Maatran at Stan Winston Studios

K V Anand is far-famed for his magniloquent style of making movies. He makes sure that he explores the virgin locations for his flicks, which happens to be one of the best factors. Following Ayan and Ko, his upcoming film Maatran starring Suriya and Kajal Agarwal in lead roles is shot across exotic locales of Russia and USA. Right now, the entire crew is shooting few portions in Stan Winston Studios of Hollywood.

Shankar Denies Rumors About Vikram

Shankar is so cool and happy. His experience with a remake has been fresh and enjoyable. But the director makes a promise that he would never go for a remake again. Adding more details to his future project says that actually he wanted to make an action thriller, but ended up with a comedy film (Nanban).

So his next film will be a full-fledged action thriller and the lead actors for the project are still under consideration. ‘I will be finalizing the lead actor by March and we haven’t finalized anyone – Vikram or Ajith for the film’ tots up Shankar.

Jayam Ravi in Samuthirakani’s movie

The latest buzz is that Jayam Ravi will be next seen in a film directed by Samuthirakani.

Says Jayam Ravi, ‘I have always wanted to work with Samuthirakani. In fact, talks are on with the director regarding a film. However, we haven’t zeroed on any script yet.
At present, I already have too many in my kitty. So, I have decided to slow down a bit and take one step at a time.’
However, the actor has also made it clear that only after completing Kalayana Krishnan’s ‘Boologam’ and SP Jananathan’s film, he will start shooting for Samuthirakani’s project.

Vikraman’s new venture

Director Vikraman who directed started his carrier with Pudhu Vasantham went on to make blockbuster movies like Poove Unakaga ,Suryavamsam,Unnidathil Ennai Koduthein.

After his earlier venture Chennai Kadhal which had Bharath and Genelia bombed at the office box, the director maintained a low profile . But , now the director has started his new venture titled “Ilamai Natkal” that will feature lot of new faces . The movie is said to be the story of +2 students and their experiences.The crew will be soon flying to Norway and Iceland to shoot few songs in exotic locations.

Tamil film producers seek Jayalalithaa’s help

Even as the Kollywood crisis deepened and 55 films are stuck due to the stand-off between the producers and the crew unions, the Tamil Nadu producers council held an emergency meeting late Monday and appealed to chief minister J. Jayalalithaa to intervene as millions of rupees, mostly borrowed at high interest rates, were at stake.

“This impasse has badly hit the (film) industry. It is not just the money locked up, but also the livelihood of hundreds of workers. We hope the chief minister will intervene and set things right,” producers council chairperson S.A. Chandrasekar told DC.
The crew unions, coming under the umbrella label film employees federation of south India (FEFSI), are demanding an increase in emoluments, pointing out that the wage revision effected every three years was due for negotiation early 2011 but the producers were dodging the issue.
The council has taken the stand that the hike demanded by FEFSI was unreasonable and done unilaterally.
FEFSI, too, had made a representation to the chief minister a few days back, seeking her intervention.
The directors union announced wage revision for directors, associate directors and assistant directors Sunday. Mr Chandrasekar was not willing to comment on it.
“The producers should plan shoots better to cut costs. It is not fair to give low salaries to labourers,” says associate director Chandra. She says though the stand-off has affected many families, the issue has to be sorted out since it ‘was more a rights issue’.
With the stand-off affecting many films under production, producers and FEFSI members hope the state will intervene and sort out the issue.

I don’t want politics: Kamal

when actor evinces keen interest to enter politics and make a name for him, Kamal Hassan is a rare exception.

The actor who is against foraying to politics, says, ‘ people ask me why I haven’t joined politics and when I say, I don’t wish to, they turn around and say, ‘but there’s so much money in it!’ So even the common man sees politics as a means to make money’.
He is currently busy with Viswaroopam , an Rs 100 crore film which is directed and enacted by him.

Kollywood Crisis- 10 days of no shoot!

The year 2012, has started on a bad note for Kollywood.
A dispute over wage revision between Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC) and workers union led by Film Employees Federation of South India (FEFSI), has brought the Tamil industry to a grinding halt.

There has been no shooting of any films in Chennai for the last 10 days, due to the stand-off between the producers and unions.
Many meetings between the warring factions of the film industry have been called by mediators but it has only further strengthened the resolve to strike work.
Says an industry observer: “ Nearly 50 films big and small shooting has been stalled. The impasse has badly hit the industry as thousands of daily wage workers depending on the film industry are virtually on the streets”.
The bone of contention is that the wage revision effected every three years was due for negotiation early 2011, but producers are dragging their feet over it.
TFPC feels that the success percentage of Tamil films is hardly 6 to 8 %, andcost of production has gone through the roof. They feel hike demanded by FEFSI is unreasonable and done unilaterally.
The impasse has badly hit the production sector as nearly 50 films have been delayed due to this “unofficial strike”. Both TFPC and FEFSI have hardened their standand refusing to hold meetings for an amicable settlement.
The ball is now in the state governments court, as both the groups want official intervention. ​

Billa 2 – what happens if the May Day is missed?

