2009, an year of 'A' certified films in T'wood!!

Once priding itself on its saccharine sweet family flicks, Tollywood is busy treading on dangerous territory now. Getting bolder and wilder than ever, all the big Tollywood movies in 2009 had a generous amount of sleaze and gore, earning themselves an ‘A’ certificate. In fact, the Telugu film industry has created a record of sorts by releasing 30 ‘A’ certified movies in 2009. And surprisingly, all of them were box office successes, be it Arundhati Magadheera, Billa, Ek Niranjan or Aanjaneyulu.

Ask Tollywood filmmakers about their bold, new outlook and they claim that its time for a change. Shyam Prasad Reddy, producer of Arundhati, which got an ‘A’ certificate for it’s violent content, says, “Violence is an emotion and if the story demands it, we have to include it in a balanced manner. What the audiences want are stories with a different treatment. Arundhati wouldn’t have appealed to them without the violent scenes. So, I opted for an ‘A’ certificate instead of chopping those scenes.”
This new breed of filmmakers insist that an adult certification doesn’t affect their ticket sales. Producer Suresh Babu, says, “Many horror films and thrillers released this year and they were a hit. This is a testimony to the fact that the audiences don’t really care about the certifications. At the end of the day, it’s an individual decision.”
In fact, this ‘A’ certification has become a crowd puller of sorts, say film critics.

P. Sarath Kumar, member of censor board, says, “The ‘A’ certificate has become an added advantage. The young audiences expect to see bolder content now. Moreover, the filmmakers put up graphic horardings to publicise the film even before they send it for certification. So, by then the film generates a buzz and an ‘A’ certificate adds to it.

Censor board officials however, claim that adult certification will affect the satellite rights of the film. T.V.K. Reddy, regional director, censor board, says, “TV channels don’t buy ‘A’ certified films because of its violent and explicit content. If the filmmakers want to sell their movies for a better price, they have to delete objectionable scenes to get a ‘U’ rating.”

2009’s ‘A’ certified films:

Arundhati*

Magadheera*

Billa*

Aanjaneyulu*

Drona*

Sankham*

Rechipo*

Ek Niranjan*

Kurradu*

Amaravati*

Siddham*

Kasko

Junior NTR faces T-protests in the city!!

Actor Junior NTR faced protests from TRS activists at Hussaini Alam in Old city when he was shooting at Khursheedja College on Saturday. A few TRS activists reached the college premises at 2 pm and started raising slogans against the actor while he was shooting for his movie 'Brindavanam'.

The movie is being directed by Vamsi Paidipalli and produced by popular filmmaker 'Dil' Raju. Actress Kajal is the heroine in this film. Junior NTR was present in the college while the activists raised slogans against him. Producer Mr 'Dil' Raju said that TRS activists couldn't enter the college premises as local police were guarding the college and they completed shooting without any damage or trouble in the college premises.

"We had a fight sequence to be shot which is why we chose this college. Junior NTR was here for the shoot and we could complete our shoot. Though there were a few activists raising slogans, it was a minor incident and police could manage it." Mr Raju said when contacted.

Police officials said that they have not booked any case against the activists as they left the place after raising slogans against Junior NTR and his family for taking united AP stand. Cops said that since the college premises is huge and the shooting was taking place in a building far away from the main gate, the activists couldn't reach them.

" Today is the first day of this movie's shooting in our area. We knew that the film shooting was happening in the college. Since there were attacks on the other film shootings in the city since the past one week, we provided security for the shooting. The activists raised slogans against the actor and demanded him to support the separate Telangana state cause. We warned the activists and sent them away" said, Manzoor Hussain, SI, Hussaini Alam Police Station. The film unit claimed that they will not shoot in the college for the next few days due to Moharram festival and other disturbances in the city.

Maheshbabu's shooting set burnt by T-activists!!

After Mohanbabu and Allu Arjun, actor Mahesh Babu's shooting set was attacked by Telangana activists in Vikarabad of Rangareddy district. Though the shooting was called off just two days ago, the activists damaged the set and shooting equipment on Thursday. About 20 activists burnt the shooting set completely at around 11 am on Thursday. The movie is being directed by Trivikram Srinivas in which Mahesh Babu and actor Anuskha Shetty areplaying the lead roles.The movie is yet to be titled.

The movie shooting is on in Kirkitpally village in Vikarabad since the past 20 days. Vikarabad Police said that since the shooting was called off a couple ofdays ago fearing attacks on the crew, no one was injured in this attack.

"The crew stopped shooting here two days ago fearing attacks by Telangana activists. About 20 student activists burnt the shooting set completely damaged the equipment shouting Telangana slogans. We have so far not received any complaint from the producer or the crew on the attack." said Mr T Penchalaiah, Inspector, Vikarabad Police station.

Meanwhile, AP Film Chamber of Commerce, Movie artistes association, AP Film employes federation and Telugu film Producer's council has asked all the actors and film makers not to make any statement or declare their stand on the current issue in their individual capacity .

The chamber asked all the actors to keep mum as the issue is sensitive and the industry is being affected due to cancellation of film shootings.

"We are shocked at the attacks on the film shootings in the city. We request the government to provide us security to carry on our film shootings. Film industry has got nothing to do with politics. We request the political parties to control their activists. Lakhs of people are employed in this industry and people from all the regions watch movies. The industry has doesn't differentiate people based on their region. We also ask the actors to refrain from making statements in their individual capacity as it affects the film production" said Mr T Prasanna Kumar, secretary, Telugu film Producer's council.

Mohanbabu to join hands with Chiru for United Andhra Pradesh!!

Actor Mohanbabu said that he will join hands with PRP Chief Chiranjeevi to fight against KCR and to keep the state united. He has hit out at TRS Chief KCR once again and asked him to control his tongue. He expressed dismay at KCR's statement on Tuesday that he would cut his tongue if he says Hyderabad is his city. Mohanbabu doubted if the government exists in the state at all as it is not able to control goons in the city and expressed shock on KCR supporting the attack on his children.

Chiranjeevi's Praja Rajyam party too is likely to support the proposed 'Shanti Yatra' to be taken out by Mohanbabu provided he gets the permission from the government for the yatra. Interestingly, the two actors were at loggerheads with each other since a few years and had war of words at several film events. Chiranjeevi and Mohanbabu criticised each other during the recent 'Star night' programme organised by Movie artistes association to raise funds for flood victims. However, Mohanbabu said that he is willing to join hands with Chiranjeevi for'united Andhra Pradesh' cause.

"I am happy that Chiranjeevi supported me in united Andhra Pradesh cause and condemned the attack on my children. I am ready to join hands with him to keep the state united. I want all the Telugu people to stay united. I have been living in Hyderabad for the past 20 years andno one can ask me to leave this city. It is not just Chiranjeevi and me, the whole film industry should stand united and fight for this cause"Mohanbabu said.

"KCR should mind his language. He said that he will cut the tongue of anyone who claims Hyderabad to be his. I dare him to come to my house. How many people will he attack? I never asked for separate Rayalaseema though I hail from there. I will continue to fight against separatist elements." the actor added.

Interestingly, KCR made mockery of Mohan babu and his children on Tuesday. Mohanbabu while condemning the attack on 'Varudu' crew, said that there is no unity in the film industry on this issue. Movieartistes association has not even condemned the attack on film shootings in the city. Most of the actors have preferred not to take sides or comment on the current situation in the state.

Allu Arjun's film crew attacked by T-activists

After Mohanbabu's children, it was the turn of Allu Arjun, the nephew of Chiranjeevi to come under the attack of Telangana activists. About 30 ABVP activists on Tuesday attacked the crew of 'Varudu' at Hayatnagar near Ramoji Film City in which Allu Arjun is playing the lead role protesting Chiranjeevi's united Andhra Pradesh stand. ABVP activists who reached the shooting spot at Anajipur village near Indrasagar tank of Hayatnagar raised 'Jai Telangana' slogans and damaged the film shooting equipment. However, Allu Arjun and the heroine were not present on the shooting spot during the attack. The movie is being directed by Gunasekhar.

