pg. 18
pg. 96
pg. 88
CONTENTS 05.09 12. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 14. READERS’ VOICES
26MOVIE MANIA 26. PEEKABOO
A look at movies ready for release
30. FIRST CUT
On location with movies in the making
62. BOX-OFFICE BUZZ
Movies that are a cut above the rest
GALA-TTA 44ATIME! 44. WHAT’S ON G.COM
Hot stuff on Galatta.com this month
8 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
48. COVER FEATURE
ACROSS SORBET OF 102 16 BORDERS STARS 102. BRINGING HOLLYWOOD HOME Hollywood biggies in India
104. BEYOND SOUTH
Titbits from the out-of-towners
& 85ROUND ABOUT 86. CAMPUS CINEMA
Movies set inside schools and colleges
88. LEARNING CURVES
You’d love these girls in uniform!
94. SLAM BOOK
Celebs talk about their hey-days
pg. 40
96. A LIFE OF STYLE
Pick your fave celeb and they pick their fave quirk!
18JUICY STUFF
16. KICKSTART Sinfully, Asin
40. STAR OF THE MONTH
Chiranjeevi takes on the world
74. RISING STARS
Ambitious new kids on the block
81. SPECIAL JUNE FEATURE
Colonial Cousins: their rise & rise
70MEMORIES 70. NOSTALGIA
A tribute to the great K. Balajee
54
HEY, GOODLOOKIN’
54. LOOKBOOK: SHRIYA SARAN
18. GALATTA GRAPEVINE All the info, all the goss!
24. COOL STUFF Krishna goes mobile!
32. SCENE ABOUT TOWN Tinseltown’s shimmering dos
36. GAME-TIME Contests to win in a flash!
46. STARGAZING
Travel on the zodiac with the stars
76. FAST TRACK
Rahasya gets candid!
106. WRAP UP
Just in, super-fresh news
78
NOTE WORTHY
78. IN THE GROOVE
Soundtracks worth your money
80. TOP OF THE CHARTS Songs on the #1 lists
10 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
pg. 16
pg. 81
48COVER FEATURE 48. KANTHASWAMY - THE MEGA-MOVIE
You just can’t beat a fabulous combo that has Kalaipuli S. Dhanu, Susi Ganeshan, the dashing Vikram and sizzling Shriya. Here’s where we tell you why...
You would think that a girl like Namitha would be the life of any party. And you wouldn’t be wrong. But it is only that we never see her having fun in Chennai. Why you ask? Well, the actress is more at home in Mumbai and Hyderabad, where she has friends and fun! Come on Namitha, we can be friends... so what do you say... PARTY TIME?!
No more running to stores. No more flipping through eBooks on your computers. Your Galatta Cinema is now available on your iPhone for FREE! The application is simple and user-friendly, available for download in the Apple app store. With this, GC becomes the first Indian movie magazine on the iPhone.
First Vikram and now Suriya. The actor will be joining Ram Gopal Varma’s Raktha Charithra. He will be introduced towards the end of the movie, a foundation for his actual role in the sequel. Will Suriya rock Hindi films as much as his Ghajini remake? We sure hope so!
18 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE |MAY 2009 2009
Aishwarya Dhanush will be Reema’s voice in Aayirathil Oruvan! Most actresses in the Tamil film scene do not dub in their own voices; they do not speak the language or the accent isn’t right or simply because it saves time! Still, it’s not often that a starlet’s voice is dubbed by a friend, so it’ll be worth the wait to see how the personality is transferred!
She may not have created a stir in her Hindi debut, but Sneha Ullal is indeed a popular star in Telugu. This talented lass will now be entering Kannada films with London Gowda opposite superstar Upendra. The film is rumoured to be the remake of the Hindi hit Namastey London starring Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif.
She has played cute and bubbly roles in all her films (except the Hindi film Masti, where she played a suspicious wife). But looks like now Genelia is ready to experiment. In the Telugu film Katha she plays a school teacher. For someone who looks like a school girl, it would indeed be a challenge!
20 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
Another beauty queen is all set to debut in Kollywood. Priyanka Shah, iss Tourism World Winner 2007-09, Channel V Get Gorgeous II Winner, Zoom Levis Diva Winner and also a PETA activist, will star in Storm Pictures’ Kalla Kadhalan starring Sibiraj and Vishal Hegde.
Superstar Mammootty was briefly ‘separated for questioning’ by security officials at JFK International Airport, New York on April 29. He was allowed to leave after the Indian Consulate explained that he was a popular actor in South India and had visited the US many times in the past.
Jiiva will be soon seen in a double role in the film SIngam Puli. The movie directed by Sai Ramani stars Divya Spandana as the female lead. Jiiva is also shooting for Katcheri opposite Poonam Bajwa. His other film is Kudumi. Looks like post Siva Manasula Sakthi, Jiiva is raring to go!
22 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
i
Vaaranam Aayiram got her her 1st Tamil break... and got her hooked onto Gautham Menon? Sameera Reddy sashays into Kollywood again with a psychological thriller with Gautham and with what is perhaps her biggest Tamil movie yet the slick-looking Asal with Thala Ajith, directed by Saran and produced by Sivaji Productions.
Deepika Padukone may not be looking down South for movies, but we do see her rocking the ad world here. She recently did a cola commerical with Ram Charan Teja, and boy were they HOT! So will we see Deepika with Ram Charan Teja on the silver screen too? Well, we just might, given that rumours are already doing the rounds!
Pic courtesy: Glamsham
Jayam Ravi will take on a full fledged action role with Peranmai. The actor has lost about 13 kg for the film, by following a strict diet. The movie which has been in the making for 18 months, promises to give a complete action image, a trend which started in the 2008 release Dhaam Dhoom.
23 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
STAR OF THE MONTH
“
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40 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
MEGASTAR
c
of
TOLLYWOOD
Chiranjeevi
‘Chiru’, as he is affectionately known amongst his fans, is the son of Late Sri Venkat Rao and Srimathi Anjana Devi. He was born on 22 August 1955 in Mogallturu, a town on the banks of the river Godavari in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, India, and named Vara Prasad. Ever since he was a kid, he hopped around from one cinema theatre to another to watch his favorite screen idols and cherised dreams of coming alive on stage and screen. Today, the mass appeal that he commands is only equivalent to that of the late NTR. This mega star has received 7 Filmfare awards and has been conferred with the Padma Bhushan from the Governemnt of India. To his fans, he is a super-hero! And he didn’t become one overnight! He has built his career purely on talent, without the help of any godfather or godmother! Indeed one of the finest actors that Indian cinema has ever known, Chiru announced his formal entry into politics last year in Tirupathi and has put up an impressive performance in the just-concluded elections.