Billa 2 is gearing up for release. As per sources in the tinsel town, the shooting schedules of this film are almost complete and the director, Chakri Toleti, is busy with the post-production works. The target for Billa 2’s release was April 14th and now it has been pushed to May 1st.

According to the new rule imposed by the Tamil Film Producers’ Council, all films made on a big budget with leading heroes in the tinsel town should be released only during the five festive days allotted for the purpose. Therefore, it is now certain that Billa 2 would hit the screens either on April 14th or May Day. If it is May Day, Ajith fans will be the happiest because it happens to be his birthday.
On that other hand, if the producers miss the date, then Billa 2 would see the light of the day only on August 15th which is a few months away.

Will Katrina Kaif sign Kamal Hassan’s Thalaivan Irukinran?

‘Chikni Chameli’ Katrina Kaif seems to be ready to dominate the Tamil film industry. The gorgeous actress, if everything goes according to the plan, will have a rare opportunity to pair up with two South Indian superstars – Rajinikanth and Kamal Hassan. It is well-known that she has been offered Kochadaiyaan and what many does not know is that the producer of Kamal’s next movie has also approached her.

Producer Aascar Ravichandran, who is producing Thalaivan Irukinran, has reportedly offered the film to Katrina Kaif. Confirming the news, he said that the talks are in the early stage and nothing has been finalised. It is said that, as it is Kamal Hassan’s movie, the actress is not keen to turn down the offer. However, it is also true that her dates are packed for the entire year with many big banner films. Adding to that she also has Rajinikanth’s Kochadaiyaan, which requires bulk dates.
Thalaivan Irukinran is written and directed by Kamal Hassan himself. The movie is made on corruption.

Veteran Comedian Idichapuli Selvaraj Passes away

Idichapuli Selvaraj is one of the classic comedians of Tamil cinema.


He has acted more than 100 films in his carrier and has known for his Top comedy scenes with Koundamani and Senthil in the movie Chinna Vathiyar starringPrabhu and Ranjitha in the lead roles..
Also Selvaraj has acted with the legends like MGR, Sivaji Ganesan, Rajinikanth, Kamal Hassan in his earlier days.

The 73 old veteran actor who had breathing complaints around 8 am in the morning was rushed to the Royapettah Hospital but he passed away on the way.

His wife name is Chellam and he has a daughter named Vasanthi. People are paying his last attributes at his residence at Nandanam, Chennai.

Reema Sen to Marry shiv karan Singh On March 2012

Popular actress Reema Sen will be getting married to her beau Shiv Karan Singh on March 11 in New Delhi.

Director Ahmed upsets Tamannah

Actress Tamanna was upset when director Ahmed's manager approached her to act as a second heroine. Jeeva is the hero of that upcoming film with whom Trisha joins for the first time.

Gautham Menon Signs Jai, Ananya and Santhanam

Having missed the golden opportunity of working with Gautham Menon, actor Jai is so elated that he has got the lady luck knocking his doors again. The untitled film will be a romantic entertainer starring Jai and Ananya in lead roles to be directed by newcomer Prem Sai. It is worth mentioning that Jai and Ananya were seen playing lead roles in A.R. Murugadoss’ production Engeyum Eppodhum, though they weren’t the pairs.

Santhanam will add to the humor quotients and rest of the details about cast-n-crew will be announced shortly.

Meanwhile, Gautham Menon is planning to join hands with maestro Ilayaraja for one of his upcoming projects and the news is confirmed by Ilayaraja himself.

Second Innings for Nayanthara

Last time we saw Nayanthara over the screens was in Boss Engira Baskaran and later she proved her proficiency in Kannada (Super), Malayalam (Bodyguard) and Telugu (Sri Rama Jayam), which was reported to be her last set of movies.

It was heard that the actress had decided to settle down with her family life, but changes seems to have taken place.

According to the sources, Nayanthara is planning to sign few projects in Tamil and Telugu. And if it happens with her second innings, this will be a big celebration for the fans, who have been missing her a lot.

Manisha Koirala in deep trouble?

Actress Manisha Koirala who has acted in Bombay, Indian, Baba and other films.

Actress Manisha Koirala was looking bloated and was in no situation to pose for pictures after attending a party. Manisha Koirala got married to Samrat Dahal in 2010.

Immediately after her marriage she created a issue by putting up a status message on a social networking website saying that her marriage was in trouble. A close friend said “she has had to adjust not only to a life of domesticity, but also to her husband’s entire family and their traditional way of life. At one point, she almost gave up and decided to return to India, but now she wants to give her marriage one last shot.”

Actress Manisha Koirala was looking pale and haggard. She was wearing a black T-shirt and a long gray jacket. It made us wonder for a moment what was really wrong with her. Manisha had got married just a year ago. Manisha Koirala revealed that she won’t talk about her personal life. At the moment, all my friends know I need to be left alone.

I don’t need to give explanations about what’s going on in my life she said. Manisha Koirala had tied the knot with Samrat Dahal in 2010 in Nepal.