Activists broke the TV monitors that were present at the shooting spot. Sources said that as the shooting was almost complete and the director packed off for the day, the damage was limited.

"The actors were sent away to Sitara hotel in Ramoji Film city and shooting was called off just a few minutes before the activists reached the shooting spot. They asked us to sto p shooting immediately and damaged a few equipment. Fortunately no one was injured in this incident." said the film manager.Cops claimed that they have received a formal complaint from the shooting supervisor and are investigating the case. Inspector of Hayatnagar Police station said that since the cops knew of the attack just a few minutes before, they informed the crew and asked them to pack off which saved the actors.

"We called and told the crew about the possible attack on them by ABVP activists. We also immediately sent two of our constables to the spot. Since the only way to reach the shooting spot is to walk for about half a kilometre, it was tough for the activists also to attack them. No one was injured in the incident and we are investigating the case based on the complaint given by the film shooting supervisor." said Narasimha Reddy, Inspector, Hayatnagar Police station.

Meanwhile, BJP MLA Kishan Reddy said that ABVP has got nothingto do with the attack on Allu Arjun's movie crew. Allu Arjun's father Allu Aravind and actor Mohanbabu condemned the attack on the crew and demanded the government to provide security to the film fraternity to shoot their movies in the city.

Actor Mohan Babu's children attacked by TRS

Telangana Rashtra Samithi activists on Tuesday attacked Telugu actor Mohan Babu's son Manchu Manoj and daughter Lakshmi Prasanna atKompally on a shooting spot. The TRS activists attacked them at the shooting of an untitled film being directed by K Raghavendar Rao in which Manchu Manoj is playing the lead role. The movie which is being produced by Laksmi Prasanna was being shot in a rented building in 'Canton Park' a gated community at Kompally in Pet Basheerabad when about 30 activists barged in at 11 am and started raising 'Jai Telangana' slogans .

The activists demanded Manoj and Lakshmi to leave the place immediately and broke the glass panes of the building.Police reached the shooting spot and sent the actors away safely from the venue. Interestingly, the attack happened two days after KCR hit out at Mohanbabu for supporting united Andhra movement. Actors Bramhanandam, M S Narayana, director K Raghavendar Rao and about 200 film crew were present at the shooting apart from Mohanbabu's kins during the attack. Though none of the actors were injured in this attack, Mohanbabu's family was shocked by the incident .

His daughter Lakshmi Prasanna alleged that the SI of Pet Basheerabad Mahesh Goud was in nexus with the attackers and behaved rudely with her."Our crew formed a human chain from the activists getting into the building. SI Mahesh Goud let the activists in and allowed them to attack ourcrew. The SI was very rude to me.Our still photographer, children and junior artistes were beaten up. Someone held my hand and tried to pull me which is when my brother Manoj pushed him away.Police failed to protect us. We couldn't shoot for the last two days due to this tense situation and now we shelved our shooting for the next four days.I am just doing my work and who are they to ask me to leave the city?" Lakshmi Prasanna said.

Mohanbabu became furious and said that Hyderabad is no one's personal property. He declared that he will continue shooting in the city and asked TRS Chief KCR not to instigate Telangana people. He said that Hyderabad belongs to Muslims and if that if 'outsiders' were to leave,everyone except Muslims should leave the city.

"Hyderabad is no body's ancestral property. This city belongs to everyone. How dare you attack my son and daughter. If you have guts come to my place. Film industry came to Hyderabad from Chennai because the then CM Chenna Reddy requested us to do so. Who are you (KCR) to ask me to leavethis city? There are 33 per cent Muslims in this city and they own this city. If outsiders are to leave this city, then only Muslims will stay in Hyderabad and everyone else should leave the city.I have adopted a village in Mahabubnagar district after the recent floods with the thought that we are all Telugu people. We have the right to work and stay anywhere we want and we will continue to shoot our movie in the city" Mohanbabu told the media personnel at his residence in Film nagar after the incident. He claimed that he has the right to express his views and reside and work anywhere in this country and is also willing to start United AP movement inthe city if one from each family in the city is willing to participate in it .Surprisingly, Pet Basheerabad Police filed cases under section 447, 323 and 427 on Lakshmi and Manoj for attacking the activists and local media.

Police officials said that they were shooting for the movie without their permission and the cases were filed on Mohanbabu's children under charges of attacking people and police."We never behaved rudely with Mohanbabu's daughter.We protected them from TRS activists and sent them away safely. I told Mohanbabu a few days ago not to shoot here as there are a lot of TRS activists residing in that gated community. But they didn't listen to me. Since Lakshmi Prasanna and Manoj beat up a few people there, we filed cases against them" said Mr Srinivas Reddy, Inspector, Pet Basheerabad. Mohanbabu and his children however rubbished the allegations of the cops that they attacked the Police.

RGV supports United Andhra Pradesh!!

Filmmaker Ramgopal Varma has pledged his support to the Vijayawada MP, Mr Lagadapati Rajgopal, who is agitating for a united Andhra Pradesh. Varma, wrote in his blog http://rgvzoomin.com/ that Mr Rajgopal was his junior in Sidhartha College in Vijayawada and that he was a sincere student leader who always helped his fellow students.
Varma said that he and his friends used to help and shield Mr Rajagopal whenever there were fights among student groups.

“After college I lost touch with him as I moved into the Mumbai film industry and except occasionally bumping into him at some function I never really met him. But today when I see him on TV in the eye of the political storm raging across Andhra Pradesh in the context of the Samaikhyandhra movement, I see exactly the same Rajgopal who I used to move around with 25 years ago,” Varma has written in his blog.
The ace director also narrated a few incidents about their college days which showed Mr Rajagopal as a leader. He claimed that though he doesn’t know anything about the current unrest in the state, he believes in a united Andhra Pradesh because Mr Rajgopal believes in it.

“I am neither into politics nor do I have any understanding of what the Samaikhya Andhra or the Telangana movement is really all about, but one thing Iwant to say now for sure is that if Rajgopal believes that Samaikhyandhra is good for Andhra Pradesh then I also believe in it because I believe in his sincerity and capability which I witnessed firsthand and I believe there can be no better sincere leader than Rajgopal.”

Telangana Film Chamber bans 'Saleem' and 'Arya2'

Nearly 200 movie theatres in the Telangana region have been screening Arya 2 starring Allu Arjun and Saleem starring Manchu Vishnu despite the “ban” imposed by the Telangana activists.



It was to express their outrage at the pro-united state stance taken by the Praja Rajyam chief, Mr K. Chiranjeevi, and actor Mohan Babu that films starring their kin were banned by the activists. Angry Telangana agitators have now asked these theatres also to stop screening the films or face the consequences.
Following this, Telangana film distributors and exhibitors on Monday formally decided not to screen Arya 2 and Saleem and about 500 theatres in the region also pledged not to screen the movie of any actor who supports the united state cause.
The decision came a day after the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief, Mr K. Chandrasekhar Rao, issued a statement against Telugu film actors who are supporting the ongoing united AP movement.


The Telangana Film Chamber of commerce decided not to screen films of these actors till the situation gets normal. “Telangana people are upset with Chiranjeevi and Mohan Babu,” said Mr Vijandar Reddy, president of Telangana Film Chamber of Commerce. “So the agitators have been attacking theatres. We will screen other movies in the place of these two films.”


Further, the chamber warned film-makers that they will not screen any movie which has an anti-Telangana tone or has derogatory dialogues agai-nst people from this region. It seems that until things simmer down, film lovers of the region will have to be content with English, Hindi and dubbed movies. Producers have already decided to stop all the movie releases this month.

