Vivek’s 25 years in Tamil Cinema!

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

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

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

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

Manisha Koirala as sex worker in her next film

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

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

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

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

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

Sleepless Nights Of 'Mankatha' Game In Mumbai

If our ‘Madurai’ is considered ‘Thoonga Nagaram’ of Tamil Nadu, ‘Mumbai’ is ennobled for the same term across the continent of Asia. So says Venkat Prabhu, who has now started working on his scheduled in ‘Mankatha’. Right now, the team is shooting during night times in Mumbai so as to avoid the crowd thronging at the shooting spots.

But then Venkat Prabhu mentions that Mumbai is very busy in nights than day. The entire team has successfully completed on the first day schedule wrapping up by early morning.

‘Mankatha’ will have the audio launch function held in grandeur at Chennai.

Lingusamy's Hunt Begins With 2000

The much awaited movie of this year ‘Vettai’ has started rolling in Karaikkudi that involved the entire star-casts (Arya, Madhavan, Sameera Reddy and Amala Paul). The song was choreographed by Brinda and had around 2000 artists participating in it. Following the huge success of ‘Paiyaa’, Lingusamy and his brother Subash Chandra Bose are producing this movie under their home banner of Tirupathi Brothers.

Soon after the completion of this schedule, the entire crew will move down to Tirunalveli and Tuticorin, where the major portions o the film will be shot. Yuvan Shankar Raja has composed couple of songs while Nirav Shah is winning praises of Lingusamy for his wonderful cinematography.

The film revolves around two brothers (Arya and Madhavan) and the disputes that emerge between them.

Udhayanidhi Stalin To Celebrate

Maybe, Udhayanidhi Stalin didn’t have a really great start as a producer as his maiden production ‘Kuruvi’ bombed at box office. But soon, he learned the tactics of being a successful producer and got through a successful way. Especially in 2010, he had a remarkable journey as all his four movies became blockbusters.

To start off with, it’s ‘Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya’ released in February that crossed 125 Days successfully in box office followed by Aarya-Amy Jackson starrer ‘Madharasapattinam’ that had 100 successful days in many theatres. More than all, it was Aarya’s ‘Boss Engira Baskaran’ became a big blockbuster and drew more crowds to the theatres in spite of ‘Endhiran’ release.

The Diwali release ‘Mynaa’ become an instant hit and stunned even the trade analysts as the results exceed their own expectations.

Marking the success of all these four movies, Udhayanidhi Stalin will have a huge celebration hosted through an event by next month herein Chennai.

It would have been a GIMME FIVE situation if his previous release ‘Manmadhan Ambu’ was also a success.

Selvaraghavan Complete Erandam Ulagam ?

Selvaraghavan as per his commitment to UTV has to complete his Dhanush-Andrea starrer Erandam Ulagam, before he can start shoot with Kamal for Viswaroopam.

Selva, the professional that he is will start the last and final schedule of the film from April 11 in Chennai. During this 40 day shoot, he has to do the remaining four songs and talkie portion of the film.

Yuvan Shankar Raja is to provide music for the film, which is yet to be recorded. Ramji is the cinematographer. If Selva completes the shoot and finishes post production work of 'this intense love story'

UTV will release Erandam Ulagam by June end.

Sneha is Arukkani

You read it here on IndiaGlitz that Sneha is playing Prashanth’s sister in ‘Ponnar Sankar’, a historic movie based on a novel by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi and directed by Thyagarajan.

Now we have more details on the character the smiling beauty is doing in the film. The name of her character is Arukkani and she has a meaty role to play in ‘Ponnar Sankar’, we learn from sources.

“Sneha’s role in the film is very crucial and she has been given enough scope to show her acting skills. This is the reason behind the actress accepting the role,” ‘Ponnar Sankar’ unit members tell us.

Produced by Lakshmi Shanthi Movies, Prashanth’s home banner, the audio of ‘Ponnar Sankar’ was launched by Karunanidhi on Sunday and the film is getting ready to hit the screens in April.

