Entertainment

Jacqueline Fernandez in Mankatha Thala Ajith's much awaited 50th film Mankatha (also spelt Mangatha) directed by Venkat Prabhu was launched on August 2, 2010. The teaser trailer of Mankatha has already created a lot of buzz in the industry. Telugu superstar Nagarjuna will play a prominent role in this film, which will be made simultaneously in Tamil and Telugu. The roles will be interchanged in the versions; Ajith will play Nagarjuna's role in the Telugu version and vice versa. Now the latest buzz is that Sri Lankan model Jacqueline Fernandez (who made her Bollywood debut with Aladin) will play a prominent role in the film; Neetu Chandra and Lakshmi Rai are in the cast. Click here for Mankatha pooja photos.

Mysskin to direct John Abraham Mysskin, the man behind the surprise hit Anjaathe, may be having a tough time releasing his second movie Nandhalala that also marks his acting debut, but he seems to have convinced Bollywood hunk John Abraham with one of his stories. Word has it that Mysskin narrated an action script to John who was pretty impressed. Mysskin will now direct John after completing Yuddham Sei with Cheran, which is in post-production stage. This untitled Bollywood flick will be produced by UTV Motion Pictures and will go on floors in January 2011. Check out: Nandalala photo gallery Attractive posters of beautiful Tamil actresses Download Desktop Calendars Listen to and download the latest Tamil film songs.

Yuddham Sei: Shooting complete After Anjaathey and the yet-to-release Nandalala, director-actor Mysskin has started working on his next project, Yuddham Sei, with actor-director Cheran in the role of a CBI officer. The actor has reportedly aimed for a trim look, crew cut and gym-trained body apart from learning the mannerisms of the officers. The film is produced by Kalpathi S. Aghoram. Reportedly, Mysskin and Cheran spent some time observing CBI officers before giving finishing touches to the script. Deepa Shah, an actress from Mumbai, plays the female lead. Sources close to the film's unit say that the film's shooting is complete. Cheran Photo Gallery Cheran Wallpapers

Prakashraj visits Kochi National award winning actor-director producer Prakashraj, who married Bollywood choreographer Pony Verma recently in Mumbai, had a one day trip to Kochi recently to complete the dubbing portions in Amal Neerad's Prithviraj starrer Anwar at Lal Media. During his visit, he also launched a new Malayalam film Kudumbasree Travels, starring Jayaram in the lead. After the launch, Prakashraj returned to Hyderabad, where he had to complete a few assignments, including dubbing and shooting. Jayaram's Kudumbasree Travels, directed by debutant Kiran, revolves around a bus owner. The regular shooting will commence soon.

Nene Ambani audio launched After playing a negative role in Allu Arjun's Varudu, popular Tamil hero Arya is gearing up to woo Telugu audiences once again with his latest Nene Ambani, the dubbed Tamil version of Boss Engira Baskaran, slated for September 10. The music launch of Nene Ambani was held at Prasad Labs, Hyderabad recently. Actress Tapsi released the audio CD by presenting it to Tammareddy Bharadwaja and Lagadapati Sridhar in the presence of Arya, producer K.S. Srinivasan, director M. Rajesh, Madhura Srinivas Reddy and others. Speaking at the occasion, producer K.S. Srinivasan said: 'Nene Ambani is a full-length comedy film with family sentiment. We had earlier produced Arya's Nenu Devudni (Naan Kadavul in Tamil), which bagged two National awards. Though the film was unsuccessful at the box office, it did show Arya in a different light. In Nene Ambani, he plays a happy-go-lucky guy. Music by Yuvanshankar Raja is an asset to the film. We hope it does well in Andhra Pradesh too.'

Namitha's heroine oriented flick in Telugu South India's sex bomb Namitha, who recently grabbed media attention with her statement that she rejected over 14 scripts in one year since they demanded nothing but skin show, will be seen in a heroine-oriented flick in Telugu for the first time. According to sources, the film has been titled Fire and will be directed by S.K. Basheed and produced by S.K. Karemunnisa. Shooting will commence from October in some parts of Australia and Hongkong. The film will be completed in two schedules and will hit screens by January 2011. Namitha's last Telugu film was Balakrishna's blockbuster Simha. Check out Namitha's updated Photo Gallery, Posters and Wallpapers only on Galatta.com!