GALATTA CINEMA | JUNE 2009 41
Chiranjeevi enrolled for training in acting at the Madras Film Institute and attended auditions. Back then in the 70s, over three decades back, it was anything but easy. He finally got selected for Punaadi Raallu in 1978. However, it was Pranam Khareedu that first released in theatres. He went on to give an impressive performance in Paleru Narsavya without make up, and proved that he is much more than what people thought. When legendary director K. Balachandar was asked by another film maker if he should consider casting Chiranjeevi for his next film, Balachandar replied in just two words, “Grab him!” The entire film fraternity was
floored by his humbleness and dedication to work. Chiru would never say that he could do a particular role, and that in turn made him a director’s actor. In Balachander’s Idi Katha Kaadu, he played a negative role which many thought would damage his image, but then it was reverse psychology that played its part, and people just loved his performance. He was paid Rs. 1,116 for the role and in the years to come, there were several zeroes that were added to the right of the above number! 1979 saw eight films of Chiru releasing; of them, he won a lot of appreciation for Kothala Rayudu. From then on, there was no looking back. Each year saw a minimum of 15 Chiru films releasing. He experimented with roles, which was something unheard of in those days. Critical acclaim followed him for the best part of the 1980s, and 1983 saw a turning point in his career, with the release of Khaidi. The film marked his dominance, and industry magnates began to sit up and take note. Khaidi was a remake of a Hollywood film First Blood, and director Kodana Rami Reddy became his favorite director. Together, the directoractor duo churned out 23 films, many of which were blockbusters. And finally, when NTR entered politics, Chiru took the mantle of the undisputed No. 1 in Telugu cinema. He continued to win accolades for hits like Challenge, Rustum and Jwala. Then came director K. Raghavendra Rao, who didn’t promise him much when he was signed up, but who brought out a different Chiru with the release of Adavi Donga. Chiru introduced break dance in Telugu cinema, which made people go crazy. With the release of many more films like like Yamudiki Mogudu, Marana Mrudangam, State Rowdi and Attaku Yamudu Ammayiki Mogudu, he cemented his position as the undisputed king of Tollywood. He henceforth came to be known as ‘Megastar’, and his fan base grew bigger by the day. In the
FILMOGRAPHY
1970s: Pranam Khareedu, Manavoori Pandavulu, Kothala Raayudu, Sri Rambantu, Idikatha Kaadu, Punaadi Rallu, I Love You, Kotta Alludu, Kukka Katuku Cheppu Debba 1980: Rakta Sambandham, Mogudu Kavali, Prema Tarangalu, Love in Singapore, Thathayya Premaleelalu, Kaali, Nakili Manishi, Punnami Naagu, Jathara, Chandipriya, Kottapeta Rowdy, Agni Samskaram
1981: Kirayi Rowdylu, Chattaniki Kallu Levu, Priya, Srirasthu Subhamasthu, 47 Rojulu, Rani Kasula Rangamma, Ooriki Ichina Maata, Nyayam Kavali, Adavaallu Meeku Johaarulu 1982: Bandhalu Anubandhalu, Manchu Pallaki, Mondi Ghatam, Billa Ranga, Patnam Vachina Prativrathalu, Sitadevi, Idi Pellantara, Subhalekha, Bandipotu Simham, Intlo Ramayya Veedilo Krishnayya 1983: Sangarshana, Khaidi, Simhapoori Simham, Maa Inti Premayanam, Roshagadu, Maga Maharaju, Gudachari No.1, Puli Bebbuli, Aalyashikaram, Abhilasha, Palletoori Monagadu, Prema Pichollu
42 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
1984: Rustum, Agnigundam, Challenge, Mahanagaramlo Mayagadu,
Hero, Goonda, Allulu Vasthunnaru 1985: Vijetha, Adavi Donga, Raktha Sindhuram, Puli, Jwala, Chiranjeevi, Golimar, Chattam Tho Poratam 1986: Chanakya Shapadham, Dairyavanthudu, Chantabbai, Magadheerudu, Kondaveeti Raja, Kirathakudu 1987: Jebu Donga, Swayamkrushi, Nandi Award for Best Actor, Pasivadi Pranam Madhu, Chakravarthy, Aradhana, Donga Mogudu 1988: Yudda Bhoomi, Trinetrudu, Marana Mrudangam, Khaidi No.786, Yamudiki Mogudu, Rudraveena, Manchi Donga 1989: Lankeshwarudu, Rudranetra Nethra, State Rowdy, Athaku Yamudu Ammayiki Mogudu 1990-91: Raja Vikramarka, Prathibandh, Kodama Simham, Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari, Rowdy Alludu, Gang Leader, Stuartpuram Police Station 1992-93: Aapathbandhavudu, Aaj Ka Goonda Raj, Gharana Mogudu, Mutaa Mesthri 1994-95: The Gentleman, S.P.Parasuram Parshuram, Mugguru Monagallu, Rikshavodu, Big Boss, Alluda Majaka 1996-99: Hitler, Master, Choodalani Vundi, Bavagaru Bagunnara, Iddaru Mitrulu, Sneham Kosam 2000 onwards: Annayya, Daddy, Manjunatha, Mrugaraju, Indra, Anji, Tagore, Shankar Dada MBBS, Andarivadu, Jai Chiranjeeva, Stalin, Shankardada Zindabad 2009: Magadheera (cameo)
early 90s, he delivered two super hit movies: Kondaveeti Donga and Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari, the latter attracting children and adults alike. He he continued to rewrite box office records with blockbusters like Gang Leader, Rowdi Alludu, and Gharana Mogudu. Telugu film industry virtually became a one-man industry and a multi-crore business. Chiru was now the highest paid actor in India. Speculations were raised about his entry into politics when Mutha Mesthri, released in 1992, showed him as a political leader. Since then, Chiranjeevi’s entry into politics has been widely debated in Andhra Pradesh, but his floating a political party remained uncertain until 2008, when he finally forayed into politics. In 1997, he came back in the reckoning with Hitler, which marked his second innings in Tollywood. After the success of this film, Chiru became even more selective with the choice of scripts. The release of Indra in 2002 took him several notches higher and broke all previous
box office records. He tried mixing entertainment with a social message in his films. Tagore and Stalin are typical examples. He is still counted by many as the greatest hero of all time. The exciting journey culminated in 2008, with Chiranjeevi entering politics. His new political party may not have fared well in the recent elections, but as a political leader, Chiranjeevi is slowly taking shape, and making his presence felt. Besides acting, he is also known for his charitable services. On October 2 1998, he founded the Chiranjeevi Charitable Trust, which includes Chiranjeevi Blood and Eye Banks. Today, more than an actor and politician, he remains an inspiration to the youth and in another five years, is expected to play a major role in the political landscape of the country. Many young Telugu actors dream of recreating his magic, but have been able to manage only a tiny fraction of his achievements. It will probably take several years for another man to reach Chiru’s current stature and command the respect that he has achieved. For many years, Telugu cinema was Chiranjeevi and vice-versa. In Sanskrit, there is a saying ‘Siddhirbhavathi Karmaja’, which means the nature of success is through hard work. Chiranjeevi is indeed the epitome of the above words, and we at Galatta wish him all success manifold in the years to come! For more news, interviews and interesting information about such talents who have made cinematic history with their body of work, simply log on to www.galatta.com
GALATTA CINEMA | JUNE 2009 43
COVER FEATURE - KANTHASWAMY SPECIAL
PRELUDE WAKEUP TO THE ROOSTER’S CROW: KANTHASWAMY IS HERE...
