'Dhrona' audio launch on 1st Jan

‘Dhrona’ featuring Nithin and Priyamani as the hero and heroine has been directed by debutant J. Karuna Kumar. Producer DS Rao is making this movie on Sai Krishna Productions banner. Production work for the movie has been completed with the shooting schedules done. The story of a strict police father and his negligent son forms the plot of ‘Drona’. The situation that arises after he commits a crime carries the script forward filled with action, love and comedy. Right now, post-production work is in progress. The film is getting ready for a Sankranthi release. The audio of the movie is going to be released on 1st of January 2009. Priyamani who has joined the league of bikini women is going to walk in the skimpy costume for a song.

Queen watches 'King' in burkha

Starring Akkineni Nagarjuna and Trisha in the lead cast, ‘King’ directed by Sreenu Vaitla is now running in theatres successfully. It has been produced by D. Siva Prasad Reddy on Kamakshi Kalaa Movies banner. The movie had a bumper opening which became a super hit in the first week of its screening itself. Released on 25th December during Christmas, the movie is flooded with good reviews all over AP and also in neighboring states. Nag’s three roles, rib tickling comedy by Brahmanandam and others and the grand song featuring eight heroines are some of the highlights of the movie which was launched with 300 prints, the highest for a Nag movie. In an attempt to savor the excitement accompanied by the audience, heroine of ‘King’, Trisha, watched 'King' at a theater in Chennai, wearing a Burkha. She was safely concealed inside the attire and seated herself amongst the audience to enjoy their response at close quarters.

AVM's production with Shekhar Kammula begins 7th Jan

Director Shekhar Kammula baked in the glory of ‘Happy Days’ for almost a year. He then made preparations to remake the movie in Hindi casting a group of young stars once again. His success history in Telugu cinema with the series of small budget hits like ‘Dollar Dreams’, ‘Anand’ and ‘Godavari’ paved his way into Bollywood. Yet, the movie didn’t go to the floors in time as planned. Meanwhile, he is now going to direct a movie which will be produced by the renowned AVM’s production company. Grandson of D. Rama Naidu and Son of D. Suresh Babu, Rana is being debuted into Tollywood as a hero by Shekhar Kammula. The film’s official launch will be done on 7th January next year. Holding a record of making new faces as superstars, Shekhar Kammula’s golden touch on Rana could be found out only when the movie comes out. His association with the popular production house AVM along with Rana might bring out a hit movie. We have to wait and watch how he’s going to churn out this new flick.

King's stupendous collection in Chennai

The talk of the town movie is ‘King’ starring Nagarjuna, Trisha and Mamtha Mohandas in the cast. The out and out entertainer was directed by Sreenu Vaitla. D. Siva Prasad Reddy produced the move on Kamakshi Kalaa Movies banner. Along with the lead cast, Srihari played a prominent part in the movie. The movie was released with a huge number of prints nearing 300, on 25th December. Filled with abundant elements of action, romance and comedy, the movie became a hit in the first week of screening itself. Apart from generating revenues in the state of AP, the flick also made a notable collection in the neighboring state Tamilnadu. Previously, Nag’s movie made a decent run in the state but ‘King’ is a hit in Chennai. The makers are happy over this stupendous success of ‘King’.

3 heroines in Krishna Vamsi’s next

There will be 3 heroines in Krishna Vamsi’s next film. Srikanth will play male lead. Incidentally, this film will be the 100th film of Srikanth. Srikanth’s performance in Krishna Vamsi’s Khadgam got tremendous appreciation. This film will have political backdrop. It will be launched on 15 January.

Drona music on 1 Jan

Music of Nitin’s latest film Drona will be launched on 1st of January. Supreme music bought audio rights. Priyamani does the female lead. J Karun Kumar – a protégé of SS Rajamouli – makes his debut as director. Rakhi Sawant did an item song. DS Rao produces this film.

Naga Chaitanya film in Amritsar

Nagar Chaitanya’s debut film will have a major shooting schedule in Golden temple city Amritsar. Kartika (daughter of yesteryears heroine Radha) is making her debut as heroine with this film. Vasu Varma makes his debut as music director. Sandeep Chowta composes music. Sameer Reddy handles camera. Dil Raju is planning to release the film in the month of June 2009 as summer special.

Srikanth’s new association with Chiranjeevi

Srikanth debuted himself as a director with the youthful entertainer ‘Kotha Bangaru Lokam’ starring Varun Sandesh and Swetha Prasad. He got a name after the movie’s decent run even though it was made on a small budget. Those who wonder if his next movie is going to cast Chiranjeevi, you are all in for a surprise. Srikanth has moved in for a new project with megastar Chiranjeevi which is an advertisement program. The ads will be made to publicize the Praja Rajyam party. To grasp an idea and inspiration for the ad, the filmmaker will be working alongside the erstwhile star and now president of PRP, Chiru. Are we soon going to see a Kotha Praja Rajyam made by Srikanth? We might as it seems so.

Sreenu Vaitla crops 'King'

Director Sreenu Vaitla has cropped 10 minutes of the movie ‘King’ to tighten up the movie’s runtime. Starring Nagarjuna, Trisha and Mamtha Mohandas, the movie has been produced by D. Sivaprasad Reddy on Kamakshi Kalaa Movies banner. The movie got released on 25th Dec on Christmas, amidst high expectations. The film had a bumper opening with 300 prints for screening in all the theatres. The movie was lauded as a great entertainer and rave reviews poured in. Yet, the most widespread talk was the movie is quite lengthy which creates boredom. Sreenu Vaitla in an attempt to provide a good entertainment has cropped 10 minutes from the movie. The resized version will be screened from tomorrow in all the theatres.

