Maestro A.R. Rahman’s appearance in public events, leave alone press meets, is a rare occurrence. And when he called the media to address them, it was indeed a surprise
The occasion for this is the inauguration of his music school – KM Conservatory of Music. Addressing the media, Rahman said that this school would be for students wishing to pursue music courses either as a profession or a vocation.
He lamented that India, though rich and diverse in music, lacks symphony orchestras. To set this right, the students trained in the institute will pursue learning to play in a symphony orchestra. Initially, it will be formed partially with Indian and foreign students; however, he aims at creating one entirely for Indian students.
KM Conservatory of Music, for the time being, will be operated from the place adjacent to his studio in Kodambakkam. But about three acres of land has already been acquired in the suburbs in which class rooms, recording studios, concert hall and residences for faculties and students residing outside the city will be built. KM Conservatory of Music will operate in collaboration with Audio Media Education, an Apple certified institution. It has also been disclosed that talks are on with the University of Madras to grant Deemed University status to this institution.
When the reporters quizzed him on the why he had named the school KM, the maestro refused to divulge it and said the explanation behind the title will remain a secret close to his heart.
On composing music for the films of the Superstar, Rahman said he had worked with him several times earlier; his current projects with Rajini are Sultan the Warrior and Robot.
Courtesy: Behindwoods.com
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
A. R. Rahman launches a Conservatory and an Orchestra
It was one of the rare ‘Meet the Media’ events attended by a much sought after celebrity. The music wiz kid A. R. Rahman met the media persons this morning (March 12) to make a presentation about the foundation of his new KM Conservatory of music, an institution for the training of musicians for professional careers in the field.
The KM Conservatory of Music in collaboration with Audio Media Education, an Apple Authorized Training Centre, which opens in June of this year, will concentrate on instrumental and vocal music (both Indian and western), and music technology. Courses will first be offered in music technology, voice, strings and keyboards (piano and electronic keyboards).
The music wizard informed that, other instruments and aspects of the art of music and sound design would be added to the curriculum depending on the demand and interest.
The courses are at present divided into Preparatory, Foundation and Diploma. It is learnt that there will be a place for any student with musical interest, from the earliest level to higher level, to learn and to perfect their skills.
The main idea behind this novel attempt is to develop the knowledge of music technology, which is a must in today’s musical world. Students who complete the music technology course will be equipped to handle advanced studio equipment, with long term professional prospects.
Students who are dedicated to the art of performance will be trained up to professional standards over a period of years by teachers, both from India and from other parts of the world in a widening number of instruments as the conservatory develops and grows.
The Conservatory would also make the musicians develop professional approach to enhance musical proficiency, without which no artiste could survive in today’s world. The courses and training aim to serve as a place of training up to the highest level, where one could widen his or her musical and technological awareness, literacy and standards.
Discussions are under way with the University of Madras to consider the possibility for the KM Conservatory eventually to gain status as a Deemed University offering Bachelor Degrees in Music and Music Technology.
Rahman’s KM Conservatory has also planned to provide scholarship aid to the needy students initially in the Foundation and Diploma Courses.
The Conservatory would operate from a place adjacent to his studio in Kodambakkam in its first year. In the next year, in a suburb of Chennai, a leafy three acre campus will be made ready for the building of class rooms, a concert hall, recording studio and residential facilities for faculty and students from out of station.
The young genius is also founding a symphony orchestra in the western mode, to serve as a resident studio orchestra to perform music of his own composition for the music industry and to perform for the general public in Chennai and elsewhere in India as occasions arise. This orchestra is to be populated by salaried professional musicians at an international standard, both from India and abroad. Some of these players will also teach at the conservatory.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
The KM Conservatory of Music in collaboration with Audio Media Education, an Apple Authorized Training Centre, which opens in June of this year, will concentrate on instrumental and vocal music (both Indian and western), and music technology. Courses will first be offered in music technology, voice, strings and keyboards (piano and electronic keyboards).
The music wizard informed that, other instruments and aspects of the art of music and sound design would be added to the curriculum depending on the demand and interest.
The courses are at present divided into Preparatory, Foundation and Diploma. It is learnt that there will be a place for any student with musical interest, from the earliest level to higher level, to learn and to perfect their skills.
The main idea behind this novel attempt is to develop the knowledge of music technology, which is a must in today’s musical world. Students who complete the music technology course will be equipped to handle advanced studio equipment, with long term professional prospects.
Students who are dedicated to the art of performance will be trained up to professional standards over a period of years by teachers, both from India and from other parts of the world in a widening number of instruments as the conservatory develops and grows.
The Conservatory would also make the musicians develop professional approach to enhance musical proficiency, without which no artiste could survive in today’s world. The courses and training aim to serve as a place of training up to the highest level, where one could widen his or her musical and technological awareness, literacy and standards.
Discussions are under way with the University of Madras to consider the possibility for the KM Conservatory eventually to gain status as a Deemed University offering Bachelor Degrees in Music and Music Technology.
Rahman’s KM Conservatory has also planned to provide scholarship aid to the needy students initially in the Foundation and Diploma Courses.
The Conservatory would operate from a place adjacent to his studio in Kodambakkam in its first year. In the next year, in a suburb of Chennai, a leafy three acre campus will be made ready for the building of class rooms, a concert hall, recording studio and residential facilities for faculty and students from out of station.