Sakshi is Back

Sakshi who starred in films like Puthaiyal, Vedam, and Manasthan got married and chose to take a break from films. The slender actress will be seen after a long hiatus in a dance sequence for director Ameer’s Adibaghavan.
The film has Jeyam Ravi and Neetu Chandra doing the lead roles. Sakshi will provide the spice in this movie with a sizzling number. A huge set has been erected for the dance and as many as 150 dancers will be flown in from abroad. Sakshi is rehearsing diligently and is thrilled to don the greasepaint and face the camera again.

Vikram Next Film "Karikalan" with Katrina Kaif ?

Vikram is wrapping up work on Deiva Thirumagan and is all set to begin work on a brand new exciting project. The film is to be called Karikalan and it will be directed by Kannan who has been responsible for the graphics in director Shankar’s movies. Karikalan is expected to be a mega budget entertainer with impressive special effects.

It is to be produced by Silver Line Film Factory, the makers of the recent Singam Puli. The buzz is that Katrina Kaif will be the heroine as she is said to be perfect for the part and the entire team is keen that she be a part of this project. Harris Jayaraj will do the music.

Jayalalitha thanks Vijay

A press release from the AIADMK headquarters from Chennai states that director SA Chandrasekar had met the AIADMK chief J Jayalalitha to pledge his support to the party during the forthcoming elections. He also informed her that the members of the Ilayathalapathy Vijay Makkal Iyakkam will extend their full support in all the constituencies to ensure the party’s win.
The press note stated that Jayalalitha extends her thanks to actor Vijay and SA Chandrasekar for the support.
Vijay is currently busy shooting for Nanban and hence it is not clear if he would campaign for the AIADMK in person.

Arya, Madhavan, Sameera Reddy and Amala Paul shoot!

Director Lingusamy, riding high on the success of his previous outing Paiyaa, has begun the shooting for the much-discussed Vettai. The shoot kick started in Karaikudi where a song is being shot with over 200 dancers. The song which goes 'Dumma Dumma Dummaa Dummmaa..Ponnu Anga Summa Summa..' has been penned by Na.Muthukumar. All the lead actors of the movie - Arya, Madhavan, Sameera Reddy and Amala Paul feature in the song. Arya and Madhavan play brothers in this film which also stars Nasser, Thambi Ramaiah and Raana.
After shooting at Karaikudi, the team will move to Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi. Vettai has music by Yuvan Shankar Raja and has Nirav Shah taking care of the cinematography. The movie is being produced by Tirupathi Brothers who are also producing several other movies such as 'Vazhakku En 18/9' directed by Balaji Shakthivel and an untitled film which is to be directed by Prabhu Solomon.
News is that, this production house will also produce another movie in Lingusamy's direction starring Vishal and will also produce a movie to be directed by Mysskin with Arya in the lead. Looks like the Arya-Mysskin movie is still on cards!

Telugu hero says that he is not in love with Shreya or Bipasu

Raana is a Telugu actor who had acted in the film Leader. He is the grandson of the famous Telugu producer T Rama Naidu. Now he has paired with Bipasu Basu in the Hindi film Dum Mera Dum.
The film is to hit the screens next month. There is a news under circulation in Bollywood circles that Bipasu has fallen in love with Raana and because there is a conflict between John Abraham and her.
In between there was also news that Raana was in love with Shreya for the past five years and now Shreya’s parted way with him because of his love for Bipasu. Raana while speaking about this said," There is no truth in these news. I know Shreya from my college days. We are friends for the last 8 years. The news that we are in love is not true. Now they have started linking me with Bipasu Basu. I don’t know whether they are doing this for the sake of the publicity of this film. But I have great respect towards Bipasu. I don’t know from where these rumors are erupting."

Rahman completes five songs for Ponniyin Selvan

Ponniyin Selvan of Mani Ratnam is going to have great and outstanding music than ever by AR Rahman. Both Mani Ratnam & AR Rahman together gave many outstanding songs so far by continuing the same AR Rahman has completed five songs for this magnum opus.