Year long shootings, a trend in Tollywood now!!

Once known for its quick and efficient shooting schedules that wrapped up in less than two months, Tollywood is now heading the Bollywood way. Directors, in a bid to play safe, are stretching their shooting schedules for as long as two years, just so that they can release a “better product”.

And if this year’s top grossers are anything to go by, Tollywood is fast bidding goodbye to the quick, shoot-can-pack up method. While Arundhati and Magadheera were under production for more than two years, the more recent Arya2, Saleem, Aa Aaa Ee Eee and Leader boast of shooting schedules that extend up to a year and a half.

Daggubati Rana who is awaiting the release of his movie Leader, which was shot for over 18 months says, “A lot of attention is being paid to every minute detail. Earlier a project could be wrapped up in just 30 days. But now, the first schedule of a film itself goes on for a month. Everyone wants to offer quality films, so it is bound to take this long.”

Apart from this quest for quality, stars’ choc-a-block schedules also play a major factor in these delays, admit directors. Most of the films that are being shot over long periods of time boast of big names who have multiple films in their kitty.

Sukumar, who directed Arya2, explains that since Telugu films are high on action sequences, apart from songs and emotional drama, it takes time to shoot them.“It took us 140 days to shoot Arya2. The main reason for the prolonged shooting schedule is the fact that the film has a lot of masala. Besides, as directors we need a break between scenes since there is a lot of emotional variance in them,” Sukumar says. Actor Manchu Vishnu, who is gearing up for his much-delayed film Saleem, says that the film’s extended schedule could be attributed to the break he took for his wedding and his co-star Illeana’s injury.

“Moreover, the fact that we didn’t want to compromise on quality added to the delay. Since the stakes are high, we cannot afford to make blunders. We selected the best locations and shot shot the film for 85 days in Europe,” he adds

Thriller season in Telugu cinema

Tollywood is busy breaking the mould right now. Ditching family movie clichés, tried and tested love stories and run-of-the-mill action flicks, the Telugu film industry is now experimenting with whodunits. From Bhumika’s Amaravati to Genelia’s Katha, edge-of-the-seat thrillers have flooded the multiplexes this season.

Ravi Babu, director of Amaravati, who also directed another thriller, Anasuya, claims that he wanted to give the audience a break from the love stories that have become a staple in Tollywood.

“Suspense flicks have an edge over mainstream movies as they keep the audience guessing. Moreover, it gives you the licence to treat the plot in an unusual manner. Thrillers are also commercial viable as the audience who are tired of masala flicks will find them refreshing.”

The box office numbers is testimony to this. All the thriller flicks that are playing in theatres now are faring much better than their commercial counterparts. Katha, starring Genelia is running to full houses in theaters now, even as the much-hyped glossy flick, Saleem, bombed at the box office.

What’s more, with the genre just getting popular, the scope for evolution is great, feels Srinivas Raga, the director and story writer of Katha. “The Telugu film industry has not experimented much with suspense flicks. With apt casting and a gripping plot, thrillers can make for great movie-watching experiences.”

In fact, to make these relatively low-budget films more commercially viable, filmmakers are introducing that extra something to draw the audiences to the theatres. “Add a comedy track and a bit of family drama and the movie is sure to become a hit,” adds Srinivas.
Actors are only happy to exercise their histrionics in these films. Sindhura Gadde, who acted in the thriller Amaravati, will soon be seen in Killer.
“You get to prove your versatility through these films as they demand you to use a completely different set of expressions. It was a great experience acting in suspense flicks. Moreover, the younger audience enjoys thrillers too.,” says the actress.

Hollywood gets Telugu Avatar

If you thought English flicks dubbed in Telugu made for a hilarious movie watching experience, here’s a joke — Tollywood distributors who have bagged the dubbing rights for Hollywood movies are actually laughing their way to the bank. Surprisingly, the dubbed version of the blockbuster, 2012 which released in the state as 2012 Yugantham, grossed the second highest box office collections this year, next only to Magadheera!

2012 Yugantham raked in about Rs 3 crore in the Nizam area alone and is still running successfully across the state. While a few attribute its success to the buzz created around doomsday, many feel that films dubbed in Telugu are successful, thanks to the visual effects.

Vijandar Reddy, distributor and member of AP Film Chamber of Commerce, says,

“The mutliplex crowd may watch the English version, but youngsters in ‘B’ and ‘C’ centres will want to watch the Telugu version. Moreover, the hype surrounding the doomsday prophesy of 2012 had everyone curious.”

In fact, after the resounding success of 2012 Yugantham, there is a mad rush among Telugu film distributors to buy the dubbing rights of all big Hollywood films. New Moon from the Twilight series is releasing as Amavasya and Avatar released in Telugu with the same name. Tagore Madhu from Geetha Film distributors, who bought the dubbing rights for Avatar, claims that big budget English movies make great business here as local movie buffs enjoy the visual treat and the grandeur of these films.

“We are releasing Avatar in Telugu in about 125 theatres across the state. James Cameroon spent about Rs 2,400 crore on this film while here the costliest movie remains Magadheera, made with Rs 40 crore. Telugu movies cannot offer such special effects. I am sure we will make profits in less than a week.”

Local distributors buy the dubbing rights of English, Chinese and films from other languages for anywhere between Rs 4 lakh to Rs 4 crore, depending on the hype surrounding the movie. Producers consider investing in these movies a safer bet than putting their money in local films. Film critic P. Sarath Kumar attributes this craze for dubbed films to the lack of creativity in Telugu movies. “Most of our movies are remakes of English flicks. No wonder then that audiences prefer watching the original dubbed in Telugu rather than watching copies. Telugu film makers need to offer something new to draw people to the theatres,” he adds.

"Marriage has not affected my career" says Bhumika

In Tollywood, which is a hallmark for hero worship, Bhumika Chawla has managed to bag quite a number of 'female oriented roles' and movies that have stories revolving around her charecter. From 'Missama' to 'Anasuya' and now Amaravati, she is perhaps the only actress in the industry who manages to bag roles in heroine oriented films. While she considers herself lucky to have got such roles, Bhumika claims that the attitude of heroes is also changing and there is a growing acceptance among them to act in heroine oriented movies.

"Its just destiny and I am happy to get to act in movies with the story revolving around my charecter.There is now growing acceptance among heroes towards such films. It will take some more time for it that reluctance to fade completely" says Chawla who is busy shooting for another female oriented movie 'Kotha Bandham' and five other movies in her kitty. The actress who has been doing about two films an year in Telugu claims that it is just coincidence that she is acting in so many films all of a sudden.

"I am now doing about five films in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi. It is not a concious deciscion to act in so many films at the same time. It is just that all the things happened at the same time and we are shooting for them" the actress says who is eagerly awaiting the release of 'Naam' in Hindi where she starred with Ajay Devagan. Bhumika who created buzz in Bollywood with her blockbuster 'Tere Naam' with Salman hasn't had a similar hit in North ever since.

While she says she didn't get too many exciting roles from Mumbai ever since, she vows never to leave Tollywood for any other industry."I did seven films in Hindi after Tere Naam. Most of them didn't click much may be also because the media judges the movie pre release. I didn't get too many exciting roles there and a few contracts didn't work out too. You don't get superhits every day. I have no regrets. As long as I act, I will continue doing films in Tollywood.I am living out of Mumbai and Hyderabad. I won't treat Tollywood audience like stepping stones and move on. Tollywood audience loved me and I will never stop acting in Telugu" claims Chawla who is one of the few actresses in the industry with fan base at par with heroes.

Bhumika claims that her choice of 'non-exposing' roles as an actress pre-marriage has helped her continue her acting career even after the marriage. She also continues to give tough fight for younger actresses in the industry and attributes 'live life for today and calm' attitude to her looks.