There were reports recently that Manisha Koirala was for divorce. Her appearance at the recent party makes us think that she is in need of help.

Ajith in Kamal’s Thalaivan Irukinran

This is going to be a mega news for both Kamal and Ajith fans.
Yes Kamal before the release of Viswaroopam has started to plan for his forthcoming project.
Thalaivar Irukinran is the film which was said to have started before Viswaroopam and it was delayed due to various reasons.
But Producer Aascar Ravichandran who gave the blockbuster ‘Dasavatharam’ with Kamal Hassan has given hands for this mega project.
Sources say that Ajith Kumar along with Mohanlal and Ravi Teja has been roped to act along with Kamal Hassan in important roles in Thalaivar Irukinran.
The film is based on Politics and Corruption. The Hindi version is titled as ‘Amar Hain’.
Official Announcements of the film is expected very soon.

Bala “Eriyum Thanal “ New Heroine Update!!

The Shooting of national award winning director bala’s next movie Eriyum Thanal is going on at a brisk pace. Some scenes are being shot near Ramanathapuram along the coastal areas with the lead pair Atharva and Vedhika.

It is common knowledge that Bala chooses fair heroines for his films and makes them look dusky either by applying dark make up or gets them to tan them naturally. The earlier examples are pooja, Madhu Shalini, to name a few.

Tamil film industry on verge of crisis over wage revision

The multi-million rupee Tamil film industry seems to be on the verge of a crisis with wage revision turning out to be a flash point between unions of producers and workers.

Peeved over the ‘unilateral decision’ of the workers’ body Film Employees Federation of South India (FEFSI) on revising the wage structure, the Tamil Film Producers’ Council (TFPC) has ruled out working with them.
While a strike paralysing the industry boasting some of the biggest names of Indian cinema, including actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan is not in the offing, FEFSI has however decided to take to the streets by organising a fast, sources said.
Sources indicated that not much production activity took place last week, with TFPC convening an emergency meeting of its general council to discuss the issue on Monday, even as it held that it could not negotiate with FEFSI due to elections to the body and change of guard.
While wage revision had been happening once in three years for the past few years, it did not happen last year with the expiry of the latest scale in early 2011.
However, FEFSI went ahead and announced a scale, which is now the bone of contention between the two bodies.
“Agreement on payscale is usually signed after discussions with both parties and this time FEFSI’s unilateral decision was against normal practice,” TFPC sources said.
However, a FEFSI office-bearer said the demand to increase pay by 30-50 per cent was the general scale proposed.
Noted director Cheran, known for critically acclaimed films like ‘Autograph’, batted for producers, saying it was ‘unfair’ of the workers to demand a 100 per cent hike when investing on films had become a ‘gamble’.
“A director or a cinematographer receives wages only according to the budget of the film. But for the workers, the scale is constant, irrespective of investment made into the film, whether shot on Rs 100 crore or made on a shoe-string budget,” he added.
The move would only further worsen the industry, where successful films are becoming fewer and filmmaking itself is a big challenge, Cheran added.
Even a talented, tech-savvy film-maker has to shell out more if he abides by FEFSI rules, though he can manage to complete his films within a few lakhs of rupees, he claimed.
Meanwhile, the eternal demand of top stars reducing their salaries has also come up once again from some sections.
Many of the major actors are paid in crores besides some being given rights to the film in some areas.
A strike by the FEFSI a few years ago had paralysed the Tamil film industry.

Katrina Kaif opposite Kamal Haasan?

Even though Bollywood beauty Katrina Kaif is yet to be officially announced as the heroine in Rajinikanth-starrer Kochadaiyaan, now there’s speculation in the media that the Chikni Chameli girl will share space with none other than iconic actor Kamal Haasan.

According to sources in tinsel town, the actress has been approached by Aascar Films for their next venture with Kamal Haasan. This film is touted to be a big budget bonanza.
Aascar Ravichandran is making all efforts to rope in a star filmmaker known for his grandeur to direct Kamal. There’s also some buzz that there may be one more heroine in the movie apart from Katrina.
However when DC contacted Ravichandran, he did not deny the reports but said, “It’s all in the initial stages. We are planning to bring Katrina Kaif on board. Nothing has been finalised.”

First Look: ‘Talaash’ digital poster…

With two helicopters in the air, moving clouds and a beefy Salman Khan sporting a swaying scarf, Yash Raj films released a one-of-its-kind digital poster for Ek Tha Tiger late last year.