Every hero in today’s cinema is a cape-less super hero who can overthrow a battalion of hulks like they were a bunch of feathers. But director Susi Ganeshan’s super hero Kanthaswamy is here to set an example unlike any of his caped or cape-less predecessors. He is here to warn us of woes (and foes) to come, and also tell us that it does not require a man with super-human and gravity-defying powers to save us from doom. All it requires is ambition, belief and perseverance to make a difference. Kanthaswamy is here to say that even you can be a super hero - you just have to discover the persona that lies latent within yourself. “My hero is a super hero not because he can fly around without wings. He does not have a super power like Superman or Batman or Spiderman. Kanthaswamy will redefine the word super hero, to refer to a person who is just as normal as any other man, but possessed by the passion to make a difference,” says Susi Ganeshan, director/creator of Kanthaswamy.
48 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
Directed by Susi Ganeshan and produced by Kalaipuli S. Dhanu, Kanthaswamy stars Chiyaan Vikram and sensational Shriya. Stills from the movie, clicked at exotic locations and on awe-inspiring sets, have been dazzling us ever since the movie was announced. And as the date of release draws nearer, audiences can barely contain their anticipation, but the man behind the movie is the epitome of composure. Susi Ganeshan has absolute faith in the movie’s success, commercially and socially. “For decades now, we’ve had people protesting that cinema is a bad influence on society. The glamour and gore in movies have been labeled as detrimental to society. But no one will voice such accusations about Kanthaswamy. Yes, I do agree that the movie has a set of commercial elements, but the bottom-line is the message to give back to society. To do good. To help the needy,” says the director beaming with pride, and rightly so!
BREAK
DAY
It is big, it is grand; and like almost everything in life, it is a larger-thanlife story about life itself. Inspired and moved by one single unwritten rule about life and people today, Kanthaswamy and its maker explore a possibility that exists today in fantasy... but tomorrow, who knows...!
GALATTA GALA GA ATT TTAA CINEMA CIINEMA | JUNE CINE JUU E 2009 20009 4 499
Chemistry is so important in the pairing of the leading lady and gentleman. The air literally sizzled with Vikram’s streak of machismo and Shriya’s tigress-like energy levels. Both threw caution to the winds to create a bold, fearless equation and look seldom seen on screen today. The sparks are sure to fly!
50 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
THEACT
ATTHE
HORIZON “I studied to be an engineer. I had no background in cinema. But look where I am today. All it takes is a little faith. Kanthaswamy is about faith. People’s faith in God as their saviour, and one man’s faith in his abilities to be God’s helper,” Susi Ganeshan says cryptically and pauses. Letting it sink in. “Kanthaswamy’s story came to me when I looked at a postcard picture of the Western Wall of Jerusalem. This Wall stands testimony to the unconditional faith of thousands of Christians that their Lord will wipe away their troubles. Innumerable letters to God, from so many unhappy people, describing their troubles and begging for Holy intervention are placed in crevices on this wall. The writers of these letters believe God will read them and answer their prayers. Without questioning anybody’s faith, I decided to create a man who decides to lend God a helping hand, and answer as many prayers as possible,” he explains. “What if there was a man who did God’s work? He’s equivalent to God, right? He is surely a super hero, right?” he asks, and as we try to grope with the implications, he has more to dazzle us with. “When do most of us turn to God? In our hour of need. And invariably, our need is related to money. People with too much money indulge in illegal businesses. People with too little, resort to desperate measures to make money. But the truth is, there is enough money for all of us to live happily, but most of it is in the wrong hands. So the rich get richer, and the poor stay poor. Kanthaswamy combines these two ideas. But since no one likes a sermon, they have been neatly packaged with a host of commercial cinema elements. The movie will entertain you and also make you think.”
GALATTA CINEMA | JUNE 2009 51
NEW
EPILOGUE
BEGINNINGS
The REAL HEROES People who have adopted villages:
1. Kuwait Raja 2. Kalpathi S. Agoram, AGS Entertainment 3. Adayar Ananda Bhavan Srinivasan 4. Venkatachellam, Sri Ramachandra Medical College 5. Dr. Ganesan, Sri Vinayaka Medical College 6. Veeramani, Gem Granites 7. Abirami Ramanathan, Abirami Megamall 8. Tirupur Subramaniam, Shakthi Films Coimbatore 9. A.G. Nayagam, Ambal Hospital, Chennai 10. Ravi, Vasanth Bhavan 11. Thiruverkadu Govindhsami’s son Naresh Govindhsami 12. Kalyanasundaram, Salem 13. Sundar George, Oman, Muscat 14. Nalli Kuppusamy Chettiyar, Nalli Silks 15. A.C. Shanmugam, M.G.R. deemed University 16. Vimalesh 17. Karunamoorthy, Ayngaran International 18. Sathyajyothi Thiyagarajan, Sathyajyothi Films 19. Sanakaraman, Chennai 20. Dr. Amar Agarwal, Agarwal Eye Hospital 21. Ramesh Babu, Kanagarathna Movies
What we all know about the movie is that Vikram has donned sevaral guises as a part of his super hero role; leading lady Shriya is the typical sexy, naughty girl, all set to entertain us with her mischief and sex appeal. But Kanthaswamy is so much more than mere celluloid entertainment. Susi Ganeshan wants the movie to inspire change. “When we started the movie, I asked my producer if he would share a portion of the profits with the poor. I asked him if we, as a team, could adopt a village. Dhanu sir promptly said, ‘Adopt two!’ and we did! And following our example, 30 others did so too! Adopting a village is not about giving money today and forgetting about it tomorrow. It’s longe-term. Every time the village is in need, we have to help out, and the fact that Dhanu sir, and subsequently, 30 others agreed to do so, is amazing,” he says. “And as a team, we have achieved so much. We were the first to make electronic invites; we were the first to shoot in Maxico; after 50 years, for the first time all songs in the movie have been sung by the hero; for the first time a movie team has adopted two villages; our audio sales broke all records within the first week of its release, in spite of the availability of pirated MP3s online. I am most thankful to my technical crew for their longstanding support - my cameraman Ekambaram, my art designer Thotta Tharani, my music director Devi Sri Prasad, my stunt master Shakthi and of course Mr. Dhanu... All of them have contributed towards making this movie as classy as it is! There is a long list of people I have to thank, and I am very sure that for all of them, Kanthaswamy will prove to be the best movie in their careers yet,” gushes the ambitious young director, and we have a gut feeling all his dreams are about to come true! gushes the ambitious young director, and we have a gut feeling all his dreams are about to come true!
GALATTA CINEMA | JUNE 2009 53
H
OT &
She knows she’s sexy and she dares to flaunt it. That’s what separates the bold and the beautiful! Shriya can go from cool blue to red hot without batting an eye-lid. It’s your heart that’s in danger when this feline femme is on the prowl. She’s a woman of now. Happy in her skin, happier to bare it. Lovely in flouncy frills, luscious in stringy designs. She’s the kind of gal who’ll slather on the sun-block to bask in the spotlight. But what’s protecting you from the heat wave in the pages to come?
OTTER
54 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
SHRIYA OUT TO GET YOU! Did you think she was saying, ‘Come and get me’? You were so wrong. She’s not the coy maiden, playing hard to get. Nor is she the frail nymph, waiting for her knight to come riding along. If she wants, she makes sure she gets it. Do we have even the slightest of doubts in her prowess to ensnare even the likes of a superhero?
