Ajay Devgn's Junior fans in Himmatwala's Bum Pe Laat song!

Trust Sajid Khan to come up with fun wacky ways to entertain the multitudes of movie lovers out there...we hear that after the amazing response which the 1st song 'Naino Mein Sapna' got from the audiences, the next song from his upcoming 80's retro fiesta 'Himmatwala' is interestingly titled `Bum Pe Laat` and what's more, it features little munchkins who are fans of superstar Ajay Devgn!

Choreographed by Ganesh Acharya and music by Sajid Wajid, the entertaining song has around 50 children dancing with Ajay Devgn and lead actress Tamannaah. And some of these children are none other fans of Devgn who often come to visit the star on the sets!

Well, news is that a group of kids happened to visit Devgn while he was shooting for the song and while they were sweetly interacting with him, it struck Director Sajid to actually feature them in the track!!

A source close to the team said, `There was a different kind of spark when we saw Ajay interacting with those kids, and that's when we thought of asking the kids to dance with him in the song to bring out the same magic onscreen. And we are sure everyone would absolutely love it.`

Well, 'Bum Pe Laat' releases this weekend, so get all geared up to watch Ajay Devgn grooving with his junior fans in the song!!

Himmatwala' is directed by blockbuster director Sajid Khan, starring Superstar Ajay Devgn & Tamannaah.

read more...

Ajay revisits the place where it all started

Ajay shot for 'Himmatwala' remake at the same location in Chembur where he had shot his debut flick 'Phool Aur Kante'

Over the weekend, Ajay Devgn was shooting for Sajid Khan's remake of a 1980s Jeetendra-Sridevi starrer in Chembur. On arriving at the location, the star was taken aback.

Ajay Devgn with director Sajid Khan on the sets of their film in Chembur

It was exactly the same venue where he had shot for his debut flick Phool Aur Kante 21 years ago. And the place still looked the same untouched by Mumbai's concretisation in the past two decades.

Shooting at the same spot made the star go down memory lane. As the place still looked the same, the actor remembered everything about the place!

Says a unit source, He went in flashback mode. Everything came back to him of the shoot for his first step in B-Town. He was heard telling the unit folk the various incidents from his Phool Aur Kante days what they shot where. Adds the source, Ajay was also extremely happy to see that the colony where the shoot was happening was still as beautiful as it was before. The lush plants and serene atmosphere made him enjoy shooting there all the more. 
In a city where most locations are polluted and commercial, he was surprised to see that the colony was maintained so well for 20 years. It made him remember every little detail of his entry into the industry. Devgn who is reprising Jeetendra's role in the Vashu Bhagnani production has South actress Tamannah as his co-star. 

read more...

Ajay and Salman bond over sandwiches

Ajay Devgn and Salman Khan were seen bonding big time at Mehboob Studios on Wednesday evening

While Sallu was doing his media interactions for his upcoming sequel, Devgn was shooting for Sajid Khan's remake of a yesteryear flick. Both the actors were seen tucking into sandwiches.

Sajid, Vashu Bhagnani and producer Babloo Paschisia also joined in.

Desi Boyz director Rohit Dhawan had also dropped in to meet Salman.

read more...

SOS crosses Rs.100 crore mark in India

Bollywood's Diwali release "Son Of Sardaar" has finally crossed the Rs.100 crore mark at the India box office.

The Ajay Devgn, Sonakshi Sinha and Sanjay Dutt starrer movie has managed to mint Rs.100.55 crore, said an official statement.

"Son of Sardar" garnered an opening week collection of Rs.71.53 crore in India.

The action comedy released alongside Yash Chopra's romantic "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" Nov 13. The latter crossed the Rs.100 crore mark in India Nov 23.

"Son of Sardar" is a Viacom 18 Motion Pictures and Eros International presentation. Produced by Ajay Devgn Ffilms and YRV Infra & Media (P) Ltd Production, the film is directed by Ashwni Dhir.

read more...

Strange! Uday Chopra follows Ajay Devgn on Twitter after recent spat

On his microblogging site, Ajay Devgn follows no one. The star is not too keen to know what others on social media are up to. 

Recently Uday Chopra has started following Devgn. Uday follows several people but his recent addition is raising eyebrows. 

With both their production houses locked in a bitter battle over their recent releases (Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Son of Sardar), there has been no love lost between the two camps. 
Wonder what made Uday follow Ajay? To keep tabs on what the collections are or to create another controversy? Or perhaps just like that? 

read more...

Box office: JTHJ, SOS collections drop due to Bal Thackeray

Update: Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray dies at 86

Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray's ailing condition affected the Bollywood box office in Mumbai. Two latest big ticket releases "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" (JTHJ) and "Son Of Sardaar" (SOS) experienced a marginal drop in collections in the city, say experts. 