Now, Aamir Khan, reportedly impressed by the cool technology, followed suit with the release of the digital poster of his new flick Talaash.
The digital poster of the film has Aamir sporting his latest mustached look as the backdrop to a fast-paced bustling city life and a mysterious tagline of ‘The Answer Lies Within’.
After the astounding success of Kolaveri, filmmakers and marketing gurus seemed to have realised the potential of online media. In an industry where budget is a matter of little concern, digital posters could be the next best thing to unveil the first look of a film.
While Kollywood is yet to have its first digital poster, rumours have it that it won’t be very long before the digital posters of the much-anticipated Kochadaiyaan hit the online world. Says ad filmmaker and TV producer, P. Praveen, “Digital posters is a trend that is yet to take off in Kollywood. But it is visible on a number of film websites, that use a little bit of flash animation to give new releases that edge.
While Kollywood may be yet to see its first digital poster, those here affirm that it’s an idea they are willing to try. Director and cinematographer, K.V. Anand, who is currently busy with his next flick, Maatran starring Suriya, says, “Publicity for the film is yet to start, but digital posters is something we’d like to consider. These are days where posters can’t be stuck on the road and most have realised the target audience leads an active life online. Traditional methods for advertising aren’t sufficient and the target audience needs to be reached via YouTube, Facebook or Twitter.”
Actor Ganesh Venkataraman, who looks forward to the release of his Pani Thuli, feels that with actors and producers going all out to promote a film these days, digital posters is an innovation that deserves to be embraced.
“I’ve seen digital posters and find them interesting. This is an information age and a move-over from traditional methods is but necessary. We understand the relevance of the Internet and unique methods need to employed to tap into this market.”

'Vettai' on for the brothers

A hunt seems to be on for the lead roles in the Hindi version of 'Vettai'. The film will be remade in Hindi by director Lingusamy who knows commercial cinema like the back of his hand.

It was earlier said that Salman Khan and Ranbir Kapoor will be approached for the lead roles but now grapevine is abuzz that the makers are toying with the idea of approaching Shahrukh Khan and Imran Khan for the remake in Hindi.

The film's story features Madhavan and Arya as brothers - former as a peace-lover while the latter is a ruffian. Now going by the blockbuster status of the Tamil film, UTV wants to remake it for Bollywood with two top stars. Since SRK and Imran have never attempted South remakes, the makers feel that these two will be apt for the script and also their casting will kick off some excitement.

However, Madhavan seems to be keen on doing his role from the original in Hindi as well.

As of now, talks are still going on about the cast, but a remake is for sure on cards.

Asin Denies Marriage Reports

Actress Asin denied reports on her marriage with an industrialist based Chennai.

Nayantara and Prabhu Deva meet at Badami

Prabhu Deva is busy directing Rowdy Rathore and shooting of this film is fast progressing in Badami area in Karnataka. Since Prabhu is busy at the shooting spot and cannot visit his ladylove, the actress is frequenting the sets, say sources.

According to reports, Nayan and Prabhu’s love is strong as ever and the actress is travelling all the way from her hometown in Kerala to spend time with him. Sources also add that all is well between the couple and their relationship is strong as ever. The only question now is their wedding and both a mum about it.

All you need to know about Ajith

Director Bandi Saroj Kumar, a self-professed Ajith fan, is making a documentary on his idol. Bandi made his debut with Prokkalam, a film which had Kishore as the main lead. In the documentary that he is directing about Ajith, Bandi Saroj Kumar has taken the history of all the 50 films, right from this debut venture Amaravathy to Mankatha, which he had starred in.

This documentary is surely going to be a tribute to Ajith and all his fans out there are going to enjoy it.

Sivakumar,Surya,Karthi Donate Rs. 25 Lakh

When it’s a mission to accomplish, the family of versatile actor Sivakumar comes ahead ensuring that everyone is benefitted. During all the critical junctures involved with the natural calamities and any serious situations, the family has got down to help everyone. Now with Government ensuring for the well being about the relief of Thane Cyclone affected regions, Tamil film industry has been extending its help.

Yesterday Superstar Rajnikanth met Chief Minister J Jayalalitha and contributed Rs.10Lakhs for the relief fund. Today, the family members of Sivakumar including Suriya and Karthi personally met Jayalalitha and donated Rs.25Lakhs.

Gemini Film Circuits bags Vijay’s Thuppaki ?

Ilayathalapathy Vijay’s latest offering Nanban is drawing much crowd and has set the box office ticking but he has more reasons to celebrate . His upcoming venture Thuppaki’s rights has been purchased by Gemini Film Circuits for a whopping amount.

It is said that the distribution company was very much pleased to witness Vijay’s star power with their home production Nanban and they are sure that Thuppaki will be perfect blockbuster since Vijay’s performance is said to be utilized 100 % by ace director A.R.Murugadoss in this flick.Thuppaki is said to be a perfect blend of class and mass which will definitely entertain all section of audience.

Pitbull gives voice for David Billa

International Pop artist Pitbull will be lending his rocking voice to the Don.
It is a season where artists around globe join together to mark a film’s success. Now the Billa 2 is planning to do the same says sources.

Pitbull the pop artist who rose to fame with his album M.I.A.M.I (in reference to the US town Miami). Now the hot news is music director Yuvan Shankar Raja who is well known for his foreign music troupe connections has approached the Pitbull team it seems.
As per sources Yuvan has roped in Pitbull to sing the new version of My Name is Billa for Ajith’s Billa 2. The song is said to be the highlight of the film of how David a gangster raises to the position of Billa the Don.
Thala who has the looks on pair with Hollywood stars will make the song even more special with the voice of Pitbull adds trade circles.

