Southscope feb one side issue

FEBRUARY 2013

VOL 04 | ISSUE 05

RNI No: APENG/2009/29389 | Regd.No. L II RNP/HD/1118/2013-15 | February 2013

tRend analysis:

the controversy surrounding dubbed films in sandalwood and why tamil cinema doesn’t favour mythological themes anymore

“i have a

split peRsonality” vishal unplugged

on controversies and the biggest regret in his life staRs shaRe theiR eXpeRiences inteRacting With theiR fans

Malayalam A story of how a phone call at 10.30 AM changes two lives

Kannada Check out the upcoming multi-starrer, Agraja

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Telugu The Siddharth-Samantha starrer, Jabardasth, is a much-awaited release

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Tamil Annakodiyum Kodiveeranum is one film to watch out for

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Vishal

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“I have a split personality”

Malayalam Ettekaal Second looks promising, and we tell you why

Kannada Sweety Nanna Jodi marks Radhika’s comeback

Telugu What’s news with Ongole Gita?

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CAMEO This month, the stars tell us about their tryst with their myriad fans

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SPECIAL FEATURE: PIONEERING PRODUCERS

Nostalgic ruminations of an epic journey: AVM Saravanan gives us some rare insights

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Here’s what happened all through the first month of 2013

Making waves That was the idea during the press meet in connection with Mani Ratnam’s Kadal held at Rani Seethai Hall in Chennai.

New Beginnings For The Newly-Wed Nani We found the star looking content and happy during the press meet in connection with Jenda Pai Kapiraju, his new film.

Big Bonding Karthi, Suriya and Anushka were bonding together in connection with the promotions of Alex Pandian

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Samar’s Spring Vishal looks every inch a relieved man during an event to celebrate his latest film Samar.

Too Hot To Handle The music of the Prabhas-Anushka starrer Mirchi was launched at Nanak Ram Guda, Ramanaidu Studios. Can’t wait to see Prabhas onscreen again.

Coming Up Soon Ram, Kriti Kharbanda, Rajamouli and Bommarillu Bhaskar were spotted at the music launch of Ram’s new film Ongole Githa.

What a Roopam We can’t stop gushing about Kamal Haasan these days. At the Vishwaroopam press meet held at Novotel in Hyderabad.

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Celebrating Success Charan’s Nayak had its success tour at Rajahmundry

Debonair David The audio launch for David was held at Rani Seethai Hall.

PoppingThe Champagne Venkatesh, Mahesh Babu and Samantha came together for the triple platinum disc function of Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu at Shilpakalavedikam, in Hyderabad

A Lifetime of Laurels The MAA Music Life Time Achievement Award 2013 was presented to evergreen nightingale, S. Janaki

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Cast: Nishan, Mridula Murali, Lal, Manraj, Kailash, Krishna, Sreetha Sivadas and Anoop Chandran Direction: Manu Sudhakar Production: Priya Pillai Music: Gopi Sundar

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10.30 AM Local Call is the second film by director Manu Sudhakar, who had earlier directed Sandwich.

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Lal also plays an important role while Manraj, Krishna, Kailash and Anoop Chandran have significant roles in the film.

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The film, which is supposed to be a suspense thriller, launches yet another scenarist, RM Arun Lal, who has written the story, screenplay and dialogues.

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Krish Kaimal, who had cranked the camera for Chapters, is the cinematographer for this film.

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10.30 AM Local Call has in pivotal roles, the characters of Alby and Anne, who lead a happily married life. Things take a sudden turn when one day, they get a phone call at 10.30 AM. The call introduces someone else in their midst and changes things drastically.

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Produced under the banner of Priya Lakshmi Media Pvt. Ltd., the film has been shot in Ernakulam, Palakkad and Pollachi.

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10.30 AM Local Call is slated to hit screens on February 22.

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- Unni Nair

Nishan plays Alby while Mridula Murali is Anne. Ordinary fame Sreetha Sivadas also plays a key character, named Nimmi.

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directors in Sandalwood. Srinandan, who has also written the story, says that he has tried to strike a balance between action and comedy in the movie. The music is being composed by debutant Naren Raj, who has recorded five songs for the movie.

second Kannada movie. According to Jaggesh, Agraja has the right mix of comedy and action, considering the profile of the two lead actors.

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Sanjjanaa says that she enjoyed working with the top stars of the Kannada film industry. Jaggesh, who is known for his hilarious roles in movies, is no less in real life too. The star apparently played several practical jokes on the sets of Agraja.

Shooting for Jaggesh’s movies is always fun, according to the star cast of the film.

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Agraja is set to release in a record number of screens – 120+ (by Kannada film standards) all over the state, as the makers intend to cash in on the popularity wave of Darshan and Jaggesh.

- Aravind G Shivkamal

The makers have entrusted the task of directing the movie to Srinandan, who has worked as an assistant to various top

Cast: Darshan, Jaggesh, Kamna Jethmalani, Sanjjanaa Archana Direction: Srinandan Production: T Govardhan Music: Naren Raj

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Agraja falls into the category of top-billed movies in Sandalwood as ‘Challenging Star’ Darshan and ‘Collection King’ Jaggesh share screen space for the first time in Kannada cinema. Darshan currently has to his credit three back-to-back blockbusters. Jaggesh, considered the first ever comedy superstar of Kannada cinema, has 140 films to his credit and is still going strong. Producer Govardhan has brought the two actors together and is looking forward to a blockbuster.

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The movie has two female leads Kamna Jethmalani and Sanjjanaa Archana.

Shooting for the movie is nearing completion. This is Kamna Jethmalani’s

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Cast: Siddharth, Samantha, Nithya Menen, Sunil Direction: Nandini Reddy Production: Bellamkonda Suresh Music: S Thaman

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After storming Tollywood with her debut movie Ala Modalaindi, director Nandini Reddy has made her second film Jabardasth with Siddharth, Samantha and Nithya Menen in the lead roles.

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A romantic comedy, Jabardasth promises to be a wholesome entertainer with loads of fun. Producer Bellamkonda Suresh has already said that he liked the storyline that he decided to invest in the project.

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Nandini Reddy had written the story with Siddharth and Samantha in mind. Nithya Menen was incidental to the project considering that she and Nandini Reddy share a great rapport since their first project together. Suresh ensured that Siddharth and Samantha were roped in. The shooting of the movie was wrapped up recently. It is to be seen if Nandini Reddy can repeat the same success in her second film.

