Music magician Manisharma is in USA for his concert. Last year he did a month long tour, which was a good success, this year Devi Jewelers and Ruchi foods sponsored the tour along with TANA. After the jet lag he spoke at a length about his films and music exclusive for our readers.
Sri: It’s good to see you back in USA. You have a great following here. How do you feel for the fan base in USA?
It’s great to know that I do have fans here. I think I am the only music director who performed at both ATA and TANA ceremonies consequently so far. And I am glad about this and equally excited. This tour actually was supposed to start last month. The guys of Devi Jewelers whom I met last year became good friends to my family. They arranged the tour to launch the Ruchi foods. As the TANA also wants me to perform in their function, we postponed the program for a month to club both of them. Jagadish who was with us last year program is handling the media this year for the programs.
Sri : What is the uniqueness of this year’s concert?
Generally, for outside programs, non-filmy orchestra is hired. And use singers who don’t have film background. But in the case of my concert, we are having the complete orchestra who actually works for my films and also well-known singers like Mallikarjuna, Sunita, Karunya, Vinodbabu, Gangadhar and Vijayalaxmi to name a few are singing for us. For Chicago show Sunil is also coming. Directors Srinu Vaitla and Mehar Ramesh (director of NTR’s next film, Kantri) will also attend. So it will be a huge concert definitely.
Sri: What are your expectations from this tour!
I am expecting a culture like Bollywood’s musical concerts develop here among the Telugus in USA. One thing that I am not happy about is that people are demanding free tickets.. How they want to have free tickets? We come all the way with so many expectations to here. And I heard that most of them are calling for the free tickets, which dampens the spirit of the artists. Spending ten or twenty dollars on the tickets does not cost them much. My request to all the people is to buy the tickets and watch the show and please do not call for the free tickets. This will definitely not help us.
Sri: Now coming to the films! Today everyone wants to record his or her songs other than in Hyderabad. Why is it that. Some of our music directors even prefer recording in London, or Prague etc.. What difference you notice for film that recorded in Hyderabad/Chennai to London or some other foreign destinations.
In London or in Prague, you will have Philharmonic orchastra that will be advantage. For example, Rehman recorded Lagaan in London. Prasanna who is a guitarist organized that for him. For the films of that grandeur it may be required. But for the Telugu cinema market, I think Chennai or Hyderabad will be the best. See all my films are done either in Chennai or in Hyderabad, films like Pokiri or Okkadu or Chudalani Undi are all done here only. They are big hits in Telugu cinema. I think for us there is no need to go there. We can get good quality here also.
Sri: Which are the new bread of music directors that you feel will have longevity?
It all depends on different aspects. First things first, their creativity alone decides their stand and their work and behavior. On the creativity side, I liked Mickey J Meyer’s (of Tenth Class fame) in the recent times. How he fares in future is all depends on his involvement with the other people. But definitely he has a good
Sri: A R Rehman, Sivamani and you were used to be good friends before. As all are too busy now, how are the things going in between you...
Yes, we are still good friends. Shivamani often visits my house than Rehman and me meeting. But Rehman and I always catch up over the phones and we are still in touch with each other.
Sri : In Pokiri there is a bit which is inspired by “We will we will rock youâ€, an American song. Does American country music inspire you so much?
See, it might have done unintentionally but basically I do not like to copy other’s music. If I keep copying why would people come to me, they will go to others.
Sri : You gave hits to Balakrishna, Chiranjeevi, Mahesh, Pawan kalyan, Gopichand but could not do the same magic to Venkatesh or Nagarjuna?
For a film to become a hit, all crafts of filmmaking should shine well too. I can speak on my part. I did satisfactory work for Venky and Nagarjuna movies too. If you take Raavoyi Chandamama it was definitely a musical hit for Nagarjuna but the film could not hold audiences’ interest. Same goes to Venkatesh’s Subhaschandra Bose. “Allaneredi Pallu..†was a super hit song in the film. Music of Seenu (Venkatesh and Twinkle Khanna starrer) was also hit but the film was flop. So I give good music irrespective of the heros.
Sri : You are composing music for one of the most anticipated films – Chirutha. How did you feel when megastar Chiranjeevi personally invited you and asked you to compose music for his son’s film?
I felt really happy. I had composed music for most of debut movies. I did for Mahesh Babu’s first movie, Gopichand’s and R.B.chowdhury's son's films in Tamil. So I think they felt I am lucky for the new hero's. But I felt very much obliged to do the prestigious film, Chirutha. Chiranjeevi gaaru and mine is most successful combination. Hope same magic works for his son too. At present only one song is pending, all are recorded. I will complete it once I am back from the tour.
Sri: What about Athidhi and Okkamagadu?
Again both these films are very important and high profile projects. I share special rapport with Balakrishna and Mahesh Babu. But for the first time I am working with YVS Chowdhary for Okkamagadu and all the songs are completed. For Atithidi one song is pending.
Sri : Sometime back AVS publicized that his film, Roommates, was your 100th movie. Now you say contrary to that?
That was a mistake. Okkamagadu is my hundredth film. And I am happy that about it. YVS is one of the best directors who have a good music sense and command over it. Mark my word, the songs will rock everyone.
Sri : Will your son continue your legacy?
He is very much interested in the music. It is his decision to come into films or not.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Interview with YVS Chowdary OKKA MAGAADU
Director YVS Chowdary is one of the big directors in Tollywood. A die-hard fan of late NTR, he made big name by making super hits with newcomers (Devadas and Sri Seetaramula Kayanam Chootam Rarandi). He also tasted success by making films with commercially non-viable stars (Lahiri Lahiri Lahiri Lo). Now focus is on him as he is making most ambitious project - Okka Magadu with Nandamuri Balakrishna as hero. The film completed 70 percent of the shooting and is presently the shoot is going in Hyderabad. Sri Atluri met YVS Chowdary at Washington during the TANA meet and found about Okkamagadu and much more..
