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50
01
01
www.southscope.in
intoxicating
ILEANA’s
siddharth’s
signature style
i am a technique
in myself -Balakrishna
story unfolded
Why sizzler
SHRADDHA DAS Follow us on
will never do THAT?
PANORAMA
OF
SOUTH
CINEMA
Editorial Coordinators
Tamil Nadu & Kerala Sridevi Sreedhar
Karnataka Aravind G
Mumbai Anil Merani
www.southscope.in
Cinema is probably the first love for millions of Indians. But love for cinema assumes
gargantuan proportions in the south of India. Cinema is a way of life for us, a religion
almost. Hand painted cutouts of the superstars going up to 100 feet are a part of the
landscape down south. Talk about hero worship! Obviously, in a land that is obsessed
with cinema, the business of movie making has no choice but to thrive.
But why is it that an industry which produces more than half of the 1000 films that hit
Indian screens in a year not so much in the public eye? When the bulk of gross filmed
entertainment revenues – 50% - is garnered by the South Indian film industry, and 60%
of the country’s cinema houses are in South India even if only 22% of India’s population
lives here, why is the South Indian film industry not so written about?
With enormous talent, path breaking ideas, hallmark discipline and sophisticated
technology on its side, the south Indian film industry is in a state of eternal bloom. It’s
only befitting that its story is taken to the world in a manner as zippy as its nature.
The highpoint of our achievements came in the form of Oscar awards. When AR Rahman,
the music maestro and Resul Pookutty, the editing genius walked the red carpet at the
Academy Awards, the entire world saluted Indian talent and creativity. It took two south
Indians to bring home the much coveted Oscar that remained elusive for generations
despite several films being nominated in the past. On the homeground, south films and
south actors swept the national awards last month. With accolades pouring in from all
quarters, it’s high time we dedicate a magazine that holds a mirror to south cinema.
So here’s presenting southscope. An English-language monthly, focusing on the
happening Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada film industries primarily. Pages will,
of course, also be dedicated to the Bollywood, Hollywood, regional cinema and world
cinema.
With a subtle seductive presentation style, a young and contemporary look, smart and
informative content, southscope aims to be a first-off-the-shelf pick. southscope will be
made widely available at all Indian stands and in USA, Malaysia, Far East, Middle East and
Europe to cater to the vast diaspora of Indians there.
I would like to extend thanks to the people whose long hours and hard work, and frenetic
pace, have made this project possible. The raring-to-go editorial team, the exploding-
with-ideas design team, my dream editor and very many others behind the scenes.
Ultimately what matters most is your long lasting relationship with southscope.
southscope will continue to evolve, recreate and redefine itself in tune with your
expectations. Hope you’ll enjoy the read. All comments and suggestions are welcome.
best
Moorthy Sreenivasulu
Publisher
OCTOBER 2009
ISSUE01
VOL01
PANORAMA
CONTENTS OF
SOUTH
exclusive CINEMA
36 Back Stage
Get set to meet Ravindra,
the hot shot art director
44
44 Rajadhiraja
The importance of being
Balakrishna
56 Shooting Star
Pooja Gandhi - The hit machine of
Kannada cinema
Model: ILEANA
FeAtuRes
coveR pictuRe: RAMAKANTH T
MAkeup: MAdHU
hAiR: SUNITA
styling: SAMIRA d’CRUz
pRoduction designeR: dIVyA UdAy
14 Stars on Facebook and
Twitter
58 The DNA of a
blockbuster
26 46
FundA
13 Junk Mail
44
17 Telugu Tinsel,
Kannada Capers 38
38
Who’s doing what, where?
21 Screen Test
Launch pad for aspiring actors
22
22 Loading… Please wait
Films in the making
34 Hi 5 with Krishnudu
62 Kaleidoscope
Events, parties etc...
63 Bioscope
58
Film reviews
66 Star Affair
Horoscope
69 Sing Along
Karaoke of hit songs
70 Flashback
Nostalgia revisited – The timeless
magic of Mayabazaar
CONTENTS Pa n o r a m a o f s o u t h c i n e m a Vol 1 issue 1 october 2009 rs.50
01
01
www.southscope.in
centRe stAge
46 Up close and personal
with Ileana D’cruz
Prabhudeva on Wanted,
nayanthara &
that special someone
gAlleRiA
26 Siddharth
Siddharth’s Signature Style
+ e-MAgAzine
sep ‘09
VIEW
READ
38 Shraddha Das DOWNLOAD
Sizzler Shraddha Das’s tryst with
the couch
THIS MONTH ON SOUTHSCOPE.IN
pRoFile
54 Prabhas’s powerful e-MAgAzine
oct ‘09
formula VIEW
READ
DOWNLOAD
69
telugu
13
FUNdA 10 : 09
RIDE ON THE SIDE
You’ve seen them, you love them, you can’t imagine growing up
without them… Now here’s what you didn’t know about them!
Jayamalini is famous for her salacious We all know about the acting caliber of the
item numbers and vamp roles. There was late actress Savitri. Her humanitarian side
a time when there would not be a film is less discussed. Savitri happened to meet
without a Jayamalini number. She went the former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur
on to feature in over 500 Telugu, Tamil, Shastri and came back having donated all
Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi movies. the jewelry she was wearing for the Prime
Minister’s Relief Fund. That’s what you call
a heart of gold!
oct 09 13
FEATURES
If stars don’t exist in the cyber world, they haven’t arrived in life discovers Vrinda Prasad
Ram Gopal Varma Mallika Sherawat Meher Ramesh Mickey J Meyer Puri Jagannath Shriya Saran dhanush
Lakshmi Manchu Uday Chopra Satish Kasetty Amrita Rao Reema Sen Nayanthara Priyanka Chopra Katrina Kaif
Lakshmi Manchu loved Inglorious Bastards, cyber world, it’s free for all if not on the
Raja is on a trip, Krishna Vamsi is busy with Facebook, then Twitter.
his work, Suhani Kailta is depressed, Ram
Stars in the tinsel town across the country
Gopal Varma says, “The point of Life is
have been diving into networking sites of late
tht thrs no point to it. So it’s better to live
in a big way. Ah, the beauty and simplicity of
it point by point and point to point.” Celina
micro-blogging! Twitter and Facebook are
Jaitley is watching Balika Vadhu and has
no longer an addiction for the hoi polloi;
become a TV soap addict while Uday Chopra
it’s an absolute hit with the Bollywood,
says “I am setting up my new MacBook Pro
Tollywood and Kollywood fraternity as well!
unibody and 24” cinema display, life couldn’t
be better!!!...I love my mac, proud to be a “Whenever I write something or want to
geek;” Aarthi Agarwal is out of town with update about my projects, I paste it first on
friends and badly needs this break. Mallika Twitter. But I’m not active on Facebook” the
Sherawat is over the moon because “Gosh! reigning Bollywood diva Priyanka Chopra
Ram Gopal Varma called me the Marilyn explains on one of her posts on Twitter.
Monroe of the east… blush blush.”
The latest tweet from Priyanka Chopra
No we’re not gossiping for the heck of it, reads (copied verbatim):
neither have we made typographic errors.
these are quotes straight from the stars’ Dhan ta nan..my first contest only ma
mouths. That’s not all. We managed to tweeple! 50 pesonally autographed
get them all in 10 minutes precisely. Far KAMINEY audio CDs up for grabs! Try it!!
fetched? Would have been a few years ago. http://tinyurl.com/ne4kox
But in this era of social networking in the
14 oct 09
Features
Oct 09 15
FEATURES
- Dhanush
16 oct 09
TELUGU TINSEL
17
FUNdA 10 : 09
CharM’ing
MalayalaM
V
Anushka
rising!
It’s amazing what one film can do an actor’s career.
Since the record breaking success of Arundhati,
Anushka has been the hottest property of Tollywood!
She has a slew of big budget Telugu films lined up
for her. But she’s got as many offers from Tamil
as well! We hear a lot of top Tamil stars have a
preference for her these days. Having completed
the shoot for Vettaikaran which stars vijay in the
male lead, Anushka has begun shooting for Suriya’s
next film titled singam. Looks like everybody wants
to pair with Anushka at the moment, but she’s
making her choices very carefully. Way to go girl!
