Moratorium on non-Kannada films: 21 theatres announce closure
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
BANGALORE: Protesting a government committee's decision to delay the entry of non-Kannada films in Karnataka for seven weeks after release, a section of the state's film theatre owners have stopped screening films from today. A total of 21 theatres have announced their decision to stop functioning. The theatres which have shuttered their ticket windows as per the Karnataka Cinema Theater Owners Association (KCTOA), include: Innovative Multiplex, Symphony, Rex, Abhinay, Kailash, Tribhuvan, Menaka, Cauvery, Urvashi, Natraj, Sampige, Naga, Lavanaya, Sri Balaji, Vaibhav, Pradeep, Parimala, Pushpanjali, Radhakrishna, Movieland and Sangeet. As reported by Indiantelevision.com early last week, under pressure from Karnataka Film Producers Association (KFPA) and Karnataka Film Directors Association (KFDA), a government sponsored panel headed by the chief secretary K P Pandey had recommended that non-Kannada Films be screened in Karnataka only after seven weeks from the release date in their own states and that only six prints of each film be permitted for the state. Non-Kannada film theater owners and exhibitors are also unhappy about the fact that they didn't have adequate and proper representation on the Pandey committee. Of the 21 theaters that have decided to close down, 12 were major contributors to the Rs 330 million collected by the state by way of entertainment tax last year. It is this very entertainment tax that is doled out by the government largesse as subsidy for the original Kannada film every year. Entertainment tax is not levied on Kannada films in Karnataka. For the past three weeks since the beginning of the agitation, collections of theaters have dropped by more than 90 per cent. Some theaters have been forced to resort to rerun old sleaze movies to garner a paying audience, but, have been unsuccessful in improving box-office collections. Media reports allege that some Kannada producers have been demanding double or more charges in advance for screening their films, hitting the viability of the theaters further. The Kannada Film Industry churns out award winners no doubt, but most of its wares are lackluster and low box-office draws. Meanwhile, a Bollywood delegation comprising of Samajawdi Party leader Amar Sngh, Jaya Bachchan, Yash Chopra, L. Suresh and Boney Kapoor had met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the Information and Broadcasting Minister Jaipal Reddy at New Delhi on Friday and expressed concern about the happenings in the state pertaining to the film industry. The Bollywood film fraternity is worried that these protectionist measures of the Karnataka government could affect the export and release of their films in the other countries, and could also adversely affect export of other goods and services from India. According to reports, a delegation from the center is expected to arrive in Bangalore and discuss the issues with the government shortly. http://www.Indiantelevision.com
"We never sought to reopen case against Bharti": Govt.
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Bangalore, Aug 30 Karnataka Government today said it never sought to reopen the case against former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Uma Bharti. "Government never reopened the case. The entire matter was left to the Court," Home Secretary Brahm Dutt told reporters tonight in the presence of Chief Minister N Dharam Singh and state Advocate General B T Parthasarathy. Dutt said the 2002 Cabinet decision withdrawing all cases against Bharti was "in place", and claimed even if the Government wanted to change it, it would not have been possible. "It's between the Court and accused. Government has no role to play. Government is doing nothing", Dutt said hours after the Karnataka High Court directed Judicial Magistrate Court in Hubli to consider the application of Additional Public Prosecutor seeking withdrawal of the cases against Bharti. The high court issued the direction after Parthasarathy submitted before it that the Government stood by the 2002 cabinet decision. PTI
Karnataka does U-turn on Uma
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Statesman BANGALORE, Aug. 30. The Karnataka government today told the High Court that it stood by the 2002 decision of the SM Krishna Cabinet to withdraw the case of rioting against Ms Uma Bharati. The Karnataka advocate-general, Mr BT Parthasarthy, submitted that the government was not seeking to reopen the 10-year-old case in which the court had issued a non-bailable warrant against the former Madhya Pradesh chief minister. Following the submission, the court directed the Judicial Magistrate First Court, Hubli, to consider the application of the additional public prosecutor seeking withdrawal of the case. The High Court also dismissed a public interest litigation filed by a farmer of Gadag district, seeking quashing of proceedings against the BJP leader. On the government’s change of stance, Mr Parthasarthy told reporters: There is no political vendetta involved. The state stands by its earlier decision to withdraw the case against Ms Bharati. The impression that the present government differed with its predecessor is wrong. The Karnataka government’s volte face has surprised both the Congress and BJP workers, more so because till yesterday chief minister Mr Dharam Singh was adamant on pursuing the case against Ms Bharati. Today, however, the chief minister said: We have not reopened the old case. The government is not involved in the issue. If Ms Bharati had sought bail, which she refused to do, matters would have ended there. He claimed that the government had sought to withdraw all the cases against Ms Bharati and the government had no plans to arrest the BJP leader. If we wanted to arrest Ms Bharati, we would have done so in Belgaum itself. The Karnataka government’s U-turn comes just two days before the BJP is to launch a satyagraha to demand dropping of cases against Ms Bharati.
BJP launches flag yatra in Karnataka
Monday, August 30, 2004
Hubli, Aug 28: Mounting pressure for withdrawal of cases against its jailed firebrand leader Uma Bharti, the BJP today launched a 'Rashtra Dhwaj Gaurav Yatra' as a precursor to its national campaign to be kicked off in Bangalore September 1 by the party top brass. Addressing a public meeting after flagging off the yatra, party leader Sushma Swaraj said the BJP was ready to hoist the national Tricolour in the entire country and resort to 'Jail Bharo' chanting 'Vande Mataram'. Two teams, one led by BJP Karnataka unit president Ananth Kumar and the other by opposition leader in the Assembly B S Yediyurappa, would address rallies in different places, demanding withdrawal of cases against Uma Bharti. "By filing the case, for hoisting the national flag, against Uma Bharti, people are asking if India has ceased to be a free country," she said, adding, the struggle for the honour of the Tricolour by Uma Bharti would be waged by "Hindustan". Launching a major offensive to exert pressure for withdrawal of the cases, the BJP has already announced that the 'Bangalore Satyagraha' would be kicked off by opposition leader in the Lok Sabha and former deputy prime minister L K Advani. Other leaders, including Murli Manohar Joshi, Kalyan Singh and Rajnath Singh, are expected to take part in it. Uma Bharti surrendered before a Hubli court August 25 following a non-bailable warrant issued against her in cases relating to rioting and attempt to murder filed against her during the BJP-led agitation to hoist the national flag at the Idgah Maidan here in 1994 which later turned violent. (Agencies)
I’m hurt, writes Uma in her letter to Karnataka CM
Monday, August 30, 2004
Bangalore: Karnataka Chief Minister Dharam Singh on Saturday said he had received a letter from former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Uma Bharti in which she had stated that "she was hurt" over the developments in reopening of a 10-year-old cases in Hubli. "Bharti has written a letter stating that she was hurt with the developments, I am going to reply to her letter soon," Singh told reporters on Saturday night. He said Uma Bharti, now in judicial custody at Dharwad, had expressed her anguish that Singh had not raised the issue relating to the case, which made her to relinquish her chief minister’s post, during the Chief Ministers’ conference at New Delhi early this month. Singh said the firebrand BJP leader had written that she had tried to reach the Karnataka Chief Minister over phone, but was not available and wanted to enquire whether there was pressure on him to withdraw the withdrawal petition in a Hubli court. Bharti, he said, pointed in the letter that both were chief ministers of their respective states. "I have always maintained that there was no pressure on me in this (Bharti) case," Singh said, and blamed the media for the confusion. (Sify.com)
Film personalities meets Manmohan
Monday, August 30, 2004
New Delhi, Aug 27 : Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday met a delegation of film personalities who urged him to stop a reported move in Karnataka to allow the release of a non-Kannada film only seven weeks after its national release. Noted film directors Yash Chopra and Boney Kapur, actress-MP Jaya Bachchan, multiplex giant Ajay Bijli and MPs Amar Singh and Rajiv Shukla told Manmohan Singh such a step would set a very wrong precedent for other states. "In the era of piracy, it will be very damaging for non-Kannada films to be released so long after they have been released in the rest of the country," said Shukla. "Also, the Kannadigas will be deprived of Hindi films, which are universally liked across the country." A committee set up by the Congress-ruled state had recommended the measure to evidently protect the interests of the Kannada film industry that is said to be in a bad shape. Manmohan Singh was reportedly informed by some of the delegates that a powerful Kannada superstar was behind the move. Shukla said the prime minister had patiently heard the delegation during the 20-minute meeting and promised to look into the matter. --Indo-Asian News Service
Triton bags Karnataka Tourism ad account
Monday, August 30, 2004
(Source: Business Line) AFTER a fiercely contested pitch that involved 27 agencies, the Karnataka Tourism advertising account finally went to Triton Communications. Mr Ali Merchant, Director of Triton Communications, said, "Over the past year we have made investments in our Bangalore office that are starting to pay off. Winning this prestigious account is the just impetus that this office required." The account that was earlier with Stark has moved to Triton after a pitch that was held in March this year. Triton was selected on the basis of the strategy, and the financial bid. Action in the tourism sector is hotting up with both, domestic and international traffic on the rise. The sector is expected to see fierce competition with all States vying to get a slice of this very lucrative pie. Mr Renton D'souza, Executive Creative Director, Triton Communications, said, "In looking at Karnataka from a communications perspective we found enormous diversity and an `unspoilt' image. Every destination had something different and exotic to offer. The diversity became the cornerstone of the strategic and creative differentiation that we created.''