Hansika Motwani Becomes Suriya's Heroine Now

Suriya’s Singam was a tremendous blockbuster and now the same duo combo is back to blow the trumpets of success. Director Hari according to the sources has penned a script that is so engrossing for Singam-2 that will surely grab everyone’s interest.

Earlier buzzes were that Amala Paul has been signed for the female lead character and now it has been confirmed that Hansika Motwani is Suriya’s heroine.

Within short span of time, Hansika Motwani has signed more projects including Vijay’s Velayudham, Jeyam Ravi’s Engeyum Kadhal, and Dhanush in Mappillai and now with producer Udhayanidhi Stalin in Oru Kal Oru Kannadi. Suriya onscreen chemistry with almost all the actresses have been best and for sure, this isn’t going to be an exception.

Sangavi is to marry an American Doctor on March 5

Sexy Doll Sangavi is an Indian film actress and model. She has appeared in over 95 Tamil, Kannada and Telugu-language films. Her father was a doctor.

Sangavi is to marry an American Doctor on March 5 Th, The engagement is due to take place soon and the actress is planning to settle down in the US after the wedding . All the girls who entered into Kollywood during her period have got married by this time.
When asked the reason for late marriage, she said, that she does not want to take menace of any separation or divorce after the marriage. Hence she is looking for a man who can understand her profession, life style and would prefer to live with her entire life

Climax of Thuppakki Shot With 60 Fighters and 7 Cameras

Thuppakki is a film which has Vijay and Kajal Agarwal in the lead roles. This film is directed by the ace director A R Murugadoss. Kalaipuli S Dhanu is producing this high budgeted film. The shooting of this film is going on in top gear. Recently the climax sequence of this film was shot. 7 cameras were used to shoot this stunt sequence. 60 fighters featured in this sequence along with Vijay. Harris Jayaraj is composing music for this film. Santhosh Sivan is handling the camera while Jayamohan has penned the dialogues. Anthony is editing this film. It is understood that Vijay is donning the role of a cop in this film. Gautham Kurup who donned the role of villain in Kandahar is donning the role of villain in this film. The shooting of this film is taking place in Mumbai and Chennai.

Director Priyadarshan to receive the prestigious Padmashri Award

Director Priyadarshan will be receiving the India’s fourth highest civilian award which is Padmashri. He has been honored with this award for his excellence as a movie director. Priyadarshan has directed several South India films and Hindi films. Some of his famous movies in Hindi are Hera Peri, Hungamma, Hulchul, Garam Masala, Bhagam Bhag, Chup Chup Ke, Dol and Bhool Bhulaiyaa. He has also directed various films in Malayalam, Telugu and Tamil languages. Some of the films are Megham, Chandralekha, Kala Pani and Kanchivaram which has won the National Award. Priyadarshan is currently directing a Hindi film titled Tez.

Kamal Haasan wants Shahrukhkhan for Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu remake

If Kamal Haasan had his way, superstar Shah Rukh Khan will be the only actor to step into his shoes for the Hindi remake of Gautham Menon's Tamil film Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu.

Shah Rukh is currently in a dilemma as he has to choose between the remakes of two Tamil films - Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu and A.R. Murugadoss's Ramanna.

Both offer the picky King Khan a chance to do something he hasn't done before -- a south Indian remake with parts that he hasn't tried before.

"While Murugadoss's film casts SRK as a social crusader, Menon's film casts him as a cop, a role he has played just once in Shashilal Nair's One 2 Ka 4 and that too a plain-clothed cop. SRK has never got a chance to get into khaki uniform. This, Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu will let him do," said a source.

Haasan, who played the role of the cop on the lookout for a serial killer in the original movie Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu, has expressed keen interest in Shah Rukh reprising the role in the film's Hindi version.

"Kamalji is extremely fond of Shah Rukh. They go back a long way to the time when 12 years ago Shah Rukh agreed to do Kamalji's Hey Ram free of cost. When director Gautham Menon, who understandably respects Kamalji's opinion, asked the thespian who should play his role in the Hindi remake, Kamalji promptly gave Shah Rukh's name," said a source close to the project.

Menon confirmed his eagerness to cast Shah Rukh and said: "I don't know where these reports of Salman Khan being an option for Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu are coming from. It's Shah Rukh Khan, who is the first and only choice. Kamalji played the part in the Tamil original. So Shah Rukh seems the right candidate for the part."

There is another reason why Salman was eliminated early from the race to play the cop in Menon's film.

Salman has already done the khaki bit several times over.

"Shah Rukh in khaki is a novelty. Salman has been there and done it many times. Shah Rukh is our man for the part," said the source.

Apparently, Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu will explore the same dark noire cop-killer space as Aamir Khan's Talaash.

A source close to the project says that the only reason Shah Rukh has not given a final nod to Menon's remake is because he wants to see how Talaash is received by the audiences.

Actress Ananya to enter wedlock!

