Kamal Haasan Was Initially Paid 15 Times Higher Than Rajinikanth (Picture Credit: IMDb)
It was 1976 when two Kollywood superstars were just starting their careers. A relatively new actor called Rajinikanth and a diva called Sridevi. They both starred together in a film titled Moondru Mudichu, which had superstar Kamal Haasan. Why superstar? Well, the money mattered. The fee the three stars were offered for the film was vividly different.
While Kamal Haasan was the highest paid of the lot, Rajinikanth was the least paid. However, the gap between their salaries was so huge that one would not believe then that these three stars, at some point in their careers, would be treated as equals and command equal money and respect.
Moondru Mudichu is a Tamil film directed by K. Balachander. While Rajinikanth was paid only Rs 2000 for his role, Sridevi was paid more than double a sum of Rs 5000 for this film.
It was 1976 when two Kollywood superstars were just starting their careers. A relatively new actor called Rajinikanth and a diva called Sridevi. They both starred together in a film titled Moondru Mudichu, which had superstar Kamal Haasan. Why superstar? Well, the money mattered. The fee the three stars were offered for the film was vividly different.
While Kamal Haasan was the highest paid of the lot, Rajinikanth was the least paid. However, the gap between their salaries was so huge that one would not believe then that these three stars, at some point in their careers, would be treated as equals and command equal money and respect.
Moondru Mudichu is a Tamil film directed by K. Balachander. While Rajinikanth was paid only Rs 2000 for his role, Sridevi was paid more than double a sum of Rs 5000 for this film.
- 12/16/2023
- by Trisha Gaur
- KoiMoi
Rajinikanth Was Once Humiliated By A Producer, The Superstar Returned In A Luxury Car! (Picture Credit: IMDb)
Rajinikanth is not just a name, but a man who is equivalent to God for millions! Not only fans, but many people within the industry idolize Rajinikanth and preach Rajinism. Every time a Rajini film is released, it is celebrated like a festival in the entire country. Profoundly called Thalaiva by his fans and peers, the actor’s decorated filmography has earned him a superstar reputation whose rags-to-riches story will continue to inspire generations to come.
From being a bus conductor to becoming the heartbeat of Indian cinema, Rajinikanth’s life has been nothing short of a movie itself, with many bumpy rides along the way. However, did you know the actor was once ridiculed by a producer over an advance payment? While the Jailer star is a phenomenon with no parallel today,...
Rajinikanth is not just a name, but a man who is equivalent to God for millions! Not only fans, but many people within the industry idolize Rajinikanth and preach Rajinism. Every time a Rajini film is released, it is celebrated like a festival in the entire country. Profoundly called Thalaiva by his fans and peers, the actor’s decorated filmography has earned him a superstar reputation whose rags-to-riches story will continue to inspire generations to come.
From being a bus conductor to becoming the heartbeat of Indian cinema, Rajinikanth’s life has been nothing short of a movie itself, with many bumpy rides along the way. However, did you know the actor was once ridiculed by a producer over an advance payment? While the Jailer star is a phenomenon with no parallel today,...
- 12/12/2023
- by Shivani Negi
- KoiMoi
Janhvi Kapoor’s Fee For Her South Debut Is 6,99,900% Higher Than Sridevi’s Fee for Her First Tamil Film! ( Photo Credit – Instagram; IMDb )
Sridevi undoubtedly has been one of the biggest superstars in the country. The late actress was also said to be one of the highest-paid starlets of her time. However, you would not believe the price she was paid for her first Tamil film (as a lead) with superstars Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.
The Mom actress was paid a meager amount of only Rs 5000 to be a part of Moondru Mudichu, a Tamil romantic thriller. The film was directed and written by K Balachander. This was the actress’ first leading role as an adult while she was only 13!
However, Sridevi’s fee for her first film is nothing compared to Janhvi Kapoor’s Telugu debut, Devara, which stars Jr Ntr. If a report in Siasat is believed, then...
Sridevi undoubtedly has been one of the biggest superstars in the country. The late actress was also said to be one of the highest-paid starlets of her time. However, you would not believe the price she was paid for her first Tamil film (as a lead) with superstars Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.
The Mom actress was paid a meager amount of only Rs 5000 to be a part of Moondru Mudichu, a Tamil romantic thriller. The film was directed and written by K Balachander. This was the actress’ first leading role as an adult while she was only 13!
However, Sridevi’s fee for her first film is nothing compared to Janhvi Kapoor’s Telugu debut, Devara, which stars Jr Ntr. If a report in Siasat is believed, then...
- 12/1/2023
- by Trisha Gaur
- KoiMoi
KollywoodIn the early years of his career, Rajinikanth did roles that demanded both a wide emotional range and a certain swagger, both of which the actor had.Before Rajinikanth became the ‘Superstar’, fans will recall the string of roles he did that demanded both a wide emotional range and a certain swagger, both of which the actor had. His films from his early years, the 1970s, had him play openly villainous roles to characters with many shades of grey, to budding hero. While it is impossible to include them all, here are some of our favourites to rewatch before the Superstar’s Jailer with director Nelson Dilipkumar hits theatres next week. Apoorva Ragangal (1975) The ten-minute role that introduced Rajini to the world. Apoorva Ragangal was directed by K Balachander, who would also go on to cast the future Superstar in multiple films and help him make his name. Starring Kamal Hassan...
- 8/7/2023
- by BharathyS
- The News Minute
She was noted for her wide range of roles in a career that spanned six decades of her career but she is remembered the most for playing mother to many of Hindi cinema’s biggest stars, including Amitabh Bachchan.
Here’s our pick of seven films where Hindi cinema’s longest-serving mother was at her best.
1. ‘Faraar’: A 1975 crime drama directed by Shanker Mukherjee, ‘Faraar’ starred Sulochna as Amitabh Bachchan’s mother. The film follows the story of a middle-class man, Rajesh, essayed by the Big B, who avenges the rape and murder of his sister. The film also stars Sharmila Tagore, Sanjeev Kumar, Sajjan, Agha and Bhagwan Dada. Priyadarshan remade the movie in Malayalam by Priyadarshan as ‘Parayanumvayya Parayathirikkanumvayya’.
2. ‘Prem Nagar’: The 1974 Hindi-language romantic drama directed by K.S. Prakash Rao has Sulochana playing mother to Hema Malini’s character. The film follows Karan Singh (Rajesh Khanna), who...
Here’s our pick of seven films where Hindi cinema’s longest-serving mother was at her best.
1. ‘Faraar’: A 1975 crime drama directed by Shanker Mukherjee, ‘Faraar’ starred Sulochna as Amitabh Bachchan’s mother. The film follows the story of a middle-class man, Rajesh, essayed by the Big B, who avenges the rape and murder of his sister. The film also stars Sharmila Tagore, Sanjeev Kumar, Sajjan, Agha and Bhagwan Dada. Priyadarshan remade the movie in Malayalam by Priyadarshan as ‘Parayanumvayya Parayathirikkanumvayya’.
2. ‘Prem Nagar’: The 1974 Hindi-language romantic drama directed by K.S. Prakash Rao has Sulochana playing mother to Hema Malini’s character. The film follows Karan Singh (Rajesh Khanna), who...
- 6/5/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Hyderabad, May 22 (Ians) Veteran actor Sarath Babu passed away at a private hospital in Hyderabad on Monday. He was 71.
Sarath Babu breathed his last at Aig Hospitals, where he was admitted last month. Family sources said he succumbed to sepsis in the whole body and multiple organ failure.
The actor was brought to Hyderabad from Bengaluru on April 20 and was admitted to Aig.
Under treatment for multi-organ damage, he had suffered from sepsis, which impacted functioning of kidneys, lungs, liver and other organs.