Murali's death a big loss to Southern film industry Murali hailing from Karnataka was a darling of Tamil films for nearly 26 years. He acted in films of Shivaji Ganesan, Mammootty, Sarathkumar, Vijayakanth and others. He took to Tamil films when there was tough competition and when there were so many stars in the industry. With top stars like Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Vijaykanth, Sathayaraj, Karthik and scores of others in Tamil industry during the 80s, Murali's selection of subjects and choosing roles of one among the masses earned him laurels even in remote villages of Tamil Nadu. Murali's first film in Kannada was Prema Parva directed by his father Siddalingaiah. After completing Prema Parva, he boarded a train to Chennai to act as hero in Poovilangu, his first Tamil film. But it was Porkalam that gave him recognition as an actor. Murali was in Bangalore last month to introduce his son to Kannada film media. Sitting with his father and son, he spoke on various topics, recollecting his younger days. He also shared memories about being teased for his dark complexion. He planned to return in October this year to introduce his son in Kannada films. Murali's well known Kannada films are Ajeya, Prema Gange, Thayikotta Thali, Sambavami Yuge Yuge and Ajay-Vijay. But his Tamil film Idayam with Heera lingers in the minds of many. His role in Idayam touches all with a subtle romantic touch. Murali was popular for his simple and beautiful manners. He was all set to come back in En Raasi Nalla Raasi (My star is a good star). But death intervened in the plans of this great actor who was born on 19th May 1964. Murali's death at age 46 is really shocking. This dark charmer was a romantic hero with no action image, a simple person with millions of fans. His death is a great loss for Southern film industry. The last function Murali attended was the wedding of Rajinikanth's daughter Soundarya.

I didn't say 'No' to Sridevi: Asin Denying recent media reports that she refused an offer from Bollywood couple Sridevi and Boney Kapoor citing date issues, South Indian actress Asin said it's impossible for her to say no to the senior actress and her filmmaker husband Boney Kapoor. 'I share a great personal relationship with Sridevi and her entire family. I was shooting in Chennai when I heard about the report that said that Boney Kapoor had approached me with a film and I refused it. That's just impossible,' Asin said in a statement. Meanwhile, Boney Kapoor said: 'We are working on scripts of Be Positive (the sequel to No Entry) and Mr. India 2. I am not someone who will approach actors with an incomplete script; let the script get completed first, then I will announce the star cast.'

Tirupur review: First on Galatta Every moviegoer reaches the screening centre with an expectation, hoping the movie would give him/ her something enjoyable and worth recalling; in short, value for the money he is spending! At the end of the varying movie experiences, some feel satisfied with the onscreen presence and gestures of their favourite actors, irrespective of what is going on in the movie, some are delighted by the comedy, songs, item numbers, action, romance etc. But what if... Director Duraisamy's Tirupur with the tagline 'The True Friendship', produced by Dharamaraj under the banner of Friends Productions, begins with a flashback of Kesav that occurs during his train journey to his native place after his imprisonment. The flashback begins... Kesav, Adhi, Perumal and Palani are four childhood friends living in a village near Palani Murugan temple. Adhi, the only working member in the gang, is hot-tempered and ready to do anything for his friends. His one such attempt is to help his friend Kesav marry... To read complete Tirupur review, click here.

Vijay's Kaavalan for Diwali Ilayathalapathy Vijay's 51st film Kaavalan, a remake of the Malayalam hit Bodyguard starring Dileep and Nayantara, is all set to grace theatres this Diwali. Kaavalan is directed by Siddique (of Friends fame), who directed the original version. The film has a plot with plenty of comedy and action and also brings Asin back to Kollywood after a gap. Vijay Wallpapers Vijay Photo Gallery Vijay Posters

Vijay to team up with Vikram Kumar Ilayathalapathy Vijay is all set to team up with director Vikram K. Kumar of Yaavarum Nalam fame for an upcoming Kollywood flick. The actor is currently busy with Siddique's Kaavalan opposite Asin and Jayam Raja's Velayudham with Genelia and Hansika Motwani. According to reports,Vikram Kumar will direct Vijay's 53rd film which is expected to go on floors in December. Vijay Wallpapers Vijay Photo Gallery Vijay Posters

Mani Ratnam honoured in Venice Ace director Mani Ratnam was honoured with the 'Jaeger-LeCoultre Glory to the Filmmaker Award' at the Venice Film Festival on Monday. Mani Ratnam's latest offering Raavan (in Hindi) and Raavanan (in Tamil) was also screened at the festival. Mani Ratnam was accompained by Vikram and Suhasini Mani Ratnam. Along with the award, the director was also presented with the precious Reverso Jaeger-LeCoultre watch (a unique model with a commemorative engraving). Recent recipients of the award include Takeshi Kitano, Abbas Kiarostami, Agnes Warda and Sylvester Stallone. To listen to Raavanan songs, click here. Raavanan Event Photo Gallery Raavanan Photo Gallery Vikram Photo Gallery Prithviraj Photo Gallery

Vikram-Sasikumar's Nagaram in trouble After making a colossal debut with the path-breaking Subramaniapuram, followed by yet another super hit Naadodigal (made in Telugu as Sambo Siva Sambo), director-actor-writer M. Sasikumar is all set to commence his next project Nagaram, produced by actor Vikram under his home banner Reel Life Entertainment banner. The latest buzz is that Vikram has opted out of the project due to budget overrun. Nearly 80% of the shoot is complete and now it looks like Sasikumar's Company Productions will complete and release the film. Check out: Latest Movie Trailers Download Wallpapers Download Posters