GALATTA CINEMA | JUNE 2009 59
SHRIYA
TIGRESS IN AMBUSH If she’s quiet, it’s because she’s thinking. If she’s prowling, she’s ready to pounce. If she’s purring, you better surrender, or beware of her growl. A tigress in waiting, is not a cat to upset. She won’t walk away in disappointment. Get ready to fall prey to this catty queen when she gets into character for Kanthaswamy.
60 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
SHRIYA DESERT ROSE A raindrop on dry land. A rainbow in the storm. A rose on a barren desert. She’s just as vulnerable as she is strong. She combines mystery, and beauty, and that’s always a dangerous duo. Is she the oasis, or merely the mirage of it?
GALATTA CINEMA | JUNE 2009 61
S E I K L A T A GALATT
BOX
Get your dose of super flicks running in theatres for your viewing pleasure (or extreme pain, sometimes!). But over and above our pick from the current releases at the box-office, which you will see in our inner Galatta Talkies pages, we love to bring you the latest buzz on what’s big in the movie halls and what’s just around the corner. Nope, they’re too close to be Peekaboo-worthy and big enough to create a loud BUZZZZZZZ... Set your schedules for these smashing releases!
JUNE
OFFICE 62 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
BU zzz...
BOX OFFICE
BONANZA CAST: Nithin Sathya, Daniel Balaji, Lakshmi Rai, Manjari Phadnis, Kishore MUSIC: Yuvanshankar Raja CINEMATOGRAPHER: Saleem
MUTTHIRAI
BANNER: ASA Production & Enterprises Pvt. Ltd., Vision Jeeva Studios PRODUCER: Vikram Bhatt DIRECTION: Srinath
Fulfilling Jeeva’s long-cherished dream of starting a film production company, Anees started Vision Jeeva Studios, whose first production will be Mutthirai. The complete creative design of the film has been conceived and executed by Anees. She has also written the screenplay for this film starring Nithin Sathya, Daniel Balaji, Lakshmi Rai and Manjari Phadnis. Anees is trained in the advertising film industry with Mr. Jayendra and renowned cinematographer P.C. Sreeram. She has also assisted Jeeva in story and screenplay development for his films and has vast experience in designing costumes for some of the biggest stars in the Tamil industry. This is her first foray into commercial feature films. The movie is directed by Srinath, who worked as an associate to Jeeva and also acted in small roles in Jeeva’s movies. The film has quite a lot of unique attractions to it. There is a Rakhi Sawant dance in an item song and a small village has been erected for the film. Completely devoid of any modernity, this village will be something that no one has ever seen.
GALATTA CINEMA | JUNE 2009 63
BOX OFFICE
BONANZA NAADODIGAL BANNER: Global infotainment Ltd PRODUCER: Micheal Rayappan DIRECTION: Samuthirakkani CAST: M. Sasikumar, Kanja Karuppu, Ananya, Vijay, Bharani, Ranga, Chandni Deva, Abhinaya, L. Raja, Jayaprabha, Jayaprakash, Bhuvana MUSIC: Sundar C. Babu CINEMATOGRAPHER: S.R. Kathir
After the success of Subramaniyapuram, director Sasikumar will display his acting talent once again with Naadodigal, directed by Samuthirakkani one of the predominant stars in Subramaniyapuram fame. The movie has Ananya as its heroine. Others in the cast include Bharani of Kalloori fame and Vijay. The film’s story, set in a village, has some realistic portrayal of events that promises to entertain one and all. It revolves around a man who moves from place in search of his roots. He makes to friends along the way in his journey and establishes a relationship with everyone he meets. Along with the protagonist, a
team of four men and three women form the lead cast in Naadodigal. There is absolutely no cinematic heroism or commercial ingredients in the film. It will reflect real-life incidents and characters. The audio was launched recently. The movie is expected to hit the screens this month. MUSICALLY YOURS
We have already seen Sundar C. Babu’s lilting compositions in Mysskin’s Anjaathe. ‘Adungada’, the first song set in a folk tune, rolls out in Velmurugan’s voice. The next, titled ‘Nadodigal’ theme music is an appealing instrumental arrangement. ‘Sambho Jagadham’ launches with an DID YOU KNOW THAT SASIKUMAR’S FAMILY involved round of chanting HAS A HUGE DISTRIBUTION NETWORK IN by Shankar Mahadevan. The MADURAI? HE STILL CHOSE TO WORK HIS song’s music and mood lure WAY UP BY STARTING AT RUNNING ERRANDS listeners. The next three songs FOR TECHNICIANS TO BEING AN ACCLAIMED DIRECTOR PRODUCER!
are Hariharan specials. The first, ‘The Pain of Love’, is an instrumental piece; the next, ‘Ulagil Entha Kaadhal’, suits the experienced singer’s voice. Full of tonal embellishments and modulations, Hariharan delivers the number with panache. ‘Uyiril pookkum Kaadhal’ resembles the first number in terms of tune. Again, Hariharan’s rendition brings about the striking difference. Senthil Das, M.M. Srilekha and V. Chandran’s chorus ‘Yakka Yakka’ is a jolly number. The album ends with Shankar Mahadevan’s ‘Sambho Siva Sambho’. Hearing it, one unknowingly compares it with MSV’s yesteryear hit song. Though the high pitch portions resemble the veteran’s rendition, Shankar has added his own style and imprint to this new version. Sundar C. Babu’s album has something novel to offer this time too.
BOX OFFICE
BONANZA
THORANAI
BANNER: Ayngaran International PRODUCERS: K. Karunamoorthy, C. Arunpandiana DIRECTION: Vishnu Vardhan CAST: Arya, Trisha, J.D. Chakravarthy, Inderjith, Rohan MUSIC: Yuvanshankar Raja CINEMATOGRAPHER: Nirav Shah Vishnu Vardhan’s earlier movies, Arindhum Ariyamalum, Pattiyal and Billa, have all been successful attempts to give to the cinema audience a fresh experience. Sarvvam is no different. It revolves around five characters; Karthik (Arya) a today’s guy, an architect by profession, a beautiful doctor Sandhya (Trisha), father Naushad (Indrajith), an IT professional and his son Imman (Rohan) and Eshwar, a grim football coach, played by J.D. Chakravarthy and his Rottweiler dog. The stories run on somewhat independent tracks until a freak accident that happens just before the interval. From this point on, the two stories become one and in true blue Vishnu style, begins a complete roller coaster ride. Nirav Shah’s camera, Yuvan’s rocking music and the entire team’s performances make Sarvvam an enjoyable package to watch.
SARVVAM
BANNER: GK Films PRODUCER: V.M. Lalitha DIRECTION: Sabha Iyappan CAST: Vishal, Shriya,
Prakashraj, Santhanam MUSIC: Mani Sharma CINEMATOGRAPHER: Priyan
Thoranai is the story of a young man who comes to the city in search of his lost brother. Without anybody to trust or help him in the new destination, the young man embarks upon his quest to find his sibling. He gets into a dangerous network of goons. Caught between two gangster heads Kishore and Prakashraj, Vishal is in a terrible mess. How he tries to escape from them and how he succeeds in his goal forms the story of Thoranai. Shriya pairs with Vishal for the first time. The sizzling chemistry between them is the high point of the film. Comedy is another highlight. The stunts are also expected to be outstanding.
