M. Saravanan and M.S. Guhan of AVM Productions on Monday clarified that the theatrical rights of their film `Sivaji' were sold only for Rs. 2.6 crore in Kerala and Rs.8 crore in Andhra Pradesh.

In a statement, they said: "We are distressed that there have been several erroneous reports in the media (not The Hindu ) about our forthcoming film `Sivaji'. We therefore wish to set the record straight and present the following facts.

"For example, a website has repeatedly reported that we have sold the theatrical rights for the State of Kerala for an amount of Rs.3.1 crore. In fact, we have sold the rights for Rs.2.6 crore and not as mentioned in their report.

"Similarly media reports state that the theatrical rights for Andhra Pradesh have been sold for an amount of Rs.16 crore whereas the actual figure is Rs.8 crore only. Unlike in the past, the overseas rights are not being given to a single entity. We are negotiating the rights for audio, VCD, DVD and theatrical rights for Europe, Canada, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East with our regular distributor, Mr. Karunamurthy of Ayngaran International.

The distribution rights in the other countries like the U.S., Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Africa, Mauritius, and other territories are still under discussion. The rights for Tamil Nadu are awaiting finalisation," they said.

"Director, Shankar, and his team are making every effort to release the movie on Tamil New Year's Day," they said.

http://www.hindu.com/2007/03/13/stories/2007031304690400.htm