"Marriage is not a hinderance to my acting career. My husband Bharat Thakur never interferes in my work. When I have to take a deciscion, I discuss it with him and I take the final deciscion.He has been very supportive.I don't think marraige makes a difference in acting career these days. Kajol and Juhi continue to act even today. I don't have a problem because I have not done roles which need revealing clothes or exposing.So, my marriage hasn't affected my choice of roles and films"she declares.Infact she plays a perfect wife to her husband and supports him in his every venture.

Though her husband's 'Mayanagar' magazine closed its operations recently, she says she is still proud of him."My husband is spiritual yoga guru and a businessman. He started the newspaper and it didn't do well. Sometimes in life, things work out really well and a few don't. I am still proud of him and I as a wife support him in whatever he does" she says in the garb of a wife.

" My body is a temple and I worship it "

Tollywood's favourite bubbly girl Genelia D'Souza has raised quite a few eyebrows with her latest film 'Katha', an intense supense thriller inwhich she played the role of a 'traumatised girl'. Genny who is known for her bubbly girl image claims that she is proud to have acted in this film and admits that she had to come out of her 'comfort zone' to play this role.


"I was initally scared to play this role as it had so many emotions in this film. I play the role of a traumatised girl who lost her parents.I had to behave like pyschological ill patient and it had me in a charecter never seen before. I have been getting rave reviews for my performance on twitter too. Actors can't get such roles even if they plead and beg for it. I am fortunate to have bagged this role and I am proud that I did this charecter" Genny says.


Infact, she shared the screen space with a debutant actor Arun in this film who plays the hero.While most actresses in the industry are particular about whom they are going to be cast with and throw starry tantrums, Genelia says its nice that she still suits well when being paired with freshers.
"I have done movies with senior actors. For me story matters the most. It doesn't matter whom I am being cast with as long as the script is strong and I have a full length role to play.Its infact a compliment to be able to pair well with any actor and that I suit " says Genelia who is acting with Ram Charan Teja in her next movie.While her Tollywood fanbase and acting career is intact, she is also doing well for herself in Bollywood. Genelia is keeping her fingers crossed for 'Chance Pe dance' with Shahid Kapoor. Though the actress didn't have a major hit to her credit in North after her 'Aditi' role in Jane Tu, she says she is fine with it as long as she doesn't vanish completely from the industry.


"Charecters and hits like 'Adithi' in 'Jane Tu ' and Hasini in Bommarillu don't come often. Getting that kind of success always is impossible. My movies are doing farely well and as long as I don't collapse completely and people hate me, I am fine with the way my career is going now.For now, I am eagerly awaiting the release of Chance Pe Dance and people loved our pairing where I play the role of a woman behind a successful man." she explains.

For an industry where the on screen life span of actresses is not more than three years, Genelia has consolidated her position as one of the most sought after actress since the past 5 years.

The secret she claims is "Girls need to look glamorous in the movies. But I don't over do it andI don't do roles that have vulgarity in it. Body is a temple and I believein worshipping it. People come to theatres to watch actors and they should be able to relate to the actor. More so female audience want to be like the heroine. I strike the right balance between glamour, fashion and reality which is why I could sustain for five years and am still getting the best roles" she says the actor who attributes eight hours sleep, enough food and ever lasting smile to her young look.

Telangana stir stops T'wood releases

Telugu film industry is contemplating to stop all the movie releases this month due to the political unrest in the state.Telugu film industry producer's council which met on Wednesday following the attack on theatres screening Allu Arjun's Arya-2, RamCharan Teja's Magadheera and Manchu Mohan Babu and his sonVishnu's film ' Saleem' by Telangana agitators, has discussed the possibility of postponing all the movie releases to next month.


The Producers council will hold a meeting with exhibitors, distributors and other stake holders on Thursday to take a final decision on postponingthe movie releases.'Adurs' starring Junior NTR and 'Leader' starring Daggubati Rana aretwo big films slated to release this month. About 10 other smaller films are also ready for release before the end of this month. Sources confirmed that actor Mohan Babu who declared his support to 'United Andhra Pradesh' following which there have been attacks on theatres screening his film' Saleem' wants to stop screening the film too.

Theatres are expected to screen old popular movies, small budget and non Telugu films in theatres across the state till the end of this month.
"There is political unrest in the state and people are not coming to theatres to watch films. The collections have dropped drastically and it doesn't make sense to release movies in such turbulent times. Producers met today and decided not to release any films this month. There is yet another meeting with exhibitors and distributors on Thursday tofinalise the details" said Mr Vijandar Reddy, member, AP Film Chamber of commerce.


"This is a very sensitive issue. We haven't taken a final decision onpostponing the movie releases as yet. Its a business that involves crores of rupees and lots of efforts. A few producers have brought up the idea of postponing the releases as the situation in the state is tense. We will take the final decision on Thursday" said Mr Shyam Prasad Reddy, President, AP Film Producer's Council.


Meanwhile, actor Mohanbabu who pledged his support to United Andhra Pradesh has declared that he will go on hunger strike at Tirupati against the separation of the state."The attacks on theatres is the handiwork of some miscreants. I am for United Andhra Pradesh. I want the state to stay united. Attacks on theatres cause loss to a lot of people from all the regions in the state. I am now not with any political party and am going to sit on hunger strike at Tirupati for the United state cause" said Mohan Babu.

While many actors refused to comment on the attack on theatres fearing backlash from Telangana agitators, senior film makers claimed that they will not shift their base from Hyderabad though Telangana state isformed.
" It is foolish for agitators to attack the films of family members of Chiranjeevi and Mohanbabu just because they declared their stand. We are here to entertain people. We are not doing any anti social activity. Our movies are regional and I don't think anyone should have a problem with it. We will continue to operate from Hyderabad despite the formation of a separate state" said Mr Thammareddy Bharadwaja, senior Film maker.

"I wore bikini to show my otherside"

Soon after her national award winning performance in Tamil blockbuster 'Paruthiveeran', Priyamani set the screen ablaze in bikini in 'Drona' starring Nitin, demonstrating the versatile roles she has played.The actress who is perhaps one of the busiest stars in the industry now,is the most sought after star for performance oriented roles.Priyamani says, she has certainly become more cautious after bagging the national award.


"I am very choosy with my subjects and I am not on a signing spree. People certainly expect something exciting from me after I bagged the national award. I have to live upto that name as a national award winner and not let my directors and fans down. I am also carefullly choosing my roles and trying to strike a balance between commercial movies and performance oriented roles now. I am yet to come across a script that is as heavy and performance oriented as Paruthiveeran" says this 25 year old actress.


She may be winning critical acclaim for her performance but she hasn'thad a box office blockbuster in Telugu after 'Yamadonga' in 2007. While admitting that her movies were a flop, she says the success of the film is beyong her control.
"I give my 100 per cent to every film I do. When the director narrates the script it sounds great. But the end result may not be as good as it is explained by the director. Things could go wrong in editing or anywhere. There are so many factors for the failure of a film. All films can'tbe blockbusters. All I can do is to put in my best efforts. I don't have the control on the end result of the film. I am now doing two films 'Sambho Shiva Sambho' with Ravi Teja and 'Sadhyam'. I am sure, they will resurrect my position in the industry as I look totally different in these films" hopes this actress who has worked in all the South Indian industries and claims Tollywood to be 'richer' than anyother industry, thanks to its bigger market.