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projects have failed to make an impact at the box office. His home production, Love Failure, which released in 2012, enjoyed moderate success. There are plans to release Jabardasth in Tamil with the title Dum Pee Pee.

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Thaman has composed songs for the movie with Nithya Menen having rendered the vocals for one of the tracks. Samantha, for the first time in her career, is essaying the role of a Muslim girl; there is even a Qawwali song featuring the actress.

- Aravind G Shivkamal

Siddharth has been tweeting about his project, but has not revealed much. The actor definitely needs a hit, as his recent

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will be a different script and storyline altogether, which will be effected after this film releases.” The final cast of the film includes Manoj, Karthika, Meenal, Subhiksha, Lakshman and others. After the first look of the film was released along with some working stills, many people were supposed to have commented that Karthika did not look the part of a village belle because of the shape of her eyebrows.

Manoj says that Karthika’s eyebrows were natural and were allowed to remain so.

audio was released last month in Madurai.

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In the making for a while now, Annakodiyum Kodiveeranum has faced several hurdles, including a lot of changes in the cast of the film.

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Manoj explains, “The way I entered this project is a huge surprise in itself. My father never had intended to cast me in the film, nor did he write the script with me in mind. It so happened that after the photo shoots with Ameer and Iniya were done for the film, when we reverted to the script, it became rather difficult to link Ameer’s track with the main plot. The notion that everybody probably has is that I am playing Ameer’s character in the film.

But the truth is mine is a different character altogether. When discussing the script with dad while heading to the shoot, where I was assisting him, he asked me about this particular character in the film and what I thought about it. Eventually, everything fell in place.”

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Just when you wonder about the portion meant for Ameer in the film, he says, “That

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The film is ready, says Manoj. “The shooting and dubbing are over. The film is in the final stages of post-production. What is left to be done is the background score

by GV Prakash.” Covering a schedule of 100 days spanning over a year, the film was shot in the areas of Theni, Kambam and Bodi. The essence of the film could only be captured in the serenity of these three places, in all their rustic glory, adds Manoj. The film is likely to release soon, depending upon the completion of the postproduction work and censor certification.

- Shankaran Malini

Cast: Manoj Bharathiraja, Karthika Nair, Lakshman Direction: Bharathiraja Production: Manoj Creations Music: GV Prakash Kumar

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A Bharathiraja film always evokes a pragmatic portrayal of rustic elements.

As the veteran director’s next venture after Bommalattam, comes Annakodiyum Kodiveeranum. The film was launched in November, 2011 in Theni and the function was attended by stalwarts like K Balachander, Balu Mahendra and Mani Ratnam. After Parthiepan and Ameer,

eventually Manoj, Bharathiraja’s son was confirmed to play a key role in the film.

Bharathiraja who had introduced Radha into films, has now cast her daughter Karthika as the female lead in this film.

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GV Prakash Kumar, in his first ever collaboration with Bharathiraja has scored the background music for the film. The

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EttekaalSecond MALAYALAM Cast: Govind Padmasoorya, Gimi George (Mia), Rohith Vijayan, Suraaj Venjaramoodu, Madhu and others Direction: Kanakaraghavan Production: Santosh Babusenan Music: K. Santhosh, Colin Francis

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Kanakaraghavan, who has had over a decade’s experience as a media-person makes his directorial debut with Ettekaal Second, a love story that has Adayalangal fame Govind Padmasoorya and Chettayees fame Gimi George a.k.a Mia in lead roles.

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Govind Padmasoorya plays Sandeep, the son of a driver on the look-out for a job, while Gimi plays Neetu, a sound-engineer based in Mumbai. Neetu is engaged to Mithun (Rohith Vijayan).

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Neetu visits Kerala to record some sounds in the hilly areas. She meets Sandeep, the two hit it off and a love story blossoms.

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One of the highlights of the film is a song, which has been shot completely underwater. The song extends over 5 minutes and holds the distinction of being the longest underwater song.

The producers have approached the Limca Book of Records to register the feat.

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Director Kanakaraghavan makes it clear that the underwater song wasn’t shot just for the sake of it, but because it was necessary for the plot and the theme.

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Kanakaraghavan explains, “The film has been produced by Fifth Element, a group that analyses, matches and doctors scripts and then approves projects. And, like some films in Hollywood, we have re-shot and added some portions after the shoot was over and the film has been shown to a select audience”.

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Fifth Element operates on the basis of a high precision viewer research analysis model developed to forecast the market performance of movies.

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Scripted by Tommy John and with song direction done by Vinod Vijay, Ettekaal Second stands out as a film with a difference and is set to hit screens early this summer.

- Unni R. Nair

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SweetyNannaJodi KANNADA Cast: Radhika, Girish Karnad, Ramya Krishnan, Sadhu Kokila, Aditya Singh Direction: Vijayalakshmi Singh Production: Radhika Music: Arjun Janya

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Sweety Nanna Jodi easily happens to be one of the mostawaited movies of 2013. The project marks the comeback of veteran superstar Radhika, who was a box office queen between 2002 and 2006 in Sandalwood. The actress is not only producing the film, but is also acting as the female lead, opposite emerging actor Aditya Singh. The movie is being directed by another veteran actress Vijayalakshmi Singh, who is Aditya’s aunt.

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Radhika has aptly adopted the title from the evergreen hit song Sweety Nanna Jodi, composed by music maestro Ilayaraaja for Bharjari Bete, a blockbuster in the 1980s. The movie is a romance, a genre that propelled Radhika into stardom. Radhika, for her part, is not making any compromises and is splurging on the project to ensure it makes a mark.

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Radhika’s wedding to a politician under controversial circumstances and of course, her motherhood had kept her away from the limelight for a few years. The actress took a bold step to return to the silver screen. She was careful enough to first produce a film featuring Divya Spandana in the lead role. Subsequently, she decided to face the camera and the preparations have been on, since.

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It is rumoured that Radhika has chosen an emerging actor, Aditya Singh, just to make sure that the male lead does not overshadow her character. Being a big budget movie with lavish spending on the sets, the movie’s launch saw the attendance of the who’s who of the Kannada film industry. The shooting of the movie took place at several important locations across the state.

With the actress planning a mega release for the movie, it is to be seen whether she returns with a bang!

- Aravind G Shivkamal

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Ongole Gita TELUGU Cast: Ram Pothineni, Kriti Kharbanda, Prakash Raj, Brahmanandam Direction: Bhaskar Production: BVSN Prasad Music: G V Prakash Kumar / Mani Sharma

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Shooting for Ongole Githa is finally over and the film is ready for release after a year of struggle! The movie went through various hurdles during the making. Originally, it was supposed to be a Tamil movie with Karthi in the lead. That plan did not materialise and the producer decided to make it in Telugu and approached Allu Arjun. When talks failed, Ram Pothineni lapped up the offer.

