I am,” she says, “I mean, I’ve worked so hard to get here.” So – no truth to the rumours about her going under the knife for, er, physical enhancement? “God, no!”

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When I ask her about it, she laughs for almost a minute. “Please, how do people seriously come up with this stuff? I mean, he’s working on his projects and I’m working on mine.

Prabhu Anna has always been a brother to me. Where and how could we possibly be linked?” she laughs again, but there’s a tinge of sadness in it. “And Engeyum Kaadhal was ages ago. It’s just not fair,” she declares.

Moving on, then. She’s been working with Udhayanidhi Stalin – what does she think of him, as a co-star? “He’s a pro. You wouldn’t guess he was debuting in this film, he’s so much at ease in front of the camera,” she enthuses. Of STR, with whom she’s working in Vettai Mannan, she’s done only one schedule so far, but her experience has been nothing but good. She’s inclined to giggling about the size zero fetish as well, and has no intention of falling prey to it. “I’m totally good,” she exults, “It’s going to be great, from now on.”

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A ‘ ravaAn is an experience of a lifetime’ He sent girls swooning with his sensual good looks in Eeram. The tall and handsome Aadhi Pinisetty who started an impressive innings in Kollywood with Mirugam is determined to stamp his presence in the industry. Rinku Gupta catches up with him to find out more about what makes him tick…

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Coming from a film background with a Tollywood director for a dad, Aadhi discloses that his first ambition in life was to be a pilot!

But fate willed otherwise. With films like Mirugam, Eeram and a host of others under his belt, Aadhi is well on his way to a long stint in the film industry.

Normally actors prefer to debut with romance or action, but Aadhi chose a tough film like Mirugam, which portrayed him as a rough-neck, repulsive rural character, who eventually contracts AIDS. Later, he played the smooth cop in Eeram, did a thriller like Aadu Puli and the offbeat Ayyanar. What made him choose the wide repertoire of films he has done so far? He shrugs, “I did them because I found them interesting. I don’t select my films because I want to be a big star. I want the film to work with the audience. They should be realistic films with a commercial touch. It is based on what I would like to watch as an audience.”

Though his Kollywood debut was Samy’s Mirugam, he actually started off with a Telugu flick called Oka Vichitram. Now, the actor returns to Tollywood with Lakshmi Manchu’s bi-lingual production, Maranthein Manithen, titled Gundello Godari in Telugu.

What prompted this return to Tollywood?

“See, I did Oka Vichitram because I got an offer at that time. It is not a question of working in Tollywood or not. It is just that I didn’t get the right offers from Tollywood after my first flick there. Now, when Lakshmi came up with this good script, I took it up.

Simple! Nothing was planned.”

Aravaan, his latest release, is a period film dating back several centuries, directed by the maverick, Vasanthabalan. Aadhi’s respect and admiration for this director is clear when he talks about the entire experience, “Aravaan is an experience of a lifetime for any actor.

I could never do a film like that again! The genre is completely different, and was a huge effort, both physically and mentally. I’ve never worked so hard in my life! I couldn’t have ever imagined doing those strenuous

scenes. But, with an inspiring director like Vasanthabalan, it was well worth every minute!” he enthuses, “Vasanthabalan only talks about films all the time. Initially, I used to think that he could hardly talk about anything else. But then, I understood that he lives and breathes cinema! For an actor, working with him, is like going to heaven!”

Aadhi sports a sexy eight-pack in the movie, and has apparently done several risky stunt sequences by himself.

And, the excitement does not stop. Aadhi’s next film is with none other than the Superstar himself in Soundarya Rajinikanth Ashwin’s Kochadaiyaan. Aadhi is all smiles, “It is something new for Indian cinema, and thanks to Rajini sir and Soundarya, we can now have this amazing 3D motion capture technology in a Tamil film. Hollywood technicians with their amazing skills are working on it, and I feel honoured to be part of such a film.”

Having worked with so many directors, which among them are his favourites? “I can’t name any one person. But, I would

say that I have learnt immensely from each of them. Samy moulded me with Mirugam.

I am a city boy, and the rural milieu was completely alien to me. But he moulded me perfectly into the role. Arivazhagan took the Mirugam out of me with Eeram, where I became the underplayed city cop. From Vasanthabalan, I learnt all about hard work and dedication,” he explains.

Considering his love for realistic cinema, will he do a mass masala film? “Yes certainly!” he says, “But it will probably be my own taste of masala! If it is something like American Pie or Pink Panther, I’d like to do it. But not a masala script that’s similar to the old ones.

The audience should feel there’s something new in it.”

With dad, Ravi Raja Pinisetty as director, does he ever want to wield the megaphone?

“I have neither the intellectual capacity nor the experience to be a director. I have to learn a lot to attempt it. Right now, I am learning to be a good actor. Maybe after I learn all about that, I’ll consider production or direction!” he smiles.

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‘I’ve known Vishal for donkey’s years and I am not bothered about what people say’ Meet the latest star kid on the block, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, the girl who despite having it all - good looks, great pedigree and a dream debut on the anvil, has also faced numerous problems with the release of her first film.

Varalaxmi Sarathkumar chats exclusively with Richa Tilokani about Poda Podi, her other projects and controversies.

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When Varalaxmi’s debut project Poda Podi was delayed, she handled the disappointment with poise and calm. The movie is still under production, two years after it went on the floors! But Varalaxmi manages to keep herself busy, and doesn’t spend too much time worrying. She remains gung-ho about her debut film and her first co-star, STR. “Simbu is a great guy. He is very helpful and easy to work with and he didn’t intimidate me at all. All our scenes look natural because of the comfort level we share,” continues Varalaxmi, “I have two songs left to shoot for Poda Podi after which, hopefully, it will hit the theatres! Then from the first week

of March, I will start shooting for my next project, Gauravam, to be directed by Radha Mohan.” This will be Varalaxmi’s Telugu debut with Naga Chaitanya. “Thankfully, I know the language, so I don’t have any worries on that account,” she laughs.

What she doesn’t find funny, however, is the link-up rumour with Vishal, which started doing the rounds a while ago. “I really don’t give in to things like this. The moment you become a celebrity, your personal life becomes game for everybody. I take all this rumour mongering in my stride. I’ve known Vishal for donkey’s years and I am not bothered about what people say. We have to be prepared for all this, in our line of work.”

Varalaxmi seems very pragmatic for a person her age. But what about news of them wanting to get married and Vishal’s parents opposing it because of some previous animosity with her parents? Varalaxmi brushes off all these rumours stating, “There is no truth in these stories. I am very focused on my career and am not thinking about marriage right now.”

What she is concentrating now on, is the release of her debut film and the shooting of her upcoming project. Also, a lot of other scripts seem interesting, and she may finalise on other projects soon. Meanwhile, she is working out and keeping herself fit.

“I believe in fitness, and I do power yoga regularly. I am not interested in the size zero fad. I think a person should be comfortable with their shape and size. No point trying to be somebody else,” says Varalaxmi.

Her own role model happens to be her fit and fabulous father, Sarath Kumar, with

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whom she shares a wonderful relationship.

“Initially, dad was a little skeptical about me joining the film industry. But once he saw my passion for performance, he gave his consent wholeheartedly. Today, he is my biggest support and I seek his advice on all matters related to my career.”

On the home front too, things are hunky dory. She shares a cordial relationship with step mom Radhika Sarathkumar. “We are all a very close family. She is a very helpful person. We go on family outings and have a lot of fun together,” confides Varalaxmi.

She is also thrilled about her dad’s foray into politics. “I am very proud of my father’s efforts to bring about a positive change in the society. Dad is a visionary and the work he has been doing is commendable. I will always support all his efforts, whether in politics or otherwise,” she affirms.

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‘I’m a hardcore Michael Jackson fan’ Devi Sri Prasad has rocked and waltzed his way to the pinnacle. He is a name to reckon with in the film music firmament – Tamil and particularly Telugu.

Radhika Rajamani tries to keep pace with the beat

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Having been around for a little over a decade, Devi Sri Prasad has worked with some of the biggest films, starring several of the biggies in the industry. Many of his songs are chartbusters with Gen X humming his foot-tapping numbers long after their release.

