Hyderabad, May 31: Road transport services in Andhra Pradesh came to a halt as the opposition-sponsored daylong shutdown to protest the steep hike in petrol prices evoked wide response across the state. The shutdown was partial in Hyderabad but was near total in the districts. Buses of state-run Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) and auto-rickshaws went off the roads while shops, petrol bunks, business establishments and educational institutions remained closed. Police said the protest has been peaceful. The nationwide shutdown has been called by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as well as the Left parties. In Andhra Pradesh, the main opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) and YSR Congress Party were also supporting the shutdown to demand rollback of the petrol price hike. In a rare show of unity, political rivals joined hands to protest the price hike. At many places, workers of the BJP, TDP, CPI and CPI-M were seen together stopping buses or staging road blockades. Majority of the APSRTC buses remained confined to depots as the protestors did not allow authorities to take them out. They sat in front of the depots since early morning. Holding their party flags and raising anti-government slogans, they laid siege to the depots. The shutdown was partial in Hyderabad as APSRTC was running most of the city buses with police protection. Shops and petrol bunks were also open in many places. At the Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station in Hyderabad, police arrested CPI-M leader P. Madhu and dozens of other party activists for trying to stop the buses. Though police claimed that the buses were plying normally, services were affected because of the total impact of the strike in districts. Police arrested dozens of leaders and workers of opposition parties for staging protests at bus depots and for blocking the roads. In Khammam, protestors damaged a bus. At few places, they deflated the tyres of buses and auto-rickshaws. Except the ruling Congress party, the activists of all parties blocked a highway in Kadapa district, leading to massive traffic jam. The opposition parties took out rallies and staged protests in Kadapa, Anantapur, Tirupati and other parts of Rayalaseema region. In coastal Andhra, the shutdown evoked good response with the TDP and Left activists not allowing buses to leave the depots. The shutdown paralysed transport services in coastal city of Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Guntur and other towns. Shops and business establishments also remained closed in most of the towns in the region. With the TRS also joining the protest in Telangana, the shutdown was total in the region, except in Hyderabad. The protest in Andhra Pradesh is significant as the petrol price in the state is one of the highest in the country. The state levies 33 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products, the highest in the country. | |
Jagan Reddy was arrested in an alleged disproportionate assets case on May 27 after being grilled for three days by the investigating agency.
Dharmana Prasada Rao, J Geeth Reddy, Ponnala Lakshmaih and Sabitha Reddy who held Revenue, Major Industries, Irrigation and Mining portfolio respectively during YS Rajasekhara Reddy's regime will be questioned for their role in issuing certain GOs that are alleged to have favoured some companies which in turn invested in Jagan Reddy's companies as Quid-pro-quo, CBI said in an affidavit field before the Supreme Court.
The CBI said it would examine Sabitha Reddy in connection with the GOs related to Bharathi Cements, prospective license to Penna Cements, mining lease for Limestone in favour of Saraswathi Power and Industries and transfer of mining lease held by Eswar Cements.
Ponnala will be examined in connection with the GOs related water supply permission to India Cements for its manufacturing facilities in the State.
Almost all the toned backs of our sexy heroines always generate a degree of hotness among youths. With no covering on them, they are the sure shot 'kick' giving elements. But, one heroine's back became opposite to this. This talented young beauty has done very less films in Telugu circuit, but garnered good name. She is Bengali chick Swetha Basu Prasad. Off late, she resorted to few skin show techniques for bagging offers, but none of them helped her. Still she joins that hot club for her chubby thighs and alluring smile. Right now, youth are scaring to watch her back. This is because of a 'ganesh' tattoo on her flowing back. Below the nape of her neck, she got a big size god tattoo etched, which makes it a little bit difficult to get that erotic feel. As she is not getting hot offers from tinsel town, this 'tattoo' is not becoming a big problem for Swetha Basu. We have to see now if 'Ganesh' brings any luck or further distances her hot fans!
The actress who was sported supporting KKR, though she is expected to support, CSK in the recent grand finale of IPL, was again in news for this reason.
Responding to all those hate messages from CSK fans and the audience who have sported Trisha cheering up KKR team, the actress says, 'get some sportsmen spirit... I would no doubt support CSK team... the only thing is that I was sportive enough to support the winning team and nothing more than this... stop making an issue out of this', said the actress.
Not only Trisha, but Among those who were present include Venkat Prabhu, 'Jayam' Ravi and Premgi Amaran also supported KKR team... the only reason why Trisha’s name was in news could be a lot of glamour surrounded with this actress and all eyes on every move of this beauty.
The YSR Congress Chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy has been sent to Chenchalguda for judicial custody till June 11. After him there was a certain void in the party campaign for the by-polls which were scheduled for June 12. But however the clever leader had deputed his mother VIjayamma, the MLA for Pulivendla, to carry forward the campaign trail. Seriously the two dominant parties watched the movements with interest. Even the TDP top leadership asked the woman to speak like a politician but not like a mother. The Congress and TDP were bent on tarnishing the image of the late Chief Minister YS Rajasekhar Reddy and Jagan for their disproportionate assets.
