Vivek says no to sobriquet

Vivek has rejected a request from an organisation which came forward to honour him with the sobriquet 'Pasumai Nayagan', after getting impressed with his efforts to create a green cover by planting trees.

"Based on the instructions from former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, I have initiated a movement to plant trees all over the State, under the name 'Green Kalam'. Over six lakhs saplings have been planted so far,' says Vivek.

"A special task force has been also set up to monitor whether the plants are maintained properly or not. This is to create a better future for the future generation and to ensure that global warming doesn't affect them," he adds.

"Impressed by all these activities, an organisation recently approached me saying it would like to honour me with Pasumai Nayagan title. I politely turned down its request. I am content with two of the honours- Padmashri by the Central government and Janangalin Kalaignan by the people."

Nikitha banned from Kannada films

The Kannada Film Producers' Association (KFPA) banned Nikitha from acting in Kannada movies for three years for "creating disharmony in the family of actor Darshan", who was arrested last week for allegedly assaulting his wife.

Nikitha, a popular actress in Kannada, was part of Tamil films like 'Vetrivel Sakthivel' and 'Saroja'. Her other movie 'Muran', in which she has shared the screen space with Cheran and Prasanna, is set to hit the screens next week.

The KFPA, after an emergency meeting in Bengaluru on Sunday, imposed the ban on Nikitha. Association president Munirathna announced the decision to other members, which, it is said, was accepted unanimously.

"We felt that Nikitha was responsible for creating a big storm in Darshan's family life.  A stringent initiative is needed against her. Hence we have decided that none of the producers should sign her up for three years," KFPA office-bearer Rockline Venkatesh was quoted saying.