Truly Eye 'Popping': Rajinikanth Matches Aishwarya!

At 60, some individuals turn senile, while others remain their puerile or juvenile selves. And yet, there are a select few who continue to bedazzle despite the onset of age. Case in point: South icon Rajinikanth. At 60, the mega idol has managed to learn the ropes of 'Popping,' the latest "happening" dance form from choreographer Remo D'Souza for S.Shankar's sci fi flick 'Endhiran'/ 'Robot'. And his dexterous steps have set collective jaws dropping. Including that of a certain Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Gushes Ash in an inter phew chat, "Working with Rajinikanth was a larger than life experience. His enthusiasm, passion and inclination to learn something new is simply commendable." Interestingly, Ash too has picked up the rudiments of this dance form for the maiden time.

A stunned Remo expresses admiration in a media quote stating, "The energy and finesse that both Rajinikanth and Ash have brought to this song number is something to eagerly look forward to. I simply loved choreographing this number."

Avatar technology powers Rajnikant in Robot

South superstar Rajinikant reportedly charged a whopping 45 crore for the sci-fi thriller Robot (Enthiran). The actor plays a scientist who makes a robot who is his own replica. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan falls in love with the robot. Before the film went on floors, director Shankar and Rajinikant spent two weeks in Los Angeles to prepare the mould for the robot's body with the latest technology. "The first step was scanning Rajinikant's entire body to create a prototype. Using this prototype, Hollywood technicians created a robot that everyone said was literally like his double," says a source from the production house.

Shankar collaborated with Hollywood's Stan Winston for visual effects and make-up. Almost 40 percent of the 150-crore budget was spent on special effects and animatronics. Hollywood experts were called in and the technology used in films like Avatar and The Curious Case of Benajamin Button was also employed in Robot.

The film has a futuristic look, and it is also the first in the world to be shot in Machu Picchu in Peru, which was voted as one of the new Wonders Of The World in an online poll in 2007. Earlier, permission for shooting at this location was denied even to The Quantum Of Solace. Rajinikant and Aishwarya will be seen romancing on the sparkling white sands here.

"Interestingly, Shankar had earlier shot at all the erstwhile seven wonders of the world for his film Jeans in the late '90s, which was also one of the costliest films of its time!" informed the source.

In the making for over two years, Robot has also been shot in Brazil and the US, with a foreign crew that included the famous costume designer E Vogt, who is designing clothes for Men In Black III, and Yuen Woo Ping, one of the most successful Chinese martial art choreographers and film directors.

This science-fiction entertainer is said to be the costliest Indian film ever, but Shankar says that the budget is justified considering that it is a complete entertainer with the most advanced special effects seen so far on the Indian screen. Robot releases in September.

Robot Hindi Trailor

Endhiran New Stills

Robot Hindi Wallpapers

Rajini to give ‘voice’

This story has no political significance, though the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are fast approaching. But about the extra efforts by Superstar Rajinikanth for his magnum opus ‘Endhiran’.

Buzz is that top actor will be dubbing for all the versions of the film (Tamil, Telugu and Hindi) directed by Shankar and produced by Sun Pictures, which is expected to hit the screens by mid-September.

It is said that the idea was the brainchild of Rajini who felt that the character he is playing would be more realistic if he dubs in Hindi and Telugu too. “The Superstar is well versed in both the languages,” sources say.

Circles close to the unit also say that the matinee idol recently told Shankar in a lighter vein that he wanted to write a book on the making of ‘Endhiran’. “He was thoroughly impressed by the film and the way Shankar has made it,” they add.

Happy Birthday Shankar

Today is the great Day Beacause The Most Valuable Talented Film Director of Indian Cinema Celebrating the Birthday Today yes we are taking about Shankar Sir . Happy birthday Sir

Endhiran is an “Indian film”

The magnum opus ‘Endhiran’ may be in three languages technically, but director Shankar say the film is a true “Indian Film”. A the audio launch of Hindi Endhiran ‘Robot’ in Mumbai, Shankar wanted the people also to take it as an Indian Film rather than as a Hindi or Tamil or Telugu film.

Shankar also said that when he saw Hollywood films like Spider-Man, 2012 and Mummy he dreamt of making a movie in India that would match a mega Hollywood flick. So when he started Endhiran he felt that’s going to be India’s biggest film but when he finished it that was the biggest film in Asia ever.