Thackeray was critical Thursday and the city wore an almost deserted look, affecting footfall in theatres for both the movies, which hit the screens on Diwali, Nov 13. 

Rajesh Thadani of Multimedia Combines told: "On Thursday, for obvious reasons, there was a minor drop at the box office for both the films. In fact, many theatres were also shut for security reasons and people were scared to go out of their house."

"Drop in the collection was witnessed in both single screens and multiplexes, and we hope the film will be able to recover its money on Friday," he added. 
Various shops across the city were reportedly asked to shut down, while filmmakers and television producers were shooting under pressure. Around 60 per cent to 70 per cent celebrities are said to have cancelled outdoor shoots as a mark of respect to Thackeray on Thursday.

So, it is no wonder that the viewership for the movies was affected.

Both the films opened well at the box office - JTHJ, which was released on 2,500 screens, reportedly minted Rs.15.23 crore all over India on its opening day, while Ajay Devgn, Sonakshi Sinha and Sanjay Dutt-starrer SOS collected Rs.10.72 crore from 2,000 screens in the country.

While theatres went housefull on Tuesday and Wednesday, Thursday turned out to be a gloomy day with minimum occupancy in Mumbai. 

Balkishan Shroff of Shringar Films told: "Yes there has been a fall at the box office on Thursday. Many people refused to step out of their house on Thursday and sadly there was a loss of 30 per cent to 35 per cent of collection for the both the films."
However, Manoj Desai, executive director of G7 multiplex and Maratha Mandir, said: "I didn't see too much of drop in any of my theatres on Thursday. Luckily things went well." 

Overall, Shroff believes the recovery will happen.

Ever since the news of Thackeray's critical condition started making rounds, a steady stream of VVIPs, industrialists and glamour world personalities continued to visit his residence Matoshree in Bandra East.

read more...

Himmatwala: Amit Kumar sings new version of daddy's Naino Mien Sapna

Veteran singer Kishore Kumar's son Amit Kumar will be singing the song 'Naino Mein Sapna' in the remake version of 'Himmatwala'. 

Director Sajid Khan got Amit to re-record the chart-buster track in the new version of the film. Lata Mangeshkar and Kishore had lent their voices for the original song which featured Jeetendra and Sridevi. 

Singer Mika has also lend his voice for the song 'Taaki-Taaki' in the film. When contacted Sajid Khan, He said "We wanted to recreate the magic of 'Naino Mein Sapna' song. 
The original was sung by a legend for the male version. We wanted someone who can do justice to the iconic song. Amit's voice is too good. I feel no one except Amit could have sung 'Naino Mein Sapna'. He has sung exactly like Kishore Kumarji,"

Shreya Ghoshal was chosen for the female voice. As Vashu Bhagnani and Sajid Khan both already had the rights to the song. The music has been given by Sajid-Wajid.

read more...

Movie Review: Diwali Bekaar Without This Son of Sardar

Star Cast : Ajay Devgn, Sonakshi Sinha, Sanjay Dutt, Juhi Chawla, Mukul Dev, Salman Khan (cameo) 

Direction: Ashwni Dhir

Duration: 2 Hr 19 Min

Rating: * * *

For Bollywood which seems to running short of ideas and innovations, it looks like ace cinematographer S.S. Rajamouli and his widely entertaining cine cantatas are the new ray of hope, which Bollywood cine sorcerers are loving to serve these days after dabbling them in new treacle of entertainment. 

Be it Rowdy Rathore inspired from Vikramendu or the recently released cine flick Son of Sardar which is reportedly inspired from another masterpiece Maryada Ramanna of this talented director.

Though Son of Sardar has its conceptual roots in Maryada Ramanna, but as far as the plot is concerned than it is embedded in a different culture where a community known for its cheerful and fun loving nature is moved forth to entertain the masses. This much talked about home production of Ajay after scratching the belly of YRF, finally made it to silver screen with an occupancy of 85% at multiplexes.

Story:
As the story takes off, it begins with a bone-crunching fight sequence where Jassi (Ajay Devgn) is seen bashing the baddies in a club at London where he works for his friend (Salman) and his uncle. 

Soon after Jassi receives a notification from his native place Phagwara in Punjab, stating that he is about to inherit a piece of land. With an objective of selling of his patriarchal land and return back to London, Jassi lands up in Punjab but on his way to this land of mustard field he bums into Sukh (Sonakshi) while boarding the train. 
Oblivious to the fact that their families have an long standing patriarchal feud, where Sukh happens to be the niece of Balwinder Singh Sandhu alias Billoo (Sanjay Dutt), whose brother was killed by Jassi's father many years ago. 