Sri: In recent times none of the movie titles created as much buzz and hype as yours Okka Magadu!
Yeah, true. Not only the title, the project itself has become talk of the town for all the film lovers. And I am happy about that.
Sri: What is the film all about!
To me, Okka Magaadu is none other than Late NTR garu. He is only person who fits to the powerful description of the word - Okka Magaadu. He was inspiration not just for fans like me for every Telugaite around the globe. As I could not do a film with him, I making the film with his true successor Balakrishna who has the similar qualities of his father. He is the only hero now who proved himself with in varied films like historical, period, and mythological films. Be it Narasimhnanaidu, Srikrishnarnjuna Vijayam or Bhiaravadweepam, he looked awesome and portrayed the characters with par excellence. So I met Balakrishna and told the story. He liked it and immediately asked us to start the project.
Sri: Such a big film needs a gigantic production. Should you have not given the job of producing the film to others?
Why should I not make it on my own banner? (laughs). To tell the truth, I need a free hand in such an ambitious project. Outside producers can't easily understand the necessity of the expenditure for this film.
Sri : You had directed Harikrishna in three films now you are doing with Balakrishna. You are already branded as 'Nandamuri' director!
I had directed Mahesh in Yuvaraju and Nagarjuna in Seetaramaraju. And recently Ram in Devadasu. I will make films with everyone. I don't believe in this 'branding' and camps. But I am NTR fan. Nothing wrong in that.
Sri: Balakrishna has many getups in the film and you had shot the film in various locations. What is the reason for selecting so many locations?
Because the story demands it. We have special make up for the Balakrishna and Simran in the film. So we had done the wigs by Hollywood make up artistes here in USA. Don't ask me about the getups and NBK's character because you will be thrilled to see them on the screen. Once you see the film you know what made us to go to all this locations. So far, we shot in Australia, Malaysia, Hyderabad, Rajamundry and various temples in Rayalaseema. For the songs you need a colorful backdrop so we choose these locations.
Sri : Recently some of the photos appeared on various media.
My only request to the fans and film lovers is please do not share the photos on web. The problem is that when we shoot the film outside, some of the fans capture them through their camera or cell phones and in the eager to show them to their friends and others, they send to the publications. But they should remember that they are killing the project. See we know how to project the hero and heroines. We know how to shoot them to look glamorously on the screen. The photos they take might not be of the good quality. So please do not publish them on websites or blogs.
Sri: What made you to take in Manisharma for this film? You had worked mostly with Keeravani and then Chakri.
Manisharma is the most talented music director in the present generation. All the seven songs have special 'color' and feel to them each and like a rainbow they are all blended beautifully. Though the composition was finished within a week, it took more than a month to complete the songs recording because Mani had taken a lot of care to work on the zingles and the rhythms to get on the right track.
He perfectly knows where to use the drumbeat or saxophone in the track (Suppose there are four tracks he knows where to use the right dose of saxophone in one track while the drum beat on the other). He works very hard to get the quality music. I am happy that Okka Magadu is his hundredth movie.
Apart from music, lyrics too have come out so well. In my opinion, Chandrabose is Sahitya Chicchara Pidugu. After Veturi garu and Seetarama Shastry garu, he is the gifted lyricist Tollywood has blessed with. He is the single card lyricist in our banner from Seetayya. He blends both director's needs and music director requirements. What is more he works fast and his lyrics are youthful and catchy yet carry good meaning.
Sri : When is Okka Magadu coming to the screen. People feel that you make films very leisurely.
If everything goes fine we are planning to release it for Dussera. I don't make films at leisure as most people assume but I am very cautious. I check and recheck everything so that my films come well. If I hurry the quality might not come. So I take caution about it and make it on my
Sri: How does your wife Geeta co-operates with you on this?
She has complete trust in me and without her I might not have became a producer at all. It is she who encouraged me to become a producer for Lahiri Lahir Lo when everything was going wrong at that time. I was supposed to start the film with friends as partners but they were against taking Harikrishna garu as hero. They felt that he could not pull off a lead hero but I felt he is the right choice for that role. They backed off in the last minute. It was Geeta and her family who supported me and made me as a producer.
As she knows it is a creative world and I need to have the tension free atmosphere, she understands me completely and gives me the comforts I need in time. That way I was very happy. She has very good knowledge of old Hindi and English films and remembers all of them. You just need to ask her and she will tell you in a jiffy. Ours is love marriage and we lead a happy life. We are blessed with a daughter too.
Sri: The reason for putting Bommarillu for your banner?
In the old times people used to say 'NTR Bomma Vachindi raa... ANR Bomma Vacchindi ra'. For them, Bomma means film. So we kept 'Bomma'rillu for our banner. A house that makes Bomma (films).
Sri: How did your TANA trip go?
YVS: I was invited by Sri Mulpuri Venkatrao garu for TANA. I am glad I came here. I met so many good human beings and it helped me to interact with many people who are nice and keeping our tradition more than what we do in India. The response was overwhelming.
Interveiw with S.S.Rajamouli
S.S. Rajamouli, the talented and successful director of a series of hits from Student No. 1 to Vikramarkudu, is ready to come up with a socio-fantasy for the first time with the film Yamadonga. As the film is getting ready for release, Rajamouli is busy with the editing, re-recording and other post-production work for the movie. Amidst the busy schedules, I could finally get a hold of him when he was in the recording theatre.
Sri: Is the film a remake of the Yamagola of the past?
Rajamouli: The basic plot is inspired by old films like Devantakudu and Yamagola where the hero dies and goes to yamalOkam and comes back to the earth. That's it, the similarities end there! Rest of the story has nothing to do with films of the past.