His body is likely to be taken to Chennai for last rites. The news of Sarath Babu’s death sent shock waves in the southern film industry. Leading film personalities and political leaders have expressed their condolences.
Sarath Babu, whose real name was Satyam Babu Dixithulu, began his acting career in 1973 through Telugu film “Rama Rajyam” and later became popular with Tamil movies “Pattina Pravesam” (1977) and “Nizhal Nijamagiradhu” (1978) directed by K. Balachander.
Sarath Babu breathed his last at Aig Hospitals, where he was admitted last month. Family sources said he succumbed to sepsis in the whole body and multiple organ failure.
The actor was brought to Hyderabad from Bengaluru on April 20 and was admitted to Aig.
Under treatment for multi-organ damage, he had suffered from sepsis, which impacted functioning of kidneys, lungs, liver and other organs.
His body is likely to be taken to Chennai for last rites. The news of Sarath Babu’s death sent shock waves in the southern film industry. Leading film personalities and political leaders have expressed their condolences.
Sarath Babu, whose real name was Satyam Babu Dixithulu, began his acting career in 1973 through Telugu film “Rama Rajyam” and later became popular with Tamil movies “Pattina Pravesam” (1977) and “Nizhal Nijamagiradhu” (1978) directed by K. Balachander.
- 5/22/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Is Tamil superstar Rajinikanth planning to bid goodbye to the film industry after his 171st movie, which is to be helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj.
The speculations have been doing the rounds in industry circles after Tamil filmmaker Mysskin said in an interview that Rajinikanth’s proposed movie with young maverick director Lokesh Kangaaraj may be the last movie of the superstar’s film career.
The director’s comment went viral on various social media platforms. The revelation has taken the social media by storm with several die hard fans of Rajninkanth refusing to believe it.
“No, Thalaiva will not make any such decision,” said one fan. Another fan called for putting an end to speculations. The fans say that the actor never spoke of retirement and hence they will not believe anybody else speaking about his retirement.
The 72-year-old superstar’s next movie to hit the screen will be ‘Jailer’. Directed by Nelson,...
The speculations have been doing the rounds in industry circles after Tamil filmmaker Mysskin said in an interview that Rajinikanth’s proposed movie with young maverick director Lokesh Kangaaraj may be the last movie of the superstar’s film career.
The director’s comment went viral on various social media platforms. The revelation has taken the social media by storm with several die hard fans of Rajninkanth refusing to believe it.
“No, Thalaiva will not make any such decision,” said one fan. Another fan called for putting an end to speculations. The fans say that the actor never spoke of retirement and hence they will not believe anybody else speaking about his retirement.
The 72-year-old superstar’s next movie to hit the screen will be ‘Jailer’. Directed by Nelson,...
- 5/19/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
EntertainmentDirected by Aishwarya Rajinikanth, ‘Lal Salaam’ stars actors Vishnu Vishal and Vikranth in the lead roles while Rajinikanth will appear in a cameo.Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev will be seen in the Tamil film Lal Salaam, which also features Superstar Rajinikanth in a cameo. The film has actors Vishnu Vishal and Vikranth playing the main roles. Lal Salaam is directed by Aishwarya Rajinikanth, Rajinikanth’s elder daughter. Ar Rahman will be composing music for the film. Making the announcement about Kapil Dev’s appearance in Lal Salaam, the Superstar wrote, “It is my honour and privilege working with the Legendary, most respected and wonderful human being Kapildevji, who made India proud winning for the first time ever.. Cricket World Cup!!!” Kapil Dev was last seen in a brief appearance in 83, a movie on the Indian cricket team creating history by winning the 1983 world cup. In the movie, actor Ranveer Singh...
- 5/19/2023
- by Balakrishna
- The News Minute
KollywoodHelming the screenplay and direction of ‘Lal Salaam’ is Aishwarya Rajinikanth.Courtesy/LycaProductionsFans of the ‘Superstar’ have had two consecutive announcements that have no doubt left them thrilled. After the release of a teaser clip from Rajinikanth’s upcoming Jailer last week, Lyca Productions announced on Monday, May 8, that the star will have a cameo role in Vishnu Vishal’s next movie Lal Salaam. According to the announcement, Rajini’s cameo character is called Moideen Bhai and events in the film appear to be set in Mumbai, judging by details in the poster. Helming the screenplay and direction of Lal Salaam is Aishwarya Rajinikanth, the Superstar’s elder daughter. A tagline in the poster declares that “Moideen Bhai has arrived” and the production house’s tweet sharing the poster adds, “Everyone’s favourite Bhai is back in Mumbai.” The second line, is most likely a reference to Rajini’s character in the 1995 film Baashha,...
- 5/8/2023
- by BharathyS
- The News Minute
The cream of the southern Indian film industry was present in force at the just concluded Dakshin South India Media and Entertainment Summit in Chennai.
Organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (Cii), southern region, the event kicked off with recent south Indian Oscar winners, Kartiki Gonsalves, director of winning documentary short “The Elephant Whisperers” and Prem Rakshit, choreographer of winning original song “Naatu Naatu” from “Rrr” being felicitated.
The stage was then set for a heavyweight filmmakers panel moderated by former Variety correspondent Anupama Chopra, with Mani Ratnam, director of Tamil-language blockbuster “Ponniyin Selvan: 1”; Vetrimaaran, whose acclaimed Tamil-language “Viduthalai Part 1” is currently on release; Rishab Shetty, star and director of Kannada-language smash hit “Kantara”; and Basil Joseph, director of Malayalam-language Netflix superhero film “Minnal Murali” participating.
Films made in the four southern Indian languages – Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam – together account for more than 50% of production and revenues in India.
Organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (Cii), southern region, the event kicked off with recent south Indian Oscar winners, Kartiki Gonsalves, director of winning documentary short “The Elephant Whisperers” and Prem Rakshit, choreographer of winning original song “Naatu Naatu” from “Rrr” being felicitated.
The stage was then set for a heavyweight filmmakers panel moderated by former Variety correspondent Anupama Chopra, with Mani Ratnam, director of Tamil-language blockbuster “Ponniyin Selvan: 1”; Vetrimaaran, whose acclaimed Tamil-language “Viduthalai Part 1” is currently on release; Rishab Shetty, star and director of Kannada-language smash hit “Kantara”; and Basil Joseph, director of Malayalam-language Netflix superhero film “Minnal Murali” participating.
Films made in the four southern Indian languages – Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam – together account for more than 50% of production and revenues in India.
- 4/21/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, March 13 (Ians) M.M. Keeravani today is being hailed as one of the greatest music composers of Tollywood, but he earned his early spurs in K. Balachander’s 1991 Tamil movie, ‘Azhagan’ (Handsome), starring Mammootty and Bhanupriya. In the credit lines, he was known as Maragathamani.
In the same year, Keeravani, using the same identity, composed the music for celebrated filmmaker I.V. Sasi’s hit movie ‘Neelagiri’, also starring Mammooty. And in the year that followed, he gave the music for ‘Soorya Manasam’, the Sowcar Janaki-Mammootty film where the latter plays a mentally challenged man.
In the meantime, he continued with Telugu and Tamil films, venturing onto Kannada, where he did not change his name, as he did yet again, this time to M.M. Kreem, when he scored the music for ‘Criminal’, Mahesh Bhatt’s 1995 Telugu-Hindi bilingual thriller based on ‘The Fugitive’ and starring Nagarjuna, Ramya Krishna and Manisha Koirala.
In the same year, Keeravani, using the same identity, composed the music for celebrated filmmaker I.V. Sasi’s hit movie ‘Neelagiri’, also starring Mammooty. And in the year that followed, he gave the music for ‘Soorya Manasam’, the Sowcar Janaki-Mammootty film where the latter plays a mentally challenged man.