The name
isRANA
Be it politics or cinema, it seems to be the season of successions in
Andhra Pradesh. We will leave the politics to the newsrooms, and
focus on cinema instead. After naga chaitanya set off on the arduous
task of taking the Akineni legacy ahead with a confident debut in
Josh, the stage is being readied for the launch of Rana, the grandson
of movie moghul Ramanaidu and son of ace producer Suresh Babu.
Rana is playing the lead in the Shekhar Kammula directed film,
leader, which is all set to release this month. Make way for the new
brigade, folks!
oct 09 17
TELUGU TINSEL
18
10 : 09 FUNdA
Unfair
Life can be unfair and Karthika seems to have had a
first hand taste of the strange ways of showbiz. Just
in case you are wondering Karthika, who? Let us tell
share you that she is the pretty young miss who played
the lead opposite Naga Chaitanya in Josh. The film
was always going to be about Nagarjuna’s son, but
Karthika did a pretty decent job too. With that girl-
next-door kind of appeal, she did manage to flutter
hearts. And what sets her apart is her sultry dusky
complexion, from the regular fair skinned imports
from Mumbai. But why is it that down here we like
‘em fair and lovely? We wonder…
A film
on YSR
Ace director Puri Jagannath is known to
be the god of commercial entertainers.
But looks like he’s now keen on trying
something else. Well, politics for
instance? No he is not entering politics,
but will soon direct a film on the late
chief minister of Andhra pradesh, ys
Rajashekhara Reddy. His namesake Dr
Rajasekhar, is playing the lead in the
film. He is also co-producing the movie.
However, the director is not disclosing
anything much yet. He has been meeting
various aides of YSR learning about his
life. It has already created quite a buzz
both in the industry and the political
circles. Puri certainly has got quite a
task on his hand
After Magadheera became a super hit,
producer Allu Arvind has been flooded Calling
with congratulatory messages, naturally.
But besides those, he’s also being
a spade!
a spade!
bombarded with a whole lot of stuff that
he’s been pretty amused with. Recently
somebody asked him, something to the
effect, “what message have you tried to
give through Magadheera?” We’re told,
he replied, “Message? Well if I have to
send a message, I would use SMS or
email! I make movies to entertain, not to
send messages!” How cool is that!
18 oct 09
KANNAdA CAPERS
19
FUNdA 10 : 09
Prakash Raj
directs
his first
Kannada movie
Prakash Raj, who is known by his original name Prakash Rai
in Karnataka, is all set to direct his first movie in Kannada.
It will be a remake of his recent successful Tamil film
Abhiyum Naanum. Prakash has selected the golden girl of
the Kannada film industry, Ramya to play the lead role in this
movie. He will be playing Ramya’s father in the film. We too
are looking forward to this one!
Ganesh
back with his home
production The Karnataka Premier League, the state version of the
Indian Premier League, failed to attract the attention of
Golden Star Ganesh who has been maintaining a low profile for Kannada film stars. Initially, it was said that a number
six months now, after three of his movies bombed at the box of artistes like Ramya and Upendra would buy teams.
office, is making a comeback with his maiden home production Eventually, most of the teams were lapped up by real
Maleyali Jotheyali. Produced by his wife Shilpa under the banner estate companies and politicians. The lack of glamour
Golden Movies, this film will see a lean and trim Ganesh. It’s in KPL forced some of the team owners to approach
being directed by Ganesh’s childhood friend Preetam Gubbi, who the Kannada film stars for the role of “ambassadors”.
scripted Ganesh’s blockbuster Mungaru Male. Welcome back Apparently, unhappy with the poor fee offered, all the film
Ganesh! stars backed out. What a pity!
oct 09 19
KANNAdA CAPERS
20
10 : 09 FUNdA
20 oct 09
SCREEN TEST
PRIYA
A movie buff, Priya grew up on
a staple diet of Telugu films.
By Vrinda Prasad...
photogRApheR: RAMAKANTH T
AduRs Director
Producer
Music Director
V V Vinayak
Vallabhaneni Vamsi Mohan
Devi Sri Prasad
22 oct 09
telugu
ek niRAnJAn
Sonu Sood, Mukul Dev
director puri Jagannadh
producer Aditya Ram
Music director Mani sharma
oct 09 23
kAnnAdA
ullAsA
cast ganesh, yami gautam
Director Devaraja Palan
utsAhA Producer
Music Director
B P Thyagaraj
G V Prakash
24 oct 09
kAnnAdA
oct 09 25
26
oct 09
Brought to you By AsmitA mArwA…
Style
concePt And styling: AsmitA mArwA
le
“Well siddharth, a power house of talent and a very successful
pan-indian star is also quite a stylish dude. the challenge for
me was that he had never worked with a stylist for any of his
films. In fact, he has been styling himself very successfully.
but i was not sure how we would work together….both of
us perfectionists, sticklers for detail and control freaks….
quite a combination which could work only if one trusted
the other. i must hand it to siddharth for being an absolute
scArves: AsmitA mArwA
- asmita marwa
oct 09 27
Two hot to handle!
28 Oct 09
Fashionably broody!
Oct 09 29
Driving us crazy...
30 Oct 09
FEATURES
Using the 80:20 principle – we can The early years: In 2000, Chitram
safely say that the big-budget films by Teja was made on a shoe-string
budget of about 50 lakh and went on
form the industry’s backbone as to collect 8 crores as ‘net revenues’.
most of the commerce is through Bettering that was 2001’s Nuvve Kavali
which was made on a meager budget
these films. It’s understood and
of less than 2 crores, and went on to
acknowledged that ‘small budget’ gross over 20 crores – making it one of
films are equally essential to the the most profitable films if one had to
calculate RoI (return on investment).
industry. Many classics of Telugu 6 Teens was another low-budget sex
cinema were ‘small’ when they comedy which had super hit music,
released. Many of the biggest names youngsters with raging hormones
and eye candy that went on to gross
in the industry today – technicians over 5 crores. This set off a trend of
and actor got their ‘big break’ from ‘youth movies’ in Telugu films – where
filmmakers constantly dished out
this form of filmmaking. This article
movies with similar storylines hoping
is more about the economics of these to the cash in on the success of such
films, rather than their creative films. Some succeeded, while most
failed and a point came when the
importance. Until recently, for many audience was fed up of it and the genre
years small budget movies – the ones was sidelined completely.
made under a budget of 2 crores - There were many small movies
have not achieved major success. between 2002 and 2007 in Telugu
cinema that tasted success, such as
While there were hits, none of them
Show, missamma, Aithe, Anand, A
was ground-breaking. film by Arvind, Vennela and Pellaina
Kotthalo. And then there were the
mid-budget films such as Jayam,
Pellam Vurelithe, Manasantha Nuvve,
Itlu Sravani Subramanyam, Dongodu,
Kabaddi Kabaddi, Nuvve Nuvve which
steadily supplied the industry with
hits. But none of them could repeat the
magic of Nuvve Kavali.
oct 09 31
FEATURES
The Happy days effect: But one film that Small films are the next big thing: Today Satellite rights: This is the lifeline of
totally changed the scenario, making most people in the industry – big and all small-budget movies today. Many
everybody sit up and notice small budget small - want to make a ’small budget of these films have recovered their
films was happy Days. Suddenly, small film’ with a sub two crore budget. It’s not money from satellite rights alone. With
came into vogue. Everybody now is making the challenge of telling an interesting 5 channels competing for rights, prices
such films. Technically, the movie was story with minimum resources that have increased due to demand. And in
made for a little above two crores, but that excites most of these filmmakers, but the Andhra, it’s always film-based programs
could be discounted. It had an unknown economics behind it. that draw the maximum TRPs. Perpetual
cast, new music director, abused theme satellite rights of these films get sold
The inflation in production cost from 2000
of campus romance and a director who even before the film’s release – at times
to now is marginal, while revenues have
was only moderately successful. But that even acting as a source of finance. A
increased multiple-fold. The inflation
film went on to become one of the biggest small-to-mid budget movie can fetch
is again due to external factors such as
hits of 2007 making instant stars out of all anywhere between Rs. 60 lakhs -1.5 crore
higher labour wages, rise in real estate,
the people associated with the film – the today, whereas big-budget films fetched
petrol etc., But pure production material
huge ensemble of actors right from the up to 6 crores if they are block busters in
such as raw stock, studio rent, equipment
lead to the character artistes, the music recent times!