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The late model-turned-actress Shubha Phutela was chosen to play the female lead in the movie. She even shot for 10 days and quit the film when she was diagnosed with a terminal illness.

The makers then signed South African model Nikita Rhea. But shooting did not commence with her for the movie. Eventually, Kriti Kharbanda was selected to replace her, and the movie was reshot all over, adding to the overall budget. According to Kriti, the movie is neatly packaged and is a wholesome entertainer.

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The movie is important to several people – Ram and especially director Bhaskar, whose last film Orange failed to make an impression at the BO in 2010. The director, who was lying low for some time, came up with Ongole Gita. He’s hoping that the movie gives him the much-needed break. Ram is also going through a dull phase, as his recent movies have not fared well.

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Kriti needs a big hit to make it to the top league of actresses in Telugu movies. She has been seen in several movies in Tollywood, but none have elevated her to the level of A-list performers. Mani Sharma has composed one track for the movie and GV Prakash Kumar has composed the remaining 4 tracks.

- Aravind G Shivkamal

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“I HAVE A SPLIT PERSONALITY”

Photographer: G. Venket Ram, Styling: Chaitanya Rao, Make Up: Amar Singh, Hair: Senthil

Vishal is a happy man for quite a few reasons. Only very recently did the actor offer his first full-fledged interview last year, to Southscope. In yet another interview with Shankaran Malini, the actor opens up on life, work, passion, lessons, learning and more in a candid chat

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“i am a little suRpRised that When it came to a seRvice taX issue the entiRe industRy joined hands togetheR but not foR Kamal haasan”

2013 seems to have begun on a positive note for Vishal, following Samar. He is certainly elated.

“I am very happy that I have tried something different and have achieved success in it. This is my first thriller and I wanted to try this theme even earlier. I love surprising the audience with different types of performances and films. Sandakozhi was a pleasant surprise package for the audiences, and Samar is like that too. The year has started on a good note. I am happy that my film has been accepted all over, by audiences and fans,” says Vishal.

A while after his last releases in 2011, Avan Ivan and Vedi, Samar has released. 2013 will see more of the actor on the big screen. “Right now I think it is going well. I am awaiting the release of Madha Gaja Raja in April, my second release for the year. I am currently doing Pattathu Yaanai with Bhoopathy Pandian, who had directed me in Malaikottai earlier. Action King Arjun’s daughter, Aishwarya will be launched through this film. I am going to try and work in different kinds of films.

The range is totally interesting this time. My projects look great. Last year I didn’t have even a single release. But hey, 2013 promises to be different and here I am, planning my first straight Telugu film, with the working title of Sukra. I am going to launch myself as a newcomer in Telugu with a new director. See, every time I work with a new director, people always ask me why. The reason is that I want to experiment and work with fresh minds to gain different experiences. A triple action film is also on the cards with Sundar C.” The triple action fete comes from the initially planned triple role for the actor in Madha Gaja Raja earlier, the actor adds. Vishal looks forward to working with Sundar C. “A Sundar C film is always a pure boon for the actor. It is good both for the health and the career of the actor!”

Vishal does have a dream role. “Good things are coming my way now.

I have a dream role, though. I want to play a negative role, as a villain.

It has become my mission now and I hope to do it by the end of 2013 26

or by the beginning of 2014. After Samar, I have decided that I just have to do this.”

While Samar was quite stressful, Vishal’s current project Pattathu Yaanai has been very de-stressing. “Samar was very tough, physically and mentally. The film faced a lot of hurdles. A couple of sequences were very draining, mentally. Nevertheless, I was very sure that even if Samar released on any other date, it would still do well.

Pattathu Yaanai so far has been a de-stressing activity. I am going to come across as a very clean entertainer through this film. The body language will be good and I can relate to it. I am looking forward to this film because I can connect to the masses with the body language completely. The minute the character shows his other self is when people will see the USP of the film. Madha Gaja Raja is a clean family entertainer, again. Remember the fun films of the 80’s like Sakala Kala Vallavan? This film is in the same vein, it is pure entertainment coming straight from the heart. Sundar C has saved the best one for me!”

Vishal’s long-standing dream of working with Trisha eventually materialised with Samar. “It is not that it was a dream or anything. It was just that I was looking forward to working with her. I tried to work with her for a while, but for some reason it never happened. She is my friend and I am a fan of hers. I am so happy that she is getting so much 27

“vishal the peRson and vishal the actoR aRe tWo diffeRent people.

When people come to KnoW of that, they Will suRely WondeR hoW i became an actoR!”

appreciation for her role in Samar. Working with her was a delight.

Comfort levels were at the peak because we have been friends for a long time. It felt a little weird in the beginning, getting into the shoes of an actor and actress but later it took off, and there was no looking back. It was very happy and positive.”

page on facebook and I did not pinpoint anyone personally. I haven’t received the notice as yet, to further comment on it. I did not ask anybody or force anybody to support or express an opinion. I am a little surprised that when it came to a service tax issue the entire industry

Be it the squint-eye in Avan Ivan or the head injury he suffered when shooting for MGR, it appears that Vishal pushes himself too much into things. “Yes, I do, very much. I am a psycho.” He grins at me. “The head injury I sustained while working on MGR was actually a wakeup call for me. It would have turned into a very fatal accident. I escaped unhurt. The whole unit was shocked. That’s when it struck me – it felt like I was being told to buck up and ensure I wasn’t taking too much of a risk. Stunt sequences in films are always spoken about. Even in Samar, in a particular action stunt sequence, which you find in the trailer, I decided to perform without the regular rope. I wanted to do something people wouldn’t have seen before. I just let myself loose.”

joined hands together but not for Kamal Haasan.” So does he feel actors need

Vishal’s schedule for the next couple of months is packed. The actor would love to take a break thereafter – destination Himalayas. “I have been shooting non-stop. I usually take a break when I feel too worked up or stressed out. My favourite destination is the Himalayas.

In the next two months, I will be wrapping up Pattathu Yaanai. I think I need a break before I commit to work again. The next two months are packed with shoots everyday without a break. I don’t go to the Himalayas for meditation and all that. I just go there. That holiday time is all for me! I switch off my phone and hang around on my own.