In the meantime, he continued with Telugu and Tamil films, venturing onto Kannada, where he did not change his name, as he did yet again, this time to M.M. Kreem, when he scored the music for ‘Criminal’, Mahesh Bhatt’s 1995 Telugu-Hindi bilingual thriller based on ‘The Fugitive’ and starring Nagarjuna, Ramya Krishna and Manisha Koirala.
- 3/13/2023
- by News Bureau
- GlamSham
OpinionMani Ratnam developed a new syntax for filmmaking, where along with powerful storytelling, the depiction of each frame counted. From the way scenes were staged to songs were choreographed, it was all by design and never by chance.Anand Kumar RSTamil cinema, for as long as it has existed, has been ruled by its stars. From Mgr-Sivaji and Kamal-Rajini to Ajith-Vijay now, stars in pairs have consistently held sway over the Tamil audience and the industry’s market dynamics. But even amid this, once in a while, you see the ascent of a director who makes a mark with his indelible style of filmmaking. In the years of 1960s and 70s, it was CV Sridhar who emerged as the first director whose films were sought after by filmgoers — especially the women. K Balachander would be the next, making his presence felt in the 70s and 80s, followed by Bharathiraja in the 80s and 90s.
- 1/20/2023
- by LakshmiP
- The News Minute
KollywoodA digitally enhanced version of Rajinikanth’s 2002 film ‘Baba’ was re-released in theatres on December 10, ahead of his 72nd birthday.Tnm StaffPTIOn the occasion of superstar Rajinikanth’s 72nd birthday on Monday, December 12, wishes poured in from members of different film industries and other eminent personalities. Social media platforms are flooded with birthday wishes for the iconic star from celebrities. Kamal Haasan, Dhanush and Dulquer Salmaan were among the many admirers who wished Rajinikanth as he turned 72. Earlier on December 10, a digitally enhanced version of his 2002 film Baba was released in theatres to mark the occasion. Kollywood star Kamal Haasan, known as Ulaganayagan by fans, tweeted in Tamil: “Happy birthday to my dear friend Superstar Rajinikanth. Wish you on this auspicious day to continue your journey of success.” Rajinikanth made his debut with K Balachander's Apoorva Raagangal in 1975. Kamal Haasan played the lead role in the film, and Rajinikanth played a supporting role.
- 12/12/2022
- by AjayR
- The News Minute
G V Prakash Kumar dons the role of a loving uncle to his on-screen niece in his latest cinematic outing. The young National Award-winning actor and music composer, and Oscar-winning maestro A R Rahman’s nephew, has been paired with Anaswara Rajan in this film helmed by Udhay Mahesh.
The yet-to-be-titled Tamil film is about the emotional bonding between the uncle and his six-year-old niece. Shooting for it commenced on Tuesday in Chennai.
Kavithalaya, a production house floated by legendary filmmaker K Balachander, is home to many powerhouse talents and blockbuster, trend-setter movies. It has joined forces with Ott platform Disney+ Hotstar to produce the movie.
Udhay Mahesh, who has helmed films such as “Naalai” and “Chakra Vyugam” and acted in several hit films and webseries including “Family Man-2” and “Office”, has written the story, screenplay and dialogues for this film produced by Pushpa Kandasamy and Kandaswamy Bharathan.
Anaswara Rajan...
The yet-to-be-titled Tamil film is about the emotional bonding between the uncle and his six-year-old niece. Shooting for it commenced on Tuesday in Chennai.
Kavithalaya, a production house floated by legendary filmmaker K Balachander, is home to many powerhouse talents and blockbuster, trend-setter movies. It has joined forces with Ott platform Disney+ Hotstar to produce the movie.
Udhay Mahesh, who has helmed films such as “Naalai” and “Chakra Vyugam” and acted in several hit films and webseries including “Family Man-2” and “Office”, has written the story, screenplay and dialogues for this film produced by Pushpa Kandasamy and Kandaswamy Bharathan.
Anaswara Rajan...
- 11/8/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
As Amitabh Bachan celebrates his 80th birthday, it may be worth recalling his tryst with the South Indian film industry is interesting. Bachchan has acted in the Mohanlal-starrer Malayalam movie, ‘Kandahar’ (2010), directed by Major Ravi, and he has also been associated with several South Indian film personalities, starting with Madhu in his debut film ‘Saat Hindustani’.
The Malayalam movie industry’s veteran actor Madhu alias Madhavan Nair, a Padma Shri awardee who has starred in ‘Chemmeen’, which won the President’s Medal for the best feature film in 1965, recalled his association with Bachchan in a media interaction at his residence in Thiruvananthapuram.
“Being a former college teacher, I was always fascinated by Harivanshrai Bachchan and when I came to know that the young actor debuting in K.A. Abbas’s movie was his son, I was thrilled,” the 89-year-old actor said.
“When Abbas told me that a new actor is coming,...
The Malayalam movie industry’s veteran actor Madhu alias Madhavan Nair, a Padma Shri awardee who has starred in ‘Chemmeen’, which won the President’s Medal for the best feature film in 1965, recalled his association with Bachchan in a media interaction at his residence in Thiruvananthapuram.
“Being a former college teacher, I was always fascinated by Harivanshrai Bachchan and when I came to know that the young actor debuting in K.A. Abbas’s movie was his son, I was thrilled,” the 89-year-old actor said.
“When Abbas told me that a new actor is coming,...
- 10/11/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
Late director K. Balachander’s Kavithalayaa Productions, which produced director Mani Ratnam’s blockbuster ‘Roja’, has recalled the words of K. Balachander when he introduced A.R. Rahman as a music director on the occasion of the film completing a glorious 30 years.
Taking to Twitter, Kavithalayaa Productions, on its timeline, posted two videos. The first video clip, which was a speech of the late director, was posted by the production house saying, “In his own inimitable style, Kb sir expressed his appreciation for ‘Roja’ artistes and technicians on the occasion of the silver jubilee of the film. Today, we offer this as Kavithalayaa’s tribute to them.”
The second video, which was posted on Tuesday night by the production house, was one that had clips of a recent A. R. Rahman performance.
In the video, music director A. R. Rahman is seen on stage saying, “Thirty years of ‘Roja’. I want...
Taking to Twitter, Kavithalayaa Productions, on its timeline, posted two videos. The first video clip, which was a speech of the late director, was posted by the production house saying, “In his own inimitable style, Kb sir expressed his appreciation for ‘Roja’ artistes and technicians on the occasion of the silver jubilee of the film. Today, we offer this as Kavithalayaa’s tribute to them.”
The second video, which was posted on Tuesday night by the production house, was one that had clips of a recent A. R. Rahman performance.
In the video, music director A. R. Rahman is seen on stage saying, “Thirty years of ‘Roja’. I want...
- 8/17/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
CinemaRahman’s biggest achievement is the fact that in a very diverse country like India, his music has been widely accepted across geographies, writes the author.Anand Kumar RSFacebookMani Ratnam’s super hit film Roja was released on August 15, 30 years ago. When we saw the film, we understood why the makers opted for a Saturday instead of the customary Friday release for new films. The film had a subtext of patriotism and therefore it was a good marketing idea to release it on Independence Day when the air in the country is filled with patriotic fervour. Talking of marketing, no one realised back then that the film would give birth to a global homegrown brand called Ar Rahman. Roja was Mani’s eleventh film as a director and by then he had already become a cult figure in Tamil cinema with back-to-back hits. Yet, Roja had a few firsts to its credit.