Sri: You had worked with Jr. NTR for Student No. 1 and Simhadri in the past too. What difference have you seen in him after this gap, on the sets of Yamadonga.
Rajamouli: He proved himself as a complete actor by the time of Simhadri itself . As a person, he changed... I think age and other things brought him maturity. He is now more matured and cooler than before.
Sri: This is the first time you are doing a socio-fantasy film. So how did you prepare for the film? Where did you get the inspiration for visuals?
Rajamouli: The legendary Vijaya films like Paathaala Bhairavi, Jagadekaveeruni Katha are my primary sources of inspiration. Those films stirred the creative juices in my childhood itself. The artistes, their body language, dialogue delivery are all etched into my memory permanently. The visuals for our film, of course, are developed by Senthil, Rama, Anand Sai, Kanal Kannan, our SFX supervisor an me.
Sri: How did you made NTR to lose the flab?
Rajamouli: (Laughs) Not me. You should ask and appreciate him for that. When we planned to make a movie, we wanted to make a complete family-oriented film. For that, the hero should look glamorous. So, before we started the film, we sat with him and discussed on looks and getups. He was already in process of shedding some of his weight, and after the discussions, he worked harder, controlled his diet, stopped working on weights, and slimmed down. He loves good food, but he restrained himself a lot for this film.
"It is nice to have Prabhas to act in the film of banner logo" Sri: How did you make Mohan Babu accept your film?
Rajamouli: When we planned the film, I had Mohan Babu gaaru and none else in my mind for this role, so much that I would have gone with a different project if he didn't accept the role! We went and approached him with the concept and narrated the story to him. He gladly agreed to do the film on one condition. While signing the film, he just said that he will be on sets with makeup five minutes before the scheduled time and will leave at the strike of six o' clock in the evening.
Sri: How was it to work with him? I mean, there are so many hearsays...
Rajamouli: I have not faced any problems, really! Before signing him, people warned me about his short temper, in fact. I worked with him for more than 37 days, and he was never in a foul mood ...nor was he late for the shoot ever! He was always in time and was always very jovial on the sets. However, unlike what we agreed upon, I never left him off free by 6:00 p.m. - not a single day! - but he was not at all upset. One day, after 8:30 p.m., he came to me and said that he'd stay back further to complete the scene that was planned to be done.
A wonderful person he is, he was generous in adjusting schedules, indeed! ...Actually, before his part of the shooting started, I asked Cherry to be on the sets while Mohan Babu gaari shooting was going on, so that he can take care of any issues that might rise. Seeing him and working with him on the first day itself, we found it unnecessary for Cherry to be on the sets for that purpose, and he was never on the sets after the first day, actually!
Sri: What kind of precautions did you take about his ornaments?
Rajamouli: As it's a socio-fantasy film and the role of the Yama appeared on silver screen many times in the past, we did not want to go for similar type of ornaments. We watched all the Yama-based films of the past and designed our own ornaments afresh. It took more than three months only to finalize Mohan Babu gaari getup for the film. We didn't like the designs the first couple of times, and we changed them again and again ...until they completely matched our thoughts!
Sri: The yamalOkam set seems very expensive!
Rajamouli: It was not all lavish from the beginning (laughs). See, in all the old films, except for the throne, most of the sets were tacky for yamalOkam. When we planned to erect a set, we wanted to have pillars which should go well with the throne, and a royal, palatial court to go with the pillar, ...we simply wanted a complete "set", and we erected one!
Sri: Don't you think such a huge set increases production costs?
Rajamouli: Yes, of course, the cost was increased, but it is the producer Cherry's money, not mine ...and he never complained about it!
Sri: I believe you're working in Ramoji Film City for the first time?
Rajamouli: True, this is my first at the RFC. To tell you the truth, I didn't have a good opinion on RFC earlier, but this film changed all my opinions on RFC. For example, the set we just spoke about would normally take three months for erection. Sekhar Babu gaaru, head of Mantrat at RFC and Kiran got us the set in less than half that time! The co-operation we got from the people in RFC is really amazing!
Sri: Mamatha was replaced a couple of times before this project in other films. And, anyway, why did you cast two heroines for the project?
Rajamouli: Regarding Mamatha's replacement in other projects in the past, I am never bothered about what projects one does before one does mine, what market one has, or anything of the sort. I only choose them if I think they suit the role, that's all, and so Mamatha is in! The film needs two heroines, and so we have them. I mean, they are not just here for the songs. The story's run itself needs two heroines.
Sri: I mean, I am curious to know where the heroines fit in the story that essentially revolves around NTR and Mohan Babu... and we already have three other celestial damsels.
Rajamouli: The film is a blend of both tracks - an entertaining track with Mohan Babu gaaru and NTR, and a love track between the hero and the heroines. And now, don't ask me more ! Watch the movie for the rest of the story (laughs
Sri: The release date seemed to have moved from 3rd of August originally to 15th of August now. What caused the delay? And, how many prints are you getting out?
Rajamouli: For one, I never said that it'd be released on the 3rd. It's getting ready for the independence day release, with 350 prints.
Sri: What's the response for the audio? You seem to have taken special care to curb piracy?
Rajamouli: Credit should go to my vadina (Mrs. Sreevalli Keeravani). It is her idea to include a flipbook and stickers along with the CD. In fact, her audio company Vel Records cut down the profits to make it happen. Most piracy is restricted by this step and we're getting more orders. The audio is a good hit, which is always a plus for the film.
Sri: What are your next projects? We keep hearing a new rumor a new name each time - that you're currently making a movie for Rayapati Sambasiva Rao, one for B.V. Prasad, one of Ramcharan Teja, etc. But, you are doing only one film per year, so when you will complete all this films?