There is no itinerary. I just land up in the airport. I book my ticket on

to be more politically correct? “I think one should always speak his/her mind whether it is on a social networking platform or wherever else one can express their viewpoint. It’s better to be frank than aim at being politically correct,” he says.

Vishal’s biggest regret in life looms large. “My biggest regret is that I did not get married in 2007. I was in love with this girl. She wasn’t an actress, though. I couldn’t get married back then because my career was just taking off and I felt it wouldn’t be mature to take such a decision at that point. I still regret not getting married. If you ask me now about when my marriage will be, I’ll just go blank. I really don’t know what to say. I haven’t shared this with anyone. Career-wise, I feel I should have practised gymnastics, which I am sure would have been a surprise element in some of my films,” he adds.

There is a little surprise about this actor in his own words, for his fans.

He says, “I have a split personality. What you are seeing onscreen is only one Vishal. My fans who predominantly see me onscreen do not know about my share of fears. I have a big mental block when it comes

“my biggest RegRet is that i did not get maRRied in 2007!”

my own – there are no managers. Nobody even knows where I am for a couple of days. Nothing stops me from doing what I want that way,” he says.

So what has he learnt from his experiences in the industry so far? “You don’t change. But people change. Success and failure can change the people around you. But I decide not to change in any case. I decide to shut my mouth and do my work, and I will get what I deserve,” he says.

The conversation takes us to a certain controversy, which is supposed to have landed the actor in trouble. His recent comment on a social networking site is alleged to have earned him the wrath of the Nadigar Sangam, which is said to have issued him a show cause notice to explain his stand. Vishal says, “I put up a post on my personal profile 28

to attending film functions or awards. You wouldn’t have seen my pictures in most of them. Even in the recent CCL curtain raiser, though I wanted to, I couldn’t shy away because it is a huge responsibility on me. Vishal the person and Vishal the actor are two different people.

When people come to know of that, they will surely wonder how I became an actor!”

Vishal is looking forward to the upcoming CCL tournament, and speaks about his passion for cricket. “The reason we are looking forward to it is the bonding between the boys, we feel like an extended family now, and the excitement is just like what one would feel in their college and school days. The only motive all the actors share in common during CCL is to keep their profession aside and work as a team. Cricket has been one of my favourite sports. Playing in a stadium before a huge crowd is a great feeling,” he says

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It was hitherto impossible to even imagine watching Tamil and Telugu blockbusters dubbed into Kannada in any theatre in any part of Karnataka. Aravind G Shivkamal tells you why

The word “dubbing” is hated so much by the Kannada film industry that even talking about the topic is considered taboo by Sandalwood folks. Apparently, the Kannada film industry is of the view that movies of other languages dubbed into Kannada could decimate the local film industry, as it has a rather limited market when compared to Telugu, Tamil or Hindi movies.

However, this trend could soon be a thing of the past. With the Competition Commission of India (CCI) reprimanding the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) – the apex body of the Kannada film industry in the state – for not permitting the screening of dubbed movies, the trend might just be reversed. The CCI is expected to announce its verdict shortly on the screening of dubbed movies in Karnataka.

Though there is no written rule or legislation against it, dubbing of movies and television serials of other languages into Kannada has not been permitted in Karnataka for the last four decades. Theatre owners are scared of screening dubbed movies fearing severe repercussions from the film industry as well as pro-Kannada activists. The issue had been simmering for several years and reached a crescendo when the KFCC did not permit the dubbing of Aamir Khan’s popular talk show into Kannada. Consequently, his talk show

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had to be watched only in the Hindi version whereas the rest of the country saw it in local languages.

Recently, film audiences approached the CCI questioning the KFCC’s practice of disallowing the screening of dubbed versions of other language movies into Kannada.

According to them, the KFCC was denying them their legitimate right to watch movies in the language of their choice. Subsequently, the CCI issued notices to the KFCC and the television industry’s trade body for not permitting the dubbing of other language movies into Kannada. As office-bearers of the two organisations were stunned trying to find answers, the CCI has given them a very short time to file their responses.

The Kannada film industry is opposing dubbed movies citing two reasons – culture issue and the lack of adequate theatres to screen Kannada movies. According to them, if other language movies are dubbed into Kannada and screened, they would not reflect the native culture or tradition of the state.

However, it is a fact that a lot needs to be improved in terms of the culture being shown in Kannada movies.

Besides, the Kannada film industry has a weak market within Karnataka itself. While Kannada films have a popular run in south

and central parts of the state, the same cannot be said of North Karnataka where Hindi films are followed. In Bengaluru too, Kannada films have to fight for screens and theatres with big budget movies of Telugu, Tamil, Hindi and Malayalam. Whenever big budget movies are released in Karnataka, Kannada movies have had to make way for them. There are hardly over 1000 theatres in the state of which only around 600 regularly screen Kannada movies.

Consequently, the KFCC passed another rule restricting other language movies to be screened in not more than 23 theatres at any given time. It meant that if any Hindi film was released in Karnataka, the distributor could screen it in only 23 screens across the state. The issue reached a flashpoint when Mani Ratnam’s Raavan was screened in more than 60 theatres across the state.

KFCC office-bearers and Kannada activists barged into theatres and forcibly stopped the screening of Raavan. Subsequently, Hindi film distributors too dragged the KFCC to the CCI. The decision by the KFCC to restrict the number of theatres for other language movies is also said to be constitutionally invalid.

Now, the CCI has rapped the KFCC on two counts – dubbed movies and restricting the number of theatres for other language movies in the state.

Though KFCC President B N Vijaya Kumar has been emphatically claiming that the interests of Kannada filmmakers will be protected, it is easier said than done. For, the KFCC, internally, seems to have accepted defeat in the wake of the strictures passed against it. The KFCC’s rules would not stand the test of law in any Indian court and it will be compelled to withdraw both such rules.

So don’t be surprised if you see posters of other language movies in Kannada in Karnataka or movies of Telugu star Allu Arjun or Tamil star Suriya being released in Kannada versions. Telugu and Tamil movies already enjoy a good market share in Karnataka and if they are released after being dubbed into Kannada, the market share could further increase significantly. Either way, it appears to be a loss for the Kannada film industry unless it undertakes a paradigm shift to take on the challenge posed by this latest development.

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Pavithra Srinivasan takes us through the journey of mythology in Tamil cinema – from being a major theme to a relic of sorts

When was the last time you went to the theatre, sold on watching the latest blockbuster-in-the-making, with your favourite stars, armed with caramel popcorn and French fries, only to gaze at the posters of the other films that ran in the same (possibly) multiplex? And did you, during the process, gaze with a half-smirk on your face as you glanced at the posters of movies you were definitely not watching?

