Sunday, November 18, 2007

A.R. Rahman rocks Delhi

He came, he sang, he conquered. Music maestro A.R. Rahman spun a web of magic over his audience as he sang some of his all-time popular compositions, including 'Khalbali' and 'Pathshala', at his first concert in the capital.

Although the open-air venue at Rajouri Garden in west Delhi was not packed Saturday, thanks to the steep ticket prices (Rs.500-Rs.5,000 per ticket), for the ones who were present it was an evening to remember.

Rahman, dressed in a white sherwani, dominated the grand stage, which had LCD screens flanking both wings, scores of steps leading up to a tiny balcony on one side and was lit up by multi coloured lights.

'I hope you enjoy the concert,' Rahman said as he started rolling out one song after the other leaving the audience spellbound and screaming for more.

From classics such as 'Roja' of the movie 'Roja' and 'Kehna hi kya' from 'Bombay' to more recent hits like 'Khalbali' from the movie 'Rang de Basanti' and 'Barso re Megha' from 'Guru', and hit numbers of the blockbuster 'Sivaji' to a musical score from the yet-to-be-released 'Jodha Akbar', the audience was treated to a delicious musical fare.

Accompanying Rahman were other singers like the pony-tailed Hariharan, Chitra, Madhushree, Sadhna Sargam and Delhi's own boy Kailash Kher, who have rendered their voices to his compositions in the movies.

Ace drummer Sivamani enthralled the audience with his marathon-drumming spell.

With the sets changing with each song and scores of dancers performing alongside the crooning maestros, more glitter was added to the show.

Mid way through the performance, Rahman changed into a dull purple kurta and sat on the piano to perform his English number 'Pray for me brother', a melodious song that asks people to fight poverty.

'I hope you will support me in my fight against poverty,' Rahman said.

He also launched a set of colouring books in the occasion the proceeds of which will go to his foundation that works for humanitarian causes.

As Hariharan sang 'Bharat humko jaan se pyara hai', the crowd stood and cheered, passing the verdict that the three-hour musical evening was a hit.

Courtesy: Earthtimes.org

A cockroach in Shekhar’s next

Before he went about donning a film director’s hat, Shekhar Kapur was an accountant, a model, an actor, a chat-show host and even a scuba diving instructor! “Diving has always been a passion. I was an instructor ages ago. Whenever I get a chance, I go for a swim in the sea or go scuba diving,” says the director enthusiastically.

Shekhar jokes about how he’s hoping that adman Prahlad Kakkar would ‘someday’ invite him to his scuba diving school at Lakshadweep. He assures us that he’s not going to take up his old job.

“I discovered that life was not just about a career when I was 24,” says the critically-acclaimed direcor currently in town to promote his film ‘Elizabeth: The Golden Age’. “My life has been a journey from then on for discovering new things and learning more about myself,” he adds.

Apart from the last part of the Elizabeth trilogy, the director is also planning to take up an animation film where the central character will be a cockroach!

He has somehow managed to convince AR Rahman to be on board for this project. “The cockroach will be the only living character left in a world when there are no humans left,” he says.

Coming back to his controversial movie, we ask if he obsessed with Elizabeth? “It’s a character that I can manipulate as most things related to her and that era is almost mythical,” he shoots back, admitting that he is besotted by Cate Blanchett as “she’s one of the most talented actors in the world”.

But the one girl who has wrested all his attention right now is his seven-year-old daughter Kaveri. “I am planning a vacation with her in Goa. There are times when at the end of the day she falls asleep on my shoulder. I stay awake all night because I am scared that she might wake up if I moved,” he signs off.

Courtesy: DnaIndia.com

Rahman all the way, dil se

It was one of the grandest shows Delhi has ever seen.

The set was majestic, with yellow lights embellishing the red eye-catching décor. But on the whole it was all about the music at the very successful Fever 104 FM’s big AR Rahman concert.