etc have remained in the same price
director Mickey J Meyer and director
bracket. Raw stock still costs Rs 10,000
Shekhar Kammula who is now a brand in
for 1000 feet (which equals 10 minutes
himself.
footage). A small film uses about 40-
The movie got industry counterparts 50,000 feet of raw stock. The cost for a
in Chennai and Mumbai also talking single print is still about Rs 50,000 for a
about it. It’s now being considered to be 150 minutes film. Rents for studios are
remade in Tamil and Hindi. But one feat between Rs. 7,000 per day to Rs. 20,000
only happy Days can boast of amongst depending on the location and sound-
all small movies is its blockbuster run stage size. Shooting permissions in
in the overseas box office. It crossed the municipal places such as roads, parks
collections of super hits of A-list stars remain almost the same as before. The
such as Chiranjeevi, Mahesh Babu and same is the case with rents for real-life
Pawan Kalyan! Yes, it did. happy Days may houses, offices, colleges to be used in One film that totally
not be the mother of small budget films, films. Likewise, a lot of other costs have
but it sure did revive people’s interests remained in the same price range as changed the scenario,
in making such films. And its success before. making everybody sit up
is used as a benchmark to measure the
success of other films of this league.
Filmmakers who have shot their film and notice small budget
completely on digital, i.e. : HD camera films was happy Days.
Unlike the last time luckily, the industry
such as Viper, Sony Cine Alta or Red
this time seems to have learnt its lesson.
One have cut down their costs by a half
They’re not churning out happy Days
by shifting from film. Kamal Haasan’s
clones, but testing subjects from different
Eenadu is the first film in Telugu to use
genres such as thriller, horror, comedy
Red one. The whole process of scanning
and romance of course.
the footage for editing, dubbing, scoring
background, sound effects, mixing and
then printing back onto film becomes
simplified if a film is shot on HD. Unlike
bigger films, a small budget unit size is
smaller – where people handle multiple
functions which help cut costs further.
Films like Cell, Grahanam, and Black
& White were completed under Rs. 50
lakh budgets with a minimum crew and
less than 40 days of shooting. Films like
Chitram, Allari, Premiste (dubbed from
Tamil) were completed in a budget of less
than a crore. The recent box office super
hit – Ashta Chamma was completed
within Rs 1.5 crore. The movie recovered
its total production cost even before
release by ‘pre-selling’ its television
rights and ancillary. So, all the money
made from box office goes straight into
the producer’s pockets.
There are three major factors that
contributed to the increase in revenues
of small budget films - Satellite rights,
Hyderabad city box office, Ancillary
revenues.
32 oct 09
FEATURES
Hyderabad box office: Hyderabad had a Ancillary rights: Earlier, the only
population of about 40 lakhs in the late source of revenue for a movie was the
nineties. But today the greater Hyderabad box office. With the advent of cable in
metropolitan area has nearly a crore the 90s, television rights became a new
inhabitants. So, it’s understood that source. But now there are newer sources
the box office too grew likewise in size. of income streams such as home video
For big-budget films, about 20% of the rights, which fetch upto 50 lakhs for a
domestic box office revenues come from big-budget blockbuster and Rs 25 lakhs
Hyderabad alone. But for many small for a smaller film. While the sale of
budget hits, that ratio is as high as 35%. cassettes has fallen, it’s compensated by
Today Hyderabad is home to 6 multiplexes the increase in CD sales, mp3 downloads Vinayakudu, Yuvatha and
and more are in the making. With more (legitimate through sales), FM royalties
coming up, it’s only going to get better. and the biggest of them all – ring tones. Aakashamantha were the
Unlike in single screens, the difference only recent small budget
in collections between a small budget hit hits grossing over 5 crores
and a ‘star cast film’ isn’t very wide if the
movie is a hit – as the urban audiences at the box office. Most of the
are more willing to experiment. other films failed to repeat
the success.
These sources of revenue have now increased manifold. But, growth in revenue is flat from the older streams – box office collections
from coastal Andhra towns and ‘districts’ of Telangana. But on the whole, the size of the industry has increased. I have purposefully
avoided ‘overseas market’ as it’s almost non-existent for small films due to various reasons. Any income from this can be termed as
a ‘windfall gain.’ happy Days being the only exception, as Mr. Kammula is a brand name there.
Frankly, even I am smitten by this ‘indie style’ of filmmaking and wish to test the waters for two reasons. The first – creative
restrictions are lesser in this form of filmmaking. The best form of creativity usually comes when resources are limited (read:
budget). Also, the producer has better say in creative and managerial decisions. And at least amongst avid film goers, the producer
will earn a name for having bet on new talent and pulled off a hit.
Secondly, like for a lot of other people – the sheer economics behind making a small budget film. If one calculates the RoI (return
on investment), big-budget films typically can fetch only 20-25% returns if they’re a hit. But small budget films have fetched returns
of 200-300% in the recent past.
The ‘high risk’ of small films: Here comes the pitfall. The people working in the two biggest film processing laboratories in Hyderabad
– Prasad’s and Ramanaidu Studios - tell me that nearly 50-70 such small budget films are “lying in cans” in each of their studios. The
value of 100-120 odd films lying in these studios without being released could be over 200 crores. These films have either stopped
shooting mid-way as they’ve run out of money or couldn’t clear the lab’s bills.
Some of the films are completed, but did not return the money to the financier who has to submit the ‘clearance letter’ allowing the
lab to print the film for release. Typically, these films are made by small-time producers who lack a source of finance. They invest
very little from their own pockets and borrow heavily from private financiers at a ridiculous rate of 3% per month or 36% annually!
This is three times more than nationalized bank charges. Banks lend money only to producers with a track record, hence financiers
are the only option. Also, unlike big-ticket films, distributors don’t buy the rights of these movies in advance. For big star-cast films,
the advances paid by distributors against the rights are a major source of finance. And it comes interest-free to the producer as the
distributors become investors in the project. The producers of these films screen their film for distributors. But rarely does any one
take the risk and bet their money on an unknown film.
So, it’s a death-spiral from here onwards for a lot of producers. Their personal money is locked in the project. They take loans from
financiers mortgaging their properties. Non-payment means the property can be liquidated. Distributors mostly don’t buy the rights
in advance, hence that source of finance is not available. Now, they don’t have money to shoot further or repay the loan. As time
lapses interest piles on. To cut it short, it takes a lot of financial and production planning to execute a small-budget film successfully.
The filmmaker should be able to secure a source of funding, where they would not fall into these pitfalls, yet be a part of the profits of
the film. So it is a huge risk. But as the maxim goes, higher the risk, higher the reward. But one thing is for sure – we’re going to see
more number of small budget films in the years to come. In fact Vinayakudu, Yuvatha and Aakashamantha were the only recent small
budget hits grossing over 5 crores at the box office. Most of the other films failed to repeat the success. Yet this doesn’t dissuade
aspiring film makers from making an attempt.
PS: One of the best ways for smaller filmmakers to secure funding is to approach a known producer to become a partner.
He can guide in the managerial process and be a source of finance. If you’re good enough to handle production, a corporate
company rich on funds or an HNI (high net worth individual) like a real estate baron, or NRI friend can be a good option.
oct 09 33
One You are fast turning out to be a star of the new wave of small budget
cinema. Ever thought you will end up doing lead roles? Every actor starts off with
trying to get some role, and the first one is not necessarily a lead role. I always knew
I wanted to be an actor and not a hero. I am passionate about cinema and I have
always been determined. So, here I am.
TwoWould you ever prefer a glamorous co-star and what’s your fantasy
woman like? Of course I would want to work with a glamorous co-star! Do you even
have to ask? (Wink wink!) Someone like Trisha, would be great. About my fantasy
woman, well, she would be simple and independent. Somebody like Kajol .(Are the
girls listening?)