Rahman gave all the five songs to Mani and the directed is elated with the tunes as they were simply outstanding. Mani approved all the five songs and he will commence the shoot for the songs very soon.
Right now Mani is busy with the pre production of the film. Ponniyin Selvan has Vijay, Mahesh Babu, Arya, and Sathyaraj in lead roles while sizzling beauty Anushka will be seen opposite Vijay. The rest of the cast are yet to be finalized.

Sneha goes to Bollywood

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

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

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

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

Cases against Kushboo, Vadivelu

Police have filed cases against actors Vadivelu and Kushboo, both campaigning for the ruling DMK alliance, based on complaints that they violated rules during their election campaigns.

The Tiruvarur Police registered a case against Vadivelu for having spoken in a public meeting denigrating DMDK leader Vijayakanth thus promoting enmity, hatred and ill will between the cadres of two different parties in breach of the model code of conduct.

The case was registered following a complaint lodged with the Chief Electoral Officer of Tamil Nadu by Dileep Kumar, a high-power committee member of Vijayakanth’s DMDK, Chennai.

Two cases have been filed against Kushboo in Theni district. In the first case, the actress allegedly disrupted traffic while campaigning. The second case was filed as some cars in her convoy did not have required permission.

'VTV' to roll in Hindi

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

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

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

College Students Stun Sneha with a Special Trailer

Actress Sneha was stunned with a fine trailer on her produced by a private college students. After seen the trailer, she told with moistured eyes that she never experienced that kind of love and affection before.

Hansika Motwani spotted at PVR Theaters

Shooting is going on at a brisk pace for Udhayanidhi Stalin's Oru Kal Oru Kannadi. The director recently canned a few shots at the PVR Theater in Ampa Mall, Aminjikarai. The heroine Hansika Motwani and Saranya were doing a scene together here. The public were quite curious to know what was happening.
OKOK is being produced by Red Giant Movies and has Udhayanidhi Stalin and Hansika Motwani in the lead. Music is composed by Harris Jayaraj and Rajesh is in charge of story, screenplay and direction.

Muppozhudum Un Karpanaigal’s Director Is In Deep Trouble

Muppozhudum Un Karpanaigal’s director Ganesh is in deep trouble following reports that the producer of this flick is considering to replace him. As per sources, the entire unit of MUK is unhappy over the way Ganesh is handling the film.
To add to their woes is the director’s attitude problem. Incidentally, Ganesh happens to be a close associate of Silambarasan and bagged the offer to direct MUK when he happened to meet its producer during the making of Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya.
MUK stars Atharva and Amala Paul as the lead pair and Vivek plays the comedian. The music for this film has been scored by GV Prakash Kumar.

Actor Vijay to support AIADMK

After actors Vijayakant and Sarathkumar, AIADMK today ensured the support of one more top Tamil filmstar Vijay for its alliance in the upcoming assembly elections.
Vijay’s father and actor-director S A Chandrasekaran met AIADMK chief Jayalalithaa at Tiruchirappalli during her campaign and assured the support of ‘Ilaya Thalapathy Vijay Makkal Iyakkam,’ a fan’s movement in his son’s name, to the AIADMK combine, a party release said here.
Vijay had made his political intentions clear when he staged a protest at Nagapattinam recently against the killing of Indian fishermen allegedly by Sri Lankan Navy.
Vijayakant’s DMDK and Sarathkumar’s AISMK have already entered into a poll pact with Jayalalithaa to face the polls and have been allotted 41 and three seats, respectively.

Vaanam’s single track choreography costs 25 lakhs

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

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

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

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

Will Kamal and Selva get Viswaroopam?

It is likely that Selvaraghavan will name the Kamal starrer that he is directing as Viswaroopam. The director has this title in mind and the final decision is likely to be made soon. It may be mentioned here that Viswaroopam is the title of a yesteryear flick and the title still vests with the production house that had produced the film.
Selvaraghavan is in talks with the production house to get the rights on the title and if this happens, he may name his film Viswaroopam as planned. In the eventuality of the production house not willing to part with the title, Selva may consider another suitable title, sources say.