- 8/15/2022
- by Vidya
- The News Minute
TributeActor, director and ad man Pratap Pothen died of a heart attack at his Chennai apartment on July 15.CrisA day ago, Pratap Pothen was still writing posts on Facebook, taking digs at life and death with his trademark dark humour. "When you treat the symptoms of a problem without treating the root cause of it, then you will start to be dependent on the pharmacy," said one post. Quoting American comedian George Carlin, he wrote another, "Death is caused by swallowing small amounts of saliva over a long period of time." By the morning of July 15, Pratap was found dead in his sleep in his Chennai apartment. A heart attack in the middle of the night took the maverick actor and filmmaker's life. By then he was close to 70 years of age and had contributed much to films, Tamil and Malayalam most of all. Pratap was divided between the two languages,...
- 7/15/2022
- by Cris
- The News Minute
CinemaVeteran actor and filmmaker Pratap Pothen, who worked in over a hundred films in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu and Hindi, passed away on July 15 in Chennai. Tnm StaffPratap Pothen/ Facebook Condolences poured in from all quarters following actor Pratap Pothen’s death on Friday, July 15. While fans and members from the film fraternity mourned his loss, many took to social media to revisit his notable movies as an actor, director and writer. Pratap started his acting journey with The Madras Players, the oldest English theatre collective in Chennai. Popular Malayalam director Bharathan, who enjoyed his performance in the play Androcles and the Lion, invited him to act in his film, Aaravam (1978). Pratap acted in over a hundred films, primarily in Malayalam and Tamil. He also appeared in several Telugu and Hindi movies. We bring to you a list of the actor’s memorable performances, ranging from the romantic hero in the...
- 7/15/2022
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
Flix Flashback‘Annamalai’, which came out 30 years ago today, kickstarted the ‘riches to rags to riches’ Rajini film template, which was repeated in many of his later films – mostly to success, says the author.Anand Kumar RSYouTubeIn the last many years post Sivaji – The Boss, if directors and writers have been struggling to make a “Superstar” film that is universally appealing to all his fans, with the exception of Enthiran, blame it on Annamalai, which was made 30 years ago. In my opinion, it is from Annamalai that the ‘Superstar padam universe’, if I may so term it, germinated. Looking back, there is no doubt that Annamalai turned out to be a landmark film in Rajinikanth’s filmography in more ways than one. Ask any fan what his favourite Rajini film is, chances are Annamalai will certainly be a top response. In Tamil cinema, we always had this two-horse race – Mgr-Sivaji and then later Kamal-Rajini.
- 6/27/2022
- by Vidya
- The News Minute
Shivaji Rao Gaekwad also known as Rajinikanth turns 70 today. Rajinikanth made his acting debut with K. Balachander's Apoorva Raagangal.
In addition to acting, he has also worked as a producer and screenwriter. He has won many awards, including four Tamil Nadu State Film Best Actor Awards and a Filmfare Best Tamil Actor Award. The Government of India has honored him with the Padma Bhushan (2000) and the Padma Vibhushan (2016).
He received the Chevalier Sivaji Ganesan Award for Excellence in Indian Cinema at the 4th Vijay Awards. At the 45th International Film Festival of India (2014), he was conferred with the "Centenary Award for Indian Film Personality of the Year". At the 50th edition of the International Film Festival of India (2019), he was honoured with the Icon of Global Jubilee award.
Rajinikanth announced entry into politics on 31 December 2017 and confirmed his intention to contest in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections in all 234 constituencies.
In addition to acting, he has also worked as a producer and screenwriter. He has won many awards, including four Tamil Nadu State Film Best Actor Awards and a Filmfare Best Tamil Actor Award. The Government of India has honored him with the Padma Bhushan (2000) and the Padma Vibhushan (2016).
He received the Chevalier Sivaji Ganesan Award for Excellence in Indian Cinema at the 4th Vijay Awards. At the 45th International Film Festival of India (2014), he was conferred with the "Centenary Award for Indian Film Personality of the Year". At the 50th edition of the International Film Festival of India (2019), he was honoured with the Icon of Global Jubilee award.
Rajinikanth announced entry into politics on 31 December 2017 and confirmed his intention to contest in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections in all 234 constituencies.
- 12/12/2020
- by Glamsham Editorial
- GlamSham
By Githa Vanan and Swarup Chakravarthy
In society, we are taught to venerate the polymaths, the ones who seem to be good at everything. The world lost another one of these on the 25th of September 2020 in Sripathi Panditaradhyula Balasubrahmanyam or S.P. Bala or Spb for short. A career spanning over 40,000 songs in 16 languages, for the Bollywood fan he is best associated with the early films of Kamal Hassan like Ek Duuje Ke Liye and Saagar, or Salman Khan for whom he sang exclusively till about 1998.
If somehow the name is not instantly recognisable, the voice certainly will be and especially for those in the South his career is no less than Kishore Kumar in breadth and scope. He was a musician, playback singer, music director, actor, dubbing artist, and film producer throughout the South without any discrimination to language for which he won nearly 40 accolades and holds several...
In society, we are taught to venerate the polymaths, the ones who seem to be good at everything. The world lost another one of these on the 25th of September 2020 in Sripathi Panditaradhyula Balasubrahmanyam or S.P. Bala or Spb for short. A career spanning over 40,000 songs in 16 languages, for the Bollywood fan he is best associated with the early films of Kamal Hassan like Ek Duuje Ke Liye and Saagar, or Salman Khan for whom he sang exclusively till about 1998.
If somehow the name is not instantly recognisable, the voice certainly will be and especially for those in the South his career is no less than Kishore Kumar in breadth and scope. He was a musician, playback singer, music director, actor, dubbing artist, and film producer throughout the South without any discrimination to language for which he won nearly 40 accolades and holds several...
- 10/14/2020
- by Swarup Chakravarthy
- Bollyspice
Actors Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth on Friday jointly unveiled a bust statue of late filmmaker K. Balachander here.
The statue was unveiled at the newly-inaugurated office of Kamal Haasan, who consider Balachander his mentor. Rajinikanth presided over the function as chief guest.
Also Read:?Kamal Haasan to unveil his fathers statue
K. Balachander was instrumental in shaping the careers of both Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. Both these Tamil veterans worked with Balachander in over 20 films.
Kamal Haasan on Thursday celebrated his 65th birthday with members of his family, in hometown Paramakudi.
On the career front, Kamal Haasan is currently working on Shankar's "Indian 2". The film, a sequel to the 1996 superhit "Indian", which marks the return the actor as the nonagenarian vigilante, Senapathy.
"Indian 2", which hits the screens in 2021, also stars Siddharth, Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh and Priya Bhavani Shankar.
The team of "Indian 2" recently completed an action sequence shot...
The statue was unveiled at the newly-inaugurated office of Kamal Haasan, who consider Balachander his mentor. Rajinikanth presided over the function as chief guest.
Also Read:?Kamal Haasan to unveil his fathers statue
K. Balachander was instrumental in shaping the careers of both Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. Both these Tamil veterans worked with Balachander in over 20 films.
Kamal Haasan on Thursday celebrated his 65th birthday with members of his family, in hometown Paramakudi.
On the career front, Kamal Haasan is currently working on Shankar's "Indian 2". The film, a sequel to the 1996 superhit "Indian", which marks the return the actor as the nonagenarian vigilante, Senapathy.
"Indian 2", which hits the screens in 2021, also stars Siddharth, Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh and Priya Bhavani Shankar.
The team of "Indian 2" recently completed an action sequence shot...
- 11/8/2019
- GlamSham
Renowned Tamil writer, actor and comedy giant Crazy Mohan breathed his last here on Monday after he suffered a major heart attack. He was 67.
"After he complained of pain in his chest and suffered a heart attack, he was rushed to Kauvery hospital in the afternoon. Efforts were taken to revive him but unfortunately he passed away around 2 p.m.," a family source told a source.
Born as Mohan Rangachari in 1952, Mohan's first stint with writing began in college, where he was studying Mechanical Engineering when he wrote the script for "Great Bank Robbery" for an inter-collegiate contest.