34 Oct 09
H e’s big. And getting bigger, we can safely add! Krishnam Raju or Krishnudu, like he’s known, has gone ahead and broken the myth that
the leading man in a film has to be your quintessential fitness freak with a penchant for six packs. After the success of Vinayakudu,
in which he played the lead, some stereotypes were definitely broken. But things weren’t as easy as that for Krishnudu who lived off bit
roles in the beginning. In Happy Days, when everyone saw him as this adorable fatso who was not a laughing stock – like these characters
usually are - Krishnudu’s happy days actually began! His career was finally put on the fast track after this film and is now pretty popular.
Although he’s got at least two projects coming up with him in the lead, he still enjoys playing cameos too. Actually, anything, that’s sort of
challenging, like what he played in Oy. His next film, Village lo Vinayakudu is set to release later this month. And for Amayakudu, which will
come in after that, Krishnudu’s shedding kilos, changing his image and who knows what surprises might be in store. He seems to be full
of them anyway. Just in case you didn’t know, he’s also a fashion photographer and an aspiring film director. Vrinda Prasad indulges
in a yakathon with the offbeat actor whose size has become a big deal…
threeIs being obese a deterrent to being in showbiz?The perception has changed now. The fact that people accepted my role in Vinayakudu and
the offers that I’m getting now proves that being heavy doesn’t matter. Initially, it was a deterrent for me. So, I did cameo roles in Manodu, Pokiri and
Okkadu unnaadu before finally being noticed in Shekhar’s Happy Days. And, that’s when Sai Kiran’s Vinayakudu happened which gave a 360 degree
turn to my life.
FOURLet’s imagine you were back to the 1970s…What would be different about you?
At least I’d have more hair on my head then.
FIVE Did you ever regret being obese and what is your fitness philosophy?Well, I’m fat. But so what and I don’t have a fitness philosophy yet. If I
have to choose between the momentary joy of eating a biryani or a lifetime of restrain for a slimmer me, it’s usually the former! Until I finish the projects
in hand I will have to remain the way I am. Post that, you would certainly see me slimming down.
Oct 09 35
Exclusive
From painting posters to heading production design of a Hollywood film, Ravinder has sure
come a long way. Karthik Pasupulate digs into the art director’s notes for more.
photographer: G Praveen
36 Oct 09
ExCLUSIVE
set design can be a thankless job. when the list of credits rolls up after a movie, rarely do we wait for the line that
reads art director. But Ravinder is one of those artists in southern cinema whose work speaks louder than any
credit line. the blockbuster Magadheera is proof enough. he is now all set to make a mark on the world stage.
oct 09 37
SouthSpread
38 Oct 09
Lights...
Guess what, Shraddha joined the list of Mumbai bred aspiring actors with south calling, as
recently as last year. So here’s what the fuss is all about. She already has six Telugu films to brag
home about, especially her roles in the recently released Adhineta and Diary, though they weren’t
box office hits. But what everyone’s looking forward to is Arya 2 releasing soon. Cast with Allu
Arjun and Kajal Aggarwal, Shraddha is expected to climb a high rung up the ladder after this
one. What’s more, she confesses she aspires to be “the number one heroine in Telugu cinema
in five years!” Then there’s Lahore, a Bollywood film that’s releasing sometime soon, based on
Indo-Pak relations. It was adjudged the best film in the Houston film festival and happens to be
the only one ever to be viewed together by the Indian and Pakistani consul generals.
Siddhu From Srikakulam, her first Telugu release is perhaps Shraddha’s only grouse against
Tollywood, but otherwise, she’d rather stick here than head to Bollywood. With Siddhu… the
issue was that her actual performance in the film turned out to be completely different from what
was in the script. She minces no words here. “There was hardly any scope for performance and
I had to wear clothes that were not one bit me. I hated the whole experience and the only reason
I didn’t quit midway was because I didn’t want to be unprofessional!”
Oct 09 39
SouthSpread
Camera...
But she’s not the sort to give up, you know. What with a huge number of auditions in Bollywood and still
persevering! She’s decided not to do more auditions there and only take up a project if something she’s
comfortable with comes her way. Is the casting couch an issue here? “Sometimes, yes. I’m not the sort
who will give up on my values for a role in a film. I’d rather earn lesser money and struggle my way up
than do something that I’d be ashamed of. If you’re a star kid, it helps. If you’re willing to sleep, you stand
a better chance. And you know what, not just sleep once but for a full month! Even then, you may or may
not make it. Sometimes even after a contract is signed, there’s a chance that the actor might be thrown
out of the project. I don’t want to mention names but you wouldn’t believe me when I say that a couple of
popular producers literally pounced on me during auditions! That’s how it is. It’s not that bad in the south.
Over here, merit is respected, which is why I have found grounding in Telugu cinema.” Whew, that was
some confession! And she was mostly unfazed all through this. Time for some deep breathing folks…
40 Oct 09
Action...
We promised adventure, so here it is: When Shraddha was in college, one day
she and a friend (female) decided to go away from home. Just for the thrill of
it, that is. Her parents thought she was at her friend’s place and the friend’s
parents assumed their daughter was at Shraddha’s home. “We made sure it
was that way. And then, we simply boarded a flight from Mumbai and took off.
Yes we had fun, but didn’t know how to get back. No money, no flight tickets.
And each cost about eleven thousand bucks. So what do two girls with no
money and crying on the beach do? They find a casino, talk their way in and
earn their tickets to go back home!” Since then, she loves casinos. And sure
loves action, of any sort.
Shraddha is trained in various martial arts including taekwondo, kick boxing,
karate and is now learning fencing. That’s her idea of relaxation. Sure, we
can’t imagine Shraddha meditating! She wonders aloud if she can do a Mr and
Mrs Smith kind of film in Telugu or Kill bill. Yep, that will be deadly!
Oct 09 41
SouthSpread
Pack up...
After such a roller coaster, Shraddha volunteers she’s not seeing anyone at the
moment. Nor will she ever, since she’s made up her mind that nobody in the
industry could be good enough to have a relationship with. “I’m giving up acting
after I get married. And guess I will marry in about ten years and it’s going to be
someone my parents look out for me.” Old school, eh? “Totally. But that’s how I’d
like it to be. And yeah, I will also take up cooking classes when I get married, just
in case you were wondering!” No we are not. By now we know better, or do we…
42 oct 09
Showman
xclusive
speaks Balakrishna on being NTR’s son, his own man and more.
Karthik Pasupulate meets the showman of Telugu cinema
A ‘Balakrishna movie’ is an exercise in showmanship. You’ll know exactly what we are talking about if you’ve seen even one of them.
For the benefit of those who never got to see Balakrishna do his thing in 70mm, here’s a little something. In the words of the legendary
French philosopher, Jean Paul Sartre, “Acting is a question of absorbing other people’s personalities and adding some of your own
experience.” But acting assumes a whole new definition when you are talking about Nandamuri Balakrishna. In his case, like his
father - acting is just a matter of being! It’s what he has been doing for the last 35 years.
Tall legacy – action, drama, folklore, mythology, the undying adulation of millions. What
historical, faction, comedy, fantasy, social is the secret of his success? “My father
Being the son of a great man is never easy drama…he has done it all. Only more. was an acting technique all by himself.
and more so when the father happens to Movies like Annadammulla Anubandham, He could mesmerize the audience with
be NTR, one of the greatest legends of Bramharshi Viswamitra, Madvirat his acting and dictated camera angles
Telugu cinema. Ever since Balakrishna Pothuluri Veerabrahmendra Swamy, to the director. Similarly, Balakrishna is
first burst on the scene as a 14-year-old Muddula Mavayya, Narinari Naduma an acting technique in himself he says
in the film, Thathamma Kala, way back in Murari, Lorry Driver, Rowdy Inspector, matter-of-factly.
1974, the shadow of his father has always
loomed large on his career. We wonder if
he ever ponders about what his life would
have been had he not been the son of NTR.