On the other hand Ms Vijayamma’s entry was welcomed by huge thronging crowds at the Vizag airport today. The Mother and daughter Sharmila waved at the crowds in approval of their sympathy. The huge crowd had sent shivers to the two top parties of the state say critics. From here the duo travelled by bus to Narasannapet constituency, to campaign. While some say it was the case as it was day one. Others say it was blessing in disguise for the party which will gain more sympathy. She is the party's honorary chief; she gave up her fast in protest against her son's arrest on Sunday and took over the reins of the party.
Oppositions to YSR Congress barge in about the sympathy wave Vijayamma and YSR Congress are riding on, is not correct. But the situation was utilized the same way when the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated way back in 1991. Vijayamma is the new powerful missile in the YSR Congress quiver out to destruct the opposition in the by-polls, say critics. However the by-polls are a do-or-die situation to all three parties in the state. (With Inputs from Internet- Aarkay)
No one can be taken 'silly' and 'simple' in this tinsel town as one cannot expect where they will stand after a couple of years. One producer experienced a rude reply from this hot beauty of 'Shopping Mall' fame. Heroine Anjali became a heartthrob of Telugu youths for her natural yet appealing performances in 'Shopping Mall' and 'Journey'. With less skin show and more dominating performance she has looted the hearts of eligible men. Before reaching to a top in Tamil industry, this Telugu beauty has done two flop flicks in Telugu at the mercy of producers. A famous small-film producer who owns a 'shopping mall' in Hyderabad rejected this plump siren as she quoted more than 2 lakhs. However, the same producer is now ready to dump more than 30 lakhs for her hot presence now. Simply, Anjali rejected his offer as she is getting much better offers in big-banners after sipping a cold-coffee with him. This is just one case and there are plenty of such examples in Tollywood.
Hyderabad, : PCC Women’s wing president Ganga Bhavani has alleged that the actress-turned YSRC women’s wing leader Roja was is ‘iron leg’. She has substantiated her charge that Dr YSR died immediately after Roja met former chief minister (late YSR) in a helicopter crash and Jaganmohan Reddy left the Congress only after Roja met him in Nellore. “One has to wait and see what would happen to Y S Vijayamma now as Roja met her”, she added.
Ganga Bhavani questioned the YSRC leaders, including Roja, to answer what was the use of Dr M V Mysoora Reddy, who had edited a book titled ‘Raja of Corruption’ on late YSR’s alleged corrupt practices, for their party. Ganga Bhavani also warned Roja of dire consequences if she failed to control her mouth.
Cinemas can influence the voters a lot with their indirect attacks and satires on the political situations. Those films are now taking sides with each hero taking shade under a particular political party. Now, YSR Congress is also working in that angle to get 'hero' glamour to their party. Ruling Congress party has the ultimate glamour in the state with Megastar Chiru standing their side. And, his brother Pawan Kalyan, son Ram Charan are taking pot-shots at his political rivals through some sharp dialogues in their recent films. In the same way, Telugudesam is having Balayya in front line with Jr.NTR and Nara Rohit following. Balayya and Junior are already knocking opponent parties with their indirect satires through their action flicks. Coming to YSR Congress, there is no cine glamour for the party other than Roja, to voice their views on silver screen. Roja is not an actress of caliber to influence directors to write dialogues that can take on opposition through the small character roles she is donning. Sources are saying that YSR Congress is taming young hero Nitin, who hails from Reddy community to stand as their icon on the screen. We know the stature of this hero in the tinsel town and one can easily guess if this works or not for YSR-CP.
Although YSR Congress party called for a
shutdown on Monday protesting the arrest of its
leader YS Jagan in the illegal assets case, the
bandh was not observed in many parts of the
state.
Except few protests, the overall situation remained
peaceful. Thanks to the tight security blanket and
prohibitory orders under Section 144 which are in
force in Hyderabad, Kadapa and other major
cities. This came as a rude shock to Jagan's men
who expected a revolt from people all over the
state following the arrest.
As the plan to spark a statewide stir foiled by the
cops, now the YSR Congress leaders have changed
their action plan. Jagan camp and his media is
trying to cash on the sympathy wave in few areas
where YSR Congress has got a strong hold. Sakshi is exclusively covering the reactions of Jagan's
loyalists and his supporters to prove that people have been supporting its leader in a big way.
Surprisingly, the reporters of Sakshi are also given orders to report the celebrations of Jagan opponents
over the arrest to gain sympathy. Will Jagan media succeeds in spreading this wave to the other parts of
the state? Let's wait and watch!