The young genius is also founding a symphony orchestra in the western mode, to serve as a resident studio orchestra to perform music of his own composition for the music industry and to perform for the general public in Chennai and elsewhere in India as occasions arise. This orchestra is to be populated by salaried professional musicians at an international standard, both from India and abroad. Some of these players will also teach at the conservatory.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
Rahman – The January Secret.
The month of January seems to turn the Musical Wizard on; there is a special connection between Rahman and January. Whenever he has had an album or a movie release in January it has for sure gone on to rock the charts for months, maybe an entire year altogether. Not impressed, well then the last three Januaries (2006, 2007 & 2008) have been nothing but Rahman, not in Kollywood but definitely so in Bollywood.
2006 - On the 26th of January, the movie Rang De Basanti released. Now if you have not heard Rang De Basanti (which is quite close to impossible) then you possibly do not know that Rahman is very close to the best in India when it comes to delivering high energy Punjabi numbers. The Rang De Basanti song which had Daler Mehendi in full throttle with the desi drums for company pumped adrenalin into the farthest corners of our body. Then there was the ‘Paathshala’ which might be called the ‘School of Rock/Rap’ for Indian film music, something never heard or tired before. Then Khalbali with the distinct Arabic feel that made you want to dance. And of course, there were the signature Rahman melodies, Roobaroo (the song that unearthed Naresh Iyer) and Tu Bin Bataayein that left a lump in your throat- January 2006.
2007 - We need not tell you what was unleashed in January 2007. For the ones not so fortunate with their memory- Guru. Another Mani Ratnam-Rahman combo that gave us everything that we needed for our hearing pleasures. Maiya Maiya, again an Arabic touch but very cleverly tweaked to suit our tastes. But then this was just the average part of an album that had two lilting melodies- Tere Bina and Aye Hairathe, the latter especially making us linger on in the sweet symphony of Hariharan’s voice as it blended with the subtly used tables. Not to forget the thundering background music that gave us the thrill.
2008- The music is just catching on in some parts of India but Rahman has definitely scored a hat-trick of hits in successive Januaries. Jodha-Akbar has sealed the love story of Rahman and January (Jodha Akbar Music was released in January). It may not be the ‘first time love’ kind of songs but Rahman has given one of the finest albums in recent times. Jashn-e-Bahara is definitely the most ‘melting melody’ that has come out since Aie Hairathe- the perfect use of Sonu Nigam’s sweet voice. ‘In Lamhon Ke Daaman’ too makes us lose ourselves in layers of finely crafted sound. But the cake is really taken by the instrumental versions where the flute replaces the vocals-mesmerizing. And for the thrill, hear Azeem-o-shaan shahenshah with its resounding drums.
So, what’s for January 2009- we cannot wait.
Courtesy: behindwoods.com
2006 - On the 26th of January, the movie Rang De Basanti released. Now if you have not heard Rang De Basanti (which is quite close to impossible) then you possibly do not know that Rahman is very close to the best in India when it comes to delivering high energy Punjabi numbers. The Rang De Basanti song which had Daler Mehendi in full throttle with the desi drums for company pumped adrenalin into the farthest corners of our body. Then there was the ‘Paathshala’ which might be called the ‘School of Rock/Rap’ for Indian film music, something never heard or tired before. Then Khalbali with the distinct Arabic feel that made you want to dance. And of course, there were the signature Rahman melodies, Roobaroo (the song that unearthed Naresh Iyer) and Tu Bin Bataayein that left a lump in your throat- January 2006.
2007 - We need not tell you what was unleashed in January 2007. For the ones not so fortunate with their memory- Guru. Another Mani Ratnam-Rahman combo that gave us everything that we needed for our hearing pleasures. Maiya Maiya, again an Arabic touch but very cleverly tweaked to suit our tastes. But then this was just the average part of an album that had two lilting melodies- Tere Bina and Aye Hairathe, the latter especially making us linger on in the sweet symphony of Hariharan’s voice as it blended with the subtly used tables. Not to forget the thundering background music that gave us the thrill.
2008- The music is just catching on in some parts of India but Rahman has definitely scored a hat-trick of hits in successive Januaries. Jodha-Akbar has sealed the love story of Rahman and January (Jodha Akbar Music was released in January). It may not be the ‘first time love’ kind of songs but Rahman has given one of the finest albums in recent times. Jashn-e-Bahara is definitely the most ‘melting melody’ that has come out since Aie Hairathe- the perfect use of Sonu Nigam’s sweet voice. ‘In Lamhon Ke Daaman’ too makes us lose ourselves in layers of finely crafted sound. But the cake is really taken by the instrumental versions where the flute replaces the vocals-mesmerizing. And for the thrill, hear Azeem-o-shaan shahenshah with its resounding drums.
So, what’s for January 2009- we cannot wait.
Courtesy: behindwoods.com
A.R.Rahman is a young global leader
World Economic Forum announced a list of Young Global Leaders for 2008.
The list includes people from business, media, academia, government and service, from as many as 65 countries.
This list is to honor young leaders from around the world for their contribution to society towards making a difference and for their professional accomplishments.
A.R.Rahman, the music maestro from Chennai, Pooja Shetty, director of Adlabs films and Ratul Puri, executive director, Moser Baer India are some of the people representing Indian Entertainment Industry in the list.
The list also includes Sabeer Bhatia, the developer of HotMail, Suhas Gopinath, CEO, Globals ITeS, who had set the record to become the youngest CEO of India, Anoushka Shankar, sitar player, Barkha Dutt, senior editor, NDTV, Larry Page and Sergey Brin - co-founders of Google and Jack Ma Yun - CEO, Alibaba Group, China.