Why Kushboo wanted to go home?

Kushboo is deeply involved in politics after joining the DMK last year. Despite not being offered a ticket to contest the polls this time, the actress is busy campaigning for the DMK-Congress alliance candidates. Kushboo, however, has made it clear that she needs to be home on a particular day and will not campaign on that day at any cost.
According to sources close to Kushboo, she needs to be home to teach Hindi to both her daughters in order to help them face exams. The actress will tour the state to promote the candidates of her party and is considered to be one of its star campaigners.

Rahman’s authorized biography!

AR Rahman’s first authorized conversational biography will be released on April 6^th, 2011 by Om Books International. Titled AR Rahman: The Spirit of Music, the book will contain some of the interesting events that happened in the musician’s life.
Ace film director Mani Ratnam, who introduced AR Rahman as music director in Kollywood with Roja, and several other celebrities, will attend the book launch function.
The biography has been penned by Nasreen Munni Kabir, who has about 80 documentaries to her credit. Apart from interesting incidents that happened in Rahman’s life, the book will also some rare photographs and a music CD.

A proud moment for Vivek!

While many stars are wielding the mic for election propaganda actor Vivek too is wielding the mic - but for a very different reason.

 Recently the students of Indian Institute of Sciences (IIS), Bangalore, met former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, inviting him to deliver a speech on ‘My Contribution to the society’. The President who will be unable to attend the event due to prior commitments has suggested another person in his place to speak on the topic.

And guess who that was? Of course our own Vivek!

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

The actor has confirmed to us that he will be meeting the students of the IIS Bangalore on April 14. Vivek is in high spirits because this is the first time someone from the film world will be delivering a speech in the IIS grounds. Well not only that, the students have requested the actor to deliver his speech in Tamil because a majority of the student population attending the event are Tamil.

Well congrats Vivek sir, we are sure you will do a very good job in speaking about your contribution to the society! Anything when delivered with a dose of comedy is sure to make a huge impact in the minds of people.

Vijayakanth, Kushboo, Bhagyaraj, Sarath

What’s common between these four popular faces? On Friday, the above citizens of the tinsel town were busy meeting the people, seeking votes to candidates fielded by alliances led by the two major political parties of Tamil Nadu.

While Vijayakanth and Sarath Kumar, the former and present chiefs of South Indian Film Artistes Association, campaigned for the opposition AIADMK-led alliance, Bhagyaraj and Kushboo batted for the ruling DMK-led front.

The speeches of Kushboo and Bhagyaraj were a huge draw among the women voters, while Vijayakanth and Sarath Kumar attracted a huge number of youngsters to meetings addressed by them.

Besides these four, other stars are also there in the fray, canvassing votes for the April 13 Assembly elections. The list includes some immensely popular names like Vadivelu (DMK) and Karthik (All India Naadalum Makkal Katchi).

Surya's Ezham Arivu Shooting Halts City Traffic

Surya's Ezham Arivu shooting caused for a hectic traffic road block in Chennai yesterday. Due to this shooting, thousands of vehicles jammed from Pattinappakkam to Adayar.

Vadivelu comes down heavily on Vijayakanth

It was Vadivelu’s maiden public meeting. And he used it as a platform to train his guns on Vijayakanth, whose supporters allegedly attacked the comedian’s house over a brawl a few years ago.

Speaking at the DMK-led alliance’s first election meeting at Tiruvarur Wednesday night, which was chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, Vadivelu came down heavily on the DMDK president for his ‘Karuppu MGR’ claim

“If he is Karuppu MGR, them I would like to refer me as Karuppu Nehru. He claims himself as the next Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. If it happens, I will become the Prime Minister of the country,” the comedian said in a lighter vein.

