Irked by the recent hike in charges, Film producers are planning to boycott shooting at Filmcity.

According to Anil Nagrath, Director General, Association of Motion Pictures, Filmcity authorities had specified that a flat rate of Rs 6000 per day would be charged to every producer. The producer was also allowed the use of the outdoor locations, if no one else was shooting in that area. But, the same authorities released a new rate card, a month later, which annoyed the producers.

"We have asked them to clarify their unilateral stand. If they fail to react to our request, we will be forced to take action to protect the producers' interests," Nagrath asserted.

Film producers are also crying over the four per cent Sales Tax on transfer of copyrights.

A producer who has just received the summons from the Sales Tax authorities says, "We are already burdened with so many taxes right. From the time we begin our film we have pay taxes on raw stock, we also pay entertainment tax. The centre has imposed a five per cent service tax on any activity connected with the entertainment industry. And now with the copyright tax our load only gets heavier," he informs.

Anil Sharma and Subhash Ghai to team up?

Gadar director Anil Sharma has joined the Mukta Arts team. We hear that Anil will also be involved in the two films that Subhash Ghai is likely to announce on October 24.

It maybe recalled here that Anil Sharma was inundated with offers after Gadar broke all BO records. Sharma will start his next project with Dharmendra and Bobby in January 2002.

Vinod Chopra signs on Sanjay and Vivek Oberoi

Filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra has signed Sanjay Dutt and Vivek Oberoi for his next film.

Not much is known about what Chopra's choice of subject will be this time. We also hear that he is planning to make another film with Amitabh Bachchan in the lead role.

Zulfi replaces John Abraham

Zulfi has replaced John Abraham in PLA entertainment's film Chupke Se.

It may be recalled here that John Abraham accepted the signing amount and had even alloted dates but failed to show up at the shoot.

The producer was forced to file a complaint in the Association of Motion Pictures and TV Programme Producers about the actor's unprofessional behaviour.

Since Abraham is not a member of any the Film Association no strict action could be taken against him. But we heard that Abraham had returned the signing amount.

Bharati Dubey
Design: Imran Shaikh