Pyramid Saimira Group acquires worldwide rights of 'Halla Bol'

Mumbai, Nov 13 (UNI) Pyramid Saimira Productions (PSPL), a part of the Chennai-based Pyramid Group has announced the acquisition of world-wide rights of Rajkumar Santoshi's upcoming film ''Halla Bol'' starring Ajay Devgan, Vidya Balan and Pankaj Kapur.

The acquisition marks the Group's first foray into Bollywood.

Pyramid Group, which has consolidated its presence in south India and overseas with film and TV content production and exhibition has recently took over the prestigious heritage theatre in south Mumbai, Liberty and is planning to add another 30 screens in Mumbai by the end of this year.

Addressing a press conference here last night, PSPL CEO K S Srinivasan said, ''Halla Bol is a commercial film, wih an excellent social conscience message. This is our first major film foray into Hindi film industry and we are indeed proud that this is our first presentation in Hindi.'' PSPL MD P S Saminathan said that the Company will soon be a major force to reckon with in the Mumbai film industry.

Rajkumar Santoshi said ''Halla Bol'' releases on December 21.''I have made 11 films so far and whenever I wanted to raise pertinent social issues with a conscience in my movies, I have done so without any hesitation and fear. ''Halla Bol'' is yet another attempt,'' he added.

Ajay Devgan, who plays the protagonist, said ''Halla Bol'' is about a reel life Hero becoming a real life hero. ''My character has worked hard to realize his dream of becoming an actor. He comes at a stage where he has to chose between what he has achieved or lose it and he choses to lose everything,'' he said.

Vidya Balan said ''Halla Bol'' is a film with a message but without getting preachy. Devgan added that all those associated with the film believed in it because it says a lot, but in a commercial format.

''We wanted the film to be promoted well and presented before the audience correctly. I am confident that PSPL will do the same,'' he added.

Pankaj Kapur said that the script appealed to him as an actor and a human being. ''Rajkumar Santoshi is one such filmmaker who understands the pulse of the script and also his responsibility towards the society,'' he said.

The film is produced by Abdol Samee Siddiqui.

UNI