NTR, Priyamani, Mamata Mohandas in Yamadonga Rajamouli: As you said yourself, they are rumors. I make films at my own sweet pace. And, I need a vacation of at least two months after I complete each movie. It's only after all this that we think of a story line, and then we sit and prepare a story based on a hero and the story setup. You can see why I can't take up movies any faster. I cannot do more films because I have offers.
Sri: You are presenting Mullapudi Vara's film. What made you to do that?
Rajamouli: I listened to his script and was very thrilled. I wanted to produce it myself, but I was busy with Yamadonga. I wanted to be a part of the project in some way though, and thus chose to present the film.
Sri: Will you continue producing films on your banner? Would you then give chance to other directors?
Rajamouli: As a clarification here, Yamadonga is being produced by Cherry and Urmila .They are just using my banner for this film. All the future productions of Vishwamitra creations will be produced by me. Yes, we are planning to produce films with other directors also under our banner, but that will take some time.
Sri: Oh, by the way, what is the reason for taking in Prabhas for the shooting for Vishwamitra Creations logo?
Will Prabhas appear in Yamadonga or will he stick only to the banner shoot?
Rajamouli: Vishwamitra is a king who became a brahmarshi. Logically, his body language should be royal. It's very nice of him to act in our banner logo, and that's about it.
Sri: The film apparently relies very much on the visuals. How are art and camera blended to throw a visual treat to the audience?
Rajamouli: Thinking of the big picture and having talented technicians was a key decision we made for our film. When we thought of creating periodic sets, we made sure we obtained visual references from the classic masterpieces. Anand Sai's yamalOkam set looked marvelous and was beyond our imagination. The set was designed on par with Hollywood standards. Senthil geared up with his lighting scheme and wanted to use soft lighting scheme matching the said standards. The set made me relax so much that I was concentrating on shot division until there was a dialogue between Senthil and Anand Sai about the lighting pattern.
Anand Sai was worried that Senthil's soft lighting scheme might not showcase the detailed artwork. There was a logical problem about enhancing the beauty of jewelry and set properties. Senthil, however, was persistent on his idea of using soft lighting. Senthil and I then worked on finding a solution about how our maestros managed to pull the hard task of projecting the glitter of the jewelry. With no advanced projection system in theatres using old techniques, it might be dominating the actors.
"I am planning to produce more films on my banner in the future." Senthil came up with a solution to make the stones shine on gold using regular household bare bulbs behind the camera, so that other lighting will not be affected but the stones studded in the ornaments are will still glitter. This is no rocket science to our cinematographers but this incident will remain memorable as it was conflicting with the work of my key talent - both of them lived up to their work while being creative. I really appreciate their working style on not compromising any element and still helping to drive towards a solution, while catering to my larger vision.
Sri: After Student No. 1, you have evolved as director in your way. There was hardly any influence of your guru K. Raghavendra Rao. But when we see the trailers of Yamadonga, we feel the influence of your guru (like he did for Jagadeka Veerudu-Atiloka Sundari). What are your comments on it?
Rajamouli: I am surprised that you found resemblances of Raghavendra Rao gaari work in Yamadonga trailers. To the best of my knowledge, his visual senses and color taste are completely different from mine. I do copy some of his shot making, but add my own zing to them. In any case, those shots were not put in the trailers.
Sri: You said the film has several graphics-based scenes. In most Telugu films though, the graphical work doesn't really look appealing, due to time constraint and/or budget. Even in your Chatrapathi, the special effect with the shark was not all that impressive. What cautions you have taken this time?
Rajamouli: There are hundred and one reasons why graphics might not work in a film. Time constraint is the major one among them. As far as Yamadonga is concerned, we shot most of the graphical shots in January and February itself, giving the FX guys enough time to work on the finer nuances.
Sri: Is it true that a graphic designer from Iran helped you in sets and graphics?
Rajamouli: Yes! Adel Adili, an Iranian, worked on the the exterior of Yama's palace and yamalOkam. He did a splendid job. We entrusted him with another job.
Sri: Are you satisfied with the final product of sets and graphics when you see the edited film now?
Rajamouli: Yes, yes, yes, ...and yes!
Sri: Is the film a remake of the Yamagola of the past?
Rajamouli: The basic plot is inspired by old films like Devantakudu and Yamagola where the hero dies and goes to yamalOkam and comes back to the earth. That's it, the similarities end there! Rest of the story has nothing to do with films of the past.
Sri: You had worked with Jr. NTR for Student No. 1 and Simhadri in the past too. What difference have you seen in him after this gap, on the sets of Yamadonga.
Rajamouli: He proved himself as a complete actor by the time of Simhadri itself . As a person, he changed... I think age and other things brought him maturity. He is now more matured and cooler than before.
Sri: This is the first time you are doing a socio-fantasy film. So how did you prepare for the film? Where did you get the inspiration for visuals?
Rajamouli: The legendary Vijaya films like Paathaala Bhairavi, Jagadekaveeruni Katha are my primary sources of inspiration. Those films stirred the creative juices in my childhood itself. The artistes, their body language, dialogue delivery are all etched into my memory permanently. The visuals for our film, of course, are developed by Senthil, Rama, Anand Sai, Kanal Kannan, our SFX supervisor an me.
Sri: How did you made NTR to lose the flab?
Rajamouli: (Laughs) Not me. You should ask and appreciate him for that. When we planned to make a movie, we wanted to make a complete family-oriented film. For that, the hero should look glamorous. So, before we started the film, we sat with him and discussed on looks and getups. He was already in process of shedding some of his weight, and after the discussions, he worked harder, controlled his diet, stopped working on weights, and slimmed down. He loves good food, but he restrained himself a lot for this film.