Courtesy: behindwoods.com
The list includes people from business, media, academia, government and service, from as many as 65 countries.
This list is to honor young leaders from around the world for their contribution to society towards making a difference and for their professional accomplishments.
A.R.Rahman, the music maestro from Chennai, Pooja Shetty, director of Adlabs films and Ratul Puri, executive director, Moser Baer India are some of the people representing Indian Entertainment Industry in the list.
The list also includes Sabeer Bhatia, the developer of HotMail, Suhas Gopinath, CEO, Globals ITeS, who had set the record to become the youngest CEO of India, Anoushka Shankar, sitar player, Barkha Dutt, senior editor, NDTV, Larry Page and Sergey Brin - co-founders of Google and Jack Ma Yun - CEO, Alibaba Group, China.
Courtesy: behindwoods.com
Rajini and Vijay – at the same time!
Production house Ayngaran International is gearing up to start one of the most expected projects of the year – Robot – on May 10th, 2008. This film will have Rajinikanth playing the lead role. Meanwhile, the Superstar is busy with a short-term project Kuselan, which is shaping up well under director P. Vasu.
Fans are exuberant about Robot because of the success that Rajini’s previous film, Sivaji, reaped. Added to the excitement of this are the big names involved in the project. With the beautiful Aishwarya Rai Bachchan bagging the female lead and sharing the screen space with the Superstar for the first time, it is no surprise that this film has managed to generate enough curiosity even before it hits the floors. The Ash factor apart, director Shankar and music director A. R. Rahman’s association with Robot is another reason for all the buzz.
Ayngaran International has another project on hand that could also take off around the same time Robot commences. This film has Vijay in the lead and will be directed by Prabhu Deva. The duo already has a big hit to their credit with Pokkiri. Will the magic rub off this time too?
Courtesy: behindwoods.com
Fans are exuberant about Robot because of the success that Rajini’s previous film, Sivaji, reaped. Added to the excitement of this are the big names involved in the project. With the beautiful Aishwarya Rai Bachchan bagging the female lead and sharing the screen space with the Superstar for the first time, it is no surprise that this film has managed to generate enough curiosity even before it hits the floors. The Ash factor apart, director Shankar and music director A. R. Rahman’s association with Robot is another reason for all the buzz.
Ayngaran International has another project on hand that could also take off around the same time Robot commences. This film has Vijay in the lead and will be directed by Prabhu Deva. The duo already has a big hit to their credit with Pokkiri. Will the magic rub off this time too?
Courtesy: behindwoods.com
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Ghai's confidence in YUVRAAJ (Salman Khan)!
Former showman Subhash Ghai has received praises from most quarters for attempting something different in BLACK & WHITE. Apart from his sensitive handling of the subject, Anil Kapoor's acting in the film has also been appreciated. But its the restrained performance of the newcomer from Patna , Anurag Sinha, who has impressed one and all.
Though BLACK & WHITE is under-performing at the box-office, Ghai is not unduly worried, as he knew that the movie would be a slow starter, which would grow with time. Good news for Ghai is that BLACK & WHITE has been declared tax-free in Delhi (where most of the film has been shot and based). Another factor going in favour of the film is its very reasonable budget of around 7-8 crore.
However, Ghai is supremely confidant of his Anil Kapoor, Salman Khan, Zayed Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer, YUVRAAJ. As per Ghai himself, the big budgeted musical (A.R. Rahman and Gulzar) will show that he is still way ahead of others in showbiz. In fact, the Mukta Arts head honcho goes on to add that YUVRAAJ is his box-office trump card.
The first time teaming up of Subhash Ghai and Salman Khan, YUVRAAJ, is all set for a Diwali release.
Courtesy: Glamsham.com
Though BLACK & WHITE is under-performing at the box-office, Ghai is not unduly worried, as he knew that the movie would be a slow starter, which would grow with time. Good news for Ghai is that BLACK & WHITE has been declared tax-free in Delhi (where most of the film has been shot and based). Another factor going in favour of the film is its very reasonable budget of around 7-8 crore.
However, Ghai is supremely confidant of his Anil Kapoor, Salman Khan, Zayed Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer, YUVRAAJ. As per Ghai himself, the big budgeted musical (A.R. Rahman and Gulzar) will show that he is still way ahead of others in showbiz. In fact, the Mukta Arts head honcho goes on to add that YUVRAAJ is his box-office trump card.
The first time teaming up of Subhash Ghai and Salman Khan, YUVRAAJ, is all set for a Diwali release.
Courtesy: Glamsham.com
Rahman composes airport song for Hyderabad
The new airport in Hyderabad at Shamshabad will have a song of its own, like most corporate companies do these days.
So, GMR has roped in the likes of AR Rahman and Prasoon Joshi to do the honours. While Prasoon has penned the lyrics, Rahman’s tunes will welcome the guests from March 16 onwards.
Rahman is also said to have been approached for the next Mahesh’s film. So, let’s see what more interesting surprises Rahman will come up for his Telugu fans.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
So, GMR has roped in the likes of AR Rahman and Prasoon Joshi to do the honours. While Prasoon has penned the lyrics, Rahman’s tunes will welcome the guests from March 16 onwards.
Rahman is also said to have been approached for the next Mahesh’s film. So, let’s see what more interesting surprises Rahman will come up for his Telugu fans.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
Monday, March 10, 2008
'Robot' pooja in April; shooting in May
The pooja of the mega movie 'Robot' by the mega combination Shankar and the Superstar Rajnikanth will be held around April 14 and the movie will go to the floors by the month of May. The photo-shoot was held last month at AVM Studio. The music director A.R. Rahman too will start his work for the movie soon.