The hot starlet Shriya Saran has always been known for her natural beauty and ultra glamorous skin show but till date, she has not been linked to anyone properly. Though few gossips came in between, they died before they became strong. But here is one story about Shriya and her romance. Well, the pretty girl is falling in love with a music teacher. However, all this is happening as part of her film and not in real life. We are talking about Shriya's new movie in Kannada titled as 'Chandra'. She is essaying the role of a princess who falls in love with a commoner, a music teacher actually. This is being directed by Roopa Iyer and the lucky man to get Shriya's love is Prem. Sharing her thoughts, Shriya is happy with the role since she gets a scope of performance and most importantly, she will also be displaying her talent of classical dance as few scenes are
Seems like, the controversial Odarpu Yatra started by YS Jagan following the sudden demise of his father late YSR has finally come to an end with the CBI taking the tainted leader into custody in disproportionate assets case. The CBI have filed cases against Jagan under sections 120B (Criminal Conspiracy), 420 (Cheating), Section 477A (Forgery Of Documents), 409 (Criminal Breach Of Trust), Section 13(1)d, 13(2) r/w 477 (Prevention of Corruption Act). Charges of investments in his businesses in a quid pro quo arrangement (conspired with his father, former chief minister late YSR, to do favours to the companies invested in his businesses) were levelled against Jagan. Based on these sections, the legal experts are confirming the reports that the Kadapa MP will have to spend atleast 1-2 years from now in prison. Now, the time has come for Jagan to receive Odarpu from his family, party men and supporters. YS Vijayamma and co. have already started the mission. Let's see h
With Sabbam Hari pleading all the followers and loyalist of Jagan to maintain peace, the cadres took it the other way round it seems. Attempts to create riots are taking place at various places of the state, as of now. Both in Rajahmundry and Vijayawada, protesters have smashed the glasses of a couple of RTC buses in response to Jagan's arrest. Coming to Guntur district, party cadres have tried to torch a bus but were strongly prevented by the driver of the bus. In Tenali, party cadres have burned the effigy of CBI Joint Director Lakshmi Narayana for arresting Jagan. Party workers from Anantapur are trying to burn down various cellphone towers of Reliance group. According to reports, 120 members of YSR-CP are taken into custody, as police suspected them of planning for torching buses. As of now, APSRTC has stopped running all the services across the state and ordered all the buses to hanger at depots. AP Police are advising people not to worry about the small incidents that are taking place at various towns as the total state is under extreme patrolling. Experts are saying that the protesters are losing control after Sabbam asked them not to do so!
t would be harsh to label someone as iron leg, but in film industry heroines generally get the blame for bringing bad luck. Filmy people believe that lady luck has to work in favor of the film and if someone couldn't prove successful, they are bound to be branded as iron legs. Recently Shruti Haasan shrugged off that image with Gabbar Singh and is smiling big time. Looks like there is another heroine in queue to be tagged as iron leg lady! She is Tapsee, who has been running through a rough patch in her career. Tapsee made debut with Jhummandi Nadam and scored first hit with Mr. Perfect. Although Kajal walked away with laurels for that film, Tapsee too is a part of it. Apart from Mr. Perfect, Tapsee hasn't tasted success with any of the other movies. Mogudu, Veera, Jhummandi Nadam and the latest Daruvu have put her in a spot of bother. However, she has few promising projects on hand to hope to break free from the flop streak. Let's see if Tapsee could afford a smile or two this year.
After hours of suspense and drama,
YSR Congress leader and late CM YS Rajasekhar Reddy's son YS Jagan is finally arrested by the CBI sleuths at 7.20 pm today. In connection with the multi crore illegal assets scam and other money laundering issues, Jagan is taken into custody. After taking the total state into control, authorities have finally revealed that YS Jagan is taken into custody after three days of interrogation. Under sections 477A, IPC 420 (read with), 120B and 409, Jagan is grilled by the CBI sources. Earlier, CBI Joint Director Lakshmi Narayana had met Additional Solicitor General at Taj Krishna to take expert law advice regarding this arrest. YS Jagan's family members, including mother Vijayamma, wife Bharathi, sister Sharmila and brother-in-law evangelist Anil along with other family members have rushed to Dilkusha guest house after receiving information from the investigation agency regarding the arrest of this Accused No.1 in the high profile case of CBI. Jagan's follower Jupudi and another migrant from Congress, Sabbam Hari has confirmed the news to the press before condemning the acts of CBI. 'CBI has taken Jagan into custody 20 minutes back. They have asked us to call lawyers and family members to arrest Jagan. None of us are allowed to go inside. CBI will inform all other formalities to media later, as it is not legal for me to speak. I advise all the cadres and loyalists of Jagan across the state to stay calm, as ordered by Jagan to me', said Sabbam Hari. Sources inside the CBI also confirmed the report, but CBI JD Lakshmi Narayana is expected to talk with the media regarding arrest later in the night. According to reports, Jagan will be produced before magistrate tonight.
