Filmmaker Ashutosh Gowarikar’s has a penchant for incorporating devotional songs in his films. This stems from the director’s love for classical and semi-classical music. After the soothing O paalan hare from Lagaan and the melodious Pal pal hai bhaari from Swades, Gowarikar has included a bhajan, Man Mohana in last weekend’s release, Jodhaa Akbar. Though the song has been rendered by Bela Shende, there is a twist in the tale.
A R Rahman, the music composer for the film, has revealed that Aishwarya Rai, who plays Jodha Bai in the film, was to make her singing debut with Jodhaa Akbar. Originally Gowariker wanted Rai to sing the song as he believed her voice suited the tune very well. Rahman confirms by saying, “Ashutosh strongly felt that Aishwarya could record the song in her own voice, as a bonus.”
However, Ash was extremely busy and did not find time to rehearse when Rahman was available. Eventually, when Ash was ready, Rahman was busy recording something else. The co-ordination for mutually suitable dates didn’t happen. So Bela Shende went ahead and recorded the song. “Man Mohana is a devotional song picturised on Aishwarya’s character, Jodhaa. The lyrics and the composition are inspired by the bhajans and poetry of Meera, the renowned poetess from Akbar’s era,” adds Rahman.
Ash, unlike many of her colleagues in the film industry, has not yet lent her voice as part of a song in any film.
The story of Jodhaa Akbar, based in the 16th century is not just a biopic of Akbar the Great, but narrates the story of what led him to become the greatest emperor of the Mughal era. Rai plays Jodhaa Bai and Hrithik Roshan in the lead character of Jalaluddin Mohammad Akbar in the movie.
Produced at a cost of more than Rs 40 crore, Jodhaa Akbar is perhaps the first big-budget film of this year. Apart from its cost, many factors have made expectations from the film sky high. Right from the many controversies surrounding it, to the fact that the film would directly be compared, to the earlier epic on the life of Akbar—Mughal-e-Azam—is the most important challenge that the film will face. Adding to the pressure is the fact this is Rai’s first film post her wedding into the Bachchan family and Roshan’s next after Dhoom 2.
Courtesy: ExpressIndia.com
Showing posts with label Dhoom 2. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dhoom 2. Show all posts
Monday, February 18, 2008
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Tamil theaters supporting the Rajasthani Rajputs against Jodha Akbar?
Unlike what was being reported earlier, Jodha Akbar will not be able to make it in dubbed versions in Tamil Nadu this week. 'Officially' the Tamil distributors are believed to have told the makers the demand is not strong enough for it to follow the likes of Krrish, Dhoom 2 and Guru to have a regional sub-release also in the south. However it could be they are heeding the calls of the Hindu Rajput groups who have asked people of every state to shun the film because of what is being called an attempt to distort Indian & Hindu history via a movie.
The other aspect could be purely financial. UTV is said to have asked for over 2 crores for the territory which is believed to be too much given its theme and setting at the moment.
Even the Hindi version in Chennai is not having a huge release with only 2 theaters currently planning to exhibit the mughal-rajput saga on Friday.
Courtesy: Ibosnetwork.com
The other aspect could be purely financial. UTV is said to have asked for over 2 crores for the territory which is believed to be too much given its theme and setting at the moment.
Even the Hindi version in Chennai is not having a huge release with only 2 theaters currently planning to exhibit the mughal-rajput saga on Friday.
Courtesy: Ibosnetwork.com
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
'Jodhaa Akbar is the story of married love'
It's not every day that you get to work in a film like Jodhaa Akbar, says Aishwarya Rai.
A well-written part, which is very feminine and delicate, and a director (Ashutosh Gowarikar) with focus and clarity do not often come together, she tells Arthur J Pais, in an exclusive interview.
Ash plays a Rajput princess in the film, who becomes a reluctant bride to the Mughal king Akbar when she discovers that the marriage is a political move.
Read on as the 34-year old discusses her joy in working with co-star Hrithik Roshan, her admiration for Gowarikar and music composer A R Rahman, and what she expects from Robot, a sci-film she has just signed with Tamil superstar Rajnikanth.
What attracted you to Jodhaa Akbar?
When I heard that I could be playing Jodha, I was immediately intrigued. And anything that Ashutosh Gowarikar offers has to be substantial. The subject also intrigued me.
As I was going through the script, it became clear that the film is about a love story that has not been told before. In other films dealing with the Mughals, the relationship between Akbar and Jodha was taken for granted.
How is the love story of Jodha and Akbar different from the standard love stories?
This is the story of married love. It is pure and innocent. It is the discovery of true love only after marriage. Their love for each other grows despite some initial complications and political adversities. And the way Ashutosh Gowarikar has narrated it is both engaging and thrilling.
Were you worried about the film being a historical? Some people in the film industry may worry that a historical film may not be able to draw a large number of viewers?
I knew from the start that Jodhaa Akbar was not going to offer history lessons. I had watched Ashutosh's films, and wondered if we would work together some day. I trust him completely. I knew he was making a historical but history is just a background for an intriguing love story between two powerful people. I also thought the film has a contemporary edge to it.
What is contemporary about it?
The film is about the courageous decision a Rajput princess makes in marrying the enemy of her people. It needed incredible strength and courage for Jodha to make the decision in the interest of her people. Later, she worked very hard to make sure the relationship succeeded.
In India, despite the concept of love marriages we have in urban centres, arranged marriages take place everyday. I would think 90 percent of all marriages in India are arranged in one way or the other. My parents and my brother also had arranged marriages. Many of these people have to work hard and use their emotional resources to make their marriages work.
You look at Jodha and Akbar in the film and start thinking: they came together not under the happiest circumstances and yet, their marriage worked.
The film offers insights into relationships that are relevant today. Jodha and Akbar took great risks in their relationship. This film shows what might have gone in their minds and how they might have negotiated their life's journey.
This is your second film with Hrithik Roshan after the superhit, Dhoom: 2.
We have a similar approach towards acting and we enjoy diverse kind of films. We became good friends while working on Dhoom: 2.
We're fortunate to be working together in two films that are at the two ends of the spectrum. While Dhoom: 2 was an outrageous entertainment, Jodhaa Akbar explores an intense relationship between two dynamic people.
Gowarikar says seeing your work in the film makes him feel you are Jodha personified.
When a director says something like that, it goes to show his sensitivity and appreciation.
I have worked with some of the most seasoned filmmakers (including Sanjay Leela Bhansali in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas, Subash Ghai in Taal). But working with Gowarikar was quite an experience.
The script is detailed and focused. He has immense clarity and knows precisely where the film is going. He is very generous with the artists. He gets the best out of you.
More than anything else, I have come to respect him as a human being. I have watched him deal with everyone, from junior artists to stars with respect and consideration. The film required a lot of stamina and there were long spells of shooting. But because of Gowarikar's nature and Hrithik's presence, one never felt the stress.