He then started writing scripts for his brother Maadhu Balaji's drama troupe. In 1976, Mohan wrote his first full-length play called "Crazy Thieves in Paalavakkam", thereby, earning the moniker 'Crazy' to his name.
By 1979, Mohan started his own drama troupe Crazy Creations which went on to create over 30 plays that...
"After he complained of pain in his chest and suffered a heart attack, he was rushed to Kauvery hospital in the afternoon. Efforts were taken to revive him but unfortunately he passed away around 2 p.m.," a family source told a source.
Born as Mohan Rangachari in 1952, Mohan's first stint with writing began in college, where he was studying Mechanical Engineering when he wrote the script for "Great Bank Robbery" for an inter-collegiate contest.
He then started writing scripts for his brother Maadhu Balaji's drama troupe. In 1976, Mohan wrote his first full-length play called "Crazy Thieves in Paalavakkam", thereby, earning the moniker 'Crazy' to his name.
By 1979, Mohan started his own drama troupe Crazy Creations which went on to create over 30 plays that...
- 6/10/2019
- GlamSham
InterviewIn this interview, Priyadarshi opens up about the roles he'd like to do, how Telugu cinema treats women characters, and his personal life.Priyanka RichiMore than Priyadarshi Pullikonda, the memory of Kaushik from Pelli Choopulu still manages to leave his viewers in splits with his lucid humour in the film. Shuttling between locations to marrying the love of his life, this unassuming guy-next-door from Hyderabad’s Chandanagar says that a lot has changed in life after the phenomenal box-office success of Pelli Choopulu in 2016. Working on a handful of movies, Priyadarshi believes he is finally in the path of "renaissance" where he is playing roles that would not remind the audience of Kaushik anymore. Donning major roles in upcoming movies like Mithai and the Telugu remake of the Bollywood film 2 States, the actor says he is somewhere between being the guy-next-door and a funny "I-don’t-care" chap. “It’s an identity crisis I can't escape. But if you ask me what I prefer, I would liked to be called a character artiste who can pull off multiple characters. I am not just the funny guy Kaushik from Pelli Choopulu but also the terrorist in Satish Kasetty’s Terror,” Priyadarshi gently reminds. “Kaushik gave me the break I needed. It was a story everybody wanted to be told. But the monotony in doing such roles has set a typecast. I am exploring options that would keep me going in the world of a hundred other Kaushiks,” the actor adds. Still from Pelli Choopulu From Pelli Choopulu to Awe From Pelli Choopulu to Awe, the journey has been one of learning and unlearning, says Priyadarshi. If the former saw him as an easy-going young chap with a precise timing on humour, Awe had Priyadarshi playing the role of a chef, keeping company of two non-human living things: a tree and a fish. “Awe for me was a process of self-learning. I was surprised when I read the script. The whole idea of talking to non-human characters that would not respond to my dialogues in real life was unnerving. I hate monotony and Awe was exactly the push that brought me out of the niche I had created for myself with Pelli Choopulu,” Priyadarshi says. The selfish actor Talking about the growing popularity of Telugu movies outside the state, Priyadarshi says his characters have received love from multiple and unexpected quarters and that he is selfish enough to keep this love intact. “Tollywood has a wide, fragmented audience. Recently, when I went to Ahmedabad for the shooting of an upcoming movie starring Mahesh Babu, we saw crowds thronging the sets to get a glimpse of the star. I was surprised because such fandom comes simply from the dubbed versions of Telugu movies telecast in Hindi that cater to a mass audience. In that way, I am a selfish actor who would like to work on good scripts but at the same time cater to multiple sections of the audience.” Making statements through movies “I do not say movies should be preachy. If I am playing the role of a sexual harasser, it is up to the conscience of the audience to decide the morality of my character. I am only a performer that can show them the good and the bad,” says Priyadarshi. Having worked in films like Pelli Choopulu that had strong female lead characters like Chitra (played by Ritu Varma), Priyadarshi says he doesn’t believe in propagating stereotypes through movies. “Women characters in Telugu cinema are reduced to background props who would barely have a dialogue or two in the script. Many a times, we have requested the directors to give more screen time to women artistes with a stronger script. If women characters do not sync with the movie’s mood, it is difficult to act opposite them, delivering punch dialogues,” the actor says. Priyadarshi in his upcoming movie Mithai Not screen time, characters matter After the box-office success of Pelli Choopulu in 2016, the actor was seen playing the role of a Tamil refugee in Iraq, who is stuck in the Isis war, in the Malayalam movie Take Off. Talking about the very few minutes he spent on screen, Priyadarshi says he doesn't care about the screen time, but that good characters do matter. “I donned a different hat in Manasukha Machindi very similar to the one in Awe. But the role never clicked with the audience. In Take Off, the crew was on the look-out for someone who could speak Tamil and I fit in well. And I am glad that the Malayalam audience remember me for the role, despite the few minutes I spent on screen,” says Priyadarshi. Finding cinema and love Armed with a postgraduate in Mass Communication from the University of Hyderabad, Priyadarshi went for acting classes conducted by Aruna Bikshu. He shares, “I was seven when I saw Sagara Sangamam and decided to be an actor. It was a paradigm shift for me. I am a big fan of Kamal Haasan and Chiranjeevi. I saw many films by K. Balachander, K. Vishwanath and Singeetam Srinivasa Rao. Aruna Bikshu taught me how to learn and unlearn, and then I gained experience from short films.” “It was difficult to get into movies in a industry where nepotism rules with just a couple of short films in your kitty. With no definite directions, University was the best place I went to which opened world of theatre to me,” Priyadarshi says. Priyadarshi fell in love with Richa, a writer, who was his senior at the University of Hyderabad and the couple got married in February 2018. Priyadarshi and Richa “Cinema is my life but not my love. I have found the perfect balance of happiness and pragmatism in Richa who is currently busy meeting publishers for her upcoming fictional work," he says. On a path of reinvention, Priyadarshi says that he is happy with the turn of events in life and does not aspire to do multiple things at once. “I am no Superman. And I have learnt it the hard way. As of now, I am in search of stories that come from our hearts and ones that the audiences like to be told. Yes, like Pelli Choopulu,” the actor affirms.
- 7/9/2018
- by Monalisa
- The News Minute
Chennai, March 15: Actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan will feature in a dual role in upcoming Tamil comedy "Uttama Villain". He will play an eighth century drama actor and a 21st century cinema superstar.
"Kamal will be seen as Uttaman, an 8th century and drama actor and Manoranjan, a 21st century cinema superstar. Andrea Jeremiah will be paired with Manoranjan while Pooja Kumar will play emotionally disturbed princess to Uttaman," read a statement.
The film, which is being directed by Ramesh Arvind, also features K. Vishwanath, K. Balachander, Jayaraman, Parvathi Menon, Oorvasi and M.S Bhaskar.
The film, currently.
"Kamal will be seen as Uttaman, an 8th century and drama actor and Manoranjan, a 21st century cinema superstar. Andrea Jeremiah will be paired with Manoranjan while Pooja Kumar will play emotionally disturbed princess to Uttaman," read a statement.
The film, which is being directed by Ramesh Arvind, also features K. Vishwanath, K. Balachander, Jayaraman, Parvathi Menon, Oorvasi and M.S Bhaskar.
The film, currently.
- 3/15/2014
- by Machan Kumar
- RealBollywood.com
Iconic Tamil mega-star Rajinikanth's first and last public appearance for his latest film Kochadaiyaan was at the film's music launch on Sunday morning in Chennai. He intends to stay out of the marketing and promotions after the music and trailer launch. Shah Rukh Khan in whose production Ra.One Rajinikanth had made a cameo appearance was prominently present at the event on Sunday morning, though he didn't release the music. The honour of releasing the trailer and music of Kochadaiyaan went to the veteran filmmaker K. Balachander. Shah Rukh in fact volunteered to be present at the big event and even offered to bring Deepika Padukone alongwith him. Says a source, "Deepika is shooting with Shah Rukh for Happy New Year. It is at present impossible for her to fly down to Chennai or anywhere else. But Shah Rukh not only offered to fly down in a private jet he also...