Though the unexpected demise of writer Sujatha, who was working with 'Robot' team, had shocked the entire team, the film will soon be kick started. Since Sujatha is one of the few Tamil writers, who are well versed in scientific matters, it would be a challenging task for the director to find a suitable person to write the dialogues for the science fiction movie.
It is expected that Rajini would finish his portions in ‘Kuselan’ before 'Robot' goes to the floors by May.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
Though the unexpected demise of writer Sujatha, who was working with 'Robot' team, had shocked the entire team, the film will soon be kick started. Since Sujatha is one of the few Tamil writers, who are well versed in scientific matters, it would be a challenging task for the director to find a suitable person to write the dialogues for the science fiction movie.
It is expected that Rajini would finish his portions in ‘Kuselan’ before 'Robot' goes to the floors by May.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
Tamil Jodha Akbar bombs badly
The Tamil regional dubbed release of Hrithik Roshan-Aishwarya Rai starrer Jodha Akbar has proven to be a disaster for UTV. The film has bombed even though past Hindi films have done good business in the state in their dubbed versions.
It was released in 8 theaters in Chennai. But there have been reports of Jodhaa Akbar having been taken off after matinee show itself on opening day due to lack of audience and replaced with 10,000 BC a Hollywood release this week which has open to over 95% response.
Given the dubbing costs and print costs, JA's local version will prove to be a big loser.
Courtesy: Ibosnetwork.com
It was released in 8 theaters in Chennai. But there have been reports of Jodhaa Akbar having been taken off after matinee show itself on opening day due to lack of audience and replaced with 10,000 BC a Hollywood release this week which has open to over 95% response.
Given the dubbing costs and print costs, JA's local version will prove to be a big loser.
Courtesy: Ibosnetwork.com
Rahman likely to be roped in for 'Puli'
Pawan Kalyan’s forthcoming film is already being discussed with great enthusiasm among the film fraternity. 'Jalsa' is more or less complete and the film is due for release in the last week of this month. In all probability, March 27 could be the release date.
So now, the entire focus has suddenly shifted to 'Puli', which is being directed by SJ Surya. As per industry grapevine, Pawan Kalyan will be sporting two looks and the film will go on the floors from April 24.
It is being firmly believed by sources in the industry that A R Rahman could be composing the music for this film, given his recent hits in Bollywood.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
So now, the entire focus has suddenly shifted to 'Puli', which is being directed by SJ Surya. As per industry grapevine, Pawan Kalyan will be sporting two looks and the film will go on the floors from April 24.
It is being firmly believed by sources in the industry that A R Rahman could be composing the music for this film, given his recent hits in Bollywood.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
‘Peranmai’ postponed because of ‘Robot’?
It is learnt from reliable sources that Jayam Ravi starrer ‘Peranmai’, directed by Jananathan, is postponed because of Shankar’s mega movie ‘Robot’, starring Rajinikanth.
Earlier, Jananathan was planning to start the shooting by February 15 but it was postponed for some reasons. Then the director planned to finish the movie in a single schedule (for six months) starting by the month of March. But ‘Ayngaran International’ the producer, has made some amendments in his plans. It has told the director to postpone his schedule.
It seems that the production house, which is also producing the mega movie ‘Robot’, wants to start the two projects simultaneously. ‘Robot’ will be started after the preliminary works for the project getting completed. It has been decided that ‘Peranmai’ will be postponed till ‘Robot’ is ready to go on floors.
According to the sources, there may be some administrative and marketing reasons behind the decision to begin both the projects simultaneously.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
Earlier, Jananathan was planning to start the shooting by February 15 but it was postponed for some reasons. Then the director planned to finish the movie in a single schedule (for six months) starting by the month of March. But ‘Ayngaran International’ the producer, has made some amendments in his plans. It has told the director to postpone his schedule.
It seems that the production house, which is also producing the mega movie ‘Robot’, wants to start the two projects simultaneously. ‘Robot’ will be started after the preliminary works for the project getting completed. It has been decided that ‘Peranmai’ will be postponed till ‘Robot’ is ready to go on floors.
According to the sources, there may be some administrative and marketing reasons behind the decision to begin both the projects simultaneously.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
First look at Dilli 6
The next film from Rang De Basanti’s Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Dilli 6 is a semi-autobiographical take on his younger days in Delhi, mainly set in the old lanes of Chandni Chowk.
What’s new is the casting of the film which has been more of a game of musical chairs. First, it was Abhishek Bachchan, then Hrithik Roshan, Akshay Kumar, Siddharth (of Rang De Basanti fame), Kunal Kapoor and even Ranbir Kapoor! Ironically, the lead role landed in the lap of AB’s baby, who had earlier turned it down. We bring you the views of the final hero of Dilli 6, Abhishek Bachchan, who explained as to why it all started in the first place. “Earlier, I did not have dates. Rakeysh came back some months later with a reworked script.