Real words from a real master. So when no film is bigger than Endhiran today it can definitely be called an Indian film or may be even an Asian film rightfully.

Amitabh does it for Rajini

We all know that Bollywood Big B Amitabh Bachchan released the audio of ‘Robot’, the Hindi version of Superstar Rajinikanth starrer ‘Endhiran’, at a colourful function in Mumbai on Saturday.

But the unknown fact is that Amitabh had a different itinerary for the weekend, which was also the Indpendence Day eve. However, since his good friend Rajini was coming to the town after three years, the Big B adjusted his plans accordingly.

The last time both the top stars shared the dais was in mid 2007, when the south Indian superstar flew down to the business capital of the country with a print of ‘Sivaji’, to show the movie to Amitabh.

Speaking at the Saturday’s function, Rajini said, “Amitabh is my role model. When I was in Lonavala last time and was going through stress, Amitabh gave me a piece of advice which I follow till date. It has made my life much easier.”

“We have done films like Andha Kanoon, Giraftar and Hum together and I can never forget the love and affection he showered on me,” said and added: “I have to thank Aishwarya Rai who agreed to act with me. I should also thank all my team members, importantly director Shankar and producer Kalanithi Maran.”

In his address, Amitabh said, “It was wonderful meeting up with Rajini — Rajinikanth to many, and to be a part of this wonderful event. It is one of the most expensive films ever made in India and has been directed by Shankar, an incredible talent from Chennai.

The film of course is in Tamil but it has a Hindi version too as well as a Telugu version and it looks stunning! A lovely well conducted exciting evening, with some of the most incredible talent on stage — A R Rahman, Rajini, Aishwarya, Resul Pookutty, Danny Denzongpa and a host of other celebrities.”

Shankar, who also directed Rajinikanth in ‘Sivaji’, said the film produced by Sun Pictures is slated for a September release. Aishwarya Rai, A R Rahman and Kalanithi Maran also spoke.

Endhiran gets record price for Andhra and Karnataka

Sun Pictures continues to set new bench marks in movie marketing with Endhiran as the movie is crossing borders hitherto not touched by any. The costliest movie ever made in India at a cost of `190 crores is breaking all records.

Reliable sources say Endhiran has been sold for `9.75 crores for Karnataka and a massive `33 crores for Andhra. Only a few days ago we heard the Telugu version ‘Yantram’ is expected to get `30 crores for the Andhra and many were in line to snap the rights.

But now the movie has been sold at a much higher price and that tells the Midas Touch of Maran has only few challengers.

The magnum opus is set to release by the end of September in all its three versions – Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

Endhiran Storm in mumbai on Aug 14

‘Endhiran’ as Robo has started occupying media space in North India and the hype is increasing at fever pith. As more details emerged with the grandeur the film, the entire Bollywood is waiting for the release of the film.

Now after conquering the south India ‘Endhiran’ is all set conquer north India from August 14. After launching the music of ‘Robo’, the Hindi version of ‘Endhiran’, the costliest Indian film ever will kick of its promotional tour in Mumbai tomorrow. Although the music was first launched in Kula Lampur on July 31, there will be an Indian launch at the function at the Marriot in Mumbai tomorrow.

The event is expected to be as grand as the film itself with Amitabh Bachchan and Shahruk Khan confirming their presence as guests of honour. Amir Khan had said he will surely make it to the event if his health permits.

From here Super Star Rajinikanth, Shankar, AR Rahman, Sun Pictures CEO Hansraj Saxena and the man who made all things possible Kalanithi Maran will fly in to the function. Aishwarya Rai will join from there.

The Super Star will be in Mumbai for an official function after many many years. Being a function of Sun Pictures you can expect the event to be a memorable event in Bollywood history. ‘Endhiran’ made as a trilingual in Tamil. Hindi and Telugu will have a simultaneous release in September.

Endhiran The Robot Teaser ( HQ )

Irumbile Oru Iruthayam Teaser ( HQ )

Kadhal Anukkal Teaser ( HQ )

Endhiran’ Telugu rights not sold: Sun Pictures

Even as reports claiming that an Andhra Pradesh-based distributor has bagged the Telugu dubbing rights of Superstar Rajinikanth starrer ‘Endhiran’ for a ‘whopping ` 30 crore’, producers of the film Sun Pictures has clarified that no such deal had been made so far.