“During the last five years, the Chief Minister has implemented a host of welfare measures, which benefited the poor. The present manifesto has doubled the goodies and welfare measures. Karunanidhi has the record of keeping his promises. I will take this to the people,” he said.

Will Nil Gavani Sellathey Re-Release Work Out?

In the recent times, Kollywood has been generating a new trend of re-release as the distributors and producers are hoping to find new lease of business. The film was released nearly before 7 months, but didn’t yield better results due to unavailability of theatres and heavy downpour of big tickets.

‘Nil Gavani Sellathey’ is loosely based on Hollywood movie ‘Wrong Turn’ that involves group of youngsters on an adventure trip and the unexpected twists involved.

The film is produced by Anand K Chakravarthy (maker of ‘Vennila Kabadi Kulu’) and he plays lead role along with Tansika and Jagan. Selvaganesh has scored music for the film.

The film will be released by Sri Balaji Films Circuit across NSC area.

Jyothirmayi to divorce

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

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

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

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

Raids at Anushka, Nagarjuna’s residences

The Income Tax Department conducted raids at the residences and offices of film stars Nagarajuna, Anushka and Ravi Teja. The raid comes in the wake of reports that these stars have acquired large amount of land in Vishakapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.
Sources report that the officials also conducted searches at the Annapoorna Studios owned by Nagarjuna’s family. Several documents were seized for verification from the premises but it is unclear as of now if they are incriminating or not.

Oscar winner no more

Hollywood diva Elizabeth Taylor passed away on 23 March 2011 after suffering from various health issues since 2001. The actress was diagnosed of heart disease several years ago and was operated for it in 2009. However, due to other health issues, Taylor failed to recuperate, leading to her death yesterday.
This two-time Oscar winner entered the film industry at a very young age of 12 and since then donned the greasepaint for various roles which include the immortalized Cleopatra. Taylor is also known for her infamous marriages and has entered the wedlock eight times all resulting in divorce at some stage or the other.

Pooja Gandhi goes to court

Pooja Gandhi on Wednesday filed a suit in a Bengaluru Court seeking a direction to producer-director Shivaganapathi to pay the amount due to her. She also sought a stay on the release of the film ‘Nee Illade’, slated to be released on March 25.

The actress alleged in her suit that the producer had agreed to pay Rs four lakh before the completion of the shooting schedule, which was fixed from February 1 to February 25, 2010, with some intervals.

She pointed out that the producer had failed to pay the amount before the completion of shooting. When the suit came up for hearing, advocate for Shivaganapathi sought a day’s time to amicably settle the matter.

On Tuesday, the Kannada Film Producers’ Association asked Pooja Gandhi to apologise for alleging that the producer of her film ‘Nee Illade’ owed her Rs four lakh. Reacting to this, the actress said, “Is it wrong to ask for the remuneration due to me? Fortunately, I have the support of the Artistes’ Association. I will seek advice from them.”

Karthi’s next is ‘Kagidha Kappal’

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

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

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

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

Simbu and T Rajendar sing together

The multi-talented father-son duo have sung two different songs for an upcoming film titled Doo. This film is being directed by debutant Shriram who has been the assistant director for Thirumurugan. The film stars Mundhinam Parthene fame Sanjay and has yesteryear actress Sumithra's younger daughter Nakshatra making her debut as the heroine.

T Rajendar has rendered a snazzy song that goes like this - Dhum vitru da machan... Illa saraka vitru da machan... Illa love panrathu vitru da machaan. TR is famous for his 'dapaankuthu' and peppy numbers and he is all set to do an encore with this number. Silambarasan has sung 'Oru Paarvaiyil Poothadhu Kanne', a melody song. The film's last leg of shooting is on and will released in the month of April.

Ponniyin Selvan to be on par with Sholay?