This is one of the more complex roles you have taken up in your career. Did you wonder if you could do full justice to it?
I never approach a film with fear, rather I do it with excitement. That has been my work philosophy right from the start.
I was always there for a director, no matter how big or small the film. In the case of Jodhaa Akbar, I felt excited the moment Gowarikar mentioned the project. I knew immediately I was doing something extraordinary.
What is it like working in a film that had music by A R Rahman?
Like many of his films, the music in Jodhaa Akbar will take some time getting used to. But once it gets into your heart and soul, you won't be able to get it out. The way Gowarikar has used Rahman's music in Jodhaa Akbar will make you want to listen to it as soon as the film is over.
I have worked in many films where Rahman has done the music, starting from my very first film, Iruvar, which Mani Sir (Ratnam) directed over a decade ago.
Then, there was the song Barso Re in Guru which was picturised on me. Originally, Rahman had composed a nice tune which was supposed to be picturised on me riding a bicycle. But I fell off the bike and hurt myself. So a new situation for the song had to be created and Rahman came up with Barso Re.
Any new projects?
I'm doing Robot in Tamil with Rajni Sir (Rajnikanth), which I guess will be dubbed in many languages including Hindi and Telugu. Rahman will be composing the music for Robot.
I would also be working with director Shankar Sir again, after Jeans.
Courtesy: Rediff.com
A well-written part, which is very feminine and delicate, and a director (Ashutosh Gowarikar) with focus and clarity do not often come together, she tells Arthur J Pais, in an exclusive interview.
Ash plays a Rajput princess in the film, who becomes a reluctant bride to the Mughal king Akbar when she discovers that the marriage is a political move.
Read on as the 34-year old discusses her joy in working with co-star Hrithik Roshan, her admiration for Gowarikar and music composer A R Rahman, and what she expects from Robot, a sci-film she has just signed with Tamil superstar Rajnikanth.
What attracted you to Jodhaa Akbar?
When I heard that I could be playing Jodha, I was immediately intrigued. And anything that Ashutosh Gowarikar offers has to be substantial. The subject also intrigued me.
As I was going through the script, it became clear that the film is about a love story that has not been told before. In other films dealing with the Mughals, the relationship between Akbar and Jodha was taken for granted.
How is the love story of Jodha and Akbar different from the standard love stories?
This is the story of married love. It is pure and innocent. It is the discovery of true love only after marriage. Their love for each other grows despite some initial complications and political adversities. And the way Ashutosh Gowarikar has narrated it is both engaging and thrilling.
Were you worried about the film being a historical? Some people in the film industry may worry that a historical film may not be able to draw a large number of viewers?
I knew from the start that Jodhaa Akbar was not going to offer history lessons. I had watched Ashutosh's films, and wondered if we would work together some day. I trust him completely. I knew he was making a historical but history is just a background for an intriguing love story between two powerful people. I also thought the film has a contemporary edge to it.
What is contemporary about it?
The film is about the courageous decision a Rajput princess makes in marrying the enemy of her people. It needed incredible strength and courage for Jodha to make the decision in the interest of her people. Later, she worked very hard to make sure the relationship succeeded.
In India, despite the concept of love marriages we have in urban centres, arranged marriages take place everyday. I would think 90 percent of all marriages in India are arranged in one way or the other. My parents and my brother also had arranged marriages. Many of these people have to work hard and use their emotional resources to make their marriages work.You look at Jodha and Akbar in the film and start thinking: they came together not under the happiest circumstances and yet, their marriage worked.
The film offers insights into relationships that are relevant today. Jodha and Akbar took great risks in their relationship. This film shows what might have gone in their minds and how they might have negotiated their life's journey.
This is your second film with Hrithik Roshan after the superhit, Dhoom: 2.
We have a similar approach towards acting and we enjoy diverse kind of films. We became good friends while working on Dhoom: 2.
We're fortunate to be working together in two films that are at the two ends of the spectrum. While Dhoom: 2 was an outrageous entertainment, Jodhaa Akbar explores an intense relationship between two dynamic people.
Gowarikar says seeing your work in the film makes him feel you are Jodha personified.
When a director says something like that, it goes to show his sensitivity and appreciation.
I have worked with some of the most seasoned filmmakers (including Sanjay Leela Bhansali in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas, Subash Ghai in Taal). But working with Gowarikar was quite an experience.
The script is detailed and focused. He has immense clarity and knows precisely where the film is going. He is very generous with the artists. He gets the best out of you.
More than anything else, I have come to respect him as a human being. I have watched him deal with everyone, from junior artists to stars with respect and consideration. The film required a lot of stamina and there were long spells of shooting. But because of Gowarikar's nature and Hrithik's presence, one never felt the stress.
This is one of the more complex roles you have taken up in your career. Did you wonder if you could do full justice to it?
I never approach a film with fear, rather I do it with excitement. That has been my work philosophy right from the start.
I was always there for a director, no matter how big or small the film. In the case of Jodhaa Akbar, I felt excited the moment Gowarikar mentioned the project. I knew immediately I was doing something extraordinary.
What is it like working in a film that had music by A R Rahman?
Like many of his films, the music in Jodhaa Akbar will take some time getting used to. But once it gets into your heart and soul, you won't be able to get it out. The way Gowarikar has used Rahman's music in Jodhaa Akbar will make you want to listen to it as soon as the film is over.
I have worked in many films where Rahman has done the music, starting from my very first film, Iruvar, which Mani Sir (Ratnam) directed over a decade ago.
Then, there was the song Barso Re in Guru which was picturised on me. Originally, Rahman had composed a nice tune which was supposed to be picturised on me riding a bicycle. But I fell off the bike and hurt myself. So a new situation for the song had to be created and Rahman came up with Barso Re.
Any new projects?
I'm doing Robot in Tamil with Rajni Sir (Rajnikanth), which I guess will be dubbed in many languages including Hindi and Telugu. Rahman will be composing the music for Robot.
I would also be working with director Shankar Sir again, after Jeans.
Courtesy: Rediff.com
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Hopeful Gowarikar has a lot riding on Mughal-era epic
In this digital age, few challenges are as daunting as making an authentic historical romance that will work its magic at the box office.
The last person to try it, Akbar Khan, learnt that to his detriment two years ago with Taj Mahal. The following year JP Dutta’s version of Umrao Jaan bit the dust, and in recent times the only title to gain acceptance was the remastered version of K Asif’s Mughal-e-Azam, a 1960 original that was re-released in 2004 and took many by surprise.
It’s worth remembering that Asif needed 10 years to make that career-defining film. So, has Ashutosh Gowarikar, who took just over a year to complete his magnum opus, been over-ambitious or will Friday’s release, Jodhaa Akbar, buck the trend?
