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
PRABHAS BIOGRAPHY
Full Name: Prabhas Uppalapati
Nephew of Rebel Star - Shri KrishnamRaju
Birth Date: 23 October
Star Sign: Scorpio
Father: U.Suryanarayana Raju
Mother: Siva Kumari
Sister: Pragathi
Brother: Prabodh
Height: 6' 2"
Home Address : Jublee Hills,Hyderabad
Favourites
Hero : Krishnam Raju
Heroine : Savitri
Directors : Maniratnam,RamGopalVarma
Musician: A.R.Rahman
Nephew of Rebel Star - Shri KrishnamRaju
Birth Date: 23 October
Star Sign: Scorpio
Father: U.Suryanarayana Raju
Mother: Siva Kumari
Sister: Pragathi
Brother: Prabodh
Height: 6' 2"
Home Address : Jublee Hills,Hyderabad
Favourites
Hero : Krishnam Raju
Heroine : Savitri
Directors : Maniratnam,RamGopalVarma
Musician: A.R.Rahman
Victory Venkatesh : Always at his best
Daggupati Venkatesh (Venki) has everything at his disposal that a debutant-actor dreams about. A producer-dad popularly known as 'Star Producer' Dr D Rama Naidu is doyen of Tollywood, a brother as a mega producer D Suresh Babu and their production company has completed 97 block-busters made in all regional languages within a span of 33 years and racing towards 100th film. But yet, he was a reluctant entrant to the tinsel world. Venki, after obtaining an M B A in the U.S., returned to look after the family business. But destiny willed otherwise and on the advice of his father, he took to acting. Very few film stars will have the luck of giving a super hit with their first film. The lucky star Venki is twice lucky because not only his first film ‘Kaliyuga Pandavulu’ but also his first Hindi film ‘Anari’ was a superhit. Venki, macho, handsome and brawny, has not only luck favoring him but also has an inherent talent which seems to flower film after film. Non controversial, casual, calm and charming, he is all that and more. With three hits in the last year, he is now the hottest star. What makes him so unique among the prosaic bunch of stars and starlets is his amazing versatility and ability to adapt to any kind of role. Having donned a variety of characters from that of a lover boy in 'Preminchukundam Raa' to the dual role of a father and son in 'Suryavamsam' and that of an intense and socially conscious journalist in 'Ganesh', Venkatesh has been able to get kudos both from the classes and masses.He also has a natural streak of comedy in him, which revels his admirers ranging from puny little kids to adoring adolescents and appreciating adults. It’s his commitment towards his work and uncompromising audacity in venturing into the risky and the slippery plots that catapulted him to the abode he now occupies among the all time greats. From the regular masala movies to meaningful roles in other commercials, Venki has come a long way. Today he is one actor who is in the top bracket in Telugu cinema, to defy the viscid word called 'image'. Take his recent films, 'Intlo illalu vantintlo priyuralu', 'Pavithrabandam' apart from ofcourse the award winning films 'Darmachakram', 'Ganesh', they are without the gimmicks or fiery fights. We don't see the angry young man as he was known earlier, but as a man next door. And the trend continued with block busters such as 'Preminchukundam raa', 'Premante dera', 'Raja' which is the biggest hit in 70 years of Telugu Cinema and 'Seenu'. Riding high on the crest of success both as an artiste of caliber and as a box-office hit.
Interview with Arti Agarwal
She made a silent entry into Bollywood with a disaster called Pagalpan. But as luck would have it, our ever-eager heroine-hunting Telugu producers noticed her and she did not hesitate to tread the Bollywood-rejects-Tollywood-accepts path to enter the Telugu film industry. Only that the acceptance in her case has been overwhelming.
From her highly successful debut film Nuvvu Naaku Nachhav, to her latest mega success Vasantham, she has tasted phenomenal success. Its no exaggeration that she is now being called the 'lady-luck' of Telugu film industry, acting with the same ease and élan with youth stars and super stars alike. .
Tell us about your background
I was born and brought up in New Jersey, USA. I attended jazz classes in New Jersey and learnt acting at Asha Chandra Acting Institute in Bombay. My parents and relatives in USA are into hotel business and few of them are doctors. None of them have any contacts with the film industry.
How did you get your first break?
I attended a concert by Sunil Shetty and Govinda in USA. Sunil Shetty was looking for a girl from the audience who could dance along with him on the stage. I was wearing a prominent looking white dress and waving hands at him. He asked me to come onto the dais and I danced along with him. After the concert he called me backstage and told me that I looked very confident and that I should think about entering the film industry. I took it as joke then.
During my summer break I came to India to learn acting in Asha Chandra Institute. Rikku (Rakesh Nath -Madhuri Dixit's secretary) called me and offered me heroine's role opposite his son Karan Nath in Hindi film Pagalpan. That's how I got my first break.
How did you get a break in Telugu films?