DSP, as he is popularly known, also sets the stage on fire when he performs live at music shows – a trend which was started by the maverick. His Dhinka Chika (from Ready), tweaked from the Telugu cult-hit Ringa Ringa picturised on Allu Arjun, became a hot favourite country-wide, thanks to Salman Khan and Asin. He also shook a leg with Sameera Reddy in the film Vedi, in a song choreographed by Prabhu Deva. Mamta Mohandas and Swati were introduced by DSP as playback singers, and they shot into instant fame. DSP’s music has assumed cult status today. He’s only too happy to know that, “Thank you for saying so. After composing a song, I detach myself and look at it like an outsider. I see if it still sounds good, and whether I dance to it. That helps.

In fact I would dance to anyone else’s song also!” he laughs.

DSP juggles many projects in his cool, inimitable style. Starting out with composing tunes when just out of school, he has earned

name, fame, money, recognition, awards and what have you. Yet he remains rooted and cool as a cat. The music composer has about eight films on his platter right now, and he’s able to juggle them well. His current projects include Gabbar Singh, Damarukam, the Allu Arjun-Trivikram film, Yevadu, Varadhi, Mahesh Babu’s new project, Karthi’s next film and Singam 2. Though he is currently busy with back-to-back work, he still manages to respond to a phone call or a SMS, and then takes time out to talk.

“I plan it very well. I ask for release dates and work backwards. I also ask for the priority of songs, so that I can deliver those according to the need. Sometimes, during the story narration itself, I get the tunes and the composition is done. For Kamal Sir’s film Manmadhan Ambu, I finished two songs on the day the narration was done. I am spontaneous. I work when ideas are fresh and natural, not made up. I feel that makes the song more expressive and helps connect with the hearts of the audience. Then I transform the expression – get a rhythm, voice etc. In due course, I also come out with the opening words (the pallavi). I watch films in all languages in the theatres and connect with the audience.”

With Dhinka Chika, DSP has crossed all borders. “Success is a nice feeling. Hindi movies are now international. In fact many superstars have danced to Ringa Ringa – including Allu Arjun of course, and Akshay Kumar and Shah Rukh Khan. At one show, Adnan Sami and Alka Yagnik performed it too! Adnan later said, ‘What a song’! When your work is respected, the happiness you get from it is like nothing you’ve experienced before,” says a proud DSP. DSP has finished composing for Gabbar Singh, while having scored music for Damarukam. Three songs are left in the Allu Arjun-Trivikram film, Yevadu, Varadhi and Karthi’s film. Work on the Mahesh-Sukumar film will start later, since the sessions for Singam have just begun.

According to DSP, the main ingredient in a film is the music. “The music is close to the story. The style of the song is adapted to match the style of the hero. The story is made to match the hero as well, so if the music matches the story, automatically, the music will also match the hero. For example, if it is a Jr NTR film, he dances fast, so the music will be different compared to Nagarjuna’s film, as he is a graceful dancer.”

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DSP has met with success much sooner than his contemporaries. Quiz him about the reasons and he retorts, “I started at an early age thanks to MS Raju, who made me a music director at the age of 17. So I achieved all my dreams before other careers triggered off. I had the time and space to explore. For any individual to be successful, one should be strong about the decisions one makes. I have even fought for the song and lyrics!”

At his audio releases, DSP is a live wire who scorches the stage with his music and dance.

His energy on stage is indefatigable. “People acknowledge that I launch audios with a performance. In fact, during the audio release of Ready, before I performed to Dhinka Chika, Salman said ‘Dude, I’ve heard you are a terrific performer, set the stage on fire’.

I started doing this with Anandam,” he smiles and goes on to add, “I’m a hardcore Michael Jackson fan; music is linked to performance.

I wanted to be a pop musician but became a composer. I wanted to sing and perform pop music on stage.” Basically DSP can’t stay quiet around a stage! “That’s true!” he retorts, “People remember the euphoria on stage forever – long after it is done and dusted!”

Versatility has been his forté as a composer.

For a person trained in classical violin, vocal and mandolin since his childhood, DSP has come a long way in film music. He has done varied music for mass and class films. In a way, his music can be defined as unpredictable. “I do not want to be branded.

I want people to say ‘This guy can do anything’,” he tells me.

Though he has done several Telugu films, the composer has been very selective about his Tamil projects. His music for Kandhasamy, Singam and Villu were a hit, even if some of those films may not have fared well at the BO. “Every opportunity has its own set of challenges. A song is picked up

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from nowhere. The film either inspires us to create a background score or puts us to sleep. Sometimes, you have to change your perspective to produce the best music.”

DSP doles out some food for thought: “However successful you become, you must stay true to yourself. When you fail, don’t get depressed. Generally, we tend to own success and disown failure (we blame others for failure). I feel we must own failure and disown success! It is better to take failure in our stride, so we can learn more and remain grounded. And we must be generous to distribute and share success, so that we stay attached to all the people and reasons behind our success!”

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‘Being Rajinikanth’s son-in-law has its own pros and cons’ The erstwhile apprentice of one of Kollywood’s trendsetters, Selvaraghavan, and now a director in her own right, Aishwarya Rajinikanth Dhanush is just wrapping up her directorial debut, 3. And, in the midst of a hectic post-production schedule, she finds time to talk about her ruling passions.

Pavithra Srinivasan catches up with this dynamic young lady

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Daughter of Superstar Rajinikanth and wife of National Award winner, Dhanush, Aishwarya’s first love is direction. “I’ve never thought much about being on camera,” she smiles. 3 was originally meant to be a short film, but caught the attention of her husband. “And at the time, you know, I was carrying my second son, Linga, and had a lot of time on hand... just chilling. I began to elaborate on it and write it into a feature, which took around 7-8 months. I narrated it to Dhanush and he really liked it. But he didn’t have the dates. So, when he found an opening, we began work straight away,” she reveals.

What was it like to direct her husband?

“I know that for each of his films, he gets into the character and does his homework thoroughly. And, this character was tailormade for him. He was the only one I felt, who would do justice to the role. And yes, initially, I was very nervous. He was not a National Award winner when we started work, but the award came sometime during the middle of the shooting. For me, it was very intimidating to be on the sets with him.

When it comes to the industry, I’m still a debutante and he’s my senior. Yet, we shared a great level of comfort because we could talk about his role and the script at home, and get the job right.” Which probably means that she has many anecdotes to share, when it comes to 3, right? “Trust me, the whole experience of your first film, every shot, every day at the spot, and all the postproduction work that’s happening, every step is memorable. I can’t pick out just one. That would be really unfair to the whole journey,” she declares. “On the whole, it was very satisfying and fulfilling.”

She may have grown up in the industry, but had to learn the ropes, just like anyone else.

And brother-in-law, Selvaraghavan, she says, is her guru, when it comes to cinema. “He’s actually a father-figure to me in my personal life. He has been very supportive, both at home and in my career. If you’ve watched Aayirathil Oruvan, you’ll know how difficult it is to make a film like that, and frankly, I gained more exposure in that one film than I would have in five films. Yes, the schedules were tedious, but he didn’t make it easy for me, just because of who I was. In fact, I should say, he was stricter with me than with the others,” she chuckles. “I might not

have been very thankful then, but now as a director, I understand why he was the way he was. He was a taskmaster, but it was worth it, every bit of it.”

And part of the satisfaction of being a director is doubtless choosing the perfect starcast. What made her pitch for Dhanush and Shruti Haasan? “While you’re writing–and I’m sure other directors will agree with me– you don’t keep artistes in mind. You write and then choose a star cast that gels. While on the subject–and I’m sure most directors agree with me here as well–those who write scripts do it with a hero like my dad, in mind. Coming from the same household, I of course, had either my dad or Dhanush as the hero in the script as a guideline to writing. And if you watch the film, you’ll see that Shruti would be the ideal person for the female lead–it’s a different role for her.

Personally, I felt that her performing potential was not fully tapped in her previous films. I thought she could pull off a role like 3, and was very happy with the outcome. I needed two people who were young, natural-looking, and who suited the roles I had created.