“I’ve never thought about it. My father has
been my greatest inspiration in life. He is
my favourite actor, role model, icon…my
Alma mater. Everything I am, is because
of him. Can’t imagine life any other way,”
he shares. While he is still in the mood
for total recall, we decided to ask him
what it was to grow up in the Nandamuri
household. “My father was a dictator! A
strict disciplinarian, he would never spare
any misdemeanor. He instilled in us a Aditya 369 (the first science-fiction Emotion drives me
strong sense of discipline and dedication attempt in Telugu), Bhairava Dweepam Unwilling to be tied down to a particular
to work.” (folk lore), Peddannaya, Samarasimha image, Balakrishna has probably tried
Reddy, Narasimha Naidu have all been his hand at more genres than any of
Acting, what else?
milestones in Telugu cinema. his contemporaries. We wonder what
There were never two ways about taking keeps him going. “Passion for cinema
up acting for Balakrishna. “I have always My own man
is something that flows in my veins. I
dreamt about becoming an actor and However, the credit for his success are his thrive on that emotion to perform. It is
emulating my father,” he says. But he was fans, he says. “You know, I have always done something that flows in the Nandamuri
able to get this far on his own steam. “The films that I believed in and just followed family,” he tells us. Perhaps it is that
tag of being the son of NTR might have my heart. I can proudly say that only the undying self belief that made him
helped open doors for me but I have had to Telugu cinema audience can appreciate comeback stronger every time he was
take it from there on. I had to prove myself such experimentation,” he states humbly. written off as a spent force. After a slew of
as an actor like any other.” Prove himself, There sure must be something about flops in the late eighties, many nay sayers
he did and how! Whatever the genre him and his acting that has earned him predicted Balakrishna was over. But then
44 Oct 09
came Muddula Mavayya in 1989 which ran
for 175 days in 21 theatres, a record then.
Yet again after a lean patch in the mid-
nineties, Balakrishna, critics said was
a thing of the past. He came back with
samara simha Reddy that ran for 175
days in 32 centers doing better than
Maine pyar kiya’s run in 27 theatres.
He then followed it up with narasimha
naidu which was highest grosser ever in
Tollywood then.
oct 09 45
46
Centre Stage
Oct 09
When her parents chose her name, inspired from Helen of Troy,
they knew, probably, that she was made for things finer than the
everyday. Like most actors of late, she never planned on becoming
one. But here she is, and how! From a self confessed clumsy kid to
a superstar of Telugu cinema, Ileana D’Cruz goes back and forth
on her journey so far.
Jumping off a cliff in stilettos would But of course, I’m just not
have seemed less unthinkable than complaining,” Ileana smiles, rather
acting in a movie. A Telugu movie grins, like she usually does. She’s
at that! But when life intervenes, cheery, she’s naughty and can’t stop
well life just decides to take over. talking once she starts. So we took
Ileana’s isn’t a story that rags to off from there and everything that
riches chroniclers would be excited followed was stuff that joyrides are
about. But the drama is no less, made of.
from a completely unnoticeable
Goan by origin and Mumbai bred,
girl to the glam queen that she
Ileana was just too happy being
metamorphosed into with just
the most unladylike of three sisters
one film. Sample this: At 12, she
and a mother who without any
would wear her hair only in a pony
formal training is now her stylist.
tail, at 14, her wardrobe was filled
“You know, my elder sister Farrah
with the most boring of grunge
was this hoity toity little lady with
clothes, till 15 she didn’t own a
a napkin always on her lap. And
single skirt. By 16, she knew she
me, in contrast was this extremely
was probably pretty but was too
clumsy accident prone sort of a girl,
diffident to use eyeliner. At 18, she
who somehow never got anything
sizzled on the screen as the female
right. My folks used to call me
lead for Devadas, her debut film,
‘butterfingers,’ because I would
and walked away with the Filmfare
drop everything from my hands and
(south) best female debut! Now
keep falling down like every now
at 22, she competes with the most
and again. In fact for the first shot
highly paid male actors of Telugu
of Devadas, I had to come walking
cinema after films like Pokiri, Jalsa,
towards the camera calling out
Kick became box office super hits.
“Sometimes, when I think back, it
feels funny how things turned out.
48 Oct 09
‘Daddy…’ Everything was fine till love my Goan curries and of course,
the director said ‘action.’ I wasn’t biryani when I’m in Hyderabad,”
even nervous. As instructed, I came she adds with a touch of unmissed
walking down screaming ‘Daddy…’ guilt.
and the next thing I knew I was
She peps up the room, suddenly
on the floor with an embarrassing
breaking into a song and a little
thud!” But of course, those who
something that looks like a jig. She
saw the film only saw this new
sings beautifully and she hasn’t
girl on the block with a hot bod
formally trained in music, we are
that Telugu cinema needed rather
told. “I was always part of the church
badly. Interestingly, she’s one of
choir and that’s where I picked up an
the very slender Telugu actors to be
interest for music.” So will she ever
around and become so popular. Else,
sing professionally? “Who knows?
Tollywood movie buffs like their
Maybe, one day I will.” Oh and did
girls well, err, should we say rather
you know that Ileana never goes
buxom!
anywhere without her sketchbook?
She did end up gaining some weight, “Yep, it’s the first thing I pack when
but has also shed it off for her rather I’m going somewhere. I’ve always
glam packed role in Saleem, her enjoyed sketching and these days
forthcoming Telugu film. “I am a I’m somehow just too caught up with
total foodie, you know and it was the idea of mystery (maybe because
difficult to be on a diet. I am not so I’m reading The Secret) and love
much of a gym person, nor can I do drawing Arab women. They never
yoga after a wrist injury, I have to fail to fascinate me. I think they are
watch what I eat. Otherwise, I totally the most mysterious of them all.”
Oct 09 49
CENTRE STAGE
02
that project is stalled now and she refuses to comment
further. But she’s waiting for a good opportunity to
come her way. “It’s worth the wait, I would say. Don’t
want to rush into anything.” She had done a couple of
Tamil films too, but those didn’t turn out to be anything “I am a hopeless
great. Since then, she chooses carefully. romantic”
“Know what, this choreographer, Suchitra, once told
me ‘Don’t change for people. Let them get used to
you.’ It’s not arrogance. It’s something so positive that
it left a mark on me.” We couldn’t agree more.
50 oct 09
oct 09 51
Profile
54 Oct 09
TowerIng
Inferno
In a relatively short span of time Prabhas has managed to carve a niche for
himself in Tollywood. Karthik Pasupulate finds out what sets him apart from
the rest.
Some actors can light up the screen with his famous uncle would never industry. Set in the dockyards of
just by the force of their persona. end and the naysayers were having Vizag, Chatrapathi is a Tollywood
Prabhas is one such actor. A 6ft 2 a field day. classic. Prabhas excelled in the role
inch specimen of unadulterated of a raging young man who inspires
It turned out to be a case of third
south Indian manhood, his presence awe and fright in equal measures
time lucky for Prabhas. Director
can fill up a frame. as the protector of the helpless.
Sobhan’s Varsham, went on to be
Let’s face it, cinema is essentially a smashing success and Prabhas Movies like Pournami, Yogi, Munna
a visual medium and it sure helps had arrived. He had shown he and Bujjigadu followed since but
to be good looking. But Prabhas is was more than just a poster boy in none really set the box office on
a talented actor as well and has Tollywood, making his critics eat fire. Prabhas made the transition
proven his acting prowess with their own words. from rustic to suave in this year
some powerhouse performances in with Billa, the Telugu version of the
Buoyed by this success he tried to
films like Chatrapathi, Varsham and hugely successful SRK starrer Don.
break away from the action hero
Raghavendra. Prabhas’s stylish act stood out in
mould with the Krishna Vamsi
the chic cocktail of babes, guns
In seven years since he made his directed Chakram in which he
and cars. There is quite a buzz
debut with Eshwar, Prabhas has essayed the role of a US returned
surrounding his next venture, Ek
managed to create quite a niche doctor who is diagnosed with
Niranjan, directed by ace director
for himself in the Industry. A big cancer. His subdued performance
Puri Jagannath.
favourite with the feminine gender, was appreciated but the film did not
Prabhas though has had to earn his do much for his career. It will be interesting to see what the
success. promising actor has in store for us
He soon got back to doing what he
this time around.