After Pagalpan released, I went back to USA. Jayant called me for Takkari Donga and Suresh Babu also called me at the same time for Nuvvu Naaku Nachav. I guess they saw my photographs in Bombay. I could not do Takkari Donga as I was signed for Nuvvu Naaku Nachav.
How did you over come language barrier in Telugu films?
Initially I found myself out of place. Everybody knows the language and I was the only person sitting quietly without having any idea about what's happening on the sets. But over a period of time I started understanding it because people out here are very nice and understanding. But since I have decided to make it a career and stay here, I started liking what I am doing and I absolutely love working in Telugu films.
What are you studying now?
I just finished my +2 and I am taking a break. I would be entering my first year of college soon.
Being an American born desi, did u face any cultural conflicts in USA?
My parents always maintained Indian culture in our house. All our family members get together for every Indian festival. We are not allowed to speak English in our house. Only Gujarathi - my mother tongue - is allowed. Every summer, we used to visit India to meet our grand parents. Even being in USA, we had the Indian culture alive in our upbringing.
I used to go to a school that is dominated by Spanish people, whites and blacks. There were not many Indians in the school I studied. People used to think that I was a Puerto Rican. I shared my friends' hobbies. So I never felt out of place.
You are considered as the 'lady-luck' in Telugu film Industry, as all the films you acted in so far have become hits. How do you feel about it?
I feel really great that producers are considering me that way. But I would like to honestly admit that it's the teamwork and not just me that can contribute towards the success. Everybody is putting his or her best efforts. Moreover, my choice of movies until now I guess was right.
You have put on weight after Nuvvu Naaku Nachav. Is it an intentional move to please Telugu people who have a liking towards chubby heroines?
(grins) It's nothing like that. I am doing so many outdoor shoots and I have no time. I also miss USA food. Because of my hectic schedules I don't get enough time to go to the gym.
Any plans of to(u)ning your body?
Yes! I really have to do it.
Tell us your observation about each and every Telugu hero you have worked with so far?
I always have a special place for Venky in my heart. I really love him. He is down to earth and very professional. I did not feel like I was working with a big star when I was shooting with him.
I do gel well with Tarun as we belong to the same age group. NTR is like a little kid. He is always fooling around in the sets. He never lets you sit quite.
Working with Chiranjeevi garu was an experience in itself. The credit for my performance in Indra goes to Chiranjeevi garu. He helped me with each and every shot. I learnt a lot from him. Initially I was discouraged by some people that if I act with elder heroes, I might be graduated to a stage where I would be unfit to be paired up with youth heroes. But my father pushed me into doing it. After working with him, I realized that it was a biggest opportunity
I get along very well with Mahesh Babu. We worked like a family along with the production team for the Bobby.
I am currently doing Nee Sneham with Uday Kiran. He is a very quite person. It was nice working with him. I really don't know him much. We hardly spoke to each other.
What are your friends' reactions after seeing you on the big screen?
I was 16 when Pagalpan was released. My make-up, costumes and hair-do were bad because it was a low budget film. But all my Telugu films were released in USA. Even my American friends go to the theaters to watch my Telugu films. They are absolutely thrilled watching me on the big screen.
Which is your favorite role till date?
Of half of the offers I get, heroine needs to expose. And I never wanted to do that. I always felt that there is more to heroine than just running around trees, exposing and showing off her body. I feel that a good actress is the one who shows expression from face not from the body. Only Snehalatha Reddy character is different from the other characters I played.
Things seem to have gone wrong between you and Mohan Babu. Tell us the real version.
I was new to this world. I heard so many things about Mohan Babu like he slaps heroines. When Mohan Babu called up my dad to talk about casting me in his film, my dad told him that I was afraid of him. Then Mohan Babu called me up and assured that he would treat me like a princess as long as I worked hard and was disciplined. He sounded very nice over the phone. But again, I was new to this place and I was somehow not comfortable.
Your character in Nuvvu Naaku Nachav has lot of sensibility in it and all other roles so far have been more of glamour-oriented. Can we expect a film with such a nice characterization from you in the future?
Yes. My character is Nee Sneham would fit that bill. I am playing a simple middle class girl who always wears half-sarees and chudidaars.
Tell us about your character in Bobby?
I am playing the role of Bhagyamati in Bobby. My character belongs so much to the present generation. She is youthful and bubbly and at the same time very emotional.
Is Bobby inspired by Romeo and Juliet?
Every story has love angle attached to it. This film is about a celluloid dream come true of director Sobhan's love story. I would not say that it's a film based on Romeo and Juliet. But it's something similar to it.
How do you manage dances in films?
It mostly depends on the choreographers. I feel most comfortable working with Lawrence. I also like Raja Sekhar Master. Both of them know what I can do and what I cannot. Suchitra is good at songs with feelings. I got a great response for Ela Ela (Nuvvu Leka Nenu Lenu) that is composed by Suchitra. After that song, lots of choreographers are encouraging me to come up with expressions similar to those in song. All that credit goes to Suchitra.