Wedding bells are ringing loud for Ananya. The 'Nadodigal' and 'Engaeyum Eppothum' actress will marry Anjaneyan, a Trichur-based entrepreneur soon. Their engagement is scheduled to take place on February 3.
ananya
Says Ananya, "It was my constant decision to leave my marriage to my parents' choice. When Anjaneyan and his family members approached elders in my family with the wedding proposal, my parents found him as the right man."
The engagement ceremony of Ananya and Anjaneyan is being organized at the actress's house at Perumbavur near Ernakulam. Wedding date is expected to be fixed during the betrothal function, which will be attended by close relatives and friends.
"I don't know whether I will continue acting or not after wedding. Anjaneyan has to decide on that," says Ananya, who is currently acting in a film titled 'Iravum Pagalum'. "I am happy about my parents' choice," she concludes.

Viswaroopam: A 100 crore affair

And that makes Viswaroopam the biggest film in Kamal’s career till date! Reportedly the film, produced jointly by Rajkamal International and PVP Cinemas, is made with a whopping budget of 100 crores. According to sources, Kamal Haasan will play the role of a terrorist and the film is rumoured to be a spy thriller on the lines of Mission Impossible series. The shooting of the film is almost complete except the climax sequence which will be shot in Delhi soon.

Kamal has also performed a Kathak number choreographed by well-known kathak dancer Pt. Birju Maharaj. Rahul Bose plays the villian while Pooja Kumar, Andrea Jeremiah and Isha Sharvani will also be seen in prominent roles. There are also reports that renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur will make a special appearance in this flick which being is made simultaneously in Tamil and Hindi.

Dhanush ready for Bollywood entry

And finally after much hype and speculations, Dhanush signed his first Hindi film recently. The film, titled as Raanjhnaa will be directed by Aanand L. Rai (of Tanu Weds Manu fame).

Interestingly the directed was impressed with Dhanush’s performance in Aadukalam (for which he won a National award) and decided to sign him. The film will be set in the backdrops of Banaras and Dhanush is planning to learn Hindi soon. More details on the cast and crew are expected soon.
Meanwhile Dhanush is currently awaiting the release of 3, directed by wife Aishwarya.

Muppozhudhum Un Karpanaigal on Feb 17?

Is there any better date than the Valentine’s Day to release a romantic musical? Keeping this in mind R.S. Infotainment, the banner that gave us the blockbuster Ko, is all set to release their forthcoming love story Muppozhudhum Un Karpanaigal on Feb 17, 2012.

Directed by Elred Kumar, the Atharva-Amala Paul starrer Muppozhudhum Un Karpanaigal is a full fledged love story based on a real-life incident with many twists and turns. The film is expected to be a visual treat as two songs from the movie are shot in Las Vegas, the Sin City! G.V. Prakash’s mesmerizing tracks are already the talk of the town.

Trisha with Jiiva

Trisha seems to be adopting the slow and steady approach in accepting projects. After Samaran, for which she is currently shooting with Vishal in Bangkok, Trisha has signed up for a new project with Jiiva in the lead, to be directed by director Ahmed, whose earlier credentials include Vaamanan.
On the new movie, Trisha says that she is impressed with the script and the scope the role provides for her performance. “Besides, I’m cast opposite Jiiva for the first time so that should be fun,” Trisha was quoted as saying.

Radhika files complaint against Vishal

Radhika Sarathkumar has filed a complaint against Vishal for a cheque bounce at the Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC) and Nadigar Sangam.

Radhika and her Raadan Mediaworks had taken over the distribution rights of Vishal’s Prabhu Deva directed Vedi for Rs 12 Crore.
Radhika had got Rs 3 Crore out of selling the satellite right of the film and Vishal had given the balance Rs 9 Crore as a cheque payment.
However, the cheque bounced when she presented it for payment.And the actor is refusing to sort the issue says Radhika.
Now Radhika, has approached TFPC and Nadigar Sangam to recover back the Rs 9 Crore.

No item number for Richa!

Recently a section of the media speculated that pretty lass Richa Gangopadhyay, who became an overnight sensation in Telugu and Tamil, will do an item number in Prabhu Deva’s Rowdy Rathore, Hindi remake of Vikramarkudu (which was also remade in Tamil as Siruthai). But the Mayakkam Enna actress has denied such reports and clarified that she has never met Prabhu Deva till date. She also revealed that she is currently busy with the Bengali remake of Vikramarkudu in which she is paired opposite Prosenjith.

Richa also said that at point of her career she will rather do roles that are balance with galmour instead of an item number.
In fact a smart move, isn’t it?

Kamal Hassan’s next Amar Hai

They say strike while the iron is hot and who else can understand it better than Kamal Hassan? Well, the Universal Star, who is on the verge of the completion of his upcoming movie Vishwaroobham, is gearing up to make a movie on corruption, which is the current hottest topic of the nation and he has titled the film as Amar Hai.