Cinemas to down shutters indefinitely from Monday
Monday, August 30, 2004
PTI BANGALORE: Protesting against the seven-week moratorium over screening of non-Kannada movies in Karnataka, a total of 21 cinema theatres in the city have announced an indefinite closure from Monday. The owners of the cinema theatres, under the banner of Karnataka Cinema Theatre Owners' Asscoiation (KCTOA), said in a statement the moratorium had hurt their business and it would be unviable for them to run the theatres with the existing seven week moratorium. "The delay imposed on the release of non-Kannada films in Bangalore has severely affected our functioning to the point where we no longer consider it viable to operate our theatres," KCTOA said here. "From Monday, the theatres will be closed for an indefinite period," it said. The move against non-Kannada movies came after a protest rally last month headed by Kannada film icon Rajkumar demanded that the the local industry should be protected against the onslaught of outside movies. They also demanded the Government restore the 70 per cent entertainment tax on non-Kannada movies, which was brought down to 30 per cent in the state budget. A high-level delegation led by Samajwadi party leader Amar Singh had met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to intervene in the matter and resolve the issue.
BJP to launch satyagraha from Sept 1
Monday, August 30, 2004
Bangalore, August 29: Stepping up its offensive against the ruling UPA at the Centre and the Karnataka government, the BJP today announced it would launch an eight-day long satyagraha here from September 1, to press for its three demands, including removal of "tainted" Union ministers and withdrawal of criminal cases "foisted" against party leader Uma Bharti. Briefing reporters after the programmes were finalised at a meeting of BJP Karnataka unit leaders, party president M Venkaiah Naidu said the top leaders, who would lead the satyagraha, would also court arrest along with partymen from September 1 to 8. Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha L K Advani would lead the protest on the opening day, which would also demand the Centre to make amends to the "insulting remarks" made against freedom fighter Veer Savarkar by Union Panchayati Raj Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar, he said. Vajpayee would also address a rally on September 8. All the BJP MPs, legislators and party office-bearers from across the country would also join the stir, giving it a "national look", he added. Naidu said the party's national office-bearers' meeting had been convened here on September 8 to decide on extending the agitation to other parts of the country, after the first phase in Bangalore. Flaying the Karnataka government for the cases filed against Bharti, presently in judicial custody till September 7 in Dharwad, he demanded that the state realise the "grave mistake" it committed and retrace its steps. (Agencies)
Uma: Cong to brief people about Hubli incidents
Monday, August 30, 2004
Mangalore: The Congress in Karnataka would launch a state-wide campaign from September 1 to inform the people about the Hubli incidents in connection with which former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Uma Bharti was charged with various offences, KPCC president Janardhan Poojary said on Sunday. Speaking to reporters here, he accused top BJP leaders, including former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and former deputy prime minister L K Advani, of hatching a conspiracy to malign the party and its president Sonia Gandhi by "giving a twist to the case against Bharti." Uma Bharti was charged with murder and rioting and for defying curfew and a High Court order of August 1994, he said. "She (Uma) instigated others to hoist the national flag at the Idgah Maidan on August 14, 1994, which was given to Muslims for lease for a period of 999 years," Poojary charged. Congress was going to tell the people about the incidents throughout the state through the DCCs and stage dharnas from September 1, he said. Source: Sify.com
Jayalalitha case documents ready for transfer to Karnataka
Monday, August 30, 2004
By Indo-Asian News Service Chennai, Aug 29 (IANS) At least 2,400 documents and 1,600 material objects related to the disproportionate assets case against Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalitha have been kept ready here for transfer to Karanataka. The Supreme Court had Aug 23 directed Tamil Nadu to transfer all records in the two cases against Jayalalitha to a special court in Bangalore next week. She has been charged with possessing assets worth Rs.666.5 million (Rs.66.65 crore) that were disproportionate to her known sources of income. The transfer was ordered after the opposition DMK, which had filed the case against Jayalalitha, told the apex court that it feared it would not get justice if the cases were tried in Tamil Nadu with the AIADMK in power. A team of court officials from Karnataka have been in Chennai verifying the documents and material objects. The team also held discussions with T. Mathivanan, the special judge who had been hearing the cases here before the apex court transferred them out of Tamil Nadu last November.
Jyeshta
Monday, August 30, 2004
By R.G. Vijayasarathy, Indo-Asian News Service Bangalore, Aug 30 (IANS) Kannada superstar Vishnuvardhan, during a break in shooting for "Jyeshta" in Srirangapattana, expressed delight at the rise in the water level of the reservoirs in Karnataka. "It is easy to blame people that they are not coming to theatres. But where is the money today? The entire rural sector is without jobs. When there is no rain, there are more problems. We should happy that god has been kind this year", said Vishnuvardhan. He plays the role of the eldest of five brothers in a family of good samaritans that is troubled by local goons. "The film has emotions, comedy and action sequences, all well-packaged. It has a great story, and director Suresh Krishna has worked well on the script," said producer Soorappa Babu. For Suresh Krishna, this is his second Kannada film. Though his first film "Kadamba" too featured Vishnuvardhan, it did not do well at the box office despite critical acclaim. "I don't know why people did not see the film but I think it did have some flaws," said Krishna. Journalists were invited for the shooting of "Jyeshta". A large contingent of stars had assembled for the shooting of an important scene. Mumbai-based Ashima Bhalla, a heroine in the film, said she was excited about acting in her first Kannada film. Another charismatic hero, Devaraj, plays the role of a younger brother to Vishnuvardhan. Sourav, Anirudhdh, Anand are the other brothers. Shobha Raj, Shivaram, Ramesh Bhat, Rangayana Raghu, Sharath Lohithashwa play other characters in the film. Sindhu Menon, the heroine of many Kannada films, plays an important role. Ashima Bhalla, who looks like Shilpa Shetty from some angles, said: "Everyone here tells me about the resemblance. I think they are pulling my leg. I think I have my own identity." This is her answer also to Vishnuvardhan, who calls her Shilpa Bhalla. She has done two Tamil films, of which "Ramana" (starring Vijayakanth) was a hit. She also played a parallel character in Telugu film "Daddy" with Chiranjeevi. Sindhu Menon has added a new career by turning TV serial producer. She is busy producing a Malayalam serial to be telecast by Surya TV. It has just completed 100 episodes. Sindhu is also looking for an opportunity to produce a Kannada serial. Of "Jyeshta", for which she has shot for more than 10 days, Sindhu says: "I did act with Vishnu Sir as a child artist, but now I am playing one of the important characters of the film. "I had always dreamt of working in director Suresh Krishna's film. I am being paired with Sourav, but I figure in many sequences with Vishnu Sir."
