Poker, Rummy banned on shooting sets

Telugu Movie Artistes Association(MAA) has urged artists/members to stop playing cards on movie sets. Card games, which started off as a leisure activity, have reportedly transformed shooting spots into gambling dens, and artistes were focusing more on the game than on getting their act right.

Although a majority of artistes are against banning their favourite pastime, they have no choice but to pack the cards and abide by the new ruling.

“Barring one or two artistes, most actors play cards during lunch and tea breaks. However, since the producers felt that it was causing some disturbance, we urged our members to refrain from it,” said Mr Ahuti Prasad, MAA secretary.

A producer complained: “Despite an assistant director informing actors that the shot is ready, they ignore his call and continue playing cards. If they lose heavily, since the stakes run into thousands, their bad mood affects our work.”

Director Teja feels it will enhance the participation of actors in the shooting.