"I can't compare one industry with the other.They are different and got to play good charecters in all the languages. Telugu is certainly richer industry than that of others as it has huge market. But I am comfortable doing films in all the languages" she says diplomatically. Priyamani says she is 'content' with the charecters she got to play in Telugu an industry which is known to include actresses in the movies only to run around trees.
"The roles I have played have been good enough and I got to do fair amount of performance oriented roles.Fortunately my charecters werenot one of those running around trees types. I got equal amount of screen space as that of heroes. I will take up a project only if my charecter has significance in the story

"Is her bikini act in 'Drona' an attempt to silence the critics who slot heras an actor fit to perform only a particual genre of films?
"When my director insisted that I wear bikini for 'Drona', I was a little hesitant. But he told me that it would be shot stylishly like Kareena in Tashan.I also wanted to show my other side to the audience and readily agreed. It created sensation of the sorts and whenever I came to Hyderabad those days, I got to see it being played on TV in airport. It was very funny and I got mixed reactions from the audience for wearing bikini. I took the feedback positively and I proved myself fit to look glamorous too"


This Palakkad girl has also raised many eyebrows for bagging a role in Maniratnam's much talked about 'Raavan'.Many observes claim this to be her gateway to Bollywood. But the actress says she prefers to take it as it comes. "If Raavan clicks and I get good scripts to act in Bollywood, I will take it up. For me it is just another industry with wide range of audience and bigger market.If the roles are exciting only then I will take them up. Otherwise, I am fine with our South Indian industry

"Infact Bollywood diva Vidya Balan is the cousin of Priyamani. The actress says though she has never spoken to Vidya, she is 'proud' of her.

"Vidya is a fabulous actor and I am proud of her. Her grandfather was my grandpa's brother. Her dad keeps in touch with my dad. But we haven't spoken as yet. I am proud of her performance" quips the actor who has evaded rumours of her link ups with her strategic silence."I have had fair share of rumours of affairs with co-stars and directors.In this industry, we are bound to be written about and I take it with a pinch of salt.The more you try to explain about it, the worse it gets. I don't comment or respond to such rumours and just neglect them"she signs off.

Manchu Vishnu-most honest actor I have ever met.

Call it the afterglow of marital bliss or his need to re-establish himself after a spate of flops, but Vishnu Manchu is geared up to to wow audiences with an all new look and a new perspective to match. Back on the big screen after a hiatus of one year, the actor is treading cautiously now.



“After Dee went on to become a super hit, I thought my next film, Krishnarjuna, will strengthen my position in Tollywood, but it bombed. Now I’ve become choosy. The audience doesn’t give you too many chances,” says Vishnu, who is busy showing off his fit look in his film Saleem.

“I put on a lot of weight as my earlier characters demanded it. But everyone started calling me fat and I decided to prove them wrong. Now I’m back in shape,” he quips.Vishnu has more than one reason to be excited about his comeback. In Saleem, he will be seen fighting against his dad, Mohan Babu, who plays a baddie.


“It is tough to act with a man of his stature. I had to constantly fight for my screen presence and I knew that we’d inevitably be compared every time we are in the same frame. I learnt a lot too. My dad is punctual and disciplined, even though he’s a prankster,” says Vishnu.

It doesn’t take long for the actor to veer away from all subjects related to his work and start talking about his wife, Viranica. Touted to be the ‘Abhi-Ash’ of Tollywood, the very-much-in love couple who have been married for a year now, are spotted at every event together.
“For three years when we were seeing each other, I had to hide Vinni from the world. I used to steal time in between my schedules to meet her. But after we got married, I wanted to give her all my time,” says Vishnu. In fact, Viranica has taken an active interest in his professional life too.

“The credit for my new look goes to Vinni, who designs costumes for me. She has good taste and ever since she has been styling for me, I’ve been receiving many compliments,” says the proud husband. Vishnu is quite the proud sibling too. His younger brother Manoj, is considered more successful of the two. Vishnu however, claims there is no bad blood between them,

“The audience will compare us, but the industry is a large one and every one can have their share here. Manoj is a brilliant actor and I regard him as my only competition in the industry.”

T'wood stars on a blogging mode

" Hey guys... just started shooting in Hyderabad again... feels great to be back...,” reads a recent post from actor Ram’s blog on the website http://www.heroram.com/. The actor, who has discovered the joys of blogging a la Aamir Khan and Big B, says this was the only way he could reach out to his fans.


“When I tuned into a radio station in Vijayawada, I heard an RJ talk about how she is in touch with me on Facebook. Fact is, I am not on any social networking site. I realised that the only way to clear the air is by starting a virtual space of my own.”
From talking about their everyday schedules and throwing in their two cents worth on burning issues to dispelling rumours, Tollywood actors are in a confessional mood these days. And the horde of interactive blogs and websites by them are testimony to their newfound need to express.


Lakshmi Manchu, producer, TV host and daughter of actor Mohan Babu, says, “I remember my dad had a man who replied to his fan mails. He also sent them autographed pictures. I learnt from my dad the importance of keeping in touch with fans. I respond to most emails. Since I have my own website and blog as well, everyone can get in touch with me.”

For most stars, it is the need to get feedback from the audience that drives them to blog. Sharwanand says, “Fans post comments on what they liked or disliked in my films. The feedback is honest and I value it.”


Many others use their blogs as a tool to publicise causes that matter. Actor Kamal Kamaraju, says, “I started a blog to spread awareness on HIV/AIDS. I also have another blog where I update people on my everyday life. It’s my online journal and I also upload my paintings there.” Actor Daggubati Rana couldn’t agree more. “My blog is a powerful medium to voice my opinions. Through this platform, I also get to read opinions of people outside the film industry. It is a tool which helps me stay connected with my fans.”

"Actors don't live in real world" says Navdeep

In his 15-film career, Navdeep has had to deal with more flops than hits, but the actor is not one to give up. the 24-year-old who has been missing in action, is all set to make a Tollywood comeback and has three films slated for a back-to-back release.Despite making waves in the Tamil film industry with Arinthum Ariyamalum, Navdeep, who was last seen in a small cameo in Ready, says he is keen on moulding his Tollywood career again.


“In the last two years, I did three Tamil films and have also been shooting for Arya-2. This is probably why my fans didn’t get to see much of me. Also, my previous Tollywood movies didn’t do well and I was waiting for something interesting,” he says.Out from a “hibernation” of sorts, Navdeep is treading cautiously in the industry now.


“While I enjoy working in both the industries, Tollywood is where I feel at home. But when I choose films here, I’m extra careful, since the Telugu film industry is more image conscious and hero-centric,” he adds.The young actor also admits that his no-show at the box office is because of a few “obligatory” movies he did.
“I used to oblige friends who approached me with requests and most of them bombed. But now I’ve learnt not to yield to pressure,” says Navdeep, who is now helping his brother find his footing in the film industry.

“I help Parthu get in touch with the right people, but nothing beyond that,” he clarifies.For an actor keen to make his mark in Tollywood, Navdeep is conspicuous by his absence at most filmy dos. “I prefer staying away from filmy bashes. I don’t like to be in a place where all film stars do is talk about movies. I don’t think they live in the real world, which is why I prefer staying away,” he says

Multi-starrer movie season in Tollywood

For an industry that is known to be hero-centric, Tollywood is now fast breaking the mould. In a new trend, a host of Telugu multi-starrers are all set to hit the theatres after Eenadu with Kamal Haasan and Venkatesh, paved the way. From Arya-2 and Vedham to Om Shanti and Shambho Siva Shambho, multi-starrers have become the season’s hottest flavour.


The reasons are many, say directors. It is easier to weave interesting stories around multiple characters, feels Krish Radhakrishna, the director of the upcoming film Vedham, starring Allu Arjun, Manchu Manoj, Anushka Shetty and Manoj Bajpai. “With more stars, audience have more to look forward to. It also makes the story stronger,” he says.


Director Sreedhar Reddy couldn’t agree more. “It becomes easier to expand the story if there are more stars. The expenses may be higher, but the demand for the film’s satellite rights make up for it.”
The Telugu film industry, which is just waking up to this trend, is excited about the economics of it. Priyanaka Chalasani, the producer of Om Shanti, says, “Kajal, Nikhil, Navadeep, Bindu Madhavi and Adithi Sharma are acting in my film. All their fans will be drawn to the theatres.”