Karnataka film industry in turmoil
Sunday, August 29, 2004
Manjulaa Negi The Karnataka film industry has been in turmoil for quite some time now, and by the look of it, the matter is not about to die out soon. Below is the first one of a two-part report on the crisis. The second part will be coming soon. The Film Producers Association in Karnataka has put forth a seven-point agenda to the state government. Among others, it states that all non-Kannada films be released seven weeks 'after' their nationwide release. By the look of it, the matter is not about to die out soon. The offices of a leading national daily in Bangalore were attacked on Saturday by hooligans supportive of the producers' cause. So far, Columbia's Anaconda 2, Samir Karnik's Kyun Ho Gaya Na…, Yash Chopra's Dhoom and Revathy's Phir Milenge have been affected since the "informal" and "self-regulated" decision of the producers. Even as a committee set up by the Karnataka government looks into the "grievances" of the Kannadiga producers before making its own recommendations, it is clear that the government is supportive of the request of seven-week delayed release 'request'. The producers also want the government to revoke a provision, made to the non-Kannada filmmakers, which brought down Entertainment tax from 70 to 40 per cent in the state. The producers are demanding that 70 per cent tax be re-implemented. This, when all the Kannada films are completely tax-free. And to think this issue, which began with a single rupee, could have national repercussions. The issue already has in its grip the Karnataka government, the arthouse filmmakers from the state, the local film producers, distributors and exhibitors. The ripples have been felt all the way from Film Producers Guild in Mumbai to international production houses like Columbia Tristar, multiplex owners like Ajay Bijlii (of PVR cinemas), and Adlabs' Manmohan Shetty, to members of Parliament including Amar Singh and Jaya Bachchan. Even the Minister of Information and Broadcasting Jaipal Reddy and none less than the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh have been approached to resolve the situation. The Kannada exhibitors have been charging Re 1 per ticket as Service Charge to provide better services in halls across the state. "The producers sought to cancel that provision made by the government stating that the cinema hall services weren't up to the mark and that the money is actually their share," says Som Shekhar, Deputy Director, Films, Government of Karnataka. To make matters worse, two films - one starring the Telugu superstar Venkatesh and the other starring Kannada superstar Raj Kumar's son, were released on the same day. While Venkatesh's film has done fair business, the latter has had to bite the dust. That too is being stated as a reason for the escalation of the problem. Says Girish Kasarvalli, the National award-winning filmmaker from Karnataka: "It is only in Karnataka that Kannada films have to compete with Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu and Hollywood films. It is a multi-cornered contest. Nowhere else in the country does this happen. All the other film markets are secure in their own primary territory. Kannada films aren't picked up for release anywhere else in the country." The local distributors prefer to pick up films from other languages because Kannada films aren't good enough qualitatively. "We are marginalised in our own state," states Kasarvalli. "What they are demanding is right in principle. That is what is required. Reservations for Kannada films can be provided exclusively. In any case, Karnataka is secondary territory for all the non-Kannada makers. Why shouldn't preference be given to our cinema? Several of our own films are lying in the cans waiting for a release, because the distributors here don't want to touch them." Counters Vikramjit Roy of Columbia Tristar, who was part of the delegation that went to the PM on Friday to brief him on the situation: "The basic issue is of quality. Even Kannadiga audiences don't watch the mass-based films in Karnataka, because distributors are looking at money ultimately. It's pure economics. The Kannada producers are demanding that all other language films be released after seven weeks and that too with only four prints. What if I want to open my film with 20 prints? You cannot fight this by imposing restrictions. It's an infringement on our constitutional rights. It's a free market." The themes in typical Kannada films (discounting the arthouse cinema from the state) usually revolve around "love stories, crime, gangsters, action - largely catering to the stalls," says Shekhar. "Since the advent of television, the upper middle class audiences have stopped coming to cinemas. Several theatres have closed down over the years. In Bangalore alone, if 70 theatres (in places like the Cantonment Area) run English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu films, about 30 are dedicated to Kannada films only. These theatres, which are near the main bus stand or railway stations, rarely if ever, play the other language films. They get a lot of floating audiences." The problems are two-fold according to Shekhar. "They aren't up to the standards of the other language films. The other is that they have a limited local market." Despite the low production costs, the producers lose money.
Bangalore non-Kannada theaters apprehensive over state panel report
Saturday, August 28, 2004
Indiantelevision.com Team BANGALORE: The future seems bleak for non-Kannada film screen if the government agrees to the decisions arrived at by the panel headed by the chief secretary KP Pandey on 23 August. The controversial decisions wherein the panel has given in to the demands of the Karnataka Film Producers Association (KFPA) and the Karnataka Film Directors Association (KFDA) that non-Kannada Films will be released in Karnataka only after seven weeks from the date of release in their own states and that only six prints of each film would be permitted for the state would benefit only a few big Kannada producers and highly paid actors, claimed an industry source. "The small budget Kannada film makers may have to follow the practice prevalent in the USA - release the films on the small screen only, since most small budget Kannada films don't even pay back the rentals of the theaters, let alone make any profits for the producers or distributors, and the what of lack of quality Kannada films even some big budget ones, let alone the quantity required for all the theaters across the state. How can a theater survive? We can foresee conversion of many theaters to malls and shopping bazaars if these unconstitutional rules are passed and enforced by the state," said one Bangalore based theatre owner. Non-Kannada film theater owners and exhibitors are unhappy about the fact that they don't even have adequate and proper representation in the committee. Decisions are taken only to benefit a select few and the government, if it caves in to the demands will be doing a grave injustice to the exhibitors, theater owners and distributors, the common man who will have a limited choice of films to view. A majority of the denizens of a cosmopolitan city like Bangalore will be forced to stop going to the movies, they allege.
Kannada movies first: Producers
Saturday, August 28, 2004
TIMES NEWS NETWORK BANGALORE: Hindi film distributors and exhibitors are facing a grim situation in Karnataka, following the "informal" and "self-regulated" decision imposed by the Kannada producers to delay all other language film releases by seven weeks. The Aishwarya Rai starrer, Kyon Ho Gaya Na..., has still not hit screens in Karnataka, this Friday's release of the Salman Khan-Shilpa Shetty-Abhishek Bachchan starrer, Phir Milenge, will be seen by fans in Karnataka only on October 15, at the earliest. Other language film distributors and exhibitors express helplessness, as the Karnataka government has decided to side with the Kannada producers, who had taken out a procession led by matinee idol Rajkumar, seeking their demands. A panel headed by the additional chief secretary (finance) K P Pandey gave a recommendation last week, supporting the demand for seven weeks delay. This more or less ensures no Hindi film will be released in Karnataka. The reasons are three-fold. One, extensive video piracy ensures the films reach people's homes long before they hit the screen in the state. Two, because of the delay, only the hit films will come to Karnataka, reducing the number of films for release. Three, distributors are unlikely to pay the rates demanded for Hindi rights, as collections will come down due to the delay. If that is the fate of movie releases, the position of non-Kannada film exhibitors is no less desparate. This Friday, an astonishing 13 old films have been re-released in Hindi, Tamil and English, just to ensure the theatres are open.