If early indications are anything to go by, the director of Lagaan and Swades has positioned himself to do what no one else has done with any measure of authority for well over three decades — since HS Rawail’s 1974 release Laila Majnu — and that is to resuscitate the genre.
The lead pair, Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai, are as good as they get. Gowarikar says he had joked with them that they would only have to pitch up on set, as they were “the reincarnation of Akbar and Jodhaa”.
The fact that they clicked in Dhoom 2 played no part in his decision to cast them. His mind was made up five years ago when scriptwriter Haider Ali broached the subject. Convincing them was a breeze: all he said to Aish was, “You’ll be my Jodhaa,” and she leapt at the chance; as for Hrithik, Gowarikar told him, “16th century, the Mughals and Akbar,” and that was that.
Besides the dashing lead pair, Gowarikar had other factors in his favour, including AR Rahman’s music score.
Four choreographers, Raju Khan, Ash Kumar, Chinni Prakash and Rekha Prakash, were enlisted for the dance sequences. The latter pair took 15 days to complete one song, the stunning Azeem O’Shaan Shahenshah, in which 1000 dancers in traditional costumes and wielding swords and shields took part.
Add Kiran Deohan’s cinematography and Nitin Desai’s sets, and the opulence so essential to a period piece is certainly in place. Attention was paid to the tiniest details. Top designer Neeta Lulla said the challenge of designing the costumes was “too good to refuse”, and specialist jeweller Tanish was appointed to craft specific pieces.
The movie focuses on a relationship that supposedly altered the course of history. It delves into the political conspiracies of the period and tells of the alliance between the Mughal emperor Jallaludin Mohammed Akbar and Rajput princess Jodhaa. Gowarikar des- cribes it as “a perfect arranged marriage”.
Akbar’s proposal was based not so much on his affection for her but on a desire to expand his empire eastward from Afghanistan to the Bay of Bengal, and south from the Himalayas to the Godhavari River. Love developed later.
His strategy to achieve this expansion was to win over the Rajputs, and this marriage with a motive helped him to remove the bitterness and distrust the native Hindus felt towards the invading Mughals, and that, in turn, softened the Mughals’ attitude towards them.
This led to Akbar establishing deen-e-elahi, or the divine faith, to reconcile the sectarian differences that divided his subjects by suggesting that no single reli- gion had a monopoly on the truth.
Jodhaa was not merely a pretty wallflower. A fiery Rajput who was skilled in the art of sword-fighting, she wasn’t an easy conquest and she refused to be a political pawn in Akbar’s designs to capture her land.
Gowarikar enlisted scholars and historians from New Delhi, Aligarh, Lucknow, Agra and Jaipur to scrutinise the script, and while he has acknowledged exercising a measure of creative licence, that did not prevent his detractors from voicing their objections.
The Rajput Sabha demanded the right to approve his script, fearing gross distortions. The Sabha contends that Gowarikar is wrong in stating that Jodhaa Bai was the daughter of the ruler of Amer, Bharmal, since historical records show only one Jodhaa Bai, who was the daughter of the ruler of Marwar, Udai Singh, and who was married to Akbar’s son, Jahangir.
The director hopes he’ll get away with it by suggesting that his story is about a chapter that “may” have been a part of history but was not officially recorded.
He maintains there is enough evidence to show that Akbar the Great had a very special attachment to Jodhaa Bai and that the period referred to was when they were between the ages of 18 and 26, and was therefore not documented.
There have been other problems for Gowarikar. An animal anti-cruelty organisation has questioned whether he had the necessary permits to shoot scenes with elephants, camels and horses.
Shooting at some of India’s famous monuments proved another hurdle. India’s Archaeological Society, which maintains these landmarks, imposed so many conditions that Gowarikar had to get his art director, Nitin Desai, to re-create attractions like the palace of Fatehpur Sikri and the Red Fort in Karjat on the outskirts of Mumbai.
Courtesy: Thetimes.co.za
The last person to try it, Akbar Khan, learnt that to his detriment two years ago with Taj Mahal. The following year JP Dutta’s version of Umrao Jaan bit the dust, and in recent times the only title to gain acceptance was the remastered version of K Asif’s Mughal-e-Azam, a 1960 original that was re-released in 2004 and took many by surprise.
It’s worth remembering that Asif needed 10 years to make that career-defining film. So, has Ashutosh Gowarikar, who took just over a year to complete his magnum opus, been over-ambitious or will Friday’s release, Jodhaa Akbar, buck the trend?
If early indications are anything to go by, the director of Lagaan and Swades has positioned himself to do what no one else has done with any measure of authority for well over three decades — since HS Rawail’s 1974 release Laila Majnu — and that is to resuscitate the genre.
The lead pair, Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai, are as good as they get. Gowarikar says he had joked with them that they would only have to pitch up on set, as they were “the reincarnation of Akbar and Jodhaa”.
The fact that they clicked in Dhoom 2 played no part in his decision to cast them. His mind was made up five years ago when scriptwriter Haider Ali broached the subject. Convincing them was a breeze: all he said to Aish was, “You’ll be my Jodhaa,” and she leapt at the chance; as for Hrithik, Gowarikar told him, “16th century, the Mughals and Akbar,” and that was that.
Besides the dashing lead pair, Gowarikar had other factors in his favour, including AR Rahman’s music score.
Four choreographers, Raju Khan, Ash Kumar, Chinni Prakash and Rekha Prakash, were enlisted for the dance sequences. The latter pair took 15 days to complete one song, the stunning Azeem O’Shaan Shahenshah, in which 1000 dancers in traditional costumes and wielding swords and shields took part.
Add Kiran Deohan’s cinematography and Nitin Desai’s sets, and the opulence so essential to a period piece is certainly in place. Attention was paid to the tiniest details. Top designer Neeta Lulla said the challenge of designing the costumes was “too good to refuse”, and specialist jeweller Tanish was appointed to craft specific pieces.
The movie focuses on a relationship that supposedly altered the course of history. It delves into the political conspiracies of the period and tells of the alliance between the Mughal emperor Jallaludin Mohammed Akbar and Rajput princess Jodhaa. Gowarikar des- cribes it as “a perfect arranged marriage”.
Akbar’s proposal was based not so much on his affection for her but on a desire to expand his empire eastward from Afghanistan to the Bay of Bengal, and south from the Himalayas to the Godhavari River. Love developed later.
His strategy to achieve this expansion was to win over the Rajputs, and this marriage with a motive helped him to remove the bitterness and distrust the native Hindus felt towards the invading Mughals, and that, in turn, softened the Mughals’ attitude towards them.
This led to Akbar establishing deen-e-elahi, or the divine faith, to reconcile the sectarian differences that divided his subjects by suggesting that no single reli- gion had a monopoly on the truth.
Jodhaa was not merely a pretty wallflower. A fiery Rajput who was skilled in the art of sword-fighting, she wasn’t an easy conquest and she refused to be a political pawn in Akbar’s designs to capture her land.