Shruti’s character in 3 is different from what she’s done so far. It’s very de-glam, very realistic.”

A perfect story, star cast and directing experience can also bring the inevitable in their wake: controversies and gossip.

What does she think about the rumour mills grinding overtime about the roaring ‘affair’ between Shruti and her husband? “Okay, first, I think it’s very silly. And second, I’d like to say that rumours are a part and parcel of not only our industry, but others as well.

It’s just that ours is the only one in which everything is laid out right in the open,” she explains patiently. “We’re in the eye of the media, and we need to take it in our stride.

Shruti, Dhanush and I know each other very well. We’ve watched each other grow up.

I know she’s my friend and cares for me, and I look out for her welfare. We’re here to make our names individually in this industry.

Rumours are always inevitable and I just negate this from my life,” she says firmly, “I don’t let it affect my personal life. When I know it’s not true, why should I worry?”

That’s putting it strongly indeed. And does her family share her opinion? “They’ve been in this industry for donkey’s years,” she

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laughs, “They know what’s true and what’s not, what can be taken into consideration and what needs to be brushed off. If anything, both my in-laws and my parents didn’t have to explain anything, or sort anything out. In fact, they were very supportive. They said, ‘Just forget about it. Everything will be fine.’

And to tell you the truth, God has been kind to me,” she smiles.

While on the subject, Dhanush reportedly said that he had lost his own identity once he became Superstar Rajinikanth’s son-in-law.

What’s her take on that? “See, it wouldn’t be fair to Dhanush for me to comment on such a thing. But I must admit that it hasn’t been easy for him either. Being Rajinikanth’s sonin-law has its own pros and cons, especially while working in the same industry. And as for having his own identity, if you ask me, I would say that Dhanush had his own identity even when I got married to him. He was already Dhanush and not Kasturi Raja’s son or Selvaraghavan’s brother. I’m sure he has his reasons for having said what he said. But the truth is that he’s made both his parents and mine and of course, me very proud,” exclaims Aishwarya.

And, this young lady has plenty to be happy about. She’s been involved in writing lyrics for her movies, “That sequence required immature lyrics, so mine kind of fell in

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place.” And she’d love to sing too – in other films. “If I get a good, peppy song, I’d love to try it.”

Considering that her sister, Soundarya Ashwin is now directing her father, will she attempt it as well? “I think everyone would love to direct my father. But I wouldn’t force myself to write a script for him. That wouldn’t do good either to him or to my job.

Still, if something different comes across, why not?”

biggest gift he’s given me. But the truth is that if I wanted my dad’s name to influence me, I would have become a director ten years ago,” she laughs, “My parents are very happy now. Rather than waking up one morning and saying, ‘Put me on to that director’, I made sure I went through the proper route. My husband is also doing the same. He’s where he is because of his hard work. Now, I can go back and tell my dad, ‘Watch this product and tell me how it is’.”

But surely, being Rajinikanth’s daughter did influence her career in some way? “I have a lot of goodwill and well-wishers in the industry, and I can’t deny that. That’s the

Life, right now, is full of 3. “One thing is for sure – Kolaveri is a part of 3 and not vice-versa,” she states firmly, “And as for the future, why don’t you wait and watch?”

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‘People who tried to pull me down, are now claiming credit for my success’ Kriti Kharbanda is a breath of fresh air. She’s frank, outright honest and completely in control of her life and career. In conversation with Aravind G Shivakamal

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Kriti Kharbanda, who is nine films old, is not only a bundle of talent, but belongs to a rare of breed of actors that are hard to come by these days in tinsel town. For starters, Kriti admits she cares a damn if people don’t mob her on the streets. She is highly principled and goes out of her way to help directors when they are in distress. And, she does not carry a credit card! “Yeah, it might sound strange, but that’s the way I am, that’s how I’ve been brought up. I want to be what I am. I don’t want people to change me. I have come up the hard way, so I know what it means to be a natural person,” says Kriti, who is also a trained jewellery designer.

She has no qualms in stating that she never dreamed of being an actor, “I keep reminding myself about it. Look, I don’t have any godfathers or guides in the film industry. There have been several days when I have cried alone after losing a project. I have started from zero. I believe in destiny.

And mind you, to be successful in the film industry, luck is more important than talent.”

Nevertheless, Kriti has been making waves in Telugu cinema. She is eagerly awaiting the release of her next film, Mr. Nokia opposite Manoj Manchu, and is currently shooting for the first-ever 3-D film in Telugu, titled Om. Directed by Sunil, the film deals with a contemporary love plot and will be released in three months.

Kriti made her debut in Telugu with Boni in 2009, and has acted in the recently released, Teen Maar. She has also acted in the Kannada movie, Chiru in 2010. A song shot especially on her made Kriti a household name in Karnataka. She now has four Kannada movies in the pipeline!

And, this is no small achievement for a complete outsider in an industry dominated by generations of actors and producers. In fact, if she had accepted every film that came her way, her filmography would have crossed 25 by now! But Kriti is a choosy actor, although she has been the ‘most-seen’ face on TV commercials for the last five years. “It is because of my mom that I turned to acting.

Otherwise, I had no plans of being seen on the big screen,” she smiles.

A Punjabi by birth, Kriti moved to Bengaluru in the 90s with her parents, who pursued their independent businesses, “As a child, I

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featured in a number of advertisements. The same trend continued even after I grew up. I have always loved doing TV commercials.

My mother is a dreamer, and I am her living dream,” she tells us. The actor does not hesitate to reveal how her friends and relatives tried to pull her down, during her modelling days. “They thought it was easy to pose for the camera and receive a big cheque.

They were indirectly speaking ill of me. Now that I am an actor on the big screen, they claim that I am one of them, that I am related to them and want to be associated with me. I have seen enough of this,” Kriti shrugs.

If she does not have any godfather, how does she select films? “Believe me, it is an

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extremely tough job. Sometimes, I have regretted declining movies. Sometimes, I have been lucky. What matters to me is the screenplay and narration. I should be able to justify the role,” she says. Kriti owes it to Trisha Krishnan for changing her approach to films. “Trisha taught me how to deal with movies. Her advice has become a way of life for me,” she smiles.

The Kannada film industry seems to have suddenly discovered her. She is acting in two back-to-back films with Diganth (Kannada’s Chocolate Hero), a film with Prajwal Devaraj, and another important movie titled Adda opposite the maverick director, Prem.

She is super-excited to be part of Adda,

because Prem’s movies are always different, never with a run-of-the-mill storyline, “The Kannada film industry has been late in discovering me, though I live in Bengaluru.

But, I am finally where I wanted to be.” Kriti tells us that she and her mother have designed the costumes for the movie. “My mom owns a boutique, and it is easy for us to procure costumes depending on the situation. It is true that some producers feel I am a bit expensive, but I charge what I deserve. Thankfully, they are listening to me now!”

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‘I have lived a dream’ After lying low for a couple of years, Ganesh is back with a bang.

Aravind G Shivakamal chats with the actor on his comeback and plans ahead

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2006-2007 saw the emergence of a new face that created a sensation in the Kannada film industry. But in the subsequent years, success for him became elusive. For any other actor, the return to stardom would have been difficult. But Ganesh has bounced back in style with the hit, Shyloo, to finally silence his detractors.

“Showbiz is fun, and at the same time, challenging. How long we survive here depends on what we give the audiences.

In my case, it has been entertainment and nothing else. Till a film hits the screen, nothing can be predicted about its performance. The business of filmmaking is always risky,” declares Ganesh, who has seen both the highs and the lows of tinsel town. The ‘Golden Star’ of the Kannada film industry delivered seven hits in a row, a record that has been emulated by very few actors. Beginning with the trendsetting Mungaru Male, directed by Yogaraj Bhat, Chellata, Hudugaata, Cheluvina Chittara, Krishna and Gaalipata, Ganesh was the man with the Midas Touch! But 2008 onwards, a downhill slide began.