- 3/10/2014
- BollywoodHungama
Bangalore, March 3: Actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan-starrer Tamil comedy "Uttama Villain", which he has scripted, went on the floors Monday. Being directed by Kannada actor Ramesh Arvind, it will be completed in two short schedules.
"The regular shooting started in Bangalore this morning. Kamal sir plans to complete the film in two non-stop schedules. He spent the last two weeks scouting for locations in different parts of India," the film's spokesperson told Ians.
While the rest of the cast, including the leading lady is yet to be finalised, Kamal has roped in his mentor filmmaker K. Balachander to play an important role.
Writer.
"The regular shooting started in Bangalore this morning. Kamal sir plans to complete the film in two non-stop schedules. He spent the last two weeks scouting for locations in different parts of India," the film's spokesperson told Ians.
While the rest of the cast, including the leading lady is yet to be finalised, Kamal has roped in his mentor filmmaker K. Balachander to play an important role.
Writer.
- 3/3/2014
- by Anita Agarwal
- RealBollywood.com
Chennai, Jan 25: Actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan, known for his work across all southern languages, was Saturday named for the Padma Bhushan award on the occasion of the 65th Republic Day.
Haasan will get the award for his contribution to Indian cinema over the last five decades.
The 59-year old, who has so far starred in over 200 films, made his cinematic debut as a child actor in Tamil film "Kalathur Kannamma", which earned him the president's gold medal.
His first adult role was in his mentor K. Balachander's 1973 Tamil drama "Arangetram". The two had since then had worked in over 30 films together.
Some.
Haasan will get the award for his contribution to Indian cinema over the last five decades.
The 59-year old, who has so far starred in over 200 films, made his cinematic debut as a child actor in Tamil film "Kalathur Kannamma", which earned him the president's gold medal.
His first adult role was in his mentor K. Balachander's 1973 Tamil drama "Arangetram". The two had since then had worked in over 30 films together.
Some.
- 1/25/2014
- by Amith Ostwal
- RealBollywood.com
Chennai, Jan 23: Veteran Tamil filmmaker K. Balachander recalls late actor Akkineni Nageswara Rao as not just a cinematic legend, but as a great human being who "cared, loved and respected" others.
Nageswara Rao died in Hyderabad Wednesday after battling intestinal cancer. He was 89.
"We have lost an icon. There's no doubt that he was a legend, but he also cared, loved and respected all around him. This made him a great human being. It's a big loss to our Indian film industry as I feel there can't be another Nageswara Rao," Balachander told Ians.
In 2010, Balachander was bestowed with Akkineni Nageswara Rao (Anr) National Award.
"I will cherish that moment for a lifetime. I was honoured to have received that.
Nageswara Rao died in Hyderabad Wednesday after battling intestinal cancer. He was 89.
"We have lost an icon. There's no doubt that he was a legend, but he also cared, loved and respected all around him. This made him a great human being. It's a big loss to our Indian film industry as I feel there can't be another Nageswara Rao," Balachander told Ians.
In 2010, Balachander was bestowed with Akkineni Nageswara Rao (Anr) National Award.
"I will cherish that moment for a lifetime. I was honoured to have received that.
- 1/23/2014
- by Abhijeet Sen
- RealBollywood.com
Chennai, Jan 20: Legendary Tamil filmmaker K. Balachander, who recently watched Malayalam blockbuster "Drishyam", in an email to the team said the film doesn't underestimate the intelligence of the viewer, and lauded Mohanlal for his work.
"The cleverness is in the understanding the potential of a film. 'Drishyam' is a film that doesn't underestimate the intelligence of the audience. It's a combined effort of how a director and his actors work in sync professionally," Balachander said.
"My salute to Mohanlal. This film is his personal triumph and I don't think there are too many actors with his caliber today. 'Drishyam' should be celebrated as a victory of Indian cinema, not just Malayalam alone," he added.
Directed.
"The cleverness is in the understanding the potential of a film. 'Drishyam' is a film that doesn't underestimate the intelligence of the audience. It's a combined effort of how a director and his actors work in sync professionally," Balachander said.
"My salute to Mohanlal. This film is his personal triumph and I don't think there are too many actors with his caliber today. 'Drishyam' should be celebrated as a victory of Indian cinema, not just Malayalam alone," he added.
Directed.
- 1/20/2014
- by Diksha Singh
- RealBollywood.com
Chennai, Jan 17: Legendary filmmaker K. Balachander will essay an important role in Kamal Haasan-starrer Tamil comedy "Uthama Villain", which will go on floors soon after the release of "Vishwaroopam 2".
Balachander, known for shaping Kamal's career, worked with the actor in over 30 films since 1973 Tamil drama "Arangetram".
"It's true that Balachander will be playing an important role. He will be sporting a beard for it. On Kamal's personal request, he agreed to be part of the project. It will be a role very close to his real life personality," a source from the film's unit told Ians.
In 2010, Balachander had starred in Tamil romantic drama "Rettaisuzhi".
"Uthama Villain", written by Kamal, will be directed.
Balachander, known for shaping Kamal's career, worked with the actor in over 30 films since 1973 Tamil drama "Arangetram".
"It's true that Balachander will be playing an important role. He will be sporting a beard for it. On Kamal's personal request, he agreed to be part of the project. It will be a role very close to his real life personality," a source from the film's unit told Ians.
In 2010, Balachander had starred in Tamil romantic drama "Rettaisuzhi".
"Uthama Villain", written by Kamal, will be directed.
- 1/17/2014
- by Anita Agarwal
- RealBollywood.com
Chennai, Dec 16: Actor-filmmaker Tanikella Bharani is overwhelmed with the response his maiden Telugu directorial "Mithunam" has received at the ongoing 11th Chennai International Film Festival (Ciff).
"Mithunam", which deals with the relationship between a septuagenarian couple, is the only Telugu film to be screened at the festival.
"I'm extremely happy that I have received words of appreciation from legendary filmmakers such as K. Balachander and Bapu. I was also happy with the fact that my film played to a full house, which also included several foreigners," Bharani told Ians.
While Tamil filmmaker Balachander.
"Mithunam", which deals with the relationship between a septuagenarian couple, is the only Telugu film to be screened at the festival.
"I'm extremely happy that I have received words of appreciation from legendary filmmakers such as K. Balachander and Bapu. I was also happy with the fact that my film played to a full house, which also included several foreigners," Bharani told Ians.
While Tamil filmmaker Balachander.
- 12/16/2013
- by Leon David
- RealBollywood.com
Chennai, Dec 14: Bollywood actor-filmmaker Aamir Khan, who was recently in the Tamil Nadu capital for the opening ceremony of the 11th Chennai Film Festival (Ciff), took out some time to spend with veteran Tamil filmmaker K. Balachander, who wished him luck for his forthcoming release "Dhoom 3".
"It was a courtesy meeting. Kb sir and Aamir chatted for about thirty minutes and recalled their last meeting at an awards ceremony in Chennai. He wished Aamir for the release of 'Dhoom 3' and also congratulated his work on the television show 'Satyamev Jayate'," Balachander's agent told Ians.
The duo had last met in 2008 at the.
"It was a courtesy meeting. Kb sir and Aamir chatted for about thirty minutes and recalled their last meeting at an awards ceremony in Chennai. He wished Aamir for the release of 'Dhoom 3' and also congratulated his work on the television show 'Satyamev Jayate'," Balachander's agent told Ians.
The duo had last met in 2008 at the.