What are your future films?
I signed a film with Bala Krishna garu that starts in November in the direction of B Gopal. I am also doing a film with Venky for Suresh Productions for which the script is not yet finalized. I am also doing a film with NTR, which would start in November 2003. Negotiations for other films are going on and I have not confirmed anymore yet.
What is your future career plan? You can't continue as heroine forever
That's the reason why I am simultaneously concentrating on my studies. Once I stop acting in films, I have education to rely on. I could do medicine and continue that as my profession. I give priority to education over acting.
What's your date of birth?
March 5th. My sun sign is Pisces. I believe in sun signs and I read my horoscope daily.
Your sister Aditi Agrawal is making her debut with Gangotri. Tell us about her!
I am told that she is doing really well. She is a slimmer version of me. K Raghavendra Rao garu and her co-star Allu Arjun told me that she is amazing at the work. I am proud of her.
Do you have any other siblings?
I have a brother who is one year elder to me. He is very good in sports. He is a good basketball player. He is interested in technical aspects of movies.
Tell us about your -
Favorite books and authors?
My favorite book is 'Conversations with God'. I must have read this book at least five times. I love reading books by author Danielle Steel.
Favorite movies?
My favorite film is A walk to remember. I like watching any movie starring Tom Cruise and Sylvester Stallone. My favorite movie of Sylvester is Cliff Hanger.
Favorite food?
I liked Mexican and Italian food in USA. Here in Hyderabad, I like pizzas. The Mexican food made in Hyderabad restaurants is very indianized. I love Chinese food here. But I am sick and tired of idli and dosa stuff that is served every morning. I even miss my breakfast because of that. One thing I cannot live without is sweets. Now you know why I am so chubby! My sister Aditi is fond of ice creams.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
My strength is my family and my weakness is my love for sweets. Also my friends say that I am over ambitious. I believe in the age-old adage 'Hard work always pays'.
Don't you feel sad that at this tender age, you gave up you college life to work hard in a film industry?
I am only 18 now. For an ordinary girl, 18 is the age when she enjoys, hangs out with friends. Every girl at my age enjoys. But I am working here like a dog. But one thing keeps me inspiring all the time that is I am on the TV of every house and in the hearts of every Telugu movie lover.
Any message to visitors?
I am sure people visiting such a good site are good too and such good people always appreciate good films. Enjoy all the good things in life, which needless to say, include all my films.
geovisit();
From her highly successful debut film Nuvvu Naaku Nachhav, to her latest mega success Vasantham, she has tasted phenomenal success. Its no exaggeration that she is now being called the 'lady-luck' of Telugu film industry, acting with the same ease and élan with youth stars and super stars alike. .
Tell us about your background
I was born and brought up in New Jersey, USA. I attended jazz classes in New Jersey and learnt acting at Asha Chandra Acting Institute in Bombay. My parents and relatives in USA are into hotel business and few of them are doctors. None of them have any contacts with the film industry.
How did you get your first break?
I attended a concert by Sunil Shetty and Govinda in USA. Sunil Shetty was looking for a girl from the audience who could dance along with him on the stage. I was wearing a prominent looking white dress and waving hands at him. He asked me to come onto the dais and I danced along with him. After the concert he called me backstage and told me that I looked very confident and that I should think about entering the film industry. I took it as joke then.
During my summer break I came to India to learn acting in Asha Chandra Institute. Rikku (Rakesh Nath -Madhuri Dixit's secretary) called me and offered me heroine's role opposite his son Karan Nath in Hindi film Pagalpan. That's how I got my first break.
How did you get a break in Telugu films?
After Pagalpan released, I went back to USA. Jayant called me for Takkari Donga and Suresh Babu also called me at the same time for Nuvvu Naaku Nachav. I guess they saw my photographs in Bombay. I could not do Takkari Donga as I was signed for Nuvvu Naaku Nachav.
How did you over come language barrier in Telugu films?
Initially I found myself out of place. Everybody knows the language and I was the only person sitting quietly without having any idea about what's happening on the sets. But over a period of time I started understanding it because people out here are very nice and understanding. But since I have decided to make it a career and stay here, I started liking what I am doing and I absolutely love working in Telugu films.
What are you studying now?
I just finished my +2 and I am taking a break. I would be entering my first year of college soon.
Being an American born desi, did u face any cultural conflicts in USA?
My parents always maintained Indian culture in our house. All our family members get together for every Indian festival. We are not allowed to speak English in our house. Only Gujarathi - my mother tongue - is allowed. Every summer, we used to visit India to meet our grand parents. Even being in USA, we had the Indian culture alive in our upbringing.
I used to go to a school that is dominated by Spanish people, whites and blacks. There were not many Indians in the school I studied. People used to think that I was a Puerto Rican. I shared my friends' hobbies. So I never felt out of place.