Soon after reaching Phagwara, Jassi has a rendezvous with Billoo and his nephews [Mukul Dev, Vindu Dara Singh] who got to know that Jassi belongs to their arch rivals Randhawas, who killed their father and Billo's elder brother, hence they start looking for an opportunity to kill Jassi.

But the only hitch which hinders their path is Jassi's being in their home and as per their patriarchal legacy, all guests are to be treated as God while being in their mansion. And from there amid a volley of humor and action begins a joy ride of entertainment 

Script:
By now message would have gone across, that Son of Sardaar is a remake of SS Rajamouli's Maryada Ramanna, therefore leaving very less scope for the pouring in of some innovative ideas in the writing department.

Undoubtedly the movie intended to showcase the cheerful and courageous side of Sikh community, but as far as getting into the soul of the culture is concerned then it thoroughly fails in doing so. 
Except a few Tom and Jerry humour moments and a few gravity defying action sequences, many a times Son of Sardar seems to be somewhat a dragging saga which adversely impacts the captivating quotient of the movie.

One thing which can be said about the script of SOS is that though it tried to serve a different dessert but it somewhat lacked that fragrant spice which could have made it a marvellous delight. 

Dialogues:
Unlike previous cine flicks of Ajay, which had tons of rhetoric ammunition Son of Sardar seems to be lacking in verbal charisma. As far as that feel of Punjabi culture and lingo is concerned then despite being in Punjabi land, movie fails in showcasing and authenticating the culture with the excellence, which its preceding cine with similar backdrop have done.
Screenplay: 
With well stirred dose of Tom and Jerry humor (to be be more precise the Home Alone genre of humor) and gravity defying action sequences, SOS has got a smooth flowing screenplay which uptill an extent succeeds in offering a delightful entertainment but as far as flow of the narration is concerned then at few places it gets too dragging that it starts giving you a feel of monotony. 

On the whole direction of Ashwni Dhir and screenplay of Robin Bhatt manages to keep your gazes glued to the celluloid. And one thing which deserves tons of accolades is that, inspite of somewhat a week script Ashwni Dhir manages to keep all the components of the cine flick well within proportions. Be it humor or action or the masala factor nothing gets derailed at any point during the whole run time of the movie.

Performances: 
In the robe of fun loving bubbly Sardar, Ajay tries his level best to make an impact but somewhere falls short of his previously set bench marks. Though it's Ajay's charisma which keeps you occupied with the onscreen proceedings but as far as signature acting legacy of this otherwise talented actor is concerned then you may find it missing in Son of Sardar.

Sonakshi has improved her acting skills and looks better in Punjabi kudi avatar, where she up till an extent succeeds in making her presence feel.
Inspite of being in a different premise, Sanjay looks more of a reincarnated scion of his Chettan Chauhan avatar from cine flick Rascals and repeatedly recites those bland humour punch lines assigned to him by the writer. In fact it won't be wrong to say that Sanju Baba's performance looked somewhat dependent on the presence of Ajay.

On the other hand, Juhi has looked charming as Dutt's desperate fiancee of 25 years, who constantly tries to woo him by romantic overtures.

As far remaining star cast is concerned, then it very well supplements the performances of protagonists, but Mukul Dev is a thorough delight in supporting cast who succeeds in leaving a good impact with his simpleton yet impressive humour skills.
Music: 
With tracks like Rani Tu Main Raja, Kamaal Di Kaudi, Himesh Reshamiya's music in Son of Sardar is definitely captivating which offers an aural delight to your ears. But as far as being the best is concerned then Vichran deserves to be tagged as best pick off the deck.

BO Potential:
With ample dose of humour, and those gravity defying action sequences, despite being a partially dragging tale SOS has got all the elements to recover a sound profit on BO. And on top of it Ajay's charisma will further supplement the BO performance of SOS. 
Verdict: 
To sum up, with those Tom and Jerry humour moments and over the top action sequences SOS is a good watch, with a well stirred blend of all the necessary spices required to make a good entertainer.

read more...

People will forget actors like me: Ajay Devgn

Actor Ajay Devgn believes that 30-40 years from now people will forget stars like him because in the film industry what is out of sight goes out of mind.

"We are currently here and we are in front of the media and people, but I don't think 30-40 years from today people would remember stars like us.

There have been instances, there have been stars in the past, who the current generation does not remember and have forgotten (them)," the 43-year-old told reporters here on the occasion of being inducted into UTV Stars' Walk of the Stars.

"They have been much bigger stars than what we are and if you can have all of them there (Walk of the Stars) so that their memory remains. I think they should live on, so it's a fabulous thing to do," added Ajay referring to the Walk of the Stars.

Actress Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay's co-star in "Son of Sardaar", has also become a part of the prestigious group and is elated.