Gowarikar enlisted scholars and historians from New Delhi, Aligarh, Lucknow, Agra and Jaipur to scrutinise the script, and while he has acknowledged exercising a measure of creative licence, that did not prevent his detractors from voicing their objections.
The Rajput Sabha demanded the right to approve his script, fearing gross distortions. The Sabha contends that Gowarikar is wrong in stating that Jodhaa Bai was the daughter of the ruler of Amer, Bharmal, since historical records show only one Jodhaa Bai, who was the daughter of the ruler of Marwar, Udai Singh, and who was married to Akbar’s son, Jahangir.
The director hopes he’ll get away with it by suggesting that his story is about a chapter that “may” have been a part of history but was not officially recorded.
He maintains there is enough evidence to show that Akbar the Great had a very special attachment to Jodhaa Bai and that the period referred to was when they were between the ages of 18 and 26, and was therefore not documented.
There have been other problems for Gowarikar. An animal anti-cruelty organisation has questioned whether he had the necessary permits to shoot scenes with elephants, camels and horses.
Shooting at some of India’s famous monuments proved another hurdle. India’s Archaeological Society, which maintains these landmarks, imposed so many conditions that Gowarikar had to get his art director, Nitin Desai, to re-create attractions like the palace of Fatehpur Sikri and the Red Fort in Karjat on the outskirts of Mumbai.
Courtesy: Thetimes.co.za
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
'Jodha Akbar': What is in name?
Several controversies have surrounded the forthcoming film of Aishwarya Rai and Hirtik Roshan 'Jodha Akbar'. Rajputs in Rajasthan have staged demonstrations against the historical films. Even historians have questioned the very existence of Jodha Bai. Many have questioned the name Jodha bai but others say that name outside the Mughal Palace and inside the harem differed.
More than four decades ago, K. Asif picked up Akbar's son Salim from the pages of history and cast his love story in celluloid.
The magnum opus, "Mughal-e-Azam", based on the tragic romance between Salim and Anarkali, was a sheer spectacle in terms of grandeur, colour, drama and music. It remains a hit till date.
So now the question is: will Ashutosh Gowariker's "Jodhaa-Akbar" - starring Indian superhero Hrithik Roshan and beauty queen Aishwarya Rai - weave the same magic?
"People will come to the theatres out of curiosity but the magic of 'Mughal-e-Azam' will always linger. 'Jodhaa-Akbar' is not a love story in the true sense, it was more of a marriage of convenience; hence a bigger challenge for Gowariker to make it in to a convincing love story," Debdatta Mukherjee, a leading model, told IANS.
"Mughal-e-Azam", say old-timers in Bollywood, was based on a "documented" love story, whereas there "are very few details available about Jodhabai and Akbar. Jodha still remains a mystery. Many historians believe that she was a Rajput princess from Rajasthan and according to some, Raja Mansingh's sister.
"There is no drama associated with their courtship," said an industry veteran.
Gowariker risked making "Lagaan" in 2001, a period film set in colonial India, and hit the jackpot. And now he is gambling once again by daring to narrate the not-so-familiar love story of Mughal emperor Jalaluddin Akbar and Rajput princess Jodhabai in "Jodhaa-Akbar" releasing Valentine's Day week.
Releasing Feb 15, it's a rather unusual Valentine romance - between a Mughal emperor and a Hindu woman who was the emperor's arranged match. Love grew after marriage and also saw the birth of the heir to the Mughal throne, Jahangir.
While Asif's "Mughal-e-Azam" was a doomed love story starring Dilip Kumar and "beauty queen of the era" Madhubala, Gowariker's 16th century tale is about prince Salims's parents who were brought together by a marriage of alliance.
"Jodha and Akbar shared a perfect arranged marriage. I was fascinated by how their relationship must have grown after marriage," Gowariker was quoted as saying.
Earlier, Hrithik and Aishwarya had scorched the screen in the slick flick "Dhoom 2", but the director says that their previous image is not going to harm his film.
He said: "Their contemporary image won't be a problem. They were a huge success in 'Dhoom 2'. That can only help my film, not harm it. The audience will come in and forget everything about Hrithik and Aishwarya.
"What audiences will see in my film are Jodha and Akbar. At least, that's what I've tried to ensure through their looks, body language and behaviour."
Produced at a cost of Rs.15 million, "Mughal-e-Azam" was the costliest film of the era. It took Asif 14 years to realise his dream because of casting, financial and technical obstacles. Once completed, the epic love story was premiered simultaneously in 1960 in 150 theatres across the country and turned out to be a gold spinner.
Gowariker also faced difficulty in finding a producer. However, once the deal was signed with UTV, he had a smooth ride.
Gowariker finished the film in a year's time. He used over 80 elephants, 100 horses and 55 camels in the movie. Initially, the film's budget was of Rs.400 million, apparently it overshot the whip.
While Nitin Desai worked on the details of the magnanimous sets, Tanishq has designed the jewellery and Neeta Lulla has done the costume and looks of the film. It goes without saying that they all worked under the guidance of Gowariker.
Asif also worked with the best of talents. He hired tailors from Delhi to design the costumes, roped in goldsmiths from Hyderabad for the jewellery, Kolhapur craftsmen made the crowns, Rajasthani ironsmiths fabricated the shields, swords, spears, dagger and armour, specialists from Surat-Khambayat were employed for the exquisite zardosi work on the costumes, while the elaborate footwear was ordered from Agra!
Dilip Kumar who played Salim was sent to London to get a special wig to give him a princely look.
In a song titled "Ae mohabbat zindabad", a chorus of 100 singers were used and in a song titled "Azeem O Shan, Shahenshah" in "Jodhaa-Akbar", the director roped in 1,000 dancers in traditional costumes, wielding swords and shields.
While Asif's legendary masterpiece didn't have any historical evidence, Gowariker hired a research team of historians and scholars to guide him and help him keep things historically accurate.
After two years of pre-production work, Gowariker canned the first shot. "There was no reference in any books about what happened between Jodha and Akbar. I've taken extreme care to make sure viewers believe in the relationship," said Gowariker.
Another high point of "Mughal-e-Azam" was Naushad's superb musical score, especially the song "Jab pyar kiya to darna kya", which has a timeless appeal.
A.R. Rahman's music for "Jodhaa-Akbar" too has been appreciated. The songs have an epic feel to it.
"I wanted to make my historical movie as believable as I'd liked to see it. Every element big or small, from the texture of the clothes to the sets, décor, dialogues and the protocol, even the incidental sounds of birds and animals, they all had to be just right for me," said Gowariker.
Although it has not been decided yet with how many prints "Jodhaa-Akbar" will be released when it opens, the film's promos hit the theatres with 1,125 prints.