"It is nice to have Prabhas to act in the film of banner logo" Sri: How did you make Mohan Babu accept your film?
Rajamouli: When we planned the film, I had Mohan Babu gaaru and none else in my mind for this role, so much that I would have gone with a different project if he didn't accept the role! We went and approached him with the concept and narrated the story to him. He gladly agreed to do the film on one condition. While signing the film, he just said that he will be on sets with makeup five minutes before the scheduled time and will leave at the strike of six o' clock in the evening.
Sri: How was it to work with him? I mean, there are so many hearsays...
Rajamouli: I have not faced any problems, really! Before signing him, people warned me about his short temper, in fact. I worked with him for more than 37 days, and he was never in a foul mood ...nor was he late for the shoot ever! He was always in time and was always very jovial on the sets. However, unlike what we agreed upon, I never left him off free by 6:00 p.m. - not a single day! - but he was not at all upset. One day, after 8:30 p.m., he came to me and said that he'd stay back further to complete the scene that was planned to be done.
A wonderful person he is, he was generous in adjusting schedules, indeed! ...Actually, before his part of the shooting started, I asked Cherry to be on the sets while Mohan Babu gaari shooting was going on, so that he can take care of any issues that might rise. Seeing him and working with him on the first day itself, we found it unnecessary for Cherry to be on the sets for that purpose, and he was never on the sets after the first day, actually!
Sri: What kind of precautions did you take about his ornaments?
Rajamouli: As it's a socio-fantasy film and the role of the Yama appeared on silver screen many times in the past, we did not want to go for similar type of ornaments. We watched all the Yama-based films of the past and designed our own ornaments afresh. It took more than three months only to finalize Mohan Babu gaari getup for the film. We didn't like the designs the first couple of times, and we changed them again and again ...until they completely matched our thoughts!
Sri: The yamalOkam set seems very expensive!
Rajamouli: It was not all lavish from the beginning (laughs). See, in all the old films, except for the throne, most of the sets were tacky for yamalOkam. When we planned to erect a set, we wanted to have pillars which should go well with the throne, and a royal, palatial court to go with the pillar, ...we simply wanted a complete "set", and we erected one!
Sri: Don't you think such a huge set increases production costs?
Rajamouli: Yes, of course, the cost was increased, but it is the producer Cherry's money, not mine ...and he never complained about it!
Sri: I believe you're working in Ramoji Film City for the first time?
Rajamouli: True, this is my first at the RFC. To tell you the truth, I didn't have a good opinion on RFC earlier, but this film changed all my opinions on RFC. For example, the set we just spoke about would normally take three months for erection. Sekhar Babu gaaru, head of Mantrat at RFC and Kiran got us the set in less than half that time! The co-operation we got from the people in RFC is really amazing!
Sri: Mamatha was replaced a couple of times before this project in other films. And, anyway, why did you cast two heroines for the project?
Rajamouli: Regarding Mamatha's replacement in other projects in the past, I am never bothered about what projects one does before one does mine, what market one has, or anything of the sort. I only choose them if I think they suit the role, that's all, and so Mamatha is in! The film needs two heroines, and so we have them. I mean, they are not just here for the songs. The story's run itself needs two heroines.
Sri: I mean, I am curious to know where the heroines fit in the story that essentially revolves around NTR and Mohan Babu... and we already have three other celestial damsels.
Rajamouli: The film is a blend of both tracks - an entertaining track with Mohan Babu gaaru and NTR, and a love track between the hero and the heroines. And now, don't ask me more ! Watch the movie for the rest of the story (laughs
Sri: The release date seemed to have moved from 3rd of August originally to 15th of August now. What caused the delay? And, how many prints are you getting out?
Rajamouli: For one, I never said that it'd be released on the 3rd. It's getting ready for the independence day release, with 350 prints.
Sri: What's the response for the audio? You seem to have taken special care to curb piracy?
Rajamouli: Credit should go to my vadina (Mrs. Sreevalli Keeravani). It is her idea to include a flipbook and stickers along with the CD. In fact, her audio company Vel Records cut down the profits to make it happen. Most piracy is restricted by this step and we're getting more orders. The audio is a good hit, which is always a plus for the film.
Sri: What are your next projects? We keep hearing a new rumor a new name each time - that you're currently making a movie for Rayapati Sambasiva Rao, one for B.V. Prasad, one of Ramcharan Teja, etc. But, you are doing only one film per year, so when you will complete all this films?
NTR, Priyamani, Mamata Mohandas in Yamadonga Rajamouli: As you said yourself, they are rumors. I make films at my own sweet pace. And, I need a vacation of at least two months after I complete each movie. It's only after all this that we think of a story line, and then we sit and prepare a story based on a hero and the story setup. You can see why I can't take up movies any faster. I cannot do more films because I have offers.
Sri: You are presenting Mullapudi Vara's film. What made you to do that?
Rajamouli: I listened to his script and was very thrilled. I wanted to produce it myself, but I was busy with Yamadonga. I wanted to be a part of the project in some way though, and thus chose to present the film.
Sri: Will you continue producing films on your banner? Would you then give chance to other directors?
Rajamouli: As a clarification here, Yamadonga is being produced by Cherry and Urmila .They are just using my banner for this film. All the future productions of Vishwamitra creations will be produced by me. Yes, we are planning to produce films with other directors also under our banner, but that will take some time.
Sri: Oh, by the way, what is the reason for taking in Prabhas for the shooting for Vishwamitra Creations logo?
Will Prabhas appear in Yamadonga or will he stick only to the banner shoot?
Rajamouli: Vishwamitra is a king who became a brahmarshi. Logically, his body language should be royal. It's very nice of him to act in our banner logo, and that's about it.
Sri: The film apparently relies very much on the visuals. How are art and camera blended to throw a visual treat to the audience?