"I am over the moon because my hand print gets to be with some of the biggest stars in our country today. I feel really honoured and privileged that I got the opportunity so early in my career. So, I just like to thank UTV Stars Walk of the Stars," Sonakshi said.

read more...

Ajay organises SOS screening for cricketers

Actor-producer Ajay Devgn organised a special screening of his latest film "Son Of Sardaar" (SOS) for Indian cricketers. Names like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh and Virat Kohli came to watch the comic entertainer.

Asked about the reason behind a special screening for cricketers, Ajay said: "Some are my friends and they also wanted to see the film and I also wanted to show it to them. SOS is a high energy film."

Ajay is confident his film, which hits the screens Tuesday, will get great response at the box office.

"Response was good from first promo itself. Its music caught up very well with people. Those who are watching it before the release are liking it a lot. (So) I am just keeping my fingers crossed. I am very sure that the product is very good and audiences will love it, " the 43- year-old actor said.

SOS is releasing alongside superstar Shah Rukh Khan-starrer "Jab Tak Hai Jaan", which is late filmmaker Yash Chopra's last directorial.

read more...

The Animal Welfare Board steps into SOS

As though warning tickers for every frame, shot and scene showing a character smoking were not enough, now it seems filmmakers also need to warn audiences of the hazards of performing dangerous stunts.

In the just-released Ajay Devgn Diwali dhamaka Son Of Sardaar a lengthy stunt involving Devgn on a horse and a villainish supporting actor on a mo'bike carries a ticker- warning saying the stunts were generated through computer graphics.

Contrary to belief, the unprecedented move of warning audiences off the stunts was not a censorial demand.

A source close to the censorboard protests, This statutory warning that accompanies the stunts in Son Of Sardaar has nothing to with the CBFC. Since it involves a horse the Animal Welfare Board asked for it. The makers had no choice but to comply.

Be as it might, if major action sequences in films have to be accompanied by statutory warnings, who would take these stunts seriously?

Says a leading producer, I haven't seen Son Of Sardaar yet. But if they've been asked to insert a warning in one of Ajay's stunts then I am really scared for movies.

If a character is smoking we've to warn against cancer. If the hero is performing daring stunts we've to declare they are computer-generated. Next, if the heroine cries we may have to declare the tears are glycerine-induced. What happens to the magic of the movies?

read more...

JTHJ-SOS: Let the best Bike Rider Win?

From past number of days, We are hearing the news of Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Son Of Sardaar clash continuously. We also hear that Ajay Devgn films has filed a case against Yash Raj Films for blocking cinema's for Jab Tak Hai Jaan. 

Shah Rukh Khan has been banking real high with his upcoming film Jab Tak Hai Jaan. JTHJ is a musical love story with also has Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma. 

The film is growing hot day by day in Press and Trade especially after the sad demise of 'Legend' Yash Chopra as this was his last film as a Director. Before Yash Chopra's death,

He already announced his retirement from films in one of his interview. On the other hand it's Son Of Sardaar, A remake from S. S, Rajmouli's telugu blockbuster. The film has Ajay Devgn, Sonakshi Sinha and Sanjay Dutt and it's an out-an-out Family Masala entertainer. 
If you clearly notice, In both the film's poster you will see both the heroes riding the Bike. JTHJ Poster has Shah Rukh Khan riding his bike with Anushka Sharma, And Son Of Sardaar poster has Ajay Devgn with Sonakshi Sinha behind. Only Friday will keep us informed, Whose bike wins the Race at the Box Office. 

We all can only shower our best wishes and say 'Let Both the Bike's Win'.

read more...

Ajay, Vijay and SRK set for big fight on Diwali day

The box office down south will see three big names - Bollywood stars Ajay Devgn and Shah Rukh Khan and southern star Vijay - vying for the top spot with their releases "Son of Sardaar", "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" and Tamil action-thriller "Thuppakki" respectively. All three hit screens Nov 13.

Vijay, who is on a winning streak, is eyeing a hattrick with "Thuppakki".

"Vijay's last two films - 'Velayutham' and 'Nanban' were very successful. Both the films ran for 100-plus days. The former, which released on Diwali day last year, raked in more than Rs.50 crore at the box-office worldwide. Both films together collected more than Rs.100 crore," Trinath, a trade analyst, told .

"Nanban", a Tamil remake of Bollywood blockbuster "3 Idiots", collected whopping Rs.4.2 crore in its first week in Chennai.

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh is set to give tough competition to Vijay at the ticket window.

"SRK is known for giving bumper openings. His last two films 'Ra.One' and 'Don 2' were equally successful in Tamil Nadu. The former collected Rs.2.2 crore, while the latter raked in Rs.1.3 crore in the first two weeks," Trinath said.