The Nayagan star has confirmed the news and said that he is making the film on corruption. Explaining further, Kamal Hassan claims that the people think the politics as an easy source of making money and his next film will focus on such issues. It may be recalled that the actor was earlier seen in Indian, which was also an anti-corruption movie, directed by Shankar.
Amar Hai will be simultaneously made in Tamil and Hindi. Kamal Hassan adds that he wrote the script two years ago but he was giving final touches to the subject. However, his Vishwaroobham shooting is completed except the climax part.

Is Nanban Equals Rajinis Enthiran Record?

Vijay’s Shankar directed Nanban has been declared a super hit by the trade.
As per trade sources the film has grossed approximately Rs 40 Crore in its first week (Jan 12 to 19). In Tamil Nadu it recorded almost 95 % opening in its first four days, which is extraordinary by any yardstick.

The film opened in nearly 625 screens in Tamil Nadu in its first two days (Jan 12 &13) without any opposition.
Nanban made merry and it helped the film to get the second biggest opening after Enthiran. By Pongal day, the film became steady at the box-office and the word-of-mouth started working to its advantage .
Says Asick Meera of Mariyam Pictures who purchased the TK area: “Nanban is running packed houses in 33 release stations and there is no drop so far. After Enthiran, Nanban is the only film which is drawing repeat audience and is going steady. The collections are on par with Enthiran first week collections and the film has netted Rs 2.75 Crores in its opening week, which is phenomenal by any yardstick.”
Added Sivakumar of Cosmo Village Pictures, the distributor for Coimbatore & Nilgiri area: “We gave Nanban a very big release by opening in 70 screens and has netted an awesome Rs 5.20 Crore in the first week so far and has been drawing unprecedented crowds especially in small towns. What is remarkable is that the film has done excellent business at single screens as well as multiplexes, a feat which only Enthiran has managed in the recent past”
Nanban is also testimony to the fact that Vijay is one of the biggest stars in Tamil films with an assured opening. Shankar is the biggest brand in south cinema and the combo with Vijay worked wonders for the film.
Family audiences took advantage of the long weekend to catch the faithful 3 Idiots remake. Gemini Film Circuit, the producers hit the bull’s eye by releasing the film for Pongal which ensured the family audiences came in droves and the word of mouth promotions by the masses has worked well for the film.
As per Gemini Film Circuit, Nanban is faring well in Tamilnadu, Kerala and overseas and is expected to collect over Rs100 crores in the long run from theatricals, audio and television rights (Vijay TV has brought the rights at a new record price).
And now you know, why Ilayathalapathy is all smiles? All Izz Well, that ends well!

Simbu and Rihanna to join for Poda Podi

Simbu goes International once again.
The young star who has been making the news with his recent sample version of Love Anthem will be soon roping the International sexy hip hop singer Shakira to sing for a song for his forthcoming film Poda Podi.

Before that Simbu will be releasing his much awaited Love Anthem for World Peace album and the recording process for the songs are in final stages adds sources.
Poda Podi is the movie which is kept under for a while, now it will started soon it seems.

Kajal Agarwal’s Veggie Favourites

  • The first thing I have in my Morning – Hot water with Lime.
  • My dietary preference – I am basically a vegetarian. I avoid non-veg food as much possible.
  • My lunch – is a regular Indian meal. I am not too fussy, I like all vegetables.
  • My favorite meal – since I’am barely at home, I miss eating home fppd and being a true Panjabi, I love Rajma Chawal and Paneer.
  • My favorite desserts – Tiramisu and brownies.
  • My fitness regiman – I do yoga as often as possible to keep fit.
  • My favorite frouits – Mhees and grapes.
  • A childhood memory associated with food – the kulchachhole of Amritsar.
  • My culinary abilities, I cook buckwheat and banana pancakes.
  • One food item I can’t resist buying –Chocolates.
  • My comfort food – cookies and ice- creams
  • The food item I thing I resemble – I am as intense as dark chocolate.
  • My favourite spice – Red Chilli and jalapenos.

Iran bans Golshifteh Farahani from visiting homeland after topless magazine shoot

Iran has banned actress Golshifteh Farahani from returning home after she posed topless for a French news magazine.
Farahani posed for Madame Le Figaro magazine as a symbolic protest against strictures on women in Iran. The actress posted her picture on her Facebook page too.

“I was told by a Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guide official that Iran does not need any actors or artists and I may offer her artistic services somewhere else,” she was quoted by Britain’s as Telegraph as saying.
“Publishing of photographs of the deplorable Golshifteh Farahani on the Internet shows the ugly face of cinemas behind the scenes,” Dubai based news channel Al Arabiya News quoted Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency.

Ponniyin Selvan remains hero

Riding on horseback across Veeranam river, Vallavarayan Vandhiya Thevan can steal hearts even now as effortlessly as he did 62 years ago.