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RAGASYA Your inspiration... My mother
A director you wish to work with… Yash Chopra, Steven Spielberg
Three words that describe you best… Crazy, successful, famous
An actor/actress you have to act with in your career… Rajinikanth (money no bar!)
What makes you smile? Hard earned money and lots of gifts. What makes you angry? People who lie and pretend Your greatest fear… Losing my family Noise or sound you like… Children laughing A song that describes you… One day I will fly away (from moulin Rouge) Your idea of a romantic evening… Candle light dinner at the beach, a tent, camp fire Your favourite getaway… beach, beach, beach The first thing you do in the morning? Look at myself in the mirror, I love myself. Muah! You shop most for… Clothes, bags, glasses, accessories, perfumes... lots of it Your pastime… Reading, listening to music and dancing What is the one thing you always carry with you? Actually 3 things:. money, credit card, perfume Any song or tune you hum… Life is for rent and god thank you by Dido The first time you faced the camera… For a Punjabi music video ‘ Billo Ni Tere Nakhre’
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If not an actor then… An air hostess on the Emirates for sure The best comment you have got… That I have beautiful eyes Your style icon… Angelina Jolie Whose picture do you have in your purse? Mine Your ideal man… Not found anyone yet, but must be cute, intelligent, sensible and most important, mature Define Friendship… In today’s world, a friend in need is never a friend in deed. If you have money you have friends! The only exception... your parents. They are your true friends. Define love… Love is not everything, but without love, life is nothing. The one thing you want to change about yourself… Nothing... I love me the way I am... no one is perfect! Your biggest asset… My parents! Message to Galatta fans… Love your parents and also yourself. During bad times, it only these people who will stand by you.
Love the stars talking snappy? Watch them get on candid camera for hours... online. Simply log onto www.galatta.com and check out the video interviews section.
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JUNE FEATURE
- Hariharan & Leslie Lewis
COLONIAL COUSINS
It is said that opposites attract. And when it comes to the duo Colonial Cousins, it couldn’t be more true! One (Leslie Lewis) is the son of a well-known film dance choreographer, while the other (Hariharan) is the son of Carnatic singers. One is an established name in jazz and remix music, while the other is a force to reckon with in the ghazal genre. But when the two joined forces, they became one of the most popular duos that Indian music has ever seen. A true blue fusion band, Leslie and Hari redefined Indian music!
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THE MEN HARIHARAN: A ghazal singer with an edge
Born into a family of singers, Hariharan was destined to make music his career. His father, the late H.A.S. Mani and mother Alamelu, who was also his guru, were well-known exponents of Carnatic music. Brought up in the glamorous city of Mumbai, Hari’s upbringing was keeping in with a typical, traditional Tamil Iyer family. Music was his goal, but this did not stop him from completing his studies. He holds Bachelor’s degrees in Science and Law. Though brought up in a Carnatic music environment, young Hari was exposed to Hindustani music as well. It was in his teens that he became fascinated by the ghazal. The soul stirring voices of Mehdi Hasaan and Jagjit Singh steered Hariharan towards ghazals. He decided to undergo formal training in Hindustani music under the tutelage of Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan. Determined to excel in this genre, he worked hard, practising for almost nine hours every day. The heart and soul of the ghazal is the Urdu language. Getting the pronunciations right is vital to get the essence and feel of the compositions. Hariharan learnt the language and this made his ghazal renditions reach out to his audience. Hariharan’s first brush with fame came in 1977 when he won the All-India Sur Singaar competition. He was immediately signed up for his first playback singing assignment by renowned music composer Jaidev. The movie was Gaman and the song, ‘Ajeeb Saaneha Mujh Par Guzar Gaya Yaaron’. The movie became a classic and won Hariharan the Uttar Pradesh state award and a National Award nomination. He made several appearances on TV, singing for serials and of course making ghazal albums. His venture with Asha Bhosle;
Determined to excel in the ghazal genre, Hariharan put in a lot of hardwork, practising for almost nine hours every day. Abshaar-e-Ghazal and Gulfam, were two of his most popular ghazal collections. The turning point in Hariharan’s career came with Mani Ratnam’s Roja. A.R. Rahman roped him for the patriotic ‘Tamizha Tamizha’. The song became a national hit and Hariharan a household name. He followed it with several hits from the movies Minsara Kanavu, Jeans, Indian, Mudhalvan, Taal, Bombay, Rangeela, Border, Indira, Iruvar, Sivaji, Alaipayuthey, Kannathil Muthamittal, Guru, Dasavathaaram, Vaaranam Aayiram, Ayan... the list goes on and on. He became a name to reckon with, not only in Tamil, but also Hindi movies.
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LESLIE LEWIS: A musician par excellence
Like Hariharan, music came naturally to Leslie Lewis too. His father P.L. Raj was one of the foremost dance choreographers in Hindi cinema. He made the likes of Dev Anand, Nutan, Shammi Kapoor, Asha Parekh, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Amitabh Bachchan, Rishi Kapoor, Zeenat Aman, Jaya Prada and Kamal Haasan dance to his tunes. Leslie grew up listening to a lot of this film music. He was exposed to international music when he was in boarding school. Pop, Rock, Jazz, Blues... all these genres started influencing him. He took to the guitar and before he knew it, he was strumming at the strings with ease and finesse. He became a regular feature at the Cafe Royal in Oberoi Towers. His popularity as a guitarist got him the opportunity to work with well known music
Leslie Lewis was nominated for his jingles at the IAAFA Awards for four consecutive years. He finally bagged the award in 1989. composers like Kalyanji Anandji, Laxmikant Pyarelal, R.D. Burman and Louis Banks. Wanting to explore and exploit his musical talent, Leslie set up his own music company in 1987. He started creating ad jingles and slowly and steadily climbed the mountain of success. His jingles won him a nomination at the Indian Academy of Advertising Film Art (IAAFA) Awards for four consecutive years. He finally bagged the award in 1989. But what really made him a household name was his work with Asha Bhosle. The album Janam Samjha Karo made Leslie Lewis a popular name. He worked with Sunitha Rao for her album Pari Hoon Main, with Alisha Chinai for Bombay Girl and with Kay Kay for Pal. He has also been associated with several remix albums.
THE MOMENT COLONIAL COUSINS: A milestone in music Leslie called Hariharan to sing for one of his jingles. They were waiting for the lyrics. The delay made Leslie restless and he started strumming his guitar. This prompted Hariharan to sing along, and before they knew, the duo was having a unique jugalbandi. Excited by this new sound, Hariharan later called on Shashi Gopal, owner of Magnasound. When Shashi came to the studio and heard the music, he knew that this was a revolution in non-film Indian music. All the details were discussed and thus was born Colonial Cousins. But it was not until 1996 that the band saw the light of day! The uniqueness of the concept and the promotion of two middle aged musicians stumped the music label. But slowly and steadily, using every available marketing avenue, Magna released the
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first album Colonial Cousins with about 10,000 cassettes. But as the album sales picked up, they ended up selling as many as 800,000 cassettes. Though all the songs in the album were hits, ‘Krishna Nee’ and ‘Sa Ni Dha Pa’ were chartbusters. Their debut album won them the MTV Award, Channel V Award and the US Billboard Award. They also became the first Indian band to perform at MTV Unplugged.