Black Friday for non-Kannada film buffs
Saturday, August 28, 2004
BANGALORE: It turned out to be a Black Friday for non-Kannada filmgoers in the city even as in New Delhi, a delegation of top Hindi producers, led by Yash Chopra and Amar Singh, called on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to seek lifting of the seven-week delay in film release in Karnataka. Indeed, it was Friday the 13th an unprecedented 13 films were released in Hindi, Tamil and English. But all of them were old fare. In place of Phir Milenge and Dhoom , seven Hindi films were re-released in various theatres Julie , Girlfriend , Yuva , Lakshya , Mujse Shaadi Karoge , Munnabhai MBBS and Main Hoon Na . In Tamil, Gilli and New made a comeback, while Troy , Passion of Christ , Spiderman 2 and I Robot were screened in English theatres, when the rest of the world saw Anaconda 2. Owners of non-Kannada theatres who comprise 72 per cent of theatres in Bangalore are practically in tears. "There is no audience for the re-releases. As it is, on a pre-festival day, collections are bad, but we don't even have a fresh release to draw crowds this time," said an exhibitor.
Noted Kannada Artiste Rajanand passes away
Saturday, August 28, 2004
Indiantelevision.com Team BANGALORE: Noted Kannada film and theater actor, playwright singer and poet Rajanand passed away at a private hospital in Mysore after a prolonged illness. He was 74. Rajanand received the Rajyotsava award in 1991 and was conferred with the Karnataka State Film Award in 2001-02 for lifetime achievement. Rajanand has penned more than 286 plays and has also rendered his voice to more than 50 songs. Film personalities such as Ashwath, M P Shankar, Chethan Rama Rao, Pavithra Lokesh, Junior Narasimharaju, Rajesh, Renuka, producer Sandesh Nagaraj and others have condoled the death of Rajanand.
Sammir Dattani's destiny with "M"
Friday, August 27, 2004
Sammir D. Dattani, the pinup boy from Rajshris' "Uuf Ka Jadoo Mohabbat Hai" was in Hyderabad recently for the promotion of his Kannada film "Mona Lisa". The film has celebrated 100 days in Bangalore. "It's going to be dubbed into Telugu now," said Sammir who loves Hyderabad. Looks like this year's lucky letter is 'M' (all the successes this year, from "Main Hoon Na" and "Mujhse Shaadi Karogi" have 'M' in common). And it seems to have has struck Rajshris blue-eyed boy too. "Uuf Kya Jadoo Mohabbat Hai" flopped but Sammir clicked. He has been inundated with offers and has decided to do his second Hindi film. Produced by the US-based Masood Ali, the film will star Sammir as a rock musician and will be shot entirely in Chicago. "I've always wanted to be a singer. In fact, I can play the piano and take regular music lessons," said the affable roller skates champ. One filmmaker looking seriously at Sammir is Subhash Ghai. Sammir recently met the showman who seemed very impressed. --Indo-Asian News Service
Pakkadmane Hudugi
Thursday, August 26, 2004
(Cinema, South India) Film: "Pakkadmane Hudugi"; Cast: Raghavendra Raj Kumar, Ranjitha, Anant Nag, Mohan and others; Producer: Shekhar Karlekkanavar; Director: M.S. Rajesekhar; Camera: Janardhanan; Music: Rajesh Roshan A Kannada remake of the Hindi comic hit "Padosan", "Pakkadmane Hudugi" is not a patch on the original. While the 1960 original had everything going for it -- catchy music, unique story lines and a superb star cast -- the Kannada remake doesn't strike a chord. "Pakkadmane Hudugi" is a huge letdown, particularly for those who have seen the original, despite the presence of talented stars like Anant Nag, Mohan, Karibasavayya and Raghavendra Raj Kumar. M.S. Rajashekhar, a veteran director, just can't recapture the spirit of the original. It seems as if the director has left everything to artistes and technicians and just shot the sequences without providing his own creative inputs. "Padosan" had talented artistes like Sunil Dutt, Saira Banu, Mehmood and Kishore Kumar in the lead, but what made the film remarkably appealing was the way the director created the perfect ambience for the sequences. The Kannada version reproduces the film of 40 years ago without even the slightest change. Rajashekhar should have at least taken into account the different perceptions of today's audiences. Three songs have been lifted from the original (including "Ek Chaturnar" and "Samne wali khidki mein"). The other three songs are poor in quality. In sum, the music is nothing much when compared to the original. Another minus point is the heroine Ranjitha. She looks good in some sequences, but her performance isn't up to the mark. Raghavendra has worked hard but he cannot manage the innocent look of Sunil Dutt (now India's sports minister) in the original. It would be unfair to make any comparisons with a gifted comedian like Mehmood, but Mohan has tried his best. Though his mannerisms are imitative at times, he has to be complimented for his dialogue delivery. Anant Nag has done well in the role of the music teacher, which Kishore Kumar played in the original. The fact that Kishore Kumar himself was a musician had added glitter to his role in "Padosan". In the end, "Pakkadmane Hudugi" turns out to be yet another Kannada film that fails to make any impact. --Indo-Asian News Service
Gowda hauls up Dharam
Wednesday, August 25, 2004
Gowda hauls up Dharam Pioneer News Service/ Bangalore Janata Dal (Secular) supremo H D Deve Gowda is understood to have chastised Karnataka Chief Minister N Dharam Singh for reopening the Idgah case against BJP leader Uma Bharti as it could prove politically costly for the coalition government in the state. Senior Congress sources said Mr Gowda was upset with the entire development as he had given the quietus to the case 10 years ago. As Chief Minister, Mr Gowda had sent his Man Friday C M Ibrahim to sort out the Idgah row which had erupted in 1992 after the Anjuman-e-Islam attempted to build a commercial complex on a public property where Namaz was allowed twice a year. The police had prevented the hoisting of the tricolour on January 26, 1992, even though the courts had held the Idgah Maidan was a public property. As per the truce worked out by Gowda-Ibrahim duo, the Anjuman president unfurled the tricolour in a corner of the Maidan on January 26, 1995. The truce hammered out by the Deve Gowda government lasted all these years with the BJP keeping away from the Idgah row. The million dollar question is why the Dharam Singh government tried to re-open the case against Ms Bharti knowing fully well that it was a political dynamite. Also, another vital point was whether Mr Deve Gowda, who is the boss of the present coalitio government in Karnataka was taken into confidence prior to reopening the case? Well-informed political sources said the entire conspiracy was hatched by a former BJP MP who had quit the party following differences with senior state BJP leaders and joined the Congress. He had lost the last Lok Sabha election. To settle political scores against the BJP, the former MP is reported to have convinced Chief Minister Dharam Singh on the political advantage that would accrue by pleasing the high command which was facing embarrassment over the tainted ministers issue. Mr Dharam Singh is believed to have acted on the suggestion of the former MP and alerted the Congress high command on the case pending against Ms Bharti.Mr Singh is believed to have ordered the reopening of the case after he received the green signal from the Congress high command. In fact, the S M Krishna Cabinet had decided in 2002 to withdraw all the pending cases against Ms. Bharti, solely to deny the BJP the opportunity to derive political mileage over the Idgah issue. Sources said Mr Gowda was upset by the entire development as the Chief Minister had not brought to his notice such a sensitive matter which could have repercussions on the coalition government. When a senior JD (S) leader was asked whether his party was consulted before the re-opening of the case, he replied:There is no question of any consultation as the matter was pending before the court. The JD (S) has become a mute spectator in the unfolding drama as the party cannot publicly express its disappointment with the reopening of the case as the main factor for the two warring partners to come together was their antipathy towards the BJP. Mr Dharam Singh never expected that his brain wave could boomerang on him.