He added that Ajay, who recently joined the Rs.100-crore club with "Singham" and "Bol Bachchan", can't be taken lightly as well.

"Ajay's films may not have had good openings in Tamil Nadu vis-a-vis SRK films, but the actor having joined the league of successful actors with two commercially hit films needs to be taken seriously," he said.

read more...

My fight is not against Shah Rukh Khan: Ajay Devgn

Actor-producer Ajay Devgn, who has filed a complaint with the Competition Commission of India (CCI) alleging that the makers of "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" have been blocking the release of his film "Son of Sardaar" in theatres, says his fight is not against Shah Rukh Khan who is playing lead in the movie.

"The fight is not between Shah Rukh and Ajay Devgn and there is no fight between both of us. This is unnecessarily people has created. Both of us are actors. This is Ajay Devgn as a producer, fighting for his right with some other producer and if people are playing with it then it's wrong," said Ajay. 

Directed by Ashwni Dhir, "Son of Sardar" features Ajay, Sanjay Dutt, Sonakshi Sinha, and Juhi Chawla, while "Jab Tak hai Jan" stars Anushka Sharma and Katrina Kaif along with SRK.

The complaint was filed before Yash Chopra's death and according to association's rule, one cannot back out after filing the complaint. 
"We filed the case on Oct 18th when we hadn't even thought that Yashji will be hospitalised. Main problem was that the timing went wrong. We filed the case long back and as per the law you can't withdraw the case filed with the Competition Commission. My fight is not with them; it is just against right and wrong. Again I am talking about it, but I am not supposed to talk about it." 

Ajay moved the CCI, claiming that YRF was using its dominant position to ask exhibitors to dedicate more screens to "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" instead of his movie "Son of Sardaar" - both are coming out on Diwali, Nov 13. 

It's do and die situation for Ajay.

"If I release the film on the same day, then people will call me villain and if I don't release it, it's a major loss for us," he told. 

"Sadly, post Yashji's death many people pressurised me through media and said Ajay Devgn should delay his film. Till now Rs.80 to Rs.90 crore have been put in the film. Corporates are involved and they are answerable to share-holders. So with all due respect, I thought of releasing it on the same day," he added.

Once the release date is decided, it is not easy for anyone to change it. Ajay says that when he asked others to delay the release of their films, they said it's not feasible. 
"When I said ask Aamir Khan to release his film ('Talaash') after two weeks and ask Akshay Kumar to release his film ('Khilade 786') on Christmas or ask Salman Khan to go for January release (for 'Dabangg 2'). So people said that's not possible. So, why only Ajay will have to sacrifice? I don't feel any pressure when I gave this option - sab chup ho gaye na."

Urging media to support him in his fight for justice, Ajay said he is very confident about SOS.

"It's not just a comedy, it's a balance of everything...once you see the film, you will say Sanjay Dutt is the highlight of the film," the 43- year-old said.

Exhibitors can choose any film: SRK on JTHJ, SOS issue

Shah Rukh Khan's "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" releases on the same day as Ajay Devgn's "Son Of Sardaar" and the superstar says he is amused with the row over the two films, especially when everything had been sorted almost a year ago.
Directed by the late Yash Chopra, "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" (JTHJ) is coming out Nov 13 and "Son of Sardaar" (SOS) is also releasing on the same day. 

Ajay has filed a complaint with the Competition Commission of India (CCI) alleging that the makers of JTHJ have been blocking the release of his film SOS in certain theatres. 

According to SRK, the release date was locked a year ago and the screens were also booked than. 

"I find it amusing. This has been decided since a year... They (makers of 'Son of Sardaar') must have also known, so what is the problem then? If you have delayed, then it's not our fault. I just find it wrong," he added. 

The 47-year-old also clarified that they have not forced any exhibitor to showcase their film. 

"I don't understand all this. I feel that the exhibitors represent the consumers to me. As a business person, I cannot assume that anything has been put on anyone by force. They chose the film," he said. 

"We only wish them best and hope that both films do good business," he added. 

While director Ashwni Dhir's SOS is a comedy, JTHJ is a romantic drama that has two leading ladies - Anushka Sharma and Katrina Kaif. 
Talking about his character in the film, SRK said: "It is about a man who cannot die. Through him we show that love never ceases." 

He added: "I think people will really like the film, I don't know in figures (box office collection)." 

Post "Jab Tak Hai Jaan", the actor will be busy with Rohit Shetty's "Chennai Express", which also stars Deepika Padukone. 

" 'Chennai Express' is there at the moment. I am also discussing two or three more films at the moment," he said. 

He plans to start shooting for Farah Khan's "Happy New Year" soon.

CCI rejects Devgn's plea against Yash Raj Films

Competition Commission of India has quashed actor Ajay Devgn's allegation of abuse of dominant position by Yash Raj Films. 