- 12/14/2013
- by Arun Pandit
- RealBollywood.com
Chennai, Nov 18: Veteran Tamil filmmaker K. Balachander will Dec 1 be felicitated here with a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to cinema by Raindropss, a youth-based social organisation.
"K. Balachander will be awarded the lifetime achievement award for his contribution to cinema over the last few decades," a statement from Raindropss said.
At the event, the social organisation will also launch a calendar 'Maatram Thedi - Be The Change 2014' on the occasion of World AIDS Day, which falls Dec 1.
The calendar will feature achievers across various walks of life with a strong social message in order to raise funds for the education of the children living with HIV.
"The rationale behind this project.
"K. Balachander will be awarded the lifetime achievement award for his contribution to cinema over the last few decades," a statement from Raindropss said.
At the event, the social organisation will also launch a calendar 'Maatram Thedi - Be The Change 2014' on the occasion of World AIDS Day, which falls Dec 1.
The calendar will feature achievers across various walks of life with a strong social message in order to raise funds for the education of the children living with HIV.
"The rationale behind this project.
- 11/18/2013
- by Rahul Kapoor
- RealBollywood.com
Chennai, Nov 18: Veteran Tamil filmmaker K. Balachander will be felicitated with a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to cinema here Dec 1 by Raindropss, a youth-based social organisation.
"K. Balachander will be awarded the lifetime achievement award for his contribution to cinema over the last few decades. The award will be handed over to him in the presence of luminaries from Tamil film fraternity such as A.R. Rahman, S.P. Balasubrahmanyam, and P. Manorama along with Chennai-based Indian cricketers R. Ashwin and K. Srikkanth," read a statement from Raindropss.
At the event, the social organisation will also launch an annual table top calendar 'Maatram Thedi - Be The Change 2014' on the occasion of World AIDS.
"K. Balachander will be awarded the lifetime achievement award for his contribution to cinema over the last few decades. The award will be handed over to him in the presence of luminaries from Tamil film fraternity such as A.R. Rahman, S.P. Balasubrahmanyam, and P. Manorama along with Chennai-based Indian cricketers R. Ashwin and K. Srikkanth," read a statement from Raindropss.
At the event, the social organisation will also launch an annual table top calendar 'Maatram Thedi - Be The Change 2014' on the occasion of World AIDS.
- 11/18/2013
- by Shiva Prakash
- RealBollywood.com
Kamal Haasan was awarded the lifetime achievement award at the 15th Mumbai Film Festival.The elated actor said, There are many more deserving people. I am happy that I was somehow allowed to jump the queue.The filmmaker further added, There never was a method to my acting. I simply had great teachers, some of whom are present here tonight. I respect them a lot. Apart from my family I thank Mr. K. Balachander with whom I had the honour of working in 36 films. People say...
- 10/18/2013
- GlamSham
Chennai, Sep 24: As many as 41 legends of Indian cinema such as Amitabh Bachchan and K. Balachander were felicitated by President Pranab Mukherjee at the centenary celebrations of Indian cinema here.
The president, who presided over the valedictory function of the four-day mega event Tuesday, presented the medallions to the awardees.
Artists from 12 industries - Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi, Punjabi, Odiya, Assamese and Bhojpuri - were honoured.
Tamil Nadu chief minister J. Jayalalithaa, a former actress, was the first recipient of the award.
From the Tamil industry,.
The president, who presided over the valedictory function of the four-day mega event Tuesday, presented the medallions to the awardees.
Artists from 12 industries - Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi, Punjabi, Odiya, Assamese and Bhojpuri - were honoured.
Tamil Nadu chief minister J. Jayalalithaa, a former actress, was the first recipient of the award.
From the Tamil industry,.
- 9/24/2013
- by Leon David
- RealBollywood.com
Costa-Gavras
The 15th Mumbai Film Festival will bestow its Lifetime Achievement award on French filmmaker Costa-Gavras and actor Kamal Haasan.
Gavras is best known for his political thrillers, such as the Best Foreign Language Oscar-winner Z (1969); Missing (1982), for which Gavras won the Best Writing (Adapted Screenplay) Oscar; The Little Apocalypse (1993) and Amen (2002).
The Greek-born Gavras has also been conferred with the title of French Knighthood. Since 2007, he has also been serving as the President of Cinémathèque Française, one of the world’s largest film archives.
“We are honored to confer the Lifetime Achievement Award to Costa-Gavras. His films have been loved and celebrated by millions of cinema lovers worldwide. We are humbled that he has agreed to receive this award,” said Shyam Benegal, Chairman, Mumbai Academy of Moving Image (Mami).
Festival Director Srinivasan Narayanan said: “When I think of Costa-Gavras, I am overwhelmed by the elegant, humanist films he has bequeathed to humanity,...
The 15th Mumbai Film Festival will bestow its Lifetime Achievement award on French filmmaker Costa-Gavras and actor Kamal Haasan.
Gavras is best known for his political thrillers, such as the Best Foreign Language Oscar-winner Z (1969); Missing (1982), for which Gavras won the Best Writing (Adapted Screenplay) Oscar; The Little Apocalypse (1993) and Amen (2002).
The Greek-born Gavras has also been conferred with the title of French Knighthood. Since 2007, he has also been serving as the President of Cinémathèque Française, one of the world’s largest film archives.
“We are honored to confer the Lifetime Achievement Award to Costa-Gavras. His films have been loved and celebrated by millions of cinema lovers worldwide. We are humbled that he has agreed to receive this award,” said Shyam Benegal, Chairman, Mumbai Academy of Moving Image (Mami).
Festival Director Srinivasan Narayanan said: “When I think of Costa-Gavras, I am overwhelmed by the elegant, humanist films he has bequeathed to humanity,...
- 9/11/2013
- by NewsDesk
- DearCinema.com
Chennai, Aug 5: The Tamil film industry is set to celebrate the centenary year of Indian cinema very soon, and renowned lyricist Vairamuthu feels living legends should be honoured on the occasion.
"The living legends need to be honoured more than the dead. It's good that we pay respect to the dead, but in the process we are completely ignoring those stalwarts who are alive and deserve to be celebrated," Vairamuthu told Ians
"I'm sure the dead won't mind if we don't pay tribute to them, but the living do most of the time. Why haven't we honoured filmmakers such as K. Balachander and Mani Ratnam as much as they deserve. A.R. Rahman,.
"The living legends need to be honoured more than the dead. It's good that we pay respect to the dead, but in the process we are completely ignoring those stalwarts who are alive and deserve to be celebrated," Vairamuthu told Ians
"I'm sure the dead won't mind if we don't pay tribute to them, but the living do most of the time. Why haven't we honoured filmmakers such as K. Balachander and Mani Ratnam as much as they deserve. A.R. Rahman,.
- 8/5/2013
- by Ketali Mehta
- RealBollywood.com
Chennai, June 17: Tamil filmmaker K. Balachander has lauded the efforts of the makers of "Thillu Mullu", a remake of his own film of the same name starring superstar Rajinikanth, saying the new version is apt for the audiences of this generation.
The 1981 "Thillu Mullu" was an official remake of Hindi classic "Golmaal" featuring Amol Palekar.
"I'm happy the makers have taken efforts and made my film into a commercial entertainer. The remake is completely new to me but director Badri has made it in such a way that it's apt for the current generation of cinemagoers," said Balachander in a statement.
The remake features Shiva, Isha Talwar and Prakash Raj in the lead roles. It's the story of the protagonist who lands.
The 1981 "Thillu Mullu" was an official remake of Hindi classic "Golmaal" featuring Amol Palekar.
"I'm happy the makers have taken efforts and made my film into a commercial entertainer. The remake is completely new to me but director Badri has made it in such a way that it's apt for the current generation of cinemagoers," said Balachander in a statement.
The remake features Shiva, Isha Talwar and Prakash Raj in the lead roles. It's the story of the protagonist who lands.