His first two films, Eshwar and does best – playing the hot blooded
Raghavendra turned out to be action hero. Maverick director
average at best. Though he was Rajamouli brought the best out of
getting good reviews it was not Prabhas in the high voltage action
translating into box office success. drama, Chatrapathi. The film set
The tag of being the nephew of rebel the cash registers ringing and
star Krishnam Raju did not help established Prabhas once and for
matters either as the comparisons all as a force to reckon with in the
oct 09 55
CENTRE STAGE
age Pooja
Advant Gandhi
In three years, she is already
signing her 25th Kannada
film, has transformed from
Pooja to Sanjana and back
to Pooja and turned into
some kind of a hot sought
inamorata of Kannada
cinema. Over to Aravind G
for more on Pooja Gandhi…
56 oct 09
V
I
t’s not so much about how Pooja owes her success to hard work in her film, Minugu. But she’s clear she
long you’ve been around, and a very careful selection of projects doesn’t want to turn singer full time,
but more about what you’ve and of course, “the adulation that I have which is because she thinks of herself
done while you were around. been receiving from my fans”. an “average singer. I did my best to
Right? Right. So, if that is croon this number for Minugu. It is
Only a couple of her films have bombed
something to go by, Pooja somewhat like Madhuri Dixit’s track in
at the box office so far, otherwise,
Gandhi has already come a Devdas,” she explains.
filmmakers and top male stars in
long way and from the looks of it, only
Kannada prefer having Pooja in their Also, she’s lost oodles of weight
going in directions many would want to
films, thanks to a number of hits recently, since she follows a rigorous
but only a few get to.
she’s churned out. She has acted with schedule of two hours of work out and
She’s Punjabi by birth but Bangalore leading male stars like Powerstar yoga. That’s body. And soul? “I am
is her home now, and Kannada, the Puneet Rajkumar, Ramesh Aravind, inspired by this guru (can’t name) who
language she perhaps uses the most. Ravichandran and Upendra. is no more. I read his books. It helps me
Her first Kannada film, Mungaru Male take important decisions in life.”
But despite being established as a
in 2003 was a big hit at the box office
distinct brand in Kannada cinema, Last year, she launched her younger
and propelled her to eventually climb
she is not averse to acting with new- sister Radhika Gandhi into the industry
the top position. And held that place,
comers. “It is the film that matters, not and they are together appearing in
despite stiff competition from the locals
the stars,” she contends. Her list of co- Sriharikathe, slated for release later
in the industry and many new comers.
stars who are new entrants is also as this year.
Pooja recently signed her 25th Kannada
long - Tarun, Ajay, Prashanth, Kitty,
film, which is commendable in itself, Her next big dream is to produce and
Balu, Vishal Hegde and Sunil Raoh.
considering that actresses do not have direct a romantic movie. “Guess I’ll be
a long run in the male-dominated So what is it that makes her a pleasure around for another
Kannada film industry. to work with? Those who have directed five years at least.
her before share that she settles into By then, I would
What’s more? She’s become a lucky
the role quite easily. She played a have firmed up my
charm with the producers here, since
romantic heroine in Krishna with as plans.” Who knows,
everyone now believes that if Pooja is in
much conviction as the toughie in sooner even…
a film, it sure will become a hit! Thanks
Anu, or a mentally challenged girl in
to her hit films like Krishna and Iniya
Huchchi. She’s been getting a whole lot
and Minugu, more recently.
of heroine-centric roles of late, thanks
Some compare her to the legendary to the ease with which she adapts every
Malashree who ruled the Kannada character. With four releases lined up
films for more than a decade. To this, for this year, she sure has her hands
Pooja’s humble response, “Malashree full. She’s also making her Bollywood
is a living legend. I still have a long debut with Abhimanyu, an off-beat film
way to go. Malashree excelled in a being directed by Onir of My Brother
wide variety of roles. I am just three Nikhil fame. The movie is about of
years old in Kannada cinema.” But like the exploitation of children and child
Malashree, Shilpa, Ambika, Pooja too abuse. The movie also features Radhika
was an outsider who went on to become Apte, Sanjay Suri and Rahul Bose.
a leading star. Kannada cinema pundits Abhimanyu is a short film and sixth of
often quip that every now and again an a series.
outsider comes in and takes everyone
Besides acting, Pooja has
by storm. It’s been happening for the
taken to singing these days.
last two decades at least.
She lent her voice to a track
oct 09 57
xclusive
58
Oct 09
Here comes
the
Box Office
Monster...
Once in every 2-3 years, the Andhra Pradesh box office witnesses a blockbuster that
breaks all the records to emerge as the highest grossing film. Southscope analyses the
phenomenon…
We may indulge in textual analysis, critical commentary, Throughout 2006, 2007 and 2008 the industry witnessed
attribute it to publicity and promotional tie-ups, when a film many blockbusters like Yamadonga, Stalin and Jalsa but
becomes a super hit. But if a movie maker finds a definite none of them could displace Pokiri. Till this box office monster
formula to churn out a hit after a hit, he may as well have called Magadheera released. The movie flooded the market
found God. While a small budget film with unknown star by opening at 1000 screens across the world, which in trade
cast may overtake big banner films stunning people who parlance is known as a “saturation release”. The idea is to
have made them, a mega budget movie featuring top stars, garner the maximum collections in the initial week. It opened
shot in the most exotic locales may sink without a trace. The at 50 screens in America alone. With a 28 theatre opening,
enigma of movie making is hard, if not impossible, to hack. Magadheera occupied most of the theatres in Vijayawada
That said, once in a way comes a massive budget movie city. Of the 120 screens Greater Hyderabad metropolis had
starring budding actors that hits the bull’s eye bang on. That nearly 60 of them showing Magadheera. The movie opened
too, right in the first few weeks, surpassing every other film with a ‘blockbuster talk’ right from the day one.
in the category, much to the delight of the audiences and
The movie ended up grossing 32 crores in the very first
the people involved in making it. That’s when the industry
week itself. This is a number, which some hit movies gross
watchers sit up and gape in awe. The year 2009 was the
in their full box office run. Half way into the third week, the
chosen one to have one such Telugu film in its calendar. But
movie whizzed past the 50 crore mark, making it the first
before we present that picture here’s a lowdown on high
ever Telugu film to reach that landmark. Six weeks after its
grossers of recent times:
release, today the worldwide gross of the movie stands at a
In 2000, Nuvve Kavali, a small-budget film emerged as massive 75 crore. Each of the above mentioned blockbusters
the biggest hit by grossing 25 crores, taking everybody by crossed their predecessors by a margin of ten-fifteen percent
surprise. In 2001, Pawan Kalyan’s Kushi beat that margin But, Magadheera collected over 150% of its predecessor
by grossing 28 crores. And in 2002, Indra upped the ante making it really ‘once a decade’ hit, in league of films such as
by grossing 38 crores. Okkadu which released in January Maya bazaar, Prem Nagar, Lavakusha, Jagadeka Veerudu
2003, matched that by grossing 35 crores. By September Athiloka Sundari and Shiva. The movie was the first Telugu
2003, Chiranjeevi’s Tagore ended up as the first film to gross film to collect $2 million from the overseas box office. The
40 crores in Telugu cinema. The zeitgeist of this time was distributor revenues or “share” as it’s known in trade touched
to measure a film’s success by the days it ran in the movie the 50 crore mark. This puts Magadheera in the same league
theatres. NTR’s Simhadri ran for 100 days in 156 cinemas, of films such as Shivaji, Ghajini (Hindi) and Gadar which had
while Tagore reached that milestone in 192 theatres. But, an all-India share of 64, 60 and 48 crores respectively.
slowly that trend was on the decline, as the industry started
measuring a movie’s performance by its box office gross and
Oct 09
not the number of days it ran at box office.
Chiranjeevi’s next film Shankar Dada which was the biggest Grossing 48 crores, Pokiri was the biggest hit of telugu cinema.
hit of that year, ended its box office run just short of the 40
crore run. Tagore’s record remained largely untouched till The records of the movie remained unchallenged right through
the release of Mahesh Babu’s Pokiri in April 2006, which not
only catapulted him into superstardom, but grossed 48 crores 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009, till Magadheera arrived.
59
at box office. The records of Pokiri remained unchallenged.
xclusive
60
The other fact that Magadheera
brings to light is the revenue
making potential of South Indian
films, especially the stamina of
Andhra Pradesh box office.