Thankfully, I could manage to juggle the scheds of Drona and Dilli 6.” Reportedly, the sets for the film constructed in Sambhar in Rajasthan gives a feel that the film has been shot in Chandni Chowk. Meanwhile, Sonam Kapoor too has been signed opposite Abhishek. Apart from the duo, the film also stars Waheeda Rehman, Om Puri, Atul Kulkarni and Divya Dutta. Music for has been composed by A R Rahman. A little history: Rakeysh was supposed to launch Abhishek with Samjhauta Express in 2000 but that somehow did not happen. Never mind, they are also doing Bhairavi, where the three Bachchans come together on screen for the first time. Aamir’s star value definitely helped Rang De Basanti do better at the box-office; will Abhishek do the same for Dilli 6? At least that is what Rakeysh must be expecting from junior Bachchan.
Courtesy: newindpress.com
What’s new is the casting of the film which has been more of a game of musical chairs. First, it was Abhishek Bachchan, then Hrithik Roshan, Akshay Kumar, Siddharth (of Rang De Basanti fame), Kunal Kapoor and even Ranbir Kapoor! Ironically, the lead role landed in the lap of AB’s baby, who had earlier turned it down. We bring you the views of the final hero of Dilli 6, Abhishek Bachchan, who explained as to why it all started in the first place. “Earlier, I did not have dates. Rakeysh came back some months later with a reworked script.
Thankfully, I could manage to juggle the scheds of Drona and Dilli 6.” Reportedly, the sets for the film constructed in Sambhar in Rajasthan gives a feel that the film has been shot in Chandni Chowk. Meanwhile, Sonam Kapoor too has been signed opposite Abhishek. Apart from the duo, the film also stars Waheeda Rehman, Om Puri, Atul Kulkarni and Divya Dutta. Music for has been composed by A R Rahman. A little history: Rakeysh was supposed to launch Abhishek with Samjhauta Express in 2000 but that somehow did not happen. Never mind, they are also doing Bhairavi, where the three Bachchans come together on screen for the first time. Aamir’s star value definitely helped Rang De Basanti do better at the box-office; will Abhishek do the same for Dilli 6? At least that is what Rakeysh must be expecting from junior Bachchan.
Courtesy: newindpress.com
Big B to play Abhishek's grandpa
Amitabh Bachchan will be seen playing Abhishek Bachchan’s grandfather in director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s film Dilli 6 .
Abhishek Bachchan may not have liked the idea of playing the younger Big B in Shoojit Sircar’s in-the-making film ‘Shoebite’, but the senior Bachchan has happily agreed to act in Mehra’s semi-autobiographical flick starring Abhishek and Sonam Kapoor in lead roles.
The film has Amitabh and Waheeda Rahman playing grandparents of the character played by Abhishek.
Big B and Waheeda ji have worked together in a number of films in the 70s and 80s, and ‘Dilli 6’ marks their coming together after a long gap of about 25 years.
Mehra, who is extremely fond of Waheeda ji (she was also part of his Rang De Basanti ), reportedly wanted her only to play the role of Abhi’s grandma.
Reports say that the two senior actors have already shot a few portions of the film in Rajasthan.
Courtesy: Apunkachoice.com
Abhishek Bachchan may not have liked the idea of playing the younger Big B in Shoojit Sircar’s in-the-making film ‘Shoebite’, but the senior Bachchan has happily agreed to act in Mehra’s semi-autobiographical flick starring Abhishek and Sonam Kapoor in lead roles.
The film has Amitabh and Waheeda Rahman playing grandparents of the character played by Abhishek.
Big B and Waheeda ji have worked together in a number of films in the 70s and 80s, and ‘Dilli 6’ marks their coming together after a long gap of about 25 years.
Mehra, who is extremely fond of Waheeda ji (she was also part of his Rang De Basanti ), reportedly wanted her only to play the role of Abhi’s grandma.
Reports say that the two senior actors have already shot a few portions of the film in Rajasthan.
Courtesy: Apunkachoice.com
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
The cinematographer for 'Robot'
Director Shankar’s 'Robot', starring superstar Rajinikanth, will have a new cinematographer. Shankar has to look beyond his trusted ally K.V. Anand due to some unavoidable reasons.
The ace cinematographer, who has been an integral part of Shankar’s films right from 'Mudhalvan', has now committed for AVM’s new film starring Suriya and Tamanna. Shankar feels that it won’t be nice to call him at this juncture.
Then the leading director, who was impressed by Nirav Shaw’s work in 'Billa', has approached the cinematographer for 'Robot'. Unfortunately Shaw could not oblige, as he is already committed to ‘Sarvam’, directed by Vishnuvardhan.
Left with very little choice, Shankar has now opted for Thiru, who impressed everyone with his fine work in Ajith – Trisha starrer ‘Kireedom’.
Keep watching IndiaGlitz for the latest on 'Robot'.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
The ace cinematographer, who has been an integral part of Shankar’s films right from 'Mudhalvan', has now committed for AVM’s new film starring Suriya and Tamanna. Shankar feels that it won’t be nice to call him at this juncture.
Then the leading director, who was impressed by Nirav Shaw’s work in 'Billa', has approached the cinematographer for 'Robot'. Unfortunately Shaw could not oblige, as he is already committed to ‘Sarvam’, directed by Vishnuvardhan.
Left with very little choice, Shankar has now opted for Thiru, who impressed everyone with his fine work in Ajith – Trisha starrer ‘Kireedom’.
Keep watching IndiaGlitz for the latest on 'Robot'.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
A.R Rahman: 'War is about power'
ONE of the world’s biggest composing, production and musical names A.R. Rahman spoke exclusively to BBC Asian Network’s Gagan Grewal this week sharing his views on war and his career.
Rahman, the man behind the musical score of countless Bollywood films as well as West End productions including Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Bombay Dreams and Lord of the Rings spoke about his latest projects and war – something he’s rarely spoken about in public.