Film exhibitors to defy `ban'
Wednesday, August 25, 2004
Bangalore, Aug 25 - Film exhibitors and distributors have reportedly decided to release new non-Kannada films from Friday in the State. An emergency meeting of the representative of the Bangalore Exhibitors' Association and the distributors here on Tuesday felt that "no law can dissuade exhibitors" from screening new non-Kannada films until the recommendation to defer their release for seven weeks from their first commercial screening in the respective States became a law. Thus, the ongoing tussle between the exhibitors and the distributors and the Kannada Film Producers' Association is likely to reach a flashpoint. The K.P. Pandey Committee, constituted by the Government to look into the problems of the Kannada film industry, made the recommendation following a demand by the Kannada film industry. Confirming the decision of the exhibitors, the president of the Hubli-based Karnataka Chalanachitra Pradashakara Mahamandala, Odu Goudar, told that the exhibitors had the right to screen non-Kannada films in the State as the recommendation of the committee cannot be enforced by the State. The mahamandala would not insist on its members to adhere to the recommendation of the committee until it became a law, he added. Asked if the mahamandala was a party to the reported decision of the exhibitors' association, Mr. Goudar said, "The Mahmandala will support all legal activities of its member associations." Sources in the mahamandala said the meeting also discussed to seek justice in the court, making the State Government and the producers' association respondents in the case. But some exhibitors and distributors were against it, as the outcome of such a move would not augur well for the future of the fill industry in the State, the sources added. The president of the producers' association, Basanthkumar Patil, said it also held an emergency meeting today and discussed measures to prevent the screening of non-Kannada films in some areas in Bellary, Raichur and Gulbarga districts. The nexus between some exhibitors and distributors was forcing non-Kannada films on people. The reported agitation by people in Bellary on Tuesday had exposed this nexus, he added. Any attempt to screen non-Kannada films in any part of the State in violation of the committee's recommendation was neither pragmatic nor helpful, he added. The president or the office-bearers of the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce were not available for comment. The committee reportedly considered two major demands of the producers' association in principle at its first meeting on Monday. One is postponing the release of non-Kannada films. The panel, headed by the Additional Chief Secretary (Finance), K.P. Pandey, also recommended to the Government to withdraw the 30 per cent entertainment tax exemption given to non-Kannada films in the budget. The panel will hold its second meeting after a fortnight.
Transfer of Jayalalitha's case documents to Karnataka ordered:
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
The Supreme Court Monday directed Tamil Nadu to transfer within a week all documents related to two corruption cases involving Chief Minister Jayalalitha to a special court in Karnataka. Besides Jayalalitha, the other accused in the Rs.666.5 million (Rs.66.65 crore) wealth and disproportionate assets cases under the Prevention of Corruption Act are her friend N. Sasikala, her erstwhile foster son, V.N. Sudhakaran, Ilavarasi and AIADMK MP T.T.V. Dinakaran. A bench of judges S.N. Variava and H.K. Sema issued the directive on an application by DMK general secretary K. Anbazhagan alleging that the documents had not been transferred even nine months after the judgment was delivered. Appearing for the petitioner, senior counsel T.R. Andhyarujina brought to the court's notice that the documents were yet to be transferred. Though the court had ordered day-to-day trial, it could not begin since the records were not transferred. Appearing for Tamil Nadu, senior counsel P.P. Rao said the state was willing to hand over the records to an official of the special court in Bangalore. The bench directed the special court in Bangalore, where the cases are to be tried, to depute an official to collect the documents from the special court in Chennai within this week. Both the state governments were directed to provide police protection to ensure the safe transportation of the records and Tamil Nadu was asked to arrange for the transportation. While transferring the case on Nov 18, 2003, on a petition of Anbazhagan, the court had directed the Karnataka government to appoint a special judge and asked the Tamil Nadu government to ensure that all documents were forthwith transferred to the special court in Bangalore. A review petition filed by Jayalalitha was rejected on Feb 17.
Tear-jerker for non-Kannada films
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
BANGALORE: Giving no relief to non-Kannada film-goers, the experts panel headed by additional chief secretary (finance) K P Pandey on Monday recommended that all other language films should be released all over Karnataka seven weeks after they are screened elsewhere. After a stormy three-and-a-half hour meeting, attended by all 22 members, the panel came up with a double whammy for English, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam buffs: Even after seven weeks, only six prints of each other language films will be released, state-wide. This limits the number of theatres. Entertainment tax on these films, which was slashed by deputy chief minister Siddaramaiah from 70 per cent to 40 per cent, should revert to the earlier rate. So ticket rates of these films will go up. Pandey told The Times of India that the tax recommendation still had to be finalised by the DyCM. "The government has to take a decision. The other decision, of seven weeks delayed release, has to be regulated by the film industry itself." Kannada Film Producers' Association president Basant Kumar Patil said the recommendations were unanimous, taken in the interest of Kannada films. But Karnataka Film Exhibitors Federation Chairman R P Odugoudar said: "We've suggested that the government get legal opinion on delayed release." Exhibitors have also suggested that the Andhra system of taxation where the government gets a fixed amount per show, irrespective of tickets sold be implemented in Karnataka. "We think the government should examine this before going back to 70 per cent tax," Odugoudar said. The panel is expected to meet again after 15 days to work out a "comprehensive development plan". Details like how many theatres screen Kannada versus non-Kannada films, the number of distributors in other languages and in Kannada will also be studied for the purpose. (Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/825220.cms)
Panel for deferred release of non-Kannada films
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
BANGALORE, DHNS: The government-appointed panel to resolve the stand-off between Kannada film producers and non-Kannada film exhibitors and distributors, on Monday unanimously decided to defer release of all non-Kannada films for seven weeks. The new decision will come into effect from August 24 across the State. Besides, the panel has recommended rollback of its decision to reduce the entertainment tax for other language films. The committee comprising Additional Chief Secretary (Finance) K P Pandey as its head and representatives from all three sectors, also decided to restrict the number of prints of other language movies to six. The decision on deferred release of non-Kannada films is unanimous, and it is taken with a view to promoting Kannada films, Mr Pandey told mediapersons. Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) President S Ramesh said other language films are allowed to release in the State provided the exhibitors fullfil the condition. I call upon film chambers of all neighbouring states to direct their exhibitors not to violate the rules, he added. On violating the rules, the KFCC will impose a ban on such exhibitors on screening films in the State, besides initiating legal action, Mr Ramesh warned. Besides, the committee has decided to prepare a comprehensive action plan to promote the Kannada film industry. The committee will tour other states and study facilities being enjoyed by the film industry there and prepare an action plan. Noted writer Baraguru Ramachandrappa, who is also a committee member, said the committee will come out a plan on uplifting the Kannada film industry. We will meet again and discuss various problems being faced by the industry, he added. The meeting was attended by almost all members, including Parvathamma Rajkumar, actors Raghavendra Rajkumar, Ravichandran, Uma-shree, B C Patil, Mukyamantri Chandru, directors Rajendra Singh Babu, Basanth Kumar Patil and others. (source: http://www.deccanherald.com/deccanherald/aug242004/i4.asp)
Kannada 'Padosan': Mohan portrays Mehmood's role:
Monday, August 23, 2004
Bangalore, Aug 22 (IANS) : "Pakkadmane Hudugi" is the Kannada version of the Hindi "Padosan" that regaled audiences in the 1960s with its rib-tickling comedy and hum-able music. And who could forget Mehmood in a comic character portraying a classical song teacher! In the new avatar, it is Mohan enacting the role. "Padosan" also starred Sunil Dutt, Saira Banu and Kishore Kumar in the lead roles. "Pakkadmane Hudugi" is a comeback film for its hero Raghavendra Raj Kumar, who returns to the silver screen after a gap of six years. M.S. Rajashekhar, who has directed many hit films with Raghavendra, wields the megaphone in this remake. While Raghavendra himself plays the role enacted by Sunil Dutt in the original, it is versatile actor Anant Nag who will step into Kishore Kumar's shoes as the music teacher who takes on Mehmood in "Padosan". The Kannada remake is being made by a new producer, Shekhar Karlekkanavar. The film, made in Telugu, did not do well earlier. Rajashekhar says he has not changed anything from the original or introduced any new sequence. "I have remained faithful to the original narration. I know it will be compared with the original. But what I can assure you is that all the lead artists and technicians have worked hard to make it appealing. "I know a majority of the people of the present generation might not have seen the original, and I can assure you they will like our film," he promised. Music director Rajesh Ramanath says he has been prevailed upon to keep the same tunes for three songs, while he has composed new tunes for the other three. The popular songs from the original -- 'Ek Chathur Anaar' and 'Mere Saamne Waali Khidki Mein' -- will have the same tunes in the Kannada version. Raghavendra, returning to acting after six years, says the film has shaped up well. "More than me, it is talented artists like Anant Nag and Mohan who have carried the film on their shoulders. The songs have been set in good backgrounds and well filmed. I am sure the movie will entertain the audience," he said. For heroine Ranjitha, it is her second film. She made her debut in "Ajju". The success of "Pakkadmane Hudugi" is crucial for both Ranjitha and Raghavendra.