Amidst huge speculations and tight security, YS Jagan finished his second day of getting questioned at the CBI camp office. The tainted leader has started for his Lotus Pond residence immediately after coming out. The seven and half hours questioning has come to an end today with CBI leaving Jagan before informing that there is no holiday for him on this Sunday. Jagan looked a bit disappointed and frustrated while coming out of Dilkusha. 'Things went off peaceful. They have sought for clarifications and I've given them. Tomorrow I would have to come. I would be probably giving them some more clarifications. Bye, bye, bye, bye...', stated Jagan after coming out of the guest house. Why Jagan is trying to prove that the CBI's questioning has been a cakewalk for him everytime he comes out of the Dilkusha Guest House? Jagan uttering the words 'Bye, bye, bye, bye...'. reminds us of a 10-year-old school kid. Sources say, Jagan continued his Odaru Yatra in Dilkusha Guest House consoling his corruption partners (Nimmagadda, Mopidevi and Brahmananada) on Day 2 as well. His strange behaviour is not only irritating people and media, but also the CBI officials. Will he repeat the same on Sunday too. Let's wait and watch!
This beauty rocked the show with her debut Telugu flick 'Godavari', but failed to cash on the buzz generated. She is dusky beauty Neetu Chandra who satisfied Indian audiences with acting and skin shows. When everyone thought that she is running out of offers, Neetu shocked them by signing an international project. Not only that film, she is now engulfed with 'affair' rumours too. She is heard moving close with a foreigner named Kyriacos Tofarides, who happens to be the director of her latest international film, an English-greek movie 'Home Sweet Home'. Smitten by her charms and performance, this director also offered his next flick to Neetu other than the current one. Sources are saying that it is not about offering movies, there is something cheesy between them. We have to wait for Neetu's words to know what exactly is happening.
Amidst huge speculations and tight security, YS Jagan finished his second day of getting questioned at the CBI camp office. The tainted leader has started for his Lotus Pond residence immediately after coming out. The seven and half hours questioning has come to an end today with CBI leaving Jagan before informing that there is no holiday for him on this Sunday. Jagan looked a bit disappointed and frustrated while coming out of Dilkusha. 'Things went off peaceful. They have sought for clarifications and I've given them. Tomorrow I would have to come. I would be probably giving them some more clarifications. Bye, bye, bye, bye...', stated Jagan after coming out of the guest house. Why Jagan is trying to prove that the CBI's questioning has been a cakewalk for him everytime he comes out of the Dilkusha Guest House? Jagan uttering the words 'Bye, bye, bye, bye...'. reminds us of a 10-year-old school kid. Sources say, Jagan continued his Odaru Yatra in Dilkusha Guest House consoling his corruption partners (Nimmagadda, Mopidevi and Brahmananada) on Day 2 as well. His strange Nobehaviour is not only irritating people and media, but also the CBI officials. Will he repeat the same on Sunday too. Let's wait and watch!
Many films create sensation when their first look is revealed to public. Unlike those sensational flicks, this movie is creating doubts among the trade circuits. Nagarjuna's much awaited socio fantasy film is 'Damarukam'. Due to some differences with the producers, reportedly there is a delay behind the production of this movie. However, the first look of this movie was released a couple of days back to enthral both fans and distributors. Sources are saying that the first-look of the movie is released only to invite buyers with liquid cash. As of now, the movie still has lot of unfinished work regarding the Visual Effects that will take some more months to finish, say insiders. To move the work further, lot of investment is required for which neither producer RR Makers nor hero Nagarjuna are showing interest. For now, 'Damarukam' has generated the required buzz to attract everyone, but we have to see how this film makes its way to theatres without getting struck in obstacles.
He just said ‘”Bye, bye ,bye, bye, bye,” and moved sat inside the car ignoring many questions of the media. Meanwhile, vernacular newschannel reporters were expressing their dissatisfaction stating that Jaganmohan Reddy didn’t even speak anything in Telugu. The media persons from Telugu news channels were awaiting outside Dilkusha Guest House for taking a ‘byte of Jagan,’ in Telugu and their hopes were dashed.
Jaganmohan Reddy will appear before CBI on the second day on Saturday and we have to wait and watch if he would listen to media’s questions and answer them.