A.R. Rahman scored his 1st Bollywood song ‘Roja’ in 1992 which went on to be listed as one of the top 100 songs of all time by TIME magazine, yet Rahman says it’s hard to define a favourite song.
In 2003 BBC World Service ran a global poll, asking its listeners for their 10 favourite tracks of the last millennium. A.R. Rahman had two tracks in the top ten, Vande Mataram – a rendition of the Indian National Song made it to number 2.
Said Rahman: "I felt I should do something as a personal expression and I teamed up with my school mate Bharat Bala, a talented film maker, and he thought of this idea. I wanted to complete this album with the thought of belonging to the motherland. Though it was a controversial theme, I think the way it was put together made it acceptable to every community".
On the topic of war, on one of Rahman’s CDs, he says the world spends 730 billion dollars on war.
"The ultimate fight in humanity was actually for food. But now it’s not about food anymore or healing anybody…....It's about power, who's more powerful and who can control the world. Everybody's become a control freak, that’s the reason why we are spending so much of money on war, and so that’s the reason, why it was put on the sleeve of 'Pray for me brother' album. It's a simple thing, we don’t think about that, but when we see the reality we feel disgusted about it".
Rahman says he enjoys working in England as it gives him a platform try something non-Bollywood.
"It's completely different from what I do for movies because here [UK] there is different kind of audience, the whole platform is reputed and credible. My first entry here has been great with 'Lord of the Rings’ being the second musical, but completely western, completely non-Bollywood, non Indian, a good diversion for me to go deeper into this kind of music. "
Rahman has won recognition from a broad base including MTV, the Laurence Olivier awards as well as Bollywood. He says his father, who died when Rahman was nine, affected him and his career.
The father of two said: "Everything changed when I started discovering myself, and the influence of Sufism in my life and my family. And the first film when it came, that changed the whole direction of my life in a way because that defined my music, principles and existence in a way actually…. My inspiration I got from him [his father] and his hard work, the good name he earned in the industry, which I wanted to retain in a way."
Talking about what gives him strength Rahman replied: "I'm a spiritual person, the word religion has been so much in controversy. I think we need to go beyond and look at humanity with love rather than segmenting so much. I try to be as true as possible, but the main thing for me is how much is it turning me into a better human being and how much it makes me a good influence in the community. So that's very important and I keep that in my mind."
For a man that has achieved a lot at a very young age we asked A.R. Rahman what is next on the horizon.
"Right now I’m doing Yuvraj, a Subhash Ghai's film, D6 by Rakesh Mehra, and Ghajini with Amir Khan, and the next music release will be a film Jaane Tu Jaane Na, Amir Khan production".
Courtesy: theasiannews.co.uk
Rahman, the man behind the musical score of countless Bollywood films as well as West End productions including Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Bombay Dreams and Lord of the Rings spoke about his latest projects and war – something he’s rarely spoken about in public.
A.R. Rahman scored his 1st Bollywood song ‘Roja’ in 1992 which went on to be listed as one of the top 100 songs of all time by TIME magazine, yet Rahman says it’s hard to define a favourite song.
In 2003 BBC World Service ran a global poll, asking its listeners for their 10 favourite tracks of the last millennium. A.R. Rahman had two tracks in the top ten, Vande Mataram – a rendition of the Indian National Song made it to number 2.
Said Rahman: "I felt I should do something as a personal expression and I teamed up with my school mate Bharat Bala, a talented film maker, and he thought of this idea. I wanted to complete this album with the thought of belonging to the motherland. Though it was a controversial theme, I think the way it was put together made it acceptable to every community".
On the topic of war, on one of Rahman’s CDs, he says the world spends 730 billion dollars on war.
"The ultimate fight in humanity was actually for food. But now it’s not about food anymore or healing anybody…....It's about power, who's more powerful and who can control the world. Everybody's become a control freak, that’s the reason why we are spending so much of money on war, and so that’s the reason, why it was put on the sleeve of 'Pray for me brother' album. It's a simple thing, we don’t think about that, but when we see the reality we feel disgusted about it".
Rahman says he enjoys working in England as it gives him a platform try something non-Bollywood.
"It's completely different from what I do for movies because here [UK] there is different kind of audience, the whole platform is reputed and credible. My first entry here has been great with 'Lord of the Rings’ being the second musical, but completely western, completely non-Bollywood, non Indian, a good diversion for me to go deeper into this kind of music. "
Rahman has won recognition from a broad base including MTV, the Laurence Olivier awards as well as Bollywood. He says his father, who died when Rahman was nine, affected him and his career.
The father of two said: "Everything changed when I started discovering myself, and the influence of Sufism in my life and my family. And the first film when it came, that changed the whole direction of my life in a way because that defined my music, principles and existence in a way actually…. My inspiration I got from him [his father] and his hard work, the good name he earned in the industry, which I wanted to retain in a way."
Talking about what gives him strength Rahman replied: "I'm a spiritual person, the word religion has been so much in controversy. I think we need to go beyond and look at humanity with love rather than segmenting so much. I try to be as true as possible, but the main thing for me is how much is it turning me into a better human being and how much it makes me a good influence in the community. So that's very important and I keep that in my mind."
For a man that has achieved a lot at a very young age we asked A.R. Rahman what is next on the horizon.
"Right now I’m doing Yuvraj, a Subhash Ghai's film, D6 by Rakesh Mehra, and Ghajini with Amir Khan, and the next music release will be a film Jaane Tu Jaane Na, Amir Khan production".