Oct 09
True to the Rajamouli brand of blockbusters such as Student star system. But, Magadheera brought it back into vogue
No.1, Simhadri, Chatrapati, Sye, Yamadonga, the movie had and the audiences have lapped it up big time. Many Telugu
all the commercial packaging such as strong story, peppy filmmakers are not out to make ‘sword and sandal’ dramas
music, well-executed action episodes, glamorous heroines. with big budgets. Geetha Arts, the producers of Magadheera
But what set this film apart from his previous works was the themselves are one amongst them. Badrinath, is the title of
grandeur. The film was made on a budget of 40 crores, the their next film to be directed by V.V Vinayak, this time with the
highest ever for a Telugu film. The colosseum-like stadium, other star in the family, Allu Arjun. The movie is another big-
sword and sandal costumes, the chariot chase, epic wars budget epic drama which would go to floors in 2010.
transported the audience to another era.
The other fact that Magadheera brings to light is the revenue
Chirutha – Ram Charan’s debut film though was an average making potential of South Indian films, especially the stamina
film, grossed 32 crores at box office. Armed with a lineage of Andhra Pradesh box office. Inspite of being a Telugu-
and DNA that go into metamorphosing an actor into a mega language film, the movie was able to match the collections of
star, Ram Charan has captured the box office and captivated Bollywood’s biggies and the Tamil-Telugu bi-linguals starring
a cross section of audiences with his magical second film. Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.
Surpassing the box office records of his father’s films, Ram
To give credit where it’s due, AP box office contributes
Charan is being viewed as the befitting heir who can carry
considerably to these bi-linguals. Here’s an indicator: Sivaji –
the mantle from his illustrious father.. Even though he is being
18 crore, Aparichitudu – 14 crore, Dashavataram – 12 crore,
lauded for his blockbuster performance in Magadheera, the
Chandramukhi – 10 crore, Ghajini – 9 crore.
fact remains that even his first firm had collected as much as
Chiranjeevi’s hits.
Interestingly, Dashavataram & Anniyan were produced by
Tamil Askar Ravichandran, while Ghajini and Magadheera All-India Distributor Shares
were produced by Allu Arvind’s Geetha Arts. Historical,
mythological and fantasy movies have always been a favorite Movie All-India share Languages
amongst the Telugu audience. Mayabazar, Lava Kusha, Sivaji 64 Tamil, Telugu
Alluri Seetha Ramaraju, Dhaana Veera Soora Karna, Ghajini 60 Hindi
Jagadekaveerudu Athiloka Sundari) are classics of the Magadheera 52* Telugu
industry which fall in this genre. Such films were consistently Dashavataram 46.5 Tamil, Telugu
churned out till the 1990s. The production of such movies Dhoom 2 45.8 Hindi
declined with the fall of the studio system and the rise of the Gadar 45.1 Hindi
Chandramukhi 44 Tamil, Telugu
Anniyan/Aparichitudu 42 Tamil, Telugu
Krrish 40 Hindi
Om Shanti Om 40 Hindi
• Still running in theatres
Here comes
Oct 09
the
Box Office
61
Monster...
true to the rajamouli brand of blockbusters such as Student star system. But, Magadheera brought it back into vogue
No.1, Simhadri, Chatrapati, Sye, Yamadonga, the movie had and the audiences have lapped it up big time. many telugu
all the commercial packaging such as strong story, peppy filmmakers are not out to make ‘sword and sandal’ dramas
music, well-executed action episodes, glamorous heroines. with big budgets. geetha arts, the producers of Magadheera
But what set this film apart from his previous works was the themselves are one amongst them. Badrinath, is the title of
grandeur. the film was made on a budget of 40 crores, the their next film to be directed by V.V Vinayak, this time with the
highest ever for a telugu film. the colosseum-like stadium, other star in the family, allu arjun. the movie is another big-
sword and sandal costumes, the chariot chase, epic wars budget epic drama which would go to floors in 2010.
transported the audience to another era.
the other fact that Magadheera brings to light is the revenue
Chirutha – ram charan’s debut film though was an average making potential of south indian films, especially the stamina
film, grossed 32 crores at box office. armed with a lineage of andhra pradesh box office. inspite of being a telugu-
and dna that go into metamorphosing an actor into a mega language film, the movie was able to match the collections of
star, ram charan has captured the box office and captivated Bollywood’s biggies and the tamil-telugu bi-linguals starring
a cross section of audiences with his magical second film. rajinikanth and Kamal haasan.
surpassing the box office records of his father’s films, ram
to give credit where it’s due, ap box office contributes
charan is being viewed as the befitting heir who can carry
considerably to these bi-linguals. here’s an indicator: Sivaji –
the mantle from his illustrious father.. even though he is being
18 crore, Aparichitudu – 14 crore, Dashavataram – 12 crore,
lauded for his blockbuster performance in Magadheera, the
Chandramukhi – 10 crore, Ghajini – 9 crore.
fact remains that even his first firm had collected as much as
chiranjeevi’s hits.
interestingly, Dashavataram & Anniyan were produced by
tamil askar ravichandran, while Ghajini and Magadheera All-India Distributor Shares
were produced by allu arvind’s geetha arts. historical,
mythological and fantasy movies have always been a favorite Movie All-India share Languages
amongst the telugu audience. Mayabazar, Lava Kusha, Sivaji 64 Tamil, Telugu
Alluri Seetha Ramaraju, Dhaana Veera Soora Karna, Ghajini 60 Hindi
Jagadekaveerudu Athiloka Sundari) are classics of the Magadheera 52* Telugu
industry which fall in this genre. such films were consistently Dashavataram 46.5 Tamil, Telugu
churned out till the 1990s. the production of such movies Dhoom 2 45.8 Hindi
declined with the fall of the studio system and the rise of the Gadar 45.1 Hindi
Chandramukhi 44 Tamil, Telugu
Anniyan/Aparichitudu 42 Tamil, Telugu
Krrish 40 Hindi
Om Shanti Om 40 Hindi
• Still running in theatres
Here comes
oct 09
the
Box Office
61
Monster...
62
kAleidoscope
10 : 09 FUNdA
Pic: Sanjeev
ASH EFFECT!
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan at the Longines watches
promotional event in Hyderabad.
Pic: Sanjeev
BRANd LOyALTy
Heart throb Mahesh Babu at the Thums Up promotional
event in Hyderabad held at Mc Donalds.
Pic: Sanjeev
BOSE BOASTS
Rahul Bose visits Hyderabad in connection
with the ‘Joy of Giving‘ cause held at Grill
Room.
Pic: Bhushan
GRANd LAUNCH
pic: sri vatsa
62 oct 09
telugu
63
FUNdA 10 : 09
BIOSCOPE
eenaDu
oct 09 63
kAnnAdA
telugu
64
BIOSCOPE
10 : 09 FUNdA
Josh
this young lady sure has an
understated grace about her.
n The title: It was a title fit for the
young gun. With a tag line that
reads ‘youth rocks…’ the film cast:
sure knew its target audience! Naga Chaitanya, Karthika, J D Chekravarthy,
Sunil, Brahmanandam, Rehaman, Prakash Raj,
hema, surya and sreya dhanwantari
64 oct 09
kAnnAdA
65
FUNdA 10 : 09
BIOSCOPE
RAJANI
cast:
Upendra, Aarti Chabria, Sharath Lohithashva,
Mukul Dev, Rangayana Raghu, Ramesh Bhat,
Kokila Sadhu
Music: Hamsalekha
oct 09 65
FUNdA
02
2nd, 11th, 20th or 29th
Peo le born on dates
Vocation
PeoPle
october
You will have plenty of disposable
finances for the expansion of
business or for buying property.
Family and Friends
There is a probability of marriage
predictions
for those of you who’re single.
Health
Minor ailments like stomach
disorders, knee pain, bile disorder
or diabetes might disturb you
erratically.