Interestingly, mana Tollywood stars who were once averse to the idea of sharing screen space with other actors, now claim they are not worried about a co-star stealing their thunder. Navadeep who is doing two multi-starrer movies, says, “It is a healthy trend. We should keep our insecurities aside and wake up to the advantages of multi-starrers.”


The young actors are in fact, all gung ho about the changing face of Tollywood. Actor Shradha Das, who is acting in the mutli-starrer Arya-2, says, “Many of us don’t mind acting with others. Moreover, the hype surrounding the film will only help us get noticed.”
Actor Bindu Madhavi, who signed up a role in Om Shanti, agrees. “The fact that I share screen space with so many stars will only help boost my career. It’s more about being a part of a good, big movie that can make an impact,” she says.

Big stars make their vote count

Though the overall voter turnout for the GHMC polls on Monday was poor, Tollywood stars turned up in large numbers to cast their votes. The Praja Rajyam chief, Chiranjeevi, who came with his son Ram Charan Tej and other family members, cast his vote at the Obullreddy school in Jubilee Hills.

Film-maker Allu Aravind, his son Allu Arjun, actors Pavan Kalyan, Krishna, Srihari, Nagarjuna, Amala, Balakrishna and his wife,director Rajamouli, music director M.M. Keeravani cast their votes at the BSNL office polling booth in Jubilee Hills.
Film-makers D. Ramanaidu, Kodi Ramakrishna, M.S. Reddy, actors Venkatesh, Babu Mohan, producer Suresh Babu, his actor son Rana, veteran director K. Raghavendar Rao, music composer Vandemataram Srinivas, lyricists Paruchuri brothers and other actors cast their vote in the Filmnagar Cultural Club. Tennis star Sania Mirza too cast her vote along with her parents at the Filmnagar Cultural Club.

Meanwhile, actor Junior NTR cast his vote at St. Ann’s College in Mehdipatnam.
“Elected representatives change the way we live. It is imperative for everyone to vote” said actor Nagarjuna after casting his vote. Interestingly, Mr Chiranjeevi said people are perhaps frustrated with the politicians and that is why have not turned up to vote.

Of the 904 votes at BSNL office polling booth in Jubilee Hills, about 270 votes were from people belonging to the film industry. Of the 2,105 votes cast at Filmnagar Cultural Club, about 595 were from Tollywood personalities.

"The crocodiles" takes it all away at ICFF

The German film The Crocodiles bagged two of the six awards apart from special mention at the International Children Film Festival that wrapped up on Friday in the city.
Directed by Christian Ditter, The Crocodiles is about a group of kids who call themselves


“The Crocodiles” and manage to nab burglars using technology. The Crocodiles took home the best feature film, best screenplay and special mention awards in the International films category. Elephants from the UK walked away with the Golden Elephant for best documentary and Harald Hamrell bagged the best director award for his Swedish film A Witch In Our Family.
In the Asian films category, Half Mine, Half Yours, an Iranian movie, bagged the Golden Elephant for the best feature film. Tamil director Pandiraj was declared best director for Kids and the Chinese film Two Men’s Classroom was chosen by the children’s jury as the best film.



Child And The Angel an Iranian got the jury’s nod for best screenplay. Mahesh Gore, a Hyderabadi animation creative director, bagged the best animation award for Fuel Duel.
The Chief Minister, Mr. K Rosaiah, minister for information, Ms Geeta Reddy, and a few Tollywood personalities gave away the awards.

Meanwhile, mild tension prevailed at the venue when one of the CM’s security personnel slapped a photographer of a Telugu daily. The Chief Minister later apologised to the photographer and promised to look into the incident.

Dasari says Telugu film makers are ill-treated by centre

Filmmaker and MP, Mr Dasari Narayana Rao, stirred up a controversy at the inaugural function of the 16th International Children’s Film Festival on Saturday by alleging that the Central government treated Telugu cine personalities as “second grade cinema citizens”.

Addressing the gathering at the Lalita Kala Thoranam in the city, he pointed out that many Telugu filmmakers eligible for Dada Saheb Phalke and Padma awards were overlooked by the Centre. Mr Dasari was cut up at being introduced as a producer and said that he had directed 148 movies and had also got into the Guinness Book of World Records.


“The first movie in this country on children was made by Telugu film industry 61 years ago,” said Mr Dasari.“ We are not lesser than any other industry. Despite that, the Hindi film industry takes away all the limelight.”He also turned to the information and broadcasting minister, Ms Ambika Soni, who was on the dais, and asked her to understand the problems of the Telugu industry.
Mr Dasari added that many Telugu film producers couldn’t get funding from the Children’s Film Society of India to produce movies as it demanded 15 copies of the bounded script. Though actor Nandita Das, chairperson of CFSI, tried to clarify, Mr Dasari continued to speak and told her that he was ready to prove his allegations.

“This festival is being organised by the AP government,” he said. “The CFSI should first stop operating from Mumbai and start its office in Hyderabad. Only then can children’s movies be made. The CFSI should start accepting applications for funding on the basis of the synopsis of the movie.”However, Ms Soni denied the allegations and pointed out that in 2007, Telugu film Amulya was screened at this festival.”We are not going to create any barriers in this festival as it is meant for children,” she said.

Nandita promises quality Indian movies for kids

Actor, director and now the chairperson of Children's Film Society of India, Nandita Das is busy with kids at the animation workshop organised for kids during the film festival. The actress who has been working round the clock this week to live upto her stint as the chairperson of the society says, the organising of the festival was a great 'learning experience' for her.


"The children's film festival has been larger than I imagined it to be. This fest brought together different minds to one platform and the kids surely got to learn a lot meeting their peers from different parts of the country and there is so much that happens between them in those informal spaces. Its been just three months that I took over as Chairperson of this society and ideally I would have liked to know how this society works before I could start doing something. But immediately I had to work for this festival and it was like directly diving deep into the sea. However, an overwhelming feedback from the kids is thankfully an acclaim to our efforts. " she says.


Nandita opines that there is a notion among Indian film makers that films for kids is loss making. She now plans to involve mainstream distributors,film makers and writers in CFSI and loan their thoughts on how to take these kids movies to theatres and make them commercially viable."Every time we think of making movies for kids in our country, they produce films that are boring and preachy. Kids want films on adventure,hope, fancy, fun with a subtle message in it. My duty now is to craft a market plan to take these movies to theatres. We will start informal committees with film makers, kids and writers that will advise us on how to make quality movies for kids. We will also make sure there are film clubs in district level. Every day I am making notes on what I can rectify and mygoal is to create certain systemic changes in CFSI that go beyond my stint as chairperson." the actor quips.


Though she is happy with the co-operation by the state government over conducting of this kids film fest, she smirks at the petty incidents that are blown out of proportion by a section of media. While admitting that there were lapses in the festival, she claims that Hyderabad is yet to own this festival.
"I have gone to about 50 film festivals as an actress. In every country,colleges, NGOs, youngsters volunteer to do something for the festival. But there, a few media personnel fought with me for media kits. It is imperative for us to own the festival and play a perfect host. Mistakes are bound to bethere in a wedding at home. Lapses are bound to occur in an event of this scale.Its sad that we look at the negative aspects of everything than giving constructive suggestions.It is sad that we don't take ownership of the festival in the city and accuse that the locals are not involved in it "



The actress who claims that she couldn't enjoy this festival much as she was busy spending half of her time in 'crisis management', promises an exponential growth in quality of Indian films for the 2011 film festival."I will give preforma to give feedback to all our employees. I am gettingfeedback from jury, officials, media, parents and kids. When we pool in all that and understand the problems in making films for kids, we can chalk outthe solution. That will be first on my prirority after the festival."who reveals that she didn't have to face any problems from bureaucracy as they gave her free hand in doing what she likes to do.