However, Ganesh never gave up hope. His maiden home production, Maleyali Jotheyali, directed by Preetham Gubbi, became a superhit in 2009, and walked away with several awards. But success once again eluded Ganesh, as his films, Eno Onethara, Maduve Mane, Kool and Ullasa Utsaha failed to make an impact at the BO. To make matters worse, his second home production, Kool, ran into problems. Director Ravi Srivatsa walked out of the film midway, forcing Ganesh to wield the mega phone for the first time in his career. It was challenging indeed, but Ganesh promptly completed the job. However, Kool did not get the response that Ganesh expected. “The circumstances were different, and I had to turn to direction as there was no other option. See, every film is a learning opportunity. Kool taught me many things. Please don’t think that I have given up direction. There are many projects in the pipeline. In a few years’ time, I will direct my second film,” says a candid Ganesh.

Ganesh has come a long way since his TV days as one of the most popular anchors of comedy shows. “It all feels like yesterday.

I have lived a dream. Several blockbusters came my way. I am really not particular about who directs a film, what matters to me is the storyline and the screenplay.

Fortunately, I have worked with several

intelligent filmmakers,” smiles Ganesh, pointing at the trophies and awards that his films have won.

Speaking of directors, the S NarayanGanesh combination was responsible for the hit, Shyloo. The same duo had created ‘Cheluvina Chittara’, another hit. Narayan and Ganesh seem to share a great rapport.

Their next venture, Munjane, in which Ganesh is cast opposite Manjari Phadnis, is scheduled for release soon. His fans and the film industry are eagerly looking forward to his other movie with hit filmmaker, Yogaraj Bhat. “We have had discussions several times. But both of us are tied up because of our individual commitments. Hopefully, something should work out shortly. It will be great to work with him on another project,” the star asserts.

Ganesh is currently completing another film, a rom-com titled Romeo opposite Bhavana. He is understandably excited about the movie. “My fans will thoroughly enjoy Romeo. It is based on an original script, and we have canned several mind-boggling sequences.”

Emphasising that entertainment is the key factor for the success of any film, he says, “See, the audiences have become intelligent.

They have plenty of options, and we can no longer fool them. They come to the theatres for entertainment. If we show them their own problems, they will not appreciate it. Why should they come to the theatres just to see their own life being played out?

As filmmakers, we have to serve them something different, something entertaining, and that is what I am trying to do.”

Ganesh has been able to focus on acting because his wife, Shilpa has successfully taken over the home production business.

“She has been a great support. After our wedding, we decided to produce one film each year, and have been maintaining that practice. By the end of this year, we will announce our third home production for which we are still looking for a suitable story,” he announces.

Ganesh’s schedule is jam-packed. But he does not want to live out of a suitcase. “I try to act in three or four films every year, and it has worked out well for me,” he claims.

Ganesh does not hurry through this interview.

He takes time to think before answering. The true signs of a good actor who is aware.

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‘I am a die-hard fan of Kamal sir’ Like a bolt out of the blue, Asif Ali has become one of the most-sought-after actors in the Malayalam film industry.

But, Unni R Nair finds that while the actor’s career is soaring, his feet are firmly planted on the ground...

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“Hello Asif, can we talk?”

“Hi Chetta (Big Brother)…I am shooting; Can I call you back once it’s done?”

That’s Asif Ali. So unlike a star… And yet, he is a star all the same. A star on the ascent…You saw him for the first time in Shyamaprasad’s Ritu; you liked his ‘guy next door’ look. But maybe you didn’t expect him to come this far in his career. Then came Sibi Malayil’s Apoorvaragam where he surprised you by playing the villain. You are impressed.

You keep your fingers crossed, waiting for something spectacular next. In Sathyan Anthikkad’s Kadha Thudarunnu, Asif plays a guest role, while in the path-breaking Traffic, he is one of the key players. The funny guy in the hit Salt n’ Pepper stays in your mind.

Now, the likeable guy becomes a goonda, a don named Don Bosco in Asuravithu, followed by Unnam, which doubles your shock.

You want to know how Asif made his entry into films, and he gives you the complete picture, “I had always been crazy about films.

I’d see a lot of films and have always been a die-hard fan of Kamal sir. I’d laugh when he did comedy and cry when he did emotional sequences. I wanted to make people laugh and cry just as he did. But my family had nothing to do with cinema. Moreover, being a Muslim, such things were not encouraged.

I had no idea about whom to approach or what to do. It was only after completing my

graduation that I joined Indiavision Channel as a producer. Cuckoo madam (Cuckoo Parameswaran) liked me a lot and told me about Shyam sir (Shyamaprasad) and his new project... she asked me to meet him. That was it. I met Shyam sir, went for an audition, he saw his character in me…and Ritu happened.

Asif Ali became an actor…” So, what is his strength as an actor? “My strength is that acting comes naturally to me, and that’s what endeared people to my roles in Ritu and Salt n’ Pepper.”

Asif is happy to have been part of two refreshing hits, Traffic and Salt n’ Pepper.

“With Traffic, I was just bowled over by the script. I knew it would be a great hit. And Salt n’ Pepper…the director, Aashiq Abu and I are friends of the same age-group, and share a perfect rapport.”

Waxing eloquent on some of the most notable filmmakers in Malayalam with whom he has worked, Asif is all praise, “Shyam sir would mingle with us so freely giving us the feeling that he is one among us, and not at all an acclaimed filmmaker. He’d ask me to ‘behave’ and not act. Sibi sir (Sibi Malayil, with whom Asif has done three films- Apoorvaragam, Violin and Unnam) is like my local guardian. He has explored the actor in me. He gave me a negative role to play in Apoorvaragam, my second film.

Then in Violin, it was a romantic kind of role. He makes me deliver the best of what I can, and I have utmost freedom with him. I

can call him anytime and talk to him. As for Sathyan sir (Sathyan Anthikkad), I had heard that even a passing shot in his film would be a great thing. He told me that the role that I was to do in Kadha Thudarunnu will not be full length, and I’d just appear in a few scenes, but that my presence would be felt throughout the film. I immediately agreed.

Working with him was a different kind of an experience; it was more of a family thing, like being at home. He has his regular team and for them, each film that he does is like a family reunion; it was good being part of that. Aashiq Abu, as I have already said, is a friend. As for Joshy sir, I need not say much about such a veteran filmmaker. And I enjoyed doing the cameo role in Ranjith sir’s Indian Rupee. Sajan sir (AK Sajan) entrusted me with the role of Don Bosco (Asuravithu) and helped me explore another facet of the actor in me. Traffic was a different experience, and I am thankful to the director and the scenarists for that.”

What is Asif’s ambition as an actor? “Well, don’t call me over-ambitious or eccentric. I may sound crazy, I know, but that’s the truth.

I want to reach a stage where it’s cinema and cinema only for me, 24x7. I want to partake of the kind of ‘eccentricity’ that made Kamal sir what he is today. I don’t know what I am going to achieve in the years to come, but the one thing I can definitely say is that I’ll keep doing my best.” Yes Asif, the feeling is mutual, and we are happy that you are getting the kind of films you are doing...

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With brawny heroes stealing the limelight in most films, Pavithra Srinivasan takes a look at some of the women-centric films that have made an impact in southern cinema

For an industry that would never ever consider a mainstream movie without a pretty girl appearing within the first ten minutes of the film, you’d be surprised how very few movies are actually made, centering around women and focusing on the nitty-gritties of a woman’s life, her trials, tribulations, romances, life and death. But these are serious themes – even mainstream movies centred on women are quite rare.

Despite the general aversion this industry has towards making women the centre of serious attention, south Indian cinema has produced some fantastic movies; some filmmakers have dared to cross the boundaries and test the waters, chiselling powerful female characters who not only questioned society’s rules, but made way for other film directors to forge a new path.

And when you think of such trendsetters, the first name that leaps to your mind is renowned director, K Balachander.

Surprisingly, this veteran started out making plays that were eventually successfully remade into films, usually dealing with overwhelming male leads. Over time, though, he switched to showcasing female characters, who challenged viewers in every way, and set tongues wagging in debate for months. His women, in Avargal,

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Aval Oru Thodar Kathai, Arangetram, Sindhu Bhairavi and Kalki questioned every social ethic and norm. They received their fair share of backlash, and in some cases, succumbed to dreary fates, as was the norm, in those days.