Travel
The unwanted transfer won’t
happen this month but there will
1st, 10th, 19th or 28th
Peo le born on dates
01 03
PeoPle
66 oct 09
04 06 08
6th, 15th or 24th
le born on dates
4th, 13th, 22nd or 31st
PeoPle born on dates
(People born on dates 4th, 13th, (People born on dates 6th, 15th or (People born on dates 8th, 17th or 26th)
22nd or 31st) 24th)
Vocation
Vocation Vocation The middle of the month will bring for
PeoPle
There is a possibility of you being Someone close and senior may help you laurels and achievements in your
promoted to a senior management you to expand your business and specialized field.
position. improve your reputation and there will Assets
Peo
05 07 09
5th, 14th or 23rd
PeoPle born on dates
(People born on dates 5th, 14th or (People born on dates 7th, 16th or (People born on dates 9th, 18th or 27th)
23rd) 25th)
Vocation
Vocation Vocation Professionals will enjoy senior post and
In your business you will be able to You will save considerably on overhead reputation also.
PeoPle
There is probability of detachment You will spend a good amount of money matters.
in your business and property which on infrastructure or machinery that Family and Friends
may prove advantageous to you in the concerns your business. One of your family members is about to
long run. Family and Friends relocate to some other city.
Family and Friends You will be happy with the career growth Health
One of your family members might of your family members. Certain auspicious placement of planets
get a job of their choice. Health will bring quick recovery from health
Health You need to be slightly concerned about problems and your working efficiency
Take great care of your diet and your health, since it needs a little bit of will remain intact.
exercise regimen to keep fit as much extra attention. Travel
as possible during this period. Travel You are likely to go abroad for your
Travel You will not be bothered by unwanted higher education.
You will travel by air frequently. travel. Romance
Romance Romance You may feel the pressure of
There might be an inner struggle/ There is warmth and happiness in responsibilities and may be tempted to
tussle over some issues and you may current relationships, and there is a find a quick escape.
feel tied down to everything and not possibility of fun through new love Astronumerologist
able to express yourself freely. relationships.
Bhavikk Sangghvi
e-mail :- bhavikksangghvi@gmail.com
website :- www.bhavikksangghvi.com
oct 09 67
1
FUNdA
STARRy AFFAIR
23
PRABHAS
4
Prabhas Raju Uppalapati popularly known as Prabhas, was born on 23rd
October 1980 which makes him a Number 5 ( Mercury ) person in numerology.
He is a cusp between the zodiacs – Libra and Scorpio and hence is jointly ruled
by Number 6
( Venus ), partially by Number 8 ( Saturn ) and Number 9 ( Mars ) whereas his
destiny number adds up to Number 6 again ( 2 + 3 + 1 + 0 + 1 + 9 + 8 + 0 = 24 =
2 + 4 = 6 ). That means, he is ruled by Number 6 twice. Which is too good ! His
female fan following is huge due to this factor.
Prabhas’ lucky numbers are in the series of 6 and 8. Here’s proof of his notable
films which add up to his lucky numbers :
* varsham (2004): This film which reversed his fortunes released in his 24th
year. The year also adds up to Number 6.
He should also wear a red coral set in gold on his right hand ring finger on a
tuesday morning, one hour after sunrise after reciting the mantra ‘oM Ang
ANGARKAYA NAMAH’ – 19 times before wearing. This will take care of certain
delays in his life and will even improve his health, especially blood related
issues.
Prabhas will soon be entering his 30th year which may not be his best phase.
He may have to keep a watch on his wallet. Unnecessary luxuries can wait.
Both his releases Ek Niranjan and Darling may not create any ripples at the
box office.
68 oct 09
Evvariki kanapadadhey premadhi Ey roopam.. Pedavula venakane aligena......
Ey Chevi ki vinabadadhey premedhi Ey raagam Hrudayamlo vintha bhavam,
Kanake apuroopam.. Padamedi leni kavyam ...
Kaligey anuraagam... Pranayam lo priya naadam ,
Vintune vunndi pranam.....
Evvariki kanapadadhe premadhi Ey roopam.. Telusa..Aaaa... Aaaa....
Ey Chevi ki vinabadadhey premedhi Ey raagam
Kanake apuroopam..kaligey anuraagam... Evvariki kanapadadhe premadhi Ey roopam..
Ey Chevi ki vinabadadhey premedhi Ey
Yedhaloney koluvunna, Edurinaa polchaleka... raagam.....
Nijameley Anukunna, Rujuvedhi telchalekha..
Marila..Aaa.. Aaaa...haaa.....Haa..Aaa..
Film: Josh Singers: rahul Vaidya, ujjaini mukherjee Music: sandeep chowta
oct 09 69
FUNdA
Looking
BAC K
if cinema is magic, then Mayabazaar must be among the most enthralling of its pack of tricks!
Karthik Pasupulate revisits the classic that became a celebrated landmark of Telugu cinema
Music: Ghantasala
y
ou just know a good film when you see one. And a great film, well, stays with
you long after the stardust has been swept away and the year of release
doesn’t matter. An iconic film, well, creates legends of its own that last for
an eternity. kv Redddy directed Mayabazaar is among those iconic films that
went on to become a phenomenon!
director Kadri Venkata Reddy
70 oct 09
It’s been fifty-two years since Mayabazaar hit the theatres. Many films have been
made since but you will struggle to find somebody who has seen Mayabazaar and
not liked it. To say Mayabazaar is one of the finest Telugu films ever would be
stating the obvious. What is even more remarkable is that the film is based on
hugely popular South Indian folk-myth, Sasirekha Parinayam. It is the delightful
tale of Abhimanyu’s (son of Arjuna) marriage with Sasirekha, the daughter of
Balarama (elder Brother of Lord Krishna).
Set at a time when the gods walked the earth, the cast of Mayabazaar is certainly
worthy of its characters. Needless to say, SV Rangarao, NTR, ANR, Gummadi,
Relangi, Nagabhushanam, Allu Ramalingaiah, Savitri, Chaya Devi, Suryakantham
are all demigods of Telugu cinema. However, the contributions of the legendary
director KV Reddy and master cinematographer Marcus Bertley tower over
everything else.
The special effects were futuristic and truly something to talk about
even six five decades later. Ghatotkacha (SV Rangarao) digging into the
wedding feast in the song Vivahabhojanambu…is quite awe inspiring
to say the least. The laddus falling on their own into the hungry
Ghatotkacha’s mouth, arrows flying in the air, the bed posts bending
forward on their own is creativity at its best at a time when animation
was not a household term. We might not be too off the mark to state,
Mayabazaar is a lesson in black and white photography.
oct 09 71
Letter from the Editor
Happily ever after
The festive season has begun. With Eid and Dasara behind us and Deepavali around
the corner, the aroma of celebrations is in the air. However, for us south Indians there
have been plenty more reasons to say cheers this year. We won the Oscars. We swept
the national awards. And beginning this month, we will have a magazine exclusively
covering southern cinema.
Considering the fact that the southern industry has churned out biggest blockbusters
forever now and other language film makers have laughed their way to the banks
by remaking our films, we haven’t really got the media space that is due to us. But
now that’s in the past. Here comes Southscope, India’s only English film magazine to
capture the true spirit of southern cinema. We have tried to pack in the punch of every
aspect of cinema we all love. In one sentence - for cinema, of cinema and by cinema
lovers. We have a feeling you’ll appreciate our offering.
I must thank my publishers who have entrusted me and my team with the responsibility
and ensured that we have the best of resources and above all, the creative freedom
which is equivalent to oxygen for us writers. My editorial associates Mona Ramavat
and Karthik Pasupulate who, I believe, are God’s special gifts to me and Southscope.
The youngest member Vrinda Prasad may be the baby of the Southscope family but is
as good as they come. We are also blessed with a dream creative team - Raj Shekar at
the helm ably supported by Prakash, Ravi, Vamsi and Suresh & Suresh (yes, there are
two of them) who are not only on the same page as us but have made all our efforts
spring to life.
We, at Southscope, are a crazy movie manic bunch and we love people who are like
us. That’s why we instinctively know what or who you may want to read about. From
whacky interviews to serious reviews, starry airs to down-to-earth affairs, behind the
scenes action to on screen stunts, Southscope is ready to take on the world of Telugu,
Tamil, Kannada & Malayalam cinema with its action packed stories. Please stay with
us. We will back every month.
Before I sign off let me wish all of you a safe and fun Deepavali on behalf of all of us
at Southscope.
Vanaja Banagiri
Editor-in-Chief
Oct 09 73
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Wishes all its ReadeRs
a daZZlinG Festival
OF liGhts!