| Rating: | 2.75/5.0 |
| Banner: | Sri Venkateshwara Art Films |
| Producer(s): | Boorugupalli Shiva Ramakrishna |
| Director: | Shiva |
| Music: | Vijay Antony |
| Casting: | Ravi Teja, Tapsee, Prabhu, Jayasudha, MS Narayana, Brahmanandam, Sayaji Shindey, Avinash others |
| Story | |||
 Ravi Teja who is going through lean pace after disaster flops ‘Veera’ and ‘Nippu’ coming up with a socio phantasy movie ‘Daruvu’ in the direction of Shiva. It is not for the first time Tollywood is witnessing the Socio Phantasy films with Yamalokam backdrop. Let’s see whether ‘Daruvu’ is any different from its predecessor. Bullet Raja (Ravi Teja) from Chennai is a petty thief who fall in love with Shwetha (Tapsee), gets killed by her would be Harbour Babu (Sushanth Singh). After reaching Yamalokam, Bullet Raja learns that his death is due to the mistake committed by Chitragupta. Realising their mistake, Yama finds a look alike of Bullet Raja who is a home minister for Andhra Pradesh. Ravindra, a home minister touted to be a future CM of AP is a corrupted politician transformed into a good person after witnessing a fateful incident not to the liking of his partners Sayaji Shindey and Raghu Babu. Sayaji Shindey and Raghu Babu conspire and kill Ravindra in an accident. Now, Bullet Raja soul enters into the body of Ravindra and gets life. How Ravindra takes revenge on Villains plus whether Ravindra marries Shwetha or not forms the crux of the story. | |||
| Performance | |||
 Ravi Teja once again gave an energetic performance. He acted well in Bullet Raja and politician Ravindra roles. His comedy timing, dances are plus points while fights are disappointing. Age is showing on his face.Tapsee acted well in less prominent role. Her glamour will be a treat to mass audiences. Jaya Sudha acting should be commended though they are two to three. Brahmanandam as Vidya Balan bring some laughs in the theater. Vennela Kishore and Srinivas Reddy did their best in comedy department. Sayaji Shindey, Raghu Babu and avinash justified their roles in negative roles. Gollapudi as CM and Satyanarayana as Sr. Yama appear for a while. Prabhu suited well in Jr.Yama role while MS Narayana acted well in Chitragupta role. | |||
| Technical | |||
 Director Shiva didn't think much for 'Daruvu' except copying scenes from other movies. The story is known to Tollywood audience from Sr. NTR era to Jr. NTR era. He lacks novelty in screenplay also. The scenes are inspired from other movies. The screenplay is erratic with ups and downs. Music is a big disappointment. Vijay Antony music is cacophonous. Vetri cinematography is good. Stun Shiva fights are disappointing. Choreography is big letdown for except one song. Some dialogues are good especially in second half. Editing should have been crisp. | |||
| Analysis | |||
 Yamagola’, ‘Yamuduki Mogudu’ and ‘Yamadonga’ and now ‘Daruvu’, all are in same line. Director Shiva inspired from ‘Yamudiki Mogudu’ and ‘Daruvu’ happened. Ravi Teja, Brahmanandam episode is a copy from recently released ‘Racha’. General audience may get a feeling that Ravindra character is developed thinking a strong young politician of Andhra Pradesh.The first 40 minutes of movie runs on dull note testing audience patience before movie picks up pace before interval. The movie graph goes peak for 30 minutes after the interval taking a plunge towards climax. All previous socio phantasy movies with Yamalokam backdrop scored a hit at the box office because of the interesting scenes between hero and Yama himself. Unfortunately ‘Daruvu’ lacks it. The scenes are too cinematic and not convincing. The political satires and scenes in the second half infuse some interest before ending on predictable note. The movie will fare better at B and C centers cohmpared to multiplexes and A centers. On the whole, it is a Ravi Teja trademark movie strictly for one time watch for just to time pass. |
Despite of this huge competition, she managed to appear in rewarding roles, in the films like 'maryaada raamanna' and waiting for her fourth coming film opposite Bala Krishna in recent flick 'Adhinaayakudu'.
In mean time, we got to hear a big time news about her… this actress who appears to be in her 20s when we see her, is actually crossing 35 years of her age, as per one of the leading sites that provides a proper information about anything, everything and everyone.
Later some set of websites confessed this to be a miss communication.
This makes me recall all those heroines, be it Karishma Kapoor, Madhuri Dixit, Raveena Tondon, Sonali Bendre, some of whom have already crossed their 40’s, still manage to give a tough time to all those happening young heroines out there.
Wish I could know their beauty secret.
This is the talk in political circles about the two sensational investigation agencies of the state. But there is a difference in the working style of these two sleuths.
CBI, the top investigation agency of India is giving sleepless nights to those politicians, industrialist and bureaucrats involved in various economic crimes happened in Andhra Pradesh. Day by day CBI is coming up with different petitions and notices to catch the culprits involved in cases. If Jagan gets a bit relief from Court, then immediately he is pulled into another trouble by CBI. This way, they are a little violent in taking and implementing decisions.
Coming to CID, the biggest challenge before them is Don Bhanu's case. Not only the murder of Suri, the investigation is busy unearthing various shady land deals and other contract deals taken up by Bhanu's gang. But, this agency is going silent with their investigation. They have already locked up two other key followers of Bhanu along with Jagan's key associate Mangali Krishna without doing much sound. The agency is expected to file a charge sheet in this case very soon, which will reveal some more sensational things.