'Feel bad' factor in Kannada filmdom
Monday, August 23, 2004
Bangalore, (IANS) : A 'feel bad' factor seems to have gripped the Kannada film industry, with four big flops in the last month alone. With many movies flopping, the brief successes of May and June have almost been forgotten. Even superstars are worried that their films are not drawing crowds even in the opening week. Directors are confused about what attracts the audience today. The so-called original presentations, many of which are really a remix of successful non-Kannada films, have been rejected by the audience. In the last month alone, four big films have bitten the dust. "Love", made on a budget of over Rs.40 million, has fallen flat after four weeks. The film had boasted of big names like director S.V. Rajendra Singh Babu, top cameraman Ajay Vincent and music director Anu Malik. The same was the fate of the Murali-Ramya-starrer "Kanti", despite all the pre-release hype. The fate of super-star Shivaraj Kumar's "Sarvabhouma", directed by Mahesh Sukhadhare, was sealed in its second week despite a tremendous opening on day one. Sa.Ra. Govindoo's "Bhagwan", with Darshan and Sai Kumar in the lead, has also failed at the box office. There are many films starring big stars lined up for release. Among these are "Aaptha Mithra", the last film of late actress Soundarya, "Onkaara", "Valmiki", and "Sahukaara", starring Vishnuvardhan, Upendra, Shivaraj and Ravichandran respectively. The industry is hoping that the four films will do better than the four flops of last month.
Bangalore bans Mumbai
Monday, August 23, 2004
Aishwarya Rai and Vivek Oberoi in Kyun! Ho Gaya Na… As a protest against the reduction of entertainment tax on films in other languages from 70 to 40 per cent in Karnataka, The Karnataka Film Producers Association (KPFA) has decided to ban non-Kannada films (English, Hindi) for seven weeks from its theatrical release date in other states. The ban, which will be implemented on Friday, will affect the big banner release Kyun! Ho Gaya Na…, which releases then. The Kannada film producers’ main grouse is that distributors and exhibitors (theatre-owners) are shunning Kannada films, because of the reduction in entertainment tax to non-Kanada films. Kanada producers and filmakers are losing market share, and being unable to stand up to competition from non-Kannada films they have demanded the ban. Although the ban will not have an extreme effect on Bollywood, slight ripples will definitely be felt within the industry. Rakesh Sippy, who is distributing Kyun! Ho Gaya Na in north Karnataka said, This will definitely hurt our business in some way. This region brings in about five to seven percent of your total price and we will lose all of that. Although no immediate solution is in sight, Shyam Shroff, distributor of Sringar films feels like the ban will definitely be challenged. The Controversy • The Karnataka government reduced taxes for non-Kannada films Angered by this bias, • The Karnataka Films Producers Association has banned non-Kannada films for seven weeks from its theatrical release in other states • Ban will affect Bollywood box office returns in the state
Film chamber for meet with Karnataka CM
Sunday, August 22, 2004
South India Film Chamber of Commerce (SIFCC) has called for a meeting with Karnataka Chief Minister Dharam Singh to thrash out the problems of the local film industry and non-Kannada film industry and come to a reasonable solution for the smooth running of the film industry in general and the Kannada film industry in particular. In a letter addressed to the Karnataka Chief Minister, L Suresh, honorary general secretary, SIFCC, expressed concern over the recent attacks by a mob belonging to Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and the Samara Sena on the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce, Movieland Cinema in Majestic Circle where a Telugu film was screened, and a film distributor of other languages films. He urged the Chief Minister to prevent such incidents in future and help protect other languages also to sustain in Karnataka, along with Kannada films. Further, Suresh said, 'the SIFCC , the apex body of South Indian Film Industry, would like to meet your goodself along with a delegation from the Film Federation of India and its affiliates and members of Karnataka film industry prepared to sit across the table and thrash out the problems of the local film industry and non-Kannada film industry'.
War on non-Kannada films
Tuesday, August 17, 2004
The Karnataka Film Producers' Association, in a bid to protect the interest of its local language films, has decided not to allow the release of other language films alongside Kannada ones. The decision, say observers, targets Tamil and Telugu films in particular, though it is supposed to cover English and Hindi films, too. Karnataka, especially Bangalore, provides a huge market for Tamil and Telugu films. The producers have been divided on the government's policy towards re-make of other language films into Kannada. Several are not in favour of it. However, neither the government nor the association has bothered to ask the audience what it wants.
'Monalisa' for Telugu screen
Thursday, August 12, 2004
(IANS) : Indrajith Lankesh has started work on the Telugu version of hit Kannada film "Monalisa" here. Some portions featuring Telugu comedian Brahmanandam and Kovai Sarala were shot recently. After adding a few sequences with well-known Telugu artistes to make the Telugu version more acceptable, Indrajith will be dubbing the remaining portions in Telugu. Mumbai-based model-cum-actress Sada has done the title role in this film and teams up with Dhyan. Indrajith says he will record the songs with new singers and also add a song to the Telugu film. Shooting is also in progress for Sada's Tamil film "Anniyan", in which she teams up with matinee idol Vikram.
Karnataka says No to Telugu films
Thursday, August 12, 2004
In a shocking and absolutely chauvinistic move, the Karnataka Film Producers Association (KFPA) has decided not to allow new releases of non-Kannada films including Telugu, for seven weeks in Karnataka! The KFPA claim that they are unable to stand up to competition from non-Kannada films, so that their screening should be curtailed in the state. The KFPA’s main grouse is against the recently presented Karnataka state budget, which brought down entertainment tax on non-Kannada films from 70 to 40 percent. According to them, this has led distributors and exhibitors to avoid screening Kannada films. And on Monday (August 9) the Kananda film industry staged a huge rally led by the matinee idol Dr Rajkumar in the heart of Bangalore. Said Dr Rajkumar: It’s over 50 years since I came into the film world but we never had such rallies in our days. Today we have come to a state when we have to fight for Kannada in our state. The coalition government in Karnataka is likely to listen to the clarion call of the legendary film actor. It is bad news for the Telugu film industry as Karnataka territory was turning out to be very lucrative for the trade with Chiranjeevi and NTR films fetching Rs 60 to 70 Lakhs. Recently the distributors of Samba had to pay money to KFPA because he was releasing 20 prints in the state. There is a rule that only four prints of a new non-Kananda film can be screened and only in eight theatres in Karnataka! The KFPA has cracked down on the Gharshanaa distributor for releasing it with 17 prints in 30 theatres. Bangalore the IT capital of India has more Telugu speaking software people than from any other state. The Karnataka- Andhra border areas like Kolar, Bidar and Bellary also have a large number of Telugu speaking people.