Courtesy: theasiannews.co.uk
Mithun in Subhash Ghai's Yuvraaj
One of 2008's most anticipated films is Subhash Ghai's Yuvraaj starring Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor, Zayed Khan and Katrina Kaif in lead roles. The film which is a musical has added 2 more members to its already impressive star-cast.
The buzz is that Mithun Chakraborty apparently has been signed on to play a special appearance in the film. When Bollywood Hungama spoke to Mr. Subhash Ghai, he confirmed this, "Yes Mithun is doing a special appearance in Yuvraaj. However it is a very important role in the context of the film. We have shot with him already for around 5 - 6 days."
Besides this Aushima Sawhney who was last seen opposite Kunal Khemu in Superstar has also been signed. Ghai adds, "Aushima is playing one of the female leads in Yuvraaj"
With some people referring to the film as Main Yuvraaj while others calling it Yuvraaj we decided to get the facts straight from the man himself. "I keep telling everyone it is Yuvraaj. The title is positively Yuvraaj and not Main Yuvraaj"
Lastly we can't wait to check out this star-studded extravaganza and hence ask the showman, how much of the shooting is actually left? "50 % of the shooting is left, and we are releasing the film on October 24, 2008, the same day when Mukta Arts celebrates it 30th anniversary," signs off Ghai.
In the meanwhile, all you Ghai fans can surely check out his next release Black and White starring Anil Kapoor, Shefali Shah, and debutant Anurag Sinha that opens across cinemas next week (March 7).
Courtesy: Indiafm.com
The buzz is that Mithun Chakraborty apparently has been signed on to play a special appearance in the film. When Bollywood Hungama spoke to Mr. Subhash Ghai, he confirmed this, "Yes Mithun is doing a special appearance in Yuvraaj. However it is a very important role in the context of the film. We have shot with him already for around 5 - 6 days."
Besides this Aushima Sawhney who was last seen opposite Kunal Khemu in Superstar has also been signed. Ghai adds, "Aushima is playing one of the female leads in Yuvraaj"
With some people referring to the film as Main Yuvraaj while others calling it Yuvraaj we decided to get the facts straight from the man himself. "I keep telling everyone it is Yuvraaj. The title is positively Yuvraaj and not Main Yuvraaj"
Lastly we can't wait to check out this star-studded extravaganza and hence ask the showman, how much of the shooting is actually left? "50 % of the shooting is left, and we are releasing the film on October 24, 2008, the same day when Mukta Arts celebrates it 30th anniversary," signs off Ghai.
In the meanwhile, all you Ghai fans can surely check out his next release Black and White starring Anil Kapoor, Shefali Shah, and debutant Anurag Sinha that opens across cinemas next week (March 7).
Courtesy: Indiafm.com
Ash's new look for 'Robot'
From the moment director Shankar decided that he will work once again with the South Indian super star Rajinikanth, this project has been making news. Well there was also a controversy suggesting that Ash was signed and rumors emanating that she has quit the film. Well a few days back Ash had openly declared in an interview to a private channel that she had signed for this sci-fi flick.
Now here is more news for all you fans of this Bollywood beauty.
It seems director Shankar has asked Ash to go down by a few pounds because that is the look needed for the film. Ash, who had put on some weight for her recent blockbuster 'Jodhaa Akbar', is believed to be hitting the gym daily and is on a strict diet regimen for shedding the required kilos.
Ash will be shown as a sleek chic and she might also have to do some stunt sequences for this film, hence the reducing in weight. Ash has received a whooping sum as advance, and signing this film she has become the top paid actress in the entire nation.
'Robot' sees the coming together of giants like Shankar, A.R. Rahman, and Rajinikanth. This same trio had come together for making 'Sivaji-The Boss' which became a block buster in South India and abroad.
Let us hope that the magicians are able to weave their magic once again with this film as well.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
Now here is more news for all you fans of this Bollywood beauty.
It seems director Shankar has asked Ash to go down by a few pounds because that is the look needed for the film. Ash, who had put on some weight for her recent blockbuster 'Jodhaa Akbar', is believed to be hitting the gym daily and is on a strict diet regimen for shedding the required kilos.
Ash will be shown as a sleek chic and she might also have to do some stunt sequences for this film, hence the reducing in weight. Ash has received a whooping sum as advance, and signing this film she has become the top paid actress in the entire nation.
'Robot' sees the coming together of giants like Shankar, A.R. Rahman, and Rajinikanth. This same trio had come together for making 'Sivaji-The Boss' which became a block buster in South India and abroad.
Let us hope that the magicians are able to weave their magic once again with this film as well.
Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com
'Jodhaa Akbar' now in Tamil
Ashutosh Gowariker’s magnum opus 'Jodhaa Akbar', starring Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai, after having impressed the hindi-speaking audience, would now be released in Tamil.
The music for the film is by maestro A.R. Rahman, who has come out with some grand numbers. The Tamil lyrics have been written by Na. Muthukumar. The audio, that has been released recently, is doing well, say sources.
The film has turned out to be a super-hit, especially in the overseas market where it is doing terrific business aided by favourable reviews from the foreign press. The domestic revenue too has been above average considering that the film has not been released in Rajasthan and has been banned in Madhya Pradesh and certain other areas.
The Hindi version, released two weeks back, has so far collected 65 lakhs from Chennai alone. This is indeed quite a feat, considering the film’s running time of 3 hours and 30 minutes.