Till the very last minute, there is confusion in YSR Congress camp if Jagan would travel by road or train. At last, Yuva Neta choose to go by road. Party leaders say their leader will reach Hyderabad on Thursday midnight.
Jagan would be appearing before the CBI at Dilkusha Guest House for the questioning procedure on Friday. Although the CBI is yet to confirm if it would take Jagan into custody, speculations are making rounds that he will be arrested Tomorrow. Seems like, Jagan's berth got confirmed at Sri Krishna Janma Sthanam!
Excise minister Mopidevi Venkataramana, who is facing the charges of corruption in connection with Jagan's illegal assets case, has sent his resignation to CM Kiran Kumar Reddy on Thursday.
In his three page resignation letter, Mopidevi explained all the important achievements of his entire political career starting from 1987 till date. He claimed that he has a clean record as a politician and has grown from strength to strength in politics.
Mopidevi blamed it on Jagan's thirst for money for his present situation. The minister confessed that upon the pressure from late YSR, Jagan and CMO key member Bhanu, he signed few documents which benefited the Yuva Neta. "Is this the result someone gets, if he abides by the order of his leader (former CM YSR)," questioned the minister.
Hyderabad: 'Gabbar Singh' (GBS) has turned out to be a touchstone, not just for power star Pawan Kalyan but also for the relatively new Shruti Haasan. With six movies behind her, Shruti finally tasted box office success with the 'Dabangg'-remake.
The 26-year-old actress, however, insists that though GBS was a trade hit, her journey thus far has been one long trip of success.
'Though a new comer, I've had the opportunity to flit between languages, do very different roles and experiment more. I've been lucky in those terms and wouldn't trade the experience,' says the 'Bhagyalakshmi' actress.
Creating a buzz with her village belle personality ' Bhagyalakshmi in GBS, the actress has garnered attention for carrying off the rustic look.
Her director, Harish Shankar has more than just kind words to say. 'GBS wouldn't be what it is without the perfect characterization of Bhagyalakshmi by Shruti.
She is an extremely hard working and committed actress who'd turn up on time and be energetic throughout. She's been thorough right through, including learning the lyrics for the songs!' says the director, who predicts that one day the actress will rule the roost in Tollywood. 'I have no doubt that she will become number one in the industry,' comments Shankar.
Shruti, however has learnt her lessons well, with a lineage like Kamal Haasan and Sarika, she doesn't betray a sense of pride in the over-shower of compliments from her director and producer.
'I don't know how deserving I am of the compliments for 'Gabbar Singh', but I'm thankful of the team I have worked with.'
Starting her career in Bollywood with 'Luck', starring opposite Imran Khan, Shruti has had to endure through a stream of movies that promised the sky, yet only reached the horizon, despite an intimidating list of co-actors ' Siddharth, Surya, Emraan Hashmi and Dhanush.
The musician-turned-actress is nevertheless unperturbed with the way things have gone.
Speaking about her last movie '3', which is perhaps more popular for the 'Kolaveri di' song than anything, she says, 'As far as I can see, the movie was a hit. The song ('Kolaveri di') did steal the limelight, but the movie did do well.'
So in her travail thus far, what did she take away from each experience that made acting in GBS that much easier? 'Imran was a childhood friend, Siddharth I'd worked with for two films, so the comfort level was good in those films. Surya sir was very encouraging and Dhanush really helped me open up in front of the camera. But overall, they all helped me evolve as an artist.'
As Kamal Haasan's and Sarika's daughter, Shruti kicked up quite the interest when she entered the industry in 2009. But three years and seven films later, Shruti says she is just another new face.
'Yes initially I'm sure I was looked at as 'their' daughter. But the industry and the audience are not very tolerant and patient with second chances. Whatever I do is my decision and me. In all fairness, it doesn't make sense to be compared to my father, or in that case any anybody else at all.'
Music was the artiste's first calling. She has even collaborated on a few films either as a singer or composer, besides maintaining her band Extramentals.
Talking about her future plans, she says, 'Music is still important to me. I do sing a few playback tracks for some movies and record music on my own. That isn't something I'm going to give up. So yes, I will perhaps release an album too. But all in good time,' she says before signing off.
Hyderabad: Actor Allari Naresh's next 'Sudigadu' is nearing completion. Directed by Bheemineni Srinivasa Rao, the film is a remake of the hit Tamil flick 'Thamizh Padam'.
The shooting of the movie is already complete and currently in the final leg of post production. It is expected to hit the screens in June.
With a tag line like 'Okka Ticket Pai Vanda Cinemalu', the talk has it that it is a parody comedy film, which takes a comical dig at some of the clich's that a typical Telugu cinema hero would follow. The film promises to be a hilarious one.
It is produced by D Chandrasekhar and Sri Vasanth, of 'Madatha Kaja' fame, has composed music for it. Allari Naresh plays youth named Sudigadu, who is destined for greatness and punishes criminals secretly.