Vaibhav and Shwetha Prasad signed up for K Films

K Films is making a new movie starring Vaibhav and Shwetha Prasad in the lead cast. Director of ‘Seema Sastry’, G. Nageswar Reddy is directing this movie produced by Smt. A. Bharathi. Vaibhav is the son of well known director A. Kondandarami Reddy who debuted as a hero with ‘Godava’. He got a wider recognition after ‘Saroja’, a bilingual movie made in Telugu and Tamil. Swetha Basu Prasad is the bubbly actress from the latest hit ‘Kotha Bangaru Lokam’ who plays the heroine. At present, the shooting is being done at different locations in Hyderabad. Scenes without the heroine are being canned now and Shwetha will be in the sets from 2nd January. Vaibhav and Brahmanandam are busy doing comedy scenes presently. Stunt master Selva is directing few stunts which are also being filmed. The unit will be in the same locale to finish off the talkie part of the movie. The other important cast includes Saleem Panda, Jaiprakash Reddy, Tarzan, Azad, Sravani. A new girl will be introduced as another heroine in this film. Art direction is by Narayan Reddy, screenplay by Gopi Mohan and dialogues are by BVS Ravi. Music is being composed by Premji Amaran. Cinematography is by K. Ravindrababu and editing is by Praveen.

Shekhar Kammula's newfound talent - Rana

Joining the list of Shekhar Kammula's new found talents like Raja, Varun Sandesh, Nikhil and Krishnudu is Rana. A big break in these above said stars career was evoked by Shekhar Kammula's Midas touch. His film 'Anand' with the tagline – 'Manchi Coffee Lanti Cinema' gave a definitive break for Raja. The same was re-rendered for Varun Sandesh, Nikhil and Krishnudu in the blockbuster flick 'Happy Days'. Tagged along with them it was also the launch pad for Sonia, Monalini and Vamsi Krishna. He was in the plan to remake 'Happy Days' in Hindi but it is being delayed for certain issues. In the meantime, he's now going to direct a new movie in Telugu. Icing the news is Rana, son of producer D. Suresh Babu and grandson of producer D. Rama Naidu, is being introduced as the hero. The movie which is being widely publicized as a fresh script starts shooting in the first week or from 14th January. Prestigious production company AVM Productions is going to make the film.

Pawan Kalyan behind bars

In the Nampally area in Hyderabad, Pawan Kalyan was arrested on the charge for creating a blockade. The popular actor and member of Chiranjeevi’s Praja Rajyam Party, is also the president of the youth wing Yuva Rajyam. The state government of AP in a measure to eradicate the rising slum areas in Bheemrao Vada, near Nampally, organized a team to dislodge the dwellers. In order to bring the decision to vogue, the slums were disbursed forcibly by the government officials today. Protesting against the dislodgement, Pawan Kalyan accompanied by a group of young members from PRP reached the spot to support the people of Bheemrao Vada. He stated that this government says they are for the poor but actually works against the poor. We will not rest until we replace it with effective governance. He then consoled the local people and extended his support to them. Pawan Kalyan was arrested by the Nampally police for making a blockade during their dislodgement.

Varun Sandesh's forthcoming 'Evaraina Epudaina'

‘Happy Days’ and ‘Kotha Bangaru Lokam’ are the two movies that acclaimed a wide recognition as a star for Varun Sandesh. Riding high on the success cloud, he’s acting in a movie which is being directed by Marthand K Shankar. The new movie is based on a love story which is being produced together by M.Sharvanan and MS Guhan on AVM Productions banner. Presently, the crew is busy shooting in the outskirts of Hyderabad city. The movie is almost near the end with a few scenes to be canned. The title 'Evaraina Epudaina' with a tag line – Premalo Padochu has been christened for the movie. The filming is now being done in an old age home. Once the talkie parts are done in another 4days, the songs will be completed in the remaining schedule. The makers are planning to release the film in the month of April. The title logo release function was organized today on 27th December.

Jr. NTR to pair up with Nayantara

Nayantara has a special place in Tollywood and a huge fan base. But obviously she has attracted more fans after Dubai Seenu and Salute released. Slowly, this numero uno actress of Tamil Nadu is gaining a stronghold on Tollywood. Of late, many producers and heroes are keen on including her in their films. Realizing her potential and wanting to capitalize on her rising stardom, V.V. Vinayak decided to cast her opposite Junior NTR in his forthcoming film, which will have one more heroine. But there is one more reason for Nayantara becoming the main heroine of this film; V.V. Vinayak's first choice Ileana could not provide dates, so he settled for Nayantara who seems to be the new rage of Andhra Pradesh. This might be disappointing news to fans of Ileana D'Cruz who enjoyed her role as Jr. NTR's close friend in Rakhi. But V.V. Vinayak has little choice with Ileana being busy with two films (one opposite Nitin and another with Ram). Nayantara, who rocked in Dubai Seenu and Salute, knows that this is a great opportunity for her and would definitely want to make the best use of it. Now, that means the fans are in for a big treat!!!

Balakrishna remarks cause ripples in TDP

It is ‘star trouble’ in Telugu Desam Party. It seems heroes from NTR family are causing troubles to party Chief N Chandrababu Naidu. It was Balakrishna, the star campaigner for the party in the next elections, who created embarrassment to Naidu by saying that if people wanted him to become the chief minister, he would become one. This statement caused much discomfiture to TDP leaders. Notwithstanding Balaiah’s assertion, the TDP leaders maintained that Balakrishna was not that ambitious and recalled his statement at Yuva Garjana in Guntur that his aim was to see Naidu as the chief minister. Balakrishna might have talked of Chief Minister’s post only after he was grilled by reporters, they maintained. Speaking to reporters here Thursday, party leader E Dayakar Rao said that there was no doubt that Naidu would become the Chief Minister. Balakrishna too decided to campaign for the party only to make Naidu as Chief Minister. Interestingly, Balakrishna is not member of the TDP though he had been campaigning for the party since NTR launched the party.