You are considered as the 'lady-luck' in Telugu film Industry, as all the films you acted in so far have become hits. How do you feel about it?
I feel really great that producers are considering me that way. But I would like to honestly admit that it's the teamwork and not just me that can contribute towards the success. Everybody is putting his or her best efforts. Moreover, my choice of movies until now I guess was right.
You have put on weight after Nuvvu Naaku Nachav. Is it an intentional move to please Telugu people who have a liking towards chubby heroines?
(grins) It's nothing like that. I am doing so many outdoor shoots and I have no time. I also miss USA food. Because of my hectic schedules I don't get enough time to go to the gym.
Any plans of to(u)ning your body?
Yes! I really have to do it.
Tell us your observation about each and every Telugu hero you have worked with so far?
I always have a special place for Venky in my heart. I really love him. He is down to earth and very professional. I did not feel like I was working with a big star when I was shooting with him.
I do gel well with Tarun as we belong to the same age group. NTR is like a little kid. He is always fooling around in the sets. He never lets you sit quite.
Working with Chiranjeevi garu was an experience in itself. The credit for my performance in Indra goes to Chiranjeevi garu. He helped me with each and every shot. I learnt a lot from him. Initially I was discouraged by some people that if I act with elder heroes, I might be graduated to a stage where I would be unfit to be paired up with youth heroes. But my father pushed me into doing it. After working with him, I realized that it was a biggest opportunity
I get along very well with Mahesh Babu. We worked like a family along with the production team for the Bobby.
I am currently doing Nee Sneham with Uday Kiran. He is a very quite person. It was nice working with him. I really don't know him much. We hardly spoke to each other.
What are your friends' reactions after seeing you on the big screen?
I was 16 when Pagalpan was released. My make-up, costumes and hair-do were bad because it was a low budget film. But all my Telugu films were released in USA. Even my American friends go to the theaters to watch my Telugu films. They are absolutely thrilled watching me on the big screen.
Which is your favorite role till date?
Of half of the offers I get, heroine needs to expose. And I never wanted to do that. I always felt that there is more to heroine than just running around trees, exposing and showing off her body. I feel that a good actress is the one who shows expression from face not from the body. Only Snehalatha Reddy character is different from the other characters I played.
Things seem to have gone wrong between you and Mohan Babu. Tell us the real version.
I was new to this world. I heard so many things about Mohan Babu like he slaps heroines. When Mohan Babu called up my dad to talk about casting me in his film, my dad told him that I was afraid of him. Then Mohan Babu called me up and assured that he would treat me like a princess as long as I worked hard and was disciplined. He sounded very nice over the phone. But again, I was new to this place and I was somehow not comfortable.
Your character in Nuvvu Naaku Nachav has lot of sensibility in it and all other roles so far have been more of glamour-oriented. Can we expect a film with such a nice characterization from you in the future?
Yes. My character is Nee Sneham would fit that bill. I am playing a simple middle class girl who always wears half-sarees and chudidaars.
Tell us about your character in Bobby?
I am playing the role of Bhagyamati in Bobby. My character belongs so much to the present generation. She is youthful and bubbly and at the same time very emotional.
Is Bobby inspired by Romeo and Juliet?
Every story has love angle attached to it. This film is about a celluloid dream come true of director Sobhan's love story. I would not say that it's a film based on Romeo and Juliet. But it's something similar to it.
How do you manage dances in films?
It mostly depends on the choreographers. I feel most comfortable working with Lawrence. I also like Raja Sekhar Master. Both of them know what I can do and what I cannot. Suchitra is good at songs with feelings. I got a great response for Ela Ela (Nuvvu Leka Nenu Lenu) that is composed by Suchitra. After that song, lots of choreographers are encouraging me to come up with expressions similar to those in song. All that credit goes to Suchitra.
What are your future films?
I signed a film with Bala Krishna garu that starts in November in the direction of B Gopal. I am also doing a film with Venky for Suresh Productions for which the script is not yet finalized. I am also doing a film with NTR, which would start in November 2003. Negotiations for other films are going on and I have not confirmed anymore yet.
What is your future career plan? You can't continue as heroine forever
That's the reason why I am simultaneously concentrating on my studies. Once I stop acting in films, I have education to rely on. I could do medicine and continue that as my profession. I give priority to education over acting.
What's your date of birth?
March 5th. My sun sign is Pisces. I believe in sun signs and I read my horoscope daily.
Your sister Aditi Agrawal is making her debut with Gangotri. Tell us about her!
I am told that she is doing really well. She is a slimmer version of me. K Raghavendra Rao garu and her co-star Allu Arjun told me that she is amazing at the work. I am proud of her.
Do you have any other siblings?
I have a brother who is one year elder to me. He is very good in sports. He is a good basketball player. He is interested in technical aspects of movies.
Tell us about your -
Favorite books and authors?