And did you, suddenly stumble upon one that sported mythological themes? Did you whisper aside to your friend that you had no idea who watched such movies these days – but at the same time, wish, rather wistfully, that the mythology movie was the one you’d rather be watching?

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Mythology, after all, is one of India’s biggest assets, and though animation movies utilise it to the full, mainstream Tamil cinema doesn’t. What’s stopping directors from marrying contemporary themes with puranams to present charming stories?

And did you, once opportunity presented itself, scramble to buy tickets for the recently re-released revamped classic Karnan, which ran to packed houses, enjoying every one of Sivaji Ganesan’s dialogues?

“Well, these things depend largely on demand and supply, I think,” opines Sashikanth, producer, YNOT Studios. “It’s largely a cost issue. Also, there’s simply not enough demand. The other thing is, for all you know, a dozen such projects may have been on the table, but they just might not have taken off. I think this is an avenue that creators have forgotten, but which could be explored,” he warms to the theme. “In the old days, with old formats, you could get away with lack of detail. These days that might not be easy. People look for a wealth of detail and technical brilliance now.

You can’t get away with thin story-lines,” he says.

Then you might be the one left asking a very pertinent question, concerning Tamil cinema: Why are such movies not being made, now? What is it about the Tamil cinema milieu that cult classics like Thiruvilaiyadal, Saraswathi Sabadham, Kandan Karunai, Thiruvarutchelvar, Thirumaal Perumai, Agasthiyar, Thirumalai Deivam, Karaikal Ammaiyar et al, are simply not being made, any longer?

“You know, I would quite welcome the idea!” exclaims Priya, a college student, and a fan of the recently released Telugu classic, Sri Rama Rajyam. She watched it in the theatre, when it released. “I like how they do it in the Telugu film industry, larger than life and so alive! I’d love to watch something like Nagesh’s Dharumi scene in Thiruvilaiyadal in a mythology film today, you know? So why is it not happening?

Surely we are more technologically equipped now, than before?”

The answer to that particular question, according to cinematographer R Sukumar, veteran of such films as Myna and Kumki, lies in the budget. “You see, I’d love to work in films like that if they are made now,” he says energetically. “But look at the budget. I mean, they make big budget movies now, but the star salaries are almost the same as the budget of a whole movie!

That may be the main consideration,” he says, thoughtfully.

Those certainly seem valid points.

Creativity certainly plays a large part in presenting ancient themes to a modern audience, most of whom have grown up on a steady and dazzling diet of Lord of The Rings, the Harry Potter series and a host of Spiderman and Batman movies, all of which re-invent tried and tested, relatively modern stories, in a spectacular fashion.

While money, the bedrock of every project would be required not just for lavish sets, but to add a dash of magic to takes of times gone by. But stay – that doesn’t seem to be the only factor that influences the process.

“I think it’s a question of current trends,” says Suseendran, National Award winner and director of such movies as Azhagarsamiyin Kudhirai, and Vennila Kabaddi Kuzhu. “It’s not that mythology

movies won’t work today, but we are used to a certain kind of films, and certain themes. Like, the comedy tracks, the characters and all that. Movies like they used to make in the times of AP Nagarajan might work if someone else starts the trend, and it’s successful,” is his canny comment.

“In that case, others might be encouraged to make a similar movie. But until that happens, it’s a bit uncertain,” he grins.

Inputs pour in from insiders, all offering different perspectives. All of them are valid, and all factoring in to a large extent when it comes to determining the success or otherwise, of the end-result. But there’s still a wealth of stories here, and with re-imaginings happening all over the field of Indian writing, all that remains is for someone to take up the challenge and light the spark in Tamil cinema. Are filmmakers listening?

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CAMEO

CAMEO

When did you get your first official fan mail? What did the message say?

It was a very long time ago, when my first film had just released (Chand Sa Roshan Chehra) in 2005. I was on Facebook, which was also new at that point of time and a lot of people were commenting on and appreciating my work. I cannot recall any particular fan mail or message as such.

SO U

SCO PE C TH

Photographer: Harpreet Bachher Styling: Nishka Lulla Make Up: Chakravarthi Kadali Hair: Sabnam Azmi, Black maxi skirt & black pumps: Zara Carousel printed crop top and accessories: Stylist’s own

What was the most memorable thing a fan of yours did for you?

A fan from Puducherry, a girl, had compiled pictures of me and brought it to the sets of Ayan where I was shooting.

Her gesture was so sweet.

What was the worst thing ever that a fan of yours did to you?

Nothing that I can recall. All of them have been very appreciative, always and I have never had any awkward moment as such.

Have you been stalked by anyone?

What happened? What did you do?

No, I have never been stalked.

What’s the funniest fan-message you’ve received?

Basically I am not somebody who is active on social networking sites. I don’t have any such mails. I am not using the Facebook account I had before and I am not on Twitter either.

What has the scariest fan you’ve had been like? What frightened you about them?

Whenever I have interacted with my fans, they have all been very nice. Most of them have either wanted to take a picture with me or get an autograph from me. And they have all been very encouraging.

AM

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Fans are often credited as being the reason for a celebrity’s stardom. But how is the view from the other side? Read on to know about what some of South India’s hottest stars have to say, about their experiences with their fans!

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CAMEO

Have you been stalked by anyone?

What happened? What did you do?

When did you get your first official fanmail? What did the message say?

September 10, 2004 was the release date of Chellamae. From the next day onwards I began getting appreciation mails. I never expected that people would appreciate my work. A female fan who liked my performance onscreen sent me an email. I got to know, for the first time, the meaning of this term TDH (Tall, Dark and Handsome) from that e-mail. One of my friends even took my autograph before the film started rolling.

That was the confidence she had in Vishal, the actor.

What was the most memorable thing a fan of yours did for you?

One of my fans sent me an album, full of my pictures right from childhood.

It had pictures of me all through – including those from the functions I attended. It was gathered through extensive research on the internet. When it came to me in the form of an album, I felt really good. Nobody had done something like this for me up until then.

This happened in 2008.

What was the worst thing ever that a fan of yours did to you?

I was shooting for my film Sivapathigaram in Madurai, in the midst of a huge crowd, when a girl came up to me. Initially, I thought she just wanted to shake hands with me. But imagine my disbelief when she almost pounced on me to kiss me. The security guards had to ward her off, but she didn’t seem to be bothered at all. She just walked off.