However, UTV is planning to release a more tightly-edited version. The dubbed version would be released across Tamil Nadu on 6th of March.
Courtesy: Msn.com
The music for the film is by maestro A.R. Rahman, who has come out with some grand numbers. The Tamil lyrics have been written by Na. Muthukumar. The audio, that has been released recently, is doing well, say sources.
The film has turned out to be a super-hit, especially in the overseas market where it is doing terrific business aided by favourable reviews from the foreign press. The domestic revenue too has been above average considering that the film has not been released in Rajasthan and has been banned in Madhya Pradesh and certain other areas.
The Hindi version, released two weeks back, has so far collected 65 lakhs from Chennai alone. This is indeed quite a feat, considering the film’s running time of 3 hours and 30 minutes.
However, UTV is planning to release a more tightly-edited version. The dubbed version would be released across Tamil Nadu on 6th of March.
Courtesy: Msn.com
Rehman bags three Filmfare Awards
It was A.R. Rehman all the way at the 53rd Annual Filmfare Award. The music maestro, nominated in three categories - Best Music, Best Background Score and Best Singer, walked away with two statues of the black lady (Best Music, Best Background Score) losing out the third one by a whisker.
It should be noted that the world renowned composer had just one release in 2007, director Mani Ratnam's Guru which released at the very beginning of 2007. However, the film's songs are still a rage with the masses, a proof of Rahman's musical prowess.
As he received the award for Best Background Score, Rehman (who was presented the award by Bollywood's famed director duo Abbas-Mustan) said, "The Filmfare Award is like an ornament for a lady; the more you have, it enhances the charm."
Later on, he was back on stage once again, this time receiving the Best Music award for Guru from Bappi Lahiri and Poonam Dhillon. The award, his 21st, makes the Mozart of Madras the recipient with the most number of Filmfare awards. We, at Oneindia.in, wish the 'Isai Puyal' on his glorious triumph.
Courtesy: oneindia.in
It should be noted that the world renowned composer had just one release in 2007, director Mani Ratnam's Guru which released at the very beginning of 2007. However, the film's songs are still a rage with the masses, a proof of Rahman's musical prowess.
As he received the award for Best Background Score, Rehman (who was presented the award by Bollywood's famed director duo Abbas-Mustan) said, "The Filmfare Award is like an ornament for a lady; the more you have, it enhances the charm."
Later on, he was back on stage once again, this time receiving the Best Music award for Guru from Bappi Lahiri and Poonam Dhillon. The award, his 21st, makes the Mozart of Madras the recipient with the most number of Filmfare awards. We, at Oneindia.in, wish the 'Isai Puyal' on his glorious triumph.
Courtesy: oneindia.in
Aamir's six packs!
Aamir Khan has taken his perfectionism to a new level.
The actor had acquired six-pack abs in October during a month-long schedule in South Africa where he had shot for a special dance number for Ghajini. Since then, however, he had lost his six-pack and put on some weight.
Now, he had to complete the dance number (about 30 per cent of it was left) at Film City recently. However, when choreographer Ahmed Khan met him, he realised that Aamir’s body was not matching the earlier shoot. Ahmed Khan pointed out that Aamir had lost his six-pack abs and had also become a little plump. So how could they shoot?
That’s when Aamir requested Ahmed to give him 21 days to get back to shape for the song. And sure enough, the actor achieved his target in 21 days. He returned with six-pack abs in three weeks!
Ahmed Khan says, "We had shot this song in South Africa four months ago, in October, and it turned out to be excellent. Later I wanted to add some variations in the song for it to look better. So I requested Aamir for some extra time. But Aamir got busy with the post-production and promotion of Taare Zameen Par. Finally, when I met him last month to discuss the song, I saw that his six-pack was gone, he was also looking plump. When I pointed this out to him, he requested me to give him 21 days to get back the same look. When I met him 20 days later, he was looking as perfect as he was in South Africa. We shot the song over four days."
Needless to say, Ahmed Khan is impressed with the actor’s commitment. He says, "Aamir not only has commitment, but will power too. Imagine getting six-pack abs twice over, for a film!"
Courtesy: TimesofIndia.com
The actor had acquired six-pack abs in October during a month-long schedule in South Africa where he had shot for a special dance number for Ghajini. Since then, however, he had lost his six-pack and put on some weight.
Now, he had to complete the dance number (about 30 per cent of it was left) at Film City recently. However, when choreographer Ahmed Khan met him, he realised that Aamir’s body was not matching the earlier shoot. Ahmed Khan pointed out that Aamir had lost his six-pack abs and had also become a little plump. So how could they shoot?
That’s when Aamir requested Ahmed to give him 21 days to get back to shape for the song. And sure enough, the actor achieved his target in 21 days. He returned with six-pack abs in three weeks!
Ahmed Khan says, "We had shot this song in South Africa four months ago, in October, and it turned out to be excellent. Later I wanted to add some variations in the song for it to look better. So I requested Aamir for some extra time. But Aamir got busy with the post-production and promotion of Taare Zameen Par. Finally, when I met him last month to discuss the song, I saw that his six-pack was gone, he was also looking plump. When I pointed this out to him, he requested me to give him 21 days to get back the same look. When I met him 20 days later, he was looking as perfect as he was in South Africa. We shot the song over four days."
Needless to say, Ahmed Khan is impressed with the actor’s commitment. He says, "Aamir not only has commitment, but will power too. Imagine getting six-pack abs twice over, for a film!"
Courtesy: TimesofIndia.com
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