Naa Girlfriend Baaga Rich in post production

The film Naa Girlfriend Baaga Rich with Sivaji and Kaveri Jha in the lead has completed shooting and is now in post production. Kumar brothers are producing the film on the KBC banner. The film is a love story and it is about a young man who after completing his studies looks for a girlfriend. The hero prefers to have a girlfriend who is also fabulously rich. Will he succeed in his endeavour? This is the suspense element in the film. The audio will be released later this week and the film in the third week of January. Music is by Manthra Anand and screenplay and direction is by M Nagendrakumar.

Swathi teams with Kamal Kamaraju

Mohan Media Creations, which is producing Mental Krishna, is all set to start another film very soon. Swathi, who starred in the low-budget hit Ashta Chemma, will be the heroine. Kamal Kamaraju will be the hero in this film produced by Mohan Vadlapatla and directed by Satish of Hope fame. The producer said, "We are planning to begin regular shooting in the second half of January." Swathi's powerhouse performance in the Subramaniyapuram (Tamil) also spelt Subhramaniapuram, was critically acclaimed and the film went on to become the surprise hit of the season. Its success has turned Swathi into a highly sought-after actress overnight, both in Telugu and Tamil, and she has become an overnight sensation.

Saami IPS to bring back the charm of Saami

The successful Saami (Tamil) with Vikram and Trisha in the lead, is being dubbed into Telugu as Saami IPS by Mutyala Ramdas under Lakshmi Venkatasai Films banner. The film is all set for release on Christmas Day. Ramdas said, "Vikram shines in his role as a powerful police officer in this flick. The way he weeds out the anti-social elements will be quite innovative and interesting. Trisha's glamour will be an added attraction while Kota Srinivasa Rao's villainy would attract the audiences. Harris Jayraj scored six melodious tunes for the flick." The original Tamil film, titled Saami, was a runaway hit and propelled rising star Trisha into the big league.

Krishnudu plays hero again

The big boy Krishnudu was loved by everyone for his close to life portrayal of a guy's emotions in the recent 'Vinayakudu'. He debuted to Telugu cinema as a co-artist in 'Pokiri' and acted in a few films. But, Shekhar Kammula's 'Happy Days' was the movie that got him the much needed recognition. Later, Premkumar Patra's 'Vinayakudu' made him a star which was directed by Saikiran Adivi. The movie became a hit among the audiences which has now got him the offer to enact the lead role in a new movie. The script for this movie is finalized for now. A young director will be directing this movie, says the production house.

Neethu Chandra's allegation on Rajasekhar and Jeevitha

Neethu Chandra has made an allegation against Rajasekhar and Jeevitha Rajasekhar for harassing and abusing her in the sets. 'Satyameva Jayathe' is Rajasekhar's movie under progress, directed by his wife Jeevitha. Neethu is a part of the lead cast as a heroine who has recently made this report to a Mumbai based newspaper. Reliable sources have confirmed the same and say that Neethu made this report about the ill treatment imposed on her by the makers of 'Satyameva Jayathe'. When she was dialed up to confirm the news, she retorted back with a yes. Reportedly, the actress has said that she was forced to stay against her wish in a prolonged movie schedule for some 16 hours altogether. She was harassed to be in the sets for a dance sequence, even after she refused to enact due to a sprain in her foot. In the end, she also reported that director Jeevitha and her husband, actor Rajasekhar have abused her beyond limits. The actress is said to be planning to file a case against them. To hear the other side of these complaints, the makers were contacted who denied all these allegations. We always treated her as one among us and not an artist, says the couple.

Naga Chaithanya's movie enters 2nd phase on Jan 19

Nagarjuna’s son Naga Chainthanya is now a debutant hero in the movie directed by Vasu Varma. Pairing up with him is yesteryear heroine Radha’s daughter, Karthika as the heroine. Producer ‘Dil’ Raju is producing this movie on his prestigious production house Sri Venkateswara Creations. Garden City Bangalore is where the cast and crew of this movie are filming now. Once it gets over, the makers have planned to start their second schedule on 19th of January. The next locale is in and around the city of Hyderabad. Shooting is being done briskly and the movie is planned to be released in June, 2009.

MS Raju's big day is Sankranthi

Sankranthi has always bought success for the popular producer MS Raju. He’s now producing the movie ‘Maska’ starring Ram and Hansika. B. Gopal is directing this movie that is going to hit the screens on the day of Sankranthi. Now, everyone will have question behind this makers Sankranthi sentiment. ‘Shathruvu’ featuring Venkatesh and Vijayashanthi made on his Sumanth Art Productions started off this by becoming a huge hit on Sankranthi day. The lucky bug bit Raju who made his movies like ‘Okkadu’, ‘Varsham’ and ‘Nuvvosthanante Nenoddantana’ release on the same day that fueled his ideology by breaking the office. These blockbusters had stars like Maheshbabu, Prabhas and Siddharth in the leads which added spice to the flicks. Most of the films made by MS Raju, which were released as Sankranthi Specials have registered a hit at box office. It claimed him the name as ‘Makara (M) Sankranthi (S) Raju’ for this sentiment of his. As if these are not evident, director B. Gopal’s 'Samara Simha Reddy' and 'Narasimha Naidu' are Pongal hits. Hero Ram’s debut movie ‘Devadasu’ and Hansika Mothwani ‘Desamuduru’ are in the same line. The aura of Sankranthi is quite in a heavy dosage as the entire team seems to depend on it. Let’s wait and watch ‘Maska’ to see how far it is going to reestablish his sentiment.