As for why exactly he decided to make movies with women – what intrigued him, first, were the lives of middle-class citizens, who were far removed from the wildly unrealistic men and women of the 60s and 70s.

“With heroine-oriented subjects,” he admitted in an interview, “I could do what I was comfortable with, without compromises.”

There were others, in the rest of the southern industries, who dared to make movies with challenging female leads. Take Kannada veteran Puttanna Kanagal, for example, who touched subjects which would have had people running for the hills, all in the usual course of mainstream cinema, during the 60s and 70s. His heroines had unique love affairs, encountered life as devadasis (Gejje Puje) and even as rehabilitated mental patients

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who faced extreme prejudice at home, from those expected to understand them the most (Sharapanjara). His movies with his muse, Kalpana, were critical and commercial hits, propelling both star and director towards unexplored territory. Sad indeed, that the talented actress committed suicide at the height of her career.

Malayalam was not far behind, when it came to putting strong women in the limelight. Witness the cult classic Manichithirathazhu, which had Shobana playing a woman who is seemingly possessed by the spirit of a long-dead dancer, Nagavalli, responsible for several murders in an ancient ancestral home – but is later revealed to have been afflicted by a split-personality disorder. Shobana’s Ganga was once a bashful young bride, visiting her husband’s home for the first time, while simultaneously being transformed into a mentally deranged young woman entertaining dangerous illusions. “Manichithirathazhu is Shobana’s film,” announced Mohanlal on television – and this was about a film he himself played the male lead in. That’s magnanimous, indeed.

There are others, like director Kamal, whose classic Gaddhama, starring Kavya Madhavan, who played a young Keralite forced to leave for the Gulf as a maid, and the terrible life she faces there.

Despite having a flair for the dramatic, Andhra Pradesh has produced its fair share of strong female performers. Manju Bhargavi put up a splendid show as a Bharatanatyam dancer, in Sankarabharanam and so did Vijayashanthi, as the aggressive cop, in Kartavyam (later dubbed into Tamil to enormous success, as Vyjayanthi IPS) – while in more recent times, Arundhati arrived, showcasing Anushka Shetty as a powerful queen who battles demonic forces.

And among these superwomen, there were others who lived life in little villages as daughters of the soil, but who possessed a unique strength in their own way – the strength that allowed them to face life’s storms, and weather them, like Poo’s Maari.

“Not many films are women-centric, after K Balachander’s, maybe,” Director Sasi was quoted as saying, once. “I had my fair share of detractors when I began Poo. But I was confident that it would win, and it came true.” After all, when films are made around dogs, cats and babies, why not with women, he asks reasonably.

Why not, indeed?

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The Kannada film industry is seeing a surge in the number of actresses emerging from the home turf. Aravind G Shivakamal tracks this trend

Five years ago, girls considered ‘outsiders’ (read actors who could not read, speak or write Kannada) ruled the Kannada film industry with an iron fist! Local talent was hardly seen in lead roles in blockbusters! While film producers lamented the lack of local talent, home-grown girls complained of discrimination…

But none of those girls, who commanded a premium to act in Kannada movies five years ago, are to be seen any more.

Girls from Bengaluru have not only claimed the top spots in Sandalwood, but are grabbing important opportunities in Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam films as well. Of the five blockbusters of 2009 – Veera Madakari, Manasaare, Junglee, Maleyali Jotheyali and Ambaari – four featured local girls, Aindrita Ray, Ragini Dwivedi and Supritha. In 2010, except for Jackie and Super, the other eight hit films had local heroines. In 2011, all the 4 blockbusters had local girls, Radhika Pandit, Ramya, Deepa Sannidhi and Ragini Dwivedi.

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There are stories still doing the rounds in Sandalwood about how Bengaluru-based girls, Deepika Padukone, Anushka Shetty, Priyamani and Nithya Menon tried to start their career with Kannada films, but producers did not attach much importance to them. In fact, Deepika was launched on the big screen opposite Upendra in the Kannada movie, Aishwarya. Though the movie fetched instant fame and popularity for Deepika, she was not chosen for other important projects. “It is kind of funny, the way Kannada film producers treat local talent. First they ignore them, and then, when the same girls become superstars in other film industries, these producers chase after them for call-sheets,” observes noted film critic, Maruthi Prasanna.

It has now become a norm for Bengaluru-based girls to start a career in other language movies. Ford supermodel Shubra Aiyappa is making her debut with a Telugu movie, first runner-up of Miss India 2008, Divya Parameshwaran chose to debut in Tamil, and model Kriti Kharbanda debuted with a Telugu movie. The list is endless; actor Nidhi Subbaiah is touted to be the next biggest contribution of Bengaluru to Hindi films. This Coorgi model has grabbed the female lead role in Akshay Kumar’s Hindi movie, Oh My God. The Kannada film industry has already started laying out the red carpet for Nidhi. Or should we say that the Kannada film producers have finally learnt to respect local talent!

“Kannada film producers have begun to understand that our local girls are as talented and glamorous as the Hindi film heroines. Look at Nidhi Subbaiah, Hariprriya and Sharmila Mandre, they are going places. Obviously, the Kannada film fraternity does not want to lose them, and have learnt from their past mistakes,” pointed out well-known film publicist, Baraguru Manjunatha.

Ramya, Radhika Pandit, Nidhi Subbaiah, Aindrita Ray, Ragini Dwivedi, Hariprriya, Rekha, Praneetha Subash, Sanjjanaa Archana, Sharmila Mandre, Bhavana, and Daisy Bopanna have their plates full, with plenty of projects in Kannada. Most of them have also ventured out of Kannada to grab important roles in other language movies as well. Apart from the A-list female actors, several others like Harshika Poonachcha, Supreetha, Deepa Sannidhi, Ramya Barna, Tejaswini, Neethu, Yagna Shetty, Rishika Singh, and Spoorthi are gradually making their way into leading projects.

The sudden importance for home grown talent stems from the fact that Bengaluru-based girls have made it big in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam movies. “It is true that the producer fraternity ignored local talent. But they have realised their mistake. Look at the number of local girls debuting in Kannada movies these days. I am sure they will make it big in the coming days,” declares leading film producer, Ha Cha Sathya.

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Dhanush’s new wardrobe.

We like.

Have to love Kangna’s new look – fresh, clean and gorgeous

Ekta’s big shoe blooper

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Sridevi – looking gorgeous and a bit over the top

Ganesh shines in a twist on the formal look

Genelia and Riteish look good together

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Sajid Khan with Jacqueline Fernandez

Sonia keeps it simple

Awww…Ajith & daughter Anoushka looking absolutely charming and resplendent in traditional wear

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Genelia rooting for the home team – Mumbai Heroes

Priyamani looks like she bowled a few overs herself at the CCL match

Namita looking errr… never mind…

Samantha’s neckpiece was a real eye catcher

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Guys love their denims – Pawan Kalyan & Nitin

We love to love you Richa, just don’t break our hearts by going all boring and blah on us

Captain Vishal is looking smug after his team’s successive victories at CCL

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Samantha in her favourite pair of shoes again Vimala Raman looking a tad nervous at the audio launch of her new film.

Losing touch, huh?

All work and no rest is making Santhanam a dull boy

Rana sure does tower over everyone

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On anyone else, this dress would have looked a tad too dated – not on the stunning Shriya though! She sizzles in this lacey number at the Maxim launch.

Kajal looking all south Indian and demure

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Drab doesn’t even begin to describe this look

Amala Paula goes biker chic. The shoes are a nono, though

Siddharth is all smiles about the response to his movie ‘ Love Failure’

We can hardly recognise Samantha in this traditional garb

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HERO

MALAYALAM Hero sees director Diphan and Prithviraj coming together once again, after the big hit Puthiya Mukham.

Diphan, who made his debut with Leader, delivered a hit with his second film, Puthiya Mukham starring Prithviraj, Priyamani and Bala in key roles. His next project, London Dreams was chartered along with friend 90

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and director, M Padmakumar of Vargam, Vaasthavam and Shikar – The Hunt fame.