THE MUSIC THE JOURNEY so far and beyond... After their 1996 success, the duo released Unplugged in 1997, the concert recording of the Colonial Cousins’ performance for MTV. In 1998 Hariharan and Leslie Lewis released their second album The Way We Do It. Just like their earlier works, this too proved to be a success. Then followed Aatma in 2001, another soulful album. During all this time, both Hariharan and Leslie continued working on their individual projects, such was their friendship and working relationship. After Aatma, the duo did not have any release for some time. This prompted rumours that they had broken off and would no longer work together. But all the detractors were proven wrong, when they came together once again in 2007. Since then, the duo has been performing for several shows and programmes. As a team they have not restricted themselves to just nonfilm fusion music. Colonial Cousins has composed music for movies as well. They debut in Kollywood with Saran’s Modhi Vilayadu. Starring Vinay and Kajal Aggarwal, the music of the film has been well received by the people. They have also been signed for another Tamil film Chikku Bukku, starring Arya, Shriya and Preetika, who is Bollywood star Amrita Rao’s younger sister.
AUDIOGRAPHY 1996 Colonial Cousins 1997 Colonial Cousins Unplugged 1998 The Way We Do It 2001 Aatma 2009 Modhi Vilayadu (Tamil movie, music released) 2009 Chikku Bukku (Tamil movie, under production)
Hariharan and Leslie Lewis have continued to work on their individual projects along with their album and movie commitments. Hariharan still continues to enthrall us with his movie songs. His latest hits include ‘Nenjukkul Peidhidum’ from Vaaranam Aayiram and ‘Pala Pala’ from Ayan. Leslie Lewis is focused on his solo albums and composing for films. Both of them have maintained that Colonial Cousins is the best thing that has happened to their careers. Leslie says that it has made him a better singer, thanks to Hariharan’s constant clobbering and for Hari, the association has made him a more chilled out singer, a person who enjoys his music. Hariharan and Leslie Lewis are harbingers of new sound to Indian music. It is a great joy that the duo has extended their talent to South Indian Cinema. Galatta Cinema wishes them loads of success and a lot more movies and albums. After listening to Modhi Vilayadu, we can not wait for Chikku Bukku. Way to go Lezz and Hari! To listen to Modhi Vilayadu songs log on to http://music. galatta.com, your first choice for legal music online!
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Mallika Pythagoras had a theorem or two to share with us. Einstein had pages and pages of wise words for us. Shakespeare taught us how to say in a hundred words what we could in just ten. Even a cockroach has no idea how complicated an anatomy it has, like our textbooks do. But all you talk of today is the blue eyed boy who smiled straight at you, or that fairy goddess who winked at you in the middle of your game!
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LEARNING C URVES Remember that first day at school? Pining for mama like you never pined before? But as the years sped by, you hated the holidays more, not because you loved your lessons, but because it was absolute trauma to be parted from your croonies! Naughty backbenchers, nerdy front-benchers. Timid boys, cantankerous girls. Sirs we loved, Ma’ams we admired. First crushes and first foes. School life is much more than loaded back packs and brain teasing exams. It is the most colourful spot on the rainbow that is life. June is here and it’s back to school for us adults also, as we watch and learn how these Southern hotties carry off the schoolgirlschool ma’am look with aplomb, and take a walk back to the good old days in between the ogling! We guarantee you, once you’re done looking, you’re gonna want these pretties to sit next to you in class or sternly teach you the facts of life!
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Meenakshi From the days of chanting Girls Rule, Boys are Losers [and vice versa], we went to becoming thick as thieves, and often felt that members of the opposite sex understood us better! Which guy will not remember with eerie clarity the first girl he proposed to? She probably glared at him then and went whining to Ma’am, but if he saw her today, wouldn’t she give him a smile?
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Shriya School is all about fun and frolic, and burning the midnight oil only once every three months – more often would be criminal! Friends to chill with, foes to compete with, music fests, dance contests, sports meets, cultural events, guilt-free bunking, zooming paper rockets, sharing lunches, splashing ink... so many many reasons to cheer! Give me an S for Super School days, past and future!
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AVASTUM CSELATUMA MTUS,NIUM TEEXMOENIS ATVASTVID REPUBLIUS CATICAT UMDIT, PULLABUS, DENENOST Flora
For fourteen years we tried hard to wake up early, and for fourteen years we failed at it! Early was never early enough, we were always hurrying in the shower, and rushing through breakfast – not because we wanted to be on time to school, but because we did not want to miss catching a glimpse of the school hotty who, obviously would not wait around for us!
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A S Bhavana Even the quietest amongst us has been bitten by the game-bug. Starting with the silly peek-a-boo, moving on to hiden-seek, picking up pace with lock-andkey, jetting around for cops-and-thieves, and then suddenly we were eyeing the scoreboard as we puckered up for that unbelievable ace, or hitting hard at that little red ball, as the crowds went berserk screaming SIX! Wasn’t it just yesterday?
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SlaMB Boo ooK K
NAKUL
RUKMINI 94 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
First memory... The orange uniform of my Ashram school which I joined in class 9. I was a plump guy, so it looked like I had ripped off the curtains to stitch the orange kurta and beige pants! Worst Report Card... Ask me when I got my best, that’s the rarity! But the worst amongst my bad report cards was the one where I got 0 in maths! Best Day... It happened twice! In my school, the student who participated in all cultural events was given the Chevalier Sivaji award and I won it twice! I participated in everything, from poetry to singing to fashion show! First Crush... When I was in the third standard we had a teacher Ms. Almeda, she was such a darling! I used to go to school just to see her! I hated... Maths. All was fine when it was 2+2=4, 2+3=5. Then they went ahead and introduced x, a, b, cosine, sine and I was lost!
First memory... The classes, the benches, my friends... Worst Report Card...When I returned from the US and joined class 4 here, I did pretty badly in Kannada and Hindi! Best Day... The days when we used to pull pranks on our teachers. There was a teacher who had really curly hair, and when she turned towards the blackboard, we would throw paper balls that would stick to her hair! First Crush... I ended up liking the guys I was teased with, but I never acted on it. While the other gals would sit at the same table as their crush, I never did all that. I was too busy thinking up pranks! I hated... My Kannada ma’am, for as long as I was bad at the subject!
VEGA First memory... I remember crying not wanting to go to school and since school was close to home, I used to escape often! Worst Report Card... I always got good report cards, except when I came to India for five months. Sanskrit and Hindi were really tough and I barely passed. Best Day... I was actively involved in the Students’ Council, but the best day was when I got elected President. I was the youngest Student Body President ever! First Crush... I was too busy worrying about my marks, but for time pass, me and my girl friends used to talk about this cute guy in our class. That’s it! I hated... Waking up at 7 a.m. – that was the most loathsome part of school life! First memory... I had the same set of friends till the 10th, and we used to have super fun! Worst Report Card... My mum was instrumental towards ensuring I never got one! I was always amongst the class toppers. Best Day... When I got the award for being the top ranker from my mom, who was the Chief Guest at the function. First Crush... In class 2, I had a crush on a cute girl. I did not know how to tell her. My friend came up with the idea that I write her name and ‘I love you’ beneath it on the playground wall. I was doing just that when our principal came by. We ran for our lives! I hated... Exams! Even a good student has to study, right? And studying is a big bore!