Komaram Puli schedule from 3 Jan

The latest schedule of Pawan Kalyan’s Komaram Puli will be starting on 3 January and will continue till 15 February. With this schedule, the talkie part of the film will be complete. The songs will be shot in March and the producer is planning to release the film in Summer of 2009. Nikhisha is doing female lead. SJ Surya directs this film. Manoj Bajpai, Charan Raj, Saranya, Nassar and Ali play other important roles. AR Rehman provides music. Binod Pradhan handles cinematography. Singanamala Ramesh Babu produces the film.

Three get-ups in King

Nagarjuna would be donning three get-ups of King, Bottu Seenu and Sarath in his 25 December release King. Srihari did the role of a don called ‘Gnaneswar’. King is Seenu Vytla’s 10th film. King will be releasing with highest number of prints (among Nagarjuna’s movies) on 25 December on the eve of Christmas.

'Maska' audio commercial sales from 27th Dec

Starring Ram, Hansika and Sheela 'Maska' in the direction of B. Gopal is shortly going to be released. Producer MS Raju is producing the movie on Sumanth Art Productions banner. The audio of the movie has got released today on 25th and will be available in the stands from 27th Dec. On this occasion producer MS Raju said, “Except for a song, the shooting schedules are completed. The song will be filmed in a huge set constructed at RFC. The music album will be released today through Aditya Music and the albums will be available on stands from 27th December. Chakri has composed the best music in his career for 'Maska'.” The makers of 'Maska' who are popular with their Sankranthi hits like 'Satruvu', 'Okkadu', 'Varsham', 'Nuvvosthanante Nenoddantana' is preparing to release this film during Sankranthi in January.

Shekhar Kammula's new film

Shekhar Kammula's special recognition in Tollywood as a director was made possible with just four super hits to his credit, namely 'Dollar Dreams', 'Anand', 'Godavari' and 'Happy Days'. It was already in news that he is planning for a remake of 'Happy Days' in Hindi, with Shekhar Kapoor. As the proposed movie is being delayed due to untold reasons, Shekhar Kammula is planning to make a film with a young hero in the spare time. The details on the project will be announced in a meet in two or three days. Let's expect him to bring out one more youthful entertainer which is his sole best.

'Nenu Meeku Telusa' in Tamil for Pongal

'Nenu Meeku Telusa' starring Manchu Manoj, Sneha Ullal and Riya Sen in the lead cast was directed by Ajay Sastry. It was produced by Lakshmi Prasanna on Sri Lakshmi Prasanna Pictures banner. The movie was released on 9th October and is soon going to celebrate its 100 days of screening. The Tamil version titled 'Yennai Theriyumma' was also planned to get released on the same day but was delayed due to unsaid reasons. The postponed release is now about to be done for the Tamil audience. The Tamil version is getting released on 14th January for Pongal (Sankranthi).

Hansika – The Maska Girl

Sizzling starlet Hansika is on a hat-trick with her latest being ‘Maska’. She is all geared up to give the audience one more new character on screen after her different portrayals in ‘Kantri’ and ‘Desamuduru’. Hansika Motwani seems to be the only actress who made her debut in such a role which many might refuse to. She continued her trend in Puri Jagannath’s movie and now with Ram in ‘Maska’. “I am not for enacting the same again and again,” says the pretty damsel. Even though she might seem to be overwhelmed by fantasy in her roles, as a matter of fact superstition is one thing the actress doesn’t believe in at all. “My mother did beseeched me to wear a sacred black thread after some ill happenings yet I refrained myself from doing it.” Maska starring Ram and Hansika is love story that has the flavor to woo the youth. Popular producer M.S. Raju is making this movie that has been directed by B. Gopal. Also known as the Sankranti Raju for his movies always gets released during Sankranthi, he is following his habitual trend of launching the audio in the sets on 25th December during Christmas. On a last note, a very careful Hansika says Junior NTR is a decent co-star and Ram is a true professional. Probably, to keep herself far… far… away from the usual grapevine, an astute actress she is.

Balakrishna on the banks of Godavari

Balakrishna is literally now in the banks of river Godavari. He’s in the natural sets there to film a song that starts today and will be carried out till the end of this month in and around Rajahmundry. Before this, scenes and two of the songs were canned in Malaysia. Vaishnavi Cinema banner is producing the movie starring Balakrishna and Priyamani in the lead cast. Director Mahadev, an associate of SS Rajamouli is directing this movie, produced by S. Krishna Prasad. Briefing on the movie, producer Sivalenka Krishna Prasad said, “We have a good story for this film. The scenes and songs reeled in Ramoji Film City and Malaysia has all emerged well on the screen.” ‘From Thursday, 25th Dec till 30th, we will film a song in the locales of Rajahmundry, Polavaram, Ramachandrapuram and the surrounding areas of river Godavari. The song will feature hero Balakrishna, Chalapathi Rao, Balaiah, Surekha Vani, Sana and 20 other actors. Sridhar Reddy will choreograph the song. Mani Sharma is composing the music.’ ‘From 2nd January to 23rd, we have plans to commence one long schedule which will be used to shoot the talkie parts. We will end the shooting with a final schedule in February. The movie will get released in April, 2009.’