Fair trade regulator Competition Commission of India (CCI) has rejected actor-producer Ajay Devgn's complaint alleging abuse of dominant position by Yash Raj Films (YRF), saying that there are no violations of competition norms in the case. 
Ajay Devgn Films Pvt Ltd had moved the CCI, alleging that YRF was using its dominant position to ask exhibitors to dedicate more screens to its own upcoming release, 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan', affecting Devgn's film 'Son of Sardaar'. 

'Jab Tak Hai Jaan' stars Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma. 

Both the films are releasing on same day - November 13. 

"The Commission is prima facie of the opinion that there is no contravention of the provisions of the (Competition) Act in the present case," it said in an order dated November 5. 

The CCI said Devgn did not place on record any data related to market share or economic strength to show how the YRF was in a dominant position in the relevant market.

"It was argued by the counsels for the informant that the opposite parties were dominant because Opposite Party was big banner production house and had big name and had given several block buster films. No enterprise can be considered dominant on the basis of big name. Dominance has to be determined as per law on the basis of market share, economic strength and other relevant factors stated under... the Competition Act," the order said.
The Delhi High Court on Friday asked the CCI to "expeditiously" decide on Ajay Devgn Films' complaint that its 'Son of Sardaar' was not getting enough single-screen theatres as Yash Raj Films has used its dominant position for better exhibition of 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan'. 

As per the Commission, the grievance of Ajay Devgn Films arose due to fear that it would not get enough theatres for 'Son of Sardaar' because of the agreement between single screen theatres and Yash Raj Films at the time of releasing 'Ek Tha Tiger' earlier this year. 

Now Devgn approaches apellate tribunal against YRF

Following rejection from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) regarding their complaint against Yash Raj Films (YRF), alleging monopolistic practices, Ajay Devgn Films (ADF) has now approached the Competition Apellate Tribunal. 

"We are shocked by the rejection of our legitimate case by the CCI. We have approached the appellate tribunal against the order," an Ajay Devgn Films spokesperson said in a statement. 
ADF complained to the CCI against YRF alleging malpractice in connection with the clash of the release of the former's "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" (JTHJ), with the latter's "Son Of Sardaar" (SOS) on Diwali, Nov 13. 

It was alleged that YRF was using its dominant position to ask exhibitors to dedicate more screens to JTHJ instead of SOS. 

But the case was rejected Monday by the CCI, which stated there is no contravention of the provisions of the act by the alleged agreement between Yash Raj Films Private Limited and its various associated enterprises. 

JTHJ is late filmmaker Yash Chopra's last directorial featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma, while SOS stars Ajay Devgn, Sonakshi Sinha and Sanjay Dutt in key roles.

read more...

Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Son of Sardaar makers slug it out!

JTHJ and SOS at loggerheads as release date approaches. Ajay Devgn Films sends notice to Yash Raj Films for 'armtwisting' distributors. YRF lashes back. Here's the big picture...

It's going to be a firecracker of a Diwali. With SRK and Ajay Devgn all set to clash with each other at the box office, the latter recently sent a 'legal notice' apparently accusing the makers of JTHJ Yash Raj Films of manipulating the distributors to allocate higher number of screens for their film.

YRF however claims that the 'legal notice' was not issued by any court, and simply was a letter of intimation from the lawyers. The war of words appears to be far from over...

Ajay Devgn's letter to Yash Raj Films states that a formal complaint has been lodged with the Competition Commission of India (CCI) against YRF. However, an official spokesperson of the studio states, We have only received a letter from Ajay Devgn's lawyer. It is not a notice!

Straight talk
In their defence, the representatives of YRF also claim, When we approached the theatre owners earlier this year, they were more than happy to accommodate JTHJ, owing to their long relationship with the production house. No one was forced to include our film in their theatres. Incidentally, some of the exhibitors who screened Ek Tha Tiger have apparently chosen not to show JTHJ at all.
Date drama
In their statement to the media, the studio also states that whole JTHJ had announced its release date way back on June 27 last year, the makers of SOS only announced its release date on May 29 this year. The official statement adds, `It would seem odd if the makers of SOS expect YRF to wait for them to make their plans and then approach the exhibitors.` Well, all we can say is that may the best man win!

Ajay Devgn is clearly upset. While Devgn claims that he has filed a case against YRF, and the late Yash Chopra's studio claiming that they are yet to receive the notice, the battle lines are clearly drawn. With hardly 10 days to go before both the films clash at the box office, it is just the beginning of a series of serves and volleys.

While YRF has been stating that there are 10, 500 single screens in the country and they have only booked 1, 500, the official spokesperson of Ajay Devgn Films says, It is strange and surprising that someone as reputed as YRF come up with these fictional numbers. Especially, when more than 50 per cent of these theatres are in centres that screen only regional cinema.