Roja forays to Kannada
Thursday, August 12, 2004
M Kumaran S/O Mahalakshmi, the forthcoming Tamil release starring Jayam Ravi will now be made in Kannada. Actress Roja would play the role of the hero's mother in Kannada. Heroine of yesteryear Nadhiya donned that role in Tamil.
Professional course aspirant ends life
Thursday, August 12, 2004
A professional course aspirant hung herself to death at her residence on Binny Mill Road in Cottonpet on Sunday night. Pratibha S, a former student of BMS PU College for Women, was the only daughter of Srinivas, an autorickshaw driver-cum-real estate broker. She took the extreme step after watching the latest developments with regard to the CET imbroglio on a Kannada television channel. Recapitulating the incident, Pratibha’s father Srinivas narrated to the police, She went inside her room around 9:30 pm and latched the door. As the tubelight was on, I presumed she was studying and so I did not disturb her. But when she did not open the door even at 9 a m on Monday, I broke open the window and found her hanging. Her mother, Lakshmi, was away in her native village near Channapatna when Pratibha ended her life. Pratibha has not left any suicide note, but according to her parents, she ended her life fearing that she would not get a chance to pursue any professional course in the backdrop of the ongoing tussle between the government and the private college managements. She had secured 71.6 per cent in PUC and had taken both CET and COMED(K) entrance tests. While her ranking was 9,910 in medicine and 15,908 in engineering in the tests conducted by the CET Cell, it was 5,918 and 9,352 respectively in the tests conducted by COMED-K. Speaking to Deccan Herald, Pratibha’s uncle Mahadevappa said, Like any other middle-class family girl, Pratibha too studied hard with the hope of improving her family’s living condition. Just as her cousins, she too aspired to become either a doctor or an engineer. But with the government dancing to the tunes of private college managements over the seat-sharing and fee structure issues, she probably thought she will not get even the engineering seat. Pratibha was supposed to attend engineering counselling on August 16. The Cottonpet police, when contacted, said they are at a loss to understand as to why the girl decided to kill herself when she had chances of getting an engineering seat. The police do not rule out the possibility of she ending her life because of the poor financial condition of her family. Inquiries in the neighbourhood have revealed that Srinivas had asked several people to lend some money for his daughter’s education.
Kannada film industry cries foul
Thursday, August 12, 2004
Will Kannada films fall to the same fate as Marathi, Bengali and Rajasthani films, which are fast losing popularity and a place in Indian film market? Gandhinagar, the hub of Kannada filmdom, resounds with this rising apprehension. Unable to stand up to the competition from non-Kannada films, Kannada film producers and directors are staging a protest, putting forth several demands before the State Government to ‘Save Kannada Filmdom.’ The Kannada film producers’ main grouse is against the recently-presented State Budget, which brought down entertainment tax on non-Kannada films from 70 per cent to 40 per cent. According to them, this has led distributors and exhibitors (theatre-owners) to shun Kannada films. It can be understood if the Government reduced entertainment tax to encourage film buffs. But distributors and exhibitors have only hiked their profits, not passed on the benefit of the tax relief to consumers. The ticket rates are same as before, the Kannada Film Producers’ and Directors’ Association stated. The Government must increase the tax on non-Kannada films to 100 per cent, as these films are being forced upon the viewers -- Theatres are just not screening Kannada films. Those who are really interested in films of other languages can pay more and watch them, they noted. The rule that only four prints of new non-Kannada films can be screened, and only in eight theatres in Karnataka, has been systemically violated, they alleged. For instance, rights to as many as 17 prints of the Telugu film ‘Gharshana’ were bought by distributors recently and the film is being screened in over 30 theatres, said Directors’ Association president S V Rajendrasingh Babu and vice-president Joe Simon. The menace, earlier restricted to border areas like Bangalore, Kolar and Bellary, is now fast spreading to places like Hubli, Chitradurga, Davangere. Prominent film personalities such as Rajkumar, Vishnuvardhan, Ambarish, Ravichandran, Upendra, Sudeep, Darshan, other workers and artistesl, and producers such as Basant Kumar Patil will join the protest rally from Ravindra Kalakshetra to Mysore Bank circle on Monday. City police authorities have said that all security measures have been taken to ensure that that the rally passes off peacefully. We have taken sufficient measures, said Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) Alok Mohan. CALL SHEET: Hike entertainment tax on non-Kannada films to 100 pc. All Kannada films must be shown in all theatres in Karnataka for at least 12 weeks. Do away with Turnover Tax, tax on exhibition. Apart from the Rs 10 lakh aid to quality films, grant of Rs 5 lakh must be extended to all films. Single-window system for permission for filming. Non-Kannada films must be screened for 12 weeks in their States, before being screened in Karnataka.
Reema Sen ventures into Kannada
Thursday, August 12, 2004
After doing films in Telugu and Tamil, Reema Sen has now entered the Kannada film scene. The Teja discovery is paired with popular Kannada hero Upendra in a film titled News. With the print media as the backdrop, the duo play crime reporters. The film reportedly inspired by real life incidents, is directed by Aheshwaran. Looks like Sen will have something more substantial to do this time, than the bare-dare act.
Panel set up to study problems of Kannada film industry
Thursday, August 12, 2004
Bangalore, Aug 11 - The Karnataka Government today announced Additional Chief Secretary K P Pandey, would head the panel which would study the problems faced by the Kannada film industry and come out with a policy. Deputy Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, told here that the committee would comprise representatives from among producers, directors, distributors, exhibitors and the public. The panel would be asked to submit its report without any 'reasonable delay,' he said when asked if any time-frame would be set. It would evolve a policy for the development of the Kannada film industry and Kannada language, Siddaramaiah, also the State Finance Minister, said. The Kannada film industry had staged a rally here on Monday in protest against the cut in entertainment tax on non-Kannada films being screened in the State.
Govt populism peaks students misery
Monday, August 9, 2004
PTI BANGALORE: An unending tussle between managements and Government over seat-sharing and fee structure in private engineering, medical and dental colleges in Karnataka has left thousands of students in a crisis. The deadlock over admission to the professional colleges has deepened after the state legislature passed a bill last week, fixing 75 per cent of the total sanctioned seats for Government and the rest for managements, much to the chagrin of the latter. Taking the managements head on after they plainly refused to its 75:25 seat shring ratio during talks with them, the Congress-JD(S) Government roped in the support of a "reluctant" opposition to ensure the passage of the legislation and notified it too. The move described by the Government as a measure to protect the interests of the students has surprised many, including legal pundits, who have expressed doubts whether the hurriedly-framed legislation would stand legal scrutiny, as it was enacted after a Supreme Court order that the sharing of seats should be maintained at 50:50 ratio. Furious at the Government stand, the private college managements, particularly those running the lucrative medical colleges, have again moved the apex court. Last year too, the Government faced a similar situation with the Supreme Court upholding the 50:50 quota, but the crisis was overcome after the managements were coaxed into accepting the 75:25 formula in the interest of students.