Korean Film Festival in Hyderabad

From 26th to 28th December Korean films are to be screened for the world cinema audience at Hyderabad. Hyderabad Film Club, Korean Residence Association and Mumbai Korean Consulate are jointly organizing this Film Festival. As a part of the festival, films which gave a twist to the Korean film industry, like 'Marrying the Mafia', 'Taegukgi', 'Beyond the Years', 'Running Wild', 'Seven Days', 'The King and the Clown' will be screened at Prasad Labs Theatre. The festival will be a treat for people who love world cinema and explore new genres of films.

Trisha: No affair with actor vishal

The petite beauty Trisha who has been the most sought after actress in the southern circuit seems to have got into a special league, that of the lady Amitabh Vijayasanthi. Apparently, she has become the only actress in the south after Vijayasanthi to have been given a chartered flight for the inauguration of an event. All this happened for the opening of a showroom in Vijayawada and Trisha got this chartered flight from Chennai to Vijayawada. She flew in, inaugurated, spent few moments, flew out. The news is that the organizers spent a fortune for this small stint of this petite beauty. Sharing her thoughts with the media during this, Trisha spoke about her film 'Abhiyum Naanum' which is coming in Telugu as 'Aakasamantha' and said that it was really one of the best films she has done and will take it close to her heart. She also added that the reel experience was quite real since it happened to her few times. Later, she also justified the stand taken on holding 'Marmayogi' at this time of recession since it would cause a major damage if started now. Those are some smart words from a sensible beauty folks.

Hot Curvy Sex Lady

She is known as hot sexy lady in tinsel town. As the name sounds, every part of her body brings 'nisha' for the on lookers. But her career as heroine has been down since her beginning. She acted in a few Hindi films and also became the close pal of Ram Gopal Varma. There have been many gossips about her relation with RGV. Then she tried her luck in Telugu as well as in Tamil. She was called Amoha in Tamil industry. But luck didn't smile on her yet. Although she acted with big hero Balakrishna in 'Okka Magadu' things didn't work well. Now she signed her project for the first time in Kannada as well. Ad that is with big hero Puneet Raj Kumar and the title is 'Raaj'. We have to see how far she will see success there.

Kaveri Jha mistaken for farm hand

The sexy Kaveri Jha, who was worked with Srikanth in Nagaram was mistaken for a farm hand and villager in Ooty and even told to “get to work quickly”. According to sources, “Around mid-November, she was shooting in the fields of Ooty for a movie. The outfit she was wearing looked so real, like those of the women working in the fields nearby. During a break in the shoot, she went for a walk to get some fresh air. I was walking around some fields when a farm supervisor approached and rebuked her. It took him a full five minutes to realize that she was an actress and not a local.” Apparently, Kaveri’s crew and unit hands, particularly the locals had a hearty laugh at her expense when she narrated the incident.

January is reserved for Mahesh and Trivikram

Prince Mahesh Babu’s flick has been delayed a lot and finally now it is being said the movie will start shooting from January, 2009. In the direction of Trivikram Srinivas, the movie is supposedly to have all flavors of Mahesh’s films and will be a high budget venture. Producer Singanamala Ramesh is making the movie on Kanaka Ratna Movies banner. ‘Athidi’ was the last which was a cocktail entertainer and a hit for Mahesh Babu. Now it’s been awhile since the fans saw him on screen. This upcoming movie has reportedly been titled as ‘Varudu’. The shooting locales have been planned as Rajasthan, South Africa and Namibia. Manisharma is composing the music for this movie.

Puri starts his next with Pawan on Mar 27

‘Badri’ was the super hit flick that rose Pawan Kalyan’s image to stardom. Puri Jagannath directed this movie that was widely acclaimed and ran packed house in the screens. After a considerable gap, the winning team is coming back for a new project. Touted to be a high budgeted movie, it is going to be produced by actor Ganesh on Parameswar Arts banner. Puri was earlier quite busy with the story discussion in Bangkok and has completed it now. As the script is ready, the makers have planned to officially launch the film on 27th March, 2009. Once it goes to the floors, the shooting will be completed in succession to release the movie by 25th August, 2009.

15th Anniversary of MAA on 8th February

Movie Artists Association (MAA) has been established during the year 1993. The association completes its 15 years of since initiation in Telugu Film Industry this year. To commemorate the occasion, the association planned to celebrate the day in a gala event. However, in the wake of Mumbai terror attacks, they halted the celebrations and organized the Cine Santhi Yathra instead on 14th December, to condemn the act and to urge for peace. MAA has now planned to celebrate the 15th Anniversary in the upcoming February. Before the function, the association is launching its own website on January 26th, furnishing the details of movie artists in the industry.

SRK's 'Billu Barber' promo out

A script that has been made and re-made depicts it to be worthy enough. The Malayalam blockbuster 'Katha Parayumpol' starring Mamooty and Srinivasan is the first in this list. The makers envisaged the script which was widely acclaimed for its realism and close to life portrayal of the megastar. The movie was an ode to friendship which impressed Tamil superstar Rajinikanth to sign up the movie. It became 'Kuselan' in Tamil with Pasupathi replacing Srinivasan in the role of a barber. The movie made a decent run and people adored to see the star in his own self, an actor on screen. Now, the latest is 'Billu Barber' which has Bollywood King Sharukh Khan along with Irrfan Khan. The flick is being speculated as it has already been enacted by the top stars of Malayalam and Telugu. The promo video of 'Billu Barber' is out that shows a stylish SRK at his best.

Is 'Ghajini' banned?