Courtesy: Khabrein.info
More than four decades ago, K. Asif picked up Akbar's son Salim from the pages of history and cast his love story in celluloid.
The magnum opus, "Mughal-e-Azam", based on the tragic romance between Salim and Anarkali, was a sheer spectacle in terms of grandeur, colour, drama and music. It remains a hit till date.
So now the question is: will Ashutosh Gowariker's "Jodhaa-Akbar" - starring Indian superhero Hrithik Roshan and beauty queen Aishwarya Rai - weave the same magic?
"People will come to the theatres out of curiosity but the magic of 'Mughal-e-Azam' will always linger. 'Jodhaa-Akbar' is not a love story in the true sense, it was more of a marriage of convenience; hence a bigger challenge for Gowariker to make it in to a convincing love story," Debdatta Mukherjee, a leading model, told IANS.
"Mughal-e-Azam", say old-timers in Bollywood, was based on a "documented" love story, whereas there "are very few details available about Jodhabai and Akbar. Jodha still remains a mystery. Many historians believe that she was a Rajput princess from Rajasthan and according to some, Raja Mansingh's sister.
"There is no drama associated with their courtship," said an industry veteran.
Gowariker risked making "Lagaan" in 2001, a period film set in colonial India, and hit the jackpot. And now he is gambling once again by daring to narrate the not-so-familiar love story of Mughal emperor Jalaluddin Akbar and Rajput princess Jodhabai in "Jodhaa-Akbar" releasing Valentine's Day week.
Releasing Feb 15, it's a rather unusual Valentine romance - between a Mughal emperor and a Hindu woman who was the emperor's arranged match. Love grew after marriage and also saw the birth of the heir to the Mughal throne, Jahangir.
While Asif's "Mughal-e-Azam" was a doomed love story starring Dilip Kumar and "beauty queen of the era" Madhubala, Gowariker's 16th century tale is about prince Salims's parents who were brought together by a marriage of alliance.
"Jodha and Akbar shared a perfect arranged marriage. I was fascinated by how their relationship must have grown after marriage," Gowariker was quoted as saying.
Earlier, Hrithik and Aishwarya had scorched the screen in the slick flick "Dhoom 2", but the director says that their previous image is not going to harm his film.
He said: "Their contemporary image won't be a problem. They were a huge success in 'Dhoom 2'. That can only help my film, not harm it. The audience will come in and forget everything about Hrithik and Aishwarya.
"What audiences will see in my film are Jodha and Akbar. At least, that's what I've tried to ensure through their looks, body language and behaviour."
Produced at a cost of Rs.15 million, "Mughal-e-Azam" was the costliest film of the era. It took Asif 14 years to realise his dream because of casting, financial and technical obstacles. Once completed, the epic love story was premiered simultaneously in 1960 in 150 theatres across the country and turned out to be a gold spinner.
Gowariker also faced difficulty in finding a producer. However, once the deal was signed with UTV, he had a smooth ride.
Gowariker finished the film in a year's time. He used over 80 elephants, 100 horses and 55 camels in the movie. Initially, the film's budget was of Rs.400 million, apparently it overshot the whip.
While Nitin Desai worked on the details of the magnanimous sets, Tanishq has designed the jewellery and Neeta Lulla has done the costume and looks of the film. It goes without saying that they all worked under the guidance of Gowariker.
Asif also worked with the best of talents. He hired tailors from Delhi to design the costumes, roped in goldsmiths from Hyderabad for the jewellery, Kolhapur craftsmen made the crowns, Rajasthani ironsmiths fabricated the shields, swords, spears, dagger and armour, specialists from Surat-Khambayat were employed for the exquisite zardosi work on the costumes, while the elaborate footwear was ordered from Agra!
Dilip Kumar who played Salim was sent to London to get a special wig to give him a princely look.
In a song titled "Ae mohabbat zindabad", a chorus of 100 singers were used and in a song titled "Azeem O Shan, Shahenshah" in "Jodhaa-Akbar", the director roped in 1,000 dancers in traditional costumes, wielding swords and shields.
While Asif's legendary masterpiece didn't have any historical evidence, Gowariker hired a research team of historians and scholars to guide him and help him keep things historically accurate.
After two years of pre-production work, Gowariker canned the first shot. "There was no reference in any books about what happened between Jodha and Akbar. I've taken extreme care to make sure viewers believe in the relationship," said Gowariker.
Another high point of "Mughal-e-Azam" was Naushad's superb musical score, especially the song "Jab pyar kiya to darna kya", which has a timeless appeal.
A.R. Rahman's music for "Jodhaa-Akbar" too has been appreciated. The songs have an epic feel to it.
"I wanted to make my historical movie as believable as I'd liked to see it. Every element big or small, from the texture of the clothes to the sets, décor, dialogues and the protocol, even the incidental sounds of birds and animals, they all had to be just right for me," said Gowariker.
Although it has not been decided yet with how many prints "Jodhaa-Akbar" will be released when it opens, the film's promos hit the theatres with 1,125 prints.
Courtesy: Khabrein.info
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
'Jodhaa Akbar' may run into trouble
Ashutosh Gowarikar 's Jodhaa Akbar , starring Aishwarya Rai and Hrithik Roshan in the title roles is attracting attention from unwanted quarters.
The leaders of Rajput community in Jaipur are threatening to stall the release of 'Jodhaa Akbar' in Rajasthan alleging distortion of facts.
President of Rajput Karni Sena, Lokendra Kalvi said on Tuesday that the Sena apprehended distortion of Rajasthan's historical facts in 'Jodhaa Akbar’, which is based on Jodhpur raj gharana.
The Karni Sena would watch the movie when released, and if required it would not allow it’s screening in the state, Kalvi said.
Earlier, the Rajput Mahasabha had also alleged misinterpretation of historical facts.
They maintained that Jodha was Jehangir's wife and not Akbar's as shown in K Asif's 'Mughal-E-Azam' earlier and now in 'Jodhaa Akbar'.
The Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a body registered with the Animal Welfare Board of India, had also issued a letter to Gowarikar asking him if had the required permission for using animals in his film.
Over 80 elephants, 100 horses and 55 camels were used in the movie, which has been made at a whopping budget of Rs.400 million.
Touted as one of the biggest releases of this year, 'Jodhaa Akbar' spins a yarn around a glorious chapter of the Mughal era.
Expectations are high since the epic romance is the third big film to come from the Gowarikar stable after the much-acclaimed Lagaan and Swades .
With Hrithik and Ash coming together again after Dhoom 2 , 'Jodhaa Akbar' has managed to grab headlines much before its release that is scheduled on February 15, 2008.
Courtesy: Apunkachoice.com
The leaders of Rajput community in Jaipur are threatening to stall the release of 'Jodhaa Akbar' in Rajasthan alleging distortion of facts.