My favorite book is 'Conversations with God'. I must have read this book at least five times. I love reading books by author Danielle Steel.
Favorite movies?
My favorite film is A walk to remember. I like watching any movie starring Tom Cruise and Sylvester Stallone. My favorite movie of Sylvester is Cliff Hanger.
Favorite food?
I liked Mexican and Italian food in USA. Here in Hyderabad, I like pizzas. The Mexican food made in Hyderabad restaurants is very indianized. I love Chinese food here. But I am sick and tired of idli and dosa stuff that is served every morning. I even miss my breakfast because of that. One thing I cannot live without is sweets. Now you know why I am so chubby! My sister Aditi is fond of ice creams.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
My strength is my family and my weakness is my love for sweets. Also my friends say that I am over ambitious. I believe in the age-old adage 'Hard work always pays'.
Don't you feel sad that at this tender age, you gave up you college life to work hard in a film industry?
I am only 18 now. For an ordinary girl, 18 is the age when she enjoys, hangs out with friends. Every girl at my age enjoys. But I am working here like a dog. But one thing keeps me inspiring all the time that is I am on the TV of every house and in the hearts of every Telugu movie lover.
Any message to visitors?
I am sure people visiting such a good site are good too and such good people always appreciate good films. Enjoy all the good things in life, which needless to say, include all my films.
geovisit();
Aarthi Agarwal Biography
Her debut film was Pagalpan, a Hindi movie, but her real debut was Nuvvu Naku Nachav, a Telugu film also starring Venkatesh. Everybody was under the impression that she couldn't act, as she is from US. But since her first movie, she has progressed a lot and has now matured into a very confident and a (real) good actress.
Born in America, Aarthi showed an interest for acting at an early age and started her acting lessons at ‘Cours Florent’. But she got a offer from Indian producer for a full length heroine role which she accepted. In 2000 she acted in a movie named 'Pagalpan' in hindi. It was a disaster. But it seems Bollywood is not a place suited for Aarthi. But when she is planning to leave back to America, She is sited by K.Vijaya Bhaskar which made her to act in Telugu .Her debut movie in telugu was " Nuvvu Naku Nachav' with Venkatesh.That movie was a phenomenal success giving new life to Aarthi. From then there is no turn back to her. She acted with almost all the top hero's except Nagarjuna. However a movie with him is in discussions. Almost 80 percent of her movies were huge hits in Andhra Pradesh making her number one heroine in Tollywood She sure did convince everybody that she can act as well as she can look good, after her great performances in Indra and Vasantham. Now many people have bitten their tongues and there are lots of Directors waiting to sign her up in their movies!!She made a silent entry into Bollywood with a disaster called Pagalpan. But as luck would have it, our ever-eager heroine-hunting Telugu producers noticed her and she did not hesitate to tread the Bollywood-rejects-Tollywood-accepts path to enter the Telugu film industry. Only that the acceptance in her case has been overwhelming. From her highly successful debut film Nuvvu Naaku Nachhav, to her latest mega success Indra, she has tasted phenomenal success. Its no exaggeration that she is now being called the 'lady-luck' of Telugu film industry, acting with the same ease and élan with youth stars and super stars alike.
All the very best for her in the future!
Born in America, Aarthi showed an interest for acting at an early age and started her acting lessons at ‘Cours Florent’. But she got a offer from Indian producer for a full length heroine role which she accepted. In 2000 she acted in a movie named 'Pagalpan' in hindi. It was a disaster. But it seems Bollywood is not a place suited for Aarthi. But when she is planning to leave back to America, She is sited by K.Vijaya Bhaskar which made her to act in Telugu .Her debut movie in telugu was " Nuvvu Naku Nachav' with Venkatesh.That movie was a phenomenal success giving new life to Aarthi. From then there is no turn back to her. She acted with almost all the top hero's except Nagarjuna. However a movie with him is in discussions. Almost 80 percent of her movies were huge hits in Andhra Pradesh making her number one heroine in Tollywood She sure did convince everybody that she can act as well as she can look good, after her great performances in Indra and Vasantham. Now many people have bitten their tongues and there are lots of Directors waiting to sign her up in their movies!!She made a silent entry into Bollywood with a disaster called Pagalpan. But as luck would have it, our ever-eager heroine-hunting Telugu producers noticed her and she did not hesitate to tread the Bollywood-rejects-Tollywood-accepts path to enter the Telugu film industry. Only that the acceptance in her case has been overwhelming. From her highly successful debut film Nuvvu Naaku Nachhav, to her latest mega success Indra, she has tasted phenomenal success. Its no exaggeration that she is now being called the 'lady-luck' of Telugu film industry, acting with the same ease and élan with youth stars and super stars alike.
All the very best for her in the future!