Rumors are abuzz that the Bollywood 'Ghajini' starring Aamir Khan and Asin might be banned to be screened in Tamilnadu. Producer Salem A. Chandrasekaran has appealed in the court to halt Ghajini's release as he has not been compensated for the rights to remake it. He produced 'Ghajini' in Tamil earlier with Surya and Asin. Director AR Murugadoss made the movie which was a super hit in Tamil and Telugu simultaneously. Later, he went to Bollywood and signed up to direct the movie once again in Hindi. But, the producer of Tamil version complained earlier that he holds the copyrights for the script. He lodged a complaint against the movie and the verdict is now out to ban the movie from being screened in theatres in Tamilnadu. This will be a big loss for the filmmakers and for Asin who has pinned high hopes to reach heights with her first Bollywood venture. Moreover, director Murugadoss will face the consequences of being neglected by Tamil producers in the future as he violated the rules.

Rajinikanth hitchhikes for 'Yanthram'

Rajinikanth, who was struck in a traffic-jam near Ennore, where the shooting of 'Endhiran' was on, was given assistance by a group of stunt men to reach the shooting spot without getting delayed on Monday. They managed to cover Rajinikanth with a huge coat and a helmet and took him on a motorcycle to the shooting spot. Rajinikanth was shooting for the movie at Ennore along with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Director Shankar was canning a song sequence. Rajinikanth who left his residence in a car got struck up in a traffic jam near Ennore. He called up Shankar and said that it would be too difficult for him to reach the place. A busy industrial area, the road was blocked by several rows of Lorries. Shankar came up with an idea and sent a couple of stunt men with motorcycles. They helped Rajinikanth cover his face with a helmet and gave him a long coat. Then they took him in the two-wheeler to the shooting spot. All the crew members including Aishwarya were surprised to know that Rajnikanth had reached the place in a two-wheeler.

Sekhar to direct Nag

Sekhar, on the other hand, has not yet decided as to go ahead with Nag’s film or start another movieHappy Days in Hindi immediately. Nagarjuna has not committed for any other movie in 2009. As he wants to devote to expansion of his studio - Annapurna Studios and look after the maiden film of his son Naga Chaitanya. So he is ready to Sekhar's movie who shoots very liesurely. with a newcomer in Telugu. But it is almost certain that he won’t be directing Sekhar Kammula might be dropping off his idea to remake Happy Days in Hindi immediately. It is learnt that he is tentatively putting off the remake and go ahead with another Telugu film. Sekhar Kammula met recently Nagarjuna and the ‘romantic King’ is reportedly told the director to come up with a good story so that both of them ‘can work together immediately’. Nagarjuna openly expressed his wish to act under the direction of Kammula and has offered him blank dates for almost 10 months in 2009.

Long holiday for Pawan

Day after Christmas, Pawan Kalyan will be halting all the movie shootings and activities related to his films. In the coming 5 months, he will not participate in any of the movie shooting including Puli, being directed by S.J.Surya, that has already finished 60 percent. The reason is simple. He has decided to make a whirlwind tour through entire Andhra Pradesh by holding meetings for his 'Yuvarajyam', a youth wing of Chiranjeevi floated political party Praja Rajyam. Pawan has taken the charge as president of Yuvarajyam and he is starting his canvassing from December 26. Earlier Pawan Kalyan wanted to canvass for his party from Feb 2009 but things have changed now what with Prajarajyam party slowly losing initial euphoria. Pawan, who has great fan following among the youth, wants to sustain the interest towards the party.

'King' releases on Christmas day

Nagarjuna’s much-awaited King is hitting the screens on the eve of Christmas festival - December 25th. Producer Shiva Prasad Reddy informed the media that they have completed entire work and releasing it on 25th worldwide with highest number of prints in Nag’s career. Directed by Sreenu Vytla the film has Trisha and Mamta Mohandas as the female lead. Another six glam queens - Genelia, Charmee, Anushka, KamnaJethmalini, - have appeared in a special song which will be major attraction in the movie.

Michael Jackson close to death reports UK media

London: Pop legend Michael Jackson is suffering from a rare lung condition and is “close to death”, a British newspaper has claimed. Jackson needs to undergo an emergency transplant operation but he is too weak to be rushed into surgery and may even be fighting for his life, the newspaper quoted Ian Halperin. He is penning a biography on the singer, as saying. According to Halperin, 50-year-old Jackson has been diagnosed with alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic condition that can be fatal in severe cases, and the singer is now so ill he can barely speak and has lost as much as 95 per cent of the vision in his left eye. “He has had alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency for years but it's gotten worse. He needs a lung transplant but may be too weak to go through with it. He also has emphysema and chronic gastrointestinal bleeding, which his doctors have had a lot of trouble stopping. It's the bleeding that's the most problematic part. It could kill him," Halperin said. Author Halperin has also claimed that Jackson's lung conditions, which affects only one in 5,000 Americans, has been difficult to treat due to its associated health problems. “For years, Michael has been working with his own doctors to try to make sure it doesn't progress. He has been on many medications that have stabilised him,” Halperin was quoted by the British newspaper as saying. Though Jackson's official spokeswoman wouldn't comment on Halperin's claims but his elder brother Jermaine seemed to have confirmed that the singer has serious health issues.

Mickey J Meyer music for Ram’s film

Mickey J Meyer is going to score music for Ram’s next film that is going to be produced by Sravanthi Ravi Kishore. The regular shoot of the film will start in January. This film has lots of elements for kids and children. It will also be shot in Disney Land (USA) and Hong Kong. Saravanan is going to direct this film.

Shweta Basu Prasad film launched

Shweta Basu Prasad’s (KBL fame) second film in Telugu was launched recently in Hyderabad. Balaji N Sai directs this film. Jakkam Jawahar Babu produces it on Ratna Celluloid banner. Sri Raghava – a protégé of AR Rehman – will compose music for this film.