If that was the case they never would have made a joint agreement of Ek Tha Tiger in the first place as no one has ever heard of over 3, 000 screens booked for any film in the country. It is a clear indication that exhibitors are arm twisted in booking JTHJ with Ek Tha Tiger.
The makers of 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan' claim
>> Yash Raj Films says they have not received any notice from the court but just a letter from the lawyers representing Ajay Devgn.

>> While Ek Tha Tiger released in 1, 700 screens, JTHJ will release only across 1, 500 screens.

>> It's a common practice in India and abroad to sign a bulk distribution deal for a complete bouquet of films from a production house for a particular year. While on an average Eros (distributor) and Viacom (producer) makes and releases 27 films per year, we are only releasing four films a year.
Makers of the 'Son of Sardar' claim
>> They have indeed filed a case against Yash Raj Films for armtwisting the exhibitors into booking theatres for Jab Tak Hai Jaan in return of their Eid release Ek Tha Tiger.

>> The difference between the allocation of the films at the single screentheatres in all the centres is as big as 80 per cent to 90 per cent for Jab Tak Hai Jaan and 10 to 20 per cent only for Son of Sardar.

>> The claim to 10, 000 single screens in India is false and baseless and the whole fight is not about multiplexes but single screens. 

read more...

Shocking: Ajay Devgn sends legal notice to Yash Raj Films | SOS vs JTHJ

The breaking news which has shocked many in Bollywood is actor-producer Ajay Devgn has sent a legal notice to Yash Raj Films for using their huge position in the Film trade and Film industry and putting pressure on the exhibitors to give first preference to their upcoming film Jab Tak Hai Jaan.

Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Son Of Sardaar both are set to release on Diwali November 13. The old rivalry between Shah Rukh Khan and Ajay Devgn, The clash is touted as one of the biggest in recent Bollywood history. 

An Insider says "The notice was filed on October 18 three days prior to director Yash Chopra's death it was served to his son, Aditya Chopra on Wednesday." 

The insider further adds "Ever since Yash Chopra's demise, there has been talk about whether Devgn should postpone his film's release to give a whole week to Yash Chopra's film Jab Tak Hai Jaan as a mark of respect a prospect Devgn has outrightly rejected." 
Long back when Yash Chopra was making 'Darr', Ajay Devgn was signed on to play the role which later Shah Rukh Khan did.

YRF statement on Son of Sardar vs Jab Tak Hai Jaan:

We were indeed quite surprised to receive an intimation from Ajay Devgn Films' lawyers today saying that they had filed a complaint with the Competition Commission of India against YRF, alleging malpractice committed by us in connection with the release of JAB TAK HAI JAAN and thereby affecting the release of Son of Sardar. For a company like ours, which has maintained the highest standards of work ethics and fair play, this has really come as a shock.

We would like to clarify at the outset that we still haven't received any notice from the Commission and will suitably represent our stance if and when called upon to do so. Worldwide, as well as in India, distributors often sign deals for their complete annual slate of films to simplify the process. We trust the Competition Commission will also see it as universally acceptable fair business practise.

As we have mentioned in the past, all the exhibitors, when approached by us earlier this year for booking their theatres, were happy to play out Yashji's movie considering their long standing and emotional relationship and goodwill with YRF of over 40 years.

A Yash Chopra/Shah Rukh Khan movie, coming after a gap of 8 long years, did not need any coercion for contractual screening. Additionally, some exhibitors, who played EK THA TIGER, have chosen not to screen JAB TAK HAI JAAN. 
Interestingly, of the 10500 plus single screens available on an all-India basis, we have booked less than 1500 single screens (an industry norm for an A-lister movie), a fact that has been common knowledge for some time now. If this was an issue, why wasn't it raised earlier? Why wait till now when both films are nearing release?

We had announced JAB TAK HAI JAAN would be a Diwali 2012 release as far back as 27th June 2011 and thereafter every press release of ours reiterated this.

Given that most big ticket films avoid simultaneous releases, it was odd that Son of Sardar announced their release for the same day almost a year later on 29th May 2012. They were also able to lock their final distribution partner as late as 4th Oct 2012. It would seem odd that they would expect us to wait for our release plans to be put in place till they had finalised theirs! 

It is also unfair to say that we are in any way in a dominant position. While we are releasing just three films this year, the two production houses in question, VIACOM 18 & EROS, who are distributing Son of Sardar, have a combined release strength of almost 27 films in a year. 
Everyone agrees that the festive time of Diwali has space for two simultaneous releases. Give the audience a choice to choose the one they want to watch. Few of the exhibitors have already chosen, on the basis of a business decision, the one they want to exhibit.

read more...