President of Rajput Karni Sena, Lokendra Kalvi said on Tuesday that the Sena apprehended distortion of Rajasthan's historical facts in 'Jodhaa Akbar’, which is based on Jodhpur raj gharana.
The Karni Sena would watch the movie when released, and if required it would not allow it’s screening in the state, Kalvi said.
Earlier, the Rajput Mahasabha had also alleged misinterpretation of historical facts.
They maintained that Jodha was Jehangir's wife and not Akbar's as shown in K Asif's 'Mughal-E-Azam' earlier and now in 'Jodhaa Akbar'.
The Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a body registered with the Animal Welfare Board of India, had also issued a letter to Gowarikar asking him if had the required permission for using animals in his film.
Over 80 elephants, 100 horses and 55 camels were used in the movie, which has been made at a whopping budget of Rs.400 million.
Touted as one of the biggest releases of this year, 'Jodhaa Akbar' spins a yarn around a glorious chapter of the Mughal era.
Expectations are high since the epic romance is the third big film to come from the Gowarikar stable after the much-acclaimed Lagaan and Swades .
With Hrithik and Ash coming together again after Dhoom 2 , 'Jodhaa Akbar' has managed to grab headlines much before its release that is scheduled on February 15, 2008.
Courtesy: Apunkachoice.com
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Hrithik-Aishwarya are charismatic: Ashutosh Gowariker
Young and dynamic director Ashutosh Gowariker, who is ready with Jodhaa-Akbar, says he was fascinated by the relationship that the two historical figures must have shared after marriage.
"I feel if today we make a story about the past, it must be correlated to the present. And 'Jodhaa-Akbar' is as relevant to the present as arranged marriages. Jodha and Akbar shared a perfect arranged marriage. I was fascinated by how their relationship must have grown after marriage," Gowariker told IANS.
Starring Aishwarya Rai and Hrithik Roshan in the lead roles, the film is set to hit the marquee Feb 15. The director is dubbing it in Telugu and Tamil as well.
Excerpts:
After Lagaan, you return to a period film in Jodhaa-Akbar?
You might say that. But I call Lagaan a period film. Jodhaa-Akbar is to me a historical. Anything after 1857 is a period film for me. Anything before that is a historical. Jodhaa-Akbar is certainly not a costume drama. It isn't set in a never-never land. I'd call Mughal-e-Azam a historical though its focus was different from mine.
I feel if today we make a story about the past, it must be correlated to the present. And Jodhaa-Akbar is as relevant to present times as arranged marriages. Jodha and Akbar shared a perfect arranged marriage.
I was fascinated by how their relationship must have grown after marriage. There was no reference in any books about what happened between them. I've taken extreme care to make sure viewers believe in the relationship.
How much have you stressed the religious difference between Jodha and Akbar?
It's important but not stressed in my film. Let's not forget, Akbar's marriage to Jodhabai was no common occurrence. It had a nationwide reverberation 450 years ago when society was far more conservative. How did their marriage affect those times? That's a question relevant even today. But I'm not jingoistic in my treatment.
Aishwarya Rai and Hrithik Roshan have very contemporary personalities?
That won't be a problem. The audience will come in and forget everything about Hrithik and Aishwarya. Hrithik-Aishwarya's pairing is incredible. They're extremely charismatic and good-looking. They were a huge success in the contemporary Dhoom 2. That can only help my film, not harm it.
What audiences will see in my film are Jodha and Akbar. At least that's what I've tried to ensure through their looks, body language and behaviour. I wanted to make my historical as believable as I'd like to see it being.
Every element big or small, from the texture of the clothes to the sets, dialogues and the protocol, even the incidental sounds of birds and animals, they all had to be just right for me.
I'm tired of filmmakers wondering where those good old days have gone. I wanted to reclaim those days. It took me two years of pre-production before I got into my first shot.
Film analysts feel history has no relevance for today's average youngster?
I agree. Even as a child myself historical films never interested me. But when I saw Mughal-e-Azam on TV, I connected to it because it was a story of lovers separated by parental opposition. That the parents were historical figures was incidental.
I feel the story has to be connectable to the audience. Hyder Ali, who wrote Jodhaa-Abkar, told me, "In Mughal-e-Azam the focus was so much on Salim and Anarkali, nobody asked a fundamental question. How did Akbar come to marry Jodhabai in spite of their religious and cultural divide? I immediately reacted to their alliance. I saw an interesting story there that needed to be told.
As for the youngsters, I had one rule of connectivity in my range of vision. Any word or dialogue that I didn't understand in Urdu I kept out. I've no interest in impressing audiences with my knowledge of Urdu, Hindi or even literature. I feel literature is for the books, and that's where it should stay. I needed to reach out to the masses.
So is Jodhaa-Akbar kitsch?
No. I've referred to literature and academia. But the Akbarnama was in Pharsi. It doesn't mean I'd use Pharsi in my film. I want Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Bengal to understand the film.
I'm dubbing the film into Telugu and Tamil. Each language has its own regality and I'm going by the individual regality of the province. I had one vision before me when I started making this film. It was the world of the Amar Chitra Katha. I've grown up on that world.
Are you happy with the end product?
Oh! it has been tremendously enriching. So far the Mughal period was part of textbooks. I always wondered about the battles and the durbar intrigue. The Mughal period was known for its lavishness, so much so that studio bosses in Hollywood from the golden period were not called movie czars or movie nawabs. They were called movie moguls.
Courtesy: Hindustimes.com
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
A royal chemistry?
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The film is all set to showcase Ash-Hrithik pair amidst the magnificent sets depicting a sixteenth century tale of true love and war. The Ash Hrithik chemistry is still clearly alive with both the actors looking like picture perfect pieces of history. The duo were earlier seen in 'Dhoom 2'. However, it will be interesting to see their chemistry in the movie. Interestingly, 'Jodha Akbar' is Ash's first film after marriage.
Rumours mills are abuzz as to whether the reel life King (Hrithik Roshan) and Queen (Aishwairya Rai) will fire up the screen with their much-talked about chemistry. However, when quizzed about their chemistry in the movie, Hrithik was at his reticent best and said:"Go and see the film in the theatres."
According to the grapevine, the chemistry between the lead cast of the movie is very much there, and ironically, it is even making some people uncomfortable especially those who are close to the pair.
Both Hrithik and Aishwairya were eager to clear the air in their own different ways. Tongue firmly in cheek, Hrithik Roshan said:"We like doing good work and even if there was a spark on the screen, which might make anbody angry, we will be the first to sort it out."
While, Aishwairya Rai Bachchan, was quick to react to Hrithik's comment and warned the media saying,"Now that he has talked of a spark, let me clearly specify that there never was a spark, so kindly don't start speculating."
Well Ash, we just wonder whether is it that easy to brush away what many say is the 'obvious'.
Courtesy: Timesnow.tv
Friday, January 11, 2008
No more period flicks!