A Clean [U] Certificate for 'King'

In the first time combination of Nagarjuna, Trisha and Sreenu Vytla, on Kamakshi Kala Movies banner producer D. Sivaprasad Reddy is making the touted extravaganza 'King'. The movie is getting ready for a release on 25th this month. Before the release, the movie was screened for the censor board in the recent past. The association issued a clean 'U' Certificate to the movie. For the first time ever Nag is playing a unique role that is being said as a three dimensional demeanor. Adding to the anticipation is an extravagant song with 8 top heroines, as Trisha, Mamtha Mohandas, Anushka, Charmme, Genelia, Priyamani, Sneha Ullal and Kamna Jhatmalani. Hopefully, 'King' will be a memorable entertainer in 2008 for the fans of Akkineni Nagarjuna.

Mohan Babu caricatures Major Devaraju in 'Mestri'

‘Mestri’ is being directed by Suresh Krishna, featuring Dasari Narayana Rao in the lead role. Dasari Padma is presenting this movie which is being produced by K. Ramakrishna Prasad on Soubhagya Films Pvt. Ltd banner. Srihari is enacting an important role in this movie which apes the contemporary government and politicians in a satirical style. News has been out that Major Devaraju, who received the prestigious Shourya Chakra from the President of India, is the first Telugu person from a backward community to receive the honor. This real life character in the movie will be played by Mohan Babu. The sequences which will cast him will start filming from today at Ramoji Film City. We can easily perceive that Dasari is prepared to respond strongly on these issues through this film. We have to wait and watch to see the ripples that might be created in the political field once the movie hits the screen.

'Satyameva Jayathe' underway for Sankranthi

‘Satyameva Jayathe’ starring Rajasekhar as the hero, is underway for a Sankranthi release. Sanjana, Neetu Chandra and Sheril Pinty are the three heroines for this movie. It is being directed by Jeevitha Rajasekhar on Shivani Shivathmika Movies banner. Along with the main leads, Shivaji and Sai Kiran are playing prominent roles in this movie. Shooting is currently under progress at Ramoji Film City. A press meet was organized on 21st at RFC to brief on the proceedings. Rajasekhar, Jeevitha, 'Amma' Rajasekhar, Neetu Chandra, Shivani & Shivathmika and others were present during this meet. Briefing about the movie to the press, Rajasekhar said, “Now a song is being filmed that features me and Neetu Chanra. Another song with Shivaji and Sheril Pinty will be canned which will be the finale of the shooting schedule. Amma Rajasekhar is the choreographer. The film will be released during Sankranthi. Like 'Ankusham', 'Magadu' and 'Aagraham', I am playing the role of a vigilant police officer. I believe this movie will be successful commercially." Director Jeevitha said, "We have canned the major part of the movie at Ramoji Film City. Every character will be captivating. We have also delved into the present scenario of terrorism and the pros and cons of a police job. There are a total of five songs for which the music has been composed by Chinna. We are releasing it on 14th January during the Sankrathi festival.”

'Akasamantha' is being dubbed

‘Akashamantha’ produced by ‘Dil’ Raju on Sri Venkateswara Creations banner is presently in dubbing work. Starring Prakash Raj and Trisha, the movie has been directed by Radha Mohan. The movie is a remake of the recently released Tamil ‘Abhiyum Naanum’. The loving tale of a father and his daughter is ‘Akashamantha’ in which Prakash Raj plays Trisha’s doting dad. According to the producer, the movie depicts the relationship of a father and daughter in the most touching way showing that says sky is the limit for their affection. The crux is about a father's protective nature towards his beloved daughter. A considerable part of the movie has been canned and only few sequences are yet to be done to complete the shooting schedule.’ The movie is presented by Anita and music has been composed by VidyaSagar.

Nag’s 'King' size entertainment on Dec 24

Kamakshi Kala Movies produced ‘King’ will be rocking the screens all over on December 24th, a day before Christmas. Nagarjuna dons the main role along with Trisha and Mamatha Mohandas who play the female leads. Directed by Sreenu Vytla, producer D. Sivaprasad Reddy has made the movie on his production banner. Nag for the first time is acting in the direction of Sreenu Vytla which is being anticipated by film goers. His character has been envisaged in a three dimensional demeanor which is said to be unique. One more spectacular addition for this movie is a special song that features a row of heroines Trisha, Mamtha Mohandas, Anushka, Charmme, Genelia, Priyamani, Sneha Ullal and Kamna Jhatmalani. Filled up with Nagarjuna’s style of iconic action and Sreenu Vytla’s hilarious comical mark, this ‘King’ size entertainer is all set to enthrall the audiences for Christmas 2009.

Sachin Khedekar debuts with 'Malli Malli'

Sachin Khedekar, the artist critically acclaimed actor for his role of Netaji in Shyam Benegal's 'Bose' – the forgotten hero', is debuting to Tollywood with 'Malli Malli'. Sachin Khedekar had acted in over 37 films in Hindi, besides enacting in Marathi, Malayalam and Tamil movies. 'Yavarum Nalam' with Madhavan was one of his acquainted in Tamil. He has also worked as an artist in prime-time soap operas on small screen for a period of 7 years. 'Pourudu' fame Raj Aditya is directing the film 'Malli Malli', produced by Dinesh Kumar on Sree Sahasya Entertainments banner. Debutants Skanda as hero and Kalyani as heroine, the movie is ready for an early release.

How Amir Khan got his eight pack

No pain, no gain. The saying couldn't be more true for Aamir Khan and the team that painstakingly sculpted those eight-pack-abs, snipped up four different hairstyles and designed the actor's varied looks in 'Ghajini' that have become a rage among his fans.