Also, two persons were arrested in Chennai on Tuesday for allegedly cheating the Tollywood distributor, Sri Tirupathi Tirumala Films, with forged documents and collecting from them Rs two crore as advance.

The arrested were identified as Udhayakumar, a production manager and his accomplice Surendran. Both allegedly forged a letter head of Sun Pictures, and “sold the Telugu rights of Endhiran”, it is said.

“We have not sold any rights of ‘Endhiran’, be it Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, overseas or satellite rights, to anyone. How could a production manager be authorised to strike a deal? We have filed a complaint against Udhayakumar and his friend,” Sun Pictures COO Hansraj Saxena has said.

ENDHIRAN BRINGS ASH BACK TO CHENNAI

Aishwarya Rai will be in Chennai for the dubbing of the Hindi version of Endhiran. Sources say that the delay in the dubbing process was due to the fact that Ash was laid down with a viral infection. It may be recalled that the lady did not attend the Telugu audio launch of Endhiran for the same reason.

Earlier there were reports that the postponement of the release of this film was due to the post production works. However, with the dubbing process on, it indicates that the film will go for a release as planned in September.

Endhiran, which has Rajinikanth and Ash playing the lead pair, is one of the costliest films ever, we hear.

ENDHIRAN INVADED SOUTH INDIA

Movie buffs in all the four southern states this weekend were engrossed watching the Endhiran audio launch function which happened in Malaysia on July 31st. Thanks to Sun Network, the event was telecast on Saturday and Sunday from 6 pm. All the four major channels owned by Sun Network – Surya TV, Gemini TV, and Sun TV - aired this show.

With celebrities present at the function and host Vivek’s sense humor, it was evident that the event was a grand success.

‘Robo’ Music Launch -A lively Event

The music launch of Rajnikanth’s ‘Robo’ was a lively event that was held last evening 6th August at Taj Krishna, Hyderabad.

Guests on the dais included Movie Moghul Ramanaidu, Sun Pictures CEO Hansraj Saxena, director Shankar, Megastar Chiranjeevi, Mohan Babu and others. Rajnikanth was at his simple best and welcomed all the guests. Heroines Kajol and Kamna Jethmalani also attended the evening.

Speaking on the occasion, lyricists Bhuvanachandra, Uddala Ashok Teja and Vanamali thanked director Shankar and music director A R Rahman for the opportunity given to them. They spoke a few words about the movie telling the importance of this mega budget movie.

Mohan Babu wished and prayed for the success of the movie while a loud applause came up when the Megastar got behind the mic. Megastar spoke about his never ending friendship with Rajni and he always admired the superstar. Chiranjeevi also went on to add that he was always inspired by seeing Rajnikanth. Megastar also praised heaps of appreciation on director Shankar for taking Indian cinema to the next level.

Over all, the event was a fun-filled event as old friends met up after a long time!

BREAKING NEWS: ENDHIRAN RELEASE DATE

It is Thiruvizha time in Tamil Nadu. Quite literally. With the buzz around Endhiran getting louder by the day, K-town is gearing up to stand up to the storm. The music which is topping the charts already is just an example for what is to come next. The release date of Endhiran movie is out and it is known from reliable sources that the movie will be released on September 24.

The movie which was set for a September 3 release has been delayed due to last minute patch works and tight dates of AR Rahman for the re-recording. With the Robot gaining power each day, let's hope we see a much powerful Endhiran on the 24th.

ROBOT TO CONQUER HYDERABAD

The audio of Endhiran, the magnum opus of the year was launched in grand style in Malaysia on 31st July. The event is still talked about for its flamboyance and the celebrity attendance from the tinsel town. Close on the heels of the Tamil Endhiran, the audio launch of its Telugu version Robot will be held on 6th August in Hyderabad. The event is going to witness the presence of super star Rajnikanth, director Shankar, Aishwarya Rai along with other important members of the crew. Stay tuned and we will keep you posted!