It features Monal Gajjar alongside him. The actor has finished filming for his portions. Naresh has pinned lots of hopes on it.
Hyderabad, May 24 : Following his arrest by the CBI, Excise Minister Mopidevi Venkata Ramana Rao on Thursday submitted his resignation from the State Cabinet.
In his resignation letter sent to Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy through his friend Rajendra Prasad at former's camp office, Mopidevi claimed that he was innocent.
'I have not committed any mistake and issued GOs on the directions of the then Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy,' he reportedly said. He said he was being punished for committing no mistake.
Talking to reporters after handing over Mopidevi's resignation letter to the Chief Minister, Rajendra Prasad claimed that Kiran Kumar Reddy too has termed the arrest as 'unfortunate'.
He said Mopidevi has stated that GO Number 29 allotting lands to VANPIC was issued as per the directions of YSR's Cabinet. However, the CBI found fault in the GO and arrested him.
Mopidevi claimed that never misused his official position anytime during his tenure. He also assured that he would fully cooperate with the probing agency in the investigations and come out clean from the charges.
In the letter, Mopidevi appealed to the Chief Minister to accept his resignation letter and hoped to re-join the cabinet after getting a clean chit from the CBI.
He also claimed that he would remain a loyal worker of the party and would abide by its decisions.
Hyderabad, May 24: Fearing a breakdown of law and order in view of the likely arrest of YSR Congress Party leader Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy in the alleged illegal assets case, police in Hyderabad imposed prohibitory orders here Thursday.
Speculation is rife that he may be arrested three days before he is scheduled to appear in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court on May 28. The agency has also summoned the Kadapa legislator Friday for questioning.
The prohibitory orders under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, banning assembly of five or more persons, came into force at 6 a.m. Thursday.
Hyderabad police commissioner Anurag Sharma said the orders would be in force till May 29. There will be no permission for meetings, rallies and processions during the period.
Police have launched checking of vehicles and frisking of people, especially at the entry points into the city.
The police commissioner said they had reliable information that "in view of forthcoming by-elections certain political parties are likely to organise large number of supporters in Hyderabad city limits, taking advantage of some local events to derive political advantage".
In the emotionally charged atmosphere, large-scale mobilisation of people is likely to adversely affect maintenance of law and order, the police chief said.
Jaganmohan Reddy has alleged that a conspiracy was hatched by Congress government in collusion with the opposition Telugu Desam Party and the CBI to arrest him.
In a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh two days ago, the young leader also claimed that a conspiracy was also conceived to trigger riots after his arrest and throw the blame on him.
The CBI Wednesday issued notices to Jagan asking him to appear before it. The Andhra Pradesh High Court also had rejected a petition by him seeking exemption from appearance.
The son of late chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy was already issued summons by the CBI court, directing him to appear in the court on May 28. His petition seeking exemption from personal appearance was also dismissed by the court.
Jagan is accused of conspiring with his father to dole out favours to companies which invested in his businesses in a quid pro quo arrangement.
Guntur, May 24: Soon after the news broke that Excise Minister Mopidevi Venkataramana was arrested by the CBI, his followers went on a rampage in several parts of the district.
In Repalle, the minister’s supporters have raided the offices of the MRO and MDO and hurled stones. They have burnt one jeep and broke the window panes of several buses. In Repalle, police sub inspector Brahmam was attacked. He suffered injuries.
Bandh in Mopidei's village
In Nizampatnam, native village of the minister, traders have observed a bandh voluntarily. Villagers and traders have taken out a protest rally. Some vandals have also damaged some RTC buses.
Responding to the same, Anushka replied to the Media, ‘I suppose you guys are more curious than me about my marriage??? It was just a casual visit to Bangalore… it has been a long time I had actually spent some time with my family, so I made it a point to visit them… this has nothing to do with my marriage… my parents are matured enough to understand my priorities and the decision about my marriage is majorly depended on me… as of now my career is being satisfactory and I would never take an hasty decision at this point of time… marriage can wait for me’, said the actress. This news, that was a shock to Anushka’s admirers at first, turned out to be a sweet shock to them later…
You guessed it right, the Actress is all set to woe the audience with more short and hot Bikini in her fourth coming film opposite Saif Ali Khan, 'Cocktail'... the first look and the trailers of the film are released recently... the film very much seems to be connecting today's genre of audience and Deepika’s look is creating a much more hype... it is said that apart from intimate sequences with Saif in this flick, Deepika will be entertaining the audience with a never before seen Bikini...
Earlier, this long legs beauty has put on a much hot bikini in 'Houseful', but this time, it is going to be bolder, as per some close sources revealed...