SIBIRAJ
K SNIGDHA
First memory... Participating in lots of extra-curricular activities... Fun tuition classes... Worst Report Card... The first prelim exams before the 12th Board Exams, I scored just around 60%! Best Day... I was in class 8 and I danced at the culturals. Soon after I finished, people came rushing to congratulate me and it was quite a while before I could get offstage for the program to continue! First Crush... I was too much of a Tom-boy, that I would hardly know if a guy was interested in me! I was too busy studying and playing around to have a crush! I hated... The long vacations after exams, because I used to miss my friends!
DANIEL BALAJI First memory... Ms. Vinodhini Vallavan, my physics teacher urged me to choreograph a song at a time when I knew nothing about dance. She told me to try hard and push myself towards that goal. I always remember her when I face obstacles. Worst Report Card... I was always in the top three rankers. But just once, when I was in class 11, I think, I came 5th or 6th! Best Day... As per management rules, the School Captain for St. Joseph’s [my school] had to be a Christian. But because I was the best student, my teachers fought for six months with the management to make me the Captain. I was the first and last nonChristian School Captain at St. Joseph’s. It was a proud day for me when that was announced. First Crush... The first time I had feelings for a girl was when I was in class 6. And then the second time was when I was in 10th standard. Fun days those were!! I hated... Since I was the Class Leader, when a teacher was on leave, I had to get another teacher to fill in. But my classmates would want to go and play. So we would have big fights about that and I hated that.
NANDHA First memory... I joined St Joseph’s in 1st standard. I had been there for 5 years. I had not yet seen much of Coonoor. So me and three other guys drew up a map of the school, came up with a super plan to bunk school! Worst Report Card... In my 10th standard, I was completely dumbfounded when I scored just 51 out 200 in Chemistry, of which 50 marks was for practicals! Obviously, there had been some error! Best Day... Was the day when I first ascended the stage to act in an English play. First Crush... I was a computer science student in class 11 and 12. But I had this huge crush on the Biology teacher. I tried my best to change over to Biology in 12th, but in vain! I hated.. The discipline! First memory... During an Independence Day function, one of my overly enthusiastic teachers forced me to sing in front of the 1000 students of my school. I took the mike, and my voice cracked in front of the whole school! I said ‘sorry’ and started again, but it was just as bad, but I hopelessly carried on! Worst Report Card... As long as I was in school, I knew no such thing! Best Day... When I won the Best Actress Award, for my first acting performance in school. First Crush... In nursery school, my classmate Rahul and I were best friends. He used to keep a place for me in the first row, and we’d keep chatting all through class! Finally they had to part us, and that was my first encounter with separation! I hated... The snobs gang!
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Style BEAUTY “I’m not hooked on to going out-of-the-way to look good, but like everyone, I too like looking good,” she says with all honesty. “When I was in school, I used to think I was an ugly duckling. So my mother took me to a professional photographer and I was stunned by the pics he took. The look of astonishment from my pals was priceless. Beauty is only skin deep, but it was a good feeling!” Ugly duckling? That’s hard to believe! “In terms of my movies, the way I look is what the script demands. My favourite look till now is in Pokkisham,” she says, and we vehemently agree. If it was for say a picnic to the beach, what shades would she pick? “I almost always go for nude shades, or no make up! I love to look natural. But when I decide to get dressed, then there’s no stopping me!” Padmapriya is beautiful without being fussy. Her fav brands? “Cryolin, Bodyshop & Blossom Kochhar’s Aroma Magic. Good variety and good quality.”
of beauty and beyond PADMAPRIYA 96 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
What’s the secret to her simpl(e)y stunning looks? “Sesame oil is the best moisturizer for the hair and body. Combine it with a home ground shikakai hair wash, and that’s the best spa treatment. For a face uplift, my magic portion combines besan, haldi and milk cream. It’s way better than a chemical bleach. Do these home spa rituals twice a month and see the difference,” she challenges! But does that mean she never stops at the parlour to even get an eyebrow threading? “Oh, I wish I did not have to! Because I was a classical dancer, ever since I was a kid I’ve been getting my eyebrows threaded. But till today, the pain of threading and waxing, is unbearable. I cry, I scream! If only there was another way,” she sighs, and we totally understand! “Pain is my excuse to say I like hairy women!” Any last words? “All I say is, if you have naturally fab skin, don’t fuss over it. If your skin is not too perfect, don’t fuss over it too much. Just care enough, not too much!”
FASHION When I started modelling, fashion as a concept was not a rage in Chennai. So more than fashionable sensibilities, what I gained was pocket money! So trends-wise, we basically just dressed smart and well, but not exactly priceless couture. Still, all the ramp modelling I did gave me confidence to carry off almost anything we were handed to wear and confidence is one of the biggest prerequisites to being fashionable! From those days until now, in my acting career, the one thing that hasn’t changed is that I wear only what fits well. If it fits well, almost anything can be made to look good, especially since I work hard at keep my physique in shape too! Speaking of fits, here’s my quirk - I NEVER wear anything that I try on at a store that needs any kind of alteration. If it fits perfectly that’s the only way I am going to buy it! Am I brand conscious... uh... yep, if you consider Brand Bangkok (grins)! I like good quality, good fabric, good fit. Designer brands or not! Of course, for my workout and sport, I am pretty particular about wearing a good, known sportswear brand like Nike, Reebok or Adidas. My shoes HAVE to be the correct ones for that sport - trainers for the gym, football shoes for soccer and all that My fashion sense these days is casual classy. Jeans, t-shirts, smart shirts. This is Chennai! No chance of wearing fancy winter clothing! And I think the last time I wore formal was at my cousin’s wedding 8 years ago! My wedding, on the other hand will have a beachwear theme... Less clothes, more fun!
stud muffin ARYA
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SPACES Home is where the heart is. This is so true; and a quiet, private home is literally a haven for people like Dhanush and I, who come from a family of hectic movie schedules. It has been quite a journey for both of us – for him, to grow from a humble, one-bedroom home to a more spacious one and for me, to leave my parents’ home to set up a similar haven for my family! Our new place is ready. We have done it quietly and privately because it has been such a special experience and we love the results. It was so very difficult, from surveying ideal locations, to thinking of our child’s future, to thinking about space vs. convenience, to try and find the right look and feel... you know how it goes. And all this while juggling our time between Yatra and assignments and family! Phew, it’s done now!