Interview with Yamadonga Producer
Cherry who made his debut as a producer with Okkadunnadu is now jointly producing NTR - Rajamouli combination film Yamadonga along with Urmila Gangaraju. Cherry at Prasad Labs where the rerecording of Yamadonga is taking place. Here are the excerpts of Cherry's interview about Yamadonga -
Tell us about how Yamadonga project happened?In response to our offer to direcr a film for us, Rajamouli called me and Urmila Gangaraju one day and said that he would be directing a film for us on his banner Viswamitra creations. He wanted us to be the producers of his first venture on Viswamitra banner. He established this banner to make his own films and also to encourage new talent. We were worried initially because it is very difficult to come up with a storyline that justifies the hype created because it is coming from a combination that delivered record-breaking Simhadri.
Rajamouli then went on a holiday and returned with the subject of a socio-fantasy. The main thread is similar to that of Yamagola - hero going to hell and returning to the earth. But he added lot of different aspects to it. The treatment is going to be completely different.
We would like to thank Rajamouli for making us the producers of this film. He observed our passion for movies and ambition to produce big ventures and offered this film to us.
Yamadonga is touted as the costliest film ever made in Andhra Pradesh. What cost it so much?
1. Yamalokam set: The Yamalokam set for this film is erected in the biggest studio floor in Asia situated in Ramoji Film City. The biggest set in RFC was erected for Vaaji song in Sivaji and it occupied only 60% of the floor. The Yamalokam set occupied 100% of the floor. It took around 2 months and 300 simultaneous workers to erect the set. It also took the same amount of time to dismantle it. We used 15 generators at a time to light up the floor. It took 4 days to set the lighting to that floor. I would like to give the entire credit to the art director Anand Sai and the art department of RFC.
2. Other sets: Except for one song, all other songs are shot in indoor or outdoor sets. These sets are also designed in grand style.
3. Remunerations: This film sports actors like NTR and Mohan Babu. There are seven heroines (Priyamani, Mamata Mohandas, Navaneet Kaur, Preethi Jingyani, Archana, Rambha and Khushboo) in this film. The other character artists are of top standards. Rajamouli is one of the top most directors in Telugu film industry. It costs a lot to get quality casting.
4. The making: Yamadonga is one of the costliest Telugu film ever done. The production of this film was taken up on massive scale.
Tell us about the camera work?Senthil Kumar used the best available equipment to shoot this film. Since Yamalokam set demanded a great amount of lighting, we procured almost all available lighting equipment from Hyderabad movie infrastructure providers. We had to borrow some of the lighting equipment from Chennai too.
What is the response of the music?Yamadonga is unarguably the biggest music album from the combination of NTR-Rajamouli-Keeravani. It is the biggest audio hit in the career of NTR. Generally music lovers like a few songs in any album. But Yamadonga album got unanimous appreciation for all songs including Yamalokam bit songs. Valli (Vel Records) has done a fabulous job of distributing the album to the remotest areas of AP. The recording quality of Cds and cassettes is also excellent. The special booklet given inside album is a big hit. I have seen parents buying multiple copies of audio because each kid wants to have one for himself.
What about rerecording?Keeravani started the work on 2 July and will complete it on 7 August. It is taking over a month. Keeravani is immensely enjoying rerecording as it is a challenging task to work for a socio-fantasy. Rerecording will be highlight of the film.
Tell us about graphics in this film?Graphics work plays a very vital role because it is a socio fantasy. We employed various e-fx companies. Adel Edeli - a renowned 3D animator from Iran - did the 3-D work for the exterior of Yamalokam. EFX studio did the major work (around 90%) of the graphics part. They have been working on the film from April to August. Rajamouli did online editing and made sure that graphics work is done simultaneously along with the shooting.
Tell us about working with Mohan Babu?We had a terrific experience working with a senior actor like Mohan Babu. We heard a lot of things about him earlier that he is a short-tempered man. But we realized that he is a very cool person to work with. He is very punctual on sets and is extremely professional. He has no short temper and threw no tantrums. He is a very nice person.
There is lot of buzz about NTR dances in this film?NTR's new look helped him a lot. His dances are amazing. There are only few heroes like in Telugu film industry who can perform superb dances. He will become number one dancer in Telugu film industry with his steps in Nachore song. Only dance master could do such kinds of steps. NTR does not need any rehearsals for dances. But for the steps in Nachore, he had to undergo a few rehearsals. The steps are so complicated and unique. His weight reduction also helped him a big time.
What about the rumors that Prabhas did the role of Viswamitra in Yamadonga?It is partly true. Prabhas did the role of Viswamitra. But not for Yamadonga film. When Rajamouli wanted to design the logo of Viswamitra Creations, he needed a model for Viswamitra photo. He requested Prabhas as his physique is very good. Prabhas obliged for a photo shoot. The designer cut the physique of Prabhas and inserted in the logo of Viswamitra creations.