- 6/17/2013
- by Shiva Prakash
- RealBollywood.com
Mumbai, Jan 7: Popular and super talented actor cum film maker Kamal Haasan said recently that he has got not one but too many mentors or people from whom he got inspiration for work. K. Balachander is his first guru says Kamal but equally important in his life were people like Ramesh Sippy, Balu Mahendra, Dasari Narayana Rao and P.Bharathiraja. He told these all last Sunday at the audio launching event of his film “Vishwaroopam”. He said he has screened the film first to some of his mentors.
However his mentors like Balu Mahendra and Dasari could not attend it. But then he received positive responses from Bharathiraja and Balachander.
However his mentors like Balu Mahendra and Dasari could not attend it. But then he received positive responses from Bharathiraja and Balachander.
- 1/7/2013
- by Shiva Prakash
- RealBollywood.com
Hyderabad, Dec 30: Actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan feels that he has had not one but several mentors who've inspired him over the years.
"Even though I consider K. Balachander as my first mentor, but over the years I've had so many mentors such as Balu Mahendra, P. Bharathiraja, Ramesh Sippy and Dasari Narayana Rao, who have always inspired me with their work," he told reporters at the audio launch of Telugu version of "Vishwaroopam" here Sunday.
"I screened the first copy of my film (Vishwaroopam) to my mentors recently. Unfortunately, Dasari sir and Balu Mahendra sir couldn't attend it due to other commitments, but the overwhelming.
"Even though I consider K. Balachander as my first mentor, but over the years I've had so many mentors such as Balu Mahendra, P. Bharathiraja, Ramesh Sippy and Dasari Narayana Rao, who have always inspired me with their work," he told reporters at the audio launch of Telugu version of "Vishwaroopam" here Sunday.
"I screened the first copy of my film (Vishwaroopam) to my mentors recently. Unfortunately, Dasari sir and Balu Mahendra sir couldn't attend it due to other commitments, but the overwhelming.
- 12/30/2012
- by Meeta Kabra
- RealBollywood.com
“For his fans, Rajinikanth is God, and for the world, he is a cultural phenomenon transcending the trappings of a mere movie star. Not bad for a man who began his professional life as a humble coolie and went on to work as a modest bus conductor before he became one of the most famous people on the planet and an Internet meme.” From ‘Rajinikanth – The Definitive Biography’
The above quote is taken from Naman Ramachandran’s new book about the life of one of the biggest film stars in the world. Rajinikanth – The Definitive Biography takes a look at the actor’s career from his first film Apoorva Ragangal (1975) and follows the rise of Rajinikanth to superstardom. Ramchandran covers all of Rajinikanth’s 154 films in depth, including landmark films like Sivaji and Enthiran to his most recent film Kochidayaan. Not simply a book that takes a look at films and his career,...
The above quote is taken from Naman Ramachandran’s new book about the life of one of the biggest film stars in the world. Rajinikanth – The Definitive Biography takes a look at the actor’s career from his first film Apoorva Ragangal (1975) and follows the rise of Rajinikanth to superstardom. Ramchandran covers all of Rajinikanth’s 154 films in depth, including landmark films like Sivaji and Enthiran to his most recent film Kochidayaan. Not simply a book that takes a look at films and his career,...
- 12/16/2012
- by Stacey Yount
- Bollyspice
Mumbai, Jan 1: He candidly admits that he couldn't have made it big in Bollywood without his mentor K. Balachander, that Hindi movies still enthuse him and that he loves the kind of films Aamir Khan is making.
He is also proud of his daughter Shruti Haasan's career in Tamil and Hindi movies as she has made a place for herself without his banner's support.
Excerpts from the interview.
Q: Are you enthused by Hindi cinema?
A: Yes, some of it. I am very happy Aamir Khan is now attempting films that should've been done 10 years ago in Hindi. People attribute this new cinema to the entry of corporate.
He is also proud of his daughter Shruti Haasan's career in Tamil and Hindi movies as she has made a place for herself without his banner's support.
Excerpts from the interview.
Q: Are you enthused by Hindi cinema?
A: Yes, some of it. I am very happy Aamir Khan is now attempting films that should've been done 10 years ago in Hindi. People attribute this new cinema to the entry of corporate.
- 1/1/2012
- by Meeta Kabra
- RealBollywood.com
Chennai, Nov 30: Superstar Kamal Haasan will chair the two-day Ficci Frames Media and Entertainment Business conclave, starting here Thursday.
The conclave will emphasise on special reference to the digital world and see participation from industrialists and film industry folks apart from members of the public and other areas like Trai and the censor board.
There will also be a small play directed by K. Balachander.
The conclave will emphasise on special reference to the digital world and see participation from industrialists and film industry folks apart from members of the public and other areas like Trai and the censor board.
There will also be a small play directed by K. Balachander.
- 11/30/2011
- by Machan Kumar
- RealBollywood.com
On the last day of the Mumbai Film Festival, I spotted Salim Ahamed, the director of Adaminte Makan Abu standing in a corner all by himself and the temptation to go chat with him (after having seen and praised the film here) was too much to resist. Aware of the problems language may pose, I walked upto him and was surprised when he agreed to spare some time. We were limited by his knowledge of Malayalam only and my lack of it, which prevented this from being a full-fledged interview. Nevertheless, here we go:
Salim Ahamed got the seed of the idea of the film while working in a travel
Salim Ahamed receiving the national award
agency ten years back. He had known right from his college days that he wanted to make films, but kept on working in sundry places after leaving college. He already has a bank of...
Salim Ahamed got the seed of the idea of the film while working in a travel
Salim Ahamed receiving the national award
agency ten years back. He had known right from his college days that he wanted to make films, but kept on working in sundry places after leaving college. He already has a bank of...
- 10/21/2011
- by Nandita Dutta
- DearCinema.com
New Delhi, Sep 9: Bollywood remained low-key as southern movies took away the lion's share of awards at the 58th National Film Awards ceremony, where singers like Rekha Bhardwaj and Suresh Wadekar enthralled the audience with their award-winning numbers, here Friday.
Veteran Tamil filmmaker K. Balachander, director of hits like 'Ek Duuje Ke Liye' and Sindhu Bhairavi', was the cynosure of all eyes as he came to accept the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema.
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Veteran Tamil filmmaker K. Balachander, director of hits like 'Ek Duuje Ke Liye' and Sindhu Bhairavi', was the cynosure of all eyes as he came to accept the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema.
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- 9/9/2011
- by Rahul Kapoor
- RealBollywood.com
Veteran filmmaker K. Balachander has been conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the year 2010.The award is conferred by the Government of India for outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema. The award consists of a Swarn Kamal, a cash prize of Rs 10 lakhs and a shawl. The award is given on the recommendations of a committee of eminent persons.Balachander has been film director, screenplay writer and producer for more than 45 years. He has written, directed and produced more than 100 films in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and Kannada. ...
- 5/2/2011
- BusinessofCinema
Veteran Tamil filmmaker K. Balachander, the director of hits like .Ek Duuje Ke Liye. and Sindhu Bhairavi. and who has won numerous national and Filmfare awards, has been conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Friday for 2010 for his outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema, it was announced here Friday.The award, given on the recommendations of a committee of eminent persons, consists of a Swarn Kamal, a cash prize of Rs.10 lakhs and a shawl.Balachander will be conferred the honour by President Pratibha Patil at the National Film Awards later this year, the dates for which are yet to be announced.Multifaceted Balachander, 81, has been a director, screenplaywriter and producer and has written, directed and produced more than 100 films in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and Kannada in his 45-year-long career.Known for his distinct filmmaking style, Balachander focused on unusual or complicated inter-personal relationships and social themes.
- 4/30/2011
- Filmicafe
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