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I was shooting for my film Malaikottai in Trichy. A girl came up to me and said that she wanted to meet me. When I refused, she began following me everywhere I went. She followed me up to my room after shooting. I was a little scared and made sure that she couldn’t come back again and again. I got to know later that she would stay in the same hotel as me, wherever I went.

Sometimes people don’t understand that actors need privacy too. Later, I guess she got the message that she won’t get anywhere by stalking.

What’s the funniest fan-message you’ve received?

One person sent me a message saying that we were destined to live together and that I was born for her and that nobody can snatch me away from her.

What has the scariest fan you’ve had been like? What frightened you about them?

A girl who comes up to me and tells me, “I want to marry you!” is indeed scary because she is definitely in love with Vishal the actor and not Vishal the person. It isn’t a good sign. To avoid an ugly situation I simply need to ignore them. When you reciprocate in a very stern way, you need to make sure that nothing ugly happens.

Has a fan ever hit on you? What did they say/do?

I get requests saying, “We want to meet up.” Guys send me these requests as well. I take all of them as compliments.

You know it won’t go any further. It just ends there.

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CAMEO

When did you get your first official fan mail? What did the message say?

I got my first official fan mail soon after the release of my first film, Arindhum Ariyamalum. Although, I cannot recall the contents completely, it was a mail from a girl, in appreciation of me and my performance.

What was the most memorable thing a fan of yours did for you?

My fans usually keep presenting me a collage of my pictures, in different looks, from different films, cuttings from various magazines, and such pictures or cuttings which are so rare that even I wouldn’t have come across them. All of them are memorable. I cherish them and have been preserving them.

What was the worst thing ever that a fan of yours did to you?

There is nothing called worst when it comes to experiences from fans. Of course, fans get frustrated when they are unable to get an autograph or take a picture with their favourite star, but that’s purely out of love and admiration for their hero.

Have you been stalked by anyone?

What happened? What did you do?

There was no fan mail as such. I remember there were lots of fan-pages on Facebook and a lot of people had put my picture as their DP (display picture or profile picture). Otherwise, yes, every time a movie of mine releases, I get a lot of calls. Sometimes I answer, sometimes I don’t. And when such calls increase, I know I need to change my number.

That’s one reason why I have changed my number so many times.

What was the most memorable thing a fan of yours did for you?

I was shooting on Valentine’s Day in Chennai. Someone came with a greeting card, lots of flowers and cakes.

I couldn’t track who that guy was. Later he started texting me. I was curious as to who this person was. I was in Baltimore, and he travelled all the way from Los Angeles to meet me. This was during my last trip to the US. Later he came up to meet me and I realised that it was such an effort to gift me these things.

One guy made a collage of my pictures right from my modelling days, not just from Mynaa. These pictures are still in my bedroom. It’s a very pleasant surprise to see fans getting pictures of ours even before we do.

No, I haven’t been stalked by anybody.

What was the worst thing ever that a fan of yours did to you?

What’s the funniest fan-message you’ve received?

A fan will never do anything bad. They will only do sweet things. Only haters will do bad things.

Most of the messages and mails I have received only speak of the love my fans have for me. They are very cute and lovable.

Has a fan ever hit on you? In particular, has a male fan ever hit on you?

Oh yeah! But then, declarations of love and proposals of marriage are a part and parcel of fanmail. But no, no guy has ever hit on me.

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When did you get your first official fan mail? What did the message say?

Have you been stalked by anyone?

What happened? What did you do?

That was in the US, the incident which I just narrated. I really panicked. But later I realised that it was all an effort to just meet me and gift me.

Has a fan ever hit on you? What about female fans?

Almost all of them want to get married to me. I have received so many marriage proposals by now. As for girls hitting on me, nothing of the sort’s happened.

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When did you get your first official fanmail? What did the message say?

I got letters wishing me even before my first film, Paruthiveeran released.

But I can never forget a detailed letter I got from my dad’s fans, all of whom had gone to the theatre after ten years to watch his son’s film. Imagine, they had gone to watch a film after ten years and they got the shock of their lives!

They saw the film and they were so disappointed. It was a very interesting reaction that I cannot get out of my mind. They said, ‘Why is he acting in such a manner? He should stop reacting.

His father is such a nice man and just look at the son!’ That’s the kind of comments I got from them. That apart, I got a lot of appreciation mails also for my film.

What was the most memorable thing a fan of yours did for you?

After Paruthiveeran released, I was not in town for four days. On all those four days, four guys were waiting for me from morning to night. And the moment they saw me they started removing their shirts. They had tattooed my name on their bodies in Tamil as Paruthiveeran Karthi, because I had a tattoo like that in the movie. One of my fans had bought me a shirt from his first salary. I actually wore that shirt for an interview. I still preserve that shirt. Also, whenever and wherever I got to shoot, there are fans that help me with food and even provide security!

What was the worst thing ever that a fan of yours did to you?

There were instances when my legs or hands would have been broken and I could have tripped. There have been times when it was totally unsafe. When you get in the crowd and if you are not careful you can trip and fall. On one such occasion the power went off in a theatre when a film was on – I think it was Siruthai, in a theatre in Coimbatore.

Fans started climbing onto the stage and it started shaking. I had to be helped. In another instance, some of my fans were waiting for me, even after three shows, morning, matinee and the evening show.

After the night show that I went for, they all came and surrounded me. It was a weekend holiday as well and I could

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Photography: Munna S, Outfit & Styling: Nischay Niyogi, Make up & Hair: Hriya Marfatia

CAMEO

understand. I just couldn’t come out of it. I was helped out after the crowd eased a little.

Have you been stalked by anyone?

What happened? What did you do?

An incident happened in Poland. A few girls, about four or five of them, were watching my shooting. It was a song sequence. Mostly whenever we shoot abroad, we shoot in public places. These girls were laughing and I thought they were laughing because they found it funny. They followed me wherever I went. We were in Poland for four days and on the last day of the shoot they came up to me and took my autograph with my poster. They had my posters with them. They had watched all my movies, both in Telugu and Tamil. In another incident in Madurai, some fans followed me on bikes wherever I went, just to take a picture with me. The car driver was speeding but the boys wouldn’t give up. After a point I stopped because I felt it was unsafe that they were following me at high speeds. And I allowed them to take a picture with me and sent them off.

What’s the funniest fan-message you’ve received?