The protagonist of Ponniyin Selvan — the epic novel penned by Kalki Krishnamurthy — is perhaps the most popular hero of all novels in Tamil put together, going by sales of the work.
The epic work in five volumes has seen numerous reprints by various publications since it was first published as a serial in Kalki magazine in 1950.
The work is also available online in audio and PDF formats. Yet the latest print edition, with paintings of artist Maniam — who had originally done illustrations for the serial — has become a major hit.
Published by Vikatan group, the latest version has sold over 10,000 copies within two weeks of its publication. “It was released on January 5 and by January 17 over 10,000 copies were sold. The sales include pre-orders made by readers and the sales at the book fair,” says a Vikatan group employee.
In the recently concluded 35th annual book fair, Ponniyin Selvan was among the top three best-sellers alongside Sahitya Akademi winning Kaaval Kottam and Mahatma Gandhi’s Sathiya Sodhanai.
Publishers say any edition of Ponniyin Selvansells as well as the Vikatan’s. “Publishers keep printing Ponniyin Selvan over and over again because it sells. What sets apart Vikatan’s print is perhaps the branding and the packaging.
They have used the original paintings of Maniam which was as sensational as the written word was when Ponniyin Selvan appeared as a serial. I brought the Vikatan edition for the paintings, though I already have a copy of Ponniyin Selvan,” says Sundar Rajan, a reader.

Car- racer Dileep Roger bonds with monitor lizard

Debutant director S. Balan has made a film with a monitor lizard being featured prominently along with India’s No.1 motor car racer Dileep Roger. He makes his debut as an actor in the film titled ‘Udumban’. S. Jagannathan has produced it under the banner of Modern Cinema. It will soon hit the screens.

Like Kamal’s ‘Indian’, Vijayakanth’s Ramana, and ‘Ee’, ‘Udumban’ also deals with issues affecting society. A still photo showing Dileep Roger, who plays the lead role, with the monitor lizard perched on his broad shoulders, has appeared in newspapers. Balan says he showed the creature to the Animal Welfare Board of India and obtained permission to shoot the film with it. He has bought it from a man belonging to Manamadurai who makes a living by catching monitor lizards and selling them. The one that was sold to Balan had been with the man for five years. After a year-long training in stunts and dancing and spending time with hunters, Dileep has adapted to the character of ‘Udumban’. The monitor lizard itself plays a major role along with Dileep. The creature helps in uniting the hero with his ladylove besides saving him from the clutches of his enemies.
The entire film has been shot in the forests of Karuvelamgadu.
Another salient feature is that the film has five songs written by Bharathidasan and two sons by Pattukottai Kalyanasundaram.
Kitchas is the cinematographer.

Thala and Thalapathy to Fight Against Same Villain

The launch of new hot villains from Bollywood is creating huge sensation in Kollywood. Having rocked with his onscreen debut film Force (a remake of Tamil movie Kaakha Kaakha), Vidyut Jammwal makes his debut in Tamil film industry through the movie ‘Billa-2’ starring Ajith Kumar in lead role.

Much before the film would hit screens, the actor has gained another prestigious offer and that’s about locking horns with Ilayathalapathy Vijay in his upcoming film ‘Thuppakki’. A.R. Murugadoss is far-famed for introducing some of the best villains in his films that is evident with Pradeep Rawat in Ghajini and John in Ezham Arivu

Awestruck with the best performance of Vidyut, he has been signed for this film, which is touted to be a crime thriller.

Amala Paul In Ajith Kumar’s Next

 Amala Paul is having her high time here in Kollywood as she is drenched in heavy downpour of offers. The actress had a very bright opening this year with Pongal special ‘Vettai’. The film has won her good appreciations for her ability to perform well in the traditional looks and hot-glam girl as well.
Let the February come and her magic will continue through the movies ‘Muppozhudhum Un Karpanaigal’ and ‘Kadhalil Sodhapiyadhu Yeppadi’.
The latest reports are that Amala Paul has been finalized for the heroine role opposite Ajith Kumar in his next untitled film directed by Vishnuvardhan.

KS Ravikumar’s Bollywood dreams shattered?

Director KS Ravikumar’s Bollywood dreams seems to be shattered, as the proposed project has been shelved. The filmmaker was supposed to remake Tamil blockbuster Saamy, which starred Vikram, in the Bollywood with Sanjay Dutt enacting the role of a cop.

If reports are to be believed, Saamy, which was titled Thanedaar Returns, has been dropped for some reasons. It was said that Prakash Raj would also play a key role in the proposed project and it was also launchpad of ‘Kolaveri di’ composer Anirduh Ravichander in the Bollywood.
A production house source claims that the movie has not been shelved but plans of remaking Saamy has been dropped. It is because there were some copyright issues, which made the movie bosses to shelve it. It also adds that KS Ravikumar will be directing an original film instead of the remake. The movie will take off as planned before.

Genelia’s wedding date confirmed

Actress Genelia’s wedding date has been confirmed! She will marry her long-time boyfriend Ritesh Deshmukh on February 3.

Venue is Grand Hyatt in Santa Cruz, Mumbai. The marriage will be followed by a reception on February 4 at the same venue. The sangeet ceremony will be held on January 31 at the Lands End Hotel in Bandra.
Reportedly, a group of Ritiesh’s close friends including Housefull 2 producer Sajid, his wife Wardha, Fardeen and his wife Natasha will be hosting a joint pre-wedding party for the couple on January 24 at Royalty in Bandra.