Rajamouli: Thinking of the big picture and having talented technicians was a key decision we made for our film. When we thought of creating periodic sets, we made sure we obtained visual references from the classic masterpieces. Anand Sai's yamalOkam set looked marvelous and was beyond our imagination. The set was designed on par with Hollywood standards. Senthil geared up with his lighting scheme and wanted to use soft lighting scheme matching the said standards. The set made me relax so much that I was concentrating on shot division until there was a dialogue between Senthil and Anand Sai about the lighting pattern.
Anand Sai was worried that Senthil's soft lighting scheme might not showcase the detailed artwork. There was a logical problem about enhancing the beauty of jewelry and set properties. Senthil, however, was persistent on his idea of using soft lighting. Senthil and I then worked on finding a solution about how our maestros managed to pull the hard task of projecting the glitter of the jewelry. With no advanced projection system in theatres using old techniques, it might be dominating the actors.
"I am planning to produce more films on my banner in the future." Senthil came up with a solution to make the stones shine on gold using regular household bare bulbs behind the camera, so that other lighting will not be affected but the stones studded in the ornaments are will still glitter. This is no rocket science to our cinematographers but this incident will remain memorable as it was conflicting with the work of my key talent - both of them lived up to their work while being creative. I really appreciate their working style on not compromising any element and still helping to drive towards a solution, while catering to my larger vision.
Sri: After Student No. 1, you have evolved as director in your way. There was hardly any influence of your guru K. Raghavendra Rao. But when we see the trailers of Yamadonga, we feel the influence of your guru (like he did for Jagadeka Veerudu-Atiloka Sundari). What are your comments on it?
Rajamouli: I am surprised that you found resemblances of Raghavendra Rao gaari work in Yamadonga trailers. To the best of my knowledge, his visual senses and color taste are completely different from mine. I do copy some of his shot making, but add my own zing to them. In any case, those shots were not put in the trailers.
Sri: You said the film has several graphics-based scenes. In most Telugu films though, the graphical work doesn't really look appealing, due to time constraint and/or budget. Even in your Chatrapathi, the special effect with the shark was not all that impressive. What cautions you have taken this time?
Rajamouli: There are hundred and one reasons why graphics might not work in a film. Time constraint is the major one among them. As far as Yamadonga is concerned, we shot most of the graphical shots in January and February itself, giving the FX guys enough time to work on the finer nuances.
Sri: Is it true that a graphic designer from Iran helped you in sets and graphics?
Rajamouli: Yes! Adel Adili, an Iranian, worked on the the exterior of Yama's palace and yamalOkam. He did a splendid job. We entrusted him with another job.
Sri: Are you satisfied with the final product of sets and graphics when you see the edited film now?
Rajamouli: Yes, yes, yes, ...and yes!
Yamadonga USA Release on Aug 15th
with 13 Prints 25 Theaters and More than 151 shows
It is our pleasure to announce that YAMADONGA movie is releasing in USA on Aug 15th with
highest number of prints for Jr NTR movie till date.Yamadonga is releasing in USA with 13
prints 25 theaters and more than 151 shows for the first week. Yamadonga is a socio-fantasy
entertainer that is going prestigious for various aspects. Yamadonga comes from the combination that delivered super hits like Student No.1 and Simhadri. SS Ramamouli directed the film and MM Keeravani scored music. Mohan Babu played the role of Lord Yama.
It is our pleasure to announce that YAMADONGA movie is releasing in USA on Aug 15th with
highest number of prints for Jr NTR movie till date.Yamadonga is releasing in USA with 13
prints 25 theaters and more than 151 shows for the first week. Yamadonga is a socio-fantasy
entertainer that is going prestigious for various aspects. Yamadonga comes from the combination that delivered super hits like Student No.1 and Simhadri. SS Ramamouli directed the film and MM Keeravani scored music. Mohan Babu played the role of Lord Yama.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
About Balakrishna’s Srikrishna Devaraya Act
Balakrishna played the role of Srikrishna Devaraya. Muralimohan, Parachuri, Jonnavittula, Suddala Ashok Teja, Harikrishna, Jayaprakash Reddy and Rajitha and others also enthralled the audiences. The play is about the Krishna Ddevaraya along with Timmarasu coming to the native land and feeling bad about the generation which not talking proper Telugu. Suddala and Jonnavittula who played their real life roles sang the greatness of Telugu. Both the songs are superb and thrilled the audience that has the lyrics showing the greatness of the Telugu language.
Balakrishna as Srikrishnadevraya looks so dashing and dignified and lived in the role. Murali Mohan does not have much to do but he looked very nice in the costume. After the show Balakrishna gave a speech for forty minutes without using a single word of English about the greatness of Telugu and also the people who came from motherland to abroad and the importance of retaining the cultural values. He also thanked the audience.
The play was directed by Balakrishna, which was written by Parachuri Gopalakrishna.
Balakrishna as Srikrishnadevraya looks so dashing and dignified and lived in the role. Murali Mohan does not have much to do but he looked very nice in the costume. After the show Balakrishna gave a speech for forty minutes without using a single word of English about the greatness of Telugu and also the people who came from motherland to abroad and the importance of retaining the cultural values. He also thanked the audience.
The play was directed by Balakrishna, which was written by Parachuri Gopalakrishna.
Interview with Prabhas
How you felt when your fans came from allover places from A.P. for ‘Chatrapathi’ 100 days function? Personally I don’t like functions but for my fans we celebrated. I am quite happy with ‘Chatrapthi’, so my fans. That’s why they came from far away places.
How you personally felt about ‘Chatrapathi’?
‘Chatrapathi’ is one of my favorite films. It’s a memorable film in my career. The way Rajamouli depicted my character is quite impressed. For giving such a good film like ‘Chatrapathi’, I am thankful to him.