As such Deepika is known to play some bold roles, as she did in her earlier flick, ‘Kartik calling Kartik’, ‘Break ke Baad’ and so on… even her recent flick she is playing a similar genre of role that caters to today’s genre on a large extent in ‘Cocktail’, on top of this, Deepika having no qualms and restrictions in putting on a Bikini or oodles of skin show on Silver screen, all these put together definitely makes us think the Actress is aiming to be Number 1 in B �" Town… so, all those diehard fans of Deepika out there, be prepared to see your favorite actress turning bolder and hotter
Meanwhile, the dentist couple denied the charges of the CBI and said sex was common in affluent class. Therefore, that can’t lead to murders, apparently added Talwars.
CBI lawyer Saini has told the Judge that Talwars came home late in the evening when the murder took place. They searched for Aarushi in her living room and she could not be traced. Later the couple went to daughter’s room and noticed it was locked from inside. With the help of the extra key the couple had, they opened the door and found Aarushi-Hemraj in a compromising position, the counsel said. Further, the counsel said, the angered Rajesh Talwar flicked a golf bat and hit Hemraj first and later his daughter Aarushi till they lost their consciousness, added CBI counsel Saini.
Also, he said that the dentist couple slit the throats of Aarushi-Hemraj after they fell unconscious. Nupur Talwar, however, said they loved their daughter so much and the matter could have been resolved in case they had really caught their daughter having sex.
Mumbai, May 23: The Indian rupee breached another psychological level of 56 against a dollar Wednesday and plunged to a low of 56.18 in the intra-day, hitting a record low for the sixth session in a row. The partially convertible rupee hit a low of 56.18 in the intra-day before closing at 56 against a dollar, due to persistent demand for the American currency from importers and banks amid rising risk aversion in the global markets. The Indian currency has hit new intra-day low for the sixth consecutive session. It had hit a record low of 55.40 against a dollar Tuesday. The rupee has weakened by over three percent in just three sessions this week despite assurances and interventions in the currency markets by the Reserve Bank of India. Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee expressed disappointment over the sharp drop in the value of the rupee. Mukherjee blamed global uncertainties and rising oil imports bill for the battering of the Indian currency. "Quantum of India's oil imports is substantial at around $160 billion to $170 billion annually," he said. The American dollar has strengthened against major global currencies including euro and Japanese yen. However, the Indian currency is the worst hit. It has lost nearly 23 percent of value against the dollar since the beginning of this year, the worst performance among major global currencies. Indian stocks markets have also come under pressure due to the persistent slide in the value of rupee. The benchmark Sensex of the Bombay Stock Exchange slipped below the 16,000-point mark. The index ended the day 0.49 percent lower at 15,948.10 points Wednesday. The wide-based Nifty of the National Stock Exchange fell 0.51 percent at 4,835.65 points. Addressing the officers of the Indian Economic Service, Mukherjee expressed hope that the current phase of economic difficulties would be over soon given the resilience of the Indian economy. "We will be able to overcome successfully the difficulties presently facing the Indian economy so as to get it back to the path of higher growth trajectory," he said. Chairman of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council C. Rangarajan said the RBI would announce new measures to boost foreign funds inflow. Rangarajan said selling dollars directly to oil importers was an option the central bank might want to consider. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken a series of measures in the last few weeks to curb the rupee slide. The RBI has asked banks to sell half of the foreign currencies in their accounts. In a bid to attract money from overseas, the RBI has raised interest ceiling that local banks can offer to overseas Indians in forex accounts. |
The High Court has rejected the lunch-motion filed by Jagan’s lawyer seeking time for appearance before the CBI which has summoned him to be present on May 25, three days ahead of his appearance before the CBI court.
The High Court has directed CBI to act as per section 41 A of the Cr. PC. Section 41 A provides for the investigating agency to summon any one for questioning to attain valuable information. It also gives power to the agency to take the person into custody, in case of necessity.
Jagan’s lawyer has argued in the High Court that CBI has summoned Jagan on May 25 only to arrest him. The lawyer has also explained how Jagan was seriously engaged in his party’s election activity being the chief campaigner of the party. He has urged the court to exempt Jagan from personal appearance till June 15.
The CBI in its summons has stated that Jagan was being summoned for interrogation in connection with the Vanpic deal of industrialist Nimmagadda Prasad. Jagan’s lawyer has questioned why the CBI has called Jagan after taking Prasad into custody though he was not called when Prasad was questioned for 13 times earlier.
Entire state on high alert
Meanwhile, the entire state has been put alert, giving a clear indication that Jagan might be arrested. According to information, SPs of all districts have been asked to be alert and keep an eye on the activities of the YSR Congress. Likewise, they were also reportedly asked to check any movement of party workers to Hyderabad and also be vigilant against possible agitations.
In Hyderabad prohibitory orders were imposed under Section 144. City police Commissioner Anurag Sarma has said that the police had intelligence inputs that some political parties were making arrangements to mobilize people on a large scale. He said the prohibitory orders would be in force until May 29 (Jagan is summoned to appear before the CBI court on May 28). The Commissioner said that heavy mobilization of people would effect on law and order and hence the prohibitory orders.