Delhi turned up in all its might at the West Delhi District Centre Ground, Raja Garden. Approximately 25,000 people attended the event.

Accompanied by an army of musicians, the maestro painted vivid musical landscapes to a bewitched crowd. There were several high points of the evening: one of them saw Rahman speak from his heart on various topics close to his heart.

He did not restrict his renditions to Hindi or English and also had some Tamil favourites thrown in, which were lapped up by the crowd. Surprisingly, some fans sang along in Tamil. His star performers too left no stone unturned to ensure that this concert is etched in the memory of all those who were here.

Chitra, Hariharan, Kailash Kher, rapper Blaze, Naresh Iyer and Kailash Kher, among others, were truly spectacular. There were sounds of violins, flutes, awesome percussion and Rahman himself with his jukebox, synthesiser.

There was Chaiyya Chaiyya, Tu hi Re, Khabali, Chanda Re, Roja, Bharat Humko, Maiyya Maiyya and Rahman even gave a sneak peak into his upcoming movie soundtrack of Jodha Akbar that had percussionist Sivamani jamming with over 20 drummers on stage.

When it was time for the Fever 104 winner to come on stage, Parul Mishra put her best foot forward. “This is one concert I could come to with all my friends. Usually, it tough to have them all together at the same place as they all have different choices in music. But Rahman is a common favourite,” said 23-year-old Kamakshi Rao, who came from Gurgaon.

From six-year-olds to sixty-year-olds, they were all keen to wave their hands and shake a leg. After all, you don’t get to see the maestro in action every day.

Courtesy: Hindustantimes.com

A R Rahman enthrals Delhi

Renowned music composer and singer Allah Rakah Rahman on Saturday rendered an enchanting performance, belting a mix of Hindi, Tamil and English songs which made a 50,000 strong audience in the city swaying, clapping and asking for more.

Beginning the performance with the number 'Thodi si raat aur hai...' from the film "Guru", Rehman, in his maiden public concert in the capital, managed to keep the audience captive under the magical spell of his voice.

The musician was performing for the Fever 104 concert in which playback singers Kailash Kher, Hari Haran, Madhushree, Chitra, Sivamani and others took part.

The musical extravaganza which started an hour late than scheduled, had an orchestra of 50 instrumentalists and 22 singers whose energy had the crowd roaring for more.

Accompanying the music maestro, percussionist Sivamani and flutist Navin were no less in mesmerizing the crowd.

Rehman asked the crowd to join him in his fight against poverty and he rendered for the crowd on his piano the soul touching number from his album "Pray for me brother".

Apart from the usual favourite hit numbers ranging from hindi flicks like "Rang De Basanti", and "Roza", his fans got a special treat when he gave them a slice of music from the forthcoming Ashutosh Gowarkiker's film "Jodhaa Akbar".

Courtesy: Hindu.com

A R Rahman all set to wow Delhiites in his concert

 
Veteran music composer A R Rahman is ready to wow Delhi with his Live performance on Saturday at JJ Square, Raja Garden Chowk. The high profile concert has been sponsored by Fever 104 FM.
"I wanted to come and perform here but things did not work out, but now with the help of Fever 104 FM I will get a chance to perform and jive Delhi audience," A R Rahman had said at the first anniversary of Fever 104 FM.
The concert has been held after 35 days of talent hunt, conducted by Fever 104 FM, from October 12 to November 17. From all the entries, 10 singers were to be shortlisted for the semi-final round. And the winner is supposed to perform on stage with the maestro.
Rahman has been busy with international assignments. He has composed music for Shekhar Kapur's `Elizabeth - The Golden Age'. He worked with composer Craig Armstrong in the film. "It has been a nice experience working with Craig and Shekhar," said Rahman, who is also doing a project in London but he refused to talk about it.
Rahman, whose songs in `Rang De Basanti' and `Guru' enthrals music lovers, is looking forward to Ashutosh Gowariker's period drama `Jodhaa-Akbar' for which he has scored the music.
Rahman’s concert is one of the most awaited events at the Capital and organisers are leaving no stones unturned for success of the event.