Rajamouli announced in the function, that he wants to do a film like ‘Bobbili Bramhanna’ casting your uncle Krishnam Raju in older character and you a
I am quite happy. We are nurturing this idea of me and uncle acting together in one film when suddenly Rajamouli announced it, I am quite thrilled. Definitely we will do that film with Rajamouli.
How are you feeling about ‘Pournami’ and M.S.Raju?
‘Pournami’ will remain in audience’s hearts, I am sure. What can I say about M.S.Raju. He is such a great maker. None can produce ‘Pournami’ except him.
Which films you agreed to do?
Dil Raju’s ‘Munna’ and Vinayak’s film.
What are highlights of ‘Munna’?
It’s a stylized film. Background is quite mass but my character is romantically youthful.
Are you happy with Vamsi’s style because it’s his first film?
Vamsi, is a good friend of mine. When he narrated this subject, I am impressed. Actually I am thinking of doing a film with Dil Raju. So finally it happened.
How are you feeling that you are going to work with Vinay?
Thank God! It finally happened. Not only I but my fans also eagerly waiting to work with such a director like Vinay. The subject is a Kannada remake of ‘Jogi’ but altered to our style.
Have you seen any of Vinay’s films?
Almost I have seen all his films. I have confidence our combination really can work wonders. We became almost close. When he narrates a scene, it makes one so hair rising. Now I know why heroes eagerly like to work with him. Rajamouli and Vinay make us so enthusiastic about our characters.
How you designed your future?
I don’t know any designs but want to do very good films to make my audience to be happy.
We have seen you working day and night for ‘Pournami’. Don’t you think that much hard work makes you tired?
Even though I am doing a film after film, I am not finding time to relax. So I am planning to take at least 10 days off for a good rest.
From Eswar to Pournami as an artist what’s you growth?strong>
Naturally doing a film, gives you good experience, that too with a good director. When Varsham and Chatrapathi happened, I am really encouraged with those films successes.
What’s your goal?
Doing good films that should satisfies me as well as my audience.
In this rat race, in a very short period, you became a star? What kind of precautions you are going to take to keep this position?
I don’t know whether I am in a strong position. But I am very cautious about each film. I am taking a maximum care to see my each film should be hit. Like a first one, I am always wants to put all myself in each of my films.
How come, in such a young age, you are so career oriented?
I also don’t know how come I became like this. Till 18 to 20 years, I am the laziest person. When college time used to be at 8 A.M. I used to wake up around 10 or 11 A.M. But I don’t know what made me to do this much hard work. Must be I am really enjoying my work. If I don’t, others will replace me.
What you will do in your spare time?
I am not a party going guy. I love to see films- all kind of films and languages.
Don’t you think its bit too much, after doing shooting, again in home seeing a film?
I don’t think so! Some times watching a film really relaxes me. When I return home, after 3 A.M., I can’t go to sleep. So I watch a film in my home theatre and get ready to go for a morning shoot without sleep.
How you felt when you heard you have a tremendous following among teenage girls?
I am really lucky. Actually I am surprised. Because all I did are mass films. From Varsham, I got this strong following of girls. So even though I did a mass film like ‘Chatrapthi’, teenage girls come to view it. So that makes it a steady hit. So I got this plus point of having teenage girls as fans.
Do you take any care, when script is readying, for these teenage girls to be interested?
Not exactly, but some time yes! Like in ‘Pournami’ – I hope they like what we put up for them specially.
How much importance, you give to your fans?
I always discuss about my career with my fans. Past-present-future- every commitment, I discuss with them. They are insisting me to do a film with Vinay – so finally it happened.
What is your dream role?
Now I don’t have any. Once I used to have. Now after a mass film, I like to do an entertainer. Actually after ‘Chatrapathi’, I tried for an entertainer. But it didn’t happen. So I committed Vinay’s film.
For fight sequences you are really a dare devil, don’t you think it’s risky?
But it’s inevitable. My audiences are expecting something thrillingly different for each of my films. Peter Haynes is my favorite fight master. He does wonders.
You are showing quite a good taste in dances. How come?
Actually I didn’t learn dance formally anywhere. But basically I got this interest from my childhood. That interest helped me to do dances gracefully. But in my first film I am a bit awkward. But now I think I am okay. But I have still to improve.
Do you have friends in industry?
Yeah! Gopichand is my good friend.
How you personally felt about ‘Chatrapathi’?
‘Chatrapathi’ is one of my favorite films. It’s a memorable film in my career. The way Rajamouli depicted my character is quite impressed. For giving such a good film like ‘Chatrapathi’, I am thankful to him.
Rajamouli announced in the function, that he wants to do a film like ‘Bobbili Bramhanna’ casting your uncle Krishnam Raju in older character and you a
I am quite happy. We are nurturing this idea of me and uncle acting together in one film when suddenly Rajamouli announced it, I am quite thrilled. Definitely we will do that film with Rajamouli.
How are you feeling about ‘Pournami’ and M.S.Raju?
‘Pournami’ will remain in audience’s hearts, I am sure. What can I say about M.S.Raju. He is such a great maker. None can produce ‘Pournami’ except him.
Which films you agreed to do?
Dil Raju’s ‘Munna’ and Vinayak’s film.
What are highlights of ‘Munna’?
It’s a stylized film. Background is quite mass but my character is romantically youthful.
Are you happy with Vamsi’s style because it’s his first film?
Vamsi, is a good friend of mine. When he narrated this subject, I am impressed. Actually I am thinking of doing a film with Dil Raju. So finally it happened.
How are you feeling that you are going to work with Vinay?
Thank God! It finally happened. Not only I but my fans also eagerly waiting to work with such a director like Vinay. The subject is a Kannada remake of ‘Jogi’ but altered to our style.