Rathi in Kannada films
Monday, August 9, 2004
Bangalore-born Rathi is making her debut in Kannada films with Boy Friend. After acting in 12 Tamil films and one each in Telugu, Malayalam and English, she has finally returned to Bangalore to do a Kannada film. She shot to fame with director Cheran’s Solla Maranda Kadai. Her debut Telugu film Pallakilo Pelli Koothuru, directed by dancemaster Suchitra, is ready for release. In Boy Friend, she is paired with Dileepraj of Preethigaagi fame. Dileep has already acted in some TV serials, hence working for a bigger screen did not pose any problems for him. Abhinetri is appearing in an item song. Others in the cast are Kavitha, Mukhyamanthri Chandru, Chitra Shenoy, MN Suresh, Padma Vasanthi, Sriraksha, Padmini, Dr Vijay. It is being made under the banner of Sri Balamuri Ganapathi Productions. Shooting of the talkie portion and songs is complete. Director Janardhan is planning to release the film by August end. In the climax scene, either ex.CM SM Krishna or actor, director- playwright Girish Karnad would participate. Pavitra Jayaram, who was doing estate agency business, and Sasidhar, who produced many TV serials, are producing this film.
Raakshasa
Monday, August 9, 2004
The second shooting spell of Raakshasa, another film from producer Ramu’s banner, with Sivarajkumar in the lead, has been completed shooting. The third and final 40-day shooting schedule would be completed in August wherein many stunt and chasing scenes will be picturised at KGF, Hosur Road, Fun World and other places. Gajala, Amrutha, Pruthwiraj, Pavitra Lokiesh, Avinash, Dattatreya, Kokila Sadhu and Govindarao are also in the cast. Story and dialogues by Ranganath, cinematography by Krishnakumar, art by Mangalore Dinesh, stunts by Thriller Manju, choreography by Chinni Prakash and screenplay, music and direction by Sadhu Kokila are the major cast.
Dr Rajkumar recovering
Monday, August 9, 2004
Dr Rajkumar underwent a coronary angioplasty operation on July 21 at Wockhardt Hospital in Bangalore. The cardiologist who attended on the thespian said that the angioplasty was successful and the block was removed. The operation was performed by Dr Ranganath Nayak and others and lasted for one hour and 20 minutes. Meanwhile as tension built up in Bangalore and surroundings as the news of the thespian’s health broke out, Smt Parvathamma Rajkumar convinced the large gathering of fans who had gathered at the busy Cunningham Road where the Wockhardt is situated that Dr Rajkumar was doing fine. The thespian’s personal physician, Dr Ramana Rao, also told the media that Rajkumar was well and recovering rapidly. Rajkumar’s family is happy and relieved after the success of the operation, he added.
Saahukaara
Monday, August 9, 2004
After the hit film Yaare Nevu Cheluve, Ravichandran and Vishnuvardhan have joined hands to act in one more film Saahukaara. Sasikumar is also appearing in this big-budget venture which is currently in its re-recording stages. The film also stars Rambha, Anu Prabhakar, Sumitra, Rangaayana Raghu, Tennis Krishna, Sobhraj, Jyothilakshmi and Ashalatha. Produced by K. Manju, it has dialogues by Ravi Srivatsa, cinematography by GV Seetharam, choreography by Sundaram and Tarun and music by Rajesh Ramanath. Director Om Prakashrao has penned by the story and screenplay.
Kalaasipaalya
Monday, August 9, 2004
Kalaasipaalya, produced by Ramu under the banner of Ramu Enterprises, has completed the entire shooting of the film and presently dubbing work is in progress at Aswini Studios. After completing the rerecording and DTS work, it would be released by August end. Starring Darshan, Rakshita, Avinash, Chitra Shenoy, Ramesh Bhat and Padmavasanthi, the film has story and direction by Om Prakah Rao, dialogues by KV Raju, cinematography by Anaji Nagaraj, music by Venkat-Narayan, art by Nanjundaswamy, choreography by Tribhuvan and stunts by Palaniraj.
Joke Falls
Monday, August 9, 2004
A complete comic venture Joke Falls is being directed by Ashok Patil, who arrived from US to make Shaapa a few years ago. He has already picturised the talkie portion and shot a song at the famous Jog Falls. Starring Ramesh Aravind, Deepali, Dileep, Neetha, Dathaatreya, Ramesh Bhat and Kaasi, the film has story, screenplay, dialogues and direction by Ashok Patil, cinematography by Ashok Kashyap and choreography by Madan Harini.
Joke Falls shot at Jog Falls
Monday, August 9, 2004
Joke Falls shot at Jog Falls complete comic venture Joke Falls is being directed by Ashok Patil, who arrived from US to make Shaapa a few years ago. He has already picturised the talkie portion and shot a song at the famous Jog Falls. Starring Ramesh Aravind, Deepali, Dileep, Neetha, Dathaatreya, Ramesh Bhat and Kaasi, the film has story, screenplay, dialogues and direction by Ashok Patil, cinematography by Ashok Kashyap and choreography by Madan Harini.
Pakkadmane Hudugi
Monday, August 9, 2004
Except for one song, the entire shooting of Pakkadmane Hudugi which is the remake of the popular Hindi film Padosan, is complete. Alongwith Raghavendra Rajkumar, who makes a comeback after six years with this film, are Anant Nag, Mohan, Ranjita, Sumitra, Chitra Shenoy, Kari Basavaiah and BK Sankar. Being made under the banner of Sri Bhimaambika Cine Arts, the film is directed by MS Rajasekhar for producer JN Maruthi. Cinematography by Janardhan, music by Rajesh Ramanath, art by Ismail and editing by S Manohar are the other credits.
Transition period for Kannada films
Monday, August 9, 2004
In the first half of 2004, 41 Kannada films were released. Of these four were real hits, a couple did average business while the rest failed, though the makers’ claims might be different. Ravichandran’s Malla, Indrajith Lankesh’s Monalisa, Jaggesh and Ravichan-dran’s combination venture Ramakrishna and director Dayal’s Baa Baaro Rasika were big hits. Veerakannadiga starring Punit Rajkumar, Malasri’s Durgi, Sudeep’s Ranga S.S.L.C. made money, though Gandhinagar had not termed them as hits. Kadamba, the highly expected film of director Suresh Krishna and Vishnuvar-dhan, Ramesh Aravind’s Bisi Bisi were well appreciated, but didn’t do well at the box-office. Many more films came and belonged to the ‘also ran’ category, disappointing both the maker and the audience. Kavitha Lankesh’s Bimba and Chandrasekhar’s Poovaapara were termed as bridge films and as expected, could not make money. This shows that the audience are in favour of offbeat films, though the subjects were normal. They didn’t like slow paced films, but wanted speedy films. They liked comedy, as well as romantic films as seen in Ramakrishna and Baa Baaro Rasika respectively. They were not carried away by the hero’s image but gave prominence to the subjects. May be this is a transition period for the Kannada industry, which might reap in more profits in the second half of 2004. screenindia.com
Amrish Puri's southern links
Monday, August 9, 2004
The recent launch of "Prem Nagar" was an occasion for Bollywood veteran Amrish Puri to recall his southern connections. He said he accepted the offer of the bilingual film only because he had trust in the abilities of director S.V.R. Babu, who had earlier directed him in the Kannada film "Simhada Mari Sainya" way back in 1975. Puri's first Kannada film "Kaadu", directed by Girish Karnad, had won a national award. He worked for many Kannada films before he got a good break in Hindi films.
Kannada flop in Telugu
Monday, August 9, 2004
The failure of the Kannada film "Love", which launched young actor Auditya, has not deterred producer-director S.V. Rajendra Singh Babu from releasing the Telugu version that was made simultaneously. The Telugu film is titled "Prem Nagar" and stars Rakshitha. It has acquired an all-south flavour with the casting of Malayalam star Mohan Lal in an important role as well.