When my fans don’t like my movie, they say, very politely, ‘We love you so much, but don’t make films like this next time.’ It’s like telling me that they love me, but that I shouldn’t take it for granted.

What has the scariest fan you’ve had been like? What frightened you about them?

Scary are instances when you are mobbed and you don’t want to trip and fall and be a victim of a stampede.

It happens every time we shoot.

Even recently we were shooting in Puducherry and it was next to a school.

I feel scared for kids when they around and are likely to be hurt. Nothing should happen to them.

Has a fan ever hit on you? A male fan especially…

No, and even if it had happened, I would neither have noticed it nor would I have known what it is.

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Nostalgic Ruminations

of an epic journey Producers are the backbone of every film industry. That the cast and crew are what make up the visual limb of a movie’s production is a fact indeed most significant. But without the finance and support of a producer, their presence would be rendered redundant. In the second part of this unique series on pioneering South Indian film producers, Shankaran Malini speaks to producer AVM Saravanan

On a sunny afternoon at AVM Productions, the oldest surviving studio in India, it was time for a tête-à-tête with the man at the helm of affairs there, M Saravanan. The renowned banner has produced 175 films and over 13000 television serial episodes till date. With plenty of hits to its credit, and a presence on the small screen as well, the production house is nearly 68 years old. Almost all the stars and superstars of the current and the previous generations have, at some point or the other in their careers, had a connection with AVM.

“We said that only if they bought it, would we give them a Kamal film or a Rajini film.

That’s when they said they would take it just as a gift cheque for an upcoming blockbuster” 42

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total cost of production. These days, actors demand one-third of the amount of the total sale of the movie. There has been a rise of about 40 to 50 percent in the remuneration of stars these days. Therefore, the budget of a film goes up. When it comes to investing in it, there is a huge element of risk.”

Taking us back to history and the beginnings of AVM, Saravanan explains that his father AV Meiyappan established the Saraswathi Sound Productions. Before that, his grandfather ran a small departmental store in Karaikudi which stocked and sold gramophone records. Besides selling records made by others, Saravanan’s grandfather wanted to press his own records. It was this idea which led to the establishment of Saraswathi Stores on September 9, 1932 in collaboration with the German Odeon Records in Madras. Saraswathi Stores soon became the market leader in South Indian records.

The journey of AVM Productions dates back to even before 1932, when AV & Sons, a gramophone records shop was being managed

by AV Meiyappan and his father. Saravanan says, “Owing to eyesight problems, my grandfather could not take care of the shop. My father, who was studying in the ninth standard then, started taking of the shop. In the process, he wound up discontinuing his studies. He would shuttle between Karaikudi, where the shop was, and Chennai, to buy new stock each time. This shop was the first one to have a rolling shutter and a tube light, which was very often called Kozha Puttu Vilakku then. People would throng our store.” In September 1932, AV Meiyappan decided to start a gramophone records company. “The focus was primarily on Classical music, and then shifted to thukda paattu and folk songs. It became a favourite with customers. Later, my father decided to start his own film company. That was when he went to Calcutta and produced a film called Alli Arjuna, which was a failure because the reflector was so bright that the hero and heroine could hardly open their eyes in the film.”

It is no surprise that AVM Productions and their sprawling studio are fragrant with history, heritage and nostalgia. The production house has introduced actors like Vyjayanthimala Bali in the 1949 film Vazhkai, Sivaji Ganesan through Parasakthi in 1952 and Kamal Haasan in the 1960 release Kalathur Kannamma, among others. The banner has released several notable films till date – the likes of which start from the 1940 hit, Bhoo Kailas, Sri Valli in 1945, all the way up to Sivaji in 2007, and Leader in 2010. The production house has made movies in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi. Some of their biggest Hindi releases include the 1956 film Chori Chori, Hum Panchhi Ek Daal Ke in 1957 and Main Sundar Hoon in 1971, among others. About 30 films were produced by AVM in Hindi. The last film to release under the banner was the Tamil film, Mudhal Idam in 2011.

First set up in 1946 at Karaikudi, the studios moved to Chennai in 1948. As a tradition, till date, the movie launch or puja of an AVM Production is always done on the third floor. Post the family split, business has been affected, accepts Saravanan. And yet, there is hope: for there is no stopping this production house from being evergreen!

M Saravanan doesn’t mince words when it comes to scrutinizing the reasons behind the success and failure of the production house. “We observe market trends. We consider working on a new film project once things are favourable. A lot has changed in the film industry today. In those days, the remuneration of actors was ten percent of the 44

“Alli Arjuna was a failure because the reflector was so bright that the hero and heroine could hardly open their eyes in the film”

The second film AV Meiyapppan tried his hands at was titled Rathnavali. It was, again, a failure. “The third film, Nandakumar, did not do well either. It had T R Ramachandran in a key role. Owing to camera variations, the film couldn’t do well.” Together after analysing and scrutinising the mistakes that transpired, Pragathi Studios was launched and the first production under that banner was Harichandra.

Later made in Kannada and subsequently dubbed in Tamil, the film did well. The successful stint continued, culminating in Sri Valli, which was a massive success. “This business had three partners, and after this production my father went on a holiday to Kashmir. In the meantime, the two partners ventured into selling the company. When my father learnt about it, he decided not to take it sitting down. He was determined to start his own production company. My father decided not to have a partnership anymore and launched a studio in Devakottai Rastha. The remake rights for the first picture were bought for 10000 rupees, which in those days, was a very big amount. The film was a runaway hit. Later the studios were shifted to Chennai and this is the present third floor where AVM Production’s audio and movie launches are still held.”

Saravanan takes a lot of inspiration from his late father who was undeterred by any hurdles that came his way, and by his passion to do something new. He has been at the helm of affairs since 1958. “Vasu Menon of Vasu Studios was working as a production executive at that point of time. When he resigned on April 8, 1958, I joined production and have been here ever since, all these years. My first film as a production executive, Mamiyaar Mechiya Marumagal did not do well. Even after 30 years of its release, I still feel sad that my first film as a production executive did not do well. Jeevalakshmi, who played the role of a mother-in-law was very rigid in her performance.

I believe that if the portrayal had been more comical, the film would

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M Saravanan explained the interesting trajectory of the work process under his father, A V Meiyappan’s time. Talking about the process of drawing up the storyline, scripting, screenplay and the cast, he says, “At AVM, the policy has always been that the storyline and the role were never written to suit the hero. Casting was only worked on after the storyline was through and wrapped up. This takes me back to an incident back in the days when I, as an ardent admirer of the late MGR, had a strong wish that the actor worked in our production. For several days, I was hesitant about telling my father this. But when I did, my father gave me a nod and told me to go right ahead. I met MGR. He was only too happy and willing to work under our banner.

