Glam divas give a miss to audio functions

The absence of leading actress Nayantara at the audio release function of her next film `Aaradugula Bullet’ raised many a eyebrow since it was a big-ticket Telugu film but industry sources claim that some top actresses giving a slip to audio functions is not a new phenomenon in T-town.

Barring `Baahubali franchise’ were the actresses like Anushka and Tammnah participated in all promotional activities but other producers are not lucky enough. Even though, A-listers like Tammanah, Shruti Haasan, Trisha, Samanta and Kajal and Hansika are reportedly paid hefty sums anywhere between Rs 1 to Rs 2 crore per film but they `selectively’ attend audio functions and promotional activities.

In fact, late filmmaker Dasari Narayana Rao blasted the attitude of the leading actresses for not participating in audio functions and attending only award functions. “The situation has not changed much since some actresses are still playing truant to promote their films, even after pocketing huge pay cheques,” says producer N Padma who feels that its high time to take some action.

“Tamil film producers are mulling a pay cut for heroines who don’t attend promotional activities, such a rule should be introduced in T-town,’ she adds With budgets of the Telugu film going over-the-top, actresses presence will give a pre-release boost and roping in a popular actress is meant to give a fillip to promotional blitz.

“Promotional activities have become very important these days due to tough competition from other films and actresses’ participation makes a big difference. With movie budgets sky-rocketing, it only imperative for heroines to be present during the promotion of their movies, to ensure a wider reach,” adds director Samudra.

However, a manager of a top actress has a different take “It all depends on the agreement between an actress and producer since an actress is hired for 50 to 55 days for a film and agreement should clearly mention how these dates are to be split between shooting and promotional events.”