How many days did it take to shoot?We started the shooting on 2 January and completed it by the end of July. It took us 148 working days spread over a span of seven months. We exposed around 2 lakhs feet of negative. This is very less compared to the theme of socio-fantasy and the making standards. We shot most of the film indoors by erecting massive sets in Ramoji Film City, Annapurna studios and Rama Naidu studios (Nanakram Guda).
When is Yamadonga is going to be censored?It will be done on 8 August.
How many prints it is releasing with?We are planning for 350+ prints released all over the globe on 15 August.
What is the final outcome of your debut film Okkadunnadu? It is a satisfactory film for me financially. The distributors also broke even. The film started off in a great style, but collections dropped after a few weeks. It was the biggest grosser for Gopichand at that time. It was a brave attempt to make such flicks and I got great kick doing that project.
What are your future projects?I have 3 projects lined up. I will announce the details once these are confirmed
Tell us about how Yamadonga project happened?In response to our offer to direcr a film for us, Rajamouli called me and Urmila Gangaraju one day and said that he would be directing a film for us on his banner Viswamitra creations. He wanted us to be the producers of his first venture on Viswamitra banner. He established this banner to make his own films and also to encourage new talent. We were worried initially because it is very difficult to come up with a storyline that justifies the hype created because it is coming from a combination that delivered record-breaking Simhadri.
Rajamouli then went on a holiday and returned with the subject of a socio-fantasy. The main thread is similar to that of Yamagola - hero going to hell and returning to the earth. But he added lot of different aspects to it. The treatment is going to be completely different.
We would like to thank Rajamouli for making us the producers of this film. He observed our passion for movies and ambition to produce big ventures and offered this film to us.
Yamadonga is touted as the costliest film ever made in Andhra Pradesh. What cost it so much?
1. Yamalokam set: The Yamalokam set for this film is erected in the biggest studio floor in Asia situated in Ramoji Film City. The biggest set in RFC was erected for Vaaji song in Sivaji and it occupied only 60% of the floor. The Yamalokam set occupied 100% of the floor. It took around 2 months and 300 simultaneous workers to erect the set. It also took the same amount of time to dismantle it. We used 15 generators at a time to light up the floor. It took 4 days to set the lighting to that floor. I would like to give the entire credit to the art director Anand Sai and the art department of RFC.
2. Other sets: Except for one song, all other songs are shot in indoor or outdoor sets. These sets are also designed in grand style.
3. Remunerations: This film sports actors like NTR and Mohan Babu. There are seven heroines (Priyamani, Mamata Mohandas, Navaneet Kaur, Preethi Jingyani, Archana, Rambha and Khushboo) in this film. The other character artists are of top standards. Rajamouli is one of the top most directors in Telugu film industry. It costs a lot to get quality casting.
4. The making: Yamadonga is one of the costliest Telugu film ever done. The production of this film was taken up on massive scale.
Tell us about the camera work?Senthil Kumar used the best available equipment to shoot this film. Since Yamalokam set demanded a great amount of lighting, we procured almost all available lighting equipment from Hyderabad movie infrastructure providers. We had to borrow some of the lighting equipment from Chennai too.
What is the response of the music?Yamadonga is unarguably the biggest music album from the combination of NTR-Rajamouli-Keeravani. It is the biggest audio hit in the career of NTR. Generally music lovers like a few songs in any album. But Yamadonga album got unanimous appreciation for all songs including Yamalokam bit songs. Valli (Vel Records) has done a fabulous job of distributing the album to the remotest areas of AP. The recording quality of Cds and cassettes is also excellent. The special booklet given inside album is a big hit. I have seen parents buying multiple copies of audio because each kid wants to have one for himself.
What about rerecording?Keeravani started the work on 2 July and will complete it on 7 August. It is taking over a month. Keeravani is immensely enjoying rerecording as it is a challenging task to work for a socio-fantasy. Rerecording will be highlight of the film.
Tell us about graphics in this film?Graphics work plays a very vital role because it is a socio fantasy. We employed various e-fx companies. Adel Edeli - a renowned 3D animator from Iran - did the 3-D work for the exterior of Yamalokam. EFX studio did the major work (around 90%) of the graphics part. They have been working on the film from April to August. Rajamouli did online editing and made sure that graphics work is done simultaneously along with the shooting.
Tell us about working with Mohan Babu?We had a terrific experience working with a senior actor like Mohan Babu. We heard a lot of things about him earlier that he is a short-tempered man. But we realized that he is a very cool person to work with. He is very punctual on sets and is extremely professional. He has no short temper and threw no tantrums. He is a very nice person.
There is lot of buzz about NTR dances in this film?NTR's new look helped him a lot. His dances are amazing. There are only few heroes like in Telugu film industry who can perform superb dances. He will become number one dancer in Telugu film industry with his steps in Nachore song. Only dance master could do such kinds of steps. NTR does not need any rehearsals for dances. But for the steps in Nachore, he had to undergo a few rehearsals. The steps are so complicated and unique. His weight reduction also helped him a big time.