He told me that we should let it be a different picture – a typical director’s picture – and he would act in it. That was how Anbae Vaa happened in 1966. MGR was paid a salary of 3 lakhs for this project.”

The script was the hero. With a good script, Saravanan explains, a film with a small star cast can also become a huge hit, an example for which he says, is Samsaram Oru Minsaram.

M Saravanan is touched by the friendship between Superstar Rajinikanth and Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan. “I have seen a lot of

have done well. This film was originally a Marathi picture and a very big hit in those days. I remade the film, with slight changes in the storyline, as Patti Sollai Thattathey, with Pandiarajan and Manorama in significant roles and the film did really well. We asked our father to give us opportunities to handle production and that’s when Kalathur Kannamma happened. Of course, we took his guidance always; Naanum Oru Penn and Ramu were some of the films which happened.”

AVM Productions is not focusing on any production activity presently.

“Our last production was Mudhal Idam. The cost of production exceeded the budget. Being the oldest production house and an established banner, doing a small or medium budget film doesn’t seem good. The business of filmmaking runs in crores today. When there is such a demand, there are also people who are willing and can afford to pay it. The trends are changing drastically now. Sivaji 3D, again, the first-of-a-kind venture of converting a regular film into 3D was a landmark experience but not up to our expectations, in terms of business. We have two serials on air currently, Manadhil Urudhi Vaendum on Jaya TV and Vairakiyam on Kalaignar TV. We have completed over 13000 television serial episodes so far and it will continue. Promotion is a very important factor when it comes to films.

We have done quite a few unique promotions as well back in the 46

peers in various industries. Without mentioning names, I must say that I have seen great competition and jealousy transpire between them. In my life so far, I have never seen two actors of such great caliber – both being living legends – as Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. Both of them are on the top, and both of them acknowledge and appreciate each other’s work wholeheartedly. At AVM studios, when the two of them visit, or either of them, for any reason, they always ensure to drop in and say hello to me, and sit for a while for a quick chat. Recently, when Rajini was here, it so happened that Kamal was also here for a different reason. Both of them got together and spent time talking and sharing. I don’t know if we will ever get to see such healthy peers ever again. Their respect and admiration for each other is truly amazing. Even at outdoor shoots, Rajinikanth would never prefer a suite. He would say that all he needed was a single room to meditate and to do his yoga, and that he didn’t need a suite or caravan. It is very difficult to come across a great actor and star like Rajinikanth who is so simple and humane. I asked him once, about how he is so calm despite his incredible success. All that he said was, ‘There are people or artistes who have a lot of potential and who are better off in looks and talent. I am no greater than all of them!’”

days, by way of floating gas balloons, or parking Super Cars, which attracted audiences to theaters.”

Among the repertoire of films to AVM’s credit, one film that Saravanan cannot forget is, Samsaram Oru Minsaram. “A remake from another regional language film, I bought this film because I had a gut feeling that this would work with some changes in the storyline and modifications in the script. I wanted to reach out to the sentiments of middle-class families then. This was a fine example. This film was a contract production and taken up as a ceremony. It had everyone turning up sharp at 9 AM at the shooting spot, and we would wrap up at 6 PM sharp. There was no overtime. There were no junior artistes.

The film was completed at a cost of 15 lakhs. We marketed the film really well, but no distributor was buying it. We said that only if they bought it, would we give them a Kamal film or a Rajini film.

That’s when they said they would take it just as a gift cheque for an upcoming blockbuster. This film became a runaway hit!”

When it comes to setbacks, AVM is undeterred – be it the split in business or the fire within its premises, which damaged the sets erected for Vijay’s film Vettaikaran. “Business has been affected a little owing to the split but the show still goes on. Right now, we are just observing the market and the trends!” says Saravanan.

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FASHION

BRIGADE Who wore what, and who dressed how! We spot the best and the rest, and some faux pas in tow!

Ileana: The queen of elegance

Arjun and Aishwarya Arjun: Two’s company.

Srushti: Love the shoes!

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Lakshmi Manchu: Dressed in shades of the sea!

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Tulasi: All set to soar

Mahesh Babu: The reticent Prince

Priyamani: Warrior princess, much?

Samantha: Oh dear! Did gorgeous Samantha decide to become a nurse, now?

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Regina: Run in the opposite direction of wherever you bought that dress!

Shriya: Desi damsel

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DECEMBER 2012

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VOL 04 | ISSUE 03

PART 1 OF 2

Kannada Superstar

PUNEETH RAJKUMAR “History knows what my heroes and heroines were before and after my films”

DIRECTOR AMEER

on his forthcoming films, the TV show and managing a quick getaway in between…

“I am not dying to be friends with anyone”

AMALA PAUL

on relationships, puppy love episodes, that ‘special’ gift and of course, her movies

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Card Holder’s Signature

The month of love, February has some very interesting things lined up for our favourite celebrities

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For the Arian stars like Prabhu Deva, February is a month of variety. There will be plenty of avenues to dabble with, and the Arian will be truly spoilt for choices.

Taureans will have many moments of self-discovery this month. This is a time for introspection and plenty of spiritual growth for stars like Mohanlal.

Gemini celebrities like Karthi, will have a good month of well-earned opportunities. But be wise in choosing, lest there be too many things to handle!

For Libran stars like Amala Paul this month needs considerable overhaul of connections and contracts. It is time to get rid of the old!

Stars like Kamal Haasan have a slow month ahead to reap in all the successes – a time that is truly welldeserved after a long and arduous year of hard work.

Sagittarian stars like Jayaram have a rather positive month, as rewards will be reaped aplenty. Recuperation is in order for those that had a health setback.

Cancerian stars like Vijay have a fantastic time of unwinding ahead of them, as old opportunities pay off, and new opportunities offer some time to spare for relaxation before taking off.

For stars like Suriya, this month portends a lot of work. As new commitments present themselves, there is every need for perseverance.

Success through investments is a big win for Virgo stars like Upendra, this month. Some difficult people may crop up, and may sap you of energy.

Cancerian stars, such as Jiiva have a rather tough time juggling a lot of things all at once. The key lies in time management!

For actors like STR, February brings in tons of opportunities, especially in the form of alliances and associations.

Ride the tide!

For the Piscean stars, February is a time when things begin to look up.

Here’s to a new beginning!

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