Ajay Devgn's Gandhigiri

The actor recently gifted a book based on the Father of the Nation to his mother Veena Devgn

They say you don't need Mother's Day to express your love for your mom. Ajay Devgn, after receiving a copy of a book on Mahatma Gandhi, decided to gift it to his mother Veena. She is known to be quite an avid reader herself.

Our source says, After receiving the Hindi copy of Mahatma Gandhi and Cinema written by Jayprakash Chowksey, Devgn gifted it to his mother, knowing she would love reading it. Chowksey had apparently gifted his book to the actor after the first copies arrived from the publisher. Now we hear that he is planning to gift an English translation to Devgn as well.

The author states, `Ajay is a close friend. I hope he enjoys reading my book. Devgn was not available for comment. However, we heard that the actor could be officially releasing Chowksey's book in Chandigarh soon.

read more...

SOS not an over the top comedy

Forthcoming comedy "Son Of Sardaar" might be about Punjabis, but it is devoid of any "slapstick humour" and doesn't focus on any particular religion, claims director Ashwani Dhir.

Co-produced by Ajay Devgn, who also stars in the film, the cast has names like Sonakshi Sinha, Sanjay Dutt and Juhi Chawla.

"Ajay Devgan is not an over the top actor. We have good Punjabi humour in the film. It is all about the dialogues and it is not a slapstick comedy. It is large than life but not over the top, " Dhir told.

SOS is a remake of Telugu movie "Maryada Ramanna" and Dhir said that except the plot, the rest has been changed.

It is coming out Nov 13 and Dhir said: "The zone is completely different in both the films. Only plots are same, otherwise both the films are completely different. 'Son Of Sardaar' is a complete entertainment package. It is a Diwali film completely. It has a combination of everything from comedy to romance to action."

A complaint has been filed in a court against Ajay for allegedly maligning and defaming Sikhs in SOS but Dhir clarified saying although the film revolves around Sikhs, it is not about Sikh religion.

"The film is not based on Sikh religion. It could have been a Parsi, a Gujarati or a Muslim... The film is about Punjabi environment. Since Punjabis are larger than life, so is the film, " he said.

SOS is Dhir's third directorial venture after "One Two Three" and "Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge?" His aim is to make films that entertain people.

"We try to make different kind of films, which must entertain people. People want to laugh while watching a comedy. 'Son Of Sardaar' is about Punjabi values but it is entertaining at the same time, " he said.

If the response to SOS is satisfactory, they might turn it into a series, says Dhir.

"If it is a hit, then we might make it again as a series. It all depends on how the film does at the box office. We will talk after the film is a hit, " he said.

read more...

Editing SOS hasn't hampered creativity: Ajay Devgn

Ajay Devgn has made a few changes in forthcoming film "Son Of Sardaar" (SOS), after the Punjabi Cultural Heritage Board raised objections over certain scenes and dialogues. However, the actor-producer is confident the changes haven't hampered the creativity in the movie.

"The creativity of the film has not been affected in any way. Every film is rectified, sometimes it's made even better, " he said at a press conference here Wednesday.

The actor said they were in talks with PCHB president Charan Singh Sapra ever since the promos of the film went on air.

"The objectionable things were very small. The writer and director of the film is Punjabi and we took care of things. Even the guy who tied my turban was from Punjab, " Ajay said.

The actor added that the intention of the film is to entertain and not to hurt anyone's sentiments.

"Son of Sardaar" will release alongside Yash Chopra's "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" and the actor feels that the clash will not affect performance of either film.

"Diwali always has space for two movies. I want both films to work. I don't think there is any issue with that, " he said.

read more...

Sikh Community Endorses 'Son Of Sardaar

A few months back, there had been news that members of the Sikh community were miffed with the way Sikhs were portrayed in the promos of upcoming film 'Son Of Sardaar' and were demanding that some changes be made to the story.

In order to clear all misunderstandings, actor-producer Ajay Devgn recently organised a screening of the film for members of the Punjabi Cultural Heritage and it seems that the community is now happy following some suggestions that were considered.

Confirming the news, Devgn said, "We are making this movie for the purpose of entertainment and not to hurt the sentiments of any community. When we were told that the Sikh community found some scenes objectionable, we decided to consider their point of view.

After incorporating their feedback and explaining our point of view, we showed the film to the community members and they are happy with it."

Charan Singh Sapra, the President of Punjabi Cultural Heritage Board also lauded Devgn for taking the necessary steps and said that the community is happy with the way the film has turned out.

Starring Ajay Devgn, Sonakshi Sinha, Sanjay Dutt and Juhi Chawla, 'Son of Sardaar', an action-comedy about two warring Punjabi families, is slated to release on November 13 this year.

read more...