Courtesy: Zeenews.com

Lord of the tunes

>The music of Elizabeth: The Golden Age is very loud. Is it intentional to complement the larger-than-life image of Elizabeth?

I have co-composed the music with Craig Armstrong. We had initially composed a very different and slower track for the film. But we thought that was too arty. So we opted for a more pulsating music that goes with the dramatic treatment of the film.

Shekhar Kapoor said that you are refusing to do Elizabeth part three.

Shekhar said it just like that; we haven’t yet started talking on it. Anyway, we are working together for his animation film, Suitable Cockroach, which is a rap musical.

What other international projects are you doing next?

I’m in talks for one international project but I can’t divulge any details at this point. The music of Lord of the Rings, a musical adaptation of JRR Tolkein’s epic book, is going to be launched on December 10. It has nearly 15 tracks.

Any new Hindi films?

After The Golden Age, I’m composing music for another periodical—Jodhaa Akbar. I’m also doing Aamir Khan’s Ghajini, Ada and Yuvraj.

How do you oscillate so smoothly between Bollywood and international projects?

You have to keep different sensibilities in mind according to the change in the nature of the audience. When I compose music for the Tamil Nadu market, I think of Tamilians’ taste.

Why did you cut your hair, it had become your style statement?

When I had gone for Haj, I had to shorn off my hair. My wife liked it short so I had to stick to it. Anyway, I am not planning an album now. When I do, I will grow my hair again.

 

Courtesy: ExpressIndia.com

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Aamir talks about Rahman in an interview

You've been collaborating with Rahman once again (after RDB) on Ghajini Remake. How different is the experience?
Very different, creatively and to be precise, even personally. Creatively it is a very different film than Rang De Basanti. It is much pacier film and hence the requirements are very different. Personally, because in Rang De Basanti alongside working professionally we were developing a personal relationship, which matured by the time the project, peaked. Now when I am working with him again our understanding has newer dimensions which I think gets reflected in the work we do. I always respected him but now there is a deep emotional connect. It would be premature for me to talk about specifics of songs at this juncture but it's entirely a new flavour.

Courtesy: Indiainfo.com

Paramount to release Kapur's Elizabeth

Paramount Films of India announced the Indian release of Shekhar Kapur's Elizabeth-The Golden Age. The film stars casts Cate Blanchett, Geofrey Rush and Clive Owen and has music by ace Indian music director A R Rahman.

Talking about this mythological film based on interesting bits from history, director Kapur says, "It is very important to acknowledge that it's all about interpretations. History is an interpretation of an interpretation. This goes on. I made this film for varied reasons and I believe in it completely."
Paramount Films, India general manager Sarabjit Singh adds, "The film recites the tale of the story of one woman's crusade to control love, crush enemies and secure her position as a beloved icon of western world."
The Indian touch to the music will be evident, thanks to Rahman. The musician, who has been churning out enigmatic creations for period films, has something new to offer this time.

Courtesy: BusinessofCinema.com

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Rahman rules Tamil charts

A.R. Rahman's second Tamil album "Azhagiya Thamizh Magan" is a hit with Vijay fans lapping it up. Of all the Diwali releases, only Rahman and his nephew Prakash's albums have done well.

The top five Tamil albums are:


1. "Azhagiya Thamizh Magan"- Music Director: A.R. Rahman. The album is a hit with Vijay fans. The remix of "Pon magal vanthal", a T.M. Soundararajan song, is the biggest hit.

2. "Pollathavan" - Music Director: G.V. Prakash. Another remix makes it to the top. Yogi B's rendition of the 1970s' song "Engeyum eppothum" by S.P. Balasubramaniam in "Ninaithale Inikkum" has enthralled the new generation.

3. "Satham Podathey" - Music Director: Yuvan Shankar Raja. None of Yuvan's Diwali albums are up to the mark, but his music for "Satham Podathey" is still popular.

