'Kuselan' gets approval for Karnataka release

The much awaited thalaivars 'Kuselan' has finally got the approval for its simultaneous release in Karnataka Aug 1, though many were against it, alleging that the style mannan had made 'anti-Kannadiga' statements.

The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), while giving the green signal, advised the film's distributor in the state to release 'Kuselan' with only 10 prints and in 13 theatres in Bangalore.

Some Kannada organisations had been demanding that 'Kuselan' be released in the state only after a seven-week moratorium as Rajnikanth had hurt the sentiments of Kannadigas by supporting Tamil Nadu on a row over a drinking water project in Hogenekkal, on the border between the two states.

The superstar had joined the Tamil film industry in a daylong protest fast in April against Karnataka's objections to the Rs.13.3 billion Hogenekkal project that is expected to benefit about three million people in two Tamil Nadu districts. Karnataka is opposed to the project, saying its share of the Cauvery river waters will be affected.

During the protest, Rajnikanth had apparently blamed Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa for the problem, angering many Kannada activists.

But Kannada actress Jayamala, who is also KFCC chief, said that the issue should not be linked to the release of 'Kuselan', specially since producer K. Balachander was a respected film personality who had contributed to Kannada cinema as well.

'One of our own members is releasing the film, then how can we stop the release? What we have advised is that he release the film following all the restrictions about prints and the number of theatres it can be shown in,' said Jayamala.

Directed by P. Vasu, 'Kuselan' is a remake of Malayalam hit 'Katha Parayumbol' starring Mammooty. It is said to have been made at a cost of Rs.600 million and also stars actresses Nayanthara and Meena. The storyline is about a film star helping an old acquaintance.

According to industry sources, late Kannada actor Raj Kumar will also be shown three times during a song in the movie. The song is apparently about the growth of cinema in south India.

Many of Rajnikanth's friends in the Kannada film industry are reportedly working overtime to ensure the movie has a smooth release in the state.

Niranjan, the film's distributor in Karnataka, said: 'Rajni sir has ensured that the contribution of the Kannada film industry to the film world is to be given adequate importance in a song. K. Balachandar has produced and directed many films, while P. Vasu has directed films of Kannada film legends like Raj Kumar and Vishnuvardhan. We are sure that Kannada film fans will realise this.'

Though Pyramid Saimira has got the distribution rights of the film throughout the country, the rights in Karnataka have been obtained by Niranjan for over Rs.20 million, industry sources said.

'Kuselan' to release on 31st July 2008

Rajinikanth's much-anticipated 'Kuselan', a remake of Malayalam hit 'Katha Parayumpol', will be released on 31 - 07 - 2008.
Directed by P Vasu, the movie produced by Kavithalaya Films, features Rajinikanth in the role of the actor himself. Pasupathy enacts a prominent role. Vadivelu, Meena, Nayantara, Sneha, Prabhu among others form part of the cast.
G V Prakash has scored the music and amost all songs have been shot including one in which Rajinikanth appears in 20 different get-ups.

Kuselan CDs are hot cakes in market

In the age of Internet and FM radios, selling the audio of a film is not an easy job. But this law of diminishing returns never suits to one person. He is the one and only superstar of India, Rajinikanth.
Yes, his recently released audio CDs and Cassettes of Kuselan were sold out for a record number. The Big Music people proudly announced today that more than 2 lakhs CDs of Kuselan were sold out within just 2 days all over the world.
Apart from CDs 50000 cassettes were also sold out in the rural area and overtake Shivaji's audio sales record. According to Big Music, we have expected a good and brisk sale of Kuselan CDs
"But the reception is unimaginable and in overseas markets the CDs moving well. Now we got an order of one lakh more CDs. Thanks to our all time Superstar, Rajini sir. Only Rajini can do this magic in this tinsel world." a Big Music spokesman says.

Rajni’s health secret

Rajnikanth speaking on the occasion of the audio launch of Kuselan revealed the secret of his fresh and youthful looks. He said,” Many people are under the impression that I am taking some herbs from Himalayas for my youthful looks. But that is not the truth, I avoid all kind foods. I avoid salt, sugar, tablets, rice, curd and ghee. One should have a diet control when you are crossing the age of 40. Don’t suddenly stop these kinds of food because I have told you, because there is a possibility of you getting depressed. You can eat any kind of food between the age of 20 and 40. It is better to avoid these white foods to keep you healthy. I am healthy and will be always healthy”.