They had even visited the UK to begin the shoot, but the climate and a few other setbacks made them postpone the project.

Padmakumar has now moved on to his new projects, Thiruvambaadi Thamban and Pathiramanal, while Diphan is shooting Hero in Ernakulam.

Cast: Prithviraj, Yami Gautam, Bala, Thalaivasal Vijay, Sreekanth Director: Diphan Producer: GP Vijayakumar Music: Gopi Sundar

Hero is the real life story of stunt artiste, Tarzan Antony. The film is a take on the life of many such stunt artistes who risk their lives to make films happen. Tarzan Antony is fight master Dharmarajan’s assistant.

After a small rift between them, Tarzan gives up cinema to lead a different life. But fate doesn’t let him stay away for long. He is drawn back, this time to work as a stunt

A very notable thing is that he has done many of the thrilling stunts himself, without a double.”

Hero is produced by GP Vijayakumar under the Seven Arts banner with the script by Vinod Guruvayoor, cinematography by Bharani K Dharan, art-direction by Gireesh Menon and editing by Samjith Muhammed.

Hero is due for release in the first week of May. - Unni R Nair

double of the young star, Prem Anand.

Tarzan does some wonderful stunt sequences, surprising people, but will this comeback prove a turning point in his life?

Giving company to Prithviraj’s Tarzan Antony on screen are Thalaivasal Vijay as Dharmarajan and Sreekanth as Prem Anand.

Tini Tom, who’s very busy these days, and Anoop Chandran play aides to Prithviraj’s Tarzan Antony, while Bala also has a key role.

Punjab-born model-actress, Yami Gautam, who has acted in tele-serials and Telugu films and is all set to make her entry into Bollywood, plays the female lead. Though many other actresses were considered, Diphan finally chose Yami, who will make her Malayalam debut with Hero.

“Stunt artistes lead a very different life.

The risks they have to take are not trivial.

In their personal lives too, they face a lot of problems; some of them don’t even find people willing to marry off their daughters to them. They make heroes look cool, appearing as if they are doing daring stunts on screen, but remain in the dark themselves.

In fact, stunt artistes are the real heroes... unsung heroes... their stories go unnoticed.

This is what Hero tries to portray,” Diphan elaborates.

Working with Prithviraj has been a great experience for the director. “We share a good rapport. He knows what I want from a film, and I know what he can deliver. It’s good teamwork between us, and I believe that’s what led to the success of Puthiya Mukham.

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LAKSHMI KANNADA

Priyamani has joined the rare list of leading ladies to act opposite both Puneet Rajkumar and his elder brother Shivarajkumar. For the first time, she will be seen opposite Shivarajkumar in Lakshmi, a women-centric film, currently in shooting. Directed by Raghava Loki, the movie promises to be a suspense thriller with plenty of scope for Priyamani to display her acting prowess.

Nearly 75 percent of the film’s shooting is complete, with just a couple of songs pending.

“It has been fun shooting for this film.

Working with Shivanna is an awesome experience. He is so full of energy, and dances amazingly,” shares an excited Priyamani. Whenever Shivarajkumar is shooting, he ensures that there are no

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Cast: Shivarajkumar, Priyamani, Saloni, Ashish Vidyarthi, Ravi Kale Director: Raghav Loki Producer: Bharani Minerals Music: Gurukiran

incidents that make news. Ask Priyamani if there were any funny or freaking incidents on the sets, and her answer is a simple, “Nope.”

But we hear that there is more than what meets the eye!

Shivarajkumar does not want to reveal what transpired on the sets because the movie is loaded with surprises. “A significant portion of the movie comprises of a flashback. There are a few elements of novelty, and it will be a complete entertainer. The highlight of this movie is the picturisation of the songs,” says Shivarajkumar.

Raghava Loki is excited to be directing the two actors. “This has been a dream-cometrue for me. I had written this story long ago, and everything fell into place at the right moment. Expect a surprise package,” says a confident Raghava.

The movie has been shot extensively in Karnataka, Hong Kong and Thailand. It made

a lot of news during the filming of one of the songs, choreographed by Pradeep Anthony.

The song, shot in Bengaluru, is supposed to be one of the costliest songs of 2011. The director does not want to reveal too much, but says that he procured an expensive camera for the song from Hyderabad.

An unknown fact about the movie is that Saloni is playing a special role. People associated with Lakshmi contend that Saloni Aswani is the second female lead of the movie, but the director does not want to comment on her role. According to one of the assistant directors, the shooting involving Saloni has been kept a secret, with only a limited number of people from the production unit. But why is her role such a big secret? Wait and watch! Though the title suggests the film is women-cetric, the movie is all about terrorism involving international ramifications.

- Aravind G Shivakamal

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Mass, action, thriller – this is how Sampath Nandi wants to describe his upcoming movie – Racha – which stars the handsome Ram Charan Teja in the lead role. The shooting of the movie commenced in June last year and concluded only recently. The audio release of the movie is scheduled for March and the film could hit the screens in April.

Racha is expected to give Charan a completely different image. The high-octane movie has many scenes where Ram is seen bashing up the baddies. The actor has spent more than two months in the US, undergoing training in martial arts for this film. The shooting took place in various parts of the country, including two songs abroad.

Charan and Tamannaah are being paired for the first time together in a Telugu film, and obviously the expectations from their fans are very high. Both Charan and Tamannaah

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Cast: Ram Charan Teja, Tamannaah, Prakash Raj, Ajmal Ameer, Parthiban Director: Sampath Nandi Producer: Mega Supergood Films Music: Mani Sharma

play medical students, who fall in love, fighting against all the odds. There is going to be plenty of comedy in the movie, as Brahmanandam plays a pivotal role.

performing the role. However, he later realised what a ‘powerful’ role was being offered to him and did not want to miss the opportunity.

The highlight of the film is a special song by sultry siren Lisa Haydon, which introduces Charan in the beginning of the movie. The song was shot in a specially-erected set at a studio in Hyderabad in January. We hear that there were several serious contenders to perform this special song, including Nidhi Subbaiah. Eventually, the project fell into Lisa Haydon’s lap.

If it is a Charan movie, it means the music will be a chart buster; Mani Sharma has composed special tunes for the movie. The makers have decided to release the audio in Kurnool, where a portion of the movie was also shot.

Prakash Raj and Ajmal Ameer are also part of the star cast. For the moment, director Nandi is unwilling to disclose much of the storyline. The surprise element in Racha is Tamil actor Parthiban, who plays the role of Charan’s father in the film. Parthiban recently revealed that initially, he was sceptical about

They recently released the ‘first look’ pictures of Racha and the movie’s logo, amidst fanfare and anticipation, and it is already creating a strong buzz online. Racha will be dubbed in Tamil and Malayalam and released simultaneously with the original Telugu version.

- Aravind G Shivakamal

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ALEX PANDIAN TAMIL

Cast: Karthi, Anushka Shetty, Nikitha, Akanksha Puri, Santhanam, ‘Renigunta’ Sanusha Sri, Milind Soman, Suman, Raj Kapoor, Manobala Director: Suraj Producer: KE Gnanavel Raja / Studio Green Films Music: Devi Sri Prasad

Karthi’s strategy of choosing unique scripts and opting for short intervals between each film keeps him safe in the coveted A-list of stars. Thanks to this formula, he is among the few actors whose successes have happened within a short span of time. While Saguni is in the last leg of post-production, the actor is almost done with major portions of Alex Pandian as well.

Looks like Karthi has been bitten by the Superstar bug, choosing Rajinikanth’s titles and onscreen names. It all started with his movie, Naan Mahaan Alla, which nevertheless, was not in any way related to the 1984 namesake starring the Superstar.

And now, he has signed Alex Pandian, titled after the role played the Superstar in the memorable film Moondru Mugam. This time, he has chosen to work with director Suraj, two of whose previous films have been named after Rajinikanth’s hit movies.

After the runaway success of Siruthai, Karthi was supposed to immediately join hands with Suraj for this film. However, he decided to push the project back, and went ahead with newcomer Shankar Dayal for Saguni, with a plan of wrapping up the film in a short timespan. Being a thorough professional, Karthi stuck to his commitment.