This Nandi award winner says there is a lot to learn from kids and says that she is overall happy for giving kids a memorable film watching experience."Kids never complain on trivial inconviences. Its amazing to see themover look little problems and enjoy the activities here.I think we elders are sad human beings looking at everything with negativity. An escalator expereince at theatre could make the kids laugh and enjoy.Overall, I am content and happy over the memorable experience we gave the kids in this festival. My aim now is to keep the spirit of this fest going until the next fest" she signs off.

Film Festival with a difference

M. Rekha, a Class II student residing in the government orphanage at Ameerpet, entered Prasads Multiplex for the first time where she watched the 3D animated film Fly Me To The Moon, as part of the International Children’s Film Festival. But for the festival, she would never have been able to see a film in a multiplex.


Sruthi, formerly a street child and now studying in Class VII with the assistance of an NGO, couldn’t contain her excitement.
“I watched the 3D movie with special lens. I thought the fish would eat me up as they came really close to me!” she says delightedly.

And Shivanand, a Class VI student at the government school for the visually impaired, was all ears as he “heard” a film specially audio described for him and his classmates.“I can hear everything in the movie. They narrate all the scenes,” he says.

About 3,500 children living in orphanages and juvenile homes or studying in schools for the visually impaired, the mentally challenged, or from child labour rehabilitation schools got to watch films for the very first time in their lives thanks to a special initiative of the state government and the Children’s Film Society of India (CFSI).


“In this film festival, our goal was to get children from underprivileged backgrounds to watch movies in multiplexes. We didn’t want this film fest to be just another event that people soon forgot,” said Mr C. Parthasarathy, MD, AP Film Development Corporation.
To this end, the government conducted contests for children across the state, released brochures and posters a month in advance, conducted a 2-km run and created a buzz about the event.There was a creative dimension to the festival as well. The CFSI held workshops on animation, film-making, scriptwriting, story-telling, reporting and special interactive sessions with kids and directors. For the first time, there was a children’s jury award, a special category and award for Asian films, and special screenings of films made by open forums which brought film-makers, kids and parents onto one platform to discuss the future of children’s movies in India. About 52 child prodigies from across the country were felicitated during the festival. The state government declared that it will take this festival to all regional centres after dubbing the films into Telugu. It also plans to include “filmmaking and cinema studies” in the school curriculum.


The CFSI too has big plans. Its CEO, Mr Sushovan Banerjee, said,“By the next film festival, we want to screen movies made by children themselves under a special category. We will give DVDs of our films to the state governments that are interested in screening them in schools. After this fest, we will have a series of meetings with filmmakers who can help us bring these movies to theatres and make commercially viable movies for children. This children’s film festival was the one with a difference.”

"I might direct a Telugu movie soon"

The Hyderabad blues seems to have struck Nagesh Kukunoor. The filmmaker, who set up shop in Mumbai years ago, is part of the jury of the International Children’s Film Festival and says he is glad to be back home as he was “missing” his city.


“The festival has given me an excuse to hang out here and chill out with my buddies. I have been a jury member for different film festivals before. But this time I am doubly excited as I am getting to spend a week at home,” he says.

However, it’s not all play and no work for Kukunoor, who is geared up for the film festival. “There are a lot of kids on the jury this time and I want to see whether my opinion matches with theirs,” he quips. Nagesh, who shot to fame with his two movies that were based on kids — Rockford and Iqbal — feels that children’s films are not given enough priority by the industry.


“Our films are controlled by the private sector, which is driven by industry economics. Children’s film society should fund more movies on kids and make them commercially viable. Countries like Iran make great movies for kids. It will take time for our film makers to understand that kids movies are profitable too.”

Box office success is something that has evaded Kukunoor’s films after the success of Iqbal and Dor. Both Bombay to Bangkok and his last film, 8x10 Tasveer failed to make an impact. Though his upcoming films, Yeh Hosla and Aashayein have been in the news for a long time, they are yet to be released.


“Aashayein got delayed initially because of the disagreement between the production house and distribution company. After wards, there was the multiplex strike. We hope to release both movies soon.”Whether they have fared well at the box office or not, the director says that he is happy with his body of work. “Bombay to Bangkok is a comedy, Tasveer is a thriller and Iqbal was a story about the human spirit. No two films of mine are identical and my movies are a mixed bag from different genres. As a movie buff, I like to watch different genres. And as a director too, I would like to make different kinds of cinema. I don’t think there is anything called commercial cinema,” says Kukunoor, who is not averse to the idea of making a Tollywood flick.


“The only reason I’ve not directed a Telugu movie is because I’ve always been more comfortable with Hindi, even though my mother tongue is Telugu. But lately, I have been seriously considering working in Tollywood. I might direct a Telugu movie soon,” says Kukunoor.

' Saifeena can get boring'

Sporting a bearded look and a devil-may-care attitude to match, Saif Ali Khan is his usual confident self before the release of his film Kurbaan. Despite the controversy surrounding the half nude posters of him with his girl friend Kareena, Saif is taking everything in his stride.

“It’s just a backless photograph and I feel that it is sensual and aesthetic, not sexual. Kurbaan is a mature love story. But I understand that a section of people did get offended. My only aim is to release the movie and if we have to change the posters for that, we are ready to do it,” says Saif, who is excited about the way the film has turned out.

“The movie is an intense love story in the backdrop of global terrorism. It deals with the question of whether a terrorist can be loved. I’m glad I got a chance to act alongside Kareena in such an interesting film, instead of a regular rom-com. I am looking forward to it as it is an important juncture in my career.”

In fact, Saif is making it a point to play “versatile” roles in all his films.

“It’s important to be different in each movie for it to click at the box office. Love Aaj Kal wouldn’t have been a hit, if not for my sardarji look,” he says. And his love for experimenting doesn’t stop at acting. Saif, who has recently donned the role of a producer, feels that film production is a more complex process than acting.

“Acting is just visualising things and performing, but production is all about realising that vision. It is much more challenging than acting,” says Saif, who is busy with his next production venture, Agent Vinod, an action adventure that has him playing the lead.When not in news for his films, Saif is known to make headlines for selling brand “Saifeena”.

The actor, however, disagrees, saying, “We don’t sell ourselves as a pair. I like to be known as Mr Khan and she as Ms Kapoor. In fact, we are careful not to be seen as one unit and retain our individuality. It can be boring to see Saifeena together all the time,” he quips, adding, “Kareena gets along well with everyone at home, including my kids.”Perhaps they are one of the most written about B’wood couple, but Saif says he doesn’t mind the speculations.

“It’s all a part of showbiz. We realise that people have an honest interest in our relationship, so we reveal whatever we can. It’s only when we are asked something too personal, that we refuse to talk.”

Visually impaired kids enjoy movies

Children's Film Society of India has decided to audio describe two moviesevery year to be specially screened for visually impaired children across thecountry. Currently, CFSI has 5 special movies which are specially audiodescribed with added narrations that are meant for the screening of visuallyimpaired kids.

"Since these kids can't watch, we add a few narrations that describe sceneshappening on the screen. We have five audio described movies for them. Wewill audio describe two movies every year hereafter. In fact commercialmovies like 'Munna Bhai MBBS ' have also been audio described. If anyonecomes forward to audio describe Telugu movies we are ready to screen themfor visually impaired children in the state" said Mr Sushovan Banerjee, CEO,CFSI.

On Monday, CFSI screened films for blind children from Government schools at Potti Sri Ramulu Telugu university auditorium as a part of the International children's film festival being held in the city . That apart, a unit from the CFSI is also visiting each school for visually impaired in the city every day to screen these films. About 100 kids from Government schools for visually impaired and Devanar school enjoyed the movie 'Katt Katt Kad Kaddu' on Monday. Two special films are being screened for these kids everyday.