RAJINI "KHABARDAR"

We all eagerly wait to know what happened in Malaysia during the release of Endhiran Audio. Yes we are interested to know what happened on stage and who spoke what. But when the man of the occasion is the Endhiran himself, we certainly cannot hide our excitement to know what the legend had to say about the movie. Vivek introduced Rajini with a rap which goes like A to the B to the C to the D.... Ivar udambile odurathu electricity, ithanai irunthum simplicity, athu thaan Rajiniyin spirituality. The Endhiranin Mandhiran (as described by Vivek) took center stage and started "Ella Pughazhum Iraivanukke" with tremendous applause from those in the auditorium. Before anything, Rajini was all appreciative about the Malaysian fans who were patiently waiting to see "Endhiran the mass" speak. Identifying the four main stars of the function, Mr. Kalanidhi Maran, Director Shankar, AR Rahman and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Rajini thanked Simbhu, Jeyam Ravi, Sivasakthi Pandian, Ramya Krishnan, Radha Ravi, Vadivelu who flew to Malaysia on invitation. Describing Endhiran as a landmark movie, he said "Even if movies are made with 1000 Crores in the future, which I feel is a possibility, this science fiction movie is definitely the first of its kind." He also mentioned that this is the first time in India a movie of this kind has been made in Hollywood standards with technicians from Hollywood itself. Kalanidhi Maran's foresight Heaping praises on the producer Kalanithi Maran, Rajini recalled his initial conversations with Mr. Maran. He said that Mr. Maran was not even interested in knowing the story when he knew Rajini was acting but checked the collections of Rajini's previous movie "Sivaji" before okaying the budget. Thanking his presence in the audio release, the superstar said in a confirmed voice that Mr. Maran would be India's top industrialist before he retires. Shankar, the wild horse "Shankar is a wild horse which will definitely reach its destination but we have to stick tight so that we don’t fall behind", Rajini ought to have told Mr. Maran before the start of the movie. Rajini said he has nothing to be proud of in Endhiran as it was Shankar calling the shots right from the word go. "Usually I add some of my masala, punch dialogues and mannerisms in my movies but couldn’t do that in Endhiran as Shankar had already thought about my dialogues and mannerisms. I just had to work hard." Describing Shankar as the only director who can manage such a star studded technical crew and cast, Rajini said he has the potential to direct a Hollywood movie and make Tamils proud. Rajini khabardar "She is not an ordinary girl, she is not an ordinary artist," was Rajini's certificate for Aishwayra. Terming her as the beauty with brains, Rajini proclaimed that there is no Miss World or a beauty queen in our generation other than Aishwarya Rai though there have been many in the past and will be in the future also. He revealed that Ash takes nearly 1.5 hours to deglamourise herself but she looks stunning and more beautiful without makeup. Acknowledging her as a true artist Rajini said he felt a little delicate doing romantic scenes with Ash and always felt Amitabh Bachchan was somewhere near saying "Rajini... Khabardar!!! But somehow managed to do it" which made everyone laugh out of their lungs. Rahman, the Yogi Pointing out the three important qualities to be a Mahaan or a Yogi, Rajini said AR Rahman does not have even a bit of ego. He added that the egoless Rahman always treads the path of love and always believes in the philosophy "Ella Pughazhum Iraivanukke". "So these three qualities make him a Siddha... a Mahaan," he said. To the amusement of the fans, he also added that Yogis need not be in the Himalayas with saffron clothing, they can be in jeans, wearing coats or drinking wine too. He candidly said we are blessed to have the great Rahman amongst us. Rajini also thanked the efforts of Vairamuthu, Randy (Rathnavelu, the cinematographer), Banu (makeup) and everyone associated with the film and admitted that the success of the movie is theirs and not his. Rajini was a little philosophical in the end saying success doesn’t always stay and one must come down from the top to taste the other side of life as well. The applause brought down the roof of the Convention Center in Malaysia. Did you hear the applause folks?

‘Endhiran’ tops Apple list

It’s a ‘record’, literally. The ‘Endhiran’ music album has occupied the numero uno slot in the ‘Top Charts’ list of Apple itunes Store, one of the leading portals to sell music albums online. This is the first time for a Tamil film music album to achieve this position in the website, which accounts for 70 per cent of music sold legally on the internet. And ‘Endhiran’ has managed to achieve this within a few days of its music release. This clearly shows once again the popularity of Superstar Rajinikanth and the buzz anything related to his movie could create. The other main strength of the album is no doubt the Oscar-Grammy winner A R Rahman. The movie’s audio was launched at a closely guarded but star-studded function in Malaysia over the weekend. Produced by Sun Pictures and directed by Shankar, ‘Endhiran’ is claimed to be made on a never before budget when compared to other Indian films till date.

Endhiran New Stills