Director Suraj is famous for his commercial

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‘action-masala’ movies like Sundar C’s Thalai Nagaram, the Arjun-starrer Marudhamalai, and Padikadhavan and Mappillai with Dhanush.

The first schedule of the shooting was held in the dense forests of Chalakudy, where a grand set was erected, following which a few portions were shot in Vishakhapatnam.

The producers are planning to shoot the remaining portions and songs in Karnataka and Hyderabad.

Right from his debut film, Paruthiveeran, Karthi’s characterisation in all his films has been laced with shades of humour, which indeed has contributed significantly to his huge fan following across all age groups.

To top it, Alex Pandian could well benefit from the advantage that the director Suraj himself has a successful track record with humour in his films. His ability to weave comedy throughout the screenplay has been the major reason behind the success of his films. While Thalai Nagaram had a bombastic track between Sundar C and Vadivelu (he was a hoot as Naai Sekar), it was Arjun and Vadivelu who created a laughriot in Marudhamalai. The Dhanush-Vivek combination in Padikadhavan and Maappillai also had audiences in splits.

The director seems to have formulated a similar technique with Karthi and Santhanam, who have already tickled our funny bone in Siruthai. As a matter of fact, the comedy between these two actors in Saguni with their brand names, Rajini and Kamal, has added more fanfare to the film.

According to director Suraj, “Alex Pandian will have you laughing hard... especially this duo.”

On an equal footing, the film is going to offer a whole lot of glamour as it boasts of hotties like the ultra-gorgeous Anushka Shetty, Nikitha and Akanksha Puri. ‘Renigunta’ Sanusha plays an important role in this film, while Bollywood actor, Milind Soman, who played a negative role in Karthi’s Paiyaa has been signed on for a pivotal role. Since the film is touted to be a commercial entertainer, Suraj has roped in the stylish Devi Sri Prasad to score the music.

- R Richard Mahesh

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We are constantly accosted with the best Hollywood movies being dubbed into Telugu, Tamil and Hindi and have watched some of the biggest stars speak in clear and pristine Telugu and Tamil. But what if this trend were to be reversed and we got to see our very own homegrown talent belting out their best punch dialogues in English?

Nandini T Reddy gives you a gist of some famous Telugu and Tamil punch lines, with their dialogues literally translated into English

“Saadharana manishanukku currenta thotta shock adikkum, aanaa naan Narasimha. Enna thotta currenttukke shock adikkum.”

“When an ordinary man touches current, he gets a shock. But I am Narasimha, if it touches me, then current itself will get a shock”

“Naan solrathaiyum seiven, sollathathaiyum seiven” “I will do what I say, I will also do what I don’t say.”

“Aravaku, Amma thodu addanga narikestha” “Don’t shout, mother promise, will cut you horizontally”

“Nee adicha piece naan adicha mass”, “If you hit it is dust, but if I hit you, it is mass” “Chudu chudu...oka vaipe chudu..inko vaipu chudaali anukoku... thattukolevu...madipothaav” “Look Look…only look on one side…if you look on the other side…you cannot bear it…you will burn”

“Yevadu kodithe dimmathirigi mind block aipoddo, aade Pandu gaadu” “Whoever hits and makes your head spin and blocks your mind, he is Pandu”

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“Shankar Reddy, mokke kada ani peekeshthe peekakostha” “Shankar Reddy, if you think just a plant and pull out, I will cut your throat”

“Kathulatho kaadu kanthi chooputo chanpestha” Not with knives, I will kill you with a look from my eyes”

“Nuvvu publicity kosam kodathaav. Nenu kodithe adi publicity.”

“You hit for publicity. When I hit it is publicity”

“Naangella modikaruda neneipon, nechadella modipon” “We think about what we need to finish, and finish everything we think about”

“Ellarum kettavan na ivan romba kettavan” “ If everybody is bad, he is too bad”

“Yenna madiri pasanga paatha pudikadu paaka paaka pudikum” “You won’t like guys like me on first sight, you like on seeing more and more”

“Osthikku limitee kidayathale....puraa unlimited thaan” “Osthi has no limits…fully unlimited”

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Malayalam Cast: Pasupathy, Makarand Deshpande, Shwetha Menon, Mallika, Padmapriya, Thilakan, Jagathy Sreekumar, Jagadish, Rekha Director: MA Nishad Producer: NFC Entertainments Music: M Jayachandran

What a nice, quaint name for a road movie, you think? “But it isn’t just a road movie,” says director MA Nishad adding, “This film is high on emotions, has a dose of action, and is even treated differently when compared to a regular road movie.”

MA Nishad began his journey as a filmmaker with Pakal, which delivered a strong social message. His second film, Nagaram, was also similar in tone and treatment. But then with Ayudham, his third, he changed tracks and made a typical ‘Suresh Gopi’ brand of action thriller. Then came Vairam, which was emotionally charged and won critical acclaim too. Next up was Best of Luck, which however was a downer in all aspects.

Responding to the feedback, the director says, “Hmm… I want to forget that film!”

No.66 Madurai Bus has a whole lot on offer though. “Pasupathy and I team up once again after Vairam. Pasupathy plays Varadarajan, a forest guard who boards a KSRTC bus from Kollam to Madurai. His journey has a purpose,” reveals Nishad. The film is

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produced under the NFC Entertainments banner and is based on a script penned by KV Anil. Cinematography is by Pradeep Nair. “Anil, Pradeep and I share a perfect rapport; we are of the same age-group and share the same kind of vision in filmmaking.

Anil has done a perfect job of the script and Pradeep has captured wonderful frames,” says Nishad, who seems to have tremendous confidence in his team.

He even goes on to add that the KollamMadurai bus also becomes a character in the film – in fact one of the pivotal characters.

“With each of my films, I have changed my way of narrating the story and have tried a complete shift in the terrain and background.

The forest backdrop and the landscape across the border of Tamil Nadu will lend this film a totally different feel. As the bus moves on and the visuals change, the nature of the journey itself undergoes a big change,” he goes on to add.

Pasupathy, who is one of the most versatile actors in south Indian cinema, is not new to Malayalam cinema. He had earlier acted in Big B and Vairam, and is also playing a key role in the film The Outsider, directed

by Athmakatha fame Premlal. MA Nishad is all praise for Pasupathy, “He is an actor whose potential is yet to be fully explored and exploited. He changes into the frame or mould of any character. The Pasupathy we saw in Virumaandi is entirely different from the Pasupathy we saw in Veyil; the Pasupathy we saw in Veyil is entirely different from the actor we saw in Raman Thediya Seethai; the one in Raman Thediya Seethai is different from the Pasupathy we saw in Kuselan and what we saw of him in Kuselan is entirely different from what he portrayed in Vairam!

He is an actor who can elevate himself to different levels of acting. I am just trying to tap into his potential as much as I can.” High praise for Pasupathy indeed.

No.66 Madurai Bus features lyrics by Vayalar Sarath Chandra Varma and Rajeev Alunkal, music by M Jayachandran, editing

by Samjith Muhammed and art-direction

by Gireesh Menon. Danty Kachipilly is the executive producer. The film is scheduled to hit screens in April.

- Unni R Nair

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Kannada

It does not get bigger than this for Upendra (Uppi), who is playing a triple role for the second time in his career after Hollywood (2002). Godfather, directed by Tamil cinematographer PC Sreeram has been in the news for some time now, because it is the first Kannada movie for which music maestro AR Rahman is composing exclusive songs.

Obviously, Upendra is elated!

Though the film is a remake of the Tamil hit, Varalaaru (2006), Sreeram has tweaked the story to the liking of Uppi’s legionnaire of fans. Except for the shooting of two songs, the movie is ready for release. And, if everything works out as planned by the director, Godfather will be in theatres by the third week of March.

The Superstar of Kannada cinema is pinning his hopes on this film because a lot of homework has gone into its making. Before the film went on the floors, Uppi and Sreeram experimented a lot with the costumes and scenes. “We did selective shots, and went

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Cast: Upendra, Sada, Soundarya, Catherine Tresa Director: PC Sreeram Music: AR Rahman Producer: K Manju

ahead with the project only after we were convinced that it would work. I have a lot of confidence in Sreeram,” says an excited Uppi, who adds that he was a bit skeptical about acting in a remake. “Since I directed my previous film (Super), I was in two minds about accepting the remake of Varalaaru.