A few of these students who are partially blind and could easily follow themovies. Officials said that the all the five movies including ' Kabhi PassKabhi Fail', 'Karamati Coat' will be screened for all the visually impairedchildren in special schools in the city during this festival. Since kids can't see,these movies will have more narration and commentaries so that the visuallyimpaired get to know the sequences and scenes in the movie.

"I liked the movie and I have been following what is happening in the story.It is very descriptive. We understand what is happening in the film. We enjoyTV programmes in our hostel and so it is easy for us to follow what ishappening on the screen here" said Shivanand, a visually impaired 6thstandard student of Dar-Ul-Shifa.

"There are 120 visually challenged kids in our school. They are used to TVprogrammes. These movies describe where the actor is, who is getting closerto him, what is he doing in the scene etc. and hence they understand what is going on. Since there are commentaries that are added to the original film andare being screened for these kids, they are able to follow the movie" said Aneez, Hindi teacher at Dar-Ul-Shifa school for visually impaired. The state film development corporation has also asked CFSI to give them the CDs of these special movies so that it could screen them for visually impaired all over the state.

Thammareddy says T'wood heroes aren't men

Senior Tollywood film maker and former President of AP Film producer's council, Mr Thammareddy Bharadwaja said that 'none of the heroes in Telugu film industry are men'.When asked if top heroes in Tollywood would act in movies like 'TareZameen Par' made on children's issues, he said that, ' none of our heroes will do that kind of cinema. There are men in Bollywood and our heroes are not men'.


Speaking to the media at the 16th International Children's Film festival being held at the city, the producer said that our heroes know nothing about cinema but think that they are 'demigods'. He said that most of the actors in the industry are 'dumb' and don't go beyond making movies with two fight scenes and a few dances.
"The mindset of our heroes is very bad. They don't know what is cinema.They don't watch International cinema and know nothing about movies.Their parents are actors and so they have become one. Forget about good stories, they can't even give good 'treatment' and making to the films. They don't have passion for cinema. They don't experiment at all and don't have the courage to do movies like Tare Zameen Par" he said and added, " I can't talk further here, it will be more controversial" .


The producer said that it is impossible for producers to invest in children's movie unless they are commercially viable. He opined that people don't watch movies for kids and it is too risky for producers to invest money on movies for kids and incurr losses. He asked the government to give complete subsidy if it is a good movie and said that since the government is giving very little funding, our film makers are making 'terrible' movies for kids.


"We can't make movies with Rs 20 lakh. They will be hopeless movies withthat amount of funding given by government. If it is a good movie, thegovernment should fund it completely and also build mini theatres indistricts to screen such movies. All said and done, everyone forgets aboutmovies for kids after this festival and it is back to square one." he said.

"I have to live upto my family's expectations"

Being the grandson of filmmaker Ramanaidu, son of producer Suresh Babu and nephew of actor Venkatesh is no easy task. And Daggubati Rana, who has created a huge buzz in Tollywood even before the release of his debut film Leader, is nervous about living up to the expectations.


“I can’t afford to fail as everyone’s watching me. I have to live up to the expectations of my family. I hope this film works as it is an honest movie and it is my first. I don’t have an image of my own and I want the audience to accept me with this film. Shekhar Kammula took about a year to pen this script after extensive research and we shot the movie for a whole year. It has been long since Tollywood has made a political drama. It is in the same league as the The Godfather,” says Rana, who is going all out to promote the film.



“Filmmaking as a process has evolved. The size of the market has increased. Movies today are offering audiences visual treats like never before. You need to offer quality cinema to the audience and promote it well,” he adds.This producer-turned-actor feels that the transition from “behind the scenes” to “onscreen” was not hard for him.

“I took a break for two years and underwent training in all aspects of acting before I faced the camera. I am born in a family of actors, and this step came naturally to me. It’s just another art form,” says Rana, who was into visual effects, cinematography and production earlier.
In fact, A Belly Full of Dreams, a film produced by him went on to win much critical acclaim.Even as he is set to make his debut, Rana is busy going through scripts for his next film.

“I would love to do different genres. I don’t want my next film to be similar to what I’ve done,” says the actor, who is learning the tricks of the trade from his uncle Venkatesh.“I grew up watching his films and when I told him that I want to be an actor, he showed me a methodical way of going about it. He guided me at every level. He saw the first rushes of my film and gave me his honest opinion. I have learnt discipline from him.”


And when he is not shooting, Rana is quite the party boy, who is seen hobnobbing with the current crop of actors at every do. “Though there is competition, we all are good friends. Whenever we meet up, we discuss our films, scripts and share tips and tricks. We have great fun together.”

Special screenings for blind, orphan and juvenile kids

The Children’s Film Society of India has decided to organise special movie screenings for children from orphanages, juvenile homes and visually impaired kids during the International Children’s Film Festival in the city that starts on Saturday.

About 400 juveniles from various homes across the state and children from various orphanages under the social welfare department and run by private organisations will watch the movies in this festival.Officials say they will screen five movies which have a special in-built sound system for the visually impaired children.

Children will also participate in filmmaking, acting, creative writing, story making and animation workshops during the festival. Actors and eminent personalities will act as moderators for open forums that will be conducted every day on various topics related to children and films.

“We have about 250 movies in our library and most children don't have access to these movies.

We will discuss and invite opinions on various topics on children and their movies like ethics in using children in films, whether films should be a part of the curriculum for children etc. Actor Nandita Das, lyricist Gulzar and Amol Gupte, who penned Tare Zameen Par, will act as moderators,” said Mr Sushovan Banerjee, CEO, Children Film Society of India.

The society and the government are also organising a 2-km run along Necklace Road this Friday to instil the spirit of the festival. About 100 movies will be screened in nine theatres acrossthe city between November 14 and 20.

Tollywood ignores kids films

Every two years, Hyderabad grabs the attention of filmmakers and movie buffs across the globe in mid-November. The fixed venue for the International Children’s Film Festival (ICFF), the city pulsates with excitement for a week. And when the celebrations come to an end and the last of the speakers, who talk about the need for children’s cinema, head home, the spotlight turns off.

Only a few Indian films qualified to be screened at the 16th International Film Festival, to be held from November 14 to 20 in the city. Of them, only two are Telugu. In fact, less than five children’s movies are made annually by Tollywood, which churns out more than 150 movies a year.

Industrywallahs, who have swept the genre of children’s cinema under the carpet, blame it on the scarcity of funds and lack of interest. P. Sarath Kumar, member of the Censor Board, says, “What is the point in taking home a Golden Elephant when you suffer losses? People talk about children’s films only on November 14 and then forget about them.”

The economic hurdles are far too many, lament the few directors who have tried their hand at this genre. Umesh Shirupalli, the director of Circus-Circus, one of the two Telugu movies being screened in this festival, says, “After I finished Circus-Circus, I approached the Film Development Corporation (FDC) to get funding. They claimed that they did not fund movies that are already made. Distributors too don’t realise that there is a huge market for children’s movies,” adds Umesh.
Director Jaya couldn’t agree more. “Earlier, the government used to grant Rs 25 lakhs for every children’s film. Now the aid doesn’t exist. The government should at least give tax exemptions to exhibitors willing to screen children’s films.”

K.S. Rama Rao, former president, AP Film Chamber of Commerce, says, “The FDC comprises politicians, who have nothing to do with films. One can’t expect them to be sensitive towards the cause. The government should take steps to make it feasible to provide meaningful entertainment to children.”

Talking about the issue, actor Nandita Das, chairperson, Children’s Film Society of India, says, “The quality of children’s films is poor. I wanted to come up with an awards category for Indian movies for children, but we found that not more than six movies are eligible for screening in the festival. We are going to address this issue in an open forum this time.”
The quality of children’s films in india is poor. Not more than six movies are eligible for screening this time.Nandita Das, chairperson, CFSI