Have you seen any of Vinay’s films?
Almost I have seen all his films. I have confidence our combination really can work wonders. We became almost close. When he narrates a scene, it makes one so hair rising. Now I know why heroes eagerly like to work with him. Rajamouli and Vinay make us so enthusiastic about our characters.
How you designed your future?
I don’t know any designs but want to do very good films to make my audience to be happy.
We have seen you working day and night for ‘Pournami’. Don’t you think that much hard work makes you tired?
Even though I am doing a film after film, I am not finding time to relax. So I am planning to take at least 10 days off for a good rest.
From Eswar to Pournami as an artist what’s you growth?strong>
Naturally doing a film, gives you good experience, that too with a good director. When Varsham and Chatrapathi happened, I am really encouraged with those films successes.
What’s your goal?
Doing good films that should satisfies me as well as my audience.
In this rat race, in a very short period, you became a star? What kind of precautions you are going to take to keep this position?
I don’t know whether I am in a strong position. But I am very cautious about each film. I am taking a maximum care to see my each film should be hit. Like a first one, I am always wants to put all myself in each of my films.
How come, in such a young age, you are so career oriented?
I also don’t know how come I became like this. Till 18 to 20 years, I am the laziest person. When college time used to be at 8 A.M. I used to wake up around 10 or 11 A.M. But I don’t know what made me to do this much hard work. Must be I am really enjoying my work. If I don’t, others will replace me.
What you will do in your spare time?
I am not a party going guy. I love to see films- all kind of films and languages.
Don’t you think its bit too much, after doing shooting, again in home seeing a film?
I don’t think so! Some times watching a film really relaxes me. When I return home, after 3 A.M., I can’t go to sleep. So I watch a film in my home theatre and get ready to go for a morning shoot without sleep.
How you felt when you heard you have a tremendous following among teenage girls?
I am really lucky. Actually I am surprised. Because all I did are mass films. From Varsham, I got this strong following of girls. So even though I did a mass film like ‘Chatrapthi’, teenage girls come to view it. So that makes it a steady hit. So I got this plus point of having teenage girls as fans.
Do you take any care, when script is readying, for these teenage girls to be interested?
Not exactly, but some time yes! Like in ‘Pournami’ – I hope they like what we put up for them specially.
How much importance, you give to your fans?
I always discuss about my career with my fans. Past-present-future- every commitment, I discuss with them. They are insisting me to do a film with Vinay – so finally it happened.
What is your dream role?
Now I don’t have any. Once I used to have. Now after a mass film, I like to do an entertainer. Actually after ‘Chatrapathi’, I tried for an entertainer. But it didn’t happen. So I committed Vinay’s film.
For fight sequences you are really a dare devil, don’t you think it’s risky?
But it’s inevitable. My audiences are expecting something thrillingly different for each of my films. Peter Haynes is my favorite fight master. He does wonders.
You are showing quite a good taste in dances. How come?
Actually I didn’t learn dance formally anywhere. But basically I got this interest from my childhood. That interest helped me to do dances gracefully. But in my first film I am a bit awkward. But now I think I am okay. But I have still to improve.
Do you have friends in industry?
Yeah! Gopichand is my good friend.
FILMGRAPHY OF PRABHAS
Released Movies
Co-Stars:
Sridevi,SivaKrishna,Revathi
Director:
Jayanth C. Paranjee
Producer:
Ashok Kumar
Co-Stars:
Anshu,Swetha,Simran
Director:
Suresh Krishna
Producer:
GVG Raju, SrinivasaRaju
Co-Stars:
Trisha,Prakashraj,Gopichand
Director:
Sobhan
Producer:
MS Raju
Co-Stars:
Arti Agarwal,Ramya Krishna,Nasser
Director:
B.Gopal
Producer:
Addala Chanti
Co-Stars:
Charmy, Asin, Prakash Raj
Director:
KrishnaVamsi
Producer:
Venkatraju,Sivaraju
Co-Stars:
Shriya, Bhanupriya
Director:
S.S. Rajamouli
Producer:
B.V.S.N.Prasad
Co-Stars:
Charmy, Trisha
Director:
Prabhudeva
Producer:
MS Raju
Forthcoming Movies
Co-Stars:
Illeana
Director:
Vamsi Paidipally
Producer:
'DIL' Raju
Co-Stars:
Nayana Tara
Director:
VV Vinayak
Producer:
Eeshwari Art pictures
Director:
Amma Rajasekhar
Producer:
AM Ratnam
Co-Stars:
Sridevi,SivaKrishna,Revathi
Director:
Jayanth C. Paranjee
Producer:
Ashok Kumar
Co-Stars:
Anshu,Swetha,Simran
Director:
Suresh Krishna
Producer:
GVG Raju, SrinivasaRaju
Co-Stars:
Trisha,Prakashraj,Gopichand
Director:
Sobhan
Producer:
MS Raju
Co-Stars:
Arti Agarwal,Ramya Krishna,Nasser
Director:
B.Gopal
Producer:
Addala Chanti
Co-Stars:
Charmy, Asin, Prakash Raj
Director:
KrishnaVamsi
Producer:
Venkatraju,Sivaraju
Co-Stars:
Shriya, Bhanupriya
Director:
S.S. Rajamouli
Producer:
B.V.S.N.Prasad
Co-Stars:
Charmy, Trisha
Director:
Prabhudeva
Producer:
MS Raju
Forthcoming Movies
Co-Stars:
Illeana
Director:
Vamsi Paidipally
Producer:
'DIL' Raju
Co-Stars:
Nayana Tara
Director:
VV Vinayak
Producer:
Eeshwari Art pictures
Director:
Amma Rajasekhar
Producer:
AM Ratnam
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