4. "Bheema" - Music Director: Harris Jayaraj. The song "Mudhal mazhai" is the best number in "Bheema".

5. "Thamizh MA" - Music Director: Yuvan Shankar Raja. "Paravaiya ennai", sung by maestro Ilayaraja for his son, is the pick of the album.

Courtesy: Nowrunning.com

5 youngsters stake claim to fame Fever 104 - AR Rahman

Fever 104 FM’s Voice Hunt has witnessed a two week high-intensity drama of selections and rejections and 5 contestants have made it to the final round of the talent hunt. The finalists will now be flown to Chennai, wherein one lucky individual will meet the maestro - A R Rahman, himself. The finalist
will get an opportunity of a lifetime to train and perform with AR Rahman at the Fever 104 concert, in Delhi on 17th November.



Fever 104 FM Business Head S Keerthivasan said, “Fever 104 FM is all about the music. We are proud to have provided our listeners with the fantastic opportunity to train and perform with the musical genius of our times – A R Rahman. After an outstanding response and involvement from our listeners we are looking forward to a rocking performance.”



“I look forward to discovering fresh talent out of the pool of 5 contestants, who have come so far after a grueling selection process” said AR Rahman.

Courtesy: Moneycontrol.com

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

A R Rahman’s song in a jiffy

How often have heard this line: “The ‘Mozart of Madras’ has done it yet again.“ A. R Rahman, after giving finishing touches to the musical version of the Lord of the Rings, which received good response from the audience and critics alike, is back in town ready to set the pulse racing with his beats.
Sakkarakatti

In fact, for Vijay’s Azhagiya Tamil Magan the music director had asked for a couple of days time, during the first week of November, to compose the background score but the producers felt that it would be too late for a Deepavali release and had them composed by duo Sabesh–Murali after explaining the situation to Rahman.

But Producer ‘Kalai Puli’ Dhanu’s son Kala Prabhu, not wanting to compromise on the music, patiently waited for Rahman to return and finish the one remaining song for his debut directorial venture Sakkarakatti, which happens to be Shantanu Bhakyaraj’s debut as well. Rahman, on returning from London, called Kala Prabhu and lyricist Vaali and immediately started composing music for the song. He is said to have finished the composition in a jiffy, which had Kala Prabhu jumping around the studio with joy as the movie was waiting only for this song to be canned.

Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

Monday, November 12, 2007

All strings attached

Musician Kailash Kher talks about his spiritual connection with AR Rahman and more

For people who believe in soul mates, there’s always that one person with whom the whole soul connection happens and for musician Kailash Kher it’s none other than AR Rahman.

While shooting for the reality show ‘Mission Ustad’, Kailash who has always been Rahman’s friend and has sung for his films, spent more time with him.

“It’s this concept of musician jodis who are singing and kind of competing against each other. I’m paired with Mahalaxmi Iyer and then there are others such as Mihit Chauhan and Vasundhara Das, Roopkumar and Sonali Rathod etc,” says Kailash who is also thrilled about his upcoming films as a music composer.

“There is some spiritual connection between me and Rahman. Everytime we are working together the experience is pure and holy. I’m also doing another project with him. It’s his private project with him,” he says.

“I’m composing for films now along with Naresh and Paresh. ‘Made In China’ which is a Nikhil Advani film starring Akshay Kumar is a big project. Akshay and Nikhil really liked the music and we are looking forward to its release.

Quiz him about the shift from albums to films and he says it’s not much difference. “In albums we have to weave stories while in films it’s done for us,” says Kailash who is also finishing another film called ‘Pranali’ which is about temple dancers.

“People have been approaching us and want the kind of sound that we have put out on our albums. So it’s a lot of fun,” he says.

What’s happening to international projects with DJ Paul Oakenfold and Pearl Jam member Eddie Vedder. “I’m going abroad in March sometime when we will try and get all the schedules right,” he ends.