Mohan Babu – Ramyakrishna’s movie nearing completion

Sri Kumaraswami Productions banner is making a movie starring ‘Gamyam’ fame Sharvanand and debutant heroine Surveen Chawla. Senior hero Dr. Mohan Babu enacts a captivating role in this film while popular heroine Ramyakrishna pairs up with him. Directed by P. Bhanu Shankar, the movie is being produced by Kumaraswami Patthikonda. The movie is in its final stages of shooting. The flick made on a huge budget, in a prestigious way is almost complete with a five day schedule left to film the talkie part. One of the songs has been completed while five more songs are yet to be canned. Speaking to the press in this connection producer said, “The presence of Mohan Babu itself is a highlight for this movie. This will be a nice family entertainment drama, made with prominent stars on a pricey budget. Mohan Babu - Ramyakrishna is a winning combination and added to this we are casting Sharvanand as hero which makes it an interesting affiliation.” Director Bhanu Shankar expressed his happiness over his association with senior actors like MohanBabu and Ramyakrishna.

Nag’s famous 8 in ‘King’

The latest buzz is all focuse on Nag’s ‘King’ which has a slew of eight heroines dancing in a song. Akkineni Nagarjuna’s ‘King’ features Trisha and Mamtha Mohandas in the lead cast. The movie has been made an end-to-end entertainer by director Sreenu Vytla. The above said song has been filmed recently in Annapurna Studios. The song 'Nuvvu Ready…Nenu Ready… Gana Bajana Ready' sung by Shankar Mahadevan, has been canned featuring Nagarjuna and heroines Trisha, Mamtha Mohandas, Anushka, Charmme, Genelia, Priyamani, Sneha Ullal and Kamna Jhatmalani. The schedule for this number lasted for 7 days in an extravagant set designed by art director AS Prakash. Popular choreographer Brinda composed the steps for the music composed by Devi Sri Prasad. The song will be a special highlight for the movie, says director Sreenu Vytla. King has been made on a high budget to make it the biggest hit in Nag's Career, says producer D. Sivaprasad Reddy.

Neninthe - Review

Puri Jagannath and Ravi Teja have united for their fourth film after the hat trick hits Itlu Sravani Subrahmanyam, Idiot and Amma Nanna O Tamila Ammayi. The director highlights the pros and cons of the film industry and how the technicians are exploited. At the same time he satirizes the media, the yellow journalism and the sheer reverence of the fans towards the film stars. As a whole the film is "for, of and about" the film industry. Ravi (Ravi Teja) works as an assistant director and Narayana (MS Narayana) as co-director for director Idli Satyanarayana (Brhamanandam) in the Telugu film industry. During the shooting Ravi meets Sandhya (Siya), a group dancer. Sandhya's sister Surekha (Surekhavani) get married to Rambabu (Krishna Bhagawan) who harasses her only to exploit Sandhya. Ravi narrates an interesting story to the producer (Sayaji Shinde). But he is not ready to take the risk with a debutant director like Ravi.

Maska audio on 21 December

Music of Ram’s latest film Maska will be launched by Aditya music on 21 December. The album will be available in the mark on 24 December. Chakri composed music. Kandikonda penned lyrics for all the six songs. Hansika Motwani and Sheila are doing female leads. B Gopal directs this mass masala film. Shoot of talkie part of the film is complete. Maska will be released on 14 January 2009.

Brahmanandam as Music Director in King

Seenu Vytla knows how to present Brahmanandam in the most hilarious way. His blockbusters Dhee and Ready are the examples. As per the confidential sources of idlebrain.com, Brahmanandam is going to be another highlight of King film too. He is said to have donned the role of a music director in King film and the runtime of his role is said to be around 30 minutes. King is all set to release on 24 of December.

Hot Namitha coming out of swimming pool

Namitha the oomph girl of south is all getting ready with another hot look in upcoming Tamil film Thee, Remake of Operation Duryodhana. Some of the scenes in the film are said to be sizzling and is sure to attract the youth Namitha is not there just for glamour or songs but she has a good role. She is playing the role played by Mumaith Khan in Telugu version. Namitha has done some daring scenes like this one, where she comes out from a swimming pool. Namitha looks damn sexy in the stills used for the promotion of the film.

Laxmi-Rai- We're good friends and lovers

Lakshmi Rai has been in the news and though they're not exactly for the right reasons, she would yet have made the ladies jealous. Lakshmi, it was supposed, even met MS Dhoni in Chennai at the hotel where he put up for the Test match that concluded yesterday. But alas, as it often happens with news that the rumour mills generate, Lakshmi vehemently denies everything. "No. I didn't meet him during this tour since I was busy shooting elsewhere," says Lakshmi, who claims that the rumours of linkups with Dhoni had died down, only to resurface with the test match being played at Chennai. So, there's nothing at all? "The rumours are baseless," she categorically states, explaining, "They started when I participated in a couple of events with Dhoni during the IPL campaign. There were further whisperings as he came for my birthday party."

Ash-Abhi turns to singing

If the sources are to be believed, Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai are not only acting in Mani Ratnam ’s ‘Raavana’ together, the duo will also sing a song for the film. It is also said that Aishwarya is learning Carnatic music for this film and on the other hand, hubby Abhishek too has an experience of singing while he did some rapping for Bluffmaster title track. So the idea of making both of them sing can be the USP for the film. Raavana is a big film by Mani Ratnam and he is repeating his favourite actors after the successful Guru . The shooting of the film is in progress. The husband-wife duo has just finished their Kochi leg of shooting and the crew has now moved to Ooty.