The image conscious Hrithik Roshan has even turned down Shyam Benegal’s film on Gautam Buddha
MUMBAI: He may be playing the lead in Ashutosh Gowarikar’s ‘Jodhaa Akbar’, but it’s learnt that Hrithik Roshan made an exception for this one - he has decided not to do any more period flicks in the future. In fact, he even turned down the role of Gautam Buddha in Shyam Benegal’s upcoming film.
“With all due respect to the Buddha and Shyam-babu, I am not keen on doing more period or mythological films,” says Hrithik. “For me, playing the legendary Emperor Akbar in a film helmed by Ashutosh Gowariker is itself a drastic deviation from my previous movies like ‘Krrish’ or ‘Dhoom-2’.
I have always tried not to get typecast in any particular image. All of us from the ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ cast and crew including Aishwarya Rai, Poonam Sinha and Sonu Sood have worked very hard on the film. It’s an uncanny coincidence that the amazing musical score by A R Rehman is being released on the eve of my birthday (January 10) - it’s almost like a birthday gift for me. And the movie itself is releasing on February 15, which is Gowariker’s birthday.”
The star-studded musical launch of ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ on Wednesday night was also significant in a very different way - the guests of honour, Amitabh Bachchan (his ‘voice-over’ can be heard in ‘Jodhaa Akbar’) and Shatrughan Sinha ( his wife Poonam is playing a major role) called off their ‘cold war’ and embraced each other. A much toned down Shatru even declined to step onto the stage during the ceremony, lest he snatch the limelight from his wife Poonam (who indirectly brokered this truce of sorts between the veteran actors). Poonam, who plays Hrithik’s on-screen mother (Hamida Banu Begum) said that she shared a warm rapport with both ‘Duggu’ (Hrithik) and Aishwarya Rai. “Although both are such big stars, they were so modest and made feel at home,” she said.
Director Ashutosh Gowarikar however seemed extremely nervous all through the evening. He kept wiping his brow and repeating to various media persons, “My film hasnt been delayed because of any of my team members. It was all because of my back problem.” However, everyone burst out laughing when in nervousness he said the film will release on September 15 instead of February 15! Ashutosh did not forget to mention that he missed the presence of Abhishek Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan.
Rani Padmini of Jaipur was present as the chief guest. Being the direct descendant of Jodha’s family, she was consulted during the scripting stage and was also kept in the loop throughout the making of the film to enhance the authenticity of the film.
Courtesy: DnaIndia.com
MUMBAI: He may be playing the lead in Ashutosh Gowarikar’s ‘Jodhaa Akbar’, but it’s learnt that Hrithik Roshan made an exception for this one - he has decided not to do any more period flicks in the future. In fact, he even turned down the role of Gautam Buddha in Shyam Benegal’s upcoming film.
“With all due respect to the Buddha and Shyam-babu, I am not keen on doing more period or mythological films,” says Hrithik. “For me, playing the legendary Emperor Akbar in a film helmed by Ashutosh Gowariker is itself a drastic deviation from my previous movies like ‘Krrish’ or ‘Dhoom-2’.
I have always tried not to get typecast in any particular image. All of us from the ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ cast and crew including Aishwarya Rai, Poonam Sinha and Sonu Sood have worked very hard on the film. It’s an uncanny coincidence that the amazing musical score by A R Rehman is being released on the eve of my birthday (January 10) - it’s almost like a birthday gift for me. And the movie itself is releasing on February 15, which is Gowariker’s birthday.”
The star-studded musical launch of ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ on Wednesday night was also significant in a very different way - the guests of honour, Amitabh Bachchan (his ‘voice-over’ can be heard in ‘Jodhaa Akbar’) and Shatrughan Sinha ( his wife Poonam is playing a major role) called off their ‘cold war’ and embraced each other. A much toned down Shatru even declined to step onto the stage during the ceremony, lest he snatch the limelight from his wife Poonam (who indirectly brokered this truce of sorts between the veteran actors). Poonam, who plays Hrithik’s on-screen mother (Hamida Banu Begum) said that she shared a warm rapport with both ‘Duggu’ (Hrithik) and Aishwarya Rai. “Although both are such big stars, they were so modest and made feel at home,” she said.
Director Ashutosh Gowarikar however seemed extremely nervous all through the evening. He kept wiping his brow and repeating to various media persons, “My film hasnt been delayed because of any of my team members. It was all because of my back problem.” However, everyone burst out laughing when in nervousness he said the film will release on September 15 instead of February 15! Ashutosh did not forget to mention that he missed the presence of Abhishek Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan.
Rani Padmini of Jaipur was present as the chief guest. Being the direct descendant of Jodha’s family, she was consulted during the scripting stage and was also kept in the loop throughout the making of the film to enhance the authenticity of the film.
Courtesy: DnaIndia.com
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Hrithik-Aishwarya fame will help: Ashutosh Gowariker
He had a directorial life before. But it's with Lagaan followed by Swades that Ashutosh Gowariker has acquired the reputation of being one of the most influential and socially awakened filmmakers of our times.
With his new epic Jodhaa-Akbar he goes into the historic alliance between a Mughal Emperor and his Rajput wife with much diligence and passion. Gowariker talks about the film with Subhash K Jha.
After Lagaan, you return to a period film in Jodhaa-Akbar?
You might say that. But I call Lagaan a period film. Jodhaa-Akbar is to me a historical.Anything after 1857 is a period film for me. Anything before that is a historical. Jodhaa-Akbar is certainly not a costume drama.
It isn't set in a never-never land. I'd call Mughal-e-Azam a historical though its focus was different from mine. I feel if today we make a story about the past it must be co-related to the present.
And Jodha-Akbar is as relevant to present times as arranged marriages. Jodha and Akbar shared a perfect arranged marriage. I was fascinated by how their relationship must have grown after marriage.
There was no reference in any books about what happened between them. I've taken extreme care to make sure viewers believe in the relationship.
How much have you stressed the religious different between Jodha and Akbar?
It's important but not stressed in my film. Let's not forget, Akbar's marriage to Jodhabai was no common occurrence.
It had a nationwide reverberation 450 years ago when society was far more conservative. How did their marriage affect those times? That's a question relevant even today. But I'm not jingoistic in my treatment.
Aishwarya Rai and Hrithik Roshan have very contemporary personalities?
That won't be a problem. The audience will come in and forget everything about Hrithik and Aishwarya. I've no fear of that. The two are brilliant Ultimately the audience will be watching not the stars but the two characters that they play.
Hrithik-Aishwarya's pairing is incredible. They're extremely charismatic and good-looking. They were a huge success in the contemporary Dhoom 2. That can only help my film, not harm it.
What audiences will see in my film are Jodha and Akbar. At least that's what I've tried to ensure through their looks, body language and behaviour. I wanted to make my historical as believable as I'd like to see it being.