HOMEMAKER, multitasker AISHWARYA DHANUSH 98 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
We hired acclaimed young architect Chirag Kapoor to help us with our home. The essential thing in hiring someone to do up your house is compatibility of thought and taste and we really like what Chirag has done around our new home. We love the contemporary styling and clean lines and yet, all of it has a uniqueness about it – from the fixtures on the walls to the larger units to little artefacts to add a creative touch. The use of colour and lines give our home both a cozy feel and an open-spaced look. All-in-all, a great, difficult process of making our ideal home... but what a pleasure it was going through the grind and what a fulfilling end to it all!
FOOD “I am a hardcore foodie,” Abbas gushes the moment he knows we are onto his food tracks! Does that taunt his beautiful fashion designer wife Erum Ali, the moment she steps into the kitchen! “Fortunately, she is a great cook! She makes the best Biryani. Completely oil free, but absolutely delicious. The likes of Aishwarya and Salman have devoured her Biryani,” he laughs. Did we hear a tummy growl? His or ours? Moving on, ignoring the tummy calls, we wonder what his fav cuisines are, “Italian and Indian. I love spicey pastas and oil free biryani! And both are available in my place! I make the best pasta in the city,” he beams with pride. The recipe, please! “If I told you, I won’t be the best Pasta Chef in the city anymore!” “Butter Chicken is a dish from our very own Indian cuisine. Sadly there is not a single restaurant down south that knows how to make it right. But up north, in Punjab, in Haryana, in Amritsar! Wow, the Butter Chicken, the rotis, mmmm... You have to go north, to know what these dishes truly taste like!” Food haunts he would recommend? “My all time favourite place is Karim’s in Delh. Then in Ludhiana there is Baba dhaba and Aman Chicken for the most delicious Butter Chicken! For burgers, in Chennai Galloping Gooseberries is amazing! For Pizzas, in Chennai I vote for Smokin Joes. Then I love Kebab Factory for the Galouti Kebabs. In Bangalore my fav place is Bade Miyaan. On the highway to Kuttralam I love Border Chicken. Small places give you the authentic flavours!” A quick recipe for a Bachelor’s day at home? “If I’m in the mood I’d make my famous pasta! If I’m lazy I’d settle for an omelette and bread. But at my laziest best I’d order food home!” And now, we need to make that call to Smokin’ Joes!
gastronomy geek ABBAS
GALATTA CINEMA | JUNE 2009 99
a
LIFE of
Style TRAVEL
BITTEN BY the travel bug
VISHNU VARDHAN
100 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009
Travelling out of the country is no big deal these days. For me, though, why I am travelling to a certain place is as important as where I am going! I could easily do film shoots in extravagant and luxurious locations, but I stick to the basic requirements of my script – we chose Malaysia for almost the entire duration of Billa, Rajasthan, Kerala and the Kutch for Sarvvam, Chennai and Pondicherry for my 1st two films... But my dream destination these days is Cannes. Not just for the phenomenal colours and intimate richness of the Cote d’Azur, but for the Film Fest. Here I am watching movies from all over the world. I feel small, looking at such greatness. The most obscure of countries make such phenomenal movies! Korea, China, Thailand... these countries have filmmakers whose out-of-the-box vision boggles my mind. I am right now seeing Hollywood films and filmmakers and trying to get their knack for never compromising on the fine details even when they think larger than life. I am trying to see how the Cannes Film Fest is not just the red carpet, but also a place of great glamour and big business. I want to absorb everything and when I return home, I hope to bring back a lot of that sensibility... All this, of course, even as I explore the Riviera belt, get in some Monaco madness and stand in awe at French and Italian architecture!
FITNESS Working out has become a way of life for me. For the longest time, my brother and I, while we were active and gung-ho about sporting activities, never really took to any particular form of fitness workouts. We just jumped about all over the place. But since my plan to enter filmdom and what I want to be and change about the way “heroes” are, I have started taking an extra effort in maintaining my physique and fitness levels. It is not easy to get a 6-pack. You can work out for hours in a week and you may be fit and toned, but the chiselled bricks of muscles are hell to get. And that’s what I went through for Satyam. Between my rigorous workout regimen and strict diets, I was getting all the food I needed to be full and yet fit and yet, I was always starving! The results are there to see, but I am so happy that that was just a phase in my life. Now I just enjoy working out regularly, maintaining a fairly high level of weight training for the muscle tone and trying my best to keep excess alcohol and carbs out of my system. This too is not easy, but at least I am not crying when I get to the gym these days (grins)! I want to create that image, you know? So many people think Bollywood, with its SRKs, Aamir Khans, Salman Khans and other superstars, is the only place where the leading man looks fit and muscled and dashing while us Southerners don’t really go the distance with our physique. I admire them all, but I like the way our boys down here are gearing up too – great scripts meet quality cinema meet fit, heroic heroes! Isn’t that the ideal combo? In essence, perhaps the only way I can let myself go in terms of physique or fitness wo\ uld be if a great role demanded it and would be worth the effort (remember the phenomenal work by Tom Hanks for Castaway and Terminal?)
fitness guru VISHAL GALATTA CINEMA | JUNE 2009 101
W RAP U P RAHMAN ON OPRAH
Two Oscars later, the West is vying for time with A.R. Rahman. They just cannot get enough of him and the man is being floored with composing offers and rendezvous requests! And so it’s only natural that the Queen of television talk shows, should request and audience with the Reigning King of World Music! And that translates to ‘Oprah Winfrey is very keen to have A.R. Rahman on her famous talk show’! The Oprah Winfrey Show has seen Hollywood stars and political gurus by the dozen, and now ARR joins that list, the second Indian after Aishwarya Rai, to share small screen spaced with the charming Oprah.
BADDY MILIND IS BACK SANTHOSH SIVAN IN RAAVAN Shooting for Mani Ratnam’s Raavan was supposed to be complete by the end of April. However, Mani’s ill health put the shooting on a long halt. Cinematographer Manikandan had expected the shooting to wrap up as planned and signed on for Shahrukh Khan’s next movie, which is supposed to start in June. But with Raavan’s next shooting schedule set for June 3rd, Manikandan had to make a choice. Seeing that he was slanting towards SRK, Mani requested Santosh Sivan to take his place! Having already worked together for the super hits Roja and Dil Se, there won’t be any trouble
Milind Soman, the super model turned Bollywood actor, created a huge impact as villain in Gautham Menon’s Pachakili Muthucharam. And now Milind is back playing the bad man again in Seventh Channel Narayanan’s Parthiban-Poorna starrer Vithagan, written and directed by Parthiban. Milind plays an elusive don who controls Chennai and Parthiban plays a cop. Vithagan is touted to be a stylish entertainer, quite similar to the producer’s earlier film Vettaiyadu Vilayadu. Camera is by M.S. Prabhu, the hottest cinematographer in town, especially after Ayan became a hit. Music is by Joshua Sridhar.
AJITH UPDATES!
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Thala Ajith fans can hardly contain themselves, ever since they caught glimpses of their hero’s dashing new look in his upcoming movie Asal. Speaking of which, good progress is being made with the movie. The probable leading ladies are Bhavana and Sameera Reddy and just days before the first shooting schedule either in India or Malaysia, all the songs of have been penned and Bharadwaj is busy making them into some smashing tunes! Also the team is busy scouting for some super, never before seen foreign locations to shoot the songs in! More Asal updates every month!
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106 GALATTA CINEMA |JUNE 2009