The cult hit Sholay is much remembered for its excellent storytelling and big star cast that consisted of Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Jaya Bachchan, Sanjeev Kumar, Amjad Khan and Mac Mohan among several others. Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan were gaining fame at that time and Sholay boosted their image even more and the actors went on to give several more hits in their career later. Looks like Mani Ratnam is going to pull a casting coup and make a cult film like Sholay with Ponniyin Selvan.
Here we bring to you the latest about the film. It is confirmed that Vijay will be playing the role of Vallavaraiyan Vandiyadevan and Mahesh Babu will play Aditya Karikalan. The next slot to be filled was the character of the fearless fighter Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar who needs to look tall, strong and be able to wield several weapons and fight with élan. This character will be essayed by none other than veteran Sathyaraj who has the looks and also is experienced with aspects of weapon fighting. There was news that Vikram is not a part of the project but it is confirmed that Vikram is indeed playing a very important role in this film and that has not be revealed until now. Apart from this stellar cast, there is seasoned artist Nasser who has a very meaty role.
When quizzed about the heroine, we heard the Anushka is on board for sure and apart from that the director is hunting for two heroines who can dance, emote and look beautiful - in short, someone like Shobana. The hunt is on and we hear it might even be new comers and not only existing heroines. With such exciting news surfacing every day, Mani Ratnam is definitely making us all crave for the film.

A R Rahman to Sue Against Katrina Kaif Ad

Oscar winner legendary A R Rahman has decided to sue against an ad with using his copyright song. The composer said that he will take legal action against a soft drinks company that used one of his Slumdog Millionaire tracks without permission. The advert, which features leading star Katrina Kaif, uses the refrain from 'Latika's Theme' from the Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire.

North ya South Vidya simply rocks

Vidya is on a high post her role in the film ‘No One Killed Jessica’. The film was inspired by the controversial Jessica Lal murder case. Vidya Balan did a commendable job as Sabrina Lal in the film which won her rave reviews. The film also did commercially well.

Vidya has also wrapped up her part in the Santosh Sivan directed Malayalam film ‘Urumi’. The actress who appears as an oracle in the film has a song with the hero of the film Prithviraj as well as some scenes to her credit. Vidya has also dubbed for ‘Urumi’ in her own voice. The actress has revealed that it was her parents’ wish that she act in a Malayalam film and her role in ‘Urumi’ is her gift to her parents.

‘Urumi’s cast includes Prithviraj, Vidya Balan, Genelia, Prabhudeva, Tabu, and Arya.

Vidya whose raise to stardom was slow but steady has reached where she is by hard work. The actress also gets into the skin of her character that she performs, which makes it a pleasure to watch her films. Her next film in Hindi is ‘Kahaani’. Kahaani is the story of a pregnant girl who lands in Kolkata from London in search of her husband who goes missing.

Vidya Balan is also acting in a biopic on the late sultry siren of the south ‘Silk’ Smitha. The film is based on the life and death of the actress.

Prithviraj Engaged with Prathiksha Menon

The latest reports suggest that actor Prithviraj - Journalist Prathiksha got engaged recently at the formers house in Thiruvanandapuram. According to sources, the marriage of Prithviraj-Prathiksha will be held in April.

Problem for Pooja Gandhi

Looks like all is not well for actors in Kannada film industry. Close on the heels of a one-year ban on Divya Spandana for not attending an audio launch function, the Kannada Film Producers’ Association has asked actor Pooja Gandhi to apologise.

Pooja Gandhi, also known as Sanjana Gandhi, is a popular actress in Kannada. In Kollywood, she had acted in movies such as ‘Kokki’ with Karan and ‘Thiruvannamalai’ with Arjun.

The KFPA has asked the actress to apologise for alleging that the producer of her film ‘Nee Illadhe’ owed her Rs four lakh. If she fails to regret for her act, she will be banned for six months

Irked about the development, Pooja Gandhi reportedly said, “Is it wrong to ask for the remuneration due to me? Fortunately, I have the support of the Artistes’ Association. I will seek advice from them.” support of the Artistes’ Association. I will seek advice from them.”

Chaya Singh to Debut in Small Screen

Manmadha Rasa fame Chaya Singh has now entered the world of small screen. The actress has made her debut on the telly with Nagamma.