Every element big or small, from the texture of the clothes to the sets, décor, dialogues and the protocol, even the incidental sounds of birds and animals, they all had to be just right for me.
I'm tired of filmmakers wondering where those good old days have gone. I wanted to reclaim those days. It took me two years of pre-production before I got into my first shot..
Is this the most difficult you've made?
It is. But the process has been so enjoyable I didn't mind the toil. My crew made the process of creation very interesting. Just working hard isn't a virtue. Otherwise I should not make a film. And I definitely shouldn't make a historical.
Film analysts feel history has no relevance for today's average youngster?
I agree. Even as a child myself historical films never interested me. But when I saw Mughal-e-Azam on television I connected to it because it was a story of lovers separated by parental opposition. That the parents were historical figures was incidental.
I feel the story has to be connectable to the audience. Hyder Ali who wrote Jodha-Abkar told me, 'In Mughal-e-Azam the focus was so much on Salim and Anarkali nobody asked a fundamental question.
How did Akbar come to marry Jodhabhai in spite of their religious and cultural divide? I immediately reacted to their alliance. I saw an interesting story there that needed to be told.
As for the youngsters, I had one rule of connectivity in my range of vision. Any word or dialogue that I didn't understand in Urdu, I kept out.
I've no interest in impressing audiences with my knowledge of Urdu, Hindi or even literature. I feel literature is for the books, and that's where it should stay. I needed to reach out to the masses.
So is Jodha-Akbar kitsch?
No. I've referred to literature and academia. But the Akbar-nama was in Pharsi. It doesn't mean I'd use Pharsi in my film. I want Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Bengal to understand the film. I'm dubbing the film into Telugu and Tamil.
Each language has its own regality and I'm going by the individual regality of the province. I had one vision before me when I started making this film. It was the world of the Amar Chitra Katha. I've grown up on that world.
Are you happy with the end-product?
Oh it has been tremendously enriching. So far the Mughal period was part of textbooks. I always wondered about the battles and the durbar intrigue.
The mughal period was known for its lavishness, so much so that studio bosses in Hollywood from the golden period were not called movie czars or movie nawabs. They were called movie moghuls.
Courtesy: Santabanta.com
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Director Ashutosh Gowarikar’s illness delays ‘Jodha Akbar’ to April
‘Jodha Akbar’, a Bollywood movie, which many were waiting and were being thought to be ‘the big one’ in this year’s start will be on theatres in April. Media reports point out that Ashutosh Gowarikar, Director of the film has been advised three weeks bed rest.
The movie is based on a 16th century story between the Mughal emperor Akbar, played by Hrithik Roshan and Hindu princess Jodha Bai, played by Bollywood beauty Aishwarya Rai. The film has been directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and has musical score from A.R. Rahman. Hrithik Roshan who had several blockbuster successes earlier like "Krrish," and "Dhoom 2", will like to take his path of success forward in this year with this movie. Hrithik as Akbar in the film will be seen wearing a lot of heavy jewelry and armour to showcase the royalty of the 16th century.
Kiran Deohans, the ad maker and with ‘Quayamat Se Quayamat Tak’ and ‘Kabhi Khushi…’ fame is the lensman of the movie. In fact after shooting QSQT in 1988, Kiran took a ten year break before shooting another film- Karan Johar''s Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham and now will be showcasing his talent in this movie. Though the official date of the release was February 15 but may be now slipping down to April.
Film has been produced by UTV and rushes of the highly anticipated film have already generated interest among the movie-goers across the country. Media speculates that the production cost of this mega blockbuster is 50 Crores. With its delay ‘Welcome’ the super-success and ‘Taare Zameen Par’ will gain more at the box office.
Courtesy: Mynews.in
The movie is based on a 16th century story between the Mughal emperor Akbar, played by Hrithik Roshan and Hindu princess Jodha Bai, played by Bollywood beauty Aishwarya Rai. The film has been directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and has musical score from A.R. Rahman. Hrithik Roshan who had several blockbuster successes earlier like "Krrish," and "Dhoom 2", will like to take his path of success forward in this year with this movie. Hrithik as Akbar in the film will be seen wearing a lot of heavy jewelry and armour to showcase the royalty of the 16th century.
Kiran Deohans, the ad maker and with ‘Quayamat Se Quayamat Tak’ and ‘Kabhi Khushi…’ fame is the lensman of the movie. In fact after shooting QSQT in 1988, Kiran took a ten year break before shooting another film- Karan Johar''s Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham and now will be showcasing his talent in this movie. Though the official date of the release was February 15 but may be now slipping down to April.
Film has been produced by UTV and rushes of the highly anticipated film have already generated interest among the movie-goers across the country. Media speculates that the production cost of this mega blockbuster is 50 Crores. With its delay ‘Welcome’ the super-success and ‘Taare Zameen Par’ will gain more at the box office.
Courtesy: Mynews.in
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Indian actor Hrithik Roshan picks movies that scare him into performing well
Bollywood movie star Hrithik Roshan says he deliberately chooses difficult roles such as the Mongol emperor in the new historical romance "Jodha Akbar" because they challenge him to excel as an actor.
"Jodha Akbar," scheduled to debut later this month, is based on a 16th century romance between the emperor and Hindu princess Jodha Bai, played by Bollywood beauty Aishwarya Rai.
"I really want to do films that scare me so much that I won't be able to afford it if they don't fare well," Roshan said in an interview in the latest issue of Cine Blitz magazine on Wednesday.
"It is only when it seems to threaten the value of my job would I be consciously giving it my best," he said.
But Roshan said what he loathed most playing Akbar was wearing a lot of heavy jewelry and armor. He said it was awkward to wear earrings and chunky necklaces that were needed to reflect the royalty of the 16th century.
"How will you fight when you cannot even stand up? What if you fall with all that weight on you?" he asked.
Roshan has enjoyed several blockbuster successes. Over the past two years he has played a superhero who glides over water in "Krrish," and a smooth-talking thief in "Dhoom 2."
Courtesy: IHT.com
"Jodha Akbar," scheduled to debut later this month, is based on a 16th century romance between the emperor and Hindu princess Jodha Bai, played by Bollywood beauty Aishwarya Rai.
"I really want to do films that scare me so much that I won't be able to afford it if they don't fare well," Roshan said in an interview in the latest issue of Cine Blitz magazine on Wednesday.
"It is only when it seems to threaten the value of my job would I be consciously giving it my best," he said.
But Roshan said what he loathed most playing Akbar was wearing a lot of heavy jewelry and armor. He said it was awkward to wear earrings and chunky necklaces that were needed to reflect the royalty of the 16th century.
"How will you fight when you cannot even stand up? What if you fall with all that weight on you?" he asked.
Roshan has enjoyed several blockbuster successes. Over the past two years he has played a superhero who glides over water in "Krrish," and a smooth-talking thief in "Dhoom 2."
Courtesy: IHT.com
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