Courtesy: DnaIndia.com

AR Rahman: On a high note


A R Rahman sings in the video of his album 'Vande Mataram' (left), and the poster of Shekhar Kapur's 'Elizabeth: The Golden Age'

Life is definitely on a high note these days for genius composer A R Rahman, with his soundtrack for the Mani Ratnam movie - 'Roja' - featured on Time magazine's list of 10 Best Soundtracks of all time. Rahman definitely has plenty of reasons to be over the moon.

"Roja was definitely special for me, because it changed me destiny, especially coming from two big people like Balachandran and Mani Ratnam. The great effort paid off, I guess," says Rahman.

But Rahman has no reason to rest on his laurels yet, because the future is looking pretty bright as well with Rehman also composing the musical score for Shekar Kapur's next film 'Elizabeth: The Golden Age'.

"Right now 'The Golden Age' is releasing on 23rd of this month - I have co-composed with Greg Armstrong. Other than that there are no plans yet," says the composer.

Will Bollywood be getting a skip from the composer, considering that so many international projects are coming his way? Apparently not.

"I still want to do good films here - not more films, but just important films so I keep my audience happy," assures Rahman.

Well, we're glad to hear that Bollywood is still on the composer's agenda, becasue Bollywood would definitely be a less musical place without Rahman's genius!

Courtesy: TimesNow.tv

On the Record


It’s a flashback that 26-year-old playback singer Naresh Iyer is never tired of reliving. A couple of years ago his dream of winning a reality show came crashing down when he was voted out. But the same evening, ace composer AR Rahman, put his life back on track with an unexpected promise. Rahman, who was the judge at Channel V’s Super Singer contest that year, told him that he would soon get in touch with the Matunga boy for a Bollywood project he was working on. The project turned out to be none other than Rakeysh Mehra’s Rang De Basanti and Iyer sung his way to the National Awards with three popular tracks from the movie— Masti ki Pathshala, Roobaro and Tu bin bataye.

Now three months after he won the National Award, Iyer is back again in a programme, Mission Ustad, conducted by his mentor on 9X channel which has musicians speaking on developmental issues, using music as the medium. “There is something about Rahman sir that is very inspiring. He is more of a friend than a teacher, more a guiding force than a task master. The first time I went to meet him, I was a little nervous, but he makes his sure his musicians and singers are at ease, talking to them constantly, doing casual sessions, before the actual recording starts,” he says. Even though sometimes, they spend nights in the studio, recording and re-recording, working with Rahman, is a whole new experience according to Iyer. “I recorded Roobaro at 4.30 in the morning after 12 hours of hopping studios and finishing other commitments. But it happened smoothly and by seven the song was ready,” he says.

Down south, Iyer has now become a permanent fixture, singing in Tamil and Telugu films, working with music directors like Srikanth Deva, Sabesh-Murali, D. Imman and Harris Jayaraj, besides Rahman. He has had several hits since that fateful encounter with his mentor, however, the going hasn’t been equally smooth in Bollywood. “I am a Mumbaikar, so ideally it should have been easier here, but it’s taking its time. But what I’ve got has been worth the effort and wait, so I’m not complaining,” smiles Iyer. Is wearing the Rahman tag a negative in Mumbai? Iyer is quick to respond, “I would think that would get me more work. It’s only been about a year and a half in the Hindi film industry. I am sure things will get better.”

Up next for Iyer are soundtracks for Hansal Mehta’s Woodstock Villa, with Imaad Shah and Neha Oberoi playing the leads. The music has been composed by Anu Malek, the first time Iyer has worked with the maverick music director. “It’s been good, even if he works in the day and not at night,” grins Iyer, and goes on to explain, “One should not be too choosy about what tunes or songs to sing. You just never know what clicks.” Clearly, his road to success is well mapped out.