Senthil’s campaign against Karthik

The election campaign has already begun with all political parties vying with each other to get as much attention as they could and convert it into votes. Political parties have also begun to rope in film stars to attract the crowds and many actors and actresses have voluntarily joined various political parties to lend their voice.
The latest in this is comedian Senthil. He has announced that he would campaign against actor Karthik’s NMK and would travel to all the constituencies in which NMK is contesting the poll to ensure its defeat.
It may be mentioned here that Karthik had said that his arch rival in this elections is the AIADMK and he wants it defeated very bady.

'Ko' Completes Dubbing

If there could be one movie that has touched a highest range of expectation meter, it can be none other than K.V. Anand’s ‘Ko’. The greatest highlight about the movie is that everything has been proceeding on time right from the beginning.

The producers have been creative enough to publicize the movie through the teasers and the grand audio launch added more intensity to the expectations. For the first time, a Jeeva’s movie has been witnessed grand reception in theatres merely for the teasers. Consequently, it has become the much talked-about movie for this season as the fans have curiously started inquiring the film’s releases directly at theatres.

The dubbing works have been completed now and the movie will hit screens by third week of April.

Shankar’s status update on ‘Nanban’

‘Nanban’, a remake of ‘3 Idiots’ by Shankar with Vijay, Srikanth and Jeeva playing the lead roles, is fast taking shape. Two schedules of the project are over so far, including some crucial scenes.

Revealing this on his official website, Shankar said, “We have finished all the college exterior scenes in our second schedule in Dehradu. It’s a visually wonderful campus.”

Happy about working with a new team, the director said, “It is very interesting and new experience for me to work with Vijay, Sathyaraj, Ileana and almost every actor for the first time.”

He added: “Vijay-Sathyaraj combo is fresh and fantastic. As friends Vijay, Jeeva and Srikanth’s ‘Physics’ & ‘Chemistry’ is working very well, behind the camera too. To say in a cliché, all of them have started living in their roles.”

Concluding the post, the ‘mega’ director of Kollywood said, “I’m enjoying working in ‘Nanban’ which is completely contrast from ‘Endhiran’ in all aspects.”

Arunpandian, Michael Rayappan get DMDK seats

When you are with IndiaGlitz, you always get the advantage of knowing things much ahead than others. Exactly a week ago (15 March to be precise), we reported that actor Arunpandian and producer Michael Rayappan would be fielded as DMDK candidates.

This became official on Monday evening, when DMDK founder and president Vijayakanth released the list of 41 candidates of his party who would face the April 13 elections to the Tamil Nadu Assembly.

While Arunpandian, a popular actor and a good friend of the Captain has been announced as the DMDK’s contestant for Peravurani constituency, producer Michael Rayappan, an important office bearer of the DMDK, will contest from Radhapuram.

Vijayakanth, as against media reports that he would fight the poll battle from Virugambakkam in Chennai, is entering the fray in Rishivandiyam constituency in Villupuram district.

Sathyaraj in Mani’s film?

He fair, he is tall, and handsome of course he is. He adds appeal to any role that he plays, be it a film, an ad promo or a T.V. show. Still guessing???

We are discussing the artist par excellence Sathyaraj! Director Mani Ratnam is busy with the pre-production of his next film ‘Ponniyin Selvan’ with Vijay bagging a slot. Sources close to the director have divulged that he is considering Sathyaraj for a very pivotal role in this film.

Director Mani is rapidly closing in on the cast of the film and Sathyaraj might be seen essaying the character of Buddha Bikku, suggest sources. We do not have any reports from actor Sathyaraj’s office to confirm the reports yet. Be it the hero’s role, comedy or villain you name it and if there is one man who can do the role you can point your fingers it will be our ‘Amaidhipadai’ man.

Sathyaraj now appears regularly on weekends in a game show organized on TV and he plays the perfect hilarious host encouraging the teams to give in their best shot! Kudus to you sir for your rare talent, which glues us to our seats every time you appear on screen.