What about the rumors that Prabhas did the role of Viswamitra in Yamadonga?It is partly true. Prabhas did the role of Viswamitra. But not for Yamadonga film. When Rajamouli wanted to design the logo of Viswamitra Creations, he needed a model for Viswamitra photo. He requested Prabhas as his physique is very good. Prabhas obliged for a photo shoot. The designer cut the physique of Prabhas and inserted in the logo of Viswamitra creations.
How many days did it take to shoot?We started the shooting on 2 January and completed it by the end of July. It took us 148 working days spread over a span of seven months. We exposed around 2 lakhs feet of negative. This is very less compared to the theme of socio-fantasy and the making standards. We shot most of the film indoors by erecting massive sets in Ramoji Film City, Annapurna studios and Rama Naidu studios (Nanakram Guda).
When is Yamadonga is going to be censored?It will be done on 8 August.
How many prints it is releasing with?We are planning for 350+ prints released all over the globe on 15 August.
What is the final outcome of your debut film Okkadunnadu? It is a satisfactory film for me financially. The distributors also broke even. The film started off in a great style, but collections dropped after a few weeks. It was the biggest grosser for Gopichand at that time. It was a brave attempt to make such flicks and I got great kick doing that project.
What are your future projects?I have 3 projects lined up. I will announce the details once these are confirmed
Chiranjeevi on 3 week vacation
12th August 2007
Chiranjeevi is leaving to London tonight on vacation. He would be away for the next three weeks. He would not be in India for his birthday and the audio of launch of his son Ram Charan Teja’s debut film Chiruta. The audio launch of Chiruta is going to be held in a low key. Chiranjeevi will be returning from London in the first week of September.
P Vasu to remake DonAfter the stupendous success of Amitab Bachchan’s Don in Hindi, NT Rama Rao remade it in Telugu as Yugandhar. Then this film was remade in Tamil as Billa with Rajnikanth as hero. Shahrukh Khan remade the same film in Hindi with the same name Don. Now popular Tamil hero Ajith is remaking the same film with the same name Billa. Now it is the turn of a youth hero to act in the remake of Yugandhar with the same name. P Vasu (Chandramukhi fame) will direct this film. Since NTR played the role of Yugandhar, can we expect the natural choice of Jr. NTR for this remake?
Mamata Mohandas dubs her voiceIn the times when we have Telugu girls not able to dub their own voices, a non-Telugu heroine dubbed her voice in Telugu. Mamata Mohandas who became extremely popular as a singer with three songs (Rakhi, 36-24-36 and Aaakaleste) had dubbed her voice for her straight Telugu debut ‘Yamadonga’. Meera Jasmine earlier dubbed her voice in ‘Gudumba Shankar’ in the past.
Chandamama audio on 19 AugustAudio of Krishna Vamsi’s latest film Chandamama will be launched on 19 August. Navadeep, Siva Balaji, Kajal Agarwal and Sindhu Menon play main leads. KM Radhakrishnan composed music. Shooting of the last song is presently going on in Hyderabad. C Kalyan produces it on Teja cinema banner. Chandamama is expected to release in the first week of September
Chiranjeevi is leaving to London tonight on vacation. He would be away for the next three weeks. He would not be in India for his birthday and the audio of launch of his son Ram Charan Teja’s debut film Chiruta. The audio launch of Chiruta is going to be held in a low key. Chiranjeevi will be returning from London in the first week of September.
P Vasu to remake DonAfter the stupendous success of Amitab Bachchan’s Don in Hindi, NT Rama Rao remade it in Telugu as Yugandhar. Then this film was remade in Tamil as Billa with Rajnikanth as hero. Shahrukh Khan remade the same film in Hindi with the same name Don. Now popular Tamil hero Ajith is remaking the same film with the same name Billa. Now it is the turn of a youth hero to act in the remake of Yugandhar with the same name. P Vasu (Chandramukhi fame) will direct this film. Since NTR played the role of Yugandhar, can we expect the natural choice of Jr. NTR for this remake?
Mamata Mohandas dubs her voiceIn the times when we have Telugu girls not able to dub their own voices, a non-Telugu heroine dubbed her voice in Telugu. Mamata Mohandas who became extremely popular as a singer with three songs (Rakhi, 36-24-36 and Aaakaleste) had dubbed her voice for her straight Telugu debut ‘Yamadonga’. Meera Jasmine earlier dubbed her voice in ‘Gudumba Shankar’ in the past.
Chandamama audio on 19 AugustAudio of Krishna Vamsi’s latest film Chandamama will be launched on 19 August. Navadeep, Siva Balaji, Kajal Agarwal and Sindhu Menon play main leads. KM Radhakrishnan composed music. Shooting of the last song is presently going on in Hyderabad. C Kalyan produces it on Teja cinema banner. Chandamama is expected to release in the first week of September
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