Ganesh Venkatraman completes Kandahar shoot Ganesh Venkatraman is on a roll, all excited about his upcoming flick Kandahar directed by Major Ravi, which is based on the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC 814 in 1999. The film star Mohanlal and Ganesh Venkataraman in the lead roles. In Kandahar, the actor appears as commando Sooryanath Sharma (son of Amitabh Bachchan), who is sent on the Kandahar mission. The film is a trilingual being made simultaneously in Hindi, Malayalam and Tamil. The latest buzz is that the actor has completed his part for the film. 'Yeppie!!!! Finished shooting for Kandahar!!!! Mind blowing experience,' he posted on his social networking site. Ganesh Venkatraman Photo Gallery

Rakta Charitra audio launch on September 10 The audio of Ram Gopal Varma's controversial flick Rakta Charitra, starring Vivek Oberoi, Suriya and Priyamani in the lead, will be launched on September 10. Music is by Mani Sharma. The movie is an intense political drama focusing on the life of Anantapur Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MLA Paritala Ravi. Made as a trilingual in Telugu, Hindi and Tamil by Madhu Mantena and Sheetal V. Talwar, the film has completed its entire shooting and is expected to hit the screens by September end.

Rajinikanth plans feast for his fans Kollywood superstar Rajinikanth's younger daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth's marriage with Ashwin Ramkumar was a grand affair at the Rani Muthaiah Hall in Chennai recently. And now, the Superstar is planning to organize a grand feast for his fans and their families. 'The wedding went off in a great way, thanks for your immensive support. Now I am planning to hold a grand feast for all of you. I want to invite all my fans with their families, so that I can introduce the newly-wed couple to them. I'm giving my best shot to make it happen,' the Superstar has announced in a press release. Click here for Soundarya Rajinikanth wedding gallery. Click here for Soundarya Rajinikanth's wedding eve pictures.

Ich is now Ennai Vittu Odi Poga Mudiyuma? Prabhu Deva's directorial venture Ich, starring Jayam Ravi and Hansika Motwani in the lead roles, has completed its final shooting schedule recently. Meanwhile music composed by Harris Jayaraj will be released in September. The latest buzz is that the director is not happy with the title and may soon change the title. According to reports the new title is likely to be Ennai Vittu Odi Poga Mudiyuma? CLICK HERE for Hansika Photo Gallery. CLICK HERE for Ravi Photo Gallery.

Akshara Haasan: The young director! After Shruti Haasan, it's Akshara's turn now! However, Shruti's younger sister Akshara is more interested in film making rather than an onscreen career. 19-year-old Akshara is currently assisting award winning director Rahul Dholakia of Parzania fame in his next project titled Society. The film features Akshara's mom Sarika, Dimple Kapadia, Randhir Kapoor, Seema Biswas and Om Puri in prominent roles. Akshara visited Chennai recently after almost a year to perform in a dance show. 'I left Chennai nine months ago and man, it's been so long! I flew down to participate in this dance show for Koki, who has taught me dance since I was eight. I've always been passionate about dance. I've learnt all forms except ballet. I've also learnt Kuchipudi and Bharathanatyam but I don't perform them on stage. Those are just for my satisfaction,' said Akshara, who is all set to participate in the Latin Ball Room competitive dance to be held in the London Olympics in 2012. 'I don't want to take up acting. I would like to stay behind the camera and make wonderful films. There are two things I can't live without: dance and cinema. And directing my dad is definitely on the cards, but not now. He's in a different league now and I can't afford to flounder. I can't call appa for a role and then mess it up!' she added.Click here for more updates.

Shriya Saran sizzles on Galatta Cinema September cover Galatta Cinema Sptember 2010 issue is on the stands already! Galatta Cinema September is calling out to you even as you read this! There are tons of interesting stuff this time too... For starters, we have a completely fun cover feature that celebrates some of the fab stars who were born in September. If you're into Sun Signs and astrology, and even if you're not, you're sure to be surprised by how each star's ruling characteristics reflects their date of birth! Interesting, right? And to get you more tipsy, we have the Galatta Bar with a spirited menu of celebrity cocktails bound to get you high! Get your fix of Sadaa, Namitha, Suriya and Vishal, all at one go! If all this was not enough, we have Galatta exclusive photo shoots of comeback queen Kasthuri and emerging starlet Rupa Manjari. Adding extra zing to GC September are Lady Kash and Krissy, the rapper/singer duo from Singapore in a tell-all interview. Of course we have all our regular features... G!Spot in a new avatar, Now & Next, Key Notes and more... Get your copy of Galatta Cinema NOW! Click here to subscribe to Galatta Cinema.

Director K.S. Ravi passes away Director K.S. Ravi (45) of Honest Raj (1994), Mr. Romeo (1996) and Mr. Swasa Katre (1996) fame passed away in Chennai today due to cardiac arrest. He is survived by his wife Sumathi and a daughter Aishwarya. Galatta.com expresses heart-felt condolences to the actor's family and friends! Check out: Galatta news Galatta music Galatta events