We will update you on more aspects from every angle as the story breaks in Kollywood.

Alagiri Sachin, Stalin Sehwag: Vadivelu

“A good team has been formed under Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M Karunanidhi for this Assembly polls. For me, Union Minister M K Alagiri is like Sachin Tendulkar and Deputy Chief Minister M K Stalin is like Virendar Sehwag,” Vadivelu has said.

Talking to journalists after meeting Karunanidhi at his Gopalapuram residence in Chennai on Monday, Vadivelu said that he would campaign for the DMK-led alliance highlighting the ruling party’s poll manifesto.

Hailing the DMK’s manifesto, the popular comedian said it contained several welfare schemes that would go well with the electorate. “My first poll meeting will be at Tiruvarur with Kalaignar,” he said.

“During the last five years, the Chief Minister has implemented a host of welfare measures, which benefited the poor,” he said and added: “I know this very well because I hail from a very poor family.”

Murugadoss’ next stop – Bollywood

A R Murugadoss is busy with his upcoming film ‘7am Arivu’ where he has his favorite hero Suriya and starlet Shruthi Haasan essaying lead roles. His prior film with Suriya in the lead was ‘Ghajini’ which was a runway hit in the original Tamil version as well as in its Hindi remake with Aamir Khan in the lead. Now some sources close to the director have revealed that the director is all set for his next film in Hindi, which will most probably be the remake of Ajith starrer ‘Dheena’.

Some sources suggest that the probable name for the hero’s role in Hindi remake would be Akshay Kumar. We had informed you that Abhinaya was recently signed for a prominent role in ‘7am Arivu’, though nothing about her characterization has been revealed yet. The director is also zeroing in on composer Harris Jayaraj for the Hindi film, if things work out well between the two then this film will be the launch pad for Harris into Bollywood.

Murugadoss, apart from being a great director has also devoted his time and energy for good causes. Recently the director appeared as one of the judges for a channel’s show which showcases young minds’ skills in direction thereby encouraging the gen-next to take films seriously as a career option.

‘7am Arivu’ sees Murugadoss’ teaming up with Harris Jayaraj and actor Suriya post ‘Ghajini’. This film is touted to be a medical thriller with Suriya portraying as a circus artist. There are also talks that the music track for this film will be launched on March 28. If ‘Ghajini’ was a milestone in the career of Suriya and Murugadoss let us hope ‘7am Arivu’ sets another benchmark in Indian film industry.

Let us know if would like to see a Bollywood remake of ‘7am Arivu.’

Is Jo going to make a comeback?

Popular actress Jyothika was recently seen in a commercial with hubby Suriya and she is looking absolutely gorgeous. The bubbly actress had so much fun at the commercial shoot that she said she misses acting and would love to do some more memorable roles.
However, Jo is very choosy about the kind of movies she is going to do and is in no hurry. It is likely that she will patiently wait for the right script to come along, something that does not come in between her personal life.

Sudha to compose music for director Vasanth

The lady with a very heavenly, gifted carnatic voice will be composing music for director Vasanth. She had earlier lent her voice for a song in Vasanth’s ‘Satham Podathey’ which had Prithviraj and Padmapriya playing the lead. Sudha Ragunatahan is a regular performing at all important events for All India Radio and Doordarshan.

The film that Sudha will be working on with director Vasanth as ‘Nadai Udai Bhavanai’. This will be the singer’s first tryst as music director in a film. Sudha who mesmerizes the audience with her ethereal voice is more popular in the carnatic circles and she has a number of Kacheris performed within the city as well as abroad to her credit. She has been conferred various prestigious awards in India as well as abroad.

Sudha had earlier sung for an Indian English film titled ‘Morning Raaga’. She sang for Shabana Azmi. She has received prestigious Padma Shri Award as well as the Kalai Mamani from the Tamil Nadu Government for her achievements in the field of music.

We will bring you latest updates in Kollywood as and when they happen!