But some remakes have been successful.

You know, it took me five years to decide if I should be part of the Kannada remake of the Tamil hit Ratha Kanneer. But eventually, it was a super success,” he smiles.

The star actor was completely involved in revising the story for Godfather. He was even part of the technical team that finalised the creative shooting of the songs. The highlight of the movie is the specially erected set that cost the producer 25 lakhs. Sreeram has left no stone unturned, roping in well-known names from Hindi cinema for the costume designing and editing. “The film is shaping up really well. It has been my dream to direct Upendra and it has finally come true. I am sure his fans will lap it up,” Sreeram says.

Speaking of the making of the film, Uppi says it was not easy performing three different roles, adding that he spent hours every day, just for make-up. Sreeram has roped in legendary make-up artiste Ramakrishna for the movie. “Transforming him into three roles took away nearly four hours every day. But Uppi was patient and even paid attention to the minor details.

Making him look like a grandfather was the most difficult,” says Ramakrishna.

For Soundarya, daughter of veteran actor Jaimala, this is her debut film in Kannada, and she is naturally excited. With exclusive music composed by Rahman, Godfather sure is one of the most-awaited films in Kannada!

- Aravind G Shivakamal

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Telugu Cast: Rana Daggubati, Genelia, Nassar, Brahmanandam Director: Prakash Toleti Producer: Parachuri Kireeti Music: Chakri

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Naa Ishtam sees the pairing of Rana Daggubati and Genelia for the first time. Yet another romance film, this one is directed by newcomer Prakash Toleti and produced

by Parachuri Kireeti, whose previous film, Simha was a hit.

Speaking of the film, Rana says, “Naa Ishtam is a rom-com. It’s a love story of a selfish man and a girl who is naive and accepts things as they come. The boy never indulges in activities that are not beneficial to him.”

So, it’s a story of what happens when the boy falls in love. Prakash, who is an associate of Sukumar (Arya and 100 % Love) is all set to make an amazing debut with two well-known stars. Obviously, the stakes are high!

Naa Ishtam has been shot over the last one year mostly in Malaysia and Hyderabad. “A major part of the story is set in Malaysia, and so the film was shot there,” adds Rana, who sports a different look in his third Telugu film. Going by the previews, there seems to be quite a bit of action in the film,

choreographed by Ram Lakshman and Stunt Siva.

Nassar, Brahmanandam, Ali, Subbaraju, Uttej, Raghubabu, Ahuti Prasad, Harshavardhan and Pragati form the rest of the cast. The music has already created a buzz in the industry and the credit goes to Chakri for the lovely soundscape. While director Prakash Toleti shares the story credit with Kona Venkat, he has written the screenplay and dialogues himself, besides helming the film. Venkat Prasad is the cinematographer and Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao has edited the film, ensuring that it is action-packed.

Naa Ishtam is scheduled to release on March 23. And, as Rana sums up, it is touted to be “an extremely fun film. Laugh it all summer long!”

- Radhika Rajamani

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Tamil

Cast: Dhanush, Shruti Haasan, Siva Karthikeyan Director: Aishwarya Dhanush Producer(s): RK Productions, Wunderbar Films Music: Anirudh

It has been a dream-run for Aishwarya Rajinikanth Dhanush; her debut directorial has garnered more laurels than she may have envisaged, even before its release. When the first-look posters of 3 were released, they didn’t evoke much response due to the predominance of Dhanush’s other movie, Mayakkam Enna. But things changed literally overnight, with Kolaveri. What was created just for fun, has turned into a youth anthem of sorts around the world. Who would have ever imagined that it would be awarded Best Song of the Year by one of the world’s leading news channels, CNN? As if Kolaveri isn’t enough to bring audiences in hordes to the theatres, 3 has other attractions too. How about the sizzling chemistry between the lead pair Dhanush

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and Shruti Haasan? People can’t wait to see the duo on screen, especially after all those rumours about them flying thick and fast.

Also high on the popularity charts is 3’s 21-year-old music director who has created magic with this album, offering a mixed bag of genres. Idhazhin Oram – The innocence of Love crooned by Ajeesh and Anirudh Ravichander, based on techno beats, and Poo Nee Po that marks the debut of Bollywood’s most loved Mohit Chauhan in Kollywood, have already become chartbusters. Moreover, party animals have been relentlessly feeding on Come On Girls and the various remixes of Kolaveri.

Initially, Amala Paul was to come on board as the female lead, but a few changes took place at the spur of the moment with Shruti

Haasan replacing her. In fact, this set tongues wagging about Amala Paul, as it was said that the call sheet was not given to her, because of which she walked out of the project, stating other reasons.

Having tasted success in Polladhavan and Aadukalam, cinematographer Velraj collaborates with Dhanush again for this film. According to sources, Dhanush was confident that Velraj could give excellent visual enhancements, after witnessing his work in his other movies including AR Murugadoss’ Engeyum Eppodhum.

Academy Award-winner Resul Pookutty, who is working on the sound for 3 is singing praises about the entire crew, which in turn has brought more publicity to the movie.

Watching the rushes, Pookutty says, “The

film doesn’t look like it has been made by a newcomer. It will especially be a milestone in the careers of Dhanush and Shruti Haasan for their striking performances.”

Since the film has gained global attention, the makers are now busy dubbing it simultaneously in Telugu and Hindi, to be released along with the Tamil version and carry English subtitles as well. Right now, the song recordings for the Telugu version are nearing completion, and the audio will be launched shortly. The theatrical release was scheduled for February, but has now been postponed to April due to the decision of the Tamil Film Producers Council, on releasing big budget movies only during specific occasions.

- R Richard Mahesh

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Aquarius (January 20-February 18) :

Taurus (April 20-May 20):

The year seems to offer a position of public responsibility. While this may not be easy initially, it can be a real eye-opener. Any of the stars taking to politics?

Trisha: watch out! You will be caught between different concerns, in this demanding, eventful yet rewarding year.

Pisces (February 19-March 20):

Gemini (May 21-June 20):

2012 is a year of self-discovery.

Some stars might be established, but their progress is dependant on their willingness to step outside their comfort zone (read: stereotype) and experiment with new ideas. Take care of your health…

2012 is a year for stars like Madhavan and Karthi to work on something they are naturally good at, and perfect it. It seems you may play the role of apprentice to someone who you admire and this will be an experience to savour.

Aries (March 21-April 19):

Cancer (June 21-July 22):

The mantra for Ram Charan Teja and other stars born in this period is: you have to give to get; life is not a oneway-street. Find the treasure in the other person’s trash.

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If the stars are looking for ‘joy and jubilation’, they will have to tap into the ‘here and now’. This is the time to cultivate artistic bents, recreational pursuits. For Cancerians, the mind follows the heart this year.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21):

Leo (July 23-August 22): Protect your private life, Dhanush and Hansika! That’s all we have to say...

A lot of your success, Asin, will depend on your willingness to back yourself regarding new areas of endeavour, and news that gives you a new outlook to your fans. You may be surprised at some of the support you receive. The same goes for you, Anushka. It might seem like you have too much on your plate, but that’s how life is!

Virgo (August 23-September 22):

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21):

For actors like Upendra and Nagarjuna, being curious this year and letting curiosity be the guide will help turn their fortunes around. PS: You will find yourself involved in more networking and in some ‘fixes’ in the media, which might work to your benefit.

Face your fears and damask your enemies. For people like Victory Venkatesh and Superstar Rajinikanth, your understanding of your work and industry will be an enlightening experience for those around you.

Libra (September 23-October 22):

Capricorn (December 22-January 19):

Dear Prithviraj: Your plans might remain on cloud nine if you do not take the initiative and act… now!

Your focus has largely been on career, and self-growth has followed your success in this area. Now is the time to share that around with like-minded.

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RNI No: APENG/2009/29389 |

Regd No: L II/RNP/HD/1118/2010-12 | March 2012.