Courtesy: expressindia.com

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Balu Mahendra requests A R Rahman

Legendary director Balu Mahendra, who seldom makes open requests, was seen making one to none other than the ace music director A R Rahman on an open stage. Balu Mahendra had always teamed up with Ilayaraja, his favorite composer for all his movies and for him to put forth a request to Rahman came as a surprise to everyone present at the venue.

Ar Rahman

Having praised Rahman for taking the national song to the youth with his album Vande Mataram, he requested him to compose a new tune for the Tamil anthem, Tamizh Thai Vaazhthu, an ode to the Tamil language, in an effort to popularize it among the Tamil youth. A R Rahman, present at the function, was all smiles when he was showered eulogies for his music from the legendary director who works only with his contemporary Ilayaraja. This is another event that took place during the Kalloori audio launch function. For those present at the venue it was definitely a discourse on films from the legends of Tamil cinema and their protégés.


Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

Audio of ‘Kaloori’ released




New sound: Music director A.R. Rahman releasing the audio CD of movie `Kaloori’ at a function in Chennai on Friday. Film director Mani Ratnam is receiving the CD. From left, directors Shankar and Balaji Sakthivel and music director Joshua Sridhar are in the picture.

Chennai: The audio of director Shankar’s ‘Kaloori’ (College) was launched in the city on Friday. The music is being released through the newly established S Music, an offshoot of director Shankar’s S Pictures.

Balaji Sakthivel, of ‘Kaadhal’ fame, has directed the film. The music has been scored by Joshua Sridhar. Akhil and Tamanna star in the film.

Theatre owner Abhirami Ramanathan credited film director Shankar for enabling more screens to be inaugurated in the city. Up to 30 new screens have applied for licences in the city and will be opened shortly.

Director Kalaipuli G. Sekaran requested those present to take steps against corporate houses entering the production of films. Director Thankar Bachchan said that S Pictures, which is producing ‘Kaloori’, represented a launching platform for new creative voices. Black money is keeping the industry going, he rued. “Without black money only two films will be produced in a year,” he said.

Head of the Producers’ council Ramanarayanan, director of ‘Veyil’ Vasantha Balan, actors Akhil and Tamanna, directors Balaji Sakthivel and Simbu Devan, director of ‘Immsai Arasan 23rd Pulikesi’ spoke.

Director of ‘Chennai – 600028’ Venkat Prabhu and lyricist M. Muthukumar said ‘Kaloori’ is sure to be a milestone in Tamil cinema just like Mr. Sakthivel’s earlier work ‘Kaadhal’. Cinematographer Chezhian said that the film was planned well in advance and was shot in 50 days.

Actor Prakash Raj said S Music revealed Mr. Shankar’s belief in the directors he chose to encourage. Directors Balu Mahendra, Bharathi Raja and Mani Ratnam felicitated the organisers on the choice of invitees saying that three generations were represented on stage.

Music director A.R. Rahman said Tamil cinema was poised on the verge of great achievement.

Director Shankar said ‘Kaloori’ was certain to break any pre-formed notions about Mr. Sakthivel’s filmmaking. “We haven’t seen a college like this in Tamil cinema in recent times.” Actor Parthiban narrated anecdotes with some poetic license from the college lives of the dignitaries on stage.

Courtesy: Hindu.com

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

ATM music is Numero Uno

Azhagiya Tamil Magan


Album: Azhagiya Tamil Magan

Song: Ella Pugazhum

Music director: A R Rahman

Singer(s): A R Rahman

The King is back; actually he never left. Sivaji was on the charts the last time. Now that Sivaji has moved down the King is back at the top. Tough to pick out one song from the album but then we decided to start with the one which we presume will introduce the ‘Azhagiya Thamizh Magan’ to the fans. All elements of the song are just outstanding. The rhythm can get you going, the rendition has the touch of inspiration and everything you can ask for from a boy wonder turned genius. After enjoying all these listen to the song once more and this time pay attention to the lyrics. Boy… if there was ever a time to be a Vijay fan, this is it. It’s his best chance to lure in more of the urban youth thanks to Rahman.

Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

'Roja' on Time magazine's 10 best soundtracks list


Music maestro A.R. Rahman's 'Roja' has featured on Time magazine's 10 best soundtracks of all times.
Reacting to the news Rahman said that future is unpredictable and you never know what it has in store for you.
'You never know what the world has in store for you. Suddenly you find 'Roja' being selected as one of 10 best soundtracks in the world by Time magazine,' Rahman told IANS.

The long wait to see one of our popular musicians go west finally seems to be on the verge of ending. Rehman, who scored big points for his Bollywood explosion in Andrew Lloyd Webber's staged musical 'Bombay Dreams', is all set to make his full-fledged musical in Toronto.


'I like it when what I do here (India) is recognised abroad. The musical stage version of 'Lord Of The Rings' happened in Toronto. I scored music for specific characters in the play,' he said.


Why such a delayed international impact?

'Actually, Shekhar Kapur got me a couple of Hollywood films three-four years ago. But I wasn't ready then. Now with the Andrew Lloyd Webber's 'Bombay Dreams' behind me I'm more confident.

'It's the first time that a musician from the Orient is being called to score in the West regardless of colour and creed. It's not about whether you are an Indian or a foreigner. I was apprehensive whether I could swing it. But it has gone well!

'
Rahman sees 'Lord Of The Rings' as his natural progression into the West.'

'Bombay Dreams' did flash A.R Rahman's name. But it was seen as Indian music.


And I'm proud of that. But 'Lord Of The Rings' is very exciting because it's got nothing to do with my being Indian. Composing for a stage play requires 10 time more energy than a film score.'

Courtesy: Earthtimes.org

Monday, November 05, 2007

'Jodhaa Akbar' edited again

Ashutosh Gowarikar's Jodhaa Akbar, that stars the gorgeous Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and the dashing Hrithik Roshan in the title roles, went under the knife, again, because the movie is just too long.

At present, the new version has two songs edited out, one of which was a qawwali sung by A R Rahman, the music director for the movie.

According to a source, every scene in the movie is important, and Gowarikar did not want the flow to suffer. Therefore, the lavishly shot songs had to go.

"It was a very good idea to have a qawwali, as it was a traditional aspect in the lives of kings. It was difficult for Ashutosh, but he also asked for Rahman's take on the decision, and chopped the songs off only when Rahman agreed," the source adds.

The songs will be added in the DVD of the movie. Apparently, Ash wanted to use it in one of her upcoming movies, but Gowarikar may not agree.

Gowarikar has a reputation for making long movies.

The Aamir Khan starrer Lagaan was almost four hours long, and the Shah Rukh Khan starrer Swades was three and a half hours long.

In more recent times, there is a lot of criticism for the way a movie is presented, and the director did not want any of that.

According to the source, the final cut, so far, is three and a half hours. The movie is slated for a January 25 release, and the promos are already on air.

Courtesy: Apunkachoice.com

Saturday, November 03, 2007

ATM audio tops the charts!

In audio sales among the films due for Diwali, it’s Vijay’s Azhagiya Tamil Magan, which is topping the charts. A.R Rahman’s music for Tamil superstars has always worked big time. Vijay fans have lapped up the album though it does not have typical numbers you associate with Ilayathalapathi films.
And the big surprise is that the nephew of A.R Rahman, G.V Prakash’s Pollathavan, audio is very popular with the youth and is at the number two position. The uncle and nephew between them has pushed Yuvan down in audio sales this Diwali.
Yuvan Shankar Raja’s worst nightmare has come true, as he has been on a signing spree dishing out music with factory precision. In the process his music lacked newness, as he dished out tunes for three Diwali films- Kannanmoochi Yenada, Machakaran, Vel.
Among the lot Kannanmoochi Yenada and Machakaran songs are hummable, while Vel is not his type of film and the audio is a major disappointment.

Courtesy: Sify.com